#purple monkshood

[theroadtofairyland]

Merry Monks

Watercolor On Black Paper

2024, 9"x 12"

Pink Monkshood, Aconite

#art #nature #flowers #plants #floral #artists on tumblr #painting #watercolor #minimalism #aconitum #aconite #monkshood #purple monkshood #artist #garden #minimal #artwork #botany #botanical art #pink flowers #pink aesthetic #pink #pink monkshood

[halfbad-allmax]

Heyyy nobody!!

Haven't posted here in a while. So-- this account was originally made as a culminating portfolio for an art class I was in--

Now that I'm out of school I'm gonna actually start posting here!

This mood board is a collection of tattoos and images I've seen across the internet that embody what I'd like to have done in the future

I actually kinda think of tattoos as part of my gender transition, so this is kinda a gender moodboard too in that way!!

#tattoos #alternative #grunge #indie #moodboard #tattoogoals #opossum #purple #nonbinary #mushrooms #mushroom tattoo #wolfsbane #monkshood #opossums

[cantankerouscatfish]

older dude came in to the shop holding a big wilted stem with big wilted leaves. it looked familiar, but it wasn't until I saw a flower bud that I realized what genera it was.

'does it get big *draws in the air* white or purple flowers?'

'white. and after that it gets this... it's like a thistle? looks like it has seeds in it?'

'yeah! they're real spiky. make sure you wash your hands before touching your mouth, okay? these *waves branch gently* are very toxic.'

'wh. are they really??'

yeah man you brought in an almost 3-foot-long chunk of Datura. I don't want this.

#it is a component of what is commonly called 'mother-in-law's salad.' foxglove. monkshood. all that fun stuff. #okay upon research you don't have to be quite so careful with just the leaves/sap. but still. wash of hands. #my mum grew the fancy double purple ones once and sometimes a big regular purple one grows out back at work

[scalpelsister]

my leaf shaped pouch / bag has arrived in time for renned faire..........

#I AM SO EXCITED I JUST GOT THE NOTIF ITS IN MY MAIL BOX #YES YES YES LEAF BAG.... #its to go with my purple dress that has leaves embroidered on #and then i have a hair piece that is leaf themed #the vibe here for my feminine ren costume is like slightly goth nature fae elf druid thing #like im trying to do a nightshade monkshood type color pallet and vibe #my post

[boxofbonesfic]

Drabble idea: your next door neighbour is reclusive and you rarely see him but you do notice the strange noises you hear during the full moon and the women who enter his apartment and don't come out.

(Werewolf! Curtis Everett)

Title: Moonsign

Pairing: Werewolf!Curtis Everett x Reader

Summary: You pick the wrong night to return your neighbor’s mis-delivered mail.

Warnings: 18+ Only, Violence, Monsterfucking-adjacent, Violence, Werewolf AU

A/N: so i fell in love with this prompt—

You pause, your fist half a centimeter from the door as a sharp howl splits the air. Maybe he has a dog. You’ve never actually seen your reclusive neighbor out with one around the block, but working nights has left you decidedly out of the loop on neighborhood events. The block’s been a ghost town lately anyway, what with over half the buildings covered in red and yellow tape signaling that they would soon be torn down or repurposed into housing neither you nor your roommates would be able to afford.

The pile in your hands consists of fifteen letters plus a small package you’d opened by mistake—a dried bundle of beautiful purple flowers you’d had to look at the card inside to identify as decorative monkshood. Behind the house, the sun is setting bright orange and red, casting the dreary porch in shadow. I’m overthinking this.

You knock.

The door creaks open, and you stand, stunned in the doorway with your arm still raised as you stare into the dim hallway beyond.

“H-hello?” You croak, your throat suddenly tight. You drop your arm. “Mr. Everett?” There’s no response, at least not one you can hear from the porch. The sound of cicadas grows in your ears as you shift nervously from foot to foot. I’ll just.. leave it inside. On a table or something.

“I’m, um, I’m coming in,” you follow the statement with a timid step across the threshold. “I’ve just um, I’ve got some mail of yours, I think it was delivered by mistake.” The rug muffles the sound of your footsteps as you shuffle toward the warm yellow light at the end of the hall. It’s a kitchen—and it’s empty.

You set the mail down on the small table. “Sorry I opened one by mistake,” you call, before shaking your head. “What am I doing,” you mutter, pinching the bridge of your nose. “There’s nobody even home.” That’s fine, all the better. You don’t want to have to face your neighbor after opening his mail. As you turn to head back outside, your foot catches against the leg of a chair pulled back from the table. You stumble, letting out a loud curse.

“Goddammit—” It’s only just out of your lips before you freeze, your stomach tightening. Your cry of pain seems mirrored somehow, like an echo—

Like you’re not alone in this house.

You go to speak, but find your mouth dry, and throat tight as you cup your hands around your mouth.

“Hello?” It comes out as a croak. “I’m sorry for intruding, the door was open and—” You tremble as the answering animal bellow cuts your nervous excuse in half, the unsaid words hanging unspoken in the air in front of your trembling mouth.

Is he hurt or something?

“Mr. Everett?”

For a moment, the house is so silent you can hear the traffic outside, and then the same agonized wail reverberates up through the floorboards, setting your heart racing. You clamp a hand over your mouth to silence the terrified whimper that threatens to escape. It sounds again and again until you realize it isn’t just an anguished, pained yell— someone is speaking to you.

“—lp me,” the words are barely discernible, like the one speaking them can barely manage. “Help me…”

There is another door in the kitchen, one that doesn’t lead back out into the rest of the small house. It, like the front door, opens easily with little effort. The heavy door swings open on silent hinges, exposing a set of dimly lit cement stairs winding down into the dark basement.

“Mr. Everett are you—are you down here?” Your reluctant voice takes a long time to bounce back to your ears. “Do-do you need me to call someone? Did you fall?”

“It… hurts…”

You aren’t sure why the thought of going down those stairs fills you with a primordial sense of dread, like your body is painfully aware of something your waking mind isn’t. You hesitate, but then another anguished wail accompanied by a sick sounding crack spurs you into action. He was hurt down there, and your waffling wasn’t helping.

You shine your phone light on the stairs as you descend, each step dragging icy fingers slowly down your spine. You swallow thickly as you reach the bottom, cool sweat prickling at your temples. The bare bulb hanging by the landing gives off comically little light, forcing you to squint, your brows furrowed as you stare into the gloom. The house upstairs, like most of the buildings on the block, was an old construction, built some time in the sixties or seventies—but this concrete was new.

And the basement… it’s bigger than you’d thought possible, the walls invisible to you either by darkness or design. The air down here is still and heavy, and you cannot will yourself to break the pregnant silence. Goosebumps rise on your skin.

A sickening crack shatters the quiet, and the pained noise that follows is louder and closer than ever before. You squeak with fear, before covering your mouth with your hands. It stinks down here, you realize, a tart, copper scent that you finally recognize as a mix of sweat and blood.

“You…came.” The words sound pleased, despite the speaker’s obvious pain. And that voice… You squeeze your arms around yourself, taking a step back towards the landing. It was like an animal growling words. It doesn’t even sound human.

Your heel bumps the concrete as you begin to back away.

“M-Mr. Everett, I’m going to g-g-go call someone f-for you—”

“I wai-ted for yo-ou,” the voice rasps, continuing on as if you haven’t spoken at all. “Call-ed fo-r yo-ou.” Something shifts in the dark—something big. There is a heavy grunt, and then the sound of metal dragging against the concrete. A whimper worms its way past your lips as slowly, the weak glow of the swaying bulb above your head reflects off of two pale blue eyes, glinting in the dark. The thing stops moving, the dragging sound suddenly ceasing.

“He thi-nks this will sto-op me,” the sound of the chain striking concrete is like the thunder outside, the spark briefly illuminating—something. You can’t comprehend it—huge and hulking, dark fur—“There is no ca-ge for me that he can bui-ld that I cannot destro-oy.”

There is a sound like metal crunching and then your legs are moving before you tell them to, scrambling up the stairs on your hands and feet like an animal as a rasping sound like laughter follows at your heels.

You’re barely through the door when you hear it on the stairs, something big coming up behind you—you bolt towards the front door, a scream erupting from your throat. You grab the door handle—

As claws tear through your overalls, splitting the skin underneath like hot knives. You fall forward with a cry against the door. It knocks the wind out of you, and you fall to your knees, your eyes blurry with tears. It’s like a wolf, you realize as it looms over you—but like a man, too, standing on thickly furred legs with an unnatural, canine bend.

Pale blue eyes sit above its dark muzzle, and they sparkle with dark amusement. You open your mouth to scream again and it lunges, burying sharp white teeth into the meat of your shoulder. You can taste your own blood, smell it in the air around you as you gurgle. Your blood gleams on its muzzle when it pulls away, dripping down onto your face as it hums.

“He will have to keep you now.” Terrified tears track down your cheeks as the bite mark on your shoulder begins to burn. “Like he wants to.”

End

#chris evans fanfiction #chris evans fandom #cevans fandom #cevans fic #curtis everett #curtis everett imagine #curtis everett x reader #curtis everett x you #curtis everett x y/n #werewolf au #werewolf curtis everett #werewolf!curtis #darkfic #dark mc #boxofbonesfic #boxofbones drabbles #bones drabbles

[caeboa]

"Mmm? So you can finally see cute li'l me."

The pair / alternate side to my first Shinigami flower art, featuring our favourite puffy partner~! And true to her character here are some multi-faceted flower meanings for her. Blue flowers often stand for trust, inspiration and mystery, while purple can represent royalty, elegance or magic. For our crowned Mystery Labyrinth queen, a pretty fitting colour scheme. The first flower I included here was the Balloon Flower, a five pointed star like flower than comes primarily in blue hues. It's name comes from the way it puffs up before blooming, like a little balloon, much like our friendly death god! It has a vast amount of meanings from different cultures. In general gift meanings it means endless love, honesty and obedience, some things Shinigami says she'll offer her Master. In Victorian flower language it can symbolize the desire for a friend to return. In medieval Japan it meant magic and divination, as well as the five elements. In many places in Europe it meant the fives senses, and some it simply references a pentagram. The Columbine Flower, shown here in purple, pink and blue, with white petals in one layer and coloured pointed spurs behind each. In latin, the common name comes from the word for dove, for the white petals, though it's scientific name comes from eagle, for the talon like spurs. In Celtic belief, the flower is associated with portals between worlds. The Greeks meanwhile, attribute the flower to Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. Some interpretations associate the columbine with foolishness & innocence due to it's shape matching that of a jester's hat. Modern meanings link this flower to Strength & Wisdom, with blue for calm, pink for happiness, and purple for success, and given to show the determination to win! And Monkshood, sometimes called aconite, wolfsbane, devil's helmet, has more ominous meanings. "Beware, a deadly foe is near." It is highly poisonous and deeply entrenched in myth and legend. In Greek myth it has been said to come from the drips of the fangs of Cerberus, guardian of the underworld. Unsurprisingly it means death in many places, but also caution and misanthropy. Perhaps perfect for a death good sneering at humans who commit murder? Lastly, the roses in their various colours. Purple for fascination, enchantment or wonder, blue for mystery & the impossible, and black for death & certainty.

#master detective archives: rain code #shinigami #rain code #mdarc #mda:rc #flowers #my art #flower meaning #rain code shinigami

[mothyandthesquid]

Aconite is a herbaceous perennial of the Ranunculaceae family renowned for its vivid blue to purple flowers. In Greek mythology, it is said to have arisen from the saliva of Cerberus, the three-headed dog guarding the gates of the Underworld. This connection with the afterlife gave rise to its common name, "wolfsbane," as it was believed to have the power to repel and even poison wolves and other predatory animals. Consequently, it was often used to protect livestock and deter these creatures.

In medieval Europe, it was closely associated with witches and was believed to have magical properties. It was thought to be used in potions and spells, contributing to its sinister reputation. Additionally, the association with monks and monastic robes led to the alternative name, "monkshood." Aconite should only be grown with caution although, in recent years, breeders have also developed less toxic varieties.

Aconite's pharmacological importance lies in its potent alkaloids, notably aconitine. It is highly toxic and can lead to severe cardiac and neurological effects if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Historically, aconite was used in minute doses as an analgesic, but this was risky due to its narrow therapeutic window. In contemporary medicine, aconitine is strictly controlled and rarely used. Some traditional medicine systems still incorporate it, but its main current usage is in homeopathic preparations.

#mothyandthesquid #yarn #knitting #knit #yarnaddict #knittersofinstagram #crochet #yarnlove #yarnlover

[touchlikethesun]

haikyuu pairing floral arrangements

i came across this list of victorian flower meanings and immediately knew i wanted to come up with floral arrangements for different hq couples, just for funsies <3

kagehina: amaryllis (pride), sun flower (adoration), blue violet (faith, trust)

tsukkiyama: lilac (joy of youth), forget me not (true love), purple heliotrope (devotion)

bokuaka: red rose (love), yarrow (healing), pink gladoilus (integrity and strength)

kiyoyachi: peony (bashfullness), hibiscus (delicate beauty), fern (sincerity)

iwaoi: purple monkshood (chivalry), canterbury bells (constancy), buttercup (memories of childhood)

#thoughts? #do you agree disagree??? #do you have a fav??? #personally my fav visually is bokuaka's and my fav meaning-wise is tskym's #may have stretched someeee of the meanings #but it's just for fun lol #haikyuu #kagehina #tsukkiyama #bokuaka #kiyoyachi #iwaoi #flower language

[hootbon]

Honorary mentions !!!

(forgot to mention this is what flowers I think everyone from your au would have, not the canon show but I guess some of them can be put in the show too)

Caine:

Monkshood

Not all flowers speak of love or joy. For example, Monkshood (Aconitum napellus) says, “Beware, a deadly foe is near.” Monkshood gets it name from the shape of its flower, reminiscent of the hoods worn by monks in the Middle Ages. In ancient Europe and Asia, Monkshood was used to poison enemy water supplies

Queenie:

Lavender

Lavender flowers represent purity, silence, devotion, serenity, grace, and calmness. Purple is the color of royalty and speaks of elegance, refinement, and luxury, too.

Kaufmo:

Marigold

As one of autumn's sturdiest flower, marigolds represent stubbornness and determination. But because of their bright, colourful nature, they also symbolise warmth and creativity. The marigold significance in Mexico a great deal, but it is slightly darker since during the Victorian era, individuals chose marigolds to represent that they were genuinely hurting while mourning a loved one. The flower used in Mexico is more focused on compassion and remembrance.

I had so much fun doing this you have no idea 🥹🥹🥹

I love these

#the amazing digital circus #tadc #hanahaki

[cleric4vampire]

the holy trinity, as coined by @thehightiefling!

Aune - First Tav Ever, my precious and tortured bard-cleric of Eilistraee. There's a lot about her on my blog so I won't go on and on. Her moodboard depicts various aspects of her: her devotion to Eilistraee, her favorite instruments, sword worship, willows (significant to her & her story), that lovely sculpture in the center which is a perfect depiction of her religious trauma/guilt lol; hands raised in prayer, or desperation, or both?

Aune (but make it Durge) - First Durge Ever; Spore druid. Similarly precious and tortured, but like in a different way. Bhaalspawn edition. A lot of the images mirror the placements of tav!Aune's. Front and center are bloody hands held tenderly; this sort of image/symbolism is central to her story.

Aun* - High Primistress of Bhaal. Also precious, but not as tortured! since she's an embrace!Durge. Despite being objectively the worst, she's most in alignment with herself out of the three. Her color palette is white, red, and gold, partly as a nod to default Durge, but also because she is the kind of person who wants to stand out amongst others; to place herself seperately (and therefore above) those around her. She likes the idea of being this bright beacon dressed in white & red amongst the rest of the black-clad Bhaalists. She doesn't wear purple but it's a color I associate with Drow. She has the most exposure to Menzoberranzan culture out of the three, on account of her having stayed there the longest. (And also the fact that she got to live as a noblewoman there.) Monkshood and hellebore are in her moodboard because their folkloric/mythological associations fit well with Aun's story. I can go into this later if anyone is interested but I'm cutting myself off here because I can talk about plants forever

*Aun doesn't have the -e suffix on her name like the other two; -e means servant, slave, vassal, etc. in the Drow language. In her AU, she never becomes a slave because she passes for a full Drow in Menzoberranzan. Hence the name difference. (Also conveniently makes it easier to distinguish her from the other Aunes)

If you want to read proper bios for these characters, follow the link in my pinned post. :)

#tav #durge #bg3 ocs #bg3 #I made these mini/abridged versions of the OC images in my BG3 OC megapost. for the purposes of sticking them in my pinned #post without making it a slog to scroll past #and then I was like ''you know what would be fun? if we did even more work and complicated this project further by making lil moodboards'' #the good thing is I already have obnoxiously large moodboards for all my characters so these were relatively quick to make #I have sources for a lot of the images if you're curious! so feel free to ask if there's something you wanna know #I just didn't want to list them all here because it would double the length of this post. and that's a lot for a post that #is not even going to circulate like that so #BG3 character moodboard series

[lupinus-bicolor]

Red dead gang + flowers, part two :)

Javier Escuella - Calochortus venustus; Red mariposa lily, a native to the deserts of southern California, it’s a stunning yet diminutive lily that blooms with the spring rains. Its striking petal markings and sharp sepals give it a unique flair that makes this little flower an absolute show stopper.

Sadie Adler - Lupinus arboreus; Yellow lupine, a coastal dwelling perennial shrub, its bright yellow stalks can be seen from February to July along the  Pacific coast. This flower is typically symbolic of voraciousness, resilience, and recovery from trauma.

Micah Bell - Aconitum columbianum; Monkshood, an annual herb that grows in mountainous regions of the western US. One of the most toxic plants in north America, monkshood was used by settlers as poison for rats. It was also given in bouquets as a warning or a threat that symbolized treachery.

Karen Jones - Hibiscus schizopetalus; Spider hibiscus, a plant native to tropical east Africa, this wild looking flower is cultivated as an ornamental in greenhouses around the world. Its fiery looking petals and dangling pistil give this flower an intense look unique to this species.

Kieran Duffy - Aesculus hippocastanum; Horse chestnut, a southern european native closely related to the American chestnut, this tree is a favorite of bonsai artists and ornamental tree nurseries. Its flower spikes produce 1-3 large inedible seeds (”horse chestnuts”) every summer and autumn.

Lenny Summers - Gazania linearis; Treasure flower, native to south Africa and naturalized in the US, this showy orange flower in the Aster family is a drought tolerant plant that is widely cultivated for its beautiful color and ease of hybridization. Given as a gift, it symbolizes riches and and good luck. (I am ignoring the fact that Lenny attains neither of these)

Simon Pearson - Salvia leucophylla; Purple sage, another Pacific coast native with aromatic leaves and light purple flowers. It spreads readily by rhizome and thrives in harsh seaside conditions, making it an optimal choice for stabilizing cliffsides and windswept inlets. It has allelopathic qualities that inhibit the growth of other competing seedlings as well as the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.

John Marston - Opuntia ficus-indica; Barbary fig, a hybrid species of prickly pear cactus widely cultivated as a food crop in arid countries around the world. It thrives in full sun, deep sandy soil, and hot temperatures. In native habitats, it’s mainly pollinated by moths and hummingbirds to produce a sweet, strawberry/fig tasting fruit that can be cooked, eaten raw, or fermented into alcoholic drinks. One of the quintessential western cacti, I couldn’t resist pairing it with our favorite ol’ cowboy.

Susan Grimshaw - Silybum marianum; Milk thistle, a prickly plant with a readily adaptive growth habit, this flower is sometimes cultivated for its seeds or made into a tea for treating various ailments. Traditionally, the thistle symbolizes devotion, bravery, strength, and resilience.

That’s all I got for now :) lemme know if you guys have other flower ideas for these guys, I love mashing my two favorite things together like this!

#i forgot to add bill and strauss dont @ me #rdr2 #Red Dead Redemption 2 #Javier Escuella #Sadie Adler #Micah Bell #Karen Jones #Kieran Duffy #Lenny Summers #Simon Pearson #John Marston #Susan Grimshaw #you guys have no idea what i had to endure looking thru google images for a decent picture of Karen #Long post #sorry this took so long also. I got distracted by shrek 2 on tv

[theroadtofairyland]

Achieving Enlightenment

Watercolor On Artboard

2023, 12"x 16"

Monkshood, Aconite

Purpurite

#art #nature #flowers #plants #floral #artists on tumblr #painting #watercolor #minimalism #purple #purpurite #aconitum #aconite #monkshood #purple monkshood #artist #garden #minimal #artwork #botany #botanical art

[zicygomar]

Now, I’m no Atelier Emily, but I did my best layman’s Google Fu and came up some potential meanings behind the flower selections in the Magical Destroyers OP. It seems the theme is poisonous plants, especially with ties to “death” in literature.

Anarchy - I want to say this is aconitum, given the petals’ deep hue and weird shapes, as well as the pronged leaves. Although, most of the pictures I’ve seen of aconitum are purple or indigo, rather than deep blue. Aconitum is so famously poisonous, it’s the poison of choice in literature, mythology, and history. It has a whole host of names like “monkshood” or “queen of poisons” or perhaps most well-known-- “wolf’s bane”.

Blue - This one will be obvious for those in the weeb sphere. Red spider lilies represent “last goodbyes”, as in “death”, and their distinctive appearance means you’ll be seeing it here and there especially in anime; a sort of visual Dies Irae. Like the other flowers shown here, spider lilies are poisonous.

Pink - There are a number of white compound flowers this could be, such as the more well-known Queen’s Lace, but if we understand the theme, this is almost assuredly poison hemlock. It’s hemlock. It’s poisonous. The classical Greek philosopher Socrates was executed by being forced to drink poison hemlock.

Slayer - This interesting because what she’s holding is clearly NOT a flower, it’s a branch of berries, which is like, post-flowering I guess. Regardless, she’s the odd one out in many other aspects, like the single teardrop tattoo, the heterochromia, the teardrop replaced by a cross in her civilian outfit, the starting as a villain, etc. It looks like the plant could be a Japanese Skimmia (Latinization of: ミヤマシキミ, 深山樒, miyama shikimi), a favored ornamental shrub for gardens and parks, due to its evergreen and fragrance. Female shrubs grow bright red berries, which grow in peace due to their poison.

Otaku Hero - You’d think this would just be daisies or something, but alas, this is where my Google Fu fails me. Daisies don’t have so few petals, it seems? Otaku Hero’s flowers very deliberately have five white petals and a yellow center, but the closest thing I can find is the wood sorrel, which is a bit too small for what’s portrayed in the image. Wood sorrel, or sourgrass, is considered a weed and is edible. The Oxalis genus is so common, it can be found around the world. Be it daisies or sourgrass, the theme for him seems to be weeds, as the flowers appear as if they were growing out of him.

Another thing to note: some of the girls might look to simply be holding these poisonous plants to pose with. Closer inspection shows that they all are actually holding them in their mouths, that is, if the plants are not outright growing out of them. Plants like the wolf’s bane are toxic even to touch, let alone ingest.

#mahou shoujo magical destroyers #anime2023:spring #flowers

[bippot]

Loved bad boy Bob 💕💕💕. Have you seen bad times at the el Royale? If so, Miles fic?

I have seen Bad Times, so here you go...it's quite long (I got carried away)

Summary: Although he doesn't know her movies, Miles becomes enraptured by one of his guest and fails to restrain himself to show her the kind of love he believes she deserves.

Yet, their fling must be kept under the radar because her stage mother is rather possesive.

Additional Tags: Secret Relationship, Voyeurism, Fluff and Smut, Canon-Typical Violence, Mommy Issues, Childhood Trauma, Gun Violence, Angst with a Happy Ending

Music recommendation: A World Without Love by Peter and Gordon

Full Masterlist - here

Decked out in her favourite sleeveless flared denim jumpsuit the star of stage and screen, the illustrious Y/N L/N, drove into the parking lot of the hotel her manager had told her to check in at. It was a fancy looking place and well known for its clientèle over the years. Senators and thieves and those who liked their privacy had stayed in the establishment ten times over. And, she was sure they paid handsomely for the employees' indiscretion.

Not that Y/N had anything to hide. Rumours swirled around the starlet as they did with everyone in the industry. Yet, unlike those around her, the chatter was just that. They had no solid foundation. No evil deeds that she kept deep in the cupboard for a pesky reporter or detective to uncover. Hollywood and the greater world was yet to tarnish her.

Miles knew that as soon as she sauntered through the door. He could tell as soon as she gave him a warm, genuine smile that the El Royale was no place for a lady with a heart such as hers. This place would corrupt her in no time.

Yet, he couldn't seem to make his mouth move. She looked like a dream come true. Every inch was perfectly sculpted and her hair shone in the soft lights of reception. And, by the time she had gently closed the door behind her and let out a friendly "It's awful windy out there, don't you think?" he was utterly hooked.

Somehow, Miles found his voice. "I hope the weather wasn't too much trouble for you, ma'am."

His reply came out a little stiff and her smile grew brighter when she heard his words. She glanced in all directions, taking in all the lavish interior of the hotel with a curious glance. Her eyes were dancing between each piece of furniture before she glanced up and breathed out, "Such a beautiful chandelier," at nobody in particular.

Admittedly, she did have a point. The El Royale was an alluring hotel because that's what it was supposed to do. The building reminded him of the Monkshood flowers that one of the ladies in his hometown used to grow in her front garden. They were a brilliant, rich purple shade that made all the other gardeners around envious of Mrs Watson's skills. However, they weren't as envious when dear old Sooty the dog decided to taste the petals one day and immediately went into cardiac arrest. Beautiful but deadly.

Then, her gaze was then cast on Miles. He swallowed the lump in his throat at the sight and forced himself to nod back. "Sorry, I can't help but marvel at handsome things," Y/N replied, flashing him her pearly whites once again. That's when he realised she'd been beaming at him as he reminisced about the past. She didn't even seem to register the way his cheeks were burning bright red.

"Its beauty is only surface level." He took a breath so he could lie, "I heard that one of the hotels in Tahoe had the Dalai Lama stay there one time, ma'am. Now that must be the perfect place for one such as yourself. I'm sure I have their telephone number around here somewhere."

Chuckling at him, she walked up to the desk and leant her elbows against the wood, placing her hand on her fist. "I don't think that's true," she stated, completely unaffected by the fact that he'd lied to her, and she tilted his badge so she could read it. "My dear Miles, you have been fed misinformation. Yet, I think you know that too."

Fuck, he'd never been good at lying, especially to pretty ladies. Clearing his throat, Miles tried to ignore how close she had gotten. Not a single muscle in his body relaxed at all. All he could see was that face. Damn the way that her lips formed his name like a prayer, and damn how mesmerising she looked as she said it.

While she wasn't currently in danger, she could be. Staying at the El Royale increased her chances at brushing shoulders with the seedy side of reality. The hotel held many secrets within its walls, and he desperately refused to add hers to the list. Unfortunately for him, it wasn't like he had much of a choice.

"Aren't you going to give me the big speech?" she questioned him, tilting her head to the side. "My mama stayed here a while back. She said the boy behind the counter had real stage presence when he gave her the speech."

Stage presence? Nobody had ever told him that he was charismatic in any way. In fact, he thought he was downright boring most of the time. He hadn't even gone to college or studied or done anything remotely interesting - anything he felt comfortable telling a stranger. If someone had told him that he possessed some sort of charm, he would have laughed them out of the room.

"Your mama oversold my skills," he joked, trying to keep his cool. Though the way that her lip curled up at the corner made his knees go weak. "Still, I'll do my best."

Here it was. He walked around the desk and stood on the state line, delivering the lines he said every day. Obviously, he knew them like the back of his hand but he felt obligated to recite them with a bit more gusto than usual. Maybe it was because she was looking at him like he was the most interesting thing in the lobby.

"The El Royale is a bi-state establishment. You have the option to stay in either the great state of California." Playfully, he hopped into California. Then, he slid into Nevada, dragging his foot to meet the other with a flourish of his arms. "Or the great state of Nevada. Warmth And sunshine to the west or hope and opportunity to the east. Which would you prefer?"

"Bravo, bravo!" she applauded loudly, making the man blush from the compliment alone and he gave her bow as if he'd just been on Broadway. "Can I give you one tinsy piece of advice?"

"Of course, ma'am."

"Have a little more hope in your skills, Miles. My mama was right."

Oh god, what was happening? Why was the girl being so kind to him? Nobody was this nice to him unless they were after something. But, there was no trace of mockery or ill intent in her features. There wasn't even a hint of malice. She genuinely seemed to find Miles likeable and amusing. That was new. And he was not sure what to make of it.

"To answer your expertly delivered question, Nevada please. Don't mind which room. As long as it's got a comfy bed, I'll be content."

"Would've expected you to be a California girl after all, Miss-"

"Call me Y/N," she offered, holding out her hand for him to shake. Once he did, her fingers felt so warm against his and he was trying to focus on something other than her touch. He was failing miserably. His hand lingered longer than necessary, and yet, she didn't seem to mind at all. "It's very nice to meet you, Miles."

Now, he had no idea where the confidence came from that graced him with the ability to lift her knuckles to his lips and softly kiss them, but he did it and he did it with a warm smile. "Likewise, Miss Y/N."

Was she blushing?

"Just Y/N, Miles. No need for formalities."

"Y/N."

He repeated it slowly, savouring the way it felt slipping off his tongue, like sweet honey. It was almost foreign. The way it rolled on his tongue in the most pleasing way possible. He was glad that the others weren't around to hear how utterly enchanted he felt by the woman in front of him.

"Which room has the comfiest bed then? Or have you already stolen that one for yourself?"

Before he could stop himself, he scoffed, "Definitely not. My bed is like sleeping on rocks," and there was no disputing how her expression changed. She looked somewhat concerned and slightly alarmed at his statement. "It's not like I sleep much anyway."

If he thought that admission would ease her, he was wrong. It only served to confuse her further and cause a deep frown to form on her lips. He gulped nervously under the weight of her stare and quickly tried to brush past it.

"Room Four. It's closest to all the amenities here in reception and has the comfiest bed on the Nevada side."

For a moment, neither of them moved, then Miles turned to retrieve her key and money when she handed enough over for the week, but the sudden silence of the surroundings made him hurry up his actions. He hadn't moved so fast in so long.

"I'll walk you to your room," he blurted out suddenly and instantly cursed himself for doing so. It sounded incredibly creepy and stalkerish; a bad combination in his book. Despite the fact that he was the bellhop too, he wished he'd never said it so frantically.

"Lead the way."

With a curt nod, Y/N followed him as he walked her to her room across the lobby. The entire trip to her room, he kept glancing back at her, wondering if she noticed the strange behaviour he was exhibiting or if it was just him. Whatever it was though, it was making him feel awkward.

As they finally arrived at her room, Miles turned towards her, trying his hardest to look calm despite feeling as if he were suffocating underneath the pressure of her gaze. Her eyes were filled with an emotion he didn't want to decipher, but judging by her expression, he would've guessed that it was probably a worry.

Was she worried about him? Had he somehow offended her? Perhaps she saw through his act, or perhaps she was merely curious as to why he kept looking at her strangely. However, before he could ask her if he'd done anything wrong, she spoke first. "Are there any other guests here?"

"No, ma'am. Just the two of us."

"We're alone?"

The hopeful tone she spoke with was not lost on him. Although her voice remained casual and composed, it did not escape his attention. He nodded slowly.

"Wow, I've never been alone before," she breathed out, smiling at him, her expression showing pure joy at their current situation. He certainly didn't miss the flutter that shot through his heart. Stepping towards him, she placed a chaste kiss on his cheek and took her suitcase from his grip. "Thank you, Miles."

Without saying anything else, she disappeared into her room, leaving Miles standing there dumbfounded and completely speechless. His chest tightened, causing him to wonder whether she'd truly enjoyed the brief moment that they shared together or if she was just playing him or if she was just that nice.

Either way, his brain couldn't help but replay the sound of her laughter again. It was soft and sweet and made him forget... fuck, he forgot to get her to sign the ledger. That stupid ledger! He stomped towards the front desk to get it and returned to her door less than five minutes after she had closed it.

"Yes, Miles?" She asked through the wood as he knocked on it.

"Sorry, Y/N, ma'am. I forgot to get you to sign the ledger, do you mind if you could do it now? I can always come back later if -"

She opened the door to reveal her face without a trace of makeup on it and she was obviously about to change as the puffy shirt she'd been wearing under her jumpsuit was gone and the straps had clearly been hastily pulled over her shoulders so she wasn't revealing her cleavage too much.

It made his insides churn and he swallowed harshly in an attempt to quench the rising lust he felt for her. Instead, he cleared his throat and forced a smile onto his face, although he really wanted nothing more than to just grab her by the waist and drag her into his arms, kissing the life out of her senseless.

Then he remembered the ledger and held it out towards her. She smiled at him before taking it from his hands. Without another word, she began scribbling her name onto the page in neat, cursive handwriting. She even added a smiley face at the end for extra measure.

"There. Done," she exclaimed excitedly and handed it back to him. "Did I see one of those Automat thingamabobs earlier?"

"You did, ma'am. We offer both sandwiches and pies." He leaned forward and whispered, "Although, I must admit - and I beg of you to not tell my boss - the food here ain't as tasty as it used to be. I apologise in advance. Try to get apple pie if you can, it's the best of the worst."

Following his lead, she also closed the gap between them and inquired in a hushed voice, "So, does that mean you would decline if I asked you to join me?"

The way she looked up at him from beneath her lashes with such innocent, pleading eyes, made him feel so hot inside. He was certain that he wouldn't last a single second with her if he let her continue looking at him like that.

Fuck it. "Any chance to spend more time in your presence, I'll take, ma'am."

Her eyes widened, seemingly taken aback by his response, and her cheeks turned a faint shade of pink. There was no doubting it this time, she definitely blushed at that. "Really?" She asked, sounding more surprised than he expected her to be. "Oh Miles, you're too sweet for your own good. I'll meet you at seven?"

"I'll be there."

Without giving himself another chance to speak and somehow fuck up, he hurriedly walked back to reception, cursing internally that he hadn't said goodbye properly, and headed towards the bar to pour a glass of whisky for his nerves.

As he was doing that, Y/N was lying in bed, her head resting on the pillow, gazing up at the ceiling. Her fingers idly toyed with the ends of her hair, twisting the strands about each other in an effort to keep herself from squealing aloud in pure glee from his bold declaration.

Now, her mama wouldn't approve. God no. But... her mama wasn't here. What harm could it do? He had been nothing but friendly and polite with her so far. Despite how Y/N knew she was naïve when it came to the outside world and those inhabited it, she could tell that Miles didn't want to hurt a fly.

Whether he was capable of hurting a fly or not was a completely different question. A question that she didn't know the answer to.

To occupy her time before dinner, Y/N decided to change into something more comfortable. Miles had arrived when she thought about putting her nightgown on, but now, that wasn't appropriate. She needed to look presentable for dinner with her new friend, especially since he seemed like a proper gentleman who deserved her respect and gratitude.

Miles usually checked up on his guests through the two way mirror to ensure they had settled in without trouble, which was the most innocent way he used the observation corridor. It was so he could prepare if they asked for more towels or pillows before they'd even said the words out of their mouth to him. This part tended to last a quick two minutes.

Not this time. When he first realised she was changing, Miles shielded his eyes instinctively. But then his curiosity got the better of him and peeked at her through a slit between his fingers to find her shimmying down the bottom of her jumpsuit. His jaw immediately hit the floor in complete shock and he stared unabashedly at her curves. His eyes traced every single dip and part of bare skin from her neck to her breasts to her thighs and her waist to her... to everywhere she was exposed.

He felt lightheaded just looking at her. How could a woman be this beautiful? Was it possible? His thoughts swirled around in his mind, drowning out everything else as she removed her bra, leaving her clad only in a white, lacy panties. He couldn't breathe at all due to how aroused he was right now.

When she put her new dress on, he immediately felt a little guilty for staring so shamelessly at her. He hadn't meant to stare; it's just that she was simply too tempting. Once she was dressed, he shifted so he could no longer see through the mirror, and took a few deep breaths to calm himself and his erection down. It would be a sin to touch himself over what he just saw. Not because he didn't want to - because he did want to, he really wanted to - but because it would be perverted.

Even though Miles had never had the touch of a woman before, he knew what it entailed after filming it so many times. Truthfully, it terrified him. The kind of intimacy he usually witnessed was rough, crude and violent. Y/N didn't deserve that. She was soft and kind, caring and gentle. She didn't belong in that category, and therefore, he realised he shouldn't touch her. Under no circumstances should he ever treat her in such a way.

But his body betrayed him, telling him otherwise as he felt his cock hardening further. He couldn't touch her, but he could touch himself. In order to ease the pain and satisfy the throbbing ache that formed within his member, Miles had to do something about it. His fingers fumbled with his belt for a moment before finally managing to release the latch and pull it open. He quickly reached down and unzipped his jeans, allowing them to fall to his thighs.

His breathing grew heavy when he looked down. The bulge between his legs stood tall and prominent. He couldn't wait anymore and took himself into his hand, stroking his shaft while closing his eyes tightly. He slowly pumped up and down, gradually increasing the speed of his motion until he found a rhythm where it all began to melt away until there was only him lost within the image of her, and a pleasurable haze surrounding his body.

The pressure was building up behind his stomach and he groaned, gripping tightly onto the corner of the wall beside him for support. He couldn't wait any longer. He couldn't stop. He clenched his jaw together tightly and pressed his forehead against the cold wall as his hips bucked upwards, trying desperately to find relief.

With one last powerful thrust that shot him directly to heaven, he let out a cry of pleasure as he released all of his feelings all over himself. His body trembled slightly from the adrenaline coursing through him and he slid down the wall to sit in a heap on the floor, ashamed but sated for now.

Once he had recovered his breath enough to think again, he wiped the dribble off his chin - that he was unaware of until his sense came back to him - and sped to his room in order to change his clothes and rid himself of the remnants of his indiscretion in a hurry. As he threw open the wardrobe and pulled out a fresh pair of clothes, he tried to focus on getting ready for dinner, not the sight of Y/N's lush, inviting curves lying there invitingly and tempting him with their beauty once again.

Clearly, he was going insane. He could feel himself becoming obsessed with her. It wasn't fair for him to have such desires, not when he barely knew anything about her. Yet, he craved her company so deeply. He found himself unable to help himself. It was impossible to not get drawn to her like a moth to a flame. He was powerless to resist.

"Hiya Miles!" She greeted as she entered the lobby. He'd been staring off into space, obviously daydreaming and jumped slightly upon hearing her voice. Thankfully, he managed to compose himself and offered her an awkward smile.

Unabashedly, his eyes followed her figure as she moved across to the automat. He pretended to be busy with a piece of paper, pretending not to notice the way that every single movement of hers brought him immense pleasure. And when she turned and caught him watching her, he averted his gaze.

Y/N examined the pies through the glass and came to the conclusion that they were very anaemic looking in their current condition. And, there were only two left. One blueberry. One apple. It almost seemed like fate. She slid coins through the slot and patiently waited on their food to become more toasty.

Inside his head, Miles was having a little conflict. The more time he spent making it seem like he was doing actual work meant less of a chance to overstep his boundaries and get caught red handed drooling over a lady that was so far out of his league. However, he needed to be around her. That's what currently occupied his head - her.

And, she would eventually realise that stapling the same piece of paper ten times was a method of distracting himself.

"Food's done. Do you want to pick the music?" She called out once she'd placed the pies down, looking over her shoulder to see Miles jump at her voice again. "Sorry for startling you, honey."

Honey. He had no idea if she could see how his face softened as he heard that pet name fall from her lips. He shook his head lightly, forcing the silly grin that threatened to form on his face away.

He couldn't resist any more and made his way to the jukebox to pick the song. As soon as he saw Peter and Gordon, he knew that was what he was going to pick. "World Without Love okay?" he asked after he'd pressed the button so it was too late if she hated it. Luckily, the way she bopped her head to the beat implied that she didn't mind it.

Before Miles knew it, he was sitting in front of Y/N with apple pie on his plate. She'd given herself the blueberry, which wasn't as nice as the apple and he'd told her that. Had she forgotten? Or was she being nice yet again?

"How has your day been, Miles?" Y/N inquired as she bit into her pie, letting the lacklustre flavours flood her taste buds and filling her up with happiness despite how soggy the pastry was. "Were there any guests leave this morning or have you been here on your own for a while?"

If Miles didn't know any better, he'd say her eyes glistened a little when she tasted the desert, like a child who'd finally been given a piece of chocolate.

"No visitors," Miles said. "Just been me all weekend. Your arrival was quite the surprise."

"A good surprise, I hope."

Her smile widened as she spoke, causing his heart to flutter and butterflies in his stomach. She really was a sweetheart and even though she was completely foreign to him, he still adored her. It scared the shit out of him how much he genuinely enjoyed spending time with her even though he'd only met her today. She brought a smile to his tired face.

"The best surprise, ma'am," he admitted before taking a bite of his pie. Why did it taste better today? Was it because he was in a good mood? No, no. That can't be possible. It must be a different brand. Yet, he was sure they hadn't changed suppliers.

The pair continued to speak while they ate, a weird sense of familiarity between them despite how unfamiliar they were with each other. And he soon found out she was an actress.

"I'm sorry, I don't get out to the movies much these days," he confessed, sounding almost ashamed. She shrugged.

"Don't apologise," Y/N reassured and leaned her elbow on the table. She played with her fingers while gazing into his eyes for a short while. Then she admitted, "If I'm honest, I don't really like it when people recognise me these days." She chuckled, blushing a little and looked down shyly. "When I was a kid it was exciting. These days? I'm not so sure."

Miles unconsciously slid his hand on top of hers. She smiled and laced her fingers with his and squeezed them gently. A surge of warmness spread through his chest, his face reddening, and he cleared his throat nervously, but didn't shy away from her touch. They shared smiles and a comfortable silence for a few moments, enjoying the comfort the simple contact provided.

"If it's any consolation, you're the prettiest movie star I've ever met," Miles blurted out suddenly. He cringed inwardly when he heard the words come from his mouth. He'd intended it to sound smooth, flirtatious even, but it came out rather blunt instead. He stared intently at Y/N, willing for some sort of reaction to take place.

She blinked, surprised by his sudden compliment, her cheeks dusted pink. She opened and closed her mouth for a few seconds before breaking out into a bright smile, causing Miles to relax slightly with a smile of his own tugging at his lips.

"And, you're the prettiest concierge I've ever met," she replied softly. Her eyes danced around the lobby, admiring the beauty of their surroundings, but ultimately settling on Miles himself. He felt a slight thrill course through him as she gazed at him, noticing how intensely his gaze lingered on her lips.

But, he quickly dismissed any thought of kissing her. They probably wouldn't know where to begin and he doubted he would be able to control his actions, which was the last thing either of them wanted. So, he chose to keep his feelings at bay and instead opted for some light conversation.

"How'd you find the pie?" He asked casually, hoping that his attempt at nonchalance would pass unnoticed, although it was rather obvious. But, thankfully, she didn't seem to suspect anything, or if she did, chose to ignore it completely.

"It's... the best dessert I've eaten in years. But, my mamma puts me on a diet so I don't think my judgement is all that good."

"A diet? I've never understood why lovely ladies deprive themselves of the joys of life."

"Well, it's not my choice." She shrugged as though it made perfect sense, before pausing briefly. "I do agree with you though."

After all he'd heard of her mother, Miles was starting to not like the woman very much, especially considering how she treated Y/N. He found himself wishing that he could take care of her properly. Not just because he liked Y/N, although he definitely did. He wished that he could protect her. Protect her honour. Protect her soul. She deserved it.

However, he realised that he'd gotten lost in his thoughts again. The warmth inside Miles grew exponentially as she stared straight back at him with her piercing eyes and the sweetest smile. How long had it been since anyone smiled at him like that? It felt good. Really good.

"Ma'am, I hope you don't find this too forward, but would it be alright if I kissed you?" He blurted out before he even noticed what he'd done.

It was something he'd been dying to ask her ever since the moment he'd set his eyes on her and the feelings of desperation and longing took over whenever the thought of her filled him.

"Yes!" she replied without a hint of hesitation, her eyes twinkling.

As soon as that word slipped out of her mouth, he felt like he was going to melt from the sheer amount of relief coursing through his body, a wave of happiness rushing throughout every inch of his being.

So, she shifted around the booth to sit next to him as he slid his arm on the seat behind her, holding her close. He cupped her cheek in one of his hands and gave an awkward laugh. "I, uh, it's been so long... back in school," he mumbled sheepishly as his thumb brushed her cheekbones. "I'm sorry... I apologise if it's, if I'm not -"

Interrupting him by surging forward and pressing her lips against his own was not something he'd expected her to do, nor was it something he was prepared for. The world seemed to slow down and everything around him disappeared, leaving nothing but Y/N.

For one brief second, he was frozen, too shocked to even react. The soft press of her lips against his own, the hot feeling spreading through his entire body as though a warm blanket had been wrapped around him, her sweet scent flooding his senses was so perfect. And then he returned the kiss, his emotions flowing freely as he moved his tongue along her bottom lip, urging her to open her mouth and allow him access. When she did, he deepened the kiss and ran his fingers through her hair.

Everything melted away as he focused only on her, only on her lips. He was intoxicated by her. His heart pounded loudly in his ears; he couldn't hear anything else as her nails began drawing small patterns against his jaw. He could barely believe what was happening.

And the kiss was far too scandalous to be allowed in polite society. However, neither cared about such things. He felt free; as though he had no torrid past or sketchy present, he had absolutely none of the responsibilities that burdened him in reality. So, he let himself be selfish once more, pushing aside the consequences of doing such things and focusing on how amazing this felt.

How wonderful this felt. How he loved the way Y/N tasted. How she kissed back. The way she matched the rhythm of his mouth. He needed this. Needed to feel her. Wanted to be near her. He pulled away slightly to catch his breath and stared down into her eyes with wonder as he tried to comprehend what had just happened.

The room spun a little as he took in a big gulp of air, the sensation dizzying and couldn't help but notice the colour high in her cheeks, her chest rising and falling heavily as she panted. They both sat there in complete silence for what seemed like minutes. Until, finally, he spoke.

"...Is this real?" He whispered, almost scared to say those dreaded words aloud. Because, he honestly wasn't certain.

A movie star kissed him?! That's simply preposterous. Wasn't she supposed to be famous, or something? Why would she be interested in little old Miles Miller? In fact, she was the most beautiful girl in the whole world. Why, oh why, would she go for a concierge?

"I hope it is," she breathed out and laughed a bit.

"So...if I asked if you wanted to do it again, you would say...?" He trailed off, uncertain and doubtful whether to push for an answer or not.

"Would you like to kiss me again?"

A smile lit up her features when the words left her lips and his eyes flickered downward to study the enticing curve of her lips, his body reacting automatically and leaning towards her.

"Yes. Very much."

Her smile widened impossibly and they leaned in to meet each other halfway, closing their eyes as their lips collided in another searingly passionate kiss. Their lips melded with soft touches, lingering, exploring, learning. Every movement, every gasp, every sigh. Nothing was wasted, nothing was rushed or desperate.

No, this was slow and sweet, and their kisses were tender. Achingly tender. It felt right. Everything felt right.

Then he moaned against her lips and shot away in embarrassment. "I apologise... I, uh, got too into it. Sorry, if I took it too far..." He mumbled awkwardly, avoiding her stare as a blush crept onto his cheeks and spread across his neck. He really, really wished he hadn't crossed a line. "I hope I haven't made you uncomfortable, ma'am."

"What? No! Oh goodness, no," she reassured hurriedly, reaching out to lay a reassuring hand on his forearm. "Please don't worry yourself! I found it rather enjoyable."

"Oh... well, I'm glad to hear that," he replied with a relieved grin, his gaze flickering to hers. And, despite the nervousness swirling within him, he couldn't help but feel happy.

Because, despite all the pain that he'd been put through over the years, his countless failed attempts at finding happiness, his many flaws and imperfections, the terrible person he was as a teenager, the scars and mistakes that littered his body and soul, and the dark secrets he held hidden beneath his skin, he finally found one pocket of happiness in the world, and her name was Y/N L/N.

"I don't usually do this sort of thing, I'm sorry if -"

"Please stop apologising to me." She interrupted him with a slight shake of her head, as though she couldn't believe he was thinking so lowly of himself. "And besides..." her voice dropped to a whisper, a playful smirk playing on her lips as she reached out with one finger and gently stroked the side of his face before continuing. "Who am I to refuse a handsome man such as you? You're quite irresistible."

Miles couldn't contain the delighted grin upon his lips as he looked down at her, his blue eyes twinkling like galaxies as he gazed deeply into her eyes, drinking in every detail, every expression and every tone.

But then his eyes wandered down and he caught a brief look at her bra strap. The fabric of her sleeve had fallen and given him a peek at the skin there.The guilt came washing back into his brain as he felt his face heat up in embarrassment, the memories of watching her in the observation corridor flashing through his mind. He tugged her dress back in place and quickly averted his eyes before she could see the shame he suddenly found himself feeling and cleared his throat nervously.

"I know you just told me to stop apologising to you, but I can't. I did a bad thing, Miss, and I understand if you never want to see me again," he admitted and knelt on the floor beside her while keeping his eyes locked with hers and his voice soft. "Just know, I'll always remember your kindness. Please, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me."

She frowned as she saw tears forming in his eyes and she immediately stroked his hair soothingly in an attempt to calm him. "Hey, what's wrong?" She asked softly, placing the palm of her hand underneath his chin and tilting his head upwards to look her in the eye. "Miles? I don't understand."

"It's just... the first time in a while anyone has ever shown me any kindness and you're so pretty, you are..." he murmured, struggling to find the proper words and, in the end, merely looking into her eyes for a moment before breaking away with a sigh. "This hotel is for the damned. For the corrupt. And my bosses, they, uh, they make me spy on people sometimes."

"Are you spying on me?" She raised an eyebrow, her expression growing curious.

"I haven't been asked to... the mirror in your room, it's a two way. There's this corridor where I can look into each room and earlier I..." He took a breath, gathering all his courage to tell her. "I looked into your room and you were changing. I should've looked away. My mother raised me better than that. But I couldn't help myself. I didn't mean to."

He stopped to observe the metaphorical gears turning in her head as he noticed the look of shock slowly taking shape on her features. His stomach sank, unable to stop the wave of dread rushing through his blood as he watched her slowly begin to realise the full implications of what he was telling her.

Quietly, she asked, "Did you like what you saw?"

His eyes lowered to his lap briefly before lifting back to her and nodding hesitantly. "I, uh, I did," he said reluctantly, trying to avoid meeting her gaze. "Every part of you is mesmerising and that doesn't excuse my actions. I'm so so-"

Once again, she silenced him with a kiss, this time pressing her lips firmly against his. Her arms slipped around his shoulders pulling him closer to her as he kissed back in kind, letting out a quiet sigh and wrapping his hands on either side of her waist. He ran his hands along her sides, tracing her curves delicately and savouring the soft touch of the smooth fabric of her dress against his calloused fingers.

When they parted for air, he rested his forehead against hers and closed his eyes as he continued to run his hands along her body. He didn't dare open them. Didn't dare move as he remained there for what felt like hours.

After a moment, he felt gentle fingers brushing the top of his head, tucking stray strands of his messy locks behind his ears and holding his cheek in place with her other hand.

"Can I see this corridor?" She asked quietly, her voice husky, almost raspy.

His eyes fluttered open, and he looked deep into her eyes, wondering momentarily if it was wise to allow her to visit that section of the hotel. If the company knew about it...

"You won't tell anybody, will you?" He asked timidly, afraid she might take offence. After all, why would she trust him now? She shook her head as she smiled gently down at him, her thumb rubbing tiny circles against the light stubble of his cheek.

"Nobody would believe me even if I wanted to."

With a nod, he stood from the ground, offering her his arm, which she graciously accepted and allowed him to escort her to the corridor. As they walked past the maintenance closet that was his room, she let out a sad sigh and stopped outside it. "Sweetie, you deserve more comfort than this," Y/N whispered in a small voice. A small, sincere voice that made him feel even worse.

Then she noticed the needles next to his cot, which he'd clearly forgotten about until then because he froze and his head snapped back towards hers, his eyes wide, a startled gasp escaping his lips. He wasn't going to deny it if she asked. But she didn't ask. She quietly closed the door and slipped her hand into his as they continued walking, neither one speaking.

They entered the corridor together, a solemn silence settling, and Miles stared at his feet, the seriousness of inevitable conversation weighing heavily upon his conscience already. Y/N squeezed his hand gently and brought his attention back to her.

"I assume you have seen some scandalous things in your time here at the hotel?" She questioned gently, the look on her face sympathetic, understanding and deeply concerned.

"Uh, yeah, you could say that."

Just as she'd done when she'd first entered the hotel, her eyes scanned across every single part of the room, taking in every single aspect before her and walking away from him to really absorb every part. That was until her gaze lingered a little longer on a particular spot of the wall to the right of her room. Miles followed her line of sight.

"Oh...that's, uh, I forgot to clean that up." He winced slightly and rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly before continuing in an apologetic tone. "I got a bit...excited, ma'am." He glanced sheepishly at her, waiting to see how she'd react.

But, surprisingly, her expression remained unchanged, although he could sense a hint of amusement in her eyes.

"When you were watching me?"

Miles swallowed hard. He forced himself to nod his head, his cheeks burning bright red in humiliation, and, after clearing his throat yet again, he continued. "Yes, I-I've seen a lot of things in my life and you, you have no idea..." His face twisted into a frown. "This hotel is evil and I'm no better. You are a literal angel and I'm sorry. So sorry that we've corrupted you. You shouldn't be here, not like this."

For what seemed to be an eternity, she stared at him, her eyes piercing straight through him before she sighed. "If I were you, I wouldn't waste anymore breath apologising," She mumbled as she shook her head and reached for his hand once more. "My whole life has been watched by strangers, and at least I know this stranger by name. I don't know you well, but I do know enough, Miles. Enough to know that you are a kind person and that you don't deserve to be stuck here. This is not where you belong."

As her thumb caressed his skin, the corners of her mouth began to quirk upwards and a smile formed on her face, but Miles could sense the sadness concealed beneath it. And he didn't blame her for it. He understood, and he also felt horrible that she hadn't been given the chance to live a normal life. He'd only met her today and yet, somehow, he had already become so aware of how much she disliked her career, her fame, everything.

"I hope you're right," he breathed as he cupped her cheek with his left hand and brought their foreheads together, inhaling sharply as he felt her hot breath fanning over his skin.

Eventually, they did leave the corridor. Miles walked her to her room and, once she'd opened the door and stepped inside, he turned to walk away, muttering a quick goodbye but she held onto his arm before he got too far, stopping him in his tracks.

"Miles, would you like to stay with me tonight?" She whispered tenderly, and despite the fact that he really, really wished to accept her invitation, he still hesitated, looking nervously over his shoulder like he assumed someone was going to stop him. But nobody came.

It was entirely his decision.

"Of course I want to," he replied, staring earnestly into her eyes as he waited for her reply. "But I don't think I should."

She frowned for a brief moment, confusion clearly evident in her features, before she finally nodded her head, letting go of his arm slowly as she wrapped her arms around herself, hugging herself tightly.

"I don't trust myself. I'm a weak man, I know that, and I don't trust myself to not touch you. It's not right of me."

"What if I want you to touch me?"

A faint blush spread across her cheeks as she averted her gaze. Her mother would be livid. Propositioning a man she'd just met? How brazen! Her eyes returned to meet his as she gave him a hopeful look, her brows furrowed and her bottom lip between her teeth.

Suddenly, his heart was hammering painfully in his chest. Was he going to regret giving in (because of course he was going to give in)? He wasn't sure, and yet, the thought of being alone with her filled him with a nervous excitement he couldn't describe.

Without another word, he took a step forward to close the distance between them and pressed his lips softly against hers, feeling his heart thumping wildly as he closed his eyes and let himself indulge in her touch. The second his tongue brushed against hers, he felt himself move her further into the hotel room and close the door behind him, but there was no thought there. It was instinctual.

One second, they were standing in front of the door, the next, the back of her knees hit the bed and she fell backwards onto it with a squeal, making him chuckle as he followed her down. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on either side of her head and gazed down at her.

"This is a stupid idea," he muttered as a grin tugged playfully on his lips and he dipped closer until their noses touched. Her eyes flickered briefly down to his lips before returning to his gaze with curiosity filling them. "But I suppose I can't help myself, can I?"

And he sealed his fate with another kiss, his free hand trailing down her spine till it landed just below her butt, cupping it possessively and drawing in closer to press himself flush against her body, his groin brushing up against hers and making her moan softly.

Immediately, Miles felt the vibrations of her moan reverberate throughout his entire being, a pleasurable sensation shooting down his body and igniting something within his chest, causing him to lose control. His hands travelled down her body until they reached her thighs, pulling them upward and pushing them open, leaving very little space between them.

"Miles... Miles, I've never - Be gentle..." Y/N whispered shakily, her eyes flickering shut as he ran his fingers along her inner thigh. She moaned loudly at the contact. Her hands fisted the material at the hem of his top, bunching it up and tugging on it, her nails digging into the soft cotton.

Gentle. He rarely ever saw that at this hotel. But now, here, with her, in her room, with her eyes shut and her legs slightly parted, it all suddenly felt so right, so right. That's all he wanted. To make her feel good and safe and comfortable, to take care of her, to be with her, and maybe to be able to make her feel loved too.

"I ain't either. I've seen it and I don't want us to be like that. We won't be. I promise. I'll cherish every single part of you, every precious piece."

He paused, drew his hands away from her leg and trailed up her abdomen until he was cradling her cheek, brushing his thumb against her bottom lip and gazing affectionately into her eyes, trying desperately to convey to her what he was trying to tell her. The heat he felt surging through his body, the need coursing through his veins, to make love to her...all of it was overwhelming.

"Let me love you the way you deserve it, and I will." His words were soft and low, filled with desire, sincerity, and a deep emotion that he could not hide. He meant each and every one of those words; there was no hesitation in them. There wasn't even any doubt.

And then, after what felt like an agonising eternity to him, Y/N lifted the hem of her dress up and pulled it over her head, revealing herself to him completely. For a brief moment, Miles stared down at her, taking in the full beauty of her, her curves, her curves that were made of nothing but perfection and pure temptation.

"Uh, now you," she anxiously demanded, gesturing for him to undress too, her voice husky as she bit down lightly on her bottom lip, her cheeks flushed.

Slowly, he removed his shirt, allowing it to fall to the floor and, after standing, removed his trousers and dropped them on top of his shirt. "Th-this is me," he told her, smiling sheepishly when her eyes widened as she stared up at him, her cheeks turning even redder than they already were. "Sorry that this is it."

"Don't apologise," she gasped out quickly as she pushed herself into a sitting position and held her hands out so he would get closer to her. "Can I? I mean - Would it be okay?" Her fingers hooked themselves around the waistband of his underwear. "I've never seen one before."

When he gave his consent, she tentatively slid his underwear down his hips and he stood completely naked before her, watching silently, waiting for whatever reaction she might have had to see. She blinked several times, as though trying to process what she was seeing, before she looked back up at him with a shy smile adorning her features.

"So that's what a penis looks like in real life."

The way she said it made Miles roll his eyes and shake his head, unable to keep the smirk from forming on his lips as he moved towards her, his eyes flicking between her innocent, curious ones. He placed a finger underneath her chin and lifted her face so he could place his lips against hers again, savouring the taste of her, and enjoying every single second of having her against him.

Frankly, he couldn't remember the last time he was so contented in his life.

"Lie back," he murmured against her mouth before he started removing her bra, taking his time and kissing her neck and shoulders as he went.

Once the bra joined his discarded clothes on the floor, he trailed down her torso slowly and kissed along her abdomen until he reached her navel and looked up for confirmation that he could continue. She nodded her head eagerly, biting her bottom lip as she watched him wiggle her panties down her thighs, her breath hitching at how beautifully perfect and delicate he looked in that very moment.

His hair was all over the place, his lips plump and swollen, his skin covered in goosebumps, and his chest heaving as his fingers traced her waist.

"I, uh, I have a general idea about what to do so... tell me if this is bad or if you want me to stop," he mumbled, his cheeks flushing red as he began pressing kisses against her stomach, his breath tickling her skin as he did so.

Y/N was silent as she watched, mesmerised by the sight that was unfolding before her, yet couldn't help herself from closing her eyes as Miles kissed her inner thigh. "Oh Miles," she breathed, her voice shaking with pleasure as he grazed his lips further up her leg, pausing for only a few seconds to allow her time to react before he continued.

"Can I? Can I touch your...?"

"Please."

Here goes nothing, he thought nervously as he brushed his finger through her folds, teasing her and drawing small gasps of air from her lungs. He nudged her clit a few times, but never lingered so she urged, "Can you, uh, a bit higher?" And he didn't hesitate at all in complying. "That feels good."

"It does?"

"Mhm," she hummed breathlessly, her eyes fluttering open and looking down at him with a lustful look in her eyes that nearly caused his insides to turn to jelly.

"Do you ever... Oh, I can't believe I'm going to ask a lady this. Do you, you know, touch yourself?" he asked curiously, tracing slow circles around her clit.

Her cheeks reddened immediately. "Sometimes. I've never been able to... ah... finish the job."

"Oh?"

"I don't think my fingers are long enough."

Long enough? Surely, she could touch her clit without any problem? Oh. Then he remembered all the times he'd seen women getting pleasured and slid his finger to her entrance, poking in only slightly to see if he was going in the right direction, and was pleasantly surprised when she let out a gasp of surprise and bucked to take more of his finger.

Clearly, he was doing something right. So far, so good. His lips curled into a grin as he stroked her gently, his other hand moving from her hip to hold her hand, rubbing circles onto her palm. He pressed light kisses along her belly and ribs as his confidence rose, his movements quickening, feeling like he couldn't get enough of her, of this woman beneath him.

"Is this okay?" he muttered, his eyes never leaving her.

"Yes! Yes, it's great, just like that!" she replied excitedly, placing her free hand above his and gripping his shoulder tightly when he slid another digit in. He smiled softly to himself, happy to hear the response he had received. It sounded as though she liked his touches; it seemed like a start, anyway.

As he worked to find that special spot inside her that brought her the sweetest bliss she'd ever experienced, he kept whispering sweet reassurances to her, his voice soft and gentle and loving in an almost magical way that made her shiver and melt into a bundle of delicious butterflies. Butterflies that swam through her mind as well as her body, causing her to close her eyes and moan his name repeatedly under her breath, begging for more, more, more.

"Miles, I think I'm ready. Please, please make love to me."

This time he hesitated a little bit more; he knew that asking her that would be a risk, a big one, one that could end very badly. But still, his body reacted faster than his brain and within mere moments, he was lifting her thighs over his and settling between them, positioning himself to slowly and carefully push inside her entrance.

When he felt the warm sensation of her walls wrapping themselves around him and the tightness of the muscles contracting around his shaft, he groaned deeply and buried his head in the crook of her neck. He inhaled her scent, her fragrance, her smell of passion and sweetness...and he swore that he was lost.

Completely consumed by her, by everything she was and nothing mattered anymore. Not anything other than what he felt right now; their connection; what they were together, because it felt like everything he had wanted and needed since he first laid his eyes upon her.

"Can I start to move? Is this okay?" he whispered.

Her answer was a slight nod, which caused him to begin moving in and out, gently, slowly, making sure that he wouldn't hurt her. As he got used to the sensation, he moved his hands down to her hips, holding on tightly as he continued to rock and thrust inside her, a satisfied moan emitting from deep within him each time.

"Oh baby, does this feel as good for you as it does for me? Do you need-"

Y/N cut him off by kissing him hard, her arms looping around his neck and pulling his lips down against hers passionately, desperately needing to feel what he was doing to her. The kiss grew sloppy, filled with heated gasps and moans, their bodies pressed firmly together as they continued to move slowly against one another.

"You can go harder, if you want."

Miles groaned loudly at the sound of those words. "Are you sure?" he whispered hoarsely between heavy breaths, his eyes meeting hers intensely as he pulled back from the kiss.

"I won't break."

A low, throaty chuckle escaped his lips as his gaze travelled downwards to where they were connected. He was entranced at the sight of his cock sliding in and out of her, stretching her and filling her, knowing that every inch was inside her, giving her pleasure for the very first time.

"You're beautiful, y'know that?" he uttered, increasing the forcefulness of his strokes.

She swallowed hard, arching her back and letting out a long, high moan at the feeling of being stretched so much, pushed so far. Her eyes locked onto his as he continued to stare into them lovingly, completely engrossed in the scene playing out before him.

Their breathing became more laboured and erratic, the heat between them rising rapidly, becoming almost unbearable, their sweat dripping down their bodies, their hearts pounding loud enough in their ears to drown out everything else.

With one final thrust, both of their voices mingled together in a shout, Y/N releasing the tears building up behind her eyes before her entire body tensed and shuddered, her legs trembling underneath him, the intensity of her orgasm hitting her suddenly, causing her toes to curl and her face to scrunch up, tightening around him even more.

He groaned loudly and quickly pulled out of her, fisting his cock until it spilled all over her stomach, leaving him panting heavily with a dazed look in his eyes while she tried to catch her breath. She opened her mouth, ready to speak, but no words left her lips.

Instead, she stared at him, unable to believe what had just happened, her face a bright pink hue as she stared up at him, searching for a hint of regret. When she found none there, she simply wrapped her arms around his shoulders and held him to her chest tightly, burying her nose in his hair as his hands wound tightly around her lower back.

"Did... Did I do okay?" he murmured softly, a goofy grin tugging at his lips once she nodded against his hair.

"Did I?"

"You were perfect."He lifted his head up and looked into her eyes tenderly before leaning down to plant a soft peck upon her forehead and then another on her lips, causing a round of giggles to erupt from her. "Thank you for sharing this moment with me," he said, brushing his fingertips across her cheek before pressing several kisses against her mouth again. "For trusting me enough to have this with me."

She gave him an equally wide smile. "You've made me happier than... than I can ever remember being, so no, thank you, thank you Miles."

They lay there in comfortable silence for a while, just enjoying the feeling of being together, their limbs tangled together and the warmth radiating from their bodies, seeping into every single crevice, every nook and cranny of their bodies.

The moonlight streamed into her room and began illuminating every single one of his features, making him appear ethereal in its presence. Her gaze lingered on him, taking in how incredibly handsome and gorgeous he really was, his blue eyes glistening with love, his expression soft, his skin smooth and flawless.

"What's with that face?" he asked softly, running his thumb delicately over her cheekbone, wiping away a stray tear that had escaped. She chuckled lightly and shook her head lightly, turning her face towards him and pressing a small kiss against his palm.

"I don't want this to be a one time thing." She paused momentarily, looking down at her hands and biting her lip. "I... I just feel like myself here. The next five years of my life are planned out and taken care of, just as the last five were. But right now, here with you, I'm just Y/N."

A frown settled on his features and he placed his forefinger against her chin, raising her head up to meet his eyes again. "You know where I work. Come and see me whenever you want."

"It's not that easy."

"Why not?"

Inside Y/N's head, she was debating over whether or not to tell him. And, as strange as it sounds, the decision was easy. Despite the fact they had met only twelve hours before, she was sure Miles knew her better than anyone else in her life. Still, she posed the question, "Do you want to know a secret?"

"Only if you feel okay with me knowing."

Before she spilled the tea, she chuckled and gave him a big sloppy kiss on the cheek. "You're so sweet." Then came the confession. Her face fell as she admitted, "The only reason I was allowed to come here was because I threatened to kill myself if I didn't get a vacation."

Miles' jaw dropped open in shock, his brows furrowing slightly as he stared at her in bewilderment.

"My mama has had me working non-stop since I was six. I know if I carried on the way I was going, she would have had me committed to one of the mental hospitals..." Her voice trailed off and she took in a sharp breath, her voice wavering as she confessed to him, "She hates me. She loves me, sure, but she doesn't like me. She loves the money, the fame, the success, all of that."

Tenderly, Miles reached out and cupped her cheeks, stroking her cheekbones with his thumbs soothingly, a sad yet caring look on his face. "What about your dad?"

"He died a while back."

"Oh."

"I'm sorry for unloading all this on you like that. I shouldn't have done that." She forced a smile. "Forget I said anything."

But he wasn't having any of it. If she wanted to spill secrets, so did he.

"The only way I can sleep more than two hours is to get high. I've never slept all that well but it got so much worse when I came back from Vietnam. I -"

"Oh lord, I feel like a real asshole now." She sighed heavily. "You have a reason, a real reason, to complain. You're a veteran and I'm just a whiny child who can't handle not getting her way."

He let out a hearty laugh and ran his thumb softly along her lips before kissing them gently. "You are nothing of the sort, darling. Pain is pain no matter where it comes from, whether it's in the brain or the heart or the body," he said gently. "And I'll tell you something... I think you are definitely the most beautiful, smart, kind and amazing person I have ever laid my eyes upon."

A blush formed immediately on her cheeks as she lowered her gaze, trying desperately to keep the tears at bay as she felt her heart start racing again.

"Come on," Miles cooed after a few moments of silence, "Let's get some rest...and please don't be offended if I'm not here when you wake up. That just means I couldn't sleep so...you know." His voice drifted off awkwardly at the end of his sentence, but she got what he meant.

"I understand. Although I do wish you could sleep without it, I understand."

Wrapping his arm around her waist and pulling her on top of his chest, he kissed the crown of her head, inhaling and exhaling slowly whilst rubbing his hand up and down her back. Y/N watched him for a few minutes, her gaze lingering on him, studying his facial features as his breathing regulated and her fingers tracing across his collarbone in slow circles.

Then, after a short while, she leaned over his sleeping figure, planting a quick kiss on his forehead before settling down on his chest to fall asleep. She'd have been happy to stay awake just watching him sleep forever, but exhaustion soon overcame her senses and she started to drift off into slumber, the sound of Miles' quiet snoring lulling her into a peaceful dreamless sleep.

Surprisingly, Miles didn't have any nightmares that night, not a single one. He still woke up every few hours, but that was only because that was his routine nowadays. Every time he'd wake up, he'd glance over at the sleeping form of the girl lying on him and would find her fast asleep and curled up securely against him. And every single time, he'd think, 'Wow, this is real. She's real," then close his eyes with a smug smile, eventually falling back to sleep shortly after.

That morning, after a long and exhausting night, the sun rose and the world outside filled with light. As the sunlight poured through the bedroom window, Miles blinked his eyes repeatedly in an attempt to clear them, yawning loudly as the events of the previous day played through his mind.

Y/N stirred beside him and turned over, burying herself even deeper within the warm blanket covering her before lifting her head up and gazing at Miles through bleary eyes. A slight smile crept up on him before he pressed a brief kiss to her lips and shifted onto his elbow, reaching out his hand to brush a few strands of hair behind her ear.

"How'd you look so pretty in the morning? Like a vision of perfection." He smirked when a faint pink dusted her cheeks. "I must be the luckiest man in the universe to be waking up with such a gorgeous creature beside me."

She raised her arms and wrapped them loosely around his neck, smiling and laughing quietly at his comment as she replied, "If you say so."

"Oh, I do say so. I really do." He pulled her closer, pressing his nose into her cheek affectionately. "I better get to work before everyone starts calling for me. I was supposed to phone the boss' office last night to give him the daily report but it seemed to have slipped my mind, and I blame you for that. You're a bit too distracting for my poor old brain."

With those words, he slid out of bed and grabbed his clothes from the floor, hastily putting them on before throwing on his jacket and shoes. "Don't I get a kiss before I go? I won't survive otherwise," he added, grinning as Y/N rolled her eyes playfully and pushed herself upright on the mattress. She grabbed his collar and pulled his face down towards hers before connecting their mouths together in a deep and passionate kiss.

When they broke apart for air, both of them were breathing heavily, and they smiled goofily at each other. "Dinner. Same time as yesterday?" Y/N asked him.

"Of course."

He nodded, flashing her another bright grin before pecking her cheek before heading out the door in a hurry. Y/N giggled, shaking her head at the sight as she flopped back onto her pillow, closing her eyes once more.

Miles made himself look presentable and worked his way through the list of shit he had to do that day. First one his agenda was to do yesterday's daily call in. He expected that it wouldn't take long as there was only one name on the guest list.

"I apologise but the phones were down yesterday. The rain really did a number on the lines, it seemed," he lied into the receiver. Then, after listening to the person's complaints for a few seconds, he said, "Only one guest. Room Four, Miss Y/N L/N."

Even her name brought a smile to his face. That smile faded when the voice on the other end responded, "Keep her under surveillance. Film her tonight, that is if she's still alive. Have you heard any rumblings from her room this morning?"

"No, uh, no I haven't."

"Clean up may be required. Phone if the body is in need of removal." There was five seconds of silence then the man hung up on Miles.

His feet moved faster than his brain processed that information. He raced across to Y/N's and began knocking sharply on the door. "It's me Y/N," he called softly into the wooden door. He waited patiently for several moments, holding his breath and drumming his fingers against the wood until he heard her footsteps approaching her side of the door.

Opening the door, she stared at him in confusion. "Is everything okay?" Taking a step backward, she held the door open for him and he stepped inside as quickly as possible, closing the door behind him cautiously. She took a moment to study him, a frown marring her pretty face.

"My boss has requested that I film you. Who was in the room when you, uh, made your threat?"

"Just my mother."

"Ah, then I assume it was her who informed my boss that you were possibly planning to have a... an 'accident'."

"Oh."

Quickly rushing to soothe her, he ran his hands up and down her biceps gently. Still, he thought aloud, "I don't understand why she would want such a thing on film."

Y/N had an answer. Whether it was right or wrong was unknown, but there was no doubt that the thought was dark. "I assume it's because it would be my last performance."

The words left her mouth and they hung in the air between them, a heavy weight settling between them. He looked deeply into her eyes, searching for any sign that it was a thing that could happen. Miles shook his head in disbelief and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.

"Nevermind it. I'll tell you just before the recording begins and just after it ends." He brushed a strand of hair back from her temple with a finger, looking into her troubled eyes, and she closed them, nodding silently. "As long as you don't give them anything to talk about, they won't talk."

After checking she was okay and one final kiss, Miles went back to work.

Turns out, Miles was right - she did nothing out of the ordinary on her recording so nothing could be used against her. And as soon as he'd filmed her for the appropriate amount of time (most of which she pretended to sleep through), he informed her that it was all over.

"Nothing to worry about?"

"Nothing at all."

"Well, come here then, my darling Miles," she cooed and slipped her hands into his, pulling him towards where she was knelt on the bed. He chuckled at her antics before letting himself be pulled onto the bed, landing on top of her.

Their faces were inches away from each other and he reached his thumb up to caress her bottom lip gently, her skin soft and smooth underneath his touch. "We'll have to be quieter since there's somebody in three," he murmured, resting his forehead against hers. Her breaths hitched when he dipped his head lower, capturing her lips in a searing and passionate kiss that got more scandalous by the second.

They spent every night of her stay like that, both of them growing more confident with each interaction they shared and enjoying the newfound intimacy that came along with it. During the day, they'd do their own things, but as soon as the night came, Miles found himself sneaking into Y/N's room. She always welcomed him in, welcoming him into her life, her heart, her very being as if it were the most natural thing ever, and they'd spend nights doing whatever else they could to try and forget what was waiting for them once her stay was over.

"Mm, good morning," she greeted him on the final morning, smiling up at him as she opened her sleepy eyes. They stared at each other lovingly for some time, before he leaned forward to capture her lips with his own, kissing her deeply, savouring the sweet taste of her mouth.

Miles had been awake for a while. Knowing that he may never see her again, he had risen early that morning, deciding to make sure he had plenty of time to commit every detail of her face to memory. He'd studied every curve, every wrinkle, every line and freckle on her skin as he traced his fingers over her delicate cheekbones, admiring every inch of her beautiful face with a longing gaze, drinking her in with a love so pure he didn't believe he was capable of feeling as such towards anyone else ever again.

"You're killing me with all this lovin' today." She tilted her chin upwards slightly, giving him access to her neck, and he kissed lightly, teasingly, at her pulse point while his hands rested lazily on either side of her waist. "How long have you been awake, honey?"

"Long enough."

His kisses moved downwards slowly across the edge of her shoulder blade and made their way towards her breasts, teasing her and tantalising her in turns. He nuzzled her skin, causing her to let out a sigh and run her hand along the hairs on the back of his head, her fingernails skimming lightly over his scalp.

It was a no brainer; he couldn't resist touching her anymore. It drove him insane every single time they were separated - he wanted to feel her skin against his own, smell her scent, hear her heartbeat - and the thought that he wouldn't be able to do that for a while was tearing him apart.

So, he wanted to ensure that she'd remember him. Every kiss, every tender gesture, every touch, every smile, every moment of bliss that had passed between them in that small room, he wanted her to remember it forever. And he'd always wanted to know what it was like to go down on a girl. Two birds, one stone, really.

Settling between her thighs, he parted her legs wider and lowered his head, placing soft kisses all over her stomach and down her hips, eventually getting close to her core. Her breathing grew heavier, more shallow as the anticipation and desire built up inside of her.

"Please," she begged him as she felt his nose graze her clit. That was all he needed to hear before he began licking and sucking at her core. His tongue flicked and swirled around the sensitive area, teasing her, drawing as many moans out of her as he could.

"Why didn't I do this sooner?" He was clearly enjoying himself, taking full advantage of his position to please her as much as he could with the limited time he had left with her, and the fact that it turned him on too was a bonus. "You definitely taste better than those god awful pies. Wish I could taste you every day."

A laugh bubbled out of her throat at that comment as her head fell backwards. Yet, it was soon overshadowed with another moan as he added a finger into the mix, thrusting into her slowly with a purposeful intent, his lips moving against her clit at a steady rhythm. A whine escaped his lips as she gripped his hair tightly, her eyes squeezed shut in ecstasy.

Due to all his ministrations, she was wriggling beneath him, her movements becoming more frantic until he splayed his hand across the expanse of her stomach and pushed her back down to the mattress. "I got you, baby. Try to relax for me now," he whispered as he continued to pump into her, driving her closer and closer to the edge. "There we go. Come on now. Give it to me."

He watched with satisfaction as her body trembled under him, her muscles clenching and relaxing around his fingers. As her legs started trembling violently, he increased the tempo of his strokes, pushing deep and fast into her, eliciting cries from her lips. The sight of her in this state aroused him beyond measure.

Honestly, he didn't even care about how loud she was getting. There were only two other rooms that were currently in use and they were both on the California side.

Soon enough, her body gave in to the sensations of pleasure shooting throughout her entire being, causing her to tremble and writhe beneath him. They waited for her breath to slow and for her hips to stop jolting.

"Oh Miles, oh honey, I'm gonna miss you. Obviously more than just the sex, I'm gonna miss you in the quiet moments, y'know? I'm gonna miss your voice, I'm gonna miss your arms wrapped around me... You make me feel so happy, and safe, and loved... I wish I had all of this, all of you, to myself forever."

Her words caused tears to prick behind his eyes, and he pulled her tight against him, his cheek pressed against the top of her head. His hands stroked the length of her back soothingly as she cried against his chest, her words lingering in his mind for hours afterwards.

When she was checking out, another guest was waiting to be checked in so the pair couldn't have the heartfelt send off that they wanted.

"Goodbye for now, Miles."

"Have a safe trip home, miss."

Then she was out the door.

'My dearest Miles,

I apologise for taking so long to write. My mother has been watching me like a hawk ever since I returned to her. My hairdresser, she's a lovely woman named Georgia that I've known since I was young, is my only way to get these letters to you. When I was a kid she used to sneak sweets and chocolate to me, now it seems that she's kind enough to post my letters to you.

Oh, this is Y/N by the way. I forgot to say.

In our time apart, part of me had hoped that I would manage to push the thought of you from my mind so I couldn't miss you, but that's not the case. The thought of you is still there. I don't think it's ever going anywhere and, truthfully, I don't mind it. It is the only thing that is guaranteed to bring a smile to my face every day, whether it's a happy smile or a sad one.

Forgive me if this letter isn't terribly exciting and I'm distracting you from your life, but I couldn't help it when all I want to do right now is steal my mama's car and drive to you.

I'm never sure how to end letters so all I'll say is l hope to see you soon. I'm still trying to convince mama to let me have monthly breaks. She seems unconvinced. Maybe she'll be more responsive next week.

Words aren’t enough but they'll have to do for now, Y/N :)'

Miles had been in a daze after he read her letter. It had been two months since they'd seen each other last and yet, seeing the first word of her letters felt like a physical blow to him. It was bittersweet: of course he wanted to hear from her again, he desperately needed to, but he also found that it made his yearning for her even worse.

He spent every moment of free time he had coming up with a response.

'To my angel,

Throughout my life I never been good at doing all that fancy poetic kind of writing so I'm sorry if my words aren't as flowery as yours, but I'm trying. Expressing myself is something I'm not great at. I'm just gonna try really hard and hope that you'll understand.

Georgia seems nice and I'm glad you have somebody close by that shows you the kindness you deserve – though I wish there were some way that I could be the one doing that.

The cleaners came not long after you left, as they tend to do on Friday lunchtimes, and I don't know. It made me sad to think of them cleaning away the final traces of you from your room. In a way, it was the only physical reminder of you (until your letter) and they took it from me.

Obviously they didn't know that and were a little surprised when I acted off with them, yet I don't really fault them for it now. After all, they had to clean it.

I also don't know how to end this. I reckon the best way is to reassure you that your letter made my shitty week into the best I'd had in two months. To tell you that my feelings haven't changed one bit and that everything I feel for you will remain the same.

Can't wait to see you too, Miles <3'

It was impossible to keep a straight face as Y/N read the letter at her hairdressers. Since the L/N's had known Georgia so long, Y/N was allowed to go there without supervision every week. "What's got you so happy, Sweet Pea?" Georgia asked her as she ran her fingers through Y/N's hair, tying it up in a bun to keep it out of her face.

"I made a friend."

"Does your mother know?"

"No."

"Good." Georgia nodded. "I could sew a secret pocket in your coat if you want to keep your boyfriend's love letters away from your mother's prying eyes?"

That was something Y/N hadn't thought of - where she would keep the letters. Just about everything she owned was under the watch of her mother. "You would?" She gasped, looking over at her with big, pleading eyes, which Georgia quickly responded to with her usual smirk.

"I might if you tell me who he is. Who is this Miles that you had me send a letter to?"

Y/N's eyes widened slightly, a blush rising to her cheeks. She wasn't expecting such an immediate response. It wouldn't hurt to tell her a little bit, would it? "I met him at the hotel I stayed at."

"And?"

"And what?"

"Well, does he know who you are?"

Being with Miles, Y/N often forgot that she was famous, that people she didn't know knew her. Coming back to that reality was a little overwhelming. She was no longer Y/N, she was Y/N L/N.

"Not at first. He doesn't watch many movies and, uh, he was in Vietnam when Death to the Moon came out so he probably missed the time when my name was everywhere -"

"Sweet Pea, your name still is everywhere," Georgia cut in with a roll of her eyes, gesturing to the billboard that was directed opposite the salon that had both Y/N's face and name on it. "I don't think you can hide yourself from anyone anymore. Enjoy it, enjoy the limelight while it lasts. It will fade."

"I guess," Y/N laughed, though it was humourless and sad sounding. She sighed and turned back towards the mirror, her expression turning serious. "I'll be waiting for it to fade."

More and more letters were exchanged over the next batch of weeks that followed. Until Y/N finally convinced her mother for three days off and the only stipulation was that she had to spend them at the El Royale. It was a win-win.

"Room six for you Mr and Mrs Hill, my name is Miles and I'll show you to -"

He stopped mid-sentence. There stood Y/N, smiling at him and clutching her handbag close to her body, looking gorgeous with her curls falling over her shoulders and her eyes sparkling as she greeted him with that stupid cute grin. His heart jumped in his chest as he tried to fight back his wide grin.

"Uh, Miss L/N, it's a pleasure to see you back. I'll be right back to check you out - I mean in - check you in," Miles fumbled over his words, stumbling backwards and bumping into his desk before managing to recover in enough time to show the Hill's to their room.

Waiting for his return, Y/N walked around and gazed at the lobby. It was unchanged. Exactly as it had been when she first arrived a few months prior. She sat down on one of the armchairs and pulled out her journal again, flipping to a clean page to write a little note.

When Miles returned, he had the biggest smile on his face. A huge, dopey smile that stretched from ear to ear. It was almost contagious and it made Y/N smile just looking at him. She held up the note, which was just 'Missed you!' in bubble letters. Miles's eyes lit up as he read it. He felt giddy and euphoric inside. His happiness made him unable to think properly and rushed to Y/N before he realised he had taken a step forward and leaned down to kiss her.

The kiss was short and sweet, but they both felt like they were drunk on its warmth, its familiarity and its sweetness. It had grown, blossomed and became even more precious to both of them.

"Probably shouldn't have done that in front of the windows," Miles muttered sheepishly, yet within five seconds, he cursed, "Oh, fuck it," and kissed her again, this time longer, deeper and more passionately. When they broke apart, they shared a shy smile.

From that moment on, they saw each other every month for a few days and as soon as she left neither could wait until the next visit, and then the next visit, then the next and the next.

A year in and they developed a routine of sorts between themselves. She'd arrive and he'd deal with the other guests before showing her to her room, where he'd chivalrously carry her suitcase into her room. Then, unchivalrously, would pin her against the door and start making out like horny teenagers, hands roaming freely and tongues tangling together.

Y/N giggled as her hands clutched onto his shirt. He grinned, kissing her neck, nipping softly at the skin with his teeth and causing goosebumps to rise on her soft flesh. "Miles..." she whispered, tugging at his hair lightly.

"Hmm?"

"l got you a gift and I can't wait to give it to you."

"For me?"

"For you."

With a satisfied grunt, Miles pulled himself away just enough for her to take his hand and lead him to the bed. Sitting down on the edge of it, he waited patiently for her to unzip her case and pull out the boxed presents she'd purchased for him. "So this is why your case was heavier this week," he joked quietly, lifting up the lid carefully and letting out a small sound of appreciation when he realised what was inside. "Meccano!"

To her, Meccano was just small pieces of metal and screws but he'd told her how much he had wanted a set when he was a kid and now he had five of them. As he continued to look through the box, Y/N sar behind him and rested her head on his shoulder, taking comfort in how happy he seemed. It was good to see him so carefree. So full of life. He looked so beautiful, it filled Y/N with pride and joy.

"I assume you like my gifts?" Y/N murmured, her lips brushing against Miles's shoulder. He nodded very enthusiastically. "Good."

"I actually got you something too."

"You did?"

"Yeah, baby, I'm not going to forget our one year."

Neither had told the other that they had gotten presents and didn't expect a present of their own, but, like usual, they were on the exact same page.

Quickly moving to the door, Miles turned and explained, "I was going to give you it at dinner but I'll go get it now instead." He was speedy to retrieve her gift from his room and return to her. "Close your eyes, I forgot wrapping paper."

Y/N closed her eyes obediently and soon felt a large rectangular thing being placed on her upturned palms. Opening them slowly, she opened her mouth in surprise when she saw that what she was holding was actually a drawing. A really good drawing of her. She took it carefully from the box and stared down at it, tears coming to her eyes.

"I drew it myself," Miles explained. "It's not great but-"

"It's wonderful, honey."

Unlike some of the other pieces of art she'd seen of herself, Miles's picture of her wasn't intentionally flattering but it was real. And it was put together with so much love. It was how she looked when she genuinely smiled - her cheeks squishing her eyes up, crinkling in the corners, and her nose scrunching up and her grin goofy. She looked like a normal girl who was joking around. She looked comfortable. Happy. Content.

Pulling the drawing closer, her nose scrunching up, she brought it close to her face and began crying. Her voice choked up as she said, "This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me." She looked up, wiping her eyes and seeing Miles gazing down at her with such adoration, an expression that mirrored her own.

"I'll draw you a thousand pictures if you want," he promised, taking the drawing out of her hands and placing it on her suitcase so he could hug her tightly, his cheek pressed against the crown of her head. "Anything more than that and I'll get early arthritis."

She let out a chuckle and pulled back just far enough to look up at him. "I love you," she stated firmly, cupping his cheek and caressing the warm skin with her thumb. His smile somehow widened, almost comically so.

"And I love you so much, Y/N," he replied, leaning in and pressing his lips to hers in another long passionate kiss.

Their lips slid together perfectly. Neither of them had the need to breathe. Neither of them cared. And neither of them heard the door opening until it was too late.

"What the-"

The two jumped apart and turned around, their eyes widening in shock as her mother entered the room. Fury was written across her features as she glared daggers at Miles, but to be honest, primarily at Y/N. Her nostrils flared and she pointed a finger at the boy, her voice dripping with venom.

"Take your hands off my daughter!"

Miles swallowed hard and raised his hands so they were hovering on either side of his head.

"Ma'am -"

"Don't Ma'am me. Thank the lord Georgia let this little thing slip so I could stop you from defiling my child," Mrs L/N snapped. Y/N couldn't help rolling her eyes at her mother's antics, which was not something she would've dared to do a year ago.

But things had changed. Y/N had changed.

"Mama, leave Miles alone. You're embarrassing yourself, and Miles doesn't deserve to be insulted by you." Y/N crossed her arms and looked her mother dead in the eye. Mrs L/N pursed her lips and turned her glare onto Y/N, the intensity making the girl shrink into herself slightly.

But still, Y/N remained firm, refusing to let her mother bully or belittle her any further. She knew that if she did, there would only be a bigger problem and a bigger mess that would result from Mrs L/N having a fit. That was never going to happen. Ever. Because there was no way she was ever going to let that woman control her life anymore.

"Look what you've done to her, boy. She's rudely talking back to her mother without any sense, and I won't tolerate this behaviour!" Mrs L/N barked at Miles accusingly, ignoring how he flinched when she waved her hand around. He was trying to keep his composure and remain calm, but it was a losing battle.

"Mama, please..." Y/N pleaded softly, her heart shattering in pain as she noticed how affected Miles looked by her mothers anger. "Please don't hurt him for being kind to me."

Mrs L/N huffed loudly and shook her head. "Kind? Kind? How am I supposed to go around knowing my daughter is a whore and a tramp?! My daughter is a goddamn slut! Who would have thought?!"

Miles clenched his fists, breathing shakily through his nose, and Y/N instinctively reached out and grabbed one of his hands, silently urging him to be calm. Y/N knew that Miles could do some real damage if he got angry enough. He could kill someone, maybe even her mother, in seconds.

"I think you should go," Y/N calmly suggested, trying to keep her voice steady as she spoke. She gave Mrs L/N a pleading gaze. "Go home."

"Oh no, no! This isn't over, young lady. Not by a long shot! You may have fooled everybody else, including your Daddy, but I know better. That peace and love act is bullshit! There's nothing innocent about you now thanks to him."

With those words, Mrs L/N reached into her bag and pulled out a gun. It was a small, silver pistol, probably about four inches long, with a silvery finish. She had it aimed right between Miles's brows, making Y/N gasp and move in front of him without hesitation.

Although Y/N knew this was all happening, it still felt so surreal. Her world was spinning, her emotions were running high. All she wanted was Miles and this was definitely not helping matters and she'd be damned if she let anything happen to him. She couldn't bear the thought of him getting hurt. Not because of her.

And Miles was thinking the exact same thing but in reverse. Yet, unlike Y/N, he had the skills to sort the issue out. It would be an aggressive diffusion and that wasn't something he ever wished for her to see, but her safety was paramount.

So, he nudged Y/N out of the way while saying calmly, "I apologise in advance, ma'am," and punched Mrs L/N in the face, grabbing the gun from her grip and turning it on her in seconds. He stood there and watched as she fell to her knees, clutching her jaw in agony and gasping for air. The sound made him feel sick to his stomach.

"That's for being a bad mom," he growled menacingly, his voice low and dangerous, making Y/N shiver slightly. He then crouched next to her and flicked her bloody nose. "And that's for being insane."

"Bad?" Mrs L/N scoffed. "No, I made her. Without me, she'd be nobody. Nobody would know her name without me."

Y/N didn't know what to do. She'd never seen him like this before. Never, ever. The man who had been gentle and loving towards her was suddenly punching people to the point where his knuckles were bruising.

"Miles," she whimpered, putting a hand on his shoulder and squeezing gently. He instantly stopped what he was doing and wrapped her up in his arms, his body tense and cold, not showing any sign of relaxing anytime soon. She took the opportunity to take the gun from his hand, her fingers trembling as she tucked it into the back of her skirt.

On shaky legs, Y/N walked over to her mother slowly and offered a hand to help her up, holding her gaze steadily. Her mother hesitated for a second but eventually slapped it away, yanking herself to her feet on her own accord, her hand immediately going to clutch her bleeding lip.

"What a man you've picked, Y/N. A dirty, violent, scumbag." She sniffed as she tried to compose herself. "Okay, pack your suitcase. We're leaving. Now." She walked past Y/N, heading towards the doorway, and threw one last dirty look at Miles.

"I'm not coming with you, mama."

She stopped dead in her tracks and whipped her head towards her daughter, an angry expression plastered across her face once again. "Two options: you come with me and I graciously forget about this blip, or the police find out who gave me this busted lip," she said, her voice raising slightly at the end. "Now, come on."

A few moments passed in silence as Y/N stared at her mother blankly, feeling frozen in place. The tears that she had been fighting to hold back finally broke free.

"Why do you do everything in your power to make me unhappy?" Y/N asked brokenly, dropping her voice to barely above a whisper and taking a step forward. She hadn't meant to say it, not really. But there was something burning inside of her and she found herself unable to suppress it.

"I do everything in my power to make you successful."

While Y/N knew that was somewhat true, she just couldn't seem to accept it. After everything her mother had put her through, surely not all of it was her benefit. That was in no way completely true. Sure, her mother was pushy and that was helpful, she was also spiteful and that definitely wasn't.

"Thank you, but..I-I think I can manage on my own from now on," Y/N replied firmly, forcing herself to keep her cool while wiping tears from her face, her cheeks flushed and cheeks wet. She cleared her throat. "So, please, just leave me alone."

"You're good! This boy! This boy has his claws in you and you'll never shake them loose!" Mrs L/N shrieked hysterically. "He will ruin you! He'll corrupt you. And then what good are you to me?!"

Y/N was tired of hearing that shit. Of hearing people speak about her like they were a damn prize or a trophy to win. Like all of it was her fault.

Tired and worn out and hurt and broken beyond belief, Y/N couldn't stand listening to her mother's words anymore. She had heard enough. She was sick of the abuse. Sick of her mother being cruel and selfish and unfair. She couldn't take it anymore.

"Think of your life: he's going to be in jail by the end of the day and you, you'll be all alone -"

Before she realised she'd done it, Y/N brought the gun out in one swift movement and pointed it directly between her mother's eyes, pulling the trigger and causing her to fall down lifelessly on the floor. She looked down at the lifeless body and blinked repeatedly until her tears dried up, and she managed to gather up the courage to turn around and face Miles again, only to realise he was staring straight at her with wide, shocked eyes.

"W...what?" Y/N stammered out breathlessly, her heart pounding madly against her ribcage and her chest tightening painfully, suffocating her. She gripped her shirt tightly and took a deep shuddering breath to stop herself from hyperventilating.

This wasn't happening...this wasn't happening. It can't be happening...

Miles quickly snapped out of his trance and his brain moved a mile a minute. His mind swarmed with every possible scenario until he remembered something that had happened not long after he'd first started working at the El Royale.

A guest who frequented the establishment had threatened to expose the hotel's secret and was promptly disposed of. Y/N's mother knew the hotel's secret.

"I can handle this. I can. I can handle it. It's okay…" Y/N repeated under her breath as she stared vacantly at her shaking hands. "Everything is fine."

"Stay here, I need to make a call."

Before she could reply, Miles kissed her on the forehead and rushed to reception to call his boss. It took a few seconds for him to get through, but when he did, he wasted no time telling him what had occurred - or rather, what he wanted them to think had occurred.

"Any witnesses?"

"Mrs L/N's daughter, although she seems grateful for the whole thing so I don't think she'll make a fuss," Miles lied

almost too smoothly, trying his best to stay composed and appear nonchalant , which was hard due to how nervous he was at that moment. He wasn't exactly proud of lying, but what choice did he have?

"Keep an eye on her."

As soon as the line clicked off, Miles dragged his hands down his face and sighed deeply, his muscles tense and his mind buzzing with thoughts and feelings he couldn't quite grasp.

One thing he knew for certain was that the El Royale had corrupted Y/N L/N.

Miles found Y/N in the exact position he'd left her in. She stood in the middle of the room, staring at the blood on the carpet and her mother's lifeless corpse. Tears were running freely down her flushed cheeks as she struggled to control her breathing and the rising sense of panic.

"Baby..." he mumbled quietly but urgently, walking up behind her. He placed a tentative hand on the small of her back and gently rubbed circular circles on it, hoping to ground her and calm her down, even though he himself felt very shaken right then.

Yet, Miles was more familiar with this type of thing. He dealt with mental breakdowns many times during his time in the army. He experienced it all too often to count. And he had experienced them alone.

"It's all sorted out," he whispered softly, his lips brushing the hair on top of her head. "Everything will be alright."

After a moment or two passed, Y/N turned around and looked up at Miles with wide, glazed eyes, her bottom lip quivering slightly before she pressed her them together, looking away from him and biting down on her bottom lip in an attempt to try and stop herself from bursting into loud sobbing.

He couldn't blame her for crying. He couldn't blame her for falling apart like that. All he could do right now was wrap his arms around her and rock her back and forth gently as he let her cry and tremble and grip onto him like her very life depended on it.

"When the clean up crew gets here, you'll have to act like everything is fine, okay? Let me do the talking." Miles pulled away just enough so that he could look Y/N dead in the eyes. The girl nodded and smiled weakly.

"You got it." She responded softly.

For a brief, brief moment, Y/N forgot who and where she was. Forgot everything except that he was right here. For a brief, brief moment, she thought they'd be alright.

In the blink of an eye, others arrived, carrying their tools and equipment in tow. Eventually though, things began to pick up. People began asking questions, most of which Miles answered and Y/N nodded in agreement. Some of the questions were more probing, some less, but overall it was a lot to deal with.

After signing so many NDA's and being told exactly what would happen if she ever said anything about what she saw, Y/N was moved to a new room. She sat on the bed staring blankly into nothingness, her fingers fidgeting and twisting together nervously.

Weirdly, Miles was celebrated. Since he'd posed the murder as his act of defence towards the El Royale, he was praised for his actions since his boss thought he was showing the ultimate sign of loyalty. In a way, he was loyal. Just not to the El Royale. He didn't give a fuck about the hotel.

And it wasn't too long before he was slapped on the back and urged to, "Go check up on the girl and, don't worry, we won't say anything if we hear her screaming. You deserve a warrior's celebration and she's pretty," with a slimey wink that made Miles want to vomit.

One, how dare someone think to do that to any lady? Two, how dare someone think to do that to his lady? And three, how dare someone think that he was capable of doing that to a lady? It was wrong! Totally wrong! Absolutely wrong! But like a lot of things in Miles' life, it would be easier if he just kept his head down, said nothing and quietly made preparations so that it wouldn't happen. Or if it did happen, he could be prepared to stop it.

Y/N was locked in another staring contest with the wall when he entered her room. He walked over to the bed and crouched between her knees, taking hold of her trembling hands and kissing them. She sniffled once and finally lifted her tearful gaze up to meet Miles'. They both remained silent for a bit; neither of them knew what to say or how to talk.

"I think once I'm allowed to leave, I can't, shouldn't, come back," Y/N murmured eventually, her voice breaking with emotion, her eyes tearing up again. Miles frowned, stroking her knuckles with the tip of his finger and rubbing the back of her palm comfortingly with his thumb.

He wished there was something he could say to ease her pain, but the truth was that there was nothing he could possibly say to fix this kind of situation, but he wished there was anyway he could help. The worst part about it all was that he was powerless, unable to stop it. Unable to protect her from the world. From everything that was hurting her. He hated seeing her suffer like this.

"Tell you what, when we get into the off season, I'll take you back to my home with me. We'll stay in bed till noon each day and watch reruns of tv shows all afternoon, eating junk food, and pretending that we're normal people living our lives in peace. How does that sound? Sounds nice to me. Yeah?" Miles said cheerfully with an enthusiastic grin, trying to brighten the mood and erase the dark aura from Y/N's body as much as possible.

"That does sound nice," Y/N murmured quietly, smiling lightly, wiping tears from her eyes. "I don't know if I deserve nice."

With a knowing sigh, Miles took a seat next to her. "I'm not going to sugarcoat this, the guilt never goes away and it never will. It doesn't matter whether she deserved it or not, you'll still feel terrible about what you've done," he paused and took a deep breath. "But if anyone deserves forgiveness, it's you. And as far as I can see, the only thing you did wrong was fall in love with someone that your abusive mother didn't approve of."

"Falling in love with you is the only right thing I've done in my whole life." Y/N closed her eyes and leaned her head against Miles' shoulder. "Thank you, Miles...for making my life a little brighter and I'm sorry I ruined it."

"Don't apologise," he shook his head, pulling her closer as she snuggled up against him. "It'll be okay, okay? I'll make sure that it will. Don't worry."

The following day, the cleaners had reverted the hotel room exactly how it had been before the shooting and everything that originally was in there, including the couple's anniversary gifts, had been removed and replaced.

Miles made sure Y/N was near him at all times since that slimy guy kept giving her weird looks and whispering dirty comments behind her back. And, boy, he was glad he had locked their hotel door that first night because an hour or two after he returned to her, somebody was rattling the door knob.

Thankfully, nothing happened. But the pair did opt to stay in Miles' tiny bedroom away from the others for the next three days that she was under surveillance. The bed was uncomfortable, the blankets were scratchy, but it didn't matter, nothing mattered compared to having Y/N safely in his arms every night. She spent her days there while he worked because Miles could very easily see if anyone walked in the direction of his little maintenance closet and stop them before they'd even get a chance.

When her surveillance was over, Y/N was briefed about how she should proceed. Her mother's death had been from a heart attack, she'd been told, and that it was a very sad and sudden incident that horrified a doting daughter such as herself. That's why she needed a few months back from the spotlight. She was grieving and needed some time and space to recover.

So, that was her excuse when she returned to Los Angeles.

Before she left, Miles gave Y/N one last kiss. A quick peck on the lips that lingered longer than it should have but neither one of them cared anymore. "Remember the story, stick to it and I'll see you by the end of the month. Okay?" He said sweetly with a smile, running his fingers through her hair and leaning in to press his forehead against hers.

"Okay." She replied in a quiet tone as she wrapped her arms around him tightly and squeezed him close. "And Miles..." She pulled away slightly and tilted her chin up so that she could look into his eyes. "I love you...so much."

"I love you, too. So much," he whispered in response, cupping her cheek in his hand and caressing it with gentle movements. They gazed lovingly at each other for a few moments before Miles pressed his lips onto her forehead. "Be safe, please?" His eyes pleaded.

"I promise."

As soon as they looked away from each other, she turned and headed out. Miles sighed deeply and let his shoulders sag. He wanted to cry, wanted to scream, wanted to punch walls until his knuckles bled, but none of those things came out. All he felt now was empty and tired.

The following month was the worst of Miles' life.

'To my angel,

Firstly, I've got some bad news. The boss wants me to work another month

and I'm afraid what the repercussions will be if I decline. While I was not punished for what happened, I am still under his thumb. Probably even more now.

But, we will see each other again. Just not as soon as we had planned.

How are you? Are you doing well? Do not hesitate to contact me if you need anything - I mean it, you can call me whenever you can. If anything happens. If nothing happens. Be warned, the boss will be able to hear everything we say, but still, I would never decline a chance to hear your voice.

I'm afraid I have to cut this short as I hear the priest who is staying here grumble and groan. He's old and probably fell. Which I do feel bad about because, I'm not going to lie, I'm coming down from a really bad trip and I don't see it getting better any time soon, yet I know that if I had been out there, I could've caught him.

I love you, baby, and don't give up hope. Even if things do not turn out the way we wish they would, we are young and have time, Miles <3.'

He slipped away for a moment to the post box down the road and it was the only bit of peace he had that entire day.

A news channel was the one who told Y/N about what went down at the El Royale.

She'd been feeling better than she had in a while after cutting all ties with her job. She'd bought herself out of all the contracts for upcoming films she was supposed to be in. Her publicist had been fired. Then a statement had been sent out to the press about her retirement from acting.

Then, as she was walking to say a final goodbye to Georgia, a television in an electronic store window broadcasted a shot of flames engulfing the outside of the hotel.

"Reports have finally come out about a multiple homicide at the El Royale, eight found dead last week in what appeared to be a gunfight. One currently in a critical condition. Though it is believed that two or three people may have fled the scene. Anyone with any information call the number below."

Dazed, Y/N's feet took her straight to Georgia's without her realising it. Once there, however, she stood outside it, her hands clasped firmly in front of her as she thought about Miles and tried to keep from crying. She had no idea what she'd do if she ended up losing him. It was hard enough as it was already. She had no idea how she would deal with it if she lost him.

"Sweet Pea, what are you doing just standing in the doorway? Come inside, dear." Georgia motioned for her to enter the salon. With a heavy heart, Y/N entered the salon and collapsed onto a chair at the vanity, burying her face in the palms of her hands.

"Have I got any letters?"

"Yes, two."

Georgia reached into one of the drawers, pulled out the objects in question and handed them over to Y/N, who immediately noticed that they had different handwriting. One was Miles', she knew that like the back of her hand. The other, she had no idea.

Y/N read Miles' first. In the corner it was dated on the day of the fire. And his spelling was atrocious so she knew he was high.

Then she moved on to the mystery one.

'Dear Miss Y/N,

There's no easy way to say this but Miles is in the hospital.'

There was the biggest sigh of relief released from Y/N's lips. He was alive, that was enough.

'And his condition is, to put simply, not good. He was stabbed and died for a few minutes before the firefighters found him and the paramedics managed to revive what little life he had left.

He doesn't speak much, it's too hard while he's in the process of recovering, but he has said your name too many times for me to count. And he has a habit of humming that Peter and Gordon song that came out last year, he mumbled something that sounded like 'playing in ambulance' so I can only assume that's what popped him back up.

I can only assume what you are to my son based on the letters they found in his room and gave to his mother and I. I know that your appearances at the hospital would mean the world to him. You're important to him, Y/N. More than you may realise.

Hope to see you, Charles Miller'

At the bottom was a 'ps' that included what hospital and room Mike's was currently in.

Without another word, Y/N was out of her seat and was walking out, calling over her shoulder, "Thank you for everything. Telling my mother about Miles was a shitty thing to do but I forgive you," as she shut the door behind her.

The journey wasn't long and she was soon standing in front of Miles' room with her hands clenched into fists at her sides as she stared intently at the door and waited for the courage to knock. Finally, she raised her knuckles to tap on the door lightly.

Opening it was a man that had a sweet smile and cute nose, which was exactly like Miles'. Charles took one look at the girl before him and chuckled, immediately gesturing for her to come in and pointed to a billboard that could be seen from the window.

"I thought he was saying that you looked like the actress in the picture, not that you are her," the man commented, giving Y/N a friendly smile as he closed the door gently. "His mom will be back in a sec and she won't believe that Miles bagged himself a movie star."

"Oh, I'm not anymore. I quit today," Y/N confessed sheepishly as she walked across to sit on the edge of the bed, scanning every part of Miles' sleeping form. He was lying on his side with an oxygen mask on his face and bandages covering the lower half of his torso.

"Would you like me to give you a moment alone?" The man asked kindly when he saw the look on her face.

"Yes please. Thank you." Y/N smiled gratefully and nodded, watching as he quietly exited the room before reaching over and brushing Miles' hair gently out of his face.

There were bags under his eyes and his skin was almost completely grey, yet she couldn't help but notice the tiny smile that tugged on his lips for a split second.

"My beautiful boy... Why is the world so cruel to you? Why did you have to go through all of this?" Y/N muttered, tears beginning to form in the corners of her eyes and fall down along her cheeks. She didn't want to cry. But she couldn't stop herself. "Tell you what, the moment you get better I'll make sure we have the most boring, normal life we can think of. We'll go to the park, maybe go ice skating, you like ice skating right?"

Y/N giggled as Miles shifted ever so slightly towards her. She watched as he breathed slowly in and out, waiting for a response that wouldn't come.

"I just met your dad, he seems nice, he reminds me a lot of you." She brushed a finger against his cheekbone gently, teasing, "He's handsome. Maybe I've got a crush on your dad too, so you've got some competition now, eh?"

"Losing to my old man would surely do me in," he croaked, gathering the strength to open his eyes. "Hi baby."

His voice was raspy and dry but it made a small smile appear on Y/N's lips nonetheless.

"Hi honey."

They'd get through this. Together. Like they always did.

#miles miller #bad times at the el royale #miles miller x you #miles miller x reader

[a-little-specificity]

dubious & poison

for @wolfstarmicrofic

Aconite, monkshood, wolfbane - the queen of poisons.

Sirius could recite all the names attributed to this particular blue-purple flower, firstly because he was always ace in potions (thank you very much) and secondly because of his vested interest in keeping a certain werewolf alive.

So it stopped him in his tracks when Remus, still tip-toeing around him like Sirius might break at any moment, asked if Sirius would be willing and able to help him brew a Wolfsbane potion.

"I, I have all the ingredients - Dumbledore made sure of that, but you know me, Pads, I've always been shite at potions. And I just figured it would be easier - "

Sirius let Remus trail off, still trying to grasp what he was even going on about. A potion with wolfsbane that Remus was willingly taking? Had taken before? Twelve years in Azkaban, what have I bloody missed?

"Mate, I'm not going to help you poison yourself. I know I'm not ah - as mentally stable as I used to be but you can't think I'm that far gone as to let you do that."

"P-poison myself? Sirius, no, that's not -" Remus pauses, shakes his head and sits down on the old-worn in sofa. From the set of his shoulders, his voice, Sirius can tell it's taken a lot for Remus to ask Sirius for help, for this favor. Remus has never been the type to ask for help, and even more so now, with the awkwardness between them only just beginning to fade as they rediscover themselves and work through their separate traumas, together.

"They developed a...well not a cure. A reprieve really. A potion that let's me keep my mind during the full. It's, it's not perfect but it's better than the alternative, that much I can say. Especially going the last few moons without it." Remus sighs, a hand running absently through his hair, a gesture Sirius recognizes as one of Remus' tells when he's anxious.

"Severus had been tasked with making it for me during my tenure at Hogwarts - that's the only time I've - the ingredients are rare and expensive if you're able to source them at all. And really it requires someone with advanced potions knowledge to even brew it. Safe to say that the vast majority of the werewolf population has no access but that's a whole other - "

Sirius cut him off, sitting next to him on the couch and placing a hand on Remus' shoulder.

"Moony." Sirius says firmly, confidently, despite the fact that he hasn't so much as glanced at a cauldron in twelve years. "Of course I'll help you. I just wish you would've asked sooner."

Remus offers a small smile, turning his head slightly to rest his cheek on Sirius' hand in what Sirius knows to be a silent thank you.

cross-posted on A03

#wolfstar microfic #wolfstar #sirius black #remus lupin #remus x sirius #wolfsbane #werewolf remus #lycanthropy #dubious #poison #competent sirius black

[the-naerie]

The Language of Flowers

I had the idea of them expressing their feelings via floriography while shirtless and I couldn't let it go. There are varied flower "definitions" out there, but these were my intended meanings.

Ryoji: Monkshood (beware, danger is near), Purple Hyacinth (sorrow, please forgive me), Red Rose (I love you), Maidenhair Fern (secret bond of love), Red Tulip (believe me), Cyclamen (resignation and goodbye), Pink Carnation (I'll never forget you)

Makoto: Forget-Me-Not (true love, memories), Red Rose (I love you), Jonquil (love me), Sweet Pea (goodbye), White Poppy (eternal sleep, consolation), Stock (you'll always be beautiful to me)

#persona 3 #persona 3 protagonist #makoto yuki #minato arisato #ryoji mochizuki #ryomina #my art #language of flowers #floriography