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shycoconutt · 3 years

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I Found My Light (Kakashi x Reader)

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2

A/n: Sound the alarms! It’s my first ever writing post! I’ve had this written for a while tbh, and I feel like I’m ready to start getting into this.

Summary: A late-night walk turns into a rekindled friendship.

Word Count: 2300

Warnings: fem!reader, SFW (but might not be later lol)

You opened your eyes for what seemed like the thousandth time tonight. Staring at the white ceiling, you sighed. Sleep seemed to evade you recently, a side effect of the recent dreariness of your life. You found yourself living the same days over and over again. Because of this, the line between day and night started to fade.

The moon was full tonight, you noticed as it shined brightly through your open window. It was the perfect temperature out, warm but chilly enough to feel comfortable wrapped in your blankets. You love listening to the occasional sounds that occurred outside, the noise of leaves rustling in the wind being your favorite.

Your gaze left the moon and landed back on your ceiling. Why is something as simple as sleeping so hard? Gods, all you wanted was an escape. With a huff, you pushed the covers off of you and sat up from your lying position. Trying to force yourself to sleep would do more harm than good right now.

You make your way to your dresser and pull out your favorite pair of black joggers. You love them because they are tight on your ankles, loose on your legs, and have a cinched band at the waist. They are perfect for any lazy day. You slip them on over your underwear, you never go to bed with pants on, and exchange your sleep shirt for a cropped black hoodie made from the same soft, elastic material as your pants.

You turn to face your large standing mirror in the corner of the room to assess your appearance. The all-black look was your favorite, especially since it will help you blend into the night. Your hair was a mess, so you decided to put it up in a loose bun on the top of your head and pull out some strands to frame your face. It felt good to not look so polished and put together. Your jonin uniform was not the most comfortable piece of clothing, especially with the way it hit your figure.

You walked out of your bedroom and across the kitchen to the front door of your apartment. One foot after the other, you slide into your sandals and grab the key to your apartment hanging on the hook next to you. With that, you leave your apartment and head out into the night.

You walked the streets of Konoha at a gingerly pace. It was probably around 3 a.m. at this point, and there wasn’t a single soul on the street with you. You make your way past the line of shops on the main street, including your favorite bakery where you'd treat yourself to a lemon square after coming back from a long mission. You thought about that lemon square a lot when you were out risking your life, embarrassingly enough.

A couple of turns later and you found yourself heading towards your favorite place in all of Konoha, a little area of woods towards the perimeter that contained this amazing koi pond. Although it was nighttime and the fish wouldn’t be as active, you still want to check to see if you can watch any. To your surprise, your favorite koi, who you nicknamed “Nishi'', was out and swimming around by himself. You sit criss-cross in the grass and watch as he glides through the calm water, almost putting you in trance. Nishi didn’t look or act like the others; He was black with white, almost silver-looking spots and he was less frantic in nature. You sway from side to side as you watch him, thinking to yourself about how you would like to be more like Nishi.

“You look cute watching the koi.” You heard a soft, yet unwavering voice declare behind you.

“Holy sh-” You almost jump out of your pants at the unexpected presence. Surprised, you quickly turn your head around to see who’s voice that could possibly be. To your disbelief, there lies a figure perched up by a tree a couple yards away from you. Their feet were crossed, legs extended, one hand in the pocket of their pants, the other holding up what looks like a copy of Icha-Icha, head turned towards you, and wild hair moving with each passing breeze. How did I not notice him?

“Oh I’m sorry (y/n), I didn’t mean to startle you. I figured you knew I was here because you walked right past me.” He brought his hand up to scratch the back of his head and let out a small chuckle. “Guess I should have made my presence known right away.”

Still in disbelief, you get up and slowly make your way towards the figure, stepping into the shadow of the tree to see him more clearly. As you approached you immediately recognized the silver-haired jonin.

“Kakashi?” You say confused. “What are you doing out here? It’s late.”

“I could ask you the same thing.” He states, closing his book and setting it down next to him on the grass. He looked different. He looked… quite hot actually. The jonin uniform you usually saw him in was traded for a pair of comfortable-looking grey sweatpants and a tight, black tank top that connected to his mask. He wasn’t wearing his headband either, just keeping his left sharingan eye shut in a permanent wink. As you observed him, you couldn’t help but notice that he was doing the same to you.

“I suppose you're right.” You smirk and let out a small chuckle. “I couldn’t sleep so I figured that if I was up I should take a walk around the village to clear my head. This is my favorite spot, so I guess I just naturally ended up here.” You exclaimed, still standing in front of him.

“It looks like you and I are having the same issue,” he states plainly, “I came out here a little while ago after tossing in my bed for an hour. I hate trying to force myself to sleep; It’s a battle I never seem to win.” His eyes averted your gaze and moved to his now empty hands in his lap. You couldn’t help but notice a hint of pain in his voice and it tugged at your heartstrings.

You know about the things Kakashi has been through, as it was pretty common knowledge to all jonin in your mutual age group. You were pretty close with his friends, Gai, Kurenai, and Asuma, but Kakashi always seemed to keep everyone at an arm’s length. He also was an Anbu for ten years, which didn’t help the disconnect either. Fortunately, he was relieved from his Anbu position a couple weeks ago, and gradually you have been seeing him a bit more here and there. Though, this is the first time you are able to have a conversation with him in what seems like forever.

“Well,” you sighed, “I guess we have lost the battle together. We must be pretty shitty jonin.” You stated flatly.

Kakashi squinted his eyes and you both laughed. You couldn’t help but take a mental picture of his face at this moment. You really enjoy seeing him happy, as it makes you happy too.

You can’t kid yourself, having a chance to talk with Kakashi alone feels like such a treat. Little genin (y/n) would be ecstatic right now. Of course you had a crush on him back then, who didn’t?

“You’ve always had a natural talent for connecting with people,” Kakashi mused, “I haven’t talked to you since we were teenagers, and here I am laughing with you like we’re long-time friends.”

You could feel your eyebrows furrow at that statement. Yeah sure, you weren’t at his apartment every week for Sunday brunch, but you did have a history.

“Kakashi,” you started, “You are my long-time friend. Just because we drifted apart doesn’t mean I don’t care about you. To be honest, I was relieved when I found out you were no longer going to be a member of the Anbu. It wasn’t good for you.” You stepped closer and sat down next to him, leaning back on the tree stump. The grass felt cool under you, sending a small shiver up your body.

“I suppose you’re right,” Kakashi stated, quoting your words from earlier. “It amazes me that none of you gave up on me. I feel like I am undeserving of everyone’s effort.” You were baffled by his honesty; Kakashi wasn’t known to be much of an open book. It upsets you so much that he feels this way as you couldn’t imagine not caring about him or any of your other comrades in the village. The faces of your closest friends flashed through your mind and you grimaced at the thought of losing them.

Not knowing if you should, you felt compelled to reach over and hold Kakashi’s hand in yours. It's cold compared to the warmth spreading from your fingertips. Hmm, I wonder how long he has been out here. Giving his hand a small squeeze, you look at him in his onyx eye. “Trust me, Kakashi. You are deserving. You are deserving of a great life and people who care about you. I know the world may seem dark, but I promise that a light is always glowing. No matter how small or dim, it’s there.”

You stare at each other in silence for a moment before he changes the position of his hand and intertwines his fingers in yours. The change was small, but it ignites a feeling in your stomach you couldn’t describe. Slowly, you felt your cheeks flush and you turned your face to look towards the sky in hopes he wouldn’t notice. You knew this action was him telling you that he accepts your words, and thanks you for them.

You spent the next hour sitting under the tree together, you looking up at the stars and him looking at you. Your intertwined hands fell between your bodies, resting on the cool grass. You felt him start to graze the back of your hand with his thumb, sending a tingling sensation up your arm. It felt so good to be touched by him, even in such an innocent manner.

A strong breeze ran through the air and hit you suddenly. You began to shiver at the quick change in temperature, realizing that you should have dressed warmer if you were going to be out this long. Yet, you couldn’t have anticipated the situation you are currently in.

“Are you cold?” Kakashi questioned with a hint of concern.

“Yeah a little bit,” you answered honestly, “but I don’t want to go back home. I’m not really tired yet.” Truthfully, you didn’t want this little moment of shared bliss to end. You started to feel like you found your escape, and you refused to be torn away from it so soon.

“Neither do I,” he confessed, “Come here.” He released his hand from yours and slid his position higher up on the side of the tree. He then spread his legs and patted the ground in between, inviting you to sit.

You felt your face get hot again, as the position he was offering you was a very intimate gesture. There was absolutely no way you could refuse his offer. One, because you were freezing and, two, young (y/n) would never forgive you.

You got up and sat down carefully between his thighs, leaning until your back met his chest. He then wrapped both of his arms around you, one around your shoulders and the other around your waist with his hand resting on your stomach. The outsides of your legs met the insides of his and you felt an immediate warmth there. Lastly, your head tilted back and rested upon his left shoulder, with his face nuzzled against your temple. You both fit together like two pieces of a puzzle, no part of you feeling any discomfort against his strong body. Engulfed in his smell and warmth, for the first time in a while you felt completely relaxed.

“Thank you, Kakashi.” You looked up at him with a warm smile.

“Anytime.” He breathed, voice muffled by your hair. You wondered if he truly meant that. I mean, after all, this is the first time you have interacted in a while. Yet, the connection you felt towards him was unquestionable.

Does he feel the way I feel?

“Hey,” you began, “are you tired at all?”

He flexed his arms and held you closer to his chest. “Not really,” he answered, “I’m enjoying this moment too much to be tired.” You smiled, and there was a pause.

“Isn’t this odd?” you questioned again.

“What? You and I snuggled under a tree in a random corner of the village alone at 4 a.m. after we haven’t interacted with each other in years?” he questioned sarcastically, “Not at all.”

“Kakashi!,” you laughed, gently nudging your elbow into his ribs as he laughed along with you.

“Yeah it’s a little odd,” he answered honestly, “but I’m not going to question it. I found my light, and now I’m enjoying it.” He nuzzled his face into your hair and breathed deeply.

Completely and utterly relaxed, you let yourself succumb to the heaviness of your eyelids. Truthfully, this has felt like the longest day in the world and you are happy to end it this way. The sound of Kakashi’s breathing and the rise and fall of his chest acted as your personal sleep machine. It’s priceless.

Before you completely drift off, you swear you could feel the soft, pillowiness of Kakashi’s lips graze the skin of your temple, a soft hum escaping from them.

“Goodnight, (y/n)”

~~~

Queue Hilary Duff’s “What Dreams Are Made Of”. This kind of feels like the beginning of something. Should I continue? Idk if my writing is even good. If you read this, PLEASE let me know if you have any feedback. Again, this is my first story and I would greatly appreciate any feedback, advice, suggestions, etc.! I can’t believe I’m uploading, ah! - Klara

#kakashi #kakashi hatake #kakashi fanfic #kakashi fanfiction #kakashi x reader #hatake kakashi #kakashi fluff #kakashi imagine #naruto fanfiction #kakashi x you #kakashi x y/n #kakashi one shot #kakashi x yn #kakashi sensei #i found my light

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peter-pan-on-neverland · 3 years

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Opposites Attract

Request: hey may I request a one shot for your Peter Pan story if yes can you, use my real name (Zai) instead of Y/N if you please and can you have me pans total opposite like sweet, shy everything he would hate but in the end he falls for her and becomes really protective

Pairing: Pan x Zai

Warning: None

Part 2 >

It was so surreal, everything around me seemed to move in slow motion as if I were a character stuck inside of a movie, high pitched ringing pierced through my ears and stung my brain like a thousand tiny knives pricking it. An uncontrollable tremble grabbed a hold of my body refusing to let go, toying with my muscles as though I were nothing but a puppet on a string dancing for the demon that now had possession of my tiny frame.

The air was cold, so very cold, nipping and scratching at my fare skin as I silently sat on the leaf-covered floor. So many questions ran through my mind, too many to count, too many to keep ahold of. What was this dark place I had found myself in?

Dirt and pinecones filled my nostrils as I took heavy, deep breaths in and out, in and out, in and out.

A pair of eye's shot daggers at the back of my head, sending shivers to travel up and down my spine. The knotting in my stomach became apparent, growing tighter and higher by the second. I tried my hardest to fight off the fear which coursed through my veins and stole my heart, but I couldn't. There was no power in the world, no bribe was big enough, and no prize was worthy enough to get me to turn around and meet the eyes staring at me.

As time passed I felt more and more eyes creep up behind me, taking their place and just silently watching. That's when I heard them, footsteps, shuffling, whispers in the night running through to cold air from person to person, or perhaps from monster to monster.

"What have we got here boys?" A jovial voice sounded, too old to be a child's but it held the power and wisdom of a thousand lifetimes.

"We-we think it's a girl, Pan." Another said.

Pan, so that was the creature's name. In any normal circumstance, someone might jump for joy at the sign of another person, but this was no normal circumstance and the confirmation of other people only made my skin crawl. Every red flag was waving and alarm bell ringing, I was not safe, not one bit.

"She might be dead, or unconscious," Someone sounded, "she hasn't moved in a while."

Whoever this Pan was leant down close to me, so close I could feel his breath travel down the nape of my neck. He placed two gentle fingers on my pulse, paying for a second.

"She's not dead," He confirmed, "James and Dan set up a tent for her, Felix see if she has any wounds and take care f them if she does."

It was Clear Pan had authority over everyone else there as if he were some kind of mayor or leader, the boys named did nothing to displease him as their footsteps grew quieter and quieter.

"Where are you going, Pan?" A rather deep, husky voice spoke, curiosity dripping off every word yet he was confident in his ways. Maybe he was somewhere higher up on the food chain in this strange land that he had to power to question and possibly even disobey.

"To ask the shadows why they bought a bloody girl to the island." His tone had changed, sounding more aggravated than intrigued.

There were no other words exchanged between the two and I could feel myself being lifted off the cold ground, I felt weightless in the arms of this stranger that I was too afraid to look at.

Perhaps I would become a burden to the boy, but I had no energy left to think about that, I had no energy left to think about anything. I wanted nothing more than to drift off into a peaceful sleep but my body would not allow it for the danger had not yet passed, it kept trying to fight and fight but finally lost the battle and sleep had won out.

I woke up, my head pounding like there was no tomorrow. I found myself in a white tent, laying upon a mattress, only a thin blanket keeping the cold from consuming me. Swinging my legs over the side of the make-shift bed I walked towards the fabric flaps, sunlight poured into the room as I pulled them back, almost blinding me.

A tall figure hovered over me, blocking out the sun. For a split second, he looked like a dark, black giant but once my eyes adjusted I took a closer look at his face. Is pale blue eyes stared at mine for what seemed like a few minutes, becoming familiar with my brown ones. I noted down the scar that ran down his cheek, how did he get it?

"Pan," He called, "she's awake."

My eyes averted to the boy, who looked no older than seventeen, quickly stalking towards us. Panic flashed through my body enduring my paralyzed, there was nothing I could do but watch as they got closer and closer despite the urge of wanting to run and flee.

His eyes stood out to me the most, the vibrant green colour seemed to radiate off him, capturing and gaze and holding it there. This boy had power, that much was obvious, what scared me was how he used it. There's no doubt in my mind that he could mortally wound or even kill me if I looked at him the wrong way, the safest route is to be obedient otherwise I could end up dead.

"Follow me." He said sternly, I didn't dare speak, I didn't dare to even breathe I just nodded my head in his direction before silently following after him like a little lost puppy.

One step after another I felt more and more eyes scanning over my body, however, I would never meet anyone's gaze. I wouldn't dare give any of these people the satisfaction, after all, they still need to tell me how I got here in the first place. I felt like an animal caged up in the zoo, just a pretty and unusual thing for them to stare and gawk at, all the meanwhile missing my home.

A pain shot through my chest, a deep aching at the thought of my family and friends, at the thought of everything I had left behind.

"Sit." The leader spoke, snapping me from my thoughts.

I complied without any issues, placing myself onto the wooden stump poking its head out of the ground to say hello to the golden, glowing sun beaming down on everything below it. I hadn't noticed just how beautiful this place was in the day time, the lush green trees, the birds tweeting, the odd deer walking by before scattering and running off from the wild people whom they shared the land with.

I felt his strange green eyes watching me, finally, I had worked up enough courage to look into them. They were filled with wonder and amazement, much like a child seeing snow for the first time.

"You can start by telling me your name," The boy's thick British accent becoming prominent.

"Zai," I whispered, nearly audible but he heard it and so did the forest.

"Zai," He repeated as if he were testing out how my name sounded on his tongue, "Cute. Now, what are you doing on my island?"

Oh, so it was his island.

"I don't know," I said, my tone sickly sweet but the boy in front of me could tell I was being genuine.

"You're a strange one aren't you?" He claimed, tucking a piece of hair behind my ear an act that made my cheeks turn a deep shade of red as I desperately tried to hide my face from his view.

I should be afraid, I should be terrified, running for the hills and never looking back. There was danger behind those vibrant green orbs, so much danged but for some reason that only drew me in more. The very thing that should make me leave is the same exact thing compelling me to stay, how can that be?

I had never been one for diving into the deep end or taking risks, I liked to be in control of my fate and how everything played out, I know this boy could never give me security so why am I being pulled closer and closer t him?

He's attractive yes, as if he were chiseled by the God's themselves, but it's more than that, it's deeper than that. The risk, the excitement of it all is what drew me in and managed to hold me there. Maybe staying here wasn't as big of a heartache as I previously thought.

"Well I guess that's irrelevant, I'll be sending you home now." He announced.

"What makes you think I want to go home?" I asked, standing up defensively.

He raised a single eyebrow at me, the expression on his face caused me to shiver, "So you want to stay little one?"

I could feel a smile creeping its way onto my face at his words, "Perhaps to do, I could be of use to you,"

I desperately tried to come up with a list of jobs I could do just so he could let me stay, although I was still scared I had this feeling deep inside on me. Way down in my bones as if I were meant to be here as if my soul belonged here.

"I can cook." I blurted out.

Only to be met with a smirk, "My boys can cook too."

"I can clean," I said.

"So can my boys." The leader retaliated.

"Can they?" I asked, raising my eyebrow to him, mimicking his previous actions, he gave a low husky chuckle to my somewhat sassy comment.

"Oh, I'm sorry princess, is it not up to your standard?" The boy smirked in return, toying with me a little. He could sense when I was on edge, I knew he could, maybe a skill he had picked up in the years that he had been alive.

"Please, I'll do anything, anything you ask of me!" I pleaded, hoping and praying that he would allow me to reside here with him.

"It doesn't matter what you want." His demeanor suddenly turning nasty at the flip of a switch, the green eyed boy stalked closer and closer to me until my back had been pressed against a tree, leaning down he whispered, "I don't have girls on my island, you're weak I have no need for your kind."

I felt my blood being to boil, this misogynistic-

I held myself back from doing something that I regret, out of the fear that I could possibly end up dead at any second.

"Maybe they are where you're from," I said in a low yet innocent tone, my words sounding like a smooth lullaby slipping into his mind, "But I am different."

"Fine, I'll be interested to see how long you last around here." He stated, "I'll get Felix to show you around."

He took a few steps back, giving me the space that I craved. I let out a breath that I didn't know I was holding in until now. Pan's comment not only sprinkled fear and dread into me once more but also seemed to excite me as if I had something to prove to these people. One thing was apparent, they were not people I wanted to play with or tourment. I was better off just seeing how this plays out and trying not to end up dead in the process.

Within the day I had circled around the island twice seeing all the beautiful sights and scenery as Felix, who is the second in command around here, told me what was what. His explanations were only met with a nod as I was far too shy and nervous to open my mouth around him or any of the boys for that matter. Luckily for me, Felix wasn't much of a talker either, we spent most of our little adventure in awkward silence.

The more I explored the more I wanted, no longed to stay here. The crystal blue seas, the majestic waterfalls, the tall towering trees, and the white sandy beaches. This place seemed like paradise, shame the people who inhabited it didn't radiate the same energy.

The once pale blue sky turn to a dark navy as tiny, white sparkling dots hang high in the sky, a roaring fire was situated in the middle of the camp the boys all sat around eating, laughing, and having a good time. They all seemed so happy, yet the damage behind their eyes was apparent, they all had the same look behind them.

I felt a presence sit down beside me, "Zai," they spoke, to which I said nothing. I didn't turn my head to look at the person whose voice I had heard not hours before.

Before I knew what was happening a hand was placed under my chin, forcing me to look in their direction, "It's not a wise idea to ignore me, little one."

"Sorry," I whispered, I knew he heard my faint words but I wasn't entirely sure they made that much of a difference.

"Funny, just hours ago we were having a perfectly fluent conversation and now you seem so shaken up you're hardly getting your words out, tell me, why is that?" He knew what he was doing, it was apparent, he knew he had the upper hand, he knew I was still scared.

I shrugged at their so-called king, not giving him the satisfaction he craved, he wanted me to squirm, but I wouldn't allow that to happen.

As the days went by my shyness didn't disappear or get easier, in fact, it seemed to get worse. I was on edge, especially around Pan, it wasn't hard to tell that the boy was ruthless.

It was hot, the sun beaming down on the island. We all slowly walk deeper and deeper into the forest the boys not only thankful for the shade but excited for the activities ahead. Pan had promised us a game of target practice, something that I had learned I was terrible at.

Silently, I watched from afar as the boys took turns shooting apples off one another head. Of course, there were many injuries but they loved the thrill of it. I got many stares, none of which I paid any attention to, but what riled me up the most were to comments.

"What's she even doing here?"

"Why would Pan allow a girl into the camp?"

"Look at her she wouldn't even hurt a fly."

"She doesn't have what it takes to be one of us, she's too sweet."

"I wish she would just go back to where she came from."

Biting my tongue, I tried not to let their words get to me. Sometimes I fantasize about those boys tied to a tree, no means of escape or survival, I would pull the arrow back tight, stretching the string of the bow before letting go. The arrow would soar through the air before landing deep into their skulls with a satisfying think, bullseye.

I could feel the wicked smile on my face grow as my heart became that little bit darker. What was wrong with me? I had never wished ill will upon anyone before, so why was I starting to know. Maybe it was the island, supplying me with anger as if it were some kind of git, some means for survival if in a wretched yet beautiful place.

Suddenly, everything stopped and silence grabbed hold of everyone around. My interest was peaked, I rose from my makeshift seat to see what was going on. There the leader of the lost boys had one of his very own pinned to a tree by an invisible force, choking and spluttering as his legs kicked and kicked.

I wasn't sure what had brought this on, but my gaze was held hostage by the scene unfolding before me, the boy begged and begged apologizing relentlessly, but none of that mattered to Pan. We all stood there and watched, some boys with tears in their eyes as their friend asked for mercy and was not given it, I almost felt bad for the boy until I had realized who it was.

Adam, the little ring leader of the group of boys who liked to push my buttons.

We all looked on as the light slowly left his eyes, his cold body slumped to the floor, no one dared to move.

"Fun's over boys," His powerful voice boomed, echoing all over the forest, "Get back to work."

One by one the boys went back to camp, they were shaken up, but not as bad as I was. I still felt a sense of remorse for the poor boy, but the more I reminded myself of all the things he said the sad about it I felt. I still wasn't able to take my eyes off his lifeless body until there was no one else around apart from Pan.

I looked up at him, but no words left my mouth, they were all choked up in my throat. The smirk on his face let me know he was proud of what he had accomplished a minute ago, what kind of a monster was he?

He left, leaving a wink as his parting gift to me.

A cold shiver ran down my spine, I didn't like what he had done and worst of all I didn't like how he had just made me feel.

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

I hope you guys like part 1!!

#ouat #ouat fic #ouat fandom #ouat ff #ouat season 3 #ouat neverland #ouat lost boy #ouat peter pan #ouat pan #ouat pan x reader #ouat felix #ouat felix x reader #felix x reader #peter pan x reader #pan #pan x reader

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eerythingisshaka · 4 years

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sleepless nights

[Chris Evans x Pregnant Reader]

Words Counts: 2.3k

A/N: Just something cute and awkward. It’s explicit too

Tossing around in bed, you jab the body pillow holding your stomach a couple times to submit to your needed softness. Your neck felt tight so you pick yourself up and turn over to the other side of you, facing your snoring husband Chris. You glare at him as his eyelids are curtained by his long lashes, completely under the sweet escape of rest that you couldn’t catch up to.

“Look at you,” you whisper in his face. “Just like a man: have your fun, and leave the woman with the clean up. This big head child is tap dancing on my phalanges and you just get to sleep all you want? Last time you’re getting me drunk on New Years ever, you...you…”

“Phalanges are your fingers, you know that right?” Chris says, eyes still closed.

You jerk with surprise at his response. “Are you sleep-talking?”

Chris opens one eye before closing it again. “You don’t whisper very well. And do you need help insulting me? Cuz I can come up with some zingers.”

You sigh heavily. “No. I wasn’t going to call you any names...that bad. But it is your fault. Your son is taking advantage of my good nature just like his father.”

With Chris’ turn to sigh, he opens his eyes up, pulling the blanket down and resting a hand on your ballooned belly. “We Evans men don’t take what’s not consensually given to us. And are you really blaming me for providing life to our future son on New Years? When I know for a fact, when you sat on my lap during Christmas with your family, and you kept telling me you got me a special box for ‘Chris-mas’? I couldn’t get you home quick enough before I was ready to make you a mother.”

You pinch his nose. “I don’t think I’ll need to remind you again that I am literally the reason our child has life. Please sell your self cheaper.”

Chris chuckles warmly. “You do, babe. Because unfortunately for you, his shoulders are mine.” He leans over to kiss you softly. “As for this kid, lemme have a minute with him…” When he dips his head to your belly, putting an ear to it, you feel a sense of comfort that you’ve been looking for all night.

“I should have known better/Than to let you go alone/It's times like these/I can't make it on my own…”

Chris sings one of his 80s favorites softly to your growing son. You can’t help but laugh at his put on rocker, husky, bravado voice as he continues.

“Wasted days, and sleepless nights!” He sits up pointing to you, giving him a nod of agreement. “An' I can't wait to see you again!”

“Is this love!” You sing out on cue.

“That I’m feeling!” Chris belts out with some fist pumps to keep the beat.

“Is this the love…” You sing sweetly, running your hand along his cheek with the serenade.

“That I’ve been searching for!” Chris crawls, hovering over you and peppering your face with a barrage of kisses, sending you into a giggle fit.

“Oh...ow!” You wince, holding your side. Chris immediately gives you space, but keeps an eye on where your hand lays.

“What is it? Did I pinch you?” he asks.

You shake you head. “I think we just woke up little man. We can’t have a party without him I guess. How about you come out already!” you cover your face with your pillow in despair.

Chris tries to pull it away, but you don’t budge. “The doctor said any day now. But if not, we already have an appointment for inducing.”

You fly the pillow at him that he unfortunately catches with ease. “But I want my body back now! Have you held a human for 41 straight weeks, Chris? I can’t breathe right, I can’t eat what I want but I want to eat all the time. My breasts fit nothing!”

“I know, I hate to see you going through it babe but you’re so beautiful while you’re doing it. You’re awesome and I promise when the baby comes and the doctor goes to smack his butt, I will be the one to say ‘me first!’”

You laugh pitifully. “You would beat our child’s behind for me?”

He lays a hand over his heart. “In the name of his mother, it’s my right.”

You push your foot in his stomach. “Shut up. No one is laying a hand on my baby.” You yelp in pain again, massaging your stomach. “Even if my baby stay laying hands on me! I think he’s sideways or something.”

Chris springs into action. “Hey let’s try that massage from the pregnancy class.” He sits back against the headboard, spreading his legs and tapping the space between them. “Come sit here.”

You roll your eyes. “Chris, I barely feel like moving at all.”

“You won’t have to once you come here. It’s good for the baby and you. Let me help.”

You audibly moan and whine as you crawl on your hands and knees across the bed and over his legs. His hands guide your hips back toward him as you lay back heavily.

You exhale, leaning your head back on his shoulder, letting him pull your (his) sleep shirt up to expose your belly.

“Just remember to take deep breaths, ok?” Chris instructs, taking his hand together at the fingertips over your belly button, bringing them apart, up, then down. You laid against him like a sack of potatoes just huffing and puffing, trying to enjoy the massage.

“How’s that? Better?” Chris says, firmly rubbing his wide hands across your firm belly.

You sigh, pulling your headscarf down from slipping. “I honestly think this would be better as a titty massage. Chris, you’re supposed to have oil, your hands are kind of rough.”

“Oh, dammit. Sorry.” Chris apologizes. He looks around the room but you dismiss his search.

“It doesn’t matter. It is kind of nice just to have you holding me. Go ahead.”

Chris kisses you behind the ear, continuing his massage. “Just empty your mind...”

Your mind almost drifts into a sleep-like state, the soft whir of the ceiling fan creates a soothing lullaby as your husbands fingers skate along your dark swollen belly. Sleep was almost imminent when something kind of pokes you in the back.

“Wait, Chris?”

“Yeah. Something wrong?”

You sit up slightly and guess the issue. “Are you hard right now?”

“Uhhh…” Chris can barely form a sentence. “It was just...I like holding you and...you look so great...and your tits are like…”

“Well I’m glad you enjoy it, nice. So you might as well fuck me.” You crawl over the side of the bed and take off your shirt.

Chris tries to comfort you, feeling he has fucked up. “Aw baby, come on. I didn’t mean to ruin it. I just couldn’t help it.”

You pull down your underwear and kick them to the side. “No, I’m serious. I don’t want that to go to waste, so you’re gonna fuck me cuz I want it and so we can have this baby already.”

Chris stammers. “Wait. So even though we’ve had sex during the pregnancy up til now, this time its supposed to magically induce you?”

You stand in front of him with your hands on your hips looking like a human beach ball with titties. “You’re cute when you’re confused. Look at it this way: you get to bust up in me like you clearly want to and I either cum or this baby comes. Either way, give me your penis now.”

One symptom of pregnancy that never quite fell of was your ability to be ready for sex at the drop of a hat. You would argue over dishes or just being so tired, but no less than a couple minutes away from swinging his dick like a lasso whenever you felt compelled.

Chris looks taken aback but can’t deny his attraction, looking at you in front of him. His eyes travel the length of your body and his hands then follow. He pulls you to him, grabbing your ass to bring you on his lap, You grab a hold of his head as his mouth kisses down your breasts, to our nipples, taking one in between his lips.

“Ow! Wait, I’m kind of sensitive there.”

Chris looks up at you apologetically. “Oh, ok. Do you want me to eat you out or…?”

You take your hand and reach underneath you, pulling up your soaked fingers. “All I need is for you to stick,” you poke your fingers into his mouth, letting him suck them clean, which he does hungrily, “....it in.”

Chris helps you off his lap. “Let’s try having bent over.”

You feel excited getting into position but gradually the weight of your baby takes you out. You go to reach for some pillows, but Chris pulls you back.

“Don’t go running now,” he says seductively.

“No, Chris, timeout. I need something under me, like my back is not loving this.”

“Oh, Christ, ok. Sorry.” Chris awkwardly dives for some pillows, ass all in your face but he helps build a fort under you for support.

“Thank you baby. Ok, I’m ready.” You prop yourself on your elbows as he takes himself in you slowly. You gasp loudly, covering your mouth as you do.

“Oh God, are you ok? Does that hurt?” Chris asks, freezing at your sound.

You shake your head, eating the pillow. “No, I just think I may have came...I know I did.”

“That soon?” Chris says unbelievably.

You nod. “Mhm. My arousal is like...x100 right now so I couldn’t stop it.”

“Do you...want me to keep going?” He asks hesitantly.

“Mhm! Yup, keep going. I got a few more in me, go!” You say, holding on to your pillow tight. Chris places a hand on your lower back as he pulls back, and in again, making you shout sensationally all over again.

“Oh, Chris...Oh! Oh!” You put your head in the pillow as you feel a static heat rush over your body. Your breath is ragged, trying to multitask with maintaining enough oxygen between your whimpers in heat.

As Chris penetrates you deeper, your pillow support collapses, sending you forward uncomfortably.

“Babe, are you alright? I wasn’t trying to be rough,” Chris says, pulling you back to stability.

Your legs are already jelly as you slowly sit on the bed. “I want you to be. I just need the right position.”

“Missionary works for you, right?” Chris offers.

“Not tonight I think. We should just do it sideways.”

“You sure? I thought you almost sprained your leg muscle last time.”

You crawl over to your side of the bed, grabbing your body pillow. “Yeah, well, don’t raise my leg up so high!”

You lay on your side, feeling Chis’ kisses along your thighs, a nibble to your ass cheek until he settles behind you.

“This is how you got me started in the first place,” Chris says, stroking your breasts and planting kisses along your shoulder blade. His beard tickles you, so you reach back behind to retaliate, stroking his member coated with your slickness, gripping his head to rub against your ass.

He grovels against your back. “Ohh, please don’t tease me like that when I have to be gentle with you.”

“Don’t worry, I can take it.”

Chris takes himself from your hand, guiding it in causing your body to jolt. “Are you sure about that?” he asks with a smile. He picks up where he left off, taking his leg between yours to steady widen you a little further for him. You dig into your boy pillow with all your might, cursing him out for being so good. Chris takes his hand to your belly, simulating the massage from earlier.

“You’re so good, take it so good,” he snarls in your ear as he pounds into you. You grab his hand mid-massage, feeling the hurried pace of orgasm washing over you once again.

“Fuck...me...hard…” You gasp, looking back at his tense expression. Through the hardness of his face, you could still tell his admiration of you, your body, the life you all are creating. It all became too much as you kissed him deeply, feeling his energy make your toes curl. He holds your jaw between his fingers while tonguing each other primitively. Chris moans in your mouth as he pushes himself deep inside you once…

“Ah!”

Twice…

“Fuck!”

Three times…

“Ohhhh shit.”

You feel a pressure taken off you that was unlike what you felt before. Your mind became clearer, and your body hasn’t felt so light in months.

“Wow! You really cum hard when you’re pregnant, but I never got you to squirt before.”

You could barely hear him over you catching your breath. “What?”

Chris gets up to get a couple towels. “It’s fine, We’ll change the sheets in the morning.”

You sit up as he folds a towel to put under you. When you scoot over to one side, the amount of liquid the sheets are soaked with make you scream.

“OH MY GOD! OH MY GOD!” You shriek, hyperventilating, as you get up. Chris looks scared, running to your side as you get up to the bathroom.

“Talk to me, but calmly. What’s happening baby?”

Tears are running down your face as you gulp for words. “I don’t know, but I don’t squirt and that’s not squirt, I think my water broke!”

Chris does a combo cough and gasp before smiling. “That’s good! We’re finally having a baby, it worked!”

“Oh God I can’t believe it worked!” You say woefully, rubbing your belly and pacing past Chris around the room.

“Babe, it’s gonna be fine. I’m going to get your bag and call the hospital. This is when contractions happen right?”

“Ohhhh noooo!” You scream, feeling your insides twist that feel like they will end you.

“Sit sit, I’m calling!” Chris sets you on the bed and grabs his phone. Watching him look serious asking for a doctor while stark naked made you want to laugh but contractions took the joy out of you.

When he is off the phone, he kneels in front of you. “Ok, we gotta time them and 5 minutes apart is the magic number. We’re going to be parents babe!”

“I don’t want to yet! This is happening too fast! What if I push him out in the car?”

“I’ll catch him, but honey, this is good. Take some deep breaths.” He inhales, raising his hand, and lowering with an exhale. You follow his rhythm, taking in air and seething with each exhale.

“So you know, this is way worse than New Years. Sex with you has put me in more binds than I can count.”

Chris smirks, patting your leg before heading for the closet. “I certainly can’t wait to tell this story to your parents.”

Tag

@chaneajoyyy

#chris evans x reader #shakafic #black reader always

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entracteofevil · 3 years

Text

Round Table Discussion with the Cover Illustrators

Entr’acte of Evil, page 142-145

--First, everyone please introduce yourselves.

Ichika: I’ve been responsible for the first cover and the illustrations for the series. My name is Ichika.

Suzunosuke: I am Suzunosuke. I normally just draw what I want to. I was able to make the cover for the second book.

You: I am You, and I was charged with the cover for this book. I’m really nervous, but I look forward to being able to do this interview with you.

--When did you all first start making illustrations?

Ichika: Since I could first remember. I don’t recall it all that clearly, but by the time I was in first year I was already drawing.

Suzunosuke: I think it was about middleschool. Apparently when I was a kid my parents were consulted by my teachers on the fact that I couldn’t actually draw pictures.

--You couldn’t draw pictures?

Suzunosuke: Even when I was made to stay behind by myself in kindergarten, the only things I drew were like little pictures of flowers on my drawing paper. It wasn’t that I was sick or anything like that, I was just a normal kid who couldn’t draw.

--I see, that’s very unexpected. What about you, You-san?

You: I don’t clearly remember when I first started drawing as a hobby, but my first picture was when I was three years old, and was a portrait of my caregiver in nursery. Back then I always wanted to use every color of crayon I had, and I guess the fact that I’m still always using rainbow colors even now just goes to show that what you learn in the cradle you carry to the grave.

Suzunosuke: I think that’s cool.

--Incidentally, when did you start making pictures related to VOCALOID?

Ichika: I think around 2007…maybe? I remember the first time I drew Miku was after listening to Yuuyu-P’s “White Season”.

Suzunosuke: I don’t remember how many years ago it was, but I feel like the first thing I drew was Kurousa-P’s “Cantarella”.

You: I listened to VOCALOID the first time in the winter of 2007, so I think it was probably around that time.

--So then, when was the first time you encountered AkunoP’s work?

Ichika: It was right after “Daughter of Evil” was posted on Piapro. I had just finished up making a PV, and when I was looking for new content on Piapro I got drawn in by the title and started listening to it.

Suzunosuke: The “Servant of Evil” was on NicoNico Douga’s rankings, and when I opened up the PV it had a tag saying to watch it after “Daughter of Evil”, so I watched them in order of “Daughter of Evil” and “Servant of Evil” for the first time.

You: Like Suzunosuke-san, probably in the autumn of 2008. The “Daughter of Evil” had a lot of buzz when it was first uploaded! I saw it in so many places with Ichika-san’s illustrations~ It feels so strange to see it having taken this form so many years later.

--Suzunosuke-san and You-san, this was the first time you’d seen a song that used Ichika-san’s illustrations, wasn’t it?

Ichika: I’m sorry for being alive…

Suzunosuke: Sorry, haha

You: Hey, hahaha

Ichika: I’m honestly really shaking here, haha

Suzunosuke: Maybe we should reply with “You’re a very wonderful person” ha ha.

-(Laughs) So what was everyone’s thoughts on the work when they saw “Daughter of Evil” and “Servant of Evil”?

Ichika: I think the imagery in it was really easy to get emotional about. I also thought it was a really interesting concept that although “Daughter of Evil” and “Servant of Evil” had a really different feel to them, they still felt like part of the same story.

Suzunosuke: All else aside I thought it was really sad, and I kept getting stuck on the fact that Allen couldn’t be saved. Still, it was because it was such a sad story that I was captivated by it. It also really made me feel the potential of the VOCALOID genre. It’s a derivative work, but also original content.

You: At the time I had thought it was really interesting and unusual to make a work with such dark fantasy elements using VOCALOID. I also really liked how catchy the tune was. It was also really impressive with all the derivative songs and fanart that got uploaded as things went on. I think it’s a work that shouldered a main pillar of the VOCALOID community in its heyday. And it’s really cool that it’s continuing to spread around the world even now.

--What image do you get of its creator, AkunoP?

Suzunosuke: Given he’s got “Akuno” (of evil) in his name, I thought he might be a scary person.

Ichika: Generally the people who do DTM have a kind of science-y image, so there’s that. And when we actually met, I remember he was a lot like that image. Though he was a bit thinner than I had imagined. Maybe if Akuno-san had shown up to our first meeting with his sunglasses look I’d answer that his image was different, haha.

You: Before I met him offline…He made a lot of romantic-type works, so I actually wondered if maybe he was a woman. When we actually met, it was apparently right after he’d changed his look, so I was a little amused to see him wearing a leather jacket and sunglasses.

--Have you all met AkunoP-san wearing sunglasses?

Suzunosuke: I actually just brushed him off because I didn’t know who he was for a second. As a fan the way he is now is probably close to his image as AkunoP, I would think.

Ichika: I also brushed him off.

You: Everybody brushed him off!

--Well that was an unexpected outcome, haha. Next, do you have a favorite AkunoP work?

Ichika: I actually really like “Clockwork Lullaby”. I prefer the quietly compelling melody and lyrics. Aside from that, I remember when I listened to “Daughter of Evil” I was really drawn to it, wondering what other kind of work he’d done, so that left a significant impression.

Suzunosuke: I think that might be “Re_Birthday”. The flow of sin and rebirth is so painfully beautiful, and I always get misty-eyed no matter how many times I listen to it.

You: Like Suzunosuke-san, I like “Re_Birthday”. I really love the music, and as for the story of it I think it’s really great it has that theme of salvation.

--I see. I had thought that Suzunosuke-san might say “Lunacy of Duke Venomania”, so that was surprising.

Suzunosuke: I could also say “Lunacy of Duke Venomania”, but I don’t want people to think I’m someone who likes erotic content, haha. But that’s also another song that I really like.

About the Novel Illustrations

--How did you feel when you heard about the “Daughter of Evil” becoming a novel?

Ichika: I was simply surprised.

Suzunosuke: I thought it was awesome.

You: I thought it was awesome for Akuno-san. I thought there must have been so many fan’s voices there, and that kind of invisible strength was deeply moving.

--Ichika-san, in the first book you did the cover illustration as well as the ones in the book itself—What was something that was hard about that?

Ichika: I’d have to say highlights.

--Highlights…! Certainly you had to do quite the interaction there… Honestly, was there any point where you were like, “I hope these editors step in dog crap”? haha

Ichika: Nah, ‘cause ever since I’ve become able to put in highlights more seriously, so I’d say it was good practice, haha.

--Suzunosuke-san, you were asked to do the cover for the second book; how was it when they approached you for that?

Suzunosuke: I had thought for sure that they were going to have me just do a pinup on the inside of the book, so then I was kind of like, “Now what?” The others who’ve been involved in it are such amazing illustrators, so I wondered if I’d be good enough for it.

--Was there anything you had trouble with?

Suzunosuke: Drawing the two of them to be just adorable was a little hard.

--I understand you had a bit of revision going on…?

Suzunosuke: Oh no, I saw that as being good training in a lot of ways, so even now it’s a good memory for me.

--You-san, you’ve been asked to do a lot of color illustrations each time, and in this guidebook you were entrusted with the cover illustration. How did you feel after finishing your work?

You: I really like doing the pinups, and I’ll generally paint them as I like, but I dealt with the cover with some different feelings in mind. As a fan I thought that Ichika-san would be given preference for sure. And I’ve refined on my composition a bit looking over past work. I wanted to emulate the flow of things up to now, so like Suzunosuke-san’s work I made it very horizontal.

--Who are some characters that were fun for you to draw in this novel series?

Ichika: All the characters are fun to draw, but if you’re gonna make me choose I’d say Elluka…I had this sense of security while drawing her, like it wasn’t an issue if I made her look a little bit like a villain.

Suzunosuke: I’ve only drawn two characters, so that would be the harmonius Clarith and Michaela. That pair so really cute, so I like them a lot.

--Suzunosuke-san, are there any characters that you would like to draw?

Suzunosuke: I love old man figures, so I’m a bit intrigued by Leonhart. Though I know that’s probably not what you were looking for, haha.

Ichika: (after half a second) It is!

Suzunosuke: Yay, haha

--You-san, you’ve probably drawn all of the main characters at this point; are there any that you’re fond of?

You: Everyone’s fun with how cute they are. I think Riliane-chan is really precious with how her hair is done up. And then there’s the princely Kyle-san—for some reason I’m always grinning when I draw him.

--Please tell us the impressions you were left with as the story has developed.

Ichika: I wasn’t expecting the romantic love between Michaela and Clarith, so that surprised me a bit.

Suzunosuke: I was actually really surprised that the base for Michaela and Gumillia’s appearances were those characters in those other songs.

You: I was also surprised at Michaela and Clarith. I felt the books complemented the content that wasn’t expanded on in the songs, which made them have a lot of interesting points. I think it’s also pretty great that I can now listen to the songs with a fresh perspective.

--Conclusively, how do you think the story will develop in the third book?

Ichika: I think Kyle’s mom is gonna be the final boss.

Suzunosuke: Hmm, I think all of the countries might get wrapped up in the fires of war. All the preliminary announcements have a pretty foreboding feeling to them.

You: All will go according to the will of god (AkunoP).

--Please let us know any final thoughts you have.

Ichika: Thanks for having me here. I don’t know yet how the third book is going to go, but I look forward to being able to go through the novels again with you.

Suzunosuke: I’d be really happy if I could be with you on the sidelines. This interview has been great!

You: I’m really happy to be linked to this series and involved in the work in this way. Thank you very much!

--Thank you very much for joining us everyone!

directory

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iworshipkeanureeves · 4 years

Text

Red Circle

John Wick x Reader

Summary: One week after meeting John at a night club Y/N shares a very unexpected first date with him.

Warnings: mentions of blood, mentions of shooting.

Words: 2K

Request: by @bvbwestfall

The reader first meets john at the red circle ( night club ), it’s her first time in New York and she first time going to a night club and she sees he’s hurt after the shooting and he's walking out and she tries to help him but he doesn't pay attention to her and later they meet and she asks how he is and he's confused and so she tells him that she tried to help him a few days, weeks ago or whatever?

It was her first night in New York, first time leaving her small hometown on her own; she finally felt freed. No one knew her, no one controlled her, Y/N was all by herself, ready to begin her new life.

Surrounded by the flashing lights, Y/N was downing her third cocktail in need of more confidence before hitting the dance floor. All she wanted tonight was to let go and dance until her feet could barely keep her up, to meet new people and just simply enjoy the night.

Grooving to the beat, Y/N was looking around, staring at neon faces and searching for someone she would fancy dancing with. Several men had tried getting with her, all of whom she had to push away grossed out by their overly nasty straightforwardness.

The night was beginning to get really disappointing, and Y/N felt lonelier with every song. Taking a look around, she noticed she had nothing in common with these people, the club began to feel atrocious, in fact. Maybe it was the alcohol wearing off, but the music was like knives piercing through her ears and she suddenly felt short of air.

Y/N was on her way to leave, pushing the crowd out of her way, when her eyes caught a mysterious tall guy leaning against the wall with his hand firmly pressed to his side. Y/N wasn’t sure maybe he had a little too much to drink, or maybe it was the lights messing up with his head, but as soon as she saw his white shirt getting drenched in deep red, she knew the man needed help.

She couldn’t see whether he was in pain. He didn’t seem like he was, but the stain getting more prominent on his shirt was telling else.

The man seemed dangerous and Y/N wasn’t sure if she wanted to get involved. Everyone had been warning her that New York could be vicious and she had to protect herself first. Her kind heart was suggesting otherwise.

When she saw the man moving rather fast, she figured he could be in shock. She thought he was probably disoriented, failing to understand what was going on.

Ignoring the burn in her feet, Y/N ran after, trying to catch the man.

“Excuse me, sir. Do you need help?” She inquired rather boldly, tapping on his shoulder, grabbing his wrist and trying to stall his steps.

The man was much stronger though, dragging Y/N behind him, wondering why she was so persistent and unwilling to let go.

“I’m fine.” Y/N heard a raspy voice, as the stranger stopped and turned around to face her. His words were stoic, but eyes however, seemed full of rage. They were dark, making Y/N feel as if she was staring into abyss; she could find no light escaping them. Those eyes were scary, but captivating too.

She was looking up, trying to read the man’s face, but he seemed stone cold, not a single sign of pain or concern. “Sir, I think we should get you an ambulance. You’re bleeding. Maybe you’re in shock, I don’t know but-“

“I said I’m fine.” He cut Y/N off rather strictly this time, moving her clenched palm away from around his wrist.

“But-“ She stuttered, feeling his hefty hands landing on her shoulders, as he was leaning closer to her.

“You have to leave this place. Now.” He commanded, staring into Y/N’s eyes, trying to make her understand. He was extremely convincing, and all Y/N gave him was a speechless nod before disappearing into the street.

---

Today it is exactly a week after Y/N’s encounter at the Red Circle club. Not a day has passed without her remembering the mysterious man, the one who actually saved her life that night.

Moments after leaving, Y/N heard horrible screams coming from inside the club, and soon the police sirens appeared. She was lucky enough to avoid a dreadful shooting that time, but she ended up with a foolish crush constantly nagging her mind.

For the whole week Y/N has been trying to keep herself busy decorating her new home, attending job interviews and reading books. Most of what she does these days is to steer her mind away from shooting at the club and the man that Y/N can’t forget. She has even taken up exercising, hoping it would help. Nonetheless, whatever she does, wherever she goes, all Y/N can think of is those fatal eyes staring at her and his tight grip lingering on her shoulders.

Now, like every evening for the past week Y/N is going for a quick jog in the park. It is later than usual for her, but the sun is still up, making her feel secure enough.

She is taking her favorite route today, which covers majority of the park and leads to a pond with swans swimming in pairs. Y/N has already reached her goal and is running home. Her steps are in sync with her favorite beat and she’s pushing herself hard today.

Her gaze casually lands on a man walking his dog, wearing jeans and a white top. She watches him from behind, something about him reminds Y/N of that one she met at the Red Circle club; it’s the hair, maybe his bulky frame.

She wishes it was him, but in no world a man like that would be casually walking his dog in a sunset, Y/N thinks. Still, she is running and she knows she can pass him quickly to take a peek at his face.

Y/N doesn’t want to appear creepy, so she keeps a safe distance as she runs past the man, slightly turning her head to make sure it is not the one from the club.

But it is.

And now, left with this information, Y/N has no idea what to do next.

She knows she’s all sweaty, her face is probably tomato red and her hair is messed up. Nonetheless, here walks a man she couldn’t get out of her head ever since she met him. The man she might never have a chance to meet again; it feels like now or never. Really, what does she have to lose?

“Good evening, sir.” She walks to him, all breathy, and God knows maybe even a little smelly too.

“Evening.” The man politely replies. There’s warmth in his eyes, they are amber now, reflecting the setting sun. But that is the same man. Y/N is sure of that.

“How is your-?“ She points to his stomach where his wound should be, causing a suspicious frown.

“Who hired you?” The stranger becomes dead serious; his muscles tense, and Y/N feels like the man is ready to fight her any second now.

“What do you mean?” She laughs.

Y/N is a little confused, failing to understand what his question meant. “I’m unemployed. I came to New York only a week ago.” She explains, managing to soften his stern face.

Even a slight shade of blush colors the stranger’s cheeks, as he realizes that Y/N is the girl, who tried to help him on the shooting night. She is not a threat; the man has to remind himself.

“You don’t seem too friendly,” she points out, giving him a teasing smile. Y/N believes the man didn’t mean to be rude with her, but she suspects he must be involved in some dangerous business and these are probably his trust issues that she is dealing with here.

“I’m careful.” The man confirms Y/N’s thoughts. He’s still serious, looking strong and tough, but Y/N finds it cute how he kneels down to praise the dog, taking the tennis ball away from the fangs.

“Can you at least tell me your name?” Y/N insists, watching the man making another throw.

“John.” He remains brief with his words.

“John? Doesn’t sound like your real name.” Y/N giggles, teasing him even more. She sees there is a true person hiding inside this rugged frame, and she takes on a challenge to get to him.

“Huh?”

“Too generic for a guy like you,” Y/N continues, adorably chuckling, walking side by side with him.

John doesn’t seem to oppose Y/N following him, but he remains silent. He still communicates, even if he uses no words; Y/N believes she hasn’t seen a frown or an arched brow to have as much expression as his does.

“So you really don’t remember me, huh?” She keeps playfully bothering him. “That’s a little hurtful…”

Suddenly John stops, taking a deep look into Y/N’s eyes. “You really don’t want a guy like me to remember you,” he says, and proceeds to walk faster than her.

“Wow so serious.” She teases again in a mocking tone. “What does it even mean ‘a guy like you’?”

“A guy like me is someone you should stay far away from. You’d be better off this way.” He’s direct and maybe even a little strict, but that doesn’t scare Y/N off. In fact, it only intrigues her more.

Y/N feels sort of strange going after a guy, as she is used to things being other way around, but she can’t resist; she is compelled by him, thinking of ways to entice the man.

“Maybe I should decide that myself? When you ask me on a date.” She chooses a slightly pushy approach, halting their promenade, and making John look at her with an extremely confused gaze.

“I don’t do dates.” He is concise again.

“Just one?” Y/N smirks, causing John to sigh. She sees she can break him, she just needs a little more time.

“I’m a busy man, I don’t have time for dates,” John explains kindly, preparing a leash to take the dog home.

“Okay…” They exchange apologetic smiles, which hold the meaning of a sad goodbye. Slowly, John turns around and begins to walk away

But Y/N can’t give up just yet. She decides to take one last try and starts rushing after them.

“What are you doing?” John smiles; he keeps walking, but his steps slow down.

“I’m squeezing our date into your tight schedule,” Y/N looks at him. She is waiting for any sign of affirmation, and surprisingly John smiles again. Two in a row, what an achievement, she is proud of herself. “I’m Y/N, by the way,” she shakes John’s hand. It’s huge, she notices; and very firm.

“Is it too late for coffee?” John asks.

“Yes, but for hot chocolate, it’s never too late!” Y/N gets excited. She can’t believe this is happening for real.

John hands her the leash and commands the dog to sit. Those puppy eyes are hard to resist, and Y/N kneels to scratch the dog behind the ears. She pets him for a while, while John is taking care of drinks.

“I think he likes me,” Y/N grins, welcoming John holding two cups in his sturdy hands.

“You’re easy to like,” he smirks.

They walk for a while, talking about random things, nothing too much. It’s mostly Y/N speaking, of course. But John is more than glad to listen to her. He enjoys getting to know Y/N, to learn how she has recently moved to New York, her ideas about decorating her new home, what pets she would love to have and galleries she would like to visit in town.

They wander around, Y/N is happily walking the dog, but the sun is almost down, and Y/N knows she should better be going home soon.

“So what is it that you do?” She finally asks before preparing to say her goodbye. She doesn’t really expect for John to give an honest answer, but she can suspect what he does. She thinks she has already seen him at work. It was that night at the Red Circle club.

“It’s not exactly the first date material,” John sighs, it’s like something heavy falls onto his chest.

“Then you can tell me on the second one. Same time next week?” Y/N knows it’s a bold move, but so far it has been working perfectly fine for her.

And it does again, as she sees John smiling, taking the leash back from her hand. “At the same coffee stand. I’ll see you then. Good night.”

Tag-list: @keandrews @rdjloverxxx @danceoftwowolves @greenmanalishi @lilywoood (message me to be added or removed)

>Masterlist<

#John Wick #John Wick fanfiction #John Wick oneshot #John Wick fic #John Wick imagine #John Wick fanfic #Request #John Wick x reader #John Wick x Y/N #tw:blood #tw: shooting

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chocolatemin · 3 years

Text

word count: 8.51k

contains: fantasy, fluff, angst, crack, psychological issues, violent themes and mentions of explosives, implied fem!reader, mention and description of food, cursing

note: yaaaay! I'm back with another fic for Halloween Special, the story was mainly inspired by none other than my favorite Disney movie, Alice in Wonderland and the word ‘horologe’! I had so much fun writing and this is my longest one yet, about the pairing-- it’s a secret! You’ll find out along the way ;) I hope you enjoy reading! <33

「1st Strike.」

You sat on the bottom of the tree, feeling the texture of the paper on your fingertips as you flipped through the pages of the book you are reading. Horologium, it has been stuck in your bookshelf for years. You always tell yourself to read it after finishing a book but somehow, you always end up forgetting it. The book’s cover has always been intriguing to you, it was simple and pleasing, yet it has a vibe that you cannot determine. You read one of the passage aloud:

“By the time the clock strikes twelve,

Thou shall hear the sound of bells,

Make sure to bid thy farewell,

Or the day shall repeat its spell.”

“What?” Your brows furrowed in confusion, under the passage was a picture of a pocket watch that is oddly familiar to you. You shrugged off the thought and closed the book, ready to head home. It was still early, around 10 o’clock, and the tree created a perfect shade for you to read your book peacefully at, however you have still errands to do.

“I’m late, I’m late, I’m late!” Your ears perked upon hearing a tiny voice not too far from your spot. Huh? You got up from your seat and dusted off your clothes. You carefully made your way towards the source of the voice and tried your best not to create loud sounds as you stepped on the fallen dried leaves on the ground. Quietly peeking from the leaves, you saw a talking squirrel in a suit, running for its dear life. Wait, a squirrel? You must be mistaken. You blinked your eyes a few times but nothing has changed, there really is a talking squirrel in a suit running. Letting the curiosity get the best of you, you quickly followed the squirrel. It seems to be too caught up in being ‘late’ that it didn’t notice you following it.

“Goodness, I’m late!” The squirrel groaned once more before ducking safely under a log. You were almost there when you felt something slipped out from your pocket halting you to a stop. You looked behind you and saw your pocket watch lying on the ground. You immediately picked it up, examining if there are scratches or broken parts and thankfully, there is no damage or else your mother is going to get mad. And when she gets mad, all hell breaks loose.

“Oi, Felix! Whatcha doin’ mate?” You saw a blonde guy approaching another blondie while grinning widely. He has such a nice jaw and cute dimples. He was wearing a sleeveless shirt, showing off his well-toned muscles.

“Look at this egg!” The taller blondie, which you assumed as ‘Felix’, flashed a cute smile, extending his arm towards the shorter one, holding out an egg, “isn’t it cool!”

“What’s so cool about it?” The blonde guy which you didn’t know the name looks at Felix quizzically. Felix’ reaction was a mix of shock and disgust causing a giggle to escape your lips. You instantly covered your mouth but they already turned their heads to you, “A friend!” Felix yelled before they practically ran over to you.

“Hi! My name’s Felix!” Felix asked, holding his hand out to you, “What’s yours?” You were skeptical about shaking his hand but you didn’t want to come off as rude and impolite so you hesitantly took his hand, “I’m Y/N.”

“That’s such a pretty name!” The shorter blonde spoke, “I’m Chan, and we’re brothers. Nice to meet you,” he extended his hand to you for a handshake which you still took skeptically, “What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I was just passing by.” You hid your hands behind your back.

“Do you wanna hear a great story?” Felix chirped with excitement.

“Maybe next time? I still have to go somewhere.” You glanced at your right, where the squirrel headed off, taking a few steps away from them and you could see the dejection in their eyes.

“Wait! Aren’t you curious about the sunset and sunrise?” Chan asked and in which you firmly answered, “No, not at all.”

“Are you sure about that, mate?” Felix followed, wiggling his brows simultaneously.

“Yes.”

“Are you really not going to listen to it?” Chan pouted, giving you his ‘puppy’ eyes. Well, you think it is cute but your curiosity about the squirrel is killing you. You shook your head, “Not a chance.”

“You’re not really going to give it a chance?” Felix clasped his hands in front of his chest and pouted, causing your heart to flutter and become annoyed at the same time. When are they going to stop?

“You’re annoying! Fine. Let me hear about it.” You grunted and you saw them jump in excitement, “Ha! Told ya, you are curious!” Felix cooed.

“I am not. Now, kindly get to the story so you can stop bugging me about it.”

Chan began the story, “The sun is afraid of the dark so it hides during night time.” He created gestures as he continued, “The sun is known to be the warrior of the day, so the Sun cannot afford to lose its reputation by simply being scared of the dark.” Felix continued, “This is where the Moon enters, the Moon cannot stand the day because it was too blinding for him. So, they made an agreement. The Moon shall hide during the day and reign on its glory at night.”

Chan followed, “The sun shall rise and dawn upon the day, but they shouldn’t tell anyone their little secret. They made an alliance, tricking everyone that they both ‘rule’. And so the night came, the Sun immediately hid under the mountain while the Moon glimmered at night. And then, the morning came…” Chan nudged Felix’ side, signaling him to resume the story in which Felix nodded, “And the sun yeeted the moon.”

“No, Felix! The story is not supposed to end that way!” Chan ruffled his hair a little aggressive, placing his hands on the sides of his waist. You watched the two bicker over the ending of the story until you heard the ringing of bells. Your eyes widened as the color of the surroundings started turning into different arrays of color. You felt dizzy and your vision started to swirl. The squirrel! I totally forgot about it, thanks to these two. You feel yourself falling but all you can see is darkness and you’re definitely terrified. You feel your chest tightening along with a lump in your throat while you become lightheaded. Panic washed your body as you experience two of your worst fears– not being able to see and falling from heights. But before you completely pass out you grabbed your watch from your pocket and saw its hands glow as it pointed on 12.

「2nd Strike.」

“Wait! Aren’t you curious about the sunset and sunrise?” Chan asked. You were confused, mouth hanging open upon the happening. What did just happen?

“Didn’t you ask me that earlier?” You tilted your head, looking at him with confusion.

“No, I didn’t.” Chan gave you a puzzled look.

“Really?” They both nod at the same time, you were disoriented by the happenings. First, you met these two earlier and you agreed to listen to their story, second, your sight turned into an unfamiliar vision before free-falling at a void of darkness, and third, you were suddenly back with Chan and Felix. The squirrel! You glanced to your right and saw the footprints left by the animal in a hurry, “but I have to go somewhere.”

“Are you sure about that, mate?” Felix wiggled his brows, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

“Yes, and if you would excuse me, I’ve got something to do. Goodbye.” You waved your hands before running off to the direction where the squirrel headed at. You hear their shouts of disapproval but you disregarded it. You already knew the ending anyway, right?

You hurriedly tried to follow the footsteps but it only led you to a wooden gate. You peeked on the hole to see two tall men wearing extravagant clothes arguing over something you couldn’t quite figure out. What you didn’t expect is for the gate to swing open by itself, revealing your dumbfounded self.

“A guest!” The brown-haired lad clapped his hands, gesturing you to step inside in which you were compelled to, "Welcome to the party. Please enjoy yourself.” He flashed you a captivating smile.

“Hyunjin, what a shame to our guest, tell the chipmunk to hurry up!” The brown-haired lad smacked Hyunjin’s arm to get his attention from dancing on his own. Hyunjin nodded upon the order, taking the bell on the long table, shaking it violently and you covered your ears using your hands. What’s wrong with this guy?! However, your annoyance was cut short by the clanking of porcelain and plates coming from the back door.

“Squirrel!” You almost yelled and the two turned their heads to you. You notice how perfect their faces were, the taller– Hyunjin has a mole under his eye that highlights his pretty eyes and thick brows, he has a pointed nose and full lips. You haven’t seen anyone as pretty as him, heck, he’s even prettier than your sister. While the other lad, which you still didn’t know the name of, looks a lot mature and more masculine than Hyunjin, he was charismatic, his eyes are something, so are his lips.

“Do you have any problem, Miss...” Hyunjin eyed you a bit harshly, causing goosebumps to form on your arms and you decided not to give your true name.

“Alex. No, I just didn’t expect a squirrel out of all to bring the tray.” You feigned innocence, smiling to him and he returned the smile with a hint of mischief.

“Oh, how rude of me not to introduce myself, you can call me Minho.” The brown-haired lad removed his hat and bowed, offering you a blue rose. As you picked up the rose from his hand, you felt your heart skip a beat. You faintly smiled at his courteousness but you were interrupted by no other than, Hyunjin.

“Miss Alice, I think you should join us dance. A party is not complete without dancing!” Hyunjin dragged you towards a spot near the end of the long table, he then walked over to the table, taking a teaspoon and tapped the teacup three times, “Music, please!”

A loud booming sound of a trumpet was followed by the strumming of harp, accompanied by percussion and stringed instruments, and it rather sounded obnoxious to your ears. Looking around, you couldn’t find the source of the music, you were flustered. How the heck is that even possible? There wasn’t even a record player to begin with. You stood awkwardly watching Minho and Hyunjin dance rather crazily than dancing according to the music. Minho noticed you and spoke, “You should dance with us!”

You shook your head, “No, I cannot dance, besides, I have somewhere else to go.” You stepped back.

“Then have a bite first, a party isn’t a party without sweets!” Hyunjin shoved a saucer to you with a slice of red velvet cake with mint chocolate frosting topped with blueberries. You almost puked just by looking at the bizarre combination of flavors, it didn’t even look pleasing to your eyes.

“Thanks, but I’m good.” You forced a smile and returned the saucer on the table. When you looked back at Hyunjin, his brows were knitted and he was glaring at you, shivers ran down your spine and you were frozen at your spot. His pretty face is now contorted with anger and disappointment.

“Your behavior is so ugh!” Hyunjin raged, making Minho stop from dancing. Hyunjin grabbed something from his pocket that looked like a bath bomb, you don’t know whether to feel frightened or laughing because it didn’t seem harmful. But you felt your insides turn upside down as soon as you heard Minho’s celebration, “Bomb fight!”

In a blink of an eye, Minho was already holding many bombs. Fuck, they are out of their minds! Your adrenaline came rushing and before you can even think, your body was already making its way out of the place. You heard Hyunjin and Minho’s steps and explosions from behind, you glanced to your back and saw the squirrel come out running from the mixture of colored smokes. You realized that it that the bombs weren’t catastrophic but it still scared you. As much as you wanted to get away from the two, you can’t help but feel bad for the squirrel so you turned your heels and rushed to it. You frantically grabbed the squirrel and carried it. Albeit getting farther from the two, you didn’t notice the bomb coming at your direction. You were shaking as soon as you saw the bomb drop in front of you, and as an instinct, you ran back to the opposite side inspite of the colored smoke blocking your sight. You felt the ground shake from the explosion near you, making you lose your balance and your body collided with a softer surface.

Upon hearing that the explosions stopped, you pushed yourself up and saw an unconscious man lying under you.

“What the hell!” You stumbled backwards, garnering the attention of the man, he looked young though. His black hair is parted in the middle that flaunts his attractive face and his cheeks sort of resembled a squirrel’s. He appeared like a prince because of the tuxedo he was wearing.

“Wow… you were gorgeous.” Your eyes widened and you shut your mouth from embarrassment. You heard him scoff as he helped himself to a sitting position.

“What do you mean ‘were’? I am always gorgeous!” He rolled his eyes at you and you can’t help but to feel irritated from his cockiness. You stood up huffing as you removed the dust and dirt from your clothes.

“By the way, have you seen a squirrel?” You fanned your hands, trying to push away the smoke that causes you suffocation. The man behind you erupted in laughter and he looked at you in a judging manner. You could feel your irritation growing, you wanted no other than to slap that arrogant smirk off his face. “Did I say anything funny?”

“I didn’t expect you to be this dumb.” He made a straight face.

“Pardon?” You glared at him, clearly offended.

“I am the squirrel, dumbass!”

“But you look.. human...” It sounded more of a question than a statement.

“You know what, nevermind.” He shook his head, “Where are you going anyway? Maybe I can help you.”

You fought the urge to leave a sarcastic comment to avoid an argument. But where were you heading off to? You were just following him. “I was lost, I wanted to find my way out of here.”

“Are you not from here?”

“No… I am from Alium Orbis.” You fidgeted as you gazed down at your worn out pair of shoes. It really wasn’t your intention to travel to a different place, you only wanted to know what the squirrel was late for.

“I’ve never heard of it, but we can inquire at the palace.” He flashed you an apologetic smile and you nod.

The skies were already painted with hues of orange and pink yet you were still out in the woods, the route you were taking is the safest yet longest, according to the man beside you. You have learned that his name is Jisung and he was working at Minho and Hyunjin’s sometimes and he was quite used to the two’s antics. He also works for the king, he said that the king had a terrible anger so he works there as one of the palace’s repairmen. You also learned that he wasn’t cocky, he’s just very good at ‘teasing’ people. He joked a lot from time to time and you realized that hanging around with him was fun and never boring.

“Hey, Jisung.” You broke the silence that engulfed the atmosphere as you walked through the dark forest.

“Yeah?”

“I haven’t eaten since noon, and I’m…” You shyly admitted since you cannot hold in the hunger, your stomach is churning and aching at the same time. You fished out your pocket watch and the timepiece says 8:27. Thankfully, there were lamp posts along the way so you could still see clearly despite the darkness.

“Right, my house is just a few minute walk from this place, can you still wait a bit longer?” Jisung scratched his nape.

“Yes, but my legs are getting weak so you’ve got to carry me when I cannot walk anymore.” You joked, trying to lift up the mood but Jisung stopped in front of you.

“Hop on.” Jisung crouched, his back facing you.

“Wait– no, I was just joking.” You laughed but your feet and legs are already sore.

“I said hop on.” Jisung impatiently argued, turning his head to you. You gulped nervously and obeyed. You can feel the erratic beating of your heart as Jisung carried you on his back on the way to his house. Your cheeks are flushed from another embarrassment with him.

“Jisung, I think I can walk now,” you stuttered, “my legs are now okay.”

“Nah, we’re already here.” You tore your gaze from his back and saw a small but cozy house, “Wait a moment, hold tighter.” You were about to argue but Jisung cut you off. He removed his right hand from supporting your other thigh as he slipped his hand inside his pocket to get the key and opened the door for the both of you. Your heart skipped a beat from his act.

“Jisung put me down.” You declared earning a chuckle from him before muttering ‘alright’, “Thanks, by the way,” you shy away from his gaze.

“You’re probably exhausted from all the running and walking, you can grab a pair from the clothesline and change in the bathroom,” Jisung pointed towards the door at the kitchen back door, “The bathroom is upstairs, the last door at the left.”

You whispered ‘thank you’ before heading to grab a pair of his clothes and go to the bathroom. As you cleaned up and changed into comfortable clothes, you pondered on how you got in this mysterious place. You heard the clanking of plates and pots from the kitchen as you washed your clothes and you couldn’t help the weird feeling in your chest.

Damn, Jisung has it all.

Not only was he funny, kind-hearted and gentleman, he also knew how to do all the domestic chores and it was a bonus that he’s awfully attractive. You felt the blush creeping up to your cheeks so you immediately shook off the idea. This isn’t right. You thought to yourself. It didn’t take you long enough to finish rinsing you clothes and you soon left the bathroom. You went to the kitchen and you were welcomed by the smell of food and of course, Jisung in an apron.

“Hey, Jisung.” Jisung jumped from your voice.

“You startled me!” He placed a hand over his chest dramatically, “You’re done?”

You nodded, “Can I hang my clothes outside?”

“Of course, but better hurry up. I’m almost done.”

The dinner was scrumptious and you savored the food with delight. You didn’t imagine that Jisung was a great chef. You’ve exchanged stories and personal experiences, just like friends in the get-to-know stage. He talked a lot and made you laugh countless times. You offered to wash the dishes as an act of returning the favor, he didn’t even oppose, you saw how his eyes lit up and you couldn’t help but laugh at how happy he looked.

Gazing through the telescope, “Look at the constellation! It looks like a pendulum!” You stood up and ushered Jisung to switch seats so that he could see it too. You sat beside each other at his mini observatory next to his room. It’s been an hour since you two started stargazing and you were having the time of your lives. It’s been a while since Jisung had a companion and it surely made him all giddy inside, but it wasn’t just the thought of having a companion that makes his heart flutter. It was you and he didn’t know why.

“Y/N, I think I might be falling in love with you.” You were taken aback by Jisung’s confession out of the blue. Long silence filled the atmosphere.

“But it hasn’t even been a day since we met.” You whipped your head to face him and you swore, there’s something in his eyes.

“I know, sounds absurd, right?” Jisung shook his head, you’re right, but who are you to tell him his own feelings, “Y/N…”

Jisung stared at your eyes, so do you, you could see that he was trying to see the deep side of you, trying to figure out the puzzle in you. It was funny how you only met him today yet you felt nostalgic. You stiffened the moment Jisung started closing the gap between the two of you, his eyes trailed from your eyes to your lips and a turmoil started boiling inside your chest. Jisung’s lips were only an inch far from yours when you felt dizzy again along with the ringing of bells in your ears. Your vision swirled and you were transported again in the void of darkness, falling. However, this time, there were faces of the clock in different sizes, all glowing as the hands pointed at twelve. You sighed in relief. Thank goodness, that was close.

「3rd Strike.」

You adjusted the telescope to find another constellation and you did. This time it looked like a pendulum, you wanted to show it to Jisung but knew fully well what could happen next, “Jisung, I’m getting sleepy. I think I should go to bed now.” You tried your best not to sound too awkward but failed.

“Yeah, sure.” Jisung got up from his seat, offered his hand to help you stand up and he led you to the room you’ll be staying in for the night.

“Thanks, Jisung,” You stepped inside then turned to face him, “good night.” You smiled at him and he returned the gesture.

“Good night, Y/N.” You waited for him to leave before closing the door behind his back.

You turned off the light and walked over to the bed, it wasn’t very dark since the moonlight illuminated the room just right. You thought that maybe this “12 o’clock” thingy doesn’t seem bad at all. In fact, it saved you two times, but if you were to be given a chance to go back in time, that would be before he was gone. You also felt guilty for Jisung for an unknown reason. You have to put up an act tomorrow and pretend that nothing happened, well nothing did happen, but what almost did.

You woke up the next day feeling energized and ready to head home. Just like last night, Jisung cooked the meal while you washed the dishes since that was the only thing you could do for him in return, for now. You washed the clothes you wore last night and hung it outside, fortunately, your clothes dried up overnight. It was around 9 o'clock when the two of you left his house. On your journey, you noticed how Jisung seemed a bit off and you had a clue why. He still joked a lot and told you some of his embarrassing moments while working at the palace. You shared how your mother always scolded you whenever you did your antics. How you miss your home.

“Jisung, did you hear that?” You moved closer to Jisung as you whispered.

“You heard it too?” You nod at him and the growling sound became louder. You tugged the hem of his shirt as a signal to stop walking. Your eyes darted to your left, observing your surroundings while Jisung kept his eyes on the right side of the route, “Hey, Y/N. Continue walking but stay as close to me as possible.” He whispered in your ear as he pulled you to his side. You continued on your tracks and pretended as if you didn't hear the loud growling behind you.

“Y/N, on the count of three, you hide there.” Jisung eyed the bush near the oak, “walk faster this time.”

“Got it.”

Jisung mumbled, “One, two,” taking a deep breath, “three!” He pushed you away from him before transforming into a squirrel. You followed his instructions and hid behind the bush, as you peeked, you saw a chimera facing Jisung in his squirrel form.

“What the fuck, Jisung?” You cursed under your breath, you could see that if he tries to fight, he would be no match for Chimera’s size and abilities, but Jisung is smart and full of tactics– something that Chimera lacks. You trusted Jisung whatever his plan may be.

“If I don’t come back within an hour, you go first, the town is straight ahead. Look for the blacksmith and wait for me there. When he asks you why, just say “Jisung’s”.” Jisung was rapping and you almost didn’t pick up the last part.

“You wanna eat?” Jisung yelled, “You gotta run first, weakling!”

You wanted to punch Jisung hard, he really was very good at provoking but this wasn’t the best time to do so. You watched Jisung dashed off to the left side of the forest, which was opposite to where you were hiding. You grow more worried as minutes pass by. After what felt like an eternity, you decided to head first according to Jisung’s plan. Along the walk, you became more anxious about Jisung, you hoped that whatever his plan was, worked for him, because unfortunately, there you are, face to face with another creature– Greater Basilisk, oh, how lucky you were. Knowing that you were nothing compared to the beast, all you can do is run. Turning to your heels, you ran with all your might albeit trembling. You ran here and there, making you more lost than you actually were. You were worried as hell for Jisung and now you were running everywhere just to get away from the beast chasing after you. You were on the verge of breaking down when you heard the ringing in your ears. Thank goodness! You felt dizzy, causing you to trip on a twig you didn’t notice. The last thing you saw before your vision swirled was the Greater Basilisk’s mouth. You were transported into the void just in time, that’s when you let your tears out as you fall into nothingness, and you felt grateful for whatever this thing is.

「4th Strike.」

You opened your eyes and you were back in your hiding spot. You left out a heavy sigh and grabbed the clock from the pocket of your kirtle. The hands were pointing exactly at 11:45. So I get transported to the time, fifteen minutes before twelve. This time though, you decided not to leave your spot.

“So, what are we hiding from?” You flinched at the deep voice.

“Jisung?” You turned your head and met a man standing behind you wearing a white dress shirt, black trousers and suspenders worn over his shoulders. The first button of his shirt were unbuttoned, making him appear mature. He has his hair styled up that brags his pretty forehead. Were they all required to look this good?

“You’re staring,” He snorted, “and I am not Jisung.” He made himself comfortable beside you.

“Oh, you have the Horologium.” The man pointed to your pocket watch, “Where’d you get that?”

“What are you talking about? This was given by my mother.” You clutched the pocket watch close to your chest protectively.

“Is that so? I used to have one but I accidentally stepped on it.” He chuckled and that was the most pleasant thing you’ve ever heard since you came here.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” you shoved back the watch inside your pocket, you felt like he has all the answers to your questions and you figured it wouldn’t hurt trying, “Can I ask you something?”

“Go ahead.”

“Where are we?” He threw you a ridiculous look.

“At the forest, obviously.” You didn’t expect his answer but he’s right.

“What is this place?”

“Why are you here when you don’t even know this place!” He hit the bullseye, that’s very stupid of you to follow a squirrel without even having an idea where would it take you, and he notices your lack of response, “You’re in District 9.”

You heard a loud growling not too far from your hiding spot, “I hate reptiles.” You bit your lip and peeked from the bush that hid you and your guess was correct, it was the Greater Basilisk.

“How did you know?” The man beside you asked in a quiet voice.

“I already encountered that monster earlier!” You spoke in an angry tone, “I can’t believe it’ll come here.”

“So that’s what you were hiding from?”

“Not really. It just so happened that I followed Jisung’s plan but ended up face to face with that,” you sighed, should I tell him? “Do you know that 12 o’clock thing? I was transported back here before that monster ate my head off.”

Something in the deepest part of Seungmin’s memory struck upon the mention of 12 o’clock. You were really just like him when he first stumbled at District 9.

“Do you know that your watch can work like magic?” Seungmin asked.

“What are you saying this time?” You eyed him suspiciously.

Seungmin smirked, “The basilisk can smell us, if you wanted to know.” The tiny hairs on your nape stood up and you never wanted to have an encounter with that beast anymore. You took out the pocket watch faster than a lightning.

“What now?” You impatiently asked. Seungmin changed from sitting position into a crouching position before pulling you towards him. He grabbed your hand holding the timepiece and pressed the crown firmly. Your cheeks flushed upon the realization that Seungmin was holding your hand tight but it was cut short by the glowing of light from your pocket watch. The light formed a circle that served as a shell for the both of you.

“What is this?” You asked, bewildered by the hidden power your pocket watch holds.

“The power of Horologium,” Seungmin explained, “It can give you protection and invisibility but it only lasts for half an hour. Pretty cool, right?”

You faced Seungmin and noticed how dangerously close he was. His eyes met with yours and you felt the loud thumping inside your chest, you’re sure that he could see how red your cheeks were. You realized that he kind of looked familiar to you.

“You’re staring again,” Seungmin lightly chuckled, “I can’t believe you are already falling for me, princess.”

“If I push you out of this shield, what would happen to you?” You smiled in a sarcastic manner and he just rolled his eyes at you. He was about to say something whilst you glanced over the bush and the basilisk was standing in front of your hiding place.

“It’s right in front of us! Shh!” You placed your forefinger above his lips to shut him up. Little did you know, Seungmin was already dying inside yet feeling alive from the close proximity, his heart did a series of backflips when your finger came in contact with his lips. He didn’t understand why you have this effect on him and it’s not like he hated it, he was just baffled.

“It’s gone!” Seungmin snapped out of his trance, “But how do I deactivate this?”

“Yeah, right, all you have to do is chant ‘in tempore’.” The shield slowly faded after Seungmin muttered the chant, “See?”

“How awesome!” A wide smile spread across your face from astonishment.

Seungmin couldn’t suppress the smile forming on his lips from how adorable you looked.

“Woah there buddy, get your hands off.” Your eyes darted towards the owner of the stern voice and found Jisung with an extremely disheveled hair.

“Who are you to tell me?” Seungmin helped you get up and smiled at you gently making Jisung grow more irritated.

“Why would I trust someone like you?” Oh, Jisung, stop digging your own grave.

“Why are you so worked up? I just helped her hide from a beast, right?” You nodded enthusiastically. Seungmin enjoyed the sight, he can read him and he wanted to try pushing Jisung’s buttons further, “Why are you acting so protective of her when you literally left her alone?”

Jisung clenched his jaw, he couldn’t admit that he was feeling jealous of seeing Seungmin holding you too close to him for his liking.

“I know you find her cute and all but can we like, leave now? We have something else to do, Min.” A charming young man with cold, fox-like eyes and blue hair came out from the opposite side of the forest. He was wearing a vest instead of suspenders, unlike Seungmin.

“How did you find me?” Seungmin’s ears turned cherry red. How could Jeongin expose him like that?

“You just talked to this girl and you already forgot that I can literally smell you from miles? Oh, greater basilisk, this isn’t you, Min!” Jeongin cackled.

“Hey, I have a name!” You glared at him

“Alright, Miss. But I wasn’t talking to you.” Jeongin snapped back.

“Watch your mouth, Jeongin.” Seungmin threatened, he was not just having it.

“Yeah, sure, Loverboy. Come on, we’ve got to go somewhere!” Jeongin waved his hand in annoyance.

Seungmin rolled his eyes before whispering to you, “I apologize in his stead, he’s not usually like this.” He walked over to Jeongin while Jisung was shooting daggers with his eyes as Seungmin walked past him.

“Let’s go, Y/N.” Jisung gave Seungmin one last glare before pulling you to his side.

“See you later, Y/N, bye chipmunk!” Seungmin waved at you before dragging Jeongin away, seeing Jisung frown made Seungmin erupt in laughter.

Oh god, why does his laugh sound familiar?

“Why were you still there? I told you to go first.” Jisung blurted out unconscious of the anger in his tone.

“Hey, calm down. Why are you so angry? I was almost- if I didn’t wait for you, I would have already been eaten by the basilisk.” Jisung’s anger slowly died down because of your next words, “Also, I was worried as hell for you!”

“You were?” Jisung didn’t notice the smile creeping up his cheeks.

“Why are you smiling like that? It’s freaking me out.” You pushed Jisung away from you jokingly and he just left a hearty laugh, “You’re weird.”

“Call me that one more time and I won’t treat you to lunch.” Jisung deadpanned.

“Alright, mighty squirrel.”

「Last Strike.」

Upon reaching the castle, you were welcomed by the king having tantrums so you were escorted to the garden instead. His loud yelling echoed within the palace halls and you were never terrified of someone in your life until today, not even your mother. You heard a loud shattering of glass causing you to flinch on your seat, across the you was Jisung sighing heavily.

“When you said he’s got a bad temper I didn’t know that it was that bad.” You admitted.

“Not to scare you, but actually... that’s just the tip of the iceberg.” Jisung gave you an uneasy smile as he picked up a cookie on the table.

After what seemed like an hour, the king’s shouting could no longer be heard and the tension inside the palace walls died down, you were asked to come to a room for interrogation. The servant bowed before leaving the two of you in front of a wooden door. You knocked and heard a muffled voice behind the door saying come in.

“Greetings, my King.” You copied Jisung’s actions and bowed.

“You may have a seat,” The king spoke without sparing you a glance, he was busy signing documents, “What brings you here?”

“My King, I found another lost traveler in our land.” You were confused with Jisung’s statement and he has this mysterious aura around him that left an unsettling feeling inside you.

So this isn’t the first time they’ve encountered people like me.

“Oh, really? Please tell me more about it.” The king finally decided to turn to you.

“Here’s Y/N. She said she was from Alium Orbis.” Jisung took a pause, “does our District 9 perhaps have connection to other lands?”

“Alium Orbis… that sounds familiar.” The king rang the bell and a servant entered the room.

“You called, Your Majesty?” The servant bowed to the king, “Do you need anything, Your Highness?”

“Have you ever heard of Alium Orbis? I think we had someone come here before from that land.” You were staring at the king for a very long time now and you notice how intimidating he looked. His eyes had this sense of authority in them, his broad shoulders also added to his intimidating look, as if he can break anyone into pieces.

“Yes, Your Majesty. His name was Kim Seungmin.” You felt your heart jump upon hearing the name.

“Miss Y/N, do you know him by any chance?” The king’s piercing gaze almost made your soul leave your body.

“I do, Your Highness.” Tons of questions about Seungmin flooded your mind. One day you all woke up and Seungmin disappeared just like that. His parents almost turned mad when they heard the news that their only son was missing.

“That’s good news then.” The king turned to his servant, “Where is he now?”

“I believe he’s with the Teller. He still wasn’t able to leave our land.”

“I remember now, it’s been exactly twelve years, right?” The king placed his hand under his chin as he tried to figure out the reason, “Suspicious.”

“Nevermind,” The king opened the drawer and took out a piece of paper before handing it to you, “this is the map to the Teller’s place.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.” You gave him a small smile.

“I advise you to start your journey sooner before the day gets succumbed by darkness.” You were freaked out by the king’s choice of words but you stood up from your seat anyway.

“Thank you, Lord Changbin.” Jisung bowed before the king and the servant escorted you out of the palace.

It took you three hours to get to the Teller’s place, you were feeling nervous and uneasy for an unknown reason. You should be excited, right?

You lightly knocked on the door and you were welcomed by none other than him. You did not expect that he would be the one you’re looking for, “Oh, it’s you. Uhm, you are the Teller?”

“No, it’s Jeongin.” If the man standing in front of you isn’t Jeongin- oh.

“Seungmin?” A large part of you hope that you’re right, despite the information from earlier, you’ve been looking for him all this time, and maybe that was the reason he looked familiar.

“Yes, that’s my name.” Seungmin smiled pleasantly, you mentioning his name sounded mellifluous to him, “You’re looking for Jeongin?” You nodded calmly inspite the storm in your insides.

“We are not here to flirt.” Jisung scoffed behind you and Seungmin rolled his eyes before stepping aside to get in. Seungmin motioned you to follow him and led you to what seemed like a place for rituals.

“Jeongin, someone’s looking for you.”

“Oh, so, it’s your girl.” Jeongin scoffed but Seungmin did not answer, instead rolling his eyes.

“So you’re not denying it, I see.” Jeongin’s smirk grew wider but decided to stop picking on the older’s nerves, but that smirk soon vanished from his face when he turned to you, “I know why you’re here. Do you want me to get straight to the point?”

“Sure.” Jeongin pointed to the seat near the cauldron, gesturing you to have a seat.

“First answer to your question, just like a pendulum, it never stops once you move it, so does the Horologium. You will continue to go back in time when the clock strikes to twelve until you leave this place.” You were amazed and creeped out at the same time, “I know the route to Alium Orbis, Seungmin’s from there too, unfortunately, he broke his clock so he couldn’t return, not only that, he also forgot his memories outside District 9. Seungmin’s clever and all but sometimes he’s just dumb.” Seungmin let out a sound of disapproval and Jeongin laughed, his pleasure truly comes from annoying the older. However, the thought of Seungmin forgetting you does hurt like hell.

“So, Y/N, if you were to leave make sure that you will step out of the boundary before twelve. I suppose there are other ways but I still haven’t found out.” Jeongin didn’t even trip on his words, he wasn’t the Teller for nothing, “But you know, at District 9, once you enter there’s no way of getting out.” Jeongin laughed rather maniacally, his wicked voice filling the house.

“What do you mean by that?” You abruptly stood up from your seat.

“Don’t play dumb, Y/N. You know fully well what that means.” Jeongin walked closer to you, raising his hand that was emitting blue flame. Seungmin stepped in before Jeongin could hurt you, “What now, Seungmin? You’re going to protect her when you couldn’t even protect yourself?”

Jisung who has been silent since you entered the house finally spoke, “Y/N, the truth is... You will never be able to leave this place,” he stood beside Jeongin before he continued, malice notable in his voice, “No one can leave this house.”

As if on cue, Jeongin started shooting flames around the house while Jisung took out bombs similar to Minho’s and Hyunjin’s and threw it everywhere. The colored smoke blocked your vision while the smell of burning wood entered your lungs. Their wicked laughter reverberated within the house, there’s no way you’d let them burn you alive. The suffocating atmosphere inside the house made you hold your breath as you tried to step forward despite the heavy feeling on your legs due to the lack of oxygen to grab Seungmin’s arm, luckily he was just a few steps away from you. You managed to get out of the house unharmed even though you bumped on several furniture and broke objects on the way to find the exit.

However, Jisung and Jeongin were quick to follow you. Seungmin’s movements were really languid as if he didn’t care about anything. Your kicking adrenaline was the only reason you were able to run speedily despite Seungmin’s lazy and heavy footsteps that keeps slowing you down.

“Seungmin, we have to leave now!” You dragged him away from Jisung and Jeongin.

“But Y/N, I don’t want to leave.” Seungmin’s words made you stop on your tracks, “that’s why I intentionally broke my clock.”

“Seungmin, we don’t belong here. They’re all insane!” You cried, at this point, the only thing you wanted to do was to leave this hell of a place. You’ve had enough of all the madness this place bears.

“Didn’t everyone in the town call me that?” Seungmin tightened his fist, his memories came flooding, he could now remember everything– from his childhood to people calling him insults, he was just a kid enjoying his imagination and fantasies, “Y/N, please let me go.”

“No, Seungmin, I cannot afford to lose you again.” You were sobbing, letting your feelings out.

Ever since Seungmin disappeared, not once you did not think of him. He was your best friend who caused the blossoming feelings inside you, the only one you could trust, the only one who could understand your complexity. The only one you wanted to sacrifice your life for and give all the happiness in the world. Your feelings for him never changed throughout the years.

“Please, Seungmin.” That was the most selfish thing you’ve ever done in your life. You only wanted to spend the rest of your life with no one but Seungmin.

“Why, Y/N? Tell me why should it matter to you!” Seungmin yelled, pain and trauma evident from his tone, you never knew that he was suffering inside all those times. You choked on your sobs, the lump in your throat was getting bigger, it’s now or never.

“Because I care for you! Can’t you see that? You’re my best friend!” Oh god, how hard could admitting one’s feelings get?

“You can find another best friend there,” Seungmin started tearing up too, “Just leave me alone.”

“I don’t want anyone else!” Your mouth already has a mind of its own, and you couldn’t believe the next words that slipped out of your mouth, “I only want you!”

It made you even more frustrated with everything. You glanced at the clock dangling around your neck, you only had ten minutes 'till 12 and you wanted to leave, but not without Seungmin.

“If you really care for me, then stay with me here.” Seungmin stepped closer to you, offering his hand.

“Why are you acting so childish, Min!” Your emotions were getting mixed up and from afar, you could hear Jeongin and Jisung’s shouts and twisted words.

“Y/N! I thought you liked me? Why are you running away from me?” The tone of Jisung’s voice made shivers crawl on your body.

“Seungmin, they’re near, let’s leave!” You pulled Seungmin but he doesn’t budge.

“You like Jisung?” Seungmin’s eyes looked hurt and empty as it gazed at your frustrated ones. You wanted to hug him but there’s not enough time.

“Please Seungmin, not this.” Why can’t you just admit it?

“Don’t avoid the question, Y/N.”

“Let’s leave now, please. They would be here anytime soon.”

“Why can’t you just leave me here and go on your own?” Seungmin was really trying to get those words out of your throat.

“For heaven’s sake, Min. Don’t make me say it!” You smacked your forehead in annoyance.

“Say what?”

Screw it.

“Of course, I love you! Why would there be any other reason?” You never thought you would have the courage to admit your feelings, especially not this way.

“I’ll never let Jisung take you.” With those words, Seungmin picked you up swiftly in his arms and ran from the scene as fast as he could.

“Why couldn’t you just say it?” Seungmin asked, his eyes still focused on the way.

“For fuck’s sake, I don’t even know how you feel!” Your voice raised in defense.

“That’s so stupid, Y/N! I already told you many times that I liked you!” Seungmin groaned in frustration, he thought he already made it clear.

“I thought you meant that as a friend.” Seungmin couldn’t be mad at you, though he declared his feelings for you, he never acted on it, maybe that was the reason you didn’t feel it.

“I’m sorry. I did not make it clear either.” Seungmin looks at you with so much regret in his eyes, he swore that this time, he’d treat you right.

“It’s okay, Min,” you wiped the tears that stained his cheeks.

“Hold tight, Y/N. We’re gonna use your watch to leave this hell.” You nodded and wrapped your arms around his neck while holding the timepiece in your left hand tightly to avoid it slipping out of your neck. He sped up, and from his back, you could see Jeongin and Jisung chasing after the two of you.

He stopped in front of a large wall and put you down, “Now, give me the Horologium.” You quickly handed him the watch and he wrapped his arm around your waist, making heart flutter from his action, “Hug me.”

“Excuse me?”

“I said hug me.” You wrapped your arms around his neck and buried your head on his chest.

“Why do you have to say it like that!” You heard Seungmin let out a mischievous chuckle.

“Brace yourself, we’re gonna end this cycle once and for all.”

You saw Seungmin throw your pocket watch on the ground causing it to break. You wanted to cry but you’re fully aware that Seungmin knows better. You peeked from his shoulder, Jisung and Jeongin were nearing you two, “Seungmin, they’re here!”

“I forgot the chant!” You looked at Seungmin wide-eyed, “No, I’m just kidding.”

Before you can punch his arm, you heard him mumble before stepping on the watch.

“In nullo tempore.”

Just in time, you saw Jisung and Jeongin freeze on their spot, as if the time stopped, the surroundings became silent and the only thing you could hear was the obnoxious ringing in your ear. You felt the familiar dizziness along with the pulsating of your head, Seungmin pressed his body closer to yours, if that was possible, tightening his grip around your waist. You saw a blinding light before you were transported harshly to the familiar void of darkness.

You heard Seungmin utter your name.

“I can’t see you but I can feel you,” you cringed at your words, “What I meant is, I cannot see you but I can still feel you hugging me. Yeah, uh, why do I feel like we’re floating?”

“Y/N…” Seungmin spoke slowly this time.

“What?” Your voice echoed in the void.

“Do you really mean it?”

“Mean what?”

“You care for me.” You felt your cheeks heating up.

“I do.” You sighed, “Never once you left my mind. I miss you so much, the thought of never seeing you again kills me more than anything.” A tear escaped your eye and you were surprised to see your tear glowed as it floated above you but you couldn’t care less.

“I felt lonely without you, I thought I was going nuts from the emptiness.” More tears escaped your eyes as you sobbed on his chest.

“I love you too.” Seungmin caressed your locks and it made your heart feel warm; if it weren’t for you, he would have been stuck with his fears and would never have the courage to leave. “Y/N, your tears… Look at them.” You looked up to see the droplets of your tears glowed in different colors, becoming the source of light to the dark void, it formed a constellation that looked like the one you saw through the telescope– a pendulum. Seungmin was beyond ethereal, with the glowing bits of light that casted the surroundings and you’ve never felt so in love.

“Wait, how long are we gonna stay like this?” You faced Seungmin, and you have never seen him look so happy yet sad at the same time.

“Oh, right. I forgot to say the last chant.” You lightly smack his chest and he placed a quick peck on your lips that is enough for the fireworks to burst inside your chest before giving you his heart eyes.

“The pendulum stops here and now.”

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chocoluckchipz · 4 years

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The Other You - 7

Read it on A03, FF.net, WattPad

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Chapter by Maerynn

The first morning Marinette woke up in Chat Noir's mother's apartment, the most accurate word to describe how she was feeling would be "awkward".

Chat had carefully wiped the apartment of any hints of his mother's identity before bringing her here, but Marinette still felt as if she was invading this faceless woman's privacy. Sleeping in her sheets, showering in her bathroom, cooking with her appliances, leafing through her books. And yet, she couldn't help but love it. Marinette knew it was wrong, that she was playing with fire and jeopardizing her own identity, but by living in his late mother's apartment, she felt closer to her partner.

Laying on her back in that wide bed, Marinette found herself wondering what kind of child her partner had been. Had he crawled into his mother's bed at night, claiming to have nightmares to be allowed to sleep in that very same bed? Was he a picky eater, forcing his mother to deploy ingenuity to have him eat his broccoli? Was he the kind of little boy to get into trouble every day or, on the contrary, was he a little angel?

As she stretched out on the comfortable mattress, his ridiculous rent fee came back to her mind—a meal. It was kind of cute, in a way. Yet that obnoxious kitty had to go and ask for the single thing she didn't have to spare: time. Luckily though, being a daughter of two bakers, Marinette had a few quick but tasty recipes up her sleeve, and would probably be able to cater to her partner's culinary needs.

Reluctantly tearing herself from the sheets, she ventured into the kitchen and opened the fridge. Chat Noir was definitely a really thoughtful man. Even though the apartment hadn't been inhabited for the past few years, the fridge was fully stocked with everything she could ever possibly need to cook delicious meals for both of them. Various fresh meat and fish, vegetables, multiple kinds of fruit, and seasonings were waiting for her. The pantry hadn't been forgotten, bursting with spices, crackers, and every possible type of oil, flour, and sugar she would ever wish to use.

With a fond smile dancing on her lips, Marinette wrote a quick list of the supplies she would need to feed her silly kitty over the course of the next week, marveling once again at the apparent infinite kindness of her partner. Why would he go out of his way like this for a girl he hadn't seen in years?

The idea that he was ready to go to such lengths for a long-lost friend made her heart clench painfully in her chest out of longing. Because if she was entirely honest with herself, Marinette wanted more out of their relationship. Way more. She was done hiding behind masks, done playing games. Yet, this recent development had thrown some sand in the gears. How could she reveal herself to him now? He would know what a complete failure she was, would know she had kissed him out of sheer selfishness, would know she had been on the receiving end of his kindness without offering anything back.

No. Keeping her identity to herself, at least up until she could manage to look in the mirror again, was a safer bargain.

She was almost done with her grocery list when her phone chimed on the countertop beside her.

Alya: Please. Let's just talk. Nothing else, I promise. No questions. I just need to see you to make sure you're alright.

Marinette groaned. One would think that if someone wasn't answering your calls and texts for a week, one would give up until that person is ready to reach back. Not Alya. She kept trying, again and again, all while Marinette hesitated. On one hand, she really wanted to avoid revisiting all the issues they had, much less having to explain her new living arrangement. But another part of her, the one that was currently lonely and lost, wanted her best friend back, no matter the cost.

So she shook her head and grabbed her phone before she could change her mind.

Marinette: I'm free around noon.

Alya: Works for me. Usual spot?

That was how Marinette found herself sitting in the café they liked to frequent, nervously sipping on a vanilla latte.

Alya came in right on time, taking a seat in front of her best friend without even bothering to order a drink but not before wrapping her arms around Marinette in a tight hug.

"Okay," Alya said in a soft voice, "I know we have a bunch of things to talk through, and we'll come to it, but first I wanna know if you're safe. A little birdie told me you were sleeping in your office, and I won't let—"

"I was," Marinette cut her rambling short. She knew she had worried Alya sick, that her famous mama bear instincts had kicked in the second Marinette had walked out the apartment. "But I'm not anymore."

"What?" Alya squealed. "Are you homeless? Where is all your stuff? Hang on, I'm going to call Nino and—"

"Alya, stop." Marinette smiled softly to herself, her heart warming up despite herself thinking of her current living arrangements. "I'm staying at a friend's place, that's all you need to know for the time being."

Her best friend eyed her critically, from head to toe. "Who? I know for a fact that you aren't staying with Rose and Juleka or Mylene. Who else could you stay with?"

"I'm sorry, I can't tell you more than that right now," Marinette sighed. "But it's not someone you know personally, and I really can't say anything."

"Are you sure you can trust this new roommate of yours? How come I have never heard of them before? This whole 'can't tell' sounds a bit fishy, don't you think?"

Marinette sipped on her latte, a fond smile spread on her lips. "I trust him with my life, Al. And he's not living with me, he just lent me somewhere to stay until I get back on my feet."

"So this mysterious friend is a he. Mari, you can't possibly be that naive. He'll expect something in return."

"No. Don't worry, Alya. Not him. He already has someone in his life, anyway."

Marinette could almost picture Tikki rolling her eyes in her purse upon hearing those words, and she had to repress a giggle. In front of her, Alya merely frowned, looking at her friend intently.

At last, seemingly reaching a decision, Alya sighed, "Look, I'm sorry, Mari. I should've realized you were stressed out much more than you let on, and instead of supporting you like a best friend should, I just yelled at you and kept putting pressure on you."

"You've had stuff going on too, with the wedding and everything," Marinette said softly.

Her best friend huffed, looking down at her clasped hands in her lap. "That's no excuse. You clearly needed someone to lean on, and I failed you. Marinette, please come back to the apartment, it's yours as much as it's mine."

The young woman couldn't help the smile that spread on her lips. This was the Alya she knew and loved. The one taking charge of everything, making sure everything was alright, caring for her friends more than herself.

"I can't, Al. You and Nino are gonna be married in a few months, I'm not gonna third-wheel you guys forever. I'm going to be fine."

The frown still lingering on Alya's face was eloquent on its own. She was still worried sick about her friend, worries that had been growing for quite a long time now. "Why don't you quit that sinking job then? Everyone's quitting; it's all over the newspapers."

"I can't quit." Marinette tried to ignore the knot tying her throat up, focusing on explaining herself, at last giving some sort of sense to her actions. "I didn't complete my degree at ESMOD, if you recall. Gabriel pulled me out of school midway, said it was a waste of time and money, that he'd show me everything I'd need to know. And without a degree, I don't really have a bright future unless I prove myself with this new collection—"

"And with him gone that's your only option," Alya ended for her. "Okay. So there's a dude at work that owes me a big favour for conveniently forgetting to mention to his wife he lost his wedding band. I might be able to score you a four-page spread covering the next Gabriel fashion show. Do you think there might be a way to have the months you spent working for Gabriel recognized by ESMOD? I mean, you have paychecks to prove your experience, and definitely the skills to own up to it. Whose ass do I have to kick or kiss to get you your degree?"

Marinette lifted wet eyes toward her friend. Alya had always had her back, through thick and thin, and for a minute, she wondered how she could have let herself forget that. At a loss for words, she ultimately mumbled weakly, "Why would you even help me?"

Alya scoffed, looking at her best friend disbelievingly. "You're my best friend, Mari, and I love you to pieces. Obviously I'm gonna help you tear yourself out of that dump."

***

That same day Marinette stood outside of Adrien's office, sighing softly to herself.

After her talk with Alya, she had devised a bunch of things she had to take care of right away to salvage what was left of her name.

And Gabriel's women's line was among them.

Clutching the heavy folder to her chest, Marinette raised her fist and landed two sharp knocks on the door, her heart beating heavily within her ribcage.

"Come in," Adrien's familiar voice compelled her, tossing all of her worries aside. No matter how she felt, no matter how hurt and lost she was, Gabriel Agreste was gone and there was no one who could help her right now but herself. She had to carry on his legacy and in the process help herself even if it meant dealing with a man she'd rather not even see right now. All that was needed was to be a professional, and that she was.

Taking in a hefty breath, she pushed the heavy door. "Good evening, M Agreste."

"Marinette?" Adrien blinked. He seemed a bit tired. "What can I help you with?"

"I have a favour to ask of you."

Adrien straightened up in his chair, staring at her curiously. He seemed to search his words for a few seconds, before replying disbelievingly, "A favour from me?"

If they were still friends Marinette would almost certainly have giggled, seeing his dumbstruck face, how his hand was still clutching the pen that had halted its course on the paper. But as of now, they weren't, so her face remained emotionless. Yet, for the first time since crossing paths with him again, she really paid attention to him. Saw the dark circles underlining his familiar green eyes behind his glasses. Saw how his hair was wildly swept back, sticking out in every direction. Saw how wrinkled his shirt was, saw how poorly his tie knot had been done.

He looked exhausted, at his wits' end.

He looked broken. Just like her.

Immediately Marinette shook those thoughts away. She was here on a mission, and couldn't let wandering thoughts distract her.

"I need some papers from your father's office in order to proceed with some of the designs. Would you be kind enough to retrieve them for me?"

If he looked surprised a minute before, now Adrien was looking completely dumbfounded. "You have full access to his office at any given time, why would you need me for something like this?"

Shaking her head, Marinette pushed the heavy file on his desk. She couldn't help but notice physics exams scattered through legal documents in front of him. "The designs I need are most likely kept in his personal office at the mansion. I scoured his entire office here without any success."

"The mansion?" Adrien's eyes widened. For a moment he remained silent before quietly adding. "I'm sorry, Marinette, ask me anything but this. I haven't been there since I moved out."

"Maybe you could send someone trustworthy on your behalf then?" She sighed. This conversation wasn't going in the direction she would've liked. "Listen, I understand that going back there might be hard for you emotionally, but those last few designs were the best pieces of the line. If I want to succeed, I need them."

Adrien stared at her for what felt like an eternity. "You need them that much?"

"Desperately."

Raking his hands through his hair, Adrien dropped his pen on the desk beside him and pulled the file she had given him closer. "So, those are the designs you need?" he asked quietly, the traces of uncertainty still lingering in his eyes.

"Yes, those are only preliminary sketches I drew for him in a creative meeting. He should have the final designs with all the specs in his personal files. If I want to meet the deadlines, I need those files. I can't start over from scratch on time."

"Alright," Adrien sighed softly, "I'll get them for you. If they're really in that office, you'll have your designs first thing Monday morning."

A sigh of relief escaped Marinette's lips as his lips twitched into a tiny smile. At that moment she clearly understood that this was an olive branch, offered to her to try and make peace between them after years of a feud that had lasted way too long. She wasn't sure, though, if she was ready to accept it yet.

As she reached forward, shaking his hand firmly while thanking him as professionally as she could, Marinette couldn't help but suddenly wonder if a teenager's mistake was worth ostracizing an adult who had just suffered the loss of his last relative and had had a withering fashion empire thrust upon him without warning, an empire he neither asked for nor wanted to deal with. Walking out of that office, she also found herself thinking that even if she wasn't quite ready to forgive him his past cruel actions, maybe, just maybe, Adrien Agreste wasn't as horrible as she thought he was.

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#miraculous ladybug #adrienette #marichat #aged up #ml fanfiction #the other you #myart #my art

45 notes · View notes

residentlesbrarian · 3 years

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Fandom and Fanfiction Galore

Ship It by Britta Lundin

Aaaaaalrighty...so this was written almost 3 years ago hot out of ClexaCon 2018 and it is...an interesting one. I had and still very much have feelings about this book. Would I write my thoughts the exact same way today as I did back then...probably not! So enjoy this bit of a pre-pandemic pre-a-whole-bunch-of-other-personal-stuff-y’all-don’t-need-to-know-about me talking about a book I still don’t really know how I feel about! Enjoy!

This was another book I found because of the Queering YA panel at ClexaCon 2018. Being able to talk to Britta at the booth after the panel was awesome, because you could tell talking with her that she was a true fan. She knew what being surrounded by fandom was like and it made me pretty excited to read the book.

Unicorn Rating:

Blurb: Living in the environment of fandom can be an insane experience in both good and bad ways. This book delivered a unique experience and look into fandom culture that was surreal to read about outside of fanfiction and tumblr.

Disclaimer: I will try my best to not spoil anything from the book, but my book loving rambles may give more away than a traditional review. Here we go! Ramble time!

Review:

I would say overall this book felt a little weird for me. I didn’t absolutely love it but I also didn’t particularly dislike it. It fell in a very ‘meh’ place for me, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have good things to say about it, they are just slightly confusing things.

The plot was actually one of the things I liked the most about it. Even though it was a crazy unrealistic plot, it helped capture the absolute lunacy of being a member of fandom culture perfectly. Sometimes being a fan is a simple life of surfing Tumblr and liking posts but sometimes the craziest things happen and change your life forever. In this case the reader is swept up in this craziness with Claire and the unrealistic aspect of it all made it feel more realistic as counterintuitive as that sounds. That is what the fandom experience can feel like at times, everything makes so little sense it actually circles back around to making sense, but enough about that...time for some character rambles.

Now we have two perspectives explored in this book. That of Claire, the fangirl, and Forest, the actor who has never had to deal with fangirls before. Let’s start with Claire. I am of two minds on her. Part of me really doesn’t like her, mostly because she is a person that in real life I probably wouldn’t spend time around and, as I’ve stated in a previous review, I have a hard time separating myself from characters and remembering that they are only teenagers. Multiple times I actually physically facepalmed, while reading a hardback book! That isn’t easy to do, but I did it, because she was doing things that just seemed so illogical from my perspective. But I am an adult, so of course I have a completely different perspective than a teen who is away from home and feeling a little out of control for a plethora of reasons. Now the other part of me really liked her, strangely enough for those exact same reasons, she was so real that I went full ‘Mom’ mode and wanted to sit her down and have a talk about what she was going through before she did something she was going to regret. Even if I found the character to be unlikeable the fact I was still on her side and wanted to help her really shows the depth that was written into her.

Now moving on to Forest. Oh, Forest. He was a character that I was very intrigued by at first because his was a perspective I, as a fangirl myself, had never seen in a book before, but damn if he didn’t make it so hard to like him. Some of the things he said and did made me want to throttle him. I could excuse some of the stuff Clarie did because of her age and the craziness of everything going on around her, but Forest is an adult and should know better. He would improve and his actions would start to win me over, but then he would overreact to something and make me want to put on my throttlin’ gloves again. I felt like that Tyra Banks ‘I was rooting for you!’ reaction gif while I was reading this multiple times. Again, though, there were parts that I was glad Forest called Claire out on her actions when it was called for, but overall they both needed an intervention to have them sit down and just chill for five seconds.

I actually genuinely liked a majority of the side characters in this as well. I actually have less of the weird mental confusion when it comes to the side characters. Rico was cute and great around the fans. Jamie was a total asshat but he was written to be that way to foil Claire in her mission to make ‘Smokeheart’ cannon. One of my favorite scenes in the whole book was actually between Claire and the social media consultant, whose name I totally remember and am just choosing not to put in because I think that’ll be all avant garde...okay fine I forgot her name and I am not digging the book out to find it. Anyway...I can’t really go into detail about the scene because, you know, spoilers but it was so well done in the context of the story.

Now for the last big character I want to speak on, the love interest, Tess. Now I really liked Tess and even understood how she wanted to keep her nerdy hobbies a secret from her small town friends. I was lucky that I grew up in a family and a circle of friends that let me embrace my passions no matter how off-the-wall they may seem to others. Tess obviously didn’t have that kind of support but she was still so passionate just privately. I will say though, ironically given the title of the book, I don’t ship it. Tess and Claire definitely share an instant attraction and the chemistry is there but they have so much growing to do before they are anywhere close to having an actual healthy functional relationship. Maybe if we saw more of them it would feel more compelling but it just wasn’t for me.

So my final thoughts on this book are just...a little discombobulated. Part of me was really happy to read a book that portrayed a part of my life that is so hard to put into words at times. I have never been a rabid fangirl, but after Lexa’s death I had to try and explain my utter devastation to people who just didn’t understand why a fictional character mattered to me so much. This book captures at least a layer of the fandom experience in a way that I’ve never seen before. The problem I have in the end though is how problematic everything that happens was, and then the ending just felt so sudden. We didn’t see any of the characters address their issues on the page. I hope this review made some coherent sense, because this book still doesn’t really make sense even in my brain, but I need to wrap this up now.

Queer Wrap-up: Okay, so, for our rep we have a questioning main character who definitely has some queer tendencies, but overall her realizing her feelings took such a back seat to her mission to make a fictional ship cannon on a show that was already filmed it took away from the rep as a whole. It just felt like the focus was so split that the actual rep gets lost in the pages. There is no argument by the end of the book that Claire is queer, which earns the three unicorns on that alone, but some of the tropes that played parts in the book were just so cringey that I couldn’t rationalize giving it more than that. Even with a couple side characters who were revealed to also be queer they weren’t enough to cover for the less stellar parts of this book.

Links:

Britta Lundin’s Website

TheStorygraph

Amazon

Okay, so if you couldn’t tell by that train wreck of a review this book just confused me. It kept me just interested enough to pick it back up after I’d put it down, but also wasn’t that bad. It lives in a weird oxymoronic vortex in my brain that honestly gives me a headache if I focus on it too much. There were aspects of this book that I did genuinely like but it all gets swirled together with the parts that made me put it down and need to take a break. If any of you want to discuss those more spoiler-filled aspects please send an ask and I’ll welcome you into the cyclical nature of whatever this book is doing in my brain. And as always if you want to read this but don’t want to spend the money without knowing for sure you are going to like it, go to your local library. You’d be surprised what they have on their shelves just waiting to be discovered. Trust me, I’m a lesbrarian.

#ship it #britta lundin #queer girl #ya fiction #resident lesbrarian #this whole thing is a bit of a time capsule #i wrote this soooo long ago #man weird #still agree with it though

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lunatic-fandom-space · 3 years

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Alright, Period Cramps just set in and Im looking for songs anyway so Im gonna be listening to every RWBY Song (V1-V7) in chronological order and rank them, starting with the worst. Lets go!

Caffeine: Thank god the team with the Nazi-based leader has the shittiest song so far.

Celebrate: Why tf is this here

Shine: Ehhhh. I dont really know why but the vibes were all off, somehow. The fact that really dislike Jaune (and as an extension, Arkos) doesn't help either.

Forever Fall: This song was 5 minutes long and it felt like 20

Brand New Day: I barely even registered that

Fear: not the worst

Lets Get Real: Either Im too tired or the songs are getting worse

War: Im ranking this one higher because it wasnt over 4 minutes

Bmblb: All the love songs are so generic

Dream Come True: Im listening to all these songs in the form of Lyric Videos and the art used in this one made me think 'Oh, a Jaune Song... Great. Well, maybe we'll get Jaune pining after Phyrrah now! Yknow, to balance it out. A cute lil song of him pining for a nice girl might me like him a bit more!' and guess what. It wasnt that. It was another Arkos Song from Phyrrahs perspective. AND this one had unnecessary Girl-Hate towards Weiss! For no reason! The only reason its above Shine is because they atleast got the vibes right this time.

Not Fall In Love With You: I think Im just not a big fan of the love songs.

Boop: It was pretty cute but nothing to write home about

Until The End: slow piano

Touch The Sky: Its not that bad, its just that Im tired and this song is too goddamn long

This Time (From Shadows II): A just fine song for a shitty arc

I Burn: I liked fine, until they started rapping.

Like Morning Follows Night: I thought this was gonna be one of the better love songs, then he started rapping.

Smile: All this does is make me question how Ilia was in the wrong even more. Sounded alright though.

The Triumph: Eh, pretty unremarkable opening for an unremarkable volume

This Will Be The Day: A very promising start! There's honestly not much to say here

From Shadows: It was fine. I liked the overall sound but the lyrics and the singing are just a bit too edgy for me.

Bad Luck Charm: Someone in the comments under the lyrics video said "looks like someone found his middleschool poetry" and honestly, yeah.

I May Fall: Hey, yknow how the FoB was apparently meant to happen in Volume 1? Yeah. Overall, I thought it was pretty alright. (You can probably already tell that Im not too big of a fan of the louder, more energetic songs so far.....

Trust Love: This is by no means a problem I have with only this song, but I hate how theyre all like "oh this isnt some FaIrYtAlE kid, this is real n dark n shit" as if RWBY isnt the least dark and least subversive story Ive seen in recent time

Rising: Alright but unremarkable

Miracle: Another alright but unremarkable one. At this point I feel like listening to these songs is frying my brain

Ignite: I was just gonna say its an alright Yang Song but that rap...

Big Metal Shoe: I can appreciate some fairy tale references

Gold: The chorus got a bit repetitive but I thought it was pretty cute

Home: Another cute lil family song! This one was kinda long though

Lionized: I really appreciate the vibe of this song

All Our Days: Adorable! I didnt really expect a Taiyang Song but this was pretty nice

Sacrifice: Not really much go say about this one, I thought it was fine

Neon: I feel like I just got aggressively flexed on in the nicest, yet most condescending way possible

Lusus Naturae: Very edgy, but in a way that I can appreciate more

Red Like Roses I: I really like the sound of this one! I kinda wish we had more lyrics, but this was the song used in the Red Trailer so Im assuming it was made to compliment the action more than anything. At the start and end there was this series of notes, that Im assuming is gonna be the Leitmotiv? Either way, Im curious how theyll use it

All Things Must Die: I feel like this song is definitely at its best during the slower bits

Lets Just Live: First of all, I cant believe they live-laugh-loved us. They kept mentioning like, stories and how 'this isnt your TYPICAL fairytale', I could practically feel the writers being like "Huh, huuuuuuuh? Arent we CLEVER? Yes we are, yes we are!" But other than it was mostly fine. A bit long, maybe.

Armed And Ready: Pretty alright Yang Song, I felt like it was just a bit too long

It's My Turn: Not much to say, I thought it was a fine Weiss Song

Nevermore: I think its good

Wings: I really enjoyed this song! Caseys voice is lovely and I think its a very good Blake Song

Indomitable: I liked this one, but I feel like its mainly because the line "the spirit is indomitable" reminds of Flame from VRAINS

When It Falls: This song is trying very hard to convince you that RWBY is Dark Now. And given that Im pretty sure this is V3s opening, I guess it fits. Oh well, it still sounded pretty nice.

One Thing: A real slappin song thats going straight to my YGO-playlist as well

All That Matters: Very neat song about Yang's conflicting feelings on Blake's return. Shame theyre literally not conveyed at all in the show.

Die: Very agressive title, but okay. I also enjoyed this one, who wouldve guessed. I love this whole vibe of Desperate Heroism In A World In Ruin, yknow? Its there in Time To Say Goodbye and Red Like Roses II (two of my favourite songs so far) too. Though it is quite dissapointing that the show never really matched it.

Hero: I dont get how people can look at this and go "yeah, Ironwood was clearly always a tyrant who never even remotely cared for others". Also Caleb Hyles my beloved

Time To Say Goodbye: Another very nice song! I also think the foreshadowing in the third verse (yknow the slow one) was quite well done. The only real issue is, that the plot point its foreshadowing is stupid as hell

The Path To Isolation: Why is Weiss a better character in her songs?

Divide: This song is trying very hard to convince you that RWBY is Dark Now pt 2. It is a banger though, so its fine.

Mirror Mirror: Funfact: This was technically the first RWBY-Thing Ive ever consumed! A Youtuber named Strawbelly made a german cover of this song (and the songs from the other trailers, I believe) and it was one of my favourites for a while. Ive also already listened to some of Weiss' other songs and I remember enjoying them too. I can definitely already tell that I prefer Caseys voice in the slower songs, so I really hope this keeps up

This Life Is Mine: Yoooooooooo, Caseys voice was amazing in this one(especially at the very start)! This is one of the Weiss Songs I listened to before I even watched RWBY and what can I say, I loved it back then and I love it now

I'm The One: Oh, this was absolutely lovely. For the first few seconds I thought I wouldnt like this one, but its a banger! I love the lyrics too, theyre very clever I think

Red Like Roses II: DUDE, I adored this! I did not expect there to be lyrics for Summer at all and I was so pleasently surprised! Sandra's voice was lovely, and I really hope I'll get to hear her again. But on a slightly more negative note, I feel like this is really where the whole 'RWBYs Songs Characterize The Protagonists In A More Compelling Way Than The Show Does'-Problem starts.

I originally wanted to write some kind of conclusion but Im tired and wanna read angst fics. Have a good night!

#rwby #rwby review

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captain-rennie · 4 years

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Fair Game Week Day 1: Flirting

Read it on Ao3 here!

Summary:

“Nice shirt, though.”

“Yeah?”

“Yup. Boyfriend material.”

Gods. That was so stupid. Be still, my heart.

warnings: gratuitous amounts of gross old men flirting + some innuendos

Clover was incredibly forward with Qrow, and it was going to be the death of him.

At first, he had thought he was imagining it. The winks, the friendly nudges, the warm smiles and genuine pep talks - that silky smooth honeyed voice couldn’t just be for him, could it? A grumpy old huntsman that brought nothing but misfortune to those who dared cross his path was hardly Qrow’s idea of a desired bachelor. Surely, he was only seeing what he wanted to see. There was no way a successful man like Clover had any interest in him beyond perhaps a stable friendship.

Clover’s intentions became impossible to deny, however, once Qrow had the chance to see him interact properly with others. Always polite, even casual with some, but none saw the same gentle, warm man that Qrow had known since their first meeting. Nobody got the same jokes, the motivational speeches, the reassurances, the flirting. Qrow had tried to tell himself that perhaps Clover was simply a flirty person, but it was becoming harder and harder to believe that as days and meetings went by in a blur.

He only ever spoke that way to Qrow, and Gods, Qrow had no idea what to do about it. Especially when time only made it worse. What started with a teasing lilt and cocky showing-off turned into blatant excuses to be near him and, embarrassingly enough, bold pickup lines.

It was Qrow’s own fault, of course - the flirting was far from unwelcome, and Qrow would be a liar if he said he did not want to take Clover up on those offers, but … whether he wanted to and whether he should were entirely separate issues. Of course, Clover had to know that Qrow would outright reject him if he did not want it, and only redoubled his efforts when Qrow still had not come to a decision.

It was doing nothing good for Qrow’s resolve.

Today was the worst of it, hands down, Qrow decided as he watched Clover shirk his shirt, muscles shifting tantalizingly and tanned skin glistening with sweat. So this was his newest strategy - appealing to Qrow’s thirst. Admittedly, it had been far too long since Qrow had allowed himself such things, and watching a bead of sweat roll from his neck to his chest to - to his abs, and …

Oh, Gods, Qrow was so screwed. This was just supposed to be a friendly hand-to-hand sparring match. Qrow should have known better. And Clover, damn it, stupid Clover sighed and stretched, flashing that stupid knowing smirk at Qrow.

“Hope you don’t mind,” that lovely voice said. “It just gets so hot in here!”

“Yeah,” was all Qrow had the sense to say, because at least a hot room was just as applicable of an excuse for his burning cheeks.

“Nice shirt, though.”

“Yeah?”

“Yup. Boyfriend material.”

Gods. That was so stupid. Be still, my heart.

“You just took it off,” Qrow pointed out, and finally, finally it gave Clover pause, long enough for Qrow to will down his blush. But then Clover’s smile widened, and dread pooled in Qrow’s stomach, because whatever he was about to say, it was going to slaughter him.

“Ah, well. It holds me back.” Clover tossed his shirt to the side where there weapons lay discarded, delivering one of his killer winks, and continued, “Why restrict myself to boyfriend status, y'know? I can be so much more.”

“Aren’t I supposed to be kicking your ass right about now?” Qrow said loudly, seconds away from melting into a little puddle, and Clover, the bastard, saw right through him. But finally, he relented, raising his fists.

“Bold of you to assume I won’t lay you flat in seconds,” he challenged with a grin, and Qrow mimicked his stance.

“Yeah, cause you had great luck last time,” Qrow snorted as they circled each other, recalling the last two rounds where he had managed to get Clover to tap out. But Clover quirked that stupid eyebrow, and Qrow was suddenly far less confident about his prior wins.

“In a game of luck,” he said, “you know who’ll come out on top.”

Entirely unwilling to dwell a second longer on the connotations of tops (and bottoms), Qrow took the first swing.

With a laugh that told Qrow his opponent had already won, Clover leaned to the side to dodge the first punch, and widened his stance and bent his knees to avoid being swept by the kick Qrow aimed at his legs. The next kick was aimed high, coming into hard contact with Clover’s forearms, but the other man shook it off easily. The next punch was caught in a large hand, and as Clover took the opportunity to grasp his other wrist and tug him close, Qrow knew he was done for.

With a turn and a kick to his calves so quick Qrow hardly processed it, he was thrown down, his back hitting the ground hard. The air was knocked out of his lungs with a rather unceremonious oof, and Qrow let his head fall back onto the floor, watching Clover crack his knuckles proudly with a pout.

“All good down there?” was the smug victory statement, and Qrow coughed out something akin to a laugh.

“All good,” he replied. “Not the first time you’ve taken my breath away.”

He wasn’t sure what compelled him to say it. He hadn’t been the smooth-talking kind since he was in school. Perhaps the lack of air in his lungs took oxygen from his brain, and that loosened his tongue. It was the only explanation he could think of for saying something so stupid, oh Gods, why did I say that -

But it was worth it. So worth it, because when Qrow dared to look up to where he was positive he would see a shit-eating grin, there were only wide eyes and slightly parted lips. Qrow watched with fascination as a hint of pink grew on Clover’s cheeks, then spread to his nose, then his ears as the man quickly raised a hand to cover his mouth. Qrow sat up, quirking an eyebrow.

“All good?” he echoed, a little unsure, and Clover averted his gaze, looking incredibly nervous.

“I … ah.” His voice was quieter than the bold tone from before, almost uncharacteristically so. “That … I didn’t expect that.”

“Oh?” Qrow couldn’t help the familiar smirk he felt tugging at the corners of his lips, and he rested back casually on one hand. “You can dish it out, but you can’t take it?”

“Don’t say it,” Clover warned as he offered a hand to help Qrow stand. Qrow took it, and then some, daring to lean in closer than perhaps he should have.

“I wonder if that’s reflective of … other situations we might find ourselves in?”

The flush had quickly spread to consume Clover’s entire face, which he covered with both hands, positively steaming as he took a step back. “Shut up,” he groaned. “I’m not - it’s been weeks! I didn’t expect you to - to - !”

“You did all that flirting thinking I wasn’t gonna say something back?” Qrow asked, raising a skeptical brow, and boy did it feel good to be on the opposite end of things for once. He’d missed this - being the cool, collected one while the object of his affections spluttered and stumbled for words. He could sure get used to it again.

“Well, I - you didn’t seem the type?”

Qrow had to laugh at that, fond memories resurfacing of the times he was, in fact, the type. “You should have seen me in my Beacon days,” he said. “I have plenty of raunchy stories to contradict that observation.”

Clover seemed to be calming somewhat from his embarrassment, and set his hands on his hips with faux sass. “You think I want to hear about all the other men you wooed?”

Qrow’s grin turned sly, and he closed the distance between them again, practically nose-to-nose this time when he said, “I’ll just have to make new stories, then, hm?”

Clover spluttered, cheeks practically glowing pink, and it took Qrow a few minutes to stop laughing that time. It felt good to have his confidence back, and especially to use it on as lovely a cause as embarrassing his crush.

Clover had a lot to answer for, after all, and for the next few weeks, answer for it he did. This time, though, they got to share a few cute kisses amongst all the flirting, and it made the payback quite worth it.

#fairgameweek2020 #fair game #rwby #clover ebi #qrow branwen

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guardmesherlock-rowan · 4 years

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So Enola Holmes... is... alright.

I definitely think I set myself up for disappointment by reading the first book however. Then again it wouldn’t be the first time a movie adaptation failed to live up to my expectations, and it didn’t wander off from the novel as much as other movies have (that I still haven’t forgiven).

This will contain some spoilers, and I’m still not sure if all my mental ducks are in a row. And if anyone who has read the rest of the books can explain some of the additions to the movie please do!

Rant below.

When it came time to watch the movie I thought I would make notes while I was watching it, stayed up till it released at 2am my time, got some popcorn and prepared. Though I honestly felt like I was not prepared for a nearly 2 hour movie. The set up for her family dynamic was off from the get go. Book wise, the issue was that her mother gave birth to Enola so late in her life that to others it was a scandal like how could this woman avoid having a child for so many years between Sherlock and Enola. The way the movie presents it, it’s no different than me not knowing my youngest sibling well because I went off to college when he was 4. It’s presented in the movie as the boys got busy in their own lives and never visited, and Mycroft had put an time limit over his mother’s head that she could live there until Enola became 16. To make him look like an even bigger jerk. In the book this was presented as an unfairness that Mycroft took ownership of the home after their father died due to being a male heir, but that he was still leaving the care of it to his mother. There was no threat of possible homelessness after a while.

Adding this detail where the guys simply moved on with their lives, and removal of this potential scandal, removed the fact that Enola’s mother told the guys not to come around. Which showed her mother plotting this escape for a long while, and now just shows how if the brothers had just spent more time with their family they would’ve realized what was happening. Also making it their fault they don’t have a relationship with Enola, and not her mother’s.

In the book Enola’s mom:

Left Enola alone to teach herself.

Left Enola alone most days so she could wander (she would bond over art)

Told Enola she was fine Alone, which can be a form of gas lighting when you combine the mother’s absentee behavior to the fact that

She told the boys not to come visit, creating a wall between her children

It’s highly understandable, being the only family Enola’s known, that it would be important to find her mother. But also why it wasn’t a big leap for Enola to start living on her own with the time came.

The only connection Enola had with her brother was through the articles about his cases. Which makes the cute scene with Lestrade later in the movie where they compare knowledge of Sherlock Holmes very odd. Adorable, but odd. Though Lestrade in this also has me a little ruffled with his henchmen like behavior later when he breaks down a door on a mission for Mycroft.

Mycroft deserved better, but at least he got to act like a shady government big brother character, it was entertaining.

They made comments about how Sherlock and Enola are more gifted than him. They also made comments about he was a jerk and cruel to Enola and their mom with what he said about them staying until Enola was 16. And I have a feeling they put in the finish school scenes so she could have the blow out with Mycroft as he brought her there. Which would of course also include a space where Enola could be semi-rescued by her now love interest, and give reasoning to Mycroft later washing his hands of her, despite his adamant belief that he is responsible for her.

Of course Mycroft’s reaction, Enola’s mother’s change of focus, and the new family dynamic set up for another change in Sherlock Holmes. Now we have the middle child who was not as cruel as his brother, but was still at fault for not visiting. But he remembered some things about Enola from the time they lived together that he would bring up to show he cared. Would even be used as ammunition against her mom in their last scene together. (though it is a fair not to be distracted by the far past kind of shut down instead of an accusation that her mother didn’t care)

Instead of being on the opposition of Enola, he seemed to be on her side. Even in the last moment where he tried to trick her into coming to see him, it didn’t seem completely malicious. He appeared to be proud of her when she beat him to solving the mystery, though he had not been active on it where she had been because he was busy trying to find her. Not because she was curious and got herself involved, but because the guy was stowing away in her cabin and got her involved. It was definitely her choice to step into it, but she had already turned away once before so she would meet her train.

This love interest character is not my favorite. In the book we have a kid who had some romanticized notions of seafaring and had his mistaken beliefs squashed by reality, hard. He became determined to go home and actually talk it out with his mom how she was babying him. Now we have a guy who is about Enola’s age (16, which was 14 in the books), who is knowledgeable in wild plants, willing to be adventurous, and even a little wild with Enola. Even changing it up where his interest in being a sailor was a cover to send people in the wrong direction of the fact he would want to work with flowers.

This all leads into the new piece of the Enola story. The mystery. Instead of a child running away, attempted kidnapping and ransoming, we have one murder and one attempted murder. Which also ties into the big political part of the movie regarding voting. It is revealed that there is a domestic terroristic plot due to not everyone having the right to vote (not said outright but hinted that this about giving women the right to vote). It would be voted upon by the lords later.

~~Politics~~

Which leads to a bit that gets me a touch upset. There were a lot of ties between protests and this bomb making lab that were not said, just indicated with flyers and other signs. Enola is later confronted about how they don’t have to set off the bomb because they thought they would have to make noise to be heard -rewatching that ending scene right now to make sure I remember it-

“You have to make some noise if you want to be heard. Oh, it’s funny. I thought I was the one that was going to change the world. The reform bill, is it true what you did?”

This part got me so angry. What Enola did was save her love interest who just happened to have a seat of power in which he could vote and help sway it in their favor with his one vote. In a certain light it felt like they were saying that believing in those with the power to change will change is better than protesting. The line is not wrong, but it felt like they were putting the bombs on the same stage as protests, which they are not.

It feels like they used the political aspect to help propel a more compelling mystery, which was definitely better suited for the big screen than the earnest story in the book. However, I can’t help but feel that it was muddled and poorly done. The fact they used politics doesn’t bother me as much as how they used it. Politics is used in stories all the time. Law making, what is just, what isn’t. Driving to the grocery store and what I see there, who I see there. It affects day to day life. However, if they want to focus on the element of protesting versus voting for change there is a debate there that I have feelings on, but not in a position to debate it.

Though it was very odd that they would want to talk about politics in the time frame and not show them as much in the movie as they did in the book. Keeping politics effects on life at arms length enough to use political shouting and protests without the more compare and contrast which THEY COULD’VE done with the love interest if they felt more inclined. But while the book version of him actually seems to have learned more about the outside world, this one just came in mint woke condition and only needed saving from the murderer and some mild convincing to go back and vote because they didn’t want him to.

~~Less Politics~~

Which also brings in the humorous political and societal norm that was ignored in the movie but brought up in the book. Women’s clothing. Enola’s mother uses it as a mean to hide her essentials while running away, and Enola does the same. She also does a good many things while dressed up as a woman, not bribing men to change clothes with her as often. The clothes that Enola once had despised at the beginning of the book she would grow to appreciate, especially the corset whose ribbing protected her from death with a knife caught on it. Honestly same though, it’s funny when a piece of sturdy material you’re wearing saves your life and stops a blade (personal experience, mine was metal).

It felt like a dishonor to change that thought process, especially when Book Enola also didn’t disguise herself as a guy because she thought it would be too obvious. Where as a lady, or a nun, or a widow would make better disguises when they only see a child when they look at her and presume she doesn’t care for womanly attire.

It is probably better to go book to movie in this case. You get a different story that is more exciting for the screen. Whereas going movie to book might be disappointing without the literature equivalent of jumping from a moving train..

The book was a fun read, Enola was a strong young woman who definitely feels like she is a Holmes without having to subject herself to them.

The movie is exciting, with a fractured family feeling with some political commentary.

Each of the pieces have their own positive traits and negative traits. I can see why certain changes were made. Though I may not agree with them.

#not gms related #enola holmes #rant #long post

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bubblyani · 4 years

Text

Deeper Relations: 10

(Freddie Jackson x Reader)

A Freddie Jackson Multi Chapter Series

Final Chapter 10: The Resolution

Rating: Mature (18+)

Story Requested by: @97freaknik 😘

Summary: Being the youngest sister of Jackie and Maggie, you were quite young when Freddie Jackson went to prison. Upon his return, you cannot help but recall your innocent love you had for him back then. And surprised by your transformation into womanhood, Freddie cannot help but form a desire towards you. Will a dangerously seductive attraction grow between the two of you? What will be the consequences?

Author’s Note: Cannot believe it’s finally ending. Glad I was able to figure out how to do this the best way possible. Hope you have enjoyed so far. And hope you enjoy this one too!

Series Masterlist HERE

Whenever you thought the worst already have passed, life never hesitated to prove you wrong entirely. It had happened every single time. And you had never wished for a do-over in life, more than you did this very moment. Still speechless, you stood there with your jaw dropped and motionless.

“Is it true?”

Maggie asked, her fear intensifying by every second, “I saw you two together last night, behind the bar. Please tell me if I just was imagining things…” she said, “Y/N! ANSWER ME!” She bellowed. You jumped out of your state, yet still speechless. “Please don’t tell me Freddie is the father of your child…” your sister said softly, as if she feared even imagining. Until patience was not possible any more, “Y/N PLEASE!” “YES! YES! HE IS….” You shouted back, “HE IS …ALRIGHT?” Both panting, it was realized. That you had finally let it all out. With her body shaking, Maggie raised her hand. “So does that mean…” she began, “..you and Freddie are..?” You nodded, fearful of what was to come. Covering her mouth, your sister’s eyes widened with pure shock. It was the reaction you dreaded. “How…How long?” She asked breathlessly. That was it. You could not do this any further. “Maggie please…” “HOW FUCKING LONG?” She cried out. “A few months!” You answered in desperation. Maggie clutched her chest, just so she could wonder if she was even alive at this point. “My god….” She breathed, “How could you-how could do this, Y/N…” Heavy was your heart, so heavy. You could not take this. “Maggie please-” “How could you do this to us???” She cried out, “To me…To Jackie? Your own sister?? How could y-” “WELL, HOW DO YOU THINK I FEEL?” You truly surprised yourself when those words exited you like an explosion. Words which were actually your true frustration in disguise. Maggie instantly grew quiet, her eyes were filled with tears. But so were yours. Being the clear winner, you found yourself crying out loud. Landing on your knees, you covered your face as the tears flowed.   “You think I didn’t know how wrong this was?” You cried out, “I tried so hard Maggie…But it’s like a fucking spell I couldn’t get away from. I-I-I was mad about him when I was a little girl. But he and Jackie…they got married and everything was fine. I obviously moved on…” your shoulders shook as your tears kept flowing, “But when he came back from prison, something…something just happened between us.” The tears were akin to a waterfall, while your eyes were red. You were such a mess, “Things just escalated and …Oh Maggie! this is wrong I know… I know…But I can’t deny anymore...I love him. I love him so so much. And now with the baby…I just..please…” clasping your hands together, you begged your sister. You begged her for forgiveness.

Lips quivering with emotion, Maggie fully burst in tears, joining you on the ground just so she could hug you tightly.

“I’m screwed up, I know.” You bawled being held in her arms, “But I love him and I love that baby. I don’t want to lose either of them, Maggie…”

“I know…I know…” she replied midst her tears, stroking your head, “Oh Y/N…”

Tears shared provided enough words for the two sisters to calm themselves down. Unsolved yet calm.

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

(5th Week- 11th Week)

With Maggie in the picture, with all that was revealed to her, you could certainly admit that everything had changed. Suddenly you felt you were being watched. Even though it was never physically possible for her to do so, your guilt and enabled her to watch you at all times. That day, once tears were fully shed, she did not utter a word. Cleaning up together, it was vital your mother did not find out. With your sister’s silence you were not certain how she will act out. Will she be of support keeping your secret? Or will she be compelled to make a rash decision? You were her sister, but so was Jackie. Where or where would her loyalties lie, you wondered.

You made your best attempt to see less of Freddie. Truthfully it had come to the point you did not see him at all. You would pass up on Family dinners casually with random excuses every time. They were random but convincing. All to keep a low profile.

Whenever a rendezvous’ were planned, you did not go, but instead left him hang written letters. It had become the only way you chose to communicate with him. He never replied, and it was not expected of him. It was never his to do so anyways. Nevertheless, you informed him of your well being. And you took the chance to explain your absence by suggesting to only see each other once you finally move out. You definitely did not inform him of Maggie’s awareness, for you did not want to make it an issue. For there was enough drama caused already.

You slowly began to experience certain changes physically due to the pregnancy. The usual changes during the First Trimester. In order to avoid your mother’s suspicion, you wore loose clothing around the house. You were thankful your belly had not shown much yet. A part of you badly longed to tell her. Who would not prefer their mother’s assistance? But you just could not. Especially not in this situation.

Classes at University grew more and more difficult to follow. It drove you to greater frustrations than you were already were. Besides it did not help when you were stressed as well.Concerned about your sister’s unknown intentions. Frustrated about missing Freddie for almost two months. Your body seemed to go mad without his touch, your heart was equally mad without a sense of his love nearby. All this, all this were what your heart was not prepared for.Suddenly university felt like a stranger to you.

The longer Freddie could not see you, the more anxious he grew in convincing you to move out. And one fine day, upon his insistent phone call, you decided to finally take the step.

For a normal person, moving out would involve the assistance of one’s family and friends , making the process a warm and sentimental one. But in your situation, you were not so blessed. Your moving out was cold and discreet. Though your family insisted many a times to help, you had to reluctantly refuse. You had to play a role. The role of an adolescent unwilling of their company. But in secret, you would have loved their help more than anything else in the world. One of Freddie’s henchman was the only person who could help you. He literally helped with moving of your goods. As you expected, it was not a grand transition. But it finally happened. And there you were, finally moved in to a beautiful little place by the end of the 11th week.

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

(End of Week 12)

You had finally moved out and now living on your own. Yet, you did not see Freddie for a while. And it worried you.

As much as the inconspicuous behavior was appreciated, now there clearly was no need for it. For you were finally free. Not hearing anything from him was not a good sign.

Contemplating on it, you stepped out for class one particular morning.You gasped in surprise.

You felt a sense of completion when you saw Freddie standing there, leaning against his car. Sparks of excitement surging inside, you did not know how to respond. But you were a lady, thus you walked to him like one wearing a smile. When you got closer, you wondered what he would do or say. After all, you were both finally seeing each other after a long time.

“Let me drop you off…going to class right?”

Freddie said, as he got into the car. You were taken back. With no acknowledgment of anything else, he just said that. No passionate statement of how much he missed you, or even a symbolic display of his physical desire ,nor his frustration expressed in anger. Nothing. Embarrassed, you nodded as you joined him.

The quiet drive seemed obvious, for you were too busy trying to figure out what on earth was going on. Could it be that he was torturing you the same way you supposedly tortured him? Truthfully, you did not mean it. You were merely being careful. Why must you suffer for that? Or was there another problem in his mind?

Regardless, you missed him, you ached for him, your heart and your body both. In every way. Just being in his presence was enough.

“That’s a cute lookin top, innit?”

Suddenly, Freddie began.

Finally, the man spoke once more. Pleased, you looked at him.

“You think so?” You asked with enthusiasm. “Yeah…”

“I’m glad.” You said, looking down at your outfit. Finally being on your own, you were able to wear the clothes you preferred. So you treated yourself. The treat came in the form of a short sleeved turtle neck, tucked inside a high waisted flowing skirt, “The material of this top is really nice too. Very comfortable” you said.

“Really?” He asked, his tone still very casual. “Yeah, it’s just amazing.You should feel it” you said, grabbing the sleeve to show him. Desperation was high to make him notice you, to make him talk to you as before. But his eyes were still on the road. He did not seem to bother looking your way. You grew insecure. Could it be he met someone else already? Giving up, you looked ahead.

Until he took action.

Extending his hand towards you, he finally felt the material of your top. But instead of grabbing the short sleeve, he surprised you when his hand grabbed one of your breasts. A rush came over you, something you have not felt in weeks. Giving it a light squeeze, he quickly took his hand away.

“Oh yeah it’s nice”

He murmured, “Nice and… really soft” your eyes caught him lick his lips slowly. What a tease, you thought. It was something he was always good at: Driving women insane. If it were a normal day, you would have chuckled, you would have slapped him on the shoulder in a playful manner, calling him a cheeky pervert. But today, something as simple as a grab, lit that frustrating fire within you. And it made everything worse. From that moment onwards, there was nothing you could focus on but one. Clenching your fists, you swore you were about to implode.

“So what time is the class-”

“You know what?” You cut him off, “I suddenly don’t feel like going to class”

You looked over to him. When your eyes drenched with need, you were relieved to see to his own were drenched with lust rich enough to overpower you.

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

With the car parked in the midst of the quiet seclusion, right in the middle of nowhere, only nature witnessed the two lovers, reunited finally to indulge one’s passions and their bodies once again. This time, you were the primary object of Freddie’s affections and desires.

Laid across the backseat of the car, you were more than comfortable as Freddie lay on his side, kissing you with passion. Your legs were spread open, just enough for you to drown in ecstasy while his fingers gingerly stroked over your panties, drawing various shapes, literally anything over your clothed opening, just so you could writhe and moan.

“Ah…” you cried, wincing, “Oh Freddie…Mmmm” you moaned into his lips. Watching you, Freddie let out a chuckle of fascination.

“Shit…” he said, “I forgot this was the best time”

He was right. When the first trimester of your pregnancy was coming to a close, along came the increased sexual appetite, which provided the extra sensitivity in your genitals. No wonder his grab and light squeeze caused you such effect earlier. You were highly doused in a mixture of desperation and frustration the moment you felt him pull your top out of your skirt. Volunteering quickly, you peeled your top out of your body. Going even further, your fingers unhooked your soft lace bra, tossing both garments away for you to finally be comfortable on the leather seat and to be drowning in his lustful gaze. You felt quite naked.

“Oh…hello hello” Freddie purred, “...the twins have certainly grown up, haven’t they?” He said, as his eyes were glued to your breasts, that have grown two sizes bigger than average. And you were absolutely certain they were equally happy to be under his gaze as well, “Just looking at them makes me so happy…with the shitty day I went through yesterday” he added dreamily. As much as the compliment was flattering, your eyebrows furrowed.

“What do you mean shitty day?” “Mmm?”

“What happened?” You asked, “Is everything okay?”

Still focused on your delectable bosom, Freddie merely shook his head.

“Don’t worry about it…” “No! Please tell me…i have a feeling its not good”

“Maggie came to see me…”

“She did? Ah!” A gasp left you the moment Freddie began to play with your breasts, casually running his fingers over them like they were a map. An old map that needed tracing and careful observation on every inch.

“Sorry…” he apologized playfully. You blushed.

“No it’s alright…”

“You like it?” He purred, his fingers still unmoved from their previous position, making you blush harder. “Yeah…” you admitted bravely. Pleased, he kissed you on the lips, before his fingers proceeded to play.

“Why did Maggie come?” You asked again, stomach clenched to suppress the pleasure.

“Bloody woman is mad…Coming to my club…telling me to stay away from you and the family”

“She did? When was this?” “Oh...She came by several times…”

“What? Did she say anything specific? Mmm…” your moans distracted you from your own burning question. Especially when you felt him casually place kisses on one breast while his fingers proceeded to encircle both nipples until they were erect. Clearly he was not making things easy for you. Raising his head from your chest, he looked at you.

“No…but she had no fucking right. Coming into my place of work...and embarrassing me like that, right?” Though he sounded casual, he seemed angry.

“You’re right…” you breathed, moaning as he lightly pulled your erect nipples.

“I wonder whether she knows about us…”

“I dont know…” you lied weakly.

Sensitivity off the charts, you were knee deep, “Maybe…” you began, “..maybe I should talk to her. Talk her down. See what’s going on”

Eyes widened, Freddie gave you hopeful look.

“Would you really?” He asked. To which you nodded instantly, immersed in arousal.

“Of course Freddie…” you breathed. He smiled.

“Aww you’re the best, Y/N…” he said, kissing you, “Now where was I?” he added seductively.Taking one hand away from your awakened bosom, he resumed his exploration over your panties, stroking your slit with intensity. Except this time, he watched your instant responses, all the while leisurely latching on to one of your erect buds.

Frustrated without his presence for too long, you were finally at peace as you indulged on his loving. But during all that, you were also conflicted. Why would Maggie do that? What was she unto? Was she going to destroy your happiness and ruin everything? What were her intentions? You had to know.

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

(13th Week)

Monday Morning

This time it was you who knocked incessantly on Maggie’s door.

You knocked without care, you made sure it was endless until the door was finally opened. Maggie opened it with a look of annoyance which quick changed the moment she saw you.

“Y/N….” She said softly. Which contrasted from your cold expression.

“Maggie…” you replied, bitter cold. Her eyes moved down.

“Your belly…” she began, “its starting to show a bit…” , Her eyes grew warmer with affection as she spoke.It was true. You were undergoing more small changes. And your belly finally began to show a bit. Being your sister, it was easier for her to notice. Not even Freddie noticed the last time he met you. And it made you wonder sometimes.

Freddie.

Shaking those sentimental thoughts away, you entered the house in a brisk fashion.

“Why would you do that?” You said, turning back to Maggie as she closed the door. You noticed her confusion.

“Why would you threaten Freddie like that? So many times?” You yelled angrily, “...telling him to stay away from me?” You scoffed, “What are you even trying to do?”

“What I’m trying to do?”

Maggie replied in an equally angry tone, “I’m trying to protect you” she continued, as she walked up to you ,“That man was never good for this family…I even told Jackie to leave him, cause she would never be the mess she is now if it wasn’t for him” she said, “He’s dangerous, Y/N!”

“You’re wrong! He’s not” you yelled back stubbornly, “He’s different with me. He’s good to me. He’s so good to me, you have no clue”

Now it was Maggie’s turn to scoff. Shaking her head, she marveled at the idiocy her sister was displaying.

“Y/N…” she began softly, as she took a deep breath, “That man basically…RUINED YOUR LIFE!” She yelled, “He made you fall for a married man, He made you almost fail in your studies…he made you so blind…he even got you fuckin’ pregnant!” She breathed heavily, “WHAT DO YOU THINK I WAS DOING?” She yelled out, waiting for your response.

“You’re ruining my happiness…”

And you finally did, cold and low.You did not believe her. You could not. You loved Freddie too much to even consider what she said.

Hearing that, Maggie’s eyes lost all sense of hope, the little hope she had in you. She was disappointed, she was betrayed. She was hurt.

But just as she was, so were you.

Maggie was the only sister you trusted in your family. She was the one you admired the most. You always thought she would stand up to you no matter what. But now it seemed like she was not. And she will not.

It crushed you.

“Just leave me alone, Maggie” you said, “It’s none of your business…” you added as you turned to leave.

“None of my business?” Maggie repeated, watching you leave her house, “Y/N…THIS IS MY BUSINESS!” She spat, “THIS IS MY FAMILY!!! I HAVE TO PROTECT MY FAMILY!”

Lips quivering with a mix of anger and hurt, you walked away, never looking back.

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

(Monday Afternoon)

“You don’t have to look so worried, dear”

“Huh?”

Blinking, you woke up from your pondering. You were reminded that you were at the doctor’s office. Being the first doctor’s visit since you moved out, Freddie was free to accompany you. Given your expression, it was expected of the doctor and Freddie to assume you were worried. But all you did was ponder of what happened that morning, with your sister.

The whirring sound of the machines kept going as the doctor moved the transducer over your belly.

“You’re young…” the doctor said, “…and good news! the baby is perfectly healthy”

She said, pointing at the screen. You gasped as you finally caught a glimpse of your baby.Though it was small as a plum, it was formed. You smiled involuntarily, as the flowers within bloomed with happiness. That life, it was your precious one. The life you created with Freddie. And you were even more joyous to see him reacting so happily.

“Isn’t that lovely babe?…” he said, looking at you as he held your hands. “So…what happens next doctor?”

He was keen. His enthusiasm was evident as he asked a million questions from the doctor, listening to each answer with attention and focus like never before. All the while never letting go of your hand. You felt precious yourself, you felt important. You were right, he was different with you. You could never imagine him being dangerous with you. For he was your safety.

“And don’t worry you lovebirds…” the doctor chuckled, spotting your love struck look, “It’s perfectly safe to have sex now…” she said, making Freddie wink at you. Face turning beet red, you chuckled loudly, converting your face shyly. Good to know, you thought in secret.

On the drive home, Freddie was in good spirits. He was joyfully happy about the baby. And you were glad to see that.

“Right, did you talk to Maggie?”

And just like that, your mood shot down the dumps once again. It took you back to that morning. That horrid morning. You cleared your throat.

“Yeah…actually…” You muttered. Sensing your unsatisfied tone, Freddie attempted to match yours with a lower voice. “And?”

“Freddie…” you began, “She saw us that night at the bar…” you muttered hopelessly, “When I confronted her, she kept insisting how you are not good for me, telling me to leave you” you continued, “She said you were dangerous”

“And do you believe her?”

“What? Of course not!” You looked at him like he was muttering nonsense. “This is just ludicrous” you scoffed, “I just…” you sighed heavily, “I don’t know why she’s so hellbent on trying to tear us apart.” Lowering your head, you covered your face with your hands. You felt hopeless, “I wish…she could just leave me alone for good. She’s driving me crazy. This is so hard…” It was true. This was too much to handle. With your breath quickening, you felt like you were almost going to have a panic attack, “This is just so-”

“Hey hey…calm down, babe…”

Freddie cooed. Luckily the car managed to halt at a stoplight, allowing him to lean over.

He gently stroked your back, “It’s alright…everything’s going to be fine. Trust your Freddie and all will be fucking smooth sailing…” his voice turned soft as velvet with each word as he comforted you.

You chuckled.

“I wish I could believe you” you said.

“You can…”

Looking up at him, you sighed.

You’re wonderful, you know. Only you realized you never said those words out loud. Leaning forward, you expressed it openly by tenderly kissing him on the lips.

But the moment your lips touched his, you felt a spark being created. A spark that did not wish to burn so short so soon. You willingly contributed as his lips begged you to kiss him again, turning sweetness into immensely heated and intense passion.

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

(Few minutes later)

The strength of the bed at your new house was never really tested. Until this particular day.

With that sweet kiss that turned intense, the doctor would be pleased to know the couple had taken her advise and suggestion to heart well enough, it was exercised a few minutes later.

For there you were, you and Freddie, making love after many, many weeks. Which truthfully seemed like forever. Given the frequency it was done before.

Naked bodies connected, passionate sweat fused together with the clash of each other’s bodies. You straddled him firmly as you both moved together.

As sensitive as you were now, the pleasure you experienced grew tenfolds. You were in bliss.

“Do you love me?”

Freddie grunted. Throwing that question right back at you. The very question you asked him a while back.

“Fuck yes!” You said breathlessly. For it was certainly true. Your cries were loud as he thrusted harder.

“No matter what happens…do you love me?” He repeated it, with some embellishments.

“Yes…” you agreed, as you kept bouncing, “I love you…no matter what happens I’m yours…Ah!…” you three your head back the moment you felt him greedily guzzle on every inch of your now-heavier breasts, “Oh god!…I love you…I will never let you go, Freddie I swear…” you kept crying out.

“Really?” He growled, his eyes watching you, though his face was still nestled on your bosom. The fireworks inside you did not stop and with each blow a new sense of satisfaction was discovered within you. It was more than you could handle.

“Yes…yes…”

You cried out, “You’re the only one that matters. It was you…it was always you” the box of inner truth was suddenly unlocked and you could not stop revealing. Cupping his face, you kissed him roughly, “I want you all to myself…No other woman can you…” you stressed with gritted teeth. His eyes glinted with joy.

“Not even Jackie?” He asked.

“ESPECIALLY NOT JACKIE…” you finally admitted, “Oh! Freddie…ah!” You moaned with high volumes when his lips continued to feast on you and his body continued to ravish your own.

It was the truth, you did not want him shared. Ever since you laid eyes on him since childhood, he was your dream man. He was your only desire. No one else was able to stir your heart the way he did. Not even any celebrity.

Now, with him madly obsessed with you, with him in love with you, it was more than what you could have asked for. And you were surely not going to let him go. No matter what will happen. You were his and he was yours.

You were mad, yes. But at least you knew.

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

(Saturday)

Missing their aunt for too long, your nieces were highly insistent you come over to see them. With their own exams coming up, you volunteered to help them with their studies.

When Jackie barely came out of her bedroom, you guessed she was either too high to show up.

But Freddie, he was there. He watched your interaction with the children quite intently. While sitting on the sofa, he truthfully could not keep his eyes of it. Most specifically you. The way he watched you teach and instruct them, brought you excitement, a feeling of pure joy. You hoped he was proud. You hoped to be a good mother to his child that was growing inside of you. Unfortunately you did not tell his other kids about your pregnancy. Truthfully you did not have the heart. For many questions will follow soon after, and informing them you will give birth to their half sibling was a nightmare. Thus, you were smart enough to wear loose clothing to hide the small belly of yours.

Jimmy announced his sudden arrival with a knock on the door. The way Freddie walked up to him, the way their conversation buzzed in the distance caught your attention. It was strange to see Jimmy looking this unhappy.

“Gimme a few minutes, will ya Jimmy?”

Freddie said, as he headed to the toilet. Giving the nieces a break, you slowly walked over to Jimmy. He waited by the door.

“Something bothering you, Jimmy?” With a wave, you asked him. Trying to smile out of politeness, he shook his head.

“No it’s all good” he said, but you could tell he was holding back. Sighing, he clicked his tongue, “I shouldn’t really say...I mean she’s your sister” he said still looking down. Your eyes furrowed.

“Something going on with Maggie?” You asked, folding your arms. Which suddenly gave him the opportunity to vent. Slowly he leaned over to you to whisper.

“Do you know if anything is wrong with her these days?” He asked desperately, “She’s just so different…” he continued, “She’s angry… and ready to snap any second” he added, scoffing “She keeps telling me I should stop trusting Freddie…all the bloody sudden”

“She what?” You asked.

So, could your problem be the catalyst that was causing the problems there? Rubbing his mouth with his palm, Jimmy looked at you with begging eyes.

“Y/N...I love Maggie. I love your sister. But Freddie …he is family to me. I trust him for life I can’t just let that go...you know that right?” He asked.

“Yeah I do...” You nodded, which was a stone cold lie. You could never agree to that when you were willing to choose Freddie over anyone else. You were a traitor, and you knew it.

“We had this huge fight and I had to leave it like that...”

“Why? You going somewhere?”

“Some business to take care of…Will be away for a few days” he said. You nodded, he meant Ozzie’s work. You wondered whether Freddie will be joining him. Jimmy sighed heavily once again.

“I’m just worried where this is going to head”

“Don’t worry about it…” you said, “…maybe a few days away will be good for both of you to clear your heads”

“Maybe…” Jimmy nodded in acknowledgment. Giving you a grateful nod for lending an ear, Jimmy left when Freddie joined him.

As you washed the dishes that evening at your place, your mind was quite occupied with many thoughts. A part of you wondered whether you should talk to Maggie, get her around to calming down in order to save her relationship with Jimmy. No matter the situation, they do have a promising future. But the moment you thought of the future, you realized how much she was trying to ruin your very own. How much she was threatening the man you love to leave you. How she was on an attempt to rid of all happiness that could exist in your life. And that made you sad, it made you angry all over again.

It’s her life, she will handle it. you thought.

Speaking of the man you love, you missed Freddie. The thought of not seeing him again for a few days, it saddened you. It made your heart heavy. You wished if you could have sent him off properly. You wished he kissed you before he left. Even it was for a day, you missed him. Right then, that was when you were reaffirmed again of how much your heart ached for that man.

“Why so blue, Cupcake?”

You gasped when Freddie’s voice filled your ears. He surprised you, by wrapping his arms around you from behind.

“Oh my goodness…” you clutched your chest, turning to him “You’re back!” You squealed in excitement as he tightly hugged you.

“Sorry I couldn’t tell you…” he said, rubbing your tiny belly, “ There was some..urgent business”

You nodded. Except your eyes suddenly squinted. Leaning forward, your eyes caught something odd.

“What-”

You began, pausing the moment you noticed a red stain on his collar. Given the color, it appeared to be a bloodstain.

Freddie was quiet, and so were you. With his eyes on you, your fingers rested on the stain. You knew what his work usually entailed. You knew what you were getting yourself into when you fell for him. Even from the start. Clearing your throat, you smiled. For you were glad he was alive and breathing.

“Let’s get you cleaned up, shall we?” You said, to watch him break into a smile as well.

“Only if you join me in the shower…” he winked, moving forward to kiss your neck. Feeling ticklish, you chuckled. But those chuckles were quickly quietened when those kisses reached your lips.

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

(Monday Morning)

Just when the morning sun had touched the earth, You knocked on Maggie’s door. This time your knocks were different. They were calm and controlled.

It was quite unexpected of you to show up at her door so soon. But at one point it was expected. Because there was a sudden change of heart. You felt this stronger ever since Saturday night. With all the danger people deal with, the bargains made for life and death, you were truly grateful to be alive and happy. And that was when you realized, all these petty fights or misunderstandings were not worth it all. All you wanted were nothing close to hard feelings with your sister.

Your knocks received no answers.You knocked again.

Maybe she might expose your secret. Maybe you will be shamed. But at this point, you simply did not care. You loved Maggie enough to not care. Your mother might care, Jackie especially might. But Maggie was the only sister that mattered to you.

The fact that the door was still not answered bothered you.

“Maggie!” You said, “Are you at home?”

She surely must be, it was 7 in the morning. She would not leave for work until 8. Tapping your feet with impatience, you held on to the door knob.

Only to find the door opened without any issue.

But the fact it was not even locked, it frightened you. Has something happened? Your heart began to race as you slowly entered the house.

“Maggie?” You cried out, “Mags! It’s me…” you said walking inside. Nothing in the house seemed to be in distress. But you still did not hear from her. You scanned all the rooms in the house, possibly every inch of the place. But still you could not find her.

The racing of your poor heart did not slow down. Instead you panicked.

“Mags??”

You turned in a flash when you found Jimmy by the door. Holding a bouquet of flowers, his hopeful expression changed the moment he saw you.

“Y/N…” he began in a low tone, “Where’s Maggie?”

Speechless, you honestly wished you could answer that.

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

(Monday Evening)

Where was Maggie?

That was all that you could think of. That was what you kept thinking when you called everyone you knew. Her workplace, her friends, no one had heard from her nor seen her since the weekend.

With every phone call you made , restlessness grew. Guilt was also nearby. Would she have been at home if you checked on her on the weekend? If you called her like you initially thought? Your mother and sister were mad worried. You wished you could have gone out and looked for her yourself. But Freddie did not allow it. For the sake of your baby, he insisted he would go with Jimmy instead.

With exams looming, you were supposed to study, but you did not have the heart. Instead, you found yourself slumped on the sofa, feeling empty with worry. The longer you slumped, the deeper you dove into old memories. Including one in particular:

It was a day you remembered so well. When you tagged along with your sister to her Hair Salon to watch her work. With the smell of hairspray and dyes still fresh in your memory, you remembered how you could not stop marveling at the way she did wonders with the hair of many customers.

“You’re so good at this...” you breathed, to which she chuckled.

“You say that every single time”

“Cause it’s true!”

You said. Letting out a dreamy sigh, you folded your arms, “I wish I was a Hairdresser”

“Don’t you dare say that!” Maggie said, “You’re going to do better than that” she added, looking at her customer who sat in front of the mirror, “Do you know my sister will start university tomorrow?” She said proudly, to which the lady looked so impressed.

“Well you must have worked really hard then, dear” The lady said. You smiled shyly. The other hairdressers even went far to applaud you. That proud look Maggie wore on her face was something you could not forget. It moved you.

“Only want what’s best for you, love” She said, patting your shoulder. You smiled.

“Thanks Maggie”

Tears were present in your eyes much faster than expected. By wiping them away, you wiped the memory away as well. This was not funny anymore, Maggie I miss you.

You jumped out of the Sofa when you heard the door open. It was Freddie. Except he did not look normal. Sadness was quite evident in his face. And the way he took long strides slow in pace frightened you. Running unto him, you were desperate.

“What’s going on Freddie?” You asked, “Any news-”

Before you could continue, you were pulled into a tight embrace.

“She’s left him...” he said, “Maggie…she left Jimmy”

Your eyes widened.

“What?” You said, pushing to face him“How is it even possible?” You said,“How do you even know?” You pressed. Looking downcast, Freddie seemed so different.

“A note...” he said, “She had left him a note”

This all sounded quite ludicrous.

“No...no this is not true”You began shaking you head as you backed away from him “This doesn’t sound like her at all...” You said with certainty, as you were trying to think. With clenched fists, you tried to make towards the door, “I want to see it...”

“No love...” He pulled you back “Jimmy’s not letting anyone see it...” His hold was so tight, it started to hurt you, “He’s in a bad place right now...”

“I just… can’t believe this...” you insisted, still with furrowed brows, “Maggie...just vanished?”

Because this was too ridiculous to even be perceived as the truth. Where would she had gone? Why leave the town? Why this? Or could it be something worst had happened?

“No! I really should go...” you said trying to pull away. Released from his grip, you were resolute to head towards the exit.

“You’re leaving me?”

You froze.

Turning back, you saw Freddie looking depressed. You were at a loss.

“What? No I-”

“Y/N…”He began, his lips quivered while he got down on his knees, “Please promise me…”He begged, “Promise me you won’t leave me like that…”

“Freddie?”

“You don’t know how Jimmy felt...”He pulled you with desperation until you knelt right with him “I just don’t want to feel The same...” you swore he almost broke down, “Promise me...”

“Freddie…” You began softly trying to sooth him. To which he held both your hands tighter. “Promise…” He breathed.

His eyes, they were truly desperate. They reminded you of the day he confessed his love to you. Not a minute have you seen him this broken down. The need was evident. The emotion was primal. You had never felt this loved.

“Freddie… there is nothing in the world I won’t promise you”You said, cupping his face, “I loved you for so long. I have loved you more than I have loved anyone else in my life. Even my family.” You said, loving stroking his face, “You make me alive. You help me make sense of life. You’re in my thoughts every waking moment. You’re my air. My heart, mind, my body is all yours.” You said placing one of his hands over your belly, “If I have to live in secret all my life I would still…because I love you” you said,

“And I will never leave you”

Seeing the joy in his face was all worth staying back. Freddie kissed you with great intensity. Kissing him back, all you wanted at that moment was be by his side.

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

(Few months later)

Staring out through the window, you savored the evening sky. You took in a deep breath, as the hues of pink, purple and orange fell over the outskirts of London like a veil. It was quite the beautiful sight.

The sound of the crying baby made you turn back to the crib. Your eyes, they were certainly filled with love as you picked up the infant.

“There there...” you cooed, before you started to hum a lullaby. You hummed it soft, it was soothing enough. Pressing your nose against the little head, you placed tender kisses, sending the little baby off on a journey filled with slumber. With the infant safety on the crib, you exhaled deeply.

Changes, there had been many. So many, you could not believe.

Yes, as expected, you finally gave birth to a healthy baby boy a few weeks back. Freddie was ecstatic since he always wanted a son. And the fact he had one with you, sent him to the heavens.

Changes had applied to the other unsettled matters as well.

You did not hear from Maggie ever since. No matter how much and how longe all had searched for her, there was simply no trace. It was as if she never even existed. Jimmy, affected by this, he changed for good. And unfortunately, you never saw the joy in his eyes ever again. No matter how much time had passed, it always will be the mystery that will haunt you every night. You would rather have her around tormenting you about your life than being quiet for good. You missed her everyday.

You quit University soon after Maggie disappeared. With the looming pregnancy and your massive neglect in studies, it was expected. Needing of a job for your livelihood, you began to work at a bookstore nearby thanks to the little knowledge of you had of literature and history. Though you did not attend class anymore, you still managed to see Marcus and Heath around town. They would be polite, they would acknowledge. But all that was limited to nods and nothing more. A part of you always regretted not fighting for them more. A part of you will always be carved in pain. For it was not the same without them in your life.

Finally admitting the unhappy life she was living, Jackie decided to leave Freddie and agreed to his divorce. Unable to face mother and the entire town, she willfully moved into a place which was far away from everyone she knew. The daughters lived with her, but they managed to see their father often as they wished. And Jackie was free to live her own life.

Your mother however, was torn. Watching her entire family broken in some way, the announcement of your pregnancy was the last straw. She barely spoke to any of you afterwards. Which certainly did not make things easy for you and Freddie when it came to planning your future together.

“There you two are…” Freddie’s voice made you look up from the crib. Walking into the bedroom, he was full of smiles by the sight of his son.

“All’s well with the little lad, eh?” He whispered, to which you nodded.

“He’s strong and handsome like his daddy…” you murmured, making him wrap his arms around you.

“All thanks to me missus…” he purred, pressing his forehead against yours.

“When I wonder can I ever be that…” you said, placing your hands on his shoulders, “…to have a ring on my finger, proudly telling the world you’re mine…” you said sadly.

After all that have happened, you and Freddie longed to sort out and define this relationship. To be together publicly. How on earth will that transition take place? How will you tell the world? Would the world believe the story of a benevolent former brother in law spending time caring for the former sister-in-law who was a single mother? Where his kindness would lead up to romance? Would that be believable enough?

That was what you had so far. But in all fairness, who would accept it? Does it really matter?

Pulling you closer to an embrace, Freddie’s grip tightened.

“I’ll take care of it, don’t you worry babe”

He said, kissing your neck sweetly, “Freddie always takes care of things” he whispered in your ear.

Relieved, you savored his embrace gladly. You were glad. You were glad to face the troubles of the past, present and future with him by your side. Because in truth, your life was not exactly at it’s best at the moment. It did not turn out the way you have hoped. It had been the worst. Your family shattered into pieces. Your mother not in speaking terms. your sister’s marriage destroyed because of you. Your other sister vanished completely, possibly because of you. Some nights you’d wake up in cold sweats, deeply worried whether she was actually dead. You even gave birth out of wedlock without any family by your side for support. All that had happened to you was horrid.

All except Freddie.

For when you looked around and saw Freddie sleeping next to you, or when he held you or made passionate love to you, when you looked at the child he blessed you with, you forgot about all that was horrid and cruel. For all that was horrid could not compare to the joy and the victory you have achieved.

The joy and the victory of being truly in love.

——————————————————

Thank you so much for reading this! It was definitely a new writing challenge for me, given the decisions made by these characters. But it’s drama right? Thanks again for reading.

Tagged: @starlightmornings @rogerfxckingtaylor @daydreamerinadazedworld @courtney-thevixeniris @kimmietea @shigarakitomuraxxxdabi @tealaquinn @rach5ive

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cozywritings · 4 years

Text

Stitches ch5: Be Alright

It was finally Friday. The one day of the week that you didn’t have classes, so you slept in, your alarm clock read 10:36 when you looked over. Reaching for your phone you noticed a screen full of notifications, mostly from Emily talking about some cute guy in her anatomy class. Until you caught sight of a text you weren’t too surprised to see.

McDreamy: Good morning honey 😊 I’ve got my 4 hour lecture today and then I’m headed off to stay at Brian’s for the night. Meet me before I leave for enough kisses to last the evening?

To McDreamy: I’ll be waiting.

After pressing send, you got up and took a shower, washing off the week and just taking some time to relax before you started studying for the next week of lessons.

You’ve decided that the best thing about your dorm, besides your boyfriend being across the hall, was the fact that you had your own bathroom in your room. You could shower as long as you wanted, play music as you showered, and you didn’t have to worry about if you forgot a towel or your clothes.

As soon as you stepped into the hot water, you let out a sigh. The hot water feeling absolutely amazing, and you knew it would relax your muscles from the first week stress. Although it was gonna be pretty boring this weekend without Shawn there, you needed to catch up on the notes you missed on Monday during proff com. So you knew it was probably best that he wasn’t here.

The longer you were in the shower, the better you felt. Until you realised it was now noon and you had yet to eat. So you shut off the water, wrapped yourself in a towel and walked out to get dressed. All the while thinking about what you wanted from the buffet in the cafeteria next door.

After your lunch of mac and cheese and a sandwich, you found yourself packing up your backpack to move across the hall. Sure you had your own desk, but Shawn’s was so much nicer and his blackout curtains made you less stressed when you were in a deep study.

Walking into Shawn’s room, you looked around at the clothes on the floor and the unmade bed and sighed. So, you dropped your bag on the desk and took a few minutes to tidy up the room for him. When you were satisfied with your work, you kicked off your sneakers and got to work on your notes, taking Shawn’s notebook from the drawer and copying everything you missed from that first day.

It was a lot of important due dates and when the chapters should be read. Honestly, you weren’t missing much, but you still found it important to have them in your notebook to help you remember them.

Around 2:30, you heard the doorknob jiggle, and your smile widened. Half an hour ago you decided to move to the bed to read your chapters and take notes. When Shawn walked in, he was shocked to find you nestled into his bed with your Sociology textbook in your lap. He was quick to drop his backpack and collapse on top of you, pressing a few kisses to your jaw.

“This is a nice surprise.” He smiled against your neck.

“Your room seemed like the better study option.” You shrugged, running your fingers through his curls and scratching at his scalp. When he let out an involuntary moan you giggled, “feels good Bub?” He nodded, wrapping his arms around your waist and rubbing his thumbs along your lower back.

You closed your eyes at the feeling. The two of you laid there in silence for a few minutes before Shawn said, “Maybe I’ll skip Brian’s and stay here to do this instead.”

You let out a soft laugh, “No you’ve gotta go have guy time. You’ve been with me almost every day this week, you need to see your friends.” He shook his head.

“No.” He leaned back to show you the cutest pout you’d ever seen.

“Shawn. Go out and have fun. I’m probably going to just catch up on project runway and maybe go see the movie in the planetarium with Em later tonight.” He gave you a huge smile, glad you were making good of your Friday night, considering every other night this week you were stressing over classes.

“What movie are they showing?” He mumbled, pressing his face into your neck again. Damn, he was making this really hard to tell him to go to Brian’s.

Threading your fingers into his hair and massaging his head you told him about your plans. “It’s called Abduction. It’s a Taylor Lautner movie. I’ve seen it before, but Emily hasn’t seen it yet so I told her I’d see it with her. After that I’ll probably just come back here and do some more reading.”

You felt him nod, curls tickling your neck. “Back to your dorm or mine?

You lightly smacked his shoulder. “Like I’m gonna come sleep in your empty bed. You’re crazy.” He just shrugged.

“I don’t see why not. The D.A’s never check on the upper classmen and it’s not like you’re sleeping with me. You’re just in my bed.” The idea was really nice. The bed smelled like him, and you were pretty sure that his TV was bigger than yours.

Biting your lip, you gave the idea a pretty good thought. “I’ll think about it.” He looked up at you and smiled, leaving a kiss to your chin.

---

“What do you mean you’re probably gonna sleep in his bed alone!” Emily yelled over a mouth full of pizza as the two of you sat in her dorm.

You just smiled at her. “He’s staying at Brian’s tonight and offered me to stay in his room. I thought it was cute.” A blush rising on your cheeks. The longer you thought about it, the more you wanted to.

Emily let out an exaggerated groan. “You two are disgustingly cute. But anyways. Do you want the details on Eric?” Eric was the guy from her class that she felt compelled to text you about during her lecture. “Well he’s super tall, and has these gorgeous blue eyes. He’s obviously a frequent gym goer. Oh! And he’s 21.” It was so cute to watch her fawn over him, because you’re positive that’s what you look like talking about Shawn. “But also, there’s this girl, Ashley, god she’s so fucking cute. But I don’t know if she’s into girls. So I’ll probably never pursue that one.”

You looked at her a bit shocked. “Em, I didn’t know you were bi.” She looked down quickly, her cheeks pink and eyes wide. “No, no babe it’s okay. I don’t care, I just didn’t know. You didn’t mention it to me before.”

She shrugged, giving you a lazy smile. “I just don’t feel like people believe it’s a thing. And it’s not something I just blurt out. ‘Oh yeah, I love both’” you just smiled at her.

“Well I know a girl in my accounting class that’s flawless and she’s gay, if you wanna know about her.” You swore you’d never seen anyone so happy in your life.

The two of you spent almost 3 hours just gossiping until the conversation got serious. “So, um, I was wondering how you were doing after the whole ex thing? Are you feeling any better since then?” She asked softly.

“It’s okay. He’s actually in my speech class, but so is Shawn so I’m pretty safe. He sits right next to me and holds my hand and stuff. Actually, I have a meeting with an on campus mental health counsellor next week. So I’m going to get back on track soon.” Without any warning, Emily leaned over and gave you the biggest hug.

“I’m so fucking proud of you.” She sighed, rubbing you back and playing with the ends of your hair.

---

Now settled back into your own room, you felt like something was missing. Your room was too quiet, even with Netflix playing some show in the background, and your bed seemed a lot colder than the one across the hallway. And it wasn’t because that one had a heated blanket nestled in the sheets.

Looking over at the clock, you smiled, 11:48. So you gathered your things: your charger, notebooks, and a pair of fuzzy socks, and made your way to Shawn’s room

The room was warm and dark, the lamp having been left on from earlier, was the only source of light. Your head was throbbing due to the laughing you’d done with Emily and the lack of actual sleep you’d been getting throughout the week, but knowing Shawn, he had a stash of medications somewhere. So you set down your things on the bed and searched the desk for a medicine drawer. Instead, what you found was a notebook with all the campus mental health counsellors written down. Next to eat name was a note.

-Dr. Moore: nice but not the right expertise

-Dr. Woodell: extremely kind, specializes in PTSD and rape victims

-Dr. Garcia: too harsh- probably not right for her

-Dr. Casey: way too mean, seems very unforgiving of personal issues- wrong specialisation

-Dr. Hendrix: very nice, another rape victim spec., also does depression and anxiety. (Top choice)

-Dr. Evans: see above note, but add that he’s the only male option (maybe not a good choice)

By the time you’d gotten to the bottom of the page, you were crying profusely. He had gone in and done research on the possible therapists you’d be seeing. He took the time to look into each option and make notes. But you couldn’t let him know you’d found it, so you put it back, opening the drawer labeled “meds”. How you didn’t see it before, you have no idea. So you took two Advil and moved back to the bed, turning on the heating blanket and flipping through the movies on Shawn’s amazon prime account.

It was almost 10am when Shawn opened the door to his room, he’d gotten maybe 4 hours of sleep at Brian’s. They spent all night playing video games, having a few drinks, and just talking about life. However, you were on his mind the whole time. He was hoping you were having a good time and wondering if you’d gone back to your own room.

Somewhere in the night, you had curled completely into the sheets, your body being covered by pillows and the huge blue comforter on the bed. So it was no surprise that Shawn didn’t see you when he walked in. Or when he plopped down on the bed. It wasn’t until he went to pull the blanket back that he noticed your small frame enveloped in the flannel blanket that was still radiating head. Instead of waking you, he just kicked off his sneakers and curled around you, a sleepy smile on his face.

The feeling of something other than the blanket around you startled you, and your eyes flew open in panic. That is, until you noticed that sparrow tattoo you loved resting on the bed. “Shawn?” You asked, not sure if he was awake.

“Shhh I’m sleeping.” He mumbled into the back of your neck, causing you to laugh.

“Can you at least let me roll over so I can see my boyfriend?” you smiled, trying you roll onto your other side.

With a groan and a kiss to the top of your head, he backed away slightly, allowing you to roll over and wrap your arms around his neck. “Wasn’t expecting you to take my offer. I’m glad you did though, I like seeing you comfortable in my room. Please stay?? My head hurts and I wanna love on you.” You responded by scratching at his scalp like you did the day before.

Once again, he let out a sigh, eyes closing as he nosed along the column of your throat. When your hand slid a little lower and rubbed the base of his neck he let out a soft moan. “You okay there Bub?” You giggled, your free hand being cradled in Shawn’s.

“Mhm. I’m fantastic.” He smiled, relaxing against your chest. “Just wanna stay like this all day. Didn’t sleep a lot last night.” You nodded, your lips pressing into his curls.

“We don’t have to do anything today. You can stay exactly where you are” he smiled, kissing along your shoulder as he wrapped himself around you.

And so you did. The day was spent right there in Shawn’s bed, cuddling, exchanging words of adoration, and plenty of kisses being shared. You were pretty sure that this was the best was the best thing to happen to you. That Shawn was the best thing to ever happen to you.

When it finally got dark, Shawn decided you two, more specifically you, needed to eat. So he called in Pizza Hut to be delivered to the dorm and, after learning it would be about an hour until the delivery driver got here, he settled on taking a shower, fearful he reeked of beer and whatever smell radiated from Brian’s apartment. “Shawn?” Your voice soft as you spoke. “Yeah babe?” He asked, closing the drawer full of shirts after he chose what he was gping to pt on after he was clean.

“Do you um, maybe want some company in there?” Your cheeks were a violent crimson when Shawn stuttered.

“A-are you sure?? That totally isn’t the reason I asked you to stay. You don’t have to do something you aren’t completely comfortable with. I mean- I’d love for you to, but you don’t have to if you’re not ready for something that intimate.” With a soft nod, you started to unbutton your shirt. “Okay baby, okay. If this is what you want to do we can definitely do that. But let’s get into the bathroom and let me do this right. Okay?” You smiled, following him into the bathroom. He really was trying to make you as comfortable as possible.

With the shower water running, and the room filling up with steam, shawn kicked off his sweats, leaving him in his black boxers. Then he turned his attention to you, his fingers slowly unbuttoning your top for you. But his eyes stayed on your face, watching for any sign of panic. “Shawn, it’s okay. Really. I trust you, and I know you’ll be careful. I wouldn’t have asked to join you if I thought I was going to be uncomfortable” With that, he tugged the shirt off your shoulders, eyes following the fabric as it fell to the floor.

You took it upon yourself to shimmy out of your shorts and panties the same time Shawn rid himself of his boxers. So there you stood. Fully naked in front of the only other person who’s had the privilege of seeing you this way. “You look, so beautiful. I didn’t know you had a tattoo.” He smiled, staring at the flower on your hip.

“It was a congratulatory gift from a close friend. She took me to get it after my acceptance letter came it. I have a second one.” You stated, twisting your hips for him to see the black cat sitting on a crescent moon on the other side. “That one I got in an impulse, a Friday the 13th special.”

“I like them.” He mumbled, watching as you grabbed his hand and ran his fingers over the now healed skin. This was the first time he’s touched your naked body, and to be perfectly honest, he wanted to take you right then and there. But he knew his limits, and this right here was a huge deal for you. So he stepped forward and wrapped his arm around you. “I promise I’ll take such good care of you.”

The water felt amazing on your skin, it was the perfect temperature. Shawn stepped in behind you, blocking the water stream as he washed his curls. You had to admit, you’d seen Shawn shirtless before, but seeing him with soap running down his body was something different. You let your eyes travel a little lower, looking down at him. All of him. He looked bigger than Josh, and that worried you a little. But now wasn’t the time.

“Can I wash your hair?” He asked with his arm outstretched, a puddle of shampoo in his palm. “I’d really like that. Yeah.” You smiled, turning around and pressing your back against his chest, sighing at the feeling of his fingers massaging your scalp, occasionally rubbing out the knots in your neck, causing you to lean your head forward as the release of tension.

You let out a sigh at the feeling. “Babe, why are you so tense?” He asked after a few minutes of comfortable silence as the water rinsed out your hair.

You shrugged, “I’m not sure really. Maybe just all the stuff that happened this week. And I have the worlds worst posture when I sit, so I’m sure that doesn’t help.” You laughed, taking your fingers through your conditioner soaked hair.

“Do you mind?” He asked, placing his soap covered hands on your shoulders. You shook your head, curious as to what he was asking to do. You had to clamp down on your lower lip to stop yourself from straight up mewling at the feeling when he dug his fingers into your neck, his thumbs sliding along your upper back easily due to the soap.

“What the actual fuck did you just do?” You asked after you were able to speak again.

His thumbs still running along your shoulder blades, he simply responded, “Pressure points to relive tension. You should probably do that at least once a week if you want to stay out of any back pain in the future.” You noddd, keeping that in the back of your brain as he pressed a kiss to your neck. “Or you can come to me and I can do it for you. Ya know, to make sure it’s done right.”

You laughed, turning around to leave a kiss on his chest. Shawn was quick to wrap his arms around you and lift you up, looking at you for a sign to not do what he was about to do. Instead, you leaned in, wrapping your legs around his waist and stealing the first kiss.

Now dried off and in your “cute” pj’s, you sat on the bed stuffing your face with pizza while The Breakfast Club played softly on the tv. Shawn sat across from you, doing some reading on “nerves and the brain” or whatever the book was about. “Shawn?” He looked up, a grin plastered on his face. “Last night I was looking for some Advil for my headache and I accidentally came across a notebook.” Suddenly very nervous, you looked down at your nails. “And I saw that you did some research on the therapists on campus.”

His face paled. “Fuck. You um- you weren’t supposed to see that.” When he looked over at you, your smile calmed him down.

“I’m not mad Shawn. Actually it’s really sweet.” He reached over, closing the book to pull you into his lap.

“I just know that you wanted to see someone for a while and I wanted to make sure you were getting the best one. So I told them I was doing a paper on how they treated their patients and then I was gonna decide which one they should get you.”

You didn’t say anything. Just pressed a few lingering kisses on his jaw. “Thank you. It really means a lot to me. And thank you for everything you’ve done so far. I’ve never felt so loved and safe in my life.”

“Darling. You are loved and safe.”

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