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katewritesthings · 3 months

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Love Me Like I Can // Chapter 1

Chapter 1 // Vibe

pairing: Joe Burrow x Singer! Original Female Character

•summary: Inspired by Scandoval and Taylor/Travis. R&B singer Diana Hayes navigates falling in love after a cheating scandal captures the attention of America and a certain Bengal.

•warnings: •warnings: Cursing. Cheating. Sexual Situations. Drinking. Drug use. MINORS DO NOT INTERACT.

January 21, 2024.

Diana was currently sitting cross-legged in Biz’s room, computer in her lap, sharing a bottle of wine with her sister. Open on the screen was the Spotify app, with Diana’s first album Get Out pulled. Avoiding the writing she was supposed to be doing, the singer was instead focusing on watching her sister unpack her new room. The activity was a welcome distraction from the feelings that usually came with writing.

The past three weeks had been hectic for the sisters to say the least. Diana had finished up all of her press obligations for Band Together and the release of her EP in the first two weeks of January and spent the past week moving her things into her new rental in New York from Boston. They had two and a half weeks before Diana’s schedule would be filled with writing and recording for her upcoming album and tour. She had thought stepping foot into the house she shared with Connor would make her miss him, but in reality, it just made her angry and sad that every memory she had of Boston was tied to him.

“So, what are you doing again?” Biz questioned, passing the bottle and continuing to hang her sweaters.

“I’m making a public playlist with some of my songs and some songs by other people who have summed my feelings up more eloquently than I could have,” Diana explained, adding the title song to the playlist. Leave (Get Out) applied to her current situation way than she could have ever thought when she recorded it at 14. She moved on to her second album, eyes scanning the titles.

“No, I know what you’re doing. I guess I should have asked why you’re doing this instead of… yknow, writing and preparing for the songwriting session you have coming up. You record at the beginning of March, you’ve got to have material.”

“I think I’m still more hung up on the situation than I want to be and people to know about. Like, I don’t know what combination of emotions I’m experiencing, but I’m stuck,” Diana admitted, twisting her long hair into a top knot and adding two songs, “The High Road” and “Too Little Too Late” from her second album. “Like, can I write about the situation and still be angry? Can I use the songs I wrote about Connor? I definitely don’t want people to think I’m still hung up on him. I’m really just hurt by the betrayal of it all.”

“Well, I think you’re allowed to still be heartbroken about it still, Di. It’s been three months.” Biz had made her way to Diana to hand her the wine and wrap her into a hug. “This is the first downtime you’ve had since then, you’re allowed to be sad and people will be fine with that. We’re going to get drunk tonight and have fun. If you write, you write. No pressure on healing, okay?”

Diana stared at her sister’s little finger before her own laced around it and she uttered, “Promise.”

“Now, turn on some music, and let’s go do a shot!”

Biz indicated to follow her, so Diana did as she was told. Half an hour later, the two were sitting on the couch in their living room laptop between them, taking their second shot of tequila. Diana would be lying if she said she didn’t feel the first and the large glass of Sauvignon Blanc she had been sipping from.

“Have you texted Joe yet?” Biz’s voice chimed, clearly trying to brighten the mood. Unfortunately for Diana, the alcohol intensified the feelings of rejection as her face settled into a deep frown and a lump formed in her throat.

“No.. uhm, his agent never got back to Cathy, so I never got his number…” She cleared her throat and gave a nervous laugh. “Which is totally fine or whatever because I almost even forgot his name.” Biz rolled her eyes, “Right,” she muttered as she took a drink of her own cocktail. She knew her sister spent at least two days googling the handsome quarterback. “Have you reached out on social media?”

“I don’t want to look desperate, Biz! I don’t even know if I’m ready for another relationship. He’s just cute and looked fun, that’s all.” Diana was still nervous about the idea of jumping into something so soon. She and Connor had been together since she was 19 and while he wasn’t her first relationship, she thought at one point he was going to be her last. The idea of starting over at 26 was scary.

“I think we should invite him and some friends to your birthday party,” Biz interrupted her self-doubt spiral to propose the wildest idea Diana had heard yet.

“Biz, he won’t even give me his number. How would I even do that?,” Diana shifted in her seat uncomfortably. “His friends were probably just making fun of him because he likes my music.” “I wish you would stop fucking doubting yourself, Di. You’re hot as fuck and dude probably too scared to text you. You build everybody up but yourself. I wish you would give yourself half the love and grace you give other people.” Biz’s words must have sparked inspiration because Diana grabbed her laptop and paused the music. Opening a word document she began typing and humming to a beat.

Lover girl, loving everything but herself.

Pedestals for everyone, but she’s on a shelf.Emotion comatose, you know how that shit goes.

The sisters spent the next forty minutes sending ideas back and forth to each other, opening another bottle of wine, and listening to Diana sing their ideas into the room. They had finished one song and had even been in good enough spirits to finish a song Diana had been working on before her breakup. Giggling with her sister would never get old, Diana was certain. Everything she had been through in the past three months just made her realize how grateful she was that she had her sister. When their dad died, Diana had attempted to shut everyone from her family out of her life and she was just glad Biz was too stubborn to let that happen.

Just as the thought that Biz’s stubbornness was a positive trait crossed Diana’s mind, she looked up to see her phone in her sister’s hand and hear a “It isn’t what it looks like,” fall out of her mouth.

“Well, then what is it? Because it sure as hell looks like you’re going through my phone,” Diana shrieked, weakly reaching for the iPhone.

“I just texted Cathy to invite some of the Bengals to your party! You’re already going to be meeting Taylor’s boyfriend, might as well make it an AFC reunion,” Biz said excitedly, knowing it was too late for the text to be unsent.

Diana wanted to be angry at her sister, but she couldn’t help but feel the excitement bubbling in her stomach.

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February 3, 2024

Diana hadn’t celebrated a birthday since her 20th and she was nervous. Biz and her manager Cathy, had insisted on throwing her a huge birthday party to make up for the ones that she missed celebrating. Connor had always insisted that celebrating birthdays was narcissistic, refusing even to get her a present in the seven years they were together.

The redhead was currently sitting in the back of a blacked-out Suburban, between Biz and Taylor Swift. In the third row sat Travis and Austin, Taylor’s brother, quietly chatting about something that Di couldn’t make out.

“Thank you again for this, Taylor,” Diana sighed, trying to regulate her breathing. “There is no need to thank me! Everyone needs a friend, Diana. Just because you’ve had some pretty shitty ones in the past doesn’t mean we can’t show you what they’re really supposed to be.” Taylor said, placing an arm around her new friend’s shoulder.

“Plus, if my intuition is right, you just might be making more friends tonight,” Taylor smiled as the car came to a stop. Diana was going to ask what she meant before the door was opened and flashes of light began blinding her vision.

Diana was still trying to get her eyesight back to normal when she stepped into the venue that had been rented for the evening. Her sister had done an amazing job, the entire room was decorated as if they had just stepped foot into a forest. She now understood why her sister insisted on her wearing the cream corseted dress that perfectly fit the theme. Diana felt like a fairy.

Looking around the room, Diana was overwhelmed by not only the number of people but who cared enough to actually show up for her. The room was a mix of people she met since the breakup and ones who have known her since before her debut album. She was almost certain she had seen some people she hadn’t even recognized!

Two hours after arriving and making her rounds, Diana found herself sharing a joint with Elijah, one of her childhood friends from Philly. The two hadn’t seen each other in years, but had picked back up like they never missed a step. The pair were in a fit of giggles when Diana noticed a group of rather large men sitting at a high top near the bar.

Diana took a pull from the join, squinting her eyes to try to make out the faces of any of the four men laughing amongst themselves. “Do you know who they are,” she exhaled the question and the smoke together.

“Not for real, but it looks like they linebackers or some shit,” Elijah cackled, taking the joint from Diana’s hand.

“Fuck,” she cursed Biz aloud. “That has to be Travis’ friends, right?”

Diana was weighing the odds that any Chiefs player, other than the one who was dating her friend, would show up to her party less than a week after losing the spot in the upcoming Super Bowl. She didn’t know much about pro athletes, but based off of the way Travis was talking to Biz in the car, the team was taking it pretty hard.

“Shit, I know him though,” Eli pointed out Travis in the crowd, heading their way with Taylor. When the couple arrived in front of them, Eli offered the joint to Travis and Taylor grabbed hold of Diana’s hand.

“C’mon, Di! There’s some people I want to introduce you to!” Taylor’s drunken giggles filled Diana’s ears. She wasn’t sure if it was the four Palomas she had pounded since she got here, the pre-roll she just took part in, or the second-hand confidence that comes from being on the arm of The Taylor Swift, but all of her anxiety was replaced with excitement as she was pulled towards the unknown men.

“Hey fellas!” Taylor greeted the group, “I’m Taylor and I really think you should say Happy Birthday to my friend, Diana!”

The redhead shot her a confused look, expecting Taylor to have met these men before at least! Deep laughs pulled her out of her thoughts as a chorus of ‘happy birthdays’ filled the air.

The man that Diana didn’t recognize spoke first, “Thanks for inviting us! I’m Tee.” Offering out his hand and pointing out the other men as he said their names. “Ja’Marr, Joe, and T.B.”

“Oh! Hi!” Diana greeted more excitedly than she would if she were sober. “I saw your interview! Thank you so much for giving me a shout-out. Anyone who plays my music on live TV is cool in my book”

Ja’Marr and Tee broke into laughter as Tee elbowed Joe in the ribs and whispered something to the guys.. She wasn’t sure if it was her projecting or if she actually saw Joe blush and look away. Thankfully, before anxiety could take over Diana’s mind, Ja’Marr shouted over the music.

“Let’s just say you’ve been on the official playlist since the LSU days with me and Joe. Ever since I met him, he been playing that Marvin’s Room cover..”

Diana’s face burned, embarrassed about the drunken remix she had done on Instagram Live at 18. A fight with her then-boyfriend sparked a bender of prescriptions and alcohol causing her to lose inhibitions and stream from the recording studio. While she was embarrassed about the situation, she was happy her label had let her finally release more mature music after.

“Oh, my God! I forgot you did that” Taylor giggled, swatting her new friend’s arm. “That was so Bad Ass.”

“I agree,” Joe spoke for the first time. His voice was clearer, more sure of itself than Diana remembered from the interview. And Mic’d Ups she had seen after googling him.

“Thank you,” Diana accepted, eyes trained on Joe. One of the other men had changed topics in the brief moment their eyes had locked, but she couldn’t be sure which. The intensity of Joe’s gaze caused heat to fill Diana’s cheeks and she turned back to the group just in time to hear Ja’Marr jesting with Taylor.

“As cool as your boy is, I’m glad it’s not him in the Super Bowl. Like I said a few weeks ago, anyone but the Chiefs.”

“Hey, now. Don’t be bitter we went farther than you, Chase.” Travis’ voice startled Diana, who was doing her best to stare anywhere but at Joe. She busied herself by watching the Tight End as he carefully distributed the drinks he was carrying, an Old Fashion for Taylor and a Paloma for Diana and himself.

After thanking Travis, Diana turned her focus back to the group. The conversation had turned to the topic of the recent football season and even though Diana knew next to nothing about sports, she found the conversation was piquing her interests more than she imagined. “And I’m not sorry, bro. I said what I said and I said anyone but the Chiefs,” Ja’Marr laughed in Travis’ direction. “Oh, so you guys have beef,” Diana questioned, nervous to show she didn’t know much about the profession of the majority of the group. Luckily the men were kind enough to explain their recent rivalry and some of the basics of the game. Well, as much as they could with the amount of alcohol that was being consumed. Before long Taylor had excused herself to say hi to someone she had recognized, Ja’ and Travis and T.B. had broken into their own conversation, moving to the bar itself.

“So, Ja’Marr and I are wide-receiver, which means that it’s our job to catch the ball when the quarterback, or Joe, throws it,” Tee was attempting to explain to Diana for the third time. Joe was staring, finishing the last of his drink and Ja’Marr shook his head in frustration as Diana nodded her head in a way that showed she clearly had not committed the information to memory. “Man, Tee, just give up. Let’s go get us some drinks,” Ja’Marr pulled T.B. away, leaving just Joe smiling at Diana.

“So, uh, I’m glad you guys came!,” Diana blurted out nervously, instantly cringing that she had just repeated her introduction. “Well, what I mean is, I didn’t get response from the team or see you guys when I first got here.” “Oh, we lost track of time pregaming and were advised to come in through the back since the press saw some of the guests you had,” Joe smiled, simultaneously calming some of the nervousness she felt and sending her stomach into somersaults. “Apparently you’re quite the popular lady. Taylor Swift and Wiz Khalifa at the same party? Talk about Taylor Gang or die.”

Diana laughed at the last comment. She really was blown away by the amount of people who showed up for her. She hadn’t even spoken to Cam, better known as Wiz, since their collaboration six years ago and he had shown up to support her.

“Yeah, I’m really grateful that all of these people wanted to spend their evening celebrating me,” Diana beamed. She was in a state of intoxicated euphoria that was giving her the courage to act on what she wanted, like asking Joe to leave the crowded room. “Do you want to walk to the balcony?”

A curt nod of agreement was all it took for the pair to drain their drinks, stand up from the table, and make their way to the outer edge of the room. Conversation flowed freely between the two as they walked, discussing their tastes in music, movies, and books.

“You look wonderful tonight, by the way,” Joe changed the subject, eyes scanning the dance floor where his teammates had found their home for the night.

Diana was sure that her face was going to permanently be the color of her hair just from the presence of the quarterback to the side of her. “Thank you, you don’t look so bad yourself,” she replied.

And he did. He was wearing a pair of faded black jeans that were perfectly tailored to his muscular thighs, a black t-shirt that was clinging to his chest nicely, a brightly colored jacket and his signature gold chains, including the 9. Diana let her eyes linger on his chest longer than she normally would have before Joe’s voice broke her out of the trance.

“So, can I be honest with you?,” Joe asked, glancing down at Diana. Even in the heels she was currently wearing, the man still stood a good 8 inches taller than the woman at his side.

“Uhm, sure?” Diana answered, unsure of what was about to come. ‘I’ve known the man for less than an hour, what hasn’t he been honest about?’ Diana thought to herself as they made their way down the hall that led to the balcony.

“I was honestly shocked you invited me after Ja’Marr’s interview,” Joe laughed, opening the door, and letting Diana step onto the balcony before following suit.

“Are you kidding me? I’m shocked that you guys listen to my music!” Diana shoved his shoulder. “Besides, I got pressured into inviting you all since you curved me last month.”

The redhead took a few more steps before she realized that Joe was no longer beside her. When she glanced backward, she noticed that Joe was wearing a puzzled expression.

“What do you mean I curved you,” Joe asked slowly like he was trying to put pieces of the puzzle together.

“Well, after I saw your interview, I was honestly shocked that you even listened to my music. Then Ja’Marr said to hit you up, so I had my manager ask your team for your number,” Diana explained, body fully turned towards Joe now. “I never heard back and Biz insisted it wasn’t desperate to try again too.” “You’re joking,” Joe let out a humorless laugh and shook. “I thought that was the team making fun of me after Ja’Marr embarrassed me with the interview.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. Was what he said not true?” Diana teased, taking a step toward him. “Are you not a fan?”

“No, I’m a huge fan,” Joe flushed, eyes locked with the aquamarine ones in front of him, encouraging Diana to take another step. “Yeah, what was it the Ja’Marr said? ‘Practically obsessed,” Diana’s voice came out breathier than she imagined, taking another step. She was practically chest to chest to chest with Joe, their eye contact never breaking. “To ‘hit you up’”

That was all Joe needed before grabbing the back of her head and leaning down to capture her lips in a kiss. The action was drunk and messy, fueled by equal parts lust and alcohol. As the kiss deepened all Diana could think about was how she wasn’t close enough to Joe. Grabbing his jacket, she stepped into him again, causing him to slowly take steps backward until his thighs hit a table beside the door, filled with floral arrangements and an ashtray. Joe shifted his weight so that he was partially sitting on the table, partially leaning. Their lips moved together rhythmically until Joe pulled away and trailed kisses down her jawbone, grabbing at the tulle skirt of Diana’s dress while Diana adjusted her legs on either side of Joe’s so that she was straddling his thigh.

Joe’s mouth worked its way towards Diana’s neck, finding the tender spot behind her ear. A wave of pleasure washed through Diana, a moan leaving her lips and hips bucking against Joe’s thigh. His rough hands ran up and down her body methodically as if he already knew what buttons to push to cause the woman before him to melt, mouth continuing its path down her cherry blossom tattoo.

Diana rocked her hips again, craving the relief the friction had given her, hands tangling in Joe’s waves. “Fuck,” she whispered, barely finding her voice. Joe pulled back, hungry gaze meeting Diana’s eyes before recapturing her swollen lips. Placing his hands firmly on her hips, he helped her find a motion that kept the moans falling from her beautiful mouth. A familiar tension, one that Diana had only felt at her own hands the past three months, was building in her stomach as she took Joe’s bottom lip between her teeth. Her alcohol-raddled brain didn’t care that she was on a balcony riding a professional athlete’s thigh, she was desperate for release and she was determined to get it.

That was until the door beside them slammed open, causing Diana to take a step back from Joe. Biz stepped through the door, calling Diana’s name. “Di! Are you out he-”

Biz cut herself off when her eyes landed on her sister, lips swollen, love bites down her neck, the skirt of her dress still in Joe’s hand. The pair looked like they had been caught with their hands in the cookie jar. “Oh! I, well, I just came to find you because it’s time for cake. We’ve been looking for you.”

Diana cleared her throat, causing Joe to let go of her skirt and stand up straight. “Right, uh, you better get in there. Can’t cut the cake without the birthday girl. I’ll talk to yo later, I guess.” Scratching the back of his head, Joe did his best to look anywhere but at Biz while he exited the balcony.

“What the fuck was that?” Biz asked, incredulously, still staring at her sister.

“Well, I don’t know what it could have been, but what it turned out to be was a cockblock,” Diana laughed. “What happened to ‘I barely remember his name’ and ‘he was just making fun of me’,” Biz’s face finally broke into a smile. “I don’t know, Biz. I think we were just both drunk. I’m sure he was just looking for someone to hook up with, it’s probably nothing,” Diana shrugged, brushing past her sister. “Now let’s go get cake.”

After cutting the cake, the last hour of the party was a blur to Diana. Cathy, her manager, had grabbed and insisted she say bye to as many of the music producers as possible before making her own exit. Normally, Diana wouldn’t have minded at all, wanting to take any opportunity she had to suck up to the people in charge of her music. But tonight, Diana could not take her mind off Joe and his blue eyes and soft lips. She hadn’t managed to get his phone number after realizing that he never rejected her and she was hoping to see him again.

After saying farewell to the last of the label reps, Cathy advised Diana to finish up her goodbyes as it was almost time for the car to take her home. Diana followed instructions, making sure that when she found Biz and Taylor, they stayed by her side. While waiting for Travis and Austin to show up with the groups’ coats, Diana couldn’t help but continue to glance around the room for messy brown waves.

“They left right after the cake was cut,” Biz spoke knowingly, a smirk on her face. Diana’s heart dropped. She didn’t get to say bye to Joe.

“Who left?” Taylor asked, “The guys from the Bengals. Seems like Diana and the quarterback snuck off to have a little fun,” Biz cackled, “He even gave her a hickey like we’re in seventh grade.”

Before Diana could reply to her sister, Travis and Austin approached the ladies and started distributing coats before the group made their way outside and into the Suburban waiting for them. Determined to not let disappointment ruin her night, Diana decided to add songs that reminded her of tonight to her public playlist while they drove. She added “How to Touch a Girl” before moving on to her last album. Looking over the tracklist, she added “Vibe” and “Like This”, deciding that they perfectly described the feelings of lust and excitement she was filled with earlier.

Diana couldn’t shake the feeling as she was falling asleep that she wished that she had stopped Joe from leaving the balcony. Maybe then, she would be falling asleep next to him and not squished in between her sister and her new friend.

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Taglist: If you'd like to be added, let me know!

@therapycat21

Ahhhh, I am so overwhelmed by the feedback. Thank you so much for liking, reblogging, and replying. I don't know if you all are interested in the spotify playlist Diana would make or media blurbs after the chapter, but I can also do those.

Thank you again!

#joe burrow #joe burrow fan fic #joe burrow fic #joey b #joe burrow x oc #joe burrow imagine #joe burrow x diana hayes #lovemelikeican #diana hayes #joe burrow series #joe burrow smut

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flappingdragon · 11 days

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Hi!

Could I request the brothers + side characters reaction when mc turns into a goose? I was thinking something like mc turned into a goose due to Solomon messing up again, and they act like the goose from Untitled Goose Game, but cuddlier. Like they are still a little menace, but also want to be pet and cuddled.

If you don’t want to do this request I completely understand as it is a bit odd. I hope you have a great day/night!

A/N: Sorry that I’m so late!! I was just caught up in a lot of things and forgot this was in my drafts oof. I also changed a few things up just to be a little silly (and also bc I didn’t want to write the personality of duck MC here). Anyway, I decided to divide this into two parts; one for the brothers and the other for the side characters. Enjoy!

The Brother’s Reactions to Duck!MC

Characters: Lucifer, Mammon, Leviathan, Satan, Asmodeus, Beelzebub, Belphegor

Rating: SFW, fluff

Warnings: GN!MC, no pronouns used for MC, no gender specified for MC, interactions based on the brothers (not MC), personality not specified for MC

Tags: Fluff, the brothers love duck!MC, cuddling, preening, etc.

Part I (This Is Where You Currently Are), Part II (Coming Soon!)

Lucifer

How the hell did this happen?

“Will you stop taking my things, please? You’re making my life even more difficult than it is already.”

At first, he’d have fun with it, teasing you by picking you up randomly when in private

Even going so far as to sit in his lap while he pets you

But then he’d look for a way to fix it

And eventually he does, much to everyone’s protests

He’ll miss the times when he sets you in his lap and feeds you your favourites, but if you can be more helpful to him in your human form, he’d prefer that

Besides

He’d like to see your face instead of that of a duck

Mammon

Oh lord

Is he ever about to get in trouble

He’s no doubt teaming up with you to steal money

I mean

A duck?

In the Devildom?

Now THAT is about to attract a lot of money

He’d probably set up an attraction where lots of demons and demon-kin alike get to meet and pet a real goose

I feel like at the end of it all, even if Mammon did get a lot of money, you’d be exhausted

Because you already know you were out there for hours getting pet by so many

You need to recharge a bit

And that includes a lot of pets from Mammon

And a lot of cuddles

You know he’s going to be so happy to oblige

Levi

Unlike Mammon, he’s not going outside of the house

So you don’t have to worry about that

He’ll set you in his lap while he’s playing video games and he’ll let you time to time between bosses

Hell, he’ll even give you a controller to play with him if he’s feeling extra bored

And it baffles him how you win every time

Because a duck? Beating him? That’s impossible!

But he loves it

He’d lose to you again and again if it meant holding you in his lap like this

Satan

Team Prank Lucifer: Duck Addition

No but seriously, he’s getting into mischievous trouble with you in tow

He’d probably start by making cursed illusions of you but they all have different personalities

For instance, one could be kind and gentle while another could blow up the house

But while your illusions are causing havoc, the real you is resting in his lap as he reads a good book

He’s running his fingers through your goose feathers, practically preening you

He finds it relaxing how he can just pet you and sit back

If he’s honest, he hasn’t been reading his book for the past half an hour

He’s too busy adoring the way you shake your feathers in response to his pets

He finds you irresistibly adorable

Asmodeus

You already know he’s going to put you in cute little outfits

Doesn’t matter how much you hiss at him, he’ll find a way to put some sort of sweater on you

Once he does, he squeals and gets out his phone, taking a selfie with your very-not-amused-goose-face

This is not the first outfit he’s putting you in though, he’s putting you in sparkling pink and blue dresses and cute little tuxedos

He’s also putting some big, fluff coats on you

You’re not getting out of his sight no matter how hard you try

You just have to hope he gets bored

But let’s be honest here

That’s not happening

Beelzebub

Beel is pretty chill when he sees you all snuggled up beside his pillow, minding your own business

At first, he didn’t know it was you so he just kinda left you alone, thinking that you were another one of his brother’s crazy pets

Only when you had followed him out to the kitchen did he start to catch on

And once he does know it’s you, he’s carrying you everywhere with him

To the kitchen, the common room, the gym, RAD, or even the Demon Lord’s Castle

It doesn’t matter

As long as you’re in his arms, he’s happy

And if you want, he’d give you a few snacks as well

He doesn’t mind

And honestly? He’d get a bit sad when you return to normal

He got used to carrying you around :(

Belphegor

You can get he’s not moving unless he has to

So you’re his napping buddy until he’s forced to get up

He’d hold you in his arms and cuddling you as he sleep talks

Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you can escape his grasp and sit on either his back or his stomach

When he wakes up, he’s so confused bc his sleepy brain is thinking-

“Why is there a duck on me?”

And then he remembers that it’s you and he bundles you up in his arms again

He looks away when your duck wings flap in his face but he starts petting you when you settle

He’ll stay awake to pet you despite the pull of his sin that makes his eyes flutter closed every now and then

But he enjoys it

And when you return to normal, he’s in your arms fast asleep

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omgpoindexter · 5 months

Text

more nurseydex fics!!!

i’ve been doing my duty properly and reading some different nurseydex fics on ao3 lately 🫡 i tried to find some that are more recent, however i inevitably found some that are older but slipped through the cracks for me.

here are some of the ones i came across that you need to read! i might make this a thing again if anyone is interested, im sure y’all have been much more on the ball with reading nurseydex fics than i have over the years but i do love reccing <3

suddenly this summer it’s clear by @dessertwaffles

The summer before senior year, Nursey and Dex become closer than ever.

Or, Nursey and Dex's developing relationship, as told through their text messages.

i was absolutely grinning the entire way through this. it’s a texting fic, with images rather than plain text (so clever!) but their personalities are so strong and their interactions are just perfect! and you know i love a texting fic

getting used to letting go by @jennybeantime

Dex was supposed to have a fancy job in some city upon graduation, but his plans changed once his uncle died and left the family home in Maine to him. Without immediate obligations of their own, Nursey, Chowder and Farmer follow Dex up there to help him clear it out and clean it up.

this fic is BEAUTIFUL. if you haven’t read it then please do yourself a favour and do it now. it captures certain feelings and emotions so effortlessly and i felt like i was in a little maine bubble living this story with them. i can’t believe i missed this one before, please please read!!

got the feeling you’re the right thing after all by @bisexualnursey

Two and a half years after he breaks up with Dex to go to grad school across the country, Nursey runs into him again when he visits New York for the holidays. What starts as them just rekindling their friendship quickly turns into a whole other thing: a 100% no-strings-attached friends with benefits arrangement while they’re in the same city.

Which is totally chill because Nursey is definitely over Dex. He swears. He’s going back to California soon anyway.

i seriously CANNOT BELIEVE i never read this before but i think i was in my inactive era when this was posted. it’s just so perfect!!! all the feelings and interactions with not only dex and nursey but all the other characters, friends and family, they all felt so real and i loved them so much. i’ll be rereading this a LOT! you should too!!

here i am (leaving you clues) by @averteddeyes

Will loves Nursey. Nursey loves Will. Will isn’t really quite sure how to deal with it.

(Alternatively: Will learns acceptance through poetry, hesitant communication, and brightly colored sticky notes.)

this is really gorgeously written. angst warning, because ouch!!! also poetry as a love language, like a really good selection of poetry, i really enjoyed it and how it weaves into the story. and the bittydex friendship is so important to me!!!

volta by @plusoultres

volta (n.) a turning point or point of change in a poem, most commonly a sonnet.

Or, five times a poem doesn’t reach its intended recipient, and one time it does; five drafts, and one work completed; five turning points, and one ending.

the second fic was inspired by this one, and thank goodness it was because this one totally slipped through the cracks and i’m so glad i read it. their banter is just brilliant and i love the variation in medium, and the poetry is beautiful! i could quote lines from this but im not going to. just. read it

things got weird (when we made out) by @andtimestoodstill

Nursey is being stupid about this. He knows he’s being stupid.

super fun and really cute, i love it when these two are just being idiots. great inclusion of the other teammates too. read it for this line alone: “[You’re doing] That thing where you forget to look like you hate Dex and just stare at him like some Victorian lady who just saw a hot dude for the first time.” because it made me laugh out loud

things that go bump in the night by @smashthatlikebitty

The first time it happens, Dex rolls over and flings so many obscenities in Nursey’s direction that even his Grandmother would have to sit down — and she cursed so much at Dex’s cousin’s wedding that the whole family has been banned from that church ever since.

Nursey just stills in the dark, one shoe off. A languid, infuriating presence. “Chill, man.”

essentially all the times nursey’s clumsy ass wakes dex up in the night. oh how i love pretending these two roomied their way into a relationship! this is so cute, smiled all the way through

some things take two people to build by @cricketnationrise

“You are the single most dramatic person I have ever met,” Dex mutters, trying valiantly to hide his grin.

Or, 5 times Dex wishes their relationship was real +1 time he doesn't have to

this was so fun, yet again i love them being idiots!!! these two in new york city is so important to me. and i for one would LOVE to read the work party 5+1 fic. just saying

#heavily considering doing more of these if anyone’s interested #also y’all are so good in this fandom it’s so INSPIRING !#nurseydex #fic rec

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archivalofsins · 3 months

Text

There’s a conversation to be had around the similarities of two prisoner’s stories within Milgram. All the prisoners' stories have similarities of course but I'd like to focus on two that I personally haven't seen compared that much. Now the reason I may not have seen many comparisons is because I'm just woefully inactive in the tags in general. I don't look in Milgram tags on any platform.

So, please excuse me if you've seen something like this before. The prisoners that I’ll be discussing today are Prisoner 007 Kazui Mukuhara and Prisoner 010 Kotoko Yuzuriha. So, let’s have a fun discussion for a bit.

To no one’s surprise this all comes down to lying.

Kazui is known for lying within Milgram. Kazui’s inclusion in the cast serves the purpose of highlighting the dishonesty of his peers through himself. If Kazui can blatantly admit to being a practiced liar, then what does that say about the rest of the cast.

This same concept is repeatedly highlighted over the trial one interrogations through Es stating at the beginning of each one that the prisoners can lie. Blatantly reminding who they are interrogating that they are not obligated to be honest with him that it is their job as the warden, Milgram's (through the song extraction), as well as fans to figure out what the truth actually is.

So, it's of no concern to them if the prisoners are honest or not. At the end of the day, it is Es' job to discern the truth of the situation. These statements call to attention to the fact that no individual needs to incriminate themselves or admit to wrongdoings in the face of authority figures. Along with the very human inclination to lie and make oneself look better than they were/are to avoid consequences. This is highlighted again through the birthday interaction Kazui has with Yuno (on her birthday) during this trial.

I’m getting ahead of myself, though. First let’s talk about why Kazui lies.

Kazui purports to lie for the sake of those around him. Stating on multiple occasions that telling the truth is what led to his crime. That if he just kept lying it would have been better for the sake of those around him.

In Half he laments no longer being capable of lying to himself about his own feelings. Projecting his internal issues on those around him. Still trying to continue the lie for their sake. In every lyric lamenting how, his heart has changed while someone else’s never will. Reeling over why the things he purposefully cast to the wayside are back to question him now.

Avowing that this heart of his is about to disappear while asking for someone to please tell him what to do before it does. In a very similar way to how Yuno repeatedly asks in Umbilical.

“Please tell me what I should do, my heart will float away and disappear.”- “What do you want to do? Please tell me.”

Asking those around him how he should perform in contrast to Yuno asking those around her how they want to proceed. Kazui is once again trying to go up on that stage to give the appearance he believes those around him want. Putting on an act for an audience of one. The first one being himself and the next one being his victim. Presenting that best version of himself that they’ve built up in their minds.

At first he did this to defend himself because,

“It’s better to be a let down, than to be let down yourself.”

*What comes after this is my interpretation of this translation as such it may not be completely accurate.*

23/09/02 (Yuno’s Birthday) Kazui: You’ve been helping Shidou-kun, right? That’s a bit surprising. You didn’t seem to be the type to concern yourself with others. Yuno: Hmm, what’s this all of a sudden? It’s not like you’re wrong, I’m not really that interested in people. Under other circumstances I wouldn’t even bother- But if someone is about to die in front of me, I’ll help out. That’s just normal, isn’t it? Don’t you view it that way too, Kazui-san? Despite helping too, you don’t really seem invested on a fundamental level either. Kazui: …Maybe. I’m not as sharp as Kashiki-chan. I was brought up in a world that was all about physical strength. So, I’ve never even thought about things like that. Yuno: Haha, we’re both liars, aren’t we? The only difference between us is our reasons for lying. You lie to protect yourself, because you’re important in your own eyes. For me, no one is particularly important- Even myself.

And,

“If I were to make sure and suffer, I would rather be by your side. Laughing together, side by side, this distance in our relationship is misleading me, is this what happiness is?”

If the only options are pain or pain in good company many people would choose the latter. Like he says in Cat,

“The beating of this heart... see... it’s no longer about good and bad... it isn’t. I realize the futility, but I still can’t help but dream.”

In a situation where all roads lead to pain and suffering, where no one comes out unscathed. Every possible option is a futile attempt at delaying the inevitable and one’s only choices are burn alone or together. What would a person rather choose a lie that hurts themselves or a truth that hurts everyone?

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Kazui’s sin isn’t as simple as being dishonest because dishonesty is a given in life. The reasons people lie by every definition are varied and intricately painful. Not just on those lied to but those doing the lying as well. Yet, honesty can be just as painful. It can be ruthless and selfish. Because people rarely come off as being honest to benefit the other person.

A person can be honest with the best of intentions, but those intentions don’t determine how the person they’re being honest with will take their words. There’s no way to let a person down gently, at times the only thing a person is going to be able to do in life is let them down. Sometimes a disappointment isn’t a learning experience but just a disappointment. It’s just a moment where someone dejectedly goes,

“You’re not the person I thought you were.”

A moment that hurts everybody. Both a situation and sentiment that Kazui is all too familiar with. Something he can’t help but be sympathetic to and disgusted by. Because it’s something he’s done himself. He’s looked at someone and got an idea of them that they could never live up to. He thought someone could be something for him that they couldn’t and knows good and well where these expectations lead.

Second Trial Teaser Movie

“Er, so…… could you listen to what I say without laughing? I……”

The Second Trial Character Voice Trailer [Full Ver.] Glitched Line

“Hinako, I love you more than anything.”

Character Voice Trailer [Full Ver.] Glitched Subbed Line

“I’m so dumb… Why did I have to dream?”

"I realize the futility, but I still can’t help but dream."

"I can’t STOP, I can’t be NORMAL."/ "Tell me why you tell me, “STOP”?"

Kotoko is at the stage of her life Kazui used to be at. Lying to herself saying that what she's doing is for the sake of others. Yet, in actuality, everything that she's been doing has all been for herself.

From the very beginning she never asked for others to understand. For them to agree with her methods or reasoning. Telling us loud and clear why she does the things she does from the start.

Character Voice Trailer [Full Ver.] Glitched Subbed Line

"This feels so good."

Second Trial Teaser Movie

"What do you think? Does it hurt? Purge complete. This is the appropriate punishment."

The Second Trial Character Voice Trailer [Full Ver.] Glitched Line

"From the beginning I've never asked for your understanding! My actions, one by one, are bringing Earth closer to peace. Useless weaklings should just shut up and let me protect them!"

"It’s ok to dislike, right?"

Only using others as a justification for what she already wanted to do.

Make yourselves my reason.

From the beginning she only wanted-

A reason for judgment execution.

The people around her supply that reason to her. Outside of that she couldn't care less about how they feel about her behavior or what they think of her.

"So it’s wrong? Oh shove that! INNOCENT, isn’t that right?"/"Don’t you dare stop now."

As long as they don't stop giving what she wanted to do in the first place a meaning.

"If it damaged someone’s dream to the points of stopping it."

If they don't damage her dream to the point of stopping it.

"Tell me why you tell me, “Stop”. "

As long as they're weak, if they can't defend themselves, if wrong doers exist then she can-

"Laugh and I can get to like myself."

She can keep-

"Drowning in the knowledge that I am right."

But if someone gets in the way of that. Tells her what she's doing is excessive or too much. Then they're just trampling on her reason to live her dream. Kotoko lies to herself stating that she's doing what she does for the sake of those around her.

Saying that,

Q.12 What is your motto? Kotoko: “There’s no other way that could let us live, so I walk this path.” [TN: Quote from Mushanokouji Saneatsu.]

Yet, the truth is it's the only way that she can live with herself. It's the only way that she can satisfy and validate her own abnormal existence.

I feel like I’m going crazy after straining my nerves. The person that can’t be saved, is now understanding the abnormality.

"That’s why I became your fangs as the long-awaited hero."/ "Maybe, perhaps... or... could it come true..."

Q.19 Do you want to be forgiven? Kazui: I don’t know. If I’m being honest, I do kind of want my weakness to be pardoned. Q.03 Do you think any other prisoners who committed the same sin as you deserve to be forgiven? Kotoko: Of course. Haven’t I already said that I believe my actions have been correct?

Both wanting to be forgiven accepted as they are. Yet, both refusing to accept others outside of their own terms.

"I just wanted to touch, to caress. I just wanted to be touched."/ "I want a reason for judgment execution, I want it. Give me the next target."

Both caressing the morals and feelings they held so dear.

Yet, slowly corrupting them through realizing the meaning these things held were nothing more than convenient excuses. One tearing apart the lie through their own will and the other clinging to it with bloody hands because it's the only thing left for them to stand on. The only thing that can tell them they're right anymore.

Q.08 Which do you prioritise between logic and feelings? Kazui: I put my feelings first and it ended badly. So, I don’t want to act just based on feelings again. Q.18 Do you regret your “murder”? Kazui: I regret it. I wish I could’ve just kept lying. Q.12 What is your motto? Kotoko: “There’s no other way that could let us live, so I walk this path.”[TN: Quote from Mushanokouji Saneatsu.] Q.13 Do you have any regrets? Kotoko: No. Q.15 Which is more important, the objective or the means? Kotoko: Objective. Does that not go without saying?

Because as long as the goal is good, then the means to get there don't matter.

The biggest difference between them is that Kazui longs for the verdict of Innocent and Kotoko Guilty. Kazui asking Es to base their verdicts not on their beliefs but on what's safest and Kotoko asking us to simply hate evil for what it is without sparring sympathy for the prisoners.

Pointing out how we wouldn't care if she did this to these criminals if it wasn't for the fact we know them all while Kazui brings up how natural it is to lie for the people you care about if it means they won't get hurt.

Both trying to encourage the audience to do what they believe to be the best thing over the course of trial two.

"Lick that sin and oppose punishment, until you can meet the king of the masquerade."/ "Hate evil as the evil that it is! Don’t you dare stop now. I want a reason for judgment execution, I want it. Give me the next target “UNDER”."

Both asking the audience these opposing questions.

How far should someone be allowed to go just because they care for someone? Is anything and everything on the table? Is there no lie too big and no action too harmful? How far should someone be allowed to go just because of how much they dislike a certain person or action? How far should even our best intentioned and moral biases be allowed to go? Is there no limit to the harm one should be allowed to cause in the name of justice and peace?

Does the blood stain less based on the reason behind the bleeding? Or does it stick just the same.

Say that sympathy is useless.- Love (plus) Destiny = Crap, smash it, shatter it, bye-bye.

Follow the King of the Masquerade./Come on, rely on me, go on.

Give me the verdicts of GUILTY.-INNOCENT, isn’t that right?

To be caressed by you, that would be perfection.- They’re still here, still here, it grates me.

#milgram #kazui mukuhara #kotoko yuzuriha

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partypoisonzz · 2 years

Text

we must never be apart (gerard way x drummer!reader smut)

Kinktober 2022 Day 12: Hickies/Lovebites/Quickies

Era: Projekt Revolution (2007)

Reader Pronouns: None, but Reader has AFAB anatomy and there's one "Mistress" use.

Content:

- Backstage quickies againnnn

- HELLA subby Gerard

- Pegging mention

- Free use mention

- Established but secret relationship, fuck it we ball

Word Count: 2,435

Disclaimer: This explicit story was written by an adult for consumption by other adults only. If you are under 18, please do not read or interact in any way.

Gerard lets out a quiet whimper as the door closes behind you. You lean in to whisper a warning in his ear as you back him up against a wall.

"Quiet," you murmur before leaning in further, pressing a kiss to his neck. A soft albeit high-pitched sound breaks up from his throat as he relaxes underneath your touch.

You pull back, looking at him in the dim light of the venue's supply closet. He returns your gaze, swallowing hard.

You can't help but give him a sly smile. He's ruined already.

You're about to make it a whole lot worse.

"That's my good boy."

Before he can fully process the praise, your lips are pressed hard against his. He moans against your mouth, desperate. You can't resist making a comment about it when you pull away.

"So needy," you say. Then, because you always love to hear him say it: "Tell me what you want, baby."

He lets out another shaky whine before obliging you. "W-want you to keep touching me."

You giggle. "That's not very specific, is it?" You press an open-mouthed kiss to the edge of his jaw, working your way up until your lips rest just below his ear. "You could have me however you wanted," you whisper to him. "My hands... My mouth... My pussy... It's all yours."

As soon as these words pass your lips, you busy yourself with kissing him again, your mouth trailing back down his neck. He throws his head back, letting out another desperate groan.

Your eyes flick upwards, taking in the look on his face. His eyes are closed, ringed by eyeliner that has yet to be ruined by sweat, — or tears, if you had it your way. His mouth hangs open slightly, lost in the feeling of the meager touches and kisses that you're giving him. You're tempted to shove your fingers inside, make him suck and gag on them, but you figure it's best if that comes later. He still has to sing tonight, after all.

"Hurry up and tell me, baby," you urge him between kisses. "The show starts in thirty minutes. We don't have much time."

Judging by the way that Gerard is reacting to mere foreplay, you know that half an hour is more than enough time to get him off and continue going about your night. Still, there's something about the urgency that adds

another layer of thrill to the situation. The nagging notion that you shouldn't be doing this right now makes it all the more fun.

"Don't care what you do," Gerard finally manages. "Just want you to make me yours."

These words draw your attention to the insistent throbbing between your legs. Of course, knowing that you're in charge, you have to keep your composure.

"Just wanna be mine, huh?" you echo sweetly. "You wanna show everybody? Let everyone who looks at you know that you're my bitch?"

The degrading nickname elicits another pathetic whimper. "Yeah," he says. "Want them to know... Want them to see..."

You chuckle. "So they can picture how you look underneath me every night?" you ask. "You want them to hear all those dirty noises you make and wonder if that's what you sound like when I suck you off? Want them to talk about whether or not I'm the one fucking you?" You teasingly nip at his neck, inspiring a beautifully shrill cry that leaves you smiling against his skin.

"You know that they'd wonder," you go on. "The way that you bend over the amp... How you walk over to my drumset sometimes and mess with me, like you're just trying to piss me off... Everybody knows you're just begging to get fucked." You let out another laugh as you suck a hickey against a particularly tender spot on his neck. "God, I wish I had my strap. I'd fuck your brains out, right up against this wall. Ruin you before the show even starts."

These words cause him to let out a full-blown, desperate moan, leaning in to press his face against your neck. "Fuck me," he mutters.

You push him away from you, pinning him against the wall again. You give him a sly grin as your eyes rake over him, taking in his flushed face, the look of wanting in his eyes, the already-purpling marks on his neck.

He gives another shaky gulp, looking up at you with pleading eyes. Your smile fades away as you slowly shake your head. "You know, baby," you say. "I'm not sure you deserve that."

You swear that you see the hope draining from his eyes instantly. "What?" he huffs out, his voice high-pitched and whiny. "Why?"

In truth, you want nothing more than to sink down on him and ride him, quick and dirty, let him fill you up with his come before you walk onstage. Still, something tells you that teasing him before the show and spending the rest of the night getting him worked up will be much more fun in the end.

You hum, absentmindedly stroking the side of his face, — a gesture that is both condescending and affectionate enough to have Gerard melting against you. "You just haven't been as patient as you usually are," you explain. "You're usually so compliant, but tonight, you're being a bit... bratty."

He whines slightly, squirming slightly against your hold. "Sorry," he mumbles. "Was an accident, I swear. I—" He lets out a high-pitched sound of surprise as your hands travel down to his chest, pushing him up against the wall.

His eyes meet yours, pretty and coal-lined and filled with an unmistakable emotion. Fear.

You bare your teeth at him in the form of a dazzling smile. "Feeling ungrateful, are we?"

"N-no," he stammers, shaking his head back and forth pathetically.

"Hmm... I don't know." Before he can attempt to further explain himself, you lean in, giving him another deep, blistering kiss.

He kisses you back fervently, like he's afraid it's the only contact he'll have with you for the rest of the night. You're far too wet for that to be case, but that doesn't mean that you can't mess with him a little bit.

"You have two options," you tell him when he comes up for air, gasping for breath. You lean in so that your foreheads touch. As innocently domestic as the gesture may seem to others, the eye contact between the two of you is filled with white hot intensity. "Option number one: you get off from just my hand..."

One of your hands wanders down his body, landing on his belt buckle. You smile to yourself as you feel his breathing hitch.

"Or option number two..." You idly run your hand over his bulge for a moment before suddenly pulling back. "I go and fix my makeup right now, and leave you to take care of this by yourself."

"N-no," Gerard blurts out. "No, please..." You feel him shifting against you, desperately searching for just the slightest bit of friction.

You raise your eyebrows, pushing harder against his shoulders. "Behave," you caution him.

That one word is enough to make him go completely still, looking up at you with those sad doe eyes again.

You laugh softly, leaning in to kiss his cheek. "Good boy." Without warning, your hand returns to the fly of his jeans. Though you hear his quiet gasp, you are pleased to find that he remains motionless.

"Why don't you beg pretty for me?" you ask him, pressing your hand ever-so-slightly harder against the denim.

It doesn't take him any time to comply. "Please," he whimpers.

"Please, what?" you ask, beginning to rub your hand up and down, slowly, oh-so-fucking-slowly.

"Please, Mistress," Gerard pants without missing a beat. God, he's so fucking good. "Please let me use your hand to get off."

"There we go." Your lips return to his neck as you finally reach for his zipper. You continue sucking at that sensitive place as you tug his jeans halfway down. You pull away when you realize that there are no underwear for you to discard.

"Little slut." You reach out, grabbing his ass quickly before pulling your hand away again. "What's this for, huh? Easy access?"

"Hah... Maybe..." Gerard's head falls against your shoulder again as your hand crawls ever-closer to where he needs you.

"Aww, baby, don't be shy," you gently chide. "It's alright. You can tell me. You just want me to be able to have your cock whenever I want it, right?"

He cries out as you suddenly wrap your hand around his aching cock, slowly rubbing your hand upwards. "Mmm-hmm," he hums, face buried in your skin.

You run your thumb in circles around his head, collecting precome. "Louder, sweetheart."

"Y-yeah," he manages, lifting his head slightly. "I... I do. Want it... Want you... All the fucking time..."

You give a satisfied hum. "That's because you're my whore, isn't it?" Suddenly, you begin moving your hand faster, resulting in a beautiful series of strangled moans.

"Yeah. Yeah, it is." He throws his head back again, bucking his hips against your hand. "Fuck..."

You chuckle. "Bet you'd let me use you whenever I wanted, if you could." Your lips return to his neck, this time trailing the hollow of his throat. "What would you think about that, baby? If I just climbed on top of you when you were doing something else and took what I wanted?"

"Yeah. Fuck, yeah. I'd like that." He lets out another surprised cry as you speed up your movements even more. "Ohgod, please..."

"You just wanna be my good little whore all the time, right?" Your teeth scrape against a mark you had previously left on his neck, causing those pathetic little noises to grow even louder. "Just wanna be mine, in every single way?"

"Please," he begs. He's actually fucking your hand now, though you can't exactly bring yourself to mind. "Please, please make me yours..."

You laugh softly. "You already are mine, baby," you tell him earnestly. "And I'm all yours, too. But you want everyone else to see that, don't you?"

He nods frantically. "Uh-huh."

You grin, nipping lightly at one of the bruises. "That's so sweet, baby," you purr. "You're so good, you know that? I'm awfully lucky."

"Th-thank you." He wraps his arms around your waist, attempting to hold you as close as he possibly can as your hand speeds up and your tongue flattens against the side of his hickey-strewn neck. "Oh, fuck..."

You simply hum against his skin, now moving your wrist at a breakneck speed.

You continue your ministrations until you feel his breathing falling out of time, his chest heaving against yours in a series of frantic gasps.

At that point, you pull back.

"Wh-what're you doing?" Gerard asks, eyes flashing with that look of panic once again.

You grin up at him as you sink to the floor. You know that getting on your knees for him sort of defies your dominance, but...

"Look at me," you order him as your hand returns to his cock.

His breath hitches as his eyes flick downwards, meeting yours.

You keep your eyes on his as you speed back up.

"That's it," you encourage him. You take note of all the signs that indicate that he's right there, ready to explode on the pull of a fucking hairpin trigger. His eyes look hazy, — clouded over, almost. His breathing comes in uneven gasps. "My good, pretty boy. You look so gorgeous, fucking my hand like this..."

Your praise causes his hips to buck harder against your hand. At this point, you aren't even sure if that's voluntary or not. "Oh... oh, please... God..."

"Feels good, huh?" You abruptly slow your movements, building up to what you think is a teasing pace as your hand moves along his shaft. "My good boy. Can't believe I get you all to myself. Can't believe that you're mine..."

Suddenly, his hips buck harder against your hand, a strangled groan breaking up from his throat. "Oh, fuck!"

You gasp as the first spurt of come spills all over your hand.

You milk him through it until he finally collapses against the wall, body twitching slightly with overstimulation.

"Mmm... Such a good boy." You bring your hand up to your mouth, eyes never leaving his as you lick the mess away from your fingers. Gerard's face manages to turn redder, even in his rosy afterglow.

You look down for a moment, only to find that your hand wasn't the only thing that had gotten messy.

"Motherfucker," you curse, regarding your now-ruined T-shirt with dismay. You rise slowly to your feet, tugging at the fabric.

"What the fuck am I supposed to do about this, Gerard?" you ask. "We go on in ten minutes. I don't have time to change..."

"Here." Gerard quickly tugs his vest off and holds it out to you. "Just wear this."

You cast a curious glance over your shoulder at him, now just wearing his plain black T-shirt. "You want me to go onstage wearing your clothes?" you ask. "Wouldn't that make people... speculate?"

He shakes his head. "Don't even care."

You can't help but smile at this declaration. "Alrighty. Singer's definitely fucking the drummer. Got it." You allow him to help you into the jacket before holding up a finger. "Now, just give me a sec..."

He regards you with a curious look as he redoes his pants. The look of confusion on his face never ceases when you remove the bandana from around your neck. "What..."

He suddenly goes silent as you wrap the bandana around his wrist, fastening it with a loose knot. "There," you say as you proudly pull away. "Everyone can see that we belong to each other now, right?"

For a moment, he just looks at you, eyes swimming with affection. Then, his hand comes to rest underneath your chin, pulling you closer to him.

You kiss him for what seems like forever, growing dizzy from the feeling after getting so fucking wet for him.

When he finally breaks away, Gerard offers you a question, so quiet you can barely hear it. "Marry me?"

You chuckle, pulling away. "Ask me again when you aren't so fucked out."

Little do you know as you step onstage that he fully intends on trying again later.

Maybe later tonight, at the hotel, he thinks as the roar of the crowd fills his ears. You turn to smile at him, your fingers brushing just slightly before the lights come up.

Taglist (Ask to be included!):

@mysunfishpeedinmyroom @xocasper @clichedlovers @enchantinghouseofwh0res @yachiiko @dangerouslittlefairy @deadlovers

#gerard way imagines #gerard way x reader #gerard way smut #mcr imagines #mcr x reader #mcr fanfiction #mcr smut #my chemical romance smut #my chemical romance imagines #my chemical romance x reader #/rpf #my chemical romance fanfiction #kinktober 2022 #my writing

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decepti-thots · 1 year

Note

Prowl for the ask meme? (Obvs)

one aspect about them i love: The thing about Prowl is that I mostly love writing him. I didn't really develop a reputation as The Prowl Person until I accidentally discovered he is the most fun to write. So: what do I love writing about him. I really enjoy the fact that Prowl is someone who simultaneously isolates himself and wants people to still have connections with him, and the friction that comes out of it. The thing that stands out to me most is how genuinely devastated he is when he realises, in exRiD, that Bumblebee could not tell when he wasn't himself- that realisation that he has pushed everyone away so effectively that he has become alien to them. I think of Prowl as someone who has spent a very, very long time breaking himself down to force himself into a new shape, and that jarring realisation that he has succeeded so well he is no longer recognisable as the person he thought he was- that no core of him necessarily remains that people can still see underneath- is fascinating to me. The same when Optimus talks about how Prowl has a long list of people he feels have betrayed him, too. He wants to be free of attachments but when those people leave, he feels it as a loss, because on some level he still wants that. It's such a mess. And that it's a self-directed and unasked for self destruction makes it more interesting.

one aspect i wish more people understood about them: Prowl is not telling the truth about himself. He is not someone who makes decisions fully logically and divorced from his emotions. He is not a Shockwave; I've said it before, but a lot of what he does makes more sense if you understand him as a very strange kind of sentimental, even. And frankly, he's not even the smartest person in the room half the time. (Not with some of the rooms he's in; I mean, he is smart, but he's also still often overestimating himself in relation to others.) Prowl is unreliable as a judge of himself, and anyone who takes him at face value just because he also lies in his own head is wrong to do so. When he claims he did what needed to be done and which noone else is willing to do, that is not a claim that should be accepted at face value!

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have about this character: Prowl did not like his pre-war job as a cop. Oh, he liked parts of it. But mostly he felt it was an obligation and that you should perform your obligations regardless of if you like them or not. He liked finding patterns in things, and doing forensics, and being meticulous about the more abstract parts of his work, and he hated all the parts where it intersected with colleagues and people and politics and the rest; he would have been a good scientist, probably, in another life. He overcompensated for this by being very vicious about people like Whirl who tried to actually leave and go find something better. He's here still forcing himself to do this thing he doesn't want to, they should all put up with it too. For the "greater good". (His idea of what counts as doing 'good' being uhhh. Untrustworthy, here.) He did, however, once take that exam for potential alt mode exemption, without telling anyone. He failed it.

one character i love seeing them interact with: I love his and Arcee's relationship in exRiD. They are such fascinating foils. Arcee is many things, but she is self aware. She's got a limited sense of her own identity, but what she has she knows about herself. And then there's Prowl, who has increasingly lost any sense of who the fuck he even is anymore. Arcee refuses to let him obfuscate; she does the dirty work and makes him acknowledge that's what it is. And then she's the one who does notice he's not himself! Immediately! Prowl is so uncomfortable around her, and refuses to let her in, and it's probably one of the stupidest things he does. Because she's the only person in a position to help him climb out of the hole he's dug himself into, since she herself has had to figure out how the hell you come back from the sort of life that is pretty much impossible to just apologise for.

one character i wish they would interact with/interact with more: god I would have killed for more Prowl-Kup interactions. I wish we knew more about that relationship. The whole thing of what Prowl did to him with the mind control is so... like. It's so much. Just a whole lot. What would a conversation after that even have LOOKED like. And then at the same time, they have that connection in the form of Prowl giving him Springer, which clearly meant so much to Kup. You have the fact Prowl winds up going through something very similar to what he put Kup through and being completely fucked up by it. I wish there'd been a place for just like. One conversation on neutral ground after... everything. I wanna see if there's anything salvagable or if it's just horrible bitterness all the way down. Why the FUCK did they kill Kup off in a crossover again. >:(

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have that involve them and one other character: Prowl finds Verity on Earth post-Unicron and they have a talk about what happened to Springer. Enough time has passed that she's willing to meet with him, and also he managed to rally his common sense for five seconds for once and did ask first, like someone with manners. It's not a very pleasant conversation for him, honestly, but it does mean that he finally finds out just what happened, not just to Springer but to Tarantulas and Impactor as well.

#ask meme

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the-owl-tree · 3 months

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this might be the aromantic love anarchist "i don't care as long as both me and my partner is happy" non-monogamist side of me but i still don't get why people get so mad abt cheating when it comes to appledusk because like

A. Mapleshade is an evil freak (affectionate on my part cause i like her that way) who is characterized as being an abrasive person who's not fun to be around and also very dangerous and scary, i would not feel safe to break up with her if i was no longer ionterested

B. He had no reason to put his own life in danger for Maple (considering maple got exiled herself for her half clan relationship in the same book, he wouldve been in danger)

C. He still cared about his kids and was still concerned for their safety, even more so than Mapleshade was

D. Murder and all sorts of debauchery are happpneing from literally everyone else in this story and ur hung up on a two-timer?

I mean cheating is bad, it's a big breach of consent between two individuals and it hurts a lot! Obviously, no, cheating is not worthy of the death penalty before the bad faith readers out there get me lol but cheating is still a very painful thing to do to someone else, it can shake your faith in others, hurt your self-worth, and so on and so on. Shitty thing to do! Don't do it! (Not directed at you but-) cheating gets thrown around as this nonplussed thing that isn't that bad but no!!! it hurts people!!

As for your other points:

A) I don't think there's enough points in the book that Appledusk felt uncomfortable voicing his opinions around Maple. You could make the interpretation, sure, but he seems pretty comfortable telling her what and what not to do as well as challenging her when she speaks. I personally don't read his interactions with her as who's scared to speak up. I could even argue the way he expresses joy for having children is leading her on that they are a serious relationship.

B) I mean yeah sure, no one has the obligation to help anyone lol but it's still a generally good thing to do. You can argue what he's saying is reasonable, that it's understandable that he's looking out for himself....but that still doesn't erase the hurt he's causing. Like, she just lost three children then got hit with the fact the father of said children has been cheating on her, gets called a mistake, and then has said mate tell her to "be grateful she was shown mercy".

It's an awful way to treat someone and even when he has the chance to show her kindness, he chooses to berate and growl at her! Yeah, once again, you can argue it's understandable but logical actions do not negate the harm done to others.

C. Too low of a bar, I'm sorry lol not hating your kids and being concerned about them is like. the bar is on the ground sort of things for me

D. Murder is fine because it's fun to read but characters that annoy me should die. I've just got a general disdain for him after the Frecklewish Debacle.

#deer rambles #you raise interesting points for an interpretation. but not necessarily an interpretation i buy is happening in canon

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whatawonderfulexistence--blog · 7 months

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Kinktober Day 5: Edging (Falk x Fem! Reader SMUT)

DAY 5: I believe I am slowly losing my mind, the smut has consumed me, thank you @spookyghostjelly for putting up with me being crazy 🖤

WARNING: MINORS DO NOT INTERACT, 18+, ADULT CONTENT, edging, pussy eating, praise, fingering, biting, FEM! Reader, AFAB! Reader, I think that's it if I missed any let me know!

My Masterlist! ~ AO3 Link!

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You powered down the hallway, not caring about the concerned looks you were getting for your irritated expression. Today was not going your way, it seemed like it was just one minor inconvenience after the other that built up until you felt like you were ready to explode. You pushed open the half open door to your husband's office, finding him reading at his desk. He peers up at you, his book snapping shut as a smile spreads across his face. "Hallo meine Mäuschen, wie geht's?" (Hello my little mouse, how are you?) You collapse into the chair with a huff, crossing your arms over your chest, your face stuck in an exasperated scowl. Falk leans his elbows on his desk, giving you a patient smile. "What's wrong Maus? I don't like seeing such an aggravated expression on such a pretty face."

He scoots back from his desk, patting his thigh as a signal for you to come sit. You oblige, letting him cradle you against him as you get comfortable in his lap. "I'm just not having a good day, that's all." You grumble.

"Do you want to talk about it?" He asks, his thumb rubbing soothingly over your hip.

"I was stuck in traffic for over an hour trying to go across town, it made me late for brunch with Primo and Terzo. Then, I was trying to get in touch with the caterer for the party in a few weeks and I was put on hold for an unreasonably long time. I had some work to take care of in the library and there was a line almost out the door at the service desk." You groan as you list out every single minute annoyance to him, Falk sat there and listened attentively, but you could tell by his expression that he had something to say.

"It sounds like meine Mäuschen needs to learn some patience." He remarks with a chuckle. "And, perhaps, to let off some steam, hm?" An arm slips under your knees, allowing Falk to lift you effortlessly as he stands. He sat you on the edge of his desk and you watched him closely, wondering what exactly he had planned. He loosens his tie with a groan, kicking the door shut with his foot before locking it. You rest the heels of your hands on his desk, leaning back with a smirk. Falk saunters over to you, his tie undone and hanging around his neck.

"Is this how you plan on helping me let off some steam?" You giggle, your arms sliding around his neck as his hands mold to your waist.

"Oh, by the time I'm done with you Maus you're going to have trouble remembering your name, nevermind the day you've had." He winks at you. He leans into you, capturing your lips with his own. You let out a satisfied hum at the feeling of him pulling you closer, your ass perched on the very edge of his desk. He slowly pushes up the hem of your dress, his fingers leaving a trail of goosebumps in their midst. He groans at the sight of you wearing nothing underneath. He drops to his knees, placing featherlike kisses to your soft skin. "You are absolutely divine, Engel." He praises, causing you to giggle.

"I was planning on surprising you when we got back from dinner." He offers you a hum of approval.

"I promise you can still have your fun when we get home," he chuckles, "but I have plans for you right now." You card your fingers through his hair, gazing down at him longingly.

"And what might that be lovey?" Your head falls back with a soft moan as he latches his mouth around your thigh, sucking a dark purple bruise that your dress would just barely cover.

“You’ll just have to wait and find out.” He smirks up at you with a wink. Falk takes his time getting you warmed up, knowing all the right places to kiss you in order to turn you into a squirming mess beneath him. He places sloppy open mouthed kisses around your clit, you whined desperately. You tugged his hair, trying to pull his mouth closer. “Ask nicely.” He coos.

“Please, I need you.” You whimper. He chuckles, his hot breath fanning over your sex sending a shiver up your spine. He flicks his tongue over your clit, you instantly cry out at the much needed contact. He rolls his tongue in time with the movement of your hips, his name repeatedly falling from your lips as he expertly dragged you to the brink of your climax. “Don’t stop, please!” You try to plead with him as he pulls off of you completely.

“I told you Maus, you need to learn some patience.” He chuckles, leaning back in to lick one long, broad stripe up your soaked cunt. “I’ll give you what you want as long as you’re good and wait.” You fall back flat against the desk with a groan.

“Fine.” You mumble. He wraps his arms around your hips, making sure you are held firmly in place. His nose nudges against your clit as he allows his tongue to push inside of you. You grab onto his head with a sob, trying to chase any remnants of your previously impending orgasm. The vibrations of Falk chuckling against you threatens to send you over the edge only for him to pull off you once again.

“So needy baby.” He teases you. “What are we at? Two?” You gasp as he slips his long fingers inside of you, giving you a few slow pumps. “If you’re good you can finish at twenty.” He slowly begins to increase his pace. Falk knew your body better than you knew it yourself. Knowing exactly how to bring you right to the edge of your orgasm before pulling away entirely. “I can’t hear you counting, Maus.”

“S-sixteen.” You stutter, you were barely able to hold your eyes open, your brain feeling like utter mush. You wail as his mouth latches back around your clit, his fingers pumping into you at an almost inhuman pace. Your nails dug into his shoulders, leaving behind deep crescents in his skin. “Seventeen.” You feel the tears start to slide down your cheeks as he pulls away from you again.

“Only three more, Engel. You can do it.” He encourages you softly. You don’t know how he didn’t manage to break you during two of those final edgings.

“Twenty.” You sobbed.

“Are you ready to cum sweetheart?” He asks, placing a kiss to your nose.

“Please let me cum, I’ve been so good, I need to cum so bad.” He kisses you harshly, allowing you to taste the mixture of your juices and his saliva on your tongue. He drops back between your legs, desperately lapping at your folds. You screamed his name, his tongue swiping over your clit sending you crashing into your climax. Your legs shook, clamping around his ears as his tongue fucked into you through your climax. You started to giggle as your orgasm faded away. Falk stands with a smile, your juices coating his lower face.

“Wasn’t that worth waiting for?” He asks smugly. He wipes his face on his sleeve before helping you fix your dress.

“Just wait until I get my hands on you later.” You threaten, looking at him seductively. He lets out an intrigued hum, wrapping your legs around his waist and kissing you passionately.

“Let’s see if you can follow through on that, little one.” He chuckles.

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

Tag List: @spookyghostjelly @ramblingoak @kissingghouls @mustluvecho @the-hole-in-terzos-shoe @belnovacaine @iamsarahsaysso @mikathemushroom @vampghoulette

#falk powerwolf #powerwolf band #powerwolf fan fiction #powerwolf falk #powerwolf fanfiction #powerwolf fanfic #powerwolf falk maria schlegel #falk maria schlegel powerwolf #falk maria schlegel x reader #falk x reader #falk maria schlegel #falk powerwolf x reader #falk powerwolf smut #falk maria schlegel smut #falk maria schlegel fan fiction #falk maria schlegel x reader smut #my writing #my fanfiction

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animebw · 3 months

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Thinking back on it, I'm realizing there aren't many straightforward idol anime I actually like. Like, Zombieland Saga is lots of fun, but the idol stuff is consistently the weakest part of it and I always feel myself tuning out whenever that's the focus. I guess I liked Heroines Run the Show before it went to shit in the back half? Does Ya Boi Kongming count? Symphogear, technically? Maybe Hanayamata? I dunno, I feel like all those shows have asterisks that keep them from being straightforward idol-y enough to qualify. Meanwhile, by far the most traditional idol show I've watched so far has been Shine Post, and hoooooooo boy did I end up hating that one.

I think the problem is, as I grow increasingly cynical and jaded in my old, withered age of 25 years old, the overwhelming positivity that defines the idol genre starts to feel forced and cloying. It's easy enough for "believe in yourself and try your best" to work as an overall theme if you're sincere enough to pull it off. But the second that theme becomes an obligation or an afterthought, it can very quickly turn a show into the most suffocating, shrink-wrapped piece of sanitized goop imaginable. It becomes a way for a story to avoid being about anything, spouting generic platitudes and cynically designed cuteness with all its edges sanded down and dull. When I look at the weaker idol anime I've watched, I don't see stories that come by their earnestness, well, earnestly. I see coldly calculated, market-tested corporate branding exercises that say nothing, express nothing, and don't dare step a single toe out of line. A plastic smile plastered across an empty styrofoam mannequin, babying its audience with lazy, simplified moralizing because it doesn't think they're capable of anything more complex than Teletubbies, and god forbid we lose a single audience member trying to actually make an artistic statement.

But that's the thing about Juuki Hanada as a writer.

When this man wants to get messy?

He gets fucking messy.

So much of what makes Hanada's writing so powerful, in comedy and drama alike, is how well he's able to let the reins go of his characters and let them crash into each other. Snappy one-liners and comebacks battling for dominance, chaotic personalities setting off fireworks of all kinds through their interactions, but also raw, ugly emotional confrontations that don't sugarcoat anything out of fear his audience isn't mature enough to handle it. Not all of his stuff is a masterpiece- I could spend hours talking about how badly Kyoukai no Kanata's plot falls apart in the second half, Steins;Gate gets more and more exhausting the more I think about it- but even his weakest works carry the unmistakable passion of a writer holding nothing back. And when he's firing on all cylinders? You might just end up with the single greatest coming-of-age tale this medium has ever produced.

And it turns out, that sensibility is exactly what a show like Love Live needs to succeed. Because even the most optimistic, inspirational story imaginable needs that edge to temper itself against. The sheer chaos of its lovable cast bouncing off each other isn't just what makes the comedy work so well, it's what lets these dramatic moments sting the way they need to. Because it's only in recognizing these harsher moments- failure, frustration, despair- that its triumphs are able to be so meaningful. I care about Muse because I've seen what it looks like when they fall short, and I care about Honoka because this show lets me see her at her lowest, at her most human and vulnerable. These characters aren't just plastic simulations of cute girls selling a fantasy; they feel like a real friend group, messy and anarchic and free. Free to express themselves with the full palette of the human experience, even the parts most of us would rather pretend didn't exist. And it makes their successes matter in a way they wouldn't if we didn't have that grounding in the unbearable chaos of being.

Love Live is not a deconstruction, or a subversion, or a dark parody or anything so gauche. It's nothing more of less than a straightforward, inspirational idol show. But it's a straightforward, inspirational idol show that knows it doesn't have to sacrifice its raw humanity to shine with the brightest stars in the sky. And that, folks, makes all the difference in the world.

#anime #tabw #the anime binge watcher #love live! school idol project #love live!#love live #2013 aniwatch

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royallyprincesslilly · 1 year

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Title: Crown For Two {9}

Henry Cavill AU x OFC Xari Thornton

Warning: Mild Cursing, Cheesy Christmas Themes, Fluff,

Words: 8.2k

Summary: Xari Thornton is a travel photographer with a blog and social media that garners some heavy-duty traffic. People tune in to see where she is and what she’s doing there, all in hopes of either living vicariously through her or to plan their next vacation.

Her slogan: “Traveling the path to the most off-beaten places, so you don’t have to.”

Her next stop on her four-destination travel itinerary of “Places You May Never Have Heard Of” is Sandvell, a small European country. When her plane makes an impromptu stop due to bad weather, she has no idea where she is. It feels like she’s stepped inside of a snow globe and back in time in a modern way. It leaves her fascinated.

This bad weather forces her to stay at an Inn, The Beaux, for the night. She explores and meets the friendly locals. One local in particular captures her lens with eyes as blue as the ocean and a jaw that was chiseled from stone. Once they separate, she gets herself into a harrowing situation.

As soon as she awakens, she realizes she’s not in some fever dream, but a palace and the owner of the palace is none other than the local she met before with the piercing blue eyes, His Royal Highness Henry Wellington Leopold Danglishton, First of his name, Crown Prince of Brexendor.

Note: AND WE’RE BACK!!! It’s December again which means we all need a cheesy Christmas romance. 😁 I know this has been gone for a long, long time and I am thankful for each of you who still care about it. As a reminder, it’s going to be fast-paced a bit, and I am gonna overload you with pictures because why the hell not, it’s a Christmas Fic. 😁 Feel free to come by and tell me what you guys think.

As always, thank you all for reading, I appreciate each and every one of you.

If you enjoyed this, please, LIKE, COMMENT, REBLOG!!! ❤️❤️

***NOT Edited/Proofread***

***Interactive***

Previous Chapters: {1} | {2} | {3} | {4} | {5} | {6} | {7} | {8} |

-Y/N-

“Hey you’ve reached Neka. I’m too busy living my life the way I want to and can’t be bothered to answer. Leave a message and I’ll call you back. If I want to.”

You sighed hearing your sister’s very familiar voicemail message.

“Aneka, it’s me. Where are you? I get this place is obscenely huge and there is plenty to explore but pick up the damn phone. Let me know you’re okay.”

You ended the call and sighed again as you made sure you had everything in your purse. A few moments later, you stopped thinking again about going to this thing. Half of you was telling you it was a bad idea and that you should stay away from everything related to this country including its crown prince. However, the other side was traitorous and telling you to run carefree and live by the seat of your panties and take them off for said crown prince.

What’s the worst that could happen? You recognized the question from the carefree and often diabolical devil on your shoulder.

Humiliation and heartbreak are what. The words from the practical and cautious angel on the other side of your shoulder piped up.

You stood there thinking about both sides for a few moments then continued putting items into your purse.

Good girl, live a little, have some fun and get a few orgasms at the same time. Win/win. The devil was on a roll.

It is all fun and games until you get your heart broken by an actual prince who has obligations to be with someone other than you.

The angel’s words were like a gut punch. It was right.

MSG Aneka: I’m sorry RiRi. I’m going to this thing in the park. You should come I hear it’s a lot of fun.

Your sister never ceased to amaze you. She’d found out about the citizen’s Brexenavide on her own and was already in the thick of it. She had no problem going with the flow and having a good time when she saw it could be had. You sighed again, finally deciding to just do it. However, a few minutes after making the decision you scowled remembering who you’d be driving with.

There was something about this Freddie girl that rubbed you the wrong way. Something about her that screamed she was not to be trusted and that included enough to be in the same car. You groaned because you’d long left high school and the petty turf wars of petty bitches behind. You were an adult now who had bills and obligations and checking a rich bitch wasn’t one of them. A smirk spread across your face as you came to the realization that you were happy to rise to the occasion though. After looking yourself over, you divided to change. While your current outfit was cute, one look outside said you needed something warmer.

At that thought there was a knock at your door. When you opened it, you found a honey eyed member of the staff you recognized. She smiled and bowed her head slightly.

“Ms. Xari. I come with a message from Princess Jemma.”

Recognition hit you then, “Tamina, right?”

She smiled wider and nodded, clearly delighted you remembered her.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Come in, please.”

“No need ma’am. This is from the princess. She wanted you to have it for the event today. Her direct message is to wear it and it will ensure no one will be able to take their eyes off of you.”

What the hell did that mean? You reached out to Tamina and took the two garment bags that were lying across her forearms.

“Thank you, Tamina. Please thank the princess.”

Tamina bowed again before walking off. When you turned back into your room you staggered to the bed from the weight of the items in your arms and laid the bags across your bed. Unzipping the first one, your eyes widened at the sight of a chic, and beautiful outfit resting there. The items looked designer, and no doubt must have costed several thousand dollars. Your hand brushed against the shiny leather of the pants and instantly recognized it was high quality. It went perfect with the cropped knitted sweater that rested just atop it.

You didn’t know how Jemma knew you were a sucker for leather pants, but you were busting at the seams to try them on. Every woman needed a great pair of leather pants that made their ass pop. You reached for the second bag and opened it and gasped. A plush fur coat that brought the whole thing together waited for you to touch it. You were so tempted, and that temptation proved to be too much. When your fingers entangled in the fur, you cooed. It was perfect. Leather and fur, how luxurious, you thought.

When in Rome, or Brexendor. Live a little. The angel on your shoulder had a point. Within minutes, you’d peeled off your own clothing and changed into the ones sent by Jemma. Surprisingly they were a perfect fit. The moment you buttoned the pants you sighed. They were made for you. Once you’d pulled it all together, you stood in front of the full-length mirror in the room and surveyed your look from every angle. Every angle passed the test. You looked damn good. For the final test, you dropped down like you were doing the beat drop challenge and kept your eyes on your ass. A wide grin spread across your face.

“Thank you, Jemma!”

You hurried into the closet, remembering you’d already packed the perfect boots to wear with this outfit. When you’d packed, Aneka had made fun of you saying you were going to slip on a patch of ice and break your neck because of them. You didn’t bother telling her it would never happen because no one pays nearly nine hundred dollars for boots that were designed for cold weather in mind with the chance of said boots sending you to your death because they couldn’t hold up. You’d worn these two times before and they’d never failed you.

Standing in front of the mirror again, this time in the knee-high fur heeled boots you smirked. Jemma’s words came to mind then.

“Wear it and it will ensure no one will be able to take their eyes off of you.”

You wondered if Henry would be among those who couldn’t keep their eyes off of you. Memories of the night before flooded your mind and within seconds you were frozen reminiscing of the way his hands felt against your skin, the scent of his breath as he moaned against your ear, the taste of his lips and the intensity in his eyes when his locked with yours. You had to put a hand out to stabilize yourself because the thought of his body pressing on top of yours made your knees buck

With much effort, you pulled yourself back to reality. If you thought about him any longer you knew you’d be on edge all day which you guessed would be akin to torture. There was a nagging feeling inside of you that told you that you’d need to be alert today. After checking your make up once more, you grabbed your purse and phone then made your way downstairs. As you passed by the staff you stopped for small talk, inquiring about everyone’s health and thanking them for all they’d done for you thus far. Each of them looked surprised but more than happy to stop and chat with you.

When you stepped outside into the entry roundabout of the palace, you saw a long line of cars waiting and plenty of bustling bodies still in preparing mode for the departure. You watched the dignitaries load in their cars and pull off one by one. From the looks of all this pomp and flair, you knew this event was much more than just meeting the citizens. Perhaps this was a test of some sorts. You saw the man who’d been introduced as the prime minister do a quick perimeter check, surveying the around area before he looked in your direction. You expected him to get into the car as normal, but he didn’t. Instead, he stared in your direction and the longer he did the more the hairs on the back of your neck stood like your entire being was trying to tell you something about the man.

The feel of someone touching your left elbow startled you.

“My apologies Lady Thornton,” said one of the palace butlers.

“It’s all right.”

“Your car.”

His hand stretched to the left at a silver car with its door open and waiting. Through the window, you could see the woman who’d so eagerly offered herself and her car to get you to the event. You were under no false pretenses about her sincerity in doing so. There was something more to her supposedly kind offer. You weren’t in a hurry to find out just how much more but from the way you’d caught her looking at Henry the night of the ball you had your guesses. You allowed the butler to direct you to the car and see you inside.

As soon as you sat, the woman across from you pasted a smile on her face. It was one of those basic instinct smiles, a smile that housed a thousand lies, and a thousand and one daggers.

“Xari, darling!”

Your eyes widened. It had been a while since you’d been around this level of fake.

“Thank you offering to get me to the event,” you breached.

She smiled wider, if that was possible then leaned closer and took your hand in hers. “No thank you needed, dear. I have always been keen on helping those less fortunate.”

You heard the bells of a boxing match in your head. She’d started round one.

“Wow, um--.”

“What a cute outfit you’ve chosen for yourself. I worried your tastes would be too—tactless for what the Brexendor press are used to, but I am surprised to see tactlessness will be missing from the day, at least in your outfit.”

You cocked your head to the side. How did she manage to make so many insults sound so pleasant? You stifled a snort because thanks to your upbringing you’d been forced to go through debutant classes where you learned everything from etiquette to the art of polite disrespect. It was a southern thing. Those classes had prepared you to deal with the southern aunties, upper class grandmothers and quite a few socialites who thought they were better than everyone else because they had a trust fund and a rotation of cars for every day of the week.

You opened your mouth to speak but the door on the right of the car opened first. First it was your sister, Aneka who ducked inside and sat beside you, then Albee, the man with the pretty eyes from the ball who sat beside Freddie.

“Aneka?”

She looped her arm with yours and smiled. “I thought you’d left already?”

“I was but I got—distracted,” she said coyly smiling at Albee who smirked right back.

“What are you doing in my car, Albee? Though I know yours is far less luxurious than mine I am sure you have your own car,” Freddie cheeked.

Albee didn’t look fazed in the least, instead he smirked and made himself more comfortable in his seat. “Freddie you are aware that we are the same rank, correct?”

“Duchess Frederica,” she retorted through clenched teeth.

Albee scoffed. “Freddie. We’re all friends here, no need for titles. Only those who feel themselves more important than you truly are need to lean on such trivial things.”

Freddie glared at him with one brow raised.

“Since you are offering transport, I humbly accept your offer. Driver, carry on.”

Before Freddie could reply, the car took motion, and she didn’t look one bit happy about it. You and Aneka exchanged glances speaking through them as you usually did. You were tempted to bust out your secret language from when you were kids but didn’t want to come off as intentionally rude. This was a tit for tat game.

“And who are you?”

Freddie’s calculating eyes landed on Aneka, but she didn’t shrink back, Aneka instead raised her brow and put on a sugar sweet smile on her face.

“Aneka, Xari’s sister.”

Freddi’s eyebrow darted upward as she took both of you in. “So there are two less fortunate souls that need our charity.”

“The only thing unfortunate is your dye job. Did you pay for that?”

The fire in Freddie’s eyes sparked and you saw Aneka had struck a nerve. It was after all her specialty.

“Oh don’t tease dear Freddie about her hair. She loves it more than Jesus and little children,” Albee teased.

“Children are disgusting,” she added never taking her eyes off of Aneka.

“Interesting. That is not what I recall you telling the queen just a few weeks ago. What was it? Oh, I do so love children and cannot wait until I can become a mother. I do believe it is my life’s purpose.”

You couldn’t help but snort. Dipping your head to the side to hide in Aneka’s shoulder you snickered.

“I knew I scented fake on you, but I didn’t know it was this much of it,” Aneka added.

“Fake? Are we talking about fake as in your supposed Gucci shoes or perhaps that atrocity you call hair atop your head? That level of fake?”

Aneka lunged forward but your hand across her chest like a theme park ride safety bar stopped her.

“Ri, Aneka began but the look you gave her stopped any further words.

“So your hair is a sore topic? Remember that before you even attempt to go toe to toe with me.”

You could hear Aneka’s teeth grinding. You knew she had it in her to beat Freddie’s ass in record time then step out the car without so much as a scratch on her. However, this was not the place and definitely not the time. You didn’t want to offend the queen or the family especially with the level of hospitality they were currently showing you both.

“Take it easy Freddie. We wouldn’t want a repeat of what happened two Christmases ago. I don’t think the gossip would die down so quickly this time,” Albee cautioned.

The look Freddie gave him could have frozen anyone’s heart, but he didn’t look bothered at all. His smile was bright as he met the challenge of her icy gaze. It was clear that this was normal for the two of them. Either this was a huge scheme between them to dupe the newcomer or the two disliked each other.

“Why am I not surprised that you have found yet another commoner to slum it with. Do you not have any sense of pride or self-worth? Do you not feel them beneath you?”

Aneka made a move to lunge at Freddie again, but you held firmly to her and brought her attention to look out the window.

“Tsk, Tsk Freddie. Where is your decorum? My sense of pride and worth were never in question. Yours however—I can after all say I have never had a lifelong pursuit of someone who didn’t want me in the slightest bit.”

You tucked that bit of information away for when you were alone to dissect it. All conversation stopped and you pointed things out to Aneka. Everything you pointed out Albee took it upon himself to either explain or give backstory to. It was interesting the information he revealed about the country. It was clear from his voice he also loved his home. With every other sentence he spoke, Freddie had a snide remark for. Either it was something to make him look bad or to point out how out of bounds you were to even be here.

Thankfully, the car pulled into the destination when it did because you were quickly approaching the limit to your acceptance and ability to turn the other cheek. You looked at all the things that were set up for this event. Off to the side where the path was fully paved, there were stations set up for snacks, drinks, souvenirs, pictures and a few other things such as arts and crafts. Across the massive open field there was plenty to do. The car rolled past a toboggan area where children and adults were already speeding down the steep slope having a fabulous time. There was even an ice-skating rink that looked like the perfect photo-op to showcase how picturesque this country really was. You caught sight of other stalls set up with games, even child and family friendly park rides and even animals for petting.

“Wow, give me this over a ball any day,” Aneka said.

Freddie scoffed, rolling her eyes, “Gauche,” she hissed.

The car door opened but before Freddie could make a move you slammed it shut again and locked it. You’d had enough.

“I have sat here this entire car ride and listened to your disrespect and belittlement of myself, and my sister and I let you get it all out because I know those who feel threatened the most always feel the need to wail and moan about it so their voices are the ones heard the loudest to distract from how insignificant they truly feel and are.”

Freddie’s eyes blazed. She opened her mouth to speak but you continued, keeping your voice steady. “I wasn’t going to point out your insignificance, but I feel I must now. If you had any respect for yourself, your country and people you would shut your mouth and practice a little thing we call in America and by we, I mean women with mine and Aneka’s hair, call self-restraint and self-love. Because you would truly understand that you reflect upon your country and people. It is very telling of your low intelligence when all you can do is attempt to make others feel lowly about themselves because you put so much value on wealth. This holier than thou act will only lead to one thing in your life, shame and loneliness. Though I think you are fully aware of the loneliness part. You can’t make me feel bad about myself because I know my worth and it is astronomically higher than yours and we both know he sees that.”

Freddie sputtered clearly trying to find the words for a comeback. You gave her a good five seconds to compute but even that wasn’t enough. Poor little Tink Tink, you thought as you unlocked the door. It opened as soon as you did like the driver had been trying the entire time. You didn’t wait for her to climb out you took the initiative and took the driver’s hand and climbed out of the car holding onto Aneka’s hand bringing her with you.

As soon as you stepped out of the car, you caught Henry’s eye. His brows were burrowed and there was a look of concern on his face. You gave him a polite smile and head nod as you rounded the car. Slowly, he brought his attention to the group of men before him. Albee stepped beside you then leaned close to your ear.

“She has fangs,” he whispered.

You smirked, “And my bite and bark are both deadly.”

His smile widened as he tipped his invisible hat to you.

“I like you,” Albee added as the line of dignitaries began moving. “And I can see why he likes you too.”

His voice was lower this time, but it was his words that had you stumbling. Thanks to Aneka’s grip on your arm, it was barely noticeable. Thank goodness too because the press were hungrily snapping pictures of everyone and everything. You and the others stood to the side as Henry, the queen and Jemma shook hands and took the lead in the festivities. Your eyes couldn’t help but follow Henry as he shook the hands of several people while exchanging pleasantries. His smile was wide and the gleam in his eyes said he was genuinely happy to be there and interact with them all.

When you saw him dip down to greet a few children, your ovaries practically exploded. The kids melted and in turn he did too. He played around with them as his mother and sister took over with greeting the adults. The more you watched the more your heart thumped thinking how adorable he looked.

“Romancing the daughters of the dignitaries, Duke Baldrik?”

Your attention turned to a photog standing in front of the three of you snapping pictures. The bright lights blinded you momentarily making you bring your hand to shield your face.

“Ha, not at all, Albee replied with a bachelor perfect smile.

“They look unfamiliar. Who might they be?”

“Honored guests of the crown,” Albee offered holding out his arms for both you and Aneka to take. Once you did, he tipped his head to the photog and began ushering you toward the stalls that were set up.

“Enjoy the event,” Albee called out.

As soon as he was out of earshot, he blew out. “While the press here is not entirely as bad as it is in America, I do have to caution you. Do not underestimate them.”

“Thank you,” Aneka said with a flirtatious smile.

If was clear now that she was into him. Of course, she was, you thought. Aneka liked them pretty.

“My pleasure. The longer you are here the more you will be able to figure out which ones prefer some scandal on top of their news and who truly have the crown’s best interest at heart. Him—scandal fattens his pockets.”

You scanned the photographer from before who was now snapping pictures of Freddie who was now with two other women who looked just as stuck up as she did. She looked to be loving the attention and the compliments she was getting from everyone around her. Figured. Rolling your eyes, you turned your back on her.

“Are you not afraid?”

“Afraid of what?”

“The power she wields.”

“Call me dense because I know nothing of her power. All I see is a sad little bitch.”

Albee snorted and heartily laughed bringing the attention of most around you, even Henry.

“My goodness. You are a breath of fresh air. Would you like me to enlighten you of her power, or the power of her name?”

You looked at a few figurines at the stall smiling at how cute they were.

“Nah, I don’t care.”

“I do. Know thy enemy, Art of War, Sun Tzu,” Aneka butt in.

Albee’s smile widened. “I do think I am going to enjoy this season.”

As the three of you walked around taking in the many activities, that had been prepared Albee told you all about Freddie and her family. He didn’t leave much out including her net worth and the influence her family had in the past. When he told you about her lifetime hope and dream of becoming the queen, you almost laughed. Of course she wanted to be queen. She was clearly obsessed with power and wanted the second highest position in the country. However, when Albee revealed that Henry didn’t seem to be keen on that idea you couldn’t keep a smile off your face. It was short lived though, because it dawned on you then that you’d stepped right into another season of “The Bachelor: Who Wants the Crown”. Rich women would fight to their last press on nail for more money and more power and it was even better if it came with a crown and a pretty hot prince.

From the look Aneka gave you, she was thinking the same thing. You tentatively listened as Albee pointed out the who was who of the group all with backstory. He was clearly well informed from growing up within all of this but firm the way he spoke about the rest of them in comparison to Henry you could tell he harbored no ill will toward him. Perhaps there really were some good people besides the queen and Jemma after all.

Fo the next few hours you, Aneka and Albee explored the park flitting from game to game and stall to stall. Every few seconds you were snapping pictures trying to capture the joy and liveliness that was all around you. Everyone was so friendly you couldn’t help but feel right at home among them. Kids easily approached you to play and sing and show you the ropes of a few local games. Grandmothers with kind eyes happily shared stories and happy memories of previous Brexenavides while offering local delicacies like candied nuts that came in a plethora of flavors that you quickly became addicted to.

Before you knew it, you’d wandered off by yourself with no sight of Aneka or Albee. You wondered if it was purposely done so she could get some alone time with him. Deciding not to go find them, you wandered the area some more until you felt a snowball hit your back. Expecting to see a child, you spun around but found Henry with the evidence on his leather gloves. Your jaw dropped.

“Your highness,” you gasped.

His laugh echoed around you as he approached you.

“Forgive me my lady.”

“There goes that title again. I’m no lady.”

Henry took you in for a few moments. “I beg to differ. I have always seen a lady as one who is refined, polite and well spoken, someone who makes those around them feel valued.”

“And that is me?”

“Yes. Since you’ve arrived, I have overheard many of the maids talking about your kindness to them how you never make them feel less than and how you are always polite, stopping to talk to them as if you care about their feelings.”

“And I take it that is something out of character in Brexendor.”

Henry took a deep breath. “Among my family not at all, but when the palace gets filled with dignitaries and other world leaders, I am ashamed to say yes.”

You nodded and popped a few more candied nuts into your mouth. You tipped the bag toward him.

“Are those what I think they are?”

He dipped inside and came away with a small handful that he tossed into his mouth. The moan he let out was deep and it took you right back to the night before. Goosebumps skirted across your skin making you stand taller as a shiver ran through you.

“Are you cold?”

“Uh—no. I’m all right.”

“I am sorry I got carried away. These have always been my favorite. I remember the first outing my father took me to. He knew I was not looking forward to it and that I was anxious about making a good impression on him and the family. Once I got into the car, he had a bag of these waiting for me. As we drove, we talked about sports, video games and my tutor who I mightily disliked. We ate the whole bag within minutes and by the time we got to the appearance all of my nerves had wilted away. Every outing I went on whether it was with him or without there was a bag of these waiting for me.”

The smile on his face was so warm but it was also sorrowful.

“That’s beautiful.”

He nodded popping another one into his mouth. “Then he died and since—I haven’t had not even one.”

The sadness rolling off of him touched your heart. You wanted to wrap your arms around him and tell him everything was going to be all right. You wanted to comfort him in a way that this open space did not permit. You glanced around and caught sight of the toboggan area.

“How good are you at toboggan?”

Henry scoffed the dusted off his hands. “I am the toboggan king.”

You giggled and rolled your eyes. “Put your money where your mouth is, your highness.”

“Money? Are we betting?”

“Bet your ass we are.”

“My ass? My, my Lady Thornton, how forward you are to think that is up for grabs.”

The look he gave you was a steamy one.

“Is there something else that should be up for grabs, your highness? Perhaps something—harder to—accomplish—something bigger?”

Heat flashed behind his icicle blue orbs as he held your gaze. Henry took a step to you then another. With clenched jaws, he sighed.

“Winner makes the request?”

“Wager accepted.”

The two of you walked over to the toboggan areas. As soon as you approached those around marveled at having him so close. It didn’t matter their age they were all captivated by him. To have that much power, you thought. How was he not some self-absorbed asshole?

“After you,” Henry offered, holding his hand out to an empty toboggan. You smirked then climbed on taking care to use your long jacket to pool between your legs so there would be no unsavory photos later.

Once you were comfortable, you glanced to your left, he was seated in his own toboggan ready and waiting with a boyish excited smile on his face. You wondered when the last time was that he’d smiled like that.

“Last chance to back out Lady Thornton.”

You playfully rolled your eyes. “A lady never goes back on a wager. Are you sure you don’t want to forfeit before you lose terribly in front of your citizens? A true king knows when he is in over his head.”

Henry laughed loudly again and everyone around him giggled clearly catching his excited joy.

“That is true, but I assure you my lady, this is not one of those times.”

You smiled and focused in front of you. Someone off to the side began counting down from four and when you shouted one a pair of strong hands gave you one push sending you down the steep hill. You’d underestimated the hill greatly and your scream said so. Henry laughed then leaned backward. You watched him inch before you, leading by almost a foot. You did the same and smiled when you cut his lead by a few inches. With the bottom of the hill in sight, you needed a last-ditch effort to come out on top. Not knowing if it would work or not, you rocked back and forth hoping it would increase your speed. Instead, it made the toboggan choppy.

All too late, you saw the fist sized rock in front of you. However, it was too late. The slate of the toboggan nudged it sending the back of it forward and you sailing through the air. It all happened in slow motion, and you fully caught sight of Henry coasting into the finish line and to a stop. He stood and held his hands in the air in triumph, but that excitement faded when he saw your current state. You heard him shout your name then come barreling toward you. You braced yourself for the hard impact you knew was coming and tried to prepare for the face full of snow you were about to ingest. When you felt the hard collision, it knocked the wind out of your lungs. You rolled a few times but barely felt any pain.

Finally, when you came to a stop, it took several moments to open your eyes. Atop you was Henry with his face mere inches from yours. For a few seconds, you thought you’d transported back in time, and you were in the garden room with him again. The patches of snow in his hair slowly registered as did the fact that he was calling your name with his hands on your cheek.

“Xari.”

“Did I win?”

Henry’s features softened as he gave you a half smile.

“Not even close.”

You giggled at first, but it got louder and more uncontrolled. Henry joined in neither of you fully registering that you were not alone and in fact in front of dozens of people. Feet stamped to you, and you turned your face shielding it from the patches of snow.

“Your highness, are you all right?”

Reality was colder than the snow you laid upon.

“Ehm, yes. I am quite all right,” Henry said as he stood. “Just doing the right thing and saving the damsel in distress.”

You snorted as you took his outstretched hand and allowed him to pull you up. “I suppose I earned that title. Thank you, your highness.”

Henry nodded, bowing his head ever so slightly. “A pleasure, Lady Thronton.”

“This way your highness,” Henry’s advisor breached directing the way.

As he walked off you took note of Freddie and her friends standing off to the side watching you. The look on all their faces told you that you were now on their radar. A few more hours passed, and you took the time to get to every ride and activity. You wanted to experience it all so you could really write about it later. This event was definitely a must for any visitors during this time of year.

When you ducked into a photo booth, you sighed out taking the time to catch your breath and give your feet a break. Before you could get too comfortable, another body ducked in beside you.

“Ex--.”

Henry’s smiling face stopped you.

“Fancy meeting you here.”

You snorted and shook your head.

“Shouldn’t you be working?”

“Funny thing. I came here fully prepared to work but knowing you are here only makes me want to experience this with you—through your eyes.”

You searched his then smirked.

“So, you’re—hiding out?”

He nodded and you had to laugh then. “Oh, your highness.”

“Every time you say that it sounds so dirty, and it brings my head to very ungentlemanly things.”

You leaned forward and began making selections for the pictures.

“Is that so?”

“Quite so. Is it intentional on your part?”

Shrugging, you looked at him.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, your highness.”

His eyes dropped to your lips and within seconds he pulled you flush against his lips at the same time the flash of the camera went off. You both moaned neither pulling away, both intensifying the kiss. His tongue curled around yours making you wrap your arms around his neck at the same time he brought his hand to the back of your neck. He held you tenderly like you were precious but firm not wanting you to slip away. When you came in here, you hadn’t planned on this being a make out spot but now you couldn’t care less about the pictures.

His lips were sweet but cold and his tongue warm and intoxicating. Somehow, he tasted like peppermint and chocolate, and it was now your new favorite flavor combination. Needing to be closer, you sank your fingers into his tresses and gripped. The guttural moan he let out reverberated all over you, hardening your nipples and moistening your underwear.

“Mm, I can kiss you all day every day and never tire of your lips,” Henry whispered.

“All day? However will you get any work done?”

He smiled then kissed you again nibbling your bottom lip.

“I guess I shall not.”

Your eyes met and you saw the truth of his words. How sweet, you thought before you traced your tongue along his bottom lip then his top carefully outlining his perfect cupid’s bow. He didn’t move an inch. When his eyes fluttered closed giving you the most amazing angle of his long lashes, you softly sighed. Henry then claimed your lips pulling you closer to him so your bodies melded together becoming one figure. His lips hungrily kissed you, nibbling, sucking, licking as he pleased not caring where you were or who could happen upon you at any moment.

“Eh-em, your highness incoming. Duchess Freddie.”

McArthur’s voice broke the lustful haze surrounding you forcing you both to reluctantly pull away. Henry groaned his displeasure then glanced behind you.

“I think I have worked enough today. Care to join me on a personalized tour?”

You smiled brightly then took his head. “As you wish.”

“A low growl escaped him, and it sent your heart fluttering ten times as fast. “I do hope you remember those words when I most need them.”

His grin was mischievous, and you made a note to say them again. The list of words and phrases that elicited a sultry reaction was steadily growing and you planned on monopolizing him at every chance. Henry stood and led you out the other entrance to the booth that was opposite where McArthur must have been standing. His steps were quick as he dashed away like it was the scene of a crime. Perhaps it was seeing how you were now wet and wanting him. When he pulled you through a clearing of pine trees, you squealed, your sense of adventure and excitement picking up.

Once secluded behind the trees, he backed you into a mass of them tucking you in the tight crevice there then kissed you again. You eagerly accepted the kiss. He felt too sublime against you not to. His lips dipped to your jaw then trailed to your neck where it was clear he was a man with a plan.

Henry groaned on your neck then nibbled your earlobe, “What are you doing to me, Xari? How have you taken every single brain cell I have and imprinted your face upon them? How have you touched my skin and made it impossible for me to see anyone else doing it? How have you come here and tortured me so?”

You could hear the yearning in his voice. It was overwhelming, making you want to give in completely to him no matter the consequences. You were speechless. sensing this, he placed a chaste kiss at the tip of your nose then took your hand again and led you through the maze of trees. When you emerged, you saw the spread of rides before you just waiting for you both to let loose like children. McArthur stood just at the large Birch a few feet away with his back turned to you.

“Your highness, the queen said she can manage the rest of the event with the dignitaries and the press and princess Jemma said she will take point with the children and citizens. They are both instructing you to play the role of the proper host to out palace guest,” McArthur informed.

You pinched your lips. You knew what a set up sounded like. You couldn’t help but wonder why they were seemingly pushing him to entertain you. Before you could think any further, Henry looped your arm through his and led you across the field. McArthur handed Henry a newsboy hat and a dark scarf to replace his royal blue one he was currently wearing. Once he was disguised, you scoffed because while it gave him a little more coverage you were sure his people knew him thoroughly and would easily spot you. McArthur handed you a large wide brimmed hat that gave you full coverage from every angle.

“To protect your privacy, Lady Thornton,” McArthur clarified.

You smiled as you put it on. “Thank you, McArthur.

A few minutes later you were seated in a ride called Santa’s Sleigh which was similar to those back and forth rocking pirate ships only it was led by the reindeers with Santa in the back.

“Feel free to scream your highness, I will allow everyone to think it is me.”

“I do not scream Lady Thornton, however, if you make it worth my while I will be the loudest in the land.”

You giggled and enjoyed the ride teasing him the entire time. Your interaction was so natural it almost felt unreal. Though he didn’t touch you above your waist, his thigh remained pressed to yours no matter what. By the fourth ride, you’d deduced it was purposely done. Knowing that you couldn’t stop your heart from fluttering. Ride after ride you laughed, joked and teased one another. Ride after ride he made sure to keep some part of your bodies touching. Ride after ride you exchanged flirtatious glances that only increased your body temperature. It may have been twenty or so degrees out, but you were a sweltering ninety-nine degrees.

“This is your favorite ride?”

Henry’s questioning eyes were glued to the carousel that was decked with reindeers, sacks of Santa’s presents, giant boulder like forms of coal, Santa’s mailbox and other notable Christmas decorations. The sun had now set and the lights that bathed the ride made it seem so magical. This entire country was plotting against you here, you thought to yourself.

“Sure is.”

“Then, shall we?”

Like a six your old child rather than a grown ass woman, you scampered toward the ride then walked around it trying to decide the best figurine. It was a tough choice, but you ended up picking a reindeer which had Henry choosing the same one beside yours. Before he climbed on, he took the time to carefully buckle you into the harness tightening the straps as needed. As he did so, his hands touched your waist and hips and from the look on his face you knew this too was purposely done.

“Be careful your highness. You are very close to alerting the outside world to just how horny you are.”

The smirk he wore slipped and his brows furrowed.

“Is that what you think I am?”

His voice was tight btu other than that it gave nothing away.

“Um—isn’t it true?”

His jaw clenched and a scowl fell across his lips. Backing away, he claimed onto his own reindeer but didn’t bother buckling the straps. A cold breeze engulfed you making you feel the bitter coldness for the first time. Had you said something wrong?

The carousel went round and round sending you and Henry up and down, but he didn’t speak at any point. Instead, he held onto the pole while staring off into the distance. You allowed the silence to stretch for a few moments then when you turned to speak to him, you found his eyes already on you.

“Something wrong?”

Henry opened his mouth to speak but shook his head instead. You didn’t believe him. He definitely had something to say but you didn’t push him.

“Why is the carousel your favorite ride?”

You smirked then shook your head. “It just is.”

“Even if it was not obvious you were lying, I would not believe that. Come on tell me.”

“You won’t laugh?”

“I might.”

You narrowed your eyes at him, but your look was met with a hearty chuckle.

“Come on tell me.”

Hugging the pole of the reindeer tighter, you rested the side of your head on it, looking at him. “When I was about 8, I always saw it when looked so—pretty. It was usually the only ride that looked so—magical no matter what time of day or where I went. My father told me that it was a portal to a magical world. He said there was always one sometimes two chosen figures that were spelled to open the portal but only those destined to find it could. So, whenever I saw a carousel, I made it a point to ride it hoping to find the right figure to unlock the portal and take me away.”

The smile Henry wore was an adoring one. “That may be the cutest image ever. An 8-year-old you climbing onto these things hoping it opened a portal to another world.”

You nodded. “My parents indulged me, I was lucky. As I got older, I grew out of the heavy belief there was a magical portal and began to see how beautiful and romantic carousels were and went to realizing that perhaps they were magical after all, but not because of going to another world but how they made you feel and the memories you could make with those who matter while on them.”

You hadn’t meant to spill so much to him. Glancing at him, you tried not to cringe realizing his eyes were glued to you. However, the longer he stared at you the more you felt like jumping off the ride and running back to the maze of trees.

“So how many memories have you made with those who matter on one of these?”

You smirked then shrugged. “One or two.”

His huff made you pinch your lips in an effort to not laugh. “Interesting.”

Making your best innocent face, you turned the question back onto him. “

“And you?”

“I feel like you are the one who will laugh at me here.”

“Why?”

“Because this—this is the first carousel I have ridden with anyone—leisurely, well that was not family that is.

Your eyes widened. “Ever?”

“Ever.”

“Oh my goodness, Henry—am I your first?”

His smile was mischievous. “It would appear so, Lady Thornton.”

You bit your bottom lip then smiled widely. You didn’t know why you felt so prideful. It wasn’t like it was something that mattered or something that reflected on you in any possible way.

“Well, you are my first prince in a magical fairytale country that I’ve been on one of these with,” you began pausing to contemplate if you should say the rest of the sentence. “And this just may be my favorite ever.”

His cheeks flamed and you couldn’t help but smile. Then when his smile stretched bigger than you’d seen, your heart couldn’t bare it. He was too damn cute.

“Mine too,” Henry muttered a little above a whisper knowing that you’d catch it.

If cloud nine was the highest point one’s spirit could reach you were ebbing onto cloud 10. There was no need to speak for the rest of the ride. You and Henry rode it once, then twice but neither of you seemed quite ready to get off. After a fourth go round, the two of you walked around the park taking in the different games and events that were scattered about. You’d wanted to try the skating rink but didn’t want to expose him to the eyes of everyone around due to the openness of the rink, so you opted for other lowkey options for entertainment. You chatted about a plethora of things never remining on any subject long because you had so much in common that always branched out to other topics.

When you saw the actual reindeers, you lost it and scurried over to pet and baby talk them. While they were massive, you couldn’t help but find them adorable. You fed one a carrot and squealed at how affectionate it was. When you turned to make a puppy face at Henry, you found him snapping pictures of you with his phone like it was the most natural thing in the world.

At the urging of the reindeer master, you climbed into the sleigh that was decked out as if it truly were Santa’s sleigh and posed for the professional photos. As they snapped away you looked to Henry trying to coax him into the sleigh with you. It didn’t take long before he climbed in and smiled for the pictures with you. It felt normal to do this with him, normal to be around one another like this. A massive bubble in your chest screamed of caution and reservation so loudly that your head had no other choice but to register the warning.

After a few more photos, McArthur motioned for Henry’s attention which had him jumping out of the sleigh and stepping off to the side where both of them spoke in hushed tones. You prepared to climb down from the sleigh but as you did you happened to glance off to the right where you saw Freddie watching you. The rage and hatred in her eyes could not be missed and for a second you panicked. When you saw her raise a gun in her hand, your eyes widened. Before you could make a noise or move, a loud “pop” echoed through the park. You fully expected to feel the pain of the bullet and braced yourself, unable to move.

Instead, the pain never came. What did unfold was pure chaos. Several loud “neighs” boomed through the air then a forceful jerk. The action sent you hurling backward landing in a crumped heap on the seat of the sleigh. There were screams in the park and you watched the reindeers panic, colliding with each other as if they were fighting. Antlers thwacked together making it sound as if trees themselves were splintering around you. Henry made a move toward the sleigh but was stopped by his protective detail that was now circling him and locking him down, ready to take any stray bullet for him.

Within seconds, the reindeer that was harnessed to the sleigh you were in took off.

“Aaaaaaaaaaah!”

With terror, you watched as the unmanned runaway sleigh bound across the park not caring where it went. Everywhere people dashed out of its way trying to save themselves. All you could do was watch from your scrunched position, holding on for dear life as you prayed this was not how you died.

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

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