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messers-moony · 3 years

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My Everything | S.B

Paring: Sirius Black X Wife!Reader

Summary: When five marauders goes to two within the instance of a day. Two children are left without fathers and a wife is left without a husband.

Request: Sirius Black x Wife!reader reuniting and she's Remus sister

A/N: My first Harry Potter request. I got so excited to see this in my inbox and I hope it isn’t the last :)

Perhaps it was the feeling of betrayal she felt when he was finally gone. The fact that everything he’d ever said was a lie. She couldn’t help but think maybe his vows were a lie too. The five Marauders were now two. Only two left. How did this even happen?

The unbreakable group of five. James Potter, the so-called leader of them all. The mom friend who always made sure everyone was okay and cared for. Sirius Black, the second in command. The mischievous, charismatic troublemaker who was always in detention. Peter Pettigrew, the outcast of them all. The shy and naive boy who gave them all a sense of logic. Remus Lupin, the intelligent and solace of them all. The only boy smart enough not to get caught. Y/n Lupin, the creative and sneaky one. The only one who could sneak and out of the Potions cabinet without Slughorn noticing.

Now it was just the Lupin twins who, as Sirius called them, the “Linking Lupins.” It was hard in the beginning. First-year was difficult. All they had was each other. Lyall hadn’t really been accepting in the first place, but Hope was always blissfully unaware of her son's problem. All she knew was that he had to go away once a month. Lyall cursed himself out every night that Remus went away, cursing himself for letting this happen to his son.

The cries of his baby girl begging for her brother. The wails of Y/n pleading for Remus not to go away. Not wanting to let go of him, hearing Remus from inside the room in the basement begging to be let out. Sobbing, crying for his mum or his dad to let him out, praying that the wolf doesn’t take over. Whimpering at how much it hurts the way his bones dislocate and relocate back together in a new way.

So yeah, first year was challenging. But Dumbledore had a safe place for him to go every evening of the full moon, and Y/n would be there when he woke up every time. Remus relished in the way her hands felt in his. They were so soft compared to his calloused ones. So gentle compared to his often rough movements. Small compared to big. She was everything he wasn’t, and he was happy about that.

James Potter was the first to talk to them with his flamboyant nature. His eyes were the lightest of browns with spotted glittering green. His smile was perfect and straight. How could someone’s smile be that way at the ripe age of eleven? Despite his aura screaming, “I’m the popular kid, and you’re the loser,” he was actually quite nice.

Upon looking at James, the Lupin twins both thought of trouble. They remembered the popular kids from their muggle school before this one, how they used to belittle Remus for his scars and how Y/n used to push them away. So, forgive them for being a little cautious around him. It didn’t help that James’ counterpart was the opposite of them both.

Sirius Black, lanky and confident. This boy had no boundaries and absolutely no limits. If he wanted it, he was going to get it. His eyes were the purest iron, and his smile was white like quartz. Hair black as coal and personality as gregarious as the color wheel. His style was toned back, but his character could’ve put the color wheel to shame with how bright he was. Sirius Black could’ve been the antonym to Remus and Y/n Lupin.

During second year they found another boy who was being beaten by Slytherins for his scarlet and golden robes. He was stocky, and it seems that he was pretty timid. His blond hair was disheveled, and his blue eyes full of fright. Y/n had stepped in front of him just like she had Remus from the bullies back in muggle school. Her wand was held tight in her grip as she stared at them.

“What are you gonna do, Loony Lupin?” One of them snarled.

“Aguamenti.”

The Slytherins were now covered in water. Damp like they had all taken a shower with their clothes on. Their black robes turned a shade darker. The evergreen accents turned olive, and the silver turned into grey. The main Slytherin boy gritted his teeth, and his icy eyes stared into Y/n’s e/c ones.

“You’ll pay for that.”

Y/n pocketed her wand in her robes, smiling sweetly, “I’m sure I will. Now, run along before I do something worse.”

They didn’t want to obey, but they also didn’t want to stay in that situation. The Slytherins scurried off like dogs following their owner's command. Y/n fixed her hair with her hand and turned around. She was offering her soft hand to the boy who was frozen, shocked, staring at her. Hesitantly he gripped her hand, allowing her to pull him up. She was only slightly shorter than him.

“Y/n Lupin.” She introduced, “You are?”

“Pe- Peter Pettigrew.”

Y/n bowed playfully, “Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Peter.”

“Pleasure.” Peter muttered shyly as her group of friends approached.

Remus swung an arm around her shoulders, “You’re bloody brilliant, you know?”

“Our star.” Sirius swooned jokingly as Y/n punched his shoulder, causing him to pout, “Who’s this?” James queried, looking at Peter, who cowered under the hazel-eyed gaze.

“Boys,” Y/n smiled brightly, “This is our new member of the Marauders. Peter Pettigrew.”

Peter fiddled with his hands anxiously, “New- New member?”

“Mhm!” Y/n hummed, “You’re our new addition.”

James smiled, “Any friend of Y/n’s is a friend of ours. Welcome, Peter.”

From then it went from four to five. Peter never really stopped thanking them for letting him in. For the first time, Peter felt at home, and it was thanks to Y/n. He realized how kind she was, how creative she was. It was so strange. The group was so different, like extraordinarily diverse, yet they worked together so well. Y/n and Remus seemed to be the brains of things. James and Sirius seemed to be the trouble makers. Peter just did his own thing but always contributed.

In fifth year Remus started to worry. Everyone was so secretive. They stopped hanging around as much, even his sister. It hurt. It really hurt to see them seeking around on the map that he and Y/n created together for the most part. It wasn’t until during the winter break did Y/n finally realize what they were doing affected them.

Remus barely cried. Or at least that’s what people made it out to seem. Remus actually cried a decent amount. He was snuggled up in his room. His blanket encasing him, and his arms held around his pillow tightly, gripping it as if it’d leave him like he felt everyone else was. His heart felt broken. Y/n was outside his door, hearing his soft cries, and gently knocked on the door.

“Rem. Can I come in, please?”

He didn’t say anything, so she just let herself in. The door closed behind her with a click, and she saw her tall brother curled up into the tightest ball with silver streams on his cheeks. Y/n sat in front of him and rubbed the side of his arm. Remus’ eyes continue to release water like a dam that had been broken. He couldn’t swallow it no matter how hard he tried.

“What’s wrong, Rem?”

Remus didn’t say anything. He just dug his head deeper into the pillow he was holding. Y/n’s hand made its way to his sandy-colored hair. She was scratching at the scalp and smoothing his hair away from his face keeping the strands from getting wet. Her hand hesitantly reached his cheek and wiped away the tears that kept falling.

She sighed, “Remus, please.”

“You’re- you’re gon’ leave me, aren’ you.” Remus choked.

“Leave you?” Y/n questioned softly, afraid if she raised her voice any more, it’d make things worse, “I wouldn’t leave you if I was given a chance, Remmy.”

He sniffled, “You- you haven’ been a- around.”

“I know.” Y/n soothed, caressing his cheek, “But there’s an explanation for it. James, Sirius, Peter, and I have been distant. We know that. But there’s a reason for it. You’ll find out soon.”

Remus’ eyes met his sister's warm e/c ones, “Please don’t leave me.”

“Never.”

He smiled gently. The corners of his lips barely curled, but she knew it was there. Remus had fallen asleep with his sister's hand in his hair. When she was sure he was sleeping, Y/n left the bedroom, allowing him to sleep peacefully. Then she wrote a letter to James where she knew Sirius was staying too.

One more week, Y/n thought. One more week of this Mandrake leaf in their mouths until they could be done with this.

It took another month before it was ready. Before they were ready. They were in Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom when they started. James started first. When he turned into a stag, they all began laughing. James turned back, pouting. Sirius turned second into a huge black dog. Y/n smiled and petted his head.

“Very fitting, Sirius.”

Sirius turned back, letting Peter turn next. He was so tiny that Sirius almost stepped on him. James and Y/n sniggered at their rat friend. Next was Y/n, who turned into a graceful cat. Her fur was black, and her eyes were a striking e/c. James smirked and nudged Sirius.

“Matching animagus’, eh?”

Sirius scowled, “Cats and dogs don’t match.”

Y/n turned back, “Don’t they?”

“Ready for this full moon?” James asked them all.

“‘Course!”

“Yep!”

“Can’t wait.”

That full moon was better than them all. Remus had people to join him. There was something that he noticed, though. Every time he’d get close to the cat, the dog would growl and stand in front of her. It was like the dog was protecting what was his. Y/n noticed it too. Every time Remus got close, Sirius stood in front of her, keeping him at a safe distance.

It wasn’t until a quiet night in the Marauders dorm did Remus finally bring it up, “Sirius.”

“Remus.”

“How long?”

Sirius furrowed his eyebrows, “How long what?”

“You know,” Remus moved his hand in a circular motion for him to continue, “How long have you liked my sister?”

“Woah, Remus.” Sirius stated in shock, “That’s quite the accusation.”

Remus tilted his head, “Is it?”

“Yeah. It is.” Sirius replied, “Y/n is my friend. Nothing more, nothing less.”

“So, you not sleeping with any girls for the past year is just a coincidence?” Remus questioned knowingly, “You staring at her during class and parties is just on accident?”

Sirius’ cheeks went pink, “And it’s definitely a coincidence that you always hug her first after every Quidditch match.”

“Okay, fine, fine.” Sirius confessed, “I like Y/n. I have for a while.”

“So why haven’t you asked her out?”

“Excuse me?”

Remus shrugged, “Why haven’t you asked her out yet? You know she enjoys going to Honeydukes and the Three Broomsticks.”

“Mate, have you forgotten we’re talking about your sister?” Sirius asked, “Like your twin sister?”

“I know.” Remus replied, “She likes you too, you know.”

Sirius’ eyes were practically bulging out of his skull. How in the name of Merlin was Remus so calm about this? He said it so casually as if they were talking about the weather. Sirius expected Remus to get angry or throw a book at him.

“Are you- Are you giving me permission to date your sister?”

“As long as you don’t hurt her, sure.”

Sirius hesitated before asking his next question, “Can you help me do it?”

Remus smirked, “Casanova of Hogwarts can’t ask out Y/n?”

“Please, Remus.” Sirius begged, “I really like her, and I don’t want to fuck this up.”

Remus snorted, “You always fuck things up.”

“That’s why I need you!”

Remus just smirked triumphantly.

“Pleaaaseeeeeee.”

“Alright, fine.” Remus relented, “Just be cool about it, yeah? Take her to Honeydukes and the Three Broomsticks. She’d enjoy that a lot. Maybe take her to Tomes and Scrolls.”

“You’re a lifesaver!”

“Yeah, yeah.” Remus rolled his eyes, “Now shut up. ‘M tired.”

The following day Sirius and Y/n did go to Hogsmeade together. She was amazed when they went into Honeydukes together. She picked out some of her favorite sweets and some for Remus since the full moon was a week away. When she went to pay for it, Sirius pushed her hand away, paying for it himself. Y/n wouldn’t stop thanking him.

Next, they went to Tomes and Scrolls. On any ordinary occasion, Sirius would’ve hated this. Truth be told, he wasn’t really a reader or a book person in general. But for her, he’d do absolutely anything. Y/n picked out some new books and began raving to Sirius about one in particular. So again, Sirius paid for them and told her to find a table in the Three Broomsticks.

Sirius went to the area where the book she was raving about was found. He grabbed one for himself, planning to read and annotate it for her. Maybe he’d give it to her as a birthday gift or just a random gift. Nonetheless, he knew she’d love it, and Sirius would fall off a cliff if she asked him to.

Inside he found her sitting with a hot chocolate and a butterbeer for himself. Sirius slid into the booth smiling at her. They talked about everything and anything. Sirius even went as far as to tell her some stuff about his family the other guys didn’t know about. He went on about how he envied Remus and her relationship wanting the same thing with Regulus.

Sirius told her how he wanted his future to look. How many tattoos he wanted. Where he wanted to live. How many children he wanted. So on and so forth. He was so open and so honest it surprised her. Generally, if someone asked Sirius what he wanted his future to look at, he’d just shrug. Now he was spilling everything to her.

It didn’t take long after that for them to become official. Remus smiled when she announced it. He was happy for her. Remus could see how happy Sirius made her, and for that, he was grateful that someone could take care of her in his absence. Y/n only wanted that for him too. One day she’d have a family, and Remus wouldn’t be her main priority. That scared her because, for all seventeen years of her life, it was just her and Remus.

After graduating from Hogwarts, they got married. It wasn’t anything huge, especially with Voldemort on the rise, but it happened. James was Sirius’ best man, and Marlene was Y/n’s maid of honor. Remus walked Y/n down the aisle and gently kissed her cheek before letting her go. Seeing Sirius and Y/n get married made James overjoyed to marry Lily, but that would happen all in due time.

So what was it that made her feel this way? Was it the betrayal? Was it the dishonesty? Was it the disloyalty? What was it in truth? The moment Sirius was locked away in Azkaban, everything changed. When Remus heard about it, she was his first stop. Inside he saw her with a baby on her lap. Their baby boy, just a year old. He was born only months before Harry.

Little Perseus Sirius Black. Y/n’s pride and joy. He was everything to her. Remus had walked into the house seeing his broken sister holding her child close to her as he cried. Remus walked in and gently took the child from her arms, allowing her to lean on his shoulder as he held Perseus. The little boy smiled at the familiar face of his uncle.

“Rem!”

Remus smiled softly, “Hey, Perseus.”

It took a long time for Y/n to collect herself. Remus had taken a spot in the house since he couldn’t find a place by himself. Y/n worked at the ministry most days, and Remus would take care of her little troublemaker. As Perseus grew, he looked more and more like his mother. The same e/c eyes and h/c hair. The only thing that made him look like a Black was his defined body and facial structure.

The sharp jawline, the defined nose, the straight cheekbones, the semi-hollow cheeks, and the pointed chin. His features were that of the Noble House of Black, yet he could’ve made his way to look like a Lupin even more. For a while, Y/n worked a lot. She was trying to keep her family afloat. But it wasn’t until Remus said he got a job offer at Hogwarts did she have to stop. Working for her felt like nothing. Every day she was worried about Perseus going to school. Especially with Sirius being out of Azkaban.

The night that Remus saw Peter Pettigrew on the map, he knew something was wrong and sent Y/n and owl for her to come to Hogwarts. Without hesitation, she did. On the night of that full moon, she was also down in the Shrieking Shack, holding Harry close to her, not wanting him to get hurt. When everything got resolved, she cried.

Y/n went home that night rethinking everything. A week later, Remus and Perseus returned home. She couldn’t remember holding Percy that tight ever. Y/n was just thankful that he was safe and he was home. That night that Y/n and Remus told Percy what really happened, why his father was never really in the picture.

A year later is when Perseus finally met his father - well, that he can remember. He was fifteen now, going into his fifth year at Hogwarts when Y/n and Remus took him to Grimmauld Place 12. It felt foreign, and it felt evil. Needless to say, Percy didn’t like the place. Inside, Sirius was waiting for them along with many others.

When the door opened and shut gently, he knew it was her. For the first time in over twelve years, he’d be allowed with his wife again. The woman he loved and the woman he felt the most solace with. He’d also see the boy that he used to know grown up into a young adult. The young gentleman Sirius always wanted.

Perseus stood in front of her, Y/n’s hands on his shoulders. Sirius almost chuckled at it. Percy was protecting her even if she didn’t know it herself. He stood in front of her for a reason, to make sure she’d be safe. Sirius stood in front of them, swallowing harshly.

“Remus, Y/n.” He choked on the last name.

“Good evening Sirius.” Remus greeted politely, “How have you been?”

Sirius shuffled, “I’ve been better.”

Remus hugged him, whispering in his ear, “Don’t fuck this up.”

“Hey, Siri.” Y/n smiled with tears in her eyes, “Hey, love.”

Gently she walked in front of Percy and hugged him tightly. Sirius’ arms went around her waist, and his nose dug into her hair. The scent of her perfume and shampoo calming his nerves slightly. Y/n dug her head into his neck and placed her arms around him. They pulled away and smiled. Gently he kissed her forehead.

“I’m sorry for believing that you would ever,” She looked down, “You know.”

Sirius picked her chin back up gently, “You have nothing to be sorry for, love.”

Y/n kissed his lips softly. His lips were far from how she remembered. They were no longer soft and tasted of smoke. Instead, they were chapped and tasted of firewhiskey. Perhaps some things never change. Their lips melded together perfectly, just as they did so many years ago. They pulled apart, smiling brightly. She pulled from his embrace to stand by his side.

“Sirius, this is-“

“Perseus, I know.”

Perseus smiled nervously; they had the same smile, the same straight smile, “Hi.”

“Hi.”

It was silent for a while as Perseus shuffled, “Are you- are you staying this time?”

“I’d like to.” Sirius replied, “I’m not quite sure the extent of my living abilities, but I’ll be here.”

“I’m- I'm in Slytherin.”

“Okay.”

Perseus looked incredulously, “Okay? That’s all you have to say?”

“There’s nothing wrong with being in Slytherin.” Sirius stated, “Your heart is in the right place.”

“How would you know?” Percy snapped, “You’ve been gone for most of my life. You don’t know anything about me.”

Sirius quirked an eyebrow, “So you standing in front of your Mather was just a happy accident? You weren’t planning on protecting her. Shall something go wrong?”

Percy looked at the ground, “Someone had to make sure she was safe while you were gone.”

“That’s not fair.”

“Life isn’t fair!” Percy yelled, “You left us. You don’t realize how badly you hurt her while you were gone.”

Remus walked back into the corridor to see Y/n frozen staring at her son. Sirius was standing in an argumentative stance. Percy’s eyes were filling with tears of frustration as he stared at the man who abandoned him from the start.

“You left me. You left mum. You left Remus.” Percy cried, “How did you expect this to go, huh?”

Sirius didn’t say anything, “Did you expect me to be happy?! Did you expect me to hug you and fall into your arms?!” Percy shouted, “Because I’m not. I’m not happy, and I’m not going to fall into your arms and hug you like a naive little boy. My mum deserves better than this bullshit.”

“Enough!” Remus snapped, and Percy froze, “Your father is risking his life to be here right now. To meet you. I get it. I wouldn’t be happy either if my father did what Sirius did. But with things, the way they are right now is holding a grudge really that important?”

“N- No, sir.”

“Percy.” Y/n called, and he stared at her with watery eyes as she approached him, “I get it. You’re angry, you’re upset, but he’s still your father. He wants to be here now.”

“B- But he-“

“I know, my love. He’s going to try and make up for it. You don’t have to trust him right away. You don’t have to say ‘I love you’ right away. He isn’t expecting that.” Y/n wiped the tears from his cheeks, “All he’s expecting is his son. The little boy that he last saw.”

Percy looked down, “I know you aren’t that little boy, and I wish you still were. The little boy that used to make me smile and laugh. The little boy that used to cause mischief around the house driving Remus mad.”

Sirius smiled, “You’re older now, and that will take some getting used to. I know you don’t remember, but Sirius used to be the only one who could get you to stop crying. He used to hold you all night, sleep with you in the rocking chair.”

“Sirius used to babble nonsense to you while I was at work. He used to take you to the park. Make you laugh by turning into a dog.” Percy sniffled, “Back then, Sirius was your everything, baby.”

Percy hugged his mom tight, “I- I’m scared.”

It was only loud enough for her to hear, “Why, baby?”

“What if- what if he leaves again?”

“He’s not going to.” Y/n moved the hair from his face, “Sirius wouldn’t leave us unless he had to.”

Percy knew what that meant. Sirius wouldn’t leave unless he got killed or died. Percy looked at Sirius’ eyes which were filled with tears from recalling the moments of his past. Y/n smiled reassuringly before Percy allowed himself to hug his father. He was wrapping his arms around his stomach, nuzzling his nose into his chest.

When they pulled apart, Sirius smiled, “You’re my everything, kiddo.”

1K notes · View notes

haik-choo · 4 years

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karasuno first years out late w/ their s/o

request: Could you write how 1st years (yachi too pls🥺) going out with their s/o late at night ?

a/n: this is such a cute little concept i --

[KARASUNO FIRST YEARS OUT LATE AT NIGHT WITH THEIR S/O]

-tsukishima, kageyama, yamaguchi, hinata, yachi

tsukishima kei.

not gonna lie, he’s often awake late at night. he’s a night owl and doesn’t mind sacrificing his sleep to watch some youtube videos

occasionally, he even goes out late at night, slipping past his parents and brother’s room and softly closing the front door with his headphones covering his ears and his hands stuffed in his pockets

so when you text him at 3am and ask if he can go out with you to the convenience store, he agrees in seconds to meet you at the halfway point between your houses

wastes no time in putting on his sneakers and a hoodie; he wants to get there quickly so that you aren’t left out by yourself

tsukishima knows there’s creeps out there, which is exactly why he jogs to the halfway point and is relieved when he’s the first one there

as soon as he sees you in the distance he fast walks to catch up to you, and slips his hand into yours

he totally brings bluetooth earbuds so that you two can listen to the same music instead of his wired headphones <3 uwu

is always on the lookout for any weirdos, and if he spots someone eyeing you up he shoots them the nastiest glare

eventually wraps his arms around your shoulder while your hand is sitll in his and its that cute little thing where your arms is across your chest holding his hand </3

pays for whatever you get at the store, ignores your complaints and tells you to shut up when you continue to insist on paying

“im trying to be a good boyfriend for once, for the love of god PLEASE shut up”

secretly takes a candid photo of you at some point in the night and sets it as his home screen -- NOT his lock screen, and when you see it he outright denies having taken it

tsukishima: you told me to take a picture of you

you: stop lying i know you’re a closet hopeless romantic

convinces you to stop at the park and eat the snacks you both got there, music still humming in your ears as the moonlight washes you both in cool tones

tsukishima when he’s alone with you is so soft -- he literally kisses your hand and temple and mutters very softly “love you”

all in all, tsukishima kei is the perfect night-owl boyfriend to go on snack-runs with

kageyama tobio.

"why would i go out right now. do you know what time it is. i have practice in the morning”

kags really out here kinda hurtin’ your feelin’s ngl boy doesn’t understand the vibes LOL

honestly you probably woke him up, he’s asleep at like ten every night (even tho he still has homework to do he just flat-out ignores it LOL)

only agrees to go out walking with you because you said he could bring his volleyball and you’d toss a few for him....and also because he’s a little worried because it’s so dark out

doesn’t walk with you to the park but meets you there LOL

he deadass has his wholeass duffel bad with the ball, two waterbottles, two towelettes, volleyball sneakers and everything

“you know,,,,we’re not playing a game, right, tobio?”

“yeah???? and??? what’s your point”

acts nonchalant but is totally having fun and is lowkey glad you asked him to go out so late because it’s cool out, there’s no one to bother him, and you just look...really good under the stars

he’s not a cheesy person but...god you just take his breath away sometimes. not that he’ll ever say that though

you ask to take a break like thirty minutes in because you are LITERALLY dying meanwhile he hasn’t even broken a sweat (”you’re already tired? maybe you should workout more” “shut UP kageyama”)

you both sit on the bench, and you’re lowkey waiting for him to reach for your hand but they’re just folded in his lap as he stares out in the nothingness of night

kageyama can’t take a hint. we know this. he’s incapable of knowing what you want unless you flat out tell him; so you have to be a very honest person

he doesn’t even really initiate skinship, not because he doesn’t want to, but just because it never really crosses his mind

plus he doesn’t feel the need to constantly show affection because he thinks it’s obvious that he likes you

despite this, he is good at spotting weird people, and he’s pretty protective of you, so you’re completely safe with him. trust him, he’ll keep you safe

all in all, have patience and stamina because kags will play volleyball with you until you pass out. also, he loves you

yamaguchi tadashi.

is in bed by 11pm but doesn’t actually go to sleep until two am because he’s scrolling through tiktok on his phone

sees your text about wanting to go out for a late night walk and maybe go through the little forest near your house and automatically sends a text that says “ill meet you at your window! can you pack some snacks? :)”

he walks all the way to your house, even if it’s more convenient to meet halfway because he wants to protect you! he’s not the strongest nor is he the most intimidating, so all he really has to offer is his presence

despite not being strong nor scary, yams literally has eagle eye. you can’t tell me that he can’t read people in a heartbeat -- he’s extremely perceptive

also texts you to not bring a jacket because he’s bringing on of his own for you !!! so sweet what the hell

he waits at your front door and when you step out he automatically pushes his volleyball jacket into your hands and he takes the bag of snacks from you and sticks out one of his hands UGH such a gentleman

lets you ramble about anything and stares at your side profile as he listens

joins in with a few quips here and there but ultimately is pretty quite and lets you speak or lets the silence cozy into the conversation

sees that there’s a guy sitting on a bench up the road and he switches places with you so that you’re further away from the stranger

also wraps a protective hand around your waist until you both are past the random dude but yams will glance behind yall every once in a while

when you two reach the mini forest he ends up taking the lead claiming that he knows a good spot

and damn, he’s right

it’s a little clearing that is illuminated solely by the moonlight and he sets the bag of snacks down beside him before sitting down himself, apologizing for not bringing a blanket that you two could sit on

pats the spot next to him so that you sit right beside him and he leans back with his hand on yours ONGMIRG

is the super cheesy type and tells you that you look really pretty and that,,,he kind of wants to kiss you

you: *experiencing heart palpitations* and you did this for what.

yamaguchi: ...because i love you?

you: *K.O*

all in all, yamaguchi is the boyfriend that completely indulges your late-night escapades <3

hinata shoyo.

is either completely fast asleep and doesn’t see your text or was awake and not planning to sleep for the next five hours, no in-between

but if he’s awake and sees your text, he agrees right away and asks where you want to meet up and what time because homeboy probably has to bike to get there AgAGAGAGA

literally doesn’t even show up in sneakers. he’s wearing sandals and shorts with a short sleeve top

“i came in my pjs”

“i see that.”

asks if you two can bike around instead because he doesn’t want to have to wheel his bike around for like an hour

he tells you to hold on tight because the bike was built for one person, and when you press against his back his warmth is literally so,,,comforting

has no sense of awareness and will scream going down a hill in the middle of a neighborhood, no fucks given

so, no, he doesn’t notice any weriod people even if there are some around

you always end up running into some weird people and you get new interesting stories every other day because let’s be honest hinata is a magnet for crazy shit and crazy people (usually crackheads)

you both just ride around as he talks about his day, usually his sister always comes up in the conversation( “she asked me to marry you the other day” “doirhgAEROIHFGRE SHOYO WHAT” “what? i told her i would. i keep my promises!”)

after like thirty minutes he begs for a break and you stop at a little 24/7 ice cream store that is run by the sweetest elderly couple

you share a sundae because you don’t want to eat too much this late at night

he plops on the bench right outside the store with his bike leaning against the metal handles, and h snuggles up to you and watches you scroll on your phone

he talks a little here and there, but for the most part, he goes quiet, and it’s during this time where you’re unaware of his gaze that he just takes his time drinking in your features in the yellow light of the lamppost

he can’t read the mood most times, but this time he does, and he stays quiet, and he thinks to himself

that he really will marry you one day

all in all, hinata gives you the impulsive young teenage experience of late night bike rides while eating his fair share of ice cream

yachi hitoka.

another either or, except this time she’s either fast asleep or stressing over homework and the nine tests she has the next day

when you ask if she can go on a walk with you she’s hesitant because she doesn’t want to get in trouble with her mom and she’s a total goody goody and terrified of doing anything reckless; but then she remembers that her mom was on a business trip and so she, very cautiously, says yes

you: good. i’m outside your door btw

yachi: i never had a choice did i

you have to meet her at her house because she’s way too scared to walk by herself at night; she might even make you factime her as you commute because she’s worried for you

jumps at every little thing, even the crows cawing make her shit herself

instictively grabs onto your sleeve and nervously look around the entire time, to the point where she doesn’t hear what you say

so you offer to go to a little cafe that’s still open and right away she nods

she’s so adorable, she bows really deeply when you two walk into the store and apologizes for it being so late

and finally, because you two are safe, she’s calm and smiling as she sips at her strawberry smoothie

awkwardly and very shyly reaches out for your hand on the table and gently lays her palm on yours

canon: yachi totally has freckles and you can’t convince me otherwise

her face is red and her freckles are just on display you can’t help but coo at her and tuck some hair behind her ear because god could she get any cuter?

you two end up staying for like a hour and a half and very shyly she asks if you could walk her home

and this time on the walk she’s not overly cautious and seems to enjoy the nighttime breeze and your hand softly clasping hers

does that cute thing where she lays her head on your shoulder or arm while you both are walking and looks up at you through her eyelashes and asks if you could give her a kiss on the cheek </3

you: stop. please. im going to die.

when you’re at her door she literally just stands there awkwardly for a few seconds before tilting her head upwards and pressing her lips to yours and then promptly running inside

video calls you three seconds afterwards to make sure you get home safely

all in all, you might need to be the impulsive one, but yachi enjoys spending late night time with you more than she admits. also please kiss her thanks

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lsmu · 2 years

Text

LSM Lost Files #6: Kyoto Protocol (Part Three)

I groggily opened my eyes. The warm, comfy vibe of my hotel greeted me as I sit up from my luxurious bed and grabbed my phone from my bedside table. 8am. Great, I wasn't late for breakfast.

I stretched out my body and lifted the covers off myself before getting my outfit for today. I took a hot shower, styled my hair and brushed my teeth before heading out of the bathroom. I had arranged with Someone-san to meet at 9 for breakfast.

I grabbed my keycard before turning on the 'Do Not Disturb' sign and opening the door. I was not sure how to feel when Someone-san was already standing in front of my suite.

"At this point I'm not even gonna fucking ask," I said as I closed the heavy wooden door. He chuckled. "Good morning to you too, Momo!" he said, taking his hands out of his pockets. "How long have you been standing there?' I asked him. He shrugged. "About five minutes. Come on, the restaurant's going to be packed at this hour!"

I nodded in agreement and hooked my arm with his. I felt him tensing up just like last night, and I giggled.

"Okay... Babe," I whispered cheekily. His face went full red behind his mask. "M–Momo... I–I told you to stop calling me that..." he stammered as he tried to pull his arm away, but I had locked mine around his, preventing him from escaping. "Why not? Don't lie.... You know you like it~" I continued to tease him.

In truth, I thought I was the one who enjoyed this a lot more than him. He was everything I saw in my dream guy. Smart, handsome, witty... Maybe a little nerdy, but it just made him even cuter. I had a soft spot for nerds, especially nerds who knew I loved jokbal.

"I–I..." he continued to struggle. I laughed and rested my head on his shoulder. "You enjoyed last night, why can't you do it today?" I asked cutely. "Y–Yesterday was holding hands. Right now it's full-on cuddling! Y–You gotta be careful, Momo. Maybe some Dispatch journalist is lurking behind a corner," he whisper-shouted, trying to guilt-trip me. It didn't work. "I'll take my chances. Besides, I've got you to keep me safe, right?" I giggled as I snuggled even tighter on his arm.

I could feel him relaxing a little bit. My charm always worked. He sighed.

"I'm supposed to protect you from danger... Like a moving car, for example! Not the media!" he retorted as we reached the restaurant. "But still, you'll protect me, right?" I said, looking up at him.

He turned to launch another rebuttal, but stopped when we made eye contact with each other. I stared back into his eyes and found myself drowning in them, as if they were sending me to another dimension.

"Table for two?" the restaurant manager approached us. "Can I get your room number, please?" "Takagamine Suite," I said, waking myself up from my daydream. The manager's eyes widened. "O–Oh... Right this way please! You'll dine in our VIP room," he said.

I chuckled as I pulled Someone-san gently and followed the manager. He led us into the VIP room, pulled us our chairs, and as we sat down, he bowed a little before asking me.

"Shall we get the menu for you? What would you like to have for your breakfast?" he asked reverently. I shook my head. "No, no. That's alright. I prefer to pick my own food. We'll explore the buffet ourselves. Thank you very much!" I said. "Very well. Please enjoy your breakfast!" he said, bowing deeply.

He left Someone-san and I, and I turned and smiled at my chaperone.

"You go get your food first, I'll wait," he smiled. "Okay!" I said, taking the offer up.

I stood up and walked outside of the room to the buffet. Gohs. Everything here looked so good! I wanted to try it all, and I planned to do just that. I grabbed a plate and started filling it with food. A few minutes later, I came back to the VIP room, finding Someone-san enjoying a cup of coffee. His eyes widened when he saw my plate.

"Jesus, Momo! You got breakfast, lunch, and dinner settled on that plate!" he joked. I laughed and slapped his arm. "Oi! A girl's gotta eat!" I defended myself, picking up my cutleries. He chuckled. "Alright, alright," he said in defeat, before standing up, "I'm gonna get my food."

I happily started munching on an omelette as I waited for him to return. He came back a few minutes later with a bowl of rice, miso soup, and an onsen egg. I gasped.

"That's all you're gonna eat?" I asked incredulously as he settled back down. He nodded. "Yup. This is just enough for me," he replied as he removed his mask.

He once again muttered a quiet prayer before pouring his egg over his bowl of rice.

"Wow... You sure are missing out on a lot, then..." I uttered. He chuckled. "Momo, when you're constantly running from one of the biggest criminal networks in the world, the luxury of time is not something you always have, hence my breakfast," he said calmly. "A–Ah... Right. Sorry," I trailed off, feeling guilty about bringing up the subject.

He smiled, but didn't say anything. We continued eating our breakfast in silence. After a while, he looked up at me and started a conversation.

"So... Visiting your family today?" he asked. I gasped. "Oh, right! I forgot to tell you! Okaasan called last night after we got back. Turns out Hana-nee chan and Otousan have some business to attend to, and they won't be back home until Friday," I said. His eyes widened. "Friday? But that's... You're flying off on Saturday, right?" he asked. I nodded. "Yeah... So... I gotta change all my plans," I said, chuckling, "That's alright! I love doing things without planning!"

He chuckled and continued eating his rice.

"So... What do you wanna do today, then? And... This week?" he asked. I thought for a moment. "I don't mind doing some sightseeing for the next few days," I grinned. "Where should we go first today?"

He smiled.

"I think I've got some ideas. Come on, let's finish our breakfast and we can plan in your suite!"

I nodded, and we finished our breakfast. Well, more like it was me trying to finish everything on my plate, but he waited patiently, playing with his phone. After we were done, we walked back to the Takagamine Suite. Suddenly, I had an idea. I chuckled and looked at him.

"You know what, Someone-san... Let's not plan anything! I think we should just wing it!" I said cheerfully. His eyes widened. "E–Eh? B-But..." "But what? Gosh, you gotta be more carefree in life, Someone-san!" I giggled.

Even though he was wearing a mask, I could see that he was opening his mouth to protest, so I decided to not give him the chance.

"To start with: Let's not take your car!" I said. His eyes widened. "O–Oi! That's for our own safety!" he protested. I chuckled. "What's the difference? You dined with me without your mask on at Sakura Burger last night, remember? There were a lot of people there, and here you are, safe. You said yourself that Sana and the IPG are protecting you this week... So..."

He sighed, but I could sense his resolve crumbling.

"Alright, fine... You want the full tourist experience, don't you?" he said, and I heard him chuckling. I nodded. "I do!" I exclaimed excitedly. "At your own hometown..." he teased. I laughed. "Oi! I haven't been around much ever since I debuted, right?" I defended myself. "Fine, fine..." he uttered.

We laughed and continued walking. I flung my eyes around the forest that was surrounding the hotel, taking in the snow-covered trees and grass. I smiled.

"Kyoto in winter sure is beautiful, isn't it?" I said. "Feels like I'm in Hokkaido or Niseko..." "Hokkaido and Niseko would have a lot more snow than this. Trust me, I would know," he said.

I stared at him. I guessed running around the country would take you to a lot of nice places.

"I believe you, don't worry," I assured him.

He looked at me and gave me his eye-smile. Damn. What was this warm and fuzzy thing I was feeling?

"Thank you, Momo... That means a lot," he said, nodding. "N–No problem," I stammered back.

Now it was me who felt my face blushing. He noticed this and decided to tease me.

"You good? You're as red as a tomato," he said. I slapped his arm and giggled. "Ya!"

We reached the Takagamine Suite, and I picked up some stuff before readying myself to leave with him. As we walked back to the main building and went out of the lobby, he turned to face me and asked.

"Where to first?" he asked. I smiled. "How about Arashiyama?" I grinned.

He smiled and nodded. Off we went.

* * *

The next few days were filled with nothing but fun with Someone-san. We went all around Kyoto, seeing famous attractions and going on food trails (courtesy of me). With each passing day, the two of us only grew closer and closer together, quickly becoming close due to the fact we could relate to each other so well.

One thing I learnt about this mysterious man was that he was good at hiding emotions. Occasionally, he would let some nostalgia slip onto his expression, but he'd just quickly brush it off before I could say anything.

The days flew by in a flash, and before I knew it, my last day here arrived. Gosh. Time flew so fast! It felt like it was yesterday when I arrived here from Seoul, and suddenly tomorrow I'd be flying back to Korea, meeting my Twice sisters again. I kinda missed those crackheads by now.

These past six days... I did a lot of things, being a tourist in my own hometown. I bought Sana her expensive gift: A silk scarf with an intricate Kyonui embroidery on it, made out of gold threads. I went to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, I walked around Gion and bought many gifts and souvenirs for the girls, I went up to the Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, I shopped–and mostly ate–at Nishiki market, and I even went to Nara again and ate at Sakura Burger again, but this time I spent some time to meet the deers at the Nara Deer Park. On every single day, Someone-San was there with me.

Today, as per usual, Someone-san and I met up at the restaurant downstairs for breakfast before heading out to his car. I gave him the coordinates and he drove us towards our destination. As we drove there, I had a plan formulating in my head for me to repay him for making my week in Kyoto an absolute blast, while keeping me completely safe.

"Welcome home!" Someone-san exclaimed as we pulled into Kyotanabe, my suburb just south of Kyoto.

Much like the other places we went to, nothing had changed. Familiar shophouses lined the streets as we zoomed down the road towards my house. I knew that we were getting close when the concrete buildings started to fade away and were replaced by more traditional houses. I bounced excitedly in my seat as I started seeing familiar shops and neighbouring houses as we started to get closer and closer.

"Is this the one?" he asked as he stopped right in front of my house.

I nodded my head excitedly and unbuckled my seatbelt.

"Yup! Off we go!" I said. "E-Eh? W–we?" he asked incredulously. I nodded. "Of course! No way am I gonna let you spend a whole day alone! After all, we are friends, aren't we?" I charged him. "B-But... I don't want to intrude..." "Of course you're not intruding, come on! It'll be fun!" I exclaimed.

I saw the gears in his head turning, but then he relented.

"F-Fine... Where do I park?" he asked eventually. I smirked.

First step completed.

"Yay! Just drive me up to the gate and let me take care of it!" I said.

He slowly inched the car forward towards my house's gate. I rolled down the window and pressed the doorbell. The intercom by the gate crackled to life and a familiar voice spoke through it.

"Moshi moshi?" "Okaasan! It's me! Momo!"

The other end went silent, and the gate started to slide open. Someone-san drove in and my mother came running out of the house. I quickly exited the vehicle and ran up to her.

"Okaasan!" "Momo-chan!"

She wrapped me in a tight embrace, and I hugged her back.

"My, my! It's been too long!" she exclaimed.

Okaasan pulled away and examined me. That was her habit. Her eyes scanned me up and down before her wrinkly hands went to my cheeks.

"Still strong and healthy! Not to mention gorgeous!" she smiled. "O–Oi, Okaasan..." I giggled.

My mother passed me and spotted Someone-san sitting in the car.

"And who's this fine gentleman accompanying you?" Okaasan asked as she nodded her head towards him. "That's my friend, Okaasan. I was wondering if he could spend the day with us?" I smiled.

Okaasan stared at him through the windshield, and I could feel him shrinking away.

"Get him to come out and let me have a better look," she said.

I turned and gestured for him to come out of the car. He reluctantly did so, before walking slowly to approach us. He took off his mask and smiled sheepishly at my mom.

"K–Konichiwa..." he said shyly. Okaasan walked over to him and grabbed his face gently. "Sharp cheekbones... Clear, healthy skin... Momo-chan! Are you sure he's just a friend?" she teased. "O–Oi! Okaasan!" I complained. She laughed and let go of Someone-san. "Would you like some matcha?" she asked as she walked inside the room.

I smiled in victory. That was Okaasan's green light.

"I–I–I... Um... Uh..."

I sighed and walked over to Someone-san, placing a finger over his lips.

"Just shut up and take the invite. You've passed her standards and she wants you to spend the day with us," I whispered in Korean. "Momo, I'm not sure if it's appropriate for me to–" "Shut up. Follow me," I interjected, dragging him inside the door.

Someone-san finally gave in and locked the car before taking his shoes off and walking further inside with me. Okaasan was already in the living room, and she gestured for us to sit around the tatami table.

"Please wait here. I'll be back with the tea!" she exclaimed before walking off.

Someone-san and I knelt on the floor cushions. He chuckled softly and placed his hands on his lap.

"Momo..." "Hm?" "You didn't have to do this," he uttered. I looked at him. "What do you mean?" "I know that this... Me joining you... It wasn't planned. You came up with this today... Just now, even. You didn't have to do it..." he explained.

Fuck. How did he catch on so quickly?

"You didn't have to do this... And yet you did it. And... I'm grateful for that," he said sincerely with a smile. I smiled back and grabbed his hand gently. "I don't want to leave you alone. Plus... I do want to get to know you more," I replied. He nodded. "Thank you, Momo..." he said.

We stared into each other's eyes, and... I felt something stirred inside me, like a whole cage of butterflies just got released inside my chest. I knew this feeling all too well, for it was the same feeling I had when I first started with Heechul.

It was love.

The clinking of cups pulled us back to reality as Okaasan came back with a tray filled with a teapot and three tea cups.

"Sorry for the wait," she said apologetically as she set the tray down. "Mondai Nai, Hirai-san," Someone-san replied.

Okaasan smiled and poured the green liquid into the cups. She handed the cups to us before taking a cup for herself.

"So, what's your name?" Okaasan asked. I saw him thinking for a moment. "I–It's... Yoru," he replied. I held back a giggle as Okaasan nodded. "A very nice name! How old are you, Yoru-kun?" "I–I'm... The same age as Momo," he said. "Ah! You two make the perfect pair, then!" she said. "Okaasan!" I scolded her.

My mother only laughed as she set her teacup back on the table.

"I'm only joking, Momo-chan... Calm down!" she chuckled.

I huffed and puffed my cheeks in frustration, but she kept chuckling and looked at Someone-san, ignoring me.

"As you can probably tell, she gets her humour from me," Okaasan said proudly. "I thought so too, Hirai-san," he said, chuckling politely. "Oi!" I scolded him. He continued chuckling, and I saw Okaasan looking at us with knowing looks. "So... How did you two get to know each other?" Okaasan asked. "I was sent by one of her fellow Twice members as her bodyguard, actually," Someone-san said truthfully. Okaasan chuckled and sighed. "Gosh... My daughter is so famous nowadays that she needs a bodyguard... Still, it was nice of them..." she said.

We all chuckled lightly, before falling into an awkward silence. I turned to look at Someone-san, and he met my glance, and I knew we were both unsure of what to do. Okaasan looked at us with a smile plastered on her face, before eventually she spoke.

"Right! Since... I have two healthy young people in my house... This is the perfect time to do some housework! Come, help me out!" she said excitedly, standing up swiftly.

I groaned and stood up together with Someone-san. My mother always tends to make me clean the house and do chores with her whenever I come back to visit, which was one of the main reasons why I was only visiting them for a day. Any longer than that, and my back will kill me.

"Relax, Momo! It'll be fun!" Someone-san chirped happily as we walked side-by-side. "Fun? Bitch, please! We're cleaning the house! What do you mean 'fun'?" I snapped. He laughed. "Well, it's better than doing nothing..." he countered. "Gosh, you're just like Jeongyeon and Jihyo..." I muttered, remembering my two members who loved cleaning the house so much. "That's a good thing, right? Don't those two always keep everybody in check?" he smirked, before increasing his pace to catch up with my mother, exiting the house into the backyard.

God! Why was he so responsible?

I quickly followed them into my backyard, where Okaasan was handing him a shovel.

"Come, Momo-chan! Help him shovel out the snow!" she said, handing me another shovel. "What's the point, Okaasan? It'll definitely snow again tonight!" I tried to reason with her. "And you always get hungry again after you eat, and yet you still eat, right? It's the same thing," she said, not missing a beat.

I gave her the 'really?' look before sighing and snatching the shovel from her hands. She laughed and nodded approvingly.

"That's better. Alright, you two get to work on this, while I cook lunch!" Okaasan said, leaving us at the chilling backyard.

I shook my head in frustration, but I heard Someone-san chuckling again. I turned to glare at him, and he chuckled louder.

"What's so funny?" I asked him aggressively. He shook his head, but continued grinning. "Nothing. That's a good point she made about you being hungry," he chuckled. "Let's get started!"

I groaned, but I joined him in shoveling away the ankle deep snow, getting into a quick flow of work. After what felt like hours, my back started to ache, and my arms felt like they were going to fall off my shoulders.

"Fuck! Maybe I won't visit again next time!" I groaned as I stabbed my shovel into the ground and plopped down onto the porch.

I flung my eyes around, and stomped my feet in anger while whining when I realized that we'd only cleared about one-third of the huge backyard. Someone-san laughed and continued shoveling the snow, looking like a giddy little boy.

"Come on, Momo... It's all about being a good child!" he said happily. "I know! It's just... So annoying! I came back here to see them again after three years, and the first thing she did was to make me do housework! How the hell are you not annoyed?" I whined as I stared at him.

He stabbed his shovel perpendicularly into the snow and leaned against it.

"I learned to treasure the small things in life. You know... We have no idea how long our lives are gonna last," he said thoughtfully.

I stared at him. He was right of course, so I sighed and threw my head back. He walked over and joined me on the porch. I noticed that the two of us were sweating buckets, even though the temperature was still very low and we were literally shoveling snow.

"How much more do we have to shovel?" I asked as I looked around us.

Someone-san silently pulled out a pair of spectacles. He placed them on his face and pressed something on it, before sitting back and staring at the snow.

"About... 83 square meters," he replied. "The fuck... How do you know?" I asked incredulously. He chuckled. "Smart specs... Go figure," he said, tapping his glasses and turning to look at me.

Shit... I felt my heart fluttering again. He looked so cute with glasses.

"Momo-chan! Yoru-kun! Lunch is ready!" Okaasan called out.

My spirits lifted instantly at the mention of food and my body inexplicably rejuvenated with energy. I shot to my feet in a flash.

"COMING!" I yelled. Someone-san laughed loudly and got up to his feet. "Someone has energy now," he laughed.

I punched his shoulder playfully before pulling him towards the house. We got in and immediately took off our coats before joining my mother at the dining table. My mouth began to water at the sight of the food Okaasan prepared for us. Chicken teriyaki, chawanmushi, some miso soup, hot steaming bowls of rice, natto... It was heaven!

"Please sit," Okaasan said as she knelt on the floor. We followed suit and gathered around the table. "Itadakimasu!" I exclaimed as I picked up my chopsticks and dug into the food.

I munched on the teriyaki chicken and squealed loudly, before shoveling some rice into my mouth. Okaasan laughed as she ate her food slowly.

"Oi, Momo-chan! Slow down!" she scolded me.

I blushed and grinned sheepishly. I swallowed my food before speaking this time.

"Gomen-ne, Okaasan. It's just... The food's too good!" I giggled. Okaasan sighed and shook her head. "You and your love for food..." she said, before turning to Someone-san, "How do you find it, Yo–Hey... Are you alright?"

I turned quickly and saw that Someone-san was staring at the chawanmushi with tears rolling down his cheeks. He had taken a small scoop of it, but was only staring at it, not eating it.

"I–Is something wrong?" Okaasan asked worriedly. He shook his head slowly. "N–No... Go–Gomenasai, Hirai-san... It's... I–It's just... This... Really tastes like home," he sniffled as he quickly wiped away his tears. Okaasan smiled kindly. "It's alright, Yoru-kun... We all grow up in our families, and fond memories of them are what made us... Well, us," she said wisely.

Someone-san smiled and nodded. Silently, he picked up his spoon and continued eating as if nothing happened. I gently reached for his hand from underneath the table.

"You wanna talk about it?" I whispered in Korean. He smiled, but shook his head. "No. Let's not ruin the mood..." he replied quietly, also in Korean.

I decided to drop the subject for now and just enjoy the moment. I turned to look at Okaasan.

"Speaking of... Where's Otousan and Hana-nee?" I asked her. "Your father went ice fishing with his friends as usual. He'll be back at dinner time. Hana is out with her boyfriend, she'll be back for dinner as well," Okaasan chuckled. "Okaasan... You need to get out of the house more often," I said.

Okaasan laughed, but she shook her head.

"I'm too old to go out and about, Momo-chan... Besides, I prefer staying at home and tending to my plants!" she said, gesturing towards the array of plants she had in this house. Her collection seemed to have grown exponentially since I last visited.

"You and your plants..." I mused. My mother beamed proudly and continued eating. "How long have you lived here, Hirai-san?" asked Someone-san. "Since Momo was born. We've never moved... Just made a few upgrades here and there..." Okaasan said. "Woah... That's... Thirty two years is a long time!" he exclaimed. Okaasan chuckled. "It sure is," she smiled. "But... There's just so many memories here, I don't think I'd be able to let this house go. Hold on... Let me go get something!"

Okaasan stood up and walked out of the dining room. A few moments later, she came back with a photo album and set it down on the table. She flipped it open to the first page, revealing an old photo. The younger versions of my parents stood there side by side, Okaasan holding a baby in her arms while Otousan was holding on to a young girl's hand.

"This is the first photo we took when we just moved in," she explained.

She pointed to the baby in her arms. I knew exactly who that was.

"That's... My little Momo, and this is my little Hana..." she pointed to my sister's picture with a smile.

Okaasan flipped to the next page, and I laughed at the familiar photo.

"This was Momo's first photoshoot in her life. She was... Preparing for her future," she chuckled.

I laughed and stared at the photo. This was one of the few childhood photos that were posted on VLive a few years back. Okaasan flipped the album again, showing a picture of me eating a big bowl of katsudon.

"Oh... This next photo really shows her personality from a young age!" Okaasan grinned. "O–Oi! Not this one!" I said as I blushed and hid my face in my hands. "You can tell that she has loved food since she was a child," Okaasan laughed.

I peeked through my fingers at Someone-san, and found him grinning from ear to ear.

"Her childhood... Looks a lot like my sister, actually," he smiled.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. From it, he produced a polaroid photograph of a young girl. He laid it next to my photo, and I gasped at the striking resemblance.

"Damn, Okaasan! Is there something you didn't tell me?" I joked. "Momo-chan!" she exclaimed as she slapped my head.

Someone-san laughed, and I turned to look at him.

"You keep a photo of your sister in your wallet? That's cute!" I told him. He chuckled. "I keep photos of all my family members in my wallet," he replied.

He pulled out three other polaroid pictures from his wallet and laid them down on the table.

"This is my Okaasan..." he said, pointing at one picture. "This is my Otousan..." he said, pointing at the next. "That's Nezuko, my little sister," he said, pointing at the picture from earlier. "And this is my family photo," he concluded, pointing at the last picture.

Wow... All of his family members were really good looking.

"Such a beautiful family," my mother said with a smile, taking up the family photo. "This was taken when I was four... We went to Tokyo Disneyland," he explained.

Okaasan passed me the photo and I looked at the happy smiling faces of his family. I noticed that there were a couple wet patches here and there, and somehow... I knew what they were from.

My eyes fell onto the young Someone-san. He was so happy... So full of joy, so full of love. His family must have meant so much to him. I just couldn't begin to imagine how much pain he was currently in, having to be separated from them for so long.

I handed the photo back to Someone-san, and he accepted it gratefully. In a reverent manner, he gathered the photos and stored them back inside his wallet.

"Where are they now? Are they still living in Japan?" Okaasan asked innocently. "That's... A little complex," Someone-san answered slowly.

I stared at my mother with a warning gaze, and she understood. She looked at Someone-san apologetically, before suddenly cutting him off.

"Oh! Let's finish the food before it gets cold!" she exclaimed, changing the subject. "Yes, yes! Let's eat up!" I said.

Someone-san smiled at me sweetly and mouthed 'Gomawo' before picking his chopsticks and continued eating. I felt my heart fluttering whenever he smiled like that. Gosh, Momo... Calm down.

We finished our food and cleaned up, before going back out to continue shoveling the snow. This time, Okaasan joined us. We made small talk as we continued clearing the snow, and to be honest, I started to enjoy the work a little more.

After we cleared the snow, Okaasan didn't let us go easily. She told us to do other chores like sweeping, mopping the floor, and clearing out the store room. Time flew by in a flash, and soon, it was time to prepare dinner.

In a true Okaasan fashion, she made Someone-san and I help her to cut the vegetables for the shabu-shabu she was preparing for our dinner while she went out to buy groceries. We washed the vegetables and brought them over to the dining table to cut them up.

"Thank you, Momo..." he suddenly said. I looked up. "Eh? What for?" I asked as I chopped the head of the cabbage off. "For bringing me here and showing me what it's like to be with a family again," he continued.

I smiled at him.

"It's the least I can do to repay you for keeping me safe," I uttered. "Thanks..." he said again. I looked at him. "You... You miss them a lot, don't you?" I asked him. He smiled and nodded. "Every day of my life," he replied softly. I continued cutting while asking him my next question. "You sure you don't wanna talk about it?" I asked him. He smiled, but shook his head. "No... I'm fi–OW!" he suddenly cried, dropping his knife.

Someone-san had just accidentally cut his finger. Without thinking, I rushed over to his side, grabbed his finger, and shoved it straight into my mouth, sucking the blood out of it, just like how Okaasan always did for me.

"M–M–Momo..." he stuttered in shock.

I stared at him. He was stunned, and he made no attempt to pull away. I continued to suck his finger and kept eye contact with him throughout. I finally released his finger when I couldn't taste any more blood, but his face had gone full red.

"Sorry... Home remedy," I whispered, feeling my cheeks blushing too. "T–Thank you..." he stammered.

Shit. Why did I do that? We silently got back to cutting, both of us silent, unsure of what to say to each other. Finally, I mustered up enough courage to look up at him.

"Mo–" "So–" "Ah, you go first..." he said, chuckling. "I... I–I'm sorry about... Just now," I said nervously. He shook his head. "D–Don't be... It... Did the trick, though. No more pain," he said, lifting his finger.

I laughed awkwardly, and he did too. Fuck. I was usually confident around men. Why did he make me so jittery?

"So... What now?" he asked. We had just finished cutting the veggies. "I–I guess, we can set up the pot? I–I'll take it," I told him. He nodded.

I quickly stood up and rushed to the storage room. As soon as I left the room, I placed a hand on my chest, trying to calm my heart. I hadn't felt this way since high school. Gosh... What did he do to me?

I shook my head rapidly and snapped myself out of my thoughts, flinging my eyes around the storage room to find the shabu-shabu pot and portable gas stove. Where did Okaasan put them, again? I looked up, and found the items I was looking for stashed at the top shelf.

I groaned in frustration. I wasn't exactly short, but I wasn't as tall as Jeongyeon or Tzuyu. How was I supposed to reach that? I looked around for a small step ladder and found one, so I set it up before climbing up. Fuck. Why was it so far up? I stretched my arm to reach it...

"Just a... Little... More..." I uttered to myself.

The door slid open.

"You alright, Momo? Can you reach it?" Someone-san asked. "Y–Yeah. Just... WOAH!!"

I lost balance. My body started flailing in the air and I fell backwards. Shit!

"Got you!"

I didn't fall on the floor. Instead, I fell on his body, his arms catching me. He saved me yet again, just like he did last week on the streets of Gion. I looked up, and my eyes fell on his kind eyes.

"You okay?" he asked with a smile. "I–I..."

I knew my face had gone full red. I quickly straightened myself, standing up and dusting myself off. I masked my embarrassment with a chuckle.

"Fuck... A week in Kyoto, and I've nearly died twice," I said. He laughed. "Good thing Sana sent me, huh?" he teased, climbing the ladder to pick the portable stove and shabu-shabu pot nimbly. "Sure is..." I said while chuckling, nodding as he handed me the two items. "Let's head back?" he proposed, but my stomach gurgled loudly. I giggled. "Lemme get something to eat..." I said, picking a bag of rice crackers from one of the shelves.

I heard him chuckling, so I shot him a glare before chuckling with him. I handed him my rice crackers bag.

"Want some?" "Sure! Why not..." he said, picking one piece and popping it into his mouth.

* * *

Momo started zoning out as she continued to munch on her rice crackers. I chuckled. She was simply gorgeous, and her absolute love for food made her adorable. I flung my eyes to the front door, and I saw the silhouette of a girl walking up to it. The door unlocked, and soon it swung open, revealing a woman.

"Okaasan... I'm ho–MOMO-CHAN!!!" "ONEECHAN!"

The two girls squealed and ran towards each other, crushing each other in a tight hug. They skipped around like two little girls while laughing loudly. I smiled. So this was Hirai Hana, Momo's older sister.

"WHEN DID YOU ARRIVE?" screamed Hana. Momo laughed. "This morning! Oi! I was supposed to visit you last Sunday! But Okaasan said you're busy!" Momo exclaimed. "I know, I know! I'm sorry! But I'm here now!!! Gosh, you look the same!!!" she squealed, cupping Momo's face in her hands. Momo laughed. "It was only three years! Of course I look the same!" she said. "It's so good to finally see you again!!!" Hana screamed, pulling Momo for another hug.

I smiled as I watched these two. Somehow, seeing Momo and Hana reminded me so much of Nezuko, my little sister. How are you, Nezuko-chan? Did you miss me?

"Hey, this is my friend Yoru!" Momo exclaimed suddenly, pointing at me. Hana whipped around and smiled. "Konichiwa, Yoru-san!" exclaimed Hana, reaching to shake my hand. "K–Konichiwa, Hana-san..." I said. Hana stared at me with a smile. "Momo-chan! Did you actually finally eventually get a proper boyfriend?" she asked naughtily. "Oi!" Momo exclaimed and slapped her sister's shoulder. They both laughed.

At that moment, we heard the front door opening again, and a large bodied older gentleman entered, humming a tune absentmindedly.

"OTOUSAN!" exclaimed Momo, rushing to hug her father. Her father looked stunned for a moment. "M–Momo chan?" he stuttered. "Yes! Yes!" Momo squealed excitedly.

A smile stretched across his face as he set his fishing rod and bucket down. He laughed heartily and pulled Momo into a hug. Hang on... Why did his laughter sound so much like my father's? Why... Why did this family remind me so much of mine?

"My baby's finally home!" he exclaimed. Hana pouted. "Oi... I'm literally right here all the time!" she said in an annoyed tone. Otousan laughed. "I see you everyday, Hana! But to see Momo is a rare occasion!" he replied.

Otousan scanned Momo from head to toe and pinched her cheeks. She squirmed out of his grasp.

"Stop that!" she said, giggling. Otousan laughed. "Still eating healthy?" he asked. Momo nodded. "As always!" she said.

Otousan gave a nod of approval, before looking at me and stared at me quizzically.

"And... Who's this?" he asked. Momo smiled. "Oh, that's my friend, Yoru..." she said, gesturing towards me. I bowed respectfully. "Konichiwa, Hirai-san... Watashino namae wa Yoru-des... I'm Momo's friend," I said.

He stared me down, and I had to fight the urge not to shrink down in fear. Momo slapped her father's arm.

"Otousan! Stop scaring him!" she said. Her father chuckled and bowed to me apologetically. "I'm sorry. I'm not trying to intimidate you, Yoru-san..." he said. I bowed deeper. "N–No, no, it's okay, HIrai-san!" I stuttered. He smiled kindly and looked at Momo. "He's a fine gentleman," he said. I saw Momo blushing.

The front door opened one more time. Now it was Momo's mother who came in.

"Ah! Everyone's here! Perfect! Come! Let's get this shabu-shabu dinner started!" she announced.

We all walked up to the table and knelt down. I helped Momo's mother unpack the different things she had bought, and there were a lot of things. The last time I saw this much food was back at AMAN Kyoto's breakfast buffet!

"Momo-chan, why don't you get the sake?" Otousan said. She nodded and stood up. "I'll go help her," I said, sparing myself from another awkward conversation with her family.

Momo and I walked to the cellar and grabbed a large bottle of sake and a few cups. Suddenly, she grabbed my arm gently, and I turned to look at her.

"Don't be nervous, okay? They're nice people..." she said with a smile. "I–I wasn't nervous," I said in denial. She snorted. "Please... Six days of teasing you... I know all of your nervous tells," she smirked. I chuckled. "Okay..." I said in defeat, staring at the floor. "Hey, look at me," she said.

I did just that, and suddenly she cupped my face in her hands.

"I enjoy your company, and I know my family does too. So... Just relax. Don't be nervous," she repeated her words. "It's... Kinda difficult when you have three pairs of eyes constantly focusing on you..." I defended myself. She smiled. "Then let me help you focus on something else..." she whispered.

She tiptoed, and suddenly, she pecked my cheek.

My world went into a haze. I stared at her blankly, and saw her smiling at me.

"Don't take it the wrong way..." she giggled, before walking out of the cellar, leaving me alone.

Hirai Momo.

The Hirai Momo of Twice.

She had just kissed me on the cheek.

"Someone-san! Come on! You'll freeze to death inside the cellar!" she suddenly appeared at the door again. "A–Ah, yes..." I stuttered.

We walked back into the dining room and sat down. She was right, though... Throughout the meal, only one thing filled my mind: Momo. I found myself staring at her a few times. Every single thing about her enchanted me; from her brilliant smile, to her rosy cheeks, to those round and beautiful eyes... I was falling so hard for this beautiful girl.

"Yoru?" Momo called out to me. I blinked my eyes rapidly. "Y–yes?" "Pass me your bowl," she said with a knowing smile.

I hastily picked up my bowl and passed it to her. Our hands brushed against each other for a moment, and I knew that I was blushing red. This alarmed Hana.

"Yoru-kun! You're blushing so red!" she quipped while chuckling. I chuckled nervously. "A–Ah, yes... It's... The alcohol kicked in," I said. She laughed and nodded.

Momo placed my bowl back in front of me and smirked. I knew she was about to tease me, but I glared secretly at her to warn her. She giggled and nodded. Suddenly, Otousan looked up.

"Your parents brought you up well, Yoru-san..." he said. I looked up at him. "E–Eh?" I asked in confusion. He smiled. "I've watched you throughout the meal, and you're just so polite," he explained himself. "Oh he's been polite the entire day, Honey..." Okaasan said. Momo chuckled. "I told you they'll like you," Momo whispered in Korean. Her mother glared at her. "Momo-chan, no Korean at the dinner table," she said. "Gomen-ne..." Momo uttered, but she was giggling.

We finished our dinner and stayed for quite a while afterwards drinking sake and talking together. Momo's parents were kind and generous, and they continued to compliment me with every chance they had. I knew what they were saying behind those words–that they would appreciate it if Momo chose me as her partner–but to their credit, they never explicitly said it.

"Wow... It's late," Hana suddenly exclaimed.

I glanced at my watch, and found that it was 11pm already! Holy shit! Okaasan chuckled and looked straight at Hana.

"That's your cue to start doing dishes! Otousan, please help her!" she ordered them.

Otousan immediately got up while laughing, but Hana let out a frustrated groan.

"Okaasan~Why me?" she complained. "Because Momo spent the whole day doing chores, and Yoru-kun is our guest! Do you seriously expect him to do the dishes?" Okaasan shot back

Hana grumbled but stood up begrudgingly anyway, joining her father. Momo laughed out loud in victory and stared at me.

"I guess... Doing chores the entire day does pay off, right?" she chuckled. I laughed and nodded. "Yes, and Yoru-kun helped a lot! Momo-chan, you really should get together with him!" Okaasan finally said what was said implicitly the entire dinner. "OKAASAN!" she exclaimed in protest, but her mother only laughed. "Speaking of... Why don't you stay over, Yoru-kun? It's late already," she suddenly said while looking at me.

I shook my head and raised my hands panickedly.

"O–Oh, no, no! I... I really shouldn't overstay my welcome!" I said. Okaasan chuckled. "You're not overstaying your welcome, Yoru-kun. It wasn't an invitation anyway, it was a request. I will not allow you to drive back to Kyoto in the middle of the night like this! It's dangerous!" she said.

I was about to object further, but Momo grabbed my arm and shook her head.

"There's no fighting this, just go along with it..." she said. "She's right, Yoru-kun!" exclaimed Hana from the adjacent kitchen.

I sighed, but then I chuckled and nodded.

"Very well. Thank you for your hospitality, Hirai-san..." I said, bowing at Okaasan. She smiled. "That's better! Momo-chan, why don't you show him his room so he can rest?" she said. Momo nodded. "Follow me," she said as she stood up.

I scanned the room. Other than the futon, there was a cupboard and a tatami table. It was perfectly simple, just the way I liked it.

"Get comfy. I'll get you something to change!" Momo smiled before walking out.

I smiled and sat down on the floor, storing my backpack by the cabinet. A moment later, Momo came back with a set of clothes.

"It's.... Otousan's pajamas... Hope you don't mind the... Style," she said, handing me a set of striped pajamas. I laughed but nodded. "It's fine, Momo! It looks comfortable," I said. She nodded. "Shower's just down the hall. Use the soap and shampoo to your liking. Toothbrush, though..." she trailed off, but I pulled out a pen and pressed a button on its side, and it turned into a portable toothbrush. "Got it," I said with a smile. Momo laughed. "You and your gadgets... Alright! Enjoy your stay! My room's just next to yours, if you need anything, you can knock," she said. "I will..." I said, nodding appreciatively. A naughty grin flashed on her face. "... Or you can run off... And I'll never be able to find you," she said, repeating my words from last week.

We laughed, and soon she left me in my room. I smiled. I knew I would enjoy my stay here. I decided to take a shower and slipped into the pajamas before returning to my room. I rested my back on my futon, picked up a book from my bag, opened it, and started reading.

I kept reading for a while as the house became completely silent, and after a while, I did a quick time check on my smartwatch. My eyes widened in surprise.

2 am.

Wow. I'd been reading for that long? Why wasn't I feeling sleepy, though? I shut my book and set it down, deciding that I should get ready to sleep. As I did so, I heard a creak outside my door. That was a foot, on the wooden flooring.

My body froze up. Paranoia took hold. Did they track me here? But... What about Momo and her family? My eyes darted to the unfinished taser in my bag. Project Origin... Should I test it on whoever was coming after me?

Footsteps approaching. My instincts kicked in. I quickly and nimbly dived over to my pack and retrieved the bracelets. I took it out, wore it around my wrists, and turned it on. The door handle jiggled. I prepared to defend myself. I lifted my arm, ready to strike...

"Someone-san...?" "M–Momo?"

Momo poked her head through the door and smiled, but a second later she looked concerned. I was sweating, I was crouching in an attack position, I was wearing my weaponized bracelets. It was on.

"A–Are you alright?" Momo asked as she walked inside. "I–I..." I stammered. "Yeah... I'm... I'm fine..."

I let out a relieved sigh and quickly took the bracelets off. Momo reached me, and suddenly her hand touched my cheek. I looked up at her, and I felt my heart beating faster.

"Are you sure?" she asked again, gently, concernedly. "Yeah... I... I heard your footsteps and I thought–" I said, before deciding to change the subject, "Why are you awake?"

She chuckled.

"I could have asked the same thing about you..." she retorted.

I chuckled and looked down, and I noticed that she was hiding something behind her back. She chuckled sheepishly and lifted it up. It was a sake bottle and 2 cups.

"Care for a drink?" she grinned.

I smiled. Yeah. I needed a drink.

"Sure... Why not," I replied.

Momo squealed excitedly as she strided over to the tatami table. She cracked open the bottle as I took my place across the table, and she quickly poured both of us a cup, handing me mine.

"Kanpai..." we whispered, before downing our cups.

The alcohol burned my throat as it traveled to my stomach. I coughed and looked at her. Momo clasped a hand on her mouth to stifle a laugh.

"W–Woah! That's strong!" I said in a hushed voice. "Yup! This is Genshu," she announced, lifting the bottle. My eyes widened. "Genshu?" I asked. Genshu was an undiluted sake. No wonder it was so strong. "Not just any Genshu," Momo smirked, "This one's 30%."

I gasped.

"30%? Isn't the limit at 22%?" I asked confusedly. She chuckled and poured herself another cup. "I told you this is no ordinary Genshu..." she said. "O–Oi... Take it easy! Let's not get drunk!" I cautioned. She scoffed. "Oh, come on, Someone-san... It's my last night here! Plus, we're in my house! What could possibly go wrong?" Momo challenged, downing her second cup with haste.

This girl was wild. She winched, but she poured herself another, and then poured my cup too.

"I–I think I'm good, Momo..." I said apprehensively. She looked at me. "Aww... Come on... Please?"

She pouted cutely and stared at me with puppy eyes. Fuck. I couldn't resist. Why was I so weak?

"F–Fine..." I huffed.

Momo punched the air in victory as I took my second cup and drank it quickly. Shit. It was so strong. I winched and let the alcohol sear my throat. Strangely, it started to feel nice. I chuckled, and she noticed this.

"See? It gets nicer with every next cup," she said. I laughed. "That's exactly how people get drunk," I said.

She giggled and nodded, but she poured us another cup. Then another, and another. Third cup became fourth, fourth became fifth, and so on. We talked and joked happily, and before we knew it, we were both already drunk. The room was spinning, the lamp glared a little too garishly, but all I could feel was happiness and lightness.

"And so... I–I... Took–the bat... And... hic... and... Started... Hacking away!" Momo said, ending her story about the recent battle at SM Headquarters. "N–No... F–Fucking way! Hic... That's... Shooo... Cool!" I said.

Shit. I was slurring. Momo wheezed.

"Y–Yes... F–Fucking–WAY!" she exclaimed her last word. "Sssh!!" I shushed while placing a finger on her mouth. We giggled like little children. "R–Right... Right... We–shouldn't wake... O–t–Otousan..." she whispered.

I found myself already sitting side by side with her. When did I get here? Momo rested her head on my shoulder and hummed contentedly. I pressed my head against hers and smiled.

"You gotta... hic... Tell me more of these stories..." I told her. She slapped my chest. "N–Nah... You... You've got... More stories about yourself... Self... Hic..." she giggled. "I do..." I uttered, closing my eyes to stop the world from spinning. "T–Tell me... hic.. One!" she demanded. "I told you... hic... F–Five already!" I retorted. She laughed. "Did you? Shit... I... I can't remember anything," Momo said.

I laughed and shook my head. She was right. My mind was a haze. Nothing made sense. What story were we talking about again?

"S–Shame... Today's my last day..." she suddenly whispered.

I looked down at her. She closed her eyes, looking sleepy as hell. Yeah. Today was her last day. She'd return to Korea in the afternoon. She'd leave me here in Japan. She'd be happy with her friends again, while I... I would start running again.

Suddenly, I felt something inside me opening. Something I had kept inside me for so long... For two years, in fact. When did it all start? Right. After Dara got the names she needed. Fuck. She didn't use it anyway. Yeoni ended up getting the names from Rosé, right?

And yet... I was still targeted by Manse and his associates. Come to think of it... Did Manse have a connection to the Yakuza? It was a simple mistake I made, but why were they so adamant on killing me? What was it that I did? I couldn't even remember.

All I knew was... I had spent the last two years running away. I was alone. I was lonely. I was tired. I was sick of it. I missed my family. I missed my work in Korea. I wanted to come home. I wanted to stop running. I needed to stop running. I needed...

"Someone-san... Are you... Crying?" I heard Momo's words.

I looked down, and saw that she was staring at me. A second later, I realized that my cheeks were wet. I raised my hand to touch it, and I was confused when I felt tears dripping from my eyes. What was happening?

"Someone-san..." whispered Momo.

She sat herself straight, and she touched my cheek. Somehow, her gentle touch destroyed the wall I had made. I felt tears streaming out, and at that moment it was as if a stronghold was crumbling inside my heart. I started to sob.

"Some... Someone-san..." Momo called again, her eyes widening.

Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was my feelings, but I suddenly reached to hug her. She was stunned, I knew, but she didn't push me away. I cried my heart out on her shoulder, bawling like a little boy. Slowly, gently, she lifted her arms, and I soon felt her embracing me. Tightly, lovingly.

"Someone-san..." she whispered. "Daijoubu desuka?" "Iie..." I uttered through my sobs, tears still streaming from my eyes, "Watashi wa subete ni unzari shite imasu."

My words took her aback. She pulled away from me, staring deeply into my swollen eyes. I met her gaze, and all I could see was pity, concern, and... Was that love?

"You're... Tired of everything?" Momo repeated my words.

I nodded slowly, still sobbing. Gently, I rested my head on her shoulder and continued crying.

"I'm... Tired, Momo... I'm... I'm sick and tired," I whispered. "Tired of... What?" she asked. "Of everything. Of running... Of being alone... Of... Of... Being l–lonely..." I whispered sorrowfully. "Someone-san..." she whispered. "Don't go..."

She stiffened. I lifted my eyes and stared at her. She was shocked, but I was shocked too. What was I talking about? That was inappropriate. It must be the alcohol. I wanted to stop talking, but something inside me kept urging me to speak.

"Don't go..." I repeated. "W–What do you... Mean?" she stuttered. I held her hands. "Don't... Don't leave me alone, Momo..." I begged. "B–But..." "I love you..."

My words shocked even myself. Momo stared at me, not saying anything.

Stupid.

I had just offended her.

Why must I say it out loud?

I slumped from her shoulder to the floor, and I cried. My body shook violently as two years worth of repressed emotions suddenly came flooding out like water out of a broken dam. That, mixed with the remorse and shame I felt from blatantly confessing my feelings to a world famous idol who was supposed to be someone I protected. I wasn't supposed to fall for her. I was so stupid.

"Someone-san..." she called out gently.

I dare not to lift my head, so I kept it buried on the floor. But then, I felt her touch. Her hands reached my cheeks, and she lifted my face gently but firmly until it was leveled with her.

I opened my eyes and found her beautiful eyes staring at me, deeply, intently. It seared into my soul, and I found my heart beating faster than usual.

"Momo... I–I... I'm sorry... I shouldn–"

I never got to complete my sentence. My words were cut short...

Because Momo kissed me.

Her lips felt so tender, her kiss felt so gentle. At first my entire body froze, but a second later, everything melted. My eyelids closed slowly, and soon, I let myself drown in her kiss.

I reached my hand up, caressing the back of her head. We kissed for what felt like forever, but at the same time I didn't want time to move. I wanted it to stand still. I wanted it to just continue like this for eternity.

"Momo..." I whispered after we finally stopped.

She didn't say anything. She merely smiled, and it was the most beautiful smile I'd ever seen. She cupped my cheeks and pressed her forehead on mine.

"You're not alone anymore, Someone-san... You've found me..." she whispered. "I love you too..."

My lips curved up. Was I smiling?

"It's my job, isn't it?" I whispered. "What is?" she asked. "Finding you..." I said. She chuckled. "Mission accomplished, then..." she whispered. "You've found me..."

I chuckled, and we kissed again. We kissed passionately, lovingly, and lustfully. I had never kissed a woman like this before. I had never been kissed like this by a woman before. Our tongues entered each other's mouth, and we started caressing each other.

Still kissing me, she pressed me to the floor and straddled me. I watched in silence as she started taking off her top, revealing her black bra, hiding and showing a generous amount of cleavage at the same time. Without words, she unclasped her bra, and her massive breasts bounced free. They were big, they were round, her nipples were brown and perky... They looked delicious. They were perfect.

"M–Momo..." I whispered, marveling at the sight.

She didn't say anything, only smiling. Who knew Momo could be this quiet when drunk? Momo stooped down, and she nimbly pulled my pajama pants down. I didn't realize I had a boner until now, but I evidently had. She pulled my boxer down, and my cock was on display. When did I start getting a boner? Was it when she took off her shirt? Or was it when she kissed me? Nothing made sense.

"M–Momo..." I whispered again, but again she didn't reply.

She rested herself on top of my legs, and with one swift movement, she placed my cock in between her tits. Shit. I didn't know she was this big. An irresistibly soft and tender sensation started engulfing my penis, and with that, she started giving me a tittyfuck.

"M–Mo... M–Momo... M–Mh..."

Momo pressed her tits around my penis and moved them up and down slowly. I closed my eyes, enjoying the sensation. I could feel the warmth creeping slowly from my crotch to my brain and to my entire body, and I started moaning and gasping.

"M–M... Momo... A–Ah... M–M–Momo..."

She moved her tits faster and squeezed them tighter. I tried to find something to hold onto, but I couldn't. I knew we were not supposed to do this. I was supposed to protect her, not take advantage of her, not having sex with her. But my body didn't do anything. It couldn't resist her charm.

"M–Momo... M–Mhh... M–Momo... U–Ugh..."

She kept moving her tits faster and faster. My body tensed. I started squirming. I felt even dizzier, my vision went blurry, and I felt my climax was reaching soon.

"M–Momo... I'm... C–Cumming..."

I thought she'd stop, but instead she opened her mouth and stuck her tongue out. She licked the head of my penis, and that did it. I came. I came hard. Shot after shot of my semen exploded out of my penis, covering her face with thick white liquid, leaking down to her neck, down to her big breasts.

I gasped for air, panting laboriously. She looked up, smiled at me, and absentmindedly touched the traces of cum on her face and breasts. I stared at her, not able to form words. She giggled and slowly crept up, leveling with my face. Her smile grew wider, and she stared at me.

"Someone-san... I love you too..." she whispered.

With that, she slumped on top of me, and started snoring. She was asleep.

* * *

The alarm blared. I shot up immediately, and took the phone that was next to my pillow. It was 8 am. I tried to sit, but my head spinned.

Fuck. Hangover.

I laid back down on my bed and closed my eyes, pressing my palm onto my forehead. I tried remembering the events from last night. It was a blur... But I thought I could remember a few things.

I remembered I couldn't sleep, tossing and turning on my bed, thinking about Someone-san. At around 2 am, I decided to go out. I saw that the light was still on in his room, so I stole Otosan's genshu and tiptoed to his room.

I remembered he was shocked and was in a fighting stance when I opened his door. Gosh... That guy. Years of living on the run must have made him paranoid. I felt bad for him. Still, he invited me in, and we shared the genshu.

I remembered how he initially refused to drink more than one cup after tasting the strong genshu, but I insisted. I chuckled. Of course I insisted. I couldn't possibly let my last night with him go without a proper drink. He eventually relented, and we finished the genshu bottle.

Fuck... I had to replace the bottle before Otosan flips at me.

Hang on... What happened after we finished the bottle? Shit... I blacked out didn't I? Come on, Momo... Think! What did you do?

I shook my head and sat up again. I furrowed my brows. I... We shared stories. I told him about the SM Battle. He told me his stories too. We sat next to each other... But then...

My eyes widened as I remembered something.

Don't go...

Did he... Did he say that? Yeah... He did say those words. Was he crying when he said it?

"Momo-chan! Breakfast ready! Come down here!" that was Okasan yelling. "Haai! Be there in a moment!" I yelled back.

Shit. Maybe I should ask him later. I stood up, and groggily walked to the door. I hoped Okasan made shijimi. Hang on. She didn't know I was drinking. Fuck. I missed Jihyo and Jeongyeon now. They always made haejangguk by default on Saturday morning, knowing that we'd spend Friday nights drinking our lives away.

I reached for the door, but right when I opened it, a question came to my mind.

How was I back in my bedroom again?

Did Someone-san carry me here last night? Did he...

Hang on.

"Momo-chan!" "Haai! Haai! Coming!"

Shit. I'd think again later.

I swung the door open, and saw that Someone-san was making his way down the hall.

"Morning Someone-san!" I chirped. He stared at me. "Ohayo..." he muttered as he avoided my gaze, he briskly walked past me to the staircase.

Huh... That was strange... I quickly caught up to him on the stairs.

"Hey, um... I wanted to ask you, did something happen last night?" I whispered.

He stopped dead in his tracks and I saw the gears in his head turning.

"N–No... Nothing happened..." he said after some time.

Something definitely happened.

I decided to wait until we get to the hotel back in Kyoto to prod a little further. We headed over to the dining room silently and took our places. Okaasan had prepared a simple breakfast of rice with a couple of side dishes for everyone. As usual, it was delicious.

I ate heartily, and although food normally cheered me up, something felt off inside me. It felt like a stone was weighing down my heart.

It was guilt.

Did I do something wrong last night? Did my drunk self say something that offended him? I wracked my brain, forcing myself to remember the details of our drinking session, but no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't.

"How's the food everyone?" Okaasan asked. "It's great! Arigatou Okaasan," I replied with a forced smile. Someone-san just nodded and continued eating silently.

We finished our breakfast and cleaned up before getting ready to get back to Kyoto. I hugged my parents and sister tightly before bidding my farewell to them, and Someone-san bowed respectfully to each of them as we stepped out of the front door.

"Do take care of her, Yoru-kun!" Otousan said. "H–Hai, Hirai-san," he replied dutifully. "Please show her a good time as well~" teased Hana. "OI! NEE-CHAN!" I exclaimed.

Hana and my parents laughed with me, but Someone-san didn't. He merely smiled nervously. Fuck. What was wrong? What did I do wrong for him to be this cold today?

We entered the car silently, and he quickly drove away to Kyotanabe's main road, taking us back in the direction of Kyoto. During the ride back, Someone-san stayed silent, and I hated it. I stared at him a few times, trying to start a conversation, but he kept his eyes locked on the road ahead, not saying a single word.

I did do something wrong, didn't I? I offended him. Shit, Momo! Why did you have to black out last night?

We eventually reached AMAN Kyoto, and he escorted me back to my suite. As I opened the door, I turned to talk to him.

"Someone-san, I–" "Pack your things. We're leaving in 20 minutes," he said coldly, and he rushed off, denying me the chance to ask him.

I stared at his back as he walked quickly away, and only after he disappeared from view did I enter my suite. I huffed in frustration and started packing.

Did I offend his family? Did I say something about his parents or Nezuko? Fuck... Think, Momo, think! What did you do?

In frustration, I felt tears start to wet my eyes. Shit. I had just fallen in love with him, and I had to get so drunk I offended him. This was why I was always alone. I cursed my own mistakes and wiped my tears before pulling my luggages out of the room.

He was already out there. Of course he was. He took my bigger luggage and wheeled it down to the lobby, still in silence. We checked ourselves out and went straight to the carpark. He opened the door for me before putting my luggages in the trunk and entered the driving seat. Still in silence, he started his car and we zoomed towards Osaka, getting to the airport.

I stared at him, and felt like I was about to cry again. He was staring at the road ahead, wearing his menpo mask, not saying anything. I felt tears starting to well up in my eyes, so I instead pulled my bag up to my lap and checked if everything was there.

Shit...

"Oh shit!" "What happened?" "I–I think I left my passport back in the hotel!" I said as I frantically started pulling things out of my bag, searching for the small crimson booklet.

Someone-san sighed and swiftly turned the car around, taking us back to the hotel. After a lot of apologizing to both the hotel staff and Someone-san, we were finally back on track and headed to the airport... Except we were late.

"I am so sorry," I uttered. "Don't be, Momo, it happens," he replied. "W-Will I be late?"

He tapped at the clock on the dashboard.

"Nope, your flight's at three right?" "Y-yeah..." "Then you should be fine. It's only 1:30," he said.

I nodded and stared back at the road, going back to my attempt to remember something from our drinking session last night. I couldn't. It was a dead end.

I turned to look at Someone-san. I had to ask him. I needed to ask him. Now was my chance. He had no way of avoiding me.

* * *

"Someone-san?" Momo calls out to me. "Yes?" "What happened between us last night?"

This again. Shit, I hoped that she would just drop the subject. I stayed silent as we approached a red light and I brought the vehicle to a stop.

"What happened?" she pressed.

I continued to remain silent. I couldn't bear to look at her without feeling an overwhelming sense of guilt. I had used her in her state of vulnerability. I should have stopped her, but instead.... I didn't. I couldn't even control my own bodily desires.

"Look, if I did or said anything that offended you... You need to let me know, because I seriously cannot remember last night–" "You did nothing wrong, Momo... It was... Me," I finally replied. I sensed her eyes widening. "W–What?" "I... I don't want to talk about it," I replied as the light turned green.

I stepped on the gas pedal and we dashed through the traffic into Osaka. I stayed silent as we drove to Kansai International Airport, and I felt Momo staring at me the entire way.

"What happened?" she tried again persistently.

I stayed silent, avoiding the question. Momo finally grunted and threw her back on the seat. I sighed behind my mask. This was so me... Running away from my problems like I always did. God... I was sick of this!

We arrived at the airport, and I parked my car. We walked together to the departure terminal, and Momo checked herself in. After she placed her large luggage on the conveyor belt and retrieved her boarding pass, she walked back and stood in front of me.

"Hey, uh... What time is it now? I don't exactly feel like entering the Departure Hall and do nothing if I still have some time," she asked.

Without thinking, I raised my wrist and showed her my smartwatch.

"Here you g–"

Oh fuck.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!

I had forgotten that my drunk self took a picture of her while she was sleeping and set it as my watch face. Shit! I must have looked like a total creep! I quickly brought my wrist back to my side as I felt heat rushing to my face.

"S–Sorry... Sorry about that..." I muttered.

I frantically tried to change the photo, but Momo gently grabbed my hand, stopping me. I lifted my face to look at her, and I saw her staring deeply into my eyes.

"Someone-san... Forgive me for being so annoying, but... What happened last night?" she asked again.

I stared at this beautiful girl. Should I tell her? Wouldn't she be mad at me?

"Please. I'll never be at peace if I don't know what we did," she whispered sincerely as she squeezed my hand, leaning closer to me.

My defences crumbled. The sincerity of her voice just won me over. I closed my eyes as I fought back the tears of guilt.

"I'm sorry..." I said shakily. "For what?" "Last night... We... We had... Foreplay. Y–you..."

I couldn't bring myself to describe what she did, what we did. I looked at her, and found her staring at me in silence. I took a deep breath and continued.

"I–I... I didn't stop you... I–I... I knew you didn't... You couldn't control your body, and... I'm... Ashamed of myself. I–I... I'm sorry for ignoring you the entire day. I wanted to stop, believe me... I–I... I'm sorry, Momo... I should've...

Her hands on my cheeks stopped me from talking.

She took off my menpo mask swiftly, and then...

She kissed me, right there and then.

The familiar touch of her soft, tender lips brought comfort to me as I finally let my tears fall.

* * *

As our lips touched, I swore I felt something opening inside my head. The events from last night came rushing back into me.

I remembered it. I remembered everything.

I remembered how he cried and begged me not to go. I remembered how he told me that he was sick and tired of everything. I remembered...

I remembered he told me he loved me.

I remembered the kiss...

And I remembered how I took off my shirt and gave him–Oh God...

I pulled away and looked into his now teary eyes. Warmth filled my heart, filling my heart to the brim. He was too sweet... He felt guilty for doing something I initiated while I was drunk. It wasn't his fault. Not at all... But yet, his conscience weighed him down. God... There was not a single reason not to love him.

"I remember..." I whispered. "W–What?" he stuttered. I looked at him and smiled. "I remember everything..." I clarified. His face was apologetic, but I touched his cheek. "It's okay, Someone-san, I did it willingly and I enjoyed every second of it," I smiled as I wiped his tears.

He stared at me and I met his gaze. I felt only love for him at this moment.

"It's sweet that you have the conscience that keeps you a righteous person, but you don't have to let it weigh you down anymore," I said with a big smile.

He looked stunned, so I continued.

"I did what I did last night because..."

I paused, mustering up courage, then I stared him straight in the eyes.

"Well... I love you... And I wanted to express my love to you... But... My drunk self did it in its own way," I said, chuckling a little bit.

I heard his breath hitching.

"You... You love me?"

I laughed and wrapped my arms around his neck.

"What's there not to love about you?" I whispered before closing the distance between us yet again.

He kissed me back this time as I felt his arms wrapped around my back, holding me close to his body. We finally broke apart and stared at each other, both of us visibly over the moon.

"I love you too Momo." "I know, you said it last night," I smirked. "Looks like your memory serves you well then," he chuckled. I pulled him into a hug. "I'm gonna miss you," I said. "I'm gonna miss you too, Momo... Thank you... For this week," he whispered. I chuckled. "It was my pleasure. Must be tiring to be my bodyguard huh?" I asked him.

He laughed.

"Watashi wa subete ni unzari shite imasu," he said, repeating his words from last night.

My heart fell slightly as I finally got the meaning behind those words. After I leave, he'd go back running. He'd go back to being lonely all over again. At this thought, I held him tighter.

"I'm gonna make sure they bring you home soon. Just hold out a little longer, okay?" I assured him. I sensed him smiling. "Thank you Momo," he replied.

I opened my eyes and looked at him, but at that moment, something I saw behind him made my heart stop beating.

In the distance, I saw a man in a white hoodie. His camera was up, and he was clearly snapping photos of me... Of us. I quickly pulled away from Someone-san. He was alarmed.

"What is it?" he asked. "Behind you, white hoodie, black camera," I whispered. He understood immediately. "Okay," he replied as he put on his menpo mask.

From his pocket, he produced two golden cards. He swiftly turned and disappeared into the crowd. I saw him appear behind the cameraman a few seconds later, and I saw him slipping one of the cards into the cameraman's pocket before disappearing yet again.

He appeared a few seconds later and walked back to my side. He pulled out the other card and tapped a few things on it. Two rectangular, hologram panels emanated from the card, revealing a screen. He pressed a few buttons again, and soon the word 'EXTRACTING' appeared.

I watched in awe as the word changed to 'EXTRACTION COMPLETED'. Someone-san pressed a few more things before a photo of us kissing popped up. Someone-san swiped the hologram screen, and my eyes widened in surprise as I saw a collection of my photos with him from the past week.

"What the fuck?" I whispered in horror. "Looks like he's been following us for quite some time..." he muttered as a photo of us holding hands in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove popped up. "Can you do anything about this?" I whispered in panic. To my surprise, he chuckled. "Already done," he said.

I stared at him, and he lifted his gadget up.

"Meet Rendezvous, a data stealing gadget. It comes in pairs, the first card as an EMP, momentarily disables the device while all data from the device is stolen. Afterwards, the data gets uploaded to this card, and all media from said device is completely wiped. Just like that... No Dispatch article," he said proudly as he closed the gadget and pocketed it.

"But what about the other card?" I asked him. He shrugged. "It'll self-destruct. It'll release a small vat of non-lethal acid that evaporates the entire card in his pocket without a trace. Don't worry, the guy won't be harmed."

I stared at him with a mixture of amazement and fear. I felt a smile breaking out on my face.

"That is the nerdiest shit ever... And I love it! And you... Mostly you, though," I giggled. He laughed. "I love you too, Momo," he said.

I pulled him into another hug.

"Jesus, is there a limit to the things you can do? Can you like... Ooh! Transport someone's consciousness into a virtual avatar?" I challenged him. "Like in aespa's Kwangya?" he asked. Wow. He knew his K-pop. "Exactly like that!" I exclaimed. "With time and resources, anything is possible, Momo," he replied confidently. "Then I'd like to see it!" I said. "I said with time and resources–" he said, but then he realized that I was only teasing him.

He sighed, and I chuckled, hugging him even tighter.

"When we finally get you back to Korea, you better have it ready. Can you do it?" I asked him. He chuckled. "Are you doubting me?" he asked, jokingly sounding offended. I giggled. "I'll never doubt you... Babe..." I teased. I heard him giggling. "Okay, you can officially call me that now," he sighed. I slapped his arm. "Damn right I can... Honey!" I teased him further. His face blushed behind the mask. "O–Okay... That's a little too far..." he stuttered.

A sly smile crossed my face as I leaned in to whisper to his ears.

"Further than giving you Paizuri?" I whispered. "Y-Ya!" "You enjoyed it right?" I teased. "M-Momo..." he said, and I felt something tightening below his waist.

"I'm going to do a lot more than just a tittyfuck next time... We're gonna go even further... A lot further... Shall I describe it? In detail?" I said naughtily, my hand tracing his belt.

I could feel him shuddering. Oh, how I loved this man... I wanted to continue, but at that moment I heard my boarding call.

'This is a boarding call to all passengers of Japan Airlines flight JL5213 to Seoul. Please proceed to the boarding lounge immediately.'

I smirked as I stared at him.

"Saved by the PA. You won't get so lucky next time," I giggled. He stared at me. "I don't need to get lucky next time... Because we'll actually be doing whatever you were trying to describe just now," he said naughtily.

I gasped and slapped his chest. This guy knew me best! He laughed, and we hugged again.

"Thanks for everything, Someone-san... I'll miss you so much," I said. He nodded. "I'll miss you too, Momo. Have a safe flight," he wished.

I reluctantly pulled myself away from him and waved at him. He waved back, and even with his mask on, I could see him smiling. Slowly, regrettably, I turned away and pulled my cabin baggage into the Departure Hall's gate.

That's when it hit me.

Dumb fuck, you forgot to ask for his name!

I turned back and quickly ran back to my lover.

"Before I leave... What's your name?" I asked him. "You already know," he said. "Your real name, silly," I giggled.

He stared at me with those kind eyes I was so crazy about, and finally he said it.

"Sabito..." "Huh... Thought it'd be Doraemon from the way you pull gadgets from your ass," I quipped. "Hirai Momo!" he scolded.

We laughed together, and I felt his hands tracing my face. My smile grew wider.

"Okay, okay! Last name?" I asked him again. "Kobayashi," he said gently. "Korobuta?" "Ya!" he complained.

I stepped closer to him.

"Sorry... I'm just hungry," I whispered. "You're always hungry," he chuckled.

I stepped even closer. I knew I wanted to do something. I needed to do it. I looked beyond him, and saw that the white-hooded cameraman was still there, panickedly checking his broken camera.

"How much longer until his camera's back on?" I asked him. "About two more hours," he said. "Why?"

I didn't answer. I reached for his mask and tore it off his face. I lunged at him and hungrily planted my lips on his. He chuckled, and I felt his arms wrapping around me once again. We kissed passionately for a few long seconds, before finally we pulled apart, panting for breath.

"Give me your number," I whispered. "Already did. Check your back pocket," he smiled.

My eyes widened in surprise as I reached for my back pocket and found a business card inside it. I pulled it out and saw his number in it. I chuckled.

"Ya... Why didn't I feel you touching my butt..." I teased. He chuckled. "I'll make sure you feel it the next time we meet," he said.

I laughed and stared at him, holding his hands tightly. He pulled myself closer to him once again, keeping his eyes locked with mine, and pressed his forehead against mine gently.

"Text me when you reach," he whispered. "No. I'll call you," I said.

I pecked his cheek one last time. He laughed and let me go, pushing me gently towards the gate. I laughed and complied, finding it really difficult to let him go.

"Go now! You're going to miss your flight!" he exclaimed.

I nodded, and finally I turned and walked towards one of the officers at the gate and gave my passport and boarding pass to him. As I walked past him into the hall, I turned to wave goodbye to my new boyfriend. He waved back, smiling widely, and I turned away with a smile on my face.

It won't be long now, Kobayashi Sabito... We'll bring you home.

I promise.

#lsmlostfiles #lsmu #momo #twice

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omgrachwrites · 3 years

Text

Tell a Tale of You and Me - Chapter Twenty Three

Pairing: Sirius Black x Reader

Summary: You knew that making a bet with Sirius Black was like making a deal with the devil but you just couldn’t help yourself. You had never been a heavenly woman.

Warnings: fluff, angst, major character death

Words: 2380

A/N: Here we are, the last chapter! I would just like to thank everyone who has supported me on this whirlwind of a journey, I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I have! There will be a sequel probs in a months time about Y/N and Sirius’ daughter which will be another reader insert so I might have to give her a name otherwise there will be loads of Y/N’s running all over the place! Hope you guys enjoy and please let me know if you would like to be tagged in the sequel! I love you all! xxx

Chapter Twenty Three

Sirius sighed out in immense relief as the powerful jet of scalding hot water soothed his aching muscles, he hissed through gritted teeth as the water pounded against his bruised skin. He was exhausted, his eyes ached and they were bloodshot but try as he might, sleep wasn’t coming easily. Sirius had arrived home at about 5am after being on duty all night for The Order of the Phoenix. The Order was a secret society that had been formed by Dumbledore to fight off Voldemort and some people – including Y/N – had given up their usual job to work for The Order.

Sirius had slept for about two hours, drifting in and out of fitful dreams – sleep was much harder to come by these days with everything going on in the world – and he had awoken around 7:30am when Y/N got up with their daughter. He had contented resting his eyes for a few hours but he hadn’t slept. He sighed as he reluctantly shut off the water and got out, wrapping himself in a fluffy towel before he got dressed and padded down the stairs.

He grinned as he admired the Halloween decorations that Y/N had put up to bring some season’s cheer into the house. Halloween had always been Sirius’ favourite time of year but he felt like something big was going to happen this year, he just couldn’t place his finger on it. Y/N smiled up at him as he joined her in the living room – their daughter was happily playing and babbling by herself in the middle of the floor.

Y/N snuggled contently into his chest as he wrapped an arm around her and he kissed the top of her head, “you look exhausted baby. Was it a hard night?” she asked, pulling back to look at him, worry etched into her features.

Sirius smiled as he pressed his lips against her forehead, “nah, it was all fine, just some superficial things. What’s on the agenda for today then?”

“Well, my mum and dad are coming over tonight but until then, nothing,” she laughed, “I mean what can we do when it’s hardly safe to leave our house?” Sirius nodded in reply, his teeth biting into his bottom lip as his mind wandered, “what? What’s the matter?” Y/N asked.

Sirius sighed as he rubbed his hand against his jaw, his eyebrows knitting together, “I don’t know why, maybe it’s because we haven’t heard from Peter in a while and I’m worried about him. But, I’ve got the feeling that something bad is going to happen. I can’t really explain it, it’s just a feeling. When your parents get here I’m going to check on James and Lily.”

Y/N didn’t look at him like he was crazy, instead it looked like she understood and she nodded distractedly as she gazed out of the window, “I know,” she whispered, “I know because I have the same feeling, I’ll go with you.”

Sirius appreciated the offer but he couldn’t worry about Y/N too, he could very well be walking to his death, “no sweetheart, thank you but I can’t worry about you too,” he sighed as he cupped her jaw.

Y/N frowned, a look of hurt flickering across her face that made Sirius’ heart constrict but she nodded all the same, knowing it was useless to argue, “okay but you have to be careful.”

That evening, Sirius kissed his daughter goodbye and Y/N’s fingers clutched at his leather jacket as she kissed him passionately, “come back to me Sirius, promise me. I love you.”

Sirius smiled, hoping it would disguise the fear that he felt, “I will, I promise. I love you too Y/N,” with one last lingering kiss and longing look he took off into the night clenching the wand in his pocket.

As soon as he rounded the corner time seemed to stand still as he heard an awful anguished cry, like some sort of wounded animal and he knew that he was too late, as Sirius approached he saw that it was Hagrid. Hagrid was sobbing with a tiny bundle in his arms. Sirius looked behind Hagrid and saw with sorrow that the Potter’s cottage had been destroyed. So many happy memories and promises of the future were gone, lost forever.

“James and Lily are dead, ‘e killed ‘em,” Hagrid sniffled, looking at Sirius with watery black eyes, “’e couldn’t kill Harry, ‘e couldn’t.”

At Hagrid’s words, Sirius’ knees almost buckled as a terrible sadness washed over him as the breath was stolen from his lungs. His best friends were dead, they couldn’t be, they were only twenty one. He couldn’t imagine why someone would betray him, Peter was the Secret Keeper but it couldn’t be Peter. Peter couldn’t have betrayed them. But, as Sirius looked at the ruined cottage, he knew that Hagrid spoke the truth. Choking on his tears, Sirius held out his arms.

“Give Harry to me Hagrid, I’m his godfather, I can keep him sage,” he looked down at the tiny baby with the split open head and felt an almost overwhelming rush of love for him. He had to protect Harry, with his life if it came to that.

Hagrid however shook his head, “I need to take him to his relatives, Dumbledore’s orders. Harry could still be in danger.”

Panic washed over Sirius, he couldn’t let Dumbledore take him away, “no! He can’t, he,” he trailed off as he choked on a sob. He hated it but he also knew that Dumbledore always got his way, no matter what the cost. But even Sirius had to admit that Harry could still be in danger for Death Eater’s so he couldn’t stay.

“Take my motorbike, it’ll be safer,” Sirius had charmed his motorbike to fly a couple of years back, “can I say goodbye to him?” he sniffled.

Hagrid looked at him warily but he nodded all the same and passed Harry over. Fighting back tears, Sirius looked down at the tiny baby in his arms, the baby who was whimpering and crying, the baby who didn’t know that his parents were dead. He sniffed as he bent down to kiss the top of Harry’s head, whispering into his jet black hair.

“You’re going to be okay Harry, I promise you, and you’re going to grow up to be an amazing wizard. You’re the boy who lived, I love you Harry,” with a heavy heart Sirius passed his godson back to Hagrid, “goodbye Hagrid,” Sirius nodded numbly at him before striding away, anger mixed in with sadness. He was going to find whoever had betrayed them and he was going to make them pay. He was going to kill them.

It was down a dark and crooked alleyway that Sirius cornered a rat – literally – it was the last person that he had expected, someone that he had once called a friend. The coward turned and looked at him with watery beady eyes and he was wheezing heavily, almost like he was in pain. Sirius had never felt so much fury and pain all at once. How could Peter do this? How could Peter be the one who had betrayed them?

Then Sirius saw it, Peter pointed at him with shaking hands and Sirius saw that there was a bloody stump where his first finger had been.

“Lily and James, Sirius! How could you? They were our friends! How could you?” Peter screamed, his face was stark white and he was shaking violently.

Sirius knew what Peter was doing and he held onto his wand that was in his pocket; Peter was trying to get people’s attention. Peter was going to pin this on Sirius, “you can’t blame this on me Peter because this was all you! Tell me why! Tell me why you killed them; your betrayal was their death sentence!” Sirius’ voice was drowned out by the noise of Peter’s screams and shouts. He was going to wake the whole street.

Suddenly, there was a flash so bright and a bang do loud that Sirius had to lose his eyes, when he opened them, Peter was gone and there was a rat scampering down the grid, “no!” Sirius screamed, the only thing that Peter had left behind was his finger. The coward might have faked his own death but Sirius would find him. No matter what corner of the earth that the piece of filth ran to, Sirius would find him.

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

You anxiously bounced your leg as you chewed your nails, glancing at the clock on the mantelpiece, out of the corner of your eye you saw your parents looking worriedly at each other before back at you. They were worried about you and unfortunately, you knew the feeling, you knew the feeling all too well. Sirius had been gone for about 15 minutes, he only went to check on Lily and James, they only lived down the road, he shouldn’t have taken so long. What if something awful had happened to them? Ever since you had woken up this morning, you couldn’t help feeling that something awful was going to happen.

Five more minutes passed and you decided that you couldn’t take it anymore so you jumped up, startling your parents, “he’s been gone for too long, I need to go to him.”

Your mum let out a little whimper as she cupped your cheeks, she looked scared half to death, “you can’t Y/N, because it’s too dangerous. Sirius wouldn’t want you to put yourself in danger.”

“I know, but I have to go to him. I have to see if he’s okay, I love him mum.”

Your mum sighed as she hugged you tight, stroking through your hair, “you’ve always been so brave Y/N,” she bit her lip, “go but be careful. Please be careful, I don’t know what I’d do if anything happened to you.”

You nodded with a tight smile as worry curdled in your stomach before you ran out of the door into the swirling snow. The wind howled as you walked down James and Lily’s street, it was deathly quiet and your blood ran cold with dread. You hardly noticed the ruined little cottage; instead, your attention was focused on Sirius getting roughly shoved away by three men. Tears sprang to your eyes as you realised that they were Ministry Officials.

“Sirius!” you screamed as you ran towards him, trying not to slip in the snow, the Ministry Officials looked startled as one of them put out an arm to stop you, “let me see him! Where are you taking him?” you sobbed but you knew.

“Y/N!” Sirius looked over his shoulder as he was getting shoved along the road, the tear tracks and despair was visible on his face and it broke your heart, “James and Lily are dead! I didn’t do it; I had nothing to do with it! You have to believe me, Y/N please believe me! No matter what you hear! Harry is safe.”

James and Lily were dead, how could they be dead? It couldn’t be true but you noticed the ruined cottage and Sirius looked so heartbroken that you had to believe it, you believed they were dead. You sniffled as tears ran down your cheeks; you thought that you were all going to be together forever.

“I believe you,” you sobbed, the expression on Sirius’ face made you believe him.

“I love you, always will,” he gave you a tight smile but before you could reply he was gone, the Ministry Officials had apparated with him.

You sobbed as you sank to the ground, your knees getting damp with the snow, your heart too much, you could hardly stand it. You just wanted the pain to go away, “I love you too,” you whimpered, “Sirius!” you shouted, “Sirius,” you cried but you knew that it was no use, he was gone, he had disappeared into the swirling snow.

By the next day, the news was out; Sirius had been sent to Azkaban, convicted of betraying the Potters and for killing Peter, along with numerous other Muggles. The newspaper painted him to be a monster but you knew that it wasn’t true, it couldn’t be true. Sirius would never do anything to hurt James and Lily, or Peter, they were his best friends. There must be some sort of misunderstanding; you believed that he was innocent.

Your parents were amazing, for the first couple of months they had moved themselves into your cottage so they could help out with you and your daughter. They too believed that Sirius was innocent; they saw the expression on your face that night, the night that James and Lily had died. As your daughter grew up, you told your daughter tales of her father, you wouldn’t let her believe that he was guilty of murder. You were going to let her know that he was a hero.

Eleven Years Later

You sighed as the tawny owl flew right in through your kitchen window, dropping the letter on the kitchen counter before flying out of the open window into the warm air. Sniffing, you picked up the letter; this letter just like numerous others had been sent back from Azkaban. Anxiously, you twisted your engagement ring on your finger; you just wanted to let Sirius know that he was going to be okay.

After eleven years it still hurt so much, it hurt that you didn’t have the chance to marry before James and Lily died and it hurt that he couldn’t watch his daughter grow up. All the things he should have been a part of, all those things he had missed.

You heard a squeal coming from upstairs and seconds later you heard the pitter patter of feet on carpet before your daughter ran into the kitchen, waving a letter around, “I got it mum! I got my Hogwarts letter!”

Blinking the tears out of your eyes, you pasted a smile onto your face and you turned around to look at your grinning daughter. She looked so happy, you were glad for this one little bit of good news.

You stroked your fingers through her soft hair, “you’re going to be amazing baby! Your dad would be so proud of you.”

-Fin-

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@approved-by-dentists @thefuturelawyer @a-miserable-hufflepunk @firelordmillie @seriouslysiriuss @sleep-i-ness @play-morezeppelin @pregnant-piggy @sleepingalaska @smiithys @blisfvll @rexorangecouny @findzelda @wangmangagavroche @the-moon-and-the-book @hxrgreeves @ghostofstudentspast @they-write-once-in-a-blue-moon @my-unique-mind @im-an-angel-of-the-lord-you-ass @acciovisio @kashishwrites @fific7 @blackbirddaredevil23 @siriusblackspam @mads-bri @lilulo-12fanfiction @mrspadfoot4 @tinymalscoffee @ur-riddikulus @obsssedwithjustaboutanything @ourloveisforthelovely

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nichuuu · 2 years

Text

Kyoto Protocol (Part 3)(LSM LOST FILES)

I groggily opened my eyes. The warm, comfy vibe of my hotel greeted me as I sit up from my luxurious bed and grabbed my phone from my bedside table. 8am. Great, I wasn’t late for breakfast.

I grabbed my keycard before turning on the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign and opening the door. I was not sure how to feel when Someone-san was already standing in front of my suite.

“At this point I’m not even gonna fucking ask,” I said as I closed the heavy wooden door. He chuckled.

“Good morning to you too, Momo!” he said, taking his hands out of his pockets.

“How long have you been standing there?’ I asked him. He shrugged.

“About five minutes. Come on, the restaurant’s going to be packed at this hour!”

I nodded in agreement and hooked my arm with his. I felt him tensing up just like last night, and I giggled.

“Okay… Babe,” I whispered cheekily. His face went full red behind his mask.

“M–Momo… I–I told you to stop calling me that…” he stammered as he tried to pull his arm away, but I had locked mine around his, preventing him from escaping.

“Why not? Don’t lie…. You know you like it~” I continued to tease him.

In truth, I thought I was the one who enjoyed this a lot more than him. He was everything I saw in my dream guy. Smart, handsome, witty… Maybe a little nerdy, but it just made him even cuter. I had a soft spot for nerds, especially nerds who knew I loved jokbal.

“I–I…” he continued to struggle. I laughed and rested my head on his shoulder.

“You enjoyed last night, why can’t you do it today?” I asked cutely.

“Y–Yesterday was holding hands. Right now it’s full-on cuddling! Y–You gotta be careful, Momo. Maybe some Dispatch journalist is lurking behind a corner,” he whisper-shouted, trying to guilt-trip me. It didn’t work.

“I’ll take my chances. Besides, I’ve got you to keep me safe, right?” I giggled as I snuggled even tighter on his arm.

I could feel him relaxing a little bit. My charm always worked. He sighed.

“I’m supposed to protect you from danger… Like a moving car, for example! Not the media!” he retorted as we reached the restaurant.

“But still, you’ll protect me, right?” I said, looking up at him.

“Table for two?” the restaurant manager approached us. “Can I get your room number, please?”

“Takagamine Suite,” I said, waking myself up from my daydream. The manager’s eyes widened.

“O–Oh… Right this way please! You’ll dine in our VIP room,” he said.

I chuckled as I pulled Someone-san gently and followed the manager. He led us into the VIP room, pulled us our chairs, and as we sat down, he bowed a little before asking me.

“Shall we get the menu for you? What would you like to have for your breakfast?” he asked reverently. I shook my head.

“No, no. That’s alright. I prefer to pick my own food. We’ll explore the buffet ourselves. Thank you very much!” I said.

“Very well. Please enjoy your breakfast!” he said, bowing deeply.

He left Someone-san and I, and I turned and smiled at my chaperone.

“You go get your food first, I’ll wait,” he smiled.

“Okay!” I said, taking the offer up.

“Jesus, Momo! You got breakfast, lunch, and dinner settled on that plate!” he joked. I laughed and slapped his arm.

“Oi! A girl’s gotta eat!” I defended myself, picking up my cutleries. He chuckled.

“Alright, alright,” he said in defeat, before standing up, “I’m gonna get my food.”

I happily started munching on an omelette as I waited for him to return. He came back a few minutes later with a bowl of rice, miso soup, and an onsen egg. I gasped.

“That’s all you’re gonna eat?” I asked incredulously as he settled back down. He nodded.

“Yup. This is just enough for me,” he replied as he removed his mask.

He once again muttered a quiet prayer before pouring his egg over his bowl of rice.

“Wow… You sure are missing out on a lot, then…” I uttered. He chuckled.

“Momo, when you’re constantly running from one of the biggest criminal networks in the world, the luxury of time is not something you always have, hence my breakfast,” he said calmly.

“A–Ah… Right. Sorry,” I trailed off, feeling guilty about bringing up the subject.

He smiled, but didn’t say anything. We continued eating our breakfast in silence. After a while, he looked up at me and started a conversation.

“So… Visiting your family today?” he asked. I gasped.

“Oh, right! I forgot to tell you! Okaasan called last night after we got back. Turns out Hana-nee chan and Otousan have some business to attend to, and they won’t be back home until Friday,” I said. His eyes widened.

“Friday? But that’s… You’re flying off on Saturday, right?” he asked. I nodded.

“Yeah… So… I gotta change all my plans,” I said, chuckling, “That’s alright! I love doing things without planning!”

He chuckled and continued eating his rice.

“So… What do you wanna do today, then? And… This week?” he asked. I thought for a moment.

“I don’t mind doing some sightseeing for the next few days,” I grinned. “Where should we go first today?”

He smiled.

“I think I’ve got some ideas. Come on, let’s finish our breakfast and we can plan in your suite!”

“You know what, Someone-san… Let’s not plan anything! I think we should just wing it!” I said cheerfully. His eyes widened.

“E–Eh? B-But…”

“But what? Gosh, you gotta be more carefree in life, Someone-san!” I giggled.

Even though he was wearing a mask, I could see that he was opening his mouth to protest, so I decided to not give him the chance.

“To start with: Let’s not take your car!” I said. His eyes widened.

“O–Oi! That’s for our own safety!” he protested. I chuckled.

“What’s the difference? You dined with me without your mask on at Sakura Burger last night, remember? There were a lot of people there, and here you are, safe. You said yourself that Sana and the IPG are protecting you this week… So…”

He sighed, but I could sense his resolve crumbling.

“Alright, fine... You want the full tourist experience, don’t you?” he said, and I heard him chuckling. I nodded.

“I do!” I exclaimed excitedly.

“At your own hometown…” he teased. I laughed.

“Oi! I haven’t been around much ever since I debuted, right?” I defended myself.

“Fine, fine…” he uttered.

We laughed and continued walking. I flung my eyes around the forest that was surrounding the hotel, taking in the snow-covered trees and grass. I smiled.

“Kyoto in winter sure is beautiful, isn’t it?” I said. “Feels like I’m in Hokkaido or Niseko…”

“Hokkaido and Niseko would have a lot more snow than this. Trust me, I would know,” he said.

I stared at him. I guessed running around the country would take you to a lot of nice places.

“I believe you, don’t worry,” I assured him.

He looked at me and gave me his eye-smile. Damn. What was this warm and fuzzy thing I was feeling?

“Thank you, Momo… That means a lot,” he said, nodding.

“N–No problem,” I stammered back.

Now it was me who felt my face blushing. He noticed this and decided to tease me.

“You good? You’re as red as a tomato,” he said. I slapped his arm and giggled.

“Ya!”

We reached the Takagamine Suite, and I picked up some stuff before readying myself to leave with him. As we walked back to the main building and went out of the lobby, he turned to face me and asked.

“Where to first?” he asked. I smiled.

“How about Arashiyama?” I grinned.

He smiled and nodded. Off we went.

***

One thing I learnt about this mysterious man was that he was good at hiding emotions. Occasionally, he would let some nostalgia slip onto his expression, but he’d just quickly brush it off before I could say anything.

The days flew by in a flash, and before I knew it, my last day here arrived. Gosh. Time flew so fast! It felt like it was yesterday when I arrived here from Seoul, and suddenly tomorrow I’d be flying back to Korea, meeting my Twice sisters again. I kinda missed those crackheads by now.

These past six days… I did a lot of things, being a tourist in my own hometown. I bought Sana her expensive gift: A silk scarf with an intricate Kyonui embroidery on it, made out of gold threads. I went to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, I walked around Gion and bought many gifts and souvenirs for the girls, I went up to the Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, I shopped–and mostly ate–at Nishiki market, and I even went to Nara again and ate at Sakura Burger again, but this time I spent some time to meet the deers at the Nara Deer Park. On every single day, Someone-San was there with me.

"Welcome home!" Someone-san exclaimed as we pulled into Kyotanabe, my suburb just south of Kyoto.

"Is this the one?" he asked as he stopped right in front of my house.

I nodded my head excitedly and unbuckled my seatbelt.

“Yup! Off we go!” I said.

"E-Eh? W–we?” he asked incredulously. I nodded.

“Of course! No way am I gonna let you spend a whole day alone! After all, we are friends, aren’t we?” I charged him.

“B-But… I don’t want to intrude…”

“Of course you’re not intruding, come on! It’ll be fun!” I exclaimed.

I saw the gears in his head turning, but then he relented.

“F-Fine… Where do I park?” he asked eventually. I smirked.

First step completed.

"Yay! Just drive me up to the gate and let me take care of it!” I said.

He slowly inched the car forward towards my house’s gate. I rolled down the window and pressed the doorbell. The intercom by the gate crackled to life and a familiar voice spoke through it.

“Moshi moshi?”

“Okaasan! It’s me! Momo!”

The other end went silent, and the gate started to slide open. Someone-san drove in and my mother came running out of the house. I quickly exited the vehicle and ran up to her.

"Okaasan!"

"Momo-chan!"

She wrapped me in a tight embrace, and I hugged her back.

“My, my! It’s been too long!” she exclaimed.

Okaasan pulled away and examined me. That was her habit. Her eyes scanned me up and down before her wrinkly hands went to my cheeks.

“Still strong and healthy! Not to mention gorgeous!” she smiled.

“O–Oi, Okaasan…” I giggled.

My mother passed me and spotted Someone-san sitting in the car.

“And who’s this fine gentleman accompanying you?” Okaasan asked as she nodded her head towards him.

“That’s my friend, Okaasan. I was wondering if he could spend the day with us?” I smiled.

Okaasan stared at him through the windshield, and I could feel him shrinking away.

“Get him to come out and let me have a better look,” she said.

I turned and gestured for him to come out of the car. He reluctantly did so, before walking slowly to approach us. He took off his mask and smiled sheepishly at my mom.

“K–Konichiwa…” he said shyly. Okaasan walked over to him and grabbed his face gently.

“Sharp cheekbones… Clear, healthy skin… Momo-chan! Are you sure he’s just a friend?” she teased.

“O–Oi! Okaasan!” I complained. She laughed and let go of Someone-san.

“Would you like some matcha?” she asked as she walked inside the room.

I smiled in victory. That was Okaasan’s green light.

“I–I–I… Um… Uh…”

I sighed and walked over to Someone-san, placing a finger over his lips.

“Just shut up and take the invite. You’ve passed her standards and she wants you to spend the day with us,” I whispered in Korean.

“Momo, I’m not sure if it’s appropriate for me to–”

“Shut up. Follow me,” I interjected, dragging him inside the door.

“Please wait here. I’ll be back with the tea!” she exclaimed before walking off.

Someone-san and I knelt on the floor cushions. He chuckled softly and placed his hands on his lap.

“Momo…”

“Hm?”

“You didn’t have to do this,” he uttered. I looked at him.

“What do you mean?”

“I know that this… Me joining you… It wasn’t planned. You came up with this today… Just now, even. You didn’t have to do it…” he explained.

Fuck. How did he catch on so quickly?

“You didn’t have to do this… And yet you did it. And… I’m grateful for that,” he said sincerely with a smile. I smiled back and grabbed his hand gently.

“I don’t want to leave you alone. Plus… I do want to get to know you more,” I replied. He nodded.

“Thank you, Momo…” he said.

We stared into each other’s eyes, and… I felt something stirred inside me, like a whole cage of butterflies just got released inside my chest. I knew this feeling all too well, for it was the same feeling I had when I first started with Heechul.

It was love.

The clinking of cups pulled us back to reality as Okaasan came back with a tray filled with a teapot and three tea cups.

“Sorry for the wait,” she said apologetically as she set the tray down.

“Mondai Nai, Hirai-san,” Someone-san replied.

Okaasan smiled and poured the green liquid into the cups. She handed the cups to us before taking a cup for herself.

“So, what’s your name?” Okaasan asked. I saw him thinking for a moment.

“I–It’s… Yoru,” he replied. I held back a giggle as Okaasan nodded.

“A very nice name! How old are you, Yoru-kun?”

“I–I’m… The same age as Momo,” he said.

“Ah! You two make the perfect pair, then!” she said.

“Okaasan!” I scolded her.

My mother only laughed as she set her teacup back on the table.

“I’m only joking, Momo-chan… Calm down!” she chuckled.

I huffed and puffed my cheeks in frustration, but she kept chuckling and looked at Someone-san, ignoring me.

“As you can probably tell, she gets her humour from me,” Okaasan said proudly.

“I thought so too, Hirai-san,” he said, chuckling politely.

“Oi!” I scolded him. He continued chuckling, and I saw Okaasan looking at us with knowing looks.

“So… How did you two get to know each other?” Okaasan asked.

“I was sent by one of her fellow Twice members as her bodyguard, actually,” Someone-san said truthfully. Okaasan chuckled and sighed.

“Gosh… My daughter is so famous nowadays that she needs a bodyguard… Still, it was nice of them…” she said.

“Right! Since… I have two healthy young people in my house… This is the perfect time to do some housework! Come, help me out!” she said excitedly, standing up swiftly.

“Relax, Momo! It’ll be fun!” Someone-san chirped happily as we walked side-by-side.

“Fun? Bitch, please! We’re cleaning the house! What do you mean ‘fun’?” I snapped. He laughed.

“Well, it’s better than doing nothing…” he countered.

“Gosh, you’re just like Jeongyeon and Jihyo…” I muttered, remembering my two members who loved cleaning the house so much.

“That’s a good thing, right? Don’t those two always keep everybody in check?” he smirked, before increasing his pace to catch up with my mother, exiting the house into the backyard.

God! Why was he so responsible?

I quickly followed them into my backyard, where Okaasan was handing him a shovel.

“Come, Momo-chan! Help him shovel out the snow!” she said, handing me another shovel.

“What’s the point, Okaasan? It’ll definitely snow again tonight!” I tried to reason with her.

“And you always get hungry again after you eat, and yet you still eat, right? It’s the same thing,” she said, not missing a beat.

I gave her the ‘really?’ look before sighing and snatching the shovel from her hands. She laughed and nodded approvingly.

“That’s better. Alright, you two get to work on this, while I cook lunch!” Okaasan said, leaving us at the chilling backyard.

I shook my head in frustration, but I heard Someone-san chuckling again. I turned to glare at him, and he chuckled louder.

“What’s so funny?” I asked him aggressively. He shook his head, but continued grinning.

“Nothing. That’s a good point she made about you being hungry,” he chuckled. “Let’s get started!”

“Fuck! Maybe I won’t visit again next time!” I groaned as I stabbed my shovel into the ground and plopped down onto the porch.

I flung my eyes around, and stomped my feet in anger while whining when I realized that we’d only cleared about one-third of the huge backyard. Someone-san laughed and continued shoveling the snow, looking like a giddy little boy.

“Come on, Momo… It’s all about being a good child!” he said happily.

“I know! It’s just… So annoying! I came back here to see them again after three years, and the first thing she did was to make me do housework! How the hell are you not annoyed?” I whined as I stared at him.

He stabbed his shovel perpendicularly into the snow and leaned against it.

“I learned to treasure the small things in life. You know… We have no idea how long our lives are gonna last,” he said thoughtfully.

“How much more do we have to shovel?” I asked as I looked around us.

Someone-san silently pulled out a pair of spectacles. He placed them on his face and pressed something on it, before sitting back and staring at the snow.

“About… 83 square meters,” he replied.

“The fuck… How do you know?” I asked incredulously. He chuckled.

“Smart specs… Go figure,” he said, tapping his glasses and turning to look at me.

Shit… I felt my heart fluttering again. He looked so cute with glasses.

“Momo-chan! Yoru-kun! Lunch is ready!” Okaasan called out.

My spirits lifted instantly at the mention of food and my body inexplicably rejuvenated with energy. I shot to my feet in a flash.

“COMING!” I yelled. Someone-san laughed loudly and got up to his feet.

“Someone has energy now,” he laughed.

"Please sit," Okaasan said as she knelt on the floor. We followed suit and gathered around the table.

"Itadakimasu!" I exclaimed as I picked up my chopsticks and dug into the food.

I munched on the teriyaki chicken and squealed loudly, before shoveling some rice into my mouth. Okaasan laughed as she ate her food slowly.

“Oi, Momo-chan! Slow down!” she scolded me.

I blushed and grinned sheepishly. I swallowed my food before speaking this time.

“Gomen-ne, Okaasan. It’s just… The food’s too good!” I giggled. Okaasan sighed and shook her head.

“You and your love for food…” she said, before turning to Someone-san, “How do you find it, Yo–Hey… Are you alright?”

I turned quickly and saw that Someone-san was staring at the chawanmushi with tears rolling down his cheeks. He had taken a small scoop of it, but was only staring at it, not eating it.

“I–Is something wrong?” Okaasan asked worriedly. He shook his head slowly.

“N–No… Go–Gomenasai, Hirai-san… It’s… I–It’s just… This… Really tastes like home,” he sniffled as he quickly wiped away his tears. Okaasan smiled kindly.

“It’s alright, Yoru-kun… We all grow up in our families, and fond memories of them are what made us… Well, us,” she said wisely.

Someone-san smiled and nodded. Silently, he picked up his spoon and continued eating as if nothing happened. I gently reached for his hand from underneath the table.

“You wanna talk about it?” I whispered in Korean. He smiled, but shook his head.

“No. Let’s not ruin the mood…” he replied quietly, also in Korean.

I decided to drop the subject for now and just enjoy the moment. I turned to look at Okaasan.

“Speaking of… Where’s Otousan and Hana-nee?” I asked her.

“Your father went ice fishing with his friends as usual. He’ll be back at dinner time. Hana is out with her boyfriend, she’ll be back for dinner as well,” Okaasan chuckled.

“Okaasan… You need to get out of the house more often,” I said.

Okaasan laughed, but she shook her head.

“I’m too old to go out and about, Momo-chan… Besides, I prefer staying at home and tending to my plants!” she said, gesturing towards the array of plants she had in this house. Her collection seemed to have grown exponentially since I last visited.

“You and your plants…” I mused. My mother beamed proudly and continued eating.

“How long have you lived here, Hirai-san?” asked Someone-san.

“Since Momo was born. We’ve never moved… Just made a few upgrades here and there…” Okaasan said.

“Woah… That’s… Thirty two years is a long time!” he exclaimed. Okaasan chuckled.

“It sure is,” she smiled. “But… There’s just so many memories here, I don’t think I’d be able to let this house go. Hold on… Let me go get something!”

“This is the first photo we took when we just moved in,” she explained.

She pointed to the baby in her arms. I knew exactly who that was.

“That’s… My little Momo, and this is my little Hana…” she pointed to my sister’s picture with a smile.

Okaasan flipped to the next page, and I laughed at the familiar photo.

“This was Momo’s first photoshoot in her life. She was… Preparing for her future,” she chuckled.

“Oh… This next photo really shows her personality from a young age!” Okaasan grinned.

“O–Oi! Not this one!” I said as I blushed and hid my face in my hands.

“You can tell that she has loved food since she was a child,” Okaasan laughed.

I peeked through my fingers at Someone-san, and found him grinning from ear to ear.

“Her childhood… Looks a lot like my sister, actually,” he smiled.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. From it, he produced a polaroid photograph of a young girl. He laid it next to my photo, and I gasped at the striking resemblance.

“Damn, Okaasan! Is there something you didn’t tell me?” I joked.

“Momo-chan!” she exclaimed as she slapped my head.

Someone-san laughed, and I turned to look at him.

“You keep a photo of your sister in your wallet? That’s cute!” I told him. He chuckled.

“I keep photos of all my family members in my wallet,” he replied.

He pulled out three other polaroid pictures from his wallet and laid them down on the table.

“This is my Okaasan…” he said, pointing at one picture.

“This is my Otousan…” he said, pointing at the next.

“That’s Nezuko, my little sister,” he said, pointing at the picture from earlier.

“And this is my family photo,” he concluded, pointing at the last picture.

Wow… All of his family members were really good looking.

“Such a beautiful family,” my mother said with a smile, taking up the family photo.

“This was taken when I was four… We went to Tokyo Disneyland,” he explained.

Okaasan passed me the photo and I looked at the happy smiling faces of his family. I noticed that there were a couple wet patches here and there, and somehow… I knew what they were from.

My eyes fell onto the young Someone-san. He was so happy… So full of joy, so full of love. His family must have meant so much to him. I just couldn’t begin to imagine how much pain he was currently in, having to be separated from them for so long.

I handed the photo back to Someone-san, and he accepted it gratefully. In a reverent manner, he gathered the photos and stored them back inside his wallet.

“Where are they now? Are they still living in Japan?” Okaasan asked innocently.

“That’s… A little complex,” Someone-san answered slowly.

I stared at my mother with a warning gaze, and she understood. She looked at Someone-san apologetically, before suddenly cutting him off.

“Oh! Let’s finish the food before it gets cold!” she exclaimed, changing the subject.

“Yes, yes! Let’s eat up!” I said.

Someone-san smiled at me sweetly and mouthed ‘Gomawo’ before picking his chopsticks and continued eating. I felt my heart fluttering whenever he smiled like that. Gosh, Momo… Calm down.

After we cleared the snow, Okaasan didn’t let us go easily. She told us to do other chores like sweeping, mopping the floor, and clearing out the store room. Time flew by in a flash, and soon, it was time to prepare dinner.

“Thank you, Momo…” he suddenly said. I looked up.

“Eh? What for?” I asked as I chopped the head of the cabbage off.

“For bringing me here and showing me what it’s like to be with a family again,” he continued.

I smiled at him.

“It’s the least I can do to repay you for keeping me safe,” I uttered.

“Thanks…” he said again. I looked at him.

“You… You miss them a lot, don’t you?” I asked him. He smiled and nodded.

“Every day of my life,” he replied softly. I continued cutting while asking him my next question.

“You sure you don’t wanna talk about it?” I asked him. He smiled, but shook his head.

“No… I’m fi–OW!” he suddenly cried, dropping his knife.

“M–M–Momo…” he stuttered in shock.

I stared at him. He was stunned, and he made no attempt to pull away. I continued to suck his finger and kept eye contact with him throughout. I finally released his finger when I couldn’t taste any more blood, but his face had gone full red.

“Sorry… Home remedy,” I whispered, feeling my cheeks blushing too.

“T–Thank you…” he stammered.

Shit. Why did I do that? We silently got back to cutting, both of us silent, unsure of what to say to each other. Finally, I mustered up enough courage to look up at him.

“Mo–”

“So–”

“Ah, you go first…” he said, chuckling.

“I… I–I’m sorry about… Just now,” I said nervously. He shook his head.

“D–Don’t be… It… Did the trick, though. No more pain,” he said, lifting his finger.

I laughed awkwardly, and he did too. Fuck. I was usually confident around men. Why did he make me so jittery?

“So… What now?” he asked. We had just finished cutting the veggies.

“I–I guess, we can set up the pot? I–I’ll take it,” I told him. He nodded.

I quickly stood up and rushed to the storage room. As soon as I left the room, I placed a hand on my chest, trying to calm my heart. I hadn’t felt this way since high school. Gosh… What did he do to me?

I groaned in frustration. I wasn’t exactly short, but I wasn’t as tall as Jeongyeon or Tzuyu. How was I supposed to reach that? I looked around for a small step ladder and found one, so I set it up before climbing up. Fuck. Why was it so far up? I stretched my arm to reach it…

“Just a… Little… More…” I uttered to myself.

The door slid open.

“You alright, Momo? Can you reach it?” Someone-san asked.

“Y–Yeah. Just... WOAH!!”

I lost balance. My body started flailing in the air and I fell backwards. Shit!

“Got you!”

I didn’t fall on the floor. Instead, I fell on his body, his arms catching me. He saved me yet again, just like he did last week on the streets of Gion. I looked up, and my eyes fell on his kind eyes.

“You okay?” he asked with a smile.

“I–I…”

I knew my face had gone full red. I quickly straightened myself, standing up and dusting myself off. I masked my embarrassment with a chuckle.

“Fuck… A week in Kyoto, and I’ve nearly died twice,” I said. He laughed.

“Good thing Sana sent me, huh?” he teased, climbing the ladder to pick the portable stove and shabu-shabu pot nimbly.

“Sure is…” I said while chuckling, nodding as he handed me the two items.

“Let’s head back?” he proposed, but my stomach gurgled loudly. I giggled.

“Lemme get something to eat…” I said, picking a bag of rice crackers from one of the shelves.

I heard him chuckling, so I shot him a glare before chuckling with him. I handed him my rice crackers bag.

“Want some?”

“Sure! Why not…” he said, picking one piece and popping it into his mouth.

* * *

“Okaasan… I’m ho–MOMO-CHAN!!!”

“ONEECHAN!”

“WHEN DID YOU ARRIVE?” screamed Hana. Momo laughed.

“This morning! Oi! I was supposed to visit you last Sunday! But Okaasan said you’re busy!” Momo exclaimed.

“I know, I know! I’m sorry! But I’m here now!!! Gosh, you look the same!!!” she squealed, cupping Momo’s face in her hands. Momo laughed.

“It was only three years! Of course I look the same!” she said.

“It’s so good to finally see you again!!!” Hana screamed, pulling Momo for another hug.

I smiled as I watched these two. Somehow, seeing Momo and Hana reminded me so much of Nezuko, my little sister. How are you, Nezuko-chan? Did you miss me?

“Hei, this is my friend Yoru!” Momo exclaimed suddenly, pointing at me. Hana whipped around and smiled.

“Konichiwa, Yoru-san!” exclaimed Hana, reaching to shake my hand.

“K–Konichiwa, Hana-san…” I said. Hana stared at me with a smile.

“Momo-chan! Did you actually finally eventually get a proper boyfriend?” she asked naughtily.

“Oi!” Momo exclaimed and slapped her sister’s shoulder. They both laughed.

At that moment, we heard the front door opening again, and a bald older gentleman entered, humming a tune absentmindedly.

“OTOUSAN!” exclaimed Momo, rushing to hug her father. Her father looked stunned for a moment.

“M–Momo chan?” he stuttered.

“Yes! Yes!” Momo squealed excitedly.

A smile stretched across his face as he set his fishing rod and bucket down. He laughed heartily and pulled Momo into a hug. Hang on… Why did his laughter sound so much like my father’s? Why… Why did this family remind me so much of mine?

“My baby’s finally home!” he exclaimed. Hana pouted.

“Oi… I’m literally right here all the time!” she said in an annoyed tone. Otousan laughed.

“I see you everyday, Hana! But to see Momo is a rare occasion!” he replied.

Otousan scanned Momo from head to toe and pinched her cheeks. She squirmed out of his grasp.

“Stop that!” she said, giggling. Otousan laughed.

“Still eating healthy?” he asked. Momo nodded.

“As always!” she said.

Otousan gave a nod of approval, before looking at me and stared at me quizzically.

“And… Who’s this?” he asked. Momo smiled.

“Oh, that’s my friend, Yoru…” she said, gesturing towards me. I bowed respectfully.

“Konichiwa, Hirai-san… Watashino namae wa Yoru-des… I’m Momo’s friend,” I said.

He stared me down, and I had to fight the urge not to shrink down in fear. Momo slapped her father’s arm.

“Otousan! Stop scaring him!” she said. Her father chuckled and bowed to me apologetically.

“I’m sorry. I’m not trying to intimidate you, Yoru-san…” he said. I bowed deeper.

“N–No, no, it’s okay, HIrai-san!” I stuttered. He smiled kindly and looked at Momo.

“He’s a fine gentleman,” he said. I saw Momo blushing.

The front door opened one more time. Now it was Momo’s mother who came in.

“Ah! Everyone’s here! Perfect! Come! Let’s get this shabu-shabu dinner started!” she announced.

We all walked up to the table and knelt down. I helped Momo’s mother unpack the different things she had bought, and there were a lot of things. The last time I saw this much food was back at AMAN Kyoto’s breakfast buffet!

“Momo-chan, why don’t you get the sake?” Otousan said. She nodded and stood up.

“I’ll go help her,” I said, sparing myself from another awkward conversation with her family.

Momo and I walked to the cellar and grabbed a large bottle of sake and a few cups. Suddenly, she grabbed my arm gently, and I turned to look at her.

“Don’t be nervous, okay? They’re nice people…” she said with a smile.

“I–I wasn’t nervous,” I said in denial. She snorted.

“Please… Six days of teasing you… I know all of your nervous tells,” she smirked. I chuckled.

“Okay…” I said in defeat, staring at the floor.

“Hey, look at me,” she said.

I did just that, and suddenly she cupped my face in her hands.

“I enjoy your company, and I know my family does too. So… Just relax. Don’t be nervous,” she repeated her words.

“It’s… Kinda difficult when you have three pairs of eyes constantly focusing on you…” I defended myself. She smiled.

“Then let me help you focus on something else…” she whispered.

She tiptoed, and suddenly, she pecked my cheek.

My world went into a haze. I stared at her blankly, and saw her smiling at me.

“Don’t take it the wrong way…” she giggled, before walking out of the cellar, leaving me alone.

Hirai Momo.

The Hirai Momo of Twice.

She had just kissed me on the cheek.

“Someone-san! Come on! You’ll freeze to death inside the cellar!” she suddenly appeared at the door again.

“A–Ah, yes…” I stuttered.

We walked back into the dining room and sat down. She was right, though… Throughout the meal, only one thing filled my mind: Momo. I found myself staring at her a few times. Every single thing about her enchanted me; from her brilliant smile, to her rosy cheeks, to those round and beautiful eyes… I was falling so hard for this beautiful girl.

“Yoru?” Momo called out to me. I blinked my eyes rapidly.

“Y–yes?”

“Pass me your bowl,” she said with a knowing smile.

I hastily picked up my bowl and passed it to her. Our hands brushed against each other for a moment, and I knew that I was blushing red. This alarmed Hana.

“Yoru-kun! You’re blushing so red!” she quipped while chuckling. I chuckled nervously.

“A–Ah, yes… It’s… The alcohol kicked in,” I said. She laughed and nodded.

Momo placed my bowl back in front of me and smirked. I knew she was about to tease me, but I glared secretly at her to warn her. She giggled and nodded. Suddenly, Otousan looked up.

“Your parents brought you up well, Yoru-san…” he said. I looked up at him.

“E–Eh?” I asked in confusion. He smiled.

“I’ve watched you throughout the meal, and you’re just so polite,” he explained himself.

“Oh he’s been polite the entire day, Honey…” Okaasan said. Momo chuckled.

“I told you they’ll like you,” Momo whispered in Korean. Her mother glared at her.

“Momo-chan, no Korean at the dinner table,” she said.

“Gomen-ne…” Momo uttered, but she was giggling.

We finished our dinner and stayed for quite a while afterwards drinking sake and talking together. Momo’s parents were kind and generous, and they continued to compliment me with every chance they had. I knew what they were saying behind those words–that they would appreciate it if Momo chose me as her partner–but to their credit, they never explicitly said it.

“Wow… It’s late,” Hana suddenly exclaimed.

I glanced at my watch, and found that it was 11pm already! Holy shit! Okaasan chuckled and looked straight at Hana.

“That’s your cue to start doing dishes! Otousan, please help her!” she ordered them.

Otousan immediately got up while laughing, but Hana let out a frustrated groan.

“Okaasan~Why me?” she complained.

“Because Momo spent the whole day doing chores, and Yoru-kun is our guest! Do you seriously expect him to do the dishes?” Okaasan shot back

Hana grumbled but stood up begrudgingly anyway, joining her father. Momo laughed out loud in victory and stared at me.

“I guess… Doing chores the entire day does pay off, right?” she chuckled. I laughed and nodded.

“Yes, and Yoru-kun helped a lot! Momo-chan, you really should get together with him!” Okaasan finally said what was said implicitly the entire dinner.

“OKAASAN!” she exclaimed in protest, but her mother only laughed.

“Speaking of… Why don’t you stay over, Yoru-kun? It’s late already,” she suddenly said while looking at me.

I shook my head and raised my hands panickedly.

“O–Oh, no, no! I… I really shouldn’t overstay my welcome!” I said. Okaasan chuckled.

“You’re not overstaying your welcome, Yoru-kun. It wasn’t an invitation anyway, it was a request. I will not allow you to drive back to Kyoto in the middle of the night like this! It’s dangerous!” she said.

I was about to object further, but Momo grabbed my arm and shook her head.

“There’s no fighting this, just go along with it…” she said.

“She’s right, Yoru-kun!” exclaimed Hana from the adjacent kitchen.

I sighed, but then I chuckled and nodded.

“Very well. Thank you for your hospitality, Hirai-san…” I said, bowing at Okaasan. She smiled.

“That’s better! Momo-chan, why don’t you show him his room so he can rest?” she said. Momo nodded.

“Follow me,” she said as she stood up.

I followed her out of the dining room and up the stairs. She guided me to the last room down the hall and opened it, revealing a comfortable, traditional room. She went straight to the room’s closet to pick up a futon and she dropped it on the floor. I scanned the room. Other than the futon, there was a cupboard and a tatami table. It was perfectly simple, just the way I liked it.

“Get comfy. I’ll get you something to change!” Momo smiled before walking out.

I smiled and sat down on the floor, storing my backpack by the cabinet. A moment later, Momo came back with a set of clothes.

“It’s…. Otousan’s pajamas… Hope you don’t mind the… Style,” she said, handing me a set of striped pajamas. I laughed but nodded.

“It’s fine, Momo! It looks comfortable,” I said. She nodded.

“Shower’s just down the hall. Use the soap and shampoo to your liking. Toothbrush, though…” she trailed off, but I pulled out a pen and pressed a button on its side, and it turned into a portable toothbrush.

“Got it,” I said with a smile. Momo laughed.

“You and your gadgets… Alright! Enjoy your stay! My room’s just next to yours, if you need anything, you can knock,” she said.

“I will…” I said, nodding appreciatively. A naughty grin flashed on her face.

“... Or you can run off… And I’ll never be able to find you,” she said, repeating my words from last week.

I kept reading for a while as the house became completely silent, and after a while, I did a quick time check on my smartwatch. My eyes widened in surprise.

2 am.

Wow. I’d been reading for that long? Why wasn’t I feeling sleepy, though? I shut my book and set it down, deciding that I should get ready to sleep. As I did so, I heard a creak outside my door. That was a foot, on the wooden flooring.

My body froze up. Paranoia took hold. Did they track me here? But… What about Momo and her family? My eyes darted to the unfinished taser in my bag. Project Origin... Should I test it on whoever was coming after me?

“Someone-san…?”

“M–Momo?”

Momo poked her head through the door and smiled, but a second later she looked concerned. I was sweating, I was crouching in an attack position, I was wearing my weaponized bracelets. It was on.

“A–Are you alright?” Momo asked as she walked inside.

“I–I…” I stammered. “Yeah… I’m… I’m fine…”

I let out a relieved sigh and quickly took the bracelets off. Momo reached me, and suddenly her hand touched my cheek. I looked up at her, and I felt my heart beating faster.

“Are you sure?” she asked again, gently, concernedly.

“Yeah… I… I heard your footsteps and I thought–” I said, before deciding to change the subject, “Why are you awake?”

She chuckled.

“I could have asked the same thing about you…” she retorted.

I chuckled and looked down, and I noticed that she was hiding something behind her back. She chuckled sheepishly and lifted it up. It was a sake bottle and 2 cups.

“Care for a drink?” she grinned.

I smiled. Yeah. I needed a drink.

“Sure… Why not,” I replied.

Momo squealed excitedly as she strided over to the tatami table. She cracked open the bottle as I took my place across the table, and she quickly poured both of us a cup, handing me mine.

“Kanpai…” we whispered, before downing our cups.

The alcohol burned my throat as it traveled to my stomach. I coughed and looked at her. Momo clasped a hand on her mouth to stifle a laugh.

“W–Woah! That’s strong!” I said in a hushed voice.

“Yup! This is Genshu,” she announced, lifting the bottle. My eyes widened.

“Genshu?” I asked. Genshu was an undiluted sake. No wonder it was so strong.

“Not just any Genshu,” Momo smirked, “This one’s 30%.”

I gasped.

“30%? Isn’t the limit at 22%?” I asked confusedly. She chuckled and poured herself another cup.

“I told you this is no ordinary Genshu…” she said.

“O–Oi… Take it easy! Let’s not get drunk!” I cautioned. She scoffed.

“Oh, come on, Someone-san… It’s my last night here! Plus, we’re in my house! What could possibly go wrong?” Momo challenged, downing her second cup with haste.

This girl was wild. She winched, but she poured herself another, and then poured my cup too.

“I–I think I’m good, Momo…” I said apprehensively. She looked at me.

“Aww… Come on… Please?”

She pouted cutely and stared at me with puppy eyes. Fuck. I couldn’t resist. Why was I so weak?

“F–Fine…” I huffed.

“See? It gets nicer with every next cup,” she said. I laughed.

“That’s exactly how people get drunk,” I said.

“And so… I–I… Took–the bat… And… hic… and… Started… Hacking away!” Momo said, ending her story about the recent battle at SM Headquarters.

“N–No… F–Fucking way! Hic… That’s… Shooo… Cool!” I said.

Shit. I was slurring. Momo wheezed.

“Y–Yes… F–Fucking–WAY!” she exclaimed her last word.

“Sssh!!” I shushed while placing a finger on her mouth. We giggled like little children.

“R–Right… Right… We–shouldn’t wake… O–t–Otousan…” she whispered.

I found myself already sitting side by side with her. When did I get here? Momo rested her head on my shoulder and hummed contentedly. I pressed my head against hers and smiled.

“You gotta… hic… Tell me more of these stories…” I told her. She slapped my chest.

“N–Nah… You… You’ve got… More stories about yourself… Self… Hic…” she giggled.

“I do…” I uttered, closing my eyes to stop the world from spinning.

“T–Tell me… hic.. One!” she demanded.

“I told you… hic… F–Five already!” I retorted. She laughed.

“Did you? Shit… I… I can’t remember anything,” Momo said.

I laughed and shook my head. She was right. My mind was a haze. Nothing made sense. What story were we talking about again?

“S–Shame… Today’s my last day…” she suddenly whispered.

I looked down at her. She closed her eyes, looking sleepy as hell. Yeah. Today was her last day. She’d return to Korea in the afternoon. She’d leave me here in Japan. She’d be happy with her friends again, while I… I would start running again.

Suddenly, I felt something inside me opening. Something I had kept inside me for so long… For two years, in fact. When did it all start? Right. After Dara got the names she needed. Fuck. She didn’t use it anyway. Yeoni ended up getting the names from Rosé, right?

And yet… I was still targeted by Manse and his associates. Come to think of it… Did Manse have a connection to the Yakuza? It was a simple mistake I made, but why were they so adamant on killing me? What was it that I did? I couldn’t even remember.

All I knew was… I had spent the last two years running away. I was alone. I was lonely. I was tired. I was sick of it. I missed my family. I missed my work in Korea. I wanted to come home. I wanted to stop running. I needed to stop running. I needed…

“Someone-san… Are you… Crying?” I heard Momo’s words.

“Someone-san…” whispered Momo.

“Some… Someone-san…” Momo called again, her eyes widening.

Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was my feelings, but I suddenly reached to hug her. She was stunned, I knew, but she didn’t push me away. I cried my heart out on her shoulder, bawling like a little boy. Slowly, gently, she lifted her arms, and I soon felt her embracing me. Tightly, lovingly.

“Someone-san…” she whispered. “Daijoubu desuka?”

“Iie…” I uttered through my sobs, tears still streaming from my eyes, “Watashi wa subete ni unzari shite imasu.”

My words took her aback. She pulled away from me, staring deeply into my swollen eyes. I met her gaze, and all I could see was pity, concern, and… Was that love?

“You’re… Tired of everything?” Momo repeated my words.

I nodded slowly, still sobbing. Gently, I rested my head on her shoulder and continued crying.

“I’m… Tired, Momo… I’m… I’m sick and tired,” I whispered.

“Tired of… What?” she asked.

“Of everything. Of running… Of being alone… Of… Of… Being l–lonely…” I whispered sorrowfully.

“Someone-san…” she whispered.

“Don’t go…”

“Don’t go…” I repeated.

“W–What do you… Mean?” she stuttered. I held her hands.

“Don’t… Don’t leave me alone, Momo…” I begged.

“B–But…”

“I love you…”

My words shocked even myself. Momo stared at me, not saying anything.

Stupid.

I had just offended her.

Why must I say it out loud?

“Someone-san…” she called out gently.

I dare not to lift my head, so I kept it buried on the floor. But then, I felt her touch. Her hands reached my cheeks, and she lifted my face gently but firmly until it was leveled with her.

I opened my eyes and found her beautiful eyes staring at me, deeply, intently. It seared into my soul, and I found my heart beating faster than usual.

“Momo… I–I… I’m sorry… I shouldn–”

I never got to complete my sentence. My words were cut short...

Because Momo kissed me.

Her lips felt so tender, her kiss felt so gentle. At first my entire body froze, but a second later, everything melted. My eyelids closed slowly, and soon, I let myself drown in her kiss.

I reached my hand up, caressing the back of her head. We kissed for what felt like forever, but at the same time I didn’t want time to move. I wanted it to stand still. I wanted it to just continue like this for eternity.

“Momo…” I whispered after we finally stopped.

She didn’t say anything. She merely smiled, and it was the most beautiful smile I’d ever seen. She cupped my cheeks and pressed her forehead on mine.

“You’re not alone anymore, Someone-san… You’ve found me…” she whispered. “I love you too…”

My lips curved up. Was I smiling?

“It’s my job, isn’t it?” I whispered.

“What is?” she asked.

“Finding you…” I said. She chuckled.

“Mission accomplished, then…” she whispered. “You’ve found me…”

“M–Momo…” I whispered, marveling at the sight.

She didn’t say anything, only smiling. Who knew Momo could be this quiet when drunk? Momo stooped down, and she nimbly pulled my pajama pants down. I didn’t realize I had a boner until now, but I evidently had. She pulled my boxer down, and my cock was on display. When did I start getting a boner? Was it when she took off her shirt? Or was it when she kissed me? Nothing made sense.

“M–Momo…” I whispered again, but again she didn’t reply.

She rested herself on top of my legs, and with one swift movement, she placed my cock in between her tits. Shit. I didn’t know she was this big. An irresistibly soft and tender sensation started engulfing my penis, and with that, she started giving me a tittyfuck.

“M–Mo… M–Momo… M–Mh…”

“M–M… Momo… A–Ah… M–M–Momo…”

She moved her tits faster and squeezed them tighter. I tried to find something to hold onto, but I couldn’t. I knew we were not supposed to do this. I was supposed to protect her, not take advantage of her, not having sex with her. But my body didn’t do anything. It couldn’t resist her charm.

“M–Momo… M–Mhh… M–Momo… U–Ugh...”

She kept moving her tits faster and faster. My body tensed. I started squirming. I felt even dizzier, my vision went blurry, and I felt my climax was reaching soon.

“M–Momo… I’m… C–Cumming…”

I thought she’d stop, but instead she opened her mouth and stuck her tongue out. She licked the head of my penis, and that did it. I came. I came hard. Shot after shot of my semen exploded out of my penis, covering her face with thick white liquid, leaking down to her neck, down to her big breasts.

“Someone-san… I love you too…” she whispered.

With that, she slumped on top of me, and started snoring. She was asleep.

* * *

The alarm blared. I shot up immediately, and took the phone that was next to my pillow. It was 8 am. I tried to sit, but my head spinned.

Fuck. Hangover.

I laid back down on my bed and closed my eyes, pressing my palm onto my forehead. I tried remembering the events from last night. It was a blur… But I thought I could remember a few things.

I remembered I couldn’t sleep, tossing and turning on my bed, thinking about Someone-san. At around 2 am, I decided to go out. I saw that the light was still on in his room, so I stole Otosan’s genshu and tiptoed to his room.

I remembered he was shocked and was in a fighting stance when I opened his door. Gosh… That guy. Years of living on the run must have made him paranoid. I felt bad for him. Still, he invited me in, and we shared the genshu.

I remembered how he initially refused to drink more than one cup after tasting the strong genshu, but I insisted. I chuckled. Of course I insisted. I couldn’t possibly let my last night with him go without a proper drink. He eventually relented, and we finished the genshu bottle.

Fuck… I had to replace the bottle before Otosan flips at me.

Hang on… What happened after we finished the bottle? Shit… I blacked out didn’t I? Come on, Momo… Think! What did you do?

I shook my head and sat up again. I furrowed my brows. I… We shared stories. I told him about the SM Battle. He told me his stories too. We sat next to each other… But then…

My eyes widened as I remembered something.

Don’t go…

Did he… Did he say that? Yeah… He did say those words. Was he crying when he said it?

“Momo-chan! Breakfast ready! Come down here!” that was Okasan yelling.

“Haai! Be there in a moment!” I yelled back.

Shit. Maybe I should ask him later. I stood up, and groggily walked to the door. I hoped Okasan made shijimi. Hang on. She didn’t know I was drinking. Fuck. I missed Jihyo and Jeongyeon now. They always made haejangguk by default on Saturday morning, knowing that we’d spend Friday nights drinking our lives away.

I reached for the door, but right when I opened it, a question came to my mind.

How was I back in my bedroom again?

Did Someone-san carry me here last night? Did he…

Hang on.

“Momo-chan!”

“Haai! Haai! Coming!”

Shit. I’d think again later.

I swung the door open, and saw that Someone-san was making his way down the hall.

“Morning Someone-san!” I chirped. He stared at me.

“Ohayo…” he muttered as he avoided my gaze, he briskly walked past me to the staircase.

Huh… That was strange… I quickly caught up to him on the stairs.

“Hey, um… I wanted to ask you, did something happen last night?” I whispered.

He stopped dead in his tracks and I saw the gears in his head turning.

“N–No… Nothing happened…” he said after some time.

Something definitely happened.

I ate heartily, and although food normally cheered me up, something felt off inside me. It felt like a stone was weighing down my heart.

It was guilt.

“How’s the food everyone?” Okaasan asked.

“It’s great! Arigatou Okaasan,” I replied with a forced smile. Someone-san just nodded and continued eating silently.

“Do take care of her, Yoru-kun!” Otousan said.

“H–Hai, Hirai-san,” he replied dutifully.

“Please show her a good time as well~” teased Hana.

“OI! NEE-CHAN!” I exclaimed.

Hana and my parents laughed with me, but Someone-san didn’t. He merely smiled nervously. Fuck. What was wrong? What did I do wrong for him to be this cold today?

We entered the car silently, and he quickly drove away to Kyotanabe’s main road, taking us back in the direction of Kyoto. During the ride back, Someone-san stayed silent, and I hated it. I stared at him a few times, trying to start a conversation, but he kept his eyes locked on the road ahead, not saying a single word.

I did do something wrong, didn’t I? I offended him. Shit, Momo! Why did you have to black out last night?

We eventually reached AMAN Kyoto, and he escorted me back to my suite. As I opened the door, I turned to talk to him.

“Someone-san, I–”

“Pack your things. We’re leaving in 20 minutes,” he said coldly, and he rushed off, denying me the chance to ask him.

I stared at his back as he walked quickly away, and only after he disappeared from view did I enter my suite. I huffed in frustration and started packing.

Did I offend his family? Did I say something about his parents or Nezuko? Fuck… Think, Momo, think! What did you do?

Shit...

“Oh shit!”

“What happened?”

“I–I think I left my passport back in the hotel!” I said as I frantically started pulling things out of my bag, searching for the small crimson booklet.

“I am so sorry,” I uttered.

“Don’t be, Momo, it happens,” he replied.

“W-Will I be late?”

He raised his left wrist to check the time.

“Nope, your flight’s at three right?”

“Y-yeah…”

“Then you should be fine. It’s only 1:30,” he said.

I nodded and stared back at the road, going back to my attempt to remember something from our drinking session last night. I couldn’t. It was a dead end.

I turned to look at Someone-san. I had to ask him. I needed to ask him. Now was my chance. He had no way of avoiding me.

* * *

“Someone-san?” Momo calls out to me.

“Yes?“

“What happened between us last night?”

This again. Shit, I hoped that she would just drop the subject. I stayed silent as we approached a red light and I brought the vehicle to a stop.

“What happened?” she pressed.

I continued to remain silent. I couldn’t bear to look at her without feeling an overwhelming sense of guilt. I had used her in her state of vulnerability. I should have stopped her, but instead…. I didn’t. I couldn’t even control my own bodily desires.

“Look, if I did or said anything that offended you… You need to let me know, because I seriously cannot remember last night–”

“You did nothing wrong, Momo… It was… Me,” I finally replied. I sensed her eyes widening.

“W–What?”

“I… I don’t want to talk about it,” I replied as the light turned green.

I stepped on the gas pedal and we dashed through the traffic into Osaka. I stayed silent as we drove to Kansai International Airport, and I felt Momo staring at me the entire way.

“What happened?” she tried again persistently.

I stayed silent, avoiding the question. Momo finally grunted and threw her back on the seat. I sighed behind my mask. This was so me… Running away from my problems like I always did. God… I was sick of this!

“Hey, uh… What time is it now? I don’t exactly feel like entering the Departure Hall and do nothing if I still have some time,” she asked.

Without thinking, I raised my wrist and showed her my smartwatch.

“Here you g–”

Oh fuck.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!

“S–Sorry… Sorry about that…” I muttered.

I frantically tried to change the photo, but Momo gently grabbed my hand, stopping me. I lifted my face to look at her, and I saw her staring deeply into my eyes.

“Someone-san… Forgive me for being so annoying, but… What happened last night?” she asked again.

I stared at this beautiful girl. Should I tell her? Wouldn’t she be mad at me?

“Please. I’ll never be at peace if I don’t know what we did,” she whispered sincerely as she squeezed my hand, leaning closer to me.

My defences crumbled. The sincerity of her voice just won me over. I closed my eyes as I fought back the tears of guilt.

“I’m sorry…” I said shakily.

“For what?”

“Last night… We… We had… Foreplay. Y–you...”

I couldn’t bring myself to describe what she did, what we did. I looked at her, and found her staring at me in silence. I took a deep breath and continued.

“I–I… I didn’t stop you… I–I… I knew you didn’t… You couldn’t control your body, and… I’m… Ashamed of myself. I–I… I’m sorry for ignoring you the entire day. I wanted to stop, believe me… I–I… I’m sorry, Momo… I should’ve...

Her hands on my cheeks stopped me from talking.

She took off my menpo mask swiftly, and then...

She kissed me, right there and then.

The familiar touch of her soft, tender lips brought comfort to me as I finally let my tears fall.

* * *

As our lips touched, I swore I felt something opening inside my head. The events from last night came rushing back into me.

I remembered it. I remembered everything.

I remembered how he cried and begged me not to go. I remembered how he told me that he was sick and tired of everything. I remembered…

I remembered he told me he loved me.

I remembered the kiss…

And I remembered how I took off my shirt and gave him–Oh God...

I pulled away and looked into his now teary eyes. Warmth filled my heart, filling my heart to the brim. He was too sweet... He felt guilty for doing something I initiated while I was drunk. It wasn’t his fault. Not at all... But yet, his conscience weighed him down. God… There was not a single reason not to love him.

“I remember…” I whispered.

“W–What?” he stuttered. I looked at him and smiled.

“I remember everything…” I clarified. His face was apologetic, but I touched his cheek.

“It’s okay, Someone-san, I did it willingly and I enjoyed every second of it,” I smiled as I wiped his tears.

He stared at me and I met his gaze. I felt only love for him at this moment.

“It’s sweet that you have the conscience that keeps you a righteous person, but you don’t have to let it weigh you down anymore,” I said with a big smile.

He looked stunned, so I continued.

“I did what I did last night because…”

I paused, mustering up courage, then I stared him straight in the eyes.

“Well… I love you… And I wanted to express my love to you… But… My drunk self did it in its own way,” I said, chuckling a little bit.

I heard his breath hitching.

“You…you love me?”

I laughed and wrapped my arms around his neck.

“What’s there not to love about you?” I whispered before closing the distance between us yet again.

He kissed me back this time as I felt his arms wrapped around my back, holding me close to his body. We finally broke apart and stared at each other, both of us visibly over the moon.

“I love you too Momo.”

“I know, you said it last night,” I smirked.

“Looks like your memory serves you well then,” he chuckled. I pulled him into a hug.

“I’m gonna miss you,” I said.

“I’m gonna miss you too, Momo… Thank you… For this week,” he whispered. I chuckled.

“It was my pleasure. Must be tiring to be my bodyguard huh?” I asked him.

He laughs.

“Watashi wa subete ni unzari shite imasu,” he said, repeating his words from last night.

My heart fell slightly as I finally got the meaning behind those words. After I leave, he’d go back running. He’d go back to being lonely all over again. At this thought, I held him tighter.

“I’m gonna make sure they bring you home soon. Just hold out a little longer, okay?” I assured him. I sensed him smiling.

“Thank you Momo,” he replied.

I opened my eyes and looked at him, but at that moment, something I saw behind him made my heart stop beating.

In the distance, I saw a man in a white hoodie. His camera was up, and he was clearly snapping photos of me… Of us. I quickly pulled away from Someone-san. He was alarmed.

“What is it?” he asked.

“Behind you, white hoodie, black camera,” I whispered. He understood immediately.

“Okay,” he replied as he put on his menpo mask.

I watched in awe as the word changed to ‘EXTRACTION COMPLETED’. Someone-san pressed a few more things before a photo of us kissing popped up. Someone-san swiped the hologram screen, and my eyes widened in surprise as I saw a collection of my photos with him from the past week.

“What the fuck?” I whispered in horror.

“Looks like he’s been following us for quite some time…” he muttered as a photo of us holding hands in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove popped up.

“Can you do anything about this?” I whispered in panic. To my surprise, he chuckled.

“Already done,” he said.

I stared at him, and he lifted his gadget up.

“Meet Rendezvous, a data stealing gadget. It comes in pairs, the first card as an EMP, momentarily disables the device while all data from the device is stolen. Afterwards, the data gets uploaded to this card, and all media from said device is completely wiped. Just like that… No Dispatch article,” he said proudly as he closed the gadget and pocketed it.

“But what about the other card?” I asked him. He shrugged.

“It’ll self-destruct. It’ll release a small vat of non-lethal acid that evaporates the entire card in his pocket without a trace. Don’t worry, the guy won’t be harmed.”

I stared at him with a mixture of amazement and fear. I felt a smile breaking out on my face.

“That is the nerdiest shit ever... And I love it! And you… Mostly you, though,” I giggled. He laughed.

“I love you too, Momo,” he said.

I pulled him into another hug.

“Jesus, is there a limit to the things you can do? Can you like… Ooh! Transport someone’s consciousness into a virtual avatar?” I challenged him.

“Like in aespa’s Kwangya?” he asked. Wow. He knew his K-pop.

“Exactly like that!” I exclaimed.

“With time and resources, anything is possible, Momo,” he replied confidently.

“Then I’d like to see it!” I said.

“I said with time and resources–” he said, but then he realized that I was only teasing him.

He sighed, and I chuckled, hugging him even tighter.

“When we finally get you back to Korea, you better have it ready. Can you do it?” I asked him. He chuckled.

“Are you doubting me?” he asked, jokingly sounding offended. I giggled.

“I’ll never doubt you… Babe…” I teased. I heard him giggling.

“Okay, you can officially call me that now,” he sighed. I slapped his arm.

“Damn right I can… Honey!” I teased him further. His face blushed behind the mask.

“O–Okay… That’s a little too far…” he stuttered.

A sly smile crossed my face as I leaned in to whisper to his ears.

“Further than giving you Paizuri?” I whispered.

“Y-Ya!”

“You enjoyed it right?” I teased.

“M-Momo…” he said, and I felt something tightening below his waist.

“I’m going to do a lot more than just a tittyfuck next time... We’re gonna go even further... A lot further... Shall I describe it? In detail?” I said naughtily, my hand tracing his belt.

I could feel him shuddering. Oh, how I loved this man… I wanted to continue, but at that moment I heard my boarding call.

‘This is a boarding call to all passengers of Japan Airlines flight JL5213 to Seoul. Please proceed to the boarding lounge immediately.’

I smirked as I stared at him.

“Saved by the PA. You won’t get so lucky next time,” I giggled. He stared at me.

“I don’t need to get lucky next time… Because we’ll actually be doing whatever you were trying to describe just now,” he said naughtily.

I gasped and slapped his chest. This guy knew me best! He laughed, and we hugged again.

“Thanks for everything, Someone-san… I’ll miss you so much,” I said. He nodded.

“I’ll miss you too, Momo. Have a safe flight,” he wished.

That’s when it hit me.

Dumb fuck, you forgot to ask for his name!

I turned back and quickly ran back to my lover.

“Before I leave… What’s your name?” I asked him.

“You already know,” he said.

“Your real name, silly,” I giggled.

He stared at me with those kind eyes I was so crazy about, and finally he said it.

“Sabito…”

“Huh… Thought it’d be Doraemon from the way you pull gadgets from your ass,” I quipped.

“Hirai Momo!” he scolded.

We laughed together, and I felt his hands tracing my face. My smile grew wider.

“Okay, okay! Last name?” I asked him again.

“Kobayashi,” he said gently.

“Korobuta?”

“Ya!” he complained.

I stepped closer to him.

“Sorry… I’m just hungry,” I whispered.

“You’re always hungry,” he chuckled.

I stepped even closer. I knew I wanted to do something. I needed to do it. I looked beyond him, and saw that the white-hooded cameraman was still there, panickedly checking his broken camera.

“How much longer until his camera’s back on?” I asked him.

“About two more hours,” he said. “Why?”

I didn’t answer. I reached for his mask and tore it off his face. I lunged at him and hungrily planted my lips on his. He chuckled, and I felt his arms wrapping around me once again. We kissed passionately for a few long seconds, before finally we pulled apart, panting for breath.

“Give me your number,” I whispered.

“Already did. Check your back pocket,” he smiled.

My eyes widened in surprise as I reached for my back pocket and found a business card inside it. I pulled it out and saw his number in it. I chuckled.

“Ya… Why didn’t I feel you touching my butt…” I teased. He chuckled.

“I’ll make sure you feel it the next time we meet,” he said.

I laughed and stared at him, holding his hands tightly. He pulled myself closer to him once again, keeping his eyes locked with mine, and pressed his forehead against mine gently.

“Text me when you reach,” he whispered.

“No. I’ll call you,” I said.

I pecked his cheek one last time. He laughed and let me go, pushing me gently towards the gate. I laughed and complied, finding it really difficult to let him go.

“Go now! You’re going to miss your flight!” he exclaimed.

It won’t be long now, Kobayashi Sabito… We’ll bring you home.

I promise.

5 notes · View notes

perseusjackson-jasongrace · 4 years

Text

Kingdom Collisions VII

masterlist

This is a fic i’m writing to try and incorporate more description into my works. You will be happy to know that it’s working ;) There are no pre-written chapters so updates are sporadic and i am just as in the dark as you about what happens next. Please enjoy!

Percy Jackson traces the insignia under his fingers, feels the gravelly texture of the stone and the way each word engraves itself into his skin.

militat omnis amans

He hears Jason's words in his head, let's the conversation loop in his mind.

"What are we doing here?"

"I needed to take a walk in the gardens. I can't stay in that stone monstrosity for another second."

"And you wanted me to come with you?"

"If you don't want to be here you can leave." His husband snapped.

He just hummed in acknowledgment.

"Sorry," The Prince mumbled, "I'm just a little volatile right now."

"What does this mean?" Percy figured it was time for a subject change.

"Our motto?"

"Yes, I've seen it everywhere and I've never managed to ask anyone about it."

"Every lover is a soldier."

He looked at the blonde, caught those dull blue eyes. "Really?"

"It's a long story."

"Shall we sit on the bench so you can tell me?"

And then someone had called them inside to go over the details of the King's address that would be happening in the coming week.

"Another time." Jason winced.

Now Percy sits in the garden on a wooden bench, basking in the warmth and protection of an Arrowood tree in full bloom. The soft pink flowers catch on the wind and shower him with petals every so often. The sky is unusually blue for the winter but the chill in the air makes up for it. It is a deadly bite, waiting for any piece of skin to be exposed. The grass is green and cushioning under his feet and the soft cashmere pants his wearing are keeping the icy breeze at bay. He takes a deep breath in. This weather is dopamine in his bloodstream; is full of new beginnings and life.

His fingers brush against the engraved insignia again and he cannot help but wonder the tale behind it. The story of his own kingdom's symbol is one he keeps close to his heart, treasures with every blink of his eyes. His emblem flashes across his mind: a silver sword slicing through a cresting wave, the droplets from it turn bronze in the sun and fall to make their maxim: datum amore ad defendendum. The story is gruesome and bloody and full of honour. Percy's father used to tell it to him on the rare occasion he would tuck him in bed.

There was once a man, brave and strong.

Like you dad?

His father laughed and ruffled his curls. Shh my Starfish and listen to the story of Arroyo the Saviour.

So Percy snuggled into his cotton sheets, a panda pillow tucked under his chin and blinked up in anticipation.

Arroyo was a little boy who lived with his mom and his sister and his sibling, near the ocean. Everyday little Arroyo went down to the docks with his sibling and they would stand there selling bracelets their family made. It was the only way they could get money to eat.

Did their king not give them food dad? His green eyes were wide with horror.

Not everyone is kind my son. Some days little Arroyo and his sibling came back with no money and his mom would smile at them and say "It is okay. Today we eat fish and tomorrow we feast." So they sat down at the table and ate their fish just like they did every night and not once did Arroyo or his siblings complain. For they knew that a tomorrow would come where the feast would be greater than the fish and it was no use leaving today's meal in the hope of tomorrow's promises.

Little Percy frowned, confused at what his father was trying to say. But the King was lost in his own world now, matching ocean eyes far away from this bedroom, in this time and place.

One day Arroyo's mother got sick and his siblings stayed with her while he went to sell bracelets. But when he got home, a small pouch of coins rattling in his pocket, his house was rubble and his family were gone.

Gone? Percy gasped, Where dad? What happened?

His father snapped his head to the present, looked down at his son. They died my Starfish. Someone killed them.

Tears pooled hot and fast in his little eyes, Why dad?

Because Starfish Arroyo's mother was not who she claimed to be and people do not like what they do not understand. But nobody knew that Arroyo was safe, that he had made it out alive. And when he finally grew up, his mother's blood strong in his veins he came back to the village. And there he demanded to see the people who had layed his home to waste all those years ago. The people trembled before him, his might and vengeance a force they could not tame. Arroyo only asked once. And when nobody could tell him anything he smiled with his teeth and drowned the town. His tail creating waves that engulfed the world.

Arroyo was a mermaid? Percy didn't like it when dad told stories, he always left things out and it was confusing to listen to.

He was a beast my Starfish. His father said softly, eyes glittering with excitement, For you see his mother was the Exiled Queen of the Ocean and she had fallen in love with a mortal man. A forbidden romance.

So what happened to Arroyo? Did he kill everyone?

He drowned the village but saved one person. A little girl by the name of Mare for she had looked at him, with his burning anger and broken soul, and offered him the pearl she kept in a pendant at her neck. For her he bowed down and accepted the gift.

Did she become his queen dad?

No Starfish, she was much too young. Instead Arroyo took her to his home deep deep in the waves and she lived there as his friend, as his family. But sometimes Mare had to go to land for she did not have the blood Arroyo did and she could not survive in those brutal waters for long. Arroyo would take her there every full moon and bring her home every new moon. One night when she was due back on land a terrible, terrible force lurked in the water. But Arroyo didn't feel it and Mare could never have known. They said their goodbyes as they always did, promising to see each other soon.

Percy squeezed his father fingers, little lip trembling slightly.

Arroyo dived back in but something slammed into his side. He smashed into the rocks of the village and the whole town quaked. The creature attacked Arroyo, its huge body and spiked tail hitting him everywhere. Mare screamed but there was nothing she could do. And then Arroyo came up to look at her because he knew in his heart that he was not to survive this fight. He waved to his friend, his family through the years and when she waved back the monster rose from the waves and bit Arroyo. He went down so softly it was almost as if he had chosen to sleep. Mare knew the monster would come for her village next and she would not allow it to destroy the only other thing she loved. So she grabbed a sword, sharp gleaming silver, and ran across the ocean. Her feet light and swift against the rolling waves. The creature burst out in a flurry of rage but it was not prepared for the strength of Mare and when it met her sword it let out a shriek so vile the dead curdled. Blood sprayed everywhere as the sword fell from her hand and into the waves below.

Did Mare live dad? He yawned, fear giving away to sleepiness.

Mare is the spirit of the ocean my son. She lives in here. His father tapped his little chest softly before bending down to place a kiss on his forehead.

I hope I'm brave like Mare dad.

You are braver still my Starfish. He whispered.

Percy blinks out of the memory, rubbing at the ache in his chest that accompanied every thought about his dad. It has been more than a decade since that fateful night but the missing never gets easier.

He hugs his knees to his chest and watches two birds fight over a small peach dangling precariously from the tree. Such simple pleasures and petties. There are at least sixty other peaches, just as perfectly red and ripe, on the tree but these birds continue to chirp indignantly at each other. He wonders if it's purposeful. If maybe they just want the connection. It's not really about the peach. It's about having someone to argue against, talk to, be with. Gods, he scowls at himself, he must really be lonely if it's come to this.

The bench suddenly becomes uncomfortable, like every splint of wood is trying to pierce his skin. With a heavy sigh he pulls himself up and strolls towards the stone castle. In the week that he's been here it still hasn't felt any more friendly. He misses his castle, misses the home he has there. But his husband is here so he must be too. At the very least Grover will arrive this afternoon and they can spend some time together. He needs this meeting, needs to see his friend and some semblance of normal. A little voice in his head argues that he's the one who's been straying from his angered promises. The one that's been sleeping besides Jason under the pretense of nightmares. He pushes the little voice deep down, buries it in the darkness where it can shiver and cower without his knowledge or concern. As if his thoughts summon the man, his husband appears around the corner and offers him a swift smile.

"I was just coming to find you."

"You've changed." Is his reply.

Prince Jason did indeed don a new outfit. Perfectly pressed tunic the colour of the sky and a gold chain attached dangling from the small square pocket on his left breast to the first button of the coat. His pants are a deep blue, the same golden threads glinting in the sunlight. But it's the small white rose tucked into his chest pocket that Percy is focused on.

"What is that?"

"When we mourn in the kingdom we wear white roses to signify gentle death and prosperous living."

He nods stiffly, unsure if it's appropriate to ask if he may participate in the custom. Luckily he is saved when Jason's blue eyes pin on him, "Would you like to wear one?"

"Please. This is my Kingdom now too. I feel it would be a great disrespect to not."

The prince looked at him, blonde hair ruffling softly as the breeze caressed their skin and flittered between his dancing fingers. He stood there unmoving while his husband studied him like a Rubik’s cube that needed just the right pattern to fix it.

"Come with me."

They walk together, through the field of poppies bursting with colour, past the grove of fruit trees equally bright and heavy with sweet delights, over the small bridge that marks the Pond of Storms, or at least according to the plaqued waterfall that fed it.

"Why that name?"

"Just before a storm hits the water goes pitch black like storm clouds."

He stares at the clear, brilliant aquamarine of the pond, his rippling reflection staring back and wonders if it's a lie, or a wives' tale.

"You still owe me a story."

"About?"

They cross the bridge and turn a corner.

"About your insignia."

"Why do you like them so much?" Jason turns to him, curiosity burning in his expression, "Stories I mean."

"They're the easiest way to understand the core of something. A language only the lived know how to speak."

"I've heard about yours, your symbol."

"How?" He's the intrigued one now.

"My father liked us to know about the neighboring kingdoms. I never understood it then, always managed to fall asleep in our history lessons, but I guess it's been helpful."

"My mother didn't know yours." He says softly, "She is the Keeper of Worlds so she was able to tell me all kinds of tales but she said she never knew the origins of Caelum."

The Prince shakes his head, "It's only passed down from king to to descendant. Sharing it with anyone is a crime against the kingdom."

Percy's head snaps back in shock, "For telling a story?"

His husband just shrugs like its the most normal thing in the world.

"Why would you tell me then?"

"Sometimes tradition is bullshit."

"But you'd still be committing a crime?"

"Gives life a little thrill." His smile is wicked as he winks an aquamarine eye and steps through the small wooden door built into the hedge.

"Welcome to the Garden of Hearts."

Spread out before them is a sea of roses so glorious in their beauty it makes Percy's soul stutter. There is every colour under the setting sun. Starting with bleach white the roses lay across the field bleeding into cream then yellow then orange then red then pink. Rows upon rows of soft love and romance.

He doesn't manage to hold in a gasp as he drops to his knees and caresses a maroon petal. The tears in his eyes go unacknowledged even when they spill over and water the earth. He's almost certain the flower blooms in his hand.

"This is..." He breathes. He doesn't have the words. They are dust particles violently swept under a rug. They are grains of sand smashed into the earth under the weight of feet. They are simply gone.

"I'm glad you like it." Jason smiles at him and the halo of sun around his head makes Percy weak at the knees.

"Who did this? Who planted this?"

"My sister, Annabeth." The blonde looks around, caught in a time long ago, "She did it in memory of our mom."

"It reminds me of mine."

What he doesn't tell his husband is that more than that, it reminds him of a friend he left far behind. Of a friend he was willing to marry. A friend he was willing to love.

He reaches forward and plucks a satin white rose from the small bush. But as he's pulling away his finger catches on a thorn and suddenly the rose is disintegrating to the floor and those pure white petals are splattered with rubies.

"Fuck." He mutters sucking on the wounded skin in an attempt to stop the blood.

"Here," Jason winces in sympathy, holding out a bleached pocket square.

"Thank you," He offers a gracious smile through the sting of pain. "And I'm sorry about the roses."

"It's okay, the blood will wash off with the next rains."

He just nods and cradles his throbbing digit.

"Are you okay?"

"I've been stabbed before but somehow the little cuts always hurt the worst."

For the first time in well maybe ever, he hears his husband laugh. And it is godlike, a thing of beauty and splendour. Something deep in his chest unfurls gently.

"We'll go inside and get some disinfectant and a plaster on that." Jason promises before bending down to cut another rose, carefully extracting it from the web of thorns and leaves it buried itself in.

"Here," He offers it.

Percy takes a step closer, still clutching his finger, and silently asks if he can put it on for him. Those blue eyes widen slightly, but that's all the surprise the Prince shows.

They step together and the blonde softly places the flower in his emerald green tunic. Jason smooths his hand over the area distractedly and stares up at him. Their eyes clash in a look of confusion, and curiosity, and something wholly unnatural.

"We should go." The Prince whispers.

He swallows hard and nods but neither make a move. He can smell his husband’s fresh minty breath and see the micro flecks of grey in those eyes. Gods, how has he never noticed how strong his jaw is. How there's the tiniest beauty-mark on the bridge of his nose. And the small crease in his brow that makes his whole face look so much older, look like the king he will one day be.

A cacophonous shriek from above rips them apart in a jump of fright. The low gliding hawk over head seems to narrow its eyes at the pair before flying back to its master. Report on the Princes: they've almost started tolerating each other.

Jason turns away and starts for the carved door once more. Percy stares at his back, trying to gather himself, swiping the borrowed pocket square across his bruising skin. His kingdom's maxim flashes in his mind again. Datum amore ad defendendum. Given in love for protection. He takes a shaky breath before following his husband back to the castle.

The Pond of Storms flushes charcoal. And behind him, where his blood had spilled, the petals of an ice-white rose turn crimson.

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

If you missed it: militat omnis amans means every lover is a soldier; Datum amore ad defendendum means given in love for protection.

Tags (if you want to be added to/ taken off the tag list just let me know, all my channels of communication are open):

@nishlicious-01

@queen-of-demons-and-hell

@leydiangelo

@sparkythunderstorm

@aalikun

@makos-bi-awakening

34 notes · View notes

sora-writes-things · 4 years

Text

Protection

IDV AU Oneshot (Body Guard AU)

Content Warnings: Mainly just cursing. A bit of blood, but it’s brief and isn’t much to worry about. Barely worth mentioning, actually.

Enjoy!

———————————————————————

Luca was... A very strange person, to put it lightly.

He was a pretty nice guy, but he just had a lot of little quirks about him that honestly made Aesop question things a little bit.

Yeah, the guy was a really smart inventor, and he was really good with technology and stuff, but god was he crazy as hell sometimes. He’d go from calmly talking about a machine he’s working on, to all of a sudden standing up defiantly on the work table and challenging God to a sword duel or something.

Moments like that led Aesop to thinking that maybe this “Luca Balsa” guy didn’t actually need his help. That he didn’t really need his protection, but he just wanted it to say he had it.

In fact, Aesop wasn’t even sure that anybody was actually going to try to hurt him. Was he well-known enough to have assassins after him? Were there people who legitimately wanted him dead? Sure, Luca was quite a bastard at times, but to assume that someone would get that pissed off at something he’d said was a bit of a stretch...

...Or so it seemed.

“C’mon Acey! Come sit next to me!” A smug smile spread across the inventor’s face as he patted the seat next to him. “You know you want to~”

Aesop sighed, crossing his arms and sitting in the chair next to his client. “Please stop calling me ‘Acey’... Makes me think it’s a nickname for a dog or something.”

“Whoops, my bad. I’ll shorten it to Ace then.”

Aesop rolled his eyes, but allowed a light smile to appear on his face for a brief instant. Luca was a pain in the ass sometimes, but he really was a great guy to be around. Chaotic, for sure, but wonderfully enthusiastic nonetheless.

“Oh uh... Unless you don’t... like that nickname?”

Aesop snapped out of his thoughts at the slightly hesitant question. “Uhh... Ace is fine. I don’t really mind.”

Luca smiled. “Let’s just enjoy the show. Tracy said it was pretty good.” He leaned over towards Aesop a little bit, which caused him to flinch slightly.

The young body guard lifted a hand to his face, trying to hide the fact that he was blushing ever so slightly. Dammit. This was not what he was supposed to be doing. He was meant to be on the lookout for threats, not sitting here cuddling with his client.

...Although... It was pretty nice to relax for a bit with someone else in his company.

“...You know I’m here to protect you, right?”

“I know!” Luca snuggled up closer to Aesop. “But you still make a really good pillow.”

The silver-haired body guard was silent for a moment. “Fuck, why am I soft now?” He murmured under his breath finally, his voice barely audible.

“What was that?” Luca asked, turning his head and looking up at his guard.

Aesop turned his head away, his face turning bright red. “Nothing. It’s fine.”

He looked out over the sea of people below their parlor seats, scanning them and trying to scope out which ones might cause trouble. He didn’t see anyone suspicious... Hopefully it stayed that way. He really didn’t want to have to make things ugly if he could avoid it.

Luca took ahold of Aesop’s arm and held it close, cuddling it like he would a beloved stuffed animal... Which only made the body guard even more distracted.

Part of him wanted to tell him to back off. He was being a huge distraction, and it was his own life that was at risk here.

...But Aesop couldn’t force himself to do it. It felt so nice... Having someone leaning into him, trusting him with all his heart, and feeling safe under his protection... It was a feeling Aesop hadn’t felt with anyone else before.

He was brought out of his thoughts as the theater lights went out, and a spotlight turned on, following a beautiful female actress in a flowing, near-white dress that was lined with light pink fur as she walked onto the stage, making a few opening statements before she exited the stage, getting ready for the performance.

Aesop was turning his head to look down at Luca when something caught his attention.

Past the curtain behind him, he could see a dark silhouette of a hooded figure... slowly lifting up what looked like some type of a rifle.

Aesop felt his heart begin to race as he immediately picked up on the threat, abruptly pulling away from Luca’s gentle grasp as he shot up out of his chair, drawing a gleaming, silver dagger out of a holster in his pocket.

Luca sat upright, tilting his head to the side as Aesop made a mad dash out of the parlor room without saying a word.

The silver-haired body guard wasted no time in throwing himself at the hooded to-be killer, holding his dagger up to the man’s neck while trying to wrestle the rifle from his hands.

A gleam of determination appeared in the assassin’s ice-blue eyes as he twisted his body around, grabbing ahold of Aesop’s hand and pinning the blade against the young man’s own neck, using his rifle to keep him restrained against his body.

Fuck, this guy was tough.

“Get out of the way, kid. I’ve got work to do here,” the assassin hissed, an almost regretful tone in his voice.

Aesop went still for a brief instant before he suddenly lashed out, making a noise that resembled a growl as he kicked backwards against the assassin’s legs, causing him to stagger back and let him go.

He quickly tore the dagger out of the assassin’s hand and, acting on instincts alone, slashed at the hooded man’s arm, causing him to cry out in a mix of pain and alarm as he was forced to drop his rifle.

While he was distracted, Aesop slammed his body weight into him and pressed him against the wall, making him unable to move.

He looked down at the sleeve of his jacket, which was stained red with blood, and he clicked his tongue a few times, as if he were disappointed. “Damn... What a shame.”

He looked the assassin in the eyes, his expression completely deadpan. “You got blood on my favorite jacket.”

The attacker swallowed hard, a slight glint of fear in his icy-blue eyes.

“Now talk. Who are you, who sent you, and why is Mr. Balsa your target?” Aesop demanded, the somewhat light-hearted gleam in his eyes vanishing.

“Naib Subedar. That’s my name.” He huffed, as if worn out by the struggle. “I was just sent by some dude on the streets. Don’t know his name. I didn’t care enough to find it out.”

“Strange thing for a hired assassin to say,” Aesop growled.

“I swear, it’s the truth. I very rarely find out my clients’ names. I only do this to make money. It’s nothing personal towards him.” Naib said defensively. “The guy offered me a really good price. I had to take it. Luca Balsa isn’t worth as much as that bounty is.”

For some strange reason, Aesop found himself overcome with rage at the statement. He suddenly slammed his hands against Naib’s shoulders in his anger, causing him to flinch.

“Don’t you dare talk about my client that way. He’s worth everything in the world, and if you could even start to consider otherwise, your heart is as cold and ruthless as-“ He cut himself off, realizing where his thoughts were going.

No. He’d never give that bastard that kind of credit. Saying that would make him seem like a better person, and he certainly didn’t deserve that.

Aesop shook his head. “You get my point.” He felt his face beginning to burn as he began to realize what he’d said about Luca. He sighed, turning his head away and loosening his grip on Naib’s shoulder.

The assassin gave him a look of confusion, and opened his mouth to ask a question, but was quickly silenced.

“Get out of here. Leave, and never, ever try to hurt Mr. Balsa again. If you do...” Aesop looked at the assassin with a look that was as cold as ice. “I won’t just let you go with nothing more than a slit wrist and a bruised sense of dignity. You won’t be getting away with life still in your body. Understand?”

Naib scrambled back frantically, nodding his head before snagging his rifle off of the ground and beelining out of the theater, not even casting a second glance back at the young body guard.

Aesop watched him go, his hand slowly rising to his neck, where he felt a small bead of blood touch the tip of his finger.

Oh... So the guy actually did manage to land a scratch.

He drew back his hand and stared at the small drop of blood, completely unfazed by it. It was only a small cut. It would heal.

For now... He needed to go back to the one he was meant to protect. He could deal with his injury later. Luca needed him to make sure he was safe.

He turned back towards the parlor room and slipped in silently past the curtains, just as Lady Bella began to sing from the center of the stage.

Luca glanced over his shoulder, his gaze lighting up at the sight of his body guard. “Ace! You’re just in time! The play is starting!”

The silver-haired guard gave a soft smile as he sat down next to his client and allowed him to lean into him, as he had before.

They watched as the woman in the flowing white dress danced across the stage, her melodious voice echoing throughout the theater alongside the sounds of instruments playing in the background.

‘Who am I? A dream, or a lie? Living on the praises, lifted me high.’

Aesop felt Luca’s hand slowly crept into the palm of his own; an action which would have normally made the young man slightly uncomfortable, but provided him a sense of security for once.

‘Bella Donna! Bella Donna! Who can hear the “Tick Tock”, hiding in the crystalline.’

A smile drifted across his face and, for once, he didn’t try to hide it. He instead, chose to embrace it.

This was his purpose. To make the one he served feel as safe as he could. And if he felt safe enough to lean into his embrace without hesitation?

He was doing his job flawlessly.

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96harmony96 · 3 years

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Chapter 19

Cary joined us in the living room for excellent Chinese, a sweet plum wine, and Monday night television. As we flipped channels and laughed over the hilarious names of some reality television shows, I watched as two of the most important people in my life enjoyed some relaxation time and each other. They got along well, ribbing and playfully insulting each other in that way friends had. I’d never seen that side of Lauren before and I loved it.

While I hogged one whole side of our sectional sofa, the two sat cross-legged on the floor and used the coffee table as a dining table. Both were wearing loose sweatpants and fitted T-shirts, and I appreciated the view. Was I a lucky girl or what?

Cracking his knuckles, Cary dramatically prepared to open his fortune cookie. “Let’s see. Will I be rich? Famous? About to meet Mr. or Ms. Tall, Dark, and Tasty? Traveling to distant lands? What’d you guys get?”

“Mine’s lame,” I said. “In the end all things will be known. Duh. I didn’t need a fortune to figure that out.”

Lauren opened hers and read, “Prosperity will knock on your door soon.”

I snorted.

Cary shot me a look. “I know, right? You snatched someone else’s cookie, Jauregui.”

“she better not be anywhere near someone else’s cookie,” I said dryly.

Reaching over, Lauren plucked half of mine out of my fingers. “Don’t worry, angel. Your cookie is the only one I want.” she popped it in her mouth with a wink.

“Gag,” Cary muttered. “Get a room.” He cracked his fortune with a flourish, and then scowled. “What the fuck?”

I leaned forward. “What’s it say?”

“Confucius say,” Lauren ad-libbed, “man with hand in pocket feel cocky all day.”

Cary threw half his cookie at Lauren, who caught it deftly and grinned.

“Give me that.” I snatched the fortune out from between Cary’s fingers and read it. Then laughed.

“Fuck you, Camila.”

“Well?” Lauren prodded.

“Pick another cookie.”

Lauren smiled. “Pwned by a fortune.”

Cary threw the other half of his cookie.

I was reminded of similar evenings spent with Cary when I was attending SDSU, which made me try and picture what Lauren had been like in college. From the articles I’d read, I knew she’d attended Columbia for her undergraduate studies, then left to focus on her expanding business interests.

Had she associated with the other students? Did she go to frat parties, screw around and/or drink too much? she was such a controlled woman, I had a hard time picturing her that carefree, and yet here she was being exactly that with me and Cary.

she glanced at me then, still smiling, and my heart turned over in my chest. she looked her age for once, young and seriously fine and so very normal. At that moment, we were just a twenty-something couple relaxing at home with a roommate and a remote control. she was just my girlfriend, hanging out. It was all so sweet and uncomplicated, and I found the illusion a poignant one.

The intercom buzzed and Cary leaped to his feet to answer it. He glanced at me with a smile. “Maybe it’s Trey.”

I held up a hand with my fingers crossed.

But when Cary answered the door a few minutes later, it was the leggy blonde from the other night who came in.

“Hey,” she said, taking in the remnants of dinner on the table. She eyed Lauren appraisingly as she politely unfolded and stood in that powerfully graceful way of her. She shot me a smirk; then unleashed a dazzling supermodel smile on Lauren and held out her hand. “Tatiana Cherlin.”

she shook her hand. “Camila’s girlfriend.”

My brows lifted at her introduction. Was she protecting her identity? Or her personal space? Either way, I liked her response.

Cary came back into the room with a bottle of wine and two glasses. “Come on,” he said, gestured down the hallway to his bedroom.

Tatiana gave a little wave and preceded Cary out. I mouthed behind her back to Cary, What are you doing?

He winked and whispered, “Picking another cookie.”

Lauren and I called it a night shortly after and headed to my room. As we got ready for bed, I asked her something I’d wondered about earlier. “Did you have a fuck pad in college, too?”

Her T-shirt cleared her head. “Excuse me?”

“You know, like the hotel room. You’re a randy girl. I just wondered if you’d had some kind of setup even then.”

she was shaking her head as I ogled her divinely perfect torso and lean hips. “I’ve had as much sex since I met you as I’ve had in the last two years combined.”

“No way.”

“I work hard and I work out harder, both of which keep me pleasantly exhausted most of the time. Occasionally, I might’ve gotten an offer I didn’t refuse, but otherwise I could take or leave sex until I met you.”

“Bullshit.” I found that impossible to believe.

she shot me a look before she headed toward the bathroom with a black leather toiletry bag. “Keep doubting me, Camila. See what happens.”

“What?” I followed her, enjoying the sight of her delectable ass. “You’re going to prove that you can take or leave sex by doing me again?”

“It takes two.” she opened her bag and pulled out a new toothbrush that she extricated from its packaging and dropped into my toothbrush holder. “You’ve initiated sex between us as much as I have. You need the connection as much as I do.”

“You’re right. It’s just…”

“Just what?” she pulled open a drawer, frowned at finding it full, and moved on to pull open another.

“Other sink,” I said, smiling at her presumption that she would get drawers at my place, too, and her scowl when she couldn’t find them. “They’re all yours.”

Lauren moved over to the second sink and began unpacking her bag into the drawers. “Just what?” She repeated, taking shampoo and body wash over to my shower.

Leaning my hip into the sink and crossing my arms, I watched her stake her claim all over my bathroom. There was no doubt that’s what she was doing, just as there was no doubt that anyone walking into the room would know right away there was a someone in my life.

It struck me then that I had a similar claim on her private space. Her household staff had to know their boss was in a committed relationship now. The thought gave me a little thrill.

“I was thinking about you in college earlier,” I went on, “when we were eating dinner, imagining what it would be like to see you around on campus. I would’ve been obsessed with you. I would have gone out of my way to see you around just to enjoy the view. I would’ve tried to get in the same classes as you, so I could daydream during lectures about getting into your pants.”

“Sex maniac.” she kissed the tip of my nose as she passed me and went to brush her teeth. “We both know what would’ve happened once I saw you.”

I brushed my hair and teeth; then washed my face. “So…did you have a sex pad for the rare occasions some lucky bitch got you in bed?”

Her gaze caught my soapy reflection in the mirror. “I’ve always used the hotel.”

“That’s the only place you’ve had sex? Before me?”

“The only place I’ve had consensual sex,” she said quietly, “before you.”

“Oh.” My heart broke.

I walked over to her, hugging her from behind. I rubbed my cheek against her back.

We went to bed and wrapped ourselves around each other. I buried my face in her neck and breathed her in, snuggling. Her body was hard, yet it was wonderfully comfortable against mine. she was so warm and strong, so powerfully female. I only had to think of her to want her.

I slid my leg over her hips and rose above her, my hands splayed atop the ridges of her abdomen. It was dark, I couldn’t see her, but I didn’t need to. As much as I loved that face of hers—the one ahe resented at times—it was the way she touched me and murmured to me that really got to me. As if there was no one else in the world for her, nothing ahe wanted more.

“Lauren.” I didn’t need to say anything else.

Sitting up, she wrapped her arms around me and kissed me deeply. Then she rolled me beneath her and made love to me with a tender possessiveness that rocked me to the soul.

I woke with a jolt of surprise. A heavy weight crushed me and a harsh voice spit ugly, nasty words into my ear. Panic gripped me, cutting off my air.

Not again. No…Please, no…

My stepbrother’s hand covered my mouth and he yanked my legs apart. I felt the hard thing between his legs poking blindly, trying to push into my body. My scream was muffled by his palm smashed over my lips and I cringed away, my heart pounding so hard I thought it would burst. Nathan was so heavy. So heavy and strong. I couldn’t buck him off. I couldn’t shove him away.

Stop it! Get off me. Don’t touch me. Oh, God…please don’t do that to me…not again…

Where was Mama? Ma-ma!

I screamed, but Nathan’s hand covered my mouth. It pressed down on me, squashing my head into the pillow. The more I fought, the more excited he became. Panting like a dog, he rammed against me over and over…trying to shove himself inside me…

“You’re going to know what it feels like.”

I froze. I knew that voice. I knew it wasn’t Nathan’s.

Not a dream. Still a nightmare.

God, no. Blinking madly in the darkness, I struggled to see. The blood was roaring through my ears. I couldn’t hear.

But I knew the smell of her skin. Knew her touch, even when it was cruel. Knew the feel of her body on mine, even as it tried to invade me.

Lauren’s erection battered into the crease of my thigh. Panicked, I heaved upward with all my strength. Her hand on my face dislodged.

Sucking air into my lungs, I screamed.

Her chest heaved as she growled, “Not so neat and tidy when you’re the one getting fucked.”

“Crossfire,” I gasped.

A flash of light from the hallway blinded me, followed by the blessed removal of Lauren’s smothering weight. Rolling to my side, I sobbed, my eyes streaming tears that blurred my view of Cary shoving Lauren across the room and into the wall, denting the drywall.

“Camila! Are you okay?” Cary turned on the bedside light, cursing when he saw me curled in a fetal position, rocking violently.

When Lauren straightened, Cary rounded on her. “Move one fucking muscle before the cops get here and I’ll beat you to a bloody pulp!”

Swallowing past my burning throat, I pushed up to a seated position. My gaze locked with Lauren’s and I watched the haze of sleep leave her eyes, replaced by a dawning horror.

“Dream,” I choked out, catching Cary’s arm as he reached for the phone. “she’s d-dreaming.”

Cary glanced at where Lauren crouched naked on the floor like a wild animal. Cary’s arm dropped back to his side. “Jesus Christ,” he breathed. “And I thought I was fucked up.”

Sliding off the bed, I stood on shaky legs, sick with lingering fear. My knees gave out and Cary caught me, lowering to the floor with me and holding me as I cried.

“I’m gonna crash on the couch.” Cary ran a hand through his sleep-mussed hair and leaned into the hallway wall. The door to my bedroom was open behind me and Lauren was inside, looking pale and haunted. “I’ll set out some blankets and pillows for her, too. I don’t think she should go home alone. she’s shredded.”

“Thanks, Cary.” The arms I had wrapped around my middle tightened. “Is Tatiana still here?”

“Hell, no. It’s not like that. We just fuck.”

“What about Trey?” I asked quietly, my mind already drifting back to Lauren.

“I love Trey. I think he’s the best person I’ve ever met aside from you.” He bent forward and kissed my forehead. “And what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. Stop worrying about me and take care of you.”

I looked up at him, my eyes swimming in tears. “I don’t know what to do.”

Cary sighed, his green eyes dark and serious. “I think you need to decide if you’re in over your head, baby girl. Some people can’t be fixed. Look at me. I’ve got a great guy and I’m giving it to a girl I can’t stand.”

“Cary…” Reaching out, I touched his shoulder.

He caught my hand and squeezed it. “I’m here if you need me.”

Lauren was zipping up her duffel bag when I returned to my room. she looked at me and fear slithered in my gut. Not for me, but for her. I’d never seen anyone look so desolate, so utterly broken. The bleakness in her beautiful eyes frightened me. There was no life in her. she was gray as death with deep shadows in all the angles and planes of her breathtaking face.

“What are you doing?” I whispered.

she backed up, as if she wanted to be as far away from me as she could get. “I can’t stay.”

It worried me that I felt a surge of relief at the thought of being alone. “We agreed—no running.”

“That was before I attacked you!” She snapped, showing the first sign of spirit in over an hour.

“You were unconscious.”

“You’re not going to be a victim ever again, Camila. My God…what I almost did to you…” she turned her back to me, her shoulders hunched in a way that scared me as much as the attack had.

“If you leave, we lose and our pasts win.” I saw my words hit her like a blow. Every light in my room was on, as if electricity alone could banish all the shadows on our souls. “If you give up now, I’m afraid it’ll be easier for you to stay away and for me to let you. We’ll be over, Lauren.”

“How can I stay? Why would you want me to?” Turning around, she looked at me with such longing it brought fresh tears to my eyes. “I’d kill myself before I hurt you.”

Which was one of my fears. I had a difficult time picturing the Lauren I knew—the dominant, willful force of nature—taking her own life, but the Lauren standing before me was an entirely different person. And she was the child of a suicidal parent.

My fingers plucked at the hem of my T-shirt. “You’d never hurt me.”

“You’re afraid of me,” she said hoarsely. “I can see it on your face. I’m afraid of me. Afraid of sleeping with you and doing something that will destroy us both.”

she was right. I was afraid. Dread chilled my stomach.

Now I knew the explosive violence in her. The festering fury. And we were so impassioned with each other. I’d slapped her face at the garden party, lashing out physically when I never did that.

It was the nature of our relationship to be lusty and emotional, earthy and raw. The trust that held us together also opened us up to each other in ways that made us both vulnerable and dangerous. And it would get worse before it got better.

she shoved a hand through her hair. “Camila, I—”

“I love you, Lauren.”

“God.” she looked at me with something that resembled disgust. Whether it was directed at me or herself, I didn’t know. “How can you say that?”

“Because it’s the truth.”

“You just see this”—she gestured at herself with a wave of her hand. “You’re not seeing the fucked-up, broken mess inside.”

I inhaled sharply. “You can say that to me? When you know I’m fucked up and broken, too?”

“Maybe you’re wired to go for someone who’s terrible for you,” she said bitterly.

“Stop it. I know you’re hurting, but lashing out at me is only going to make you hurt worse.” I glanced at the clock and saw it was four in the morning. I walked toward her, needing to get past my fear of touching her and being touched by her.

she held up a hand as if to hold me off. “I’m going home, Camila.”

“Sleep on the couch here. Don’t fight me about this, Lauren. Please. I’ll worry myself sick if you go.”

“You’ll be more worried if I stay.” she stared at me, looking lost and angry and filled with terrible yearning. Her eyes pleaded with me for forgiveness, but she wouldn’t accept it when I tried to give it to her.

I went to her and took her hand, fighting back the surge of apprehension that hit me when we touched. My nerves were still raw, my throat and mouth still sore, the memory of her attempts at penetration—so like Nathan’s—were still too fresh. “We’ll g-get through this,” I promised her, hating that my voice quavered. “You’ll talk to Dr. Petersen and we’ll go from there.”

Her hand lifted as if to touch my face. “If Cary hadn’t been here—”

“He was, and I’ll be fine. I love you. We’ll get past this.” I walked into her, hugging her, pushing my hands beneath her shirt to touch her bare skin. “We’re not going to let the past get in the way of what we have.”

I wasn’t sure which of us I was trying to convince.

“Camila.” Her returning hug squeezed all of the air out of me. “I’m sorry. It’s killing me. Please. Forgive me…I can’t lose you.”

“You won’t.” My eyes closed, focusing on the feel of her. The smell of her. Remembering that I once feared nothing when I was with her.

“I’m so sorry.” Her shaking hands stroked the curve of my spine. “I’ll do anything…”

“Shh. I love you. We’ll be okay.”

Turning her head, she kissed me softly. “Forgive me, Camila. I need you. I’m afraid of what I’ll become if I lose you…”

“I’m not going anywhere.” My skin tingled beneath the restless glide of her hands on my back. “I’m right here. No more running.”

she paused, her breath gusting harshly against my lips. Then she tilted her head and sealed her mouth over mine. My body responded to the gentle coaxing of her kiss. I arched into her without volition, pulling her closer.

she cupped my breasts in her hands, kneading them, circling the pads of her thumbs over my nipples until they peaked and ached. I moaned with a mixture of fear and hunger, and she quivered at the sound.

“Camila…?”

“I—I can’t.” The memory of how I’d woken up was too fresh in my mind. It hurt me to deny her, knowing she needed the same thing from me as I’d needed from her when I told her about Nathan—proof that the desire was still there, that as ugly as the scars of our pasts were, they didn’t affect what we were to each other now.

But I couldn’t give her that. Not yet. I felt too raw and vulnerable. “Just hold me, Lauren. Please.”

she nodded, wrapping her arms around me.

I urged her to sink to the floor with me, hoping I could get her to fall asleep. I curled into her side, my leg thrown over her, my arm draped over her hard stomach. she squeezed me gently, pressing her lips to my forehead, whispering over and over again how sorry she was.

“Don’t leave me,” I whispered. “Stay.”

Lauren didn’t answer, didn’t make any promises, but she didn’t let me go either.

I woke sometime later, hearing Lauren’s heart beating steadily beneath my ear. All the lights were still on, and the carpeted floor was hard and uncomfortable.

Lauren lay on her back, her beautiful face youthful in sleep, her shirt lifted just enough to expose her navel and the ripped muscles of her abdomen.

This was the woman I loved. This was the woman whose body gave me such pleasure, whose thoughtfulness moved me over and over again. she was still here. And from the frown that marred the space between her brows, she was still hurting.

I slid my hand into her sweatpants. For the first time since we’d been together, she wasn’t hot steel in my palms, but she quickly swelled and thickened as I tentatively stroked her from root to tip. Fear lingered just beneath my arousal, but I was more afraid of losing her than of living with the demons inside her.

she stirred, her arm tightening around my back. “Camila…?”

This time I answered her the way I couldn’t before. “Let’s forget,” I breathed into her mouth. “Make us forget.”

“Camila.”

she rolled into me, peeling my shirt off with cautious movements. I was similarly tentative in undressing her. We approached each other as if each of us was breakable. The bond between us was fragile just then, both of us apprehensive about the future and the wounds we could inflict with all of our jagged edges.

Her lips wrapped around my nipple, her cheeks hollowing slowly, her seduction subdued. The tender suckling felt so good I gasped and arched into her hand. she caressed my side from breast to hip and back again, over and over, gentling me as my heart raced wildly.

she kissed across my chest to the other breast, murmuring words of apology and need in a voice broken by regret and misery. Her tongue lapped at the hardened point, worrying it, before surrounding it with wet heat and suction.

“lauren.” The delicate pulls expertly coaxed desire through my skittish mind. My body was already lost in her, greedily seeking the pleasure and beauty of her.

“Don’t be afraid of me,” she whispered. “Don’t pull away.”

she kissed my navel, and then moved lower, her hair caressing my stomach as she settled between my legs. she held me open with shaking hands and nuzzled my clit. her light, teasing licks through my cleft and the fluttering dips into my trembling sex took me to the edge of insanity.

My back bowed. Hoarse pleas left my lips. Tension spread through my body, tightening everything until I felt like I might snap under the pressure. And then she pushed me into orgasm with the softest nudge of the tip of her tongue.

I cried out, heated relief pulsing through my writhing body.

“I can’t let you go, camila.” lauren levered over me as I vibrated with pleasure. “I can’t.”

Brushing away the tear tracks from her face, I stared into her reddened eyes. Her torment was painful for me to witness, hurting my heart. “I wouldn’t let you if you tried.”

she took herself in hand and fed her cock slowly, carefully into me. My head pressed hard into the floor as she sank deeper, possessing my body one thick inch at a time.

When I’d taken all of her, she began to move in measured, deliberate thrusts. I closed my eyes and focused on the connection between us. Then she settled onto me, her stomach pressed to mine, and my pulse leaped with panic. Abruptly frightened, I hesitated.

“Look at me, camila.” Her voice was so hoarse it was unrecognizable.

I did, and saw her anguish.

“Make love to me,” she begged in a breathless whisper. “Make love with me. Touch me, angel. Put your hands on me.”

“Yes.” My palms pressed flat to her back; then stroked over the quivering muscles to her ass. Squeezing the hard flexing flesh, I urged her to move faster, plunge deeper.

The rhythmic strokes of her heavy cock through the clenching depths of my sex pushed ecstasy through me in heated waves. she felt so good. My legs wrapped around her plunging hips, my breath quickening as the cold knot inside me began to melt. Our gazes held.

Tears coursed down my temples. “I love you, lauren.”

“Please…” her eyes squeezed shut.

“I love you.”

she lured me to orgasm with the skilled rolling of her hips, stirring her cock inside me. My sex clenched tightly, trying to hold her, trying to keep her deep in me.

“Come, camila,” she gasped against my throat.

I struggled for it, struggled to get past the lingering apprehension that came from having her on top of me. The anxiety mingled with the desire, keeping me on edge.

she made a hoarse sound filled with pain and regret. “Need you to come, camila…need to feel you…Please…”

Cupping my buttocks, she angled my hips and stroked over and over that sensitive spot inside me. she was tireless, relentless, fucking me long and hard until my mind lost control of my body and I came violently. I bit her shoulder to stem my cries as I shook beneath her, the tiny muscles inside me trembling with ecstatic ripples. she groaned deep in her chest, a serrated sound of tormented pleasure.

“More,” she ordered, deepening her drives to give me that delectable bite of soreness. That she once again trusted us both enough to introduce that little touch of pain chased away the last of my reservations. As much as we trusted each other, we were learning to trust our instincts, too.

I came again, ferociously, my toes curling until they cramped. I felt the familiar tension grip lauren and tightened my grasp on her hips, spurring her on, desperate to feel her spurting inside me.

“No!” she wrenched away, falling to her back and throwing an arm over her eyes. Punishing herself by denying her body the comfort and pleasure of mine.

Her chest heaved and glistened with sweat. Her cock lay heavily on her belly, brutal-looking with its broad purpled head and thick roping of veins.

I dove for it with hands and mouth, ignoring her vicious curse. Pinning her torso with my forearm, I pumped her hard with my other fist and sucked voraciously on the sensitive crown. her thighs quivered, her legs kicking restlessly.

“Damn it, camila. Fuck.” she stiffened and gasped, her hands shoving into my hair, her hips bucking. “Oh, fuck. Suck it hard…Ah, Christ…”

she exploded in a powerful rush that almost choked me, coming hard, flooding my mouth. I took it all, my fist milking pulse after pulse up the throbbing length of her cock, swallowing repeatedly until she shuddered with the surfeit of sensation and begged me to stop.

I straightened and lauren sat up and wrapped herself around me. she took me back down to the floor where she buried her face in my throat and cried until dawn.

I wore a black long-sleeved silk blouse and slacks to work on Tuesday, feeling the need to have a barrier between myself and the world. In the kitchen, lauren cupped my face in her hands and brushed her mouth across mine with heartrending tenderness. her gaze remained haunted.

“Lunch?” I asked, feeling like we needed to cling to the connection between us.

“I have a business lunch.” she ran her fingers through my loose hair. “Would you come? I’ll make sure Angus gets you back to work on time.”

“I’d love to come along.” I thought of the schedule of evening events, meetings, and appointments she’d sent to my smartphone. “And tomorrow night we have a benefit dinner at the Waldorf=Astoria?”

Her gaze softened. Dressed for work, she looked somber yet collected. I knew she was anything but.

“You really won’t give up on me, will you?” she asked quietly.

I held up my right hand and showed her my ring. “You’re stuck with me, jauregui. Get used to it.”

On the drive to work, she cuddled me in her lap, and again on the ride to lunch at Jean Georges. I didn’t speak more than a dozen words during the meal, which lauren ordered for me and I enjoyed immensely.

I sat quietly at her side, my left hand resting on her hard thigh beneath the tablecloth, a wordless affirmation of my commitment to her. To us. One of her hands rested over mine, warm and strong, as she discussed a new property in development on St. Croix. We kept that connection throughout the entire meal, each of us choosing to eat one-handed rather than separate.

With each hour that passed, I felt the horror of the night before drain away from both of us. It would be another scar to add to her collection, another bitter memory she’d always have, a memory I would share and fear along with her, but it wouldn’t rule us. We wouldn’t let it.

Angus was waiting to take me home when my day ended. Lauren was working late, and then going directly from the Crossfire to Dr. Petersen’s office. I used the length of the drive to steel myself for the next round of training with Parker. I debated skipping it, but ended up deciding it was important to keep to a routine. So much in my life was uncontrollable at the moment. Following a schedule was one of the few things totally within my power.

After an hour and a half of tagging and groundwork with Parker at the studio, I was relieved when Clancy dropped me off at home and proud of myself for working out when it was the last thing I’d wanted to do.

When I stepped into the lobby, I found Trey talking to the front desk.

“Hey,” I greeted him. “Going up?”

He turned to face me, his brown eyes warm and his smile open. Trey had a gentleness to him, a kind of straightforward naïveté that was different from the other relationships Cary’d had before. Or maybe I should just say Trey was “normal,” which so few of the people in my and Cary’s lives were.

“Cary’s not in,” he said. “They just tried calling.”

“You’re welcome to come up with me and wait. I won’t be going out again.”

“If you really don’t mind.” He fell into step beside me as I waved at the gal at the front desk and moved toward the elevators. “I brought something for him.”

“I don’t mind at all,” I assured him, returning his sweet smile.

He eyed my yoga pants and tank top. “You just get back from the gym?”

“Yeah. Despite it being one of those days when I’d rather have done anything else.”

He laughed as we stepped into the elevator. “I know that feeling.”

As we rode up, silence descended. It was weighted.

“Everything all right?” I asked him.

“Well…” Trey adjusted the sling of his backpack. “Cary’s just seemed a little off the last few days.”

“Oh?” I bit my lower lip. “In what way?”

“I don’t know. It’s hard to explain. I just feel like maybe something’s up with him and I’m missing what it is.”

I thought of the blonde and winced inwardly. “Maybe he’s stressed about the Grey Isles job and he doesn’t want to bother you with it. He knows you’ve got your hands full with your job and school.”

The tension in his shoulders softened. “Maybe that’s it. It makes sense. Okay. Thank you.”

I let us in to the apartment and told him to make himself at home. Trey headed to Cary’s room to drop his stuff, while I went to the phone to check the voicemail.

A shout from down the hallway had me reaching for the phone for a different reason, my heart thudding with thoughts of intruders and imminent danger. More yelling followed, with one voice clearly belonging to Cary.

I exhaled in a rush, relieved. With the phone in my hand, I ventured to see what the hell was going on. I was nearly run over by Tatiana rounding the hallway corner still buttoning her blouse.

“Oops,” she said, with an unapologetic grin. “See ya.”

I couldn’t hear the door shut behind her over Trey’s shouting.

“Fuck you, Cary. We talked about this! You promised!”

“You’re blowing this out of proportion,” Cary barked. “It’s not what you think.”

Trey came storming out of Cary’s bedroom in such a rush that I plastered myself to the hallway wall to get out of his way. Cary followed, with a sheet slung around his waist. As he passed me, I shot him a narrow-eyed glance that earned me a fuck-off middle finger.

I left the two men alone and escaped into my shower, angry at Cary for once again ruining something good in his life. It was a pattern I kept hoping he’d break, but he couldn’t seem to kick it.

When I came out to the kitchen a half hour later, the stillness in the apartment was absolute. I focused on cooking dinner, deciding to go with a pork roast and new potatoes with asparagus, one of Cary’s favorite dinners, in case he was home for dinner and needed some cheering up.

The sight of Trey stepping into the hallway while I was putting the roast in the oven surprised me, and then it made me sad. I hated to see him leave looking flushed, disheveled, and crying. My pity turned to fierce disappointment when Cary joined me in the kitchen with the scent of male sweat and sex clinging to him. He shot me a scowl as he passed me on his way to the wine fridge.

I faced him with my arms crossed. “Screwing a heartbroken lover on the same sheets he’s just caught you cheating on isn’t going to make things better.”

“Shut up, camila.”

“He’s probably hating himself right now for giving in.”

“I said shut the fuck up.”

“Fine.” I turned away from him and focused on seasoning the potatoes to put in the oven with the roast.

Cary grabbed wineglasses out of the cupboard. “I can feel you judging me. Stop it. He wouldn’t be half as pissed if it’d been a man he caught me fucking.”

“It’s all his fault, huh?”

“Newsflash: Your love life isn’t perfect either.”

“Low blow, Cary. I’m not going to be your punching bag over this. You messed up, and then you made it worse. It’s all on you.”

“Don’t get on your damn high horse. You’re sleeping with a woman who’s going to rape you any day now.”

“It’s not like that!”

He snorted and leaned his hip against the counter, his green eyes filled with pain and anger. “If you’re going to make excuses for her because she’s sleeping when she attacks you, you’ll have to make those same excuses for drunks and druggies. They don’t know what they’re doing either.”

The truth of his words struck me hard, as did the fact that he was deliberately trying to wound me. “You can put down a bottle. You can’t quit sleeping.”

Straightening, Cary opened the bottle he’d selected and poured two glasses, sliding one across the counter toward me. “If anyone knows what it’s like to be involved with people who hurt you, it’s me. You love her. You want to save her. But who’s going to save you, camila? I’m not always going to be around when you’re with her and he’s a ticking time bomb.”

“You wanna talk about being in relationships that hurt, Cary?” I shot back, deflecting him away from my painful truths. “Did you screw Trey over to protect yourself? Did you figure you’d push him away before he had the chance to disappoint you?”

Cary’s mouth curved bitterly. He tapped his glass to mine, which still sat on the counter. “Cheers to us, the seriously fucked up. At least we have each other.”

He stalked out of the room and I deflated. I’d known this was coming—the unraveling of circumstances too good to be true. Contentment and happiness didn’t exist in my life for more than a few moments at a time, and they were really only illusionary.

There was always something hidden. Lying in wait to spring up and ruin everything.

Lauren arrived just as dinner was coming out of the oven. she had a garment bag in one hand and a laptop case in the other. I’d worried that she would try to go home alone after her session with Dr. Petersen and was relieved when she’d called to say she was on her way. Still, when I first opened the door and saw her on the threshold, a shiver of unease slid through me.

“Hey,” she said quietly, following me back into the kitchen. “Smells delicious in here.”

“I hope you’re hungry. There’s a lot of food and I’ll be surprised if Cary joins us to help eat it all.”

lauren dropped her stuff on the breakfast bar and approached me cautiously, her gaze searching my face as she neared. “I brought some things with me to stay the night, but I’ll go if you want. At any time. Just tell me.”

I blew out my breath in a harsh rush, determined not to let fear dictate my actions. “I want you here.”

“I want to be here.” she paused beside me. “Can I hold you?”

I turned into her and squeezed her hard. “Please.”

she pressed her cheek against mine and hugged me close. The embrace wasn’t as natural and easy as we’d grown used to. There was a new wariness between us that was different from anything we’d felt before.

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krisdreaming · 4 years

Text

❄ 2nd Day of Fluffmas ❄

⟵ Day 1 | Masterlist | Day 3 ⟶

Since We’ve No Place To Go || Tsukishima Kei x reader

Word Count: 1,392 | Gender Neutral Reader

(prompt: I didn’t leave for home soon enough and now I’m trapped in my dorm for another day waiting for the snow to be cleared – the worst part is you are also still here)

a/n: I have never lived in a college dorm so some parts of this are just me spitballing (and maybe romanticizing) about what I assume it’s like. Also I ended up really, really struggling with this one, so I apologize if he’s a little ooc.

“No, no, no.” You have the curtains pushed aside, and you’re looking out at the falling snow in dismay. It isn’t supposed to start snowing until later this afternoon, yet fat, heavy snowflakes are drifting to the ground. The grass is starting to get covered already. Something had told you that waiting an extra day to leave for home wasn’t a good idea, but you had the latest final possible, and sleep won that argument pretty easily.

Driving home in the snow wouldn’t be your first choice, but the alternative is missing the family dinner your Mom has been reminding you about for months. If you miss that, you have a feeling you won’t make it to next Christmas. You pack a bag as quickly as possible and dash out the door.

At the end of the hall, you skid to a stop when you meet Kiyoko.

“Sorry. I’m not supposed to let you leave.” She says. Her voice is soft, but she’s been your RA long enough for you to know that her tone isn’t one you’re supposed to argue with.

“But Kiyoko. Please. Please.” You’re groveling, and you don’t even care at this point. “You don’t understand. If I don’t get home for this evening, my Mom is going to kill me.” She lifts her hands in a gesture of helplessness. “You think I’m exaggerating, you haven’t met my mother!”

She shakes her head, a small smile on her lips. “If you leave now, your Mom might not have to kill you. It’s dangerous out there. Just stay put until tomorrow when they have the roads cleared.” You open your mouth and almost try to argue again, but you know it’s useless. Anyway, you weren’t looking forward to the drive home in the snow, so this is as good an excuse as any.

One plus of being one of the only people who hadn’t been smart enough to leave yesterday - the common area should be empty, meaning you’ll be able to get one of the comfy seats by the radiator. You stop by your room to grab your laptop and your fluffiest blanket and make your way there. To your dismay, someone is already there and has claimed one of the oversized chairs. Tsukishima has his headphones on, and he’s typing away at something on his laptop. When you plop down in the chair catty-corner from him, he barely even glances up at you. It’s about as much as you’d expected.

You don’t really know him all that well. You shared some classes with Yamaguchi, his roommate, and struck up a casual friendship, so Tsukishima has always been there off to the side. Normally with a sour look on his face. You aren’t really sure what to make of him, but Yamaguchi always assures you that he’s a good person once you get to know him. You’re not sure if he’ll ever let anyone else close enough to find out.

“Hey.” You say, in an effort to be polite, as you arrange your blanket around yourself and open your laptop.

He glances at you again. “Hey.” For a second, you think he’s going to get up and leave right then and there, but he only shifts to a more comfortable position and re-focuses his attention on his computer.

With a shrug, you pull up the next episode of your current binge on Netflix and curl your legs beneath yourself, snuggling down into the blanket. You’d be content to stay here all day. Unfortunately, your stomach has other ideas. You’re hungry but don’t exactly feel like getting up to find a snack until your stomach releases a drawn out growl. You wrap your arms around your middle, hoping the sound hadn’t traveled too far.

Just when you’re able to relax again, Tsukishima stands up, stretching before he reaches for his laptop. He’s almost past your chair when he turns and says over his shoulder, “I’m going grab my coat and then head down to the dining hall. Want to come along?”

Your face is completely hot, and for a few moments you almost decline his offer, but you’re truly starving. “You totally heard that, didn’t you?” You whisper.

“Totally.” He nods, completely unphased. “So do you want to come, or what?”

“Sure. Sounds good to me.” At least this way you won’t have to walk all the way to the dining hall through the snow alone. That’s the only reason you’d put it off for so long. After stopping by your dorm to grab a jacket, you meet Tsukishima at the door.

“I thought you were getting a coat.” He comments as you follow him out the door, and you look down at the thin navy jacket you’d thrown on.

“I did. This is the coat I have with me. It wasn’t supposed to snow until after winter break.” You shrug. Tsukishima, meanwhile, is wearing a thick fleece peacoat with a long scarf wrapped around his neck. You try not to think about the moisture seeping through the small hole in the toe of your sneaker and subconsciously wrap your arms around yourself.

You stop walking when you feel something drape around your neck, and you grab the edges of it to find that it’s Tsukishima’s scarf. He’s already a few steps ahead of you, hands shoved down into his pockets.

“You look cold.” He shrugs, and just keeps walking.

You aren’t quite sure how to respond. Everything you’ve heard about him from anyone that isn’t Yamaguchi has been pretty definitive that he’s a jerk. This, however, was not exactly a jerk move. You jog the few steps to catch up to him.

“Tsukishima.” Your tone is accusatory. “I don’t need this.” You move to unwind it from your neck, but his hand catches your wrist.

“Just keep it.” He sighs. Despite the chilly air and the snowflakes that are still falling, you feel your cheeks start to heat up.

“Thanks.” You whisper. You’ve finally reached the dining hall, and you’re grateful to step into the warmth. Your stomach falls, though, when you look around and see that there isn’t any actual food being served. They must have shut down the dining hall for break.

“Good thing there’s still vending machines. Hope you don’t mind a little junk food.” Tsukishima heads toward the string of vending machines lining the far wall, and you follow.

“Are you kidding? This stuff is my largest food group.” You punch the buttons expertly, deciding to treat yourself to some of your favorites. You shove your snacks down into your coat pockets, and when they can’t hold any more, you turn to go. Tsukishima is looking at you skeptically.

“Don’t judge me.” You throw over your shoulder, putting your hands protectively over your stash.

“You make it pretty easy.” He deadpans, but there’s the unmistakable beginnings of a smirk on his face.

Wordlessly, you turn to go. Stepping outside again, you brace yourself for the long walk back to your dorm. The snow is still coming down heavily, and it makes it difficult to tell exactly where you’re going. By the time you realize you’ve walked on a slick patch, you’ve already fallen hard on your backside.

“Ow.” You groan. Tsukishima offers you his hand.

“Oh, no.” You say in dismay as he helps you up. Tsukishima frowns.

“Are you-”

“My ding-dong!” You pull the smushed snack cake out of your back pocket. Immediately, Tsukishima releases a choked sound.

“Tsukishima! Are you laughing at me?”

He covers his mouth with his hand. “You might as well call me Kei.”

“Well then, Kei, are you laughing at me?” You put your hands on your hips.

“No.” He shakes his head, but his lips are twitching unmistakably. You can’t keep the smile from your face any longer. Soon you’re the one laughing, and when you give in, it’s like a dam breaks loose. Tsukishima is bent over in laughter. It’s the most animated you’ve ever seen him. You never realized he had the slightest dimples.

By now, the falling snow has dampened your hair and cheeks and started to seep through your thin jacket. Your left sock is completely soaked. You should be freezing, but there’s a warmth starting in your middle that’s keeping you from feeling cold at all. Your day has definitely started looking up.

#Haikyuu #Haikyuu imagines #Tsukishima Kei #Tsukishima Kei x reader #Tsukishima x reader #Haikyuu x reader #fluffmas #queued

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justkindaoverhereobsessing · 4 years

Text

Les Funérailles

Thanks to @indestinatus for helping come up with this ficlet idea!

__________________

“Séraphine’s grand-mére died yesterday,” Tali tells Tony conversationally as they walk home from school one day.

“That’s sad for Séraphine,” Tony replies, squeezing his daughter’s hand. “Did you tell her you were sorry for it? That’s usually what people say when someone shares bad news.”

“Yeah. Madame Delacroix said everyone had to say sorry.”

“She was right. It’s polite—and we’ve talked about being polite, right?”

“Please, thank you, excuse me, sorry for your grand-mére,” Tali recites dutifully; it makes Tony smile. At five years old, she’s still figuring that sort of thing out, but she tries and that’s all he can really ask.

“Perfect, Tali-Tee.”

Oh, how Ziva would smirk at the idea of him teaching someone manners!

“Madame Delacroix said Séraphine will be gone on Friday. They’re having a funérailles on that day.”

“Do you know what that is?”

“It’s like a party, right? A sad party? For dead people?”

Tony chuckles a little before dropping her hand to fish out his keys so they can go in their building. “Something like that. The word in English is funeral. It’s not exactly a party, though… It’s more like—well, a time to remember someone you loved. You usually tell stories about the person, and you bring flowers and wear all black to show that you’re sad. That sort of thing.”

“Have you been to one?” Tali follows him inside like a little duckling, and they step into the newly replaced elevator that will take them to their floor.

“I’ve been to a few.”

“Did you cry?”

“Sometimes I did.”

Tali contemplates this mental image for a minute—surely adults don’t cry, so they? “Did telling stories make you feel better about being sad?” she wants to know.

Tony drops a kiss to her head, and answers her question as they arrive at the fourth floor. “I think so. It’s nice to think about the person you lost. It almost makes you feel like they’re with you for a few minutes.”

Tali nods, thinking about it, and steps out into the hall. “I want to have a funérailles for Ima,” she announces.

Tony freezes with one foot still in the car. “What?”

“I want to feel like she’s with me.”

There’s little she could say that would make Tony’s heart clench harder, and with a deep sigh, he steps in front of her and kneels so their eyes are at the same level. “You know she’d be here if she could, right, baby girl?”

“I know. But I’m still sad.”

Tony tucks some of her curly hair behind her ear and gives her a little smile. “Me, too, Tali. Me, too. And you know what? Having a funeral is a great idea. You must be the smartest kid in the universe.”

“Can we do it now?”

“I don’t see why not. Let’s get a snack in you first and then we can do it however you’d like.”

“Alright. Thanks, Daddy.”

__________________

Twenty minutes later, Tali disappears into her room and comes back with a black dress on. It’s a little too small and a little too thin for the current weather, but they’re not going anywhere and Tony wouldn’t make her change even if they were. If this is something she feels she needs to do, he’ll support her however he can.

“I need help with my tights.”

“What do you say?”

“Please?”

“Good girl.” He helps her into the tights and straightens out her dress a little; she looks adorable as always, but seeing her in all black makes him ache all the same. “Are you ready?”

“I am, but you’re not.”

He laughs a little. “Sorry, silly me. Hang on.” He changes into a suit, not caring at all that he’s way overdressed to be sitting in a slightly messy flat. “Alright,” he says when he gets back. “Do you want me to start talking, or do you want to go first?”

“You do a funérailles in your house?” Tali asks, confused.

Tony raises his eyebrows. “Wellllll, not often, you’re right. They’re usually at funeral homes or churches—or, well, synagogues for Jewish people like Ima. Or sometimes they’re just in nice places that the person would have liked.”

“Can we go somewhere Ima would have liked?”

“Sure we can. Do you have any ideas?” He can think of a few himself, but he thinks Tali should run the show here.

“Maybe the park?”

“I think Ima would love the park, sweetheart,” he approves.

“Good!” Tali takes his hand and tugs him toward the coat rack to get ready to go.

__________________

At Tali’s insistence, they stop at a florist on the way to the park to get Ima some flowers. Tali picks out a ridiculously colorful bouquet—it’s loud and showy, but when she asks her father if he thinks Ima would like it, he says “absolutely!” with no hesitation. Ziva would love anything Tali picked for her—of that, Tony is certain.

God, he misses her, and he knows Tali does, too. Hopefully she’ll soon be home.

When they get to the park, they find a nice quiet corner under a tree and lay the flowers down under it. “Do you want me to tell a story about Ima to get us remembering her, Tals?” Tony offers, and Tali nods. “Alright, let me think…”

He pauses for a moment and smiles. “Did I ever tell you about the time when Ima rescued me from a really mean cat?”

“No!” Tali’s grinning, though—she’s heard the story dozens of times. They talk about Ziva a lot. “Tell me, please, Daddy?”

“Well, we were working a case, of course, when all of this happened. We were checking out a really nice, really big house—I opened a door, and the biggest cat you’ve ever seen came running at me, hissing and yowling. It sounded like this!” He makes a bunch of silly guttural noises in the back of his throat, aiming to make his kid laugh, and it works. “It had claws almost as big as your fingers, baby girl, and it hated me. I thought I was going to die! Luckily, Ima jumped to my rescue. She grabbed a broom and swung at the thing.”

He winks at her, and she giggles again. “It still didn’t want to leave, but Ima talked to it in her best I-mean-business voice. She said ‘Tony may have disturbed your rest, and he may deserve a swipe to the face, but I cannot let you hurt him. He is my friend, even if he is dumb, and it is my job to protect him.’” He’s paraphrasing, narrowing down the bickering a little for Tali’s sake, but the gist of the story is true. “That’s what I’ll always remember about your Ima, Tali-Tee. She’s—um, she was always—brave and kind. She would protect other people at her own expense without hesitation.”

“I miss her.”

“I do, too.” Tony wraps his arm around Tali’s little shoulders and squeezes. “Do you want to talk about her a little, or tell a story? It’s okay if you don’t want to. I can do all the talking if it makes things easier for you, little one.”

“I want to say things, too.”

“Then start whenever you’re ready.” He kisses the top of her head.

“Ima was… so pretty,” Tali says after a slight pause to think. “She, um, she...” She pauses and looks at Tony, a tiny frown furrowing her brow. “I can’t remember as much as you.”

“That’s alright,” Tony promises gently. “The really nice thing about funerals is that you can just say what’s on your mind—what’s in your heart. There are no rules. Say whatever you want, love.”

“Okay…” A slight pause, and then: “She was really good at hugging. I remember her hugging me when I was really little. And she smelled good. I think she smelled how imas are supposed to smell.” She’s staring at the flowers as she talks, something for which Tony is glad; he’s tearing up and he really doesn’t want her to see. “And she taught me lots of words. I think she was so smart. Wasn’t she, Daddy?”

“She was,” Tony agrees softly. His voice is thick, evidence of the emotion he can’t quite fight off. “One of the smartest people I’ve ever met.”

“Smarter than you?”

“Oh, by a long shot.” Tony lets out a husky laugh and snuggles her closer. “That’s where you got your intelligence from, Tali.”

“Can we leave a picture with the flowers? So other people can remember Ima, too?”

Tony hesitates slightly before nodding. “Sure.” He pulls his wallet from his pocket and draws out the worn old photo he keeps there. It’s a selfie that feels ancient now, taken in another lifetime—in it, he’s smirking at the camera. Ziva is behind him, laughing and looking somewhere out of the frame, unaware that she’s being photographed. It’s a cherished photo and he’s loath to part with it, but it’s just a copy and he knows all of this is doing Tali some good. There’s no one else he would give it up for, though. “Here you go, baby girl.”

Tali accepts the photo and places it ever-so-gently amongst the colorful daisies in her bouquet. “This is my ima. She loves me very much, but she can’t be here right now,” she tells no one in particular, her voice small and suddenly a little wobbly. “Daddy?”

“Yeah?”

“Can we go home now?”

“Of course we can. Did you finish everything you wanted to say about Ima?”

“I think so. But I’m still sad. I want to be alone.”

“I get that.” Tony offers his hand, and Tali accepts it. “You can take all the time you need. You always can. You know that, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Alright then, little ninja. Let’s go home. Thank you for helping me remember Ima today.”

__________________

Across the park, Ziva watches them leave; she doesn’t bother to swipe away at the tears quietly trickling down her cheeks, and though the temperature is very cold, she doesn’t adjust her coat. She can’t afford distractions right now, not when she’s getting a rare, precious view of her family. They have no idea she’s there, and it’s better that way.

She comes back to Paris whenever she feels she can risk it, when Sahar’s trail has gone cold yet again and she hasn’t recently seen anyone following her. She never stays for long, twenty-four hours at most, but those few hours keep her going.

She never expected the bittersweet experience of hearing her daughter and her old love mourn her, though.

The wind was just right to allow her to hear what they said, and something about it was… freeing. They speak of her with so much love, even now. It reminds her that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how far off it might be, and for the moment, the loneliness that she carries with her doesn’t crush her like it usually does. She aches to hold them both, though, and it takes all the strength she has to stay in place while they walk away.

Once they’re gone, she steels herself to leave; one hard swallow and she turns on her heel, leaving the park without looking back.

She doesn’t know it, but this will be the last time she sees them before meeting with Sahar once and for all.

#ncis #ncis fanfiction #tivali #tiva #tony dinozzo #ziva david #tali david dinozzo #here have a little saturday night angst #oh and there's a quote from the guernsey literary and potato peel pie society movie #if anyone spots it i'll give you a virtual cookie #thanks sof for letting me steal our plotlet so i'd have something to write tonight <3 #cynthia writes stuff too

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xain-russell · 3 years

Text

The Town of Crossing

It’d been about a week now since we arrived. The hotel room we’d been provided was starting to feel less like a holding cell and more like an actual home, though I still wished there was a kitchen so that I didn’t have to keep pretending to be social with our new neighbors. Aisling was certainly a lot better with that sort of thing than I was, a lot of energy and patience for people. I was the sort of guy to get immediately tired if there were more than three or four chatty persons in a room with me.

Aisling was out and about at the moment, getting to know the towns folk who’d so graciously opened their town to us after… the exodus. Nearly eighty people, packed into a single bus, driven off to the middle of nowhere. I supposed the alternative of staying in the cities as they burned to the ground was pretty unappealing as well.

The rattle of the door knob announced Aisling’s return. He entered with arms full of groceries, and a chilly wind that he quickly cut off by kicking the door shut. The groceries fell to the floor next to the mini fridge and he fell face first onto the bed. I looked up from my sketchbook just in time to see him land right next to me. I smirked and rolled my eyes before sheathing my pen in the book’s wiring, getting up to at least put the perishables into the fridge.

“Were they busy?” I asked, knowing full well that’s not why Aisling was so haggard looking.

“No,” he responded into a pillow, before lifting his head up to speak clearly. “I stopped by the theatre again to see if Rosie had thought about giving me a job? She said there’s not a lot of shows going on, what with the end of the world and all.”

“It’s not the end of the world… just the end of western civilization.”

“You think we could hike to Canada or something?” Aisling asked thoughtfully.

“Maybe when spring comes around. I’m not walking a thousand miles through the cold.”

“Hmmm…”

Aisling planted his face back into the pillow and I directed my attention to the groceries. Nothing he had bought was particularly exciting, but since we only had a fridge and no freezer I guess that was to be expected. We had enough cereal and cold cuts to last another week though and that was good enough for me. One thing I pulled out of the plastic bags though caught my attention. An unmarked cardboard box about the size of my fist. I turned it over a few times before raising it over my head and shouting.

“What’s this?”

“What’s what?” Came the muffled reply.

“This box with no labels? What is it?”

“Oh, that. Don’t open that please.”

“Imma open it.”

“Hey.” Aisling’s tone was a lot more serious with just that one word. “Don’t. You can be curious all you want, just don’t open it.”

“Alright, fine.”

I put the box on the table in front of the TV and then finished with the groceries. Then I got up and walked back to the bed, on Aisling’s side this time. I straddled his back and placed my head close to his, whispering as menacingly as I could into his ears.

“What’s in the box?”

“Noneya.”

“Noneya?”

“Noneya Business.”

“Well you’re no fun.”

I flopped to Aisling’s side and snuggled up as close as I could to him, figuring I’d get the answer out of him at some point. Not like we were going anywhere any time soon.

~~~~~

Saturday was my turn to go job hunting. The two of us had promised to each other that if neither of us could get a job doing something we liked by the end of the month, we’d both apply to that damned grocery store. But just as no one needed an actor, an artist wasn’t exactly in high demand either. We’d flirted with the idea of becoming street performers, but the five dollars in change we’d make a day probably wouldn’t feed us once what was left of our savings dried up.

The box that Aisling was wary of me opening, for whatever reason, still poked its existence into my awareness from time to time over the course of the day, like a particularly stubborn itch I wasn’t allowed to scratch. It was hardly the most pressing issue I had to deal with but Aisling wasn’t the type to keep secrets from me, unless it was something really important. And important things, be they good or ill, loved to hang around in my head space for longer than was welcome.

I came back just as the sky was starting to turn pink, having had no luck finding something. As I approached our room door, I heard the faint strums of guitar chords. Aisling was singing along to the beat, vibrating my ears with something more than just the harmonics.

I recognized the song from one of our trips before everything went to hell. We played it on repeat for almost a month before it fell off our radar. Now Aisling was playing it, and memories of days admiring the mountain sun and the scent of blue bells with all our friends permeated through my mind.

I leaned against the door, listening to him play, waiting for it to end, before I stepped inside and made myself known. The box was gone from the counter, maybe it was whatever Aisling was quickly shoving into his pocket. I closed the door and just stood there, staring at him and his cheap guitar, enjoying that stupidly sheepish grin on his face.

“What’cha hiding?” I asked, breaking the spell of silence. Aisling went back to his guitar and strummed a few times on random chords.

“Keep asking and maybe you’ll find out. Did you find any work?”

“Someone got to the book store before us,” I said with a hint of frustration. “So no clerk jobs there. You think they’ll sell anything I write?”

“Well, I doubt they’ll be seeing anything new from any professional publications any time soon. Yeah, that actually might be a good idea? Give the people something to look forward to that isn’t doom scrolling.”

“Is that all we can offer? A distraction?” I ask aloud, just trying to think and parse out my place in the world now. “Escapism from all the horrors going on?”

“Distractions are good for the soul. And if artists are good at anything, it’s being distracting.” He smiled at me and patted the bed next to him. I smiled back and laid down as he started playing again. We sang together this time.

~~~~~

Sunday is a day of rest. No job hunting, no plotting out the next big gig or project, no worrying about what might be or what isn’t. It’s just us. I’ve got an arm and a half wrapped around Aisling’s mid section, he’s curled around me like a dragon protecting its hoard. The light’s starting to peak through the curtains, waking us up with its gentle haziness. Much better than the screech of an alarm.

I look up to see that the box has reappeared on the bedside table. I reach out and grab it, examining it and wondering if I could open it before Aisling woke up. I move to put it back before his words are in my ear.

“Go ahead.”

I hesitate for a moment, suddenly highly aware of the gradual rise and fall of our chests, almost perfectly in sync. I maneuver the box close to my face and run a nail under the tape sealing it. Gently the adhesive is torn away and I’m able to pop the cardboard apart. Inside the box is another box, one who’s style I recognize instantly. I push the top open and admire the silver band incrusted with what had to be the most beautiful diamond and alexandrite twenty bucks could buy.

“Did you really have to wait till the end times to get me one?” I ask with bemusement.

“Didn’t want to wait any longer,” Aisling answers. “My only regret is that it’s a piece of crap.”

“It’s fine. I dig the style.” I slip the ring on and then put my arms back around him.

#short story #my writing #LEAVE COMMENTS

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skultrashfics · 4 years

Note

Could you please do a Dexter Vex and reader fanfic? The crush I have on this man is not okay and there is so little content

AAAH My favourite boy! I’m very happy to get a request for Dexter Anon! I hope you enjoy :)

Pairing: Dexter Vex x Reader Word Count: 2267 Themes: Fluff, Nightmares, Confessions

The wind was howling violently outside, you could hear the trees shaking as they struggled against the brute strength of the breeze. Clutching your knees to your chest you sat on the floor beside your bed trembling a little. You had been placed in The Midnight Hotel for your own protection by Skulduggery as you had been caught up in the middle of some large misunderstanding and for some strange reason, there were assassins out there looking to kill you. They had come pretty close until Ghastly and Skulduggery had stepped in, saving your life. Not really understanding the ins and outs of the investigation, you were simply hidden away until further notice. Now as you glanced up towards the window you could see a grey clouded sky and not a bird in sight. This was faintly reassuring as Ireland had been sunny and the sky was clear, so you knew you had to be pretty far away from there by now. But that wouldn’t make the bruises on your face or body disappear any faster. Your thoughts were interrupted by a gentle tapping on the door, “Hm? Oh come in…”, you responded. Anton Shudder walked into your room with a tray of food laid out quite pristinely, he placed it on your bedside table and joined you on the floor. “I understand you are in a bit of trouble and your mind must be wandering a lot so feel free to stay in your room. But the fire is warm downstairs and you can always get a drink at the bar, ok? It’s all on the house”. You nodded softly not making any effort to respond. Shudder took a deep breath, “right then”, he said standing up once more. “Oh also, we are in Amsterdam… just thought you may want to know”.

After a couple of days had passed, you began to feel a little more comfortable in the hotel. The ever-changing scenery was rather enjoyable and Anton always tried to talk to you even when he seemed a little busy. The limitations of your bedroom had led you to explore more of your surroundings although you were not permitted to leave the hotel itself- for your safety of course. It was another rather uneventful day when you decided to head down to the bar. The hotel was just as quiet as it always was, that was until the door was suddenly being thumped on very loudly. It made you jump and you clutched your chest in panic, immediately you went running back up the stairs only to go barraging straight into Anton. He stepped back from you holding his arms up, very uncomfortable with the sudden contact. He shook his head calmly, “Don’t worry this can happen sometimes. Other people need refuge too”, he explained walking toward the door but it was obvious he had his guard up. Once it opened Anton’s expression changed to one of surprise as he was greeted by a big enveloping hug, “Oh Anton! I’m so glad you answered it would have been really weird if it was someone else!”. Anton was struggling to get out of this grasp and grumbled, “Just great, now get off”. Stepping away you saw none other than Dexter Vex stroll into the lobby with a wide grin on his face. His hair was longer than when you last saw him, but he still had the same playful demeanour. Upon seeing you he smiled and waved, “Hey y/n! Long time no see? What are you doing here?”. Anton closed the front door behind Dexter and sternly pulled him aside, “It’s complicated but she has a lot of people after her head right now. So please keep a low profile”. Dexter raised an eyebrow and then approached you slowly, he could tell something was different about you, “What have you gotten yourself into y/n?”, he said studying the bruises that were more apparent now he was closer. You recoiled away a little embarrassed, “It’s not like I can’t fend for myself. They came after me while I was asleep… there were too many…”. Dexter mentally kicked himself for bringing up a blatantly sensitive subject. He then turned to Anton and smirked, “Well I can always keep you guys company! As long as you can get me a drink!”.

You all spent a while talking and being social, it was nice to be able to forget why you were here. Dexter was telling you all about his time exploring hidden caves and finding long lost treasures (which turned out to be some really really old books). Everything was pretty calm until the hotel clock caused it to shunt away to its next location. You stared at Dexter wide-eyed, “Oh goodness you must have stayed too long! I’m sorry Dex”. He laughed gently and patted your arm, “Nah it’s alright. I was plannin’ on staying a while. After all, I did say I would keep you company”, he added with a sly wink. Anton rolled his eyes in disgust, “Could you keep the flirting to a minimum? I am still awake”. You giggled and shook your head not believing that any of it was serious. You had always taken Dexter to be the swashbuckling playboy type of person and did not allow yourself to get provoked by such remarks. After playing a game of cards and loosing fantastically you decided to retire to bed. “I better get some sleep”, you mumbled as you stood up from the table. It was the first time you had been tired in days and you relished the thought of undisturbed sleep. Dexter smiled at you and stood up himself, “allow me to escort you milady”, he graciously offered his hand to you. You only laughed and batted it away turning to face Shudder, “Goodnight Anton… and thank you”, you blew him a quick kiss and then walked alongside Dexter back to your room. Shudder sighed as he watched you go, silently hoping that Dexter could keep his hands to himself for a night. As you approached your door you yawned again and stretched, “Well goodnight Dex… thanks for walking me”, you went to open your door and were stopped as you saw a pouty faced blonde poking his face in front of yours, “Don’t I get a kiss too?”. You hummed thoughtfully before pressing a light kiss to his forehead, “There. Goodnight”. He smiled contentedly and stood up straight while you went into your room and closed the door. “Goodnight y/n…”, he said in a hushed voice before putting his hands in his pockets and walking off to his own room.

Dexter’s eyes snapped open as he woke to hear screaming. He bolted out of bed and immediately headed toward your room, taking care not to graze the edge of the wall as he turned a corner. Without taking the time to ask questions he slammed open your door and saw you still in bed, struggling against the covers and crying out. His heart hammered painfully in his chest and he knelt down by your side and wriggled the covers off of your arms. Grabbing your hands in his he spoke to you calmly, “y/n It’s Dexter. You are safe I promise. Nobody is going to hurt you…”. Your eyes opened full of tears as you looked around in a panic, “Shh shh It’s ok. I’m here. You’re in the midnight hotel remember?”. He spoke soothingly to you as the nightmare faded and reality began to take over once more. As your breathing slowed down and your mind became less hazy you leaned over into Dexter’s chest and sobbed, remembering that the events of the nightmare were also a traumatic memory. He held onto you while you cried and turned to see Anton in the doorway looking rather panicked himself. ‘Bad Dream’, Dexter mouthed to him and Shudder breathed out a sigh of relief. Seeing the state you were in Anton nodded at Dexter and went away to prepare you a warm drink. Dexter went to stand up himself but you continued to cling onto him and he almost fell over, “Hey I’m not leaving… it’s ok”, he whispered reassuringly as he gently pushed you over and made room for himself on the bed. At this point, you did not care if he was just flirting because it was comforting and you could not bear to be alone again. Resting your head on Dexter’s chest you felt it slowly rise and fall while he rubbed your back reminding you that you were safe. Exhausted from crying so much you quickly fell asleep again. Shudder came back with a hot mug of soup, then realised that maybe he had taken a little too long. “Is she alright?”, he asked Dexter gently and he gained a nod in response. “Just tired… but I don’t want to leave her alone right now”. Anton frowned, “I know you are not that kind of man Dexter, but no funny business ok? She is too vulnerable right now for your antics”. Dexter looked deeply hurt by Shudder saying this outright, “I knew she was here”, he said eventually. “I asked Skulduggery and went to the next location of the hotel, ok? I heard she had been attacked and well… I wanted to be the one to protect her. And-”, he cut himself off and closed his eyes in thought. Anton stared at him confused, “Are you telling me, that Dexter Vex is genuinely infatuated with someone? You really care for y/n, don’t you?”. Dexter nodded and that was all Anton needed to see, “alright then, as my friend I trust you”, he sighed before closing the door to your bedroom again.

In the morning you felt rays of sunshine behind your closed eyes and it was beautifully warm. Sighing happily you rolled over delighted at being able to sleep and you pulled your covers closer and then felt a sudden tension. Something heavy was stopping you from snuggling into your blanket. With confusion, you opened your eyes to see Dexter asleep facing you, snuggled up in your bed. You froze for a moment not remembering how he had gotten there and you worried that maybe you had drunk too much last night. His face looked so peaceful and albeit you had to admit to yourself that he was spectacularly handsome, “Not a bad sight to wake up to”, you giggled to yourself. “Not so bad yourself”, came the reply that put all the tension back into your body. You buried your head in the covers blushing relentlessly. “Please tell me you are still asleep”, you whined softly realising that now all you could see was his sculpted chest and abs highlighted by the morning sunshine filtering through the covers. Dexter chuckled, “Oh no I am wide awake y/n”. You groaned to yourself in embarrassment and resolved never to show your face to the world again. “Do you remember what happened last night?”, he enquired. Your face shot up out of the covers and stared at him, “Don’t tell me that we… that-that I…”, you were beginning to get very flustered and Dexter stared at you in confusion, “What?...OH. No no no no that is not what I meant”, even he seemed a little embarrassed now. “You had a bad dream… so I woke you up, you cried a bit and then fell asleep on me”. You seemed a lot calmer at this explanation, “O-oh… you stayed here all night just for that?”. He moved his face a little closer to yours, “Well yeah… I had to keep you safe y/n”, he leaned forward and ever so lightly kissed the bruises on your face as though he were trying to heal them. You closed your eyes as he did so, smiling at the warmth you could feel. “I am so sorry that this happened to you y/n, but I promise I will not let it happen ever again”. He then kissed the tip of your nose, and then the top of your lip a little shyly and then he wrapped his arms around you kissing you properly. It took your breath away, to say the least especially when he pulled away from the kiss to tell you that he loved you. You blinked at him in surprise, “Dexter Vex don’t go throwing around words like that when you don’t mean them…”, you said sternly. He shook his head rapidly and took your hands in his, “I mean it. Y/n I have been in love with you for so long now and I am sick of pretending those feelings aren’t there. Truly”. His gaze told you how serious he was and you thought back on all the time you had spent together before the attack. He was always so charming and kind to you, but you hadn’t really thought you were special. You didn’t let yourself think that. But right now in this moment, you felt safe again and you felt loved and you felt every bit as inclined to stay by his side. “Dexter I don’t know what to say... “. “Say that you’ll stay with me, or at least let me stay with you… until you are allowed to leave again?”. You laughed through your nose and kissed him happily, “Only if you promise to stop teasing Anton, ok?”. Rolling his eyes Dexter wrapped his leg over you and pulled you closer to him, “Believe me… after this, I am not going to be the one doing the teasing”.

#skulduggery pleasant #skulduggerypleasant #skulduggery fanfiction #skulduggeryfanfiction #dexter vex x reader #dexter vex #anton shudder

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perspective-series · 4 years

Text

Freezing Perspective (6)

By: @arc852 and @hiddendreamer67

Warnings: Fear, panic, extreme cold/almost freezing, mentions of dying, being ignored, unwanted touching, and feeling helpless

First Chapter || Previous Chapter || Next Chapter

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Logan was first in the morning, letting out a small yawn. He looked down, surprised to see Patton was still there. After all, he could feel the heat had kicked back on in the night. Logan was grateful he was here to help Patton. These malfunctions were downright dangerous to someone of his stature.

“Good morning, Patton.” Logan kept his tone soft, not wanting to startle the borrower.

Patton stirred awake at the gentle rumble beneath him and the voice above him. He blinked his eyes open and lifted his head to look up at Logan. He smiled. “Good morning.”

“How did you sleep?” Logan asked, sitting up slightly but being careful not to jostle Patton.

“Great! You’re comfy.” Patton said, giggling.

Logan snorted slightly. “Well, I’m glad to be of service.”

Patton snuggled into Logan’s shirt a bit before sighing. “...Breakfast?” He asked, looking back up at the human.

“An excellent suggestion.” Logan put his hand underneath Patton to keep the borrower supported as he got out of bed, heading to the kitchen. “What should we have?”

Patton thought for a moment. “Uh, I don’t know. What do you have for breakfast?”

“Coffee.” Logan answered, knowing that though it may be true it was far from a correct response. “Although I have time to put more effort into our dietary needs today before I need to depart, so perhaps eggs would be more acceptable.”

“Oh, eggs sounds good!” Patton knew what eggs were. “But what is coffee?” He feels like he’s heard it before but couldn’t picture it in his mind.

“A caffeinated beverage.” Logan explained. He set Patton down on the counter, prepping both the eggs and the coffee. “It’s not healthy as a pure form of sustenance, but it does provide a nice energy boost.”

“Oh.” Interesting. “I’ll try it!”

Logan nodded, waiting until the coffee pot beeped to pour himself a mug full. Logan retrieved the bottle cap he had used before, making sure it was clean before scooping out a portion of coffee for Patton.

“Careful, it’s hot.” Logan warned, setting it down in front of Patton.

Patton nodded and blew on it before taking a small sip. His face scrunched up in disgust at the bitter taste. “...I don’t like it.” Patton said, pushing the cap away. “It’s way too bitter.” He would usually eat anything, being a borrower and all but not that.

Logan tried to hide his amused expression at Patton’s reaction, not wanting the borrower to feel embarrassed. “Some people do prefer to add sweeteners to it, but unfortunately I am not one such individual so I have none to offer to you.” Logan blew across his own mug, sipping away at it as he finished cooking the eggs.

“Honestly, I don’t know how you can drink that.” Patton said with a slight chuckle. “The eggs smell good though!”

“Would you like something else to drink?” Logan offered, pouring Patton’s cap back into his own mug.

“Water is fine, thanks!” Patton exclaimed, grinning.

Logan filled up the cap in the sink, placing it next to Patton. Noticing the eggs were done, Logan portioned them out onto his own plate and the teacup saucer again for Patton.

“Here you are.” Logan placed Patton’s portion in front of him.

“Thanks!” Patton started eating it, humming in pleasure at the taste. The food Logan had given to him over the past couple of days had been the best he’s ever eaten. “So, what’s on the agenda for today?”

“Well, I will have to get going in a short while.” Logan explained, eating his own eggs. “I have to go to class.” He wondered what Patton would be doing in the meantime. Logan began to worry about the possibility of the heat shutting off a third time without him around to help.

Logan looked down at Patton, contemplative for a moment. “Patton, would you...care to join me?”

Patton blinked. “Join you to...school?” He shouldn’t, really, but the idea intrigued him. He enjoyed Logan teaching him from his homework, maybe school would be fun to listen in on too. “Yes.” Patton said with a nod. He then grinned. “It sounds like fun!”

“Wonderful.” Logan released a small sigh of relief, glad that Patton didn’t need any convincing. “Of course, we will need to take some precautions. I certainly don’t want you to feel in any way claustrophobic, but to remain discreet we will need some method of transportation.”

Patton nodded and thought for a moment. “Well, a shirt pocket could work?” Patton suggested, knowing Logan had a few of those.

“A shirt pocket?” Logan looked down at his chest, having not even considered such a thing. “Well, I suppose it’s possible. Truly there’s only one way to find out. Do you need a ride anywhere to ready yourself for the day while I get dressed?”

“Uhh…” He looked down at himself before shaking his head. “No, I think I’m good.”

“Oh, alright.” Logan cleared their dishes. “Then I shall return shortly.”

Logan left the room, heading back to his bedroom to change. He ran his hands along the shirts hanging there, trying to decipher which fabric would be the most comfortable.

Patton grinned as he watched Logan leave and then moved to sit at the edge of the table and swung his legs. Sure, he was nervous to go out. There would be a lot of humans around after all. But he trusted Logan and he was excited to see what school was like.

“Alright.” Logan announced, coming back once he was dressed and ready for the day. “I suppose there’s no need to delay further.” Logan set his palm down for Patton.

Patton stood and quickly got into the offered hand. “Let’s go!” He was practically bouncing with excitement.

Encouraged by Patton’s enthusiasm, Logan smiled as he opened the chest pocket and set Patton inside. To the outside viewer it would be difficult to decipher what exactly was contained beneath the fabric. “How do you feel?” Logan asked, slowly letting the pocket close so Patton could get the full effect.

Patton squirmed a little but settled down. The fabric was nice and soft and he was lying down almost like the pocket was a hammock. He then heard a soft thumping coming from his right and he slowly realized that the sound was Logan’s heartbeat.

It was nice.

“It’s comfy!” He called out. “I like it!”

“Alright.” Logan walked around a bit, testing to make sure his pocket didn’t become too jostled. He grabbed his bag, heading for the door. “I will try to take things slow, but please alert me if for any reason you feel the need to be let out, alright?”

“Will do!” Patton called out. “I’m sure I’ll be fine though!”

Logan nodded, forgetting for a moment that Patton couldn’t see him. “Then we’re off.” Narrating his movements, Logan locked the front door and began the trek downstairs.

***

Virgil shifted awake, sitting up after several minutes of contemplating whether or not he should go back to sleep or not. He stretched his arms before looking down to where Roman had fallen asleep the night before.

The spot was empty.

Virgil’s eyes widened and his heart rate skyrocketed. He looked around the bed but he still couldn’t find him. “Roman!” He called out, scanning the floor before hopping out of bed. He got down on his hand and knees and started to look under the bed and then the dresser and just about everywhere else.

But there was no sign of Roman.

Virgil slowly stood up and ran a hand through his hair. He could tell from the temperature and the slight hum that the heater was turned back on. Which was good, at least Roman wouldn’t freeze. But what if it turned off again? What then? Not to mention he was just worried about Roman’s health in general.

Virgil knew he should have stayed up longer...because now Roman was gone.

“Okay, what to pack…” Roman murmured, throwing his belongings haphazardly into a bag. It was difficult going through his stuff and deciding what was worth dragging to a new home and what he should abandon forever.

Of course, it was going to be quite difficult moving in the dead of winter. Curse the universe for choosing now of all times to inconvenience him. Roman wasn’t nearly prepared for the snow, which more often than not would be above his head this time of the year. Roman groaned, already pondering if it’d be best to try and stand on top of it or simply tunnel through the snow.

Roman paused, his hands sorting through and finding a red sash amongst his clothes. Roman smiled, remembering when Patton had made this for him. To make him a ‘real adventurer’. What was he going to tell Patton? Oh dear, it wasn’t safe for Patton here either, was it? Because of Roman’s negligence, they were both in danger. But he couldn’t just not tell Patton. What if Virgil got him instead? Roman shuddered at the thought.

No, Roman would just have to come clean. Perhaps his honesty would make sure Patton didn’t completely hate him forever. Maybe Patton would even be open to the idea of moving into a new home together.

Despite knowing Roman was probably back in the walls by now, Virgil took the time to search around the rest of his apartment. Looking under everything and even calling out his name once or twice. Though, it wasn’t like Roman would even answer him if he was somewhere. It was quite clear that Roman hated him.

Virgil sighed at that. He thought it was better to be hated and protect. As long as Roman was safe and healthy, it didn’t matter what Roman thought of him. But still...the thought hurt.

Virgil stood back up, now facing a slightly open window. He caught a glimpse of white and hurried over. He drew the curtain and blinked as he saw the snow on the ground. What if Roman decided to leave the apartment. He could be out there, already dead.

Just then, the slight humming stopped and Virgil realized the heater had shut off. Oh no.

Roman heard it too. The ominous silence was much more foreboding inside the walls.

“You’ve got to be kidding me.” Roman muttered, leaping into action. He grabbed as many articles of clothing he could find, bundling up until he resembled more of a stuffed animal than a borrower. Overburdened as he was, Roman waddled out of his home, intent on making it out into one of the warmer apartments. One without Virgil, whom Roman heard still calling his name now and again just beyond the drywall.

Crap. He couldn’t just let Roman freeze. But what could he do? It wasn’t like he could get into the walls. He could keep calling out but who knew if Roman could even hear him. Still...he couldn’t just not try. “Roman!” He called out again. “Come on man! The heater turned off, come out so you can get warm!”

“As if I wasn’t already aware of that.” Roman muttered, rubbing at his shoulders to generate heat. The draft had come back, making the inner walls become a freezing wind tunnel.

Virgil cursed but he kept going despite knowing it was probably fruitless. “Come on! Look, I know you hate me! But I’m just trying to protect you!”

Roman ignored him, forcing his feet to continue going. Every step was becoming difficult, and when he thought about how far he’d have to travel just to reach another apartment Roman was almost ready to flop down right now and let the cold take him.

Virgil could already feel the temperature dropping. And if he could feel it, that definitely meant that Roman could feel it. He had to think of something, anything to get Roman to come out so Virgil knew he would be safe and warm.

“Roman! I just...I just don’t want you to die. And especially not because of me. If you come out, I’ll…” Virgil bit his lip. “If...If you just come out to get warm I’ll let you leave as soon as the heater turns back on!”

Roman couldn’t help it. He stopped in front of the open outlet cover, looking longingly at the blanket that was a mere few feet away. It was so tempting, if not for the fact it resided near a human calling his name.

But what choice did he have? At this rate it was either die on the way up to the fourth floor (the only other occupied apartment), or go out there and risk revealing himself again.

Virgil sighed, running a hand across his face. Welp, there was no way he was going to school today. Not with the knowledge that Roman was probably dying if not already dead. And it was his fault. His fault that Roman was too scared to come out or so scared that he left in the first place. Even with everything Virgil had offered him.

Virgil rubbed at his tear-filled eyes and headed into his bedroom to block the world out.

Roman tensed, realizing he had missed his chance when the pounding footsteps entered the bedroom. If he went out now, Virgil was sure to notice. The guy had heard him sneeze when he hadn’t even known about borrowers.

“D-do you promise?” Roman called out, making sure his voice projected despite the way his teeth chattered. Maybe if he cooperated, Virgil would stay true to his word. It was all Roman could hope for now.

Virgil froze, head snapping up and looking around but no matter where he looked, he couldn’t see Roman. He bit his lip in thought. “...Yeah. I promise.” He just wanted Roman out of the cold.

“...then fine.” Roman pushed open the outlet cover, feeling as though he was turning himself in as he trudged underneath the bed. He slowly came forwards, bundling into the blanket that once again pooled over the edge.

Virgil’s head snapped to the floor near his bed as Roman came out and he couldn’t help but grin in relief. “You’re okay.” He kneeled down on the ground, smiling down at Roman.

Roman nodded. “J-just cold.” He hissed, his fingers still feeling as though they could snap off at any moment.

Virgil hesitated for a moment, before asking, “did you...need anything?”

“No, I came out here to swap pleasantries.” Roman retorted sarcastically, burrowing further into the fabric. At least out here it didn’t feel as though the wind would shatter him.

Virgil winced and looked down for a moment. “...Am I...really so bad that you would have almost rather frozen than come back here?” Virgil couldn’t help but ask.

Roman just raised an eyebrow, letting the human figure that out himself.

Virgil swallowed the lump forming in his throat, feeling the need to defend himself. “I was just trying to protect you, okay? I just...wanted you to have a better life…”

“I don’t need a ‘better’ life.” Roman grumbled. “I already have my life, and it’s good enough for me.”

“But...But it’s clear that you’re more surviving than living.” Virgil tried to explain more. “Wouldn’t you rather be able to live a life where you didn’t have to worry where your next meal was coming from? And be able to have better and fresh food? I can give you anything that you need!”

“I don’t want to become a pet for a few meals!” Roman exclaimed, feeling himself getting heated both by the blanket and his own anger.

Virgil’s eyes widened. “Whoa! Who said anything about being a pet?” Virgil felt himself deflate. “Roman...I-I never…” He was having a hard time coming up with the words to say.

“Okay, less than a pet.” Roman corrected. “Because I’ve certainly seen humans take better care of a cat.” Roman spat the word ‘cat’, as it was truly a vile animal.

Virgil wanted to defend himself more but he took this moment to think back on everything he had done with Roman. He put himself in Roman’s shoes, letting go of his own view for a moment...he winced.

How...He had gotten him a dollhouse for pete’s sake. Sure, it was practical but it was a dollhouse. If Virgil was in Roman’s position, he’d find that more than a little demeaning. Especially if he hadn’t initially asked for it. Not to mention all the times he sort of just...ignored Roman and did what he thought was best.

Thinking on all these things, he came to a conclusion.

“I’m...a terrible person.” He said aloud.

“Most definitely.” Roman wasn’t sure if Virgil was being sarcastic, but he was inclined to agree with the statement anyways. The past few days with Virgil had certainly not been pleasant.

Virgil sighed. “I’m sorry, I should have...I should have listened to you more. I should have realized…” He shook his head, rubbing at his face.

“Like all the times I implicitly stated I didn’t want you to do something?” Roman reminded him. “Ooh, or how about the multiple occasions where your negligence could have gotten me killed?”

“What!?” Virgil exclaimed. “But I was being careful! When did I almost kill you?” Virgil hated the thought. It was the exact opposite of what he wanted, after all.

“Let’s see…” Roman began to count off on his fingers. “Trapped in a drawer, stuffed in a pocket, ignored in a cardboard box during freezing temperatures...and honestly, I’d say this time is your fault as well because I wouldn’t need to travel to another apartment if you weren’t such a scoundrel in the first place.”

Virgil’s face went even paler as he realized Roman was right. “Oh.” He said simply. “I...never meant...I’m sorry.” He said again. Man, he really messed this up.

“Yeah, I get it, you weren’t trying to kill me.” Roman admitted. Despite everything, he didn’t think that Virgil intended on actually killing him. Not yet, at least. “But you certainly weren’t trying not to kill me. For someone who’s propaganda is all “oh I’m Mr. Safety!” you’re doing a terrible job.”

“I get it, okay! I messed up!” Virgil suddenly exclaimed. “Whatever, you can leave as soon as the heat turns on. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.” Virgil stood up, sticking his hands in his pockets. Without another word, Virgil left the room, trying to fight back the tears that were threatening to spill.

Roman’s eyes widened, surprised at the human’s sudden exit. At least he seemed to have an impact on Virgil, forcing the human to see reason. And now Virgil had left him alone, so now Roman could enjoy the warmth in private until packing his bags and leaving for good.

And yet, for some reason, Roman couldn’t enjoy it. He shifted, for the first time feeling uncomfortable alone in a human’s room. Perhaps it was because, in a way, he had been invited here. Virgil had already promised he’d be free to go. It was only a tad bit cruel to insult him continuously after becoming a guest.

Virgil deserved it, sure, but Roman was still a borrower with manners.

Virgil practically collapsed onto his couch, flipping his hoodie up and pulling on the drawstring to close it around his face. He just...wanted to block out the world right now. Though...being alone with his thoughts wasn’t much better. So he took out his phone in order to distract himself. It only half worked.

Roman sat in uncomfortable silence, ears perking up at the familiar hum kicking back on. It seemed the humans were getting faster at fixing the heat. Perhaps if this happened again Roman wouldn’t even need to go to an apartment.

At the sound of the heat coming back on, Virgil sighed. He didn’t bother getting up to go check, he knew Roman was probably gone already. At least he’d be warm in the walls now. If the darn heater could stay on for more than an hour at a time.

Roman stayed longer than needed, conflicted as he stood up and stretched his arms in the once again warm air. Now all his layers felt positively sweltering, and Roman shed a few to carry them in his arms instead.

Roman glanced towards the door, feeling a slight tugging in his chest. Virgil’s gesture, this time, was actually helpful. Should he say something?

Roman shook his head. No, Virgil was still human. He couldn’t be trusted. And after everything that Virgil was done, they were at least even. In fact, Virgil probably still owed him an apology, and Roman had just spoken the truth. The borrower had nothing to apologize for.

….

Fine, he’d leave a note.

Roman dropped the bundle of clothes, deciding he’d pick them up on his way out. Roman jogged over to the desk, pulling out his hook. With a wide ark Roman threw it up, tugging to make sure the hook caught in the wood. Once he was satisfied, Roman began to climb.

After about a half-hour passed, Virgil figured he was fine to go back into his room. He stood up, hoodie still over his face as he shoved his phone into his pocket and headed for his room. It was a good thing he could take that dollhouse back. At least he didn’t waste his money.

Roman froze, pen between his hands as he was just about to write. Roman had wondered briefly whether it was a good idea to borrow something to write a note of this kind, but figured he had limited options.

Of course, as the floor began to shake, Roman realized he also had limited places to hide. He glanced at his hook, still waiting for him on the edge. Should he run for it? He likely wouldn’t make it in time. Not to mention, he had come up here to make a note to a human. Might as well tell him in person.

Still, the borrower instincts inside him told Roman this had been a terrible idea. Unable to stand out in the open willingly waiting for a human, Roman dashed behind the Laptop, leaving a streak of blue as the pen was still clutched between his hands.

Virgil entered his room, heading for his bed after a quick scan of the floor. Of course, he saw nothing and he face planted into bed. He stayed like that for a moment, before sitting up again. He could just stay...well, he could but he didn't really want to. Maybe he should go visit Logan. Talk to another person who actually liked him. That he hadn’t messed things up with. Yet.

Virgil stood and headed towards his desk to pack up his laptop. If he was there, he might as well get some help with his biology homework. But he paused when he noticed what seemed to be a half written note and a trail of blue leading...behind his laptop. “...What?” Was Roman...still here?

Roman felt his heart pounding, slowly peeking around the laptop. Just as he suspected, he immediately found himself in Virgil’s gaze. Roman gulped. “...hi.”

Virgil’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “Roman? What...what are you still doing here? I thought...I thought you would be long gone by now.”

“I, well, yes.” Roman, realizing he was still holding the pen, felt a bit foolish. He let it clatter to the wooden surface. “I just…” Roman rubbed at the back of his neck. “I’m not sure why I’m here, honestly.”

“Well, you aren’t...trapped here anymore.” Virgil said the word with disdain. “You should go, actually. If you stay, I might just mess things up even more.” And that was the last thing any of them needed.

“Right, ah, thank you.” Roman snapped his fingers suddenly. “Thank you! That was it, I wanted to, um, thank you. Not for most of it though. Just...just the more recent bits. Where you weren’t completely insufferable.”

Virgil blinked. “...Oh.” Virgil looked off to the side. “Ya know, this whole time I was waiting for you to say that but now...I don’t deserve it.” Virgil shook his head.

“Yeah…” Roman winced. “I mean, really it was more of an...apology thing. Because certainly you don’t deserve me to be bowing at your feet or anything, but it might have been a tad bit excessive of me to insult you to your face, repeatedly, after you invited me in.” Roman gave an awkward cough. “Soooooo...apologies.”

“No...like I said, I deserved it. I might not have even realized how much I messed things up if you hadn’t done all that.” Virgil shook his head again.

“Hey, this isn’t about you.” Roman huffed, crossing his arms. “This is about me and relieving me of my guilt. I don’t really care about all that, humans are usually cruel. I just felt bad, for some reason.”

“Well, you don’t need to. Feel bad, that is.” Virgil huffed. He grabbed his computer bag and stuffed his laptop inside before putting it over his shoulder. “I’m gonna go. Feel free to do whatever.” And without even one last glance at Roman, Virgil left.

Now Roman felt a different confusing feeling. He felt irritated that a human was leaving him alone. How dare Virgil ignore him! Roman would have been grateful for this any time yesterday, but now Roman was frustrated. His stomach still felt as though it was one giant knot, and he didn’t know what to do about it. Why did he even care about Virgil anyways? None of this mattered. Roman should be packing right now. Why wasn’t he doing that?

Roman glanced around the bedroom. Rarely did he get the bedroom to himself, as, usually, Virgil was chilling in here. Now Roman was alone, and he felt none of the familiar fear a borrower should feel in a human home. In fact, Roman felt almost...at ease. He certainly didn’t want to return to the walls just yet. It would be cold in there, even with his extra layers and the heat back on. Perhaps he could just stay here a while.

Roman looked at the pen and paper, still ready and waiting for him. Perhaps he could even take the time to indulge his creative side. It had been a while since Roman was able to express himself like this. With a grin, Roman grabbed the pen again.

#gt #Giant/tiny #thomas sanders #sanders sides #infinitesimal!sides #au #borrowers #human!logan #human!virgil #borrower!patton #borrower!roman #platonic #freezing perspective #part 6

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