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writingjourney · 2 months

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Of Lemon Tarts and Tiny White Rabbits

Secondo, Earl of Griftwood, cannot believe his eyes when a tiny white rabbit scampers into his study. He is stunned even more when he meets the lovely owner of the pet – and promptly falls in love.

pairing: secondo x female!reader // regency AU

content: 4.6k words, regency AU (not 100% historically accurate but I tried), pov third person, forbidden romance, age gap, first kisses, social hierarchies, mildly suggestive at times, soft!secondo, pining and yearning etc., wingman terzo

This is a birthday present for the lovely @tasty-ribz , also special thanks to @angellayercake for allowing me to bring Snowbell into this story ✨🐰

Masterlist – Ao3 link

The curtains sway gently in the soft breeze that carries a fragrant spring air into his study. Secondo lifts his gaze to take in the lovely view through the open double doors which lead to a balcony and the well-kept gardens of Emeritus Manor. Lush rose bushes climb up the stone walls and wrap around the railings, dark green speckled with the pink of countless flowers. Somewhere in the trees the birds break out in song, their melodic chirping a pleasant background noise that accompanies him as he maintains his correspondence.

After this short reprieve for his eyes, he dips the quill back into the black pot of ink on his bureau. A few more letters and he can settle outside in the shade for his afternoon tea, perhaps even indulge and allow himself a lemon tart to go with it. He can’t remember hiring a new cook and yet he swears the smell of freshly baked pastries has filled the halls of the estate more frequently as of late, their taste tempting even him who is usually not one for desserts.

A movement in his peripheral vision distracts him momentarily but when he looks up there is nothing unusual to be seen. Secondo watches the curtains, assuring himself that it must have been the wind playing tricks on him. With a frown on his face, he focuses back on his letters. After a moment, however, he glances back up, suddenly sensing a presence in the room. When he still cannot detect anything out of the ordinary, he assumes that it must have been a ghost wandering the old halls of the manor – it would not be the first time.

Over the scratching sounds of his quill he almost misses the tiny squeak that passes his ears only a moment later. A mouse? No ghosts that haunt him after all. He lets his eyes roam the walls that are lined with bookshelves, trying to spot any scurrying movements on the elaborately patterned rug that muffles the sound. At last, he glances down to his feet and surprise takes over his stern features.

A white baby rabbit sits next to his shoe, its tiny pink nostrils moving rapidly as it sniffs the leather with utmost interest. The creature cannot be bigger than his palm. Where could it possibly come from? As far as he is aware, they do not keep any rabbits, let alone breed them.

“Snowbell?” The voice that suddenly sounds from the balcony is soft and melodic, a young woman he cannot quite place. “Snowbell, where did you go?”

Her figure appears in the frame a mere moment later and she flinches back when she spots Secondo at his desk through the open doors. She immediately averts her eyes, her hair falling into her face and covering her features.

“Please, forgive me for the disturbance, my lord.”

“There is nothing to forgive,” he replies. “I understand you are looking for this little troublemaker here?”

Secondo leans down to pick up the rabbit. Indeed it fits neatly into his gloved palm and he regrets that he cannot feel the soft fur against his fingers. The bunny breathes rapidly, its small body excited or scared, he cannot quite tell.

“Oh, you found her! Thank the lord, I thought she was lost forever.”

“Will you relieve me of her, then? She seems quite restless.”

The young woman who he cannot remember seeing before cautiously enters and with a lowered gaze approaches his desk. Secondo admires her for a moment, her striking complexion and the mesmerising way with which hair shimmers in the golden sunlight. Young and innocent, the daughter of a servant perhaps if the state of her dress is any indication. Yet it does not diminish her beauty nor her youthful radiance; he can tell that she is perhaps five-and-twenty.

She reaches for the bunny and he hands it over the desk, feeling her fingers brushing against his. Again he regrets the barrier between his skin and the world around him but even so he can tell that the heat has risen to her cheeks. She does not seem to be used to the presence of her superiors. He’s well aware of his reputation as a rather reserved and intimidating employer.

“I am not certain that I know your name,” he says before she can scurry off, skittish like the tiny animal that appears a little taller now in her smaller hands.

She replies with her name and a curtsy, not quite lady-like in practice but Secondo can tell that she must have enjoyed a good upbringing. Perhaps she has experience working for nobility.

“Where do you belong to, my girl?”

“I am François’s daughter, my lord.”

“Ah, sì, the new gardener?”

“Yes, my lord.”

He nods, watching her pet the rabbit with her slender fingers as if to calm herself. “And how do you like it here?”

“It is extraordinarily beautiful, my lord. The estate is magnificent and I quite enjoy the work in the kitchens.”

“The kitchens? So it is you who prepares these scrumptious lemon tarts?”

She nods, smiling a bit shyly. “It is a French recipe, my lord. My mother taught me how to make it when I was a wee girl and she worked for the Earl of Carlisle.”

“Are there any lemon tarts today, per chance?”

“I made a fresh batch just this morning, my lord.”

“Wonderful. Now, bring your Snowbell to safety before she scuttles away again.”

“Thank you most kindly, my lord. I promise to be more careful when I take her outside.”

He watches the young woman’s retreating form, reminding himself not to covet what he should not have. It is quite hard at the sight of such a sublime creature, though he rarely allows himself to indulge in thoughts of his carnal desires. The way she takes care of the animal tells him that she has a kind soul and how he could he ever taint it with his rotten hands?

Secondo stands to take his afternoon tea, looking forward to a generous serving of the fresh lemon tarts. He closes the balcony doors before he departs, his correspondence quite forgotten.

✦ ✧ ✦

He is too absorbed in his brother’s letter to notice the music at first.

When he finally does Secondo stops in the middle of the hallway. Rarely does he hear such sweet sounds these days, busy with politics and finances as he is. Ever since inheriting his father’s title as the Earl of Griftwood he is subjected to ball music, loud opera pieces and the talentless daughters of the other lords of the ton.

This subdued private concert is much more to his liking.

He folds the letter and pockets it before investigating the source of the music. Primo has written to him from Italy where his clerical duties keep him occupied. Secondo is relieved to learn that his brother is in good health and filling his new role as the leader of their secret church for which he has forsaken his role as the head of their family. A title that has now fallen to Secondo.

Following the trail of the music carries him further down the hall until he stops in front of a double door that stands slightly ajar. The sitting room beyond is abandoned safe for the person who has taken up residence behind the pianoforte and is now delighting the house with their pleasant tunes. Secondo is not one to swoon but when he discovers the gardener’s daughter, watching as her fingers glide over the keys in an elegant dance, he is quite taken with the sight of her.

It is only after quite some time that he spots the rabbit in her lap.

The piece ends all too soon but Secondo cannot bring himself to reveal his position. He watches on as she lifts Snowbell and places her tiny paws on the keys, playing an easy melody as she giggles and compliments her pet’s musical talent. He thinks that the snow white rabbit is an emblem of her most becoming properties – her soft and lovely presence, her gentle disposition and ethereal beauty. Two creatures that heaven must have forged together. Not for a moment does he think he could ever be worthy of her, no matter if his nobility raises him above her in this strict society. She transcends the rules of birthright and social rank, rules that he has always rejected, if not openly. Perhaps this is why he feels so drawn to her – she represents all that he has ever longed for, all that they strive to achieve with their church of Lucifer.

“I did not know we had a musician in the house,” he finally comments. “Or need I say two musicians?”

She jumps, again, startled by his domineering presence that takes over the room the moment he steps inside. After a few deep breaths she recovers and offers a polite greeting. Snowbell sits in her hand now, no bigger than a baby chick and just as restless. Her head rises as if to greet him as well, tiny button eyes shimmering not without mischief.

“Your brother told me it was alright for me to practice in here and that it is his instrument–”

“I am sorry, my dove, I did not mean to accuse you of anything untoward. Of course you may practice your music in here. We have been deprived of such beautiful sounds for way too long with no ladies in the house.”

Her shoulders sink in relief, the tension finally leaving her. “I hear that his lordship is quite a gifted musician himself. As are his brothers.”

“Ah, sì, sì, if only there was more time for it. I find that without pleasant company I cannot persuade myself to dedicate the time.” He steps further inside the room and takes a seat on one of the velvet settees, moderately close to where she’s now lowering herself back on her stool. His black breeches strain over his thighs and he adjusts his emerald green waistcoat that has ridden up, rights the knot in his cravat. “You play well, piccina. How did you come to master the pianoforte?”

“I may not be of noble upbringing, my lord, but my parents used all their means to ensure that I was educated, perhaps more than befits my station.” Her voice is sharp, not unfriendly but defensive nonetheless. “A person’s rank in society does not determine their talent for musical play.”

“I apologise if I offended your sensibilities, my dove. I did not mean to imply that your origin should have anything to do with your capability of learning an instrument.”

“No apologies are needed, my lord. It is true that such opportunities are not provided to many of my status. I cherish my privileges every day.”

Her eloquence and quick wit impress him, the dignified countenance with which she holds herself even in the face of an older man much above her in station. It would be easy to think that she is a noble lady, if it weren’t for her lack of fine clothing and jewellery. He fights off the urge to accoutre her, to dress her in the finest garments he can find in all of London and Paris or Rome. How lovely she would look with her hair done up, her slender neck exposed for his eyes alone.

And not just for his eyes.

Before he can inquire any further, Snowbell suddenly leaps from her lap. The rabbit lands on the soft carpet and scampers over towards the settee on her tiny legs.

“Oh, not again Snowbell,” the girl laments, but then she notices the rabbit’s direction and smiles softly. “I suppose she has taken a liking to you, my lord.”

“I hope she is not the only one,” he counters, allowing himself this moment of reverie.

Flustered, she averts her gaze, reacting in much the same way that he hoped she would. “Who could not be taken with him when his lordship is so very generous and kind of heart?”

Secondo smiles to himself as he leans down to pick up the cheeky rabbit, removing one of his dark leather gloves to finally feel the softness of her fur. “How did you come in possession of such an animal?” he finds himself asking. “She is quite unusual, no?”

“Oh, my father was engaged to work for another noble house in the city just before we came here and he found a nest in their garden. Snowbell was the only white rabbit of the litter. While the children of the house were allowed to keep the other rabbits they thought her cursed and wanted to kill her. I begged him to let me save her and bring her here.”

How charitable, he thinks, saving those who are unwanted, those who are abandoned by God, not differentiating between human or beast. How perfectly she would fit into his family whose ideals and values would have them shunned from society if they lived them openly. Perhaps it was not God who sent her but Lucifer himself. For him to love, to cherish, to worship.

He is aware that he is getting ahead of himself.

Snowbell allows him to pet her but he eventually stands to place the rabbit back in her saviour’s hands. This time, her fingers brush against the bare skin of his palm. A shiver runs through him, tingling down his spine before settling warmly in his lower belly.

Her heated cheeks are evidence that she feels the same way.

“Do you enjoy reading, my girl?” he asks, only now noticing the book she must have placed on the instrument. A romance novel, he notes, not without a hint of disappointment. He could not be any more different from the heroes of such tales if he tried.

“I do, my lord.” She cradles Snowbell gently against her bosom, almost protectively, and he has to tear is his eyes away from the soft skin there. “I am an avid reader when I do find the time.”

“Please, feel free to use my personal library at your convenience. I am sure that you are in want of new reading material. This book appears to be… well-loved.”

“Are you quite certain, my lord? I would not want to impose–”

“Oh, nonsense. Many of the books have been collecting dust for way too long.”

Perhaps this suggestion stems from him wanting her to frequent his spaces and not those of his brother, if only to raise his chances of running into her. If Terzo offered her his instrument then he is sure that his eyes are not the only ones that she has caught. Secondo shares many a thing with his brother, but he will not share her.

“Thank you, my lord,” she says. “I am not sure what I have done to deserve your generosity but I shall cherish it forever.”

“Hm, your services are well-appreciated, my dove. I merely wish to make your life here a little more pleasant.”

She giggles. “His lordship must really like the lemon tarts.”

Her laughter shakes him to his very core. He is tempted to smile, or to tell her that it is not the tarts that have captivated him, but all this foolish impulse does is distort his stern features into a grimace. Before her eyes can linger on him, he departs with quick steps and a racing heart, making sure to leave the door open.

A few moments later the soft tunes of her music accompany him back to his study.

✦ ✧ ✦

The rustling of the page is a steady noise in the background as he works away at the desk he strategically positioned in his library. The expense reports of the estate are all in order and yet he goes over them once more – if only to stretch out the time in her presence.

He looks up to find Snowbell happily munching on a carrot in her little crate on the floor. His true heart’s desire, however, is reading a romance novel that he so graciously stocked the library with. Not that anyone will ever see a report of this particular expense.

“Are the new books to your liking, my dove?” he finds himself asking.

“They are quite enjoyable, my lord.” She looks up, marking her page before she closes the book. “And yet… I find that I do not want a love like these books promise. It sounds rather boring to me.”

“How so?”

“The true appeal of a person lies in his or her imperfections, my lord. Not even the finest, most handsome young man could tempt me when there is no flaw in his character that captures my interest. If I should ever fall in love it should be with a man much older who has been shaped by the hardships of life, with rough edges but a core that still carries a soft heart that he only shows to those he holds dear. I should like to uncover this heart and have it beat only for me.”

Secondo pauses for a moment. Could it be true? Could a beautiful young woman like her truly fall for an old man such as himself? Accept that their love would be flawed and rejected by society and love him all the more for it? If it is true what she implies then does he dare hope–

“You are quite different from what I expected, my lord,” she says before his thoughts can carry him away. “I have heard many things that I now know to be untrue.”

“And how so?”

“Everyone told me that you were quiet and rather cold, polite but not in the habit of keeping anyone’s company and while generous with your staff they said it is rare to see you outside of your study. And yet… I have only ever sensed your warmth, your generosity, and while you are a private man I feel as though I got to know you merely by being in the same room and striking up idle conversation. You have requested my presence almost daily as of late and I must admit that I find great comfort in spending my time with you, so much so that I feel sad when a day goes by and I cannot see you.”

Secondo stands abruptly, overwhelmed by the sudden sparks of emotion that ignite the fire in a heart he has long since thought to be withered. His long legs carry him to where she is sitting on a plush settee, the golden sun from the window illuminating her like an angel incarnate. She is a dream he finds himself caught in, and not of his own volition.

“My dove,” he says as he kneels down in front of her, grasping her hand tightly in his. “Your companionship is the greatest gift that I have ever received.”

He presses a fervent kiss to her knuckles, quite overcome with his desires. How he longs to pull her into his embrace, to kiss her plump cheeks and soft lips, to keep her trapped against his chest and stroke her hair for hours.

When he meets her eyes, she seems surprised by his sudden outburst, but not at all repelled like he had feared. “My dear lord, how I wish we could have met under different circumstances.”

Secondo releases a shuddering breath and buries his face in her lap. When she begins to caress his head, running her soft fingers along the sharp lines of his cheekbones, he feels like he wants to weep.

✦ ✧ ✦

The delivery goes smoothly – until his brother appears in the doorway.

“A new instrument?” Terzo asks. “Whatever for? You could have asked to use mine, fratello.”

Secondo grumbles in reply, wishing his brother would finally leave. He is dressed smartly – a dark purple brocade waistcoat with a matching tailcoat, black breeches, a white cravat, high leather boots and a brand new top hat – ready to leave for a picnic or whatever social event he is planning to attend in pursuit of his latest sweetheart. He has always mirrored Secondo’s expensive taste in clothing but decided that his colour was purple instead of green. If it weren’t for Secondo’s lack of hair and Terzo’s thick black locks their brotherly relation would be uncanny, if not a little ridiculous.

“Do you not have to make an appearance somewhere else?” Secondo asks when his brother lingers while they set up the pianoforte under his watchful eyes.

“Oh, I still have enough time to observe my brother’s folly. Tell me, did she bewitch you so that you are wasting the family’s funds now? How exactly do you plan on introducing the gardener’s daughter to polite society, fratello?”

A deep breath. Secondo cannot strangulate him in front of the suppliers. “I do not know what you are talking about. I merely wish to possess an instrument of my own.”

“Mhm and the ornate rabbits carved into the wood? Are those to your taste as well?”

“I am very fond of animals. I quite enjoy the design, do you not find it endearing?”

Terzo merely chuckles in reply, the words altogether unfamiliar from his bother’s tongue, and pats his shoulder with a heavy hand. “I will make sure that the pamphlets are filled with someone else’s transgressions, should you decide that a diversion of the ton’s attention is needed in light of your imminent marriage to a commoner.”

Secondo refuses to argue with him, Terzo is too smart for that. Instead he waits until they are alone again and his brother further inspects the pianoforte. The tunes he lures from the keys are splendid, much richer in sound than any he has heard before. A good investment, Secondo decides.

“What a splendid instrument,” his brother says. “I shall hope that your little rabbit plays it for you on many an occasion.”

“I plan to have her play it for me every day for as long as I live.”

Terzo raises a brow. “So you do intend to propose? My, my! I did not expect you to ever let go of your determination to stay alone for the rest of your days. What has changed?”

“I met the loveliest creature to walk this earthly plane, fratello, I have been touched by her angelic hands and saw the true meaning of paradise. I do not care much what polite society has to say about our union. I am quite ready to be selfish after I sacrificed my freedom for this family.”

“And politics, your favourite subject?”

“I do not plan to advertise this marriage, fratello. I shall be ready to face all the consequences, for her love will carry me through the worst of it.”

“Oh, how you have changed!” Terzo snickers but not unkindly. “I am very happy for you, brother mine. She will make a lovely wife for an old grump such as yourself.”

“You are just as old,” Secondo says dismissively. “And yet you act like a bachelor in the prime of his youth.”

“And I shall continue to do so for as long as I can. If you will excuse me now, I have a rendezvous to attend and I am already late.”

The moment Terzo departs, Secondo allows his own hands to explore the pianoforte. He is quite out of practice but the finely tuned instruments sounds wonderful even under his stiff fingers. An old song finds its way into his head and he allows his memory to do the rest of the work.

When he finally finishes, he is pulled from his trance by the loveliest of voices.

“My lord, you asked for me,” she says timidly as she approaches him. “I do not wish to interrupt when you play such lovely songs.”

“You are not interrupting, my dove. Please, come here, sit down in my stead. This is yours now.”

“Oh, but my lord–” She trails off, her pupils widening at the sight of the brand new instrument.

He is not certain what he did to upset her. “If you would rather play a harp or a lyre–”

“No, no, that is not what I mean, my lord. I just… I am not worthy of such an expensive gift.”

“Oh, but my dove, you are more than worthy. And it is not entirely selfless. I hope I will be hearing your sweet music more often while I am working in here.”

She smiles affectionately. “I shall play for his lordship whenever he wishes. I shall… I shall play until my fingers hurt!”

“I would never allow for this to happen,” he decides, reaching for her hands and massaging them gently in his. “No pain may befall my dearest for as long as I am here to prevent it.”

She holds his gaze, hope shimmering in her irises. “I shall play with caution then, I would not want my lord to be in distress on my behalf. Would you hold Snowbell for me, please?”

Before she sits, she pulls the rabbit from the pocket of her dress where the she must have napped for she perks up sleepily when she is set down in his broad hands. Secondo does not make a move to stand.

“My lord–”

He uses his free hand to pull her into his lap and she gasps before her fingers find the keys. He can feel her shivering against his chest, her breathing as rapid as his heartbeat.

“I am not sure that I can play under his lordship’s scrutiny,” she whispers.

“I am quite certain that you can.”

With another shaky breath she begins to play. Heavenly tunes fill the room, her hands working their magic on the keys of the fine instrument. It is a song he has not heard before, slow and rather quiet but all the more powerful on his emotions. Her confidence soon returns and she plays in the same carefree way that he has grown to enjoy, only this time she is in his space, where she belongs. She is in his arms, breathes the very same air that flows through his lungs, and he can sense that he made the right choice.

The moment her hands come to a stop, he places Snowbell back in her palms and turns her sideways over his lap. Flustered by the proximity she glances down to her hands, only to notice that the rabbit has a white ribbon loosely tied around her body.

“I will ask your father for your hand,” Secondo says bluntly and her eyes widen.

“My lord, that is… it is impossible.”

“It will be possible, if it is your wish as well.”

“But, I am just–”

He stops her, taking her chin between his fingers to force her eyes to meet his. “My dove, I need a clear answer.”

“Yes.”

Overcome with relief he closes the distance and devours her lips in a passionate kiss. She presses against him with the same fervour, though careful not to squash the rabbit in her hand. Her body feels heated underneath the thin fabric of her cheap dress and he vows to have the modiste come the very next day to take her measurements. His hands roam her curves without shame now while he ravishes her, kissing her with a passion that threatens to make his heart burst, unused as it is to such feral emotion. She tugs at his cravat then, and he relents, allowing them both to break away for air.

Her forehead falls against his, their noses brushing as their heavy breaths mingle in the space in between. Suddenly Snowbell squeals in her palm and when they both look down the rabbit leaps from her hand onto the keyboard. As the off-key notes penetrate the room, they both smile. Perhaps they have to hire a different musician for the wedding after all.

Thank you for reading! Hope you enjoyed – kudos, comments, rbs etc are as always much appreciated ♡

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#secondo x reader #papa emeritus ii x reader #secondo fanfiction #papa emeritus ii fanfiction #the band ghost fanfiction #regency au #female reader #reader insert

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ramblingoak · 3 months

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Naps With Copia

Nap #10: Napping With Your Valentine

~ Naps With Copia series masterpost ~

For @pinklunarprincess 💙 who wanted Copia to play with their hair

Cardinal Copia x gn!reader

These are all stand alone chapters so you do not have to read one before the other! This series came from my post about wanting to nap with Copia all around the abbey. The stories will all have gender neutral readers and soft Copia naps.

Warnings: a very sappy Valentine's Day themed nap, I'm not sorry, sfw, 1k words, enjoy! (thank you to @gothdaddyissues for the dividers)

You were going to be late.

Of all the days to be running behind it had to be today. A day that Copia had been teasing you about for weeks now. Weeks of silly clues and guessing games. You had used every trick in the book (and in bed) to try to get him to tell you his plans for Valentine’s Day but he wouldn’t fess up. It had gotten to the point he had started to avoid you, even turning heel and jogging away from you in the hallways.

He was lucky you loved him so much.

But now you had probably ruined everything. He had been very specific about you being back to his quarters by noon. Copia had planned a big lunch to treat you since there was a larger event for the entire congregation that evening. The whole place had smelled amazing already as soon as you woke up. He had been quick to usher you away, practically throwing your clothes at you so you didn’t try to sneak peeks into the tiny kitchen.

You had been huffy but finally obliged him, trudging down the halls to your office. Thankfully today was supposed to be relatively easy. No tours on the horizon, no conferences, no trips…just a morning of receiving deliveries for the party and then you’d be free by noon. Free to eat whatever amazing meal Copia was creating and then free to hopefully make out a little on his couch.

It was Valentine’s Day after all.

Unfortunately it seemed your special lunch and making out time was doomed. Delivery after delivery had been late and one truck had somehow managed to crash into the gate to the abbey grounds. It had been 2pm by the time everything had been sorted out. You were tired, starving and ready to snap at anyone that started your way with a clipboard in their hand. Thankfully you were saved by Secondo who must have noticed you were at the end of your patience.

“Go on, let me take care of all of this.”

“Really?” You took a few careful steps back, not sure if he was just teasing you or not. “Are you sure?”

“Sì, I don’t want to deal with mio fratellino pouting the rest of the week.”

Secondo held out his hand for the delivery folders you had been balancing all morning, a soft smile on his face. You couldn’t help but squeal, shoving the folders against his chest and then placing a loud, obnoxious kiss on his cheek. He was sputtering something in Italian as you took off down the hall but you’d deal with his irritation later. Right now you had a lunch date you were very, very late for.

As you stumbled into the main room it seemed like you were too late, Copia was nowhere in sight. There was a cold meal on the table in the kitchen, candles long since gone out. You couldn’t help but let out a groan, feeling absolutely terrible about ruining something Copia had spent so long planning.

“Amore?”

Copia’s sleepy voice broke you out of your spiraling thoughts and you quickly turned to the sound of his voice. All you could see was his head poking up over the back of the couch, his hair sticking up all over the place. He gave you a sleepy smile when he saw you and it grew when you moved closer. You snorted when you made your way around the couch, seeing him stretched out in his bright red suit and covered in empty chocolate wrappers.

“You look like a valentine.” He rolled his eyes but held his hands out for you, smiling when you kicked your shoes off and gently climbed onto the couch to lay against him. “Cutest valentine ever.”

His cheeks pinked up a bit as he leaned in for a kiss but before his lips touched yours he jerked back, his eyes narrowing.

“Is that black lipstick?”

“Don’t worry about it, it’s from Secondo.”

“Sec–? Wha–mmph.”

He relaxed as you kissed him, his fingers slipping up to comb through your hair. You made a soft noise in your throat as he rubbed his fingers along your scalp. He always knew just how to touch you, just how to hold you and kiss you and make you feel like you were the most precious thing in the world to him. After a few moments you pulled away, matching his sleepy smile with one of yours.

“I’m sorry I ruined our lunch.”

“Shh, no need to apologize, amore mio. I already put the leftovers in the fridge, I can heat those up for you.”

When he made to get up you pressed your hands down on his shoulders, kissing his nose when he gave you a confused look.

“Let’s stay here a bit longer. Please.”

Copia nodded and settled back against the couch again, his fingers running through your hair once more. He had started to braid parts of it, something he did in moments like this. Moments where you were both relaxed and doing nothing more than enjoying each other's company. You only moved when his chest rumbled under your ear as he spoke.

“How about we take a little nap, eh? Then we can have an early dinner before the party.”

“That sounds perfect.” He tilted your chin up so he could reach your lips, giving you a gentle, lingering kiss. It was one of your favorite kinds of kisses from him. Although this one had the added bonus of the hint of chocolate leftover from the candy he had eaten. You couldn’t help but give his full bottom lip a little nibble before finally pulling away. “Happy Valentine’s Day, Copia.”

“And Happy Valentine’s Day to you, amore. Now stop distracting me with your lips, let me nap.” You rolled your eyes but dropped your head down onto his chest, sighing when one of his hands went back to your hair. “But when we wake up you’re going to explain why you were kissing Secondo.”

Despite your body shaking with laughter, sleep was still quickly creeping up on you. It wasn’t long before you were drifting off, your arms wrapped tightly around the best valentine anyone could ask for.

Up next is a nap for an Anon 💙

~ Naps With Copia series masterpost ~

If you'd like to be added/removed from the tag list (or if I accidentally left your name off) of this fic or any of my others please leave a comment or send me a dm! Thank you 💙

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#oakie's writing #naps with copia #copia x reader #cardinal copia x reader #copia fanfiction #the band ghost fanfiction #ghost band fanfic #cardinal copia

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tasty-ribz · 1 year

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Hey Ribz, I love your art and how you portrait Secondo. Have you ever thought about how he would handle a baby ghoul? Tiny ghoul just climbing in his vestments and sitting there while he reads to them, just pocket ghoul

Secondo: doesn't want baby ghoul

Other papas: gets baby ghoul from hell's pitt anyway

Secondo and baby ghoul after one day:

#the band ghost #ask #papa emeritus secondo #secondo emeritus #bone daddy #nameless ghouls #nameless ghoul #the ghost band

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drapopia · 2 months

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hard day's work

pairing: papa emeritus ii x reader

warnings: some small mentions of getting hot and heavy, the usual mention of secondo and the reader having a healthy sex life

summary: For a man who boasts of a plush king sized bed, Secondo surely loves falling asleep in an armchair with a good book, to the despair of his back the next day.

word count: 1.4k

authors note: whoa buddy, here's another ghost drabble! i have a hard time with secondo's personality, especially in softer, domestic spaces. i just hope i've done a sort of okay job? with time comes improvement! hopefully ya'll enjoy it, feedback is highly appreciated! :)

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The room is silent, save for the hum of the central heating and the occasional flip of a page.

Well, it’s almost silent. Secondo sits in the corner of the room in his armchair made of lush velvet, a dark green that stands out against the muted gray robe he wears. You can see the slow rise and fall of his chest, his head reclined back against the chair at an angle. You can tell that if you don’t wake him soon, he’ll wake up tomorrow with a grumble and a hiss, and you would have to rub the knots from the base of his neck with a coo and a kiss. Not that you mind, but you don't want him in pain, even if he enjoys the feel of your hands on his sorest spots.

His hands rest on his lap, the book he was reading was slowly but surely slipping out of his hands. His breath is still light and even, a far cry from the usual deep snores he lets out when he’s checked out for the day. From your spot on the loveseat across the room, you can see his nose twitching in the cold air. Although being curled up in the fleece blanket on the couch is appealing, the thought of leaving him in the cold, even while dozing, makes your heart twinge in distress. How many times had he roused you from your sleep after a long movie, picking you up gingerly and tucking you into your shared bed? You couldn’t count, you couldn’t help but feel comfortable around him. You always had, even when you first entered the Ministry.

With a sigh, you pull yourself up from your sitting position, walking as quietly as possible towards him. You couldn’t help but smile to yourself as you got closer to him, standing beside and gazing down at him. His face was bare of paint, his eyes only holding a small smudge of black at the tightest corners of his crows feet. His nose was still twitching with the rise and fall of his chest, his breath light and slow. As quietly and gently as possible, you reach for his book to pull it from his loose grasp. Your hands close around it, and mark it to keep his place. Turning it over, you inspect the cover with a small smile. He was re-reading Crime and Punishment. You had teased him many times about it, how he would scoff and roll his eyes about his distaste for older Russian literature. How he felt it went on and on, was repugnantly repetitive, self pitying and obnoxious. But here he was, turning the pages once more of a book he ‘despised’.

Shaking your head, you turn towards him once more and place your hand on his cheek. You feel the harsh contours of his face, thankful that you couldn’t feel any tension in the apples of his cheeks. This week had been hard on him so far, and it was only Wednesday. You had found him earlier in his office when you stopped with a teeny-tiny quick pick-me-up espresso. While he had thanked you with a kiss and a light squeeze of your hand in his, you had seen the way his shoulders remained bunched with tension, how his hands had a tremor as they held the tiny cup in his hand. And now here he was, as docile as the lambs he spoke of in his captivating sermons at Mass.

Leaning forward, you press a kiss to his cheek and pull away a fraction, noticing the way his eyelids twitched and his small mustache scrunched up. Smiling, you pepper kisses on his cheeks, as delicately as you can muster. A soft huff of breath hits your neck from where you’re positioned.

“Cara, what are you doing?” He murmurs, a ricochet of heat hitting your stomach at the deliciously rich timbre of his voice. A large hand, free of his gloves and comfortably warm, hits your hip. You pull back slowly, meeting his gaze as he blinks his syrupy eyes to clear the sleepiness.

“You know you can’t sleep here, you’ll be groaning all day tomorrow. This armchair doesn’t look all that comfortable, to be quite honest.” You whisper softly.

“That’s what you think.” He says quietly, the corners of his lips barely noticeable and curling into an almost imperceptible grin. Secondo was more permissible, a tad bit more open when he was slowly slipping from sleep. His eyes held a softness, his words losing their bite. And while you loved the cold charm of him in the day, it always made your heart skip a beat to see him so delightfully unguarded when he woke to the sight of you.

You pat his chest softly with your hand, raising up with a soft puff. “Come on, we’ve gotta get you into bed.” Your lips turn up at the corners at his small huff of exertion, extending your hands in an inviting gesture towards him. He slides up the armchair, stretching out slightly as he grabs your arms to pull himself up with a groan. And just as he rises from the chair, his arms come to wrap themselves around you, gazing down at you.

He looks at you, a fond smile on his face. Without the guards of papal paint or his sunglasses, his face was so kind. So much easier to see the way the creases on his forehead melted, the way his eyes crinkled with barely concealed adoration. “Sleep? I suppose we could.” He rasps, leaning in to press a kiss against your lips. HIs accent was deliciously thicker in the throes of sleepiness, and you felt the hair on your neck rise.

You return the kiss, your lips moving in a well practiced synchronicity. But unlike the passionate nights you shared and the lascivious words he would whisper in your ear with no shame, there was no heat behind the kisses you were exchanging now. Even as his hands curled behind your back, tracing the curve of your spine with dedication and reverence. You smile against the kiss, breaking it as you pull back.

“Come on,” you whisper and press a kiss to the tip of his nose before he could scoff in mock distaste. “I’ll warm up the heating blanket, maybe give you a back rub? Read you some more of that delicious Russian literature you like so much?” You say teasingly, grabbing his hand and walking towards your large bedroom the two of you found respite in every day. In each other's bodies, words, and simple gestures.

“I hate Dostoevsky, you know this.” He grumbles, ambling beside you to wrap his arm around your waist and pressing a quick kiss to your cheek as your feet hit the plush carpet of your room.

“Of course, of course. And that’s why you fell asleep with it in your hands.” You smile, rolling your eyes. You reach the bed, pulling back the duvet. Slipping in with a sigh, you pull the covers up to your neck and nestle in, much like a rabbit in its burrow.

Secondo slips off his robe, completely naked. Before you can admire him, he slips into bed beside you and pulls the covers over himself. Maybe tomorrow you can catch a quick peek, but for tonight, you'll be content with the heat of him beside you.

“I had to bore myself, send myself off to sleep, no?” He leans back against the pillows, gesturing lackadaisically for you to lay against him. You shuffle closer to him, his warmth a soothing balm to the unease of the day.

“Just come curl up with me instead, problem solved.” You murmur, and Secondo chuckles at your comment as he leans over to flick off the lamp on his nightstand.

“What do you think it is we’re doing here, amore? I want you here with me, not the dreadful pages of a self pitying bastard pouring his heart out.” He says softly, his eyes falling closed. Papa is still tired, the rise and fall of his chest becoming more even. Your hands reach out instinctively, patting his tummy with as much care as possible.

“That almost sounds like an ‘I love you’, Secondo.” You say quietly, the tease barely noticeable under your exhaustion, feeling your own eyes slip closed under the weight of the darkness over you both. His hands pull you closer, his chest hair a cushion on your cheek.

“I do love you.” He says softly, the soft silence around the two of you relaxing the both of you quicker than you’d like to admit. “Now shush, amore.” He says firmly, but with no bite. You smile to yourself, and all you hear is the soft breathing of your Papa, your best friend beside you.

#the band ghost #ghost the band #secondo #papa emeritus ii #papa emeritus ii x reader #ghost bc #secondo emeritus x reader #reader insert #ghost fanfiction #x reader #secondo emeritus

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sweatandwoe · 1 year

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the papas' kids dressing up as them for Halloween send tweet

#papa emeritus #ghost band #they put on their dad's face paint #and tiny versions of the papa robes and mitres #primo smiles and is delighted #terzo and copia are both the dads who cry #secondo also cries but he does it later that night while his partner can comfort him #also if multiple kids the baby is dressed as papa while the rest go as the ghouls

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xfilesinamajor · 1 year

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Seeing @tasty-ribz sketch of Secondo and Terzo as adorable big-eyed smols, coupled with HC I've been developing for my Terzo fic, has me thinking up all these scenarios with the lil' guys. Another example--

Very young Terzo and Secondo, standing in front of a younger Sister Imperator, clearly in trouble.

Terzo:: "He called me a pussy!"

Secondo: "Well you ARE a pussy!"

Terzo: "You don't even know what a pussy is!"

Secondo: "Yes I do!"

Terzo: "Oh yeah? Well what is it then?"

Imperator: "BOYS!"

They completely ignore her.

Secondo: "I'm not telling you!"

Terzo: "Cause you don't know!"

Secondo: "Neither do you!"

Terzo: "Then how do you know I am one?" Sticks out tongue.

Imperator, silently, in her head: Some day I'm going to have the two of you killed.

#papa emeritus ii #papa emeritus iii #sister imperator #smol secondo #tiny terzo #personal headcanon

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earthry · 9 months

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Dragon Papas (Dragon/Royalty AU Headcanons)

Followup from this post about you being a royal locked in a tower and the Papas being dragons.

tw violence, possessiveness, tiny spicy for secondo as always, fluff, a sprinkle of hurt/comfort, the murder of suitors & knights

Primo

His tower lies in the heart of an overgrown garden. It’s almost a maze, with how high the hedge walls have grown to protect their treasure. He has his ghouls prowling the halls for unsuspecting victims.

He’s gentle with you, treating you like a delicate flower in his garden. And honestly compared to him, you’re pretty frail.

He rarely needs to actually kill any suitors or knights— they often fall victim first to either the whims of the maze or the mercy of his ghouls.

Decorates you in flowers, weaving wreathes and garlands, tucking them into your hair as he helps you brush it at the start of each day.

Although Primo is the one with an affinity towards the wildlife in the area, you begin to notice as your stay continues that the animals love to perch nearby to watch you— the brave ones will come forward and bask in your light as you hold you hand out and pet soft fur. The daisies seem to bend towards you when you walk down the pathway, the trees hang their branches low so that they may gently brush against you, providing you shade and shelter.

Primo is quite pleased with it, and convinced that you were practically made just for him. He’ll never let anyone take you away from him, never let anyone even lay hands on his little rose.

Secondo

His tower is reminiscent of a cathedral, grand with stained glass windows and high ceilings. There’s a library nook just for you, with all the books you’d ever want.

If there’s something that you don’t have but desire, Secondo has no problem sending his ghouls out to obtain them for you. Anything for his most beloved.

He used to do this himself, flying out for short periods of time seemed safe enough; until one incident where he nearly lost you to an overconfident knight. Since then, he rarely leaves. He’s very reluctant to leave you alone and unprotected— you’re much safer in his arms.

The incident also reminded him how delicate and easily injured humans are. He'd always known but with you, he'd somehow thought you were immune to that because you were his. After bringing you home in the state you were however, don't be surprised if he becomes the most gentle he can be with you.

Even in his human form Secondo is much larger than you, encompassing you as you sit in his lap to read. He loves having you in his lap or laying on top of him, relishing how small you are compared to him. You’re his little trinket, his treasure.

Ruthless. Doesn’t take kindly to trespassers and even less so to those who try to drag you away against your will. You’ve seen your fair share of bloodshed by being at his side, watching him tear knights to shreds to protect you, to keep you safe.

Decorates you with bites and loving bruises (with your enthusiastic consent of course). Possessive claiming marks against the nape of your neck. When it starts to disappear, he always gets a little antsy and unsettled until he can properly mark you as his again.

If you’re an untouched royal, he practically goes feral at the idea of being the first and only to ever touch you, to ever show you the pleasures of intimacy.

Terzo

His tower is hidden in the high mountains, covered in snow and steep and treacherous paths for any who seek to brave it. It's so high up that the top of the tower is often hidden in the clouds, earning the nickname 'the tower in the sky' from locals.

He’s very clever and sets many traps that usually picks off most of the suitors. The ones that happen to make it all the way usually don’t live long enough to tell the tale before Terzo’s ghouls are upon them.

Terzo always gets a little sulky if any of his traps fail because Omega loves to tease him.

Contrary to his brothers, the sight and smell of blood nauseates him. He's a sensitive dragon! Aside from setting the traps, his ghouls are the ones to clean them up and get rid of the carnage.

He abandoned his entire hoard for you by the way. The hoard he’s been collecting and protecting for centuries pale in comparison to the love and connection he feels for you. You are his treasure and he treats you as such. Gentle and loving and awed.

Sometimes you ask him if he wants to fly all the way back and retrieve them, but he always tells you no— it would leave you too vulnerable and open to any knights or suitors who might think they’ll get luck. He’s not willing to risk you, not even in the slightest. He tells you that he has a new hoard now, starting with the shiniest and prettiest gem in the world (you).

Decorates you with gold, loves to drape you in jewelry and have you splayed out for him as he kisses each ring on your hand. If you have long enough hair, will spend hours combing it out and braiding in gold beads and gems.

If you’re ever missing home, he’ll cook your favorite cuisines from your childhood and hold you when you’re sad. He’s always very thoughtful and your happiness is his priority.

Copia

His tower is hidden in the caves below, tucked in the safety of the caverns and crevices of the earth. Though many don’t dare to venture underground, those who do never seem to make it back out.

It’s pretty cold underground so he’s always sure to keep the fireplace going. Wraps you up in blankets and sweaters and cuddles you to death to keep you toasty and warm.

Kind of a silly dragon, doesn’t quite know how to judge his size and often forgets the difference between his dragon form and human form. He’s gotten stuck in a few places that you’ve had to help him out of (after taking 10 minutes to finish laughing while he pouts and sulks cutely— it’s okay you make it up to him with plenty of apology kisses and he’s easily pacified).

There’s a large population of rats underground that he can communicate with using his mind. He can also take possession and use them as his eyes and ears, watching through their perspective. He takes very good care of them! There’s hundreds of them but they all have names and Copia remembers each one.

He uses his rats to keep you safe, having them patrol the area and reporting back if they sense or see someone.

Does not understand human customs and forgets half the time what humans are like. Forgets to wear clothes when he’s in his human form— not that you mind though.

Decorates you in things he's made. This varies as he's always picking up new hobbies and skills. Whether it be knitting or embroidery, jewelry or leather making, he always loves to shower you in gifts. It's a very sweet and lovely gesture and you always let him know.

You don’t know what happens to the knights or suitors that come your way seeking to ‘whisk you away’ and Copia never talks much about it. He just says that the rats or his ghouls are taking care of it.

You do secretly catch him a few times drenched in blood and gore and trying to wash it off in time before you see. You never tell him because you don’t want the poor guy to have an anxiety attack— he’s very particular about keeping you away from anything bad or scary. He just wants to protect you from all things, even from himself.

#the band ghost #copia #secondo #terzo #ghost band #ghost bc #ghoul #papa emeritus iv #primo #cardinal copia #papa emeritus i #papa emeritus ii #papa emeritus iii #papa emeritus i x reader #papa emeritus ii x reader #papa emeritus iii x reader #papa emeritus iv x reader #cardinal copia x reader #headcanons

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writingjourney · 3 months

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Thinking about post-retirement Secondo who is a goatherd. Goat dad Secondo, Secondo with baby goats who run after him like ducklings. Secondo with a tiny baby goat in his hand, cradling it to his chest trying to act like it doesn’t make him want to weep. Secondo saving goats and allowing them to retire in the Ministry’s stable. Primo helps him feed them and allows them to graze between the apple trees in the orchard. One day a baby goat gets injured and he takes them home with him. You find them both asleep on the couch, the goat sleeping on his chest with a tiny bandage on their leg. He goes out every morning and evening to feed them and spend some time with them. You’ve never seen him so calm and relaxed.

#yeah I feel fine why do you ask?#secondo #secondo x reader

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ramblingoak · 23 days

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Napping in the Clouds

This is for @megachaoticstupid who wanted a nap in my Steampunk Verse between little Copia and his big brother Secondo 💙

Huge thanks to @tasty-ribz for the art and to @ghuleh-recs for my steampunk dividers!

This technically takes place after Building A Family but it can be read on its own. There are also two other fics in this universe: Capitano Copia and Clockwork Friends.

Warnings: angst pertaining to Copia's time in an orphanage and Secondo's feelings towards his family otherwise it is very soft and fluffy, sfw, 2,600 words

They were running out of clocks.

Secondo brushed the toe of his boot against some of the debris on the floor. The delicate metal parts scraped against the polished wood and he winced briefly at the scratch left behind. Not that it mattered, Emeritus Manor had countless rooms that hadn’t seen a soul in years. No one would care about the condition of the floor in some dusty study. Secondo couldn’t even remember if he’d been in this room before. Copia however had clearly been busy exploring.

Busy doing other things too.

“He’s up to three rats now.” Alpha’s voice preceded him as he appeared out of the shadow in the doorway. “And some toys.”

“Aren’t the rats toys?”

“No.” Secondo turned with a raised eyebrow at the sharp quality of the ghoul’s voice. To his credit, Alpha lowered his head briefly in apology before looking back up with a smirk on his face. The red eyes of the demon glowed with mischief as he answered. “They’re not toys at all.”

Copia was singing when he finally tracked him down.

He had a strong voice for his age. Strong and bright Italian words drifted down the hallway and Secondo felt such an intense moment of something that he had to pause before he turned the corner to confront the boy. Music hadn’t traveled the corridors of the manor for a long time. Not since Terzo had decided he’d rather spend his time in the sky.

Or, as was the case lately, in prison.

Secondo turned the corner to find Copia hunched over something in the middle of the hall. Parts and tools were spread out around him as well as what he assumed were the little clockwork rats Alpha had watched him build. He was content to stay back and listen to his song but one of the rats twitched and turned his way. Copia instantly quieted down, his head snapping back and his eyes widening as soon as he saw Secondo.

“I’m sorry! I’ll put it back together!”

Copia stumbled onto his feet, grabbing an armful of parts and quickly going over to the quiet clock. The rats were right at his heels save one. This one went right for Secondo, pausing at his boots and gazing up at him. There was a blue glow right below its chest, bright enough to illuminate the little creature’s eyes. It was something that had Secondo holding his breath, memories of his own childhood here springing to his mind.

Memories of what he used to be able to build.

“What’s his name?” His little brother turned his way, a small screwdriver clamped between his teeth. Secondo crouched down slowly, not wanting to scare the rat away. “Your friend, does he have a name?”

“Brizio.” Copia timidly walked his way, the other two rats never straying far. Only one of them had the same glow as the one Secondo was studying. “I named him after a friend.”

“Friends are important, where is this friend now?”

“I-I’m not sure? He was at the orphanage with me and got adopted…” He dropped to his knees and reached a finger out to gently touch the rat’s back. “I miss him.”

Secondo stayed silent as he watched the boy fidget, his little fingers tapping along his knees. He could see a bit of himself in the boy’s features, the eyes being the most obvious thing. The Emeritus family having had the white eye for generations at this point. Nihil always claimed it was a gift but most of his sons at some point had considered it a curse. Primo had hated it enough to replace it with one of his “enhancements”.

A tiny hand on his knee pulled Secondo from his thoughts. Copia was looking up at him, his eyes wide and his face unsure.

“It’s ok to miss friends and loved ones.” He bit his lip for a moment, a memory from his own life here as a child coming forward in his mind. “I used to have a pet rabbit, she was a gift from my mother.”

“What was her name?”

“Snowbell. Because of her fur. All white, beautiful and soft.” He couldn’t help but smile softly, thinking of that first day he met Snowbell. When his mother brought her into his room in her arms. It was one of the last times he saw his mother healthy, before everything in his life changed. He was so lost in his memories that he missed Copia saying something. “What was that fratellino?”

“Fratellino?” Secondo found himself staring into a familiar set of eyes. They shimmered in the gas lamps in the hallway, unshed tears threatening to drop. “Are you…you’re one of my brothers?”

“Si, I am Secondo.” He smiled when Copia reached a small hand up and Secondo gamely shook it. “Primo is here as well, although he is rarely seen. He likes to spend his time in his lab.”

“Do you have a lab?”

Secondo placed a hand on the floor to brace himself and then moved to sit cross legged. Copia stayed close, his hand never leaving Secondo’s leg, almost like he was afraid that if he let go he’d lose the older brother he just found.

“I do, although I don’t use it as much anymore. My study is where I spend most of my time, usually reading or designing things.” Copia cocked his head and guessing the question he was about to ask Secondo continued, “Designing things for my airship.”

“You have an airship?!”

The sheer joy on Copia’s face was infectious and he couldn’t help but match it, “I do! Secular Haze is her name. She’s the fastest ship in the skies.” Secondo made a show of looking around to see if they were alone, “But don’t tell your brother Terzo that, ok?”

“Is Terzo here too?”

Secondo winced and gave a slight shake of his head, “Unfortunately Terzo has landed himself in prison.” Copia’s eyes widened comically, but he moved his head closer when Secondo leaned in. “Piracy.”

“Wow!”

Of course to a child that was exciting and Secondo tried not to let his face fall and ruin the mood. But Copia didn’t know what it was like dealing with the worry of how long Terzo would be gone this time. About what sort of damage his ship Mummy Dust had taken. Mostly though he was worried about what the city would find in the airship.

And what that would mean for the whole family.

He cleared his throat, taking a quick look around the hallway before leaning in close to Copia once more, “I have an idea.”

“We ride around in your airship!”

“We will fratellino, I promise you that.” Copia beamed up at him, following Secondo and standing up as well. “But first we should clean this up, find something to eat and then maybe have a little tour of the manor, yeah?”

“Oh, yes! Per favore! Alpha showed me around a little but Papa Nihil caught us and made him take me back to my room.”

“Nihil is a dickhead.” Copia’s little gasp had Secondo chuckling and he knelt down before the boy, his hands resting on his tiny shoulders. “I will show you all the secret passageways, all the hiding spots. I will show you how your brothers and I avoided him when we were your age.” He stood up again, winking when he held out a hand for Copia. “We still use them even now.”

He squeezed Copia’s hand when the boy reached out and then led him over to the silent grandfather clock. Without direction Copia knelt down and began to put the old thing back together, his fingers quick and precise. The little rats whirred at his feet, Brizio even picking up small gears and bringing them over to the boy right as he needed them. Secondo chimed in whenever Copia held up something with a questioning look, helping the boy find where the part belonged.

When Secondo saw Copia’s triumphant grin as the clock came to life and a series of chimes rang out in the hallway he knew then and there that the boy was where he belonged as well.

From that day on Copia, and his rats, were rarely away from Secondo’s side.

Alpha and a few of the other ghouls had cleared out a space in Secondo’s study for the boy. An area where he could work on whatever he desired, where he could build whatever he wanted, and Secondo was there to watch. To lend a hand whenever Copia needed it. It was amazing to witness the ease in which his fratellino could create things. Amazing to see the familiar blue glow in each creation. It was a special kind of magic the world didn’t see much of these days.

Secondo took a sip of his drink and continued to stare into the fireplace. His study was quiet today save the crackling of the fire. It was strange how fast he had gotten used to Copia’s chattering, to the sounds of the boy working as well as the sounds of his rats running about. Copia loved to sing as well and Secondo found it hard not to join in when he did. They made him ache for a home he had barely known but one he hoped to build here for himself and Copia.

Perhaps for Primo and Terzo as well if they wanted.

His ghouls had taken Copia out to see Secular Haze, something that the boy had been begging to do ever since he found out she existed. He had also begged Secondo to come with but he couldn’t bring himself to go. It had been so long since he had seen her, since he had last sailed through the skies on her, that the guilt for leaving her dormant was too heavy.

He wasn’t even sure he could sail her again. Wasn’t even sure if she’d let him.

“Papa?” Secondo startled at the old honorific from Alpha, a title no one had bothered to use for years. “We’re back. Copia is in his room, he wanted to see you but he was asleep on his feet.”

“What did he think of her?”

“He was amazed, running around to study every part of her. Asked a million questions.”

“I’m sure he did, I’ll have to dig out her plans so he can look at those.”

Alpha stepped into his line of sight, the tall ghoul moving close to the fire and staring right into it. He was far too close to the fire than most could handle but each ghoul had a specific element they called their own and fire was as natural to Alpha as breathing. There was a tenseness to the ghoul’s shoulders, like he was debating whether or not to say something. When he finally turned around Secondo set his glass down and crossed his arms.

“Is there something else?”

“Some of those questions were about you.” Secondo shrugged, not really surprised at that. The boy always had lots of questions for him. Recently he had been mostly focused on the story Secondo told him of his rabbit, Snowbell. “About what you were like at his age.”

“Too smart for my own good and desperate for someone to notice.”

He froze after the words left his mouth, surprised he had said something so personal. Although it didn’t really matter, Alpha had been there when he was young and angry at everyone. Lost in the Emeritus Manor without another Emeritus in sight. Nihil annoyed that Secondo even existed and Primo gone all the time for whatever reason.

“I told him you were lonely.”

Secondo couldn’t shake Alpha’s comment.

The old ghoul was right, he was lonely. It was just an odd thing to think about considering he’d felt that way most of his life. While Primo had eventually warmed up to him, and Terzo had moved into the manor not long after Secondo did, they never truly felt like brothers. Each was different enough in their attitudes and abilities that it had been hard to bond.

It didn’t help that Nihil always tried to make things a contest between the three of them. Who could develop something better, who could build something faster, who could propel the family further? Those were the things Nihil cared about and if one of them failed at any of those aspects, or anything else, he was quick to lose interest and ignore them. That in turn made the brothers quick to ignore each other, something that was easy to do in such a big house.

He got up to throw a few more logs into the fire, easing back into his chair as the loud popping sounds from the wood filled the room. It was funny how quickly he had gotten used to Copia being in here because it already felt strange not to hear him tinkering away at something. Ever since he had visited the airship he had been spending more time in his room. Alpha said he was fine, just busy working on something. The ghoul wouldn’t elaborate any further and when Secondo had finally decided to go to the boy himself Copia refused to even open the door.

Perhaps Copia had already grown tired of him. The thought hurt and Secondo quickly took a swig of his whisky, wanting to bury that idea as deep as he could before it started to hurt worse.

“Fratello?” Copia’s little voice had Secondo coughing mid swallow, the whisky burning his throat when it went down the wrong way. He leaned forward with his arms on his legs, trying to catch his breath. A small hand started to pat his back, the boy’s voice frantic when Secondo continued to cough. “Are you ok? Should I get Alpha? Please don–”

“I’m ok, I’m ok.” Secondo turned and placed a hand on top of Copia’s head, lightly ruffling his light brown hair. “You just startled me, that's all.”

He turned and set his glass down on the nearby table before looking at Copia again. The boy had something in his arms, an object made of gold metal with a familiar blue glow shining bright in its chest. At first Secondo thought it was Brizio but when he looked closer he realized the ears were much longer than what he was used to. The body shape was different too. Secondo straightened up in his chair abruptly, his eyes widening when he realized what it looked like.

“I made you something.”

It felt good to be in the sky again.

It felt good to have his ship under his feet, his ghouls at his side and the Secular Haze racing through the clouds. This is where he belonged, the sky had always felt more like home than the ground. The hum of his ship resonated through his bones and he didn’t realize how much he had missed it until now. This partnership between him and the machine he had built.

The body next to him shifted and he looked down at a familiar mop of brown hair, his fratellino fast asleep at his side. A small fist was latched onto his shirt, machine grease tucked under his nails like always. Nearby Secondo could hear the familiar sound of small metal feet running about, the gentle whir of Copia’s creations ever present.

When he looked over he met the gaze of one such creation Copia had made for him. A gift that Secondo would cherish always, just like he planned to always cherish the small boy who made it. Snowbell’s ears clicked as they moved around, the mechanical rabbit rearing up onto its hind legs when two of Copia’s rats ran by. It soon dropped back down onto its feet, chasing after them around Secondo’s cabin.

He leaned back and closed his eyes, soaking in the sounds of his ship around him. Soaking in the warmth of being with his family, both old and new, as he began to drift off to sleep.

He didn’t feel lonely anymore.

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ghostchems · 9 months

Note

nervous kiss x “can I kiss you?” with secundo 🫣

ha ha ha ha. about 1.2k words! we love a mysterious, nervous secondo.

The man had been coming in during your shift for the last few months. He would always order the same thing - a doppio espresso and sit at the end of the bar either reading or writing something in a tiny, black pocket notebook. At first, you weren’t sure about him — the face paint could be off-putting at times and it took you a few visits to realize that there were times he came in without it, his mismatched eyes hidden with dark sunglasses. You ended up recognizing his voice and put two and two together.

He never bothers anyone, only staying on his stool, deep in his reading and writing. It was difficult for you to not be drawn to him, the man wears skull paint and is so very relaxed about it. Yet, you realized you’ve never seen him smile. You started to have his espresso ready for him as soon as you saw him come in and you swear the first time you did it, you saw the corner of his mouth twitch into a minuscule grin. The more you had his espresso ready for him, the more he began to speak to you, starting off with small pleasantries and moving into some easy conversations.

He told you he went by Secondo but wouldn’t share much else about himself so you ended up telling him how this is a second job for you to help make ends meet but that you also really enjoy making drinks anyway. He seems fascinated with how you move behind the bar and will routinely take breaks from his work to watch you make people’s drinks, trying to guess what ingredients are needed. Secondo slowly became your favorite regular, especially after learning he only came into the store during your shifts.

During this particular shift, he hasn’t come in yet at his usual time and the thought that maybe he won’t be in today crosses your mind. The pre-closer has already left so you’re working on your closing tasks. It’s been a slow evening with steady rain outside, deterring the evening coffee drinkers. You’re working on wiping down the bar when he finally arrives, black umbrella in hand and his usual immaculate skull paint. You give him a small wave.

“On me today, Secondo.” You smile wide and he gives a small sigh before walking over to the bar. He knows better than to argue with you, at least when it comes to free drinks. You pull his shots of espresso as he gets settled, laying out his book and his notebook on the counter.

“Just you tonight, dolce?” His thick Italian accent rolls off his tongue.

“Mhmm. You’re in late today.”

“Ah, la pioggia, the rain kept me away but… well, I needed my doppio.” He offers a smile - he’s been doing that more often these days and it makes your chest tighten.

“Well, thank you for visiting. It’s been slow today.” You wave a hand around the empty coffee shop. “I’ve been a little lonely.” You slide his cup and saucer toward him on the bar and he reaches for it, the smooth leather of his gloved finger brushes against yours. A breath catches in your throat.

“I am happy to keep you company, dolce.” He lifts the espresso cup that looks comical in his large hand to his lips and takes a sip. A content sigh escapes his lips.

You work quietly on your closing duties but still make sure to check in on him from time to time. As your break time gets closer, you eye up the display case for a snack. You settle on a brownie and you carefully take it out with a piece of parchment paper before putting it on a tray and sticking it into the oven for about ten seconds.

You carefully set the brownie on a plate and grab two spoons before making your way over to the bar. Secondo’s eyes drift along your figure as you come closer and he watches as you sit right beside him at the bar. You slide the brownie in between the two of you and settle a fork on his side of the place.

“Share this with me?” You scoot in closer to him and use your fork to take a small bite of brownie. This is the first time you’ve ever seen Secondo look so blank. He nods and picks up the fork, beginning to slowly pick at the brownie.

“It’s very good, dolce.” He says quietly between bites. His eyes shift to your face. “A-ah, you have a little something —“ Secondo points to your face. You swallow the piece of brownie and try to wipe at the spot he is pointing. “Let me.”

He leans in and reaches his hand out, carefully using his finger to wipe away the brownie crumbs at the corner of your mouth. You feel your cheeks flush at his touch and he lingers there for what feels like eternity. Secondo’s finger moves from the edge of your lip to your cheek, the tips of the rest of his fingers brushing against it. You suck in a short breath, your eyes fixed on his. His brows knit together, hand quivering before he gave a soft breath.

“Can… can I kiss you, dolce?” Secondo whispers, his voice barely audible. He looks unsure of himself and almost a little bit afraid, even though you almost immediately nod yes. His hand cups your cheek and he very slowly leans in, his lips ghosting yours before he presses them to yours. The taste of espresso still lingers as you kiss him back, your lips moving carefully against his. He pulls away just an inch, feeling his hot breath on your lips as he gazes into your eyes

You lean in again just as his hand drifts to firmly grip the back of your neck. Secondo groans quietly as your hands fall to his chest, your tongue moving against his. You forget about the brownie and the work you’re supposed to be doing, your hands running over his strong chest and moving in as close to him as you can, practically getting into his lap. He wraps his spare arm around you, holding you to him while he deepens the kiss, using his grip on your neck to tilt your head back.

You moan into the kiss, your eyes fluttering open slowly as he pulls away. The two of you are left panting, the brownie nearly out of your reach after you’ve made your way into his lap. His gloved fingers toy with your apron, his dark eyes meeting yours. Your breathing quiets and you lean a bit away from him to take him in.

“I should… I should probably finish up closing.” You can feel your entire face heat up, realizing that you had just made out with a customer.

“Mm, si, si.” He sucks in a breath. “May I wait for you? Maybe… take you out for a drink that isn’t coffee?”

You nearly fall out of his lap, though you’re able to get your legs working again. If he didn’t see your blush before, you’re sure he can see it now, feeling it all the way up to the tips of your ears.

“I would love that, Secondo.” You can hardly hide the excitement in your voice. His lips curl into a small smile and he clears his throat, reaching for his umbrella.

“I’ll leave you to it then, dolce. I’ll be outside waiting.”

#papa emeritus ii x reader #papa emeritus ii #papa emeritus x reader #smooth yet nervous secondo #secondo #Secondo x reader

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