#sihtric drabble

[mystic-shadows42]

Trying to Ignore The Last Kingdom Men’s Advances Would Include:

For the past several weeks that Uhtred and his men have resided with you as they hid, you’ve been trying your hardest to keep the men from the young ladies when you should’ve been looking after yourself. Sister Mary had her hands full being an elder nun who often sheltered young ladies who were in need of repairing their reputation wherever they came from.

You yourself were not a nun but one that enjoyed the sheltered life and helping out others. As sister Mary would state, “might as well take the sacred oath.”

It never occurred to you that since Uhtred and his men arrived that he always tended to flock to your side. It caught you off guard that one of your girls nudged you and subtly gestured in Uhtred’s direction that you understood what she was hinting at.

Uhtred had his eyes on you. Not a lustful look but one with keen interest that scared you even more. Once dinner was over Uhtred was the one that volunteered to help you clean. You could feel him staring, making your hands shake in nervousness.

“Don’t look at me like that.”

“Like what?” He asked with the biggest smile on his face.

“I don’t very much appreciate the way you look at me the way you do. It is inappropriate.”

“It’s hard not to look considering you are very beautiful. Where else am I supposed to place my attention? Certainly not on sister Mary.”

You couldn’t help but stifle a laugh and tried covering your mouth with your hand once sister Mary looked over trying to oversee that nothing of sin occurred in her household. You cleared your throat and waited until the attention was away from you both.

“Flattery can only get you so far my lord Uhtred.”

He placed his hand over yours before taking the dirty bowls from your hands. “It’ll take me far enough.”

Uhtred and his men made it inside the alehouse. It was hard to ignore the group of men especially when they all looked over to where you stood and ended up pushing Finan to where you were.

Finan certainly was no stranger to the alehouse. You and him often chatted igniting the spark that you both felt but never acted on. You were a barmaid from a little town and he was a warrior that was constantly traveling.

It went nothing beyond the casual flirting whenever he came here. After serving him and his companions all night Finan had dragged you away from prying eyes.

“Come away with me.”

You looked at him and chuckled. It was so sudden that you thought he was joking.

“I think you’ve had too much to drink.”

“I haven’t. I swear on my life that you needn’t want for anything.”

The smile on your face dropped knowing he was serious. No one had ever offered to take you away from this place. It was all you’ve ever known but still, you would deny it.

“This is my home.”

“Take a look around. This place offers you nothing but little coin to get by. Come with me and you’ll see the world. Beautiful places beyond what you can imagine. Isn’t that your dream? To see the world? You can see it with me.”

Apprehension filled you. There was nothing more you wanted than to see the world with Finan but you hardly knew the man besides seeing him now and then. You saw men every day of your life at the alehouse and heard how they spoke. All men ever wanted was to bed women and move on. There was no commitment to anything.

Finan held onto your hands. 

“If your fear is that I’ll abandon you, I won’t. I’ll swear it on my lucky sword.”

“Finan,” you whispered.

He unsheathed his sword and knelt down on the floor raising his sword up to you with both hands. “I Finan swear to you that I will honor my word. I will keep you safe and never lie.”

Your heart felt incredibly full like never before.

“Okay.”

Finan’s whole face seemed to light up at your answer.

“You need to stop with all the gifts and coins.” You stated giving Sihtric a serious look when all he was doing was smiling.

“I only wish to provide for you.”

“Why must you do so? I’ve done nothing to deserve such kindness nor your affection. It must stop now. I have children that I must take care of. I don’t have time to get into something that isn’t meant to be.”

He cocked his head to the side regarding your words. He didn’t seem bothered or phased by what you said. No, he looked more determined than ever.

“You think that’s going to stop me from pursuing you? Then you’re sorely mistaken.”

He took a step forward that made you hold your hands up to stop him.

“I have children Sihtric.” You spoke hoping that would deter him just as it did to other men.

“I love children.”

“They don’t very much care for strangers.”

“I’m very entertaining. I carry a sword and have plenty of stories to tell from my adventures. I think that’s enough to capture their attention.”

“You travel constantly. Even if you were to be in their lives they would miss you immensely.”

You were reaching by this point. Anything to try to distance yourself from this man starting to invade your life and into your heart.

“No matter where I go or for how long I will always find my way back to you. That’s a promise and I’m not one for breaking my promises once I’ve made one.”

Osferth barged through the doors of the church in what seemed to be a hurry. He breathed heavily and his eyes widened when he saw you smiling back at him amused by his actions.

He cleared his throat. You tried to hide your smile by biting your lip. You found Osferth to be cute and his nervousness around you was amusing.

“Pardon the intrusion, my lady. I was hoping to see father Beocca or Hild.”

“Neither are here but I am if you need anything.”

He looked down and shuffled his feet.

“I’m afraid it’s private.”

You smiled even more. Osferth was more than welcomed to confide in you after all you were the apprentice of Hild herself.

“Your in God’s house among friends. I’m offering guidance if you’ll allow me to.”

He seemed to debate it then sat down next to you visibly gulping.

“I’m afraid my thoughts have been impure as of late.”

His honesty caught you off guard at first. It was so unlike Osferth to have any impure thoughts considering he was one of the nicest and humblest of men you’ve ever met.

“Impure in what way?”

“I know I’ve made an oath to God when I was young but now there’s a part of me that is beyond my control.” You nodded and allowed him the time to continue. “There’s this woman whom is quite beautiful and whenever I’m around her I want to act on these urges I’ve been having.”

You took a deep breath trying to settle your own thoughts. Could this woman he speaks of possibly be you? It was bad to think so but you so badly wanted it to be.

“How far do these desires go?”

“All I want is to kiss her but in my dreams I’m,” he gulped before licking his lips. “Doing more than that. Then I wake up, inflamed, in need of relieving myself all the while my thoughts are of her still.”

“This woman in question,” you inquired. “Is she aware of your thoughts?”

He silently turned his head and looked right at you. “Now she does.”

Now it was your turn to appear as nervous as you felt. It felt as if your heart was leaping out of your chest and your body was hot all over. He was now looking at your lips and like a trance both of you closed the space between your bodies until your lips met.

It was all new and foreign to both of you. Purely from watching others embrace their lovers you parted your lips allowing his tongue to invade yours. His hand grazed your leg reaching higher.

It was all escalating until someone cleared their throat loudly. That’s when Osferth jumped from his seat and stood up clearly not helping the situation with his apparent erection appearing from beneath his robes. He seemed to notice it too and folded his hands before himself.

It was Hild who had walked in on you both but she stood quiet. Now judging with her eyes which to you seemed just as worse.

Osferth’s cheeks reddened. He quickly looked over at you before he departed past Hild who you knew would reprimand you later.

#Uhtred #Finan #Sihtric #Osferth #Uhtred x reader #Finan x reader #Sihtric x reader #Osferth x reader #Uhtred imagine #Finan imagine #Sihtric imagine #Osferth imagine #Uhtred drabble #Finan drabble #Sihtric drabble #Osferth drabble #The Last Kingdom

[whitedarkmoonflower]

I read your last fic and it’s so heartwarming

I don’t know if you take fix requests still but if you do, can i ask for husband! Sihtric comforting his wife!reader after losing her best friend. and she obviously suffers from grief. she just wants to be held and told it’s okay to grieve and there’s no shame in hiding it? if it’s okay can you make it sihtric’s pov too? the rest is up to you.

sorry i just have been missing my dead bestfriend a little more and i have no one to comforts me.

Thank you

Authors note: Dear Anon, I don't know how to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. I lost my very good friend and colleague three years ago to cancer. It was Covid time and nobody was even allowed to her in the hospital. It still haunts me. I don't know whether what I have written resonates with you, as it probably draws a lot on my own feelings. I hope it offers you at least a small bit of solace. Today another very special person left this world and made me want to post this short drabble today. I have included a small quote from my beloved Dumbledore, that I thought very fitting. I have marked it in bold.

Pairing: Sihtric x reader (female)

Warnings: mention of death of a close friend, grief

Word Count: 3,1 K

Tags: @sihtricfedaraaahvicius @hb8301 @zillahvathek

If you want to be added to the tag list - write to me.

The moonlight streamed through the gap in the thick curtains, casting an ethereal glow upon the bed. The sheets rustled as Sihtric shifted, feeling the cold spot where you should be. This was not the first time he'd awakened to find the bed beside him empty. 

Sitting up, he ran a hand through his unkempt hair. The faint, familiar scent of you still lingered in the air — a mixture of lavender and the distinct scent that was uniquely yours. 

The air was cool, and the silence of the night seemed almost oppressive. Sihtric knew very well what was gnawing at you. He had pieced everything together already days ago, even if you hadn’t told him a single word about it. The messenger last week had brought bad news to several houses of the village. The sickness was spreading and  the roads were supposed to remain closed at the order of the King to prevent it from taking over the whole realm. For some it had already been too late. Your best friend, a beacon of joy and laughter in your life, had been taken by the sickness; Sihtric had found out by talking to the other villagers.

Sihtric understood your sorrow. What he didn’t understand was, why you hadn’t told him anything. You kept going as if nothing had happened. No, not really. It was as if you had turned into a whirling tempest, always moving, always busy. He hadn’t seen you sitting down or taking a moment for yourself the last few days. You had transformed into a whirlwind of activity, offering help to neighbors, taking on tasks and duties, and barely allowing yourself a moment of rest.

Sihtric had observed the change with growing concern, but what truly worried him were the nights. The countless times he'd awaken in the dark, the bed beside him cold, only to find you downstairs, occupied with some chore. The dark circles under your eyes were becoming more pronounced and your face paler with each passing day.

The last few nights had been restless also for Sihtric, the worry for you gnawing at him. Tonight was no different. The bed felt too vast, too empty, without your warmth beside him. He could hear you downstairs and the quiet sounds of you hurrying around only amplified his concern.

Making up his mind, he was about to swing his legs over the bed to search for you when a sharp, echoing crash cut through the silence. He froze for a split second, the sound immediately putting him on high alert.

Pushing off the blankets, he moved swiftly yet silently, following the direction of the noise - downstairs to the main room, where he found you. The shattered remnants of an ale mug lay around your feet. Amidst the shards, you knelt, looking both surprised and sheepish, your fingers gingerly picking up the larger fragments.

Sihtric rushed to your side, his hand gently touching your arm, as he knelt to help you. "Are you alright?" Sihtric's voice was full of concern.

You blinked, slowly lifting your gaze to meet his. The lost, pained expression in your eyes tore at his heart. "I didn't... I didn't see it," you murmured, your voice barely audible and in the next moment you nudged him away, lowering your gaze.

"Just go back to sleep. Let me do this," you whispered, continuing to collect the shards.

 Sihtric took a moment, watching you, taken aback by your sudden reaction. "It's just a mug. It can be replaced," he said gently, trying to offer reassurance, knowing so well that this surely was not about the broken mug.

But you didn’t respond, focusing intently on the shards as if they held answers to unspoken questions. 

Sihtric's gaze landed on your hand, and his heart skipped a beat. Blood oozed from a jagged gash, staining your fingers and dripping onto the shards you were holding. The cut on your hand bled profusely, but you seemed not to notice it as if detached from the pain and the world around you, concentrating solely on the shards on the floor.

Sihtric swiftly placed his hands on yours to stop you from picking up more pieces. "Your hand..."

You glanced down. "I didn't even notice," you murmured, wincing as the sting of the wound. “It’s nothing serious. Don’t worry.  I can handle that,” you withdrew your hands from his gentle grip.

With a sigh, Sihtric sat back, giving you the space you seemed to need. "Please, let me at least help with your hand. It's bleeding quite a bit."

You glanced at the gash, the reality of the injury sinking in, but still, you remained adamant. "I can manage," you replied, voice quivering slightly.

You continued your frantic gathering, and Sihtric watched you, his heart aching. Each movement you made seemed fueled by a rising panic, your breathing becoming more erratic, eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Before another moment passed, Sihtric grasped your hands again, halting your motions. The shards dropped from your grasp.

You tried to pull away, but Sihtric's grip remained steady as he pulled you up to your feet, trying to lead you away from the broken pieces. You avoided his gaze, focusing on the floor. "It's nothing, Sihtric," you mumbled, your voice shaky, "Just clumsy, that's all. I'll clean it up."

"Y/N," he whispered, voice thick with concern. His mismatched eyes, intense and searching, locked onto yours. "Talk to me. What's going on?"

You swallowed hard, willing the tears to stay at bay. "Everything’s fine," you insisted, trying to put a convincing smile onto your face. But it didn't reach your eyes, and your lower lip trembled ever so slightly.

Sihtric's brow furrowed as he watched you carefully. "Y/N," he began, his tone gentle yet persistent, "you're cleaning mugs in the dead of night. Mugs that were already clean. How can you say everything's fine?"

The tension in the room grew palpable. Sihtric sought to draw you closer, but you pushed back with equal force, a flare of anger igniting in your eyes. 

"Sihtric, you don't get it!" you exclaimed, wrenching your hands again from his grasp. "I don’t want you to see me like this – broken, lost. I don't need your pity!"

He looked taken aback, his usual composed demeanor faltering for a moment. "Y/N, it's not a pity. It's a concern. It's love. I love you and I just want to be there for you."

"There's nothing you can help with," you replied tersely, taking a step back. "I need to handle this on my own."

Sihtric reached out, trying to bridge the gap, but you evaded him, the pain evident in your eyes. "Why can't you understand? Just let me be."

Ignoring your words, Sihtric slipped one arm beneath your knees and the other around your back. In one swift motion, he gently lifted you off the ground, carrying you over to the sturdy wooden table. 

"Sihtric! Put me down!" you protested, your voice a mix of exasperation and surprise. You squirmed, trying to break free from his grasp, but he continued, undeterred by your struggles, his strength undeniable and the warmth of his body against yours unexpectedly comforting.

As he set you down, you shot him a look of surprise and indignation, but he met your gaze with unwavering determination.

"Hold still," he murmured, more to himself than to you.

You opened your mouth to protest, but the sight of your bloodied hand brought the reality of the situation crashing back. The adrenaline and the rush of emotions had made you momentarily oblivious to the pain and the seriousness of the cut.

Sihtric moved quickly, rummaging through the nearby cupboards to find a clean cloth. Fetching a bowl of water, he returned to your side, carefully soaking the rag. His touch was gentle as he dabbed at the wound, cleaning away the blood and inspecting the depth of the cut.

"Y/N," he began, his voice soft yet firm, "whether you like it or not, I'm not going to stand by and watch you get hurt, inside or out."

You looked up at him, your anger slowly melting away in the face of his resolute care. "Sihtric..."

He shook his head, cutting you off. "Later. We'll talk later. Right now, let me take care of this."

The two of you fell into a heavy silence, the only sound being the gentle lapping of water as Sihtric tenderly cleaned your cut, his hands firm yet gentle. Every now and then, his fingers brushed against your skin, sending a fleeting warmth through the chilled silence.

You could feel his gaze on you, not judging or pressing, but patiently waiting, giving you the space to process your emotions,  a silent invitation to share.

The moments stretched on, and the weight of the silence became heavier. Sihtric finished bandaging your hand, his fingers lingering for a moment longer than necessary and then he suddenly turned your hand over, pressing a kiss to your palm, a silent plea for understanding. The warmth of his lips contrasted sharply with the coolness of your skin.

 With a final, gentle squeeze, he pulled away, still saying nothing.

—----------------------------------------------------

As Sihtric wrapped the clean bandage around your hand, his movements were methodical and gentle, but his mind was a storm. He had always been your rock, your steady anchor amidst life's tempests, and now he felt lost, unable to grasp the reason for the distance between you.

With each moment his thoughts grew more intense, spiraling with doubt and insecurity. Why won't she tell me? Have I done something? Failed her in some way?

He took a moment, glancing up at your face, searching for some sign, some clue that might help him understand the walls you'd built, either to protect yourself or him. Why doesn't she trust me anymore?

His heart ached with the weight of unspoken words. He'd always believed that your bond was unbreakable, founded on trust and mutual respect. This silence, this growing gap between you, drew him mad.

He was angry at himself for failing you, angry at you for shutting him out, but above all, there was a profound sense of helplessness. Does she still love me? 

Sihtric knew he had to speak, to voice his concerns, but he couldn’t find the right words, leaving the two of you captured in a web of silence and unspoken emotions.

Every instinct in him screamed to pull you close, to envelop you in an embrace, to shield you from whatever demons were haunting you, but he also couldn't ignore your demand for distance. He was willing to give it to you, if that was what would help, even if it pained him.

Torn between wanting to be your protector and respecting the boundaries you'd set, he found himself thinking he would prefer hundred battles to this torment of not knowing how to help you. 

His gaze settled on you once more, taking in the subtle signs of your pain — the faint tremor of your hands, the distant look in your eyes, the way you drew in on yourself. It was clear to him that your pain ran deep, and he simply yearned to soothe it.

Why won't you let me in? he almost voiced the question that was burning him from inside, feeling sadness and anger flaring within him. 

Taking a deep breath, he made a choice. Slowly, with utmost care, he reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair behind your ear. The touch was feather-light, a silent question seeking permission. 

His voice, when he finally spoke, was soft, almost a whisper, "I'm here for you, always. Whether you need space or a shoulder, just say the word. I'll always choose what's best for you."

—----------------------------------------------------

It was so simple. In his quiet strength and unwavering love, Sihtric had offered you a choice. There was nothing else as understanding and love in his gaze as his eyes met yours.

The ball was in your court. The question hung in the air, whether you would let him in or push him further away and continue to suffer in silence.

You could feel a lump forming in your throat, a weight pressing down on your chest, making it harder to breathe. Words danced on the tip of your tongue, desperate to be released, but every time you tried, they got caught in the whirlwind of emotion threatening to consume you.

"I can’t sleep. I just... I need to keep my hands busy," you finally admitted, voice barely above a whisper. "It helps... distract me, from the thoughts. It’s easier during the day, when I have a lot to do, but at night… There is no escape from them and from the dreams…. It feels like I'm drowning. Keeping busy, even with pointless tasks, keeps them at bay... if only for a little while.""

A tear slipped from your eye, rolling down your cheek, betraying the emotions you struggled to keep at bay. Without a word, Sihtric reached out, brushing it away with his thumb. 

Taking a deep breath, he began, his voice soft and measured. "I heard about your friend," he began, choosing his words carefully. 

Your eyes widened in surprise, not expecting him to know. Before you could react, he continued, "I know I can’t  fully understand the depth of your pain, the bond you shared, the memories. But that doesn't mean I can't stand by your side in your grief."

You blinked back tears, your emotions threatening to overwhelm you. Sihtric sighed, and cupped your face. "You don't have to pretend with me," he whispered, his thumb brushing gently over your cheek.  "You don't have to go through it alone. I'm here. Always. Let me in. Let me help."

You could hear the raw emotion in his voice and it made your heart ache even more, adding another layer of complexity to the storm of feelings inside.

But the wall you'd built around yourself was sturdy, a defense mechanism to protect not just yourself, but him as well. You believed that by bearing your pain alone, you were sparing him. But in reality, it was causing him just as much anguish, watching you suffer.

"I can't bear to see you like this,” Sihtric whispered. “Please, let me share your burden. Let me help carry the weight."

You blinked back tears, the truth of his words hitting hard. The pain of losing your friend, combined with the frustration and helplessness of not being able to be there at the sick bed, was a weight too heavy to bear alone. 

"I wanted to be there, Sihtric. I wanted to say goodbye. I didn’t tell you, not because I didn’t trust you to understand what I’m going through. It was just too hard to admit that this had really happened, that there will be no shared laughs anymore, that I will never hear the familiar voice, that the last letters I wrote will never be read and there will be no answer to them. I thought…, I thought that as long as I don’t admit it, it can’t be real. It was so foolish of me," and as you spoke, you felt the world slowly crushing around you as tears welled up in your eyes and started to flow down your cheeks, your shoulders shuddering in unstoppable sobs.

“Why?” you cried. “We dreamed of so many things, and now it will never come true. It’s so unfair.”

Sihtric pulled you into a tight embrace, his arms strong and comforting around you. "I know it’s hard to accept," he whispered, his breath warm against your ear. "Do not pity the dead, my love, pity the living, and above all those who live without love. Your friend knew how much love there was in your heart, I’m certain of it by the way you speak. It's okay to be sad and to grieve," he said softly, his voice carrying a gentle strength. "You don't have to hide it from me or from anyone, even from yourself not. Everyone has moments of darkness, of pain, and it's okay to feel them, to let them wash over you."

"You don’t have to speak about it if you're not ready,” Sihtric continued. “ But please, don't push me away. Let me be with you, to hold you, to just keep silent with you."

His fingers slightly touched your chin, guiding your gaze to meet his and you felt the walls you'd constructed starting to crumble. Sihtric's sincerity, his unwavering love, made it hard to keep him at arm's length and you melted into his embrace, letting him hold you as you cried out your pain and despair. 

"You need to rest," he said softly after a while, when you had finally calmed down a bit.

Without another word, he moved towards the fireplace and settled himself on the furs laid out before the comforting warm flames, pulling  you with him. He extended his hand towards you and waited.

Swallowing hard, you finally nodded. You took his hand and nestled between his strong thighs, your back resting against his broad chest. You could hear his steady heartbeat beneath the fabric of his tunic, a stark contrast to your own erratic one.

His arms encircled you, drawing you closer until nothing could pass between you. The world outside, with its pain, faded away, leaving just the two of you. Sihtric's fingers found their way to your hair, softly threading through the strands, his touch gentle and soothing. The rhythmic strokes, paired with the warmth of the fire and his embrace, slowly began to unravel your tension.

As the minutes turned into hours, you felt your eyelids grow heavy, sleep slowly overwhelming you.

Sihtric felt the change in you, the way your body relaxed as you succumbed to the fatigue. He pressed a gentle kiss to your head, a silent promise that he would stand guard, ensuring your sleep will  remain undisturbed.

And as the night deepened, with you safely curled up in his embrace, Sihtric remained, keeping you close to his chest and watching over you. The gentle rise and fall of your breathing was the only sound he needed, to know that all his doubts had been in vain, that you trusted him and that he had finally managed to break through the wall you had built around yourself. And as dawn began to break, painting the room in hues of gold and pink, he still held you close, afraid to move and break the fragile peace that had settled between you two.

#sihtric #sihtric kjartansson #the last kingdom #tlk #sihtric x reader #sihtric x you #sihtric drabble #sihtric fanfic

[lordavanti]

Opposite parties

Sihtric x Reader

Summary: You are loyal to Aethelflaed. After she took another beating from her husband she decides to visit Cookham and Uhtred. What works out for you given you have certain affections for Sihtric there. But it isn't all that easy, not when you are on opposite sides. Words: 1075

You always grew restless when Aethelred and Aethelflaed were together. You always hoped that he was pursuing his desires to conquer some more lands. It gave you rest, but more than anything it gave Aethelflaed rest. You were talking against one of the servants when he walked in. You turned, giving him a curtesy. ‘My lord.’ You greeted him. But he ignored you, he had always ignored you and for once you didn’t mind. Because getting the attention of Aethelred always meant something bad. He commanded one of his guards to prepare a horse and your eyes slowly went to where he came from … his chambers. It didn’t take long for Aethelflaed to walk into the hallway. ‘My lady.’ You bow. She seemed in pain. But you had learned to not give her your concern. She gave you a smile before nodding her servant to leave. You looked at how the servant walked away before you pointed your attention back to her. ‘I wish to visit my mother. But I would like to make a detour to Cookham.’ She announced. You gave her a compassionate smile, knowing all too well why she wanted to go to Cookham. ‘I’ll prepare everything.’ You nodded before turning around. While he could chase some new lands, she could get the rest and comfort she needed. And in ways, that meant the same for you.

When your small group of only true loyal people to Aethelflaed arrived in Cookham the men of Uhtred were already waiting. That look in between Aethelflaed and Uthred, it made you smile as you looked aside to Aldhelm. This was wrong, so wrong but neither one of you could deny her the happiness of these little moments. Your attention drifted to the man standing still aside from your horse. ‘Y/n.’ He said with a suppressed smile. ‘Sihtric.’ You greeted him, taking his hand as he helped you from your horse. He took a hold of your side as you came down the horse. Your hand rested on your shoulder, not immediately retreating once you got on the ground. ‘It has been a while.’ He mentioned. ‘I can’t ask the lady to come here simply because,’ you paused as your attention was required somewhere else. You let go of him before leaving his side. Christians were just Christians, Uhtred, Sihtric, they had something those others didn’t have. And since you got to know them a little better, you got to learn to appreciate that raw power.

It was late when you left the great hall and Aethelflaed behind. You walked the streets to where you and Aethelflaed would spend the night. But she wouldn’t be there, she was planning to spend the night with Uhtred. ‘Psst.’ You looked over to a shed, smiling when you recognized Sihtric. You suppressed a smile while walking over. ‘Why the secrecy?’ You asked him as he pulled you behind the shed. ‘I don’t want to ruin your future.’ ‘You already did,’ you pointed out to the situation. You loved this thrill, this sneaking around, this love for a pagan. ‘But Aethelflaed doesn’t know.’ He protested. You lifted your hand, stroking your fingers against the bald part of his head. ‘No, she doesn’t.’ You said. You kept your eyes on him before smiling as he brought his head closer. Your fingers curled through his hair as he kissed you. Christians were always neat, reserved, and kept certain politeness through their kiss. But kissing Sihtric was different. It held certain hunger, that rush, that need. His body pressed you against the shed and you smiled against his lips before pushing him a little back. ‘I have the cabin all to myself.’ You suggested. You looked down, your fingers stroking his pagan necklace. ‘And the lady?’ He asked. You tilted your head, all of the sudden serious. ‘Why are you so afraid of Aethelflaed finding out? I thought pagans to be fearless.’ You said. He lifted his finger. ‘I’m fearless.’ He reacted. You caught his finger between yours. ‘Then spend a night with me.’ It was a simple offer. One he wouldn’t be able to refuse in other circumstances. ‘You only live once Sihtric, if you die you go to Valhalla, if I die I go with god. There is not a life for us after this,’ you explained. For a moment you saw something change in his expression. ‘Can’t we allow ourselves this, these little moments? Where you are not fighting and I just cross paths?’ You finally asked him. Maybe there wasn’t any future for the both of you. But you liked him. He was loyal, truly loyal, and that these days was a rare thing among people. ‘Do you tell every man that?’ He asked. Right there you knew you had him. You smiled while shaking your head. ‘I normally never have to convince them.’ You taunted him. You pushed away from the shed and guided him through the houses to where you got to sleep.

When you woke up he was still there, lying on his back. You turned to your stomach, admiring his naked chest before your fingers took his necklace. You studied the pagan symbol, smiling when his eyes opened. ‘Morning.’ You whispered. You rested your head on your hand, admiring the view. He laid still, gazing back at you before he smiled. ‘Regretting it?’ You asked. He shook his head. ‘Regretting that we don’t have more time.’ He confessed. You spread your fingers over his chest, looking down at it as you realized this was the last moment you had together. ‘Did Aethelred hurt her?’ Sihtric asked. You carefully looked back, lightly nodding. ‘Does he looks at you?’ He followed. ‘No,’ you immediately laid. ‘not yet.’ You whispered. Sihtric laid his hand on yours, entangling his fingers with yours. ‘Can’t you stay?’ He asked. He knew the answer to that, which made it all the more painful. ‘She needs me.’ ‘What if I need you?’ He followed. You hold your breath while studying his face. ‘Sihtric, I can’t stay, you know that.’ You regretted telling him that. And even if you stayed, tomorrow he maybe had to follow Uhtred. So this was the only thing you had, that you could share with him. You lowered your lips, kissing his chest before pulling yourself loose from him. The shorter the pain, the better. Aethelflaed probably felt the exact same thing while leaving Uhtred behind.

#The last kingdom #Sihtric #Sihtric x reader #Sihtric image #Sihtric drabble #The last kingdom imagine #the last kingdom drabble #Aethelflaed #The last kingdom fic #Sihtric fic

[tlkfaerie]

MASTERLIST

Last Updated: 07/09/23

The Last Kingdom

Trouble (sihtric smut)

Celebrations (sihtric smut)

Impossible (sihtric x reader x finan)

Ribbons (finan smut)

#finan #finan the agile #sihtric #sihtric kjartansson #sihtric smut #sihtric x reader #seven kings must die #tlk fanfic #osferth #uhtred of bebbanburg #the last kingdom #uhtred #aethelstan #baby monk #tlk #tlk season 4 #masterlist #smut #drabble #x reader #female reader

[alexagirlie]

Another Winter Drabble from THIS prompt list. Thank you @gemini-mama for the promps Fuzzy Socks and Secrets.

The Last Kingdom - Finan/Sihtric - fluff, snow day.

Sihtric and Finan were cuddled up on the plush couch in Finan's living room watching through the large bay windows as the world outside was blanketed in a thick coat of white as snow fell in large fluffy flakes. Sihric had his head cradled in the crook of Finan's neck and he was so warm and happy wrapped in his boyfriends arms.

He watched the snow fall and was struck with a sudden and childish urge. He nuzzled closer to the older man. "Wanna know a secret?" He whispered.

"Hmmm sure luv." Finan rumbled, half asleep and adorably groggy.

"I've never built a snowman." Sihtric confessed, voice soft and gaze locked on the increasing centimeters of snow building outside.

Finan shot up into a seated position, almost dislodging Sihtric in the process. "Wait, never?"

He shooked his head. "Nope, never had the proper clothes to play in the snow and not get soaked and freeze." Left unsaid was the reason why he never had proper winter gear, Finan was well aware of how shitty Sihtric's father had been.

"Well I think its right time to fix that, let's go."

They move to Finan rooms to get layered up and Sihtric bursts out laughing when Finan pulled out the most ridiculous pair of socks he had ever seen. They were hot pink and looked like a small animal with how fuzzy they were.

"Oi! Don't laugh! These are the warmest socks in the world, you'll see!" He exclaimed as he pulled out another pair, these ones a pastel baby blue and somehow even fuzzier and handed them to Sihtric to put on. "Trust me."

#kirstin's chronicles #drabble #the last kingdom #finan #sihtric #finan x sihtric #finan/sihtric #winter prompt

[mrsarnasdelicious]

TLK Christmas - Christmas with BoB!Coccham Four

One the first day of Christmas, Mommah gives her childlings Poly!Feels.

"Oh gods, it smells so fucking good." You groan as you wander into the kitchen. You are last out of bed, as evidenced by your four boyfriends sitting at the kitchen table. Or rather, three. Finan is busying himself with an industrial grade mixer. And he is wearing nothing but a frilly apron.

"Now there is a good Yule gift." You smirk, going over and smacking Finan on his bare arse. The Baker groans lewdly. "A Happy Christmas to you too." He growls, handing you a hug of hot cocoa. "Happy Yule." You get up on your tippy toes to kiss his beardy cheek. He chuckles gently.

You sit at the breakfast table.

"Happy Christmas." Osferth sends you a radiant smile. You put your hand over his. "Happy Yule, sweetling." You cooe. He leans over to kiss you gently. You smile against his lips. Uhtred rubs his foot against your leg under the table. You break away from Osferth and grin at him. "Happy Yule." He says. "You too, my love." You purr. Then you turn to the other man beside you. He is as starkers as Finan. Only Sihtric is not wearing an apron. "That is a Happy Yule for sure." You chuckle. "A very Happy Yule." Sihtric affirms. He leans over to kiss you deeply. You can't help a little moan. Sihtric smirks against your lips.

"Oi, no gettin' mushy over breakfast! Sihtric, put in some boxers." Finan puts a big tray of freshly baked scones on the table. Osferth rises to help him with setting the table. Sihtric swears softly. But he gets up and heads to his attic room all the same to retrieve himself some boxers.

"Maybe you should put on boxers too, Finan. Your apron is pointing." Osferth said casting his eyes to Finan's crotch. The tent there is rather evident. "That still morning wood, or because Sihtric is walking around with his arse out, too?" Uhtred asks. You and Osferth laugh. "I am making you ingrates breakfast." Finan grumbles. "Would that be with or without protein shake." A smug smirk pulls at Uhtred lips. Osferth looks a little scandalised, but you are all but under the table with laughter.

"No, I am saving that for under the mistletoe." Finan points his spatula at the other man. "I don't think Baldr would thank you for that." Sihtric comes back into kitchen. Finan and Osferth both give him a slightly confused look. "Mistletoe is a pagan tradition, babe." Sihtric smirks, holding the most innocent of plants above Finan's head, a tricksy smirk pulling at his lips.

Finan swears and draws the Dane nearer by the front of his boxers. Uhtred wolf whistles and Osferth does his best not to stare.

#tlk #the last kingdom #uhtred x osferth x finan x sihtric x reader #christmas drabble #Band of Beddanburgh AU #uhtred #alexander dreymon #osferth #ewan mitchell #finan #mark rowley #sihtric #arnas fedaravicius

[silens-oro]

Sin

Osferth x f!reader

Masterlist

Synopsis: Some teasing on the road. Word Count: 516 Content Warning: Some talks of humping, but this is pure fluff.

AN: I've been absent from this blog for a very long time and wanted to write a quick drabble to get me back on track with my other open fics. Osferth and his silly lil haircut are a good place to start.

This blog is 18+ only

The Last Kingdom requests are OPEN

“You’re tellin’ me that our fiercest maiden to grace our presence hasn’t humped you yet?” Osferth’s face turned beet red at Finan’s question. 

“The monk remains pure, Finan.” You called back over your shoulder with a laugh. “I do not wish to be the reason his soul suffers in -what did you call it, Osferth?” You asked with a snap of your fingers, “-Ah! The flames of eternal damnation,” You looked to a blushing Osferth who merely nodded with his head down, trying hard not to laugh lest he be smited by God himself. 

You winked at Osferth when his eyes met yours before you turned forward once more. 

“He has his reasoning,” You shrugged, “and I respect him for it. Not every man has the will to stave off the serpent of temptation, Finan. You least of all.” You teased.

“Eternal damnation?” Finan wrapped his arm around Osferth’s neck and pulled him close to speak into his ear. “You’d be witnessing the gardens of Eden, Baby Monk. The second best wonder next to the Pearly Gates,” He led Osferth’s gaze to your strong backside as you walked ahead of them none the wiser. The men’s eyes met each other once more, identical grins overtaking their features. 

“That is your devil talking into your ear, Osferth,” Uhtred chuckled beside you, joining in. He glanced back. “Do not fall for his tricks.” Osferth signed the cross on his chest but the smile never left his face. 

“I don’t know, Uhtred,” You started, “what is life without a little bit of sin?”

“Boring,” Sihtric called back with a chuckle. You gave him a pointed look in agreeance.

“Exactly!” You exclaimed, walking a few more paces before you turned back to Osferth and continued on, “One of these days I will bewitch you, Osferth. It is not a matter of if…but a matter of when.” The men hooted and hollered at the monk’s expense, but the teasing was all in good fun. You sent him a soft smile and another wink before turning back to keep up with Uhtred.

Osferth’s eyes never left you and neither did the smile on his lips.

“You’re thinkin’ about it too much, Baby Monk.” Finan coached Osferth.

“I know she is just jesting.” He spoke softly with a sigh. “I could never be worthy of her gaze, let alone her touch.” Finan pulled Osferth to a stop. Sihtric gave them both a look as he passed them. “And it would be a sin to act on those urges even if they were reciprocated.”

“The fiercest woman in the entirety of the Heptarchy has her sights set on you, whether you can believe it or not. She’s never given any of us sad sacks the time of day, but she extends herself to you. That’s got to count for something?”

Osferth thought for a moment. He looked to you once more, laughing at something Uhtred said before punching him on the arm.

“She is a sight to behold.” Osferth breathed with a lovesick look overtaking him as he continued on, leaving Finan to watch with his jaw dropped in gleeful shock.

#osferth x reader #tlk imagine #the last kingdom imagine #osferth imagine #drabble #the last kingdom #ewan mitchell imagine #fluff #x reader

[little-diable]

Victory - Finan x Reader x Sihtric (smut)

I rewatched the last episode of TLK yesterday, so I had to write this drabble. Please like and reblog if you enjoyed reading this, your comments keep us writers motivated. Enjoy my loves. xxx

Summary: Basically pwp, the three fuck in their new chambers

Warnings: 18+, smut, oral (m), unprotected piv, threesome

Pairing: Finan x fem!reader x Sihtric (1.3k words)

picture credit to the owner

“You know,” Finan’s voice had a rough undertone to it, staring down on (y/n), who was kneeling in front of her two lovers. “Now that we are finally here, after all these years, I think it’s time for us to properly claim you, as ours, as part of our new life.”

Just hours ago they had taken Bebbanburg, fighting their way to victory with blood sticking to their features, blood that had been slowly washed away by the pouring rain. Some may call it the gods wishes, some may call it luck. But (y/n) couldn’t care about fate, not about luck, at least not as she was kneeling naked in front of Finan and Sihtric. With dilated, lust-blow pupils she took in their frames, how the two towered over her with exposed, tensed muscles, with grinning lips, and pupils filled with anticipation.

“I think I lost count on the amount of times you’ve claimed me before.” (Y/n)‘s teasing words were swallowed by her gasp, head forced back by the hand Sihtric used to grasp her hair. The Dane had an almost challenging gaze swimming in his pupils, wondering if she’d dare to speak up again.

The rules between the three were clear, burned into her mind and body like a prayer she’d speak on her knees, with hands interlaced, and her eyes closed – if she’d pray to the Christian God that is. But now, as (y/n) was still shaking from the adrenaline pumping through her veins like a strongly brewed ale, she couldn’t help but smirk, forgoing her command to stay quiet in moments like these. “You know, I don’t think it’s fair that you’re allowed to claim me, while I have to do whatever you ask me to.”

“Look at that, Finan, I told you, our victories make her arrogant.” Sihtric’s smirk stayed glued to his lips as he studied Finan, the grin widening on the man’s lips, how he ran his hand along his beard. 

“I guess we need to hump her arrogance out of her, but first I need to stuff that greedy mouth of hers.” Before (y/n) could even begin to understand what was happening, Finan had freed his twitching cock, pushing it right past her lips, into her mouth. A surprised gasp left (y/n), eyes instantly finding Finan’s glistening ones, hoping that she’d never forget the lustful expressions tugging on her lover’s features. Finan fucked her mouth without holding back, cock forced deeper and deeper down her throat as if this was his last time to feel her, a starving man aching for the smell of cooking food and freshly brewed ale, a mere dream he’d cling to till his last breath leaves his lungs. 

Sihtric watched the scene in front of him unfold, hands working on his cock, trying to match the rhythm of (y/n)’s mouth, how she worked on the parts her mouth couldn’t reach with trembling fingers. The Dane couldn’t help but thank his gods for blessing him with (y/n), for pushing the woman into his and Finan’s life, glued to their sides till the sun would no longer alight the horizon, calling darkness to rest over the lands they keep fighting for. 

“That mouth is the Devil’s work.” Finan’s words were paired with sharp intakes of air, trying to breathe through the clashing waves of lust that tried to drown the soldier, hoping to swallow him whole as his high caught up with him. His head rolled back, hand grasping her jaw to keep (y/n) from moving away, set on filling her cheeks with his cum. “You’ll be a good girl for us tonight, right?”

(Y/n) couldn’t reply, could only hum around his cock with the corners of her mouth burning and her wrists trembling in pain. No matter how many times she’d lay with Finan and Sihtric, she still wasn’t used to their stamina, to the way their bodies worked, a mystery amongst those keeping other restless souls awake late at night. 

Her eyes met Sihtric’s, getting lost in the pupils that had watched more humans die than one could count, and yet the man emanated so much love, so much calmness, she couldn’t help but search his closeness at any given chance. With one hand she reached out for Sihtric, guiding him closer, reaching for his cock to push him over the edge as Finan fucked her mouth, chasing his orgasm. 

The moans of both men filled the room like sounds of victory, betokening the end of another successful battle. Finan’s cock twitched in her mouth as the man suddenly let go of her, gently pushing himself away from her, the same time Sihtric stepped away, pushing (y/n) down on the fur covering the cold ground. 

With Sihtric positioned behind her and Finan in front of her, the men got back to work, wanting to fill her with their cum, to leave their marks on her in the most primitive ways. (Y/n)’s eyes fluttered close as Sihtric’s fingers brushed through her slit, collecting drops of arousal, finding her pulsing bundle. Her moans clawed through her, struggling to move her hands, to cling to Finan as Sihtric pushed into her without another warning.

“Oh gods, I–” (y/n) couldn’t speak, struggling to give room to the emotions thumping through her system, to the things both her lovers were making her feel. The raspy laugh clawing through Finan forced her to open her glassy eyes, pulled against his chest as her free hand worked on his cock. 

“The gods won’t help you now, love. You’re ours, ours to hump, ours to claim, ours to mark.” Sihtric’s words had an almost teasing undertone to them, leaving her trembling, deeply exhaling against the crook of Finan’s neck. Like ships sailing through the rough sea, their bodies clashed together with every ferocious thrust, allowing Sihtric to bury himself even deeper inside of her, body made to fit the one of her lover. 

The three of them would die for one another, giving their last breaths if it meant rescuing the others. Perhaps it was the path fate had pushed them onto, born to find the others, to form a trio that couldn’t be broken apart by wars, by raging fires, by those that wanted to hurt them. No, they’d forever stay like this, linked together. 

“I‘m so close, please, please let me.” (Y/n)’s voice shook, eyes squeezed shut as she added more pressure to her grasp on Finan’s cock, pushing the man closer and closer to the edge. She could feel Sihtric’s fingers digging into her hips, leaving marks on her skin as he chased his own high, set on filling her with his release. The eyes of both men found one another, wordlessly communicating with smirks glued to their lips, set on pushing her over the edge with them. 

Their moans blended together, a sound so sinful they couldn’t help but wonder if anybody close was listening to them. (Y/n)’s eyes rolled back into her head as she came with both men following moments later, leaving their stain on her with their cum. The three of them were heavily breathing, not daring to part just yet as they allowed the heavenly feeling to wash through them, searching one another’s closeness. 

“Don’t you dare fall asleep, love, that was only the beginning.” And with a smirk tugging on her lips, (y/n) kissed Finan as Sihtric pulled out of her, watching his cum drip down her thighs with a proud smile.

#sihtric smut #finan smut #sihtric x reader x finan #the last kingdom imagine #Finan x Reader #sihtric x reader #the last kingdom

[zaldritzosrose]

I will try and update this as best I can!

Series:

To Tame A Wolf (Aemond Targaryen x OC!Lyanna Stark)

Part 1 - Negotiation and Betrothal

Part 2 - Council and Conflict

Divine Violence (Aemond Targaryen x OC!Viserra Targaryen)

Part 1 - Death and Prophecy

Oneshots (all reader insert):

Lose Control (Aegon x Niece!Reader)

Make Me Want To Sin (Aegon x Betrothed!Reader)

Surrender (Sihtric x Noble!Reader)

Lessons In Pleasure (Aegon x Reader x Harwin)

Board Drabbles:

Goddess x Masema Dagar

#masterlist #fanfiction #house of the dragon #aemond targaryen #oc fanfiction #reader insert #aegon ii targaryen #the last kingdom #sihtric kjartansson #masema dagar #harwin strong

[itbmojojoejo]

𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕟 ~

A Good Man | Finan x Ealdorman's Daughter!Reader. | NSFW. | 11 Parts | Complete.

River Of Sins | Finan x OFC x Osferth | NSFW.

𝕆𝕤𝕗𝕖𝕣𝕥𝕙 ~

Fall From Grace | Osferth x Novice!Reader | Angst. SFW | DRABBLE.

𝕊𝕚𝕙𝕥𝕣𝕚𝕔 ~

Indelicate Tenderness | Sihtric x Ealdorman's Wife!Reader | NSFW.| Complete.

𝕊𝕚𝕘𝕖𝕗𝕣𝕚𝕕 ~

The Gold Obsidian Collection | Sigefrid x OFC | NSFW. DUBCON. | Complete.

𝕌𝕙𝕥𝕣𝕖𝕕 ~

Uhtred x Fem!Reader | Drabble | WC:640 | NSFW.

Crimes Of Passion | Finan x OFC & Sihtric x OFC | NSFW. Smut. | Part 10 | Complete.

Fractured Moonlight | Vamp!Finan x Vamp!OFC | Angst. NSFW. Smut. | Ongoing.

#masterlist #the last kingdom fanfic #finan x reader #osferth x reader #sihtric x reader #sigefrid x oc #sihtric x oc #finan x oc

[sihtricfedaraaahvicius]

May or may not have a tiny Masema smut fic that is just a drabble really and I'm nervous to release it because it's not... it's not Sihtric and it feels weird??

#i gotta hop over the treshold at some point 😭 #it's just a name #and idk which gremlin said it #but someone called him “evil Sihtric” #and i felt that

[whitedarkmoonflower]

HELLO! I would like to request a full on fluffy modern!Sihtric fic, where he's desperately in love with reader and he takes her on their first date, and does everything he can to impress her 🥰 (I hope you like the idea! just want to give you a feel good fic to write)

Authors note: thank you @sihtricfedaraaahvicius so much for this lovely request! In the beginning I thought it’s going to be a short and sweet drabble, but then I started writing and it just got longer and longer and now the story already has more than 8000 words and I haven’t  fully finished yet, so I decided to split it into several parts. Don’t worry - that sweet date will come somewhere towards the end, please, just be patient …

Summary: Sihtric – a talented artist – juggles between his passion for painting and his job as a graphic designer. At the corporate Christmas party, Sihtric's unspoken feelings for his boss are tested when a twist of fate brings them closer than expected. 

Pairing: Sihtric x reader (female)

Warnings: actually none, fluff, suppressed feelings

Word Count: 3,4 K

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

Tags: @sihtricfedaraaahvicius @hb8301 @zillahvathek

If you want to be added to the tag list - write to me.

Sihtric's alarm buzzed softly, pulling him out of his slumber with a gentle tune. He'd done it again, painted till the wee hours, lost in his own world. Rubbing his eyes, he sat up. 

"Man, today's gonna be a long one," he mumbled, stretching wide enough to feel every vertebra pop.

Hopping out of bed, he wandered to the bathroom. While scrubbing his teeth and waking himself up with a splash of cold water, his mind played out the day's agenda. And looming large on that list was that meeting with you, his boss.

He had joined the advertising firm as a graphic designer just six months back, when it once again had become evident that his unpredictable art sales were simply not enough to cover rent and other bills. And in this short time, he had come to genuinely admire you. It wasn't just because you were the master over his paycheck. No, it was more. You were smart and intelligent, with a discerning eye, having worked with some of the industry's best, always full of energy and bursting with unexpected ideas.

As his coffee brewed, filling the room with a comforting aroma, Sihtric glanced at his workstation. Sketches, notes, and reminders littered the space. He had poured his soul into designs for a crucial client this week.

Sipping his coffee, warmth spreading through his fingers, Sihtric's mind drifted. He thought back to his job interview with you - how awe-struck he had been by your charisma. Every tiny detail from that day was imprinted in his mind: the way your hair framed your face, that crisp white blouse, your piercing gaze, and the assertive yet gentle tone of your voice. It felt like a dream, one where he forgot the reason he was even in that room to begin with.

You looked down at his portfolio and then back up at him, your gaze unyielding.

"Sihtric, I see you've worked with a few ad agencies before. Can you tell me about a particularly challenging project you've undertaken and how you tackled it?"

Those eyes of yours, he got trapped in them like a butterfly in a giant coweb, the question almost going unnoticed. "Oh, um, yeah," he started, voice wavering a touch, "So, there was this campaign... for a... thing, and I did, well, design stuff?"

Your eyebrow raised in a playful challenge, a smirk tugging at the corner of your mouth, "Design stuff? Could you elaborate, please?"

Embarrassed, he tried to muster a clearer answer. "Right, what I meant was I led the visual side of this big campaign. We had... differing views in the team. But, I managed to sort it out, and... made some designs?" He was mentally slapping himself on the face for his incoherence, but there was nothing he could do about it. His mind was racing. He couldn't help but notice the little details – the glint of your necklace, the soft curve of your lips. Vivid images of your fingers brushing against his skin or tangling in his hair made him sweat and he could swear his heart had jumped to his throat.

You leaned forward, placing his portfolio on the desk. "Sihtric, take a deep breath. I'm interested in your work and your experience. Let's try that again. Take your time."

He nodded, grateful for the second chance. Drawing a long breath, he tried to push aside his nervous admiration for you to give a more composed answer. The whole meeting remained a hazy whirlwind for him. Exiting your office, he felt like he'd just finished a marathon, convinced he’d made a fool of himself and butchered his chances. The real shocker came the next day when your secretary called to tell him he'd landed the job.

Sometimes he pondered if he should've declined. He never foresaw the toll it'd take on his heart. Sure, you were drop-dead gorgeous, but it wasn't just that. It was the air around you, the way you carried yourself, the balance between assertiveness and genuine warmth.

And therein lay the rub. Each interaction, from official meetings to casual chat near the coffee machine, even the fleeting moments your fingers grazed while sharing documents, tested Sihtric’s composure. He'd often find himself lingering on your laugh a second too long or jumping at chances to help you out, constantly trying to dial back before raising suspicion.

He had a love-hate relationship with big projects, especially the one he was working on now. The upside was of course spending more time with you – those endless late brainstorming evenings, project discussions gulping down morning coffees, or those afternoon progress check-ins. And then there were of course those quick breaks with some casual chats about movies or music. He lived for these moments, yet they twisted his gut, making the 'keep it professional' attitude so much harder. 

Man, when you'd burst into laughter over some silly office joke or shared tidbits from your weekend, it was like a sneak peek into the real you, the person behind the boss. And, boy, did it send him spiralling.

It was a rollercoaster of emotions. The giddy highs from just being close to you followed by sinking  lows, realising his feelings might always remain a secret. Sihtric took a deep breath, setting down his drained coffee cup. Another day, another challenge to keep that secret under wraps.

And let's be real. The odds were stacked against him. On one end, there was him – an artist, struggling for recognition and forced to juggle between his passion and job in order to be able to pay his bills. On the other, there was you – successful and recognised art director of one of the city's top ad agencies, mastering work challenges with a mix of grit and grace. The idea that you might ever look his way seemed... well, ludicrous and the fact that he was your direct subordinate only emphasised how absolutely fantasy like this notion was.

—----------------------------------------------------

The company's annual Christmas party was always a big deal  — a bright spot in the midst of deadlines and stress. The office would light up, literally, with twinkling lights and festive baubles, and for a night, it'd transform into a party wonderland. The aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts wafted through the air as soft carols played in the background making everybody feel warm and fuzzy.

Sihtric was in his element, chatting away with buddies about holiday escapades and the usual office gossip. The night was looking good, he was happy and truly enjoying himself, especially because he'd been recently introduced to this big-shot art lover, who seemed genuinely interested in his unique art style. And thanks to this unexpected acquaintance an exhibition was already in preparation – a dream Sihtric had cherished for years was coming true. Late nights, brushes, paints, and the chaos of bringing art to life now dominated his hours and he revelled in that even if some darker rings around his eyes testified to the lack of proper sleep.

Amid this whirlwind of preparation, another thought continually hovered at the edge of Sihtric's mind — inviting you to his exhibition. He wanted you to see beyond the office guy, to the artist, the dreamer. What better time than a Christmas party? Every time he played the scene in his mind, it would end differently. Sometimes he'd imagine you looking thrilled and promising to attend. Other times, he'd envision a polite but distant decline.

And so he was anticipating your arrival, feverishly brainstorming about the perfect moment for his invitation, as the door swung open, revealing you, looking radiant in a black dress that accentuated every line of your body, leaving Sihtric momentarily speechless and stumbling over his words. He almost choked on his drink, his gaze glued to you, following every so gracious move, his jaw slowly dropping and eyes filling with an expression of deep frustration.

You were laughing, your eyes gleaming with joy as they met those of the tall, dashing man beside you. His arm was draped casually around your waist, a possessive yet tender gesture that made Sihtric's heart sink.

Every laugh you shared, each subtle touch, and those warm exchanges of glances between you and the guy  – it all was like a dagger to Sihtric's heart. A cocktail of jealousy and a pinch of sadness brewed within him, although he kept reminding himself he had no claim over you. He had never voiced his feelings, nor had he let himself believe that someone as radiant and accomplished as you could ever see past his name tag. "Get a grip, Sihtric. She's out of your league, and you had always known that," he told himself. 

But still there had always been that small, naive part of him that harboured hope, whispering tales of “what ifs”. What if one day everything would change and he would muster the courage to share his feelings? But tonight, that hope was crushed under the weight of reality.

Pulling together every remaining bit of his self-control, Sihtric pivoted back to the conversation at hand, all the while battling the urge to keep peeking over at you. But from the corner of his eye, he still saw you both — so wrapped up in each other, dancing to your own rhythm.

As the night rolled on, he kinda lost track of you two. A part of him scolded himself for even daydreaming. Of course, someone as magnetic as you couldn't be single. But, man, it didn’t dull the sting.

Feeling the need to step away for a moment and escape the party's cheerful cacophony, Sihtric made his way to the big, spacious balcony. He hoped the chilly night air might help clear his head from the whirlwind inside. The evening had started so full of hope and anticipation and now was completely ruined for him. Sihtric lit his cigarette, as he suddenly caught a murmured conversation approaching. Hoping for some privacy, he ducked behind a column, trying to blend into the shadows.

He heard at least two people stepping out on the balcony, and suddenly, it was your unmistakable voice that reached him, filled with pain and frustration. "Why her, of all people? My own secretary!" you exclaimed.

"It just... happened," the defensive reply came, which he recognized as your boyfriend's voice.

You shot back, "And you thought hiding it was the answer? I had to find out at our office Christmas party?"

The man mumbled something incomprehensible in response. 

"We're done. Just go. I need to be alone right now," Sihtric heard your voice, quivering with a mix of anger and hurt. 

Caught off guard, Sihtric felt awkward overhearing such a raw, personal exchange. He contemplated stepping out and admitting he was there, but before he could, he heard your boyfriend's quick exit and the sharp sound of the balcony door closing.

He briefly considered staying hidden and letting the moment pass, but seeing the unmistakable pain in your stance, he instantly ditched the idea. Taking a breath, he gave a gentle cough to signal his presence and slowly stepped forward, finding you looking distraught, the twinkling lights from inside casting a glow that made your tear-streaked face glisten. It stung seeing you like this, especially when it felt like he was trespassing on such a personal moment.

Embarrassment and shock pulsed through you with every beat of your heart. Of everyone to witness this breakdown, it just had to be Sihtric - not some fleeting acquaintance, but someone you saw and interacted with every day, someone who knew you and respected you. At least until now.

A wave of panic washed over you. Would he think differently of you now? Your carefully curated image of always being composed was now in pieces. The barriers you'd built so diligently over time  – gone in a heartbeat.

 “Of all the moments...” you whispered.

Sihtric, sensing your turmoil and looking for a distraction handed you a tissue. The balcony was wrapped in a heavy silence until you mustered, "I'm sorry. You didn’t need to be a part of that."

"I didn’t mean to intrude," he responded, "It just happened so fast."

You sighed, running a hand through your hair. "This isn’t how I imagined tonight would go."

"We've all been there," he said gently, trying to lighten the mood.

Choking back a laugh, you replied, "Yeah, but usually not with an audience."

He grinned, trying to keep things casual. "Think of me as a very interested passerby."

Seeing your surprise, he quipped, "Your ex might think he's a shooting star, but to me, he seemed more like a sparkler that fizzled out. And for the record – he's an idiot."

A small laugh escaped your lips, and you shook your head. "Nice try. But thank you. Really."

Sihtric gave a playful shrug. "I’m just being real. But hey, are you okay?"

You paused, your voice softer, "Been better. Thanks for lightening the mood, though."

He took a breath, "Look, I don't want to intrude any more than I have, but you seem like you could use company right now. Can I do something for you? Can I get you a drink perhaps?"

You mulled it over briefly, then nodded, "Alright. As if things could get any worse."

With a comforting smile, Sihtric said, "I’ll be right back."

—-----------------------------------------

The party's noise faded to a dull murmur as you both got lost in the chat.

Sihtric felt a mix of things. It pained him to see you upset, but man, he couldn't deny the thrill of getting this unplanned time with you. He kept sneaking looks, thinking how your smile looked even cooler up close.

A strand of your hair playfully draped across your face, and he had to resist the urge to gently push it back. And with the soft background music, an invitation to dance nearly escaped his lips. But he held back, sensing it might be a step too far.

His art exhibition was on his mind too. He wanted to share it, just needed to slide it into the conversation smoothly.

"You know," he started, swirling the last sip of his drink thoughtfully.  "Besides the whole graphic designer stuff, I paint. There's something magic about splashing colours on a canvas."

You looked intrigued. "Is that so? I always thought your designs had an extra touch of soul. Like there's a story hidden in every piece."

Sihtric chuckled, his eyes brightening, clearly stoked by your comment. The two of you continued to chat, the conversation flowing effortlessly. Emboldened by the ambiance and perhaps that second cocktail, Sihtric leaned in a bit, "You know, I actually have an exhibition coming up soon. It's a collection of my recent works. I... I’d really love it if you could come. I think you might appreciate the stories behind the paintings."

You blinked, processing this. You knew Sihtric was talented, but an entire exhibition? "I'm in," you smiled. "Always had a soft spot for art, especially when it's by someone I know."

His eyes brightened noticeably, and he fought to keep his composure, a warmth spreading across his cheeks.

As the evening wore on, the earlier events combined with the cocktails left you in a heady state. Your laughter became louder, and your steps weren't as sure. Noticing your state and the watchful eyes around, Sihtric decided to step in. This was not the right place to put your vulnerability on display with all the employees and bosses of the company gathered in one place. 

Fetching your coat, he gently wrapped it around you, subtly guiding you towards the exit.

“Okay, boss, looks like it’s home time,” Sihtric said, his tone light, attempting to infuse some humour into the situation.

You chuckled, a sound that was melodious yet laced with the unmistakable touch of too many cocktails. “I’m not ready for the night to end,” you protested mildly, though made no effort to resist as Sihtric waved down a taxi.

When the car pulled up, Sihtric had a moment of awkward realisation - he had no clue where you lived. That was a detail that, somehow, had never come up in all your office interactions.

“So, uh, where to?” he ventured, a hint of embarrassment in his voice.

You rattled off an address, the words a bit slurred but intelligible. When he recognized it as one of the city’s posh neighbourhoods, Sihtric's eyebrows rose a notch. 

The gentle hum of the car's engine provided a steady backdrop to your sporadic, light-hearted giggles. Every so often, Sihtric would sneak a peek at you. Tonight had been a whirlwind, and he was spinning from the rapid shifts in emotion. One moment he felt he'd lost any chance with you, the next, he learned you were single again. And amidst it all, he had managed to extend an invite to his exhibition. But as he looked at your tipsy, carefree state, he silently hoped you'd remember their conversation come morning.

Upon arrival at your grand apartment complex, you leaned into him, the evening's indulgences making your steps falter. As you fumbled around in your pockets for keys that were conspicuously absent, the reality of the situation began to set in.

"Oh no," you murmured, panic lining your voice, "I think I left my handbag at the party."

Sihtric's eyes widened as he processed your words. "Are you sure? Think. Where did you last see it?"

You tried to recall, but the fog of alcohol muddled your memories. "I...I don’t know. I think I left it on the bar counter when I went to get a drink."

Sihtric sighed, taking a moment to think. Feeling your weight lean into him as you struggled to maintain your balance, he instinctively wrapped an arm around your waist to stabilise you.

"Okay, let's think this through," Sihtric began, his voice calm and measured, "Going back to the party venue at this hour might not be the best idea. They're likely cleaning up or closing already. Tomorrow first thing, we can check for your handbag. For tonight, do you have any friends or family nearby?"

Your head shake was slow and a bit exaggerated. "They're miles away."

“Any chance there’s a spare key somewhere? Maybe a friendly neighbour?" he asked.

You hesitated, "I... I've kept to myself mostly."

In the quiet night, the predicament seemed to amplify. Here he was, in the dead of night, with his drunken boss outside her apartment, both locked out. He could never have imagined a scenario like this.

After a deep breath, he said, "Alright, look, I have a couch at my place. It's not much, but it's comfortable. You can crash there for the night, and we’ll sort everything out in the morning."

You blinked, a bit caught off guard by the unexpected offer. On any normal day, you would've politely declined. But right now, with your thoughts swimming in a cocktail haze, you giggled and responded, "Really? Are you sure?"

Sihtric smiled, "It's not a problem. It's late, you need a place, and I can't, in good conscience, leave you out here."

The car ride to Sihtric's place was a tranquil one. You leaned into the window's cool embrace, fighting off sleep, while Sihtric's mind raced, piecing together the night's unexpected twists.

The dim lighting of the apartment complex hallway cast elongated shadows as Sihtric tried to guide you up the stairs. But with every step, it became more apparent that the task was not going to be easy. Your laughter, interspersed with hiccups and mumbled comments about your ex-boyfriend, echoed in the quiet corridor. And then, without warning, your laughter turned into soft sobs.

Sihtric, concerned, looked down to find tears streaming down your face. "Hey, hey," he tried to console, "Husch, it's okay."

"I just can't believe he... he..." you hiccupped, struggling to find words, the hurt evident in your eyes.

Seeing you in this state and realising that climbing the stairs in your condition would be an ordeal, Sihtric made a quick decision. Gently, he swept you up in his arms. It wasn't about your weight but more the electric jolt from the closeness, that sudden rush of intimacy that had his heart doing flips in his chest. Instead of pushing him away, you snuggled deeper into his embrace, your head finding its natural resting place on his shoulder.

Feeling your soft breaths against his neck and the gentle grip of your fingers, he had to fight to keep his balance. The ticklish sensation of your hair brushing against his cheek, your soothing breathing rhythm, and the lingering scent of your perfume all combined to form a heady mix that sent his head spinning. Every part of him was hyper-aware of you, so close and real, making everything else fade into the background.

Managing to unlock his apartment door, he stepped inside and gently placed you on his bed. "Just... just stay here for a second," he whispered, moving quickly to rummage through his closet for spare sheets and blankets for the couch.

But when he turned back, the gentle sounds of your breathing told him you'd already drifted off to sleep. For a moment Sihtric stood frozen, absorbing the sight before him - the serene rise and fall of your breath, the way the dim light from the street painted your face in soft shades. It was a moment of quiet beauty. Your hair splayed out, lips slightly parted, lashes casting shadows—everything about you in this moment felt so intimate, personal. It was a sight he'd never imagined he'd witness. 

Despite the unexpected turn the evening had taken, a warm feeling settled in his chest. He carefully removed your shoes and tucked you in, making sure you were comfortable. And this time he gave in to his urge to brush a strand of hair away from your face, his fingers lingering on your cheek for a moment, silently wishing he could be the rock you leaned on, the one to chase away any sadness. In his heart, he knew he'd move mountains just to keep you from any pain. You deserved nothing but happiness, and the thought of someone causing you heartache infuriated him.

With you sleeping soundly, he settled on the couch, wrapping himself in the cosiness of blankets. As sleep claimed him, a dreamy smile played on his lips—a dream where he was your hero.

#sihtric #sihtric kjartanson #the last kingdom #tlk #sihtic x reader #sihtric x you #sihtric fanfics

[halfmylife]

Nothing could keep me from you

Pairing Finan x Reader

Summary The boys are riding off to do who knows what and you have to watch the man you love leave again, uncertain of if he’ll return.

A/N This is my first attempt at any reader fic and it’s super short, I guess it’s more drabble but I hope you enjoy!

Nothing could compare to the feeling of watching him ride away to unknown dangers. This morning would be no different. The men had already saddled their horses when you stepped out to say your farewells.

It was colder than it had been in months, winter would soon be upon Wessex and you knew it. Still you bundle yourself up to see Finan off. He had busied himself fixing the saddle of his horse whilst he spoke with Sihtric. You pushed forward until you came into his view.

Finan noticed you in an instant, the way your hair tousled in the wind around your face. You had that look in your eyes. A sadness that could melt his heart. Your hand was cupping his face the instant he reached you.

“Come back to me.” You whispered, unable to hold back the shakiness in your voice.

“When have I ever not come back to you?” His hand was on your lower back, holding you against him. You could feel the warmth radiating off of him. You never wanted it to disappear.

“You could come back to me a thousand times and still I’d worry for you.” Finan smiled before his hand nestled into your hair, tilting your head so he could place a gentle kiss on your forehead. “Just stay out of trouble.”

“You’re asking a lot there.” How many times had he come back bruised and hurt? Too many times. No matter how covered in blood he was or how much he ached after his adventures, he always came back. He always came back to you.

“Is it too much to want you to stay forever?” Your eyes searched his. He would give the world to be able to spend every second with you and you knew that. That was not the life you had been blessed with, not yet anyway.

“Nothing could keep me from you.” He whispered, his voice gravely. Finan looked into your eyes fully, getting lost in them completely. “I won’t be long.”

“I should hope not or I’ll come and find you myself.” You could feel his body shake with a laugh. If only it could stay this way, you in his arms, hearing him laugh. It was warm. It was home.

“I don’t doubt that.” The small glimmer of happiness was replaced by the sadness once more as he pulled away. There was no longer warmth only an empty space in your arms where he belonged. “I will see you sooner than you know it.”

“I’m not going anywhere.” You clung onto his hand for as long as possible until you both couldn’t hold on any longer. You watched as he mounted his horse, the other men waiting to leave.

“I love you.” You whispered watching as they rode off. You didn’t know when but you knew he would come back. Finan always came back.

#the last kingdom #tlk #the last kingdom fanfic #finan the last kingdom #tlk fanfic #finan #finan the agile #finan x reader #x reader #reader insert

[bhxrdy]

hold on to me | sihtric

author’s note: Some of you have requested a part two to the previous Sihtric drabble I did (hold my hand). It took me a moment to figure out how to continue and hopefully what will follow will not disappoint - hope you will enjoy :) Lots of love & stay safe 💕

      “What are you doing here?”

She almost tripped on her dress at her sight, making her drop some apples from her basket while startled by the man standing in front of her.

He had dismounted his horse, holding onto the reins as he quietly approached her. He tried to come up with something to say, some sort of a lie but the thoughts died in the back of his throat. Seeing her so close to him, after all this time, was overwhelming.

“Sihtric?” Her voice called out to him again, not having realized she was waiting for his answer.

Startled, he forced words out of his mouth. “I-I just-I just wanted to make sure you were faring well.”

“Are you spying on me?” Her tone wasn’t accusatory, not at all. She wasn’t mad or annoyed. She was simply curious.

She hadn’t seen his face in three years; she never thought she would see him again.

Especially not after how they left things.

But there he was, standing so close to her, they were barely at an arm’s length. She could feel the tremors of her heartbeat, the vibration resonating across her body. She tried to look away from him, not courageous enough to meet his gaze. Her eyes ended up on his horse, her hand reaching for the animal as she started to caress the bridge of its nose.

All the while standing in silence, he stared at her, completely enamoured in her presence - as always. His heart was pulling towards her, racing to catch her.

She eventually shifted her head back to him. When she did, her breath stuck to her throat by the way he was looking at her. He could have devoured her simply by his eyes and she knew she wouldn’t fight it.

Gravity pulling them in, he reached for her hand. Their fingers grazed each other, the skin burning as they intertwined.

She closed her eyes and let out a gentle breath, squeezing his hold as a way of not letting him go. It was to make sure that his presence was real, that it wasn’t another dream.

The summer breeze was sweeping through the air, creating a delicate dance for the fallen hair strands on her head. She kept her eyes shut, too afraid to open them just for him to be gone.

Only when he lifted her chin up, could she see him again. A faint smile painted his lips, a gesture that left her heart swelling in desire.

The soft murmurs of the nuns around them brought her back to reality. She turned her head to see a couple of them whispering between each other, wondering what was going on.

Suddenly feeling exposed, Aelyth pulled him away from the nunnery’s main entrance, away from the prying eyes, and brought him into a secluded area towards the gardens where they could be alone.

     He had been searching the entire village for her, not finding her anywhere within the walls. His heart was pounding between his ears, fear almost crippling him entirely.

It was as if she had disappeared from the face of the earth.

The worse of scenarios had taken hold of his mind as his feet ran back and forth through every space and corner that held Coccham.

It had only been a week since they returned - since they were both free of his father’s grasp. He knew it had been a difficult transition, that she was having a hard time moving on and so he did everything he could to stay by her side and carry her through her recovery.

If it meant spending the night under the same roof to save her from her nightmares, or hold her hand whenever he could see her shaking and cracking at the rim, then he would be there, without hesitation.

She hadn’t said much since he found her in the woods; her thoughts had gripped the use of her tongue, binding her voice in the process and leaving her mute.

Not that she minded.

She would scream if she could.

Out of rage for her years in captivity, out of relief for her freedom - out of anything, really.

Sihtric was still pacing back and forth until his feet led him outside the walls of the village. He marched to the docks and looked around, his eyes carefully peeling every surface visible.

Then, he spotted her.

On the other side, she was sitting by the water, her back pressed against the trunk of the oak tree that stood tall; her figure, so small, could have been swallowed within its body.

He went to her and quietly sat down while she was facing the river, her mind drifting.

“Aelyth.” The tone was spoken with such softness, it might as well have been said in her head.

She felt his presence next to her but couldn’t gather the courage to look at him. Her legs bent against her chest and her arms wrapped around them, he tried reaching out for her hand.

She didn’t let him, quickly pushing herself away.

Startled, he apologized, meaning no harm in his gesture.

She sighed, knowing it was true - it was just a force of habit.

He let her settle, taking a moment before speaking. “Why are you here?”

She took a second before answering as she needed all her strength. “I needed space… And quiet. The village is too loud.” She turned her head to him, apologetic. “Sorry.”

His heart squeezed from her pain. “Don’t be. It’s okay.” He spotted flowers by her side, beautiful and small delicate white floral arrangements around the tree. He picked a few, enough for the smallest of bouquets, and handed them to her. “If you ever need space again, leave these at your door so I know. Please.”

She took a look at them, before her eyes turned up to him; she sensed fear in his voice. She accepted his proposal, taking hold of the blossoms. “I didn’t mean to scare you. I just started walking without knowing where I was going. I just needed to get out…”

He silently observed her. Her form left him to worry, more than usual. He never expected a miraculous recovery, but he had hoped that maybe, just maybe, she was a least getting better slowly, a little bit freer - bit by bit.

His eyes never left her; she was back to watching the water, stillness resuming between them.

The moment was not left to be uneasy; a strange peaceful air flowed around both bodies. She didn’t mind his presence - he wasn’t overbearing, which she appreciated.

She felt him shift next to her only to find a dagger in the corner of her eyes.

“Take this.” She turned to look at the weapon, her eyes glancing between it and him. “To keep with you in case you need it.” She wasn’t sure what to make of it. The last time she held a knife was seven days ago, the night of her escape - the night she was willing to cut her heart out.

Sensing her hesitation, he proceeded to speak again. “I promised to protect and care for you. But in case you need your time alone again, you have this.”

She didn’t take it, not daring to touch it just yet. Instead, he let it rest by her side right on the grass.

She stared at the dagger, her heart rate increasing a little bit.

She was contemplating something; he could see creases forming on her forehead.

“Thank you.” Once more, she looked at him. “For sticking with me… I know I’m a lot to handle- I’m a lot-” She wasn’t able to finish her sentence. Rather, she jumped to say something else. “I’m still scared they will come back for me.”

His heart broke a little bit more.

The way she was looking at him, the way her hues were drowning with such dismay - he hated himself for her state.

He reached for her, carefully tucking a hair strand behind her ear. She doesn’t frightened at his touch. It was comforting. “No one is ever going to hurt you. I swear it.”

All she could muster was a nod.

Another moment had passed, her eyes never straying away from him this time. He was mindlessly stroking her cheek; the kindness in his touch sent shivers down her spine.

She leaned into it, enjoying the warmth on her skin. It had been so long, she almost forgot what it was like.

“May I?” His inquiry was spoken so softly, it was almost a whisper.

She nodded; he moved closer to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. He pressed a kiss on top of her head as she settled quietly in his embrace.

She closed her eyes, letting solace travel through her body.

    Sihtric tied his horse to a tree branch, letting the animal feed on the apples that lied at its feet.

Turning back, he found Aelyth sitting in the shade; he took his place next to her, both of them sitting in utter silence where the quiet wind floated around them.

They let the hush moment speak first, as both were trying to come up with their own words.  

She had been fidgeting in her seat, playing with the small golden ring she wore as she looked down at her lap; his gift to her, years ago.

It wasn’t their first time staying like this, without words to share.

But as it had been so long since they last saw each other, the moment was unalike others. It was stiff, uncomfortable.

    It was one of those nights - the ones where sleep eluded her. The restlessness had driven her out of bed, looking for her friend.

It had only been a couple of months since her liberation from Dunholm - months where she remained frightened. The only solace she could bear in her new life was Sihtric, and for tonight, that’s who she needed.

He had led her away from the village, outside of its walls for the comfort of their own little space by the water. In the dark, the moonlight shining above them did not feel so threatening as it once did; only because he was with her.

They still hadn’t spoken, the silence was enough for now. Taking her hand, he brought her to their tree and sat down, wrapping his cloak around them while she wrapped her own over their legs, warming their bodies against the cool night of the season.

The chirping of the insects had their rhythm, adding some melody to the quietness around them while the atmosphere of the village had become simple background noise.

“May I?” She looked at him seeing him stretching his arm out.

He was asking for permission to hold her.

She nodded, a shy smile covering her lips as she approached him. He placed his arm around her, tugging her close against his chest as he made sure she wasn’t growing cold between their covers.

He was the only man that could touch her without revolt; he was the only man she allowed close enough to even share the same breath.

She could’ve stayed this way forever, always in his arms.

She loved his warmth - it had become more than a simple sense of serenity; the affection that pulled her in ran so deep into her soul, she could not live without it anymore.

She had seen something similar during her stay in the village, between Uhtred and Gisela. She had seen it as well with her late parents, before her entrapment.

She never thought she would survive long enough to be able to want it, let alone to be able to grasp it. But now knowing that she was here, that she desired something of that sort - to be wrapped in something so pure, uncensored; to be vulnerable to someone you care the most in this forsaken place. All she hoped was that such feelings would help her get through her nightmares. That with Sihtric, she would be able to keep such desire close to her heart.

And so, she held on to him as she breathed him in. The movement made him smile, resolute to stay still so no abrupt gesture would scare her off, though temptation rung him for wanting to simply look down and catch her eyes.

She tightened her grasp on him and the world seemed to have stopped moving around them.

He loved it.

He wanted to cherish it.

They spent the night like this, eventually falling asleep under the stars as the open night sky engulfed them in her beauty.

They were in their little bubble - nothing else mattered.

    He looked down and noticed how nervous she felt; the stress was reciprocated on his end.

He wasn’t expecting today to be the day they would speak.

It wasn’t his first time traveling to Wincelcumb to see her. He had done the trip every other few months simply to check in on her, silently spying and making sure she was alright.

There was an easiness he had grabbed hold of knowing she was okay, even though it had been shadowed by heartbreak.

She was getting better on her own, without him by her side as he had promised three years ago.

She had left him, running away to find contentment somewhere else, somewhere far away from him.

It shattered him into pieces, silently tearing him down.

    It had been six months since Dunholm and she had reached her breaking point.

With whatever belongings she had, which wasn’t much, she was preparing a bag - ready to leave.

And through her clothes, she found the dagger Sihtric had gifted her. The sight caught up to her, her body halting. She could only stare at the knife as the lump in her throat grew and tears covered her eyes.

She picked it up and held it close against her chest, silently crying to herself.

Even though it was something she had to do, she was still hurting.

She breathed in deeply, swallowing down her self-pity and proceeded to finish her packing as she moved a little bit faster and tucked in the weapon neatly with her stuff.

They had argued a few days prior, right before he needed to leave. She picked a fight with him on purpose, just so he could stop caring for her the way he had in these last few months.

She adored him for having been patient and kind, for supporting her through her worst even though all she wanted to do was crawl into a hole and disappear, but it had created a strain in his day-to-day.

Which is why she had to let him go.

She was a misfortune in his life, a stain that needed to be rubbed off, that needed to vanish. She saw herself as a burden forced on to others, on to him; the adjustment to her new life was still taking a toll on her, never fully recovering as ghosts were lurking about in the shadows, dragging her down in the mud.

It eventually and slowly became worse, her state deteriorating.

Everything was still overwhelming, suffocating her even though she had the freedom to breathe in peace.

She was riding away from the village, Hild accompanying her after having begged for help. Aelyth had taken the opportunity of his absence to run for the hills.

Unfortunately, her timing did not work as she had hoped. Right behind them, another horse was approaching. She grew worrisome, thinking the worst. The closer it got, her heart broke.

Sihtric had caught up to them, confused and devastated.

They were forced to a stop, calming down the animals. He ran for her, panting from the race. “Gisela told me you left-” He then got off his horse, walking to her. “W-Why?”

She had backed away at his approach. He ignored her sign and grabbed the reins, forcing her down to her feet.

Hild let them have their goodbyes, moving away.

Aelyth sighed, still trying to distance herself. “It’s for the best, Sihtric. I can’t stay in Coccham.”

“Of course you can- you’ve been doing it, you can stay-“ He was baffled, not comprehending what was happening. “This is none sense, just come back and we can fix this-“

“No.” Her answer hit him like a boulder crashing down. The way she had spoken had shocked her as well, never meaning to be rude. She let out a breath, calming herself down. “I don’t belong there. It is not my place.”

“Then what about me?” Pain flashed across his face. It was as clear as the bright sky they were standing under. “Forget Coccham.” He took a step forward, and this time she stood still. “What of me? Am I not enough for you to stay?” The way he was looking at her, with such an ache, so distraught - she felt small against his stance.

She tried to stay indifferent, to carry on as if he wasn’t affecting her, but she knew her dried throat was threatening to reveal her true feelings. “I-I’m better off out of your life.”

“Do you really believe this?” He grew annoyed - why was she so adamant at pushing him away? Of suffering in silence and on her own?

“Yes.”

Lies.

“Is it because of Dunholm? Are you running away because of him?” His agitation was apparent, fear coursing through him at an alarming rate. Could she have grown to repel him? “Do I scare you because I look like him?”

“You look nothing like him. I don’t see him in you. I swear it.”

She finally approached him as she placed her hand on his cheek for reassurance.

He never looked away from her, his eyes following every little expression that covered her face. “I just have to do this for me. I need to get better and I don’t think staying here- I can’t stay. Sihtric, please try to understand.”

“But I don’t understand.” He was losing the battle, defeat hovering over him like a grey cloud. “Aelyth, I’m begging you. Talk to me. You can trust me.”

He reached for her, pressing his forehead against hers.

Tears tickled the corners of her eyes, silently rolling down her cheeks to his hands. “I know I can, but it’s not enough…” She wasn’t able to look at him, her stare only fixated downwards. “Not now.”

“Don’t g-go. Don’t-” He wanted to tell her not to leave him, not to run away - to see reason and just come back with him.

He knew it was futile though.

He was crumbling under heartbreak, every crack echoing through his bones.

He could barely stand up, the fear of never seeing her again gnawing at his very soul.

He heard a sniffle. She was trying to compose herself, trying to clear her mind. “I feel like I’m suffocating- and its unbearable. It’s just too much too fast, all of it-” She held onto his armour, her fingers grazing the little pendant he wore. “I can’t stay knowing I’m holding you back with the others.”

“But you’re not-” He interrupted her, forcing her eyes to him.

“Yes, I am. I can see it.” She broke their embrace, slightly pushing him away. “You’re splitting yourself in two and it’s not fair to you or the others. You’re a warrior and you have duties- you have a life of your own to live. You can’t put that on hold for me.”

Her words rendered him speechless.

How could she not see how wrong she was? He had the support of his brothers - they understood her predicament, and never wavered in the way he held her close to him.

His life was hers. His heart belonged to her.

He was hers, body and soul.

She placed a soft kiss on his left cheek. She lingered, her lips then hovering above his skin before she turned to face him, one last time, and taking in everything she could.

Her fingers had held his other cheek before they trailed down to his lips. It was a careful touch; she just wanted to feel them, wondering what it would be like to kiss him, to succumb to the desire that trembled in her chest.

He silently watched her, his eyes following her as he held back on his own tears. He pulled her in, desperately wanting to kiss her; the faint touch of her lips hovering above his was pushing him over the edge.

She knew she would never be able to leave had they kissed.

And so she stopped him.

She loved him dearly but knew in her gut she would surrender her reasoning and stay in his arms.

A hitched breath to her throat, she reluctantly turned away from him, not seeing the frown and clenched jaw he faced as her scent lingered on him.

She was letting him go. She took back her horse and left him standing in the middle of nowhere as she rode away.

    He never gave up hope.

He still prayed to the gods that one day she would come back.

He wanted to love her, to be able to touch her without fear, to hold her against him, to kiss her. He wanted to simply cherish her like she deserved to be.

For the time they spent apart, the years that split them up had left a visible gap between them. A crack that could be difficult to mend. It was like the earth shook and cracked its skin in consequence. Only a special remedy may possibly heal it back to health.

For what seemed like forever, their moment of solitude had been cut by her sudden height; she had gotten up from her seat, slightly troubled as she tried to form words on the tip of her tongue.

She knew she had a lot to answer for, but where to start?

Sihtric watched her as her back faced him, not being able to see the tears in her eyes as they threatened to fall.

She eventually let out the breath she had been holding. She shut her eyes and let go.

“I-I thought that running away- I-I-” She could barely finish her sentence, she was shaking. She could feel it in her hands as her heart raced against her chest. She gripped her dress tightly, trying to stabilize herself.

He got up from his seat to meet her; he needed to look at her. Feeling his presence, she turned around and opened her eyes.

The second she saw him, she wanted to cry.

“I thought that leaving would help with the ghosts… That if I learned how to be on my own, then I could-” Her thoughts were rushing inside her head, each word wanting to come out like a waterfall. She could barely keep them straight. “Being around too many people all at once was too much. Coccham was becoming too much for me.”

She started to play with the ring again, twisting it back and forth as her anxiety had taken over, not stopping her rambling. “And I sometimes felt I was maybe better off being back to t-that, back at Dun- because I just didn’t know what to do with myself-” She held in a sob when the letters she wanted to spill were clawing at her throat, wanting their way out.

“I was a burden you didn’t have to carry. I put a weight on you so heavy, something you didn’t ask for and-”

“You were never a burden.”

He cut her off, letting her catch her breath.

“I wanted to be by your side, I wanted to care for you. I wanted to- I cared for you. I still do. I always will.”

She dropped her head, embarrassed and timid. He kept going, wanting to say his piece. He needed for her to understand how he felt, how hurt he was by her absence. “I wanted to take that pain go away, to make you feel better. To hold you close to me and erase the nightmares, the fear that clung to you. I wanted to keep you safe and protect you… To love you.”

He had said it; it wasn’t meant to be said, but it was out in the world. Now, all he could do was hope, pray, that his words resonated with her. “Come home. Come back with me.”

She couldn’t say anything; tears were sliding down her cheeks. The way he was begging, how he clung to each of his words, had sent an ache deep within her.

“I miss you…” He placed his fingers under her chin, forcing her to look at him. Standing so near to him, she could see his eyes shimmered; he was on the verge of breaking down in her arms. “I-I need you with me. You can hold on to me.”

He leaned forward until he brushed the tip of her nose.

His breath danced against hers, their lips tickling. “Aelyth…” The despair - the pleading tone of his voice, the love he held for these combined letters; she closed her eyes and shuddered at the way he said her name. If she could swallow that sensation and keep it close, she would.

She missed his voice.

She missed him in his entirety; regret had seeped in the second she saw him. And now, a storm was brewing inside her, every wave hitting her with a sense of loathing.

She hated herself for what she had done; how could she have run away when what he was offering was what she needed? By walking out, she had been left with the ghost of him, haunting her, hovering around her; her skin would shiver at the simple thought of missing him, his shadow so close to her.

Her fears had forced him out of her life. They overruled her through most part of her life, dictating every move and sentiment that ever embodied her. It held such power, it was like she was falling into another hole, creating distance between them.

And yet, there he was, holding on for dear life and grasping at the smallest conviction that a lifeline existed, still connecting them.

    They hadn’t moved.

Feeling the exhale of his breath against her own, the sensation sent warmth across her body. She was taking him in, every ounce of him. It was feeling him against her that made her breathe again.

He was holding on, desperately, drawing in her presence against his own as he nestled closer against her, too afraid to part.

He was in pain, grief stricken. The way it painted his eyes, colouring his hues with such misery gripped at her.

And she was the cause of it.

Her heart rate accelerated, the lump in her throat attacking her and forcing her to crumble.

“Forgive me.”

It was a whisper, from her mouth straight to his.

To the gods, did he miss her.

The way she held him, the way her knuckles had whiten from the violent grasp of his clothes; he could feel the guilt and remorse bleeding out of her, from her tongue and down her body.

He sensed his heart breaking; her pain had reverberated right through him.

There was nothing to forgive, he thought. He couldn’t bring it up to say it, to even reassure her and tell her that everything was going to be okay.

She waited for his answer, for his voice to create sweet symphony to her ears.

Instead, he nudged his nose lightly against hers. It was just enough to feel his lips ghost over hers.

She tilted her head further against him and closed her eyes when he reciprocated the gesture.

He held on, his fingers caressing her tears tainted cheeks.

And ever so gently, his lips pressed against hers.

So chaste, and soft. That’s all it was; a shy movement of the heart.

She was about to pull away, void of air.

He didn’t let go; instead he seized his opportunity and kissed her once again.

He had been waiting for this moment for so, so long, ending it would have been cruel.

She yielded to the touch, all the tension in her body vanishing.

The moment was tender as it was passionate. It was years of pent up feeling, of longing for one another, of desperation to claw out the darkness and bathe within the warm sunlight.

His body trembled against her touch; succumbing to his affection gave him faith that she would not let go of him. He felt it in her posture, in the way she pushed her body to his, wanting to feel every fibre of his being against her own.

This moment was for her, realizing that she had love for him - a sentiment she was bullied to repress, close to oblivion. It was forced into hiding, trapped by the torment that haunted her mind.

They were lost in the moment, the energy between both bodies having been wrapped so tightly they had forgotten their reality.

It was the noise of his horse that tore Sihtric away from her, the tail swashing the couple back to Wincelcumb; he reluctantly let her go as a timid giggle escaped her.

From the smile on her red lips to her rose coloured cheeks, she was a sight to behold. The sun looked good on her as it decorated the upward curves of her lips as well as the glint in her eyes.

He breathed with ease, the pain starting to mended as the golden traces were covering the cracks in his heart, the heat melting while flowing through him.

The agitation for his horse forced him out of her embrace. He grabbed onto the reins, calming the pet as his mind drifted. He couldn’t stay for much longer, knowing he was waited on. He swallowed a breath as he turned to her. She had watched him with curious eyes, the smile having fainted from her lips.

“I have to go…” She frowned. The smallest of sentence had violently shaken her, lies of hope pumping in her blood.

“I’ll be gone for a while, maybe a few weeks. But when I come back-” As fiercely as it came, it went away. Her heart rate decreasing, peeling away the anxiety that was glued to her skin.

“I’ll be waiting.” She answered the unasked inquiry, already knowing the response from the pit of her stomach. Her breathing grew heavy from anticipation of the day he would already be coming back for her, even though he hadn’t left yet.

He smiled at her words, not able to look away from her. “Does it mean-”

“Yes.” She exhaled the letters as she leaped, wrapping her arms around him. Her face resting in the crook of his neck, his scent had seeped its way to her bloodstream, burning her cheeks.

His chest vibrated against hers, a chuckle having come out of his throat. He embraced her, tightly holding on before they parted.

He searched for her hand, his fingers slipping to find hers. He brought their hold up to his lips, placing a kiss on the her dorsal side.

Such an innocent gesture was still met with devotion and adoration; his eyes captured her with so much love, she could drown in them forever without needing the escape.

Her life was his. Her heart belonged to him.

She was his, body and soul.

And she would wait for him to come back, to come for her once again.

No matter how long it took.

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

part 1 | hold my hand

xoxo,

#the last kingdom #sihtric #sihtric x oc #sihtric fic #sihtric fanfic #Photo by Ave Calvar on Unsplash #tlk fanfic #mywriting #arnas fedaravicius #the last kingdom fanfic #sihtric kjartansson

[alexagirlie]

(If you want to!) #30 from the cuddling prompt list: “ah, there you go. Safe and sound, hm?” x pairing of your choice!

Fandom: The Last Kingdom

Pairing: Finan/Sihtric

Summary: I dont even know, this is where my mind went for some reason.

Warnings: raiders, battle, quick depiction of death (inlcuding a child)

Finan and Sihtric were fighting yer another band of sea raiders in a village near Romcofa when they hear a strange noise admidst the sounds of swords and sheilds. They cut down theast of the warriors before them before they wordless decide to go and investigate. Quickly Sihtric recognized the sound as the cry of an infant and that the sound was coming from a nearby hut.

The burst through the door, killing a raider when he moves to attack them and take in the horrific scene before them. A family, father, mother and a young child lay slain on the dirt floor of the hut and from a crib set against the wall that wailing cry continued.

Sihtric was the first to cross the room and peer into the crib and a small face looked back up at him. He sheathed his axe and uncaring of the state of his hands he lifted the squalling baby out of the crib and craddled it against his chest, rocking back and forth and making soft sushing sounds.

Finan watched in amazment as his lover quieted the little thing, the crying slowing down to soft whimpers and then to silence as the babe fell asleep in Sihtric's arms. The Dane continued to rock back and forth and reached down to brush a finger against a chubby cheek. "Ah there you go. Safe and sound hm?"

#thelettersfromnoone #ask game #the last kingdom #drabble #finan/sihtric #kirstin's prompt fills #kirstin's chronicles

[polkadotsocks1993]

What Good Neighbors Do Pt. 2

Modern Osferth x Reader

Warnings: mentions of difficult family situations, mentions of neglect/emotional abuse

This is a continuation of my first drabble posted yesterday. Thank you for the response! I will probably make a whole series.

Note:

First, let me know if you'd like to be included with a tag list. Also, if anyone can figure out how to do that, I would be grateful since I haven't been on tumblr since 2016 🤣.

Reader is from the American South, American Thanksgivings typically look a bit different down here (we eat a LOT).

Also: in this AU, Uhtred and the Boys were all in the British army (to make it applicable to modern situations). There are mentions of Uhtred and Finan cross training with the American army, and that actually happens quite a bit. Just in case that question comes up.

It was your first Thanksgiving away from your family, your first holiday in England. Thanksgiving had always been a special holiday for your family, but this would be the first time in your life that you weren't spending it with them. For you, this would be a very hard week. Even though you'd found a close circle of friends in Osferth and your neighbors, you still missed home terribly.

You thought of how much you missed your family as you sat in the shared back garden with your new neighbors, Osferth, Sihtric, and Finan, as your landlord's wife, Thyra, threw the ball for her dogs and yours.

"You've been quiet, Y/N." Osferth observed. He had a cup of coffee in his hand, a habit you'd started him on when he (more often than not) joins you for dinner.

"I'm sorry, guys. I guess I'm just a little homesick. Thanksgiving is this Thursday, and this is the first year I've never been with them." You explained.

"I hate to hear that." Osferth said, "What does Thanksgiving look like for you?"

"Where do I even start?" You chuckle, "Me, my mom, my grandmother, my sister, and my aunts all spend days cooking all kinds of food and desserts. My dad starts the night before, smoking different kinds of meats. The whole family comes to my grandparents' farm. We play games, we eat, we go see the farm animals. It's a lot of fun, and I'm really sad I have to miss it."

"I thought you only ate turkey on Thanksgiving?" Sihtric asked.

"Not my family. My dad usually makes different kinds of barbecue. Everyone in the family likes something different." You explained.

"I'd pay good money to have barbecue again." Finan said, taking a sip of his tea. During his time in the Army, he'd briefly trained in America with Uhtred.

"Where did you and Uhtred go, Finan?" Y/N asked.

"Kentucky, Texas." Finan said, "Still the best ribs I've ever had."

You laughed, "I'm convinced you would let yourself get kidnapped if there was food involved, Finan. That goes for you too, Osferth."

Osferth chuckled, tussling your hair slightly.

"If it was your food, maybe." Osferth replied.

You blushed; over the last few months, you and Osferth had grown very close, but neither of you seemed to want to be the first to venture outside of just friendship. You flirted constantly, and it was obvious to everyone how you both felt, but neither of you seemed compelled to take the leap.

"What if we had a Thanksgiving?" Came Thyra's question, throwing the ball for your dog, Brownie.

"I, for one, would not say no to more food." Finan said.

"I could make plenty of food. I'm sure it could be really nice." You said.

"I could help you," Osferth offered, "I'm sure it couldn't be too hard."

"I could help, too." Thyra said, coming over to sit with the four of you, "Gisela makes the best chocolate cake."

"Let's do it." You said, "It could be a little Friendsgiving. I think everyone would like it."

Osferth reached out, patting your shoulder lightly. "I think this is going to be a lot of fun."

You smiled at him, he was impossibly optimistic. You hoped you could pull this off.

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

When Thanksgiving came around, though, you had never regretted your decision more.

You only had one tiny oven in your flat, and only so much counter space. You were struggling keep up, and you'd run out of refrigerator space the day before.

Osferth and Finan had arrived at your place early that morning, and your stress rolled off of you in waves. Growing up, Thanksgiving was always a shared task, and you'd taken on the brunt of it. Osferth was the only one of the men who knew how to cook, and you'd immediately put him to work.

"What have you made, pray tell?" Finan asked, looking at the various dishes of food scattered everywhere.

"Well, Beocca and Uhtred are making the meat... I'm making mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, rice stuffing, macaroni and cheese, about four different casseroles, deviled eggs..." You trailed off, trying to remember everything Thyra, Gisela, and your other neighbor, Hild, were making. Sihtric and his girlfriend were also bringing a variety of desserts, since his girlfriend was a pastry chef.

"If we run out, I'm going to laugh." Osferth said. He was mixing the dough for the rolls, laughing softly as he tried to find room anywhere in your kitchen. You'd settled on the small table you'd found on the side of the road with Thyra--Finan had helped restore it--and there was barely any room left there.

"To be fair," You said sheepishly, "We usually have a long buffet line for the food, usually in my grandma's living room."

"What does everyone else do while the food cooks?" Osferth asked.

You laughed, taking a shot of whiskey to calm your nerves. "We drink. And play games."

"I like the drinking part." Said Finan, wearing one of your vintage aprons and pouring himself a bit of whiskey.

"Well, to be fair, some of us aren't allowed to drink anymore. Not since Thanksgiving five years ago." You said.

Osferth stopped making the rolls and looked up, "What happened five years ago?"

Osferth knew more about your family than the others, he knew part of the reason you'd chosen to move halfway across the world. He knew where this story was likely headed.

Taking another shot of whiskey to deal with the anxiety rising in your throat, you laughed. "Well, Thanksgiving five years ago is when half my cousins, mostly Aunt Lisa's kids, along with my Uncle Bobby, kind of started a brawl in the front yard. Half of us wound up going to jail."

"To JAIL?" Finan asked, putting yet another casserole in the oven.

"I didn't have to, but my sister did. You'd like my sister, Cassie. But anyway, I suppose my cousin Blake was three sheets to the wind, and I guess he took a swing at Cassie, and all I know is that by the time the deputies showed up, all of them were in the yard." You explained, getting the dish of macaroni and cheese ready.

"Sounds like fun." Finan said.

You shrugged. "It comes with its own problems."

"What do you mean?" Osferth asked.

"My family is big and loud. I love them, and I miss them, but I'm kind of the odd person out. I'm the first one to graduate from college. It's hard, sometimes, feeling like I'm out of place in my own family." You said.

"I know the feeling." Osferth said, a look in his eyes you hadn't seen before, "I've never actually spent a holiday with any family other than my uncle or my mum."

"Wait, what?" You asked.

Osferth shrugged, "My dad and my mum never married. He came around some, when I was little, but it was never consistent. He always gave her money, I guess, but then she got sick, and we moved in with my uncle Leofric. My dad got married, had more kids. His new wife didn't like me. She didn't want me around for holidays, always said that I made them look bad. My sister has always tried to reach out, but I never got to see what a big family holiday was like until I met Uhtred."

You and Finan both stood, mouths agape. As flustered as your family could make you, you'd never been outright excluded.

"My uncle never had a lot of money, growing up, especially after my mum died." Osferth added, "When I joined the Army and spent that first Christmas with Gisela and Uhtred, Gisela had gifts for me. Gisela and Uhtred practically raised me."

"Yes, yes they did." Finan said, trying to lighten the mood. Tears filled your eyes, your heart broken at the realization that the only family Osferth had ever really known was there, on that street. You couldn't help the urge, walking forward and putting your arms around him as tightly as you could.

You couldn't think of anything to say, you just kept your arms around Osferth for longer than necessary, and he didn't push you off. Of course, Osferth never rejected affection from you.

Cutting the tension, Finan cleared his throat.

"As cute as this is, I think we should probably find some tables, as there is more food here than this flat can hold and Y/N has evidently decided to feed the whole neighborhood. I'm going to go see if Beocca or Uhtred have any folding ones." Finan said, taking off the apron and placing it on the hook on the wall.

That left Osferth and you alone, for the first time in nearly a week. You couldn't help but smile as the whiskey warmed you and you turned on some music to help you finish cooking.

"Thank you, for helping me do this." You said, feeling a little more bold than normal.

"I can't say no to you." Osferth chuckled, watching you spin around in sock feet.

"I'm sure you could, if you wanted to." You teased.

"And why would I want to do that? Why say no, when I can watch you dance to some ancient old song?" Osferth teased. You playfully hit his stomach, laughing.

"Don't disrespect Dolly like that!" You exclaimed. He laughed in response, taking your hand and spinning you around.

Truthfully, even though you missed home, you found you'd never felt more at home than you did in your small kitchen, with Osferth.

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

As it turned out, there was so much food that tables had to be set up outside. Uhtred and Beocca had outdone themselves with ribs, chicken, roast beef, and ham. Gisela had brought a herring dish and chocolate cake. Thyra had made cabbage, roast vegetables, chicken tikka masala, and several desserts. Hild and Mr. Pyrlig had brought dishes too, and then there was the vast feast you and Osferth had made.

Truthfully, the neighborhood didn't need much of an excuse to get together, as you realized. Watching everyone stand around, talking and laughing, you realized that you'd found a family. You felt an arm sneak around your waist, and you looked around to see Osferth, who had snuck nearly half a tray of deviled eggs.

"I've never had these before, my uncle was not a good cook." He said.

"How many have you had today, Osferth?" You asked.

"I couldn't tell you. Not enough for me to regret it." He replied.

You gave him a playful nudge with your elbow and then went to grab a plate of food, taking a seat in between Osferth and Thyra. There wasn't a lull in conversation, everyone was having a good time and you couldn't help but feel warm watching everyone smile and laugh. Afterwards, you, Osferth, Finan, and Sihtric played with the children while everyone else ate dessert. Gradually, the day turned into night, and you were a bit sad to watch everyone go.

No fighting, no extra stress. As it turned put, everything had been perfect.

-----------

Later that night, in your tiny kitchen, you and Osferth washed and dried what appeared to be an endless pile of dishes, Thyra and Beocca boxing away leftovers to take to everyone in the neighborhood. You truly missed having a dishwasher then, though you didn't mind the company.

"You know, Osferth, you should have invited your uncle." You said, handing him a freshly washed baking dish.

"I would have, but it's a little late for that." Osferth said, drying the dish and putting it aside.

"Why?" You asked.

"He died when I was sixteen." Osferth replied, his voice a little hollow.

"Osferth, I'm so sorry. Could I ask...?" You began.

"How?" Osferth answered, "A roadside bomb in Afghanistan."

"You've been on your own since you were sixteen?" You asked.

Osferth shook his head. "No. I spent a month living with my dad, until his wife decided she couldn't stand the sight of me and kicked me out. Wound up getting sent to a boys' home, until Beocca and Thyra took me in. I had been staying with them while my uncle was deployed, turns out my uncle had named them my guardians in his will."

"Osferth..." You whispered, "I don't even know what to say. I'm so sorry. Why didn't you say anything?"

Osferth chuckled ruefully, wiping his forehead with his elbow. "Everyone else already knew. I don't talk about my family much, no one really wants to ask. I spent the better part of my life being the bastard throw away, as my stepmother used to tell me. Beocca and Thyra, Uhtred and Gisela, Finan, Sihtric...and even you make up for that."

You stopped washing the dishes, turning to look at Osferth. He wasn't very good at hiding his emotions; at least, not around you. You could see the lingering pain in his eyes. You moved to wrap your arms around him, hugging him as tightly as he'd let you. He rested his sharp chin on the top of your head, sighing heavily, as if he were letting go of a breath he didn't realize he held.

"For what it's worth, Osferth, I'm really, really glad you're here." You said, letting go just enough to look up at him. He smiled, placing a chaste kiss to your forehead.

"I'm glad you're here too, Y/N." Osferth replied.

There was a pause for a moment, both of you looking at each other with a vast array of words that you seemed to want to say. However, neither of you spoke, you simply returned to washing dishes.

You couldn't help but release a shaky sigh as your stomach did flips; it seemed that every time you were in Osferth's presence, you felt butterflies. You glanced over toward Osferth and noticed he was looking at you, too, giving a slight smile as he continued to dry the dishes.

You finished the night by watching a Christmas movie, Beocca and Thyra bidding you goodnight before they went upstairs to their own apartment. As you sat next to Osferth, you wished so badly that you could tell him all the things that were in the forefront of your mind.

However, his soft eyes watching the movie said that could wait for another day. He was there, with you, sharing in a favorite tradition.

Someday soon, you would tell him. Tonight, you thought, that it could wait.

------

Thanks for reading everyone!

#osferth #baby monk #the last kingdom #ewan mitchell #aemond targaryen #house of the dragon #the last kingdom x reader #osferth x reader