#I still don’t know how to draw him but I love him
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love letters and second sons | part 4.
Summary: The princess is finally ready to debut in society. But before she does, she decides to disguise herself and see the true faces of the ton.
Warnings for the Series: light sexism in line with the times, light classism in line with the times, mental health stigma, shitty doctor care, smut, suicide attempt (will get it's own warning when the time comes)
Warnings for this part: smut
Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x princess!reader
Word Count: 4.7k
Previous Part | Series Masterlist
The cloak wrapped around you felt like velvet. The softness between your fingers calmed you down significantly. Reynolds grabbed your hand after the fifth time you balled it up in your skirts. You looked up to see your three valets trying to hide the concern on their faces. You could have an incident or get caught or both. None of those three options were ideal or even good.
“Do I look decent?” you asked as the carriage got closer and closer to the party.
“You look perfect.”
“Maybe I shouldn’t wear the mask?”
“You don’t have to but keep it on you.”
You agreed, exiting the carriage with a letter from the princess version of you — complete with a wax seal — that was basically a pass to enter any establishment no matter what. Spotting Penelope and Colin out of the corner of your eye, you breathed out a sigh of relief and ran over to them. Both of them wore wide smiles at your surprise arrival. They had been expecting a letter or something to signal your arrival back from Ireland.
You were sad to hear about Marina not joining you all for this evening. It would have been nice to know her more than a little bit in between the courting of suitors. But there would be more times to meet and catch up later. Plus, hearing your friends’ stories of their daily lives proved to be a good enough distraction. You let them go after a while so Colin could escort Penelope to the dance floor like he promised to do after a run in with Cressida Cowper.
Looking around, you failed to immediately locate the rest of the Bridgerton children. You grabbed a drink from the lemonade table and began to wander. The alcohol had looked appealing but you had never drank, afraid of the consequences if drink mixed with your illness. Someday you’d try some but not after an episode. Never right after one.
On the outskirts of the party, still close enough to hear the music, you ran into Benedict. He gave you a smile and the same surprised look on his face as Penelope and Colin. You leaned in closer to hear him over the deafening melodies of the orchestra. Small talk that was mainly about your fictitious trip made up the first half of your conversation. After a while, you grew comfortable with each other as if you never left.
“The lights are beautiful,” he commented, staring at the small lantern display that a scientist presented.
You nodded. “We have some at the palace. They add more day by day but it would be nice if all of London, maybe all of the world, had these little lights. How has your art been?”
“Not terribly well. Nothing seems to be good enough.”
“Well, what are you drawing?”
“Still life. I can’t expect my free drawings to be good if I can’t depict what is right in front of me.”
“You are too hard on yourself, Benedict seriously,” you argued when he scoffed. “Sometimes we have a problem seeing our own greatness. You ju—”
“Would you ever consider marriage to someone, me, perhaps?”
You choked on your lemonade. “Pardon?”
“Apologies.” He finally turned to look at you. “With Daphne out in society, people have started looking at Anthony and because my dear brother does not care to at least pretend to be a proper viscount, they have started to look at me. Ravenous mamas are eyeing me and it must be a matter of time before they talk to me.”
You laughed. “You still call me Miss Keaton yet you want me to help you through a marriage?”
“Wait, what is your name, actually? If you are to continue being a friend of the family then I am at liberty to refer to you by first name.”
“Bergamot. My parents were a bit too keen on gardens.”
“That is a lovely name.”
“Thank you… I still won’t marry you.”
Benedict scrunched up his face as he bent over to try and plead with you. “Please! I can’t be out here with the wolves.”
You patted him on the shoulder. “Your whining, no matter how pathetic and cute, will not work. I will see you tomorrow, alright.”
He muttered something that you didn’t hear while you took off into the gardens for a stroll. You’d have to leave soon, pressing your luck wasn’t the way to go. You put your cloak back on and closed it to hide your dress completely as you finally put your mask on. The gardens at night were very beautiful. Perhaps because you were alone.
You chuckled at the thought of your interaction with Benedict. Even if it happened only a few moments ago, it was hysterical. It was only funnier because you were sure that when you finally introduced yourself to society, you’d get even stranger proposals. Only they wouldn’t be to avoid hungry mamas. And they wouldn’t be coming from one of your friends.
Hopefully, they wouldn’t be too upset with you. Hyacinth would never but she was more like a little sister than a friend. Benedict would think the whole situation is funny, hopefully. Daphne might as well. Eloise and Penelope could go either way. Anthony would probably be mad that you let him attempt to woo the princess when you knew the truth which would make Colin and Gregory and Francesca mad at you as well. But maybe it would be fine after you explained everything.
The sound of voices caught your attention. Spying was wrong but you couldn’t help yourself. You started to walk into the hedges, ignoring the twigs catching everywhere. The view wasn’t the best but you could see well enough. What could be a scandal between Daphne Bridgerton and Nigel Berbrooke seemed to be a very different scene to you because you knew the man from her letters. You tightened the mask around you just in case you needed to leave the bushes.
Nigel kept coming close to Daphne. You began to run when he grabbed her, thinking of how to protect your friend. You’d have to hit him. That was the only option. There was nothing else you could do about it… You paused as Daphne pulled her hand back. There was Nigel Berbrooke on the ground. After being punched.
You and Daphne looked up from Nigel to see the Duke of Hastings running into the garden clearing as well. The two of them seemed to realize that you were the princess and you were in the garden with them having witnessed everything. They bowed to you deeply, something you returned.
“I will survey the area. If I do not return then you two may safely leave the garden.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.”
“It is no trouble really. I am so sorry for your distress, Miss Bridgerton, and I do hope your hand feels better in the morning.”
You did a thorough check of the area to make sure that Daphne wasn’t compromised before fleeing to your carriage before anyone could spot the mask. Assuring your valets nothing went wrong, you closed the carriage door and let it drive back to Kew.
“Thank you,” you said as you took off your mask and cloak and opened the carriage window since it was night.
“For what?”
“For making me go out tonight. I did need it. I feel better, immensely.”
“That is good. We are glad to hear it. Will you be going out again tomorrow?”
“Just to the Bridgertons.”
“Oh, to home then.”
You rolled your eyes but didn’t argue because they were right. Being at the Bridgertons felt like home more than your own at times. Maybe because your mother and father were the only ones who even tried to be a proper family. But there was no trying with the Bridgertons. They just were family.
That much was true when you walked into the house a lot later than the early morning to see everyone but Eloise in the drawing room, talking about Daphne and the Duke. You said hello, greeted by hugs from everyone who didn’t see you yesterday. You took the plate of toast from Violet, who was trying to get her daughter to eat, and shoved the bread under Daphne’s nose. She took a bite before actually grabbing it from you. Relieved of your mother bird duties, you plopped down on the couch in between Benedict and Colin.
“What are your plans for today?”
“Fencing and then a gentlemen’s club and then preparing for a party tomorrow and, dreadfully, a picnic the next day,” Colin said as he handed you a chocolate from the box on the side table.
“May I watch?”
“Of course. A beautiful lady will only encourage us.”
“Since when did you learn to be a flirt?”
He just shrugged, sitting back to listen to Daphne play the pianoforte and tease her about the duke. You clapped at the end of her piece and requested a second one that she obliged. Daphne would have to play at the palace some time or at least at Kew. She sounded lovely. Closing your eyes, you just listened for a moment.
“How does a lady come to be with child?”
Your eyes flew open to see Eloise standing in front of everyone. Violet jumped up from her brief moment of sitting on the couch across from you.
“Eloise, what a question!”
“I thought marriage was a requirement.”
Daphne tilted her head. “What?”
“Apparently, it’s not even a requirement.”
“Eloise.”
“Mama, the princess did say all young women nearing their debut should learn.”
Violet stuttered as she took the tray of food out of the room, forcing Hyacinth and Gregory to go with her, stating she’d be back in a moment she just needed some water. She turned back for a moment.
“Daphne, dear, do go on. I’d like to hear some calming music when we return.”
Eloise trudged over to the couch, sitting on the other side of Benedict. She smacked her brothers’ knees but neither one of them wanted to answer her directly. Colin turned his head.
“Have you ever visited a farm, El?”
You laughed as Benedict smacked the back of Colin’s head but stopped when Eloise slumped down in her seat. You tapped her on the shoulder, making her perk up again. Your hand rested on Benedict’s thigh so you could prop yourself up as you leaned over him.
Covering your mouth and Eloise’s ear, you began whispering to your friend everything you thought she needed to know about sex. Unable to help himself, Benedict leaned in to spy, surprised that your information was actually correct. You weren’t lying, the Princess’ court really taught all the valets everything. Eloise sat back, finally satisfied and a lot less worried about a spontaneous pregnancy. Until she became curious again.
“But why would anyone want to initiate it? Who wants to be with child?”
You leaned over once again. “No one wants to be with child. Even those who want children. It’s about the pleasure. Sometimes the pleasure of actually liking someone and other times the pleasure being about nothing but you.”
“What?”
“The… think about when you start breathing a bit heavier, feeling warm when you touch each other, a… I’ll tell you the rest when your brothers aren’t here. It is a bit awkward. Oh, I’ll even draw you pictures. Only a certain amount of posit— mov— steps are important. The rest you should figure out with your husband.”
“So you do truly know what you’re talking about?” Benedict interrupted the nearly finished meeting.
“Did you doubt me?”
“A bit,” he admitted.
You sat back down. “Men aren’t the only ones that know what they are talking about.”
“Sorry to offend.”
“No offense. None at all. I expect even the kindest and smartest and prudest of men to think such things.”
“Well, I am still sorry. If not because of offense then because of my ignorance.”
You squeezed his thigh in appreciation. Benedict laid his hand on top of yours. The two of you stayed like that for a moment until his hand held onto yours a bit tighter. He turned to look at you. There was an understanding shared between your eyes. There was no breathing heavy or loving eyes. It was for both of you but in purely selfish pleasurable ways.
“Are you coming to watch our fencing match?” Benedict asked.
“Yes.” At that he moved your hand closer to his private. “A bit after the calling hour starts. I like to watch the men make fools of themselves.”
“I am not surprised by that at all.”
“Shall we wait for you?”
You closed the gap and placed your hand over the top of Benedict’s pants. “No. You may start without me and I’ll just come when I find the time.”
“Okay. We’ll play again soon, maybe even another game today. So don’t be too bothered if you miss us playing for your calling hour.”
Giving an experimental squeeze, you watched the man next to you nod ever so slightly and swallow his spit before moving your hand himself. You both relaxed into the couch completely, satisfied with your understanding. The two men left when Violet came back — it was fairly obvious that calling hour was about to start. The calling hour was several hours but at some point you had just dropped the s and you weren’t sure why.
You thought it would be only one or two men but the duke seemed to have lit a fire under the other men’s feet. The line became rather long rather quickly. You were happy for Daphne. The more men the better. Maybe she could get a love match.
You took the last bouquet of flowers for Daphne, thanked Lord Colfield, and went to go put the flowers in a vase on the fireplace mantle. You were about to tell Daphne that you were leaving to see her brothers’ fencing match when Anthony came storming in. A gasp escaped you when Nigel Berbrooke came up behind. You were completely over this little man and his obsession.
Without thinking, you approached Anthony. “What do you think you ar— Anthony, you and Nigel need to either leave the drawing room as this is your sister’s calling hour or wait in line if he is here to call? These lords and gentlemen have waited a great deal to talk to her and they are very patient. It is not right nor just nor of any class to disrespect the patience they have shown.”
“Nigel?” Berbrooke scoffed. “Who do think yo—”
“The Young Princess’ valet. She’s become a family friend,” Anthony cut Nigel off.
At least Berbrooke had the decency to be surprised and then give you a bow. Their tunes towards you changed completely as they almost looked like they were going to wait their turn or just leave. Nigel smiled.
“Callers were unexpected as we have already been talking extensively.”
“Lord Berbrooke is the only man who proposed and therefore the only person I consider.”
“I’m sorry, what?” You looked at Anthony.
“He is the on—”
“Everyone! I am very sorry but you must leave. Miss Bridgerton’s calling hour is currently closed. Please leave your name with Heroldt, starting with the order you have been waiting, and two days from now we will continue.” You turned to Anthony as everyone filed out without complaint since they thought the princess was the reason for calling hour being over. “There. Now, Lord Berbrooke, I must speak with the Bridgertons alone. I hope that speech staved off the wolves for you if only for two days while matters are discussed.”
“Thank you, Lady…”
“Miss Keaton,” Anthony answered. “Thank you, Bergamot. Lord Berbrooke, do you need me to escort you?”
“No, no. You have business. I can find the front door on my own.”
The moment he left, you, Daphne, and Violet descended on Anthony. Every word that came out of Anthony’s mouth made you scoff. Violet looked between all three of you, very upset. Anthony was ruining both Daphne’s prospects as well as his own prospects with the princess. And you were there to witness it all.
You backed Daphne on everything. Even if she was wrong, Nigel was a foul man that you would never allow to marry. You approached Anthony, speaking lowly although your friend and her mother could still hear it.
“I hope you survive whatever poison you are drinking. Whether the Duke is a serious man or not, there are plenty of serious men here. You will not sign away your sister to such a foul man that you barely know as well and pretend it is in her best interest. And you will not expect her to be understanding or appreciative when you don’t care an ounce for your sister’s happiness. And you still wish to draw up a marriage contract? Please, just think for a moment… Good day, Viscount Bridgerton.”
You stormed out of the drawing room and straight into the backyard where Colin and Benedict were handing their fencing gear back to a servant. They noticed the furrow in your brow. Benedict clicked his tongue.
“I will find out what is wrong. You, brother, instruct the kitchen to leave something out for us. If there is crying then we will be long.”
Benedict practically dragged you to the far side of the backyard. He knew no one would think anything of it when you were very angry about something Anthony did — that part was loud enough for everyone to hear. He looked at you when the two of you finally stopped.
“Was that a ploy to get away? Or are you genuinely mad at my brother?”
“I don’t want to talk about why I’m mad at Anthony. There’s nothing you can do anyway. Not without a good scandal… Sorry, I came out here for a fencing match. Let us focus on it. On you.”
He took your hand again, placing it over his trousers. You began to rub it back and forth, the fabric between you guys creating friction. You reached into his pants and pulled out his cock, stroking it a bit more freely. Benedict pulled you closer. His hand reached around your ass to squeeze it.
Every time you stroked him closer to finishing he would squeeze harder than before. You watched his face the entire time. If you got back exactly what you were giving him then you would be a very happy woman. It was truly going to be about selfish pleasure for both of you.
You gasped when he all but ripped the top part of the dress as he tried to push it all down to expose your breasts. He wanted something else to stare at that would get him off even quicker. You tried to stifle any moans threatening to escape your lips as he groped you — some of the marks so hard you were sure they would be a bit red until tomorrow. This was his turn. Yours would be later. If you both tried to get pleasure at the same time... Well, that's how people fall in love. The two of you weren't stupid to test that.
Benedict moaned and for a moment both of you were worried someone would come see what was the matter. He laughed underneath your hand covering his mouth.
A shudder went through him and he grabbed your wrist. “I’m going to come. I-if you let g-go… just in m-my britches.”
You dropped to your knees, shocking your friend. He grabbed your head with one hand while he bit down on the other until he finished. A very gentle touch lifted you up. He wiped stray bits of lipstick from around your mouth, wiping the evidence away on the inside of his vest.
“I have to say I did not expect you to sit down for the last round of fencing. We were done anyway.”
“Well, I wanted to help put up the equipment so we could all relax later. Plus, if the princess does choose to invite you all to Kew then I would like you to help put up the equipment there too.”
Benedict laughed.
“I promise whether I win or lose. The next time we have a round of fencing, I will put up the equipment. All of it.”
He leaned down to whisper.
“Even if you are not a lover, I would never have you on the ground, sullying your pretty gowns and body..." He squeezed your breasts one last time before helping pull your dress back up. "with grass and dirt stains. I promise I’ll bring you your pleasure next time we are inside and alone. I will leave first and retire to my room. You stay out here and eat the sandwiches the cook left. I won’t be able to return for at least an hour.”
“Okay. I have to go see the Featheringtons and Miss Thompson anyway.”
You did just as Benedict suggested and no one even gave you a suspicious look. You took your own sweet time going across the street. You had moved the physician and all of Wednesdays special tutors to Tuesdays so you would have more time in the city. Despite not wanting any visitors, you were the obvious exception and could go upstairs to see Marina. She looked up from her writing desk when Penelope announced she was coming with a visitor.
The three of you gathered on the bed to share a plate of sweets. You mainly listened to Marina and Penelope, not having much to add. You wanted to figure out a way to help her. Trying to meddle in daily affairs and save the lives of one subject at a time seemed almost ridiculous. But, that was what you should do as a royal.
“Did you say Spain?”
“Yes. That’s where all of George’s letters are coming from at the moment. They all say Spain.”
“If you ever need a letter to Spain or to anywhere else they send Sir George, just let me know. The princess wants to help her subjects, especially women, so give me a letter and I’ll give it to her. Whenever you need.”
Marina flung herself at you. “Thank you. If there shall ever be a problem, I promise I will say such.”
“Oh, the princess is going back to the palace for a few weeks because of something important so I won’t be so available for a little bit.”
“What will she be there for?”
“You will find out when it happens.”
The two of them giggled. “You are so mysterious.”
~~
You were tired after an exhausting day but a letter you received from a footman that same day made you get up. Anthony had given you a key to the front and back garden gates as well as the back door that led into the kitchen. You entered through the backyard so you could actually get inside the house without waking the entire house with your knocking. You only needed Violet and Daphne. And you had a letter to leave just in case you couldn’t wake a single person.
Voices made you pause. You recognized Eloise and Benedict talking. Instead of going any further, you just listened. Eloise — like so many other women — wanted better for herself. It had never been a question of something you would plead to your brother… You sighed. You knew your brother. It was time to stop thinking of him as the heir. There was a reason everyone was going to support Younger Charlotte’s claim over her father. And Young Charlotte listened to you. She planned on making you her advisor. There would be no pleading. You would make better laws for women.
You didn’t want to disturb them too much so you flung the letter at Benedict’s head. Running as fast as you could, you ignored their confused calling out for you once they recognized the letter coming from the princess. Hopefully, Benedict or Eloise would get the letter to their mother before Nigel could come back.
Dear Dowager Viscountess,
I am nothing but my mother’s daughter and therefore it is, in fact, my job to meddle in the lives of our precious subjects for a better and more peaceful United Kingdom. Miss Keaton has told me much of your troubles in regards to a man called Lord Nigel Berbrooke. I don’t have much information on him but I do have a request that I would ask you to aid your princess in.
I recall an acquaintance of his. A maid. She used to work at the palace but asked for a job in the ton so she could be closer to her aging parents. I believe she was employed by a neighbor of the Berbrookes? Or a friend? Or maybe them, who knows. She was supposed to come back two years after they died but has yet to return. Nigel or one of his neighbors must know. Or perhaps, his mother, she’s very close to the maids. Knows every single one of them by name. I care terribly for this maid and would like her working back at the palace.
Please meet with his mother. She loves crumpets with any sort of preserves or a chocolate dipping sauce. It was all she wanted when she requested a meeting with my second brother.
That is all I have to say. I do look forward to seeing your family properly.
Yours Truly,
Princess Y/N Kew
P.S. Please tell Anthony that it took him long enough but I am proud he finally came to his senses. If only he can learn to listen to a woman first then he might have less problems.
You smiled to yourself as you sat in the kitchens. The staff couldn’t stop talking about Nigel Berbrooke’s bastard that he doesn’t take care of and the mother he sent away before she even gave birth. You would feel bad but you had a very personal and up-close view of the man’s real personality. The morning only got better when Brimsley and Reynolds came in with Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers. It was on the front page of the pamphlets. Absolutely worth paying the two pounds per pamphlet for everyone in the Kew household.
“Do you think he’ll ever show his face again?”
“No,” the cook said as she handed you your breakfast. “You did a good thing for Miss Bridgerton, Your Grace.”
“Your Grace?”
“It is just a title we are trying out.”
You hummed suspiciously. The cook ignored you.
“You better pack if you don’t want to be late for the carriage coming today.”
You nearly forgot. The reason you couldn’t hang out with the Featheringtons and the Bridgertons arrived. Your cousin Friedrich, the prince of Prussia, was coming for a visit. He agreed to marry a British girl to strengthen the alliances and prove that Prussia and Britain were still close family. It was neither a complete truth or a complete lie. The entire family was not close. But you, your cousin, your father, your mother, and your aunt were very close.
Sneaking out wasn’t an option. You thought that much as the carriage neared Buckingham. It had been a while since you snuck out the palace — a completely different thing from simply leaving Kew. Pandora, Brimsley, or Reynolds would sneak you your letters and you would be satisfied. Besides, even though your family was coming for an indefinite amount of time, you only had to stay a week or to.
The carriage hadn’t even stopped completely before you ran to hug your cousin. It had been years since you last saw each other. You could hear your mothers laughing in the background. They left to have tea inside while the two of you stayed out.
Friedrich took your hand in the crook of his arm. “Come, cousin, let us take a promenade. Have you been well?”
“I have been better. However, I am doing well.”
“And your illness?”
“Not better. But I haven’t had an episode that I couldn't recover from on my own.”
“That is good. I suppose that is the best we can ask for. Especially since I have a surprise for you.”
“A surprise?”
“I asked Aunt Charlotte and she agreed to let the princess accompany me to events as she knows the ton better than the both of us. You have to wear your mask but it is still a good deal.”
“It is a wonderful deal.”
“Good. The first event is a ball tonight.”
“Tonight?! But I’m not prepared.”
“I’ve already had everything arranged.”
“You planned this?”
“I figured it would do you good to get some fresh air and get out of the palace… or Kew, now.”
“Thank you, Friedrich. Seriously, thank you.”
(part 5)
THIS FIC TAGLIST:
@fredsbetch @cherrylovers-world @chrystinaamanda @grassclippers @flyestvenustrap @spookystitchery @lovelyygirl8 @ben-has-arrived @tragically-hipp @cherrysxuya @alowint @jackierose902109 @boojaynaqueen @thesparkling-diamond27 @intothesoul
PERMANENT TAGLIST:
@venomsvl @peaches-n-sunscreen @summerellaz @supernaturallover2002 @sambucky8 @9daykrisr @thebitchinleo @23victoria @scarlets-widow @pagetpagetpagetpaget @lovexnatasha @awesomebooklover17 @1234-angelika @imatrisk @blackreaderatrisk @princess-jules47 @alexloveskili @a-marie-a @siriuslysirius1107 @i-have-no-life-charlie
#benedict x reader#benedict fluff#benedict bridgerton#benedict bridgerton x reader#benedict bridgerton#benedict bridgerton smut#bridgerton x reader#bridgerton smut
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Kiddo
Chapter six
Kiddo masterlist
English is not my first language, be kind.
Modern!Older!Aemond x Modern!Younger!Reader
•Chapter warnings: obsession, stalking, talking of bullying, fingering•
“Have you seen him?” The girl says excitedly to her friend, looking at the new year boy.
“Yes! What do you think happened to his eye?” She responded giggling.
“I don’t know, but whatever it was, if it left such a scar, it must have been really bad.”
“I kinda like the eyepatch though, it makes him sexy…” The girl smirked as she looked intently at the boy with silver hair passing by the hallway.
“Oh, he’s hot. I would totally fuck him.” The girl smirked in return.
“I’d rather have him fuck me. I have a feeling that he is crazy good.”
Two months after the encounter.
Aemond smirked, looking at his phone, his girl had been texting a lot, since they’ve been friends.
Surely, it’s not how he would have liked to have her, but if nothing, Aemond was patient.
He had his own plan to get his girl only to himself.
On his side, he had his advantage.
She kept texting him about douchebags making fun of her at school.
Some, that he would have loved to rip apart with his bare hands.
Like the guy that was on a date with her, or the girls she was with the day he first saw her. They just wanted to humiliate her somehow. He reassured her with his own stories, advising her how to act on those occasions.
All lies.
He was the popular boy when he was young, despite what he feared as a child, when his scar was still fresh, his marked face brought him nothing but popularity and girls.
Boy’s feared him, the mix of his stoic face, scar, and powerful family apparently intimidated the others.
He lost his virginity pretty soon, and he never stopped fucking ever since, his last year in high school he even fucked in the teacher room, without getting caught.
He fucked a teacher once.
He was a fucking king in in school. He was the one humiliating others whenever he wanted to.
But she didn’t need to know that, did she?
He was only doing her a favor, offering er his comprehension, his help.
There was no way she could find that out anyway.
-I could come to visit you at work?-
He smiled at the new text on his phone. God, she was just perfect.
Aemond was her only friend, and that always made her so eager.
She texted him a lot, day and night, she asked to see him more than one time a day, and if he couldn’t, she then asked if she could facetime him, or at least call him.
He liked the calls, he had the freedom to be hard rock or even fisting his cock as she spoke. He rarely accepted video calls, but sometimes he took the risk, she was just so innocent, he could do everything anyway.
“There were a few tomatoes.” She smiles happily as she turn her phone to show him her little garden, bending down to get at the same level of the plant, making the cleavage her large chemise more evident, he caught a glimpse of her bra, holding those breasts he would want to squeeze in his hands, as he slipped his cock between–
“Can you see?” She asked excitedly. He cleared his throat and nodded, as he brushed his cock with his hand.
“Yes, I can see.” He answered. She smiled even more and stood back up.
“Rory says he wants a salad with my tomatoes.” She says as she looks down to walk without stepping on any plant. Rory was one of her foster brothers, he was five, and greedy.
“Of course he does.” He answered as he carefully unbuttoned his pants, drawing down the fly. He sighed silently, when he didn’t have his breeches restrain his cock.
She chuckled at his remark, looking up at the phone, at him. He felt a rush of adrenaline, lust, going up his spine then straight to his cock, at her looking at him, oblivious of his actions.
“I could bring you some salad at work for lunch, if you want to.” She proposed.
“Mh… What are you wearing, you could get your clothes dirty in the garden.” He slipped his hand in his boxers, caressing directly his cock, letting out a small groan.
“Don’t worry, today I just came to check.” She raised her phone up her head, so her entire figure would be visible on the screen. She was wearing a big white men's button down shirt, and a long wavy white skirt. Her hair was loose and wavy due to the braids she kept during the night.
“So what do you say?” She asked again. Looking at him.
“Another time, kiddo. Tell me about your day.” He leaned back in his chair, his office door was locked, but it was early anyway, so he tugged his boxers down as she started speaking.
-You want so much to see me at work?-
He texted back, smirking to himself. He would have loved to show her around, his pretty girl, have her watching him while he works.
Smell her scent in his office, her real scent, not that vanilla shit he bought.
-You say you work in a high lever of one of the skyscapes, I want to see it! :) -
She texted quickly back, and he chuckled, his fingers hovering over the keyboard for a moment. Did she light the height? He could have brought her to the heavens, if she would just ask him.
-You’re supposed to be at school, kiddo, why are you texting me?-
-Texting you is funnier.-
He groaned as he saw her text, putting aside his phone, and trying to force himself to ignore the urge to go to her school, find her class and fuck her on her table with the whole class looking at them.
He could picture it so well.
How she would ask him to go somewhere else because she’s shy about her body, and mostly because she doesn’t want to be seen or heard.
She would beg him so sweetly, looking at him with her eyes, glossy from tears. And how could he have stopped at such a sight?
-So? Can I come visit you?-
His phone turned on at her text. He looked at it for a while, then he decided to finally text it to her.
-My place is at a higher level. You want to come there?-
He could feel his heart in his throat as he stared at his phone screen. When she started typing, he felt like fainting.
-Deal, time?-
He wanted to jump from his chair and scream. He had her.
He was going to have her in his apartment.
He chuckled, thinking of how he could turn this story into some kind of Raperonzolo’s story, lock her in his apartment, maybe even tied to his bed.
So he could worship her naked body from the moment he came home, untill he left, first with his tongue, then his fingers, and then he would finally fuck her to madness.
He honestly didn’t know why she trusted him.
He was only getting worse since he met her.
He stalked her less, that is true, but only because she gave updates to him herself.
To be fair, he kept stalking her the first few days, but only to be completely sure his girl would never lie to him.
And she never did.
Because she was his perfect good girl.
He was trying really hard to wash the smirk away from his face as he drove to her school. He just couldn’t.
He was going to have her in his apartment, just him and her.
He risked a hard on every time he thought about it, his mind playing infinite scenarios of how he could take her, trick her, use her, and she wouldn’t even realize it, she would think it’s completely normal.
He had to take lots of deep breaths, in order to contain all those freaky, but tempting thoughts.
He will be kind, gentle.
Just for her, he could do it.
Well, he could try.
He hoped.
He parked close to her high school and texted her that he was waiting for her describing his location so it would have been easier for her to find him.
He saw her approaching him a few minutes later, and he leaned to open the passenger door for her.
As much as he would have liked to get out of his car, greet her with a small kiss on her head perhaps, he couldn’t risk it.
His… unusual appearance always made him pretty noticeable, he wouldn’t want anyone to remember him, nor recognise him.
She quickly slipped inside his car and sat on the passenger seat. Smiling softly at him.
“Ehy.” She said, looking briefly at him. He furrowed his eyebrows, confused by her eyes, that had a hint of sadness in them.
“What happened, kiddo?” He asked, feeling a hint of rage burning in his chest at the idea that she had probably been bullied again. She shook her head as she put on her belt.
“Can I tell you later? I– I just want to go away from here…” She mumbled, her cheeks already getting red from embarrassment. He hesitated a moment, looking at her, unsure if to insist or just drive off.
He sighed and looked away, turning on the engine and driving off.
“I… suppose your day at school was not easy.” He muttered, glancing at her. She was staring outside the window, enjoying her view.
“No, actually not, it wasn’t.” She said softly.
“Tell me what happened.” He didn’t want it to sound so much like a harsh order, but apparently, he just couldn’t help it.
“It just feels strange to tell you in person now…” She tried to switch the main subject. “I’m so used to telling it to you by phone or call, it seems almost… strange in an intimidating way to tell you now in person. “ She explained. Aemond sighed as he nodded, trying to be comprehensive, even if he just wanted her to just tell him what happened. He drove off a bit faster, trying to get home as quickly as he could.
She was wearing one of her usual skirts, white, long to her ankles, and a thigh white shirt, but with a black cardigan over it, some black boots at her feet.
He wanted to put his hand on her thigh, squeeze it, and feel the softness on her skin.
“What do you want for dinner?” He asked then, his eye constantly on the road, he won’t force her to talk now, he will do it in his apartment, when she’ll be more comfortable.
“Whatever you’ll like will be fine.” She smiled softly at him.
“Would you rather order a take out?” He asked then, and he saw with the corner of his eye that she shook her head.
“Oh, no, why? We can cook for ourselves!” She said he could hear the excitement in her voice. “Oh, well, if you… I mean, we can go buy groceries if we need to, or–”
“No, it’s fine, I have everything.” He cut off short.
“Then we can cook, we can make something basic, quick… I’m already hungry.” She smiled and chuckled. He nodded, his mind picturing them cooking.
Like a couple.
She would be by his side, chopping some vegetables, he would pass behind her, tease her with some kisses on her neck, pressing her against the counter.
He would press his head against the back of hers, looking down as he pushed his hips against her, letting her feel how hard he was for her. She would whine sweetly, so innocently, as he would start grinding against her, his hands quickly wrapping around her, caressing her belly and going down to–
“Even pasta is fine.” She said again, leading him out of his thoughts. He cleared his voice as he moved on his seat, adjusting his position, as he felt his cock twitch.
“Pasta it is.” He agreed. She smiled again and went back on looking outside her window, as they approached his building. He parked the car and led her inside to the elevator. He didn’t try to stay too close, nor wanted his doorman to suspect anything, especially, because it would be the first time he saw him get in his apartment with such a girl at such an early hour.
Thankfully, she was too engrossed with the luxurious hall to actually talk to him, so they could pass for almost strangers, but then he led her to the elevator.
“What floor are you on?” She asked curiously, looking at the amount of buttons in the elevator, hovering her finger over them.
“Twenty two.” He said, and let her push it for him.
“It must be quite a view!” She said surprised, turning to look at him. His lips curved in a somewhat smile, as he nodded.
“Yes, it is indeed.” She smiled softly and waited for the elevator doors to open, jumping up and down on her tiptoes, impatient.
Once they got there, they entered his apartment.
“Wow!” She immediately commented.
His house was quite modern, most of the walls were wide windows that gave a sight of the city, an open space for his living room kitchen and dining room, his bed and bathroom separated by a hallway. His house was modern, luxurious and elegant.
“Do you live here?” She asked as she watched around, mesmerized by the place.
“I do.” He asked, pleased by her reaction. She stopped and looked at him.
“It’s lovely. shall we cook now?”
As they ate, he tried to make her feel as comfortable as he could in his own house. Small chats were not really his thing. Chatting wasn’t his thing, unless it was for business.
“What happened today at school, kiddo? You still haven’t told me.” He asked as they moved from the table to the couch.
“It’s embarrassing.” She admitted as she rubbed her arm and sat on the couch in front of him.
“You’re embarrassed of telling me?” He raised his eyebrow, looking at her. “You can tell me anything” He sat back comfortably against the arm of the couch. He looked at her as she looked down and started playing with her fingers.
“We had a different lesson today at school…” She starts, and he calmly looks at her, letting her take her time to tell him. “We– we had a lesson about sexual education, and–” She took a deep breath, as Aemond felt that hot feeling on his chest again, anger.”Some of my classmates looked at me, laughing quietly, I– I don’t know, exactly why… but…” She paused again, and kept playing with her fingers.
“But?” He asked, leaning forward.
“But I–I think I can guess why? I– I mea, I’m not… really uhm– I have never.. I’m not familiar with… touch.” He felt like chuckling, but he dared not, especially considering the color of his girl’s face at the moment, red as a tomato.
“Touch. Touch like…?” He asked, a bit confused. She quickly shook her head.
“No, I mean, I obviously get touched! I–” She sighed and shyly put her hand on her arm, trying to prove herself.
“Sexual touch?” He asked then, staring at her hand on his arm. He heard her gasp, and he raised his gaze at her, seeing her so red, he thought she would pass out.
“... yes…” She answered, ashamed.
“There’s nothing wrong with it, you know, kiddo?” He looked at her and gently brushed her cheek with the back of his fingers. “You just need the right man, when you’ll feel ready.”
“I can0t really trust someone now, can I? I– I mean, I would like to… try new things, kiss someone maybe, but… how, how can I find the right person? You’re the only one I trust!” She pressed her hand on her face, and he smiled briefly.
“If you trust me, I can… help you?” He suggested. He knew she would have never thought bad about what he just said, but he had a clear plan in his mind. She looked at him between her fingers, surprised.
“Help… me?” She repeated.Aemond nodded again.
“You said you trust me.” He stated, and she nodded again, taking her hand off her face. “Then trust me now. Come, kiddo.” He sat right on the couch, and widened his legs, indicating her to sit between them. She looked at him for a moment, trying to understand if he really expected her to do it or not, but seeing his seriousness, she slowly stood up, and moved with her back in front of him, looking behind her as she sat on the couch between his legs.
“You can tell me to stop whenever you want to, okay kiddo?” He murmured in her ear from behind. He saw on the back of her neck and shoulders her goosebumps. “Just know… I’m doing this for you.” He put his hand on her shoulders, caressing her softly, letting his fingers trace imaginary lines on her soft skin, enjoying the contact for himself. He went down to her forearms and arms, ending on her hands.
She turned her head to the side to see him, her mouth slightly parted.
“Answer me, kiddo, I need your words.” His voice hoarse, as he intertwined his fingers with hers.
“O–okay…” She nodded as she uncertainty leaned her head back against his shoulder.
“This fine for you?” He asked as he kept brushing her fingers up and down her arms. She nodded again, closing her eyes. He slowly moved his fingers from her hand to her thighs, just caressing her from over the skirt.
He heard her take a deep shaky breath.
“I’m gonna show you how a man should make you feel, kiddo, okay? If he doesn't, you'll leave them.” He ordered in her ear. She looked again at him, her eyebrows furrowed.
“You can trust me, kiddo, I’m just helping you, you know?” He slowly started raising her skirt. “I’m doing you a favor.” He kept repeating, as he lifted her skirt over her thighs, as she kept staring at him.
“Wh– what do you want to do? Aemond– I…” She started breathing heavily, squeezing her thighs together.
“It’s okay, kiddo, just close your eyes, you’ll feel good, I’ll make you feel good, I promise.” He brushed his lips against her ear, and he felt her shiver. He carefully wrapped his arms around her waist to bring her closer to his chest.
He looked down at her thighs, so soft and thick.
He brushed his hands over them, keeping his other arm secure around her waist.
“Relax, kiddo.” He whispered, as he slipped his hand between her thighs, finally.
He could feel his cock twitch in his breeches, begging for attention, touch. He groaned and ignored his urges, concentrating on her.
He slowly opened her legs, so that he could move his hand more freely, she didn’t resist him, she completely trusted him.
She shouldn’t be.
“Do you like this?” He asked as he looked at her face, her eyes closed. She pressed her lips together and nodded, her hands clenched into fists on his thighs.
“I’m going to make you understand why people like to touch each other, okay? Will you let me?” He asked as his fingers briefly brushed against her panties.
White cotton, like boxers for girls.
It was so different from all the other panties he had always seen, lace, lingerie, thong.
He always hated unsexy undergarments, yet, the sight of it only increased her sweet innocence, and turned him on even more.
He pressed his thumb against her clothed bud, making her jump back against him, he tightened his arm around her waist and kept her still.
“Shh, shh it’s okay, you like this, it’s okay.” He groaned as he kept pressing his thumb on her bud, slowly moving it from side to side.
“Aem– It’s strange, I– What…” She mumbled as her breathing only grew heavier.
“Calm down kiddo, enjoy it, you like it.” He kept repeating as he kept moving his thumb on her. She threw her head back on his shoulder again, letting out a strangled whine, her hand opening and grabbing his thigh, digging his fingers on his skin. He smirked as groaned softly.
“You like this, kiddo, just relax.” He moved his hand away, and he played a moment with the band of her panties, slowly moving his fingers beneath it, so she could have the time to stop him.
She didn’t, she didn’t, and there was no way he would have stopped now.
He was going to take what belonged to him.
He traced the line of her slit, as she squirmed a bit, whining.
“It’s okay, kiddo, I got you.” He pressed a kiss on her temple, as he moved his fingers again over her slit, feeling how his fingers were getting wet. He smirked again and kissed the top of her head. He pressed his thumb on her bud, as he kept working one of his fingers over her entrance, just teasing her, despite how much he wanted to slip it in, feeling how tight she was, her untouched walls struggling to accommodate one of his fingers.
“You're ready for more, kiddo? Do you want more, more pleasure?” He whispered in her ear. Ste turned her head and opened her eyes, looking at him with her eyebrows furrowed, her eyes shining due to the tears gathering in them, her breathing growing irregular and heavier.
“Aemond… this is strange…” She whimpers as she squirms again, trying to escape the pressure of his thumb on her pearl.
“You want me to stop?” He asked. “You like this, so why do you want me to stop, mh?” He slipped his finger inside, just half of it, and she moaned loudly, surprised, grabbing his arm with both of her hands, holding onto it for dear life, as she kicked her legs, but his arm wrapped around her waist kept her secure against him.
“Aemond– Oh–” She moaned again as he slowly started to move it in and out, not pushing his finger in completely.
“Lay back, enjoy kiddo.” He pushed her back against his chest, and she bent her head back further, her legs bending and opening wider by themselves.
“Aemond… please, it’s so strange–” She let out a choked moan, arching her back. He smiled at seeing her so out of control for a mere finger, his mind wandering, imagining how she would scream if it would have been his cock instead.
“You do not like it?” He looked closely at him, how her face contorted at every single move of his finger. She shook her head. “Use your words, kiddo, I want to hear it.” He ordered, speeding up the movements of his fingers, pushing it deeper, searing for that sweet spot inside her. When he saw her moan again and tried to close her legs, he knew he had found it. She moaned again out loud, her mouth open as she tried to breathe in.
“Say it, kiddo. Tell me. Do you like this or not?” He placed his other hand on her knee, opening her legs again.
“Aemond…” She whined as she turned her head, pressing it against his chest, as she clenched her hands on his shirt, desperately trying to hide herself.
“Stay with me, kiddo, tell me what you feel.” His hand kept working that spot inside her, as his thumb bruised against her pearl, he felt her walls clenching on his fingers.
“I…” She cried out as she tried to hide her face further in his chest. “It… it feels… good.” She moaned again.
“That’s right, it feels good mh?” He groaned as she squirmed again and her body rubbed against his cock. “Fuck–” He growled, he was hard rock, and despite his cock was yearning attention, e was trying to only concentrate on him, even if it was fucking hard.
“Aemond… it feels really good– but so strange, please… I– I don’t know what’s happening… I feel so tense, ah!” She started squirming uncontrollably, her face red, and shiny by a soft layer of sweat as her walls spasmed around his finger, as she came in a loud moan. Her breathing fast, irregular, her face relaxed, her body limp, resting completely on his. He moved his fingers for a few more moments, trying to help her riding out her strong orgasm, but he stopped as he saw a hint of discomfort on her face. He slowly pulled his fingers out, as she rested her face on his chest, her eyes closed, he licked his fingers.
Sweet, pure nectar.
“You okay kiddo?” He asked once he had cleaned his fingers completely. She let out a sweet noise, and he smiled, closing her legs and pulling down her skirt, he pulled her to him, her legs over his thigh as she kept her face pressed on his shirt.
“You were beautiful, you know?” He kissed the top of her head, leaning back on the couch.
He was aware that his excitement was more than evident, and that she could see it, but even feel it against her side, but he did nothing to relieve himself.
Not yet.
Not now.
Maybe in a few minutes?
Tag: @zenka69 @blaustappen @julczimozart @diannnnsss @i66cilla @queenofthekeep @summerposie @tssf-imagines @vaylint @sweet-nothings-s @esposamultifandom @av989436751 @ladythornofrivia @xcinnamonmalfoyx @deliaseastar @kotadislikesthissite @nebulamorada @madelynwalt @shari-berri @seraphdayiwah @witchy-jadda @odeioemail @alphard-hydraes-blog @isntitdelicatevivi @famousrebeldaze @ssnapsaurus @paigeestrawfordd
#aemond fanfiction#aemond fic#aemond smut#aemond targaryen smut#aemond x reader#aemond x you#modern aemond#aemond#aemond x fem!reader#aemond x y/n#ewan mitchell#aemond targaryen fic#aemond targaryen x you#aemond targaryen fanfiction#aemond targaryen x reader#prince aemond targaryen#house of the dragon aemond#prince aemond#aemond one eye#aemond targaryen#aemond one shot#aemond targaryen angst#dark aemond x reader#hotd aemond#aemond the kinslayer#aemond fluff#aemond targaryen fluff
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second chances - @wolfstarmicrofic - word count: 807
“Sirius, can we talk?” Remus makes an aborted motion at Sirius’s retreating back. James and Peter have already left, and transfiguration doesn't start for another thirty minutes. It’s the best time to have this conversation.
Sirius pauses, then raises an eyebrow, leaning against the door. His face is unreadable.
Remus nods. He’s grateful, at least, that Sirius hasn’t ignored him. “I’m sorry,” he says, unconsciously twisting the hem of his shirt.
Silence.
Remus takes a deep breath. This is harder than expected, but he promised himself he’d stop running away. He looks up, meeting Sirius’s eyes.
“I’m sorry,” he repeats, “I screwed up. I didn’t think of how I was hurting you. I.. I was afraid. I was so afraid of losing you –of losing what we had– that I chose to break my own heart before you could do it.” In the back of his head, he questions the Sorting Hat’s sanity for the millionth time.
Remus continues, “It’s not an excuse. I really am sorry.” He swallows. “I’m also sorry that I’m here now, putting you in this position, wanting to make up after I recklessly tore us apart.” He laughs, an ugly thing. “Merlin, I’m a selfish bastard, aren’t I? I’m sorry.” He’s long given up on eye contact. Remus stares at the ground, refusing to blink. He takes a deep breath.
“I.. I think I’m in love with you.” Remus thinks he hears a hitch in Sirius’s throat, but he can’t be sure. The next part is difficult, but it needs to be said. He owes it to the years of friendship between them.
His words come out faster. “It’s okay if you don’t feel the same way. I get it. Really, I do. I’m a pessimist, I’m flawed, I get in my own head. I’m trying, but I’m not perfect. And- And if you’d rather stay friends, I’ll be okay. Well, not okay but I’ll be fine-” Now it was Remus’s breath hitching. He blinks, then ducks his head, swiping his arm against his eyes. He’s humiliated himself enough.
There’s silence again, but Remus has finished his daily quota of courage. “I guess that’s all I had to say.” he shuffles his feet, lifts his head, looking anywhere but Sirius. He laughs once, bitter. “You know, I’d really appreciate a response.”
It’s quiet. Remus swallows. “I guess silence is an answer.” He screws his face up, willing himself not to cry. He really had fucked up, hadn’t he? He wonders if he’ll be okay.
“You-” He stops. He wants Sirius to leave. He starts again, “You’ll have to give me some time to deal with it, you understa-” Warm hands cup his face, and his words get stuck in his throat. They gently guide him to look forward, and Remus’s eyes widen as he realizes that Sirius –Sirius, who’d rather be humiliated publicly by Snape than cry– has puffy, red eyes. He still looks gorgeous, the git.
“Don’t cry, Moony.” he croaks, voice cracking after being silent for so long. Remus feels him gently cup his cheek, wiping away tears. Oh. He hadn’t realized that he was crying. He guesses willpower can only do so much. He feels exhausted, suddenly.
Sirius is still talking, words tumbling over each other, frenetic. “You shouldn’t ever be sad. Never, never, never–” he cuts himself off. “You deserve to be happy. Always.”
Remus looks away, his face still being held hostage by the tenderness in Sirius’s movements. He can’t be comforted. What Sirius isn’t saying cuts like a sharp edge. He can feel acid at the back of his throat, and curses himself for expecting a different answer.
“Look at me,” Sirius says, his voice gentle. It rarely is, and Remus can’t fight it.
“I think I’m in love with you too.” Remus is caught off guard. There’s no way to misinterpret that. The voices in his head can’t contest it.
“Don’t ever say that you’re not enough.” His voice is steady now. “I’m definitely more flawed than you are. I’m cruel, I’m superficial, I have too many trust issues.” Remus’s eyebrows draw together. He doesn’t agree, but his mouth has decided that that’s enough words for today. Sirius understands, like always. They’d always been like that, having conversations with glances, not needing words. In hindsight, that had become a bad thing when they’d stopped communicating.
“Shh, let me finish. I’m sorry too. I didn’t know you were feeling like this. I noticed that you were acting differently, but I was too afraid that you were having second thoughts about me. I wanted to pretend everything was alright so that it didn’t end. ” Remus, again, wants to interrupt, but he’s stopped by Sirius’s earnest stare.
Sirius leans in. “I’m selfish too,” he whispers, “how about we try again?”
And just like that, Remus dares to hope.
#wolfstar#marauders#marauders era#sirius black#sirius orion black#remus lupin#remus john lupin#sirius x remus#remus x sirius#this is honestly just dialogue#i love feedback!#wolfstar microfic
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Don't Cry Over Spilled Lemonade
Anthony Bridgerton x f!reader
Word Count: 1.6k
Warnings: None that I can think of, this is kinda angsty tho
A/N: Surprise post IG I wrote this in my notes app because I couldn't sleep so if there are spelling or grammar issues I'm sorry. let me know if you want a part two because I wouldn't mind continuing this.
Anthony adored how close you were to his siblings. You had become a close family friend ever since you defended Daphne against some creep at her first-ever ball out in society, it was your second season and you had taken it upon yourself to keep an eye on the diamond, looking out for her quietly in the background.
You weren’t going to intervene at all, just offer her some advice woman to woman if the need arose but when you saw Baron Taylor grab the redhead by the wrist you couldn’t hold back.
Anthony himself was only seconds away from coming to his sister's aid when you ‘accidently’ tripped into the man spilling your glass of lemonade down the front of his vest.
“Perhaps my Lord if we kept our hands to ourselves certain… interventions might’ve not had to happen. Don’t you think?” When Anthony had seen your raised eyebrow and defensive posture all aimed at the scumbag who dared lay a hand on his baby sister he couldn’t help but fall a little bit in love right then and there. Not that he’d ever admit it to himself or anyone else for that matter.
A day later Daphne had invited you to tea at their family house in order to thank you for the rescue and potentially make a new friend and ally within the marriage mart.
Ever since that day, you’d been a regular in his home, but you were never there for him as much as he’d have liked you to be. No, you were always there for one of his siblings. You were there to talk with Daphne, first about her counting of the duke and then slowly transitioning into how she felt about being a married woman and then a mother. He could also find you sketching in silence next to Benedict, the two of you after attending to draw the same scene and then critiquing each other's work when you were done. You would trade books and ideas with Eloise, listen to Fran play the piano while working on your embroidery, and the scenes which would warm his heart the most, you’d come around to chase after Greg and Hyancith playing with them in the gardens and keeping a watchful eye to make sure they stayed safe.
Anthony adored how close you were to his siblings, and he loathed how much of a distance there seemed to be between the two of you.
You were cold to the Viscount, you had been since the evening you came to Daphne’s rescue, he had attempted to give you his thanks and you had simply excused yourself, “My apologies my Lord but I seem to be down a glass of lemonade presently and I find myself to be quite parched, excuse me.” Your tone was cold and Anthony spent the rest of that night and the next two years trying to figure out what he possibly couldn’t done to make you so icy towards him.
“I do not understand it Ben, she is so kind and lovely to the rest of you but is like a stone wall when it comes to me, what could I be missing?”
“Perhaps she just doesn’t like you brother have you ever thought of that?” Benedict was too preoccupied with this still life to deal with his older brothers pining at the moment.
“That is not possible, I’ve done nothing but be the perfect gentleman to her.”
“Anthony I have no idea why dear Y/N does not like you but what exactly will you whining in my studio do about that?”
“I resent that. I am not whining I am simply asking my dearest brother for his advice on a matter I care very much about. I thought that was what brothers were for.”
“You want my advice, Anthony? Think. Think long and hard about what you want and how you’ll get it because Y/N has no patience for wishy-washy men.”
“That is horrible advice, Ben.”
“When then perhaps you can find better advice from your other brothers. Which will it be Anthony, the one who has been blindly in love with his best friend for years, or the ten-year-old?”
“I hate it when you’re right.”
“I know. Now leave, that storm cloud above your head is casting shadows on my fruit.” Ben pointed his paintbrush at the bowl of fruit balanced atop a stool. Anthony huffed and knowing that it would bother his brother, he grabbed the apple off the top of the pile and took a bite of it as he strode out of the room
Ben had told him to think, but Anthony didn’t know what to think about. He knew that he craved your attention. He knew that he enjoyed seeing you around his house, interacting with the people whom he loves. He enjoyed hearing your witty comebacks and the way that even if you were not doing anything in particular you still fill the space you’re in.
He wanted her in his life, and if he was being completely honest with himself he wanted more than that.
It’s during his musing that he runs into her in the hallway, you have a book clutched within your hand, and your head is held high. You don’t stop your stride even though he knows that you saw him. He bites his lip and tampers down a smirk. Add another thing to that list of things he likes about you, you have fire, he just wished that it wasn’t always aimed at him.
“Lady, L/N which one of my dear siblings are you spending your day with today?” He attempts to match his pace with yours catching up to you so that the two of you walk shoulder and shoulder.
“Actually, Lord Bridgerton, I was having tea with your mother this afternoon she invited me over so we could discuss what to do about Frannie’s debut next season.”
This was not something that normal family friends do, you know that and he knows that. His sibling’s entrances into society are a matter which the viscountess must handle, something his mother has had to continue to do because of his lack of a wife.
“That was very kind of you to help her with.”
“Well, she doesn’t have anyone else to help her.” Your words cut him down, not for the first time.
“Lady L/N may I be frank?”
“It is your home, you may do as you please.” You turn to face him, your face a mask of indifference.
“What have I done to cross you, for the longest time I have known you you have been cold to me and I do not understand why?”
“I had figured that you did not remember, either that or you had purposely forgone trying to speak with me about it.”
“About what?”
“Our first meeting My Lord.”
“I remember our first meeting very clearly, it is one of my fondest memories seeing you stand up for Daphne and ruin Lord Taylor’s vest.” He tilts his head to the side and smiles at the memory.
“That was not the first time we met My Lord, the first time we met you snubbed me in front of the entire ton and sparked rumors that did not leave me until two seasons later.” She was harsh in her words and the tightness in her shoulder’s belayed her desire to flee.
Anthony was speechless, surely he had not? He would’ve remembered her, would’ve remembered turning down one of the most beautiful women he had ever met, intentionally or otherwise.
“I- I beg your deepest forgiveness Y/N I do not remember and if I had I would’ve tried to make it up to you tenfold by now.”
Your eyes began to gloss over and you looked at the wall beside his head, “It was my first season out, Lady Danbury’s ball, and I had seen you standing there surrounded by other gentleman. I had thought you a very fine figure and despite the rumor mill telling me you were nothing but a rake I had tried to begin a conversation. All you did was turn to me and laugh. I wasn’t asked to dance for the entire rest of that season and it was only until my Mother forced the son of one of her garden party friends to dance with me was that streak broken. You were the first and only man I had ever attempted to pursue and you laughed in my face. Were it not for my deep need to help those I see in need I would never have talked to you or any member of the Bridgerton family for the rest of my life.”
“You must know that I regret that, I regret everything I have ever done to hurt you and I will spend the rest of my days working for your forgiveness.” If Anthony was a weaker man he would’ve fallen to his knees and begged for your forgiveness until his last breath, right there in the hallways of his family’s home.
“I appreciate your words Anthony, but that’s all they are… words. I am unmarried, one year from becoming a spinster in the eyes of the entire ton, and you, you are the only one I can blame.” You don’t wait for his reply, just stalking off and wiping the tears from your eyes.
Anthony resolved himself in that moment. He would do whatever it took to make it up to you, to bring a smile to your face, and to cast away the hurt he had caused.
#anthony bridgerton x plus size reader#anthony bridgerton#anthony bridgerton x reader#bridgerton imagine#x reader#fanfic#bridgerton fanfiction#plus size reader#plus size!reader#drabble#requests open#requests wanted#bridgerton
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space au neighbor au steddie
So I wasn't actually sure what a space AU is meant to entail, so I hope a little vaguely Star Trek-inspired AU is okay?? This was a challenging combination, but it was fun!
Fanfiction Trope Mashup: 22. Space AU + 11. Neighbor AU
cw: vague mentions of injury, mentions of background character death
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Lieutenant Steven Harrington transfers from the U.S.S. Nora and onto the U.S.S. Forrest about six months into the Forrest’s mission. He works in security. He can usually be found stationed somewhere on the ship, but sometimes he’s called up to go planetside.
(He’s also too pretty for Eddie to believe he’s one hundred percent human, but that’s neither here nor there.)
Eddie knows all of this because Harrington gets the previously vacant room right next door to his.
It isn’t bad, really; sometimes the sound of someone shuffling around on the other side of a wall that had previously been silent is comforting. Much as Eddie loves the hum of the ship around him—you can’t really work in engineering and not be a little enamored of the sound of the engines purring—sometimes human noise is what he craves.
(Particularly out here in the void of space. Eddie loves his job, loves working in the guts of a starship, but he wishes sometimes it didn’t come against the backdrop of an endless dark nothingness.)
Eddie doesn’t have reason to see Harrington very often during the day, but they work the same shift rotation, and they catch each other coming back to their rooms now and then at the end of a shift. They mostly exchange nods or waves, brief pleasantries if one of them is in the mood, but that’s really it.
At least, that’s really it until a few weeks in, when Eddie gets back to his room and sees Harrington still standing outside his own, mashing the buttons on the keypad and swearing quietly.
“Everything alright?” Eddie asks as he draws up at his own door.
Harrington lets out a long sigh. “Uh, yeah, just–” He shakes his head. “Apparently if you get your code wrong too many times in a row, the keypad locks you out. And you can’t get into your quarters. Which is… great.”
“You forget your code?” Eddie can’t help but ask.
“No,” Harrington snaps, then softens a little, looking sheepish, even a little embarrassed. “No, I just– sometimes the numbers get a little jumbled.”
“Ah.”
“Yeah. Anyway, I’m gonna have to go find someone from maintenance to reset this and let me in, so…”
“Nah, don’t bother. You’ve got in-built tech support right here.” Eddie gestures for Harrington to move aside and crouches down in front of the keypad to reset it; doors and security locks aren’t technically his remit, but it’s not like they’re hard. It’s the work of moments to get the keypad to unlock, and Eddie shuffles back out of the way. “Go ahead and try it now.”
Harrington steps up to the keypad and slowly punches in the six-digit code that should get him into his quarters, and this time, instead of beeping angrily and flashing red, it chirps and gives him the green light. His door slides open and Harrington sighs.
“Thank you,” Harrington says, turning a smile so bright on Eddie that he momentarily forgets how to function. “You’re a lifesaver.”
“Nah, t’weren’t nothin’,” Eddie says for some insane reason, slipping into a ridiculous accent like he does when he’s running tabletop games in the rec room with a couple of other guys from engineering.
If Harrington thinks he’s being weird, he mercifully doesn’t mention it. Instead, he sticks a hand out towards Eddie, still smiling. “I’m Steve, by the way. I don’t think we’ve been properly introduced.”
“Eddie,” Eddie says, taking the hand to shake (Steve’s hands are big, and strong, and warm, and Eddie tries not to think about it).
“It’s nice to meet you, Eddie. And not even for the obvious reasons,” Steve says, nodding towards his door.
“Yeah, you too,” Eddie says.
He then realizes that he’s still shaking Steve’s hand. He lets go, but Steve is slow to draw back. They’re quiet for a moment, both unsure how to end the encounter, before Steve lets out a little huff of a laugh.
“Well… have a good night,” he says, backing away towards his door.
“Yeah, you too,” Eddie says again, wondering where the hell all his eloquence has gone to.
With one last dorky little wave at Eddie, Steve disappears inside his room, and Eddie does the same.
They talk more, after that. Whenever their schedules coincide, they spend an extra few minutes outside their doors, learning more about each other, bit by bit. Eddie talks about why he’d joined up with a starship even though he really hates space (he’d had to get out of his small-minded hometown), and Steve talks about how he’d ended up really enjoying his work even though he’d only joined to appease his dad (captain of another ship, one Steve prays he’ll never, ever be assigned to).
Their conversations edge past five minutes, past ten, past fifteen. Eddie talks about his uncle, who taught him at least half of everything he knows about fixing things, who had encouraged him to reach for the stars. Steve talks about his best friend in the galaxy, who works up in communications and speaks “about a million languages.” He mentions that they’d met as ensigns, both stationed on the U.S.S. Butterscotch, but he doesn’t say much more than that (and Eddie won’t make him; he knows the story already. The ship might have had a ridiculous name, but the fate that had befallen it had been anything but: it had been taken over by hostiles and eventually gone down in flames. The number of survivors had been abysmal, and fact that Steve is here at all is a small miracle).
Steve learns that Eddie loves music and roleplaying games. Eddie learns that Steve has a knack for avoiding medical staff after altercations planetside and for brushing off minor-to-moderate injuries.
He’s not as good at avoiding Eddie, however, who makes a point of dragging him down to medical one evening after spotting a still-bleeding gash on Steve’s arm.
“One of these days, you’re gonna come back with something you can’t walk off,” Eddie warns him, “and I’ll be there to say I told you so.”
“Well, as long as you’re going to be there, I guess it won’t be so bad,” Steve replies, and Eddie tries not to be swayed by the flirting.
When Eddie turns out to be right, though, he doesn’t even have the heart to say I-told-you-so, which he feels a bit cheated about later.
The evening starts out so promisingly: Steve and Eddie are loitering outside their doors, Steve gravitating further and further into Eddie’s space as they talk, and Eddie is just about to pluck up the nerve to invite Steve inside when Steve’s communicator goes off.
He frowns, pulling it from his pocket to check the message, and his demeanor immediately turns serious. “I have to go,” he says, and apprehension prickles at the base of Eddie’s skull.
“Everything alright?” Eddie asks.
“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Steve offers Eddie a brief smile. “We can pick up where we left off as soon as this is taken care of.”
Eddie wants to ask just what “this” is, but he finds out soon enough. The promising evening turns into a hellish night with too little sleep and too many hits to the machinery for comfort, under attack from some unknown, hostile force. When things finally calm down and reports start rolling in, things aren’t as bad as they could be. No casualties, minor damage to the ship, and minimal injuries. It sounds reassuring, until Eddie finds himself standing next to Steve’s bed in the infirmary.
“I’m going to be fine. Stop looking at me like that,” Steve says, even though his eyes are closed and he can’t possibly know how Eddie is looking at him.
And the thing is, Eddie knows he’s right – Steve might sound an awful lot like he’s in pain right now, but the medical tech on the ship is top of the line, and the staff is equally good. Steve will be fine, but that doesn’t give Eddie any comfort right then, realizing how lost he would feel without his and Steve’s hallway conversations every day.
How lost he would feel without Steve.
It scares him– for a moment, it scares him enough that he wants to run from it, to put a halt to things before they get too serious, before this really hurts him. But even more than that, there’s a feeling greater than the fear: one of rightness when he’s with Steve, a feeling that’s worth the risk, that’s worth holding onto.
Eddie reaches out and takes Steve’s hand where it rests on the bed.
Steve cracks his eyes open to look at Eddie.
“You know…” he says slowly. “They said I should be fine on my own by tomorrow, good to go back to my own quarters, but– I’d feel a lot better if there was someone nearby. Just in case.”
“Like someone right next door?” Eddie asks, a tease of a smile beginning to grow on his face.
“Maybe a little closer than that,” Steve says, squeezing Eddie’s hand in his own.
“I think I can do that,” Eddie says, finding that he’s prepared to do a lot of things, if it means he can keep Steve close.
#tea42#steddie#eddie munson#steve harrington#eddiesteve#stranger things#you don't need to know star trek at all for this#this is like knock-off star trek. store brand star trek#it's there so that steddie can be gay and awkward in space#solar wrote#answers from solar
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[CN] Li Zeyan’s Candlelight Date (Eng Translation)
⌚Warning⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 烛火之约, that is yet to be released on the global server! ♡
[Translation Under the Cut]
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
【Subbed Video】
youtube
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【Chapter 1】
After being stuck in traffic for over forty minutes on the way to the airport, I slam on the brakes once again, staring in despair at the unmoving stream of cars ahead.
The weather outside is gloomy, the sky overcast with heavy dark clouds, and the wind howls through the crevices of the car windows.
Even though the evening has barely fallen, the sky is already darkened completely.
MC: Feels like it’s gonna be pouring hard...
MC: I don’t know if Li Zeyan’s flight has been affected.
Just as I am about to look up the flight information, his call comes in.
LZY: I’ve arrived.
MC: That’s great! It looks like there’s gonna be a heavy downpour outside, so thank goodness you landed on time.
MC: On the downside, though, I’m stuck in traffic...
LZY: Given the weather, I could guess that already.
LZY: Don’t rush, safety first. Turn on your headlights and take your time.
MC: Don’t worry, I promise to follow the traffic rules~ So, I must apologize to CEO Li and ask him to wait for me a little longer~
LZY: No worries, I’ll just take this time to think about what to make for Pudding.
The day Li Zeyan is returning from his business trip also happens to be Pudding’s birthday, and we’ve planned to have a small celebration at home.
As I picture Li Zeyan making a birthday cake for the little kitten, the corners of my lips involuntarily curl upwards.
MC: Pudding’s parents are so thoughtful! The little birthday boy is blessed with the luck of tasty treats today.
MC: Rest assured, I’ll definitely get you to Pudding safely and in one piece.
LZY: With a certain someone “braving the wind and waves” to come pick me up, I’m already luckier than those who can’t get a cab.
MC: Hehe, this time it’s my turn to be the prince who cuts their way through thorns and thistles to rescue the sleeping princess!
LZY: Well, it seems like I’ll have to wait a hundred years then.
MC: ...you just told me to take my time.
A soft chuckle transmits from the other end of the phone, and carried by the car’s stereo, it spreads through the entire space, giving me the illusion as if he is right next to me.
LZY: It’s not contradictory.
LZY: Even if it takes you a hundred years, I’ll still wait.
–
──────
[Tidbits]: This conversation here is a reference to one of Li Zeyan’s earliest ASMRs, “Sleeping Beauty,” where LZY said in response to MC’s question that if he were the prince, he wouldn’t let the girl he loves wait a hundred years. Whereas, in the reverse scenario here, he tells you that if he were the sleeping princess and you the prince, he would gladly wait a hundred years (இдஇ; ) though, for a man who literally did wait 17+10000(*n) years for you— a hundred years is, well, still unbearable to think about ahah (ﾉಥ益ಥ)
–
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
【Chapter 2】
I park the car near the exit, and as soon as I look up, I see Li Zeyan walking towards me, dragging his suitcase.
I immediately push open the car door and run up to him, throwing myself into his arms as hard as I can. Both his hands are occupied by luggage, and I collide against him so hard that he staggers back a few steps.
His familiar scent wraps around me securely, instantly dispelling all the tension and fatigue from the road. I nuzzle against his chest contentedly, earning a soft chuckle from above my head.
LZY: Why the lack of courtesy right off the bat?
MC: I haven’t seen you for days, and I’ve made our big busy person wait so long. I can’t afford to be polite anymore.
Li Zeyan smiles, lets go of the luggage, and draws me into his arms, lowering himself to rest his head on my shoulder.
A soft sigh sounds next to my ear, and I sense how exhausted he is. I put aside my playful thoughts and stroke the back of his head.
MC: I hoped you could get some rest after getting off the plane, but I didn’t expect this weather…
MC: I’ll head out earlier next time!
LZY: You already got here much faster than I expected.
LZY: Let’s go, there’s a birthday boy waiting at home. It’s raining hard outside; I’ll drive on the way back.
┈┈┈┈┈┈ ✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈
As we head home, rain begins pouring down in torrents. Even with the wipers operating at their highest speed, the visibility only clears for a fleeting moment.
Through the impenetrable curtain of rain, the emergency lights of nearby vehicles flicker faintly. The water pooling on the ground reflects the surroundings like mirrors, and the streets have transformed into an utterly bizarre kaleidoscopic labyrinth.
I hold up my phone to record the scene outside the window when suddenly, a blinding flash of lightning splits the sky not far away, followed by a rolling thunder approaching from the distance, pressing closer and closer.
I can’t help but shrink my neck and set my phone down.
MC: This weather is just ridiculous… I’m sure today’s Moments posts are gonna be flooded with candid shots of the rainstorm.
LZY: A certain someone has made significant strides.
LZY: A few years back, you would get so nervous in this kind of weather that you’d grab onto other people’s clothes. Now, you'd just make a fuss about it on Moments.
MC: Huh? When did I grab onto your clothes?
I turn my head to look at him with a puzzled expression. Li Zeyan glances at me, and before he can even speak, a smile creeps onto the corners of his lips.
LZY: That time when you asked me if I dared to like you.
I freeze for a second, the familiar feeling of nervousness and anticipation surging to the forefront of my mind.
Memories flood back along with the warmth of my cheeks, as I’m reminded of a similar night in the past mirroring this raging storm.
The pitch-black darkness that descended after the power outage was so thick that one wouldn’t even be able to make out their own hand in front of them. I felt like danger, and the unknown would swallow me whole at any moment. But he was there with me, accompanying me for what felt like an eternity on that apocalyptic night.
Back then, I felt like I couldn’t handle it on my own, so I wanted to cling to a straw, to hold onto this steady and exceptionally gentle person beside me.
Snapping out of the reminiscence, I clear my throat to dispel my embarrassment.
MC: Y-You don’t need to remember such things so clearly!
MC: But come to think of it, ever since I met you, I don’t seem to have gotten rained on much.
MC: Even if I forget my umbrella or can’t catch a ride, you always manage to “scoop” me up right on time.
LZY: So, as a result, a certain someone has developed the bad habit of not checking the weather forecast before going out?
MC: …It clearly taught me the good habit of how to “scoop” people up in crucial moments!
The car stops at the intersection, waiting for the traffic light. Li Zeyan casts a glance my way, his lips curving into a smile as he strokes my head.
LZY: Given that the person “scooping” me up is also the one I want to see, it does feel pretty good.
His warm palm rests on my head for a moment before sliding down to my cheek with yearning. A small sense of satisfaction leaps in my heart, and I smile, poking his cheek.
MC: I think I can understand why the prince braves countless perils to reach the princess.
MC: For this moment right now, I’m willing to endure any hardship~
–
──────
[Tidbits]: The call-back of the apocalyptic night is from one of Li Zeyan’s earliest dates, “Doomsday Date,” where MC asks him if he’d dare to like her and if he’d dare to be by her side even if doomsday arrived – and the rest, as they say, is history, quite literally in this case ahah~ (இдஇ; )
–
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
【Chapter 3】
“Bzzz!”
As I step through the doorway and flip the switch for the pendant lamp, to my surprise, the light flickers and then abruptly goes out.
The inside of the house is instantly taken over by the dimness from outside the windows. Pudding, who was originally crouching at the door to welcome us, lets out a yelp and scurries under the table.
My mind automatically starts concocting a horror movie scenario, and I immediately step back a few paces.
MC: What did the power suddenly go out? It was perfectly fine before I left...
My words are barely out of my mouth when a series of extremely bright streaks of lightning flash outside the window.
The howling gale rattles the window frames, while the water pipes exposed to the downpour on the side of the building, pelted by large raindrops, are making peculiar noises.
The continuous flashes of lightning project the wildly swaying shadows of the trees onto the floor, making the storm outside seem even more terrifying.
Li Zeyan sighs and steps forward, taking hold of my hand that is frozen in mid-air.
LZY: Are there any spare lights or flashlights in the house?
MC: Yes, there are, in my room...
While saying this, I clutch Li Zeyan’s arm and carefully start walking towards my room. A hand reaches out and pulls me into a familiar embrace.
LZY: Wasn’t a certain someone “scooping people up” pretty amazingly just now? Why are you so nervous now that we’re home?
MC: ...I guess I’ve been overdoing it with the horror movies lately, and the after-effects are still a bit strong.
I laugh awkwardly and, relying on the dim light of the flashlight, dig out a large, bulging bag from the storage box.
MC: Rechargeable desk lamps, some decorative fairy lights, and lanterns.
MC: They should work if we plug them into the power bank.
LZY: ...That’s it?
MC: They can provide light and serve as tools to set the ambiance. Isn’t that wonderful?
Li Zeyan turns on a palm-sized rechargeable desk lamp and releases a small sigh.
LZY: In that case, the gift I brought you can also be included to make up the difference.
MC: Huh? What gift?
Li Zeyan rummages through his suitcase, takes out an exquisitely wrapped box, and gestures for me to open it.
I lean in closer and find a very charming candle holder with a glass cover nestled inside.
MC: It’s so beautiful! As expected, CEO Li’s eye for things can never go wrong.
LZY: Simultaneously doing the job of adding flowers to the brocade and delivering charcoal in snowy weather一 it definitely seems to be maximizing its value.
LZY: Come on, let’s go and light up all the lamps that we can use first.
┈┈┈┈┈┈ ✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈
With me “lending a hand” by holding the flashlight through the entire process, dinner and Pudding’s salmon cake are soon prepared.
Pudding, who had been hiding in the corner this entire time, also forgets his fear under the temptation of delectable food and begins prancing around again.
After eating and drinking to our fill, I sit on the carpet with another small blanket, light a scented candle, and carefully set it in the candle holder Li Zeyan gifted me.
Li Zeyan then casually plops down at the foot of the bed where I’m leaning, naturally stretching out his arm for me to use as a pillow.
I look at Pudding grooming his fur not far away and can’t help but sigh with emotion.
MC: Time sure flies! Pudding has grown another year older. I wonder what progress he’ll make this year.
LZY: He wasn’t very brave when he was younger, but now he, too, looks after the house on his own and appears to be fairly calm and composed.
MC: Why did you use “too“? I suspect you’re insinuating something about someone else.
LZY: Just stating facts.
LZY: The way a certain someone acted when she walked into the house earlier didn’t exactly resemble the “prince“ who came to pick me up.
I glance again at the flashes of lightning and thunder rolling outside again, scratching my cheek awkwardly.
MC: The house just went dark all of a sudden; I wasn’t mentally prepared.
LZY: What about now?
LZY: Are you still scared?
I turned sideways to watch him. The dancing candlelight paints his side profile in a warm glow, and the subtle fragrance of the scented candle melds into his calm gaze, making me gradually relax.
I hug his arm and pull him into my arms, beaming a wide smile at him.
MC: I have my “fragrant princess“ in my arms now, and I fear neither getting swept by wind nor being battered by rain any longer. [3]
LZY: Are we sure about who’s in whose arms?
MC: Does it really make a difference who’s in whose arms?
Li Zeyan gives me a look that says “whatever you say,” and I smile victoriously at having my way before turning to glance at the pitch-black darkness outside the window.
The small lights in the room are mirrored on the glass, reminiscent of stars, blurring into a cluster of halos by the unrelenting rain.
Serenity and turmoil are separated by only a wall. I grasp his wrist and tilt my head, pillowing into his palm and nuzzling against it.
MC: Luckily, you came back today. Otherwise, I would have definitely dragged you into “simmering a pot of telephone congee” with me all night long. [4]
LZY: That wouldn’t have been too bad either.
MC: Well, that’s true, but it would have made me seem like I haven’t grown at all...
I raise my head and look into his slightly puzzled gaze, feeling a little embarrassed as I lower my voice.
MC: I’m clearly not a child anymore, and many of the things I used to fear shouldn’t be a big deal now.
MC: Yet when running into situations where I’m not entirely confident, I can’t help feeling a little afraid.
MC: For instance, a pitch-dark empty house, not being able to find the kitten, and a thunderstorm that I don’t know when will end.
MC: I still can’t seem to be like you, to be able to keep myself from thinking the worst regardless of the kind of situation I’m confronted with...
I soliloquize in a whispered tone, and the palm I’m resting my head on suddenly moves. I look up, and my fingers are immediately swept up in a reassuring warmth.
Li Zeyan is pillowing himself on my bolster, covered by a blanket that is clearly not big enough for him, creating for a rather comical scene. Yet, I find myself solely captivated by his extraordinarily serious gaze.
He quietly watches me like this for some time before finally opening his mouth to respond.
LZY: Then just be afraid.
MC: ...Huh?
LZY: Building courage doesn’t mean you should be absolutely fearless.
LZY: If you have no reaction to the unknown and uncontrollable, that, on the contrary, is dangerous.
LZY: For a dummy, knowing how to dodge in the right direction at a critical moment is also progress.
He strokes the back of my hand meaningfully, and I clasp his fingers even more tightly in tacit understanding.
In moments of fear and anxiety, I always want to hold onto something, to reassure myself that I’m not facing it alone.
And this man in front of me, as fortune would have it, always happens to be within my reach, catching my insecurities and leading me along slowly.
I think back to the first time I “grabbed onto” him, the gentleness in his tone that I had rarely seen, and I can’t help but laugh.
MC: Well then, it seems I’ve been making progress since the first time I grabbed onto your clothes.
LZY: Mm-hmm, it hasn’t been easy.
MC: But I can only advance a little bit at a time. I’ve kept you waiting for so long.
The corners of his lips curl up slightly, and his eyes, sparkling with a smile, gently embrace me.
LZY: This isn’t work; nobody is asking anything from you.
LZY: If you’re afraid, just light up a lamp.
–
──────
[Tidbits]
[3] LI ZEYAN WRITERS!!! CRIES AT THE SACRIFICE I HAD TO MAKE AND HOW THE BEAUTY OF THE WORDPLAY JUST GETS LOST IN TRANSLATION HERE 😭 anywho, as you might’ve already noticed, “rescuing the sleeping princess“ theme and the “seeming“ role reversal has been one of the running themes of this date. The term used here is 软香 (lit. meaning soft fragrance), which is usually used to refer to the delicate scent of a woman or a woman in general and, in the context of the times, a palace beauty. The full term MC uses here is 软香在怀 (lit. meaning having ‘soft fragrance’ in one’s arms), which also conveys a deep emotional closeness, a sense of security and comfort as scent is something very sensitive. What the writing does here is kill three birds with one stone— (i) conveying MC’s “prince and princess role reversal“ quip, while also delivering the emotions of the candlelight monologue two sentences prior, i.e., (ii) the fragrance melding into his calm gaze, the vivid imagery of her sensitivity to his presence itself, (iii) the reassuring effect of his being.
[4] I’m gonna cry; this is such an adorable expression haha 😭 the term MC uses here is “煲电话粥,” which really does mean “simmering telephone congee.” The idea of it is to have a marathon phone call with sb, but it’s more intimate— similar to how simmering sth can take a long time and porridge essentially is a comfort food 😂
–
•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•
【Chapter 4】
The night is dark, and the rain seems to have weakened a bit. I hug the blanket and squeeze onto the small bed with Li Zeyan. No matter in which position we lay down, most of our bodies are pressed against each other.
I watch the person beside me becoming a part of the scene I’ve been familiar with since my childhood days, and for a long time, I find myself unwilling to close my eyes.
MC: It feels so surreal to have you and Pudding together at my place.
MC: It’s like having guests at home, but at the same time, it feels like welcoming new members to the family.
LZY: So, which one do you hope I am?
MC: I’ve long regarded you as the latter in my heart, obviously.
MC: However, this situation makes me seem like I’m not being a gracious host...
MC: Having to deal with the bad weather is one thing, but who knew the electricity in the house would be unstable at a critical moment, and now my bed isn’t big enough either.
I look up at the small pink pillow under Li Zeyan’s head and sigh softly. Li Zeyan, however, just smiles calmly and brushes aside the hair falling over my face.
MC: Be careful when you roll over. If you’re afraid of falling off, just hug me a little tighter~
LZY: [i’m cRY at how he just plays along with you haha] It’s certainly something to be afraid of.
Li Zeyan says this as he gets up to turn off the lights, and the room is plunged into darkness once again.
I reach out my arms towards him and am immediately swept back into his arms.
MC: Thank you, CEO Li~ How about I repay you with a goodnight kiss?
LZY: That’s it?
MC: Then what else do you want?
I blink my eyes at him, and suddenly, he lifts his hand to cover my sight.
A soft warmth captures my lips, swallowing my confusion.
He holds me too tightly in the square of his arms, and his broad palm accidentally presses on my nose, causing my already erratic breathing to become even more difficult to maintain.
I punch him indignantly, and Li Zeyan finally moves his hand away, his fingers cradling my face.
LZY: Didn’t you say you wanted to repay me?
MC: T-This isn’t what I had in mind!
LZY: Is this not good?
His warm finger pads caress the side of my face in a back-and-forth motion, leaving me with no refuge to escape but to gaze into his smiling eyes.
LZY: Instead of letting your imagination run wild every time you’re scared, why not think about something that can put your mind at ease?
LZY: For example, me.
LZY: So, consider this as collecting a tip in advance to cover your memories.
A soft chuckle drifts from above me, and he lifts my face again. With the last hint of light also overlaid, I close my eyes, welcoming this novel memory pertaining to the night’s darkness.
┈┈┈┈┈┈ ✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈
The next morning, the sky finally clears up.
The entire city looks as if it has taken a bath. Under the early morning sunlight, there are glittering lights refracted by water droplets everywhere.
I summon every bit of my self-control and more to extract myself from Li Zeyan’s warm embrace and rise early to make breakfast.
Originally, I planned to have him take the day off and recover from jet lag, but as soon as he gets out of bed, he receives a call from LFG, saying there is an urgent matter that needs to be dealt with in person.
I watch as a certain someone at the dining table finishes his breakfast with a sullen look on his face and can’t help but burst into laughter.
MC: Who knew even CEO Li could show such a “rebellious” expression about having to work overtime.
LZY: ...It’s just that I haven’t gotten over the jet lag yet.
MC: Who told you not to sleep obediently last night?
I stand up with a laugh before he can glare at me and push his suitcase to the door for him. Li Zeyan dons his coat, seems to hesitate for a moment, and then turns back to look at me.
MC: What’s wrong?
LZY: Nothing.
MC: It doesn’t seem like you’ve left anything behind, have you?
I look around to check while speaking, but I realize that Li Zeyan has kept his gaze trained on me, with no intention of searching for anything.
I blink my eyes, and an adorable guess bubbles up in my heart.
MC: Could it be that... CEO Li is unwilling to leave?
Li Zeyan grips the handle of the suitcase, averts his eyes, and smiles.
LZY: Let Pudding stay at your place for one more day.
MC: No worries, we’ll get along perfectly.
He doesn’t give a direct answer to my question, so I take it as his tacit assent and continue along with his words.
LZY: He ate quite a lot last night, so feed him less cat food today.
MC: Understood~
LZY: Be careful with the electricity today, and if you run into any issues, reach out to me right away.
MC: Uh-huh, anything else you want to remind me of?
I stare at him, smiling giddily. Li Zeyan opens his mouth, but in the end, he just displays a helpless expression and says nothing.
The rare instance of not being able to find the words to say, the rare moments of being dumbstruck and not knowing how to reply, the rare scenario of dragging his feet about going to work...
All of this shows that he is really unwilling to leave.
I smile even happier and tiptoe up to lock my arms around his neck.
Li Zeyan seems a bit puzzled, but he promptly supports my waist and arches an eyebrow, waiting for me to continue.
MC: Hehe, consider this as a tip you’re paying in advance.
MC: This way, whenever you feel overwhelmed in the future, you will think of only me.
I mimic his words from last night, and even reach up to muss his hair.
LZY: Little copycat.
Li Zeyan seems to want to resist this “childish” act subconsciously, but his arms betray his honest feelings and draw me in even tighter.
He looks at me with a silly smile on my face, about to say something when I suddenly feel a tickle on my ankle, as if something furry is rubbing against it.
Just as I’m about to look down, my face is pinched by someone.
I’m compelled to raise my head and see the sunlight falling on Li Zeyan.
The locks of hair hanging over his forehead and eyelashes are all bathed in dazzling, golden-bright luster. He reminds one of a big cat who has just woken up, making people irresistibly want to get closer to him.
And he does exactly as I wished, taking the initiative to bring this warmth to me.
The distance between us is reduced to zero, and I naturally close my eyes, welcoming this kiss infused with the warmth of the sunlight.
Even if a person grows accustomed to the humidity of this city, they will still rejoice when the sky clears and the sunshine beams down.
Even for those who can see the person they love every day and kiss them whenever they want, they will still find that any small separation feels too long.
The meow of the kitten rises from our feet, as if it also wants to participate in this wordless goodbye. I gently bite Li Zeyan’s lips, and he, rather reluctantly, pulls back just a bit.
MC: Mr. Customer, you’re being too generous with your tip.
With his eyes cast down, he continues to gaze at me, his breath still lingering at the edge of my lips.
LZY: Because I’ve already fulfilled the conditions you set.
LZY: Now that I’ve paid double the tip, I’m asking for an upgrade on the terms.
He raises an eyebrow, as if he is genuinely negotiating with me.
At such proximity, my mind is already a muddled mess, yet I still manage to capture the answer he desires from the look of yearning in his eyes.
I strive to muster my willpower, rise on tiptoe, and kiss his lips again.
MC: Then you must work diligently and clock out early...
MC: And who knows, perhaps I’ll suddenly appear when you’re missing me?
──────────────────────────────────────────
#i'm just laughing at how paper thought- “hey you know we haven't shown the heroine's place in Li Zeyan's dating verse since December 2021–#– let's acknowledge it still exISTs i guess” LMAO 😂#i actually love how the date mentions MC's old apartment is special to her b/c it holds memories of her childhood- 🥺#also all the nods to why the thunderstorm actually makes MC jittery still. THE LIGHTNING INCIDENT & REASON FOR THEIR CHILDHOOD SEPARATION😭#all the callbacks!! A DOING THE DEED SCENE IN A SR DATE!! POUTY LI ZEYAN. OWH TO GET TO LIVE THE DAY WHEN LI ZEYAN DOESN'T WANT TO WORK 😂#OOFF SO MUCH COMFORT AND WARMTH!! i'll prolly just make a thread on twitter later to talk about the details i wanna talk about haha#also BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAYYY PUDDING BBY!! 🥳 you really do have the best parents in the world haha 💗#mlqc victor#mlqc li zeyan#mlqc#mr love victor#mr love queen's choice#恋与制作人#李泽言#love and producer#mlqc cn#mlqc spoilers#mlqc translations#Youtube
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TEACH ME HOW TO LOVE! 25. fame is not for the weak
today, you weren’t “rising actress y/n l/n.” you were just a normal, law-abiding citizen spending the weekend watching oikawa tooru’s new film. that sentence alone should’ve been the first red flag that the trip would turn disastrous. the next was your co-star’s quote-unquote disguise. you cared less about the former: if you didn’t watch daybreak today, you’d be bombarded with spoilers from your friends later on. the latter, however, was inexcusable.
“you’re ridiculous,” you said, eyeing the blond actor up and down. “you don’t blend in, atsumu, you blend out.”
“glad you’re enjoying the view. it didn’t take me long to pull this together.”
it was true: the outfit was completely minimal. it barely required any thought, yet, it still looked perfectly coordinated and eye-catching. that was just atsumu’s irking influence on things—but that was exactly the problem. you’ve seen him in casual clothing before but it was even more salient today. compared to the people walking in and out of the movie theater, atsumu stood out like a sore thumb. it made you realize he was born to be on stage.
“your good looks are betraying you,” you sighed, eyes surveying the area hurriedly. the two of you had made sure to arrive an hour early for precautions, of course. still, with the small crowds coming and leaving, it made the two of you even more vulnerable and undeniably conspicuous. you tugged on atsumu’s sleeves, lowering him closer to the theater’s large indoor planters. you made a face, “what about our plans of not drawing attention to ourselves?”
you couldn’t see the teasing smile behind his white mask, but you had caught the twinkling amusement in his eyes. he wore a basic hoodie with his usual denim cap concealing his blond hair. (though, you made him remove his hood since someone was bound to mistake him for a creep or member of the paparazzi. you realized later that it was intentional, he just wanted to see your flustered expression).
atsumu leaned forward to say, “don’t worry. if someone recognizes us, just act clueless.”
“that doesn’t sound like a good plan.”
“i know,” he agreed. “i’ve never been caught before so i don’t think about backup plans too much.”
you were about to retaliate, call him ridiculous once more, but he stopped you before you could. grabbing your shoulders, he ushered you towards the dozy security guard at the end of the corner. atsumu chuckled, “let’s stop gawking and actually get in before your worst nightmare comes true.”
yeah, this was not the plan you had in mind.
you took your seats in the center all the way in the back row. it was for precautions, but at least you could see the whole screen. strangely enough, atsumu had let you take the middle armrest. he also humored you by answering all your spontaneous questions to pass the time.
the first topic was about your fellow co-stars.
“jolie… is loud. she’s too friendly for her own good, but she’s a hard worker; she rarely slacks off too. you should see her at parties though, she’s scary.” when he realized everything he said was mostly positive, atsumu crossed his arms to think. “don’t be fooled, she also has a really clumsy and high-maintenance side to her.”
“who? jolie?” you stifled a surprised laugh. you always saw her as incredibly charming and supportive so this was news to you.
“yeah, she always loses her phone. it’s a bigger hassle when she comes to you asking where it is. honestly, this girl thinks you’re the one to blame for her phone being lost.”
atsumu went on to recall other things too: “we met when i was acting during university. can you believe she’s a year older than me? we’ve been friends for a while so she was there when i broke up with emma.”
it was the slight grimace that made you change the subject. he seemed glad when you asked about semi. “he’s completely stoic and too professional. he reminds me of you in a way, but he does have his moments.”
he continued promptly. “this is my first time working with sugawara. though, i heard he’s pretty popular in the industry, both on and off-screen. for akane, i met her in some minor roles. she likes to ask me for tips and tricks sometimes.”
you listened and hummed while he spoke. you understood what was so enthralling about atsumu now. his good looks draw you in, sure—but it was the way he spoke so naturally and full of confidence that made you stay. he made you want to hear more: about himself and his casual attitude on things.
when atsumu finished speaking, there was still enough time to buy snacks before the theater got crowded for daybreak. he took the liberty to do so, sneaking back in before people started to swarm. they didn’t seem to notice the two of you all the way in the back. the middle rows were usually more favored anyway. then, the lights dimmed further and the room was consumed with darkness.
there were perks to being friends with thrill seekers. it meant you were immune to most things: horror movies being one of them.
everyone in the group had their own signature hangouts. you guys liked to rotate between each other’s preferences, it only seemed fair that way (this was only true during high school, however. during university and nowadays, you simply decided on things that worked with everyone’s schedules).
kuroo liked study dates and movie theaters the most. he’d always drag everyone to watch the latest movies, usually either horror or action. due to that, you’ve built an immunity to jump scares and supernaturals; it would take a lot to frighten you.
while you weren’t screaming or gripping the edge of your seat like others in the theater, you still enjoyed the movie nonetheless. oikawa’s flawless acting had completely occupied your attention, and on more than one occasion, you were watching with your jaw hung open. he was a man of many achievements, worthy of every praise for his charms and incredible acting skills. he was your inspiration, and you hoped fervently to be on the same stage as him one day.
before the ending credits could even roll, you and atsumu had already snuck out. it took you a while to steady yourself. the bright lights from outside the theater room had mercilessly attacked you when you stepped out, and you felt dizzy from staring at such a massive screen for so long.
atsumu saved you the cruel embarrassment, excusing himself to the restroom. you teased him before he went: “what—were you scared of the movie?”
“if i was, i wouldn’t be going to the restroom alone.”
“i’m sorry, i don’t think i can accompany you,” you said sincerely.
atsumu scoffed, not knowing whether to be vexed at the sheer genuineness in your voice or the embarrassment he was feeling. he grumbled, “i wasn’t going to ask you to!” then he stormed off with his hands shoved in his hoodie pocket.
while he did his business, you ventured to the merchandise area of the movie theater. surprisingly, you spotted merch for vengeance, your previous film, in the corner. shirts in various colors; tote bags; and small prints decorated the shelves from top to bottom. the bags were nearly sold out, it made you feel grateful that people still poured so much love into the film. besides you was a large poster hung from the ceiling. there was a close-up shot of you and your other co-stars. the editing was immaculate, they even made kuroo look g—
“y/n l/n?”
the unfamiliar voice that spoke your name made you freeze in place. in front of you was a girl you’ve never seen before. you staggered slightly, realization hitting you at full speed. this was a fan. her oikawa shirt, oikawa lanyard, oikawa pins, oikawa— they all gave her away instantly. your first thought was wow, too taken-aback by the girl’s clear devotion. your next thought was run, get away from the corner that would soon reveal your identity.
the fan didn’t waste a breath. she pointed to the large poster next to you, the one you’d been admiring. “look! that’s you right? you worked with tooru on vengeance!” she nearly squealed his first name.
you coughed to get her attention. her assumption was unbelievable, really. even if you were y/n l/n, your face was heavily concealed with a mask and cap. “what are you talking about? you’ve got the wrong person, my name is—“
“everyone, come! i think i found y/n l/n!” she turned to face you again, her eyes widened in excitement. “hey, can i get your autograph? how about a picture?”
you nearly facepalmed yourself. daybreak had just ended, all these people rushing into the merchandise store came from the same theater room as you. fuck.
you should’ve realized sooner that you were in the heart of tokyo, where the chances of running into a celebrity was augmented by at least 70%. of course there would be radical fans everywhere you went. diehard oikawa fans were possibly the worst of them all, this fan especially.
you were about to gently coax her that this was a misunderstanding when a large hoard of people started crowding towards your tiny corner. being suffocated by hardcore fans was not on your bucket list—seeing people get shoved and nearly trampled on wasn’t there either!
people pushed; they ran; they shouted. phones were shoved in your face, adrenaline rushed through your veins, and you had to yell over the mass to stop them from forcing their way towards you.
pandemonium struck the movie theater.
the dozy security guard from earlier bolted towards the herd in a hurry. clearly he’d finally snapped out of his drowsy state and commanded the crowd to disperse. then, a hand slid around your wrist and pulled you away from the mob. your breath hitched in your throat as the tall figure hurried you into a sprint out the building. you heard the roaring yelling resume when they realized you weren’t there anymore.
this was definitely not conspicuous at all. you were pretty sure your cover was blown… your blond co-star’s as well.
you raced with your heartbeat thundering against your rib cage. the two of you ran until you stopped by a short alleyway next to the street. you were furious at yourself for ruining your plans of being discreet, but for also destroying the pleasant movie trip for the both of you.
“atsumu, i’m sorry. that wasn’t supposed to happen.”
he didn’t answer you, his breathing still heavy. one of his hands remained enclosed around yours, the other went up to soothe the back of your head. you heard him say, “are you alright? first time that’s happened?”
you nodded to both questions. you were just flustered and shaken up by the whole ordeal. even if it wasn’t what atsumu meant by his second question, you understood what it conveyed about your reality as an actress. you were too naive and inexperienced. if the security guard hadn't come, someone would’ve been injured and you were to blame for not handling the situation properly. it was something you should’ve known as a public figure. diehard fans already lack respect and morality; the chances of them learning how to be decent human beings were obscenely low. it seems you’re the only one who can take control of these situations, even if it’s not your fault—even if you dislike it.
you felt atsumu take both of your hands in his. they were warm and full of comfort, they held yours gently with so much care that you could melt.
“don’t blame yourself, y/n. it’s never your fault, that should’ve never happened.” atsumu’s tone was full of frustration—not at you, but rather at himself.
you didn't have the energy to fight back. it was obvious: if you hadn’t gone into the merchandise area, you would’ve never been recognized. you walked into the lion’s den all by yourself; it was a situation you had complete control over.
minutes passed and atsumu ended his call with the taxi driver. he wanted to see you off at your condo, and you didn’t refuse. the damage has already been done. sure, this could land you in more trouble but you couldn’t help it. you were human. you were selfish. you wanted to stay with atsumu for a little longer, just a couple moments more.
you let out a low chuckle. “are you going to continue holding my hands, atsumu?” you brought them up in front of you. “both of them?”
his face finally softened. “maybe i’ll let go of one. just one though, the other is needed to open the door.”
the small moment was cut short by the arrival of the taxi. still, it was more than enough to console your dispirited heart.
as always, atsumu remained true to his words: your hands found each other again in the silent taxi, warm and heartbreakingly soothing.
“you’re not allowed to blame yourself, atsumu.”
your co-star exhaled a heavy breath. “isn’t that what i should be telling you?”
“i’m fully aware of what happened. it was my fault i was in that situation—don’t try and deny it, atsumu. i’ll take responsibility for whatever happens tomorrow.”
“you’re too professional, y’know that?” he asked and you nodded vehemently. “i’d like to talk to y/n, the one that likes roller coasters and lives off of coffee, not the y/n that’s a prim workaholic. can you ring her up for me?”
you huffed, squeezing his hand. you were currently standing in front of your condo still holding your stubborn co-star’s hand. perhaps you were both stubborn—too focused on different priorities to understand one another. “i’m being serious. i enjoyed today. thank you for letting me watch daybreak before getting every detail spoiled.”
atsumu was about to counter, but you beat him to it. “don’t say that today was a mistake! i knew the consequences but i still went… if you’re going to blame yourself, you might as well blame me too for agreeing to go.”
“hey, you can’t do that to me. now i’m backed into a corner,” he frowned beneath his mask. “then promise me you won’t beat yourself over this. if things get out of hand tomorrow in the media, you’ll let me help you. please rely on me too, y/n.”
“i promise. i’m an adult too, atsumu.”
“yes,” he breathed, slow and firm. “you’re so incredibly strong you put all the other adults to shame.”
you could crumble at the underlying softness in his voice. you could crumble from how clearly upset he was at everything that’s transpired. “then i should probably head inside. thanks for walking me all the way up here, you’ll be sneaky when you leave, right?”
the sound of his laughter eased your mind, and you let go of his hand. the two of you shared a moment of sweetened silence before he watched you disappear behind your door. you both knew then that it’ll be a while before you would spend time with one another again.
atsumu lowered his head and removed his denim cap. with a rough hand, he raked it through his messy hair and sighed. he desperately needed something to clear his mind, perhaps a nap that would last at least three hours. the blond turned away from the closed door to do just that. he was going to go home, shower, eat, and doze until the next day.
“atsumu miya?”
the tall blond whispered a curse in his mind before spotting a black haired lady in front of him. he looked left and right, behind and in front. he pointed a confused finger at himself. “me?”
the pretty lady with the distinctive mole near her lips laughed softly. “yes, you. i saw you in front of y/n’s door. were you two hanging out earlier?”
atsumu’s face bloomed in realization. she was undeniably familiar, and he was sure he’d seen her somewhere before. that’s right, she was a model in the same agency as emma. what a small world.
atsumu rubbed the back of his neck, only saying, “yeah.” how long was she there for? how much did she see? god, did she see them holding hands? atsumu grumbled under his breath, heat rising unexpectedly to his cheeks. it was just one after another, the two of you needed a break.
“actually, i wanted to talk to you for a moment if that’s alright with you.”
he tilted his head in curiosity. she said it would only be a moment and that where they were standing would suffice. however, her expression was inexplicably serious. he braced himself for her few words.
“i know that you and y/n have spent a lot of time together, but i want to know how you feel towards her. with your current situation, y/n could be affected negatively if people found out.”
it was a sensible question but one that was hard to answer. atsumu wondered how close the two of them were; it was understandable why she would be concerned about her friend’s career and his intentions. and he fully understood what she’d meant by “current situation.” he was completely aware. even if he hated it, emma’s foolish shenanigans and her crazy fans were targeted at him and only him. you shouldn’t be dragged into it.
“she brings me comfort in a way. there’s not many people that i feel comfortable around, so I’m grateful towards her. i’ll take responsibility for anything that happens; it’s my fault anyway since i was the one that wanted to hang out. don’t worry, we probably won’t be spending time together again any time soon.”
his words hinted at two meanings. first, filming that summer was the number one priority. second, atsumu would do anything to protect your career and peace of mind.
the pleasant lady in front of atsumu nodded. her eyes were clear of any doubt, shining instead with gratitude. “thank you for your time. i hope you have a safe trip back.”
“thank you,” the blond replied, walking towards the elevator at the end of the hall.
atsumu didn’t have the words to sum up today’s events. however, everything had unfolded in front of him and he was face-to-face with a realization. a cruel one that he needed to accept. it wasn’t the right time for the two of you. no matter how much atsumu might want it, he couldn’t deny that now wasn’t the time. it might never be the time, but that was something he needed to realize.
the world was heartlessly cruel.
masterlist ⌒☆ previous ⌒☆ next
fun facts:
if it were anyone else, atsumu would've definitely hogged the middle armrest all to himself. he would do it with the popcorn and snacks too. the bucket stays with him! he finds it too troublesome to reach over and grab it.
it's why he doesn't like going to the movie theaters (mentioned in chapter 19) since he only ever goes with either osamu or rin. it always ends in an argument and the other people there hate them all.
jolie is the type to look for her phone while on call with someone.
whenever she does lose it during filming, she always goes to semi because she knows he'll (begrudgingly) look for it with her.
can you tell i have the biggest, fattest crush on shimizu. i wanted to go full rampant on describing how pretty she is but i had to control myself!
i felt very bad writing this chapter. no matter how careful you may try to be, people make mistakes and they always blame themselves for it. there are external factors that you can't control; it's just the harsh reality of things.
TEACH ME HOW TO LOVE! ｡ｏ♡ an atsumu miya smau
synopsis: when y/n l/n, a rising actress, decides to star in a romance film that could make or break her career, she’s unable to showcase her skills, revealing her inexperience within the romance department instead. worst of all, atsumu miya, her co-star and the main lead’s love interest, seems to hate her guts! with absolutely, unbearably zero chemistry between the two, an idea was proposed: spend time with one another in the upcoming weeks. will y/n be able to ignore her professionalism and listen to her heart? and will she, a clueless romantic, be able to pick up on the signs her co-star is sending her?
a/n: i think this ch was a little heavier than i intended it to be but it was also a lot easier to write than i thought. yay! drama! haha! i'm always learning how to be more impactful and purposeful with my writing. words don't always come as easily as i would like them to be but this ch was a step in the right direction! i hope that was how it felt to you guys as well!
taglist is open! dm or ask to be a part of it! (those bolded were unable to be tagged)
@kqbukimono @empathum @clyver @chosoluv @oceansfloor @sunarots @marga-j @rukia-uchiha-98 @wyrcan @thechaosoflonging @rintarousgirl @ast4rg1rl @seiamor @saiewithakatana @usermins @literally-a-ferret @terrarain @iuspired @haruskatana @wolffmaiden @ris-krispie @vellichxrr6782 @animenaces-world @reignsaway @emii4evr @writing-for-the-hell-of-it @yuminako @tojirin @v3nusplanetofluv @vyvixen @secondary-character-25 @tenjikusstuff4 @444choso @mylahrins @deimmortales99 @hisfuture @staywhelmed8801 @dl-yum @nessaasstuff @milesmoralesluvs @101tsumu @ryeyeyer @cherrypieyourface @azharyy @mimi3lover @stayyyyyyyyyyyy21 @dazball
#haikyuu smau series#smaus#social media au#haikyuu smau#haikyuu#hq smau#hq#haikyuu x reader#haikyuu x you#haikyuu x yn#hq x reader#hq x you#hq x yn#haikyuu atsumu miya#atsumu miya#atsumu miya x reader#atsumu miya x you#atsumu miya x yn#atsumu miya smau#actors au#celebrity au#romance
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Enemies with Benefits
Part 10
Previous part here
…………………………………………………………………………….
Looking at herself in the mirror, she wondered again: Why was she putting in this much effort?
It was at least the fifteenth time she’d asked herself that question as she was getting ready for their date that night. She’d still not allowed herself to acknowledge the true answer, but that didn’t stop her from taking the time to style her hair more intentionally than usual, apply her makeup a little more carefully, and spend the last hour deciding on an outfit.
She could deny it to herself all she wanted, but the fact was, she wanted to look good for him.
Not just because he was starting to grow on her, though. She also wanted to tease him with the concept of look but don’t touch. Regardless of the attraction between them, Y/N wasn’t going to give Tommy the satisfaction of getting anything out of this date other than the check. With how cocky he was, she was certain that he figured he’d be getting lucky tonight, or at least making it to second base, but he was in for a rude awakening. “Hard to get” was the name of the game, because the last thing he needed was validation that he could act the way he had, apologize once, and then easily still get what he wanted. And although she believed that he’d meant the apology, she still wasn’t going to make anything easy for him, especially with their little bet. He needed to know that she wasn’t going to bend to him or forget about giving him a run for his money just because they’d come to a truce. She still had a bet to win, and that had to take precedence, even over the draw she increasingly felt towards him.
Her buzzer rang as she was slipping on her sandals, and Y/N tried to ignore the way her heart skipped a beat as she took the elevator down to the lobby of her apartment building. When the elevator doors opened, though, she realized this was going to be more difficult than she anticipated, because she had never seen any man look as handsome as Tommy did as he stood waiting for her in the lobby.
He was unforgivingly sexy in a charcoal suit and white dress shirt, the top couple buttons undone. His painfully handsome face unfurled into a smile as he looked up at the sound of the elevator dinging, and he exuded confidence and masculinity as he met her eyes and she made her way towards him. As she got closer, she could smell his cologne, and it nearly made her knees buckle. But she collected herself enough to remain upright as she came to a stop in front of him.
As Tommy looked up upon hearing the ding of the elevator, he nearly did a double take, and his pulse quickened. Y/N stared back at him looking even more beautiful than usual, which he didn’t think was possible until now. Her hair perfectly framed her pretty face, and she was the picture of confident femininity in a black and white striped midi dress with spaghetti straps and a cross-cut neckline. She looked sexier than ever, although, that seemed to be the case every time he saw her. As she got closer, Tommy inhaled her perfume, which smelled as delicious as she looked, and he was already trying to figure out for later where the zipper on her dress was.
“How is it possible that you get more beautiful every time I see you?” he said to her as she looked at him.
Y/N smiled.
“How many other women have you used that line on recently?” she asked.
“Zero,” Tommy replied. “Fact is, since we met, you’re the only woman who’s occupied my thoughts.”
Y/N released a short laugh of disbelief and rolled her eyes, but Tommy kept his eyes on her.
“It’s the simple truth, love,” he said, his expression serious. “And you said you wanted me to be honest with you from here on out.” But then he smiled devilishly. “But if you’re looking for complete transparency, I’d be happy to tell you the exact content of those thoughts.”
Rolling her eyes again, Y/N began to walk, intentionally bumping him with her shoulder as she headed to the door.
“Let’s just get this over with,” she said with a smirk.
Chuckling, Tommy held the door for her as they stepped outside, and he led her to his car that was parked at the curb. Of course, it was some ungodly expensive sports car, a convertible with the top currently down, and she guessed he had five others of comparable luxury parked in a private garage somewhere. As they reached it, he leaned forward and opened the front passenger door for her, but she didn’t get in.
“I’m sitting in the back,” she said to him.
“Sorry?” he asked, a confused look on his face.
“I’m sitting in the back,” she repeated herself.
Tommy shook his head.
“I’m not following, love,” he said to her.
“I agreed to go out with you; that doesn’t mean I have to sit next to you,” she replied.
Tommy cocked his head as he looked at her.
“That’s how a date works, darling. Or did you miss the memo?”
Y/N shook her head.
“When you made your request for these dates, you only said I had to show up. You never said I had to sit next to you. Well, I’m here, and I’m sitting in the back.”
“You’re serious?” Tommy pushed.
Instead of answering, Y/N just continued to hold his gaze while making a show of reaching her arm around him and over the rear door, dramatically dropping her purse into the backseat.
“Time’s wasting, Shelby,” she said.
Where this woman got her fire, he had no idea, but he was seconds away from turning her around and taking her back upstairs to her apartment. But she interrupted the thought before he could make a move, finally stepping around him and opening the back door herself. After she got in, she pulled her phone out of her purse and began carelessly scrolling through it.
“Let’s go,” she said to him without looking up. “I’m hungry.”
Looking at her, Tommy finally closed the front passenger door and rounded the front of the car, getting in the driver’s seat and looking at Y/N in the rearview mirror.
“Comfortable?” he asked sarcastically.
“Very, yes, thank you,” she replied, tossing her phone aside and stretching her arms out.
Chuckling again, Tommy put the car in drive and pulled away from the curb, but with Y/N in the backseat, the setup wasn’t ideal for conversation as they drove. The restaurant wasn’t very far, though, and shortly, they arrived at the place Tommy had chosen for dinner. As they both got out of the car and he turned to look at Y/N, she smiled at him.
“Pretty smooth,” she said as she patted the hood. “Thanks for the lift.”
Tommy stepped closer to her.
“Keep it up, love, and you’ll be walking home,” he threatened playfully. He then put a hand on her back and gently pushed her forward, and they walked into the building side by side.
It was a fancier restaurant with romantic lighting and intimate seating, and Y/N could tell before she even looked at the menu that the cost of a single dish would likely be more than what she’d spend on dinner for an entire week. But her thoughts were momentarily muted when she suddenly felt Tommy’s arm around her waist as they stopped at the hostess desk. She slowly inhaled as he spoke to the host, registering how much she liked having his arm around her, but she quickly reminded herself that she wasn’t going to make this easy for him.
“Actually,” Y/N cut in as the host was grabbing their menus, “we’d like two tables for one, please.”
“What?” both Tommy and the host said to her simultaneously as they each looked at her.
“We’d like to sit at separate tables, please,” she clarified.
“What do you mean?” the host asked, complete confusion on his face.
“I mean, I’ll sit at one table, and he’ll sit at another,” she responded.
“Y/N, what the fuck are you doing?” Tommy said to her.
Ignoring him, Y/N spoke to the host again.
“I know it may seem like an odd request, but is that possible?”
“She’s not serious,” Tommy interjected, speaking to the host.
“Yes, I am,” she said. “We’d like to be seated separately.”
“Y/N...” Tommy began again, but she turned to him.
“You said we had to eat; you didn’t say it had to be together. If you wanted something different, you should have been more specific.”
Tommy narrowed his eyes at her, but she continued.
“And in case you forgot, I don’t like being told what to do,” she said.
After a moment’s pause, Tommy spoke.
“After tonight, we’re putting in writing the exact specifics of what counts as a date,” he said.
“Whatever,” she said in response, and then turned back to the host.
“Sorry, you must think we’re crazy,” she said, giving him a sympathetic smile. “It’s a foreplay thing. Now, can we be seated, please?”
Blanching at the comment she’d just made, the host awkwardly nodded before turning and indicating for them to follow him. Y/N laughed to herself as she saw his expression, and in spite of himself, Tommy couldn’t stop a laugh of his own from escaping as he heard what she’d said.
Walking through the warmly lit dining room, the host first seated Y/N at a small table meant for two on one side of the room, before then seating Tommy at an identical table across the way and diagonal from her. After sitting down and situating themselves, they were each approached by a server and ordered a drink. When their respective servers had stepped away again, Tommy and Y/N’s eyes met across the room, and, still looking at him, Y/N reached into her purse and pulled out her phone. She tapped the screen a couple of times before Tommy watched her bring the phone to her ear. After a few seconds, his own phone began to ring, and as he pulled it out of his pocket and looked at the screen, he saw that it was him Y/N was calling.
Tapping the icon to answer her call, Tommy lifted the phone to his ear and held her eyes as he answered.
“Miss me already?” he said.
Y/N shook her head as she looked at him and spoke into her phone.
“No, I’m just fulfilling the obligation of talking to you,” she replied. “You said we had to talk on the date. Well, we’re talking.”
“You know that none of this is what I meant, love,” he said, smirking at her. “Like I said, we’re re-writing the rules before next time.”
“Just count your blessings, Shelby. I almost stood you up this evening.”
Leaning back in his seat, Tommy adjusted his phone and looked at her, but her server had approached with her drink and their eye contact was broken. When the server stepped away, Y/N didn’t meet his eyes again.
“Almost, eh? And so what compelled you not to?” he asked her.
Taking a sip from her drink, Y/N then briefly pulled her phone down and looked at it before then bringing it back to her ear.
“Oh, I’m sorry, are you still there?” she said with feigned confusion, still not looking at him. “I thought this conversation was over.”
“You were going to tell me what compelled you to still go out tonight,” Tommy then said playfully. “Although, I know Tommy Shelby very well, and I think it’s pretty self-explanatory why you couldn’t resist him.”
He watched as Y/N smiled at the way he’d shifted the conversation, and she played along.
“Well, despite the fact that I can’t stand him, he’s loaded, and so I figured I’d get a ride in a nice car and a free meal out of the evening.”
“Really?” Tommy asked with a smirk. “There’s not anything you like about him?”
“Ummmm...” came Y/N’s reply, pretending to be struggling to find something she liked about him.
“Is it his looks that don’t do it for you?” Tommy said then.
Y/N shook her head.
“Oh, no, he’s gorgeous, believe me. I don’t think I’ve ever met a man as sexy as him before. But his looks don’t make up for the fact that he’s an arrogant pain in the ass.”
Tommy smiled widely at her response.
“Something tells me you don’t actually think he’s that bad,” he said.
“Well, he does have a redeeming quality or two. He’s very charming, and there’s a hint of decency in him that reveals itself sometimes,” Y/N paused to take a sip from her drink, “but I’m not sure I’m interested in looking any further into that. And besides, to top it all off, he smokes like a chimney.”
“I hear he’s cutting back,” Tommy replied with a smile.
“Hmmm,” Y/N said. “Well, we’ll just have to see, I guess. But he shouldn’t hold his breath.”
At that moment, her server arrived back at her table, and Y/N spoke again.
“Sorry, but I’m afraid I’ve gotta go. If you see Shelby, flip him off for me, will you?”
As he watched Y/N set her phone down and speak to her waiter, Tommy couldn’t stop smiling at her antics. If he wasn’t already totally taken with her, tonight would have put it over the top.
He also soon ordered after that, and as they ate their meals, their eyes would meet across the room occasionally, and Tommy would smile or wink at Y/N as she’d give him a playful look. At one point, she got very bold when she ordered dessert and then made a nearly X-rated display of licking her spoon, and Tommy had to look away and think of a cold shower for five minutes straight before he’d managed to calm himself down. He couldn’t wait to get her out of there.
As Tommy finally looked at Y/N again, he saw her waiter trying to hand her the check, but she stopped him and shook her head, and then pointed across the room to Tommy. Although looking confused, the waiter brought the bill to Tommy and he handed him his credit card, along with his own bill that had already been brought to him. Instead of looking at him as they waited for his card to come back, Y/N leaned back in her chair and crossed her legs, pretending to be examining her nails instead. With another smile, Tommy shook his head, and once his card was returned to him and the waiter had left, he caught Y/N’s eye as she watched him get up from his table.
Jerking his head towards the entrance, Tommy then watched as Y/N grabbed her purse off the back of her chair and stood up, following several paces behind him as he walked to the front of the restaurant. Once he reached the door, he held it for her as she caught up to him and stepped outside, and they remained silent as they got in his car, Y/N sitting in the back again.
“Looked like you enjoyed your dessert,” Tommy said to her as he started the car.
“Mmmm,” she nodded in agreement. “A little too much.”
“No, not enough, if you ask me. You should have kept going.”
Y/N smiled at him in the rearview mirror, but then again made herself look busy playing on her phone. Once they got back to her apartment building, Tommy got out and walked to her side, opening the back door for her and helping her step out onto the curb. His hand on her waist again, he was trying to figure out if she had a bra on or not, when she cut into his thoughts by stopping at the front door and turning to him.
“Well, thanks for the free meal,” she said, stepping far enough back from him that his hand slipped from her waist.
“My pleasure, love, but it doesn’t have to end there,” he replied, trying to step closer to her, but Y/N retreated again.
“Actually, it does,” she said. “According to your exact words, I had to show up, we had to talk, have a good time, and then you had to pay the bill. I believe we checked off all of those boxes – I mean, I had a great time – and so this concludes the date.”
Tommy looked back at her in obvious disbelief. Was she really going to take it this far?
“You’re hilarious, love, truly,” he said. “Now, how about we go inside?”
“I am going inside,” she replied. “It’s past my bedtime. But thanks again for dinner. One down, nine more to go.”
Narrowing his eyes, Tommy stepped closer to her and wrapped an arm around her waist again. Y/N didn’t resist, but she didn’t lean into him, either. But as he spoke into her ear, she almost melted.
“Things are going to be very different next time, love, so enjoy your little victory now while you can. We’re doing things my way next time.”
Tilting her head, Y/N made a point of slowly, audibly inhaling as she placed her face near Tommy’s neck. Then, she lifted her mouth and hovered there for a second before pressing the lightest little kiss below his earlobe.
“Put it in writing,” she whispered.
Then she stepped back from him and out of his grasp, pulling open the door to her building and slipping inside, Tommy watching after her as she disappeared into the elevator.
@nyxxie-pooh @allie131313 @xsweetcatastrophe @fairytale07 @febris-amatoria
@natalie--rushman @beastofburdenxo @alltoowellbeneaththemangotree @meister95 @hudson-bay-girl
@wild-rose-35 @ladyvenera @judig92 @ceirinen @hannibellector
@fuseburner @neonpurplestars89-blog @devotedlyshadowytheorist @betty21rose @galactict3a
@runnning-outof-time @aphroditeslover11 @garrison-girl-08
#modern tommy shelby#modern tommy shelby x reader#modern tommy shelby smut#modern tommy fic#modern tommy#modern peaky blinders#cillian murphy#18+ only
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if the prompts are still open, can i ask for a lazy day with a GN!reader and a M!Kylar, please ? no smut, just hanging out, maybe drawing or reading together ? <3
Sketching
M!Kylar x Gn!Reader
Prompt Event: Lazy day
Words: 505
Tw: none
Note: I'm so sorry this is so short, I had such a hard time writing this
I sat on Kylar’s bed, propped up by pillows, while Kylar sat at his desk chair. We both drew in silence, not needing to say anything to one another. It was a nice break from the hellish world outside.
I’d look up occasionally, staring out the skylight above his bed, to get the constellations I was drawing right. His room always gave an amazing view of them, much better than the orphanage. Kylar taught me the names of them, but I couldn’t remember them all. The only ones I could remember were Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.
Taking a small break, I decided to watch Kylar who would occasionally look up and blush when he noticed me watching him. He looked so cute with his tongue poking out from how focused he was, no doubt drawing me in some sort of lewd pose. The majority of his drawings of me were like that, but I didn’t mind all that much. As long as no one found them, I was fine with it. “What are you drawing?” I asked cheekily, already knowing the answer.
“W-What?” He jumped in his chair, startled by my sudden question. “No,” He shook his head, ”Not till we’re both done.” He held his sketchbook close, not wanting me to see.
I chuckled at his response, “Ok, ok.” I got back to my drawing, which was close to being done. This was turning out to be one of my better drawings, nothing like Kylar’s but still pretty good.
Kylar easily finished before me, he’s always been a quick drawer. He fidgeted in his chair, excitedly waiting to show me his masterpiece. “Are you done yet, my love?” I nodded, finishing up the last details and turning my sketchbook around, showing him my finished drawing. Kylar gasped and quickly climbed up the bed and took the drawing in his hands, forgetting about his own. “This is amazing!” He loved everything I made, no matter what it looked like.
The drawing wasn’t anything crazy, just the two of us lying in bed. Kylar staring at me and me staring up at the skylight. The constellations in the night sky could be seen above us. Kylar started at me like I was worth more than the stars. “You think so?”
He nodded excitedly, crinkling the edges of the paper from his grip. “Yes!”
I put a hand on his arm and joked, “Don’t rip it.” He loosened his grip, “Can I see yours now?”
Kylar quickly jumped up, grabbing his sketchbook from where he left it on his chain. “Y-Yeah!” He handed me his drawing with an anxious smile on his face.
It was a drawing of me, surprisingly I wasn’t in a lewd pose and I was clothed. Much different from what he usually draws. I was in pajamas and looking lovingly at the viewer. “Kylar…”
“Is it bad?” He asked anxiously, afraid I didn’t like his drawing.
I shook my head, “No.” I lightly rubbed my thumb over the drawing. “I love it.”
𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵
𝘒𝘰-𝘍𝘪
#dol#dol fanfiction#dol fanfic#dol kylar#kylar dol#kylar the loner#degrees of lewdity#dol imagine#dol imagines#degrees of lewdity kylar#kylar x reader#degrees of lewdity fanfic#degrees of lewdity fanfiction#degrees of lewdity imagines#degrees of lewdity imagine#degrees of lewdity x reader#kylar degrees of lewdity#my writing
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I wanna start with I love your blog sm and I’m not trying to jump on the train, in fact I don’t even mind if you just read this and don’t post or even just delete after you read, but I know where the “Rook gaslighter” thing comes from and wanted to explain (I also just LOVE talking about rook even if its negative). Im not explaining to change your mind but rather to inform!! Because I love spending hours analyzing the characters, pls don’t stop drawing rook!! Ever!!
ANYWAYS now that “please don’t hate me I have to uncontrollably explain everything about my favorite character(s) the second someone doesn’t know about one small detail 😭” is over, I will explain! During Vil’s lab wear vignette, Rook asks Vil when he’s going to start his new diet. Vil, confused, is like what??? Tf?? And rook is like “yeah :D you have put on 3 pounds exactly :)”. Vil is lowkey like wtf Rook I haven’t noticed shit and rook is like “okayyy but who do you believe? Me or literally anyone else?” And vil is like “yeah you’re right, I’ll adjust my diet, thank you rook”.
The ‘issue’ with the “rook is a gaslighter” is it’s SOLELY a fandom thing (and maybe with other characters, but still, like. Vil is a world class model he CANT put on weight like a normal person could because it’ll unfortunately affect his career. The beauty world is just like that, irl too. Plus, this is something he wants for himself, even if he admits to hating the diets during his overblot, it’s still a part of who he is). Vil, himself, views rook’s behavior as a helpful thing, he appreciates Rook’s supernaturally keen eye! He might be offended but ultimately he would not have Rook as his vice-prez if he didn’t respect or admire Rook in some way.
I adore the way you draw them together!! The one where vil is like “how dare you! Just because he’s strange doesn’t mean he’s like that!” And rook is behind him with blood on his face, he’s so cute! I recently found another blog that is similar to yours that I also wanted to see if you knew bc they draw rook out the same way you do! @/fadiesismin is so cool and I think you’d love their artwork!!! Also I’m very sorry for the long-winded ask, in my defense, I’m also a Sagittarius. Rook 🫶 Me, xoxoxoxoxo!!
Sagittarius Anon! I’m sorry it took this long to reply.
First of all, thank you for enjoying our stuff and for your support! I am very happy that you like the way we portray RookVil. Their relationship is very interesting and honestly quite nuanced; we don’t usually gravitate towards ships that have this strong of a “they’ve been dating for a while” vibe, but these two are just too charming. Probably because despite them deeply understanding each other and sharing a lot of values and passions, they really aren’t a perfect couple, and we get to see it in moments like the vignette you’ve mentioned, or Rook’s lab wear vignette, or on multiple other occasions. Rook isn’t the perfect boyfriend, in fact, he is quite a menace sometimes without really meaning harm (still, he technically made Vil cry at least once); but there also isn’t another person that would get Vil as deeply as Rook does and support him as well as Rook does. What they have is special, but isn’t perfect at all.
As you already know, we also love talking about characters a lot, so I even though I am late with this reply, I am happy to have an opportunity to talk about these two and Rook specifically. So thank you for sending this ask and waiting!
I’ve seen this vignette being used as an example of Rook being gaslighting/manipulative before, and to be honest, I don’t really get this argument. I understand that the reasoning is usually that Rook sounds similar to a man that lies to his girlfriend about her being fat because he wants her to be even skinnier or just to be an asshole about it, but here is the thing: this isn’t what Rook is doing though. Gaslighter always has ulterior motive behind their manipulations, even if it’s just to mess with someone else’s head for fun or to control this person. But with Rook (both in this vignette and in general), what you see is what you get: the man is brutally honest, sometimes even too honest. Vil himself is very aware of that and has mentioned it multiple times.
It’s just like you said! Vil never lets anyone forget that his looks are important to him (both because of his own standards and because he is a model), so of course Rook would comment on something that he noticed. This is the foundation of their relationship: Rook gives Vil his feedback because Rook sees things that other people don’t. Does it mean that this feedback is always 100% necessary and Vil should change things according to how Rook critiques him? Of course not. Maybe sometimes it would be better for Vil to just take it easy and relax instead of perfecting every single thing, but this isn’t what Vil wants for himself: he doesn’t want to be pampered, he wants to be appreciated for his hard work. Rook enables Vil’s perfectionism, but don’t forget that Rook is that force in Vil’s life that doesn’t let him forget what he is doing all that for (I’ve talked about Rook being protective of Vil’s “beauty” = love for art here). Vil having a toned body is something that Rook enjoys, but this is mainly something that Vil wants himself; I kind of think that as long as Vil’s passionate and unapologetic about things that he does, Rook would find beauty in him no matter how he looks. Remember him at the end of ch6 after Vil’s grandpafication? Yeah exactly.
Alright, I digress. The point I am trying to make is that Rook is very direct with Vil, sometimes even too direct, and this is the opposite of gaslighting. Even when he suggests things “lightly”, he is still upfront about them: he doesn’t try to plant any ideas in Vil’s head.
Rook sounds and acts like a jerk sometimes, but he means well, and it’s not an excuse, just a fact. In Rook’s head, Vil always takes his direct remarks and observations very well, what’s so different this time? Even if you’ve been with someone for years, fuckups are unavoidable, especially for someone who has problems with tact.
To reiterate: could this scene be triggering or upsetting? Absolutely. Are there people who comment on other’s weight to make them insecure or make them doubt themselves? Absolutely. Is this what Rook does? Absolutely not. It just isn’t true to his character: he wouldn’t gain anything if Vil started doubting himself, in fact, he would have hated it. He doesn’t want Vil to be insecure or unsure, this is literally what he confronted him about at the end of Ch5. He also doesn’t need to do anything for Vil to trust him more than others: Vil already does. When he was saying that he knew better than anyone or anything else, he stated the truth, and this is what so fucked up about Rook: he really does know better.
It’s very important to remember that these characters have their own circumstances and their own writing, and we are fucking blessed to have a cast of characters this interesting and complex.
By the way, I am saying all of this as someone who wouldn’t mind Rook being a gaslighter and could see fanon scenarios where it could work, but those need to be very well-written not to ruin his character, because honesty is an integral part of Rook Hunt. For better or worse.
Also, I know you haven’t mentioned Jade, Anon, but since this entire discussion started with comparing the two, I wanted to note that Jade’s Dorm Uniform vignette exists. Vil literally looked at him man and decided not to trust him for one moment, even scolded Rook for even humouring the idea that Jade was telling the truth. And this is just one instance; we are constantly being reminded by everyone in cast about the fact that Jade is shady and we shouldn’t take seriously the majority of things that he says (pretty much verbatim to what Floyd said about him in the Playful Land event). Jade doesn’t care about honesty, he doesn’t care about lying either: all he cares about is what to say to make the others react in the most interesting way possible. He loves messing with people, and the world is his playground….
(I am also pretty sure that he comments on Azul’s diet; this has nothing to do with gaslighting either, just thought I’d mention that since we’re talking about this)
Anyways, thank you again for your ask, Anon! I hope this wasn’t an exhausting read. I always feel like I haven’t said everything that I wanted to say, but fortunately I still have tons of replies to write, so I’ll have my chance..! Probably.
PS. @/fadiesismin’s works are very good!!
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Defying Fate
Pairing: Casper/Reader
Rating: Teen and up audiences
Words: 991
Read on AO3
Summary: Finally, you and Casper are together in person, tangled together with your feelings laid bare. Still, there are some things that he needs to ask.
With your head resting on Casper’s bare chest and his fingers smoothing over your hair, you don’t think you’ve ever felt quite so happy, so in love. You’ve been making good use of the past hour or so since he showed up at your door in person, and you practically feel like you’re walking on air.
You can’t believe he’s real.
You can’t believe any of this is real.
But you’re so, so glad that it is.
He calls your name softly, his voice like heaven, and you hum a questioning tone back as you’re pulled from your thoughts, loath to move from your comfortable spot against his chest.
“I…” he starts, and you immediately hear that he sounds nervous, so you look up at him, eyes brimming with all the feelings swirling in your heart. “I am certainly not complaining, but… I… I need to know…”
Your brows draw together in confusion as he seems to gather his thoughts. “Know what?”
He meets your eyes, and his gaze is… sad. Remorseful. “How… how are you okay with this?”
You blink. “What, having sex with you?”
His cheeks flush that pretty pink you adore so much. “N-not that,” he rushes to say, before growing serious once more. “I mean… with being with me. After I have spent the last several years trying to kill you. Doesn’t… does that not bother you? You act as if it’s nothing.”
Oh. That’s what’s on his mind.
You settle back into his arms, laying your head next to his so that your noses almost touch. His gaze is so open and honest, it almost makes your heart hurt. “Well,” you say quietly, “no harm, no foul, I guess?”
He exhales through his nose in something that’s almost like an amused little laugh. “You are so… cavalier about things, Sunshine. Is that truly all you think of it?”
For a grim reaper, Casper sure does wear his heart on his sleeve. Not that you’ve met any other reapers yet—maybe they’re all like this.
You bring your hand to cup his cheek, brushing your thumb across his cheekbone and watching the way his eyes flutter closed. How do you love him so much when you’ve only known he exists for a week?
“I… don’t know, honestly. I don’t know how I’m supposed to feel about it. All I know is how I feel about you.”
He blinks his eyes open, and the look on his face is so very hopeful. Like he needs to hear you tell him that it doesn’t matter to you, that it doesn’t change how you feel about him.
“It’s like… by the time that I realized you’re, y’know, actually the grim reaper and everything, I already felt like I had known you for ages, and that was only after like, two days. And then I get this massive revelation that every weird thing that’s happened to me, everything that people say is crazy but is just my everyday experience, that’s all you? That’s all the doing of this pretty boy on my computer screen?”
He pouts slightly at being called a pretty boy, but you continue.
“But, I mean, I’ve never taken my constant near death experiences seriously. You’ve been watching, right? Have you ever seen me react in any way that isn’t just… a shrug?”
“I suppose not,” he says. “But that doesn’t change the fact that I’ve been the one trying to end your life.”
“You said it yourself, Casper. If it wasn’t you, it would be another reaper. Normally ‘I was just doing my job’ would be a terrible excuse, but given that we’re in the realm of like, fate and magic and the balance of nature type shit, I can’t fault you too much here.” You grin. “I just happened to get lucky, and they assigned me to the one reaper who would fall head over heels for me the minute he decided to break protocol and talk to me.”
He’s blushing again, and you think he’s about to protest the idea that he fell for you that quickly, but instead, he leans in to touch his forehead to yours and says, “any reaper would have fallen for you. I’m the one who got lucky.”
Your heart flutters happily in your chest, and you sound rather breathless as you say, “okay, maybe we’re both lucky,” and you lean in to press your lips to his.
You feel him melt beneath your kiss, as he has every time so far, like he’s turned to liquid: quicksilver at your touch, shimmering and cold. If he says that you’re like sunshine, then you say he’s the moon: something beautiful and bright in the darkness, the light by which you find your way home.
As you pull back slightly, there’s a smile tugging at the corner of your lips. “Or,” you say, “maybe it’s just fate.”
He’s been made breathless by your kiss, but he still smiles back. “Perhaps,” he replies into the scant space between you. “Though, I’m growing fond of the idea that this is in defiance of fate itself. That we are making our own destiny.”
You hum, as if thinking deeply. “Well, clearly we both love breaking the rules, especially for each other.” With a sudden grin, you shift, rolling yourself atop him and watching those pretty red eyes go wide. “Whaddya say we defy fate all night?”
That vivid blush crawls up to his ears, then down his neck to splash across his bare chest. Unable to summon words, he simply nods.
You waggle your eyebrows, only just getting started with your terrible jokes. “Wait, wait, I got another one: how’s this for destiny?”
He rolls his eyes with a huff that doesn’t mask his clear affection, and opens his mouth—probably to call you annoying or something, but he doesn’t get that far, because you’re already kissing him again.
And that’s something he won’t defy.
#a date with death#casper adwd#adwd#casper x reader#x reader#grim reaper adwd#sef writes#waaaugh im so. he's so. babygirl#so excited for beyond the bet#gotta write fluff about it#crossposted on tumblr and ao3#<333
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more people would understand why lawbepo is so magnificent if they stopped viewing bepo like he is some type of pet just because he doesn’t have a human appearance:
law, who is demonstrably not a touchy feely guy, lets his adult male crew mate hug him and glomp him and cuddle him and fuss over him like a worried wife, all the time. law often entrusts his sword to this one adult male crew mate. law takes naps with his adult male crew mate regularly, so often that his adult male crew mate gets jealous seeing him nap with someone else. law rubs his adult male crew mate’s tummy to comfort him when he’s sick. law rarely scolds this adult crew mate and even when he is frustrated he caves quickly because his adult male crew mate is just that cute. law takes his adult male crew mate to a concert, just the two of them, no one else. a concert that law wouldn’t normally ever be interested in going to, but he goes to this concert because he knows his adult male crew mate really wants to go. there was a time when law never expected to see his crew again, he was fully prepared to die when he went after doflamingo, but he still holds on to this one adult male crew mate’s vivre card. interesting…
fr tho, lawbepo has A LOT backing it up, one might argue the most of all possible law ships. it makes no sense to me that there is backlash to lawbepo because like. this is ONE PIECE. it has been established in canon that there are races in the world of OP that don’t have a typical human appearance, and we see this very early on when we meet the fishmen. it really shouldn’t be seen as outlandish in OP fandom for there to be ships that include non-human appearing characters.
if the haters don’t get lawbepo, it’s because they don’t want to get it. and i think that’s their loss because lawbepo is an amazing ship and enhances all characters involved (and surrounding characters if we are including the rest of the heart pirate crew) but especially law! anyway, i just want to thank you so much for drawing lawbepo and heart pirates, i love your art and how you have fleshed out these characters !
WHO IS THAT ADULT MALE CREW MATE????
ITS BEPO!!!
fr tho, lawbepo has A LOT backing it up, one might argue the most of all possible law ships
one might and i will! cuz its true!!!
thank you so much for the nice message ♥♥♥ agreeing with everything ♥
sorry everyone who doesnt like that their sexyman fave might happily be a furry...it does however enhance his character greatly. why are you so sexy but it's one of the best thing ever cuz its pretty rare to have a mixed pair like that especially when its a story filled with humans.
maybe i didnt read enough manga that to me their relationship is so unique exactly because bepo is not a pet - you have plenty characters in other stories that just have very loyal pets that are semi sentient and very useful but cant speak and ultimately are animals. but bepo is a guy and a friend and thats so awesome
he doesnt have a lot of scenes sadly (and doesnt have any COOL scenes, but i can kinda live with that) so he is not taken seriously as a person ppl just oh right law's pillow. YES HE IS BUT HE IS ALSO LAW'S OLD FRIEND
thankfully the ship doesnt have THAT many haters, but the fluffiness roundness and cuteness that law loves co much is bepo's curse to forever be a mascot while law is shipped off with human characters he is barely friendly with 😔
but we live, we happy, lawbepo family is strong, more than i could ever imagine and i love you guys so much ♥♥♥
#anonymous#lawbepo#its gonna get in the search results anyway so im tagging#so its caught by blacklists
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The Forest
Damien x F!Reader smut one shot
CW: F!Reader, smut, Public sex, oral sex (F!Receiving), P in V, scratch marks, role play, size kink (if u squint), nicknames (slut, whore, baby, etc), cream pie,
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I walk around the forest with a flashlight in my hand as I explore. I was adventuring around to see if I can find any ghost or demons, I sighed as I go to sit down knowing my only result is to summon one of if I can’t find any. I go to my bag as I pull out candles and then draw out a pentagram with ashes.
Once I finished I lit the candles as I sit in front of it and then say out words to summon a demon. After I said it all that was heard was the sounds of nature. I pouted as then the candles soon blew out and then relit with blue flames as soon as glowing appeared on the ground soon appeared the son of satan himself.
damien
“So you summoned me hm?” the demon stands above me as I stared into his red eyes. I just nod slowly as the demons smirked.
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“you like this? you like this don’t you?, what a slut”
“Y-yes! baby I love this so much!!”
I grip onto damien as he pounds my pussy in a fast pace. I felt my nails dig into his back as the go all the way down his back. My nails keep dragging down his back every time I move them back up. My white dress getting dirty from all the dirt and leaves on the floor.
Damien continuous pound my pussy on the ash pentagram I made for his summoning. Before he began fucking my hole, damien made me stand up and lean against a tree as he sucked on my clit while fingering me to prep me for his big cock, which was already out when he ate me out.
“R-right there! Oh damien!”
“feels good hm? You love when I hit your sweet spot”
Damien bites his lip as he looks at your messy face. Your mascara running down your face as mouth was agape letting out the sweetest moans that damien has ever heard. Damien throws his head back as he kept going. He enjoyed being on top of you.
He loves how you submit to him instantly under his touch. He loves seeing you unravel for him. He loves when you beg for more and to move faster. Soon damien lifted your legs to put you in a mating press as he soon went deeper which he noticed making you moan out loudly.
As damien kept moving he soon felt himself coming close as he goes to rub your clit so you can cum before him. He saw you moan out as soon later he saw your legs shake with pleasure as he felt his dick soaked in your ecstasy. That moment made damien cum deep inside you. He came so much in you it started leaking which made damien thrust into the cum in you more.
“Thank you, thank you princess for doing that roleplay with me..<3”
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this does not give an invitation to request for damien when I open my inbox I only made this bc me and @mccormicksgirl were talking about damien fucking u in a forest concept and I had to write it,,, I hope this doesn’t sound mean im still taking a break from him :( <3
#south park#south park fanfiction#south park x reader#south park x y/n#damien thorn#south park x reader smut#damien thorn x you#south park smut#damien thorn x reader#entry way to hell (heaven)#damien thorn x reader smut#damien thorn smut#damien thorn x you smut#damien x y/n#damien x y/n smut
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MarvelDC anon x5 sorry im back again I just wanted to say I agree 100% with everything you say and don’t rly have anything to add there that isnt just recycling your points. It’s genuinely fucking crazy how the entire point of the superhero in 90% of cases is that they are vigilantes who operate outside of the legal system and yet so many of them are given plot lines about how the cops or the military are Awesome. Or like will show them buddy buddy with cops or the government. LIKE STOP ITTTT. STOP ITTTTT. And most of the time too it’s for characters where them being hyper connected with the government etc makes their overall story Worse. Ill use flash as an example bc You Know that guy but I LOVE flash I love him as a disabled character struggling w addiction issues for personal reasons BUT HIM LOSING HIS LEGS LIKE SHOOTING PEOPLE IN THE SWANA REGION AND THEN BECOMING A GOVERNMENT GUY IS SO FUCKING ASSSSSSS IT MAKES HIM WORSE AS A CHARACTER AND A PERSON IN A WAY THAT ISNT INTERESTING BECAUSE THEY NEVER SAY ANYTHING INTERESTING ABOUT IT!!!!! Like why the fuck did Flash even become disabled in regard to Going To Commit Imperialism For The U. S. A like NYC gets destroyed on the daily!!!! Have him lose his legs by a building falling on top of him!!!! Im spitballing ideas here but why wasn’t Venom Flash uhhhhhh Him Losing his legs in an event like that, in conjunction with him saving someone else, since this is the era of Symby and Eddie's breakup Symby is slithering along + sees this and helps him out, bc you know they can make their own choices and do what they want and maybe they wanna be a hero too even for a moment, then like maybe a few months later or whatever They Meet again and Symby is like hey….. I felt something when we bonded for that brief time. Im going through something rough too right now (The Divorce) so why don’t we try something new together. AND NOW BOOM. you can have Flash as Venom. Now without the stupid venom as addiction metaphor too! Like if you really fucking want you can include stuff about the government trying to manipulate them or whatever but as a whole this would have been so much better of an angle to start venom flash with but NO that we DIDNT GET Because Of The Military Complex meaning We Cant Ever Have Good Things
i know this is so controversial among the venom fans but like i'm really not that attached to flash lmfao i know nothing about him he's just some guy to me i just know he's so much better than mac gargan cuz by god that was a dark time for venom comics.
so now i'm the one nodding along with you and not adding anything lol. i trust you to come up with a better backstory for him because i literally don't know anything about him beyond the vaguest outline. i don't even know what war he fought in that he lost his legs to i dont know Anything. eddie some little absolute freak to me but flash is just some guy
Like if you really fucking want you can include stuff about the government trying to manipulate them or whatever but as a whole this would have been so much better of an angle to start venom flash with but NO that we DIDNT GET Because Of The Military Complex meaning We Cant Ever Have Good Things
i do have to say though that this is totally how i thought venom 2011 was going to go. the first like, four-ish issues got my hopes up so much. i really honestly thought it was going to be drawing parallels between symby and flash how they are ultimately just tools of the government, just weapons that can be discarded in pushing the military's agenda.
this whole page drove me insane at the time and it still kinda does. the way flash is lying directly to his superior to stay with symby longer despite how much he's been drilled that being with the symbiote too long is a danger. they aren't friends yet this early but there's still this impulse to stick with it. and it's because they're parallels!!! the symbiote is quite literally being treated as a mindless tool by the government - it's deprived of all rights that a sentient, sapient being requires. it's trapped and it's being forced into serving and fighting on behalf of a government that doesn't even care for it. likewise, flash is being given the illusion of choice, and to some extent he still does have a choice, but he's being so manipulated by the government here that really he is also just a mindless tool for them - or at least, they want him to be mindless about it. the final fucking panel at the bottom of the final page is crazy.
it was such a strong start to a run that i was very apprehensive about due to aforementioned lack of knowledge of flash as a character, and my general fed-up-ness with the way the comics had been handling venom and eddie in general during that irl time period. so i was so so hoping that it would be taking a blatant and staunch anti-military stance, or even at the bare minimum if it was even still done in a liberal way, as long as there was still SOME criticism of the military complex i would be jumping for joy. and the idea of flash and symby then also bonding during all that?!! crazy. but then it just kinda. goes off the fucking rails halfway through that run/??? like demons and hell and satan kinda off the rails. absolute bonkers. i need to reread venom 2011 actually i barely remember it it was like a fever dream to me. could have been because i descended into madness shortly after i read it but i digress
#side note is this the same anon as the v2003 sexism one cuz lol#we are out here critically analyzing marvel comics for all their spoken and unspoken biases prejudices and propagandas#ask#Anonymous#v posting#re: what war flash fought in#pretty sure i saw in some ASM issues he was in vietnam#but then also pretty sure i saw in .. some other issues. cant remember which. that he was in afghanistan#and it's like so incredibly dystopian to me that the US is such a war mongering machine that fucking superhero comics need to#adapt their characters to whatever war we're currently waging across the globe
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may I offer another shane doodle 🤲💜
#shane stardew valley#stardew valley shane#stardew valley#stardew valley fanart#I still don’t know how to draw him but I love him#I’m also still in fall in game but I kept seeing his winter clothes so#I got the 10 heart event yesterday also so I’m SKDKDFNVHNHFB#I’m ok#can’t wait to propose in winter me thinks
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I may or may not still be thinking about him all the time.
#drumbot brian#the mechanisms#the mechs#the mechanisms band#i love him so much#look at him smelling the rose#he deserves to just enjoy life#let my man be happy#why does my brain still insist on drawing poses with hands when I clearly don’t know how to draw hands?
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