#such a perfect sensory description

[saraswritingtipps]

Writing a romance scene between friends-turned-lovers

1. Build Tension and Chemistry:

Start by creating a strong foundation of emotional connection and chemistry between the characters. Show the reader why these friends are perfect for each other.

2. Use Inner Monologue:

Reveal the characters' inner thoughts and feelings. Allow readers to see their internal struggle and realization that their friendship has transformed into something more.

3. Subtle Gestures and Glances:

Describe subtle physical cues such as lingering touches, longing glances, or an accidental brush of hands. These small actions can speak volumes about the characters' growing attraction.

4. Dialogue:

Develop natural and engaging dialogue that reflects the characters' personalities. Use humor, vulnerability, and sincerity in their conversations to convey the depth of their emotions.

5. Setting and Mood:

Choose an appropriate setting that complements the romantic mood. Consider factors like lighting, ambiance, and the time of day to enhance the atmosphere.

6. Build Anticipation:

Slowly escalate the tension and anticipation as the characters become aware of their changing feelings. Tease the readers by delaying the moment of confession or physical intimacy.

7. Show Vulnerability:

Let your characters open up to each other, sharing their fears and insecurities. Vulnerability can be a powerful tool in a romance scene, making the characters relatable and endearing.

8. Physical Descriptions:

Provide sensory details when describing the characters' physical appearances. Highlight what makes each character attractive in the eyes of the other.

9. Create Realistic Obstacles:

Introduce obstacles or doubts that challenge the characters' path from friendship to romance. Overcoming these obstacles can make the relationship feel more genuine.

10. Build to the Climax:

Slowly build the scene to its climax, whether it's a passionate kiss, a confession of love, or another significant moment. Make it emotionally charged and meaningful.

11. Emotional Impact:

Ensure that the scene evokes a strong emotional response from the readers. Let them feel the characters' joy, relief, and excitement as the friendship evolves into romance.

12. Aftermath:

Show the aftermath of the romantic scene. How do the characters feel afterward? What changes in their relationship? What are their hopes and fears for the future?

13. Consistency:

Maintain consistency with the characters' personalities and the development of their relationship. Ensure that their actions and words align with their established traits and the progression of their bond.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #romantic gestures #romantic scenarios #best friends to lovers

[perpetual-stories]

Starting Strong Scenes in Your Writing

Scenes are the fundamental building blocks of novels and short stories, and each one should propel a story toward the climax.

Generally speaking, your scene structure should mirror the story structure. In other words, take a novel-writing approach to a scene, crafting a beginning, middle, and end. Like a story, the beginning of a scene should have a strong entry hook that pulls the reader in.

Start with the setting. Often a new scene signifies a change in time and location. Establishing the setting at the top of a scene helps your readers get oriented. It also sets the tone and mood of what will unfold in the coming pages. A setting can serve as much more than a backdrop in literature. Have your scene take place somewhere that builds tension and hinders your protagonist. If you’re writing a thriller, describe a dark and foreboding place where the worst might happen. Be descriptive and use sensory details to make your setting come alive before you jump into the action.

Use visual imagery. In screenwriting, writers have to think in pictures. What images will excite an audience at the top of a scene? Your approach should be the same when writing any kind of fiction. As you write the opening of a scene, use descriptive language to engage a reader through detailed imagery. Think like a screenwriter as you’re writing scenes.

Drop the reader into the middle of the action. Hit the ground running by starting a great scene in media res. It doesn’t have to be a fight scene or a car chase, but physical movement creates momentum and builds tension in a story. It’s also a way to instantly engage a reader. Be sure you begin the scene before the high points of the action so you build up to the scene’s climax.

Write a character-driven scene opener. A good scene starts by giving characters a goal. Start by putting your protagonist in a situation that creates an obstacle or opportunity for both the scene and the overarching storyline. Try starting with dialogue, like an intense conversation between your POV character and a mystery character whose identity is revealed later in the scene. If you’re writing from an omniscient third-person point of view, consider starting a scene with a secondary character, even the antagonist, and use it as a chance for deeper character development.

Summarize past events. You might choose to use the beginning of the scene to do a quick recap of what’s brought your main character to this place and moment in time. A summary is especially helpful if you’re writing in third-person and a new scene switches to a different character. Take the opportunity to remind the reader where we left off. Instead of a straight-forward update, get creative. Go into deep POV and let a character’s thoughts provide the summary instead of the narrator. Be sure to keep this summary brief—just a line or two—so you can get back into the action.

Introduce a plot twist. The start of a new scene is a chance to pivot and take your story in a new direction. Start a new scene at a turning point in your story. Dive into a flashback or character’s backstory, revealing critical information that changes the course of the story going forward.

Keep the purpose of the scene in mind. Effective scenes are clear about what they set out to accomplish and how they contribute to the overall plot. They might include plot points or reveal important information needed to move a story forward. Establish your scene’s intention from the very first word and keep the rest of the scene on point.

Rewrite until you’ve found the perfect scene opening. When you’ve finished the first draft of a scene, go back and read it through. If your scene needs something, but you can’t figure out what, it might be how the scene starts. The best way to know if your opening works is by reading how it plays with the rest of the scene. Review the last paragraph and see if it ties back to your beginning. If the intro feels weak, rewrite it. Maybe your real opener is hidden in plain sight somewhere else in the body of the scene.

Make sure your opening scene is your strongest. While your entire book should be filled with compelling scenes that start strong, the very first scene of your book needs to lead the pack. This is the reader’s introduction to your story and where you’re revealing the characters, the setting, and kicking off the plotline with the inciting incident. This first scene has to hook the reader from the first line so they keep turning the pages.

Read a lot of books. If this is your first novel and you need some inspiration and ideas to help you start off your scenes, start by reading other books. Choose a book by a bestselling writer like Dan Brown or Margaret Atwood. Study the different ways they approach every scene. Reading other authors is a great way to hone your scene-writing skills.

Follow like and reblog if you find these helpful!

#writing #writing advice #writing tips #original writing #writers on tumblr #writersconnection #writerscommunity #short story #storytelling #writersupportingwriters

[novlr]

What are some good ways to write about winter?

Winter. is a season of stark contrasts and sensory experiences. It provides the perfect canvas to paint vivid scenes that range from cosy romances to horror-filled stormy nights.

When writing about winter, it’s essential to capture the essence of its chill and the way it can transform the world. Here are some quick tips!

Sights

A blanket of pristine snow covering the landscape

Bare tree branches coated with frost

Delicate snowflakes drifting from the grey sky

Icicles hanging like crystal daggers from rooftops

Colourful clothes stark against the white of snow

Sunlight reflecting off the snow, creating a blinding glare

Animal tracks stamped into the powder

Frozen lakes and puddles

Man-made objects like snowmen and snow angels

Lights shining against dark backdrops

Sounds

Snow muffling and dampening the usual noises

Boots crunching on the frozen ground

People laughing and shouting as they play

Wind howling through barren branches

Ice cracking underfoot or on distant lakes

The silence of a snow-covered world

Shovels scraping against sidewalks

Snowballs hitting their targets with soft thuds

Branches creaking, laden with snow

The rustle of animals keeping warm in burrows

Smells

The fresh, clean scent of snow in the air

Wood smoke curling from chimneys

The earthy aroma of damp wool from coats and gloves

The sharp tang of frost and cold metal

Hot chocolate and marshmallows

Pine needles and the subtle scent of evergreen

Baking spices from holiday treats

The slight ozone smell before a snowstorm

Wet dog from snowball fights with furry friends

Leather and polish from well-worn boots

Activities

Building snow forts and castles

Ice skating on a frozen pond or rink

Snowshoeing through a silent forest

Curling up by the fire with a good book

Skiing and snowboarding down powdery slopes

Brisk walks to enjoy the winter air

Hiking up snowy mountains for panoramic views

Having snowball fights with friends or family

Feeding birds or wildlife braving the cold

Decorating the home with festive lights and ornaments

Character body language

Shivering and huddling for warmth

Rubbing hands together or blowing on them for heat

Shoulders hunched against the biting wind

Slipping and steadying oneself on icy patches

Squinting against the bright snow glare

Snuggling into oversized coats and scarves

Stamping feet to restore circulation

Clapping hands to keep the cold at bay

Arms wrapped around the torso for warmth

Quick, brisk movements to minimise exposure to the cold

Positive descriptions

The serene beauty of a snow-covered meadow at dawn

The invigorating feeling of cold air filling your lungs

The cosiness of a warm blanket on a frosty night

The joy of catching snowflakes on your tongue

The camaraderie of coming together to shovel snow

The nostalgia of winter holidays and traditions

The satisfaction of making the perfect snowball

The wonder of ice patterns on windows

The laughter and excitement of a snow day

The glistening of a frosted evergreen in the sun

Negative descriptions

The biting sting of the wind against exposed skin

The numbness of fingers and toes in the cold

The dreariness of shortened, grey days

The inconvenience of navigating slushy streets

The isolation of a blizzard keeping everyone indoors

The discomfort of wet socks and snow in your boots

The hazard of black ice on sidewalks and roads

The burden of heavy layers and winter gear

The dull ache of a cold that lingers

The gloom that can accompany the lack of sunlight

Helpful adjectives

Biting, chilly, frosty, glacial, icy

Crisp, brisk, sharp, piercing, raw

Fluffy, powdery, crunchy, slick, slippery

Dreary, overcast, bleak, sombre, grey

Cosy, snug, warm, toasty, plush

Twinkling, sparkling, shimmering, glistening

Silent, muffled, still, hushed, quiet

Fresh, clean, invigorating, brisk, bracing

Nostalgic, traditional, joyous, festive, celebratory

Isolating, inconvenient, burdensome, hazardous, gloomy

#writing tips #writing advice #writers #creative writing #writing #writing community #writers of tumblr #creative writers #writing inspiration #writeblr #writerblr #writing help #writing resources #writers block #writblr #writers corner #let's write #story inspiration #beat writers block #writing asks #tips for writers #help for writers #helping writers #writers on tumblr #writers and poets #writing blog #writer's block #writer #resources for writers #writing reference

[revehae]

masterlist

kang seulgi

seulgi ↠ like oxygen

smut, noncon, pussy slapping, kidnapping, choking, drugging, pretty vague mention of stalking

1.2k

abductor!seulgi x fem reader

seulgi ↠ slut cafe

smut, consent is dubious, g!p!reader, yandere themes, possessive!reader, unprotected sex, mentions of pregnancy, mentions of using a knife, sub!idol

2.5k

waitress!seulgi x (f) reader

seulgi ↠ fixative

smut, noncon to dubcon pipeline, implied!stalker au, breaking and entering

2.3k

ex!seulgi x (f) reader

bae irene

irene ↠ stress toy

smut, dubcon, g!p!reader, sub!irene x dom!reader, power imbalance, unprotected sex

2.1k

maid!irene x (f) reader

park joy

joy ↠ replay

smut, stepcest, degradation, camgirling, dom!joy, recording the act, oral/face riding

2.8k

dom!joy x (f) reader

kim yeri

yeri ↠ enchant me

smut, noncon touching, oral, lowkey morally ambiguous, fairy yeri × human reader

4.0k

fairy!yeri x (f) reader

johnny suh

johnny ↠ monster (ft. yuta)

smut, noncon, choking, use of a gun

3.0k

johnny x you

johnny ↠ sexcapade

smut, professor!johnny x professor!reader, infidelity, unprotected sex, sensory deprivation, overstimulation, almost getting caught

2.2k

co-worker!johnny x (f) reader

johnny ↠ indulgence

smut, graphic descriptions of murder, of violence, noncon, mentions of pregnancy, abduction, strangling, descriptions of blood

10.3k

serial!killer x (f) reader

lee haechan

haechan ↠ day and night (ft. jeno)

smut, noncon, unprotected sex, forced breeding, mean!dom!jeno, implied sub!haechan, knife play, gun play, degradation, bondage, slapping, kidnapping, sadism

2.5k

haechan x fem reader x jeno

haechan ↠ day and night 2 (ft.jeno)

smut, noncon, mean!dom!jeno, implied sub!haechan, gun play, degradation, slapping, kidnapping, oral (m receiving), sadist!jeno, implied dacryphilia

3.1k

haechan x fem reader x jeno

haechan ↠ behind closed doors (ft. jeno)

smut, stepcest, slight noncon, (uncreative) degradation, unprotected sex (i literally forgot about the existence of condoms, oopsies), brief choking, slapping, posessive!jeno

4.5k

haechan x fem reader x jeno

haechan ↠ the perfect victim

smut, noncon, unprotected sex, forced breeding, alcohol consumption, choking, impact play, degradation

2.7k

haechan x you

haechan ↠ brother’s best friend!haechan drabble

blackmail/coercion, dubcon, degradation, no praise in sight, pussy slapping, thigh slapping, (hard)dom!haechan, dumbification, edging, objectification, hyuck being all around terrible

haechan x you

haechan ↠ crush!haechan drabble (ft. mark)

degradation, can be read as non-con but reader wants it, moderate knife play, 2 instances of mark saying “good girl”

haechan x you x mark

haechan ↠ do you like it, dr. lee? (ft. jm, jn)

smut, noncon, gangbanging, student x professor, reader is early 30s, mentions of infidelity, forced oral, forced anal, age gap (18+)

5.4k

haechan, jaemin, jeno × (f) reader

haechan ↠ dear hyuckie

smut, noncon, mc is a terrible person, stalking, unprotected sex, baby trapping

6.0k

athlete!haechan x (f) reader

lee jeno

jeno ↠ behind closed doors (ft. haechan)

smut, stepcest, slight noncon, (uncreative) degradation, unprotected sex (i literally forgot about the existence of condoms, oopsies), brief choking, slapping, posessive!jeno

4.5k

jeno x fem reader x haechan

jeno ↠ day and night (ft. haechan)

smut, noncon, unprotected sex, forced breeding, mean!dom!jeno, implied sub!haechan, knife play, gun play, degradation, bondage, slapping, kidnapping, sadism

2.5k

jeno x fem reader x haechan

jeno ↠ day and night 2 (ft. haechan)

smut, noncon, mean!dom!jeno, implied sub!haechan, gun play, degradation, slapping, kidnapping, oral (m receiving), sadist!jeno, implied dacryphilia

3.1k

jeno x fem reader x haechan

jeno ↠ hurts so good (ft. mark)

smut, unprotected sex, degradation, slapping, impact play, cheating

4.2k

jeno x you x mark

jeno ↠ hurts so good 2 (ft. mark)

unprotected sex, degradation, slapping, impact play, cheating, cuckolding without the marriage, brief mention of nonconsented recording

3.9k

jeno x you x mark

jeno ↠ do you like it, dr. lee? (ft hc, jm)

smut, noncon, gangbanging, student x professor, reader is early 30s, mentions of infidelity, forced oral, forced anal, age gap (18+)

5.4k

haechan, jaemin, jeno × (f) reader

jeno ↠ undone

smut, noncon, enemies au, unprotected sex, choking, smacking, degradation

4.1k

enemy!jeno x (f) reader

na jaemin

jaemin ↠ secret stalker

smut, noncon, stalking

1.1k

bff!stalker!jaemin x you

jaemin ↠ do you like it, dr. lee? (ft hc, jn)

smut, noncon, gangbanging, student x professor, reader is early 30s, mentions of infidelity, forced oral, forced anal, age gap (18+)

5.4k

haechan, jaemin, jeno × (f) reader

mark lee

mark ↠ bff!mark drabble (ft. haechan)

degradation, can be read as non-con but reader wants it, moderate knife play, 2 instances of mark saying “good girl”

mark x you x haechan

mark ↠ hurts so good (ft. jeno)

smut, unprotected sex, degradation, slapping, impact play, cheating

4.2k

mark x you x jeno

mark ↠ hurts so good 2 (ft. jeno)

unprotected sex, degradation, slapping, impact play, cheating, cuckolding without the marriage, brief mention of nonconsented recording

3.9k

mark x you x jeno

mark ↠ all the rage

smut, dubcon, nerd!mark, virgin!mark, coercion/blackmail, unprotected sex, nonconsented recording, oral, implied bimbo!reader

4.5k

nerd!mark × (f) reader

ning yi zhuo

ningning ↠ our little secret

smut, stepcest, manipulation, noncon to initiate, corruption

3.2k

baby step-sister!ningning x (f) reader

ningning ↠ mirage

smut, noncon, scientist! reader, siren!ningning, fucking machine, kidnapping

2.4k

siren!ningning × (f) reader

lisa manoban

lisa ↠ lust and war (ft. jennie)

smut, light dubcon, mentions of blood, biting, vampire!lisa, g!p jennie, werewolf!jennie

5.0k

werewolf!jennie x (f) reader x vampire!lisa

kim jennie

jennie ↠ lust and war (ft. lisa)

smut, light dubcon, mentions of blood, biting, vampire!lisa, g!p jennie, werewolf!jennie

5.0k

werewolf!jennie x (f) reader x vampire!lisa

jennie ↠ party monster

smut, thoughts of noncon, sub!jennie, oral, noncon recording, monsterfucking

3.3k

bff!jennie x (f) reader

shin ryujin

ryujin ↠ soul snatcher

smut, dubcon, wall sex, monsterfucking, g!p, demon!ryujin, dom!ryujin, sub!reader, oral

3.5k

demon!ryujin × (f) reader

kim chaewon

chaewon ↠ naïveté

dubcon, mermaid!chaewon x human!reader, oral, posessivelreader, dom!reader, sub!chaewon, yandere themes

4.0k

mermaid!chaewon × (f) reader

[nc-vb]

𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐥'𝐬 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 pt. ii

That virgin albedo and reader smut was fucking perfect, it was fucking beautiful, it was realistically awkward, I fucking loved everything in it. Now I wanna know if they manage to create a baby? I've heard some couples say they had to do 'it' multiple just to be sure. Just imagine Albedo noticing and acknowledging the almost visible baby bump every time reader visits him (Idk if it's safe for her to visit dragonspine with her condition)

Etsu, my dear, you really got in my head with this ask. I know it was like, three months ago that I promised this part two! But!! It's finally here!!!

masterlist | taglist pt. i | pt. ii | pt.iii

warnings → 18+ (minors & blank blogs dni), no explicit scenes but there’s a lot of suggestion; use of medical & anatomical terminologies; description of vomiting & nausea, & a couple of near-death experiences through cause of embarrassment; not beta'ed (i'm 'eepy (_ _  ) . . z Z).

character mentions → jean, sucrose, kaeya, aether & paimon, bennett

wc → 9.8k

Lately, you’ve dreaded mornings. Today is no different.

It hadn’t been so long ago that the sun peaking through your curtains meant just another day of peace for you and the people of Mondstadt. Gone were the days of cowering beneath the belly of a corrupted dragon and within your homes to avoid being swept away by its fierce winds— it’d been so long where you were even able to enjoy having your lunches atop the Knight’s headquarters rather than in your office; you had been grateful.

Glaring over at your window, you find yourself wishing the sun would fizzle out of existence. You’d wished your curtains could be as black as the depths of the Abyss, and that the nest of chirping birds sat outside of your window would finally “fly the coop”.

Every little sensation seems to exist solely to set you off and create a mood you’d been stuck in until late in the evenings, and every little movement had only made the strange nausea you’d been experiencing even worse than normal. It’d been for the latter reason why you’d begun to keep a large pot at your bedside, as for whatever unfair reason, you’d been struck with a case of morning sickness so debilitating that after your first attempt of crawling to the toilet bowl before last night’s midnight snack could be expelled and was expelled, you’d learned your lesson.

Still half-tucked in the sheets of your bed, you shift in discomfort, a strange burning sensation ripples beneath your tongue. In your haste to sit up, you become tangled on your way to reaching for the pot, yanking it unceremoniously from your bedside table and into your awaiting lap— and, just in time.

Eyes squeezed shut, you start heaving over the rim, chin hanging inside the bowl of the pot, and with a trembling left hand, you keep your face clear of obstacles and—

Gross, gross, gross, gross… the colour, the smell, the sound it makes from all the water you’d consumed since before falling asleep— you vomit once more from the sensory overload. Heartburn would follow indubitably afterwards; a side effect to a side effect, and no amount of medicine would subdue it.

At the very least, there has always been the calm before the storm continued, a lull in which you could get out of bed and tend to yourself before the rest of the symptoms could appear. And so, you finally rise, having swung your shaky legs over the edge of your mattress and dragging the sloshing pot along with you to dispose of its contents. You hold your breath and squint, eyes open only wide enough for you to ensure your vomit spills safely into the toilet bowl.

“Gross,” you repeat, voice rasping.

It’s been almost two weeks of this… With a face cloth you’d used from last night, you run it beneath cool water and practically slap it against your face, unflinching from the amount of water dripping from it and onto yourself. Just how much longer can it possibly continue for?

Somehow, it didn’t even occur to you the reason why you’d gotten sick so suddenly. The sudden exhaustion, the sudden aching in your chest, the sudden morning nausea— because of it, you’d been late to work almost every day since. The acting Grand Master had been sympathetic; as things have been surprisingly quiet in regards to the records department, Jean encouraged you to take your time and to rest well before attempting to work.

“We may not say it enough, but we really do rely on you, and appreciate what you do for us, ______. Please, rest well.”

Of course, you knew that they did. Some of the knights certainly might not be as vocal as others, but the sheepish smiles of apology they wear when they hand you a new pile of field reports or copies of finance charts proved enough. Even when Grand Master Varka was still around, he’d throw “thank you’s” at you like candy, too the point where it got so sickeningly sweet that you had to beg him to stop.

But Jean’s reminder of all of this, when the knights are so overextended and too tired to muster even a fake smile, is also enough. That’s why you’ve been resting as much as possible, returning immediately home when the clock tolled for the seventeenth hour, doing minimal chores around your abode in an attempt to surplus your energy and resting in bed immediately after that, so you could return to them healthy.

But is this what death feels like? Has some strange illness crept into Mondstadt? Was that sweet honey chicken from Good Hunter you ate last night not cooked thoroughly enough? Or…

Your thoughts stutter when your eyes move from your mirror to out you door, and land on a wooden board hung up above your night stand. Memories, as many as you could nail to it, resided there. Receipts from your favourite lunch dates with your friends and coworkers; a ticket from a popular opera performance you attended, put on by the famous Yun Jin; and, photos taken with the new Kamera model, gifted to you on your last birthday. Vividly, you could remember the events of each day that the pictures took place in.

The one of you and the other department heads, captains, and Grand Masters, was one you struggled to take, in the sense of timing; everyone had been everywhere, yet you managed to find a split second for them to come together for this single memory. And so you’d set the timer, ten seconds for everyone to get into position, and in the last two seconds, poor Mika had just managed to sidle into frame next to you wearing a tired, photo-ready smile.

Another photo had been Kaeya’s attempt to take a front-facing picture of himself with you, asleep at your desk, your cheek resting on the ink stamp pad— a second image had also been taken, of you waking up and taking in the situation, followed by a third of you attempting to catch Kaeya as he ran away and back to his own office (lunch was purchased as an apology, and you had made a copy of the photos for him), all strung together in chronological order.

There are several miscellaneous photos about, too, such as of you and some of the cats at the Cat’s Tail Tavern and some scenery shots from all over Mondstadt. But the one that catches your attention and instantly has your tired, thoughtless brain piecing together your symptoms is the one you’d taken on a timer of you and Albedo out front the doors of his lab, you, with your arms crossed and smiling, and he with his arms down at his sides, unsmiling, but his expression kept a warmth to it as in the picture, he’d been looking at you.

Even the thought of being the object of his affection brought heat to your cheeks. Somehow, during your illness, you managed to forget what the reason behind yours’ and Albedo’s curiosity had been — is he capable of reproducing? — and by extension, the list of symptoms you knew you had to watch out for. Considering they began almost two weeks ago now, and all you’ve done thus far is let it cripple you for half of your mornings, rather than make a visit to an apothecary or report your symptoms to either Albedo or Sucrose (who’d been brought up to speed on what the experiment entailed, and, despite her explicit embarrassment, had been asked to be available for result submissions while he remains out of the city for the next three weeks).

Maybe she’d been why you hadn’t bothered reporting anything to her— in trying to save face and spare the both of you from an awkward conversation, you’d kept your less than mild symptoms a secret from even the Acting Grand Master to make sure it didn’t get around that you were a sickly mess. Yet somehow, you’d forgotten along the way that morning sickness, of all things, is a clear sign of pregnancy. How you managed to let yourself stay ignorant these past couple of weeks frustrates you; to spare yourself even further, you easily deign to blame it on the confusion brought forth from your constant nausea. It’s been almost seven weeks since then, ______, you tell yourself. Otherwise, you’ve finally reached a point of clarity, enough to remind you of your responsibilities and how you’ve neglected them.

Even your reflection looks peeved. Or maybe it’s the lingering nausea.

You spit your soured saliva into the sink, drawing your gaze away from the mirror discouraging reflection of you and toward focusing on brushing the taste of bile and yesterday’s dinner off your tongue. Upon reentering your room once you’d finished the rest of your morning hygiene routine, you dare to gander at the small clock resting atop your windowsill, and sigh.

“Ten after eleven,” you mutter, yanking your pyjamas down your trembling legs. “A new record of tardiness.” Nude, you cross to your armoire and pull together a simple, comfortable outfit. So far, half of your wardrobe had managed to offend you by being too rough on your skin— it made you feel claustrophobic, oversensitive, and you’d wanted nothing more than to see them burnt to ashes—

A rhythmic knock on the wood of your door startles you from your flame-fueled daydream. Carefully shoving your arms through the sleeves of your shirt so as not to over-exert yourself, you make your way down the steps from the second floor, holding onto the banister to stay balanced. You end up pulling the door open halfway through the same pattern of knocking, revealing a familiar tanned face.

“Well, good morning.”

You can’t help the frown that settles deeper into your face at the rehearsed smile Kaeya wears— rehearsed for your sake, because the last time he showed up here out of the blue to check on you, you looked to be near death, and he certainly didn’t bother to hide its obviousness.

“… I think I’d rather you be grimacing at me like before,” you admit, shaking your head and stepping aside to allow him in. “You know, potentially holding back your own vomit, perhaps? Somehow, I think I’d be less offended...”

A dry, hesitant laugh escapes him as he shuts the door behind him, and almost nervously, he glances around your foyer, eyes flitting past the wooden arches and into the small kitchen, toward the mess of used dishes and pots by your sink and the numerous wrapping articles stemming from your lack of energy toward cooking— in recent times, you’d been the Good Hunter’s most loyal customer.

“Still ill, I see,” he notes quietly awhile following you back up to the second floor. Though, in your small apartment, it’s easily heard. “It hasn’t gotten any better?”

“Nope,” you mumble. A strange smell suddenly punches the air ahead of you, one that you cautiously sniff at and almost immediately, you recognize it. Having sat down on your bed again, boots in hand, you pull them on and pull up on the zippers, one by one; “I don’t know how much more I can take resting like I’ve been. I’m tired of being tired.”

“Then why not visit a doctor?”

“Because I don’t need to visit one…” Because it’s not a doctor I need to see first, you think. “Honestly… I probably know what it is, but…”

“Oh? A stomach bug, perhaps?”

You’ve never had to summon so much willpower to not laugh before as you do now.

“Yes… m-most likely.” From his place, leaning against your front door, arms crossed, and only one visible eye lidded in scrutiny at you, of which you take notice of from the corner of your own eye, you can only assume the experience hardened Cavalry Captain knows you’re hiding something before it finally clicks. “Kaeya—”

“Yes?” You scowl at his instantaneous reply.

“I should’ve asked this sooner, but I’ve been seeing you quite often at my front door lately. Just why do you keep coming over?” This time, he doesn’t immediately answer.

“… to check up on a subordinate, of course,” he finally says.

“I’m not your subordinate.”

“A subordinate.”

“I don’t belong under your regiment, nor any regiment, for that matter— I run my own department.”

“We still work quite closely together, though, wouldn’t you say? And, we’re friends.”

“Then why wasn’t that your first answer, over “subordinate”?”

“I—” he stops himself from speaking any further, lips painting a thin line across the lower half of his face.

“The truth would probably be easier,” you point out. “It’s funny, though, because you’re usually so careful about these types of things…”

“Sorry?” You hold back an annoyed breath.

“You smell like broth.” At the confused look on his face, you quickly add, “Not food broth. It’s a chemical used in laboratories. Like, Sucrose’s, for example.” And you raise an eyebrow at him. “Kaeya.”

His sigh is long and drawn out, and rather absentmindedly, he begins playing with the feathers of his cape.

“Fine. You caught me.” You scoff at his sudden petulance. “I overheard a conversation between Sucrose and Albedo from a few weeks ago… about an experiment the two of you had been involved in together.”

“A-And what about it?” you inquire hotly— Just what did he overhear?!

“I was right to assume that you wouldn’t say a word if there’d been anything to report about it— not to Sucrose, at least. Albedo, however… Well, I’m sure I’m not the only one to have noticed, but the two of you have been thicker than a pair of thieves lately, even more so than usual. I don’t think I’ve seen him so reluctant to have to return to Dragonspine before.”

While you wish you could argue each and every one of his observations — damn that Kaeya and his stupidly keen eye! — even you had to admit that the chief alchemist had been acting increasingly out of character. From his task to Sucrose, to short handwritten letters delivered to you every other day meant to ask for any news, and even the small argument the two of you had gotten into over him remaining in Mondstadt to watch over you, instead— Kaeya insinuating your sudden closeness to him isn’t far off at all, which is exactly the opposite of what you’d hoped would happen.

“… obviously you visited Sucrose for a reason,” you say after a minute of silent deliberation, “and clearly it’d been for a long enough time that you now smell like a portable laboratory. How much did you overhear that day? Because for you to go to her out of curiosity, it must’ve been because you heard enough.”

Kaeya clears his throat lightly, and to your horror, his own brand of blush rises atop his sharp cheeks. “That… indeed, is the case.” Lips parted to speak, you struggle to even find the proper words to say, but only the most uncouth sputtering is conjured. Not knowing what your reaction will be, Kaeya steps forward, hands raised in defence of himself, “Don’t be embarrassed—”

“”Don’t be embarrassed”?!” you exclaim back at him— you instantly reel, your head spinning from having suddenly raised your voice. “… t… there’s nothing more embarrassing than this.”

“Just… stay calm, ______…” Kaeya shakes his head, an awkward chuckle tearing itself from its throat. “I… For once, I’m at a loss for words…”

“You say this like it’s a bad thing,” you mutter.

“I suppose it’s not… but… I’m simply… surprised. Can I ask why?”

“You just said you were at a loss for words!” you grumble. Pushing yourself off your bed, you snatch up your satchel from the end corner bedpost and your cloak from the standing coat rack, and move Kaeya and yourself in the direction of the downstairs exit.

“But why all of a sudden like that? Really, I could say it isn’t like you, but it’s truly not like Albedo at all—””We got curious,” you hiss, interrupting his speculation.

“Of what?”

“None of your business, that’s what.”

“Of what having sex feels like?” You nearly drop your house key, your hands trembling. “After all, you did once tell me that you were still a—”

“Sure, Kaeya, that’s exactly what the curiosity was all about! Not that I couldn’t have gone and experimented with anybody else or anything like that.” Hoping that by his silence, your answer has placated him, you take the time in the quiet to finally, successfully, lock your apartment. You’re quick to travel down the staircase, each step creaking loudly beneath you as you move, and stirring Kaeya from his thoughts.

“No, that wouldn’t make sense for the good alchemist to do,” he mumbles behind you, “so then it must have something to do with his research? Oh. You did just say “experiment”, didn’t you? Hm… an aphrodisiac, perhaps?”

“Archons alive…”

“Yes, yes— did he make you drink anything? Eat anything? A potion to improve one’s libido— now that would be a fascinating experiment.”

“That sounds like a terrible thing to make,” you shoot back, shaking your head at him. “You want a stronger libido?”

Kaeya chuckles at you, and you immediately realize you’ve spoken incorrectly.

“Are you implying that yours is strong enough? Or, his? How did he perform, anyhow? I can’t imagine he’s had much practice.”

“Oh, not quite so unlike yourself, right?” Kaeya chokes out a cough at your knowing glance. “”Mondstadt’s number one bachelor”— do they know you’ve yet to even enter a relationship? Talking about a stronger libido… Perhaps you should use the one you have now and go from there? Or, attempt courting someone first— Barbatos knows you already have a plethora of fans waiting for an opportunity to jump your bones—!”

Rather harshly, he’d reached next to him to clasp a hand over your mouth and behind your head, an attempted non-nervous laugh fleeing past gritted teeth and a fake smile— the fellow knight that passes the two of you by whilst on his morning patrol raises an eyebrow and shakes his head, secretly curious, but not enough so for him to desire receiving any similar strange behaviours from the Ordo Favonius’ Cavalry Captain as you, their records keeper, just had.

“Suppose it’s a bit too early for that kind of talk, hm?” Beneath a clammy palm, you can’t help but snicker at him. Hypocrite.

“Maybe,” and you drag his hand away. “I know you’re a busy man and all, Kaeya, but there’s no harm in pursuing a relationship, or even something more casual if that’s your fancy.”

The two of you manage to sigh in unison in time with beginning your ascent to headquarters, yours sounding more relaxed now that you’d managed to subdue Kaeya’s curiosity. But it’s not like you couldn’t understand it— if you were in his position, you’d likely be nosey about it, too.

“There’s just… no one available for my interest, is all,” Kaeya relents. “And besides, who has time for new relationships, with all the work to do in fixing up Mondstadt?”

“Hm, not even with that Traveler? It seemed like you two hit it off as friends fairly easily. I don’t see why—”

“-_____!”

In your attempt to begin matchmaking your friend, and your remaining sickly stupor that had you leaning into him, you don’t immediately register that it’d been your name to be called until it’s shouted once more. You flinch, head snapping up to the top step in front of headquarters where an… unfortunately familiar face stands.

“S-Sucrose,” you end up stammering, and your entire body jerks to a stop. “W-What are you—? I-I’m… surprised to see you outside the laboratory…”

Quickly, you hustle up the rest of the steps, and though it leaves you winded, you’re at least energized enough by the embarrassed heat that flooded you from Kaeya’s own knowing look as he followed the two of you down the cobbled street.

“I visited your office to find you, but one of the guards said you hadn’t arrived yet today. I got worried, a-and came to find you, but it seems Captain Kaeya found you first. But you look terrible, ______— I-I mean! I-I didn’t mean to say it like that, I—”

“No, no, you’re right; I do look terrible,” you murmur. “I… It’s something I’d actually like to speak to you about, Sucrose…”

“Oh? If it’s a cold, I do have a special recipe I once created, though it will take a few hours to brew, and I believe I am out of Slime Concentrate…”

“W-What a shame it is, then, that you’re out of Slime Concentrate…” You hold back the gag you’d almost released upon recalling the experiment you and Albedo performed after the experiment— What a texture… “But no, it’s not… a cold. It’s actually about what you and Albedo spoke of a couple of weeks ago.”

“A couple of weeks ago…” Sucrose pauses at the bottom of the stairs to headquarters, a hand on her chin, and while still lost in her memory recall, her skin tone begins to clash with her mint green hair. “Oh!! About… the experiment you and… Albedo… c-conducted, right?” You nod, albeit hesitantly. Kaeya hides his chuckling with another cough. “Then, we probably should head back inside to the laboratory… Though, I would’ve asked you to come with me there, anyway.”

“Hm? What for?”

“Well… because Albedo is here in Mondstadt today.”

You could have fainted. You should have fainted— it might’ve gotten you out of having to face not only Sucrose, but the man you both dreaded having to see, and desired to see almost painfully so.

The time the two of you spent in his mountainside laboratory had been lengthened by how severe the squall raging outside it had become. You’d thought yourself clever for having thought to pack so aggressively, being warned of Dragonspine’s unpredictability by one of your coworkers upon mentioning your intent to visit Albedo there. And so, half a day became half a week, the two of you surviving off of the squishy treats you’d brought along as a gift, hearty stew made from what ingredients Albedo had left near the entrance to his laboratory, and an assortment of dried fruits you’d prepared the week prior in preparation for your journey.

The events of what had transpired over the course of those three days and nights, varied. That non-freezing adventurer’s water you had theorized over, and that Albedo had concocted a solution and balanced a formula for, had been completed faster than you had expected. With his next planned experiment put on hold until visibility improved, he thought to fill his time with you.

“There isn’t a guarantee that doing this once is enough for the sperm and the egg to take,” he’d explained. “I once read that persistent copulation is sometimes necessary in receiving positive results… If you feel you’re well-rested enough, shall we go again?”

… and again, and again, and again…

So deeply lost in your own thoughts, your mind’s eyes replay those shared moments, recalling just how unexpectedly lascivious Albedo had grown since having his first taste of sexual intimacy with you— no, that’s incorrect. The sudden change in his expressions, from the usual cat-like curiousness you’d been accustomed to seeing in him, to the purest form of lust and desire upon receiving your affection, true affection, and not emotions forced by the parameters of an experiment— the change in the Chalk Prince had been instantaneous, and it had been something you could never deny. You, nor anyone else who has crossed paths with the alchemist, has ever witnessed anything so lewd and wanton from him.

And you, alone, had been the honoured one in his reciprocation.

It doesn’t even register that you’d entered the Knights of Favonius’s headquarters until you bump into a soft object. Blinking quickly, you realize you’d run into Kaeya from behind, simultaneously taking in the familiar chess flooring pooled around your feet. In its recent cleaning, you spot a bit of your reflection through a black tile and quickly recognize the expression you wear to be of a flustered nature.

“Hm?” Kaeya glances behind him and at you in time to catch you rubbing at your cheeks. “You alright, ______?”

“Yep, and I don’t want to talk about it,” you’re quick to respond. Eyes flit across your face and with a shake of his head, Kaeya snickers. “Sucrose, is Albedo in the lab with you today?”

“When I left him to find you, he had still been in his office,” she explains from ahead, “waiting for… you.”

“Oh,” is all that you manage to say.

“B-But, I figure that I should ask for a blood sample from you today, since it’s been a little over two weeks… Albedo wasn’t… happy, that you haven’t been reporting in anything, j-just to warn you…”

“Well!” You jump at the abruptness of your male companion, hand over your chest to comfort your startled heart. “I suppose I should be saying reporting to our Acting Grand Master for late duty,” Kaeya says. Your scowl, it being your first instinct to send one his way, quickly morphs into an expression of surprise.

“What? This wasn’t your break? Don’t tell me you just skipped out on working, Kaeya? Wait, no— you used me as an excuse to skip out on working, didn’t you? Wait, even worse! You’ve done this eight times in two weeks! Kaeya!”

He peers down at you, and in his failure to mask his amusement, “I was simply performing a good deed on a quiet day, where my talents would have been wasted sitting behind a desk to write a non-existent report. And look at that! I saved you the trouble of having to file it!”

“Quiet days, you mean? And, it’s my job to file reports,” you grumble at him, sighing. “If not for your actual talents as a knight, I would never understand how you became a captain…” With a sigh, you finally relent. “… I should check in with Jean, too, before I go with you, Sucrose.”

“Sure.” She nods. “I’ll meet you in there.”

Eyes stuck on her retreating form, Kaeya has to nudge you back into focus.

“Now who’s using who as an excuse?”

With your left hand’s knuckles stinging from where it connected with Kaeya’s clothed bicep, and Kaeya aggressively rubbing at the very same spot, the two of you enter the Grand Master’s office a moment later after receiving permission to enter from the female voice inside.

“______,” Jean greets you, rising from her seat and rounding her desk to meet you and Kaeya. “I’m glad to see you’re looking a little better than how I’d left you yesterday. Are you feeling any better?”

Your chuckle is dry. “I wish I could report that this was the case, ma’am, but seeing as I’m this late today, well…”

“That’s… a fair point. The good news is, things have been rather quiet here in terms of any reports, so please don’t work yourself ragged trying to get them all done in one day?”

“I—” your sentence catches in your throat, and instead, you laugh again, knowing full well of your intentions to completely them before you had to return home again. “Yes, ma’am; I’ll take my time.”

“Good. Then, you are dismissed; I also hear Albedo is looking for you?” You nod. Jean smiles warmly at you one last time and nods before directing her attention onto your blue-haired escort. “As for you, Kaeya…”

The man gives you a fleeting look of desperation, not having expected Jean to actually start chastising him. You offer a slight shrug and a short wave of your hand before fleeing the office in search of Sucrose.

Once or twice, I could understand, but almost ten and without telling our Acting Grand Master? Out loud and away from your thoughts, you click your tongue mock-disapprovingly, but in fact, you were utterly touched that Kaeya would risk reprimand just to check on you. You hadn’t asked him to, after all, and yes, he’d just been a good friend for doing so, but his choice, his punishment. I hope he doesn’t actually get in trouble, though… not for me. Well, maybe I’ll treat him to something nice later as thanks.

You’re quick to climb the grand staircase within headquarters, taking a sharp right up the stairs to the second floor to the alchemy wing. There, and two floors above your records office, one would find both the laboratory and Albedo’s office, and thankfully, for safety reasons, there’d been nearly a whole half building of difference between even those two rooms. Any accident within the laboratory would give time to spare any materials and or documents within Albedo’s office with a simple defence rune activated by a danger trigger, courtesy of the Knights of Favonius’ Magical Inquiry Division Captain.

The laboratory would be the first room one would encounter on their venture into the west wing, the door adorned with a simple sign of caution to those wanting to enter it. Not that many did besides the two people under Albedo’s apprenticeship; Kaeya, apparently, whenever he feels nosey enough; Grand Master Varka, when he’d still been in Mondstadt, but more likely for his own personal curiosities of alchemy; Jean, as the Acting Grand Master, and actually for the purpose of her duties; and, you, whenever you’d been in search of Albedo, also for your own personal reasons.

Quite suddenly, your chest decides to squeeze when you’d reached for the handle. Wasn’t it just anxiety? You’re only visiting Sucrose; you won’t be seeing Albedo until after your testing gets done. So then, a premonition?

Having dawdled enough, you twist the knob and shove the door forward. Heavy, it creeks upon its hinges to announce your arrival. Not bothering to open it all the way, you slip in through the few feet wide space and shut the door behind you with a bang. You spin on your heel, an apology hanging off your tongue for Sucrose for the loud interruption, when the air in your chest catches in your throat— at least this time, it isn’t due to the scent of broth.

“Oh, ______. There you are.”

You startle easy, greeted not by the green-haired alchemist you’d been entrusted to, but by the man who entrusted you to her, and swallow harshly, the flesh of your cheeks quick to bloom with warmth.

“A-Albedo,” you stammer, hand pressed against your chest when you exhale. “Hi.”

“Hello. I was about to come looking for you; Sucrose mentioned that you arrived and met with Jean. I was just about to come and find you.”

“O-Oh, I…” You mentally curse at your unintelligibility, but his appearance had caught you just that off-guard. “Sorry, I— I was expecting Sucrose.”

“I had a task I needed to delegate that she has assisted me with before, and she offered to assist me again. So instead, I’ll be overseeing this… belated check-up.”

Your lips instantly drop into a tight-lipped frown. He’s upset, you realize, tiptoeing further into the laboratory. Ugh, I should’ve just come sooner. He can probably already tell something’s wrong—

“Come in; take a seat here, please.” You do, having just passed him as he sets up multiple objects on a metal tray, shuffling back on your behind until you hit the backrest. Albedo spins, clutching the tray tight to transfer it to the table closer to you, and his eyes flit upwards to examine your pallor. “______, you look pale.”

“Oh, I’ve been a bit under the weather lately,” you tell him. Spotting a stethoscope on the tray, you begin willing your heart to calm down. It doesn’t.

“For how long? Sucrose didn’t mention anything in her report,” Albedo hums, glancing to a clipboard. “It only mentioned that you had taken time off.”

“Only Jean and Kaeya knew about this, and Kaeya had only found out due to his own curiosities… And, um, for about… two weeks now...”

There is a brief pause from the man that has you correcting your already-stiff posture, your spine hitting the wooden backrest hard enough to have you jolt even straighter— “I’m sorry. I’m… I’m sorry I lied in those letters to you. Honestly, I… I don’t know why I decided to do that. I didn’t want you to worry about me, o-or something like that… I’m just… I’m sorry.”

Albedo finally looks to you, his eyes having been pointed down at his clipboard for so long that you began to fear something potentially greater than disappointment from him. What’s worse than disappointing Albedo, though? a part of you wonders woefully, and it had been right. Because his promise to you that he would not leave you on your own through any of this venture was made with a conviction that blazed brighter than the fire burning in his caveside laboratory the night your fools’ experiment took place.

And once more, like when you’d assumed wrongly of him that same night, you’d managed to slight him again by denying him your candor.

A comforting hand extends toward you all the same, to rest itself on one of your shoulders.

“If, subconsciously, you’re thinking yourself to be some kind of burden to me by reporting every little change in your health, or if I’ve burdened you by tasking you with reporting to me, then… I apologize.”

Your shoulders sag at the realization, and you raise a hand to hold his.

“Albedo, n-no, it’s nothing like that at all— I promise. I just… really didn’t want you to worry about me when you’re so busy, especially as something as small as this. I was going to tell Sucrose today about everything, so she could justify me bothering you with a detailed report.”

“I like hearing from you,” he says, and squeezes your hand in return. “No matter how small… I like being able to stay in touch when I’m so far away from Mondstadt. Even hearing about the most mundane things of your day, I find joy in. But hearing that you’ve been ill and on your own in taking care of yourself… I would’ve come back sooner.”

“But that’s what I mean. What if it’s just a cold? Then it’s nothing I haven’t already handled before, and I would have just inconvenienced you.”

“And what if it’s not?” he counters— you knew he would, the second you stopped speaking. “Symptoms of influenza or symptoms of pregnancy— should it matter?”

“I… no… but also, yes— I-I get where you’re coming from here, Albedo, but the second I would find out the results, you know I would’ve contacted you immediately.”

Albedo shakes his head. “Your well-being has always been important to me— now, even more so, and for obvious reasons. It doesn’t matter what it might be. If you’re feeling unwell, please tell me.”

“I…” You weren’t going to argue, even before you’d been on the receiving end from his stern expression, but you go tight-lipped, only spewing the answer you know he wants to hear. Because he’d been right, after all. There hasn’t been a time where he hadn’t shown concern for you— not before that day, not when you’d been scaling Dragonspine and braving both the cold and one of its resident Frostarm Lawachurls, and not when in the throes. And you couldn’t bring yourself to deny him that. In fact, finally accepting the truth of it, yourself, “Okay.”

Partial frustration transforms into a look of relief on Albedo, and in response, you exhale, experiencing the same sense.

“I’m going to take a listen to your heart, now.” Albedo pulls his hands from yours to grab the stethoscope from his tray, your own curling into your lap in wait for him to begin examining you. Earpieces fitted gently into the curve of his ears, “Could you lift your shirt for me?”

“Y-Yes…” You pull at the material of your blouse until it untucks from the waistband of your slacks, holding it high above your navel and sitting a little more upright when he presses the larger of the two circles beneath your left breast.

His fingertips, neutral in temperature like the rest of him, brush across your abdomen in absentminded wait— you’re not sure if he realizes he’s doing it or not, but you don’t ask, already still so nerve-wracked at seeing him sooner than you’d planned. It hadn’t only been out of the guilt from not keeping him apprised on you that you weren’t ready to see him— no, it had been the fact that throughout your illness, and despite the effects your symptoms had on you, you just couldn’t stop replaying your time with him behind your eyes.

Albedo’s hand shifts the diaphragm along your skin to rest against the sideward swell of your right breast.

“Your heart rate just increased,” he notes aloud. You swallow harshly, and avert your eyes when he tries raising his gaze to yours. “______?”

“… it’s not because of my symptoms,” you murmur, and busy yourself in watching the gentle simmering of some green liquid over on the furthest table.

“… would you indulge my curiosity if I were to ask, then, what it’s from?”

Your lower lip quivers as hot anxiety courses beneath your flesh, and you pin the trembling thing down between chittering teeth.

Wordlessly, Albedo continues, a haggard silence having come down on you and your forced patience. He listens to your uncooperative heart from three more points before he shifts behind you, only to pause.

“You can lower your shirt on your end, ______,” he says. You nod, releasing the material and letting it fall back into place. “I’m going to listen to your breathing now.”

What awful timing, you irritably muse, as when he lifts your shirt up without proper warning, your breathing hitches. And instead of pressing the stethoscope against you again, you feel the cool relief of his palm on your ribcage; a gesture meant to comfort.

“You’re extremely warm… ______, are you in any pain?”

It does anything but.

“Your breathing is a bit shallow, too— have you been experiencing any shortness of breath?”

Because I’m ill? “No,” you answer. Because of you? “Yes.”

When Albedo hums in contemplation — a habit long since formed — you immediately note his confusion, and sigh at him.

“I’m tired,” you inform him. His hand draws away from you, a slow drag across flaming hot skin. “Constantly. I don’t normally sleep in because of work, but I’ve been unable to wake up unless I get a minimum of ten hours of rest. I have migraines so often that I just sleep even more. I ordered traditional Liyuen medicine to be delivered last week and it’s been my saving grace. My lower back… is always so sore, and I’ve used the bathroom more in the past two weeks than I might have in an entire month. And if I even smell Fisherman’s Toast again, I will vomit. Oh, I’ve been doing a lot of that, too,” you add. “Like clockwork, every day at eleven in the morning.

“But my shallow breathing, fast-beating heart have nothing to do with those.”

You heave one last heavy breath before slumping back against your chair, but instead of solely meeting the backrest, you hit the plush of Albedo’s chest. There’s a tickle against your cheek when he leans forward over your shoulder, his bangs dangling to invade your space, a gesture you return when you lean further into him; you reach up for him, targeting his closest ear, and pulling the stethoscope’s earpiece from it.

“It’s you,” you whisper. “I’m hot and bothered because of what you did to me… and I can’t get it out of my mind.”

The stethoscope comes untethered from his opposite ear, clattering to the floor; you hear the glass shatter. You’re more surprised that with his expert reflexes, Albedo didn’t bother to catch it— but you can understand why, since you’d just unbuttoned and slipped off your blouse with your lips pressed to his jaw.

“______,” Albedo calls to you— shaky hands find their way to your shoulders, your biceps; they anchor to you so strongly that you can’t tell if he’s trying to encourage you or stop you. “______…”

“What, ‘bedo?” You pull your shirt away, dropping it to the side. “You don’t want to?”

“I… We… We should… take blood samples first…”

“First?” you echo, leaning forward out of his grasp and glancing back to see his eyes blown wide and his pale cheeks flushed like the reddest rose. “I don’t think an hour difference will make the probability of me being pregnant by you any higher or lower…”

You turn back around, and rise out of the seat to instead straddle the stool. Draping your arms over his shoulders, you pull him close, and smile. He gulps.

“Help me out with that belt again, would you?”

Pure silence coats the entirety of the laboratory now, a stark, black and white contrast to what made up that same hour spent filling it with such lascivious noise— even making the comparison after noting the difference has pink crawling across Albedo’s cheeks again. It’s quiet again, after all. And in waiting for the results of the test done to your blood, there hadn’t been much else he could distract himself with.

You made it difficult, after all. Not in an aimless sense, of course— sure, the very first time the two of you engaged in an act of coitus, your inexperience shined, one guiding the other and vice-versa into the throes of pleasure and painless copulation. There were several times post-”loss-of-virginity” that you ended up taking the lead, and not for the fault of either of you, but there’d been something about you taking charge that had Albedo’s head swimming with thoughts of you while he’d been on his lonesome in Dragonspine, waiting for a proper reason to return to Mondstadt without being questioned— he would return for you, after all. In a heartbeat.

In his attempt to shake off any further inappropriate thoughts, his head tossing left to right, he catches your attention with a raise of your brow.

“Something on your mind?” you muse at him, unable to hold back a chuckle at his deadpan stare your way. His pursed lips and rouged fleshed are a dead giveaway.

“Nothing worth mentioning,” he’s quick to reply, voice cracking partway through. You laugh again, a little more heartily, when he moves away from you and toward the desk. “… the solution should be ready to use now.”

“Okay.”

According to Albedo, blood testing for the purpose of pregnancy discovery isn’t particularly common— in fact, it’s an entirely new concept that not many have adopted. It would certainly change how the medical practices across Teyvat would treat similar cases, but according to him, it would be a while until it could be universally adopted. The more data recorded using it, the sooner it would.

Two experiments in one, you think as you watch Albedo use a dropper to collect the liquid to drop into the vial of your blood. He sets it aside, grabbing for a thin glass stir stick of sorts to combine the two.

You find yourself watching him, for his reactions, rather than for whatever reaction the solution would cause. The flutter of eyelashes as he blinks in incredulity; every small twitch in the muscles around his jaw as his lips part dubiously; how his shining turquoise eyes have somehow managed to grow a little brighter, a little wider, a little more… more…?

“______… look.” He gestures down at the table with a nod of his head, but and you have to tear your own eyes off of him. Within the vial, it is no longer the dark red you remember it had been only seconds ago— considering the solution had been clear, the sudden change in hue made zero sense.

“What… am I supposed to be seeing?” you ask, eyes narrowed at the vial. “Why is it blue?”

“The colour change,” he explains, breathless. “It wouldn’t have changed if… you weren’t pregnant.”

“I…” You look back to Albedo, eyebrows teetering the border of your forehead in disbelief. His head whips your way, his own eyelids blown as physically far apart as possible. “It… worked…?”

“It… did.”

You reach up for him, a single hand rising from your side to hold onto his shoulder. Too many emotions have made themselves known to you, all too quickly to register without dizzying you; Albedo holds your hand in its place before it can slip away, his eyes never leaving yours.

He can tell how deeply you’re allowing yourself to process the news. Maybe, he figures, you thought it wouldn’t work at all. To not believe in the possibility after not only the time spent together up in Dragonspine, but all of the time shared with one another before then and in the past three years— maybe, you were still concerned that he might not live up to the promise made to be at your side through not only the experiment, and not only through the pregnancy, itself, but for the years after.

You never questioned anything past said promise. You never assumed he’d go and break it on you, either. If anything, him being busy with his assigned duties, personal research, and Klee (of course) hadn’t been something you would hold against him, and quite comparatively, you already had much more time on your hands thanks to your early morning to late afternoon position. And being that you are the lead of your own department, it would be so simple to bring your child into work with you. You’d have your office in the records department set up to your convenience. And, if you ever needed a moment to yourself, you’re quite sure your fellow Knights would have no problem doting over your child in your place. And with any luck, the child would be mild-mannered like its father, and as it grew older, it would be inquisitive, insatiably curious, and indubitably kind.

No, you could only be so honoured in having a child by this wonderful man.

“I-I…” It should go without saying, considering how ecstatic you’d been to hear Albedo reciprocate your affection, albeit in the chalk prince’s typical brand, how happy you are to learn that the experiment is to bear such sweet fruit. But it startles him to see a tear slipping down each of your cheeks.

“______?” Without hesitating, as he might have done two months ago, the alchemist reaches for your face, brushes them away, and holds it in the palms of his gloves. You sniffle, a small, choked noise quick to follow, before you laugh. “… ______?”

“These… These are happy tears, I swear,” you say, your grin between his hands only a little compromised by how intensely he holds you. “I-I’m so happy right now that… I don’t know how to properly express it with words. Hehe…” You raise your hands from your lap to cradle his cheeks. “It worked. You can procreate! Haha!”

Albedo’s gaze averts from yours, and beneath your bare hands, you feel his skin grow warm before you see it tint pink. Still giggling, you lean forward, fitting your lips between his smiling, parted ones, before they travel along and up to his forehead. Hands dropping to loop around your waist, your own shift when you wrap your arms around his neck, squeezing him tightly.

“We’re going to have a baby,” you whisper. A knock on the door of the laboratory stirs the two of you, both pulling away to find the other grinning.

“Yes. We are.”

“I told him that it wasn’t necessary to go out of his way and commission the Guild for this— please; I’ll pay you three for your troubles, but this really isn’t necessary!”

“What do you mean it “isn’t necessary”?!” You sigh, the naturally high voice of the Traveler’s floating companion somehow a little louder to you than usual. “Walking around like this even outside of the city walls is dangerous for you!”

“Paimon, dear, I think you’ve seen me sitting behind a desk for far too long, since you’ve forgotten that I am a qualified Knight!”

“But it’s a little different now, isn’t it?” Bennett offers— you turn your head to the boy so fast that he winces. “I-I mean, you’ve got two people to protect, r-right?”

“I just went up Dragonspine last month; that’s not that long ago,” you try to reason, but even Aether puts his foot down, hands on his hips and golden eyes lidded by, what? Annoyance? Disapproval? Your own frustration blinds you to be able to tell the difference.

“You weren’t so obviously big last month, and even that was a risk you shouldn’t have taken,” he says. “Albedo wasn’t happy about it.”

“Yeah! He’s right!” You huff at her. “Albedo’s just trying to take care of you when he’s not here to do it himself!”

“And isn’t this a good way to do it, too?” Bennett says, grinning. “We protect you, you stay safe, we get paid, and Albedo gets to eat those delicious-looking sweets you made him! It’s a total win-win situation!”

“If I make you some, will you let me go alone?”

“No,” both Aether and Paimon chorus. You click your tongue at them, your frustration thickening.

“Don’t be selfish like this, ______,” Aether adds, and just as you’re about to chastise him— “Do you really think Albedo’s the only one worried about you?”

“If it helps in any way,” Katheryne calls from across the street. You all turn toward her, you folding your arms and resting them across your swollen gut. “This commission is backed by the entire Knights of Favonius— the Acting Grand Master signed it, herself.”

“What?! That Jean, I swear— what a worrywart!” You groan, loudly, startling unsuspecting passerby’s and a hopeful Bennett. “Fine! Fine. I’ll let you join me. The… company might be nice, anyway.”

“Glad you see it our way,” Aether says, nodding. He gestures away from himself, a slight bowing to his posture when he bends, and Paimon copying him with a giggle. “After you.”

“You all are… too much.” Clutching your cloth lunch bag just a little tighter, you stalk past the three of them, shaking your head and managing a thin smile when you hear their soft chuckling.

“Hey, ______?” You glance back at Bennett, who grins guiltily and sheepishly at you. “Would you still make some more desserts for us after…?”

“Mm… no.”

“Aw, man…”

You hadn’t been wrong; the company was nice. Compared to the usual time taken, thanks to a couple of element users being able to traverse through the various Waypoints of Mondstadt, the time taken was cut significantly short.

Typically, your journey through Windrise and up past the Adventure’s Guild’s checkpoint is a comfortably solemn one. Being able to reflect on oneself and enjoying the fresh air, warm sun, and calm winds that the autumn months bring along is always so refreshing. Indeed, it beats being cooped up in the records room where only artificial light existed.

This excursion was something you’d been looking forward to since two weeks ago, when you’d first planned it. Another recipe crossed your path thanks to a convenient mention of it within a Knight’s report— and their verbal gushing over it. In you receiving one-and-a-half days off each week, you often spend the “half” bit catching up on chores and errands, while the full day is spent doing whatever you needed to reset your mind after such a long week.

Lately, if not preoccupied with other plans, you’d been bringing Albedo new dishes to try. This had been your usual routine, normally using him as a test subject of sorts whenever he’d been visiting Mondstadt, with the occasional trek into Dragonspine if you got too restless. This normalcy had gone on for a while, with no question of it by Albedo. Of course, this had only been because you’d managed to hide the fact that your stomach could no longer fit within the parameters of either your blouses or your turtlenecks.

The fascination had been instant— as was the scolding. Albedo didn’t hold back, either. The only reason he stopped was due to Klee’s unexpected arrival.

"Don’t think this conversation is over, ______. You endangering yourself to deliver me food is worth getting upset about, under normal circumstances and especially in your current condition.”

In hindsight, contrary to your point in that argument, it was slightly silly. He would’ve returned to Mondstadt eventually and you could have given it to him then. Was it the hormones affecting your ability to think straight? While Albedo and one of the church’s sisters did mention it could be a possibility, you clearly weren’t heeding the warning of watching for any impulsivity from you. Traveling somewhere so dangerous? Alone? With no Vision? If that didn’t scream “impulsive”…

Despite the sheer cold of the place, you took great joy and pleasure of visiting it if it meant being able to see Albedo. And as you turned the corner from the Waypoint closest to his cliffside laboratory to see Albedo’s back turned to the cave’s mouth, once more sketching away on a new canvas of his, your grin is uncontainable. You turn, gesturing at Paimon and the two boys tasked with delivering you to Albedo to hold back for “just a moment” so you could attempt to surprise him, but to your surprise, and you yelp when you realize it— he’s already looking out of the cave mouth and at you, hand raised in a gentle wave.

Defeated once more, just like you’d been that day, you trudge forward after giving your farewells to the trio when they announce that their “work is done”, and greet Albedo where he stands, waiting for you with open arms.

“That was very sly of you, you know,” you start, “submitting that commission to the Guild without me knowing.” Gratefully, you fall into his chest, wrapping your arms around him tightly with him doing the same in return. “Imagine my confusion when those three showed up at my doorstep, all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.”

“I knew they would be the best to get the job done,” Albedo says, releasing you to encourage you over to the bed. “There are few I trust as much as the Traveler to protect you. And that Bennett, I’d heard, works well with him.”

“I’d have to agree with you there— I’d never seen two people so enthusiastic about taking down a Hydro slime, and so quickly, too.”

Albedo smiles, and the two of you sit on the edge of his bed.

“I see you’ve brought along some more food for me,” he says, glancing at the bag still slung over your arm with slight disdain.

“I wasn’t sure if you’d ever had this before, but one of the Knights’ reports mentioned it to be extremely popular over in Sumeru.”

“______, I didn’t say that out of curiosity. I’m still upset about your choice to journey here the last time; we never had a proper chance to discuss things.”

“Let me save you the trouble of worrying, then,” you say, patting his knee. “I don’t think it will be safe for me and the baby to come up here from this point on.”

“And what brought you to that conclusion?” Albedo inquires. Grabbing for the zipper of your coat, you pull it down, revealing to him the swell hidden beneath your thick turtleneck. “My… It’s bigger than the last time you were here…”

“It’s been almost a month since we’ve seen each other, so, naturally. But no... Coming here with Aether, Paimon, and Bennett worrying about me with every other step I'd take was a bit of an eye-opener. I'm not just responsible for myself, now. I have another life within me to take care of. In a few months' time, it will be no different to have them in my arms rather than in my body."

Maybe it’s because your adrenaline is finally plateauing, and your heart rate is dropping on account of you finally resting, but it seems like the baby realizes it, too, and it begins to move within you.

“Ohh…” You jerk forward, hands spastically reaching for Albedo’s to steady yourself— his eyes fly wide open, holding on tightly to you in return.

“______? Are you alright? Do you need to lie down?”

You shake your head, wearing a thin smile that confuses Albedo.

“I nearly forgot you haven’t felt it yet, since you’d been stuck up here for a while. Here,” you say, taking one of his hands, flipping it, and in pulling up your turtleneck, you reveal your bare stomach to him, swollen and… twitching?

“This far along, a baby will start to move, and it’ll even start kicking. Put your hand here, and wait. I think it has a favourite spot to kick, too.”

“Is it painful?” he’s quick to ask, not missing a beat when, as you predicted, the baby kicks you, only inches below your ribs.

“Just a little uncomfortable. It actually feels nicer having your hand on me than just my own.”

Wordlessly, Albedo adds his other hand to the surface of your belly; a content hum escapes you.

“It’s still quite… surreal to me,” he mumbles, his thumbs rolling over where one of the baby’s appendages extend outward. “That this is something that’s truly happening.”

“I never expected to be having a baby this way… or at all, any time soon, really, but… now that it is happening, I…” You chuckle, unable to find a proper word. “It is happening, Albedo. Our baby will be born soon.”

“Once this solution cures, I’ll be able to leave it in Sucrose’s care while I take my leave.”

“Your leave?” you repeat. He nods.

“I’ll be in Mondstadt for at least the remainder of your pregnancy,” he explains, tone cheery. “Any work that needs to be done will be done in our home laboratory, though it should be relatively quiet on that aspect of things. I’ll be able to focus on taking care of you and the baby, myself.”

“That… would be nice.” You’re still smiling at him when he looks up from your belly. “Albedo?” you gently call, raising a hand to caress his one cheek. “Are you alright?”

Albedo nods, holding your cool hand still against his fast-warming cheeks.

“Yes. I’m just…” He chuckles at you. “I’m a happy fool.”

Tumblr asks: kiddo extras! ✰ ✰

𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁

for those who might be confused about my url! i am formerly @/niicevibe, but my blog was permanently locked on me. if i have your url wrong, let me know! sorry if i couldn't properly tag some of y'all.

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© nc-vb/niicevibe 2022-2023 please don’t repost! reblogs & comments are always appreciated.

#the ending was rushed and i'm not happy with it but... finally. i can sleep. #albedo kreideprinz #albedo #albedo genshin impact #albedo x reader #albedo x yn #albedo x y/n #albedo smut #albedo x reader smut #genshin impact smut #✦ nc vb. #✦ fool's experiment

[so-many-ocs]

establishing good pacing in your story!

(request from instagram)

in writing, we can think of pacing as a kind of rhythm, which determines the speed at which a story moves.

to clarify, length is not an indicator of pacing. short books that jump from event to event can be slow-paced, and vice versa. pacing is more about movement; it is the heartbeat of a story.

pacing in length

on a close-up level, sentence length can be a determiner of pacing.

use lots of short sentences in quick succession to speed things up.

use lots of long sentences to slow things down.

break these sentences up with medium-length ones to provide a sense of balance.

this is, of course, an oversimplification, but it’s a good rule of thumb. also consider that long sentences can be used to build suspense, and if grammatical structure falls apart as the sentence goes on, it can indicate a spiraling mental state.

the same concept applies to paragraph and chapter length.

if you want a fast-paced story, think of each sentence, each paragraph, and each chapter as a cliffhanger for what happens next.

if you want a slower-paced story, take the time to establish key details.

and if you want balance, try to combine each of these elements! vary your lengths and scene types accordingly.

pacing in scene type

action scenes are usually fast-paced.

to speed up a scene, get your characters moving!

if there’s dialogue, keep it quick and snippy, but use it as a means to add variety to the central focus (the punching and kicking and whatnot).

descriptive scenes are usually slow-paced.

to slow down a scene, add sensory details. describe emotions. give us a glimpse into your characters’ inner worlds.

pacing in introspection

usually when characters are being pensive or reflective, it slows shit way down. they’re having an emotional moment, and need the proper time and space to do so.

this is not a bad thing! slowing down to give readers an idea of where the characters are mentally helps flesh them out while grounding them in reality.

but (!!!!!) your characters’ innermost thoughts can also be used to build suspense, which, in turn, speeds up the pacing!!!

if your character is piecing together a big reveal, build up their inner monologue.

long, detailed sentences slow things down, but if you’re following one continuous train of thought, it can make things faster.

you can leverage syntax (sentence structure) to change the pacing of a particular moment. an internal monologue beginning with proper structure and punctuation before gradually losing coherence and running together as one long thought can mirror fast, desperate thinking.

miscellaneous

research literary devices!! repetition can be used to enforce a sense of rhythm, and there are different types of repetition, such as anaphora and epistrophe (look those up).

quick pacing in a suspenseful scene creates a kind of pressure, and, at the climax of that scene, the pressure will break, leaving everyone to process what just happened. this is a perfect time to slow the pacing down!!

overall, mix different methods to balance out your pacing!

--------

ok hope that was helpful! thanks for reading <3

buy me a ko-fi || what's radio apocalypse?

#🌿 writing #writeblr #writing tips #writing advice #writing resources #writing help #pacing

[the-peak-tmnt]

So Leo sees the world through Raphs or his other brothers eyes right? Does it look normal or is it like fuzzier or blurrier? Or maybe the vision isn't blurry but the comprehension of whats happening blurs in and out a little bit?? I bet Leos perspective of everything happening is so disorientating and sad. Anyway here's a drawing I did. I really like your work!

AHHHH THIS IS INCREDIBLE!!!

Holy shit, I love this so much! The colors are amazing, especially with Leo and his shadow against them. And the way he’s boxed in to reflect his captivity…incredible imagery! Raph and Mikey's expressions are just so perfect, too! Just WOW dude! I’m so blown away by your visual interpretation of what Leo is seeing!!!

Thank you so much for the fan art 😭 It’s impossible to express how much it means to me when people are inspired by the story enough to create something. Seriously just so, so, SO rewarding, and it inspires me right back! THANK YOU!

Also, I love this question! I'm absolutely dying to reveal more about how the mental link between the brothers works, and how Leo experiences the world  beyond the place he’s being kept through Raph.

If things go according to plan, we will learn more about this in about 3 to 4 chapters. But I can’t help myself but give a little bit away early since you asked! If you aren’t afraid of some tiny spoilers, I’ll add more below the cut!

SPOILERS (KINDA?)

You totally hit the nail on the head! I literally have the word “disorienting” in my WIP document for a later chapter, because that’s the perfect description of how it feels for Leo at first.

As he continues to develop his skills over time, things become clearer whenever he “tags along” with Raph. He didn’t lie to Raph in Chapter 13 about not being able to hear Raph’s thoughts as clearly as he can when they’re in the dream room together. When Raph is awake and Leo is tagging along, he’s perceiving Raph’s sensory experience more so than his emotional state.

The turtles’ emotional states DO affect the “quality” of the connection, though. It’s implied that Leo’s been experiencing whatever media Raph is watching through the mind link, and that it’s clear enough that Leo can even hear dialogue. That’s because Raph is relaxed and (more or less) content when just hanging out watching YouTube or a movie.

The more unsettled, upset, or distressed Raph is, the less Leo can connect. This is why Leo tells Raph “I couldn’t feel you for a while” in Chapter 6. Raph had a panic attack/dissociative episode after speaking with Splinter, so Leo wasn’t able to connect with him at all. Leo doesn’t understand that’s what happened, though, thinking instead he maybe pushed the limits of their connection too far…

That being said, how everything works could very well change…if Raph ever decides to pick up that book again 😉

PS: I am losing my mind that you included Casey as something Leo saw! Because even though Raph/the reader doesn’t know it yet, Leo is aware that Casey has entered Raph’s life and this is IMPORTANT AHHHHHHH

#reciprocity asks #reciprocity fic #reciprocity #tmnt #tmnt mutant mayhem #mutant mayhem #teenage mutant ninja turtles #tmnt mm #tmnt fandom #tmnt fanart #tmnt fanfic #mm raph #mm mikey #mm leo #tmnt fanfiction #tmnt fic

[daisyblinder]

Hi, i absolutely love your work. I was wondering if you could please do a thomas blurb/ one shot and femreader where the reader is autistic but masks a lot so its hidden and he can tell when they’re getting overwhelmed so he like sorts helps them out? i’m sorry if this a bad description i’m autistic myself and extremely bad at wording things

Hello darling ☺️🧡 Your description is perfect, I hope you like what I wrote and I hope I got everything right! 🤗I'm so sorry for the long wait!

Escape to me // Thomas Shelby x fem!Reader

Y/n loved her in-laws to bits, she truly did. But unfortunately they were a lot to take in sometimes. They were loud, expressive and very very talkative.

It made her feel extremely welcome to have them be so openly themselves in front of her, but she could not lie. It overwhelmed her.

People often did not understand her. She had had a tough time with social situations since she was a child. Slowly when she was made very aware that she was dealing with something not everyone felt, she started doing what she called 'masking'.

She started learning social cues, forcing herself to hold eye-contact and she even learned to try and hide when her whole body felt like it got pins and needles because of sensory overload.

When she had met Tommy, it had been difficult for her to be with him at first. He was such a mystery and it often gave her a headache. Luckily Arthur had been a blunt horn of honesty and told her that she needs not worry, Tommy would come around.

And so Tommy did. Getting to know her, being patient with her and what made her the most loved was the fact that he was so attentive of her from the beginning. Coming to her aid when she felt lost in conversations, leading her away when she started to feel bad, taking a hold of her hand to give her something to ground herself to during parties....he truly did so much for her.

Like he now as they sat in the divan next to each other, trying to keep up with the argument between Ada and John. Tommy dropping out of it, as he noticed his sweetheart go quiet.

"Sweetheart, do you want to get fresh air?", he rumbles to her quietly. Y/n turns to him surprised. "You were rockin', and your whole body is as tense as a clenched fist"

Tommy knew she was used to masking and could go on for hours but it still worried him. He often felt like a devil but when he had heard of the things his darling had been told for being different, he realized that the world was full of so many different devils and he was not the worst kind.

He had seen her when the overstimulation led to a bad meltdown and he did not wish to see it again; no, he did not wish for her to go through it again.

Y/n plays with her fingers and tries to stroke her palm along her thigh as the sensory overload gets worse. Now seeing Ada, John and Arthur laughing in their own conversation, she nods at her lover's suggestion.

Together the two head into another room, where Tommy guides her gently to an arm chair, covering her with a soft blanket and kneeling beside her. "Do you want to put this over your ears?", he asks softly holding up another blanket.

She shakes her head, it had not gotten that bad yet. "It's just been a long day", she whispers taking a deep breath. She knew that she didn't need to mask in front of Tommy, Ada or Arthur, but Polly and Johnny sometimes said blunt things that hurt her. They were not malicious, it was just clear to her that they did not yet fully understand her.

Reaching her hand she grasps one of his and pulls it on her lap to pay with the ring on his finger. "Thank you for being so observant", she says timidly, feeling lightly guilty for Tommy having to do this for her.

Tommy hums and reaches up to cup her cheek to lean her head down so he can kiss her forehead. "You can always escape to me", he promises quietly his voice deep and soothing.

Together they close their eyes and rest their foreheads together, perhaps it was not only her, but the both of them that needed this from time to time.

#thomas shelby x reader #peaky blinders fandom #peaky blinders #thomas shelby #tommy shelby x reader #arthur shelby #ada shelby

[novlr]

I’ve been reading some craft books and online posts about the world building because my story is an urban fantasy set in present day US, in a fictional town, and theres not a secondary world where the fantasy happens, it’s all in the real world, except the magic is a secret that only certain people know about, but all of the resources I find about world building only talk about fantastical worlds that exist by themselves and not the kind of more subtle world building that I’d have to do. Do you have any tips?

Worldbuilding for urban fantasy is the perfect opportunity to explore the mix of the mundane and the magical. It involves crafting a universe where the impossible becomes possible, yet is grounded within the familiar settings of our own world. This requires a delicate balance—immersing readers in the fantastical without breaking the spell of believability. Here are some essential tips on worldbuilding for urban fantasy writers.

Understanding urban fantasy

Before delving into building your urban fantasy world, it’s crucial to understand what sets this subgenre apart from other forms of fantasy.

Recognise the defining traits of urban fantasy, which typically include a contemporary setting combined with supernatural elements.

Familiarise yourself with the genre’s common tropes and themes, like hidden magical societies, the coexistence of magical and non-magical beings, and the contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary.

Critically read successful urban fantasy novels to see how other authors have balanced the real and the fantastical.

Consider reader expectations for the genre, and the flexibility it has for innovation and subversion of norms.

Determine the tone and mood you want for your setting, as this will influence all other aspects of your worldbuilding.

Creating your magical systems

The magical systems in your urban fantasy will offer a unique flavour to your world, determining the capabilities of your characters and the challenges they face.

Where does the magic in your world come from—is it drawn from nature, ancient artefacts, parallel dimensions, or something else?

Decide if magic is commonly known or if it’s a secret kept from the general populace. If it’s a secret, why? And what are the consequences if it becomes known?

Develop the limitations and costs of magic, as these constraints can drive conflict and plot development.

Invent magical organisations, guilds, or societies, detailing their roles, influence, and how they operate in your story world.

Create distinct magical phenomena that occur within your urban setting, which can become landmarks or points of interest in your narrative.

Consider how technology and magic interact; do they coexist harmoniously, or are they in constant contention?

Creating realism in your urban setting

Realism in urban fantasy is about making the reader recognise and connect with the world you have created as something that is both other and familiar.

Include lots of real-world details, including accurate descriptions of city life, technology, and culture. Make sure you research for accuracy.

Use sensory details to make the urban environment come alive—smells, sounds, textures, and tastes that the reader can relate to.

Include social and political issues that resonate with contemporary society, allowing readers to draw parallels with their own experiences.

Develop a diverse cast of characters whose life experiences and backgrounds reflect the complexity of a modern urban society.

Integrate authentic dialogue that mirrors the way people communicate in modern life, including local slang and mannerisms, both real-world accurate and unique to your setting.

Consider the logistics of an urban environment, like transportation, law enforcement, and the economy, and how these are affected by the presence of magic.

Character development in an urban fantasy

Characters are the heart of your story, and the way they react to fantasy elements in their real-world environments will drive a lot of your narrative.

Create protagonists and antagonists whose motivations are shaped by the intersection of the real and the magical in their lives.

Develop backstories for your characters that explain their relationship to the urban setting and the magical elements within it.

Design character arcs that reflect the challenges and growth that come with living in a world where fantasy is reality.

Introduce secondary characters that highlight the diversity of the urban fantasy landscape, from magical creatures to human allies and adversaries.

Explore the psychological impact of a dual-world existence on your characters, including the strain of keeping secrets and the wonder of discovering magic.

Use character relationships to explore the nuances and complexities of your urban fantasy world.

Plotting your urban fantasy

Your plot is the vehicle through which readers experience your story world. Urban fantasy requires careful attention to pacing to give both elements equal weight.

Construct a plot that intertwines the urban and the fantastical, using the unique aspects of your setting to drive the story forward, rather than relying on the mundane.

Introduce conflicts that arise from the overlap of the magical and the mundane, be they societal, personal, or existential.

Use the setting itself as a character, with its own moods, secrets, and evolving role in the narrative.

Create set pieces that showcase the extraordinary within the ordinary—magical battles on the rooftops, secret meetings in subways, or enchanted parks hidden in plain sight.

Develop a pace that balances the exploration of your urban world with the unfolding of magical elements and plot progression.

Consider the use of multiple viewpoints to give a broader perspective on how the urban fantasy elements affect different characters and society at large.

Blending the real and magical

The key to urban fantasy is making the reader believe that magic could exist in their own world, interwoven with the everyday.

Introduce the fantastic elements gradually, allowing the real world to serve as an anchor for the reader’s suspension of disbelief.

Develop a set of rules for how magic operates in your world to maintain consistency and a sense of order.

Use recognisable landmarks and urban elements as grounding points, then twist them with your fantasy elements.

Establish the history of magic in your world and how (or if) it has shaped society and its infrastructure.

Consider the impact of magical events or beings on the everyday lives of both your characters and the city’s unsuspecting inhabitants.

Intertwine the real and the fantastic so that they feel inseparable, each substantiating the other’s existence.

#writing tips #urban fantasy #worldbuilding #world building #writers #creative writing #writing #writing community #writers of tumblr #creative writers #writerblr #writeblr #writing inspiration #writblr #writers corner #writing advice #helping writers #writing asks #tips for writers #help for writers #resources for writers #writing resources #let's write #story inspiration #writers on tumblr #writers and poets #writer's block #writer stuff #writer #writers block

[swiss-mrs]

Special Places

Eddie Munson x Neurodivergent!Reader

(Word Count: 7.6k)

Rating: PG-13, Pure Fluff, Reader and Eddie are 20- something though.

Synopsis: Hellfire Club is forced to relocate as half the members are no longer Hawkins High students. After a quick meeting with the owner, Gary, Jeff pulls through and finds a new location for the crew, the basement of Black Key Records. The location was perfect. It was quiet, private, and magical, plus the owner and staff are pretty cool. In fact, one of the workers there has really caught Eddie's eye.

Reader Description: Quirky, Tomboyish, Black/Mixed She-They with Locs/Braids/Twists and Diverse Music Taste. Reader is Neurodivergent. Body Type/Size is Not Described. No Use of Y/N.

Warnings: Mentions/Depictions of Sensory Issues, Mention of Bullying, Undiagnosed/Misunderstood Mental Complexities, Adult Language, Reader is Referred to By a Nickname.

spotify playlist added in fic

“Can you guys just trust me?” Jeff says, turning around to face the crew following him, walking backwards.

“No.” Gareth chimes in, “We had a perfectly good setup where we were.” He says defiantly.

“We were kicked out, dummy. It's irrelevant now.” Erica retorts, words dripping with sass, rolling her eyes.

“Just give it one game, and if you guys don't like it, we can keep looking, but I really think this place will be good for us… and it's free.” Jeff turns back around and leads the group to the glass paneled, metal framed door.

The members start bickering back and forth as Jeff opens the door, ringing a bell as it swings inward. As the crew files in, Eddie takes a second to look up at the tall, brick building, wedged between other businesses. Once inside, he’s met with rows upon rows of records and miscellaneous music merchandise. The ceilings are high, and there was what looked like a loft at the back of the building, curtains covering the window that faced the store floor. He tried to take in the sights, but the constant annoyance that was his sheeps’ bickering wouldn't allow him a single thought. 

“Shut Up!” Eddie silences the crew, holding up a hand. All the boys quiet down and turn to him, Erica rolling her eyes and crossing her arms. Eddie's gaze meets Jeff. He holds up a finger with a raised brow,  “One game.” Jeff nods in response.

“Welcome back!” A voice calls out from behind Jeff. The dark skinned boy turns to face the voice, moving out of the way for everyone to get a view of the person walking up to them. Their face holds a bright smile, their eyes connecting with Jeff before roaming to get a good look at the rest of the matching shirt group. “Is this everyone?” Jeff nods in response.

“Hey, Sunny. Yeah, this is us. Everyone, meet Sunshine. Sunshine, everyone.” Jeff gestures back and forth during the brief introduction. As Jeff begins to go down the list, pointing at everyone and saying their individual names, Eddie is staring at the stranger, now acquaintance, you.

You had the most uniquely beautiful face Eddie had ever laid eyes on, a beautiful skin complexion to match. Your hair was amazing, twisted upon itself in chunky, individual strands. You wore a dark blue, button down shirt with a red patch where a breast pocket would be and yellow loose fitting pants. Atop your twisted locks sat a dark pair of dark sunglasses. You radiated “cool” energy, Eddie’s type of cool.

“And this is our Dungeon Master, Eddie.” Jeff said finally, snapping Eddie out of his trance.

“Dungeon Master, huh?” You raised your brows with a teasing smirk, a playful look in your eyes.

Eddie's lips slowly broke out into a knowing grin, lifting one brow. “One and only.” He shrugs, getting an amused smile in return.

“Alright, well,” your eyes scan to each one in the group. "If you follow me,” you begin walking backwards, “I'll show you guys where to set up.” your eyes land back on Eddie, lingering before you turn to walk properly.

“Lead the way.” Eddie says, passing Jeff, following you closely through the isles. The group slowly trailed behind.

“This spot better be good. I don't think our dear leader is going to let us look anywhere else.” Gareth mumbles under his breath to Jeff, watching Eddie's back. Eddie whips his head around, shooting a glare at Gareth, startling the boy. Eddie's eyes dared Gareth to make another comment. As soon as they make eye contact, Gareth looks away, trying to avoid the piercing stare. As soon as Eddie turns his head back around and rounds a corner after their guide, the group, minus  Gareth, snicker quietly at the predicament he's found himself in.

They all make their way around a corner and into a corridor at the back of the store. They turn left and are met with two doors. The door on the right wall leads to stairs heading up, the other one at the end of the hall leads to a stairway heading down.

Their guide opens the door ahead of them and flips a light switch, heading down the steps. You speak up once everyone gets to the bottom of the stairs. “Welcome to the Basement, Hellfire!” You stretch out your arms, turn a full circle and land to face them. “Or Dungeon, I guess.” You shrug, doing your arms to your sides with a smack. “I've already moved some stuff around to try and create a good gaming vibe,” You gesture to the table and chairs you preemptively set up in the middle of the room, “but you are more than welcome to rearrange the table and whatever to how you like. There are some drinks in the mini fridge over there. That door is a bathroom, but there's extra stalls up the stairs on the other side of the hall if needed. Store closes at 8, but no pressure or rush. I usually stay until about 9 making sure the shop is ready for the next day, but if you don't see me on the floor when you're done, just bang on the door at the top of the stairs on the left and I'll see you guys out.” You hold up two thumbs once you’re done, silently asking if they got everything. You were met with a few nods, ‘okay’s, and ‘thanks’.

“I think we got it. Thanks, again, for loaning us the space, Sunny.” Jeff speaks up.

“No problem, dude.” You begin walking towards the stairs to head back up. “Let me know if you guys need anything!” You then run up the stairs, closing the door behind you.

“Well, I must admit, it's not a bad space. Good find, man.” Gareth pats Jeff on the back before he and the rest of the group start setting up, excited for a fun evening. Eddie stands closer to the bottom of the stairs, watching his little sheep set up everything. His mind strays to the cute worker upstairs, but he's soon jolted out of his thoughts by Gareth, “Ready to roll, Ed!”

》》》

“I can't believe I died! Where were you?! What a great help you were.” Dustin yelled sarcastically at Mike, obviously upset.

“I'm sorry, man! I couldn't just leave Lord Ragnor behind!” The two of them bicker back and forth as they are the first ones out the basement. The group, loud and energized from the end of their session. The store lights have dimmed and the darkness of the night can be seen through the now gated store windows. The flickering street lamp out in the parking lot shone on a singular van.

“Anybody spot, sunshine?!” Jeff yells over the group. They all turn their heads, scanning the isles of records, before looking back to Jeff and shaking their heads no.

“I'll go knock.” Eddie volunteers, turning and running back to the hall they all just left. He uses the empty door frame to help him turn the corner. The group went back to bickering, going back to all their prior arguments. He knocks on the door three times. After not getting a response for a good 30 seconds, he tries again, knocking three more times. He looks through the small window at the top of the door but is only met with the image of a set of stairs. Another 30 seconds goes by and still nothing. Eddie tries the handle and finds it unlocked. He slowly opens the door. As soon as he's halfway through the door, he could hear the sound of music being played through a stereo. He clears his voice, “Hello? Uh, Sunshine?”

As soon as he spoke up, he could hear someone scrambling around at the top of the stairs. “Coming!” A voice responds. Eddie sees you stumble around the corner as if you almost tripped, before running down the stairs. “Sorry! Sorry.” You scramble, meeting Eddie at the bottom of the stairs. You take the door from Eddie, opening it wider. He moves over a little to make room for you to walk through.

“All good, I wasn't waiting long.” He lies, “Didn't mean to spook you.” He follows you out the hallway and to the main floor.

“No, no. You're fine! Sorry, I was a bit preoccupied in my own little world. I didn't hear you knock.” You apologize, glancing back at Eddie as you walked and talked. Before he could say anything else, you turn back to the crew who were waiting by the door. “Sorry to keep you all waiting! How was your game?” You address the group. The club parts like the red sea, freeing a path to the front door for their host and Eddie.

“It was okay until someone killed me!” Dustin yelled, aiming his words at Mike.

“It was good, very interesting, as always.” Eddie answers, a bit more calm than his angry counterpart.

“Well, that's good to hear.” You say over your shoulder to Eddie as you unlock the door. Once unlocked, you turn to look at Dustin, “Sorry to hear you parished.” You say with sad eyes and a dramatic pout, leaning against the door to prop it open. Eddie grins at the action.

Dustin is first to head out the door, “It's fine.” He grumbles. Each member follows him out in a line, thanking you. Before Eddie walks out, he stops and stands right in front of your leaning figure, “Thank you for hosting us, Lady Sunshine.” He says dramatically, bowing.

“Twas a pleasure, Master of Dungeons.” You reply, matching his energy. Eddie breaks out in a grin sharing your bright smile.

“Til we meet again, m'lady.”

“Same time next week?” You smile up at him, breaking character. Eddie nods, still holding his grin, walking out the door backwards, keeping eye contact with you until you close the door. He watches you lock the door as he walks backwards to his van, standing idly next to the driver’s door once he reaches it. You wave at him before disappearing to the back again, flicking the lights on the main floor completely off.

“Earth to Eddie!” Dustin yells, breaking Eddie out of his trance. He turns back to the van and unlocks the doors for everyone to start piling in. “Someone is a bit distracted.” Dustin teases, earning a glare. Edde is met with a chorus of ‘ooo’s and kissing noises when he turns back to the wheel, starting the ignition.

“Shut Up or I'm raising the difficulty of the next campaign!” He's met with immediate silence, smirking to himself as he switches gears and turns up the volume of his radio, driving off into the night.

After dropping everyone off at their respective destinations, Eddie proceeded to lock himself away in his room, thinking of you. You intrigued him beyond belief. He needed to know more about you. Yeah, Black Key Records was definitely going to be Hellfire's new base of operations. As long as that meant getting to see you more often.

》》》

It's been a full month since the club first started holding their campaigns in the basement of BKR. Though they usually meet up every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, today is the first Monday day the club will not be meeting since they finished their most recent campaign last Friday.

It was agreed upon that the club wasn't supposed to meet up today, yet Eddie still managed to find himself making his way to the record store, mid-day on a Monday, in search of his favorite record store employee.

His presence is announced with a chime of the bell above the door. “Welcome In!” A voice pipes up. It was a male coworker of yours, one Eddie had come to know as Marvin. The lanky, blonde pushes his circle glasses up his nose as he looks up from what he's doing at the front counter. “Oh, hey, man.” He greets once he realizes it's Eddie who's come in. “You're here early.”

“Yeah, no meeting today. I just wanted to stop by and actually take a look at the… massive inventory.” Eddie lies.

Marvin nods, “Sounds good. Let me know if you need anything. Metal is over in that corner.” He points, looking over his falling glasses, “I assume that's your poison.” He offers a playful, knowing smirk.

“What gave it away?” Eddie replies sarcastically with a confused look. “Sunny around?” He asks casually as he walks passed the guy behind the counter.

“Well, the strange, little creature has to be around here somewhere. Thing rarely ever leaves.” He lifts his head from his work, “MARCO!”

“POLO!”

“There.” He says and waves his hand in the general direction of where the muffled noise came from.

Eddie lifts a brow with an amused grin on his face and nods. “Got it.” He walks off in the general direction.

Eddie's eyes roam the maze of isles with rows and rows of records, tapes, posters, etc. He's in awe at the sheer mass of items. It's pretty chaotic yet somehow still seems well maintained and put together. The walls are covered with old wallpaper. The store was well lit and had a rich and comforting smell, yet it wasn't suffocating. Overall, you could tell the building was old yet really cared for.

As Eddie walked further into the store, he could hear the sound of humming. He walked through a beaded curtain that separated the main part of the store from a little listening booth. He found you humming to the tune that was loudly playing in your headphones. You wore your famous dark sunglasses over your eyes and a black, faded Dickies t-shirt that was about 4 sizes too big, the ends of the short sleeved shirt reaching your elbows. The baggy material was tucked into a pair of light wash jeans that fit you perfectly. Eddie would be lying if he said he didn’t take the opportunity to steal a glance at your butt.

You had one of the ear covers moved back to rest behind your ear as you listened to music through the other. The wire was connected to one of the many record players lined up back here. You were studying the back of the album’s cover as you listened. “Hey, pretty lady.” Eddie interrupts. Startled, you jump, ripping the headphones off your head and throwing them around your neck. Once you realize it's Eddie, you sigh heavily, closing your eyes and putting a hand over your heart.

“Oh my god!” He chuckles at your reaction and raises his hands in surrender, walking all the way through the noisy bead curtain.

“Sorry, cupcake. Scaring you wasn't my intention. I thought you would’ve heard me comin’.” He says with a smug grin, motioning to the still swinging beads behind him. You shake your head, regaining your composure.

“Jesus christ.” You sigh out, laughing away your mini heart attack. “Don’t sneak up on me like that!” You laugh, smacking his arm lightly. “What are you doing here? It’s still early, isn’t it?” You tilt your head like a curious puppy, melting Eddie’s heart with your cuteness. He looks at you like you’re the only thing in the world of value.

“No game today. Just wanted to stop by and see my favorite record store employee.” He says with a huge grin on his face as he holds eye contact. You squint at him behind your sunglasses, allowing a bright smile to adorn your face.

“Is that so?” You ask. He nods.

“Yeah, Marvin is a great guy, you know.” He responds sarcastically, closing in on you with a flirty smile. You lift your chin and raise your brows.

“Hmm, he must not be that great if you’re back here with me and not up there with him.” You shoot back. He stops once he’s one step away from you, so close you could smell him. He looks down at you with his signature grin. He’s close enough to just barely see your squinting eyes through the dark shades.

Over the past month, flirty interactions like this were considered a standard between you two but never had you been alone like this. This time you had no prying eyes, no teasing quips from the club to separate you two. “I didn’t say he was the one I came to see.”

“It was implied.” you come back without hesitation, playing his game. Eddie breaks eye contact with you to look down at the album cover in your hands. He takes it from you and flips it around, so he can read the front. You reach up to lift your sunglasses off your face to rest them at the top of your head. 

“‘Bad Music For Bad People’, huh?” He raises a brow and looks up at you with his chin still tucked down, a small smirk lingering on his lips. Your face warms a bit at his teasing expression as you bite back a smile. You breathe in and sigh out.

“Yup, new arrival. The Cramps are a go-to band for my ‘Distorting Reality’ section.” The sentence rolls off so easily, so normal, but your words make Eddie tilt his head.

“‘Distorting Reality’.” He repeats. There's a slight pause, one long enough for you to remember what Gary tells you. Your way of thinking is not… normal. You start to internally spiral.

“Oh, uh. Yeah,” your mind is reeling for words to explain. “I, uh, I sort of have a way to organize bands and music in my head… in like… categories… beyond just genre, but also… like… vibe?” Your fluster makes Eddie's grin slowly widen. He finds it adorable. You look down at your feet. “Sorry… I sometimes forget that, you know, not everyone… that I'm a bit,” you bring your hands up and wave and wiggle them next to your head, “different…” Your face carries a small, nervous smile as your eyes go from eye contact to avoiding his eyes. He has a full on smile now, soft and a bit dazed.

“I like different.” He states matter-of-factly. Your eyes find their way back to his, and your small smile grows, shining brightly.

“Really?” You sigh happily, your heart pumping full of hope.

“Tell me more about these categories.” His smile is evident in his voice. The light in your eyes warms his stomach.

“Really?!” You ask excitedly, never have been asked to elaborate your thoughts, these thoughts. He nods. “O-Okay, so, think of them kind of like mixtapes.”

You went on for a good hour, not only explaining your idea of ‘playlists’ but also walking Eddie around the store to show him different albums that would match with what category. You have never been able to talk to anyone for as long as you talked to Eddie. You went on long tangents explaining how you couldn't understand how some people only listen to one genre or artist or how some artists or genres were completely underrated or misinterpreted just because of the masses’ biases. 

Not only did he let you talk, he was actively listening. He would ask questions and build off ideas with you without making you feel like he was cutting you off or making fun of you. Even when he did have to cut you off, he knew how to do it gently, asking you his question or making his comment before letting you resume with what you were saying.

Eventually, your intense music discussion began to die down, for now. “I like listening to you talk about something so passionately.” Eddie smiles widely at you. Your brows shoot up, damn near off your forehead.

“I've never heard that before.” The look of complete shock brings a chuckle out of Eddie.

“Would you like to go out sometime?” You didn't think he could say anything more shocking than his previous sentence, but here you are. You blink rapidly at him a few times, but before Eddie could start to backpeddle, you spoke up.

“Uh, y-yeah. I- I'd love to.” The words fell out of your mouth with very little control, your brain on autopilot. Eddie's smile grows impossibly wider.

“Great. T-That's great. Uh, when are you free?” He asks.

“Everyday! All the time!” Marvin yells from his spot near the register. You both look over to find him eavesdropping up front. He looks over his glasses at you with a raised brow. Though he was a boy just barely a year older than you, he still had a way of acting and looking like a mother. His look one hundred percent screamed ‘please date my daughter, she's lonely.’

The mortified look of betrayal on your face made Eddie break out in a laugh. He nods, “Should I come back after close?”

“Take her now!”

“Marvin!” You whip your head toward your coworker, annoyed. He shrugs, hardly bothered, and goes back to whatever task he's ‘busy’ with. Eddie has to hold in his laugh, it sneaking out as a sharp exhale through his nose. The feeling of Eddie grabbing your hand breaks your glare. He begins pulling you toward the front door.

“Catch ya later, man!” Eddie says to the blonde boy without so much as a glance over his shoulder. You give Marvin a panicked look as you pass him, but all he does is wiggle his fingers in a mischievous wave as you're pulled out the door.

“You eat lunch yet?” Eddie asks as he opens the door of his van for you. You climb into the passenger's seat, again on autopilot.

“Uh, no. Not yet?” He closes the door and jogs over to the driver's side, climbing into his seat.

“Perfect. Let's go eat.” He grins over at you, buckling his seatbelt before leaning down to start up the ignition. 

You two ended up at a diner not to far away, still within the same town center as the record store but a few lights away. “I can't believe you haven't eaten all day. it's almost 3PM.”

“I woke up too late for breakfast and got distracted with the new arrivals.” you'd counter as you arrived at the diner. The lunch outing was spent eating and going on more tangents. Though it started with music, it eventually led to your childhoods and other personal interests. “I was thinking about continuing school after I graduated, but the cons outweighed the pros. I mean I love learning, but the environment, the costs, the stress?” you wave your hand, “not worth it.”

The more you talked and went on about whatever came into conversation, the more Eddie realized how intelligent you are. “You're crazy smart, you know that?” He added when you finally paused to take another bite of your food. You let out a big huff through your nose, shaking your head.

“Not even. I just retain a shit ton of useless information.” You dismiss.

“You retain all this information and then form your own thoughts around it and have the ability to build upon said information. You’re like a book that thinks. It's awesome.” He praises. You can't help but blush. Man, does Eddie really know how to shut you up. After this, you continue to munch on your food in comfortable silence, smiling like dorks at each other every time you catch one another's eyes.

After your late lunch, it's about 4PM and the sun is already beginning to lower thanks to the season. “Would you like to go on an adventure with me?” Eddie asks you as you're walking through the parking lot of the diner and back to his van. You turn your head to look up at him with questioning but enthusiastic eyes.

“Mayybee?” You draw out in a playful but curious tone. He gives you a mischievous grin, staring silently as he opens the door for you to get into the van. You stand there a few seconds, squinting at him to try to intimidate him into telling his secrets but failing. You give up, climb into the van, and let yourself be driven to another undisclosed location.

Eddie drives about 15 minutes out, away from the city center and more into the outskirts of town. You turn to look at him, his eyes focused on the road. “Marvin knows you were the last person I was with and can identify you pretty well, you know.” You throw out there, getting a chuckle out him.

“I promise, I'm not taking you anywhere dangerous nor am I going to hurt you.” He glances over to you for reassurance before focusing back on the road.

Though the situation would be waving huge red flags under any other circumstance, you couldn't help but trust Eddie completely. You didn't even say the sentence actually believing he'd bring you any harm. You had a calm and comfortable feeling in your chest being around Eddie. Nothing could change that feeling about him now.

Another 5 minutes pass by and Eddie pulls off the road once you reach the true outskirts. The van rocks and shifts as it angrily drives over uneven terrain. Within seconds, the van comes to a stop, and Eddie turns off the engine. You try to get a good look through the windshield at your surroundings, but you only catch a glimpse of what looks like a clearing up ahead. “You promise you're not actually a slasher?” you ask nervously. Eddie hops out the van and turns to look at you.

“I guess you'll just have to come and find out.” He brings up his hands while wiggling his fingers at you in a ‘spooky’ way before chuckling and closing the door. Before he can reach your door, you've opened it to let yourself out. You hop down out of the van, squinting at Eddie as he now stands beside you. You close your door, and he takes your hand in his, leading you to the clearing just beyond the tree line ahead.

As soon as you exit the trees, you notice the clearing isn't just a clearing. It's a hidden viewpoint. You wouldn't be able to tell from the road, but you're atop a huge hill just outside of town. Just through the trees that lined the highway was a beautiful and perfect view. Never have you really thought of Hawkins, Indiana as a ‘beautiful’ sight by any means, but this view really put it in a different perspective. Eddie smiles down at you, taking in your 'in awe' reaction. His hand gives yours a light squeeze, causing you to look up at him with the same wide eyed wonder. It makes Eddie's heart feel like flying. He silently leads you a bit further away from the treeline and to a spot where you can sit.

You two sit next to each other, legs criss-crossed, knees knocking. The thought of sitting down on the mushy dirt and grass wasn't so pleasant at first, but you don't want to ruin the moment. As soon as you're sat, though, it's not bad. It's almost nostalgic, and makes you feel like a kid again. Unafraid, fearless, strong. You smile to yourself at how something so small and meaningless brought out such emotion. You stare back out at the view in front of you. “Everything seems so small from up here.” You say softly, entranced.

“Yeah, suddenly everything just feels better up here.” You nod in response. “Whenever I feel myself starting to get too far into my head, I come up here. Seeing this little town from here makes me realize. It reminds me that there's a bigger picture. Whatever's got me down, whatever hurt me, it's all so small now.” Eddie unwinds his legs to stretch them out in front of him, crossing one ankle over the other and leaning back on his hands. You stay crisscrossed, intertwining your hands in your lap.

“I don't want to sound any more crazy than I already have, but whenever I feel that way, I disappear into a little compartment in my head. One where I'm happy and at peace. I usually have to do that when I'm alone in my room with some music since I don't have a place like this.” You sigh with a small smile, letting the air around you embrace you in its tranquility.

“Well, now, you do. It can be our place from now on.” You turn to him with an innocent smile and wide eyes. You find him with his head leaned back and his eyes closed. He has a small, calm smile dancing across his lips. The setting sun was warm against his pale skin, but the chilly air contrasted with the golden hue, causing a bit of pink to spot on his cheeks and nose. He looks beautiful.

You wish you could take a picture of him right now, but as you feel yourself starting to stare for a bit too long, you tear your eyes away to look back out at the town. You scoot closer to Eddie and rest your head on his shoulder. “Thank you.” The feeling of your head on his shoulder causes him to open his eyes and tilt his head down to look at you. He finds himself strangely at a loss for words. He just smiles a bit wider and follows your gaze to look out on the city.

“Anytime, baby.”

You two sat there in another comfortable silence even after the sun fully set. When a breeze passed by and caused you to shiver at the cool night air, Eddie took that as a queue to go. “Though the view is still just as magical at night, I think it's time we head back. Don't want Marvin worrying now, do we.” He helped you up, and you both went back to the van.

Once you're back on the road, your mood shifts a bit, and you start to get a bit shy. Eddie can sense the shift and glances over at you a bit worried. He reaches over to grab your hands in his. You look over to him, and he throws you a quick smile before looking back at the road. “Are we calling this a date?” You ask as he gains speed on the paved road. Your voice was so small and nervous. Eddie had to fight off the urge to hug you so he could focus on driving. He shrugs.

“Did it go well?” He could see the little nod you gave in response out of the corner of his eye. “Okay,” he smiles, “Then a date it was.” You inhale sharply and try to contain your smile when looking at him but fail, looking away and out your window to let out a huge grin. Your mind runs wild, but you stop yourself from letting the silence go on too long by letting your mouth interrupt your head.

“Does this mean we can do it again?” You ask, hopeful. Eddie lets out a short, breathy laugh and nods.

“Yes. One hundred percent, yes.”

“I like spending time with you.” You let slide out while you have the confidence.

“I love spending time with you. Honestly, I don't think I've ever been able to connect with someone so quickly.” He lets out a sigh of a laugh. “It's like you get me without even trying.” You smile over to him and nod.

“I feel the exact same way.” You two sit in each other's confessions happily for a few seconds before Eddie speaks back up.

“Should I take you home or back to the record shop?” He asks. You let out a little laugh, making Eddie's heart feel light.

“Well, considering they're one in the same, yes.” You reply, looking out the windshield. This causes Eddie to steal a quick glance. His brows furrow, confused.

“You live there?”

“Yeah, the loft up top, the door I have you guys knock on when you're done with your games, that's where I stay.” Eddie lets out a silent ‘oh’, nodding his head as it clicks.

“Makes sense now as to why you always let us go on so late. Also explains why Marvin always says you never leave.” He chuckles. You blush, a bit embarrassed at the second half.

“Fucking Marvin.” You grumble under your breath, bringing another laugh out of Eddie.

“Sounds like a sweet gig, though. I won't lie. If I had a cool, laid back job and could live on property where I could just wake up and go, that's be awesome. I'd probably never leave either.” He says without an ounce of judgement.

“Yeah, well, ever since Gary offered it to me, life has been a whole lot easier. He looks out for me all the time.” Eddie nods.

“Well, if he's that good to you, I can't wait to meet him one day.” You blush, turning to hide your face, looking out the window.

“Yeah, he's awesome. He may not fully get me and my… differences, but he's always been super kind. Even fended off some bullies for me back in middle school.” Eddie's brows shot up, and he glances between you and the road a few times.

“Who the fuck would dare to hurt you?” He asks, shocked and a bit heated. You shake your head and let out a chuckle.

“Some asshole middle schoolers. Damn near all middle schoolers are assholes. I was an eager student who got perceived as a show off for raising my hand in class. I was also a loner cause I was ‘weird’.” You throw up air quotes with one hand, “Usually my rants and tangents and use of sunglasses both indoors and out to hide from bright lights aren't well received traits of mine. As an adult I've learned that not everyone wants to hear me theorize for hours about how dragons may have been real.” You let out a small laugh and shrug, “I was a little too different, and that created an easy target.” You sigh, melting back in your seat releasing the negativity. You smile back over to Eddie. “That's over now. She's had her ups and downs, but I'm in a good place now. I'll be damned if I let those dickheads continue to affect me.” Eddie smiles at this.

“I've always been the punching bag for bullies because of my differences, but I, too, got to my ‘fuck them all’ stage in life. Started punching back, and now I can't get enough of myself.” He shakes his locks around, dramatically flipping his hair. You laugh. God, does he love that sound.

Eddie pulls into the parking lot of the record store shortly after. The lights are all still on inside, contrasting to the dark evening. Marvin could be seen walking around inside. You look over to your intertwined hands then up to Eddie.

“Would you like to come inside?” you ask timidly. Eddie smiles and shrugs, nodding.

“Sure, I got time.” You smile at each other, exciting the van at the same time. Eddie opens the door and allows you to enter first.

“Sorry, I was gone for most the day.” You start before Marvin can say anything.

“No, no. Don't apologize.” Marvin dismisses, "Did you have a good time?” He asks, pushing up his glasses. You and Eddie share a smile.

“A great time.” You replied. “Do you need help with anything? I was gonna show Eddie upstairs.” Eddie looks a little taken aback but recovers quickly. He didn't realize you wanted to show him your place. Marvin waves a hand.

“Nah, Sun, you're good. I'll just be chillin’ down here until close.” You nod and wave Eddie to follow you as you start walking towards the back.

“Thanks, Marv. Let me know if you need anything!”

“Just don't be too loud! We are still during business hours, remember!” He shoots back as you round the corner.

“Marvin!” you yell back. His mischievous laughter could be heard echoing throughout the store. You lead Eddie to your door, the same one he's been knocking on for the past month. You open the door. “Welcome to my lair.” You say, leading him up the stairs. 

When you reach the top of the stairs, Eddie is met with the sight of a full studio apartment. “Luckily, I had a cleaning day over the weekend, so it's not horrible.” You say with a laugh. Eddie nods.

“Wow.” He takes in the sight. It's basic, essentially four walls with exposed beams and framing at the ceiling, but you've made it your home. Some handmade, wood framing was used to separate the different ‘spaces’. 

Your living space was the closest thing to the entrance, your bed on the right and a couch, table, and music station on the left. All your furniture looked to be hand-me-downs or thrifted. None of them were matching sets, but they combined to create a homey, comfy look.

The wooden framing was used to separate your living space from what looked like a bathtub on the right and a dining or kitchenette area on the left. Though it wasn't much, it was still leagues ahead of his own room at the back of he and Wayne's trailer, and it is yours. “It's nice.” He compliments. You shrug, looking around the space.

“It's probably not what you were expecting. It's no five star hotel, but it's all mine.” You smile proudly. Eddie nods.

“I wasn't expecting anything, but it's definitely you.” He smiles over at you. “And I mean that in the best possible way.” He walks further into the room, going over to take a seat on your little couch. Your cheeks warm, and you follow him to your ‘living room’. You walk over to your music. 

“Anything you want to listen to?” You scan over your library of records and tapes. “You look over to him and squint, “Dio, perhaps?” you ask with a raised brow, referencing the back of his famous jean vest. He gives you a smirk.

“Though I'm never opposed to a little metal, how about you pick something?” You nod and continue scanning. The concentrated look on your face is utterly adorable to Eddie. He finds himself staring.

“Well, you've shown me your special place, so how about I show you one of mine. We can go with ‘Sunny's Mix Vol. 2’.” You offer, holding up a mixtape with black scribbles in your handwriting across the front. He offers a calm grin and a nod.

“I'm interested.” You smile at him in return and pop the tape into the stereo tucked under your record player. As soon as the fast paced drums of the first song starts coming through the speakers, you can't help but bop your head. You stand slowly, trying to contain the overwhelming urge to dance around. Eddie smiled widely over at you as you stare down at the stereo. He stands up and starts to dance to the music with a bit more energy than you. Your eyes find him as soon as you catch a glimpse of him standing in your peripheral. A big smile takes over your face, and you let the music start to take you over.

Eddie closes the distance between you two and grabs your hands, pulling you away from the stereo and towards the middle of your makeshift dance floor, the empty space between your ‘living room’ and bed. Your shared dance moves are less than graceful, more akin to weird jerking movements, but totally carefree and fun nonetheless.

Eddie has let loose completely and is dancing like a man possessed. The goofy moves cause you to laugh, Eddie succeeding in his unspoken goal to hear that sound again. You can only mimic his crazy movements, closing your eyes and dancing in circles. You two even shimmy back and forth with each other like the idiotic dorks you are.

The next song on the tape was spent dancing in a similar fashion. Then a few air guitars and imaginary microphones were added throughout the song following that one. Some of the songs on your mixtape were familiar to Eddie. Some songs were new, but all were going to be held near and dear to his heart from that moment on as they were all now known as yours.

When you get to the last few songs, they began to slow, allowing Eddie the perfect opportunity to close some distance between you both. He takes your hand in his and begins to slow dance with you, rocking side to side. His height makes him have to tilt his chin down to look at you while you're this close. The ends of his long waves tickle the sides of your face. The feeling makes your heart jump out of your chest.

Eddie didn't know the song currently playing, but he loved to hear you hum and sing along to it. “I don't mean to sound like a fool here, but I feel so much for you.” He speaks up during the last instrumental break in the song you were swaying to. You smile up at him.

“In what way?” You ask as the song faded into the next. He sighs, starting to get a bit red in the face. 

Oh, thinkin’ about our younger years. The stereo rang out. ‘Heaven’. How fitting.

“In the way that I feel like this is how I want to spend the rest of my life.” His bold yet shy confession nearly floors you. Before you could muster a coherent sentence, he continues while he still has the courage. “I know this is only our first date, and, christ, I hope it's far from the last, but I feel like I have this unexplainable connection with you.” He looks up from your lips to pour into your eyes. “I don't want to scare you away by jumping to any conclusions here, but I've never had such a compelling feeling to tell someone how I feel.” His eye contact and his words make it hard for you to hold back tears. You're getting overwhelmed, his voice cutting straight to your heart. When Eddie sees the wetness forming in your eyes, he stops swaying, his own eyes widening. He looks like the sweetest puppy that just got caught getting into something he shouldn't have. “Uh, I'm sorry. That was a bit too forward wasn't it.” He starts to pull away, but you don't let him. You shake your head.

“No, no. I'm sorry. I just,” you let out a big sigh, trying to collect yourself. “Sorry, I just, I feel a lot and that's just, wow,” you let out a sigh, a small smile forming. “I feel the same, and I'm so happy you said something first.” you let out a small, airy laugh. “I don't think I'd be able to handle pining over you for ages, waiting for one of us to confess.” You roll your eyes and grin widely, a matching one finding Eddie's face as you spend a few seconds staring into each other's eyes. He lets out a chuckle, looking down.

“It's genuinely crazy how you've managed to make me forget that I've existed this long without knowing you from the start.” He shakes his head in disbelief. “Is this what it's like to find your soul mate?” he says, thinking out loud. You giggle and nod.

“I think so. You feel like my person.” You smile brightly up at him. His eyes meet yours once again. It's a miracle that his knees didn't send him tumbling to the floor. The look in your eyes makes his insides melt into something warm. He returns a big, toothy grin.

“You are definitely my person.” You're smiling so hard your cheeks start to hurt.

Isn't too hard to see, we're in heaven. You have this overwhelming need to jump up and down, roll on the floor, and kick your feet around. His cute smile and adoring eyes just have that effect on you. Somehow you manage to remain standing, but you do let out a few bounces on the balls of your feet.

Eddie's gaze lowers to your adorably scrunched nose. The excitement you're trying so hard and failing to hide gets a laugh out of him. Though the urge and desire is very heavy, Eddie keeps himself from diving in to kiss your lips, instead pulling you into his chest and hugging you tight, burying his face into your hair, breathing in your scent.

His arms wrap around your shoulders, and you wrap your arms around his middle. His closeness makes your insides burst. Your brain can't help but scream at how good he smells. He feels so warm and safe. If you died right now, you'd go out happy. Neither of you want to pull away, so you spend the entirety of the next song just holding each other. When the groovy tempo of Fleetwood Mac starts up, you can't help but start bopping in your hug. You're just too happy to let the beat pass over without effect. Eddie chuckles and only holds you tighter, swaying to the upbeat tempo with you in his arms.

When the last song on your mixtape starts, you can't help but giggle at the irony of this sweet moment combining with the Bob Marley tune. Your head bounces slightly against his chest as Eddie chuckles, listening to the lyrics. The clear sound of his heartbeat and laugh right next to your ear makes your eyes close, body filling with the warmth happiness brings. You softly hum to the melodies of the love song as this night fades into the rest of your life shared with none other than your forever person, Eddie Munson.

#eddie munson x you #eddie munson x reader #eddie munson #eddie munson x black!reader #eddie munson x y/n #joseph quinn #swiss fics #eddie munson swiss fics #special places swiss fic

[forest-hashira]

Too Much

hi everybody! since today is our girl shinobu's birthday (in the states, at least!), i figured it was the perfect time to post this fic! it's my piece for @satorini's Share The Love gift exchange! the prompt i chose was "comforting an s/o during an autistic meltdown" and is for @redlikerozez, so red, i hope you enjoy this! i am also autistic, so i used my own experiences with meltdowns as the basis for this.

read on ao3 here | wc: ~1.5k | cw: gender neutral reader, shinobu is referred to as reader's girlfriend, descriptions of overstimulation, emotional hurt/comfort (sort of, very light)

It really was all just too much. 

Having completed your most recent mission, you had returned to corps headquarters, eager for both some rest and some time with your girlfriend, Shinobu. Though the two of you agreed to keep your relationship quiet and private, for the most part, it was far from a casual fling. You relied on each other for comfort and companionship, and spent as much of your time together as you could when you were both between missions. 

Exhaustion weighed heavily on you as you approached the butterfly mansion, and you barely managed not to topple over when you stopped in the genkan to remove your shoes. There was more commotion inside than usual, kakushi around to help the girls with butterfly hair pins that fluttered from room to room. Before you could call out to anyone, ask if Shinobu had returned from her own mission, Aoi spotted you swaying on your feet.

“Are you badly hurt?” she asked, and her no-nonsense demeanor helped to ground you a great deal in that moment.

It took a beat before you fully processed her words, but once you did, you shook your head. “No, just some scrapes and bruises.” The younger girl nodded, but before she could say anything else, you asked, “Is Kocho here?”

“She’s tending to patients at the moment,” Aoi said, then softened a bit; apparently your disappointment was more obvious than you hoped. “But as soon as I see her again, I’ll let her know you’ve arrived. I’ll take you to a room where you can rest.”

You nodded again, following after her on heavy feet. The further into the house you stepped, the louder every noise grew, and the more all of your senses sharpened unpleasantly: you could practically feel the soft footsteps of everyone else in the mansion on the inside of your skull; the snippets of conversation you caught sent your skin crawling; every time a door slid open or shut was like a loud clap right in your ears; even the smell of the place – clean and vaguely herbal – had your stomach twisting itself into knots. 

So lost in your own sensory displeasure, you didn’t notice when Aoi stopped walking, and you apologized after you bumped into her.

“Lay down for some rest” she encouraged, her brows pinched in concern. “I’ll inform Lady Kocho that you’re here.”

Unable to gather enough energy to properly answer the girl, you simply stepped into the room, climbing onto the nearest empty bed and collapsing onto your back, without even bothering to pull the blanket over yourself. 

Not for the first time, all traces of sleep dissolved from your brain and body as soon as your head hit the pillow, though your exhaustion remained, settled into the very marrow of your bones. You closed your eyes, hoping maybe you’d be able to get some rest while you waited for your girlfriend, even if you didn’t actually fall asleep. 

Unfortunately, though, closing your eyes did not make rest any easier; in fact, it only seemed to intensify all the sounds and smells that had already begun to grate on your nerves before you laid down. You decided to ignore it for now, focusing on your breathing, which you did your best to keep deep and even, but every inhale through your nose filled your head with more and more of the medicinal smell that had your stomach threatening to throw a fit. At the same time, every sound in the mansion seemed magnified, as if they were all happening right there in the room you’d been led to. Every breeze through an open window, every spoken exchange echoing in the halls, every cough or groan of pain from another patient, everything was working together to tip you over the edge, to overwhelm you in the worst way possible. 

It’s too much.

Grabbing the pillow from beneath your head, you turned onto your side, your back facing the door, and hugged the pillow to your chest. You buried your face in the pillow, hoping it would help tone down the smell, and while you did find some mild success with that, the fabric of the pillowcase had its own scent that was distinct enough that it only further fried your senses. The hand not clinging to the pillow came up to cover your ear, and without even realizing it, you curled even further in on yourself, your knees pressing as close to your chest as the pillow would allow. Despite how odd the position was, you started rocking back and forth ever so slightly, trying anything you could to self regulate, though it was not helping as much as you hoped, and it wasn’t long until tears were soaking into the pillow case, your thought racing a mile a minute. 

Too much, too much, too much.

The soft sound of your name pulled your attention slightly, but you couldn’t bring yourself to answer. You were vaguely aware of the door to your room being shut, as carefully and quietly as possible, before footsteps approached your bed. 

“Can you open your eyes for me, flower?”

Shinobu, you thought, her familiar voice sending a wave of relief through your body. After a moment, you did manage to lift your face from where you had buried it in the pillow, your now-bloodshot eyes meeting her violet ones.

“There you are,” she greeted, a gentle smile on her face as she knelt at your bedside. “Feeling overwhelmed?”

You tensed slightly, then nodded, knowing logically that she wasn’t going to judge you for this – she never had in the past – but it didn’t make being seen in this vulnerable state any less anxiety-inducing. 

She nodded back. “Sounds?” she asked gently, and you nodded again. “Smells?” Another nod. “Textures?” This time you shook your head, thankful that, for once, the feeling of your slayer’s uniform on your skin wasn’t adding to your painfully overstimulated state. “Alright, I can work with that.”

Next thing you knew, the Insect Hashira was offering you a bloom you knew she must have just cut from the garden; after a moment longer, it registered that it was your favorite flower she was holding towards you.

“Deep breath,” she instructed quietly, breathing in slowly and deeply to give you an example to follow.

Breathing in the delicate scent of the blossom helped push away the unpleasant smells caught up in your head, and the slow, deep breaths your girlfriend guided you through helped some of the tension melt from your shoulders, and you were able to finally unclench your jaw.

“Very good,” Shinobu praised, her small smile returning as she set the cut bloom on the bedside table. “Is it okay to touch?”

You hesitated a moment, then shook your head; you still couldn’t quite find your words, but it wasn’t anything that your partner hadn’t worked through with you before.

“That’s okay. Can I put the pillow back under your head? I think you’ll be more comfortable that way.” She waited until she received a nod in response, and she stood, being very careful not to actually touch you as she coaxed the pillow from your arms, fluffed it briefly, then placed it back on the bed after you lifted your head a bit to give her the space to put it down. “Better?”

“Hmm,” was the only answer you could manage, but she could tell that you were already more relaxed than you had been when she had entered the room, so she felt assured that she was helping you like you needed. 

“Will you be alright if I leave for a moment to get you some tea?” The hashira watched you closely as she awaited an answer, and when you gave her yet another nod, she smiled, murmuring that she would be right back, then left the room, making sure the door slid open and shut again as silently as possible. 

For the brief amount of time she was gone, you managed to unfurl from your position on the bed and sit up properly, legs hanging over the edge as you stared down at the floor, eyes tracing patterns in the hardwood.

Before she opened the door, Shinobu knocked lightly and gently called your name, and she smiled when she saw you sitting up on your own. “Can I sit?” 

“Yes,” you said, patting the empty space beside you. When she lowered herself to sit on the bed, you smiled at her, murmuring a small thanks as she handed you a small cup of black tea, the rich scent helping further soothe your frayed senses. 

The pair of you sat in silence for a bit as you sipped on your drink, only about an inch of space between your bodies. You set the cup on the bedside table once you finished the tea, and as you settled back into your spot, you lightly rested your head on her shoulder. “Thank you, my butterfly,” you whispered, melting further into her when her slim fingers worked their way into your hair, her nails gently massaging your scalp.

“Anything for you, flower,” she whispered back, dropping a gentle kiss to the crown of your head. “Get some rest now, I’ve got you.”

This time when you closed your eyes, sleep was quick to welcome you.

i know this is a pretty big shift from what i've been posting here up to this point, but i'm excited to get back into demon slayer again! i hope you all enjoyed this one as much as you enjoy my other fics, and that you'll continue to write anything else i write for demon slayer in the future (*cough* roaring twenties tengen *cough*)

tagging: @redlikerozez @satorini @mitsuristoleme @kentohours @witchbybirth @marinnnnnnnnn

#kny x reader #kny reader insert #kny fanfic #kocho shinobu #shinobu kocho #kny kocho #shinobu x reader #kny shinobu #demon slayer x reader #demon slayer fanfic #fallon's fics #divider by benkeibear #🖤.share the love

[yn-ymn-yln]

Misguided Emotions

Eddie Munson x Neurodivergent!Reader 

Warning: Anxiety, emotions (always need a warning for that), slight emotional meltdown? kind of? description of sensory issues. 

Word count: 1188

Summary: A new fixation leads to a misunderstanding between you and Eddie. 

*I return from the dead to drop this in your laps and leave ✌️*

Eddie hadn’t meant to get angry. Meant even less to let his frustration reach the surface and ooze on to your tender excitement.

You had seen the perfect stuffy while shopping with Robin and Nancy. It was soft to the touch, with long floppy ears that you swore were made of pure silk and a squishy tummy that was brilliantly embroidered with the words “be mine”.

It truly had been love at first sight.

“I wish you had been there Teddie! It was so perfect!”

Through the haze of your infatuation, you had asked Eddie if he would take you back to buy it, claiming that you didn’t have the money now but you would pay him back. To your sheer horror he had said no, a rare occurrence in the five-month relationship the two of you had.  

Of course, you had fought him tooth and nail, desperate with need to bring such a beautiful thing into the sacred space of your room. This cycle continued for a while, asking for- in your mind- something so simple, yet being denied.

Finally, after many failed attempts to sway your attention to something else, you reached the precipice of Eddie’s seemingly endless patience.

“Jesus Christ, Fine!” Storming from the living room Eddie returned with said stuffy in hand, distaste clearly splayed on his usually kind features. “Here.” He tossed the victim of your hyper-fixation at you. “Was trying to surprise you… but if I have to hear you ask for it one more time, I’ll rip my hair out.”

His words sat like stone in your stomach.

You had ruined his surprise. You couldn’t just let it go, you had to pester him until he had no choice but to give you what you wanted.

Suddenly you were six years old again, begging your mother for a toy only to be reprimanded for asking at all. You felt like a child.  

The chill of guilt seeped into your bones, while shame burned behind your eyes. You always did this, took things far beyond the threshold of other people’s tolerance, so fixated that you were often blinded by their motives. Regret set in quickly, tensing your muscles and making your skin feel odd and too tight.

“I’m sorry Eddie.” You hadn’t been able to meet his eyes when the words had left you. Determined to stare at the empty space he had once occupied. A shuttered breath broke past your lips when a beat of silence passed.

“It’s fine Y/n. Just take it.” His irritated sigh is what shattered whatever had been sticking you together, a sob escaping from within you and catching the unwanted attention of your boyfriend. That sound alone had been enough to break Eddie’s heart but seeing your distressed stimming had him moving without much thought.

“Baby- It’s really okay, I promise I’m not mad.” He kneeled before you, hands rubbing the rough material of your jeans into your thighs, trying desperately to ground you.

“No thank you!” Your emotions became jumbled, thoughts disjointed as you tried to process the events that had happened. On instinct your hands covered your ears, body trying in vain to shut out any unnecessary sensory input. Tears flooded your cheeks as you watched Eddie’s face morph from worried to mortified. He could fix this. He had to fix this.

“Here baby, isn’t it pretty?” Attempting to soothe you, he lifted the object of your fixation to your line of sight. You felt bile rise in your throat at the gesture.

“NO THANK YOU! NO THANK YOU! NO THANK YOU!” You continued this mantra all the way to his room, where you closed and locked the door before Eddie could follow. As you paced the tattered rug your mind wandered back to stuffy you had left behind. Something that had once made you excited and joyful was now tainted with humiliation and dread. You knew you wouldn’t be able to look at it without remembering this moment, but the thought of returning it made you feel even worse. What if no one else bought it? Would it think you hadn’t loved it? Your spiraling was broken by a light knock on the door, Eddie’s voice penetrating the wooden obstacle.  

“Sweet thing, I’m sorry, please just let me in?” Ignoring him, you continued to pace while rubbing the worn, pilled fabric of your well-loved hoodie between your thumb and forefinger. The continuous motion soothing you somewhat.  

An hour passed before you opened the door in a moment of clarity and retreated to the comfort of Eddie’s bed. Cocooning yourself in the fluffiest blankets you stowed away and waiting for Eddie to come in. Although you had desensitized yourself to the situation, you still bared ill feelings towards your behavior. So, you hid the best you could without shutting Eddie out completely.  

“Baby?” It was meek, almost whispered.

“Hmm?”

“Is it okay if I come in?” His uncertainty stung, but not enough to give more than a one-word reply.

“Yeah.” You heard more than felt the bed springs as they shifted under the added weight.

“Is it okay if I touch you?” No.

“Yes.” You let the quiet envelope the two of you while Eddie rhythmically rubbed your blanket covered side. “I didn’t mean to behave badly. I’m sorry.” Eddie felt his throat tighten at your confession. You hadn’t behaved badly. You were just excited and maybe a little manic but he’d take those over this.

“You didn’t do anything wrong Y/n/n. I shouldn’t have gotten upset, definitely shouldn’t have taken my frustration out on you.”

“I would have been mad too.” If the roles had been reversed you would have been, you know that. Yet here he is consoling you, though you were in the wrong.

Maybe you were both a little wrong.

Lifting the corner of your makeshift fortress, you glance at Eddie. To your surprise he’s already looking at you, eyes filled with regret and smile forlorn.

“I should have realized-” Your sentence is cut short by rough knuckles tracing the line of your jaw.

“Hey. This isn’t all on you, I could have made my intentions clearer, doesn’t matter now though, can’t change what happened but we can both do better next time yeah?” You nod, turning your head to connect your lips with his warm skin.

“I’m sorry.” The words still feel like an important step towards bridging the gap between anger and forgiveness, though Eddie hadn’t made them feel necessary.

“Me too… you forgive me?” You can’t fight the giggle that escapes.

“f’course, do you forgive me?” He looks offended, almost appalled that you would even ask.  

“How could I not? Sweet thing like you? You got me wrapped around your finger.” The cheeky lightness that carries with his statement settles the left-over anxiety in your system. You knew the conversation wasn’t over, things would need to be talked through, solutions would need to be put in place, but for now? You were more than content to watch as your favorite boy picked up that perfect stuffy and decorated your face with delicate beaded nosed kisses.

#eddie munson x reader #eddie munson #stranger things #stranger things season 4 #neurodivergent!reader #eddie munson x reader fluff

[seeker-of-stories19]

Autistic Jaime Reyes Headcannons

(Warning for descriptions of autistic meltdown)

- Bonding with Khaji makes his sensory issues so much worse at first but eventually they work it out and Khaji learns that enhancing his senses doesn’t actually keep him safer because he gets so overwhelmed he pays less attention to his surroundings and not more

- Jaime realizes that Khaji can manipulate his sensory experience, they can’t completely stop him from having a meltdown (or more accurately they won’t because cutting off sensory information completely leaves him vulnerable) but they start tuning out background noises when they feel it’s safe

- It won’t stop him from having meltdowns completely but it makes it so he can usually hold it together until he gets home or somewhere safe

- Takes a lot of stress off of him about how people perceive him as an autistic Latino male and the danger that comes with that

- There’s definitely a few instances where Jaime does get negative attention and it is a fight to keep Khaji from transforming him because that’s not going to make some racist ableist asshole feel less threatened by him

- Misses being in Gotham where he could stim way more and people didn’t care, everyone was so desensitized to craziness that anything short of an imminent threat to there lives was unremarkable

- He could flap his hands, mumble, bounce etc. without anyone even glancing up

- Sometimes he forgets how different Palmera is and does something that brings a lot of attention to them which always makes Milagro tease him intensely, only to turn on anyone else who so much as looks at him wrong

- Everyone thinks Jaime is the only autistic one in the family but whenever anyone says it he just stares at Rudy pointedly

- He’s so obviously autistic but completely clueless

- Secretly though Jaime is grateful because he thinks his dad knew how to help him as a kid because he grew up with Rudy

- Got diagnosed in seventh or eight grade when he had a really good teacher who stuck out the whole public school process with his family because everyone else dismissed them

- It probably saved his life in high school to know he wasn’t losing his mind even though it legitimately felt like it

- Does decent in professional interactions and with adults but cannot for the life of him make friends, the only people he knows at school are through Milagro or kids he knew growing up

- Isn’t very interested in kids his age anyway because he doesn’t relate to them and even when he likes someone he’s not good at pursuing a friendship

- Doesn’t have much of a social life but gets perfect grades and has a job to save money for college

- Is definitely really lonely but struggles to sustain relationships even though he wants friends

- Milagro, Rudy, and his dad are his best and only friends which makes losing him even harder because he’s so close to his family

- College is a real game changer for him though, he’s still awkward but he can find a lot more people who want to talk about his interests and generally more people who are accepting or even just used to weirdness because again, Gotham

- He has more casual friends and goes out from time to time which makes his family really happy but a part of him is always a little lonely

- Being bonded to Khaji is absolutely remarkable because for the first time someone understands him without him even needing to explain things

- And Jenny is also an anomaly, she’s the first one outside of his family who he really bonds with deeply, at least outside of symbiotic relationships with alien tech

- She’s neurodivergent as well and they balance each other out really well, Jenny helps Jaime get out more because she’s very social but naturally communicates in a way that makes sense to him and helps include him in social situations

- Khaji will sometimes use the suit as sort of a weighted vest to apply firm pressure to his body, there are times it’s too overstimulating during a meltdown but sometimes it really helps him

- The first time he has a meltdown after fully bonding with Khaji is after getting back to Jenny’s dads house with his family, Khaji can feel something is really wrong with him and is freaking out a bit about not being able to put a name to it when Jaime collapses in the shower crying, rocking, and pulling his hair

- Khaji absolutely looses their shit but when they try and control Jaime and make him stop it only increases his distress and after he gets so panicked and overwhelmed he throws up Khaji stops trying to interfere even when he slams the heels of his hands into his head

- When he finally cries himself out he stays curled up at the bottom of the shower until Rudy comes to bring him clothes

- He seems to understand what happened and gets Jaime dried off and into cleanish clothes, tucking him into bed

- Jaime’s thoughts are so jumbled even Khaji can’t make sense of them and he passes out pretty quick and sleeps twelve hours only to not get out of bed the next day, scrolling through Instagram and barely communicating with Khaji for two days while his family brings him meals and he barely moves

- But the time he’s feeling more normal Khaji is losing their shit and he ends up having to explain the technicalities of autism which goes better than any other time he’s had to explain it because Khaji could feel everything already and just didn’t have the technical understanding to support him

- It’s still rough to find a balance between them of handling Jaime’s challenges, sometimes Khaji accidentally makes it worse by interfering too much but they learn how to manage things together

- When he’s overstimulated and he needs complete silence he flies to space until he’s grounded enough to come home

- He wasn’t a runner as a kid but his parents would turn around and he’d be in a tree or on a roof

- Would literally climb anything in his sight, even at University he snuck into the roof with a weighted blanket, headphones, and comics whenever he needed a moment

- He’s a major nerd, a lot of his special interests are anime and video games, and of course justice and law

- Even being aware of the injustice in the world and having faced it his whole life as a disabled immigrant he still believes in people and he can get really down when he can’t help everyone both through his job and being a superhero

- He never had a lot of vocal stims as a kid but since bonding with Khaji he’s constantly making clicking and humming noises

- It drives Milagro crazy but Rudy thinks it’s cool

- It takes a year or two before he goes back to school and when he does he stays in Palmera city this time to be close to his family and be able to watch the city

- He graduates with honors and his family is actually able to come this time

- Was incredibly obsessive about his schoolwork and is no better with his actual job once he finds one

- He won’t except a job from Jenny at Kord Industries but he regularly helps her out with looking over legal stuff and sometimes gets in way too deep

- He can’t ever leave anything unfinished and it drives Khaji crazy

- Khaji spends more time combatting Jaime’s interoception issues than protecting him from supervillains, they’re constantly reminding to eat, drink, sleep, and go to the bathroom

- His eyes will flicker yellow as he starts getting overwhelmed and turn gold before having a meltdown which helps his family try and get him somewhere safe where he can calm down

- Although it’ll sometimes happen for other reasons too which can confuse people

- Gets so overstimulated after sex, he will literally just curl up in bed for hours and sleep or watch YouTube

- Jenny and Khaji take good care of him, making sure he’s staying hydrated and keeping the sensory environment as controlled as possible so he can rest

- At first he’s nervous about how Jenny will feel but it becomes a running joke that they have to clear their afternoon after having sex

- Jaimes family are always trying to find ways to help him move through life easier but it doesn’t stop his mom from freaking out when she realizes Jaime goes on the roof less because he’s flying to space instead

- Khaji becomes Jaimes biggest confidant because they’re the only one who can truly understand what’s happening in his head

#jaime reyes #blue beetle #blue beetle 2023 #milagro reyes #rudy reyes #khaji da #autistic jaime reyes #jenny kord #dcu #headcannons #reyes family #dc