#mask off remix

[playedcrowd5610]

What If... The Bat's Answered Phantom's Phone?

Set as an AU at the end of Chapter 2 of "A Little Overshadowing Never Hurt Anyone" But can be read as an independent oneshot <3

—"What were you doing in Gotham?" The Dark Knight demanded, ignoring the ghost boy's previous comment.

"Just hanging out. I don't have any real reason to be here. Wanted to see the sights, I guess." Danny shrugged, trying to play it off. It was a lie, but he couldn't tell him anything about his parents or the ghost-hunting convention, since there could be a chance he could figure out Danny’s identity that way. 

Once again, Batman's expression didn't change, just as stone-cold as ever. That was annoying. Normally Danny was really good at reading people. Especially ghosts. It was much easier for them to read each other with their cores and emotions. But with humans, it was much harder. Especially this human.

Suddenly Danny jumped at the sound of his phone ringing… and he knew it was his phone because a remix of the “Ghostbusters theme” was playing.  Danny put his head down covering his face with his hands,  He really shouldn't worry about being embarrassed while being kidnapped with a bunch of ghost tech in some eccentric white guy's creepy bat basement, yet here we are.

The only other person in the room besides Batman stood up. It was the boy in the domino mask., Robin? Wait- Weren’t there multiple now?  Danny couldn’t keep track anymore.  Either way, emo mini Bat jr, a coffee in his hand, walked over to a table filled with ghost-hunting weapons, the majority of which was his parents’ designs.  Danny felt a shiver go down his spine and pushed himself back a bit further in the cage. His fear did not go unnoticed by the boy, who glanced sideways with a frown.

He reached down and started going through the pockets of a belt that lay on the table as the phone kept blaring loudly, Danny glanced down to his waist. He didn’t even realize that they had removed the phone until just now.  Finally, the teenage boy managed to wrangle it out of one of the pockets and held it high in victory before looking at the caller ID.

“B,” The kid started.  “It’s someone named Jazz.”  Danny’s eyes widened. He knew she would be worried right now!   And what was the one thing she told him before he went into Gotham? ‘Danny, stay away from all of those Gotham vigilantes tonight — it can be dangerous.’ The phone abruptly stopped ringing, and Danny breathed a sigh of relief.  But then the boy started scrolling through the phone, or at least the lock screen. “Dozens of missed messages and three missed calls.”  He raised an eyebrow at Danny as if waiting for him to respond.

“She worries.”  Danny shrugs before rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.  Suddenly, the phone blares to life again. Danny’s ears twitch at the sound.  The ringtone starts again.  

“Bring it here, Red Robin,”  Batman says, holding out his hand.  Well, at least Danny now knows his name.   He narrows his eyes at the device like it is somehow out to get him and his whole family.  Danny would have laughed at the expression if he weren’t terrified for his afterlife right now.  After a couple of seconds, it stopped, only to restart again quickly after.

“She is not going to stop until you answer!”  Danny snaps, annoyed.  Batman seems to be in thought for a moment before holding the phone in between the vigilantes and the ghost, hitting answer on speakerphone.  Danny’s eyes widened instantly, in shock that he answered it. Danny was mostly kidding, he didn’t expect the Dark Knight to really answer! Now what should he do?

“Danny, oh my word! Where are you?!! I swear to Clockwork, if you got yourself hurt or anything… I’ve been worried sick! And with all of those hunters around! I told you to be careful, and to come back soon!  You were just getting air! Please tell me you’re okay.”  Danny winced back at every part of the call, but everyone in the room had their eyes glued to the phone, undoubtedly absorbing all the information Danny just gave them.  

“Jazz, Jazz I’m fine!”  Red Robin looked over at Danny as if to say, ‘You don’t look fine.’  Danny glared back his best ‘Mind your own damn business response..

“Danny, where are you?  I’ve been holding off mom and dad for as long as I can.”  Danny winced and winced hard, glancing up at the two listening into the conversation, looming over him.  “Right now they think you’re at the library, and it’s the middle of the night!”

Danny laughed nervously.  “Jazz, don’t worry, I’ll be okay, I always am.  I just got a bit lost and sensed a soul eater so I followed to find out if they were okay.  He saw Batman narrow his eyes again (if that was even possible — they should be closed at this point) at he mention of ‘soul eater’. 

 Danny felt slightly offended for them, but they did have a strange name.  For your information, soul eaters are just ghosts who need energy or ectoplasm to survive and make a body. They have to either take it from others or absorb it in an ectoplasm-rich environment, and if Danny has some to spare, he normally shares Soul eaters are a step above echo ghosts.  Two of the ones Danny had encountered were Spectra, who absorbed children’s emotions as a therapist to give herself a body, and Shadow, the ghost that has bonded itself to Johnny 13 in order to get as much ectoplasm as he needs in return for helping Johnny.  But enough of that rant.

“Okay, but you better be back soon okay?  Especially with all the hunters around. I don’t want you getting captured!”  

Danny glanced up at the two bats and laughed awkwardly.  “Ah yeah, we don’t want that happening now.  Just don’t worry too much, Jazz; get some rest, I’ll catch up with you later.”

“You better!”  Batman then pulled his gloved finger up and pressed the hang-up button.

Danny scowled up at the man, “There, you happy?  You got all that information out of me. You seem proud of yourself.”  Danny went to lean back, but burned himself on the bars, flinching as he felt the stinging sensation on his shoulder, hissing and baring his fangs.

Batman said nothing. It looked like his little robin was about to pitch in but then thought better of it and slinked away.  Suddenly, there was a ping on Batman’s belt.  He looked at it for only a second before stating “I have to go. Red Robin, stay here.”

)-(

Danny was staring down at the floor of his cage as he now floated cross-legged just above the ground.  What was he supposed to do now? Batman was gone and Red Robin was now pacing around the cave, either doing wide circles around the cage or just pacing around the whole cave in general. It looked like he was also kind of muttering to himself. Kind of strange, but Danny did the same so who was he to judge?  But the important thing was he never let the cage out of his line of sight.  He almost felt like Danny was being hunted by a shark at the rate this guy was going.

Danny knew he needed to escape somehow.  He glanced again over all of those weapons on the desk. He needed to get out of here, and quickly He knows that even though he called, Jazz would still be worried.  But with Red Robin ever on the lookout, that would be hard.

It would be hard to rewire the whole cage, especially because Red Robin keeps silently watching him — it's kinda creepy. Danny grabbed onto his hair and pulled, unsure of what to do.  Suddenly there was a clanging sound and Danny jumped, eyes darting around until he noticed that Red Robin was staring up at him right in front of the cage. His hands were on the door.

Danny stared at him, puzzled, and tilted his head to the side, eyes glued to each other in the tense moment.  Suddenly, the boy’s hands started moving and he was unlocking the cage. Danny’s eyes widened. “What are you doing?”  He asked, still stunned that the kid had come so close.  

The boy paused for a moment, thinking to himself. “Letting you out.”  The door swung open with Tim holding it and staring at the ghost expectantly.  Danny stayed where he was in the cage, floating, unsure of whether or not to trust this new opportunity.

“What about Batman, won't he be mad at you?”  Danny asked, surprised his Robin would go against him like this. 

“I think…”  Red Robin paused.  “I think Batman would understand, and I think we were wrong about ghosts,  I was stupid to go along with this. Anyone who’d spend more than five minutes with you would know you are a sentient, innocent, person...  I’m sorry.”

Danny laughed awkwardly, “Wow, you're the first person to say that in a long time.”  Red Robin returned with a light smile, almost a grimace.

“Here, let's get you out of here before B gets back.”  He reached down and grabbed onto Danny's arm, pulling him out of the cage and leading him through the cave. Normally, Danny would have flinched at being grabbed, but this… wasn't so bad. 

---

Tim led them through the tunnels underneath Wayne's manor to not reveal their identities, he knew the tunnels by heart and managed to make enough turns that Danny couldn't follow them back.

#danny phantom #batman #dc #robin #ao3 #au #crossover #dp x dc #danny fenton #batfamily #fanfic of a fanfic #batfamily meets Danny Phantom #it does not go well #Danny gets captured by the Batfamily #tim drake #bruce wayne #jazz fenton #oneshot #brain dead

[just-some-random-blogger]

Hii!

I just came across your empress work with kylo ren and i absolutely loved it.

But i was wondering...

Could you maybe write something like that but with kylo marring a jedi reader to restore balance and peace to the galaxy?

Say That Again

"-- say it," Kylo mutters. His voice becomes shaky, "I want to hear you say it."

Kylo Ren x Jedi!Reader | 1k+ | cw: gender neutra!reader, implied kidnapping, violence/mentions of injury, lovers to enemies, pining, angst, typos, etc.

A/N: this req is remix of this anon's and @copiasratsstuff request where basically YN refers to Kylo with his first name and it makes him snap. also T_T i had to send myself this anon ask because i accidentally posted this WITHOUT ANYTHING on the post LMAO. i hope you enjoy it my loves <3 <3 <3 tbh I think this turned out better than what I had in mind slayyyyed

My heart pounds as I run down the halls. My hands were tingling and moistened with agitation. I huff when I catch sight of the space craft.

I swipe an arm and, using my Force, a pair of stormtroopers crash to the side, clearing my passage.

The footsteps thundering towards me grows louder when I get to the ship and pry the door open with my Force. Just as I'm about to get into the vehicle, a scorching blow hits my leg, then my shoulder. A loud cry leaves my lips before I can even think.

Similarly, I hear painful screaming from afar. "Didn't I say to hold your fire?!"

My panic heightens at the echo of that voice. Through the excruciating pain, I tell myself to push forward. This was it, after all, this was the opening to the freedom I was waiting for.

But the next thing I knew, a dark Force overcame me, and I didn't have enough strength to break free of it.

I thud into the arms of my captor, and whine in pain. I clench my jaw and slowly lift my eyes, glaring at him.

My expression is vaguely reflected on the Supreme Leader's black mask. He sighs before speaking, "you reap what you sow."

I growl and hiss, "and soon will you."

He carries me in his arms, all the way back to my prison cell. He sets me down on his bed l, and as he takes off his helmet, I fling him back with Force, making him loose his balance.

The man doesn't topple though. What only happens is his dark hair falls onto his face. He tilts his head, "childish."

I scoff, "I'm glad you're self-aware."

The Sith Lord says nothing in response. He walks off, props his helmet on his cabinet, and opens a drawer. He walks over to me with bandages and ointment.

I raise a brow as he sits on my side, "you're not going to heal me?"

"The pain will be good for you," he replies, grabbing my injured leg with little regard.

I whine and shift to lessen my discomfort. He begins to lather ointment on my laser gash.

As he does this in silence, and as I behold his profile, his nose, his lips, his lashes, I see flashes of the past from his face. I see a memory of when we were younger, both still under the guidance of our master, Luke. I see his sweet smile, hear his soft laugh, feel his tender kiss... my Ben.

Of course, we were young fools in love. Deep down, we knew we could never be; attachments were dangerous. And yet he promised me himself and I promised him myself, and somehow he believes that was the same as us being married.

That was why he captured me. That was why he was binding my wounds. That was why he was unwilling to let me go. According to him, I was the balance the galaxy craved, I was the balance he long yearned for.

"We are married," he says, a-matter-of-factly.

My face sours, "get out of my head."

"Even did, even if you managed to run," he turns to me, one hand gripping my knee, "you think I would just let you go?"

We stare at each other for a while.

"After all I've done to have you?" he narrows his eyes.

"You wouldn't be able to find me," I lean in as I retort.

He leans closer, "and yet you would eventually surrender because your heart is weak."

I whine when he pulls the bandage around me tighter than necessary.

"Your soft heart would not bear the destruction I'd exact on the stars to find you," he ties the bandage and turns back to me. He scoffs under his breath, "you and your empathy."

The last of what remained of Ben Solo stared at me. Perhaps I was the only one delusional enough to see it. He was barely there in face, and in soul, I fear he may be lost forever.

I turn away.

He releases my leg and grabs my arm, "take your top off."

I decide not to put up a fight, there was no point. I take my burnt top off so he could wrap the injury on my shoulder blade.

He moves me so my back is turned to him. He stares at my wound for a prolonged moment. I am tempted to look back at him when I realize he felt pity for me.

"You shouldn't have run."

I don't look back, "you shouldn't have chased after-" I hiss when he applies ointment on my burn.

"You shouldn't have run," he repeats, harder this time.

"Kylo, please-"

"What?"

I look over my shoulder.

"What did you just call me?"

His expression is that of shock and excitement. I quickly correct myself, "Ben. Your name is B-"

"That's not my name," he raises a finger, "that's not what you said-"

"That's what I mea-"

"Say that again, say it," Kylo mutters. His voice becomes shaky, "I want to hear you say it."

I clench my jaw and shake my head. "Your name is Ben Solo."

He releases a deep breath.

I grab his cheeks. It was the first time I had ever willingly touched him, and so tenderly at that, "that is your name. That is who you--"

"Ben is dead," Kylo grabs my wrists, yanking me away from him.

My heart races when I feel the hot air from his lungs.

"I am all that's left," he whispers, brows furrowing. His voice is shaky again, "Ben was weak. He could not even speak his love for you out loud," he shakes his head, "not me. I would make sure the whole galaxy knows my love for you."

I gasp when he grabs my face and kisses me. I immediately shove him away, and when I do, this man with wide, glassy eyes stares back at me.

For once, his face evokes something more than anger out of me. I see his desperation and it pinches my heart.

"Ben-"

"That's not my name," he blurts, snapping out of his trance and jumping to his feet. His moment of vulnerability was over. Staring down at me now was no one else besides the Supreme Leader of the First Order. He wipes his face and blankness falls on his features.

I mean to call his name out again but he speaks before I can.

"I will have a medic attend to your wounds," he says flatly, "don't think to flee while I'm gone."

I watch him walk out of the door.

#kylo ren fanfic #kylo fanfic #kylo ren smut #kylo angst #kylo ren fluff #kylo ren angst #kylo fic #ben solo fanfic #ben solo angst #ben solo #kylo ren #star wars #star wars fanfic #star wars angst #kylo ren pining #kylo x reader #kylo x y/n #kylo ren x reader #kylo x you #kylo ren x you

[1343-40]

here's another snippet from this hockey au fic i'm working on that's based off swifty's mota hockey au for anyone interested

had the stupidest vision about how buck gets his nickname in this universe, so i had to go ahead and write it bc who even gives a fuck right

Gale can vividly remember the first time he got called Buck by him, though. It was a mid-December game, and he and the Flyer center were waiting on a faceoff in the o-zone after Bucky made a glove save earlier. There was some issue with the timer, so Gale had almost unintentionally drifted closer to the net as they waited for it to be fixed, and got poked with a stick in his shin.

“Watch where you skate, buck,” Egan jeered at him, leaning back onto the crossbar with his elbows.

Gale could barely hear him behind the mask, some annoying remix of a then popular pop song blasting overhead making it even harder.

He poked his mouthguard out of the corner of his mouth. “I’m not your bud.”

“I said buck!”

“What?”

“Buck? Like Bucky? Ah, never mind,” Egan had waved him off with his glove, and then the official finally had come over to the faceoff dot to drop the puck and Gale had to leave the unsettlingly awkward conversation behind.

He got texted a link by several people later, after they managed to scrape out a 2-1 win at home. It was a video of a postgame media scrum of Egan, who had made 46 saves that night.

“You were exchanging words with Cleven there near the end,” a reporter had said. “Mind sharing with us, what about?”

“Ah, yeah, me and Buck were jus’ making dinner plans, nothin’ to worry ‘bout.”

“Buck? Is that a nickname of his?”

Egan had glanced at the camera lens right then, and Gale clenched his jaw. It felt like Egan was looking right at Gale, when he said, “It is now.”

#clegan #gale cleven #john egan #hockey au #mota #ww2 yaoi #bucky: trying to flirt. buck: this guy is trying to beef? #roogts tag

[demonslayedher]

I'm mentally rocking out to that "Kizuna no Kiseki" remix again and gotta say, I went into the theater the other night thinking "this is a cinematic experience" and suddenly a bunch of editorial choices in that last Swordsmith Village episode made so much more sense.

Clearly, they are playing the long game.

Since I have a friend visiting who is a more casual fan of the series, it was actually a very nice review for people like her. Also, yeah, we dressed up. Since I was stopping in after work again I needed another subtle "add items after arriving at the theater to do character homage" closet play. Hence, a nice chance to use some official Shinobu items (and an unofficial, fashion-only mask):

For my friend, we decided on Giyuu items for her, but I didn't actually have that many for her to borrow besides the (unofficial) bow and bracelet I've got, and the Giyuu keychain I gave her to borrow didn’t fit on her bag, and my clothing items that match one half of Giyuu's haori didn't go with any of her clothes, and I didn't provide reference for suggesting she do her hair like Tsutako... so it was very, very subtle Giyuu homage.

In his own words, he's "not like the rest" of the Pillars anyway, so why even represent him for this movie to kick off Pillar training?

Or so we joked, and then she nails the attitude of that sentiment by showing up in black lipstick.

#kny closet play #kny merch

[copperbadge]

[ID: A simple flag, consisting of a deep blue field with an orange star in the center; the star is large and symmetrical, with six spiky, angular arms. All other flags in this post have the same field-and-star motif, just in different colors.] 

I was lying in bed this morning thinking about flags, like you do, in particular the TEDtalk Roman Mars gave about flags, and his praise of the Chicago flag as iconic -- among other things, as remixable. 

The flag above is the state flag of Askazer-Shivadlakia, which is a bit of an in-joke made manifest -- out of patriotism I nicked a Chicago star and turned it Askazer orange, putting it on a field of “Shivadh” (Tumblr) blue. 

But the simplicity of the flag also means that, like the Chicago flag, it’s highly remixable. Now, Pride has been a huge deal in Askazer-Shivadlakia since it began there, and now it’s an even bigger deal because they have their first out gay king. 

You want a classic vintage Pride flag from Askazer-Shivadlakia? Boom.  

[ID: The star-and-field motif as above, except the star is rainbow-striped to resemble the Pride flag.]

You want to use the more recent Inclusivity rainbow? BOOM. (I’d put it inside the star but that cuts off most of the black and brown which sorta defeats the point, and I actually love how the orange pops against the rainbow.)

[ID: The star-and-field motif now features the Inclusivity rainbow as the field, with the Askazer-orange star outlined in black against the rainbow.]

Guess what Buck bought for Caleb when he came off tour to visit for Parade weekend? BOOM!

[ID: The star now contains the blue-pink-white motif of the Trans pride flag, outlined in black, against the Inclusivity rainbow as background.]

Oh, the King Consort is bi? BLAM.

[ID: The star now features the pink-purple-blue of the Bisexual Pride flag, set against a field of Shivadh blue.] 

Is that loud enough for Recently Out Eddie Rambler? Fuck if it is! KABLAM. 

[ID: As above the star contains the stripes of the Bisexual Pride flag, now outlined in black and set over the stripes of the rainbow Inclusivity flag.]

Meanwhile, Michaelis is mostly perplexed by the idea of having a sexual identity, but Noah very sweetly gave him a little flag he bought from a school fundraiser, and it’s a nice design so he keeps it in the pen cup on his desk.  

[ID: The field of the flag is the stripes of the Demisexual Pride flag, white-purple-grey; instead of a black triangle at one end the way the Demi Pride flag usually has, the star has been colored black.]

Anyway that was fun. I don’t really anticipate a huge desire, but as Roman Mars mentions, “one hundred percent of people care about flags,” so if anyone else wants to play at remixing there’s an xcf file of the flag here that includes the blue field, orange star, and a “masking” template as an invisible layer. Have pride, have fun. :D

#shivadhverse #pride #stripes #contrasting stripes #flags

[389]

BLUNDERDOME MIX JULY 2023 [Bass, Breaks, Electro, Breakbeats]

Clouds - An t-Samhain

Ingi - Fade

Skee Mask - Collapse Casual

Kessler - Pandemonium

Nü Kvlture - dadan karambolo

Fear-E - A Chase Off Roadrunner

Paxman - Too Little Too Soon

Tom Place - Elementals

Tom Place - Break Cycle

OSSX - Alkaline

L/F/D/M - Shutting Up

Privacy - The Net

Cyan85 - Bassturbation

Ten Pence Criminal - Find My Money

Kiddy.Wav - Sympathy for the Dev Heel

Bobby Lasers - Haunted Fairground (Original Mix)

French II - Girl Unit

Mattia Trani - INNER HARDSHIPS

DJ Decay - Rinse In Brie

TFHats - I Can't Breathe (Slaves of Sinus Remix)

All Trades - Hec

Patricia - Downlink

Poly Chain - Acid Regular

BXTR - Artificial Desire

Samuel Kerridge - Elastic

Objekt - Ratchet

Objekt - Ganzfeld

Lazarus - Sinus Node

Nothus - Le Segrete

Skee Mask - Wiz

Glass - Postlexia

Leese - Num

Leese - Anäam

Re:ni - Spirits

PPC - Maximum Style

#DJ #MIX #NEW #electronic #music #mixes #u #Youtube

[horseshoegirl]

Damn Those Dog Tags: Part 20 - Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

📜 Everyone wants Jake's reaction to Liz's risky photo. 👀😂Well, you got it... and something else... Let me put it this way: I have to take my chance where I can....

❗+18, sexual themes, strong language, godmother reader/original female character, Mentions of an original child character, deployments, letters, verbal fights, hurricanes, near-death experiences, angst, Don't read if you have Thalassophobia/Aquaphobia cause Jake and Bradley... well, you'll find out, intense moments of peril/disaster.

#7.4k words

Part 19 | Masterlist | Part 21

Hangman could hear his breath, the mechanical exhale and hiss, through his oxygen mask as he finally set his eyes on the carrier alone out at sea.

The tension in his shoulders released, and the weight that had been pressing him down since he and Rooster launched this morning lifted slightly.

"Rooster, where are you?"

"Right behind you, Hangman," came his crackled tense reply.

The attack on the facility had been gruesome and extremely time-sensitive. They only had a few seconds to spare in reaching their destination should there have been any reason for a delay. It was one of the few things he had worried about when they were being briefed, worried if the same ghost that had haunted Rooster on the uranium mission would resurface yet again.

Thankfully, it didn't, and the pair of them managed to get to the target well on time, just to take down two enemy fighter jets before they had even managed to get above the hard deck line.

It might have helped the attack happened right around dawn when nobody was least expecting it—three weeks at sea for an hour in the sky. And the worst of what they thought would happen and what they had prepared for didn't.

You and Sadie had been with him the entire time, your polaroids pinned in his cockpit near the control panel. They were the same ones he had before, the one Sadie took of you and the other of Sadie standing in front of the F-18. 

He was looking at them now, between you, Sadie and his navigational beacon, knowing that the second his wheels hit the upper deck, he'd be that much closer to going home.

Hangman was cleared to land, his radio buzzing with the familiar voice of the control tower as he approached the tiny runway. He adjusted the F-18's flaps, feeling the jet respond instantly beneath him, knowing it wasn't over yet, not until both he and Rooster were safely on board.

He took a steadying breath, the sound echoing in his mask as he said to himself in his head, 'Make it perfect. For them."

The back wheels touched down flawlessly, catching the arresting wire with a strong tug. Jake felt himself being pulled forward out of his seat, the straps of his harness tight on his chest. But the second his back hit the chair, he finally felt like he could breathe. The weight on his chest dissipated, and Jake couldn't help the smug grin.

He was finally in the clear.

"Nice landing," he heard the landing officer say through the radio. Jake, taxing himself to the elevator on deck, watched as the officer gave him a thumbs up from the runaway below.

"What can I say? When you're good, you're good," his cheeks hurt from the edges of his mask, grin wide as he cockily gave a two-fingered salute.

If Jake heard the following tense groan coming out of his radio, he didn't let on.

Parking the jet on the elevator strip, Jake watched as he was lowered down into the ship's hanger bay, looking for his designated mechanic as he turned off the flight system. The second he reached the ground, he guided the machine into its designated spot, turning it off completely.

He popped the canopy open before going for his helmet, unstrapping the buckles with haist. He went for one of the pockets on his harness, reaching into the tight space to grab at the zip-locked bag, placing it on top of his helmet before reaching for the polaroids of you and Sadie. Holding both between his thumb, he brought them to his lips, kissing the images simultaneously before placing them safely inside the bag where they belonged.

As Jake stepped down the ladder, a mechanic greeted him, readying a list of questions as Jake started up his post-flight checks.

"It's a good thing you guys finished when you did. Radar points to a tropical storm coming in tonight."

Jake raked his fingers through his hair, trying to combat the sweat. "So we got confirmation we are moving out?"

The mechanic nodded, not bothering to lift his head as he dug for his notepad. "The second you guys were called back. We're already on route to base."

The news only added to his high spirits. Today was a good day.

He was going home.

As Jake answered all the mechanic's questions while checking the jet, out of the corner of his eye, he watched as Bradley's jet ascended down the elevator and rolled into its resting spot. Bradley popped his canopy, climbing out, sliding down the ladder and high-fiving his mechanic, smiling.

He had no idea where the urge, or dare he say courage, came from when he finished walking over to Bradley as he was finalizing his post-flight routine.

Jake waited till Bradley said his last word before approaching him. Jake held out his hand, his voice clear over the commotion, as he said, "Good job flying out there, Bradshaw."

Bradley glanced at Jake's outstretched hand, then to his face, his expression inscrutable. There was a palpable pause, a pregnant beat of tension, before Bradley deliberately rested his hand on the side of his jet, ignoring Jake's overstretched hand completely.

"Don't think one mission changes everything," Bradley replied tersely, eyes sharp and focused.

His reply didn't deter Jake. In fact, he only smirked, lowering his hand. "Didn't think it would. I just wanted to see if you had the balls to acknowledge a job well done. By the way, I went to Liz and apologized. Something you probably never imagined I'd do."

Bradley scoffed, a short, derisive laugh escaping him. "You think an apology is your ticket to redemption? You must have been more rattled up there than I thought. She'd never forgive you after a stunt like that."

Jake bit his lip, contemplating what you or Sadie might say to Rooster at this moment.

So, in a rare second of honesty, in front of his rival, Jake answered Bradley.

"I never expected her to accept my apology, Bradshaw. But I had to try. For her. For Sadie." Jake paused, looking solemn before continuing on. "You know what it's like, leaving on a deployment, not sure when or if you're going to come back. I had to try, and believe it or not, I want to try to get along with you for both their sakes. It's what they would want."

Jake lifted his hand once again, hoping Rooster would take it. But Bradley didn't, nor did he reply. Instead, he turned on his heel and walked away, leaving Jake to bow his head and drop his hand once again, not knowing if he should sigh or roll his eyes. At this point, it was frugal to think Bradley would ever change his ways.

Least of all for him.

...

"Seresin! Bradshaw! You have mail!"

Jake looked up from his plate just in time to see the communications officer slam a white envelope down to the empty space in front of him. The officer continued her journey down to the other end of the table to Rooster, tossing a nearly identical envelope into his outstretched hands.

Bradley hadn't spoken a word to him since the hanger earlier, not that Jake expected him to. The mess hall wasn't necessarily the friendliest place, and while Jake couldn't have cared less about whether or not he was making friends, he and Bradley tended to stick together silently. They didn't really speak to each other, though. Even when they had to bunk together.

It's funny how deployments did that.

Jake slid his tray over to the side, reaching out to grab the thick piece of paper between his hands and inspecting the front.

White was probably the wrong word to use. The envelope looked like it had a rough time getting to him. There were dirt marks and scuffed-up edges, several post stamps thrown uncaringly on the front. Even a few water marks, which made sense, considering a gust front was currently pounding the upper deck.

What stood out to Jake, though, was your handwriting still perfectly intact. He'd recognize it anywhere.

Lt. Jake "Hangman" Seresin

Jake flipped it over, not expecting to see the words written across the back.

This is everything I didn't say

Jake pulled himself back in his seat, only to realize he had a pair of eyes on him. He looked over to Bradley, noticing how the chicken was staring at the object in Jake's hands. He had already opened his, two pieces of lined paper on the table in front of him.

"From Liz?" Jake finally asked, tilting his head towards Bradley's letter. Rooster looked back down at his, staring at the front. "Sadie, actually."

As if that didn't sting a little bit, Jake thought. Bradley looked back up, eyes fixed on the one in Jake's hands. "Liz?" he asked. It was almost sombre.

Jake tore his eyes away from Bradley to trace your cursive writing with his fingers. "Yeah."

There was something to be said about receiving letters or packages from family and loved ones while in service. Regardless of whether or not Jake and Bradley were on the outs, no one ever dared to mock this particular part of their job. Hearing word from the other side, the outside world, was something sacred, and Bradley knew better than to hold it against Jake- even if he did break your heart.

You had chosen to write him that letter. There was nothing he could really do about it - like he even had a choice. Bradley had to pick and choose his moments where he could.

Jake finally broke the seal, immediately going for the folded-up pieces of paper inside. He let the envelope drop, the sound heavy as it hit the table, and Jake knew you had probably stuffed polaroids inside.

He unfolded your pages and began to read.

Jake,

Everything became still the moment my sister passed away. I keep remembering, picturing it like hands on a clock, having counted the seconds away before finally coming to a stop. The days didn't matter. My next thought, my only thought, was Sadie. Then you came into my picture, our picture, and cheesily enough, that seconds hand on that metaphorical clock started to tick.

I can’t lie; I knew you'd break through my walls the first time I saw you. Not in the Hard Deck that day, but when you were playing football on the beach, me watching you from Penny’s chair. I knew who you were instantly.

Because you had a rep, and everyone had warned me about you - Womanizer.

But I knew the second you spoke to me, the second I had turned around after fixing that damn keg, seeing that mona lisa smile of yours (Yes - I have been calling it that and no, your ego does not need to grow two more sizes because of it), my heart was screaming, Hello, I love you.

(Those are in reference to a song; they don't count just yet).

I have a confession to make, which is partly why I wanted to write you this particular letter.

I put up a wall between you and myself then and there. I think that's the only secret I've ever kept from you. Because as much as I knew something was probably going to happen between the two of us, whatever it would have been, I knew you had the power to devastate my heart completely.

I didn’t get your name that day. Not until you showed up on my doorstep with my favourite flowers, asking me to forgive you, and you sat out in my backyard with everyone singing along to Southern Nights.

The first crack in the wall started when you followed me inside, helping me with the dishes. You were honest with me that night, not the person I thought you to be, and I realized you were putting on a show for others to see. And when I showed up in that long cool black dress at the hard deck that day, and you taught my klutzy ass how to throw a dart, the wall cracked further.

(I can hear you as I write, Jake Seresin. Saying I love your ass, don't diss my ass. Stop making everything sexual, you horny beast.)

Sadie knew it, too... that my walls were cracking. She sees everything. It's why she invited you on that damn hike. And there is also a part of me wondering if Ridley sent that damn sake from wherever she is now, hoping to get the two of us together - it would be something she'd do if she had the power…if she was able to rule the world to make it happen.

Then, all of you guys were deployed. And everything that could have gone wrong went wrong.

I don't know if three little birds told me things were going to be alright back then, but I somehow knew, deep down, they would be -  even if you fly like you have nothing to lose and everything to prove. You don't, not to me. And oh, what a night it was when you came home.

I wanted you to kiss me that night. But I'm glad you didn't. Because the night I drifted away in your arms, you might as well have shot a missile from your F-18 and made my walls crumble almost completely.

Almost. Because what truly did it was when you let Sadie hang on to you during that thunderstorm. How you cared for her and told her it was going to be okay. How good you were with her and how you might be with your own. I will never stop saying how much that meant to me- what it still means to me.

Then you rammed me up against my hallway, and I had to really hang on for dear life.

(I just realized we never talked about our futures on our first date. We were too busy screaming Let's dance to figure out if Marriage/Kids, etc., were on the table - if they are something you want. Cause I'm all in Jake, whether we do or not. All I know is that I want to be with you - you and Sadie are enough.)

Then someone made himself known, and hell would have to freeze over before I mentioned his name in a letter to you - Dream on asshole. But you loved, yes loved, me through my worst moments, Sadie's worst moments. When I sang as a Blue healer for my feelings deep blue, when sons and daughters of people long gone raged, and I had to hide in my bathtub, waiting till it was all over.

When you showed me it was okay to live and experience life through the bad moments, that it was okay to remember my sister, even in the rays of a sunset from the sky. And when you made me want to scream sex on fire, cause damn Jake, we definitely weren't taking things slow.

I won't mention the 'incident' with George or how much rain I saw when Bradley drove me home. I know; I've always known how much generational trauma you've carried in your blood throughout your entire life. I will say, though, out of all the songs that had to play on the jukebox the night things for Sadie and I finally came to an end, it had to be Come a little bit closer. (That pissed me off, you have no idea, Jake.... stop laughing, you asshole).

And although it’s been weeks for me since you left me standing at the end of my driveway, after you apologized and I felt like a Sapling, searching for an Oak, watching you drive off to go our separate ways for a small length of time, being worlds apart, I’m counting down the minutes, the hours, the seconds till I can tell you what you need to hear.

Because My sister had a box. A just-in-case box. Filled with letters, objects, and memories. I finally opened it, with Sadie, of course, on an evening I will never soon forget. I don't want a repeat of that. Of me finally visiting Ridley and reading her letter, her last words to me on her grave.

I don't want that to be us.

So Jake 'Hangman' Seresin, after breaking down my walls not once but twice, I will not write those three words down in this letter. I'd rather tell you in person. So I can see your face when I do. I’m a fair lady - if you wanted me to wait to tell you until you are home, I’m waiting till you come home.

So much of our relationship started backwards. A first kiss before the first date, an extended sleepover before the first touch. We made a promise to each other, not already realizing we had already broken it.

So, sir, if you think the second I see your face, I'm not going to try to jump you, drag you home and lock Sadie out of my bedroom, you can kiss this idea of going slow out the window. Life's too short to go slow when... well, you'll find out soon enough.

And I know you think Sadie doesn’t want to see you again. That's she's still mad at you and will be forever mad for what happened. But I know for a fact the second she sees you, she will jump into your arms. You’re her uncle - you count more than you’ll ever know. 

And while sleep deprivation is my remaining side effect from dealing with the grief I’ve shouldered, I know part of it involves counting down the days for when I can fall asleep with you next to me.

And maybe even doing something else ;)

Your darlin' Elizabeth

P.S. Sadie wanted to send some Polaroids - I promise you, she doesn't hate you, but I know you're still going to think otherwise until you come home. We went on a hike, so there are probably some bug-themed ones in there... I'm sorry for what you see... so if you have anyone lurking over your shoulder, you might want to be careful. They aren't for everyone.

You were right about one thing: he was still so sure Sadie had it out for him. The day she had cornered him at the beach haunted his thoughts. The look and level of disappointment she had on her face would forever remain imprinted in his head.

Yet, he still wiped at his eyes and raked his fingers through his hair, his heart feeling like it was going to beat out of his chest. He reached into the envelope and grabbed at the small stack.

The first few were from the hike you mentioned; Sadie chose one of you, sitting on the same rock she had done last year. He still had the photo he took on his phone. There were some ones with bugs, no question about it. But they weren't random ones, either.

There was one of Sadie surrounded by what looked like to be monarchs. Jake had never seen her look so happy, her smile wide and beautiful, and he couldn't help the grin on his face looking down at the image.

But when Jake went to slide the image of Sadie behind the others, he did a double take, quickly hiding the following polaroid from view.

You wouldn't have, he thought. There was no way.

Jake glanced around the hall, turning the collection of pictures down to face the table in his hands, wondering if anyone had seen what he had seen. But next to Bradley, who was too engrossed in his own letter even to lift his head, the hall had cleared itself out, leaving the two of them practically alone.

Hesitantly lifting his hands, Jake slid Sadie's photo over, carefully peering down at the image of you.

You. On your bed. Half naked.

You seemed carefree, leaning back on your bed, damp tendrils of your hair half clinging to your face, half covering the sharp lines of your neck. Oh, how many times he had kissed that neck, and now, seeing it on display, only for him - Jake had to draw in a sharp breath.

And his dog tags hanging between your half-bare breasts, framed by the silk of your robe, glinting in the soft, warm sunlight from your bedroom window. And written along the bottom... Come home and take them back ;)

You cheeky... Jake could feel the heat rush to his face: surprise, desire, and pure pride. He was thousands of miles away, and you found yet another way to remind him of what awaited him when he got home.

The Mona Lisa smile, as you had so deemed, spread wide across his face as he whispered to himself in one ragged breath, "Damn, Liz."

He felt himself getting hard just looking at you.

He'd send you a message when they were closer to American soil, hoping you and Sadie would be there to greet him. But more importantly, if you'd make plans for Penny to take Sadie that night. Cause fuck the lock on your bedroom door. He wanted to find out all the ways he could make you scream for him, all the sounds you had yet to make for him.

Until then, Jake climbed into his bunk that night, reading your letter over and over, staring at the photo you had gifted him, wondering and coming up with all the ways the two of you would celebrate his homecoming. Because lying on that narrow bunk, he couldn't stop his rampant thoughts.

He could almost feel the silk of your robe against his fingertips, the wet strands of your hair brushing against his palms, and the warmth of your skin. And those fucking dog tags he gave you, nestled between the soft curves of your breasts - everything made a fierce heat coil in the lower half of his stomach.

Jake shifted uncomfortably, the rough sheets tangling around his legs, the damp are doing little to soothe his fevered skin. He rolled over into his pillow, trying to summon any other thought but that photo - anything to take his mind off the overwhelming feeling of pure want that consumed him.

You were there, in every corner he turned to, beckoning him with both those innocent and mischievous glint in your eyes, making him crave the day he finally came home. He took a deep, shuddering breath, trying to find some semblance of calm against the lust you had ignited within him.

But falling asleep, his dreams were only filled with you. And all the ways he'd finally have you cumming on his cock.

...

Jake jolted awake to the sound of a high-pitched beeping in his ears, almost hitting the bunk above his. His stomach felt uneasy, like it had been flipped upside down, and every sense was screaming at him something was wrong. He was off balance, unable to ground himself to a solid point.

He hated not being in control.

Rooster shouted from the bunk above, and Jake pressed himself against the tiny wall as he felt himself tilted hard to the side, masked by a shutter that shook their entire room.

Bradley wasn't as lucky, rolling straight out of his bed and landing hard on the ground with a massive thunk. Jake wanted to laugh, but even he couldn't stop the grimace as he heard the sound.

Bradley groaned a long, pitful sound, lifting himself to rest on his hands. "What the hell is going on?!"

"What do you think, Bradshaw? You've never been stuck in a storm on a deployment before?"

He knew he shouldn't be so snarky with Bradley, but this morning had left him in a sour mood. Not to mention, the storm was but another obstacle in his path stopping him from getting home sooner.

It was going to be a long night.

Bradley sat up, about to reply with a remark just as snarky, when the PA system blared above their heads.

All currently available personnel report to the lower decks for assistance. I repeat all currently available personnel report to the lower decks for assistance.

Jake tore out of bed, and Bradley stood sharply, both reaching for their fight suits, putting them on in a rush. As Bradley laced his boots, Jake reached for your letter and picture on his bed, quickly shoving them inside the packet he had in his chest pocket with the other Polaroids.

He didn't know if and when he'd be back here.

As the pair emerged from their room, they had to dodge multiple people flying past in a mass panic, trying to get to their respective stations. The added struggle of not knowing what the carrier was going to throw at them next also didn't help. All Jake and Bradley knew was that, given a storm, let alone even in a hurricane, they needed to be down at the lower docks, reinforcing the restraints on the Jets.

The ship groaned, then shook, the floor vibrating beneath their feet.

"What the hell was that?" Bradley shouted, his voice strained with concern. Jake struggled to steady himself, gripping a nearby railing. His Texian accent was strong as he shouted his reply, "It doesn't matter. Let's just get to the hanger bay!"

It was pure chaos the second they arrived. Bright flashing red emergency lights, crew members scrambling in every direction. Next to the high-pitched alarm going off every other second, the ship continued to creak and groan, rocking enough that Jake and Bradley had to steady themselves.

"Get the damn secondary restraints on the F-18s!" A senior official shouted as they passed. Jake and Bradley's 'Yes, sir' only seemed to fall on deaf ears.

The pair raced towards the first jet, stopping momentarily to assist what they needed to do. Jake's voice was barely audible above the chaos. "We need to get the secondary straps down and make sure the wheel jacks are in place!"

Bradley shot him a disdainful look. "Thanks for stating the obvious. I was about to suggest a picnic."

Jake gritted his teeth, fighting the urge to snap back. "Not now, Bradshaw."

Bradley only rolled his eyes. "Let's just get this over with."

As they began to secure the planes, the ground started to tilt enough to throw them off balance if they weren't careful. Jake and Bradley tried to brace themselves as one adjusted the straps while the other secured the wheel jacks.

A cry for help managed to break through the alarms and shouts, and both turned towards the sound. Bradley was closest, shouting out, "I got it!" before running off, not bothering to hear Jake's reply.

The sound of a wire recoiling, snapping hard like a whip through the air, startled Jake, making him turn sharply. A wooden crate, the height of his chest, had broken loose from its net, sliding directly towards him.

Bracing himself, Jake charged forward, holding out his hands to stop it from crashing into the jet behind him. He grunted hard as the wood slammed into his palms. Jake used as much strength as he could gather, baring his teeth and straining his muscles, to push the crate back towards where it came from.

Jake's mechanic from before suddenly appeared next to him, helping him push the crate back into the relative safety of the net.

"What the hell is going on?!" Jake shouted over the alarm system. The mechanic continued to work as he replied, "Everything! The whole ship is going to hell! We've got engine failure. Some of the airlock doors won't seal properly on the lowest deck, and to fucking top it off, one of the ballast tanks is compromised! In a fucking hurricane!"

That would explain the rocking, Jake thought, as the ship titled back, allowing for the create to easily slide back into its original spot with no more effort. The mechanic knotted the net through a few metal loops on the ground while Jake rested his hands on his knees, bent over and panting hard.

The second he finished, the mechanic left Jake standing there as he was called off towards another task.

Jake straightened, looking around to see where he was needed next, his eyes instantly landing on Rooster, who was dealing with his own crate. He ran towards him, using his weight to help Bradley push the crate back and away into its designated spot.

The two managed to secure it, and struggling to catch his breath, Bradley glared at Jake. "Didn't need your help."

"Of course, you didn't," Jake retorted, frustration evident.

"I had it handled."

"Right," Jake panted.

"Always gotta be the hero, don't you, Hangman?" Rooster grumbled.

Whatever had encouraged him to reach an olive branch earlier was long gone. Whether it was Rooster's words or the situation, Jake simply had enough.

He hit Bradley square in his chest with both hands, sending him backwards a few steps. "Okay, what's your damn problem with me, Bradshaw?!"

"Now?!" Bradley shouted, ready to fight it out. "You want to do this now?"

"Good as time as any!" Jake remarked, throwing his hands to the side in open invitation. He was tired of Rooster's animosity, of the constant back and forth, but damn if he wasn't ready for the confrontation.

"What is it? My call-sign? What I did to earn it!?" Jake cocked his head, stepping to the side, causing the two pilots to circle each other. "Or is it what I said about your old man two years ago?! You didn't even let me finish, so I couldn't have said anything that truly pissed you off. And you know what, not that it matters, but I'm sorry if it hurt your feelings."

The floor shook beneath their feet, but neither man seemed phased. Bradley only fisted his hands tighter with each remark that passed Jake's lips.

"Or is it Liz? Sadie? The fact they welcomed me in with open arms, loved me, and there wasn't a hell of a thing you could have to stop it?"

The surrounding chaos only seemed to amplify Bradley's longstanding irritation with Jake. Bradley stalked forward, slamming his hands to Jake's chest and returning the favour.

"It's everything! Everything you stand for!" he shouted, his nostrils flaring hard. "Don't you dare say Sadie's name, not when I know you are going to leave that little girl out to dry. I won't have it, Hangman!

Recognition flashed in Jake's eyes, and he knew, he understood right then, amongst all the chaos and panic, the lengths any one of the Daggers would go to make sure their bug was loved and protected above all else.

It had never been about you. It had always, always been about Sadie.

"Sadie?!" he shouted. "That's the reason?"

Jake clenched his fists, struggling to find the words. "You think I would ever abandon Sadie? Or Liz? You've seen me, day in and day out, fighting for them, fighting fucking Tyler, fighting to get back to them. I would die before they were hurt. Before any one of you were hurt."

"But you did! The second your brother asked you to." Bradley's voice hardened. "Answer me this: in the heat of the moment, when you're faced with a choice, can you honestly tell me you'd put them first?"

Tyler and everything he had wrought flashed in Bradlely's mind, but he pressed on.

"Not your pride, not your ego, but them? Or any of us. Unasked or not on the job! Cause I know you wouldn't!"

Jake reeled back, Bradley's words hitting him hard. But Bradley didn't falter. His face was still lit up with all the pent-up anger and frustration he held for Jake since the day he got his call sign.

"I see the man behind the show, the guy who thinks he's invincible. But you're not." Bradley pointed his finger. "Until you prove otherwise, I won't trust you with them. Not with Sadie. Not with Liz. Not with any of us."

Jake opened his mouth to reply, but a shout from the officer who gave them orders before interrupted him.

"You two, Top Gun! Quit standing around and go to the communications office and see where we are at with our navigation systems!"

Bradley stomped past Jake without another word, leaving him to silently fume for a few seconds before following him out of the hanger.

In the dimly lit, claustrophobic corridors of the carrier, the metallic walls groaned, strained by the might of the storm. Water or steam, they weren't sure which, was starting to pool in patches along the floor. With each wave and rock the ship encountered, the intermittent jolts sent the two pilots grasping for whatever was nearest to stay upright as they tried to make it to the communications office.

Following Bradley, Jake felt a spike of irritation. 'Why's he got to make everything so damn personal?' Jake thought bitterly. Bradley, meanwhile, was a simmering pot of anger.

"Why do you always have to be right in the middle of everything, Hangman?" Bradley shot over his shoulder, clearly irritated. "Can't you just once follow orders without making it about you?"

Jake gritted his teeth, trying to hold back a retort. "Look, can we just get to the comms and figure this out? We can bicker like an old married couple later."

Bradley's face twisted in a smirk, his pace never faltering. "Don't flatter yourself. I have standards."

A loud klaxon sounded, the eerie wail echoing through the narrow halls of the carrier. Jake and Bradley covered their ears, falling into the walls.

The second they managed to pull themselves up onto their feet, the PA system blared out another warning.

Begin bail-out and evacuation procedures. I repeat, Begin bail-out and evacuation procedures. All personnel should be on the upper decks in five minutes.

Jake turned to Bradley, his face filled with urgency. "We need to go! Now!"

Bradley snarled. He had no idea whether it was out of frustration with the current situation or Jake barking orders at him. But Jake was having none of it, grabbing Bradley hard by the collar of his suit and tugging him hard.

Jake's eyes were hard and furious as he remarked, "I'm not dying today, and neither should you."

Something flashed in Bradley's eyes that Jake could not name. But it was enough to give Bradley pause, water droplets running down his face as the anger and tension decided to leave him from earlier.

"We need to get home! For the girls," Jake roughed out. "For Liz and Sadie! Whatever hate you have towards me, we need to get out for them. Now!"

Another name came to Bradley's mind, but he couldn't bring himself to say it out loud, even now. Instead, Bradley could only sallow and nod. He couldn't deny Jake was right.

It was damn near impossible to sink an aircraft carrier. Jake and Bradley knew this. The things were built to withstand the roughest seas, hurricanes included. They were the most balanced and sturdiest things that ever graced any body of water on this planet. They had to be if aviators were literally landing planes on them.

But as water continued to breach the carrier, and as the pair raced through the ship to get to a proper stairwell that would get them to the relief point on the upper decks, they both wondered about the series of unfortunate events that led them to this point. The mechanics in the hangar bay had said everything was going wrong.

Bradley was on the verge of saying sabotage, wondering if they had a spy amongst their ranks. The mission had gone so much better than they had thought. But in their line of work, if something suspicious didn't happen, then their job wasn't over.

Jake just wanted to get both of them out of there.

They finally reached one of the escape hatches, a stairwell that led directly to the upper deck. Bradley was the one to turn the wheel on the door first, Jake joining in shortly after once he realized the sheer force Rooster was putting into opening the door.

A pressure vale released, and the second the two managed to open the door, Jake surged forward, followed by Bradley, who made their way into the narrow stairwell, hoping all had not been lost.

Jake paused on the small landing, looking up at the flights guided by the emergency light. There were a few fires scattering the walls, but it was climbable, and if both of them hurried, they wouldn't have any issues.

Bradley's hand on his shoulder made him pause.

"Dude, we have to book it."

Jake turned his head, ready with a cocky reply of something resembling a 'you don't think I know that' until he took in Bradley's panicked face, staring at the stairs below. Following Bradley's eyes, Jake reeled, noticing the rising water levels.

Grabbing Rooster by the back of his suit, Jake pulled Bradley in front of him, pushing him up the stairs, urging him forward and shouting, Go!

The two tried not to look up as they climbed, picturing their destination in their minds. Ignoring the sound of the alarm and the rushing water, Jake and Bradley counted their steps as they tried to reach the top. And they were close. Even as the rest of the ship creaked and groaned, they still fought to reach the top, unaware if help was waiting for them on the other side.

Then something blew up on one of the upper levels, the sound, the vibration, causing Jake and Bradley to slam themselves into the wall, trying to make themselves as small as possible. The lights flickered once, twice, then completely out, before a rotating red emergency light dimly lit the narrow stairwell. Metal crunched above their heads, snapping like twigs, and Jake didn't dare look up for fear of what might happen to either of them.

They felt it before they saw it, thin metal snapping out from underneath their feet. Feeling himself lurching forward, Jake immediately reached out for anything to hold on to. His fingers met a railing untouched by damage, and he latched on, suddenly opening his eyes to pull himself up and towards the relative safety of the remnants of the broken landing.

Bradley hadn't been so lucky.

Because the falling debris favoured his side of the stairs, the section he'd been crouching against completely crumpled under the impact, leaving only an empty space where thick, rushing water roiled menacingly below. There was nothing Bradley could have clung to, nothing that would have saved him from falling towards those black depths or allowed him to reach the warped edges of that landing.

Till his hand slapped onto a piece of a broken railing, Bradley struggled to find a grip tight enough to counteract the sweat on his palms. A panicked noise escaped his mouth as he slid down the newly indented piece of metal, finally stopping just before the end, muscles taunt and ridged as he forced breath into his body.

Jake had managed to pull himself up onto the landing as Bradley had fallen, instantly rolling himself up onto his chest to look down for the pilot.

He was within reach, and Jake extended his hand, on the verge of falling off the flimsy piece of metal. Bradley was hanging on, barely, looking between Jake's hand and the beam, the metal becoming looser and looser by the second.

And yet, Bradley still wouldn't take his hand.

"For godsakes, Bradshaw, just take my fucking hand!"

Jake purposely tried to jolt his arm forward in emphasis, hoping Bradley would finally take the leap and let go. But Bradley bowed his head, trying to force air into his lungs through his mouth as he looked down. With each pulse of red light, the water appeared to be getting higher and higher with each second.

He let out a panicked noise, trying to adjust his slipping grip. The movement caused the metal beam to drop slightly further, accompanied by a jarring clang. Bradley cried out, trying to reach for the broken edge of the landing.

Jake could feel himself slipping, sliding forward until he caught his boot on the railing, locking his body tight as he hung over the edge. Sharp, broken pieces of metal bit into his stomach as he swayed, trying to reach once again.

"Bradley! Just take my hand!" he shouted over the alarms, not any less urgent than before. "Please!"

Jake had never begged a day in his life, let alone to someone like Rooster. But there was no way he wasn't going home without him. You would never forgive him, and Sadie would never recover. He knew that for a fact.

Metal snapped, and Bradley dropped another inch, thinking this was it. That the railing was no longer attached to whatever had been holding it in place, baring his entire weight. Bradley threw his arm up towards Jake's in a desperate move.

Jake grabbed his wrist at the last possible second, a pained shout escaping his lips as he completely absorbed his weight, metal grating bending underneath him. But the grip he had on the railing with his foot held, and Jake bowed his head in relief, taking a few seconds with Bradley hanging dangerously off his arm to ground himself, trying not to think about what might have happened had he not caught him.

Jake grunted hard as he pulled Rooster up, his other hand finding a grip on the fabric of his flight suit along his back, hoping the railing from where he grounded himself would hold long enough to support them both. Bradley did the same with Jake's, using it as leverage to hoist himself up over the edge, only to roll onto his back, breathing hard.

Jake twisted his body away from the edge, laying on his back next to Rooster, staring up at what remained of the remaining flights of stairs. With the water still rushing below them and red lights spinning above them, the two dagger pilots took a few seconds to recuperate in the middle of the danger.

"You had to wait till the last second, didn't you?" Jake roughed out, panting hard. Bradley took three deep breaths before managing to gasp out, "I had to keep it interesting, right?"

Jake slammed his eyes shut, rocking his head to the side in slight annoyance. Bringing himself to a stand, Jake held out his hand again to help Bradley up. This time, Rooster didn't refuse it, instantly throwing his arm out to grasp the back of Jake's elbow, hoisting himself up.

Jake went to let go the minute he was up, but Bradley's grip remained firm.

"This is the second time you've saved me," he said, trying to make out Jake's face in the red light and dropping water. "You could have left me this time, for everything I've done, said..."

"What would be the point?" Jake interrupted him. "If I'd left you, I'd be no better than the person you thought I was. Besides," Jake added, smirking, "who else would I have to constantly prove wrong if you weren't around?"

Bradley scoffed, a tint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Asshole."

Jake shrugged. "It's in my nature. Now, can we please get the hell out of here?"

Bradley nodded, releasing Jake's elbow. In a dramatic fashion, he gestured for Jake to lead the way, looking up towards the rest of their journey to escape. But Bradley's eyes widened in horror as he saw the chunk of ceiling, metal, and wiring breaking loose directly above Jake.

"Jake, move!" Bradley bellowed, his voice echoing with urgency as he dropped to the ground, trying to drag Jake with him.

But in the chaos of falling water, blinking lights and cacophony of alarms, Jake was a split second too late to comprehend the warning fully. Just as he turned to see the descending danger, the heavy debris crashed down, the force of the impact throwing him off balance, rocking whatever remained of the grating they were standing on.

A metallic clang resonated sharply, followed by the splash of water as Jake was sent reeling backwards. The last thing Bradley saw, huddled against the wall, was the look of shock and realization in Jake's eyes, his silhouette disappearing beneath the surging tide of murky water, quickly consuming any trace of him.

Bradley, mouth agape, crawled over to the edge, Jake's call-sign a cry masked by the high-pitched alarms.

"Hangman!"

Bradley couldn't see him anywhere. Water continued to rush into the space, and Bradley, kneeling against the metal grating, tried to spot any area where Jake could manage to resurface. But with the power out and the pulsing red emergency lights, he couldn't see beyond the water's black surface.

Last call, I repeat, last call for evacuation and bail-out procedures.

Rooster pulled himself to stand, weighing his options.

He could jump and look for Jake. Despite the precarious situation they found themselves in, the water was still slow to fill the narrow stairwell. Bradley estimated he had minutes before the water became too much for him to handle.

Or he could leave, save himself. Say he did everything he could. That Jake was lost, the situation was too dire.

That Jake died a hero, trying to save him once again.

But it wasn't even a choice; the decision had already been made. It had been made the second your face appeared in front of his, and how it changed into a faded memory of his mom, collapsing to the ground at the news of his father's death. And Bradley, watching it all from behind the corner of a wall, forever feeling small.

But then it wasn't him as a child, but Sadie, the same look on her face the day the two of you walked up the driveway of your sister's place. The same look he found on her face the day she ran into your backyard, pulling at grass.

Jake would be another person for the both of you to mourn. He couldn't let that happen.

Bradley crossed his arms over his chest and jumped, diving under the water.

All he could see was black.

I had to cliffhanger you guys one last time with this one 😂 Please forgive me....

Tag list:

@blue-aconite @tinytotontheoversizedpony @djs8891 @caitsymichelle13 @startrekfangirl2233

@mayhemmanaged @ereardon @dempy @shanimallina87 @teacupsandtopgun @daggerspare-standingby

@phantomxoxo @formulapierre @eli2447 @fulla02 @blckgrl-sunflower @mizzzpink @ohgodnotagainn

@bubblegumbeautyqueen @sarahsmi13s @desert-fern @lynnestra44 @memoriesat30 @penwieldingdreamer @mxlanciia

@bradleybeachbabe @bobby-r2d2-floyd @lavenderbradshaw @roosters-girl @lovinglyeternal @kmc1989 @gigisimsonmars @dakotakazansky

@keyrani @craftytrashprincess @hisredheadedgoddess28 @abzidabzy @memeorydotcom @vicsnook @taestrwbrry

Part 21 - My Fair Lady Coming Soon 👀

-Wickett ;)

#Spotify #horseshoegirlwrites #jake x reader #liz and jake #jake seresin fic #jake hangman fic #jake hangman seresin #jake hangman x reader #jake hangman x you #jake seresin #jake seresin fanfiction #jake hangman seresin x reader #jake hangman seresin imagine #jake hangman imagine #jake seresin imagine #jake seresin imagines #jake seresin x oc #jake seresin x reader #jake seresin x y/n #jake seresin x you #top gun au #hangman top gun #top gun fanfic #top gun fanfiction #top gun fic #top gun hangman #hangman fic #hangman fanfiction #hangman seresin #damn those dog tags

[aftgficrec]

I would loveee fics where Andrew defends Neil to aaron and the other foxes (but definitely Aaron), i’ve seen so many of Neil defending Andrew but not a lot of the other way around and Neil deserves to have his man defend his honorrr

In canon, post-medication Andrew does not talk much to anyone besides Neil. Still there are definitely fics with this. Just know Andrew’s defense of Neil can be one sentence in a story, and physical violence is often his preferred method of communication. -A

previous recs  

‘The Ash is in Our Clothes’ here

‘Absinthe makes the heart grow fonder’ here

‘in the common tongue’ here 

‘I hate him,’ ‘One day we'll reveal the truth,’ ‘i'm getting static from my better sense’ and ‘My brother under the sun’ here

‘some1 saying something…’ here

‘Ember’ here

‘Can he play?’ here

‘Surreal But Nice’ here

‘Least Favorite Only Child’ here

‘Fighting Words’ here

‘Trust Fall (And Welcoming Arms)’ here

‘(Don't) Stand So Close’ here

‘In the Eye of the Beholder’ here

‘Beach Bois’ here

‘I'm Not Okay (I Promise).’ and ‘It’s not living (If it’s not with you)’ here

‘soft spots make easy targets’ here

‘Even the Darkest Night Will End’ and ‘The Andreil escapades’ here

in Masterlist for Nicky Kissing Neil: ‘The Kiss,’ ‘History Repeating,’ ‘Andrew Finds Out,’ ‘Something, Nothing & Everything’ (also big twinyards confrontation), ‘A Crack in the Mask,’ ‘Truth Time, ‘Truths Come Out,’ ‘The Unkindness of Ravens’ ch 16, ‘Delayed Reaction,’ ‘Delayed reaction (the fear of falling remix),’ ‘All For The Game Musings,’ ‘andrew finds out about what happened…,’ ‘Hold Each Other’ ch 6 and ch 15, and ‘Slip’. Finally, ‘Lessons in Cartography’ has Andrew defending Neil to both Aaron and Jack throughout

Andrew defends Neil to non-foxes

‘Something About The Sunshine’ here

‘Warmth’ here

Foxhole Tidbits ‘Ch. 22: Silent, but Snarky’ here

‘Through A Glass Darkly’ and ‘Some Things You Just Can't Bury’ here

‘Martyr’ here

‘The Bones of You’ here

‘monsters at night’ here

‘Killer Bunny’ here 

‘you're not next before forever’ here (completed)

‘looking for you’ here

‘Give Me Another Minute (to Lay Here in Your Echo)’ here 

‘Ficlet Collection…’ ch 35-37 here

you may also like

feral protective Andrew here

protective/possessive Andrew here

overprotective Andrew here 

protective Andrew here

protective Andrew gets hurt here

protective Neil/Andrew here

jealous Andrew here

previous recs where Andrew kills Nathan here

our latest Neil & Aaron ask here

Unconventional Therapy by JostenlovesMinyard [Rated M, Twinyards Appreciation Week 2021]

Twinyard Appreciation Week - Day 2 | “bottle episode” Andrew and Aaron attend their weekly therapy session but things don’t quite go to plan when the door handle falls off and they’re stuck in there together.

tw: implied/referenced rape/nocon, tw: implied/referenced child abuse

Nothing is Safe series by hismiley16 [Rated T/M/E, Collection, 7 complete works, Updated July 2023]

Part 4: Written On His Skin [Not Rated, 11344 Words] The Foxes face the Ravens for the first time since Riko's death and things go as well as expected. Andrew is mildly injured on the court and isn't there to protect Neil when the new Evermore captain comes for him after the game. The team sees more than Neil ever wanted them to, including the ghost of Nathaniel he thought he'd buried in Baltimore.

tw: vomit, tw: bullying, tw: nonconsensual touch/assault  tw: dissociation, tw: graphic depictions of violence, tw: blood, tw: implied/referenced child abuse, tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: implied/referenced murder, tw: implied/referenced animal death, tw: implied/referenced self harm, tw: implied/referenced rape/noncon

this is me trying by crownowl [Not Rated, 2142 Words, Complete, 2023]

After Neil has a panic attack Andrew finds out exactly what happened when Nicky drugged Neil and he is not happy.

tw: violence, tw: implied/referenced nonconsensual kissing, tw: implied/referenced nonconsensual drug use, tw: ptsd

Don't let me be by Cutie_Wan [Not Rated, 1983 Words, Complete, 2023]

Neil suffers a major dissociation episode in front of the Foxes.

tw: dissociation, tw: violence

One Step Forward by thecompletebookworm [Rated T, 1665 Words, Complete, AFTG Exchange Winter 2020]

Based on the prompt: “Andrew and Aaron talking and solving their problems” "If you really don't care about Andrew, why does Neil bother you so much?"   Dobson asked during their Wednesday session. Aaron dug his fingers into the couch.  He hated this.  Hated that the only time he could get answers out of Andrew was when he was sitting in front of a shrink.   A shrink who was undoubtedly on his brother's side. And that in order to get answers he had to rip himself raw first.  

tw: implied/referenced rape/nocon, tw: implied/referenced child abuse

Angry Alone by obsessivereader156 [Not Rated, 1799 Words, Complete, 2023]

“Of course I’m not homophobic, you asshole. What are you even talking about?” “Aaron, please don’t use that type of language here,” Betsy softly interjects. “You’ve been very hostile towards Neil,” Andrew says plainly, as if that’s enough of an answer. ______________________________ Aaron has been feeling angry and alone lately. Maybe he doesn't have to be alone about it.

Everything's Alright by DarkD [Rated E, 182901 Words, Incomplete, Updated June 2023]

Souls weren't meant to be left alone, so they split, always looking for their other half. No matter how long it took, the moment a soul existed, it sought the one that would complete it. The main indication is, when one of the halves of the soul turns seven years old, an identical mark appears on both parts. Along with that comes a set of unique abilities that soulmates can only use with each other—for protection, for finding each other. Soulmates would never be alone.

tw: graphic depictions of violence, tw: child abuse, tw: torture, tw: blood, tw: gun violence, tw: homophobia, tw: implied/referenced rape/noncon, tw: implied/referenced csa, tw: murder, tw: canonical character death

A flash of anger. prompt fill by @nickyhenmick [Tumblr, 2016]

All reporters got on Andrew’s nerves. They were invasive and never asked interesting questions, and there was probably a reason he was rarely allowed to be on press duty.

a stupid ass decision prompt fill by @find-yourself-in-passion [Tumblr, 2017]

“I recognize that you have reached a decision,” Andrew replied over the top of Neil’s protests, unwrapping his right hand in such a rush that Neil knew he was going to have red marks where the tap ripped at his flesh. “Andrew-” “But given that it is a stupid ass decision,” He continued on, refusing to acknowledge the other man’s piercing gaze on him as he threw his bag and shoes in the closet, knowing what faced him when he turned around. “I have elected to ignore it.”

Art

3 & 10 art by @thematicallycoherent

im thinkin bout these two art by @wiltkingart

Safe. art by @eislekaj on instagram

exy banquet smoke break art by @twohiddenhalves

Vkook as reference art by @reyko__ on instagram

roof. andrew. tattoos. and two cigarettes. and neil. art by @puhnatsson

Someone strong to lean on art by @fornavn

#fic #neil josten/andrew minyard #aaron minyard & andrew minyard #betsy dobson & aaron minyard & andrew minyard #betsy dobson & neil josten #mary hatford & neil josten #neil josten & nathan wesninski #universe: post canon #au: soulmates #theme: therapy #theme: communication #theme: families #theme: dissociation #theme: protectiveness #theme: neil's past #theme: the freshmen #theme: ptsd #theme: angst with a happy ending #twinyards appreciation week #aftg exchange #tw: implied/referenced rape/noncon #tw: implied/referenced animal death #tw: implied/referenced self harm #tw: dissociation #tw: graphic depictions of violence #tw: child abuse #tw: torture #tw: homophobia #tw: ptsd #tw: noncon

[5starluvr]

What’s up danger

Paring: Lee Minho × Reader

Genre: Angst, fluff

Warnings: Violence, blood, arguing, mentioned injuries

Wc: 2.9k

Spider Kids

The air crackled with nervous energy as Y/N fidgeted on the edge of the worn armchair. Lee Know, ever the charmer, was sprawled across the worn leather couch, his phone clutched in his hand, a playful smile dancing on his lips. Yet, a flicker of unease flickered in his eyes, a telltale sign she knew all too well.

"Min," she started, her voice laced with concern, "You haven't touched your pizza in ten minutes. What's wrong?"

He glanced up, the smile morphing into a sheepish grin. "Nothing, just... superhero stuff."

Y/N's heart skipped a beat. "Superhero stuff, huh?" she repeated, the playful edge to her voice barely masking the worry gnawing at her. Dating a superhero, especially one as reckless as Spider-Man(or should she say, Minho, his real name), was a constant battle between exhilaration and terror.

Minho sighed, the playful facade crumbling. "There's a rumor about a potential attack downtown," he confessed. "The Wrecking Crew. Nasty bunch."

The Wrecking Crew. Four brutal villains with a love for causing city-wide mayhem. Y/N's stomach lurched. "You have to be careful, Minho," she pleaded, using his real name, the one reserved for these serious moments. "Promise me you'll be careful?"

He reached out, his hand engulfing hers in a warm, reassuring grip. "Always," he murmured, his eyes locking with hers. The intensity of his gaze sent a jolt through her, a silent promise that transcended words.

"….I didn’t know you had a twin sister in thought she was you!," the man fumbled on screen. Y/N chuckled, glancing at Minho beside her. He was leaning back, eyes closed, but a smile played on his lips.

Just as Y/N reached for the popcorn bowl, a jarring emergency broadcast cut through the movie soundtrack. "Attention all citizens," a stern voice boomed, "there have been reports of a large-scale villain attack in the Central District. Please stay indoors and avoid all non-essential travel."

Minho's eyes snapped open, a flicker of concern replaced by a steely resolve. Before Y/N could react, he was already pushing himself up.

"I have to go," he said, his voice strained.

Y/N's heart lurched. Minho's secret life, the one that constantly put him in danger, reared its ugly head once again. She knew arguing wouldn't help, so she simply nodded, worry etching lines on her forehead.

Minho disappeared into the bedroom, shutting the door behind him. Curiosity gnawed at Y/N. She knew better than to pry, but her worry wouldn't be quelled. Taking a deep breath, she crept towards the bedroom door.

A muffled thump came from within, followed by the rustle of fabric. Y/N hesitated for a moment before gently pushing the door open a crack.

Minho stood with his back to her, pulling on a sleek, blue and red suit that clung to his athletic frame. The familiar mask, with its large, expressive eyes, laying on the bed beside him. He was about to reach for it when he turned, his eyes widening in surprise.

Their gazes locked for a moment, a silent exchange of emotions passing between them. Y/N knew the weight of responsibility he carried, the fear she could never fully understand. But there was another emotion too, a spark of something more in his eyes as they met hers.

"Y/N," he started, his voice a low murmur, "you shouldn't be here."

Before he could finish, Y/N surprised both of them. Stepping fully into the room, she met his gaze defiantly. A playful smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

"Maybe not," she said, her voice husky. "But you know what? You look hot in that suit. If you wouldn't have to save the city right now, I'd let you…"

Her voice trailed off suggestively, but the message was clear. A blush crept up Minho's neck, a stark contrast to the red of his mask. A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips beneath the fabric.

"Later," he promised, his voice tinged with amusement. "Go lock the door and stay safe."

He quickly donned the mask, the playful glint in his eyes now replaced by a determined glint. With a final, lingering look at Y/N, he swung out the window, disappearing into the storm-ravaged night.

Y/N watched him go, a mixture of fear and pride churning in her stomach. She knew he'd be back, and when he was, they'd have a lot to talk about. But for now, the city needed Spider-Man. And Spider-Man needed to focus on saving the day.

———

The rain hammered down on Spider-Man's mask as he swung through the deserted cityscape. Sirens wailed in the distance, a mournful symphony to the chaos unfolding in the Central District. Below him, flashes of crackling energy split the darkness, illuminating a scene of utter mayhem.

Leach, his body shimmering like a living puddle, cackled as he surged through a police barricade, leaving a trail of soaked debris in his wake. Around him, a motley crew of villains reveled in the destruction: Crackle, crackling with a corona of electricity as he overloaded a city bus, Magma, his body glowing like a furnace, melting a fire hydrant against fleeing civilians.

Minho landed lightly on a fire escape overlooking the scene. This wasn't a random attack; it was a coordinated effort. His spider sense tingled, a warning prickling the hairs on his arms. He needed to take them down one at a time.

"Alright, party's over, crackheads!" he boomed, his voice amplified by the mask. He swung down a blur of red and blue, landing with a crouch right in the middle of the villains.

Leach whirled around, his watery form roiling and churning. He launched a wave of water towards Spider-Man. The web-slinger dodged with practiced ease, the years of experience battling these very same villains giving him an edge. He shot a web at Crackle's crackling hands, momentarily interrupting his electric rampage.

"Enjoying the light show, Sparky?" Lee Know chirped, launching himself at Magma who was about to use his molten fist to smash a nearby newsstand.

Landing a solid kick on Magma's fiery shoulder, Spider-Man disrupted his concentration. The villain roared in frustration, his form momentarily cooling and hardening before erupting back into a molten state.

Minho weaved through the chaos, using his agility and wit to his advantage. He dodged a bolt of lightning from Crackle, deflecting it with a well-timed web shield towards a nearby streetlamp, effectively short-circuiting the villain's powers for a crucial moment.

Leach, however, proved a more formidable opponent. His water form shifted and reformed, making it difficult for Lee Know to land a solid punch. One of Leach's tendrils lashed out, capturing Spider-Man's ankle, yanking him off balance and sending him crashing into a storefront window.

He winced, the sting of broken glass digging into his arm. Adrenaline coursed through his veins, masking the pain. He couldn't afford to lose focus. Not with lives hanging in the balance.

Using the debris of the shattered window to his advantage, he launched himself at Leach. He webbed one of Leach's tendrils, anchoring it to a nearby drainpipe. With a mighty tug, he ripped another tendril free, throwing Leach off balance.

Seizing the opportunity, Spider-Man delivered a series of quick punches to the center of Leach's form, disrupting his concentration. With a final, sputtering gurgle, Leach dispersed into a harmless puddle of water on the pavement.

One down, three to go. But Spider-Man could feel the fatigue creeping in, the adrenaline starting to wear off. He glanced back towards the fire escape he'd landed on earlier, a flicker of blue and red catching his eye. A ghost of a smile crept under his mask.

The fight with Crackle proved to be the most brutal. The villain, a wiry figure crackling with raw electricity, danced just out of Minho’s reach, taunting him with a manic grin. Each time Minho closed the distance, Crackle unleashed a jolt of lightning, forcing him back.

"You can't touch me, bug-boy!" Crackle yelled , sending another bolt sizzling toward Spider-Man. He sidestepped it just in time, the smell of burnt ozone stinging his nostrils.

Thinking fast, Minho scanned his surroundings. He spotted a fallen power line, its wires sparking in the rain. Without hesitating, he used his webs to snag a metal traffic sign nearby. With a flick of his wrist, he sent the sign flying towards the downed power line.

There was a blinding flash of light as the sign made contact, a loud crackle echoing through the night. The streetlamp sputtered and died, plunging them into temporary darkness. Crackle, momentarily disoriented, stumbled back.

Seizing his chance, Spider-Man launched himself at the villain. He tackled Crackle to the ground, effectively pinning him down. With a concentrated effort, he wrapped the villain in a web cocoon, neutralizing his electrical powers.

"Looks like the power's out, Sparks," Minho quipped, his voice strained from the exertion. Crackle, trapped and sputtering in frustration, was no longer a threat.

Only Magma remained. The molten villain, having recovered from Spider-Man's earlier attack, loomed large, his body radiating heat.

"You're finished, Spider-Man!" Magma roared, raising a molten fist for a crushing blow. Minho knew a direct hit would mean serious injury. He needed to outsmart him.

His eyes darted around, searching for an advantage. Then, he spotted a fire hydrant a few meters away. With a desperate gamble, Minho shot a web at the hydrant's valve, yanking it open with all his might.

A torrent of water erupted from the hydrant, catching Magma by surprise. The hissing water cooled his molten form rapidly, turning him brittle and vulnerable. Spider-Man capitalized on his moment of weakness, launching himself at Magma and delivering a powerful kick to his chest.

The impact shattered Magma's hardened exterior, sending shards of cooled rock flying. The villain crumpled to the ground, defeated, his body solidifying into a human form.

The world spun slightly as he leaned against the wall. The rain, which had felt like a million needles earlier, now seemed almost soothing. He let out a shaky breath, the exhaustion hitting him like a tidal wave. Now that the adrenaline had fully receded, the pain bloomed across his body. His left arm throbbed with a dull ache, a souvenir from Leach's watery grip. A sharp sting came from his shoulder, courtesy of Magma's molten fist.

He winced, gingerly flexing his fingers. Maybe he'd pushed himself a little too hard tonight. But the thought of the city in chaos, of innocent people in danger, was enough to quell the self-pity. He had a job to do, and tonight, he'd done it.

With a tired sigh, Minho reached up and peeled off his mask. The cool night air felt like a balm against his heated skin. He glanced back towards the fire escape, a flicker of blue and red catching his eye earlier. Now, it was empty. Putting his mask back on and heaving himself to his feet, Spider-Man shot a web toward a nearby building. He swung through the night, the familiar rhythm a comfort despite the dull ache in his muscles. He needed to get back, to clean up, to assess the damage – both to the city and to himself.

The familiar outline of Y/N's apartment building rose ahead. He landed silently on the fire escape outside her window, the same place he'd left just a few hours ago, what felt like a lifetime. He debated knocking, his body screaming for rest, but something tugged at him to see her.

He tapped on the window lightly, a familiar signal they'd established. Moments later, a light flicked on inside and Y/N's face appeared at the window, framed by concern. Her eyes widened when she saw him, his suit rumpled and singed.

Minho!" she cried, ushering him in. "What happened?"

He winced, a grimace twisting his features. "Hey, Y/N," he rasped, his voice strained. "Just...a little accident."

He moved stiffly, favoring his left arm, which hung awkwardly at his side. Alarm bells clanged in Y/N's head. Accidents didn't explain the fear that flickered in his eyes, a fear she'd only seen once before, the night he'd stumbled in, muttering about "crazy robots" and "near-death experiences."

"Accident, huh?" she said, her voice laced with suspicion. "Looks more like a villain massacre ."

Minho's eyes widened for a fleeting moment before he plastered on a wan smile. "Something like that," he mumbled, avoiding her gaze.

Y/N wasn't stupid. Minho was Spider-Man, the city's masked protector. A truth he'd revealed in a moment of vulnerability, a truth that bound them closer. But his secret life scared her. Tonight, that fear morphed into anger.

"Minho, how many times do we have to go over this?" she snapped, her voice shaking with a mix of emotions. "You can't continue this for long if you come home like this !"

Minho flinched, his smile faltering. "I had to, Y/N. People were in trouble."

"Fuck,i know but what about us?" she cried, tears stinging her eyes. "What about the plans we make, the promises you break?You’re going to get really hurt some day…"

Silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken emotions. Shame flickered across Minho's face, battling with his determination to protect her. He reached for her, but she pulled away, her heart a tangled mess of fear and affection.

"Go to the bathroom," she said, her voice tight. "I’ll clean you up."

Minho nodded, defeat etched on his face. He disappeared into the bathroom, leaving Y/N alone with the storm raging outside and the one raging within her.

Moments later, the bathroom door creaked open.Y/n emerged, with a clean shirt in her hand for him. She looked at him, his left arm was secured in a makeshift sling fashioned from a towel.

"Y/N, I…" he began, but she cut him off.

"Look," she said, her voice softer now, but no less firm. "I get it. You have a responsibility. But you also have a responsibility to me, Minho. To be honest, to take care of yourself."She said as she began unpacking the first aid kit.

He looked at her, his eyes filled with a vulnerability that made her heartache. "I know," he said, his voice low. "I messed up. I was so focused on protecting everyone else, I forgot about you."

He reached out, his hand hovering hesitantly over hers. Hesitantly, she met his touch. His fingers were warm against her skin, a silent apology.

"I'm so sorry, Y/N," he whispered, his eyes searching hers. "I promise, I'll be more careful. From now on, no more secrets."

Y/N stared into his eyes, momentarily stopping her movement. The anger had subsided, replaced by a fierce protectiveness that mirrored his own.

"Promise me," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "Promise me you'll come home to me, no matter what."

Minho pulled her into a semi-tight embrace, the warmth of his body a soothing balm against her worry. "Always," he murmured against her hair.

"Minho?" she whispered, her voice laced with worry. "Does it hurt a lot?."

His heart ached at the tremor in her voice. He offered a tired smile, hoping it wouldn't come across as a grimace with the throbbing in his arm.

"Just a few bumps and bruises," he said, his voice slightly raspy. "But I'm okay. I Promise, my love."

Taglist:open | If your user is red i can’t tag you

Taglist: @juskz @blackhairandbangs @sxnset-angel @emossssss @hanjsquokka @feelikecinderella @starlostastronaut @kpopsstuffs @lixxpix @jinnie-ret @bangchans-angel @puppyminnnie @michelle4eve @skzswife @saiko-skz @quailbagutte @briqnne

#Spotify

[supercap2319]

Derek throws a halloween party and stiles and male reader both show up as spiderman and when they see each other they recreate the 'spiderman pointing at spiderman' meme

It wasn't planned. It was purely accidental. Something that Stiles and Y/N would learn. Derek Hale was having a Halloween party and he invited the McCall pack and Y/N to attend. It was strange to consider that Derek Hale wanted to have a party. He seemed to hate people and wouldn't like a bunch of drunk teenagers in his house. Y/N suspected it had been Peter Hale's idea.

He had gone through different ideas for costumes. Scary? Magical? Historical? All these seemed like a good idea for Y/N to consider, but in the end, he knew what he was going to be. He has actually wanted to dress up like this since he was in the second grade.

On the night of the party, he walked towards the Hale residence and when he arrived; the party was in full swing. A remix of Thriller played over speakers and there were lights and sounds as he saw people his age dressed up in different costumes. He bumped into Peter Hale, who was dressed as a Greek God. Showing off his defining features. Y/N blushed and politely told Peter he looks good in his costume.

Peter smiled at him. "Thanks, sweet heart."

He was glad he wore a mask, because he was blushing. He walked deeper into the party to see Derek Hale dressed like Superman. He actually looked like he could actually play him in a tv show or movie as he continued to look around until he saw a shocking sight. He saw someone dressed as Spiderman. Someone else at this party had stolen his idea. The person, whoever it was, chose to be the Andrew Garfield version of Spiderman. The classic icon of Spiderman. The Bisexual Spiderman. An excellent choice.

Y/N would have been smart enough to pick Tom Holland's Peter Parker, but Y/N had decided to go with Tobey Maguire's Spiderman. A classic and his first Spiderman ever. He walked towards the other Spiderman and he pointed at him. You know, like that popular Spiderman meme of two Spidermen pointing at each other. Y/N hoped the other guy or girl would get the meme hint and not leave him feeling embarrassed in front of everyone.

Luckily, they did. They pointed back to Y/N and people began to laugh and take pictures as they recreated a meme in real life. Y/N chuckled underneath his mask and after they were done, he pulled off his mask. "So, my fellow webhead. Who are you underneath the mask?"

The person pulled off their mask and revealed that it was Stiles underneath it. He smiled. "Cool costume, Y/N. You look hot."

Y/N blushed. "You too, sexy."

#x male reader #male reader insert #male x male #stiles stilinski #stiles stilinksi x reader #dylan o'brian x reader #dylan o'brien #teen wolf #Spiderman

[maxiemumdamage]

I initially said this in the tags of someone’s fanart, but…

When you watch the RWBY trailers, none of then miss, but Yang’s trailer has a VERY different tone than the others. Partially in how it’s arranged, and partly in how it barely tells you anything about her.

I’m gonna start from the top here — first off, the trailers are clearly a progression. Ruby’s was in some ways just proof of concept for the show, but it also gave us the absolute least information as a result. The Red trailer has Ruby wearing a design that still gets tweaked, the song has four lines and they’re more about the whole team than Ruby herself (and even then more about the allusions than the characters in many ways), the designs for the Beowolves/Grimm aren’t yet crystallized as we know them. The Red trailer told us about RWBY, the show, but not Ruby the character.

Like, Red and White don’t even have speech — the songs are the only dialogue. But Weiss’s obviously tells us more; because the song has more lyrics, because she’s singing it in universe, because of the announcer at the beginning who tells us just a little bit of who she is.

And then things change with Blake’s trailer. It’s got the song and the very informative lyrics, but most of the dialogue is actual dialogue. Blake isn’t the only character present. She’s not fighting faceless monsters, but automated robots that are acting as security, which gives us a much better idea of the technological advances made in-universe. We see a whole cool biome in Forever Fall, and we meet a new character in Adam — even if the relationship is being ended as we watch, we do learn a lot about Blake. Plus, her quote most directly relates to the content of the trailer itself.

In some ways, the amount of info we get per trailer is progressively ramping up, right? So it makes sense that in Yang’s trailer, we get multiple characters with unique names and faces, a cool setting, a good bit of dialogue and even an explicit reason for the conflict.

Except we don’t get the actual reason for conflict fully explained until Volume 2. We know Yang is looking for someone, but we don’t know it’s Raven until far later. And Yang sharing that story wasn’t for her own benefit, but Blake’s! Even when Yang gives information about herself, it’s not for herself.

What do we see Yang do in her trailer? She fakes flirting with a guy, twice, just to beat him up. She orders a drink, demands information, starts a fight when she doesn’t get it, throws down with the DJ and two snotty mean girls. She gets mad about losing her golden hair after fighting the three bears — we get an explicit look at her fairy tale allusion at least. And then, crucially, we learn Yang’s name through Ruby. Her sister. Yang is the main character’s big sister, and that’s the last real bit of information we get. The trailer ends with Yang casually avoiding any meaningful explanations. The song is barely even hers! We get one minute of if I Burn, but the rest of the Yellow trailer is backed by remixes of the other three trailer songs. Yang is being defined by her relationships to other characters, but we don’t actually learn a whole lot about those, either. Because her trailer is Yang against the world, with her sister only there after the battle ends.

Yang is telling us nothing about who she actually is — what motivates her, her friends, her enemies. The conflict behind the fight is opened and shut in five minutes, and we don’t know the greater underlying reason for it at all. Yang only shows us that mask of the dumb party girl that she wears in the early volumes, which some people got fooled into thinking was her real character.

In some ways, though, we learn a lot about her. Because by flirting with Junior just to get him close enough to threaten and hit him — twice — she does tell us that the party girl mask is just that: an illusion. A facade she puts up to trick people dumb enough to underestimate her. Yang embraces her mask of the dumb party girl, then adds on the doting big sister. We see so much, but learn so little.

Yang doesn’t even hold the focus of her trailer at the end. Because the last moments of Yang’s trailer are the first times we hear Ruby speak.

#yang xiao long #rwby analysis #rwby #rwby yellow trailer #rwby trailers #ruby rose #weiss schnee #blake belladonna #rwby1 #max.txt

[tinkabelle24]

Raph's Workout Playlist

I remember curating one of these early on into my old TMNT-centred blog; figured I'd bring it back cos I remember having a lot of fun 😊

For those on Spotify, here's the playlist. Not all songs listed below are on there however, as they weren't available.

This should go without saying, but...

This list contains songs with explicit language.

Act a Fool - Remix (S-BEATS MUSIC, BLAZZE BEATZ)

AIN'T SO (thatboykwame, Arno Faraji)

Astronaut in the Ocean (Masked Wolf)

Bass (Merkules, Tech N9ne, Hopsin)

Beast - Southpaw Remix (Bob Bailey & The Hustle Standard, Busta Rhymes, KXNG Crooked, Tech N9ne)

Bezerk (Big Sean, A$AP Ferg, Hit-Boy)

Big Gangsta (Kevin Gates)

Break Ya Neck (Busta Rhymes)

Can't Be Touched (Roy Jones Jr., Mr Magic, Trouble)

Cinderella Man (Eminem)

Come On (Bonecrusher)

CLOUDS (NF)

Confident (Tasman Keith)

Crank That (Soulja Boy) [Travis Barker Remix] (Soulja Boy, Travis Barker)

DNA (Kendrick Lamar)

Erbody But Me (Tech N9ne, Bizzy, Krizz Kaliko)

Face Off (Tech N9ne, Joey Cool, King Iso, Dwayne Johnson)

Get Up (50 Cent)

Godzilla (Eminem, Juice WRLD)

Go Get It (T.I.)

Goosebumps - Remix (Travis Scott, HVME)

Grindin (NF, Marty)

Higher (Eminem)

HUMBLE - SKRILLEX REMIX (Kendrick Lamar, Skrillex)

I Don't Dance (DMX, mgk)

If I Can't (50 Cent)

King Sh*t (Yo Gotti, T.I.)

Kings Never Die (Eminem, Gwen Stefani)

Kumbaya (Hopsin)

Leave Me Alone (NF)

Let's Go (Trick Daddy, Twista, Lil Jon)

Like I Ain't (Tech N9ne)

Mask Off - Marshmellow Remix (Future, Marshmellow)

MIDDLE CHILD (J. Cole)

Mount Everest (Labrinth)

Movin' Bass - GTA Remix (Rick Ross, JAY-Z)

Never Enough (Eminem, 50 Cent, Nate Dogg)

New Level (A$AP Ferg, Future)

No Excuses (NF)

NO NAME (NF)

Numb / Encore (JAY-Z, Linkin Park)

Outcast (NF)

Phenomenal (Eminem)

POWER (Kanye West)

Push It (Rick Ross)

RAMPAGE (GRAVEDGR)

Real (NF)

Reptile's Theme (Skrillex)

Rip Your Heart Out (Hopsin, Tech N9ne)

Ruff Ryders' Anthem (DMX)

The Search (NF)

Shell Shocked (Juicy J, Wiz Khalifa, Ty Dolla Sign, Kill The Noise, Madsonik)

SICKO MODE - Skrillex Remix (Travis Scott, Skrillex)

THAT'S A JOKE (NF)

Till I Collapse (Eminem, Nate Dogg)

U Don't Like Me - Datsik Remix (Lil Jon, Diplo)

Warm Up (NF)

The Way I Am (Eminem)

What's Up Danger (Blackway, Black Caviar)

When I Grow Up (NF)

Wolves (Big Sean, Post Malone)

You Should've Known (Hopsin, Dax)

I'll add more as I go 😅

#teenage mutant ninja turtles #tmnt #bayverse raphael #bayverse raph #bayverse tmnt #tmnt bayverse #tmnt headcanons #tmnt raphael #tmnt raph #spotify playlist #youtube

[littlemelaninfics]

Headcanon of Andy barber fucking busty stripper single neighbor! Reader 😍🔥

•It was Friday night in Chicago, the snow bringing all kinds of people to places they wouldn't normally hang out

•Andy Barber was no exception

•It was 3 years after the incident with his son and he decided to take some time for himself. He rented a small one bedroom apartment in a less materialistic part of town

•He hated starting over and meeting new people, but unless he was going to put a shotgun in his mouth before the age of 50, he needed a change and fast

•He's been in town for about two years when he heard loud bumping and music in the apartment above him. He didn't mind it until he had his 3rd whiskey and was lookin for some quiet

•He opted for banging on the ceiling with a broom and when that didn't work, he groaned as he pulled himself off his couch and out his front door

•Andy climbed the set of stairs leading to the noise and walked, or waded, through the hallway and to the door that was making all the noise. Banging on the door, he took in all the boxes and picture frames that lingered. An item caught his eye and he started to reach for it,

"Um, excuse me?" Andy's head immediately turned to the voice, "can I help you?"

•The creature in front of him was one he's never seen before. She was 5'6, perfect prominent tits, a figure that would make a Preacher say "Goddamn" and a voice that's only heard in the sweetest of melodies. She made his blood run hotter than it already was. No one made him feel like that since the first time he laid eyes on Laurie many years ago

"Uh yeah. I live under you and it's just pretty noisy. Would you mind keeping it down?

"Sure. Sorry about that."

"Don't worry about it. Hav e a good night."

"Wait! What's your name? I'm Y/n."

"Andy. Nice to meet you."

"You too. Um, this might seem forward, but would you mind helping me with something?

•Andy assisted Y/n is hanging a shelf when she offered wine. The two talked in her apartment for almost two hours before calling it a night

•That was two weeks ago and since then the two have been known to chat at the mailboxes or in the laundry room, but they were always cut short with Y/n being on call for her "studio" work. She had no problem telling Andy she way a dancer, she just left out what kind of dancer. The first time he hugged her is when her skin lit up in flames.

•Such an innocent act left her feeling wanton

•Andy was sat at the bar of the local club, waiting for the roads to be plowed. The atmosphere of smoke, flashing lights, glitter and desperation didn't bother him as he wasn't staying

•30 minutes later is when he heard the snow machine outside and pulled out $40 to pay for his drinks. He was thanking the bartender when the blood in his face started to boil. He slightly turned his head to the left, following the voice he's studied for the past two weeks

•Getting the confirmation he already had, he quickly gathered his belongings and made his way to the floor instead of out the door. He sat down when he got the attention of one of the waitresses,

" 'Scuse me. How much for a private?"

"That depends on who you have in mind, hon."

"Her." he said pointing to Y/n who had her back turned.

"Ooo, yea she's a special one. Has this masquerade thing she likes to do to add to the mystery. I think her price is $250 for 40 minutes, but let me tell you...she's worth it."

"I'll do it."

"Perfect. I'll get you set up."

•Andy was led to a red lit room with a chair, a pole, ottoman, and small couch. It smelled like Chanel and black cherry

•When the music started, he lowered his mask and waited for her to make her entrance, and that she did

•With the "Crazy in Love-remix" playing, Y/n entered on all fours making her way to Andy and running her hands up his jean clad thighs. She snaked her body up until she was standing on the studded heels and grinding her voluptuous ass against his crotch

•Just as he was about to touch her, she stood and went to the pole, doing her tricks just for him. The way her hair flowed with every spin, the luminance brought to her brown skin by the red lights was something he'd never seen

•She made her way back to him and straddled his lap, grinding once again and bringing him close to her cleavage. His nostrils filled with the expensive perfume and cocoa butter

•Y/n felt his cock twitch beneath her and a moan slipped past her lips. When he heard it, Andy gently grabbed her hips, moving them back and forth

•The instant his hands touched her is the moment she knew that she was giving her downstairs neighbor and friend a lap dance. She slowly pulled his mask off, ripping hers off in a split second and crashed her lips to his

•His taste of whiskey and mint coated her taste buds and she could feel the wet spot forming in her panties. As if he could too, Andy reached his flat palm into the front of her lace panties and rubbed her clit until she was begging for more

•Andy picked her up and carried her to the small sofa when she turned around and got on her knees, hands going to grip the back of the couch once her lace was around her ankles. She felt him take position behind her as he leaned over her, rubbing his cock up and down her pussy. She started pushing her ass back when he slipped the head of his cock in

•He teased her a couple times more before fully bottoming out. He gripped both of her hips tightly, bringing her body into his with each thrust

•Y/n reached for one of his hand and brought it up to her, bouncing overspilling tit. He squeezed and tugged on her nipple as she let out a porn start like moan. Andy took his other hand and put around her shoulder, gaining higher momentum than before

"Oh my fucking god! Fuck, Andy! Just like that!"

•He gave her a few more hard thrusts before connecting her ass to his pelvis, grinding his cock deep within her cunt and reaching spots she didn't know existed. He leaned back over her, taking a chunk of skin from her shoulder blade between is teeth and sucking when he felt her cumming on his cock

"God damnit! Right there," he moaned as he chased his high.

•After staggered thrusts, he pulled out and coated her back in his hot, sticky cum. He found a tissue box and used one to clean her up before she turned to face him,

"Hi," she said sensually.

"Hi," he said bringing her in for a deep kiss when he pulled away,

"Nice studio," he said with a cheeky grin.

•Y/n giggled into another kiss when they decided to finish their session at home

#andy barber #andy barber x reader #andy barber smut #andy barber headcanon #andy barber imagine #andy barber x black!reader #chris evans headcanon #chris evans smut #chris evans x black!reader #chris evans x black reader

[hwaightme]

Your fan, Yeosang (part 2)

(part 1) (your fan ml)

📺 pairing: yeosang x talk show host!reader 📺 genre: romance, fluff, mutual pining, drama 📺 summary: a bulletpoint-style wordstream of what it would be like if yeosang was stanning you 📺 wordcount: 8.0k (hehet? this be a long boi v sorry) 📺 warnings/tags: language, drama, reader has connections, woo and jongho are best homies, seongjoong parents, flute remixes to soothe the soul, general chaos, 6d chess master plans, prejudice, growth, interviews and press, discussion of media, mention of eating, slight sleep deprivation, sneaking out 📺 taglist: @acciocriativity, @senpai-of-doom, @layzfeelit @jcngh0-hq @black--awsum @honey-lemon-goose 📺 a/n: Hello!! <3<3 Is drama on the horizon for Yeosang? Let's find out! Thank you so much for your love and support, big hugs, much love and hope you enjoy <3 (p.s.: can you guess who is next? hint is: sOft chaos bringer)

The clock struck eight in the evening as you were sat in your favourite family restaurant, toying with a napkin that you had taken from the table drawer. You did not want to order anything before his arrival, just in case if the meeting were to be cut short for some unknown reason.

You liked to give people space to breathe, and that always started from the way one carried themselves, and whether they were forward-thinking enough to consider how some of their most insignificant actions could result in something much, much bigger.

For celebrities, and any public figures for that matter, this was amplified a thousand fold and had many nuances and interpretations.

Take a scandal stemming from exposure. Why you had chosen this restaurant in particular, was so that there would be no curious eyes: the storefront was covered by a myriad of posters, an old vending machine, and stacks of crates. Most importantly, they were actually closed today, and only because of your close ties to the owner were you allowed in here 24/7.

Take a red herring or misleading information. You were clear in your demands for the meeting, and appreciated the directness with which you had been approached. Seeing as this was an unofficial introduction, you had picked the time and day when you were bound to be off work and did not have to lie to your colleagues.

Take foolishness and lack of reflecting on one's actions and words. It was a simple error to make. Many had done it. You tried your best to veer away from such disasters during interviews that you led, but some... were just prone to talking first, thinking second.

This is why, when you saw the handsome young man by the name of Yeosang walk through the door, lowering his mask just a little to let you confirm that it indeed was him, you waited for him to greet you first. Perhaps you might have come across as cold, but you felt that it was the right tactic to choose considering that you had never crossed paths before.

Of course you knew ATEEZ, and had even tried to organise interviews with them before, alas, it had not worked out. At the time you either had not gained enough traction to come across as important enough, or they were simply too busy. Aside from that, you had a hand in suppressing some recent 'what could have been' scandals, but you kept your battles with the yellow pages under wraps.

Destiny had its own plans for you personally interacting with ATEEZ. Destiny in the form of a complex entertainment industry network and... an intriguing broken telephone that led you to contact a certain Jung Wooyoung directly.

And upon doing so, you had finally gotten to exchange a couple of message with none other than the instigator of this whole spy movie-level plot. The contrast between him, and the other member was nothing short of hilarious. Down to the emoji count and the use of punctuation, their personalities revealed themselves to you in seconds.

But Yeosang still seemed... odd. Like he was guarded. And you adored when people were guarded. Especially towards you. Since that normally meant that in reality, they had a lot to say.

He stood at the entrance, feeling a little awkward since he was unfamiliar with the place, it being in a distant neighbourhood to both the company and the dorms. To add, it was you he was meeting, so even if he tried to act cool, it would be a bit of a lie. He rocked on his feet a couple of times, fiddling with his face mask that he had now fully taken off.

Then, as his eyes scanned the surroundings, he spotted you. You were sat at one of the tables furthest from the door, and seemingly did not notice him yet. You were folding the tissue paper in your hands into an elaborate origami structure, and looked almost the same as on screen.

How you were sat reminded him of the little segments during the shows when the camera cut to you a little bit early, and you were still in your zone, waiting for a cue - this had been more prevalent in the earliest episodes, and even then was barely noticeable.

The only reason why he knew was because during an anniversary episode you had dedicated a portion of the show to discussing professional blunders, taking your own as examples and encouraging your viewers that mistakes were very common - it was how we responded to them that mattered.

That had resonated with Yeosang, and as such, he had written about this (for research purposes) in detail. It had motivated him to not be so hard on himself, at least in the moments when he recalled that you had said so.

You had become a sort of stabilising presence in his life, since he admired you so greatly, and he had begun to enjoy pretending that it was exclusively him that you were sharing wisdom with. He had been in denial about that part for a few days, but managed to convince himself that a provider of fan service had the right to enjoy some imaginary fan service too - now if he were to bring that to LIGHT.... that would be a different story.

Not appropriate for a first impression. Matter of fact, not appropriate for later impressions either. He vowed to keep this unfounded 'strangers to whatever it was'!au in his head until he himself turned into a blue bird.

He ambled towards you, straightening out his clothing as a soothing gesture, and when he was a couple metres away from you, froze in place. This was real, wasn't it? He blinked slowly a couple of times. Yep, yep it was. Wooyoung really did have mafia-level connections. All so Yeosang could act like a mafia boss. Bro code certified.

As he wondered how exactly to better gain your full attention and running through different alternative scenarios, you beat him to it, raising your head and beaming. Your cheeriness was contagious, making him return the smile two-fold.

"Kang Yeosang, right? A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"The pleasure is all mine, L/N Y/N."

Yeosang took a seat right in front of you, and as if she had been waiting this whole time, the ahjussi who owned the restaurant strolled up to your table, and asked for your orders. With a kind, yet still unreadable smile you ordered a couple of things off the menu from memory. It seemed both you and the owner were on the same wavelength, existing in an alternate universe where no one forgot anything.

As he fumbled for the menu, not finding anything on the table, then struggling to figure out what the scribbles on the wall were as they seemed to have been written in stereotypical calligraphy of a medical professional, you softly captured his attention.

He half expected you to make a joke about his lost expression, or about how he was pulling a classic Yeosang moment and struggling to catch up, but you only mentioned that the best items were always the ones off the menu, and you would be interested in learning more about what kind of food he liked so you could make a suggestion that would suit him.

Yeosang's heart skipped a beat. Was this what it felt like to be in the studio with you? Were all the people who you worked with and travelled memories with actually there to just... fall for you?

But in the words of the greatest, we must stay focused, brothers, we must stay focused. He pushed the fanboy trapped within him a little bit further down so he wouldn't act up at least for the next hour, and nodded appreciatively towards you.

After confessing his love for certain types of fried goods, but making sure to politely add that really he was okay with anything, you grinned, and explained to him one of the specialties, that luckily, included chicken. He gazed at you, head resting on the palm of his hand, as he pondered just how nice it was to listen to you.

It wasn't just about how you asked questions really. Though that was technically what brought in the money in, as one could say. It was about how you treated your conversation partners with respect. You were not forcing the conversation, nor letting it burn out.

At this point he was not sure if Hongjoong even had the right to call himself a captain anymore because of just how masterfully you navigated discourse, guiding it but not overwhelmingly so. Just enough to keep things interesting. (but Yeosang did not have a death wish, so this was again, personal and exclusive to his mind palace)

As you two were served some soft drinks while you waited for the food to arrive, you decided to cut right to the chase.

"I have heard a few things through the grape vine, and have some conclusions of my own, but I would love to hear about a certain thing from you personally. How would you describe the purpose of a master of ceremonies, of a show host?"

Yeosang needed a moment as he contemplated the question. It felt purposefully cryptic, but he could not feel any malice behind it. Was he being too trusting? He could not help it though, you had an innate ability for welcoming yourself into the inner worlds of others.

Quick, quick... what should he say that would make him appear knowledgable? He could not have a person he looked up to, was basically stanning, think that he was a fool.

"Uh, someone who... and MC is someone who embodies the message of the show, is a reflection of it in a sense. They are a personification of what the programme stands for, from the language they use to how they dress to how they behave overall."

He listed off, feeling proud that he managed to muster up something he deemed worthy of your analysis. At least, until he saw your eyes narrow, and stopped fiddling with your glass of water, instead intertwining your hands together and resting them on the edge of the table.

You extended both your index fingers, and directed them at him. Be it in accusation, or because you wanted to emphasise something, he had no clue. But panic mode was upon him and he began to replay what he had just blurted out in search of an error or any sign of what could have possibly upset you.

The side of your mouth twitched upwards as you noticed a familiar series of behavioural patterns right before you. It was only natural for people to act that way when they said what they thought they had to say, instead of what they really believed in. Especially when you gave the sign that you did not buy it.

"In total agreement with you, Yeosang. Now how about you? How do you view it?"

"But I just-"

"Said what you assumed I wanted to hear. While I do appreciate how considerate you are, and how you respect my profession, it does little to help me get to know you."

Why did that sound so... double sided? Yeosang was at a loss for words. He had not prepared himself for this. The interviews... the shows... they all were so smooth-running. Yes, you were just as nice right now, and probably your technique did not change much either, but feeling it full force was making his brain fuzzy.

"Then how about this. You tell me about your experiences. You have quite a few events and filming under your belt. How would you evaluate your growth over, let's say the last year?"

He jumped at the modification of the question, thinking it was somehow easier and was neutral enough. He told you about how in shows with the rest of ATEEZ, he preferred to take more of a listener role, since there is always so much to cover and so much to do. He even went so far as to explain that prior to any filming, they normally got a rundown of who is expected to have what screen time. His nerves were getting the best of him and he was beginning to ramble. So much for pretending that he had some sort of master plan, when a real master was right in front of him.

But you did not stop him. Not once. You listened intently as he walked you through his journey as a new MC. You enjoyed his diversions into a couple of funny episodes, him stumbling over his words as he realised he was about to spoil something... but especially when he finally touched upon what you had been waiting for.

"...and I have been practicing daily. I find this to be like any singing, or dancing. So needs a unique approach... and... yeah..."

"How? That must take so much effort and the fact that you do it is so admirable!" You encouraged him, motioning for Yeosang to continue and elaborate.

He could not resist you, not when you were right here, not talking over him, complimenting him, and looked interested and not in a rush for time.

"I watch and try to work together with episodes or with clips of people I admire a lot."

"And how are you developing your unique style?"

"Late Night Di- oh. Oh no this is awkward wait oops haha I..."

"Not to worry. You can quote me anytime, Yeosang."

He swore his face just flashed beet red, went pale and heated up again. Instinctively he raised his hand to feel one of his ears - yep, he was beginning to burn up. Did this mean that...?

"And to answer your question, yes, I did watch the episode. And I appreciate you prefacing it by saying 'as said by one of the greats'. Respectable and endearing." you leaned back. This was just the beginning for you, but you already saw Yeosang starting to crack a little.

That front that he had entered the restaurant with, some agenda that was not true to his intentions... it was crumbling away as you laid out the facts in front of him. Using the quiet that had fallen upon both of you, you continued your simple, but impactful monologue.

"I would like to apologise to you for being so persistent in my inquiry. As you probably know, I like to have those who contact me to be open. Maybe it is just how I am, or how I had adapted over time, but I have little patience for saying only half of something. And I think you can agree with me on that."

He merely nodded, unable to break his trance. He was feeling how he was enraptured by you. There it was. That magnificence. The professionalism only you had, paired with the sweetest words and silver-screen femme fatale looks (because even though he did initially find you and became a fan because of your talents, now, sitting together with you, all of his senses were going into a bit of an overdrive).

"As we have already established, we are aware of one another. At least from a distance. So, whilst I must thank Wooyoung for his pains, I have yet to see your intentions."

"Oh?" he whispered, looking straight into your eyes, hypnotised.

"You have a great friend, Yeosang. He almost made this rendezvous sound like a blind date with the number of good things he told me about you."

Yeosang pinched the bridge of his nose, imagining just how nonsensical his friend could be, and what sort of conversation that must have happened between the two of you.

"Gosh I am very sorry about that... Wooyoung is, well Wooyoung." he could not exactly say

"But he has a heart of gold. He lives for the people in his life, even if he might show it in unconventional ways at times."

"Well, that is one of the best ways I have heard him be described. I guess I will not be digging my hole any deeper if I say I am blown away by how you can read and understand people?"

"Not at all, I am flattered. And a word of advice, do not apologise for your friends if you cherish them, and especially if they were acting on behalf of you."

Yep. This was it. This was why he was here. Why Yeosang was just so into you. While he was often labelled as quiet, or shy, or zoned out, or slow, to you he was an open book. And instead of making him feel unsettled, it reassured him that there was someone right here with whom he could stop pretending and stop being unnatural.

This was the moment when he mustered up the courage, and in a tiny voice that got louder as he became more reassured by your nods, hums and overall attentive reactions, began to answer the real, unspoken question that had been hanging over him as soon as he had walked in.

Yeosang expressed his fascination with your approach to being a show host, commended you for starting and leading one of the best programmes on television, and listed of niche, thus even more special reasons for why he was just grateful to you.

For the first time in his life, he felt like he was on the other side of the fansign table. Like he was about to take out an album for you to sign or give you something, anything (he would give you his heart but you already had it).

His gushing was making you blush. It was hard for you to take the compliments, seeing as the whole time you had been in the business, you just took it day by day.

Though you were on the 'entertainment' side of things, you were still a journalist. You still did your fair share of articles for your company, and you still were in the know about the gossip pool. So you had come to ignore all comments made about you or said in your address, since to many you were a 'vulture'.

A lot of people did not care for your good intentions, nor for what had motivated you to start your show in the first place. They only saw a creature who wanted to coax juicy details out of big stars in exchange for huge lumps of money and clout.

Even your bosses, whilst they praised you and had given you a lot more free rein than to others in your age group, they were much more attracted to the connections and sums you were bringing in. That was the darker truth of your business.

You had found yourself forgetting the eagerness you had when you had just started, how you had done the same things Yeosang was doing now. His words woke up a hope within you. That maybe you were not the only one in this industry who wanted to see the brighter side of things was was working hard for that to happen.

His speech slowed down, and he began to pick words carefully, which made you hang onto each one. Then, he asked what you had suspected, but did not think he would go ahead with:

"May I... learn from you? As in... could we meet... sometimes? Whenever we are free..."

How were you in this position right now? A global star, asking you to basically be his coach??? His teacher???? Impostor syndrome was very real and activated, 0 to 100. The woman was too stunned to speak.

You studied Yeosang. The honesty in his eyes was overwhelming. To an extent you were not sure you even deserved this. But, if he wanted it. So be it. You had nothing to lose from continuing to speak to him, especially since he was now fully open with you.

"I would be more than happy to meet with you again, and would be honoured to teach and learn from you, too."

"I really don't know how I can repay you for that. Truly, thank you." Yeosang was on cloud nine as he heard your agreement. And he was mentally patting himself on the back for not becoming a puddle over the duration of this discussion.

"I have an idea." he perked up.

Your show host and main promoter of 'Late Night Dive' side would not let go of you, so you rapidly thought of something in return for sharing your wisdom. You produced a document out of your bag which had been resting on the chair right next to you, and placed it in front of Yeosang.

"These are just some brochures that we use to pitch LND to different agents. Truth be told, a couple of years ago I did try to talk with KQ, but nothing happened. So if you have the chance, mention my show to the big man. And it's a deal."

"Consider it done."

"Thank you. And by the way, I am really glad we met, Yeosang."

"Then let's organise for when we shall meet again, so I can look forward to it."

So you planned one meeting. Another. And the next one after that. It was pretty much like a meeting series on Outlook Calendar at this point. And then, you had stayed in that restaurant until you began to hear a bassline of a snore coming from the kitchen, which upon inspecting, was the ahjussi having a good ol' time sleeping against a wall.

Feeling bad about staying until what had turned out to be past midnight, you and Yeosang had split the bill and left an envelope with the money, adding a little extra in secret so that it technically was not a tip, but a treat instead.

You ambled towards the front door and locked it, having seen the owner do it many times, and with Yeosang's help, pulled down the inner shutter for safety. Then, you guided your companion to the back door, and soon enough, you were back out on the Seoul streets, fresh air hitting your smiling faces. Since you did not want to risk him having to take odd commuting routes at spooky o'clock, you drove Yeosang back to the dorms.

For the duration of the drive, you noticed a light blush on his cheeks, and when an ATEEZ song began to play on the radio, he practically tried to blend with the seat by squeezing himself into it. Did he think you looked very cool while you were steering and generally being all powerful behind the wheel? Yeah. Was he again doubting Hongjoong as captain? A little.

When he got back to the dorms and crept in through the front door, everything was enveloped in darkness. Not a single ray, from any of the rooms. Not a sound. Very, very suspicious. As he took of his shoes, washed his hands in the bathroom sink and was on his way to slink into his room, his suspicions were confirmed.

In the blink of an eye, ALL LIGHTS were flipped on, blinding him after he had gotten used to navigating without it, and a pyjamas-clad Wooyoung hopped out from behind the kitchen counters, recorder in his hands, and started playing an ear-bleed worthy rendition of George Michael's Careless Whisper.

There was no such thing as dynamics in this interpretation. It was just continuous musical screaming. One that made Yeosang double over and cover his ears. He thought it would end there. But, alas, the vocal line had other plans. A wild San and Jongho strolled out from their respective rooms, and launched into one of the later parts of the song. Damn were they going to have to apologise to the neighbours for this... again.

"TONIGHT THE MUSIC SEEMS SO LOUD-"

"...it sure IS GUYS CAN YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP WE ARE TRYING TO SLEEP!?" a disheveled Seonghwa stormed out of his room, a selfie stick in his hands that now appeared to be a little to much like a weapon.

"I WISH THAT WE COULD LOSE THIS CROWD-"

"...guys I will legit dispose of all of you and JONGHO I CAN FIGHT YOU TOO I AM NOT AFRAID!" Mingi stepped out too, barely having time to put on his glasses, but with one 'you wanna fight bro' taunt from Jongho - and him moving to stand in a boxing position, made the taller member turn right around and loudly proclaim 'NOPE'.

"MAYBE IT'S BETTER THIS WAY"

"WE'D HURT EACH OTHER WITH THE THINGS WE'D WANT TO SAY"

"Guys???? Is no one going to stop them?????" Seonghwa was at a loss, and searching for salvation in Yunho, who just stepped out, and was leaning against his doorframe.

"Nah, I have no beef with Yeosang, he was a homie when I was having problems with a certain someone. Now his roommates on the other hand... well, you can see they want their revenge for the savagery." he simply shrugged, enjoying the show of a very flustered Yeosang not knowing how to process what was happening.

"At my ears' expense? Why is Hongjoong not home... OH HONGJOONG HELLO!!!!" Seonghwa spotted another figure at the door - an incredibly disturbed captain, who had initially walked in with a small smile on his face, but that rapidly turned to disgust.

"I swear I leave y'all for just a COUPLE OF HOURS and you legit start a shitty flute band????? What brain cell is responsible I need to have a word, and YEOSANG? Where were you?"

Yeosang was hoping that Hongjoong would not pay much attention to him since he was not the one being loud, and he managed to make his way behind the San and Jongho line, but nope. Eagle eyes. When he did not respond, Hongjoong basically flung his shoes off his feet and stormed across the room while muttering:

"I swear to all that is good in the world I am wearing all black because I am about to attend y'all's funeral."

"And not because.... goth gf?" Yeosang could not help it. He saw the opportunity."

"BOI sit down on the couch right now, and Woo give me this... instrument? When did you get this?"

"This morning. Saw it on sale. Isn't it great?"

"You should have picked this as your 'main object to describe you' for Watcha."

"Life-changing, monumental, legendary?"

"Loud. RIGHT. Seems you and Jongho are also part of this little... escapade involving Yeo's disappearance into the midnight. Care to explain?" Hongjoong's exhaustion was evident as he lowered his voice and was generally on the verge of letting them do whatever. But once a leader, always a leader. And he could feel that something was up. Something that needed his involvement.

The other members promptly retreated to their rooms, since their wake up alarms were going to be ringing in a couple of hours and they needed to at least pretend they got eight hours of sleep. San quite literally skipped back to bed, seeing as he managed to have his share of chaotic fun, but escaped the scolding. The only one to remain was Seonghwa, who sat down at the dining table and set the selfie stick of doom aside.

Hongjoong took one of the chairs and slid it towards the living area, so that he could sit in front of today's trouble maker trio. Clearing his throat, he asked no one in particular:

"Okay. Why do I find out about everything only after it happens?"

"Maybe because you don't come home?" Wooyoung quipped, stopping playing with his phone and looking up to face the leader.

"Excuse me, I don't come because I am working, for you guys, by the way. I literally carry the ATEEZ lore on my shoulders." obviously hurt, Hongjoong sent back a retort.

"No wonder you are the closest to the ground." Jongho commented on the other's height, looking off in a different direction, the picture of innocence.

"Yeah, so I'll drag you to hell if you dare say that shit again."

"Calm down, demon line rep, it's just banter." Wooyoung stepped in, because even though he did sent a thumbs up to the maknae behind his back for being so quick, he did not want this argument to get any more heated. "Plus, weren't you out on a date tonight, and not working, as you so proudly say?"

"Uh... that... I was yes." Hongjoong could not deny it. At the end of the day, it just would not be respectful to the one he was out with.

"Bro code?" Yeosang asked, breaking his silence.

"I'm sorry, bro, but I am afraid your bro code evaluation and policing privileges have been revoked, you are in the grey zone." Wooyoung turned his attention to him, a smirk on his lips.

"Wait hold up back it up-"

"Yeah you heard Hongjoong, baaaack it up-" Wooyoung was about to hop up, with every intent to begin twerking, but Jongho pulled him right back down and forcefully held him in place.

"And you should retire from your ho era." Jongho addressed him, face remaining emotionless.

"Okay Jong-ho."

"Do you want this fist?"

"Yes fist me."

"Just- oh my word." Jongho face palmed at Wooyoung's intentionally out of pocket statement. At least it did the trick of getting everyone to move on and right back to the main topic at hand.

"Anyways... Yeosang, care to elaborate about this so-called grey zone?"

"First off, they are blowing it out of proportion just to take revenge on me. Second off, I met up with someone today." he kept it vague for now. Maybe it would be enough.

"And I take it that someone is in your sphere of interests, yes?"

Yeosang starts blushing and looks away. Of course, that was not enough. And of course Hongjoong knew him far too well to see he was acting smitten.

"OH MY GOSH YES IT IS SEONGHWA GET THE CAMERA KANG YEOSANG LIKES SOMEONE!" Hongjoong, acting like the dad he was, called out to the eldest, who just remained sitting in his place, processing.

"Dude not so loud the others will give me so much shit." Yeosang pleaded, waving downwards at Hongjoong to emphasise the need for a volume drop.

"I think all the shit has gathered on that couch next to you my guy." with a grand gesture, Hongjoong swept over the two others on the couch with Yeosang.

He glanced in their direction, surprised that they did not act out, and only shrugged.

"Okay, so, who is it?" Hongjoong was not letting up.

"Do I really have to-"

"Yes. Yes you do."

"Y/N."

"Okay? Do I know her, this Y/N?"

"Well... maybe. L/N Y/N?"

Hongjoong went pale in the face upon hearing that name. He took a moment, and asked for Yeosang to repeat it. Once he confirmed for himself that no, he was not being delusional and this in fact really was you, that he was aware of, that Yeosang was talking about, he was distressed.

"So... you are talking to press, basically." Hongjoong jumped to the conclusion, disappointing Yeosang.

"Where did that come from?"

"I should be asking you that, Yeo! How the fuck did you even reach her?"

"I just... I just did." he did not want his friends to get mixed up in this. At the end of the day, it was he who was your fan... it was he who liked you.

"Ugh, okay fine. Yeah, media people are all over the place. But were you even thinking? She is a big name in the industry right now. If she wants to she can squash us, and here you are selling yourself out?"

"Why are you saying all of this nonsense about her? What did she ever do to you?" Yeosang raised his voice, discouraged by the aggression he was suddenly having to face. The derogatory remarks, the prejudice, all of this was now hurting him personally.

"I know the likes of her. They try to get close, really butter you up and then they expose you and hang all your dirty laundry out to the world."

"Who hurt you, man?" Wooyoung placed a reassuring hand on Yeosang's shoulder. It was not hard to guess that this was the last thing he wanted to hear.

"Shut it Wooyoung, I am worried!"

"Dude, she is really nice and understanding, have you ever even seen an episode of-"

"Have YOU ever filmed a variety show or been interviewed before? You know how we all change in front of the camera. So. Does. She. She gets paid to act, 'tis the way of life."

"I think you are overreacting Hongjoong." Jongho joined back in.

"Look. Music people? Fine. Internet people or athletes? fine. Literally so many other people except those that drag us through the dirt? So fine. But this is just dangerous. Yeosang. You trust so easily, and I do not want you to get in trouble, nor subject yourself to the terrors that come with such close, unmediated interactions with those people."

"You are saying such shit about Y/N right now, and you dare attribute terrible qualities to her? I'll have you know she has NOT ONCE exposed ANYONE! She purposefully CUTS THINGS OUT OF HER SHOW IF THEY ARE SENSITIVE, even if including them would bring her more views. She literally helps her guests out of uncomfortable topics, and-"

"So she is manipulative?"

"WHY ARE YOU TWISTING THINGS?"

"As much as we need media people to survive, there are vultures out there, and I don't want you to become a victim of one. Seonghwa, thoughts?"

Hongjoong turned around, expecting support from his friend, only to see that he was face down forehead resting on his arms, and fast asleep. Hongjoong groaned, and turned back, his voice dropped into a whisper.

"One last thing from me then. I suggest you stop talking to her before things get serious. And no talking back at me right now. We need to be up soon so get your ass to bed."

As Yeosang watched the two eldest going back inside the room - Seonghwa having been awakened just enough for him to be able to migrate on his own, he was distraught. He did not believe a single word Hongjoong had said. Especially not in your address.

Yes, he knew far too well about how hatred can spread. He knew about the negativity, and about just how ruthless a journalist could be. But Yeosang also had the chance to meet you, and had spent even longer learning about you. And you were nothing like the rest. Not one bit. And just like that Yeosang decided to go against his own Captain.

"So... uh... want to learn how to sneak out of the dorms unnoticed?" Wooyoung leaned over and mumbled, making sure no one except those left in the living room could hear.

"I can help you plan better meet ups." the maknae offered his support immediately too.

Yeosang felt like crying, there really were people on his side. And on your side. Those who saw through the horrific, unfounded claims.

The next day, he took the risk and slipped the LND brochure into one of the senior publicity manager's desks. He was not sure whether it would work, nor if he would get caught, but he did not care. He was trying his best to repay you.

He did not bring up this topic to any of the members except his roommates, and was stoic enough to not give rise to any suspicions. Hongjoong had all but forgotten the quarrel, preoccupied with promotional schedules and training.

But, under Wooyoung's and Jongho's guidance, unconditional support and even pestering, Yeosang continued seeing you. If Jongho had the abilities to be an orchestrator of the most elaborate plans, Yeosang was doing it in 6-dimensional space, since not only was he dedicated to keeping his connection with you alive, but you too were giving 200%.

He did not give a single shit about what his hyungs had to say. Because you made him happy. You listened, you asked, you shared everything with him. You did not have a single judgmental bone in your body.

You had organised a couple of your 'meetings' (but really a couple of months in you had long transitioned to calling them dates) together with Yeosang's roommates, because he wanted them to meet you. They could not be more gleeful, and you had impressed them both.

During one of the deeper conversations, after Wooyoung had asked about whether you had known anything exclusive about them ever, you offhandedly mentioned certain Dispatch pictures of Wooyoung leaving a cafe after closing hours. Initially, that made Wooyoung ill at ease, suddenly remembering what Hongjoong had said. But then you launched into a story of how you almost physically fought the paparazzo who had taken the picture, and the editors, managing to make them delete some of the more 'exclusive' and 'breaking' pics that involved another person, for good.

This had elevated you beyond belief in the two members' eyes, and made Yeosang completely fall in love with you. He had never expected for that to happen so quickly, but you were easy to adore. He felt it - this was for the long run, and he was willing to fight for it.

You were witty, and smart and really could see through any bullshit and would strike if the situation called for it, but you never did it out of pocket. In reality, you were the nicest, most selfless person of all time. You cared about everyone.

At first, you were his coach and a fellow MC, then you were his inspiration, then you were his love.

Now, because every camera and stage where he had to MC was associated with you for him, so Yeosang glowed on camera. He just pretended that he was talking with you, and it all flowed. He had also improved his skills greatly, and had allowed himself to joke, to be truly joyful and just... be himself.

You had almost completely regained your faith in the industry, thanks to Yeosang always cheering you on. After any episode of your show, he would get back to you with a detailed review, and would praise you and if it was a date night, would bring a little gift, to celebrate.

During one such date, he had bought you a delicate silver chain bracelet, and asked you to be his girlfriend. Because even though Hongjoong and probably Seonghwa too would not approve, he did not see any other way being right. Much to his delight, you had agreed then and there.

All was calm, and all was bright, until one day, you had to come to the KQ Entertainment building because the publicists responsible for ATEEZ promotions had contacted you about a potential interview. Although it had been a few months, you were no stranger to waiting. Moreover, this made your heart soar as you just knew this was Yeosang's doing.

It was a success. By fate, filming could be done next week. You were ecstatic. Yeosang had explicitly told you of how the leader of ATEEZ felt about you, but you did not mind it, so long as he could be professional. But that hope flew out of the window when you accidentally bumped into him when strutting down one of the numerous corridors.

He recognised you instantly, and the side eye he gave you was less than pleasant. Smile a little too tight, phrases too generic and superficial, he was definitely less than fond of you.

You tried to turn the conversation around, and mentioned how you were excited to learn more about his leadership and hard work, about how he operated in the studio, his inspirations. But this led him to just grunt and rather coldly state that 'ah, so that's happening'.

Hongjoong guessed quickly enough that you were talking to Yeosang. And that broke him, for not only was Yeosang in danger, in the leader's eyes, but also that the member felt the need to lie, and conceal his feelings towards you. He was up front, and asked if you were together, to which you responded with a quick yes.

At that moment, none other than Wooyoung had walked around the corner, and sensing a possible conflict nearly ran over to the two of you. If hands were going to be thrown he was ready - no way in hell was anyone messing with Yeosang and the one he loved.

"What's popping party people? Manager just texted that we'll be on Late Night Dive, isn't it exciting? And hello Y/N!"

"Did you know?"

"Know what?"

"That she, and Yeosang, they are... they are dating?"

"Boy they are official. Not just dating. Really a match made in heaven let me tell you. If you were to open your freaking eyes dude, you would see just how happy Yeosang is. Hah sorry Y/N, but yeah man's glowing."

"Is there any reason for me to fully trust that you won't do any harm?"

"For once I can say, time is on my side, for I never had, have, nor ever will want to harm him, nor anyone connected to him. You do not need to trust me, Hongjoong. I accept that and am used to it. What I would like is for ATEEZ to be harmonious, and for us to connect. I really respect you, and it would be a shame if we could not get to know each other better."

Your colleague, who had just wrapped up another meeting, called out to you as they appeared in the corridor. You parted ways with the two ATEEZ members before either of them could say anything else.

After you left, Wooyoung noticed a figure standing off to the side, evidently someone who had been in hiding, but chose to reveal themselves only now. It was a livid Yeosang, who had been hoping to find you, but now, just wanted to give Hongjoong a piece of his mind.

He admonished the leader for being so weirdly judgmental of you. For not wanting to just be happy for his own close friend. For being hypocritical, and forgetting about the fact that love was often found in the most unexpected places.

And it just so happened that yes, Yeosang had found his love in you. In a person who had dedicated themselves to journalism. Media. Broadcasting. Televised entertainment. Interviews. Celebrity life. But that was not not a manifestation of some kind of evil. Quite the opposite. It was you searching for the best in people. By doing what you did, you made people shine brighter than the damn sun.

He dropped facts on Hongjoong about how you had purposefully invited a star who was receiving unjust hate, and thanks to that episode, literally transformed their career for the better. Yeosang did not fail to mention the Wooyoung Dispatch - a recounting which made the Captain's jaw drop.

And, explaining that if Hongjoong still did not want to care about you a single bit, then he should know that only thanks to you was Yeosang so much more confident. thanks to you was he getting more offers to MC, or to make guest appearances. Because you had changed him. And he was proud of it.

Oh how Hongjoong regretted being skeptical and untrusting after seeing Yeosang's certainty. But the innumerable apologies that had followed that day, and lasted for the week until interview filming did little to influence Yeosang and how he was treating Hongjoong in private - like a stranger. Hongjoong needed to apologise to you.

It was the day, and ATEEZ made their way to the company where you worked. After styling and some final touches on makeup, they appeared on set and greeted the staff. You were nowhere in sight. As they were instructed on how they were going to make their appearance, and on different cues and generally what the structure was like, Yeosang kept on looking around.

In part because 'woah this was the real deal this was the set'. In part because he desperately wanted to see you. To cheer you on like he always did.

You appeared on set ten minutes before the scheduled time slot, and since you had to communicate some details to the staff, you barely had any time left for ATEEZ. You exchanged niceties and were incredibly polite (but extra friendly to Wooyoung and Jongho, and sent a loving glance towards Yeosang), but that was it. Hongjoong was becoming more concerned.

But there was no purpose in that, as the interview went better than anything he could have hoped for. Everyone was engaged, you asked each member questions that resonated with them, threw in some cheekier comments to successfully elicit laughter, and really were the master that Yeosang had described.

You had even given Hongjoong special attention for his captain status, which left him in awe. How were you not mad at him? Were you indifferent? Were you just an amazing actress? Not really, you just had a thing for asking a lot of questions, and understood how people were when they were trying to protect someone they loved.

But what had left a permanent impact on him, was Yeosang. He was the most joyful and comfortable of the lot - a stark contrast to the more introverted disposition he normally adopted. He was in the same flow state as you, and at times was almost like a guest host, an improved role which you had welcomed. Yeosang was screen time king. He made you laugh, effortlessly recounted stories, did not spoil any shows, stages or comebacks but instead sent witty remarks your way. Finally Hongjoong could see, you really did give Yeosang everything and more.

After filming, Hongjoong had taken a split-second opportunity and apologised a number of times, with each iteration becoming more and more formal until he was basically doing a ninety degree bow. But you had forgiven him much faster than that, because being who you were and having seen the things you had seen (due to your job), you were not one to ever stay angry for long, if at all.

As you chatted away, with your boyfriend promptly joining you, both of you were elated, and were inseparable during a private dinner that the eldest members had organised. You had helped to pick out the venue, knowing exactly which locations were the safest - perhaps it was going to turn out to be very advantageous for the group in general to have you on their team.

Yeosang was over the moon as he watched you work your social magic - how you rapidly became close with each one of the members off camera, and were, quite simply, being yourself. His heart melted at the way you so quickly integrated yourself, and the adorable smiles, meant just for him, as well as the squeezes of his hand under the table... he really was a goner.

If he were to be told even a year ago that he was going to find a you in his life, he would have laughed. Because then, he had not yet understood that the most important phrase to live by was, in fact, not a statement, but a question. A dare, a motivator to take risks and a description for how you and Yeosang had become a beautiful duo:

Why not?

You and Yeosang had a thing for asking questions. And now, together, were crafting the answers, one by one.

#k-labels #yeosang x reader #kang yeosang x reader #ateez yeosang x reader #ateez fluff #ateez fanfic #ateez yunho #ateez seonghwa #ateez hongjoong #ateez wooyoung #ateez mingi #ateez yeosang #ateez jongho #ateez san #yeosang x y/n #yeosang fluff #your fan series #hwaightme #ateez #ateez x reader

[bradleyr00sterbradshaw]

Tiny | Rooster x Reader

A/N: Guys, there's so much fluff in this—I can't.

Summary: When deciding on what to name the newest addition to your family, you have some pretty creative ideas.

Warnings: fluff

"Come on, Bradley, just hear me out—" You said, struggling to keep up with him as he climbed your small but steep stairs.

He shook his head, "We are not naming our dog Rooster!"

"But it's perfect for him!" You grinned, skipping the last step, "You know, you guys really favor."

Bradley rolled his eyes, but nothing could mask the smile on his face as he turned towards you, pulling your body into his.

"You're a real pain in my ass, you know that?" He let out a breathy sigh, his hands settling on your hips.

"Would you have me any other way?" You asked, tilting your head to look up at him.

He shook his head, "No, I wouldn't."

With a groan, you gave in, "Fine, we don't have to name the dog Rooster."

Raising a brow, Bradley was almost afraid to ask why you'd changed your mind, "And what name is on your mind now?"

You leaned into him, whispering a single word into his ear.

His jaw nearly dropped and he lifted you up in his arms, spinning you around in a circle, "God, I love you."

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

You arrived outside of The Hard Deck at half past seven, carrying your puppy in your arms as Bradley held the door open for you.

The puppy squirmed in your arms, burying it's nose in your hair, licking your cheek, and surveying the room for anything he break later.

Penny spotted you immediately, shaking her head with a smile on her face.

"Didn't you know we have enough dogs in this place?" She said, gesturing to all the men filling the space.

You looked up at Bradley, "Figured two more wouldn't hurt."

She nodded, "Rooster and Mav are the worst ones."

Bradley scoffed teasingly, "Good to see you, too, Pen."

She jerked her head back to the piano, "Your throne is waiting for you."

"Don't mind if I do."

He made his way over to the piano, already stretching out his fingers to warm up.

As soon as the rest of Top Gun saw him, they broke out into a cheer, slapping him on the back and saying their hellos as he sat down on the bench in front of the piano.

He began playing one of his many songs, this time the remixed version of "Rocketman", which he had been practicing on your little keyboard for weeks.

As he sang, you saw Jake walking towards you from the corner of your eye.

"Y/N Bradshaw..." He trailed off, "As I live and breathe."

You laughed, throwing your head back and giving him a one armed hug, "Not a Bradshaw yet, Jake."

"Knowing Rooster, it won't be too much longer."

Trying to mask the smile on your face, you rolled your eyes, "Good to see you, Hangman."

Your puppy nipped at his arm, letting out a small bark.

"And who's this little guy?" He asked, scruffing it's head.

"This," You smiled, "Is the next step in our relationship."

He laughed, "What's his name?"

"Jake."

Before he could respond, Bradley was motioning for you to join him at the piano.

Smiling, you began walking towards him, "Good talkin' to you."

Sliding onto Bradley's lap with dog Jake, or "Tiny" as you both called him, you began singing along. Even Tiny began howling, but the sound was drowned out by the rest of the bar belting out the lyrics to Rocketman.

At the end of the song, you, Bradley, and Tiny got up from the bench, making your way over to the corner table where the Top Gun pilote sat.

"Rooster!" A voice called out, causing him to turn his head, his arm still around your waist.

Jake had his arms crossed, brows raised, "Really?"

"Hey, it was her idea, not mine." Rooster grinned.

He shook his head, his face breaking into a smile, "I don't know whether I should take it as a compliment or be offended."

You shook your head, "That's just the name on his official papers at the vet. We usually call him tiny."

Jake's tilt his head, "Why tiny? He's not going to be that little forever."

"No, but you are." You smiled, tilting your head to the side and handing the puppy to Jake.

Looking at Bradley, you nodded towards the piano, "Round two?"

"I thought you'd never ask."

#rooster x reader #rooster fluff #rooster top gun #rooster x wife!reader #rooster bradshaw #bradley bradshaw x reader #bradley bradshaw #bradley bradshaw x you #bradley bradshaw x y/n #bradley bradshaw x female reader #bradley rooster bradshaw #top gun #top gun maverick #fanfic #top gun fic #miles teller

[chifuyusgangshirt]

Add Kakucho alongside Rindou as the type to like gym girls.

Okay hot take but:

The types of girls the tenjiku boys would like:

Izana

Sweet girls. Kind ones, the kind of girls you can manipulate easy and who would devote themselves to saving you. Izana obviously needs a lot of attention and affection, preferably for himself alone. If you date him, you are his best friend, family, lover, mom, maid and therapist.

And you'll have to be build for that. You can't just say no to him and move on he makes sure to call and message you everyday to ask if you still like him. You need to be somehwat mother-like too. He has mommy issues and it shows man, don't be surprised when you find out he has a mommy kink in the bedroom too - just accept it man. It's Izana, he does what he wants.

Also, be interested in him and only him. He loves nice girls who hang on every word he says. Maybe even a bit dumb so he can scold you and make you feel less than you are to keep you close.

"I can change him" "babe look at me, this isn't you" and "you just don't know him like I do" are things he feeds right into. Tbh he is a bit of a pick me boy. So if you are a lovely "not like other girls" he would appreciate that. Be his and he is yours and you both can be emo together.

Mochi

Also nice girls. But normal ones. You know, not the girls who have a tumblr Account and relate to Ramona flowers, more like girls that don't judge a book by it's cover. He is a scary guy and is afraid to intimidate his crush so you better be nice and outspoken.

Tbh I see him as possibly shy around girls? Doesn't know how to act and talk. He needs someone who makes the first steps and has the pants on in the relationship. Just be honest and open to him and that's enough.

Also big eaters. He'll invite you out to eat constantly and hopes to have a little eating contest with you. Competitive Bastard loves to win against you.

Mucho

Say it with me; mucho likes nerdy girls. Mucho liked nerdy, mature girls.

He is the kind to fall for the type who wear the typical "nerd" thick rimmed glasses, tom-boyish style, are coffee addicts and draw a fake mustache on their finger or even better, have a necklace of it.

Oh and science. Cool, funny girls who know biology! Idk but he seems like a wise old man in the body of a body builder so I think he likes smart girls, people who can match him in any way and make him feel challenged.

Shion

Punks. Loud and nasty dirty punk girls who throw the first punch and kick him in the balls when he says too much.

Girls who love blood and spit on the ground, girls who tattoo his name on their tits and bring him to tattoo theirs on his neck.

Punk girls who kiss his snotty nose and then finish off the guys who hurt him, yes call him babyboy! He says he hates it but he doesn't. He actually dreamily writes the words next to a couple that is supposed to be you two but no one can actually make out humans in it.

Rindou

Rindou is the type to say he wants a goth girlfriend but actually wants an e-girl. Rindou is the type to show you his remix on your first date and calls it art. Rindou mansplains protein-shakes to you.

But you know, he wants someone like this and that but what he needs is a girl that can pin him against the wall and make him blush like a school girl.

Rindou needs a best friend he can hang out and talk about his day with, venting about his brother and who he can show the weird rash on his butt without judgement.

Rindou would love to game with you and hold your hand, he needs a kiss on the nose when he wakes up and a knee in his stomache when he pushes you into the dirt. Fight with him, kiss him, please give him attention he needs it :(

Ran

Himself but with boobs.

But you know what he would also make do with, someone just as tired as him. Someone who laughs at his jokes and does face masks with him.

Someone who likes it when he is soft and understand him, who does his make up and let him do theirs.

You should be funny, witty and kind of sarcastic but deep inside just as vain and pseudo as him.

Pleasw visit an art gallarey with him where you both stand before a painting and literally don't know what the theme of the gallarey is. Like, absolutey not. You don't get it. When someone comes up to talk with you two about the art displayed because you both look so fancy and artsy you both just talk total bullshit and look how long it takes until the others catch on you two are total dumbasses. You stand before a statue and kiss each other and Ran makes pics and then you both read what it means and it's actually a child starving because of idk society. Do you care tho? Nah.

Kakucho

Kakucho likes gym girls. But the Yoga ones. He wanna see you bend like a freaking boneless demon and will be soooo happy about it too.

Kakucho likes a challenge, someone who knows what they want and talk loud and clear. Someone with confidence and who jogs at 6 am - that freak.

I think he doesn't really has a type besides mature and older girls that work out and could sucker punch him into another dimension. He is all about the vibe and if you are ready to share your boo with a sociopathic gang leader with mommy issues. This could (probably) end in a poly relationship btw.

#tokyo revengers #tokyorev #haitani brothers #ran haitani #rindou haitani #kokonoi hajime #izana kurokawa #kakucho #mochizuki kanji #mochi #shion madarame #mucho