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annoyed-galaxy · 3 years

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Shakarian First Date

Since Garrus took Shepard somewhere they weren't supposed to be and fucking fired snipers in said forbidden area, I thought the lock in romance scene would have been better if they got chased and thrown in jail for a bit. Just some small stuff cause I really need the cute healing right now. Before...yknow...I work on the ME3 fix-it fic.

Lyris made her way towards the C-Sec shuttles. Her hands were in her hoodie pockets as she approached Garrus. He was leaning casually against the railing and she smirked as he pushed himself off of it. “Shepard, glad you came,” he greeted, his mandibles stretching out into the turian smile she got so used to seeing.

“Heard you wanted to hang out,” she smiled back. “What’d you have in mind?”

“Something that doesn’t involve fighting Reapers,” he said.

She snorted and rolled her eyes. “Well, I don’t think they’ve conquered the bar yet.”

“I’ve already scoped it out. But then I thought...if this was my last day alive, I’d like to remember it,” he insisted.

Lyris raised an eyebrow, taking her hands out of her pockets and crossing her arms. “So?”

“So, I had an idea...” He turned towards the console to call a car. When the car landed, she hopped in the passenger side as Garrus took the controls. If he was taking her on a joy ride, she was not about to complain. She had always wanted to take a ride around the Citadel, but it was always under attack or she was busy getting shot at or well...Reapers.

“Alright, where we going? Is there a destination, or are we just doing a joy ride?” Lyris asked, once they were in the air.

“Somewhere we’re not supposed to,” he smirked, a mandible stretching out to one side.

Lyris leaned back in the seat and chuckled. “Now you’re talking.”

“Ever have that one thing you’ve always wanted to do before you died, Shepard?” Garrus asked.

Lyris smiled slyly. “I’ve woken up with a turian next to me.” Lyris looked over at Garrus, a smirk on her face.

“Still trying to make me blush?”

“Until it works,” she teased. Garrus rolled his eyes. “So what’s your one thing?”

“The whole time I worked at C-Sec, I’d stare at the top of the Presidium and say to myself: I want to go up there. But I never did. There were one-hundred and thirty seven regulations telling me I couldn’t,” he explained.

“So what? Did you get them changed?”

“No. Now I just don’t give a damn.”

Lyris smiled, enjoying this new carefree Garrus. He had changed a lot since she first met him. From C-Sec officer to vigilante to expert advisor on Reapers. She wondered if it was because of her. If she had any influence on him and his attitude. Hopefully she wasn’t too bad of an example.

The car rose higher into the air and then Garrus parked it onto one of the beams that stretched from side to side across the Presidium. He stepped out and Lyris followed. “Figured it’s time to something stupid just for the hell of it. Might be the last chance we ever get.”

Lyris looked down at the Presidium, watching the skycars above them drive by. The view was beautiful. So much green and blue in this one spot: grass, plants, water. It was peaceful, reminded her of Earth before the Reapers. Looking out at the Presidium made her forget that Reapers were attacking the galaxy. That she wasn’t in the middle of a war, trying to complete impossible tasks. Getting species that fought for centuries to work together. “It’s incredible,” she whispered.

Garrus turned to her, seeing her eyes sparkle with life and amazement. “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t hope it would inspire a certain...mood.” Lyris’s eyes met his and she could tell there was more to this.

“Something on your mind, then?” she asked, turning towards him.

His mandibles quivered, as if he was nervous. “It seemed like you needed time to...figure us out.” He stepped closer to her. “Are you ready to be a one-turian kind of woman?”

His voice was soft, as if he was unsure of himself, unsure if she really wanted him. He’s been with her since the beginning. Since Saren, the geth, Sovereign, on to the Collectors, and now with the Reapers. He was her most reliable squadmate, always watching over her back whenever she charged into battle with her biotics. He reminded her, painfully, of Gwen. Maybe that’s why she liked him so much. It was as if Gwen was a part of him. But at the same time, he was his own person.

When she died, it was as if the chains holding her in her past life had dissolved and when she was brought back to life, she was reborn, renewed. She let go of her parents’ death, of Gwen’s death, of all the people she had lost on Torfan. When she was surrounded by Cerberus strangers and felt threatened, Garrus had managed to find his way into her life. She had a friend with her then and she couldn’t afford to seclude herself away.

The feelings that formed for Garrus just...happened. She didn’t know who fell first, her or him. All she knew is that she wanted to be with Garrus until the end. She wouldn’t lose him. She was done losing people. She would take on the Reapers, as long as he was by her side.

“The only thing that made leaving Earth bearable was knowing that you were out there somewhere.” As she said the words, Garrus’s eyes lit up.

“I felt the same way. The worst part about the galaxy going to hell would’ve been never getting to see you again.” His voice had more confidence in it, as if hearing her say those words erased any uncertainties he had.

She stepped closer to him. “Well, here I am. Exactly where I want to be.” Lyris put her hands on his chest and looked up into his eyes. The next few words she said would put to rest her old life and allow her to truly move on. She would always love Gwen Tamashi, but she also knew Gwen would want her to move on. “I love you, Garrus Vakarian.” The words rang true as she said them. Her heart swelled as she waited for his response.

He seemed surprised, bringing a hand to his head and scratching it nervously. “Oh. Wow. The vids Joker gave me never got this far,” he laughed nervously. “There was the part about sleeping together, but this...I don’t know what to do...”

Lyris smirked and pulled him down for a kiss. “Who needs a vid when you’ve got me?” she chuckled as she pulled back, a smug look on her face.

A flash of confidence soared through his eyes. She felt his arms wrap around her and next thing she knew, she was halfway off her feet, laying in his arms. His mandibles quivered before he leaned in for a kiss. Kissing a turian was a different experience as he didn’t really have lips, but Lyris appreciated it regardless as she returned it. Honestly, she could have stayed like this forever, in his arms, his face nuzzled against hers. There were no Reapers here, no death, no politics, just peace and a lovely turian.

He pulled back, much to her dismay, and put her on her feet again. They stared at each other for a few more moments before Garrus turned to a box where a couple of sniper rifles were. “Now, before we head back, there is one thing we are going to settle once and for all.” He seemed at ease now, as if a great weight was lifted off his shoulders. Maybe it was since she cleared the air. It made her happy to see how relieved he was. He picked up one of the sniper rifles and turned back to her. “Not saying you don’t know how to handle a gun. Just saying some of us know how to make it dance.” He tossed the rifle to her. “So, let’s find out who’s the best shot.”

Really. Oh he really wanted to go there. Lyris snorted as she prepped the sniper. “There are a few people in the galaxy who’ve seen me in action, Garrus. They seemed impressed.” Garrus grabbed a bottle from the boxes as she said this.

He snorted. “Maybe, but I’ve actually seen you dance, Shepard...No comment.”

Lyris clicked her tongue and readied the sniper. “All right, Vakarian. You’re going down.” She was bringing this hotshot down. Nobody insults her dancing!

“Don’t worry, I loaded it with practice slugs for when you miss,” he said cheekily. Lyris rolled her eyes and took her stance. Did she use a sniper often? No. Did she at least know how to use one? Hell yes. She preferred her biotics and close combat rather than long range. But now was the time to defend her honor and make Garrus eat dirt.

He threw the bottle and as it soared through the air, Lyris aimed, held her breath and then fired, shattering the bottle and watching as the liquid within burst free and fell down. She tilted her head towards Garrus, smirk on her face. Eat it, she thought.

“That was an easy one. Let you build up your confidence.” He turned back to grab another bottle. “Long range, I wrote the book. Nobody alive can do this, not even Commander Shepard.” Lyris crossed her arms, raising her eyebrows at the challenge. He tossed the bottle to her. “Give me a tough one,” he challenged as he grabbed his own sniper.

Lyris stretched and swung her arms about for a bit, getting ready to throw the bottle as far as she could. She backed up and aimed, then she ran forward a bit and launched the bottle. As soon as it was out of her hand, Garrus shot the bottle down. “I said a tough one!” he sneered.

“Alright, you cocky hotshot, step aside,” Lyris picked up her rifle again. As he got ready to throw the bottle, Lyris’s focus sharpened and as soon as she saw the bottle in her view...

It shattered and the sound of her rifle echoed all around. She then looked at Garrus, a smug look on her face again. “Nobody alive, maybe, but technically I died,” she shrugged.

Garrus snorted. “Yeah, well, next time we’ll throw in a herd of rampaging Kilxen. That’s how you separate the rookies from the pros.”

Lyris laughed but was cut off by the sound of sirens. She and Garrus turned to see a C-Sec car with the sirens on heading their way. “Remember how you said we’re not supposed to be up here?” Lyris quipped, throwing the rifle down and heading to the car.

“Yeah maybe shooting a gun wasn’t a good idea,” he laughed as he joined her. “Hold on.” The car lurched and they started speeding away from the C-Sec car. The sirens blared louder and sped up, beginning to chase them.

“Garrus are you running from the cops?!” Lyris exclaimed, laughter in her voice.

“Like I said, I don’t give a damn!” Garrus sped up, the car lurching above traffic towards the fake morning sky. Lyris looked behind her and saw that another C-Sec car had joined its partner.

“I hope you’re as good of a getaway driver as you are a shot,” she teased. “We got another one.”

Garrus’s mandible twitched and his voice purred. “Hold on tight then.” The car began weaving through traffic, hoping to lose the C-Sec cars on their tail. Until one came up to their side. “Crap.” Garrus forced the car downwards, speeding towards the water that traveled through the Presidium.

“A car chase as a first date? My, my, Garrus you know how to make an impression,” Lyris joked.

Garrus opened his mouth, ready to say something, but was cut off when more C-Sec cars cut them off in front. Garrus stopped the car and was about to turn around, but their chasers behind them cut them off. They were surrounded. Garrus looked over at Lyris. “Let’s just hope Bailey is here.”

Lyris was laying on Garrus’s lap and he absentmindedly ran his hand through her hair. They were in a jail cell, the door locked, but neither really seemed to care. “Garrus, stick to shooting things, not driving,” Lyris chuckled.

“I’d say I’m still a better driver than you. Should I remind you of the trips in the Mako?” Garrus challenged tilting his head to the side.

“Excuse you, I was a damn good driver when it came to the Mako.”

“Yeah sure. Say that to the concussions I would get all the time you flipped it over. I’m honestly amazed we never blew up!”

Lyris rolled her eyes.

The door to the cell open and they turned to look who it was.

Joker was standing in the doorway, his arms crossed with Bailey behind him. “Was wondering when you two would finally go out on a date,” Joker chuckled. “Just didn’t expect you guys to get arrested.”

“Yeah who knew Commander Shepard and Garrus Vakarian were such troublemakers,” Bailey snorted. “You two are free to go.”

Lyris sat up and smiled at Joker. “They didn’t make you bail us out did they? Cause I could have just used my Spectre status.”

“No I actually told Commander Bailey to keep you guys locked up for a bit,” Joker laughed. “I just found it funny Commander Shepard, hero of the Citadel, getting in trouble for being in places she’s not supposed to be.”

“Hey, it was Garrus’s idea,” Lyris countered pointing back to the turian who stood up.

Joker laughed again as he moved out of the doorway. “Breaking the law as a first date, nice you two. Glad to see you finally made a move Garrus.”

Garrus’s mandibles twitched again, as if he was embarrassed while Joker led them out of the C-Sec offices. “We should totally do that again,” Lyris said, looking up at Garrus. He relaxed and wrapped an arm around her shoulders.

“Definitely.”

#mass effect #mass effect 3 #mass effect legendary edition #mele #mass effect shepard #mass effect garrus vakarian #mass effect femshep #femshep x garrus #shakarian #OC: Lyris Shepard #writing #G-W76

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aquagirl1978 · 3 years

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What's next, Nikolai? - Queen of Thieves fanfic - Nikolai Stirling

A/N - This is somewhat a Part Two to a story my friend @violettduchess wrote, which you can read HERE. Now that Nikolai has officially ended, I decided to write his part of this AU world we created.

Warnings - none

Tagging - @aliboo @enchantedlovestruckfan @otakufangirl-12 @mcira @virtueassassin @fan-girl-2 @remys-lucky-franc

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Nikolai stared down the long, stark hallway, his clear blue eyes narrowing, perplexed. There was something familiar about this place, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. And it was driving him nuts. Normally one to welcome a challenge, Nikolai was a touch surprised that his heart just wasn't fully into this particular one.

The hallway was nondescript, save for a single, rather simple doorway bearing no marking. Nikolai had slowed his footsteps as he approached the doorway in hopes of hearing something, but there was nothing. Until there wasn't.

Nikolai heard the rich laughter before the footsteps. That laugh, it was familiar; he knew he had heard it before.

"Well, well, well," the sultry voice greeted him. "I had heard the rumors, but I wanted to see this for myself." Nikolai turned around, knowing he would be facing his former nemesis, the Winter Prince. "I must say," Sevastian said, with a small, somewhat sad, smile. "Part of me was hoping it was not true." Sevastian was all too familiar with the heartache that came with retirement. His heart had ached for so long, missing his MC. And despite their differences, this was a pain he wished Nikolai did not have to bear. This was a pain no one should have to suffer through.

"So this is what this place is." Nikolai's voice is soft, his eyes flicking across the space; Sevastian's frown confirming Nikolai's worst fears. His time had truly come. This marked the end of the Thief Lord's story.

Sevastian clasped Nikolai's shoulder, his cool hand offering a firm, yet comforting grip. "It wasn't that long ago that I was in your shoes..." His voice trailed off as he glanced away off into the distance. Halloween was so long ago, and yet the wound still so raw. Each and every time someone new joined him in retirement - Nathan, Lyris, Nav, Onyx and Wrath - his wound reopened, flooding his body with bittersweet memories of that day. Yes, he was given a truly beautiful ending - one of the absolute best, and he wouldn't change a thing about it - but a part of his heart remained in Altadellys with his MC. And times like this, he especially missed his heart.

Sevastian shook his head slightly, snapping out of his reverie and returned Nikolai's gaze. Something flashed through Nikolai's eyes, a sense of shared understanding, perhaps. "I thought this would be easier if you had a friend."

Both of Nickolai's eyebrows arched, a puzzled look filling his face. "Niko!" A familiar voice called out from behind him, relief flooded Nikolai, warming his soul. If Nikolai couldn't have his MC, then this was certainly the next best thing.

Nikolai turned to find his best friend, no, his brother, approaching quickly. Remy had his signature smile plastered on his face, his hazel eyes crinkling. They immediately embraced in a tight hug. Remy took a step back, inspecting Nikolai. "You look good, Niko. Marriage...suits you," he added with a wink. "But tell me, how is she? How's our girl?"

Nikolai's face fell immediately, his jaw moved, but the words escaped him. His solnishko...how is she doing, now that he had gone? How is she handling this? Remy held up one hand, the other grasping his shoulder, his voice calm and soothing. "She's with Vivienne now. She's in excellent hands, yes?" Nikolai nodded slowly. He noticed Sevastian lazily leaning against the wall, silently observing their reunion. Is this what he felt the last time they met? The pain, the agony of being without your love?

Maybe they were more alike than he initially thought. There were not many out there with the passion they shared for their MCs or so driven by their love that without it... No, Nikolai was not going to let himself be overwhelmed with these terrible, nightmarish thoughts right now. His MC would be returning to him soon, he knew this deep in his heart. Vivienne was nearing her end as well.

"Come, Niko...we've been waiting for you," Remy gestured towards the doorway.

A single eyebrow arched this time.

"Oh, don't look so surprised. Jett, Leon and Zoe are in there. They've been missing you," Remy exclaimed dramatically. He paused, then dropped his voice. "I've missed you."

Nikolai turned to Sevastian, a small smirk forming on his lips as he winked at the Thief Lord. He would have to thank the prince later for bringing Remy to be one of the first to greet him.

The door suddenly opened, a head popping out, his skin a curious shade of blue with orange patches and what appeared to be purple lettuce sprouting where hair should be.

"Hey!" he shouted, "Nate and Jett wanted to know if we were dealing you into the next hand."

"Yes, yes, Nav. Tell them to deal all of us in," Remy says arrogantly, answering for everyone. "Tell the cowboy to hold his horses, we'll be there in a minute."

"And you, Your Frostiness." Sevastian tilted his head in acknowledgment. "No strip poker this time. And no cheating."

Sevastian shrugged a single shoulder. "It’s not cheating if you're never caught."

The alien shook his head and returned to the room, closing the door behind him.

Remy rolled his eyes and sighed loudly. "You'll have to forgive him. Nav is relatively new here, it was a complete shock for him to learn he was retired. And after only four seasons. He's still getting used to things here."

"I must warn you though, whatever you do, do not engage the grumpy pilot in the very unfashionable jacket," Remy made a disgusted face, his French accent more pronounced now as he spoke. "All day long it's 'Where's my whiskey?' and 'Where's my MC?'"

Sevastian pushed off the wall he was leaning against and joined the pair. "And don't bring up Zhora to him," he added, rolling his eyes.

Remy groaned loudly. "And what exactly is a Zhora?" Nikolai smiled as he saw the prince and the con man engaged in an easy exchange. Yes, this hurt more than he ever thought it could. No one would ever replace his MC. And he was not prepared for this terrible pain one bit. But maybe, just maybe things won't be so bad after all.

#lovestruck #fanfiction #reigning passions fanfic #lovestruck fanfic #queen of thieves #nikolai stirling #nikolai x mc #qot nikolai #remy chevalier #sevastian of the winter

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escapewriter · 4 years

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Something Great

pairing : mingyu x reader

synopsis : he knows napkins are used for cleaning up messes, but he can’t help but write cute notes to his favorite cashier.

genre : fluff, slight angst

word count : 3.5k

warnings : mentions of cheating

posted : 11/26/20

a/n : this isnt proofread. so i apologize if some things dont make sense.

TAGLIST : @vibecheckvernon @beomiebear5 @lightoflife @skylions-den

send me an ask/dm if you would like to be on the taglist

pieces of love masterlist // playlist // main masterlist

Kim Mingyu or coward for short, according to Chan’s dictionary. Chan has watched this man admire you for so long, yet he has never grown a pair to ask you out. Even Mingyu wanted to ask you out, but like hell he’d know what to say.

Mingyu’s eyes watched your every move, and yes he knows it's creepy, Chan told him already, but he couldn’t help it. The man is absolutely infatuated with you.

“Why don’t you just ask them out? I mean it’s not like they don’t have your order memorized already.”

“Shut up Chan, they have yours memorized too. And dude, you really believe that they’d like ME?”

Chan looked at the elder, dumbfounded. He really couldn’t believe what was coming out of his best friend's mouth.

“You act like I wouldn’t date you if I was gay. Believe me, if you weren’t all soft and innocent, you’d know you could pick up.

Mingyu rolled his eyes at that, choosing to avoid any further questions. He has watched you for a couple months now, and no, not like stalking, but just frequent visits at his favorite coffee shop to see his favorite cashier.

If you were being honest, you didn’t notice Mingyu. The reason you know his and Chan’s order is because they always come at 3:30 which is 30 minutes right after you start your shift. Plus, they order the same thing over and over again. But it doesn’t change the fact that all you know is their order and names. You didn’t have time or the attention span to get to know them, and honestly, you didn’t really want to. So you go about your day, going through the same routine like you’re riding a carousel.

Mingyu goes about his day too, the only difference is you’re on his mind 24/7. He always gets excited whenever his afternoon classes end because that means he can drag Chan to accompany him to the cafe.

Chan glared hard at Mingyu who had all of his homework out, but wasn’t doing any work. “Dude, if you’re only going to drag me here to watch you stare at your imaginary significant other, don’t bring me next time.”

“Okay, okay. I’ll work.” Mingyu took his final glance at you as you took someone's order before he opened his laptop and began his homework.

Chan left early due to a group project meeting that he failed to remember to go to until he got an angry call from Seungkwan. Mingyu looked at the empty seat in front of him, thinking about everything Chan said, or mainly what he has been repeating ever since Mingyu stepped foot into the cafe many months ago.

He wants to confess, but all he is to you, is a regular customer. That’s all he’ll ever be but Mingyu can’t help but wonder and have a little hope that you probably look forward to him showing up at 3:30.

It’s good that he has hope but it shouldn’t be high because he probably wouldn’t be able to handle the fact that you had a boyfriend. It wasn’t something that everyone knew because the two of you weren’t exactly known in school. Hell, people call you coffee cashier because they don’t have the time to read your nametag.

Mingyu checked the time and saw that it was 4:30. He had to leave before your shift ends, not to follow you, no, but to write you your note. He’s been writing you small notes once a week, telling you what he admires about you as well as telling you about his day. It’s kinda creepy, but shouldn’t people like these types of things? It’s sweet, right?

He took a napkin and quickly wrote his note. He gathered his things as he took another look at you and left the cafe.

“Oh YN~” You rolled your eyes, hearing your coworker say your name in a singing tune.

“What is it Joshua?”

“Your secret admirer has striked, once again.” He held out his hand holding the napkin which contained the note.

“You’re kidding. You sure you’re not the one writing these?” Your eyes narrowed at Joshua who scoffed.

“Just be glad that someone out there actually likes you. And don’t give me that ‘I have a boyfriend’ crap. He’s not good FOR you or even TO you and you know it.” He grabbed your arm and set the napkin on your palm before returning to his station.

You sighed and looked at the napkin in your hand. Why couldn’t this person just approach you and tell you these things or even try to talk to you? Or maybe they do talk to you, you just don’t know who it is.

Impossible, you don’t have any friends :)

You unfolded the napkin, reading the note:

Hi YN,

I hope you've had a lovely day today. It looks like you did, considering how your eyes lit up when someone walked in. I wish I had your energy. Anyway, I hope your day continues to stay amazing and always keep that smile on your face. It looks beautiful on you :) lyric of the week : ‘i want you here with me’

-anon

You couldn’t lie, the notes always made your week, but the lyrics are very vague and you always try to figure out which song it’s from. They were very sweet and you were so curious about who it could be, but at the same time, it scares you. You were falling for their words, and it was such a dangerous thing because, one, you had a boyfriend, and two, words can be deceiving.

You put the napkin in your pocket and walked to the break room, taking your apron off and clocking out. Taking your bag and coat off the table, you walked out of the break room.

“Alright Shua, I’m heading out.”

“Later YN. Give my worst to the man.”

You rolled your eyes, silently agreeing with him as you dreaded to go home to the man you… dated.

“Okay Mingyu, I have an idea, and hear me out.” Mingyu pursed his lips as he looked at his younger friend. “Why don’t you try to talk with YN?”

Mingyu stopped in his tracks, “Are you crazy?”

The two were walking to the cafe when Chan proposed his idea. He didn’t know what was wrong with the idea, it seemed like a really good plan because Mingyu would be establishing a friendship with you.

“No, you’re crazy. I’m gonna go and try to be their friend while you stand back and watch, wishing it was you instead. And you can’t get mad if they fall in love with me instead of youuu~” Mingyu glared, storming into the cafe, the serious look on his facial features fading completely into a soft smile as you greeted him.

“Hi Mingyu! Hey Chan? The usual?”

“Hey-“

“YN!” Mingyu looked at Chan who appeared from behind him.

“Yes, we would like the usual, thank you.”

You smiled and clicked your tongue, “You got it.”

Chan approached the counter as he turned his head, shooting Mingyu a wink before turning to look at you, who was preparing the drinks.

“So YN, Mingyu and I kinda come here often but we never really talked to you. I think it’d be nice to get on some sort of friendship level, don’t you think?”

This is what you wanted to avoid, the friendship. It wasn’t a bad idea, but you just didn’t have the time or energy to go and trust some people you barely know, even if they were regulars. You’ve had your back stabbed plenty of times before and you don’t know if you could handle any more of it.

By now, Mingyu was standing next to Chan, silent as he watched you make their coffee. “Uh, I mean sure, but it’d have to be here because I’m very busy outside of work.” You smiled as you handed them their drinks, lying straight to their faces.

“Oh that’s cool, we just want to be able to talk to you if you were bored here,” Chan was very genuine with his words, but he also wanted to help Mingyu, in which he was thankful for.

“Alright cool, can’t wait to greet you guys tomorrow as my friends.”

Well, now you can’t get out of this one.

“You know, that Mingyu guy is very sweet to you.” You looked at the said man, sitting in his usual spot at the corner of the cafe with Chan.

“He is Shua, I didn’t say he wasn’t.”

“I know that, but you’ve been ‘friends’ with them for like almost two weeks now. I suggest you ditch the ass and get with Mingyu.”

You laughed softly. Joshua didn’t know that you already left the said ass so your mind began to spin as you actually considered the idea.

He’s been cheating on you, and you knew it, you just pretended that you didn’t. You didn’t have the mental energy to breakup with him, but you caught him, so you had to.

“Shua.”

He hummed, turning to look at you.

“I broke up with him.”

“FUCK YES!” His arms shot up, a muffin and a pair of tongs in his hands, “Fucking finally oh my god. Absolutely hate that man.”

You shook your head and sat on a stool, eyes averting over to the corner. Mingyu is a sweet guy, and he is fairly good looking. Who are you kidding, a man like that should be in a relationship. But what if he was in a relationship with you?

“YN? YN!”

You blinked, looking away from the now empty seat and over to Joshua who was smirking at you.

“You were staring.”

“No I wasn’t, what is it?”

He smirked but let it slide, holding out his hand that contained another napkin.

“Well at least you know your secret admirer is still alive after they didn’t leave a napkin last week.”

You took the napkin and went into the break room after thanking him. You really needed this note to cheer you up because if you were being honest, you really did like your ex, and it hurts to know he didn’t care.

Hi YN,

I’m sorry I didn’t write last week. I don’t even know if you get these, but last week, I felt very conflicted. I didn’t know if I should stop so I tested the waters. But today, you didn’t have that spark in your eyes so I secretly hoped it was because you didn’t get a letter last week, so you were probably sad you might not get one this week. That’s probably not it though. I just hope your day gets better and hopefully this note will give you a smile because someone out there (me hehe) admires you. Lyric of the week : ‘come on jump out at me, come on bring everything’ (p.s. It’s all from the same song)

-anon

You sighed softly, biting your lip to fight off the smile creeping onto your face. You really wanted to know who gave you these letters, or where they were left.

Heading out, you called for Joshua. “Shua! Where do you find these napkins?”

“You know how I’m on clean up duty? I usually find them by the trash. Sometimes I find them on the counter where people pick up their drinks or on tables. It’s not always in one spot.”

You pouted, disappointed that it wasn’t only in one spot as you were hoping you could figure out who the mystery person is. You bid Joshua goodbye, heading home for the rest of the evening.

Joshua watched as you left, whipping out his phone, and texting his friend.

Joshua : dude, better hurry up and tell them. this anon man is trying to steal them from you.

Mingyu : aren’t you forgetting that I am the anon man.

Joshua : well i know that, but it’s getting boring. make your move!

Mingyu : dude they don’t like me!

Joshua sighed. He truly thinks that you’re trying to convince yourself that you have no feelings for Mingyu. Meanwhile, Mingyu is the perfect guy who is trustworthy and would treat you right, but you’re completely blinded by the fact that all men are the same.

Joshua : just wait dude, one day, you’ll see that they do.

Joshua’s words made Mingyu’s head spin the whole weekend. He was sure that you had zero interest in him. Although you greet him everyday with that same blinding smile, he knows that it’s only a platonic feeling and just you showing your kindness. Not only that, Chan had found out that you just got out of a relationship, so you probably wouldn’t want to be in one. But if you were in a relationship, shouldn’t Joshua have known? That’s what brought Mingyu to the coffee shop on Sunday afternoon. You don’t work on Sundays but Joshua does, and Mingyu was determined to get answers.

It wasn’t busy when Mingyu walked in. The place was empty, the only person there was Joshua who was sitting behind the counter on his phone.

“Joshua,” He looked up from his phone and smiled.

“Hey man, what are you doing here? YN doesn’t have a shift today.” Mingyu nodded and walked up to the counter, resting his hands on top and leaned forwards a bit.

“Yeah, I know. I just had a question. I don’t know if you can tell me or not, so I understand.”

“What’s up?”

“How long have you known that YN was in a relationship?” Joshua pursed his lips, heart rate increasing as he searched for the right words to say.

“Uh, I’m gonna be honest. The whole time,”

“What-”

“-Hear me out!” Joshua took a deep breath in. He’s known Mingyu for so long, longer than you. And he’s known that Mingyu has had a crush on you since the very beginning. So when he found out that you got a boyfriend, he didn’t know how to break the news to his friend.

“YN and their ex only dated for about three months, or even less than that! At first, I didn’t know how to tell you because I didn’t want this to affect you, but then when they introduced me to him, I knew they wouldn’t have lasted. The guy was a complete asshole and didn’t like the fact that I was friends with them. I had- no, I HAVE hope for you because I knew he either would have fucked up or they would realize that he was too toxic for them.” Joshua stared at his friend who was deep in thought.

“Mingyu, I’m telling you as your friend, keep writing those notes to them because they absolutely LOVE them. They don’t show it often, but trust me, it makes YN really happy.”

Those words encouraged Mingyu, giving him the tiny ounce of hope that he needed to continue. He made a mental promise to always greet you when he walks in, and to always tell you to have a good day when he leaves. Maybe that will make a difference, along with the anon notes.

“Alright man, I’ll trust you.”

A month has passed and Mingyu managed to become a close friend that you cherished deeply. You even told him about the anon notes that you’ve been receiving. It really caught you off guard because Chan would usually be the one to greet you whereas Mingyu would just nod his head, but now you saw this puppy like side of him.

Thank god you don’t work morning shifts because that’s when it's really busy and due to the holidays coming up, everyone is shopping during the afternoon. You were sitting on the stool, making conversation with Joshua.

“So~ how’s it going with Mingyu?” He wiggled his eyebrows, teasing you.

“What do you mean?” He scoffed at your attempt on playing dumb.

“YN, I can see the way you look at him AND how he looks at you. You both are crushing on each other and it's so disgusting to watch you both deny it.”

“HA! He does not like me, Shua. You wanna know how I do.” Joshua internally panicked, hoping Mingyu didn’t fuck up, “He told me that he has been crushing on this other person for so long. He even asked me for advice on how to ask them out- well, I told him how I would want a guy to ask me out, but that doesn’t matter.”

Joshua looked at her, intrigued and thought about how clever Mingyu played this out, “Well? What did you tell him to do?”

You looked down and smiled, imagining that it was you Mingyu was confessing to, but slowly turned into a scowl. “I just said for him to make it simple. Like a bouquet of their favorite flowers with a cute note that confesses to them.”

Joshua nodded his head, knowing exactly what was going to happen as he saw Mingyu standing outside of the cafe with your favorite flowers in his hand, and a small note attached to it. He looked back at your slumped form, sighing loudly to get your attention.

“Why are you sighing?” Mingyu slowly opened the door, trying not to make the bells ring. “I’m the one who likes a man who is going to confess to someone else.”

After making it inside and slowly approaching the counter, Mingyu held the bouquet behind his back, signaling for Joshua to talk.

“You sure it isn’t you he is going to confess to?”

“And why would he like someone like me?”

“Oh my god YN, just turn around.”

You shot Joshua a confused look before spinning on the stool to see Mingyu in front of you. You heard Joshua stand up, whispering a ‘have fun’ before making his way to the break room. Mingyu smiled shyly before moving his arm from behind his back, revealing the bouquet of flowers before you. You softly gasped, your eyes not believing what they’re seeing.

“Hi YN.” You looked into Mingyu’s eyes that were filled with hope. “Before you say anything, yes, I do like you and yes, I did trick you into telling me how you would want a guy to confess to you, so here I am. Confessing. To you.” You could hear the nervousness in his voice as it shook slightly when he spoke.

“I-I, uh, I honestly can’t believe it Mingyu.” He handed you the flowers carefully as you smelled them. “Thank you.” He smiled at you, his eyes moving back and forth from the note to your face. “Okay, okay, I’ll read it.” You took the note off of the clip, butterflies rushing in your stomach as you unfolded the paper.

Hi YN,

It’s me Mingyu. Well you already know that because I’m standing right in front of you. But anyway, this is my poor attempt at confessing because I have a hard time saying the right words on the spot. But doesn’t this seem familiar to you? Reading a note? Except this time, you can put a name to the anonymous person. Ta da, I’m the mystery person who has been writing you notes for the longest time. Joshua has been one of my closest friends for a long time too and he’s known about my feelings for you. At first, this was a simple testing the waters thing, but when he told me about how you said your day always gets better when you read them, I couldn’t stop. I hope this doesn’t affect anything because I’ve liked you for so long, it actually hurt because you’re all that I’ve ever wanted. I’m hoping that maybe it will come true and this will turn into something great. Oh by the way, the song is called ‘Something Great’ by One Direction.

-Mingyu

You looked up from the paper to see Mingyu biting his lower lip in anticipation. “You’re my secret admirer?”

He scratched the back of his neck, shyness washing over his face, “Uh, maybe.”

You smiled, happiness flowing in your veins as you put the flowers down, hopping over the counter and engulfed Mingyu into a tight hug. Instinctively, his arms wrapped around your body, holding you closer to his. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to know who the person was. I’m so happy it was you all along.”

He smiled as you both slightly pulled away, “So I’m taking a guess that you like me back?” You giggled and nodded your head eagerly as he let out a breath of relief. “Oh thank god. Joshua was making me worried, I almost didn’t come here today.”

“He did what?”

Your heads turned to the voice erupting from the room in the back, “Mingyu! You weren’t supposed to out me like that. AND IF YOU WANT TO KISS YN, ASK THEM.” You moved to look back at Mingyu, face bright red as he avoided eye contact.

“Uhm, uh, c-can I?”

You looked up, pretending to be in thought before cupping his face in your hands and placing your lips softly onto his. His hands on your hips, upper body leaning into yours as he got lost in the feeling of finally getting to hold you and how he has the person of his dreams.

#seventeen #seventeen scenarios #seventeen reactions #seventeen oneshot #mingyu #kim mingyu #escapewriter oneshot #pieces of love

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yooleestruck · 4 years

Text

in which lee rambles about how great writers are

I don’t really know what this is. I don’t know if now is the right time to do this, or a really bad time, or if it makes any sense, but I want to talk about it! I feel like a broken record saying ‘the writing matters most, the writing matters most’ but maybe I need to show what I mean by that? So, here is an attempt.

I’m sorry not all of these are the same length and not everyone is here, because every time I see that someone is a writer I do try to follow but I don’t always know/remember! Also I am weird about this sort of thing and don’t want to tag people in a monster-long post, so I’m just going to link. I also don’t want to make this a producers vs writers thing, it’s not, it’s just, when I say I notice writer-stuff, an explanation of what, specifically, I mean.

Writers have a style fingerprint. I’m sure someone with an actual creative writing or English background could describe it all academic-ly, but my ex-chemist ass is just going to call it a fingerprint.

My first game in Lovestruck was Starship Promise - I love Firefly, I’m a bisexual disaster scientist by education, it fit. But I had been REALLY put off by GIL when it first came out (this was back when they released stories in parts? And the heroine, which I will get to) and though I’d glanced at AFK, I mistrusted it after GIL and Medusa, who was who I was interested in, wasn’t out yet. So I resisted a LONG time. I finally picked up LS and SP and played it explicitly because a friend said, you need to give this another chance, for a list of specific reasons.

And when Atlas’s route came out, I read it a stupid number of times. I must have re-read his season 1 & 2 at least eight times apiece (he is still my most read route, despite the fact I have not read his last season because I want to leave the story open-ended) so when I read Neil Dresner’s route, I recognized the fingerprint. Not only that, when I was reading Jett and the episodes with the paint scene (YOU KNOW THE SCENE) came out, my breath caught with how lovely it was, a particular in-between moment and touch, and even though it wasn’t a phrase I had seen, the style of it, had me re-reading (because it was gorgeous) again and again from the log for like five minutes and I thought, “I bet Melissa wrote this” AND SHE DID.

Physical touch! (& in-betweens)

Melissa-grey has a particular way of writing about physical touch in very emotional moments that is very real and grounded and ironically the effect is just magical. It creates these so skillful “in between” moments, those little things that aren’t dialogue and aren’t metaphor but SHOW you that this closed off person is cracking for their little ray of sunshine. They are SO subtle and so beautiful, like, the heroine noticing the scent of a pillow, or a softening of an aborted hand movement. She sets up and executes these moments of physical touch as a conduit for emotional touch with characters who aren’t ready to admit he latter and it’s DELICIOUS. Those little in-betweens are what I live for in story - and it includes all the supporting cast moments, who swell up to make the world feel lived in, and balanced (I loathe love stories where no one else exists! That’s a recipe for disaster, people need networks) I noticed when she stopped writing, and because I missed it, I went and bought the entire Midnight Girl series, as well as Rated (I hope that is flattering and not creepy!) and that style of writing is so unique, that without KNOWING, I picked it up in four separate routes (noticed in Sev’s s1, too!)

Pacing (& friggen heartache)

Another fingerprint! Ripping your heart out! Arthoure has had me in tears, MULTIPLE TIMES and I get very grouchy about it every time because I am the least sentimental and romantic person that I know (I once MOVED STATES to avoid an ‘I love you’ conversation. I once said ‘yikes’ in response to an ‘I love you’ and I once broke up with someone because I thought he was going to propose. I’m a bitch) but I think it’s because of pacing! I know that producers play a role in that, but that actually makes it more impressive, because making each bit of story feel like it fits precisely the amount of space it needs when you don’t really get a say in how much space that is has got to take a MASSIVE amount of effort. Every little hint, every emotional beat, every character tell, they drop at a consistent build so the emotional payoff is just brutal (in a good, cathartic way?) every time a route makes me cry I wait and see and YEAH ITS ALWAYS ARTHOURE. The sweep and sentiment of Remy’s season 2 is unparalleled. Across Time is gutwrenching, and I actually stopped reading Renzei at one point because I was so emotional over it I had to like, LEGIT TAKE A BREAK to recover. Pacing and heartache. I have to stop and wonder - is it because the routes themselves are so gut-punching? OR is it because she knows how to wring every last emotional drop out of whatever story framework is handed to her? Because, Ezekiel’s villain costume is a bit silly (there I said it, it is) I get the cobra helmet shape in theory but in practice, ooof, but POINT BEING despite being skeptical I’d be able to take his story seriously as a result, I was hiccuping from crying so much (and I am gosh darn adult, in my thirties, with three degrees and a high-stress job at pretty major company. I DON’T CRY EASY)

Dialogue (& heroines!)

Xekstrin is the gosh damn master of dialogue. Clever, witty banter that doesn’t go where you expect it to, meandering but natural topic changes that are delightful to follow and feel real, and--special shoutout for this, okay--the navigation of viscerally important topics like consent, kink, self-worth, power in relationships, self-sacrifice, and apologies in a way that is not stilted or forced at all (listen, I know Viv & Lyris are the most recent and they are amazing but I remember this first hit me when I was reading Astraeus, and I spent half the route with my jaw on the floor going, oh shit, oh shit. The communication! The navigation of the complexity of emotion going on, chef’s kiss! Casual isn’t the right word, but, natural, maybe?). I don’t actually take that many screenshots of the app--it’s usually single lines that get me--but when I do, they are almost always conversations from one of her routes, because they’re so damn good, and often so unexpected, and yet always make such perfect sense for the characters involved. Dialogue is SO HARD OKAY. Actually try and transcribe a conversation sometime, it’s nuts how people talk vs how most people write people talking. Xekstrin also writes some of my absolute favorite MCs, and going back to fingerprints, I was reading Lyris s1 and right there in the first tavern scene, as we were following along with the heroine’s thoughts I went, ah, yes, I know who you belong to and I am SO EXCITED. Being able to give the heroine unique thoughts and quirks, to make her genuinely relatable, without overriding the necessary template of the genre dictates, is a skill all of its own. But I love her MCs! There is a beautiful balance of compassion, competence, and dash of bratty, wild, fun mischief. I can actually cheer for them. I can actually get behind them. I WANT the love interest to flop at their feet for who they are, not just because the story says so. And that comes from how the heroine’s thoughts are written, from her phrasing in conversations, how she sees situations, not just a producer saying ‘she is a strong lead who is self conscious about her ears and she’s nervous in the council meeting’ or whatever. I AM REALLY STRUGGLING to articulate this if you can’t tell from how long I have been blathering. Maybe this - the heroine is the same across every route, presumably, yes? Everyone has the same base. I NEVER question, when xekstrin is writing, why the love interest falls in love with her. Side note - I had hard written off GIL after a bad experience with the standalone app. I only read Aurora BECAUSE I learned she wrote it, and I would have SO MISSED OUT otherwise.

A complete aside in which Lee grumbles about heroines and not writers!

(Complete side vent: Often, the heroine is, if not a blank slate, a sort of collection of assigned traits, and she often remains so unless the story demands she become otherwise. Which is fine! I don’t personally, but I know a lot of folks self-insert, and so erring towards that makes sense. Almost all the otome I’ve played were originally written for a Japanese audience. When I played original Voltage games, starting back in 2014, I always had to remind myself - different culture, different culture, different culture, and it was not possible for me to relate to most of the heroines. I still enjoyed the stories, but I rarely cheered for the heroine’s romance, especially in some of the slice of life stories. I understood her, but I rarely wanted her to get with the love interest, I wanted her success to come in other ways! Another game company, Cybird, tried to ‘Americanize’ their heroine to IMO disastrous effect - it was such a stereotype, and made no sense since they didn’t also Americanize the context, so she come across as, frankly, ridiculous. And frankly, Voltage’s GIL heroine REEKED OF THAT. When they first posted her on social media I was legitimately annoyed about it, like could you lean into this more? I think not. So when I talk about being able to relate to and cheer for the heroine, it’s a big deal, because my blatant mistrust of Voltage and their ability to craft a heroine I could tolerate was a BIG factor in how long it took me to give Lovestruck a try. I was willing to tolerate it in translated stories, I was so skeptical of -en only ones.)

Metaphors (& balance)

literacouture writes beautiful metaphors for connection between humans! I’m really bad at keeping track of who writes what, but I purposefully kept an eye out on tumblr after reading Cal’s route, because there were some lines that were pure poetry, and I wanted to keep an eye out for more. It is HARD to spin metaphors prettily without delving into trite, painful, purple prose cringe territory, and it’s navigated beautifully in Cal’s route. There’s a balance between those spin-out moments and things that are tangible and anchoring and make it feel authentic and unique to the two characters involved, instead of just ‘I am trying to make this sound romantic and this is a romantic phrase so here it is’. That balance is really necessary. You NEED the mundane alongside the metaphor or it doesn’t feel authentic. Also. Trying really hard to write this without throwing any authors or producers under the bus, but...listen. I love Sin with Me. But the world logic (or LACK THEREOF) drives me up a wall. I don’t read Cal because of his character traits or sprite or (sigh) his story. I read him because literacouture writes a beautiful romance.

So anyway...

There are more! When I am less tired and don’t have meetings, I will try and write them up (Please know there are so many routes I love, and so many things I do recognize across chapters! I don’t even HAVE words for what theivorytowercrumbles accomplished with Helena’s story not to mention how much I adore Cyprin, SummerLightning’s handling of Onyx’s past relationship was so deftly done when it could have so quickly become ‘milk abuse for plot’ and joidecombat gave Sev a fresh, mischievous energy and navigated the dream/reality line with SUCH skill, and so on and so on.)

I’ve written a lot of reviews. And I try to give nods where I feel they’re due - sometimes, it really is obvious that the whole team’s work came together to makes something great, the world, the plot, the arc, the art, the words, and the music all fit into place in a well-crafted tour de force. And sometimes one piece or another is lacking, and I’ll admit I’ve left some...less than kind reviews to that end (I try and soften it, because I know there are humans on the other side of everything, but I’ve been harsh more than once with my opinions). I’ve read routes with plots that made me want to tear my hair out because I DO value consistency and logic to a degree, even if I’m going to accept at face value that, say, space travel is a thing or demons turn to sand when stabbed.

In the end, these are romance stories. So I will let a lot slide when it comes to plot. What sells a story are the words - not the outline.

And if Voltage doesn’t believe that - just remember that Hamlet existed long, long before Shakespeare wrote it. His was the version that lasted, because the people liked it best. The plot, the world, the characters, they all existed a hundred times over. Even just look at fan translations of manga. Why do people keep translating, even if someone else has? Because the words someone else picked don’t do the story justice.

I don’t know. I’m talking in circles because I don’t know my own thesis!

Maybe it’s just - the worlds these stories in are nice. But when I say I’m a fan of something, the premise is like. 10%. The rest is the writing.

#lovestruck #lovestruck voltage #lovestruck writers appreciation week #this isn't exactly one of the prompts #but #it's in the spirit of it #brevity may be the soul of wit #but that just means I'm not very witty I suppose #this is not a complaining post #except for maybe one section where I go off on heroines COUGH #but it's flagged

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madam-whim · 4 years

Text

How Far We Will Go

(ESO drabble)

“Fenn? There’s something we need to talk about.” Fennorian looked up from the list of ingredients he’d been working on, something or other he and Old Mjolen had come up with and that Izani didn’t fully understand. Alchemy was not exactly her forte, and she was glad Fennorian was there to take care of such matters. Having to distract him from his work didn’t sit right with her precisely because of that, but she couldn’t wait any longer, even if it meant seeking him out in a cold cellar below the Solitude Mages Guild. “Well, what is it?”, Fennorian asked, intrigued. Izani sighed. She doubted he’d retain his good mood for long when she told him the news. “When we went after the High King… Do you remember the journal I found? The one that belonged to Rada?” “The one in which he listed all the exarchs? Of course I do. Is there a problem? Someone we haven’t dealt with? Shouldn’t you go to Svana with this?” Fennorian was immediately on high alert, no wonder after what he’d been through recently, and Izani feared she would only make it worse. But he deserved, no, he needed to know. “I haven’t run into one of the other exarchs if that’s what concerns you”, she replied, trying to at least ease the worst of his worries. “And Svana doesn’t need to know. She’s busy enough as it is, and I don’t think this concerns her at all. I did keep the journal in case we needed to go look for the other exarchs, names making it easier and all that, I’ll admit that. But this is not about anyone giving us trouble right now. It’s about the missing exarch.” “You mean the one al-Saran refused to name even in his private journal?” Izani nodded. “Damn it, this is going to be… a lot. You know what? I think we should sit. This is not a conversation we should have down here.” “Now you have me worried”, Fennorian admitted, raising an eyebrow, still smiling for now. “Come. There’s a room upstairs that we can use. It even has a fireplace. Don’t think I forgot how much you hate the cold.”

A short amount of time later, Izani was curled up in an armchair in front of the fireplace. Apparently there were a few mages in Solitude who disliked the cold as much as she did, and she was grateful for it. Fennorian handed her a mug of spiced wine. “So. You wanted to talk about the missing exarch.” “Well, I guess there’s no sense in drawing this out. I think I figured out who it is”, Izani muttered, trying – and failing – to disappear behind the mug clasped in her hands. “It’s just a theory at this point, mind you, and I wanted to run it by you first, see what you think.” He settled into the chair next to hers. “Well, go ahead.”

Taking a deep breath, Izani began her explanation. “Alright then. I’m assuming you remember our conversation with Rada, yes? And you may also remember that I thought something was off, I just couldn’t place it, no matter how hard I thought about it. So I read the journal again when I found the time, and... Rada mentions his brethren being trapped in Coldharbour, and that he’d have to free his exarchs first. Which is why he was so angry at us for killing Tzinghalis and Ulfra, right? He thinks we sent them back to Molag Bal. On purpose. As if I’d ever do that to anyone who left me with a choice. Lyris, too. We’ve both been there. It’s horrible.” “Well, I’d be angry too if it were me.” Fennorian cast a curious look in Izani’s direction. “Verandis did say his escape was everything but easy, and I’m assuming it wasn’t any different for them. But how did that help you with figuring out who- wait. Wait, Izani, are you saying...” She could pinpoint the exact moment Fennorian realized what she was going on about. She nodded, feeling every bit as unhappy as her friend looked. “I don’t like it, but it makes perfect sense, doesn’t it? I mean, how many vampires do you know who got themselves out of Coldharbour? It’s insanely difficult to do even when you’re just some soulless husk Bal has no interest in. Imagine doing it when you’re someone who actually matters. I doubt just anyone could manage that.” “This cannot be a coincidence”, Fennorian mumbled, his voice trembling. “Verandis was always more powerful than he let on, so maybe...” “That’s… one way to put it.” Izani remembered it all too well – Verandis had always radiated power, even if he did suppress it, and she had a feeling he’d never even shown her a glimpse of what he was truly capable of. Not that she’d minded then, but now, all of this presented her with an entirely new problem.

“We’ll need to send word to Adusa and Gwendis immediately”, Izani stated. “Because if we’re right, all of this means you three are in danger. You remember what we told you about this Essenia woman experimenting on Adusa because she’s got Ravenwatch blood? We can’t be sure there aren’t more of her kind out there. At the time, we didn’t know about Verandis, but now...” “You’re right”, Fennorian agreed. “With Verandis almost certainly being our missing exarch... We’ll have to warn the others, just in case.” “Can’t take any risks”, Izani agreed. “Adusa mentioned they’d be going back home to collect some things. I have a friend working with the antiquarians across the street who’s really good with portals, if she can set me up with one to Shornhelm, I think I can catch them before they leave again.”

And now came the part Izani dreaded. But there was no way she could leave Fennorian in the dark about this. The Count was like a father to him, and besides, he was her friend, and keeping secrets from friends was not something she did, not anymore. Fennorian was already looking for a quill and a piece of parchment to write down a message to his sisters, and Izani hated having to burden him with even more knowledge none of them really wanted. “Fenn?”, she called to get his attention back, and he turned towards her, the look in his eyes troubled, as if he already sensed there was more. “Assuming Verandis is who we think he is, there’s one more thing”, Izani forced herself to say, then handed Rada’s journal to her friend. “Read it again. And tell me what you think.”

Izani watched while Fennorian went over the journal again. She could practically sense his concern growing with every line he read. When they’d first found the journal, their only concern had been saving Solitude, and they hadn’t had the time to think anything else, not even a thirteenth exarch. He’d appeared to be an enemy to Rada al-Saran, and back then, this had been all they needed to know. Now, it was suddenly all too relevant. “The entire section here…” Fennorian seemed to be at a loss for words, just like Izani had been. “I know”, Izani muttered. “It sounds terrible, right? Whatever this man has planned for Verandis, it can’t be good. We can’t let Rada find him.“ Her friend nodded. He looked so terribly shaken, pacing across the room. “That last line…”, he asked, his voice more uncertain than Izani had ever heard it. “Does it sound like they were… more than friends to you, too? I’m not the most experienced in such matters, but...” “We can’t be sure, but if you want my opinion, then yes”, the Redguard sighed. “But whatever went on between them, they were incredibly close. And now Rada is angry at Verandis. Very angry. And I don’t know how far he is willing to go.” “When you say how far, what you mean is… Is he willing to go back to Coldharbour to get his revenge?” “It is.” “How long ago was this written?”, Fennorian asked. “Because from the looks of it, it was before Tzinghalis and Ulfra died...” Izani bit her lip. “That’s what worries me, too. If he’s already started looking, then I’m sure he already knows Verandis is back in Coldharbour. And now, with us having sent two of his friends back there...” “You’re saying we might have given al-Saran the push he needed to go back. To find both his friends and Verandis”, Fennorian stated. With him being a vampire, he couldn’t turn any more pale than he already was, but Izani saw the shock and fear flickering across his features. “It’s possible”, she admitted. “And you must believe me when I tell you I do not want Rada to find Verandis first. No matter how scared I am, I can’t let that happen, Fenn. Not after… everything.” “And you’re aware of what we might need to do to prevent that from happening.” It wasn’t a question, and Fennorian wasn’t asking, because the real question was something else.

Izani took another deep breath. “So. How far are we willing to go?”

#eso #my writing #greymoor #greymoor spoilers #vestige izani #fennorian #verandis ravenwatch #based on the 13th exarch theory #and also my thoughts on the vestige having to go back to coldharbour again #long post

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kykyonthemoon · 4 years

Text

A Trip to the Countryside

Dragon Raja Fanfic

Paring: Chisei Gen x Lyris (MC)

Summary: Chisei took Lyris to his hometown and spent a the day together.

(From Chisei Gen’s in game messages.)

Word count: 1800+

This work is a part of Allies - a series based on in game text messages, letters or moments by Allies themselves.

For @soul-dancer-lyris~ Hope you enjoy the story~

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Read more of my DR fanfic here: x

or on AO3: x

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The rain came and left in a haste, leaving a lingering smell of wet ground, mixed with roasted sweet potatoes.

The smell made Lyris hungry. Following the aroma, she found a small vending cart by a corner of Tokyo street. It was not her first time trying roasted sweet potatos, but the first time trying one from a cart. It was more delicious than she had expected! The warm roasted sweet potato made Lyris happy, especially in this kind of weather.

She decided to share that little happiness with someone, so she took out her phone in one hand, the other still held onto the bag of roasted sweet potatoes.

“Chisei Gen! Chisei Gen! Listen!”

The reply came almost immediately after the message was sent.

“What’s wrong? What happened?”

Lyris giggled to herself, or her gemini – the one that was floating around her. Chisei Gen replied so fast! He must have thought something had happened to her. That meant, he cared.

“Oh, nothing. There’s just someone selling delicious roasted sweet potatoes by Kabukicho!”

“Oh? Is there anything strange about that?”

“It’s different from where I came from. They sell roasted sweet potatoes in ovens made out of remodeled oil barrels.”

“You sound like some kind of expert.” Chisei seemed to be more relaxed with his reply. “I guess you like to eat roasted sweet potatoes.”

“I want to tell you about this because it’s so rare to see it.”

Lyris found a seat by the riverside while waaiting for Chisei’s reply. She sat down on a bench and gazed at the other part of the city, across the river. It was nighttime. All the city lights turned into stars. She thought of what Chisei would be doing at that moment, and felt thankful for his replies to her messages, despite the busy life of the High Patriarch.

“Have you done much traveling?” He asked.

“Yes, I like to travel outside the country when I have time.”

Lyris loved traveling. That was why she appeared in Tokyo, while she was supposed to stay in Cassell and do her essay. She thought a change of air would be nice. And another reason was that she wanted to see Chisei Gen.

“I admire that kind of life. I travel for business, but it’s mostly just to handle local affairs. I’m also quite busy with work, so I don’t have much time to take a vacation.”

Lyris let out a sigh as she was reading his text. Chisei was always, always busy. He seemed to work all the time when his eyes were open! She doubted he would actually rest at night. That guy was the man of work. He breathed in work.

But he had once or twice talked about his dream. Surprisingly, it was not becoming the most successful person in the world; nor bringing his clan to the most glorious days. He only wanted to be a sunscreen vendor, living his life freely somewhere in a French beach…

How could a High Patriarch, the Emperor of all Hydras have such a thought? People would laugh at his dream, and tell him to snap back to reality. But Lyris did not. She listened carefully to all his thoughts. To her, it was brave of Chisei to have that dream, and to keep it alive inside his heart even though the world told him to let go.

Lyris enjoyed another roasted sweet potato from the bag as they exchanged messages about how Chisei missed the beach in France. Her gemini sat beside her, teasing her for wanting to be there with him.

“This beach sounds like your first love. No wonder you’re so obsessed with it.” Lyris replied lightheartedly, with a snickering emote.

“Lyris, you must be joking! What do you mean, first love?”

A finger tapped on the phone screen repeatedly, Lyris was thinking of what to reply next. But another message came:

“Speaking of which, actually, I didn’t grow up in Tokyo.”

“Oh, really?” Lyris quickly replied.

“When I was a child, I lived in a small mountain village… But what about you, Lyris? Where did you grow up?”

“I’ve been in the city since I was born. I’ve never lived in the countryside.”

Lyris replied, but she wished she had lived in the countryside too. She wanted to know Chisei more, and to know about the life he had lived long before becoming the High Patriarch who only knew work.

Lyris stared at the phone screen. She took notice of the three dots popping up next to Chisei’s avatar, indicating that he was typing something. But long minutes passed by, the dots kept appearing and disappearing. She grew nervous. Would Chisei prefer girls from the countryside than city girls, like her?

But his next message was something she could not expect, “Would you like to go and see the village I lived in? The scenery is quite nice.”

Lyris was sent to the clouds! She stood up from the seat, with her phone held close to chest, and she started dancing around with her gemini.

“Is he asking me out? He must be asking me out!”

Lyris beamed and danced, ignoring the curious eyes of the passerby. She kept dancing until her gemini reminded that she had not replied to Chisei yet.

“Oops! How could I almost forget?!”

And she hastily sent him a message, “Of course! I’d love to!”

That night, Lyris danced with her gemini gleefully all the way back home.

***

On a sunny morning, Lyris dressed in her favorite blue floral dress that matched her eyes color and waited patiently by Tokyo street. With every car came in sight, she tip-toed, gazing at it with a fluttering heart.

Chisei arrived at last. He was wearing casual outfit; a white shirt and dark pants, black shoes, and even a pair of glasses. He was completely different from the every-day-High-Patriarch-Chisei-Gen. And that made Lyris’ heart beat too fast! As if it could jump right out of her chest and fall into Chisei’s hand when he stood there, reaching a hand out towards her. She could not help but sneak glances at him all the way to his hometown. Chisei caught her a few times. He only turned away and smiled to himself, which made her heart flutter even more.

Katori Town was not far from Tokyo. Lyris was excited, and a bit nervous. It was her first time being here, and she was with Chisei!

The view was very different from the city. Lyris took a deep breath, inhaling the fresh air and the fragrance of grass. This place, it was beautiful, and it belonged to the young Chisei. Lyris turned around to look at him. His eyes spoke nostalgia, and she was thankful he had taken her to this place with him.

They decided to take a stroll in the forest. Lyris had so many things to ask, but she wanted Chisei to speak first, to open up first about his childhood.

“When I was a child, I lived here, in this village with green forests, flowing streams and hanging stoves in wooden houses. In the summers, I practiced holding my breath in the streams, and watched the fish swam past my eyes. In the snowy winters, I chiseled holes in the ice to catch fish, which I’d then cook into a soup… Those early years were the happiest in my life.”

They reached a small wooden house which seemed to be abandoned for so long. It was locked. Chisei gazed at it with an unspoken sadness in his eyes.

“Is this… your old house?” Lyris softly asked.

“Yeah.”

“I assume that you don’t want to come in…”

Chisei turned to look at Lyris. Though his face showed no emotion, his hazel eyes betrayed him.

“I’m sorry, Lyris… But I’m afraid that once I unlock the doors, memories of the place would escape… The good ones, and even the bad ones…”

“We don’t have to go in if you don’t want to,” said Lyris. She was worried about him. “When we talked on the phone, and on the way coming here, I thought you only had good memories of this place… But it seems like I was wrong.”

Chisei looked down on the ground, advoiding her eyes. He must have done it wrong. He should not be so emotional and weak in front of Lyris. She did not come here for a sad Chisei, did she?

But Chisei would never know, Lyris felt utterly happy that he had shown her another side of his. She took his hand and said, “If you have bad memories about this place, how about creating good ones to replace them?”

Chisei seemed surprised. “Replace the bad memories?”

“Yes! You just told me about catching fish in the streams, and cooking soup,… That sounds really fun! I haven’t done anything like that before. I want Chisei to teach me how to hold my breath, catch fish and use hanging stoves! So when I think about this place, my mind will be fillied with memories of Chisei! And Chisei will remember the memories with me as a part of this place too!”

Was it a faint blush she caught on his face? Chisei smiled softly as she gazed down on her beautiful face.

“Lyris, you know that it will take a lot of time to learn all of those, right?”

“No problem! You just need to bring me here again and again and again, until I learn all!”

Chisei’s smile turned into a big grin. “I’ll take you here as many times as you want.”

When he saw her beam, he thought it was even more radiant than the most beautiful sunrise on the mountain that he could remember. That day, Chisei took Lyris to the streams and they caught lots of fish. They made soup and roasted sweet potatoes together when the sun set. Chisei had never met a beautiful city girl who was willing to get her dress dirty and do all the hard work she was not familiar with.

By the end of the day, they both sat down on the hill looking up at the stars. Lyris, though exhausted, still kept a smile on her face.

“I’ve never had this much fun... Thank you, Chisei Gen.”

Chisei looked at her and smiled, without saying anything. Lyris had to ask out of curiosity.

“Why are you staring at me?”

“You have dirt… on your face.”

“Huh?!” Lyris tried to brush off the dirt on her face sheepishly. Chisei always liked beautiful girls. How could she let him see her being ugly, even for just a moment?

“Don’t worry.” Chisei said softly. The wind messed with his hair as he placed a hand on her face, a finger caressed her cheek. “You’re still the most beautiful girl I’ve ever laid my eyes on.”

-The end-

#writtenbykk #dragon raja #dragon raja fanfic #soul-dancer-lyris #fanfiction #dragon raja chisei gen #chisei gen #dragon raja chisei #chisei gen x mc

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talldarkandroguesome · 3 years

Text

13th of Morning Star, Second Entry

We arrived in Davon’s Watch early in the morn and immediately took guar to the Harborage.

The atmosphere within was quiet, no, still. Not a peaceful sort of stillness. No, it was that anxious stillness before battle when none want to so much as move, lest they accidentally incite attack against them. It was that silence when someone asks a medic for a prognosis and all in attendance know that it is too late, yet none wish to be the one to say, including the medic.

That unspoken statement that at least one of us would not be returning in order for us to have a chance of facing the Prince of Pain. A soul had to be given up to the Amulet of Kings in order to provide the power needed.

We three souless ones walked to Varen and waited for him to speak.

He wasted no time. He congratulated us on success with stopping the Planemeld and reminded us of what the battle to come might hold, of its importance. Er-Jaseen was going to be leading the assault against Molag Bal, imbued with the power of the Amulet of Kings. We were warned that the most powerful Daedra in his realm would be there to try and stop us. That it was going to take every last bit of strength to succeed and we should be prepared to sacrifice everything in order to ensure that success. The last of these words were spoken directly to Tel and I. I knew what he wanted. If it was to destroy us, we needed to ensure Molag Bal’s defeat. It was not something that I wished to dwell on for any length of time. Best to let the surge of energy that battle brought in order to commit to such a noble sacrifice.

And then it was time. Tharn kept his comments to a minimal, even his usually dry humor was near muted. Lyris and Sai could barely look at one another, nor at Varen. Mostly they just seemed to be consumed with emotion.

I do not blame them.

While I do not hold the same deep-seated affection for this former warlord, I am thankful for his part in my freedom from Coldharbour’s prison and for giving me a chance to help save the world. And perhaps, just maybe, a chance to be reunited with my soul. I do have some doubt that Tel and I will exist after this, but I do not wish to let my mind consider that possibility, no matter how often it tries to leap to the forefront of my mind.

I must concentrate only on retrieving my soul. That is what my House wants. Once I get that, I can go back to my son, little Khes, my Daelekil, the spouses, Avon. My life.

Yet I cannot help but think that, despite this aching cold hollow of something essential missing, there is an advantage in not being able to die. Think of all the assassination attempts I would not have to worry so fervently over, how I could ensure that my family is well looked after no matter the obstacles.There is a distinct advantage to a measure of immortality, something that no mortals, save perhaps Almsivi can claim. Although, their immortality is rather different I should think.

Listen to me rambling on while we wait for Varen to finish casting his portal. I think it is time I end this.

If I do not make it, Qau-dar, I love you more than words could say. I did not wish for it to be true, but there is little denying that which is so strong in the heart. Returning to your side is reason enough for me to fight through the forces of Molag Bal. Should I not make it, please continue to care for Sildras and treat him as your own. I have seen him grow so much in so many beautiful ways and it is all thanks to us joining your family.

Nabine, love of my life, if I have fallen, I only wish you could have some part of me as a token. I know you always joked about how you would savor making my body a part of your own if I should fall so that I would always be with you. I only wish that Kuna could have learned more about me and I of her and Cariel. I am sorry that we could not fulfill the last of our promises. Know that you were the first I truly loved and I never stopped. I hope that you know how much that means.

Sildras and Kuna, know that I will always watch over you in spirit. Even if I am not laid to rest in the family crypt, you carry my blood and the Three will watch over you. I have given my last breath in order that you and the world may live free from the tyranny of the Troubles. Sildras, you have made me so proud and I know that you will grow into the most amazing mage as you continue your studies. Please learn never to judge people on appearance alone. Kuna, I know that we have spent so little time together that you may not even know my face. But ask your mother, she will tell you about me if you are ever curious.

Avon, my brother, you were always the best of our trio. I am sorry to leave you with all the burden, but isn’t that just the way, for Ervis and I to have left you always cleaning up after our messes? I love you for having accepted me for who I am. Our bond is as deep as a bond can go without romantic feelings on both sides. I am sorry I was not able to return that beautiful, bright love. I did not deserve all you could give. Please pursue your heart’s feelings. Do not shy away from Plays-With-Fire. I have seen the start of what could be and it will be amazing.

Farewell Nirn. I hope that I can return. The Three willing.

#ESO #TES #RP #Dunmer #Elder Scrolls Online #The Elder Scrolls

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retroandreal · 4 years

Text

Stay Ready (Lyris x MC)

Not going to take all the credit, but the people who I talk to through the Lovestruck Discord really allowed me to come out my comfort zone when it comes to fic writing. Tagging @official-alex-cyprin cause you’re my writing hype-friend and wedding fails hype-friend as well HAHAHA.

AN: This fic was inspired by my favourite RnB song atm “Stay Ready” by Jhene Aiko ft. Kendrick Lamar. MC and Lyris meet at the taven she works at, but things are formed through a different way; promises, time limits, emotional limits, and the limits of love.

Angst and tiny speckles of smut

Warnings; self-doubt and slight bullying due to MC’s looks

“My girl, you need to stop dozing off! Your regulars have been trying to get your attention for the past… I don’t know how long!”

I look up at Rosie as apologetically as possible “I’m sorry, I’ll get onto it, ASAP”, hoisting up my tray balanced with 7 pints of ale I head to the 5-person occupied table and greeted with an uproar of hellos and hugs. Nothing special really happens at my job as a barmaid but my regulars make it a little more bearable and upbeat.

The soft strumming of melodic stringed notes extracts my attention out my inner circle of regulars. With the tunes slowly approaching, I look back at Rosie to have a spat with the bard that was oh-so-late to the bar’s open stage night but greeted with the most beautiful sight of light pastels and flicks of precious gold metals decorating their neck, wrists, naval and hips…

“Hello, little bird… are your eyes lost?” I look up to see the enticing sight of heterochromia; jewel purple for the left eye and golden brown for the other. I stammer my response only coming up with absolutely no response at all. The beautiful being in front of me; a perfect blend of masculinity without compromising his feminine charms chuckles in an almost melodic tune similar to his harp.

“I see, well, my name is Lyris” holding out his perfectly soft looking hand despite his callouses, no doubt formed by his string instruments.

“M-MC…” I dare not look him in the eye as I fear my blushing will betray me.

“Mind if I play a few of my tunes? I see you are in need of a pick-me-up”

“Please, I ought to give the no-show bard a piece of my mind if he ever shows up”

Lyris and I go our separate ways, doing chores, serving, but unconsciously never letting my ears stray from the soft sounds coming from the musician.

~~~~~~~

After a few hours, Rosie takes her departure and leaves me to close up shop and do the final round of cleaning the tavern. Taking in a panoramic view, I drop my shoulders knowing how much work needs to be done.

“My bird, you seem disheartened. May I assist you in your final minutes?”

I look at his expensive looking drapes and cloth covering the expanse of his body.

“Ha! With clothes like that? You are no doubt from Altadellys. Tell me… what’s someone like you doing in a place like this? Nonetheless; in the Winter Wilds, barely covered and in expensive materials. Don’t tarnish your image for the likes of me”

I eye him as his pricks a loose strand of thread from his wrist, then looks me right into my eyes and instantly warming up my cheeks.

“You see… that mouth of yours is dangerous and blunt, yet adds to your charm… just like your ears”

I subconsciously reach to grab my ears, self-conscious as no one has ever called them cute.

“Besides” as he removes my hands “the quicker it will be for you to show me up to my room”

And not even 10 minutes later, Lyris has me pinned to the door of his room in a feverish lip-lock.

~~~~~~

“Come to Altadellys with me”

I blink rapidly at him almost suppressing a laugh behind my long hair.

“Frost! Don’t joke this early in the morning! I thought you were serious!” I playfully swat his shoulder, but he just looks at me, no signs of a joke in his expression.

“Wait… Are you serious?”

“My bird, why would I lie to you” he says as he kisses the tip of my nose

“Lyris, look at me, then look at you. I would never fit in there…”

“MC… I have never felt as free as I have since the start of last night. I’ve needed something like this in forever”

My mouth is now agape, trying to properly process why this beautiful being has made such a proposition to me

“I just have this feeling” he continues “You and I are meant to be”

Pondering for a bit he then looks at me like he just hit an epiphany

“How about just 24 hours? That’s all, after that you’re free to return to the Winter Wilds. How does that sound?

I take my time thinking; it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the Capital and he’s giving me an out after 24 hours… nothing could possibly go wrong, right? I sit up, facing my whole body directly to Lyris

“Ok, ok I’ll come with you”

He then scoops me up into a tight hug, almost knocking the wind out of me. Damn, he’s stronger than he looks, and I’m liking it a little too much…

“There’s no place like here, so Stay Ready my little bird”

~~~~~~

“As you already know; the capital is divided into 4, reflecting the 4 seasons” he narrates.

“Ok, lemmi guess… Spring court? A Prince?”

“Correction; I’m a spring courtesan, I have no official ties and I can mingle with whoever I want”

I bask in the words that he just said to me; a courtesan? So, like… an escort? Would make sense since he was quick to have me under him in the span of 3 hours of meeting him. Hopping out of the lustrous, floral carriage, Lyris is instantly met with the cooing and flirtatiousness of the capital’s noblemen and ladies alike. Their unbotherdness into recognizing another presence with him gob smacked me back to the heavens… until one of the equally royal looking women looks at me, scans me up and down and turns her back to me, swatting me with one of the many ruffles of her ballooned dress across my ankles. Jeez, tough crowd in Altadellys… I already want to go back.

“My lively ladies, I must depart and escort my company around our beautiful city”

Met with multiple protests, whining and dagger-like glares in my direction, I shuffle behind Lyris and he leads me away and bids a songful farewell to the slowly dissipating crowd. Hopping back into the carriage, he leans in, dangerously close to my ear and whispers;

“I promise I’ll stay only with you; you taste so good and I simply refuse to share”

Man, this person knows what to say to make me feel better. But I know I’m smarter than that, I can’t let my guard down if the rest of the citizens of the capital treat me like this. A bowl full of poisonous candy with the chance of eating the one delectable treat doesn’t outweigh the risk of me getting hurt here. My ears alone show that I don’t come from here and I’m specifically from the Winter Wilds, and don’t get me started on my freckles. Distracted by my own thoughts, I fail to notice a royal noble dressed in many shades of blue enter our carriage and cuddled up close to Lyris.

Am I jealous? I’m close enough to hear the tail end of their hushed words:

“…careful who you’re with…. scandal…. ceremony”

Now, I finally realise what I have gotten myself into; a royal mess. I have to leave Altadellys.

~~~~~

Settling down in a local tavern after nightfall, a chamber maid enthusiastically and instantly calls it upon herself to serve Lyris with the most amazing customer service known to man; making sure his bed and table are sparkling clean while she barely glances my way as I search for a garment rack to hang my oversized coat. Bunkering down in an intimate corner room, Lyris carelessly flops down on the bed and rests his chin on his hands, peering up at me.

“So, MC, how do you- “

I quickly interject placing a delicate finger over his plush lips

“I’m not staying here. I want to go back now but thank you for everything”

Quickly jolting up from his seemingly comfortable position he spreads his arms open, mouthing ‘come to me’ in a slight whisper only just loud enough for me to barely hear. Bundling up in his warm embrace, the first signs of tears threaten to fall from my eyes and he gently rocks me in his arms. I know he’s carefully thinking about his next words.

“Look at what you’ve done to me. I’ve changed because of you. It’s only going to ever be you. Please stay!”

He jerks me away from his firm torso to look me directly in the eyes. The beauty of his heterochromia acting as a tantalizing persuasion to stay with him for even just one more night. But I know my self-worth. No matter how much of a fantasy come reality this situation is, meeting Lyris and experiencing Altadellys; it isn’t enough to make me stay, not worth the snarky comments, the discrimination, the isolation, the loneliness. I know I’m better than this and I need to tell him.

“I’m a spring courtesan, you say you’re just a Winter Wilds girl, yet…” as he brushes a few stray hairs away from the side of my face, he cups my entire face, thumbs caressing my ears and expanse of my freckles on my cheeks, “you’ve brought the sun to me, I’ve never seen such light in anyone’s eyes. I brought you here so I can see them in my world, but I’ve only eclipsed them with the darkness of us nobles. My bird, what can I do to bring that light back?”

Looking down at the loose threading of the bed’s sheets, I croak out through tear-filled sobs; “All that I know is right now; nothing’s for sure. You’re not telling me something, who was that woman in the carriage with us?”

Lyris’ gaze falters, I know I’ve hit a sensitive spot. Was he forced? Does he not like her? Does she not like him? I quickly interrupt him;

“I’m guessing the truth ain’t pretty…” Sliding my hands around the nape of his neck, I place a brief, but emotion filled kiss on his lips.

“But coming from that pretty mouth, everything seems true. But even you can see, I don’t belong here. A Wilder girl and a spring courtesan… even if you spoil me with gold, I will never be able to grow. Allow myself to grow. The life in Altadellys is the life us Wilder people die to live in, but I’ve been given my life there and I’m not about to turn my back on it to live half a fantasy”

Desperate to recreate that physical intimacy from the night before; I cling to the expensive fabrics on his arms as he leads my head towards his, momentarily resting his forehead against mine before out mouths meet. For the last time.

~~~~

(Lyris’ POV)

I fear to wake.

I know she is not here.

Her warmth remains, but not her.

Broodingly making my way to my castle quarters, I head straight to my harp; the same harp that brough the Winter Wilds girl and I together for just a precious moment in time. The music flows. Notes and melodies being created as naturally as breathing in the air of spring. The lack of natural sunlight from my window mosaic tells me that nightfall has come. How long was I fiddling with my strings? But of course, with MC as my muse, time seemed to wisp away.

“I wrote a million rhymes to scrabble your star power”

A knock disrupts my train of thought.

Hortensia; “My wingless angel, it is time” muffled behind the thick oak of the door.

Placing my harp down, I think of her one more time, but not the final

“I have to stay ready, for one day to see her rise as my queen and Altadellys’ queen”

#reigning passions lyris #reigning passions #Lyris of the Spring #lovestruck lyris #lyris #lovestruck #lovestruck smut #lovestruck voltage #voltage inc #voltage games #voltage usa #voltage otome #amara x mc #lovestruck sevastian #reigning passions piama #piama of the spring #lovestruck xenia #reigning passions xenia

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princess-of-luxure · 4 years

Text

Masquerade [2]

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You moved to the capital city, Altadellys, in search of job opportunities. You had anticipated several significant changes in your life, but nothing could have prepared you for almost getting robbed in an alley, only to be saved by a mysterious masked vigilante. Their mysterious appearance throws your life into chaos, and you soon find yourself swept up in the high-stakes underground operations of a group of… supervillains?!

You didn’t ask for any of this, but there’s just as much excitement amongst the potentially lethal drama. As secrets hundreds of years olds begin to unfold before you, can you be the missing link in solving a dangerous mystery, or will you bring everything to ruin?

Fandom: Reigning Passions (Visual Novel) Rating: Teen and Up Audiences Relationships: Gen (so far) Characters: Lyris (Reigning Passions), Main Character (Reigning Passions), Sevastian (Reigning Passions), Piama (Reigning Passions), Hazel (Reigning Passions) Content Warnings: None

Thank you everyone for voting on the last chapter! I got more votes than expected and even now I'm still getting new fans. I'm pleased to announce that choice b (Stay to try and diffuse the situation with Lyris and Piama, and hopefully get some answers) has won the vote! Hoping you enjoy this chapter.

As per usual, you can cast your vote on the end-of-chapter choice in a comment on AO3 here, or by sending me a DM or ask here on tumblr! You can also cast your vote by replying to the appropriate chapter, or by putting it in the tags of a reblog.

Chapter below the read more.

Guilt ached in your gut as you nibbled on your lower lip. It didn’t exactly feel good to blow Hazel off, but she was your best friend. It couldn’t be that difficult to reschedule, and besides, you couldn’t imagine the anxiety that would weigh on your shoulders if you didn’t discuss the hey-I’m-pretty-sure-you’re-a-masked-vigilante thing with Lyris while you had the chance. Decision made, you tried to steady your shaking hands as you typed out a reply.

You: I’m so so sorry

You: Something came up

You: Can we reschedule?

You didn’t wait for Hazel’s reply before tucking your phone back into your pocket, taking a deep breath as you assessed the situation. Lyris had mostly managed to mask his shock by now, though the intensity of his gaze on you still sent shivers down your spine. Not that you minded having a gorgeous guy’s attention, this just wasn’t exactly what you had pictured. Add the fact that Piama was still looking between the two of you with raised eyebrows, evidently waiting for an explanation, and this was starting to look like a social nightmare.

Okay, focus. You can’t spill his secret—even if you don’t have confirmation of it yet. Mustering up all your courage, you gave Lyris your friendliest smile. “Wow, fancy meeting you here!” Please go with it, please go with it, please go with it.

You could see the exact moment he snapped into the role, his charming smile overtaking his features. If you weren’t so busy trying to play off the whole situation as nothing to Piama, you would’ve probably had a bi panic. “A lovely coincidence indeed, my lady. It seems as though fate wished for us to meet.”

You stole a glance at Piama out of the corner of your eye. She still seemed surprised, but for different reasons now. “You know her, Lyris?” she asked skeptically.

“I had the pleasure of running into her earlier,” he replied smoothly, and okay, that part was technically the truth. Still, his mismatched eyes didn’t leave yours, and you had to remind yourself that the way he looked at you, like you were a jewel more precious than any known to man, was just part of his act. “I’m afraid I never got to introduce myself, however. If the lady would allow, I shall now rectify this error.”

He stepped closer to you, and you desperately fought back the blush that threatened to crawl up your cheeks. Slowly, deliberately, he bowed to you, just as he had under the guise of Peacock. “I am Lyris Rosi.” He gently caught your hand in his, raising it to his lips and brushing a feather-light kiss there.

You were pretty sure that the kiss had completely killed your last few brain cells because you found yourself stammering out your name despite the fact he already knew it. Thankfully, he didn’t seem to mind, releasing your hand and rising, still with that brilliant smile on his face. Plus, I guess it’s believability points for Piama. “A beautiful name for a beautiful maiden,” he complimented, and despite having heard it from him before, it still sent a jolt of lightheadedness through you. “If you would permit, I would much like to resume our earlier conversation in the privacy of my apartment?”

You heard Piama scoff, shattering the moment. “Inviting a pretty girl to your apartment already, Lyris?” She fixed him with a critical stare. “You better not make this awkward for me.”

Lyris gasped, his expression twisting into a mockery of hurt as he placed a hand to his chest. At least, you were pretty sure he was just acting. Damn, this guy was good. “You wound me, dear Piama. I assure you, my intentions are nothing but pure.”

“And yet you knew exactly what I was referring to with my comment.” Piama huffed, shaking her head before turning her gaze to you. “Do yourself a favour and avoid getting swept up in his charm. Underneath the bravado, he’s a giant nuisance.”

“You must be fond of ‘giant nuisances’ then, to hang around me so much,” Lyris noted, and you could see the familiar glint of a best friend’s teasing in his eyes.

“Hardly. Don’t get a swelled head over it.” She rolled her eyes. “I’m going to make some more tea. You two better behave yourselves.”

She swept from the room, and as soon as you were sure she was out of earshot, you breathed a sigh of relief, shoulders slumping as you released tension you didn’t even know you were holding. “Sorry for putting you on the spot there,” you apologized, forcing yourself to look back at Lyris. “I had no idea you’d be here.” Obviously! You mentally chided yourself for the stupid comment.

Lyris chuckled, and you couldn’t help but notice his smile seemed a touch more genuine. “You handled that very well,” he offered, and you felt your heart skip a beat. “And pay Piama’s words no mind. She seems to have gotten quite the wrong impression about you and I.”

You tilted your head, trying to figure out how he felt about that, but he was completely unreadable. Right, well. If all else fails, resort to humour. “Well, have you given her a reason to believe that before?” you teased.

There it was—the real smile you’d gotten to glimpse earlier in the day. “I suppose there may have been an incident or two in the past,” he admitted lightly, and you found yourself drawn to the playful glimmer in his eyes. “But I believe my intentions with you should be transparent.”

“Yeaaaah.” You rubbed the back of your neck, a sudden sheepishness crawling up your spine. “Look, I’m really sorry about this. I know this must be far from an ideal situation, but—”

Lyris gently raised a hand. Startled, you froze mid sentence. “It isn’t your fault,” he reassured, the melodic tones of his voice compelling you to believe him. “If anything, I should have been more careful.”

The fact that he didn’t seem angry or upset with you washed away most of your lingering anxiety. You offered him a tentative smile, idly brushing your fingers through your hair. “You know, we probably should head to your apartment before Piama comes back.”

“She’d be quite surprised to see us still here after our previous conversation,” Lyris agreed, offering his arm out to you. Your heart leapt into your throat as you scrambled at this opportunity, rushing to link arms with him without tripping over your own two feet.

“So, do you do this with every girl, or am I special?” you attempted to joke as he led you up the stairs. In hindsight, you figured this may have been a mistake, but seeing the slight curve of his lips and almost fond look he gave you, maybe it wasn’t too bad.

“I am a gentleman to all the women I have the pleasure of meeting, but you are special in more ways than one.” You hoped he didn’t notice how you clung to him tighter so as to not fall over at his words. Your brain struggled to come up with a response, but thankfully you were saved by Lyris pausing in front of a door. “Here we are. I’m afraid it isn’t much, but I hope it will be satisfactory.”

He led you inside and your jaw dropped. ‘Not much’ was indisputably an understatement—you knew Spring Apartments was on the higher end of quality housing, but Lyris’s apartment was borderline a penthouse. “How do you afford this place?” you burst out, unable to help yourself, immediately clapping a hand to your mouth as embarrassment colored your cheeks.

Lyris regarded you with an amused look. “That’s for me to know and you to never find out,” he quipped, before gesturing to a couch that may as well have been a piece of cloud for how heavenly it looked. “Take a seat. Would you like something to drink?”

You shook your head, trying to push down your nerves as you sank into the cushions. You were right, it did feel like you were resting upon clouds. “No thanks. I already drank two cups of coffee recently, I wouldn’t want to be bouncing off your walls.” You chuckled at yourself, trying to appear more confident than you felt.

“Of course, I understand,” Lyris hummed, and you couldn’t help but feel disappointed as he settled onto the couch opposite you. “Now as to what brought you here—”

“Mrrrow?” Both you and Lyris turned to look at what was the fluffiest Persian cat you’d ever seen in your life. Their long white fur was immaculately groomed, and their collar was bedazzled with… pink rhinestones. Okay, at this point you were certain Lyris either came from money, or his profession paid extremely well.

“Madame Whiskers, so nice of you to join us,” Lyris greeted, and the cat turned her judgmental stare on him. “That’s right, it’s time for your dinner, isn’t it? How silly of me to forget.”

“Mrrrow!” You didn’t speak cat, but you were pretty sure Madame Whiskers was agreeing, her gaze seeming to pierce right into your host. You noticed she had heterochromia just like her owner, though hers was of the blue and green variety.

Lyris reached down to scratch Madame Whiskers behind the ears as he addressed you. “Forgive me, Madame Whiskers gets quite huffy if she isn’t fed on time.” He bent down, placing a kiss on top of her forehead, and she blinked back at him lazily. “Now play nice with our guest, my precious princess. I’ll be back in just a moment.”

Lyris vanished into one of the neighbouring rooms, leaving you alone with Madame Whiskers. You stared at her—she stared back.

You cleared your throat. Why the hell do I feel so judged by a cat? “Madame Whiskers, was it?”

She just kept on staring. Yeah, okay, that’s my fault for expecting a cat to talk back. “You seem to be a cat of high class,” you commented, awkwardly bowing to her as best you could while sitting down. “Lyris must treat you very well. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Madame Whiskers tilted her head to the side, studying you, before trotting over to jump up next to you on the couch. She then laid down in your lap, staring up at you with a look that could not have more obviously screamed pet me.

Hesitant but not wanting to risk offending her, you slowly began to rub your thumb in circles behind her ears. Soon enough, you began to notice a deep purring coming from Madame Whiskers, and more confident that you were doing the right thing, you began to rub a bit more firmly. Within moments, she was stretched out to her full length, looking completely blissed out.

“Apologies for the wait, I hope Madame Whiskers behaved—” Lyris paused mid sentence as he entered the room. He held a fancy dish of what was most likely expensive cat food in one hand, and a smirk curled across his lips as he took in the situation. “Well, would you look at that. She likes you.”

He placed the dish down. At its gentle clink, Madame Whiskers hopped off your lap and trotted over, daintily nibbling at her food. You, meanwhile, were left trying to process this new information. “She does? Does she not usually like people?”

Lyris chuckled, an amused gleam in his mismatched eyes as he sat back down. “That would be the understatement of the century. She nearly clawed poor Piama half to death when they met.”

You shuddered as you imagined what Madame Whiskers must be like when she’s upset. No wonder Piama had called her the most annoying creature on the planet. “Yeah, I think I can say I’m glad she likes me.”

“I suppose that’s just another way in which you are special.” Your name rolled smoothly off his tongue, and judging by the way he smirked at you when you went rigid with shock, he knew what he was doing to you. Has he known this entire time?!

You cleared your throat, trying desperately to save face. “As much as I’m sure we could chat about your cat for hours, we did come here for a reason.”

“Of course.” Just like that, Lyris’s flirty demeanour evaporated, a far more serious expression falling over him as he leaned forward slightly. It was a jarring change, and you fought not to squirm in place. “If I may ask, what is your understanding of the situation?”

You took a deep breath. Moment of truth. “You’re Peacock. You look exactly like him.” Not to mention acting exactly like him.

Lyris smiled. It wasn’t unkind, but it didn’t reach his eyes. It only took a second to decide you didn’t like it. “You have a good eye. Though as much as I intended to be recognized, you were not the one I was expecting.”

Your head snapped up. “You wanted to be recognized?”

“By a certain someone, yes.” Lyris crossed his arms, regarding you carefully. “Have you heard of Fox?”

One of Hazel’s statements from earlier in the day rung in your mind. After Fox disappeared, he took over as Altadellys’s protector of the night. “Just in passing,” you admitted. “My friend Hazel mentioned them. Were they like you?”

“Somewhat.” You were shocked to see his smile turn fond, real and bright. “He had his own way of going about things, but yes, we had the same ultimate goal.”

Your mind was reeling under the weight of what you’d just learned. Lyris was familiar enough with Fox to speak of him like an old and dear friend? He was hoping to be recognized by Fox? “But my friend said he disappeared,” you said eventually, your thoughts still spinning.

“That’s right. And that’s why I’m Peacock.” The explanation seemed to make perfect sense to Lyris, and yet it clarified absolutely nothing for you.

“I don’t follow,” you admitted, brows furrowing as you tried to put the pieces together. “How did Fox’s disappearance lead to you becoming Peacock?”

Lyris hummed, a thoughtful expression crossing his features. “For the sake of his privacy, let’s just say he’s someone important to me. We fell out of contact years ago, but I still think about him pretty often.” He chuckled. “Nothing could prepare me for seeing him debut in the news as a masked thief, but I was hardly surprised. He’d deny it to his dying breath, but he always had a flair for the dramatic.”

And you don’t? You bit back the comment, preferring to focus on the matter at hand. “I still don’t understand. I get you guys have history, but…”

Lyris raised an amused eyebrow. “Well, of course you’re confused. There’s more to the story.”

You sank back into the couch cushions, feeling your cheeks burn. “Sorry,” you mumbled.

Lyris chuckled, which only served to increase your embarrassment. At least he didn’t seem to think any less of you for it. “You’re cute when you’re flustered. In any case, Fox goes to much further lengths to conceal his identity than I do, but there’s no disguising his powers. I recognized them immediately, but I wasn’t concerned at first. He could take care of himself, and if he needed me, he’d find me. Or at least I hoped so.” There was a flash of sadness in his eyes, gone in an instant. “Then a few months later after his shine into the spotlight, he disappeared. No news about an arrest. Nothing.”

You tilted your head. “If there was no news of an arrest, then isn’t that a good thing?”

Lyris shook his head, giving you an almost pitying look. “You have a lot to learn about Altadellys. Someone disappearing without a trace like that is never a good thing.”

You got the idea he wasn’t trying to be condescending, so you tucked that nugget of information away for later and tried to focus on the matter before you. “So you became Peacock to… look for him?”

“Close.” His mismatched eyes glittered with mischief. “It’s hard to look for someone with no leads. So I thought…” He trailed off, standing and carefully removing his vest. Unobstructed, you were able to see that the clothing he wore had a slit in the back, the function of which immediately became obvious as there was a flash of brilliant green light, revealing his beautiful wings when it faded.

You giggled even as you found yourself taking him in in all his glory. Even without the suit and mask, he was so openly and unashamedly Peacock. “You planned to lure him out with drama?”

“Precisely.” He bowed deeply before perching on the arm of the couch, careful not to disturb anything with his wings. “I’ve had no luck yet, but assuming he isn’t dead in a ditch somewhere, he can’t avoid me forever.”

You chewed on your lip, fingers fussing in your hair as you tried to decide on a course of action. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

Genuine surprise flitted across Lyris’s expression for a second before he smiled. “That’s sweet of you, but it’s best if you don’t get involved. Just knowing this much is dangerous. I have just as many enemies as admirers.”

You sighed. A part of you wanted to protest, but he had a point. Besides, how were you supposed to help? You didn’t have any powers. “Alright, but if there’s anything I can do for you, anything at all…”

To your surprise, Lyris stood and closed the distance between the two of you in a few strides, close enough that you were struck by the memory of meeting him earlier in the day. “I sincerely hope that you don’t have to get dragged into my mess,” he said quietly, “but thank you. I’ll let you know.”

He pulled back, the moment over far too soon. “It’s getting late,” he murmured, eyes only briefly flickering to the window before falling back on you. “And trust me, your room is something of a mess right now.”

“I’m sure it’s not that bad,” you began to say, but Lyris was already shaking his head.

“You’d be surprised,” he replied, and you could see a mischievous glint in his eyes that was beginning to grow familiar to you. “But you know, since it’s my fault your room looks like an apocalypse hit it, the gracious thing to do would be to offer up my own.”

“What?!” Your eyes flew wide open. “I couldn’t accept that! It’s your room! Where would you sleep?”

Lyris raised his eyebrows, looking for all the world as if you’d just told a hilarious joke. “In my bed, of course. Where else?”

You choked on air, and you saw concern flicker over his face. “But— you— I—”

Lyris eased up immediately, his eyes bright as he chuckled. “I was only joking. I’ll take the couch. It’s only fair,” he explained lightly, before he paused, leaning in. “Unless, of course, you would prefer to share.”

Your brain screeched to a halt. Did he just say—?! You took a deep breath, closing your eyes as you tried to calm your racing thoughts. Yeah, okay, he did offer to share the bed with you. He seems serious about it, too. You’d never had an attractive guy offer to share his bed with you before. It would be madness to pass this opportunity up. Summoning all your courage, you looked Lyris in the eyes, your voice firm. “You know what? I think I would prefer that.”

If your response shocked him, he didn’t show it at all. In fact, he actually looked pleased. “Come with me, then.” He extended a hand to you. As you took it, he laced your fingers together, bringing your joined hands to his lips to place another kiss there. Once again, the action caused a stirring of butterflies in your stomach, but you did your best to conceal it. Two can play at his game. Don’t let him win.

Lyris’s bedroom was incredibly lavish, but your eyes landed on his bed and never left. The queen-sized bed had a mattress that looked heavenly to you right now, fancy pillows perfectly fluffed, pale green silk sheets neatly folded over the bed. Your exhaustion from the day’s events hit you all at once, and it was all you could do not to collapse on the bed then and there.

Lyris’s hand left yours, and you glanced over at him only to nearly choke again as he began to strip down without a care. He hummed a small tune under his breath as he removed his various pieces of jewellery, his shirt coming off next with practiced expertise. In a matter of moments, he stood almost completely naked before you, his underwear the only thing remaining. Jesus, is every person in Altadellys this ripped or have I just been getting lucky?

Lyris looked over at you, a smirk curling across his lips as he caught you staring. “Do you see something you like, my lady?”

“Uh—no! I mean, yes! I mean—gah!” You turned away from him, trying to ignore his satisfied laugh as you stripped down to your bra and underwear. Once you finished, you turned back to the bed, finding Lyris already relaxed on one side of it, though to your surprise (and gratitude) he had his eyes politely averted.

He evidently felt your weight settle into the mattress as you laid down, and he reached out to turn off the lights. “Rest well,” he offered up to the darkness, his voice barely louder than a whisper.

“You as well.” There was no more talking. As you curled up beneath the blankets, you began to wonder if you could fall asleep, hyper aware of Lyris’s weight and warmth right beside you, but soon the events of the day began to wear at your consciousness and you drifted away. Your dreams were filled with hazy images of peacocks and foxes and masks.

You awoke the next morning to find Lyris’s side of the bed empty. You fought back the disappointment that tried to settle in your stomach, reaching for your pants (that had been neatly folded and placed next to the bed, you noted curiously) to fish your phone out of their pocket.

You swiped over to your messenger out of instinct, noting a couple texts from Hazel and… one from an unknown number. Blinking in surprise, you checked the timestamp, finding it was sent at 3:42AM—in other words, while you were fast asleep. Who in the world would be messaging me at quarter to four in the morning? Curiosity compelled you to open the message.

UNKNOWN NUMBER: Are you Amara’s friend?

You stared at the message, hands trembling slightly. Normally you would’ve blocked the number and paid it no mind, but this stranger had mentioned Amara. You were pretty sure that wasn’t the world’s most common name, which meant that whoever this was, you had a common acquaintance. Unless they were stalking you. Gods, you really hoped they weren’t stalking you.

You: Yes? Who are you?

Given their apparently abnormal sleeping schedule, you really weren’t expecting them to reply for a while, but immediately, the typing dots showed up, as though they had been waiting for your response.

UNKNOWN NUMBER: You may call me Owl.

Another animal themed alias? You couldn’t deny your suspicions were raised, narrowing your eyes at your phone. Just like Fox and Peacock… but I haven’t heard of an Owl. And what connection would they have to someone like Amara, anyway?

You: Okay, Owl. What do you want from me?

In the time it took them to reply, you quickly added them to your contacts, figuring ‘Owl’ would be a lot less unnerving than a string of numbers. When you looked back at your messages, they had already responded. Damn, they type quick.

Owl: Nothing. I simply needed to verify your identity. When are you planning on applying to Optimus?

A jolt of shock and even mild fear ran down your spine before you remembered that Amara had mentioned a friend yesterday who could help you with applying for an internship. It must be Owl. You were going to pray it was Owl, or you were probably fucked.

You: Uh, later today, I think.

Once again, Owl’s response was immediate.

Owl: Thank you. I will keep watch for your application.

Owl: I’ll erase any traces of this conversation now.

You nearly choked, fingers fumbling with the phone in your haste to type.

You: What why?!

Owl: It’s for your safety. Have a good day.

Before you had a chance to further protest, the messages disappeared from your screen, leaving you with a blank DM with the mysterious Owl. You were about to try sending them a new message, bewildered, when you remembered the texts from Hazel. Shoot, how did I forget that?!

You quickly opened them, finding that they were both from yesterday afternoon, before you’d headed to Lyris’s apartment.

Hazel: Np

Hazel: Amara and I were looking to hang out somewhere this weekend so we’ll let u know abt that if u want

You: That’d be great, Hazey

You: Sorry for the way late reply, I got distracted

“Good morning, sleeping beauty.~” You almost dropped your phone as Lyris walked into the room, looking up at him with wide eyes. He was thankfully(?) clothed, though still sans vest, that unbearably attractive smirk curled across his lips. “Did you have nice dreams?”

“Uh… weird dreams, more like,” you replied, running your fingers through your hair in an attempt to look presentable. “What about you?”

“With you here, my lady? Best I’ve ever had,” Lyris replied with a playful wink, before taking on a slightly more serious demeanor. “I went out to grab breakfast, and a certain flowery devil roommate of yours accosted me on the way back. Seems like she’s pretty insistent on taking you out shopping for some new clothes today.” Despite his seemingly uninterested words, you couldn’t help but notice an excited glint in his eyes. “Though if you ask me, she’s scoping out the competition.”

“Competition?” You raised your eyebrows, and Lyris chuckled, leaning forward as if to share some scandalous conspiracy.

“Piama’s a fashion designer,” he explained with a hum. “Her talents are almost unparalleled, but don’t tell her I said that.” His attitude shifted again, lips curving into a frown as his eyes darkened. “Unfortunately, talent doesn’t matter as much as influence in Altadellys.”

“But that’s not fair.” The words were spilling out before you could stop them. Lyris gave you another pitying look.

“It isn’t,” he agreed, “but that’s the way things are in Altadellys. If you’ve got money, you’ll succeed.” He sighed softly.

Your insides still burned red hot at the injustice of it, but you were also smart enough to realize that not only were you just one person, you were also a nobody in Altadellys. As much as you wanted to help Piama, you couldn’t think of a viable way to do so. Closing your eyes, you took a deep breath. Once you opened them again, you moved on. “Well, I’d definitely love to have a fashion designer’s help in picking a new outfit.”

“Hey, I know my way around high fashion too.” Lyris gave you a mock hurt look that was so convincing you almost felt bad. Almost. “Haven’t you seen me?”

You laughed, and were rewarded by seeing the fake frown immediately turn to his genuine, gentle smile. “Don’t worry, you silly peacock,” you chided, relishing in the way his eyes lit up at the subtle nod to his alter ego. “I couldn’t forget about seeing you even if I wanted to.”

The smile was replaced by a smirk. “Flattery will get you everywhere, darling,” he said smoothly, sending an electric jolt down your spine. Before you had a chance to react, he turned away from you, grabbing a hairbrush off the dresser. “I’ll give you some privacy. When you’re ready, I grabbed a blueberry muffin for you, it’s on the kitchen counter. Hope you’re not allergic.”

You giggled despite the heat still staining your cheeks red. You figured it would be a while until you got used to how Lyris could change between personas in a snap, flirty to serious to friendly in the blink of an eye. “No allergies here. And thanks.”

“Not a problem. I’ll be in the living room if you need me.” He swept from the room, and you wasted no time in getting ready for the day. You were in the middle of trying to tame your hair with a few hair ties when you felt your phone buzz in your pocket.

Hazel: Distracted huh? :p

You nearly choked, suddenly grateful you were alone as you fumbled to not drop your phone.

You: Hazel!!!

You: It is SO not like that!!!

Hazel: LOL

Hazel: Sorry Freckles I had to tease ya

You rolled your eyes at your phone. You loved Hazel, really, you did, but she was going to be the death of you.

You: You definitely didn’t.

Hazel: Definitely did

Hazel: Best friend duties and all that

You: So should I start teasing you about Amara?

Hazel: If u wanna

Hazel: I mean shes cute

Hazel: And have u SEEN her

You: Hazey! Do you mean to tell me that my best friend has a crush and I didn’t know about it?

Hazel: LOOOOL

Hazel: Nah just aesthetic attraction tbh

Hazel: We’ll see tho

There was a knock on the door. “You alright in there?” Lyris called. “Not to rush you if you have a very detailed morning routine because I get that, but Madame Whiskers can only hold off Piama for so long.”

“I’ll be right there!” you called back, quickly typing a goodbye to Hazel.

You: Okay you useless lesbian, I’ve gotta run though.

You: My roommate and a friend are taking me clothes shopping.

Hazel: uwu have fun I’ll lyk abt any plans w/ Amara

You slipped your phone into your pocket and finished getting ready, heading out to the living room, pausing to grab the muffin from the kitchen. You found Lyris relaxed on the couch, more or less the same as he was earlier except he had now donned his vest and his hair was done up in its usual braids. Madame Whiskers was curled up by the entrance to the apartment, eyeing the door with the intensity of a hawk watching its prey.

You cleared your throat, unsure of what to say, and Lyris looked up. He offered you a small smirk before softly clicking his tongue twice. Immediately, Madame Whiskers got up, trotting over to her owner’s side and laying back down.

“Piama, you can come in now,” Lyris called, and immediately the door opened, revealing a very huffy Piama.

“Why do you let the cat have more authority in your own home than you do?” Piama complained, before her eyes landed on you. A bright smile immediately lit up her face. “Oh, good morning! Did you sleep well?”

“Uh.” Your brain decided this was an excellent time to remind you that you had shared the bed with Lyris. “Yeah, I slept fine.”

You realized your embarrassment must’ve been showing on your face as Piama grinned. “You’re blushing,” she noted, her tone filled to bursting with thinly veiled excitement. “Did something happen that I should know about?~”

“Now now Piama, don’t you think it’s rather impolite to ask another lady to kiss and tell?” Lyris reprimanded, arching one eyebrow. You breathed a sigh of relief as Piama turned to him, mouthing ‘thank you.’ He gave you a short nod.

You could see that Piama was pouting, but she quickly relented under Lyris’s unimpressed stare. “Fiiiine,” she sighed. She looked back to you. “I’m sorry.”

You offered her your best reassuring smile. “It’s alright. But just for the record, nothing happened between Lyris and I last night.”

That gave Piama pause, blinking in shock. “Wait, seriously? I thought for sure that…”

“Assumptions are a dangerous thing, Piama,” Lyris noted, coming to stand by you. “But I am rather curious as to why you’re so invested in this. Are you perhaps jealous?”

“What? No!” Piama puffed out her cheeks. “Sure, she’s cute, but I—” She stopped, groaning as she realized what he’d just got her to admit. “Lyris, I hate you.”

Lyris hummed, smirking in satisfaction. “Love you too, Piama.” You, meanwhile, were currently trying to process the fact a pretty woman had called you cute.

If looks could kill, you were pretty sure the glare Piama gave Lyris would’ve made him keel over on the spot. “You think she’s cute too,” she accused.

Lyris shrugged, neither confirming nor denying it. “Perhaps. But she’d look cuter in some more updated fashions, don’t you think?”

That was apparently an acceptable distraction for Piama, and soon enough, you found yourself in the largest clothing store you’d ever seen. Your companions navigated it with practiced ease, playfully bantering and bickering back and forth the entire time.

They were debating what shade of green you’d look best in when your thoughts began to drift. You couldn’t really keep up with what the pair were discussing, so you decided that maybe it wouldn’t hurt to look around on your own for a bit. “Hey, guys? Is it okay if I wander off for a sec?”

Lyris’s gaze slid over to you for a second as he gave you a brief nod, before returning to animatedly arguing with Piama. Permission granted, you picked a random direction and started walking, not really minding where you ended up.

Your path eventually found you in the store’s jewellery section, and you surveyed the large array of glittering trinkets with awe. Wow. It was pretty much all you could think. All of this is at least ten times fancier than anything I ever saw back home. You frowned as you took note of their price tags. And at least ten times more expensive.

Even so, your eye was still drawn to a sparkling silver necklace. Pale green crystals decorated it with leaves and flowers, and despite the fact you had never been one for luxurious accessories such as this, you found yourself checking the price tag anyway. A hundred and fifty dollars. You sighed, feeling the weight of disappointment settle in your stomach. Oh well, not like I was expecting any different.

You turned to leave only to squawk as you nearly collided with someone, a slight chill shocking you at the point of contact. “Oh shoot, I’m so sor—!”

The sentence died on your tongue as you took a step back, flicking your eyes up to fully take in this dizzyingly handsome stranger. Long black hair streaked with a gorgeous dark blue fell neatly past his shoulders, his head cocked to one side as he surveyed you. You had to repress a shudder under the intensity of his gaze, light purple eyes seeming to pierce right through to your soul and pinning you in place. His deep, deep neckline (if it could even be called that!) did nothing to conceal most of his torso, allowing you a good look at just how powerfully built he was. Fuck. Why do I keep embarrassing myself in front of hot guys?!

You realized he was still staring down at you, expression expectant, and you quickly cleared your throat. “Oh, um. I’m sorry.”

The stranger raised an eyebrow, the absolute picture of arrogance. “You should be more careful where you step,” he reprimanded, catapulting you from bi mode into indignation. Well, mostly.

You put one hand on your hip, giving him an extremely cross look. “Hey, you were the one who snuck up on me without making a damn sound.”

The stranger huffed in amusement, which only made your irritation flare higher. “And yet you still felt it necessary to apologize to me.”

You refused to tell him that it was because you were too flustered to think straight. “That was before you started acting like a haughty princeling.”

A smirk twitched across his lips, and god damn it all, it was just as stupidly attractive as Lyris’s. “You aren’t from here, are you?”

“No, I’ve lived here all my life and I’m just really obsessed with out-of-town fashions, can’t you see?” you snarked back, already not in the mood for bullshit. You tried to be a nice person, you really did, but sometimes…

“My mistake.” His tone didn’t change at all, smirk unfaltering. “I wasn’t aware that any self-respecting Altadellian would take interest in such things.”

You rolled your eyes. “Did you need something or are you just going to stand around insulting me?”

“Perhaps, if it proves entertaining.” Holy shit was this guy a smug bastard. You kind of wanted to punch him in the jaw right now, but as you were in a public space, you refrained.

“Right, well.” You weren’t going to stand here and be some arrogant jerk’s plaything. “If you’ll excuse me, I have places to be.” You stepped around the stranger, though you had barely managed to take a few strides when you heard him call after you.

“Leaving so soon? And here I was considering helping you.”

You gritted your teeth, slowly turning to face him. At least he didn’t look as condescending as before, which was lucky—for him or for you, you didn’t know. “And what could you possibly help me with?”

He tilted his head towards the necklace you’d been admiring, smirk returning. It took all your willpower not to leave then and there. “I couldn’t help but notice you were ogling that necklace there.”

You pressed your lips together in a thin line. Patience. “What about it?”

He didn’t say anything, just giving you an amused, smug look. Before you had a chance to further press, the stranger reached into his pocket, withdrawing several crisp hundred dollar bills. He held them out to you, and in your shock, you took them without thinking.

After a moment, the action fully processed, and you narrowed your eyes. “Wait. Why are you giving me this?” you asked, tone laced with infinite skepticism.

The stranger shrugged one shoulder, looking for all the world as if he didn’t care about the large sum of money he’d just given away. “I have no use for it.”

A voice calling your name stole your attention. Turning to look for the source, you found Lyris nearby, evidently searching for you. You waved to him. “Over here!”

Lyris made his way over to you, a small smile on his face. His expression immediately became filled with curiosity as he noticed the bills in your hand, folding his arms as he nodded to them. “Well now, that’s quite the sum of money you’ve got there. Where’d you get it?”

“Oh! It was given to me by—” You turned to point out the stranger, only to find he was gone. Scanning the aisles, he appeared to have disappeared without a trace. “—this man here. Huh, that’s strange. He was just behind me.”

You looked back at Lyris, who was frowning. “What did he look like?”

Well, at least it wasn’t hard to remember that. You had been having a bi panic over him before he’d opened his mouth. “Long black hair, dark blue streaks. Light purple eyes. His neckline could barely even be considered that—” You stopped as you noticed something strange flit over Lyris’s expression. “Are you alright?”

Lyris shook his head slightly as if to clear it. “Nothing you need to concern yourself with,” he replied, and you couldn’t help but feel as though his smile was fake as he surveyed the nearby area as well. “Whoever he was, he’s gone now.” He didn’t seem willing to dwell on the topic.

You sighed dejectedly. “That’s so weird. I have no idea how he could’ve slipped away in the second I turned my back.” You glanced down at the bills in your hand. “Well, I shouldn’t waste this. He gave me these for a reason, so…”

Your gaze slipped back to the necklace. Lyris followed your line of sight and grinned. “Are you sure you don’t have powers?” he asked teasingly, voice hushed. “You must be psychic to pick an accessory that will go so perfectly with the dress Piama wants you to try.”

You rolled your eyes good-naturedly. After dealing with such an enigma of a man, Lyris’s teasing was a familiar comfort. “I’ll be sure to let you know if I spontaneously develop powers,” you quipped. “Lead the way?”

The dress Piama had picked was a simple off-the-shoulder one, green and white with swirling silver trim. It fit you perfectly, and as you stared into the dressing room mirror, you couldn’t help but think, wow, Lyris was right. It’s like the necklace and this dress were made to be a set.

You stepped out and Piama gave a little squeal. “You look like a princess!” she complimented enthusiastically, beaming.

“She’s right,” Lyris confirmed, which might have been the first time you’d heard them agree this entire trip. “You look like an Altadellian, born and bred.”

You went to thank them both before remembering what Lyris had said last night to you about Altadellys. You hesitated. Do I really want to look like I belong in a city that’s apparently much darker than its glittery surface? The thought made your gut twist with unease, but you were pretty sure his statement was meant as a compliment. “Thank you?” Even so, you couldn’t keep the slight questioning tone out of your voice.

Piama turned to Lyris, eyes bright. “This has got to be the one. It’s like it was made for her!”

“You certainly aren’t wrong,” Lyris agreed. “Not to mention I doubt we could find something else we agree on. However…” His gaze flickered over to you. “I believe it should be her final decision.”

You weren’t exactly eager to spend another few hours waiting while your friends bickered about something you really didn’t understand, and the dress was surprisingly more comfortable than it looked. “I like it too,” you decided. “I’ll take it.”

Piama clapped her hands together with glee. “I knew you would! No one will be able to take their eyes off you.”

Looking between Lyris and Piama’s resplendent outfits, you were pretty sure you still looked plain by comparison, but you decided not to comment. “Well, I don’t know about that…”

“Don’t undersell yourself,” Lyris gently reprimanded, and you glanced up at him, surprised. “You were already prettier than half the girls in Altadellys. The outfit just makes it more obvious.”

“Lyris!” Piama pouted, placing her hands on her hips.

Lyris chuckled, shaking his head at her. “Did I not say half the girls in Altadellys? You are as beautiful as ever, Piama, do not worry.”

You didn’t really catch the rest of their banter as Lyris’s words finally sunk in. What?! Heat blossomed in your cheeks as you shook your head, trying desperately to retain your composure. This isn’t the first time he’s said something like this… is he… flirting with me?

“Hey, are you listening?” You jumped as Piama’s voice cut into your reverie.

“She seems a little flushed,” Lyris noted, smirking like the cat who got both the canary and the cream. “Are you feeling well?”

Damn you. Damn you damn you damn you. Well, two could play at that game. “Maybe I do feel a little sick,” you countered, looking him in the eyes. “I feel weak, and my heart rate is through the roof. Do you know what’s wrong with me, Doctor Rosi?”

Lyris’s eyes gleamed with pure, unfiltered delight as he leaned forward, tapping his chin in mock thought. “Those are quite the serious symptoms. I diagnose you with a case of… feelings.”

You let out a dramatic gasp, placing one hand to your forehead as if in terrible agony. “Feelings! Oh, woe is me. Doctor, tell me—will I survive this affliction?”

Lyris gave you a look of such forlorn pity you almost broke character to laugh. “Unfortunately, neither time nor medicine can heal this malady. There are ways to ease the symptoms though…” Mischief curled the corners of his lips.

“I beg of you, tell me what I can do to ease my pain—” You made to mock stumble, only to misjudge your footing and actually trip over your own two feet. You saw Lyris’s act drop as he immediately reached out to catch you, pulling you close to keep you steady. There was a fierce determination in his eyes as he glanced down at you, and you could practically see Peacock’s mask on him.

“Get a room, you two!” The moment was shattered by Piama’s exclamation, and you flushed an even deeper red, looking over to see her grinning widely and slightly conspiratorially. “I mean, tell me everything, but still, get a room.”

You disentangled yourself from Lyris’s arms, hiding your face in your hair as you determinedly looked anywhere but at the two of them. Lyris, meanwhile, seemed completely unfazed, as you heard him chuckle. “As wonderful as your suggestion sounds, Piama, I believe I’m booked for the rest of the day.”

That caught you by surprise, enough for you to temporarily break free of your embarrassment to glance over at him. He gave you a subtle wink, and you immediately understood that oh, he’s going to go do vigilante stuff as Peacock.

Piama, who was evidently not in on the secret, gave an incredulous huff. “Seriously? This has been happening way too often recently. I’m crossing out the partner theory because you’ve been soooo blatantly flirting with her, so what the heck have you been up to?”

Lyris gave her a mysterious smile. “It seems I’m more and more in demand these days. You know how it is—you can never get a moment of peace when you’re someone like me.” He gave an exaggerated sigh, before turning to you. “I’ll leave you in Piama’s hands, but if something does happen… call me.”

“I don’t have your number,” you pointed out, but this only caused him to smirk.

“My mistake. We’ll have to fix that then, won’t we?”

Oh. OH. Holy shit, he was asking for your number. A hot guy… was asking for your number. A hot guy you’d seen almost naked and shared a bed with was asking for your number. You nearly dropped your phone in your haste to pull it out. “Oh, right! Of course, just let me…” You opened up a blank contact, naming it ‘Lyris’ before handing it over to him.

He inputted his number with a smirk, and you quickly sent him a text so that he’d have yours. “I’ll be on my way then. Don’t be a stranger, darling.” He offered you one last wink before turning and striding away. You could only watch him disappear into the crowd, your mind still trying to process what had just happened.

“Didn’t I explicitly tell you not to fall for his charms?” Piama’s playful reprimand brought you back to reality. “Though I guess I can’t blame you.”

You raised your eyebrows. “Okay, one, it’s not what you think, and two… do you mean to imply you might’ve caught feelings for him too?”

“If I had, it would’ve made me no different to half the girls in Altadellys,” Piama replied, and you couldn’t help but note the deflection. She didn’t seem to want to linger on it either, giving you a smug smile. “But he’s definitely never flirted with me like that.”

“Piama…” You sighed, shaking your head, though you found yourself unable to be truly upset with her. “Let’s just go home. I think I’ve had enough excitement for one day.”

Piama pouted, evidently not quite ready to give up this piece of juicy gossip, but she did relent easily enough. It was almost a relief to sprawl across your apartment’s couch with a cup of coffee and a packet of oreos, laptop balanced precariously on your knees as you idly clacked at the keys to fill out your application to Optimus.

You had half an oreo caught between your teeth as you finished, hitting the send button with a sigh as you shut your laptop and leaned back on the couch. Piama was holed up in her room working on a new design so you really weren’t sure what you could—

A loud chiming interrupted your thoughts and you jumped, barely managing to avoid spilling your drink everywhere. You quickly opened your messenger, expecting the text to be from Hazel or maybe even Lyris, only to stop and stare as you recognized the sender.

Owl: I’ve processed your application for you. They should be expecting you to start working tomorrow morning.

Shaking yourself out of your daze, you hastened to reply.

You: Already??? How did you do that so fast? I sent it in like, a second ago.

Wait.

You: TOMORROW MORNING???

Owl: I had assumed you’d want to start working as soon as possible. Altadellys is a treacherous city, after all. Hardly a place for someone with no money.

Lyris said the same thing, more or less… You sighed, chewing on your lip. Well, I guess I probably shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth, huh?

You: Right, sorry. Well, thank you.

Owl: Don’t mention it.

That seemed to be the end of the conversation, and you waited for Owl to wipe your DMs like they had done earlier in the day. To your surprise, the messages remained. You were about to ask them about it when a thought occurred to you. Wait, this is my chance to get to know more about them! Besides, it’s not like I have anything better to—

A text from Hazel flashed onto your screen and you clicked on it out of instinct.

Hazel: Ok so I know I said this weekend 4 plans with Amara but we got 3 last minute tickets 4 a musical and it’s happening, like, now

...crap.

CHAPTER CHOICE

You've faced with a crossroads! You have the opportunity to gather some information on the mysterious friend of Amara's, Owl, but if you do, you won't be able to go see a last-minute musical with Amara and Hazel. Do you: A) Continue texting with Owl B) Go see the musical with Amara and Hazel

#reigning passions #lovestruck reigning passions #lovestruck voltage #voltage lovestruck #lyris reigning passions #lyris of the spring #piama reigning passions #piama of the spring #reigning passions sevastian #reigning passions lyris #reigning passions piama #reigning passions hazel #masquerade #villainous nights #lovestruck villainous nights #mal writes #villainous nights au

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vyrmiliaxtelvanni-blog · 5 years

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Time Square Blues(AU Drabble)

I recall coming to this place. I fell through a time rift after escaping Coldharbour. I was supposed to return to Tamriel, but instead I ended up here. It happened so fast. I remember everything. My death, being knocked out, as a dark elf, I remember things. I was approached by a hooded figure in Davon's Watch, Morrowind. I was directed to Sadreno House. I was supposed to speak with her benefactor and I had a bad feeling about it. I should listened to my gut when I found a man bound and gagged. Next thing I knew, I was knocked out and fell to the floor. All I saw were these cultists standing above me. Dragging me back to Cyrodiil. I awoke finding myself being taken underground and and I was in chains. I saw an altmer standing above someone holding a dagger and a soul gem. Then, I saw him stab the man and absorbed his soul. I shook my head trying to back away, but they yanked my chain making me step forward. Who was he? Was this some sort of ritual?? I didn't want part in it, but I was forced up front and laid on the table. I couldn't move and he held the dagger up and stabbed me into the heart. I saw a face and it growled at me as I felt myself fall into darkness. I wake up in the realm of Coldharbour and I was locked in a cage. I tried to free myself and a woman came by and smashed the lock and the door opened. I followed her as my weapons and clothes on my back were still with me. She called herself Lyris Titanborn. I told her my name also and she nodded as I followed her throughout the prison. All my belongings were with me but how? But she told me I was dead and I panicked. I asked her who had killed me and she confirmed it was Mannimarco. The name sounded familiar but I don't know him. Then it hit me. He must've been the altmer I saw before I was sacrificed. As we went further, a man appeared to me and claimed himself as The Prophet. He was a prisoner as I was. Lyris told me to keep going and I did. But as we reached his cell, she had to switch places with him and told me to protect him. After waiting for the exchange, he landed in front of me and told me my title which was Vestige. I was a soulless one and an empty vessel that longs to be filled. Me and him made it Anchor Mooring and we battled a skeletal-like creature that prevented us from leaving. After defeating it, he wanted to re-attune myself to Nirn and summoned a crystal called a skyshard. After absorbing it, I felt my real form become whole again and he summoned a portal out of here. When I went up to the rift, it took me someplace else. I fell into the sea and it was cold. I heard someone calling out but I blacked out from the cold. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I woke up to hearing some strange music and I was in a bed under blankets. I didn't have clothing on and I covered myself. I saw my clothes laid out and I put them on as they felt warm. Very warm. Then I heard sounds coming from the other end of the house I was in. I walk in and there was someone sitting in front of a box that showed images and they moved. Where was I? Brad: Oh hey. You're awake. Alice: Hungry? I made pancakes. There's juice and coffee if you want some. I couldn't help but nod and I sat down at their table. She places three fluffy bread like food on a plate in front of me and I started eating it. I felt like I hadn't eaten in 24 hours or a day. She gave me coffee to drink and I sipped it. It tasted weird as she looked at me and placed a small container of sugar near me. I poured some of it into the mug and stirred it then drank it again. Now it was better. Alice: You're acting like you never had coffee before. Where are you from? Do you have a name? "Vyrmilia Telvanni. I'm a dark elf and I.......--How did you find me?" Alice: Ahh. We saw you had pointy ears. We thought they were prosthetic or something but they're real. My husband and sons found you while out fishing. It's a miracle you survived. It's freezing at this time of year. "What year is it?" Brad: It's 2019. Have you hit your head recently or are you drunk? Alice: Bradley! That's no way to treat our guest! Lucas: Hey elf lady. Are those real?-Points at the ears- I looked under my hair and placed my hands on my ears. I nodded to him. He looked young. Probably 10 years old or something. I walk over to the window and opened the curtains. I saw these strange vehicles of a sort and lights from the middle of the city. Alan: You're in New York City, Vyrmilia. But if you're gonna stick around here, we might need to get you registered. "Registered? Why?" Alan: We'll do it first thing tomorrow when everything is open. For now we're celebrating the new year. "Does that explain why it's 2019?" Lucas: Yup! The next day I was taken to get an ID, social security number, and also a phone to use. The family I stayed with called themselves Berrys. Odd name but they're very nice. But here I looked different. I looked almost human. Just the pointy ears and gray skin with pink eyes. I wore makeup everyday and also started looking for work. But while wandering around the city near a subway, I played my lute I had to a crying baby and sang to her. The mother was amazed at my voice as she placed a five dollar bill in my pack I carried. I caught up on my history there as I studied to earn my citizenship. I mostly played songs I heard. Mostly from a genre called rock. Many people came by placing money into my bag as I played my lute. I eventually was gifted a guitar to play. Alan bought it for me. My birthday was Morning Star, after the new year. They celebrated my birthday as I took up voice lessons and ended up playing in bars for the crowds. It was amazing. According to the people here, my birthday is in January. I was told I looked like a woman from a band that's famous and I played cover music from them. I sounded like her too. I know Tamriel was far away and another planet, but this place had humans inhabiting it. I got a feeling it'll take time to get used to this place. I will get my soul back one way or another.

#Dark elf #dunmer #Elder Scrolls #Elder Scrolls Online #Vestige #fanfiction #bard #alternate universe

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ofviolentdeath · 3 years

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30 Days of Drabbles::Day 8

Character(s):: Rafe and Lyri Word Count::1,022 @mythandmonsters and @babyitsmagic tagging the two of you for reasons

Lyri noticed things, paid attention to the small details and made note of what was important when it came to the kids. She knew probably before Rafe did but she never pushed. When he was ready to see it, he would. When he was ready to talk about it, he’d come find her. She had always had an open door policy for the kids, no matter what she was doing. Her babies were always going to be her priority.

So it came to no surprise when he hovered in the doorway of her at home studio, looking as nervous as a little rabbit.

“You look like you have a lot on your mind, Rafe. Are you okay?” She knew he was, she had seen that look too many times to think for even a moment that this wasn’t going to end up being a sweeter conversation.

The boy sighed, not sure how to answer the question. There wasn’t anything wrong, so to speak, but he still had a lot to process.

“Momma, how did you know you were in love with dad?” he finally asked, teeth scraping over his lower lip when he waited for her response. He knew how they had met and that dad had died once and let mom’s cousin bring him back. He knew they loved each other but he didn’t know how mom knew dad was who she wanted to be with.

“I didn’t at first,” she answered truthfully, settling herself onto the floor, her movements still graceful, even in that. “It happened gradually. One day he was just my best friend and the next, well, he smiled at me one day over something stupid I had said, can’t remember what it was, but I just remember having that moment of oh. Oh I’m in love with him.”

There was a softness as she spoke, her eyes filled with warmth as she let herself get swept up in the memory for a moment. “He’s got one of the prettiest smiles I’ve ever seen.”

He sat down across from her, a soft smile spreading over his own lips. He loved the way his parents looked at each other, but he loved hearing his momma talk about his dad even more. She was always so open about everything, soft and loving, and he wished in moments like this he could be a little more like her. He wanted to be able to be so open about his feelings, but he never could get himself to that point.

“What’s this about, baby? Does this have something to do with Malachi?”

He knew the question was coming, but he had wanted to get her on the topic first. It was always easier for him to get it out in the open if someone else was open about it first. He should have known she would see right through him.

“Yeah, it’s about Mal,” he admitted, picking at the skin around his nails. It was an old nervous habit, one he hadn’t really done much in the time Mal had been staying with them.

“Well? What about him, baby? I thought the two of you were getting along,” she encouraged, trying to coax him into talking. It had always been that way with Rafe, but she knew a little gentleness went a long way.

He fidgeted again, a smile touching on his lips once more. “Our heart beats sync up when we’re lying together,” he confessed quietly, the thought of it making him feel warm all the way through. “And when he smiles at me, it’s like everything stops and he’s the only thing that’s real. Like he’s the only thing that matters.”

Rafe didn’t hear it, but Lyri did. She knew the look on his face and the tone of his voice because it was the same ones she had whenever she spoke of Jasper or Kat and Cam.

“You’re in love with him,” she said softly, thrilled to know her boy had been able to find that kind of soft love.

“I really think I do,” he agreed, unable to stop the smile from fully spreading over his lips, his eyes lighting up with the utter joy that came from admitting it to someone finally.

“Have you told him yet?”

He had told Mal that he loved him, yes, but he hadn’t said he was in love with him. That was different. Love could be so many things, but there was no mistaking in love.

“Not yet. I want that to be special, you know? Maybe make him something nice to eat, sit out on the porch at sunset and light candles.”

The romantic streak was definitely something he got from her and it filled her with a sense of pride. Rafe had gone through so much at such a young age, so much pain, that she had never been surprised that he had taken after Jasper in personality a little more, so seeing her own mark on him made her feel like she succeeded as a mom.

“I think he’d like that. It’d be good and memorable,” she agreed, leaning forward to smooth a hand over his hair. “I think you both could use a good, memorable moment like that, something to always be able to look back on.”

He nodded, relieved that she agreed it was a good idea. When it came to things like that, there was no one he trusted more than Lyri.

“Momma? Thank you. I know I’m not good with this sort of thing but being able to talk to you about it helps.”

“Oh my little one, you never have to thank me. A momma is always supposed to be here for her babies. That includes anyone they love that treats them right. Now, you go on and get working on your plan. I need to get some practice in and I know Mal’s therapy is almost over for the day.”

Rafe hadn’t realized that she had memorized the schedule too and he smiled, knowing he shouldn’t be so surprised by that.

“You’re right. I love you momma.”

“I love you too, baby.”

#drabble #lyri:drabble #rafe:drabble #30 days of drabbles #day eight

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stereksecretsanta · 6 years

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Merry Christmas, @hazytuesday!

happy christmas, lyri. i realized very belatedly that in this kind of event, you're encouraged to anonymously reach out to your giftee, so i sincerely apologize that i didn't reach out more often. but i hope this meets your fluff, domestic, and happy derek needs! and, of course, that you have a happy holiday!

Read on AO3

*****

flicker

Derek loves being a dad. He really, really does. There’s no doubt about it – his daughter is the greatest thing that’s ever happened to him. He loves all the ups and downs, every little piece of it. He does. He swears that he does- hand over his heart swears. But…well.

Derek hates pick up time at the local elementary school. There are too many people. Everyone is pilled together in the lobby, hands in their pockets, as they exchange stilted conversation. And Maisy likes to take her time getting to him, because she has friends and people that she needs to touch base with before she can go home for the night.

It feels like getting teeth pulled standing there, waiting, as hoards of kids rush past him. None of the other parents try to talk to him anymore, because Derek is awkward and hates talking.

But he loves being a dad.

Derek grunts when a little body collides with his. Out of messy blonde curls pops his daughter’s face. She’s smiling up at him, already working out of her backpack so Derek can carry it.

“Hi,” he says, leaning down to kiss her head. “Did you have a good day?”

Maisy nods, reaching for his hand so they can venture out into parking lot. The other thing Derek hates. “We painted clowns in art today.”

“You did?”

“Yeah, but it’s still wet so I couldn’t take it home.”

Derek nods in understanding. “That’s okay. We’ll have to find a place for it.”

Maisy sighs. “Yeah.”

Derek unlocks the car and helps her inside, setting her backpack down and waiting until she’s seated before he buckles her in. “What else did you do?” he asks, shutting her door and then sliding into his own seat.

“We added sea shells and we read Cat in the Hat,” Maisy squeals, grinning when Derek looks at her through the rearview mirror. “Tomorrow, we’re going to do Green Eggs and Ham.”

“That’ll be fun,” says Derek. “Maybe you’ll be able to eat green eggs and ham.”

Maisy looks at Derek like he’s grown horns, like the idea is ridiculous. Derek winks at her and backs out of the parking space, trying not to hit the school principal.

“Dad, do you know what I was thinking?”

Derek hums, shoving the watering can under the faucet. He turns to look at his daughter, eyebrows raised expectantly. “What were you thinking?”

“I was thinking we should make raviolis for dinner,” says Maisy, her little mouth twisting into a grin.

Derek taps his chin, turning to shut the water off as he pretends to think about it. “If you finish your homework, then we can make ravioli. We’ll have to go to the store, though.”

Maisy cheers, bouncing in her seat. Derek shakes his head, kissing her forehead as he passes her, watering can in hand.

In June, they started a garden on their balcony. Maisy found flower seeds at the hardware store – tiny sunflowers, daisies, zinnias, and cosmos, even a packet of tomatoes that she insisted they needed. By August, the thrill had worn off, but Derek still likes to keep them watered and taken care of, even if it’s just to see the thrill in her eyes when a flower is getting ready to bloom, or a tiny cherry tomato starts to form.

Derek keeps the balcony door open so he can hear Maisy if she calls. He waters the tomatoes first because they’re greedy, and they’re secretly his favorite plant of the bunch.

Derek can hear a commotion at his new – fairly new, they’ve lived there for two months – neighbor’s. He frowns as he tries to listen, wondering if it should be something to worry about.

A man comes stumbling out, cheeks flushed, as he laughs. He holds his hands up and Derek can’t hear anymore, as the balcony door slams shut. Derek’s frown deepens as he takes note of the tinfoil hat placed on top of the guy’s head and the too tight shirt he’s wearing.

Derek stares at his neighbor as he peeks in through his balcony door, shouting things like 'give 'em a kick', 'no, no use your sword', and 'watch out, there's one behind you.' Derek curses as he feels his pants dampen and realizes that he's emptied his watering can into one pot and it's overflowed. Great.

"Oh, hey," his neighbor says, pulling his face away from the glass to wave at Derek.

Derek doesn't wave back. "What are you doing?"

"What?" Derek points to the foil hat he's wearing. "Oh, there's an alien invasion in my apartment, and this is the only way they can't take my brain," the man says, grinning.

Derek blinks and finds that he's nodding. It's completely absurd, but Derek doesn't comment. Instead, he slips back into his apartment and locks the balcony door.

With a shopping bag filled with everything they need for a ravioli night, Derek feels like father of the year with how excited Maisy is. She’s got her arms wrapped around his neck, letting Derek carry her up the stairs to their apartment so they can get to their apartment faster and make the ravioli already. Derek sets her down on the floor when they reach their door so he can dig around in his pockets for his keys.

He’s got the key shoved in the doorknob when the strange man next door’s door open. Derek immediately puts his hand on Maisy’s shoulder, guiding her so she’s partially behind him as he turns to face the stranger.

“Hi,” the guy says, grinning. “Um, I didn’t get the chance to introduce myself when I saw you earlier. It’s probably a little too late to do it now, but I really haven’t seen you, and since I’m new, I don’t know, I thought maybe I should? Anyway, I’m Stiles.”

He holds his hand out and Derek eyes it suspiciously, as he cautiously removes his hand from his daughter’s shoulder. “Derek,” he answers, shaking Stiles’ hand. He has no intention of introducing Maisy, but Derek’s luck has never been great, so of course he was blessed with an outgoing daughter.

“I’m Maisy,” she says, sticking her hand out for Stiles to take. “Maisy Hale.”

“Oh, well it’s nice to meet you,” says Stiles, grinning as he shakes her hand. “Stiles Stilinski.”

“And I’m Evan,” a little voice says, running out of Stiles’ apartment. There’s a tinfoil hat on his head and dishtowel wrapped around his neck like a cape. He grins at them and Derek blinks at him before he looks up at Stiles because they’re carbon copies of each other. It’s almost like Stiles was cloned. “Evan Michael Stilinski, innergatic crime fighter.”

“Intergalactic,” Stiles corrects, ruffling the little boy’s hair. “And what did we talk about? Don’t give out your full name.”

“I’m Maisy Eloise Hale,” says Maisy, sticking her hand out now for Evan to take. Evan eyes it dubiously and then shakes his head, reaching around to pull a sword out of the back of his pants. The sword is made of foil, too. “Wow, nice sword.”

“Thanks, it’s to kill the aliens.” Maisy’s eyes go wide. “They’re all over this place.”

Stiles laughs, scratching the back of his neck. “Yeah, uh. I wanted to make sure you knew that I wasn’t, like, being serious about the invasion. You don’t have to call anyone to report me.”

Evan gasps, his mouth dropping open in shock. “Daddy, this is very serious.”

“Oh, I know,” says Stiles, holding his hands up. “But I don’t want to scare Mr. Derek. Not everyone is an intergalactic crime fighter.”

Evan nods like it’s true.

“I’m a ballerina,” says Maisy, putting a hand on her hip.

“Wow,” says Stiles, “That’s impressive.”

Maisy shrugs like she knows but isn’t going to make it into big deal. Derek laughs softly, running his fingers through her curls. “Since I was three,” she adds, holding three of her fingers up.

“Little miss ballerina, I think it’s time we head inside to start dinner, it’s getting kind of late.”

“Oh,” says Stiles, and Derek notices that he frowns briefly. “Yeah, we should probably make something to eat, too.”

“Pancakes,” Evan shouts, throwing his hand up in the air.

Stiles rolls his eyes. “He asks for that every night,” he explains. “Anyway, it was really nice meeting you, and Maisy, you’re welcome to come over and play any time. We do more than fight aliens.”

“Yeah, sometimes daddy turns into a horse so that explore the Wild West and stop bank robbers,” Evan says excitedly.

“All right, inside,” says Stiles, clapping his hands together before he starts ushering Evan away, his cheeks stained pink.

Derek watches them go, feeling his lips curl upwards when Stiles turns back to look at him.

“Whoa, he’s got a gun,” says Maisy and Derek whips around, already shielding Maisy before he sees that it’s Stiles in a deputy’s uniform.

“Sorry.” Stiles holds his hands up, moving like he’s scared Derek is going to freak out.

Derek wants to ask to see a permit, or something kind of verification that Stiles is actually allowed to carry that. But he remembers Evan introducing himself as a Stilinski, and Sheriff Stilinski has been the sheriff since Derek was a teenager, so Derek can only assume he wouldn’t be foolish enough to let Stiles wander around with a gun.

“Are you a policeman?”

“I am,” says Stiles, quickly moving to catch the whirlwind that is Evan rushing out of their apartment, Hulk backpack dragging on the ground. Stiles yanks the door shut and turns the knob to make sure it’s locked before he approaches Derek and Maisy.

“He’s not going to arrest you,” says Evan, nodding solemnly, like he wishes his dad would. “Not even if you don’t eat all your pasgetti. Grampy says that’s abuse of the laws!”

Stiles rolls his eyes and Derek can’t help but laugh at that.

“I never threatened to arrest him,” Stiles hisses, like he’s worried Derek is going to take Evan seriously and report him or something. “Okay, fine. I did threaten to call my dad, but that’s entirely different.”

Derek shrugs. “I think every parent uses the grandparent threat.”

“Yeah, but I’m sure other grandparents are useful. My dad takes his side and tells me he’s disappointed in me.”

Derek smiles because his parents do the same thing, unless it’s something serious. Derek’s sisters are worse than his parents, though.

Stiles follows Derek outside and into the building’s parking lot. Their cars are parked next to each other. Stiles drives an older car and not a cruiser, and Evan climbs into it after shouting bye to Maisy as he goes. Maisy waves back enthusiastically while she waits for Derek to unlock the door.

“He’s funny,” says Maisy, handing Derek her lunchbox so she can get in the car.

Stiles’ car rattles as he drives past them. He’s waving over the steering wheel and Derek nods in acknowledgement before he leans into his car to buckle his daughter in.

“He’s something, isn’t he?” he mutters.

Maisy chooses The Swan Princess to watch after the pizza arrives. And because Derek’s a good dad, he cuts up some apples as well. And because Maisy is the world’s greatest daughter, and Derek is so incredibly lucky, she eats the apples without complaint.

“Dad, why don’t they know she’s a swan?” Maisy asks, flipping around so she’s looking at him. “Is it magic?”

Derek breathes out, nodding. “They haven’t seen her transform yet.”

Maisy’s nose wrinkles like she’s not satisfied with that answer. “They should know.”

“Would you know if I changed into a swan?”

Maisy rolls her eyes, like Derek’s silly for even asking such a thing. “You wouldn’t turn into a swan,” she says, sitting up on her knees and cupping his cheeks. “You’d turn into a big bear.” She laughs as she says it, rubbing her hands along his beard.

“More like a wolf,” he says, snapping his teeth at her.

Maisy laughs and falls into him, resting her head on his side when he lifts his arm to accommodate her. Derek puts his hand on her head and leans down to kiss her.

“Would I be a swan?” she asks.

“If you want to be, yes.”

Maisy pats his leg as she thinks, watching as Odette finally transforms in front of the Derek onscreen. She gasps as the clouds roll over the moon, but then it happens, movie Derek figures out the swan is Odette. Maisy shakes his leg she’s so excited.

The movie carries on, all talk of animal transformation forgotten as the Maisy becomes engrossed in what’s happening on screen.

Derek runs his fingers through her hair, letting her lean against him before she tugs a pillow in his lap and lies down more comfortably. Derek pulls the Moana blanket off the back of the couch and covers her and hopes that maybe she’ll fall asleep.

Except, she hasn’t brushed her teeth yet. She’s already in her nightgown; wearing the thick fuzzy socks that Cora got her. Oh well, if she falls asleep then she falls asleep, Derek’s not going to stress about it. And there’s always the strange noises taking place next door that might keep her up.

They started at five, a quiet thumping, and a telltale sign of little feet running around the apartment. Then came the shouts and the even louder thumping. Derek waited until Maisy had left the room before he pressed his ear against the wall to determine if Stiles and Evan were playing or if he should call the Sheriff.

They were just playing, luckily.

Still playing, by the sound of it.

“I’d be an otter,” says Maisy, nodding decisively when Derek turns to look at her.

“I think you’d make a great otter.”

“Aunt Laura would be those ones with the spikes on their back.”

“A hedgehog?” Maisy shakes her head. “A porcupine?”

“Yeah, that one,” says Maisy, grinning and nodding excitedly. “And Aunt Cora would be a penguin.”

“You’ll have to tell them next time you see them; they’re going to love to hear that,” Derek laughs, patting her on the stomach. God, he hopes he’s there when she does it so he can see the look on Laura’s face.

The mysterious noises from next door come to a stop after a few days, and Derek’s almost grateful for it. It makes his place feel a little too quiet but that’s the way he likes it. He likes being able to hear where Maisy is at in the apartment and what she’s doing when she disappears into her room to play doctor with her stuffed animals, or when she pulls the box of cars that Laura bought her out from under her bed, or when she’s attempting to play the guitar that Isaac bought her for Christmas.

Derek likes to be able to know she’s okay even when he can’t physically see her, so not being able to hear Stiles and his son destroy aliens is a good thing, in his book.

“Okay, oranges or apples?” Derek asks, holding the fridge door open as he attempts to get Maisy to eat a healthy snack before bed.

“How about grapes?”

Derek nods, yanking open one of the drawers. “We have grapes. Good choice.”

“Thanks,” she says, taking a seat at the table and waiting as Derek washes her grapes and drops them in a bowl for her. “Are you going to eat apples or oranges?”

Derek gives her a wry look over his shoulder, chuckling to himself. “I’m not hungry,” he says, popping one of her grapes into his mouth. “Maybe I’ll eat all your grapes.”

“Nuh-uh,” she says, laughing as Derek pushes it between his teeth and cheek so that his cheek puffs out. “Dad.” She draws his name out, taking the bowl away from him, curling around it. “These are mine.”

“That they are, sweetie. You eat, I’ll be right back.”

“Got it,” says Maisy, sticking her thumb up in the air.

When Derek steps out of the bathroom, there’s frantic knocking at his front door. Maisy’s standing in the kitchen doorway, frowning with a grape pressed to her lips; Derek motions for her to wait there, as he moves towards the door.

He checks through the peephole and sees Stiles and Evan on the other side. Stiles is wearing his deputy uniform and it confuses Derek even more.

“Oh thank god,” Stiles breathes when Derek pulls the door open. “Um, so you’re going to think I’m absolutely the worst person in the world, but would it be super inappropriate to ask for a favor?”

“What kind of favor?” Derek asks, feeling as Maisy tries to stick her head in between the door and Derek’s body. “Is everything okay?”

“Evan,” Maisy cries, successfully shoving Derek out of her way. “Hi, Evan.”

“Hi,” says Evan, waving. “I’m gonna sleep here.”

“No,” Stiles laughs, gripping his son’s shoulder. “Um, no. Well, uh… Maybe? That’s kind of the favor.”

Derek frowns and finally takes in the scene in front of him. Evan is standing at Stiles’ side, clutching a plastic Spiderman, dressed in striped pajamas with slippers on his feet. Derek blinks and glances back at Stiles. “You want him to sleep here?”

“I swear I don’t normally ask neighbors that I barely know for favors like this, but my dad swears that you’re a nice guy, and you seemed cool the few times we’ve talked. Oh, and my best friend is dating your sister, who I would ask to watch Evan, but they’re not answering,” Stiles says, the words rushing out in a single breath, tumbling out of his mouth so quickly that Derek feels winded for him. “And then there’s my dad, who is also working a night shift. Oh, that’s another thing, I’m asking because I work the night shift.”

“Okay,” says Derek, nodding and trying to process all of this. “You’re working the night shift?”

“Yeah,” Stiles breathes. “And you don’t have to worry about school tomorrow, since it’s closed for professional development. If that is a concern of yours.”

Derek honestly hasn’t even thought about school, not when the neighbor that he barely knows wants him to watch his son -trusts him to watch his child.

“He’s all dressed and ready for bed. And he’ll sleep anywhere, so you can give him the couch, or yank a cushion off and throw it on the floor, he does like to do that when he thinks I’m sleeping,” Stiles explains. “He’s not allergic to anything. Uh, he’s already had a snack but I put some in this bag just in case.” He shoves a bag forward and grins; shaking it like it’ll do anything for Derek.

“We have grapes,” says Maisy, holding the bowl out.

Evan grins and takes one, biting into it and making the juices fly out.

“I mean, are you sure?” Derek asks because he doesn’t know what else to say.

“I swear I wouldn’t be here if I had any other options. My dad usually takes him when his mom can’t, and I am seriously stuck right now.”

Derek breathes out and glances down at Maisy. She grins at him and nods, giving him the okay, and, really, what else is Derek to do?

“All right, yeah, come on in.”

Stiles’ body sags in relief as he passes the bag over to Derek. Derek takes a step back and waits, watching as Stiles promises Evan that he’ll be home in the morning, and he can call if he needs anything - the station, that is, not 911.

Evan nods and then wiggles out of Stiles’ grip; he doesn’t even say bye as he disappears into Derek’s apartment with Maisy. Evan has no problem making himself at home. Derek watches as he kicks his slippers off before he runs after Maisy towards her room, bowl of grapes forgotten on the coffee table.

“You’re seriously saving my life,” says Stiles, tearing Derek’s attention back towards him.

“It’s not a problem,” Derek assures him, trying for a smile that he hopes is reassuring.

“My cell phone number is in that bag, along with the number and my extension at the station. If I don’t answer, it’s most definitely because I’m out, so just try me on my cell,” says Stiles. “And maybe call me or text me so I have your number, just so I can check in, please. And I’ll be here in the morning, after my shift and after I, uh, get some sleep, if that’s okay.”

Derek nods. “It’ll be fine. I’ll text you before you reach your car. You can call whenever.”

Stiles nods and glances over Derek’s shoulder, looking nervous. “I’m really sorry for invading your night like this. I swear this isn’t how I normally am. I normally have back up plans for my back plans when it comes to Evan – when it comes to anything, really.”

“Stiles, it’s really fine,” Derek promises, grin softening; Stiles seems to relax at that. “I’ll have him call you before bed.”

“Thank you, you’re a life saver,” says Stiles, hesitating briefly before he turns to leave, rushing down the stairs.

Derek watches him go and waits until he hears the building door shut before he locks his apartment door, shutting it quietly. He digs around in the bag and sees that Stiles included more than just his cell phone number and the station number; he added the number for Evan’s doctor, his dad, Evan’s mom, his best friend Scott, and the direct line to the closest fire department. Derek snorts when he sees it. He sets the paper down on the table and pulls his phone out so he can text Stiles.

Despite the sheer amount of energy in Evan’s tiny body, he’s a really sweet boy and Derek likes having him over. He likes the way he makes Maisy laugh and how in-depth their playing gets; from acting out the Paw Patrol episode Derek lets them watch while they eat their cereal, to chasing dragons in and out of Maisy’s bedroom, to building a fort using the kitchen table – all before lunchtime while Derek catches up on work at the kitchen table.

Evan doesn’t ask about Stiles but he talks to him first thing in the morning for five minutes before his attention wanders and he loses interest in the call. Stiles looks tired in the morning, so Derek tells him to get some sleep and he’ll see him later.

Stiles shows up when they’re making lunch, dressed out of his uniform. He still looks tired, but he looks better than what he did when he FaceTimed.

“Daddy,” Evan screams, rushing towards Stiles when he sees him. “Mr. Derek is making girl cheese for lunch. With carrots!”

“That sounds delicious,” says Stiles, lifting Evan off the ground and kissing his face repeatedly.

“Did you get any bad guys?” Maisy asks.

“Mais,” says Derek, shaking his head.

“No, it’s okay,” Stiles assures him, setting Evan back down on the ground. “I didn’t catch any bad guys, but I did give out a speeding ticket.”

“An exciting night,” Derek comments, smiling. He waves, using the spatula in his hand. He waits a moment before he disappears into the kitchen, flipping the sandwich he left on the stovetop.

“How was Evan?” Stiles asks, standing awkwardly behind Derek.

“Fine. He seemed content,” Derek answers, dropping another sandwich on a plate. “Are you hungry?”

“What? Oh, no, I’m fine.” Derek looks over his shoulder, waiting until Stiles sighs and then nods. “Yeah, I am.”

Derek points to a seat at the table, as he pulls open the refrigerator door so he can grab butter and cheese. The bread’s still out on the counter so he grabs two more slices and butters them, getting everything ready so he can drop it in the pan. He adds another sandwich in and then tries to finish with the kids’ plates.

“Do you want any help?”

“No, I’m okay,” Derek answers, reaching into the fridge for carrots. “Does Evan actually eat carrots?”

“He’ll eat just about anything that isn’t a leaf,” Stiles replies. “Or tomato soup. Can’t get him to eat that, for whatever reason.”

“Yeah, Maisy is on an Italian kick right now,” says Derek. “Obviously there are exceptions.” He lifts the two plates of grilled cheese in his hands and sets them down on the table. “She’s eating, though, so I’m not going to complain. Last year there was three months she wanted everything on a tortilla shell.”

Stiles laughs at that, shaking his head. “Kids are funny, aren’t they?”

Derek smiles and nods before turning back to the stove. “If you want to go and get them,” he says, pointing the spatula towards the kitchen doorway, “you can find them in Maisy’s room. Just follow the noise.”

“Yeah, that sounds good,” says Stiles, the chair skidding across the floor as he stands. “Also, um, I know I’ve said this a lot but I am really appreciative of what you did for me last night. You’re probably tired of hearing it, but you really saved my ass.”

“It’s fine, really,” Derek assures him. “It was kind of nice having someone here for Maisy to play with. So, don’t worry about.”

Stiles breathes out slowly and smiles. He looks like he wants to say something but instead he disappears, following the squeals in Maisy’s room.

Derek and Maisy are coloring pictures of Princess Ariel and Merida, respectively, passing crayons back and forth, when someone knocks on his apartment door.

Maisy sighs like she’s annoyed at the interruption, setting her green crayon down to glare at Derek.

“I don’t know who it is,” he says, getting up and moving towards the door. “Just keep coloring, I’ll be right back.”

“Is it Aunt Laura?”

Derek shrugs and then pulls his door open without checking. He blinks in surprise when he sees Stiles and Evan in front of him, both of them smiling and clutching a plate of cookies.

“It’s not Aunt Laura,” Derek calls, pulling the door open wider so Maisy can see.

“Oh, sorry.” Stiles falters, smile dropping slightly. “Were you expecting company?”

Derek shakes his head. “No, you’re fine.”

“We were coloring,” says Maisy, running towards the door.

“We made cookies,” says Evan, trying to yank the plate in Maisy’s direction. Stiles has to two hand it to prevent the cookies from spilling out on the floor. “You want one?”

Maisy tilts her head up to look at Derek and Derek nods. He motions for Stiles and Evan to come inside.

“Sorry to interrupt coloring,” says Stiles, taking the plate away from Evan. “Though, you don’t look like you color.”

“He’s the best colorer,” Maisy informs him. “Look at his Ariel.”

Derek shakes his head as Stiles peeks over the couch, nodding in appreciation.

“Excellent job. You’re right, one of the best I’ve ever seen,” says Stiles.

Derek feels his cheeks redden at the compliment. It’s so silly, to feel anything about his coloring skills getting complimented, but it makes Maisy smile and Stiles seems so earnest about it.

Derek leaves them to examine the coloring as he heads into the kitchen for glasses of milk. Maisy will only eat her cookies with milk and maybe he should ask Stiles, but it’s too late now, he thinks, trying to figure out how to juggle four glasses into the other room.

“And I even made the wings pink and green,” Evan is saying as Derek stumbles back into the room.

Derek sets the glasses down carefully, noticing the butterfly shaped cookie that Evan is showing Maisy.

“We also made trucks, dogs, numbers, and dinosaurs,” Evan explains, shoving cookies off the plate to show them all off.

Maisy grabs a fire truck shaped cookie and bites into it. “It’s good,” she says.

“Yeah, I made them,” says Evan, rolling his eyes like everything he makes is good and Maisy is clearly behind on the times if she’s not aware of that. “Daddy, I’m gonna eat the butterfly.”

“Eat whatever you want,” says Stiles. “Just eat over the table. Don’t get crumbs on the floor, you wild man.”

Evan grins, frosting on his cheeks.

“It’s okay,” Derek assures him. “He’s not the first person.” Derek points to Maisy to emphasize his point, with the red frosting on her cheeks and the crumbs falling from her shirt to the floor. He slides the milk in front of her and then passes a cup to Evan, who is already reaching for his second cookie.

“Yum,” says Evan, wiping his face on his arms.

Stiles snorts, shaking his head. “You’re a mess, kid.”

“I’m a hungry kid.”

“You know what would be nice with these cookies?” Maisy asks, looking at Derek. She has the look on her face she gets when she’s plotting something and Derek narrows his eyes at her, wondering what she’s about to throw at him. “A movie.”

“Yeah,” says Evan, jumping up. “Let’s find one.”

“Evan,” Stiles groans.

“It’s okay,” Maisy promises, taking Evan by the arm to the shelf Derek keeps her movies on.

Derek shakes his head, reaching for a cookie in the shape of the number four with purple frosting. “It’s fine. Unless you have something else to do.”

“Oh, um,” Stiles shakes his head, scratching the back of his neck. “No, we don’t have anything going on. I just didn’t—I just thought maybe this might seem kind of invasive?”

Derek shrugs; he doesn’t really mind it. The company is nice, Derek can admit that. And he’s curious about Stiles in a way he hasn’t felt curious about someone else in a while.

He’s not going to panic about it.

Maisy tosses Beethoven’s 2nd box on the floor as she shoves the DVD in the player.

“She only likes this one because it has puppies,” says Derek. “She really wants a puppy. I think she thinks if we watch enough movies with puppies in them, that I’ll change my mind about us getting one.”

“Better than Evan,” says Stiles. “He wants a pet snake. We’ve got a turtle – Michelangelo. I told him that’s enough. Actually, I said there were laws against getting another pet and that you have to wait at least three years before you’re legally able to get a second pet.”

“And your dad didn’t correct you?” Derek laughs.

“He would have if it were anything but a snake.”

“We can’t hear the movie,” says Evan, turning around to glare at the two of them.

“Eyes on the screen, bossy pants,” Stiles directs, nudging Evan with his foot. He smiles at Derek and shrugs, miming zipping his lips. Derek laughs.

Derek’s mom takes Maisy for him on Friday night. Not so much takes, as in Derek asked for it or wanted it to happen, but more so like she showed up and asked if her granddaughter was ready.

But Derek’s caught up on work, paid the bills he’s been neglecting, and is now carting a load of laundry down to the laundry room in the basement, so it’s proven to be a useful night.

Derek’s trekking back up the stairs when Stiles’ door opens. He smiles at him and waves, moving to head towards his apartment.

“Doing laundry?” Stiles asks, shoving his hands in his pockets, as he leans against the doorframe.

“Yeah. Maisy’s with my mom so I’m finally getting caught up with my to-do list.”

“Ah,” says Stiles.

“Everything okay?”

“What? Oh, yeah. Fine. Everything’s fine.”

“There’s machines still open, if you’re wanting to use one.”

Stiles head tilts as he frowns. “What?”

“In the laundry room. I have another load to do, but I always use one machine. There were still some open. Friday is usually the best day to get laundry done,” Derek explains, pointing over his shoulder in the direction of the stairs.

“No, no. I’m not… That’s not what I was wondering.”

Derek’s eyebrows pinch together in confusion. “Oh, sorry. Um, well then I guess I’ll see you.”

Derek shoves his key in the slot, aware that Stiles is still watching him. He feels his skin prickle as his nerves start to get the best of him. Finally, as he’s pushing his door open, ready to slam it shut quickly so he can escape Stiles’ gaze, Stiles shouts:

“Do you want to hang out?”

Derek turns and sees Stiles’ hands moving around wildly like he’s not sure what to do with them. He grins and then wrings his fingers together, bouncing on the balls of his feet.

“Evan is at his mom’s for the weekend and my friend Scott is busy. Shit, not like you’re a second choice or something,” says Stiles, biting his lip. “I have wine.” Derek makes a face at that and Stiles laughs. “I have beer, too.”

“Beer’s good,” says Derek. “I’ll leave the door open, or did you want to go to your place?”

“My place is a disaster. The aliens are back and I haven’t had the energy to clean it up. Actually, I just got off work an hour ago, so that’s where the energy comes in. The lack of energy. But I have enough energy to hang out.”

“Okay, then I’ll leave the door open. Just come in.”

Stiles salutes Derek and then rushes back into his apartment. Derek shakes his head as he watches him go.

It only takes a couple minutes before Stiles comes back, juggling a couple bottles of beer.

“So, I haven’t actually had a beer in ages,” Stiles admits. “But I checked and these are not expired.”

“It’s been months since I’ve had one. Actually, I think the last drink that I had was on Fourth of July.”

Stiles nods like he’s remembering his own Fourth of July, a distant look in his eyes before he smiles. “My friend, Cora’s girlfriend, thought it would be fun to try and turn me into a wine mom. She also thought we should start a book club, but after I neglected to finish three books, she bailed on that idea.”

“A book club,” Derek mutters. “Doesn’t sound like Lydia.”

“No, but I think she’s trying to get me to start doing more. Like going beyond my fatherly duties to have something for myself.” Stiles explains. “It’s a sweet thought, but when we go to the library, it’s hard enough getting Evan to not put the toys in his book bag. So if she wants to read any book from the children’s section, I’m completely game for that.”

“Yeah, I can relate to that. My dad bought Maisy a book that’s kind of like a compilation of a bunch of different Disney movies turned into books. We’ve read the thing six different times already.”

“That’s why Evan and I go to the library. We get enough books to last us two weeks, then go again when we’re finished with those. He loves it.”

Derek nods and makes a mental note to give it a try. It’d be nice to support the library, but Derek also likes buying books and having them in the house.

“It’s weird, isn’t it?”

“What is?” Derek asks, looking at Stiles curiously.

“How even when your kids aren’t around, they’re all you can talk about.”

Derek smiles and nods, scratching at the label on his beer as he tries to remember the last time he had a conversation that didn’t center on Maisy or mention her briefly.

“I think it’s only natural when you care for something, in every sense of the word. Dog owners love to talk about their pets, and people love to talk about their cars, or whatever new fitness craze is happening. I guess we’re just lucky that people haven’t told us to shut up by now.”

“You’re mistaken if you think people don’t tell me to shut up,” Stiles laughs.

“You do tend to ramble.”

Stiles squints down at his beer bottle, moving it around slowly, like he’s spinning the contents around inside of it. “I think that you just make me nervous,” he admits, shrugging when Derek looks at him. “Did that make things awkward?”

Derek looks at him and tries to figure out how that makes him feel. He’s not sure, not really. It mostly feels like a chance, like an opportunity for something. “No,” he says. “You didn’t make anything awkward.”

Stiles smiles at him, all teeth, and Derek can feel a flicker of something in his stomach at the sight.

Derek isn’t surprised when Stiles shows up in full uniform with Evan a few nights later. He pulls the door open, waiting as Evan says goodbye and then rushes into Derek’s apartment like he’s done everyday for the last three nights.

“You’re still a lifesaver,” says Stiles.

“Am I still last resort?”

“Nope, first choice. Evan chose you over his uncle, who is across town pouting because he was looking forward to having him.”

“Well, I’ll remember that I’m lucky,” Derek jokes. “Now, go save the city.”

Stiles rolls his eyes. “I’ll be here in the morning to take him to school.”

Derek shakes his head. “No, I’ll drop him off. You shouldn’t be driving after you haven’t slept all night. Go get his school stuff.”

Stiles blinks at that, his mouth parting. “Did you just use a dad voice on me?”

“Probably, now go get it before you’re late.”

“Well, all right,” says Stiles, turning to head back into his apartment.

Derek waits for him, arms folded over his chest. Stiles rushes out a minute later, a Hulk back pack swinging at his sides. He hands it over to Derek with a grin.

“His lunch is in there, so you’ll have to put that in your fridge. His teacher likes for them to have a water bottle, which is in the side. No worries if you forget to fill it, she’ll do it.”

“You forget often?” Derek teases, setting the bag down next to the door.

“Surprisingly, no. Though, I do forget to hand in his homework because there’s no turn in. I don’t know; you just hand it over.”

“So make sure to bring his lunch, fill up and bring his water bottle, and make sure his homework gets handed in. Anything else?”

Stiles grins. “Have a mentioned that you’re a life saver?”

Derek rolls his eyes. “Have a good day at work. We’ll call before bed and in the morning.”

Stiles nods. “Thanks again,” he says before he turns to leave.

Derek watches him and waits until he hears the apartment’s front door close before he slips back inside.

For once, Derek finds himself in Stiles’ apartment. It’s slightly smaller than his own, a two bedroom instead of three. His kitchen and his living room are in the same space, separated by a counter with stools shoved underneath instead of a full wall like Derek’s.

It’s cramped and slightly cluttered, but it feels like the type of place Stiles would live.

There’s a toy box shoved in the corner behind the table that Derek’s really not even sure if it can be counted as a dining room, but there’s no table in the kitchen, so it must be. The toys are everywhere. Evan is standing inside of the toy box, pulling each of his toys out so that he can show them off to Maisy while she nods along impressively.

“Show off, you want blueberry pancakes or chocolate chip?”

“Raspberry,” Evan shouts, causing Stiles to still. He stares at his son, his mouth hanging open, before he rolls his eyes.

“We’re out of raspberries.”

“Banana.”

“Try again,” Stiles calls, staring at Evan with a hand on his hip. “Blueberry or chocolate chip?”

Evan sighs, staring at the ceiling before he says, “chocolate chip.”

“Maisy? What about you?” Derek asks.

“Can I have chocolate chip?”

Derek nods and she grins at him.

“Make that three chocolate chip, chef,” says Derek twisting around on his stool to grin at Stiles.

“Four,” says Stiles, tossing the blueberries back into the fridge. “But I’ll trick Evan into eating those when I put a few on his plate.”

Derek laughs, shaking his head. “Doesn’t seem like something a dad who makes chocolate chip pancakes and scrambled eggs for lunch will do.”

“Oh, well, this is the Stilinski household, and I don’t know if anyone told you or not, but we’re kind of huge rule breakers.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, and remember when I told you ages ago how Evan is on a pancake kick?” Derek nods and Stiles sighs, setting the spoon down now that he’s finished mixing the batter. “It’s turned into an only eat pancakes kind of thing. I’ve had to google ways to make pancakes with vegetables in them, which is how I discovered this thing called a fritter. No idea how close it is to a pancake, but it comes in a circle and Evan just thinks I’m being creative when his pancake comes out green and orange.”

“Kind of like Maisy’s tortilla phase.”

“Did Maisy make you eat everything on a tortilla.”

“No,” Derek admits. “She spared me.”

“Oh, if only my son would be so kind. Last night he cried for ten minutes – and I’m talking massive tantrum, kicking his legs and screaming – because I didn’t want to eat a carrot pancake,” says Stiles, turning to face the stove. “I’m surprised you didn’t hear it.”

“We heard banging but we figured you were either fighting aliens again, or attempting to stop another bandit from stealing your house.”

Stiles turns to glare at Derek. “That was when Evan decided to kick his chair repeatedly,” Stiles admits. “I tried so hard to ignore it, after I had already tried so hard to calm him down. I eventually just ate the damn thing.”

“Bad word,” Evan screams, popping out of the toy box. “We're supposed to use good words, daddy.”

“Sorry,” Stiles calls. “That’s another thing we’re working on, bad words.”

“Evan uses bad words?”

“Um, he called me an i-d-i-o-t the other day because he heard it on the playground, so we’re both making a collective effort to practice our nice words.”

“Why do I get the feeling that he’s exactly like you were as a kid?” Derek asks. Stiles turns, stack of pancakes in hand. He doesn’t look amused.

“You know that threat parents always make, where they hope you have a kid exactly like you? Yeah, that’s me,” says Stiles. “He’s a tiny little version of me. He looks—“

“Like your much, much younger twin.”

“Yes,” Stiles agrees. “Much to the excitement of his mother.”

Derek laughs and grabs two plates that Stiles’ offers him.

They eat lunch together at Stiles’ table. Evan dominates the conversation as he attempts the back-story of the Ninja Turtles – because his pet turtle is in a tank on the other side of the room and no one has asked about it but he’s going to tell everyone, anyway. It’s Maisy who gets to him stop, shifting the conversation away from mutant turtles to his favorite movie. It keeps the conversation going but it doesn’t give Derek anymore time to talk to Stiles.

Which is fine. Derek’s not, like, dying to speak to him or anything.

Afterwards, Stiles gets Maisy and Evan on the couch to watch Toy Story while Derek works on the dishes. Stiles seems stressed behind him, waiting for his chance to slip in and take over because ‘guests don’t clean, Derek.’

Stiles doesn’t win but he does toss soapy suds at Derek which probably makes him feels like he does.

“Thank you,” says Stiles. “Though, you didn’t have to do that.”

“Maybe,” Derek agrees. “But you didn’t have to invite us over for lunch.”

“Maybe,” Stiles mutters, laughing.

Derek nods, unsure about what he’s supposed to do or say now. Stiles makes him nervous, and normally he’s able to ignore that and just go along with whatever Stiles throws at him. But there’s something Stiles isn’t throwing at him right now. There’s something he’s not saying or doing, and Derek doesn’t know what to do about that.

“Guess we should get in there and watch the movie,” he says, laughing awkwardly as he tries to maneuver around Stiles.

“Wait,” says Stiles, tugging nervously at his shirt. “Um, remember earlier how I said that Stilinski’s are rule breakers?”

“Yes.”

“Right, so that kind of also includes—Well, see… Okay,” Stiles breathes out, releasing a chest full of air. “So I feel like that probably includes asking out your really hot neighbor, who also happens to be the dad of your son’s new friend, and also your own new friend. Like that breaks rules doesn’t it?”

Derek frowns, lost somewhere in neighbor and friend. “What rules?”

“I don’t know, I don’t write them. I just make sure people follow them,” Stiles admits, laughing lightly. “Kind of cop joke there.”

Derek rolls his eyes. “How about you just say what you’re trying to say in a less confusing way instead of telling cop jokes?”

“Well all right,” Stiles mutters. “You want to go out on a date with me? My dad has already agreed to watch both of our kids here, at my place, should you say yes? And he’s the sheriff so I hope that counts as some kind of, like, background check slash babysitting credential.”

Derek’s mouth goes a bit dry but he nods, his head moving quickly. Stiles smiles at him and Derek thinks okay, yeah. That’s good.

The sheriff seems like a nice man. Derek doesn’t, admittedly, talk to him all that much when he drops Maisy off, he’s too nervous. Not because he’s talking to the sheriff, no. Though, Derek is a little bit nervous about dropping his daughter off at Stiles’ house to be watched by someone he’s only spoken to at traffic stops.

Derek’s mostly nervous because he’s going on a date with Stiles. Stiles, whose hands are shaking as he gives Evan a hug and a kiss goodbye, while he reminds his dad that Evan going to bed on time would be a huge help and not to give him every snack in the world just because he’s got a cute face.

“I’ve dealt with you for long enough, I think I can handle him,” the sheriff says and Derek smiles, feeling out of place. “Just go. Have a good time.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Stiles mutters, kissing Evan once more. “Seriously, bed time is eight thirty.”

“Nine,” the sheriff says, rolling his eyes. “He’s free to have his own fun. Now, leave him and go have yours.”

“All right,” Stiles sighs. “Derek, you want to add anything?”

Derek wets his lips. “Um, no. She should be fine. She might get a little whiney around bedtime, she likes to call before she goes to sleep, but it’s fine. I’ll keep my phone on vibrate.”

“Phone call to dad, got it. Stiles,” the sheriff sighs, when Stiles opens his mouth to say something. “Seriously, get out of here.”

“Yeah, get out of here,” Evan shouts, jostling the bowl of popcorn in his lap so a portion of it spills out onto the ground. “Oopsies.”

“That’s my cue, isn’t it,” Stiles laughs, leaning over the couch to kiss Evan once more.

Derek gives Maisy a kiss and then promises that he’ll get her later tonight, after she’s gone to sleep. He says that he’ll let her sleep in his bed, if she behaves herself.

And nowhere near as quickly as they arrived, Derek finds himself being escorted out of Stiles’ apartment and into his beat up old car. It stalls three times before it starts.

Derek has to work hard not to wince as the car rattles around on the way to some restaurant across town. It’s a French place that Stiles admits he’s never been to, but his best friend likes to take his wife there, so it really can’t be all that bad, if it has their seal of approval.

It turns out to be far nicer than either of them are dressed for, but they’re let in anyway, with their cheeks burning as they pass people in suits and fancy dresses.

“I swear I didn’t know,” Stiles mutters, trying to shield them with menus. “I bet some French guy is going to kick out ass later, like behind the place by the dumpsters. Try and get a good look of him so we can tell the sketch artist afterwards.”

“You’re quite the optimist.”

“No, I’m definitely a realist in this case.”

“Well, in that case, I can’t wait to get to that part of dinner.”

Stiles grins at him and then glances down at his menu. He pinches his bottom lip as he reads, his eyes scanning over the pages quickly. Half of it’s written in French, but they manage. Their waitress only rolls her eyes once when they completely butcher the pronunciation of the words.

The food turns out great, and Derek actually feels like a grown up for once as he eats it. There’s not cutting bread into triangles, or slicing someone else’s meat before he can eat his own. He doesn’t have to remind anyone to eat their vegetables and stop talking with their mouth full, though he should, because Stiles is awful about it. But it’s a grownup dinner and Derek enjoys it. Derek enjoys feeling Stiles’ feet knock into his ankles under the table. He enjoys listening to Stiles talk about how he and Evan’s mom met when they were in college and while the breakup wasn’t pretty, they get along, for most part.

Stiles doesn’t tell him the how or why it is that he has Evan more nights than he doesn’t, but Derek doesn’t mind that.

Derek thinks Stiles could read him the phonebook and he’d enjoy it. It’d annoy him to no end, but he’d enjoy it, and that’s more than he can say about anyone else besides his own daughter.

“What about Maisy’s mom?” Stiles asks, leaning back in his seat and patting his stomach; he’s so full. “Or dad, maybe?”

“Mom,” says Derek. “And she’s not around. Not entirely sure where at, but it’s fine. Kate was never the type of person to want kids or show any ounce of humanity, so it’s for the best.”

“Oh,” Stiles mutters, biting lip. “Sorry.”

“It’s fine. It’s for the best. Plus, I got Maisy out of the whole thing, so I won’t complain.”

“Does she look like her?” Stiles asks. “Sorry, I just—You don’t lookalike, and I’ve met Cora only a few times, and I’ve seen Laura around town before – your family is kind of known around town, I’m not, like, looking any of this up at work, I swear. But anyway, I’ve seen them both and you all sort of have that dark hair, grumpy face – seriously, I mean it in a nice way – thing going on.”

“I have no idea who Maisy looks like. We thought her hair would darken, as she got older, but so far it’s stuck blonde,” Derek explains, shrugging as he takes a sip of his wine. “I try not to think about Kate when I look at her, so maybe I’m just blind to it.”

“My ex wishes she was that lucky,” Stiles jokes, lightening up the mood.

They order dessert, and, afterwards, Derek feels like he needs to be wheeled out, he’s so full. After a brief argument, Stiles ends up paying after he pretends to take Derek’s card to split the check. He covers his ears like a child when Derek tries to protest, shoving his card at the waitress and telling her to run before Derek does something drastic.

Stiles keeps his hands to himself after dinner, but he does press himself against Derek’s side, causing them to walk shoulder to shoulder. Derek laces their fingers together, looking at Stiles out of the corner of his eyes, before he glances back down at the concrete. Stiles only falters briefly, before he’s right back to talking about how, despite always wanting to be a cop so he could be like his old man, he remembers how he used to look through all his dad’s case files when he’d bring his work home.

Stiles says that thinks that feeling he got when he’d offer a bit of advice that was tangible and something his dad could work with, that feeling where his dad would look at him and smile, it burrowed itself into Stiles’ bones and he’s never stopped wanting to chase that feeling.

Derek smiles and listens, nods along when he needs to, and feels content to know he’s got someone who is happy to fill in all the blank spaces that Derek’s content to leave empty; awkward silences on the long walk to a beat up car.

Derek doesn’t really know what to do when they reach the landing of their floor. He wonders if he should go into his apartment first, or they’ll say their goodbyes in Stiles’ living room in front of his father, or maybe they’ll say them now before Derek has to sneak inside and quietly retrieve his daughter.

“My dad, uh, promised to watch them,” says Stiles, wincing. “Sorry, that’s more than obvious. I’m just saying, if you wanted to do something, you know, before you got Maisy, we could.”

“Something?” Derek repeats, eyebrow raised.

“Oh god,” Stiles groans, palming his face in embarrassment. “I truly didn’t mean it like that. I meant like a movie, or… I’d suggest more wine but you probably don’t own any. Or just, I don’t know, talking? Talking is fine. Or maybe listening, for you, since I seem to be dominating the talking lane of this whole thing. Not like I mind, you know, you being quiet. I’m just saying that—“

Derek kisses him to shut him up. That’s really the only reason he does it. Not because he’s been watching Stiles’ mouth all evening, watching the way his tongue peeks out before he takes a bite of his food, or the way his tongue swirls around a straw before he takes a drink, or the way he’s constantly picking at his lips like he wants Derek’s full attention on them.

Definitely not because of that.

And definitely not because he’s been thinking about it for what feels like ages now, wondering what it would be like to feel Stiles mouth instead of stare at all night.

Stiles’ doesn’t disappoint, not like Derek ever thought he could. Kissing Stiles seems to cause him to melt. Derek feels as Stiles relaxes, like his brain needs something like to regroup, and Derek is more than happy to help.

“Is this a good night kiss, or?” Stiles asks, lips still moving against Derek’s.

“It’s a shut up kiss,” Derek retorts, kissing Stiles once more before he pulls away. “We can’t… Not tonight, but we could—“

“Do more of that? Please say do more of that,” says Stiles, his hazel eyes pleading.

Derek snorts and gets his apartment unlocked before Stiles plasters himself to Derek’s back.

Derek drags him towards the couch, where he drops down, tugging Stiles into his lap easily. It’s only ten, and if Stiles doesn’t have a pay-by-the-hour babysitter, then they can make the most of their time.

Stiles is giddy, grin bright and Derek can’t help but smile back at him, as he wraps his hands around Stiles’ thighs, leaning up to kiss him with the grin still on his face.

Stiles is quiet as he unlocks his apartment door. Derek waits patiently behind him, bouncing on the balls of his feet. He wants to touch, but he doesn’t. He has time for that. They have time for that.

It’s quarter to ten, and Maisy should be sleeping, but when the door swings open, Derek finds her standing there, grin on her face as she tries to adjust her foil hat.

“Dad, you’re not going to believe what these aliens are doing,” she says and Derek sighs, shaking his head.

Behind her, hanging off the back of the couch that the sheriff is sleeping on, is Evan, wearing his own foil hat and brandishing his foil sword.

Stiles looks horrified and Derek, all Derek can do is laugh.

#hazytuesday #stereksanta17 #*fic17 #*gifts17

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