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thewalkingwillowtree · 3 months

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Safe Haven

Series Part Listing Found Here

Neteyam x Original Na'vi Female Character

Summery: Seeking refuge, Xilä and her father venture to the lands of the Omatikaya clan, in the hopes that the Toruk Makto would be generous in allowing them to stay. This is her story about not only finding her strength, but finding love.

Warning: This story contains smut, violence & abuse (please don't read if these topics will affect you)

Some characters have been aged up. Neteyam in particular is 24.

Xilä is my own creation.

Part 19 - Awa'atlu

Legs dangling from her perch, Xilä unseeingly stared out at the flowing mass of water before her. Thick tree roots canopied over the span of the pool and its perimeter- hiding the area from natural light. It made the vegetation littering around her glow even brighter in the dim forest.

Xilä was lost in thought, mulling over the words Jxo had just spilled. Processing.

“I’m not sorry I killed him,” he had said after telling her what he’d done.

Jxo killed T'shteyo.

Jxo killed T'shteyo!

“Do you hate me?” the elder asked, breaking her from her thoughts.

Xilä blinked, then, head snapping so fast to the man seated next to her, a firm, “No.” left her lips. “Never, Jxo. I could never hate you. I don’t- I’m not-” she heaved a breath, “I’m trying to wrap my head around it, is all. I- look, thank you for telling me… it’s just, I thought maybe he’d died some other way… or maybe even-”

Jxo nodded in understanding, he could tell she was trying not to spiral. So he backed off a bit to let her work out her thoughts.

It was a couple weeks after her and Neteyam’s housewarming and he’d been putting off telling her his side of what went down in Li’ona- or what he’d done specifically.

At first, Salveen didn’t think that he should- she thought it would mess with her healing process, but Jxo thought it felt wrong keeping it from her.

He glanced at his wife who was nervously wringing her fingers around as she sat quietly near them. When the silence became too stifling, she nudged him. “Go on,” she mouthed silently, signalling him to continue with a covert jerk of her chin towards their youngest.

“Xilä… when Neteyam first brought you to Sal and I, I vowed to protect you as if you were my own. And then you did- become one of mine. Doesn’t matter how quickly it all happened. Sal and D’avi have always been my world… and now you’re a part of it too. Permanently. You're my kid. Mine and Sal's, in every way that it matters. You look at me with the same eyes as my D’avi. You trust me, don’t you?”

“I do,” Xi replied, a bit choked up.

“Good. So, I’m telling you this in the hopes you won’t hate me for it, but also so I keep that trust you have in me. I may be an old man, darling, but I will always, always fight for you.”

Xi’s tears fell freely now. Head bowed she fell into Jxo’s arms, hoping her hug conveyed her love for him.

A pair of slim arms wrapped around the two of them and the sweet smell of the one and only Sal filled her senses.

When she eventually pulled away, Sal cooed and awed over her, mothering away as though she were a small child. Xilä didn’t care. She smiled and soaked up the affection, feeling loved and wanted.

“Mind if I join in?” a voice called out.

Three heads flicked up to find a beaming D’avi hiding in the shadows of a massive plant, and she was eagerly welcomed into the fold.

Their little family spent the remainder of the afternoon in good spirits. Laughter filled the forest as they swapped story after story.

And at one point when D’avi divulged into a rather overly dramatic and hilarious tale of when Jxo threatened the first boy to ever show an interest in her, the three women had him outnumbered while he tried to justify himself.

Later that night when Xilä crawled into bed, and into her husband’s open arms, she breathed him in deeply, face buried into the crook of his neck.

“How’d it go?” he murmured.

“Good… I’m guessing you already know, but he- Jxo told me… what he did.”

“Hm… How do you feel about it?”

“I feel… maybe relieved?” She wiggled out from her hiding place and perched her chin on his chest, finding his gaze already on her. “There was always this really small part of me that thought he escaped Kayoanaska… I knew he’d be dead, but… I’d have always wondered whether- well doesn’t matter anymore, but there’s closure now, you know?”

Neteyam brushed her cheek with his thumb, tracing over the faint scar left there- forever a reminder.

“I get it. Did he also tell you I was going to do it at first? That I wanted to?”

She nodded.

“I was so mad, so angry. We both felt like we’d failed you… I’m not sorry about it either, I don’t ever think I will be.”

Xi’s lip quirked up a fraction. “That’s exactly what Jxo said. I’m a damn lucky girl to have you two in my life.”

A soft smile graced his lips and in one fluid motion he lifted her higher up the length of his frame to hug her close. “I think we’re the lucky ones, sweetheart. You have no idea.”

Four months later…

“Baby?!” Neteyam called out when he’d gotten home that night, wooden chimes clanking together when he pushed aside the flap of their tent.

“In here!”

Neteyam looked around at their somewhat untidy mainroom. It was clean, but he couldn’t help smirk at the scattered toys, strewn cushions and a very impressive looking blanket fort.

In hanging up his riding-satchel his feet tripped over an overstuffed pack- it was one of the many they’d be taking with them on their trip.

“Was Tuk over today?!” he asked out loud, making his way to their room, accidently stepping on a little wooden figurine with an, “ow, shit,” under his breath.

“Yeah, she and the twins spent the day with me and we- ! Oh hi,” she ended in a blushing whisper when she caught sight of him staring at her from their bedroom entryway.

“Hi…Well don’t you look all cute and comfy,” he mused, taking in his wife’s relaxed position.

Xi was cozied up in their bed while she sewed, propped up against a mass of cushions. A bowl of a variety of fruit sat beside her and soft music played from his personal tablet.

She grinned, stretching her neck up to meet him halfway when he made his way to her side of their hammock and leaned over to peck her lips. “Hi, handsome.”

“Mmm, hi baby,” he hummed, cupping her nape to deepen their kiss before standing tall again. “Did Tuk not have school today?” he wondered as he moved around their room, removing and putting away his articles- jewelry, arm and leg braces, visor, warrior belt.

“She took a sick day,” Xi shrugged, “One day won’t hurt anyone. And today was my day off anyway, so she, me and the twins had a blast. You just missed her. Kiri picked her up.”

“Oh.”

Chewing on a piece of fruit, Xilä stared unabashedly as her husband began to remove his loincloth.

“Three kids, huh? I wonder what that's like?” he half joked, flinging his loincloth into their hamper before starting to splash water on his mud and grime speckled skin from a filled basin in the corner of the room.

Xi tossed a seed at him, hitting square on his left butt cheek which only made him laugh harder.

“Spider came around for lunch too,” she commented, turning back to the cloak she’d abandoned in her lap.

“Is he still sulking?”

“No- well… maybe a little. I think your dad letting him come on the trip is a good thing though. I know he misses Lo’ak. It’s been months.”

“Mhm. Oh yeah and I’m sure he’s also all too eager to cozy up all over my sister on the journey too, right?”

Xilä tossed another seed at her husband. “Be nice. He’s been having a hard time, okay? Kiri’s been getting a lot of attention lately and he’s… adjusting.”

Neteyam grumbled. “Oh don’t remind me. Tasam’s not as slick as he thinks he is either. What exactly is the dynamic there?” he asked, pausing his washing up to fix a frown at his mate.

“Kiri is your sister, handsome. Do you really want me to tell you about the details her love life?”

“Love. Life?!” he exclaimed in horror. “You know what, no. I think I’m good. In any case this is all your sister’s fault.”

Xilä chuckled but didn’t deny the accusation.

Humming softly to the beat of a familiar tune, she made another loop, stab and pull- just the way Sal had taught her, making sure the stitch was as perfect as possible before doing it all over again. She was putting the final touches on a riding cloak that she was excited to wear on their travels.

When Neteyam finished drying off, he prowled towards her in all his naked glory and snaked between her blanket covered thighs.

“How was your day?” she asked softly, one hand abandoning her project to gently stoke up the length of his ear with her thumb. He shivered, just the way she knew he would.

Neteyam released a frustrated groan at the reminder of his day’s events while burrowing his face into the space between her breasts, arms tightening around her waist.

She hissed quietly under her breath at the slight ache and tenderness of her chest but left him in his position.

“Busy. We had a hunt, and lots of last minute arrangements to make before we set off tomorrow,” he sighed, “amongst other things.”

“You sound upset, handsome. Do you want to talk about it?”

Xi moved her sewing and fruit bowl to the side so that she could stroke his hair, palms soothing along the smooth skin of his shoulders and back over and over.

Only after a few long minutes did Neteyam begin his rant.

“A few from the council are back on their bullshit. I had to sit through hours of fuckery today. I swear my dad needs to pull rank and get rid of Fe’ska and her minions. They’re so stuck in their ways and refuse to see the bigger picture! I’m telling you, baby, if I were Olo'eyktan, they’d be gone already.”

“What happened?”

He laid his cheek against her chest, allowing her heartbeat to lull him into calm before continuing.

“They were fighting some of the changes dad’s trying to put in place.”

“What? Which ones?”

“The clan outreach program. They’re fighting our ideas for the sharing of resources, the cross training, the communication set ups. All of a sudden they are questioning years of planning, and right before we set off?”

“Didn’t they agree to it all already, months ago? What changed?”

Neteyam groaned again, the sound vibrating through her body like a rippling wave.

“Who knows? It could be spiteful for all I know. I wouldn’t be surprised if Fe’ska’s just trying to sabotage the entire operation. Eywa knows the woman can hold a grudge. It’s all settled now, but not after a shit ton of back and forth. After the crap they tried to pull with me and Leati, I’m done defending them and following their ways blindly. I put my foot down today and I think they finally realized I’m no longer going to roll over and do their bidding whenever.”

A burst of pride filled Xilä’s chest as she listened to her husband and a happy noise escaped her.

“What, baby?”

“Nothing. I’m just listening to you talk and I have to tell you, I’m so proud of you, ‘Teyam. So very proud of how much you’ve grown.”

Her mate peered up at her with a tiny smile playing at his lips, tail gone lazy and laxed from its tense curl. “Well thank you, sweetheart.”

But then his expression turned from sweet and sincere into devious mirth. “I’m curious though. Just how proud are you?”

From his smile and unspoken intent, Xilä’s cheeks flushed and her nipples pebbled, arousal hitting her far more intense than she was used to.

Playing along, she bit her lip and stroked up the length of both his ears this time- body twitching in response to his shiver. “Maybe I should just prove it to you.”

Neteyam raised up on his palms to hover over her, lips brushing against her own. “What are you waiting for then?” he taunted. “Prove it.”

Grabbing his face in both hands, Xilä fused their lips together. Her kiss was demanding and determined to prove her point.

But just as quickly as she started, he was soon taking over control- kissing her in a way that made her weak.

Impatient, Neteyam pulled away the blanket dividing them, fingers greedily inching their way up the back of her thigh and under her skirt to squeeze at her butt.

Xilä mewled as he mouthed down the length of her throat, fangs and tongue leaving a blazing trail of heat.

“Oh sh- ah!” she gasped when he sharply nipped her collarbone.

In a flash, her top was untied and being torn off and then Neteyam was diving downward, lips parting with the intention of closing around a needy nipple.

He didn’t make it though.

Snapping backwards, his head tilted ever so slightly as his brows creased in confusion.

Was it his imagination or did her tits seem a little… different?

Were they fuller?

It was almost, almost unnoticeable, but the thing was… Neteyam had worshipped and memorized every inch of his wife’s body by now, so, of course he’d notice…

“What? Why’d you st-?” Xilä looked down at her own breasts then back at him. She rolled her eyes in amusement, misunderstanding his staring, thinking he was just savoring the image of them.

Feeling bold, she took advantage of his distracted state and at pushed at his chest until she was the one on top, straddling his lap.

“Nuh uh, you lost your chance. No touching,” she whispered against his lips, moving away the hands that automatically reached to grip her hips.

“Yes, touching,” he all but growled, sinking his fingers into her skin.

“No. Touching,” she ordered firmly, giving him a bruising kiss for good measure, breaking away to fix him with a look.

Neteyam frowned but obeyed anyway and then Xilä was kissing him again, only this time she was the one in control.

Hands on his cheeks, then creeping beneath his hair to grip his nape, she moved him to her liking- tongue punishing and dominant in a way she’d never been before.

Xi nipped the hinge of his jaw, sucked at the juncture of his neck and peppered tiny, almost featherlight kisses down his throat. And all the while, she ever so slowly rocked against the hard length pressed between her thighs.

Palms planted on his chest, she pushed him flat onto his back and grazed her fingertips purposely over his nipples. He shuddered and inhaled sharply from the action, so she did it again.

A sense of satisfaction filled her at the sight of him beneath her like this.

She felt powerful.

“Are you really not going to let me touch you?” he rasped, grumpily.

“Yep,” she replied in English, popping the P with a little giggle.

Flirtatiously biting her lip, she locked eyes with him whilst making slow, deliberate rolls of her hips, grinding down onto his bare shaft, making him grunt and buck up in response.

Neteyam raised onto his elbows, hips rocking in time with hers. She felt incredible, but he wanted- no, needed more.

“At least let me see you,” he begged.

Giving in, she lifted the bottom front of her skirt that was draped around them and tucked it into her waistband.

From his view, he could now see her clothed center working over his dick that laid flat on his abdomen. The thin fabric covering her was drenched, saturated in her slick and was now soaking him as she rotated between rocking back and forth and then rolling in tight, precise circles.

She paused and lifted up a little to pull the material to the side, allowing her to glide along him better with direct contact.

“Fuck.” Neteyam’s mouth watered. She was the sexiest thing he’d ever seen in his life. It was torment not being able to touch her.

“Mmm, you feel so good,” she sighed, eyes closing in bliss.

Xilä had them both moaning within seconds as her rhythm picked up speed, clit dragging right at the perfect angle.

“Baby-” he choked, jaw clenched and straining while he struggled not to burst.

Xi hissed when she cupped her breasts. Too pent up to make sense of the new sensation, she pinched and squeezed at sensitive mounds which caused her both mild discomfort and blinding pleasure.

“Oh shit, I’m coming!” Head thrown back and body gone taught, she reached her peak in a sweet symphony of melodic mewls and whines.

Neteyam groaned at the pretty smile she gave him when she shivered from an aftershock, still coming down from her high.

“Sweetheart, you’re killing me. Please let me touch you now. Please.”

Xi leaned over and pecked his lips. “Not just yet.”

He couldn’t help but squirm when she began moving downwards, sensually mouthing at his chest before venturing lower- her hair tickling him as she went. She was doing a damn swell job of pretending his dick wasn’t currently dragging along her skin, painting her with pre-cum.

Piercing silver eyes peered up at him as her tongue traced the lines of his abs. She swirled around his belly button painstakingly slow then mouthed lower and lower, before finally, finally planting a soft kiss right on the head of his seeping tip.

“Xilä!” His hips jumped on their own accord. He was painfully hard and her teasing ministrations weren’t helping one fucking bit. “Xilä-”

“No touching,” she said again, waiting patiently until he released her hair that he’d habitually fisted.

She smirked when his throat bobbed and nostrils flared, chest heaving from his deep breaths.

This was new for them. He was always the one in control and Xilä knew this must have been difficult for him. She on the other hand was ablaze in excitement.

Xi made herself comfortable between his thighs and swept her hair back. With another delicate kiss to him and tiny lick, she watched entranced as he twitched- the head of his dick angry and weeping in need.

Neteyam’s breathing came out in faster puffs and pants when she finally took him in her mouth, fingers barely completely squeezing around his base as she bobbed her head up and down. He was hot and heavy and delicious.

“Fuck! Fuck.” Neteyam surrendered. Elbows giving up and falling flat into their sheets, his head tipped back with a loud groan.

Xilä set a steady rhythm of licking, sucking and stroking- just the way he’d taught her. Neteyam was big, and no matter how much she relaxed her mouth and throat, she could never take all of him.

It never stopped her from trying though…

“Ngh! Shi- Fuck!” His moan sent a rippling vibration through her when she took him as deep as possible- breathing through her nose and holding him in her throat until her reflex kicked in.

Hollowing her cheeks, she released him with a messy pop, and still stroking, she watched him eagerly- watched the way his muscles tensed and tail coiled, watched the way his hips bucked and jaw hung open as he fisted their sheets and clenched his thighs- one arm flung over his closed eyes and furrowed brows.

She loved that he was so responsive- so vocal. It didn’t matter that her own body was begging to be touched- hot and aching and desperate for another release. Xilä was enjoying every minute of this.

“Where do you want to come?” she asked him, small fist still pumping his impressive length.

Thoughts scattered and hazy, he choked out an, “In you- inside you.”

She knew that would be his answer.

Releasing him, she crawled into his lap again, uncomfortably wet and throbbing between her thighs.

“Tsaheylu,” he urged.

Xi nodded and made the bond, sucking in air as the sensation washed over her. Every time.

“Xilä, if I’m not inside of you within the next three seconds I swear to Eywa I’m going to- gah! Shit!”

They moaned in unison when she sank down onto him- taking him by surprise when she took him all at once in one go, walls pulsing and clenching around him in a vice-like grip.

Stuffed full, she whimpered and, hand palming at the little bulge he always created in her stomach, she whined quietly as she adjusted.

“Baby?”

“I’m good,” she laughed through a wince. “Mmm, how many times are we going to do this before I remember that it keeps taking my breath away?”

He snickered, holding in a grunt while his eyes roamed over her. ‘Fucking gorgeous’ he thought. Her skirt fluttered around their thighs, hiding where they were joined, and he ached to tear it away.

“Sweetheart, you need to move,” he pleaded.

Xi nodded and then she was lifting up and dropping down again, using his abs for balance.

The build up she created had been so much by now that the pleasure was intense and all too consuming. Their room was filled with pants and gasps and sharp intakes of air as she moved.

It didn’t take long because the next thing he knew, he was coming. Hard. Groans and curses turned loud and maddening, he jerked beneath her- jaw clenching tightly as warmth erupted inside of her.

Xilä chased after him, fingers reaching down to strum her clit as her bouncing pace turned into a desperate grind. She collapsed over him the second she crested, teeth sinking into his bicep to muffle her scream as a powerful orgasm hit her in rolling waves.

Heavy breathing and shudders were the only sounds to be heard after that.

“Did I… was it good?” she asked as her body trembled and twitched in tiny jerks.

Neteyam snorted, snickering in between his own pants. “I’m fighting so damn hard to catch my breath after coming oh so fucking hard, and you my sweet wife, want to know if it… was good?”

Xilä hummed with a pleased smile, eyes closing in satisfying exhaustion.

“Can I touch you now?”

With a laugh muffled into his skin where she’d just bitten, she nodded. “Yes.”

One large hand instantly sank into her hair while the other gently dragged along her back. “That was- that was something else, baby. Fucking good…”

“But…?”

“But you’re in trouble, sweetheart. Big trouble.”

She grinned, already know that she was. “Yeah, I figured,” she yawned. “It was fun while it lasted. No spanking tonight though. I need to be able to fly Journey without wincing in pain.”

“Mmmm, you’re lucky we’re off to Awa'atlu tomorrow,” he teased, reaching down to fondle her ass.

“I’m excited,” she said for probably the hundredth time now. “I’ve never seen the ocean before.”

“You’ll love it. And well, we’ve been practicing your breathing and deep water diving, so you’ll be far better prepared than we were for our first time,” he murmured into her hair, fingers still idly playing with her braids.

“Hm, alright,” she said, blinking open her eyes. “Oh wow. I think I bit you too hard.” Xi frowned, fingertip tracing over the indentations of her teeth on his bicep. “Sorry.”

“I didn’t even notice.” He lifted his arm to see and barely blinked an eye at it.

Clanking sounds alerted them that someone was outside and Xi tensed.

“Are you expecting someone?”

“Crap, I forgot Si'dvol was dropping off my bow tonight.” Neteyam seriously did not want to move at all right now.

“Why does he have your bow?”

“The string was getting a bit loose. He’s the only one I trust with my bow anyway, so I asked him to do a full repair for me since we’ll be gone for so long. I got to move you, I’m sorry, baby.”

Xi whined unhappily from having to leave her comfortable sprawled position over his chest, but allowed herself to be manhandled out of it. She squirmed when his dick slipped out of her, instantly missing the stretch and fullness of him.

“Be right back,” he promised with a kiss to her jaw before rushing to snag on a loincloth.

Stretching out her limbs, Xi smiled to herself. She was blissfully happy and contentedly tired.

Neteyam’s poor tablet laid forgotten at the edge of their bed, so she mustered the strength to roll onto her stomach to reach for it and pressed the little play sign to resume whatever song it was last on.

Funny how she could somewhat use the device at last. She wanted to fling it away the first time Neteyam had tried teaching her to use it. She could never understand why all the strange symbols were so difficult to click.

Cheek resting on her folded forearms, she listened to the soft strumming sounds of the music, tail waving in time with the beat, while her eyes drooped.

By the time her mate returned to their bed, his hands were instantly back on her. “Why are these still on?” he grumbled, easing off her skirt and soaked undercloth from behind and flinging them across the room.

“Mmm.” Xi arched when his fingers found her center to quickly and carefully push back in any escaping droplets.

He was extra thorough lately, especially ever since their discussion and agreement to officially start a family together. Sure she had been careless with her tea before, but they’d been only actively trying for about a month now.

When he slumped down next to her, she cuddled into his side eagerly, nose finding its favourite place, squished under his jaw.

One arm supporting her head and the other flung across her waist, he tugged her flush against him. He was hard, and wanted her again, but when he heard her yawn for the third time, he backed out of initiating a second round.

“What are you looking forward to the most when we get to Awa’atlu?” she asked him.

“Seeing Lo’ak again. I missed the skxawng,” he chuckled. “And the sea. I can’t wait to go exploring again. What about you?”

“I’ve been thinking about this a lot actually. Your grandmother said that the Metkayina have a unique way of healing... Do you think their Tsahìk would teach me a few things if I asked?”

“I don’t see why not.”

“What is she like though?”

“Ronal? Mm, I think maybe Ronal’s much like my grandmother. Both are stern and no nonsense, but if you know my grandmother, you’d know she’s nothing but a big ole softy. You’ll be fine.”

“M’kay,” she mumbled sleepily.

Later that night as Xilä slept, Neteyam couldn’t help but stare at her, utterly mesmerized and devastatingly in love.

Shuffling downward he pushed aside the blanket he’d covered her with and pressed a kiss to her flat stomach, silently mouthing a prayer to Eywa.

He was very much looking forward to their future together as parents.

“You need to tighten that strap,” Neteyam ordered to the wrangler who was helping him ready Xilä’s ikran for their travels ahead, “and double knot the harness ties. They’re too slack, she can go sliding right off.”

He gained a “yes, sir” in response.

Neteyam checked over the secureness of the packs strapped to the ikran’s hide, pulling and tugging to make sure everything stayed in place before rounding to her front.

He patted her neck and tossed her a treat with a whispered, “Take good care of our girl out there, yeah?”

Journey purred when he scratched a spot under her jaw, nipping at his fingers as if asking for more treats.

A baby's shriek had him glancing over to where Xi was standing. She was surrounded by her family who had come to see her off- baby L’eo in her arms with a handful of her hair in his drooling mouth.

Sal was hugging her over and over again every few minutes and D’avi seemed to be talking a mile a minute, making Xi laugh while Yalnïk and Jxo hovered- the elder cradling a sleeping L’eya.

Jake approached his son with every intention of asking for a status report, but observing the way Neteyam’s brow crinkled in thought, he asked instead, “Everything alright, son?”

“Hm? Oh, yeah. Yeah, everything’s…” Neteyam shut his mouth and shook his head. “Dad, can I ask you a personal question?”

“‘Course, kid.”

“When you and mom… uh,” he struggled to find the right words. “When did- crap,” he heaved a breath then spewed, “How long did it take to find out that mom was pregnant? I mean- like as in, how long did it take… for you guys?”

“Oh. Ohh.” Jake’s brows rose high up at the question. “Ah, well for the first time, maybe just a couple of weeks? We found out about you right after the battle against the RDA, so a surprise, but not long at all.”

Neteyam nodded, swallowing down his disappointment. “Right,” he cleared his throat, “thanks.”

“But for Tuk,” Jake added quickly, “we didn’t even know for sure until your mother started showing.”

He squeezed Neteyam’s shoulder, “Son, it’s different for every couple and each pregnancy of its own is unique. Sometimes- sometimes it can take a while to happen.”

“I know. I really do, I’m just-” Unable to help himself, he grinned, thoughts drifting to an image of his mate swollen and round with his baby- their baby.

Impatient. He was terribly excited and impatient.

Jake released an amused huff as if he could read his thoughts. “You’ll be a great father, Neteyam.”

His head flicked up in surprise at his dad. “You think so?”

“No. I know so, kid.” His head jerked to Xilä. “She knows it too.”

“Thanks, dad,” he replied, chest light and grateful. “Did you want to go over the final report now?”

Halfway through his update, both men were distracted by a sound. Kiri’s giggle had them glancing over to her, which was weird because well, Kiri never giggled- at least, not like that.

“Disgusting right?” Spider scowled, coming up beside them as they all stared at Kiri and her admirer.

“Mm. I don’t like it,” Jake frowned with folded arms.

“Me neither,” Neteyam rasped deeply. “Are they-”

“No,” Spider answered before he could ask. “But he’s always around now. Can’t you leash him? He’s your friend.”

“Always around? You mean this isn’t new? When did this shit start?” Jake demanded.

They all watched from a distance as Tasam placed a brightly coloured flower behind Kiri’s ear. She laughed at whatever it was he was telling her- his cheeks slightly tinged in blush that Neteyam would have never had expected to come from the mighty Tasam… a warrior he knew he would choose to be his second-in-command when the time came.

“BOYS!” Neytiri hissed as she passed, snapping them out of their glowering. “Enough with the glaring and the bitching. Leave her alone!”

“Xi, I’d owe you forever if you could bring me back a Metkayina castaway net. I’ve only ever heard stories of how incredible they are.”

“You want her to haul back an entire fishing net?” Jxo’s gruff voice asked incredulously. “Thing probably weighs more than she does.”

“Yeah but Jxo, it’s a Metkayina castaway net,” Yalnïk stressed- as if that made anymore sense.

Xilä laughed at their bickering while trying to gently ease L’eo’s fingers out from her hair. “I’ll see what I can do, ‘Nïk.”

“Are sure you’re up for the trip, darling?” Salveen asked Xi again after seeing her yawn for the umpteenth time that morning.

“Of course. Don’t mind me. I’m just really tired for some reason. I’ll be okay, mother,” she said without thinking- the name slipping from her lips and ending in a gasp when she registered what she’d said. “I- Sal-”

Xi had been calling Sal mother for a very long time now- to other people mostly and many times over in her head. But never actually out loud to Sal herself. The same to be said about Jxo.

“Darling…” Sal's eyes misted and her cheeks plumped in sheer happiness at finally being called mother. She wrapped up Xi in another hug, squeezing her tightly.

Baby L’eo released a shriek of glee from between them, little hands abandoning her hair to grab fistfuls of his grandmother’s beaded shawl instead.

“Wow, Xi, now she’s definitely going to be crying the entire time you’re gone,” D’avi teased, meeting her father’s eyes as they both shared a smile.

Xi’s goodbye with her family was bittersweet and filled mostly with the chatter and fussing of Sal and D’avi. Jxo did a good job of hiding his sadness, but she knew better.

“Xilä,” Mo’at’s aged voice called serenely.

“Be right back,” Xi told them, handing over little L’eo to his dad who tossed him up in the air then landed noisy kisses into the squealing baby’s cheeks.

“Tsahìk,” she greeted the elder when she made her way to her.

“Oh hush now. I keep telling you to call me grandmother. When will you listen, child?” she chided mildly. “Come, let me look at you.”

The Tsahìk fixed a few of Xi’s askew braids then grasped her hands into hers as she looked her over. “Hmm. Do you feel fine enough to go on the trip?”

Xilä laughed. “Perfectly fine. Why wouldn’t I be? Are you over-worrying like my mother seems to be doing?”

“Perhaps,” she mused. “Can’t an old woman just be worried about her granddaughter-in-law who she won’t be seeing until who knows how long?��

“I’ll miss you too, grandmother,” Xi teased. “Although it seems like you’ve been worried for weeks. I’m not complaining- honest… but I have noticed you hovering.”

“Bah! Fine, I admit that I have, and I have my reasoning- ah, ‘Teyam, perfect,” she greeted her grandson when he made his way to them, his lips finding and pressing against Xi’s temple. “Good that you’re here too.”

“Grandmother,” he acknowledged kindly. “It’s almost time for us to go,” he told them.

“I’ll be quick,” she said with a flick of her wrist. “Now listen, young man. You take good care of her, understood? No wild tricks and risky flying. No pushing daylight- if she needs to stop to rest, you stop. Xilä, don’t be afraid to tell him off, do not worry about stalling the others- no more people pleasing nonsense either. Remember our sessions, yes?”

Both Neteyam and Xilä nodded obediently, not daring to question the elder’s sudden out of character orders.

“Eywa,” she whispered, lips finally breaking into a smile as she observed them. “Well? Aren't you two going to hug me?” she snapped, making them both blow out breaths of amusement and wrap her up into a group embrace.

A loud horn alerted them that their fleet was assembled and ready.

It was time to go.

Their group’s travels to the Metkayina clan went far smoother than Neteyam expected. And after only two minor incidents- one where they had to hunker down due to an unexpected passing storm and the other when they encountered a wild flock of small but vicious flying beasts, they were still able to make it on time like his father had initially planned.

With the end finally in sight when Neteyam spotted a familiar cluster of islands in the distance, and when a wafting smell of salty seas hit him, nostalgia flooded his senses.

Looking back at their fleet, he took in all the faces in awe at the wondrous scenery before them. Xilä especially, gleamed.

A crowd of welcoming faces and gleeful hoots greeted them from the shorelines of Awa'atlu. Once they landed and dismounted from their ikrans, Neteyam flanked his father as they made their way towards the gathered Metkayina.

Xilä stuck close to him while nerves and excitement danced in her tummy, anxious eyes darting around shyly. She hugged her riding cloak around her more, feeling slightly out of place as a few people openly observed her- most likely probably wondering what she was doing with the Omaticaya.

Her mate who seemed to pick up on her emotions brushed her lightly on the back of her thigh with his tail, silently comforting her.

A towering man with a face tattoo approached Jake, face stoic as both men made respectful gestures to each other. I see you.

“Tonowari,” Jake acknowledged, tone light and friendly.

“My friend, Jakesully, it has been far too long,” Tonowari responded, his grin finally appearing to match Jake’s as they clasped arms together.

The massive man’s eyes spanned the rest of their company, head bowed in welcome.

Jake introduced their group quickly and Xi paid caution to make her proper respects to the clan leaders, feeling slightly unnerved as Ronal who was introduced as their Tsahìk eyed her in questioning interest.

Xilä stepped back with a few of the others who had accompanied them. There was Norm, Akrew who was one of Jake’s most trusted council members and five warriors. They all watched as Metkayina and Omatikaya friends reunited in hugs and laughter.

Lo’ak who she spotted right away was immediately tackled by an overly excited Tuk, Spider following right behind her, eager to greet his best friend.

Neytiri was embraced by an intimidating Ronal who then seemed to introduce a cute little boy who looked just like her.

Kiri greeted a pretty girl with large blue eyes and a dazzling smile. And even Neteyam had been approached by two men, one of whom had a startling resemblance to Tonowari.

“Xi, sweetheart,” Neteyam called, reaching out for her and pulling her back to his side.

Neteyam introduced her as his mate to Rotxo and the ever famous Aonung. Both men gawked at her momentarily before shooting Neteyam with impressed looks of “well done”.

“Well aren't you a lucky bastard, brother,” Aonung guffawed, eyes never leaving a flushing Xilä for a second. “What’s a gorgeous thing like you doing with a forest skxawng like him?” he joked, grinning wildly when Neteyam purposely glowered at him- side eye sharp and deadly.

“You should be careful, Aonung,” Xilä said sweetly, cheek cushioned into her mate’s pec, “My husband might just kick your ass- again,” she said, gaining a not so stifled snort from Rotxo while Aonung’s brows shot up in shock, evidently rendered mute.

Neteyam hid his amusement in her hair by pressing a chase kiss to it as he pulled her closer with a palm to the back of her neck, silently pleased.

“Well fuck me,” Aonung chuckled, observing the pair of them. “I do apologize, Xilä. Forgive me.” He squinted at Neteyam over the top of her head, “Did you really have to tell her that story, bro?”

When a couple others joined their circle to welcome Neteyam, Xilä eventually squirmed away from her mate and left him to continue catching up with his friends, then made her way over to Lo’ak.

Her brother-in-law greeted her warmly with a hug and an enthusiastic “XiXi!” She missed hearing the nickname, he was the only one who called her that after all.

“Soooo, where is she?” Xilä whispered excitedly as she scanned the mass of bodies gathered on the beach. “Is Tsireya the pretty one talking to Kiri over there?”

Lo’ak snagged her pointing finger away. “Sheesh Xi, chill out will you? Don’t-” Her sudden gasp interrupted his scolding.

“Is that a tattoo?!” Xilä shrieked, poking at his side with interest. “Lo’ak!”

“Ow- shit! Xi, it’s still fresh.”

“Sorry. It’s lovely, but what does it mean?”

“Pfft what?! It’s not lovely,” he complained, “it’s badass, Xi. Badass. Do you know what I had to do to earn this? There’s nothing lovely about it.”

A melodic giggle interrupted Lo’ak’s attempts of batting Xi’s hands away. Said pretty Na’vi Xi had previously pointed at, giggled again when they both straightened up like children caught being naughty. Lo’ak turning sheepish, melted at the sight of her- fingers reaching to tangle with hers.

“Hey,” he murmured to her.

Beam blinding, Xilä’s eyes bounced between them, excitement doubling over at their joint fingers. “Hi!”

“Hi!” who Xi assumed was Tsireya, said back.

Lo’ak snorted at their behaviour and then it was he who bridged the gap between the two females.

“Tsireya, this is Xilä, my favourite sister-in-law in the entire world,” he joked, making Xi roll her eyes fondly. “And Xi, this is… this my Tsireya,” he said with a soft smile which made the girl duck her head in a blush.

‘Awwwwwww,’ Xi mentally sang, or judging by Lo’ak’s whiny “Xiiiii” she may have cooed her awws out loud. They were so freaking cute together.

Tsireya and Xilä were an instant friendship in the making. Both girls launched into easy conversation as if they’d always known each other and Lo’ak eventually left them to their own devices to reunite with his parents.

“Why have you brought a pregnant woman with you?” Ronal’s strong voice suddenly called out. “Ikrans are known for their temperament. Did you honestly think it was wise to-”

“What pregnant woman?” Jake interrupted, panicked and suspicious eyes falling on his wife who instantly smacked his chest with a fierce glare at him for even thinking it was her.

All conversations lulled and wide eyes and confused frowns stared back at the intimidating looking Tsahìk.

Face flashing in understanding, Ronal shook her head quickly. “Forgive me. I seemed to have misspoken. Come. Come! A feast has been prepared in your honour, my friends. Tsireya, show them to their marui first.”

A perplexed Xilä shot a few nearby others a confused smile, shrugging in a way that conveyed, “I don’t know either, but that was weird.”

“Come with me,” Tsireya grinned, taking her hand to pull her along, “I’ll show you where you will be staying.”

The two weeks that followed for Xi were packed full of all sorts of exciting activities and events… and sex.

So many clan leaders and their company arrived after them, all equally welcomed by the Metkayina. There were representatives from Tipani, Anurai, Ta'unui, Sarentu and so many others that Xilä had never even heard of.

It was fascinating seeing their varying hues of blues and all the little or big differences in each clan’s physicalities. Even more so the sight of the mingling clans and cultures all clashed together.

There were feasts and celebrations, music, food and dance.

Xilä in particular spent the majority of her time with Tsireya, Kiri and Tuk.

She was still learning how to ride an ilu, making more and more progress with each lesson. It was more difficult than she expected, but she refused to give up.

The girls went exploring every day- venturing out to all of the must see hidden locations of Awa'atlu and Tsireya, ever patient with her, started teaching Xi simple signs for when they explored underwater.

Neteyam’s days were far more over scheduled than hers. They had after all come here for a reason and he had a big role to play. Xilä was so proud of him. She had even snuck in once to hear one of his speeches. He was his father’s right hand man during all meetings, paving the way for a better future for the generations to come.

If he wasn’t attending one of the many daily delegation meetings, he was keeping busy somehow. Her mate was adamant to pull his weight and help out wherever he could.

Neteyam, Jake and Lo’ak joined in on hunts, fished early almost every morning, and yet still, her mate managed to make time to take her on romantic strolls at night along the beach.

As for the sex… Well, Neteyam was a man on a mission- not that she was complaining. Their lovemaking- no, babymaking, was at an all new level. Neteyam was greedy when it came to their sex, taking her in all sorts of new positions they’d never tried before- places included.

One time he fucked her right in the sea against the pole of a wooden pier while whispering all sorts of things that made her blush as she bit down hard on her bottom lip to quell her moans.

He’d gotten even more bossy too- Making her do ridiculous things like stay in bed with her hips in the air after he’d come inside her, fingers forever ensuring she’d taking every last bit of his seed.

He kept her hydrated and banned her from drinking any of the spirits that was served during clan meals.

Truth be told, Xilä loved it all. She’d told him as much already before. Although she basked in his sweet and tenderness, she was downright obsessed with his bossy side, and Xilä felt as if she was constantly turned on lately- and again, she was not complaining.

Suffice to say she was enjoying every moment of their baby making journey. Who wouldn’t want to be woken up right on the cusp of a mind blowing orgasm every morning… and stuffed to the brim with come?

Awa'atlu was also a dream. It was the first time she understood the term vacation. Her only issue was the food. She couldn’t stand any of it. So far she’d been living off the provisions they’d packed with them for the journey over. But other than that, Xilä was perfectly happy.

The good momentarily came crashing down one evening however- when Neteyam came back badly injured.

“Xi.”

She said nothing, head bowed and focused.

“Xilä.”

Still nothing.

“You’re mad at me.” It was a statement, not a question.

Xilä’s head snapped up from the wound she was dressing. “Of course I’m mad, Neteyam!” she hissed under her breath. “You could have died! When did you get so stupid?”

They were both huddled and partly hidden in the corner of a busy marui, surrounded by other patients and busy healers.

“We were just having fun- being idiots. It didn’t look that dangerous at first, and anyway, Aonung said-” He shut up when she fixed him with a seething, piercing glare.

“Aonung said the wave was massive. It could have crushed you, Neteyam- killed you all! Rotxo’s shoulder is dislocated, Aonung’s tail looks mangled, he’s lucky it didn’t break completely. Lo’ak suffered a head injury that could have been far worse- even his ilu has an injured flipper and I just finished putting sixteen stitches into your side! You can’t do this to me, Neteyam- you can’t just-”

“Okay, okay, you’re right,” he soothed, cupping her cheek, guilt churning in his stomach at the sight of her distress- tears rapidly pooling in her eyes. “It was foolish of me. I’m sorry, baby. I won’t let it happen again. I promise.”

Xilä nodded with a sniffle, then promptly burst into tears, full body shaking as she quietly sobbed into her palms.

“Shit. Xilä, come here. I’m sorry.” Neteyam tugged her sideways into his lap and she went without complaint, one hand clutching his nape to keep him close. She was mildly embarrassed by the scene she may have been causing- but no one except one person paid them any mind.

Neteyam met his mother’s questioning and concerned eyes from across the room where she was crouched beside Lo’ak and Tsireya- both women looking like they’d been giving him the same lecture Xi had. He shrugged helplessly at his mom while he held Xi.

It had been a stupid alright.

He and the guys decided to let loose and go exploring in their free time. Only they went venturing too far out near a rocky patch of sea where the waters were rough and choppy. The waves grew higher with each passing minute, and all of them being stupid and reckless- they decided to continue on.

By the time the tide began to recede far too quickly, they knew they were in trouble. It was too late to turn back; there was no way they would be able to outrun a growing wave of that height and mass.

They were lucky to be alive and come out of it with minor damage.

However, they made things worse by coming back to the clan wielding their injuries and telling their tall tale of “almost dying” in a joking manner, which was not taken lightly by their families- especially their women.

Xilä was pissed at him. She’d taken one look at the gaping, bleeding wound on his side and dragged him right to the healers to patch him up herself, giving him the silent treatment the entire time.

“Xi, you’re breaking my heart. Please don’t cry.”

“Well you just about broke mine, you big dummy!” she quarreled while wiping at her cheeks. “I don’t even know why I’m crying this much,” she shuddered, “but I’m so mad at you. You came back to me, bleeding and hurt. Stupid you and your stupid brother and your stupid friends were laughing Neteyam- laughing over the fact that you all almost died!” she hissed quietly. “You can’t joke about things like that. Not to me.”

“I know. I know… I’m such a skxawng, right?”

“The biggest,” Xi agreed. She sat up and traced her fingers over his skin in worry. “Are you in pain?”

He shook his head, and kissed her wrinkled brow, her sniffling nose and pecked her lips. “No, baby. My wife is a badass healer. She patched me up real good.”

Xilä wanted to sob all over again. She also maybe needed a nap.

What was wrong with her today?

Stomach rolling and twisting, Xi wrinkled her nose at the sight of Spider and Lo’ak stuffing their faces with the seared fish that was delivered to them for breakfast. She had finally run out of her packed rations two days ago and had no choice but to indulge in the traditional Metkayina meals now… It was not going well.

She sniffed her portion for the third time then put it back down, unable to bear the smell. “Does it taste good to you?” she whispered to her mate who was eating his meal without issue. “It smells funny.”

“Does it?” Neteyam sniffed his own, then hers, and shook his head. “It’s good, babe. Fresh. The same as yesterday. Do you want to try mine instead?” he offered.

“Mm. No thanks.”

“Xi, you gonna eat that?” Spider asked, eyeing her abandoned meal.

“Oh, have at it!” she exclaimed eagerly, relieved to get it out of her sight.

“Not hungry, again, Xi? You need to eat, you didn’t have dinner last night,” Neteyam said gently.

“I know, but it’s the fish… and the clams and those ugly squiggly ones I could never pronounce- and pretty much everything here. It’s not agreeing with me,” she murmured back. “I miss yovo fruit,” she sighed, slouching into his side unaware that Neytiri was listening to them as she got to her feet. “Am I complaining too much? I feel like I am.”

“You’re fine, sweetheart but I’m a little worried about you now.”

“Here, Xi,” Neytri said, rejoining their family breakfast huddle. “It’s not freshly picked, but it’s the last of the provisions from our trip.”

Xilä gasped loudly, accepting the bowl of overly ripe, bruised yovo fruit like it was the most precious gift she’d ever gotten.

The entire family paused their eating and stared at her when she suddenly started to cry, smiling between her tears as she thanked Neytiri while hugging the bowl to her chest.

“Is she crying over the… half rotten fruit?” Spider asked not so quietly to an equally baffled Kiri.

“Maybe it’s her happy tears again,” Tuk chimed in- also not as quietly.

“Again?” Kiri asked.

“Yep. She cried when I gave her a pretty sea stone that I said looked like her eyes. She said they were happy tears,” Tuk shrugged.

Lo’ak frowned. “She cried when I kissed Tsireya in front of her two days ago… what’s with her?”

“Shut up,” Jake hissed at them quietly. “Eat,” he ordered, and they all instantly went back to their meals, all- and even Jake, failing to cover up their obvious glances at a still blubbering Xilä.

Neytiri smiled easily at Xilä- unperturbed by her tears, eyes crinkling as if she’d just confirmed some hidden secret.

“Baby, are you sure you’re okay?” Neteyam asked in concern, palm testing the temperature of her forehead and neck. “I don’t understand.”

“I’m fine, fine,” she huffed with an embarrassed laugh. “Please ignore me, you guys. I think I’m probably just a little homesick is all.”

When breakfast was over, they all went their separate ways. Neteyam fussed over her some more before eventually leaving her with a kiss and a murmured, “I love you,” while he cheekily and covertly squeezed her butt.

Around midday Xilä nerves suddenly kicked in when she got summoned to immediately meet with the clan’s Tsahìk.

Ronal’s healing tent was much like Mo’at’s, but all different at the same time. It was cozy and almost familiar- infused with medicinal aromas and heavily cluttered with hanging, dried pods and plants, little pots and baskets.

There were a couple mats rolled out and ready for incoming patients, a well worn work table filled with instruments and ingredients and in the far corner, a bubbling pot of some kind of medicinal concoction.

It also had an incredible view of a stretch of mauris, allowing them to see the doings of clan members going about their daily routines.

The Tsahìk greeted Xilä warmly, welcoming her with a platter of a variety of fish and clams- which she only picked at out of politeness.

They chatted and made pleasant small talk. Ronal asked her many questions about her life with the Omatikaya and Xilä was more than happy to sing their praises.

Halfway through her visit, Xi turned embarrassed when her stomach growled loudly, yet her meal remained untouched.

Ronal didn’t bat an eye however and Xilä was forever grateful when the older woman offered her fresh fruit instead. It was no yovo fruit, but it was delicious all the same and she inhaled it with gusto.

“I’ve been meaning to invite you to come by for some time now and make my apologies,” Ronal said, gaze unnerving- watching Xi carefully as if waiting for a reaction. “But you know how busy we’ve been with the current meetings.”

“Apologies?”

“Yes. I learned this odd saying from Lo’ak… What is it again? Ah yes- I almost spilled the beans.”

When Xilä blinked at her in confusion, Ronal continued, “In truth, I honestly had no idea your pregnancy was still a secret.”

Xi choked on her cup of some kind of brewed seaweed tea. “My what?”

“Your pregnancy… how is it coming along?”

Ronal’s lips cracked into a smile when Xilä gaped at her, mouth opening then closing- no words falling out. “Ah, so you did not know then?” she asked, pursing her lips when Xi remained silent. “Xilä… You are pregnant, my dear,” she revealed gently.

Xilä licked her lips, hand moving to hover over her flat stomach. Pregnant?

Meanwhile Ronal moved away their tea, then began plucking and fiddling with odd items and ingredients. “This is good news, I hope?” she asked, trying to gauge Xi’s reaction. “Will your mate be happy?”

“What?” Xi asked, blinking out of her initial shock. “Yes. No, yes it’s wonderful news,” she said quietly, a soft smile gracing her lips. “And no, Neteyam won’t just be happy, my mate will be ecstatic. It’s all he’s wanted for so long now.”

“Hmm, well that pleases me to hear. How long have you two been trying for?”

“We’ve- we’ve been trying for about over a month now,” she replied, unable to help her blush at the question.

“A month?” Ronal clicked her tongue. “Hmmm. We shall see then, yes?”

She hummed a melodic chant under her breath and lit a small bundle of dried leaves, waving the fragrant smoke towards Xilä’s stomach. Taking Xi’s hand she made a tiny prick with a needle and squeezed a drop of her blood into a cup of clear liquid.

Xilä stared entranced by the older woman’s actions, keeping quiet as she watched the clear liquid change colour while Ronal’s chants grew louder before quieting.

“Trying for a month you say…Bah! My dear, you seem to be around the end of your third month.”

“What?!” Shaking her head in disbelief, Xi racked her mind. “Three months… I’m three months pregnant?! Are you sure? Of course you’re sure. You are Tsahìk. I mean I know before we officially decided that I’d been careless with the tea but…Three months. Three months. How did I not know… how have I not known?! I’m a healer in training- I-”

“And these things can happen to anyone. Don’t be too harsh on yourself.”

“Ronal,” Xi glanced at her stomach. “I’m not showing though.”

“It happens. No disrespect, my child but you are quite small in stature as well… Xilä, every pregnancy is beautifully different in their own way. I myself didn’t start showing until my fourth month with my Tsireya. She was a very tiny baby.”

“Oh. Okay,” she whispered, feeling her panic ebb away. “You must think me such a fool. I feel like I’ve forgotten everything Mo’at taught me on the subject.”

“Of course I don’t think that. You’re having a perfectly normal reaction. Now… Have you been having symptoms?”

“Well, since you’ve mentioned it… tender breasts? They ache at the slightest touch lately and my tops are a bit too tight.” Flushing, she continued sheepishly, “I’ve indefinitely banned my husband from touching them,” she admitted, gaining a rare chuckle from Ronal.

“Any others?”

“Food. Fish particularly makes me a bit nauseous.” Ronal moved their seafood platter away at once, for which Xilä was grateful. “I’ve also done quite a bit of crying lately… especially over the smallest things and- By Eywa, all the signs were there, weren’t they?!” she cried, slapping a palm to her forehead. “I feel so stupid.”

“Don’t. It is all perfectly normal.” Ronal handed her a pouch containing the pods of a lilac, coral-like plant. “You can steep these in water to help with the nausea.”

“Thank you, Ronal… Wow. I can’t believe I’m going to be a mother,” she beamed, trying her hardest to keep her tears at bay without success.

“Congratulations, my dear.”

The rest of the visit went by quickly, and by the end Xi was more than comfortable to finally bring up the question she’d been dying to ask.

“Ronal, I know this is a usual ask, but was wondering if you could teach me a few things during my stay here- Tsahìk teachings in particular. Our ways are different, and I would love to learn from you.”

“You said you are a healing in training… are you also Tsakarem like my Tsireya?”

“Yes. Although my lessons have advanced, I know I have not even put a dent in all that I am to learn. I know it is a journey and it will take me years to connect with Eywa the way you and Mo’at do, years to get to your level. I am patient and willing to make that journey for my people. Especially so that I can be what Eywa needs me to be for them when the time comes.”

“You surprise me, Xilä Sully,” Ronal admitted, “Every time I think I’ve figured you out, I am mistaken again. Do not fret, it is a good thing,” she assured. “Very well. I will teach you what I can during your stay here.”

By the time the week ended, Xilä unfortunately still hadn't gotten the chance to tell Neteyam the good news. Her poor mate had been rendered completely exhausted lately- his busy days starting out with ridiculously early mornings and ending in too late nights.

On one breezy and calm evening, when the colours of the sky slowly turned from day into night, Xilä rocked in a woven basket-swing just outside their mauri while she worked on a new sewing project- a very special one at that.

Deep voices alerted her that her mate was finally home.

After a long day of plans and discussions with the other clan leaders, Neteyam and Jake made their way back to their mauris, steps in sync along the bouncing pathways of the Awa'atlu village.

“Night, Xi,” Jake both greeted and bid goodbye to her.

“Night, Jake,” she smiled, watching him part ways with his son who made his way towards her.

“Neteyam!” she squeaked, when in one fluid motion she was lifted and planted on his lap.

“Hi.”

“Hi- mmm,” she laughed into his kiss and squirmed when his hand squeezed around her inner thigh, making its home there like it usually liked to.

“You smell incredible,” he murmured into her mouth, pausing the kiss to duck and eagerly nose at her neck.

“Courtesy D’avi of course,” she hummed. “Tsireya said when you guys work out the trading system, she wants some of D’av’s scented concoctions delivered to her.”

“Well I’m sure that can be arranged. Actually, that’s exactly what we’ve been discussing for the past three days alone.”

“D’avi’s scented concoctions?” Xi teased.

Neteyam snorted and pinched her thigh. “Ha. Ha. Yes, that’s all we’ve been talking about. Which scents pair nicer for the day and then which ones suit the night,” he joked, making Xilä giggle.

“But no, the trading system is in the works. There was some back and forth on how to make it accessible for each clan but we finally worked out all the kinks today. Sarentu’s olo'eyktan had some great suggestions for how the bartering should go. I personally would have never thought to- Xi, you’re giving me that look again, and every time you do, it makes me want to take you to bed and make you scream my name.”

“I can’t help it, okay? It-” she looked away from him, cheeks inflamed as she mumbled, “it turns me on when you talk like that.”

Neteyam’s brows went high and then he smirked when it registered what she’d said. “Talk like what, baby?” he asked.

“Stop. Don’t tease me,” she sassed, poking him in the chest. “You know what I meant… When you get all serious and passionate about your work, it… does things to me, alright?”

“Alright.” He clicked his tongue. “Good to know, I’ll keep that in mind.”

Xi rolled her eyes playfully and leaned into him as he rocked them on the swing. They watched the last of the light fade on the horizon while listening to the many sounds around them- waves crashing in the distance, muted chatter of nearby people, ilus’ and ikrans’ cries.

“This is new. What are you working on now?” Neteyam asked, fingers playing with the material of the cloth in her lap. “Wait, is this a baby sling?” He lifted the fabric higher to see it better.

“Um, yes,” she replied, suddenly turning nervous.

“I like it. It's very cute, but it’s a little small for the twins though, don’t you think?”

“Mhm, yeah it is… but it’s okay, cause it’s not for them.”

“What do you mean?” he asked, not quite picking up on her meaning just yet.

Holding his gaze, Xi took the large hand resting on her thigh and brought it towards her middle, pressing until his warm palm was spread out and covering the span of stomach completely.

Gold eyes widening, he sucked in a breath of air. “Xi…”

“I’m pregnant, ‘Teyam,” she whispered, lips tugging upward at the corners, eyes shiny in happiness.

“You’re-” His voice cracked, so he cleared his throat with a little shake of his head. “You’re having a baby- you’re having our baby? My baby?”

“Mhmm, yes. You’re going to be a father, Neteyam. A daddy.”

Silence played out for a long minute as he stared where his hand was pressed- Xilä’s palm sitting over his.

A loud whoop escaped Neteyam, and then he was capturing Xilä’s lips with his- all messy and silly and eager because he was just so incredibly happy- so fucking ecstatic.

They laughed in between their kisses, hands cupping each other's tear stained cheeks as they whispered excitedly.

“I can’t believe it. Xilä, I’m so happy. Oh Eywa, I could just burst. Shit, your boobs,” he laughed, “I knew they looked different! And you never let me touch them anymore- how did I not figure it out sooner?”

“Isn’t that the question? I’ve been asking myself the same thing for the past two days and I-”

“Two days? You’ve known for two days?”

“Mmm, yeah. I’m sorry, handsome. I couldn’t find the right time to tell you. There’s something else though… I’m three months along, almost four.”

Neteyam’s jaw dropped. “You’re kidding… four months? Holy- wait how are you feeling, sweetheart? Are you okay? Have you been sick?” he asked, palm resting against her stomach in what Xi could only describe as lovingly possessive perhaps.

“I’m good, promise. But at least it now explains all the crying, and my aversion to fish. Seems our baby only wants fruit for now.”

“Our baby…” he repeated, eyes drawn to where his palm rested. “You’re having our baby. We’re going to be parents… I’m going to be a daddy.”

Xi wiped away his tears as he spluttered in giddiness.

“God, I’m so happy, Xi,” he kept saying.

“Me too- oh! No wait, where are you going?”

Neteyam had gotten up and gently placed her back down, a determined expression now gracing his face.

“To get you fruit. You’ve not been eating lately and our baby only wants fruit. So stay put, I’m going to get you some.”

Xilä may or may not have cried right there and then.

A baby!!!!!!! Gosh these two have come so far, I could cry lol.

Y'all, I am not versed in Na'vi pregnancy at all- no clue how it is for them. I took inspiration from real life circumstances for Xi. So shout out to my friend who cried for almost an hour straight when I surprised her at work with a birthday cupcake while she was preggo and had no clue that she was at the time. Lol.

Also, I feel like one chapter alone at Awa'atlu isn't enough, so there will be another one to come. We. Need. More Aonung and definitely more Lo'ak and his precious Tsireya!

If you have ideas, feel free to share.

Last but not least, special shout out and big thanks to my friend Tori who is a gem in my opinion. You're the best!

As always, please let me know what you think :)

Tags: @jakesullyfatjuicypeen @granddearduck @riatesullironalite @strawberri-blonde @earthling55 @innercreationflower @duckworthbean @gyuventure @btsiguess-kpop @blkmystery @neteswife @luvteyams @isnt-itstrange @erenjaegerwifee @faatxma @ivysully @bakugouswaif @pinkpantheris @mntx666 @ironcaptainnataliabarnes

If you'd like to be tagged or I forgot you by accident, please let me know.

#neteyam #neteyam x oc #neteyam avatar #neteyam fic #neteyam x reader #neteyam fanfiction #neteyam sully

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alittletaste · 1 year

Text

The one where Harry goes on a hike with his kids

Harry looked like a proper dad. His cheeks had a few days old stubble on them, his eyes were clouded with sleep but you could see the absolute adoration in them and he was also supporting some eye bags from the lack of sleep. But, he wouldn’t change it for anything, he loved his kids.

One of them was strapped to his chest, his baby girl, only 5 weeks old and already out on her first hike. Harry felt full of pride, holding his baby against his chest as his elder kids ran along the path of their hike. This was what life was about, enjoying these little moments of love and doing something fun.

He decided on taking the kids out for a nice walk whilst y/n got some rest, given birth only five weeks ago, dealing with postpartum and also having to now look after four kiddos was a lot. So Harry knew she deserved a break, time to get some shut-eye and some peace and quiet.

“Daddy! Look at this flower” Indi, Harry’s five-year-old, spoke. He held up a dandelion, which he picked from the path pointing it towards Harry. “It’s so pretty!”

“It sure is bub” Harry replied, taking ahold of Indi's other hand, making sure to keep him close by. “It’s called a dandelion”

“Is it called a dandelion because it’s yellow daddy? Like a lion?” Beau, Harry’s seven-year-old, asked. Stopping in his track to look back at his dad for an answer. He was Harry’s mini me, the exact same mannerism and hair.

“I’m not sure bud, but that’s a great way to look at it” Harry was attentive in the way he answered, smiling at his secondborn before turning to lean a kiss into his baby girl's hair, who now began to move under the strap. He could feel her reach her tiny hand up to grab at his jumper making him physically awe at her.

“Dad, shall we pick some of the dandelions for mum?” Harry’s oldest, Jude spoke. At just 10 years old, he was very mature for his age, doing whatever he could to make his parents happy. He also loved watching out for his younger siblings, spending his nights cooing at Stella, his baby sister.

“That’s a very good idea lovie” Harry smiled with pride again, “she’ll love it” as soon as the words left his mouth, the boys ran off, on a mission to find their mumma some dandelions. “Stay close though, yeah” he spoke rather loudly, earning a bunch of “yes daddy” from his little ones.

As Harry chuckled, he felt more movement on his chest, his hand goes to rub at Stella’s back as he looks down to see her wide little eyes staring back. “Oh hello you, hi” Harry whispered, leaning in to place another kiss on his daughter's head.

“Did I wake you, eh?” He asked and smiled when Stella made a grumpy face. “Daddy’s sorry bug, just need to make sure you cheeky brothers are safe” he spoke to the girl stuck to his chest, his eyes twinkling with love.

As he looked up, he saw all three boys coming towards him, each holding a bunch of flowers, waving them around happily. “There they are, your brothers” Harry smiled, taking in the sight of the beautiful winter sunset and his absolutely adorable little family. He truly couldn’t be happier.

a/n: was in my dad!Harry feels tonight, hope you all enjoyed this 🫶

#harry styles blurbs #harry styles x y/n #harry styles fanfiction #harry writing #harry styles fluff #harry styles imagine #harry styles oneshot #dad!harry #dad!Harry styles

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kengan-daddies · 7 months

Text

Oh Ohma Tokita , You're Full of Surprises

Anime : Kegna Ashura Character: Ohma Tokita Warning: None

Oh Ohma Tokita, You're Full of Surprises

You, Yamashita and Ohma, in that order, sat at the bar, a beer in Yamashita's hand while wine in yours. Ohma ate happily and quietly while you and Yamashita spoke.

"I honestly never thought that I would be in a place like this, I guess your dreams really can come true." Yamashita said as he looked around the place, still as awe struck as he was when he first came here. You smiled at him kindly, Yamashita was a kind elder man, he was ever so lovely to be around.

"It's true, dreams can come true, sometimes you just have to wait and go with the flow." You said in a gentle voice as you sip your drank. Yamashita smile as he looks over at you. "I suppose so." He said as he too took a sip of his drank. You looked over at Ohma, seeing him deep into his meal, a distance look on his face. "You always get so deep into your thoughts when you eat, Ohma." You said as you leaned your head on your hand as you turned towards him.

He looked over at you, his dark eyes gentle and relaxed. You stared deep into them, still getting used to this new Ohma. You didn't know this Ohma, and yet you did. He was still your Ohma, he was just... different was all. After his fight with Raian, he slipped into a bit of a coma, before that, he held a fire in his eyes. Constant rage that burned for more, he was always so feral in his actions and now... He was calm, relaxed, focused.

It wasn't normal and yet... You didn't mind it. He stared at you for a moment before he shrugged. "I'm my most relaxed when I'm eating." He spoke before he went back to eating. Both you and Yamashita just stared at him. 'At least he still as simple minded as ever.' You thought before you went back to your drink. You looked over at Yamashita, watching as he ordered another drink a happy smile on his aged face.

You felt warmth flood through you, just seeing him being happy always made you feel this way. You remember when you first met the man. Ohma was the one who introduced you to him.

You still remember, standing in your apartment, the door open as you stared at Ohma and his newest elder companion. The little old man, looked even smaller next to Ohma, he was a small little man. His dark blue suit, white collar shirt, red tie, heavy looking brief case... He brought you a business man? The man spoke up, sounding anxious and weary. "U-umm... Ohma, why are we here?" He asked.

You looked over at Ohma, wanting an answer as well. "Yamashita Kazuo... This is (l/n) (y/n), she's a friend of mine." He explained. You rolled your eyes as you placed your hand on your hip and you raised your hand towards Yamashita to shake. "I'm (Y/n), Ohma's girlfriend.... And his shelter." You said with an eye roll. Yamashita stared at you for a moment before he looked over at Ohma and back towards you. "Oh, well I'm pleased to meet you then. Ohma, you never told me you had a girlfriend." He said as he shook your hand looking back at Ohma as he did.

Ohma shrugged. "You're meeting her now so don't complain." He said. You rolled your eyes. "Such a brute." You said in a flat tone. Ohma shrugged at you. Yamashita looked back at Ohma a little longer before he looked back at you, a sweet smile on his face as he did. "I'm so glad that Ohma has someone like you in his life, he needs you more then he'd ever admit it." He said kindly, your heart warmed at his words.

You were honestly having doubts about yours and Ohma's relationship, but this gave you renewed hope. "Thank you Yamashita, I really mean it too." You said. 'Damn, it's only been a few months since we met, but it already feels like it's been years.' You thought as you stared at Yamashita. You felt a light push into your back from Ohma's forearm. You looked back at him curiously.

The new calm eyes of Ohma's always lost you in a trance. 'I gotta get used to this.' You thought as you turned towards him. "What's up, Ohma?" You asked him. He didn't say anything for a moment, but he did eventually. "What's on your mind, (y/n)?" He asked you, patience, calm, sincere... His voice, his eyes, his body, it all screamed those three emotions... You weren't used to this... But you honestly weren't complaining, you actually kind of liked it on him.

You gave him a small smile as you leaned on your palm. "Oh nothing too important, just thinking about Yamashita is all." You said. His brow twitched for a moment, and if you weren't focused you'd miss it. Your smile slightly widen when you seen the fire in his eyes slowly ignites, seemingly ready for a challenge. You gave a small chuckle at his small yet loud actions. "Oh Ohma, relax!! It's not like that." You said as you placed a hand on his upper arm.

He seemed to relax some. "Then why?" He simply asked. "Because, it just ran across my mind... I just got stuck in the past, of when you first introduced him to me." You said honestly. He started at you in thought for a moment before he asked. "Why would that be on your mind?" He asked. You sighed, as your hand moved down his arm till it rested on his hand. The fork in his hand fell to the counter top, as his hand relaxed, his palm opening up allowing your hand to slip comfortably against his own.

Your heart fluttered at the simple act, while your hand tightens around his and he lightly grasped yours in return. "Because, Ohma... Small memorise like those, you just simply never forget, they map out your journey, they tell a story and they give you reason. My purpose in life is yet to be determined, so I hold onto my memories until I know." You explained, his eyes seemed to bounce between yours intensely as he listened to your words. "Do you know your purpose yet, Ohma?" You asked him, as your other hand cupped his cheek.

He stared at you, seemingly lost in a daze before he shook his head and he gave a low "no."... You smiled. " That's okay, neither of us do, that's why we live just as hard as the day before, why we hold onto our memories so tight." You said. He seemed to understand as he nodded his head. "Ooh umm, the next match is starting soon... Do you two... Perhaps want to come watch?" Came Yamashita's weary voice. You and Ohma looked over at him, seeing a sheepish look upon his face as he stared at you both.

You and Ohma shared a look before you both nodded at him. "I most definitely need to see this next fight, I've missed four so far, so I need to catch up quickly." Ohma said as he stood up. You and Yamashita smiled at him, happy to see Ohma up and ready. You all exited the bar/food court as you began to make your way to the arena. You looked down seeing your hand still in Ohma's gentle yet firm grip as he lead you all through the hall.

You gave him a loving smile. 'Oh Ohma, you're full of surprises.' You thought.

#kengan ashura #kengan ashura x reader #kengan ashura x y/n #kengan ashura ohma tokita #ohma tokita x y/n #ohma tokita x reader #ohma tokita #kengan ashura ohma #kengan ashura tokita #kengan ashura ohma x reader #kengan ashura fanfiction

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edenesth · 6 months

Text

So Wrong, It's Right

Pairing: foster brother!Jeongin x fem!reader

AU: non-idol au (forbidden love)

Word Count: 17.6k

Summary: Jeongin knew it was wrong to harbour feelings for his adoptive elder sister, but it wasn't something he could control. Convinced that the silly crush would fade as he aged, he was proven wrong when the feelings he fought hard to bury resurfaced years later. What happens when the lines between foster siblings and something more begin to blur?

A/N: Based on a wild ass dream I had of Jeongin being my brother. You won't believe how upset I was because of that lmfao.

MAIN MASTERLIST

"Honey, come over and say hi to Jeongin." Your parents called out, standing beside your new brother.

The adorable 14-year-old boy fixed his gaze on you with wide, awe-filled eyes as you descended the staircase of your home. A radiant smile graced your face, and you waved excitedly at him, exclaiming, "Hi, Jeongin! It's nice to meet you. From now on, I'll be your sister. Just call me noona, okay?"

He nodded, the rapid thumping of his heart resonating in his chest as he admired your striking presence, "H-hi, noona," He stammered, his cheeks turning a rosy shade as he met your gaze, "It's, um, really nice to meet you too."

The decision to adopt Jeongin might have been a sudden one, but you wouldn't have it any other way. Looking at him now, you understood why your parents felt the need to take him in.

Your parents stumbled upon him at a nearby bakery one day, they watched as he stood pitifully alone.

With a sense of curiosity and kindness, your parents struck up a conversation with the young boy, who had been gazing longingly at a display of freshly baked bread from outside the shop. They noticed his hesitant demeanour and asked, "Why aren't you going inside, young man? The bread is delicious!"

Jeongin hesitated at first, but he saw the genuine concern in their eyes. He admitted with a heavy heart, "I don't have any money, and I can't afford to buy anything."

Concerned, your mother inquired further, "Did you run out of pocket money your parents gave you?"

It was then that Jeongin felt compelled to share his difficult truth. With a tremor in his voice, he confessed, "I don't have parents. I live in a nearby orphanage, and we're all struggling. There isn't much money for anything, really."

Your father decided to take matters into his own hands. He bought Jeongin all the bread he had been eyeing, as well as some sweet pastries, and the three of them sat together, sharing stories and laughter in the bakery.

Jeongin had never felt such warmth before.

The couple sat there, fully absorbed in the boy's passionate storytelling about his aspirations.

He spoke animatedly about his dreams of becoming a kindergarten teacher or a social worker, eager to extend his help and care to children who, like him, were in need of love and guidance. His eyes sparkled with unwavering determination, and it was evident to them that he was not just a good kid but a remarkable young soul deserving of so much more in life.

After they left the bakery, your parents escorted him back to the orphanage, where the bleak conditions of the place broke their hearts. It was a stark contrast to the loving home they created for you. The poor children there were deprived of even the most basic necessities.

Later that night, after a long and heartfelt discussion with you, your parents decided to extend their love and generosity to Jeongin.

They welcomed him into your family, providing him not only with a loving home but also the opportunity for a brighter future. The decision was a life-changing one for all of you, as you opened your hearts and home to the young boy who had touched your lives so profoundly.

To your parents' absolute relief, you and Jeongin got along extremely well. He may have been a little shy at first, but with all the initiative you took in getting him to open up to you, he eventually did.

One afternoon as the school bell chimed the end of another gruelling day, you and Jeongin found yourselves making your way home together. High school had been a whirlwind of challenges, but the bond you'd formed with your brother made it a little brighter. You were a senior, and he was a freshman, but your connection transcended the age gap.

As you walked along the tree-lined path that led to your neighbourhood, you reminisced about how this friendship had all begun. It was that very path where Jeongin first opened up about his dreams of becoming a kindergarten teacher or a social worker. His dream resonated with you and became a shared vision.

You looked over at him, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes as he recounted a funny moment from class, and you smiled at that. The two of you started this journey as siblings, but over the course of a year, your relationship deepened into something more, a friendship that was founded on trust and shared experiences.

You remembered the days when you invited Jeongin to join your lunch group, which consisted of your close friends, Chan and Minho.

They welcomed him with open arms, treating him like a little brother. Chan, the ever-protective and caring friend, had taken Jeongin under his wing, offering advice and guidance. Minho, the laid-back and funny one, had been the source of laughter and camaraderie that made Jeongin feel right at home.

Together, you formed a tight-knit quartet.

Lunch hours became a time of shared laughter, stories, and secrets. Chan would often share stories of his younger sister and brother, which allowed Jeongin to see that sibling relationships could evolve into something deeper and more profound.

The year passed by in a whirlwind of exams, late-night study sessions, and adventures. And in that time, the bond between you and Jeongin had grown stronger. As you approached your house, you felt grateful for the way your friendship had developed.

You knew that this shared journey was just the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in both of your lives.

As the days turned into weeks and weeks into months, Jeongin did his best to navigate the tumultuous waters of his feelings. He knew, deep down, that it wasn't right to have these emotions for you, even if you weren't biologically related. You were his adoptive sister, and the societal norms made it clear that such feelings were taboo.

But the heart, as they say, has a mind of its own.

Jeongin was determined to suppress his romantic feelings and focus on the friendship that blossomed between the two of you. He took every measure he could to see you as nothing more than his friend and big sister.

When you invited him to hang out with your friends, he eagerly participated in the activities, valiantly trying to blend in with the group. He laughed at their jokes, shared their interests, and offered his own opinions to the conversations. In the midst of it all, he felt himself slipping into the role of your little brother without a choice.

Late-night study sessions were another challenge.

As you worked together on assignments and helped each other prepare for exams, Jeongin had to remind himself that this closeness was borne from a shared pursuit of knowledge, not an opportunity for romantic connection. He focused on the task at hand, suppressing the romantic thoughts that occasionally tried to intrude.

His determination to maintain the purity of your sibling relationship was fueled by his admiration for you. You became his role model, a paragon of kindness and ambition. He appreciated the way you always had his back and the encouragement you gave him in pursuing his dreams.

Despite the occasional flutter of his heart and the way his cheeks might flush when you smiled, he persisted in viewing you as the friend and sister that you were meant to be.

He took comfort in the warmth of your friendship, hoping that with time, the inappropriate feelings he struggled with would fade away, leaving behind a bond that was deeper and more profound than any fleeting crush.

Time flew by, and the next thing you all knew, the day of your high school graduation arrived.

As you walked across the stage, beaming with pride, to accept your diploma, Jeongin watched from the audience, sitting with your parents. It was a bittersweet moment for him, and his heart swelled with a mix of pride and sadness.

Seeing that beautiful smile on your face as you held that symbolic piece of paper in your hands was a moment he would treasure forever. Your success meant the world to him, but at the same time, he felt a pang of sadness. You were about to leave for Seoul City to pursue your dreams of becoming an author, leaving behind the life you've known.

He knew that the upcoming separation was inevitable. In a way, he believed it might be for the best. This time apart could serve as a respite, a chance for him to reflect on his feelings and, hopefully, come to terms with them. The intensity of his emotions had not waned, and he understood that it was time to face the reality of his situation.

The idea of missing you was painful, but he knew that he needed to work on getting over his romantic feelings.

He hoped that in your absence, he could focus on his own personal growth and, perhaps, redirect his ambitions toward becoming the kind-hearted and supportive person you've always been for him.

Jeongin made a silent promise to himself that he would use this time apart to heal and grow, while always cherishing the special bond you had as siblings. Your graduation marked the beginning of a new chapter for both of you, and he was determined to make the most of it, both for your sake and his own.

As the day of your departure arrived, you stood at the entrance of your home, a mix of excitement and sadness in your heart, with Minho by your side helping you load your luggage into the car's trunk while Chan was already seated in the driver's seat.

The three of you had been accepted into the same college, which felt like a stroke of luck, even though you were pursuing different degrees.

Your parents hugged you tightly and repeated their words of advice and affection. They wanted to ensure you were prepared for the adventures and challenges that awaited you in the big city. It was a heartwarming scene filled with warmth, support, and love.

When it was Jeongin's turn to bid you farewell, he didn't hesitate. He wrapped his arms tightly around you, burying his face in your neck. The embrace was filled with an unspoken fear of the unknown. He didn't know when he would see you again, and he wanted to hold you as close as he could at this moment.

You smiled, even as tears welled up in your eyes, and you gently stroked the back of his head to comfort him, "I promise I'll come back during breaks, Jeongin-ah." You reassured him.

He pulled back slightly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, "You better, noona. I'll miss you."

You chuckled, your voice filled with tenderness, "I'll miss you too, cutie pie. Take care of mum and dad for me, will you?"

He nodded, holding onto your hands tightly, ignoring the rapid fluttering of his heart. With a reluctant smile, he waved at Minho and Chan before watching somberly as you got into Chan's car. The engine roared to life, and you all began to drive away, leaving your childhood home behind.

Jeongin's gaze remained locked on the car, a mixture of sadness, longing, and hope swirling in his heart as he silently wished you a bright and fulfilling journey.

Over the next four years, life took you and Jeongin in different directions.

You immersed yourself in the college experience, pursuing your passion for literature and growing as an aspiring author. The bustling city provided the backdrop for your personal and academic adventures. You met new friends, experienced new cultures, and even dated a few guys during your college years.

But, no matter how much your life expanded, a piece of your heart always remained at home.

On the other hand, Jeongin was making his own journey through high school, diligently focusing on his studies. While you were away, he thrived academically, often being the top student in his class. He poured himself into extracurricular activities and helped out at the orphanage whenever he could.

The multiple confessions from girls at his school came and went, but he politely declined each one. He was determined to bury his feelings for you, convinced that by the time he graduated high school, he could move forward without the weight of an unrequited love.

The two of you had your share of brief reunions during semester breaks. Each time, you were greeted with a warm hug and that familiar, heartwarming smile from Jeongin. Your family remained the constant support system in both of your lives, and it was always a comfort to come home to their open arms.

Despite your separations, the bond between you remained strong. You would often talk late into the night, sharing stories of your college experiences, the people you met, and your dreams for the future. In those moments, it was clear that your relationship was built on something more profound than mere biology.

Jeongin's determination to let go of his romantic feelings for you was evident in his endless support and encouragement.

He wanted nothing more than to see you succeed, and the happiness in your eyes was all that mattered to him. With each passing semester, he hoped that he was one step closer to the day when his heart would finally let go of the unattainable dream that had haunted him since he met you.

On one of the weekends when you returned home for a traditional festive celebration, the house was filled with the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals and laughter. After a hearty dinner with your parents, you and Jeongin retreated to your room.

As you sat side by side on your queen-sized bed, you couldn't contain your excitement, eager to share all the fun and exciting things that happened during the semester. Your eyes sparkled, and your voice was filled with enthusiasm as you recounted your adventures. Jeongin, being the attentive and caring brother he's always been, listened intently, hanging on your every word.

He noticed how happy you appeared, and he couldn't help but comment, "You seem really happy, noona."

You blushed slightly, a shy smile playing on your lips, "Well," You began hesitantly, "There's this guy I've been seeing. I really like him."

Jeongin's expression remained neutral, but a pang of heartache pierced through his chest. He accepted the truth that it was forbidden to love you in a romantic way, no matter how deeply he felt for you. He knew he could only be happy for you if you found someone who was genuinely right for you.

He continued to watch you with endearing affection as you mumbled sleepily, exhaustion finally catching up with you, "I missed you so much, Jeongin-ah." You whispered, the words barely audible as you began to drift into slumber.

Gently pushing a strand of hair away from your face, he let out a soft, wistful sigh. His unspoken emotions remained trapped within his heart as he watched over you, the love in his gaze too deep and too forbidden to ever be shared.

Jeongin muttered softly, his voice barely above a whisper, "I missed you too, noona, more than you could ever know." His heart ached with the weight of unsaid words, with emotions too heavy to bear. He leaned down to press a gentle kiss on your forehead, a silent promise of love and protection, before tucking you in with great care.

As he left your room, he did so quietly, as if trying to keep the sanctity of the moment undisturbed. The sadness that had been gnawing at his heart began to intensify as he returned to his own room, which suddenly felt much emptier than usual.

He sat on the edge of his bed, the turmoil in his heart almost unbearable. He wondered if he would ever truly move on from the feelings he had for you. Every time he felt like he made a little progress, it all crumbled when he saw you again, heard your voice, or felt your presence. It was a constant struggle, a daily battle against the emotions he tried so hard to suppress.

He knew that the path he had chosen, one of being content with being your brother and nothing more, was the right one.

But the ache in his heart, the longing that seemed to grow stronger with every reunion, made it painfully clear that moving on was going to be a lot harder than he'd ever imagined. Jeongin rested his head in his hands, lost in the torment of a love that could never be, hoping that someday he could find the strength to truly let go and move on from the impossible dream that held his heart captive.

As you entered your final year of college, the weight of schoolwork and academic responsibilities pressed upon you, leaving little room for anything else. This time, you couldn't make it home for the traditional festive celebrations, and the absence of your presence left an undeniable void in your family's hearts.

Jeongin, in particular, felt the absence keenly.

But he saw an opportunity in your absence, an opportunity to create some distance and try to avoid thinking about you. He decided to dedicate all his thoughts and focus to his own senior year of high school. He filled every available moment with extracurricular activities and volunteering, immersing himself in various projects, and contributing to his school and the orphanage.

The idea was to keep his mind preoccupied, to allow himself to grow and develop independently, far away from the influence of unrequited love. Although your absence was painful, Jeongin believed it might help him in the long run.

During this time, the only updates he received were through your social media. He saw photos and stories of you with a guy named Mingyu, whom he assumed was the one you mentioned that night. The pain of seeing those updates, the envy that welled up inside him, and the realisation that you've found happiness with someone else was like a bitter pill to swallow.

Yet, that pain became his driving force.

The hurt and envy he felt served as a catalyst for him to finally let go of the romantic feelings that had haunted him for so long. He used these emotions to motivate himself to move forward and to continue building a future that didn't revolve around you.

With each post he saw, he allowed the heartache to be a reminder that his heart needed to heal and that it was time to focus on his own dreams and aspirations. It was a painful process, but he was determined to emerge from it stronger and ready to embrace a life without the burden of unrequited love.

Towards the end of that year, Jeongin began to feel like a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.

It was as though he could finally breathe again, no longer haunted by the painful emotions that had plagued him whenever he saw anything you posted with Mingyu. He made remarkable progress in letting go of the feelings he once thought he had for you.

As the final months of his high school life passed by, he realised that he could genuinely be happy for you. Seeing you with Mingyu no longer stirred up jealousy or heartache. Instead, it brought a sense of contentment, knowing you've found love and happiness.

On Jeongin's graduation day, he stood proudly on the podium as the valedictorian, delivering a heartfelt speech that moved not only his fellow graduates but also your parents, who watched with pride and tears in their eyes. It was a day of celebration, a recognition of his hard work and dedication.

While he knew you weren't able to make it due to your final exams, he wasn't too upset. In fact, he couldn't wait for the surprise he had in store for you. You didn't know it yet, but Jeongin had been accepted into the same college as you. He would soon be near you again, and he couldn't wait to see the look of shock and joy on your face when he finally revealed his plans to be near you.

It was the beginning of a new journey for both of you, one that held the promise of rekindling the bond you shared as siblings and exploring the infinite possibilities of the future together.

On your college graduation day, you hugged your parents tightly, your heart filled with pride and accomplishment. As you held them close, your excitement couldn't be contained, and you couldn't help but ask, "Where's Jeongin? I can't wait to see him."

Your parents exchanged a cheeky grin, and you noticed their mischievous smiles, "He has a surprise for you," Your mother said, her eyes twinkling with anticipation, "He'll be coming to see you soon."

Your curiosity was piqued, and you pleaded with them to reveal more details, but they remained resolute, sharing only vague hints about the surprise. Your parents had a knack for keeping secrets, and they weren't about to give away the surprise before the right moment.

But as the graduation ceremony drew to a close and your fellow graduates reunited with their families, there was no sign of Jeongin. You felt a mix of emotions, a blend of anticipation and disappointment.

Eventually, it became clear that you wouldn't get to see your brother on this special day. Your parents had to leave to return home, and you remained in Seoul where you were set to start your new job at a well-known media organisation. It was a bittersweet ending to the day, filled with both professional excitement and a sense of longing to see your family, especially Jeongin, who had promised a surprise.

Looking out at the cityscape, you wondered what the surprise could be and when your brother would finally reveal it.

As the clock struck 10pm, you sighed, realising that it was time to retire to your bedroom. The disappointment of not having seen Jeongin on your graduation day weighed heavily on your heart. You missed him terribly, especially after an entire year of separation.

With a heavy heart, you got up and prepared to turn off the lights in your apartment's living room. You were about to retreat to your bedroom when, suddenly, the doorbell rang. You froze in place, and your heart skipped a beat. The unexpected sound sent a jolt of excitement through you.

Without a second thought, you hurried to the door and pulled it open. Your breath caught in your throat, and you felt tears welling up in your eyes at the sight of the person you've longed to see. It was Jeongin, standing before you, a shy smile playing on his lips.

You cried out his name, overcome with emotion, and without hesitation, you jumped into his awaiting arms. He held you close, his arms wrapped securely around you. The feeling of his presence, the warmth of his embrace, and the sound of his voice whispering, "Surprise, noona," was like a dream come true.

Tears of joy streamed down your cheeks as you held onto him, unable to believe that he was here, in the city with you, after all this time.

The longing for him had been replaced with an overwhelming sense of happiness and love. Your heart felt complete as you held your brother close, knowing that this surprise reunion was a moment to cherish for a lifetime.

Settled in your living room, you finally had the opportunity to take a proper look at Jeongin. You noticed just how much he's grown over the past year. He looked mature, and it was evident that he was no longer the cute little boy you once remembered.

He became undeniably good-looking, and it was clear to you that he must have been a heartbreaker during his final school year. You couldn't resist teasing him about it after you told him how proud you were of him for graduating as valedictorian, which only made him blush and shyly dismiss your compliments.

After a round of lighthearted jokes, you turned serious and asked the question that's been bothering you, "Why did you miss my graduation, Jeongin-ah?"

He finally decided to tell you the truth, "I'm starting my early childhood education degree at the college you just graduated from," He admitted, "I had to settle into the dormitory during the day, and I couldn't make it to the ceremony."

Your eyes widened, realisation dawning on you. You gasped, "You're going to be here, near me from now on?"

Jeongin's face broke into a bright smile, his eyes filled with excitement, "Yes, noona. I'm going to be here, and I can't wait to spend more time with you."

The thought that your brother was now living in the same city and attending the same college as you filled you with joy. You felt a surge of protectiveness and a desire to look after him, now that he was here. You excitedly volunteered, "You know what? You're not going to be alone in this big city. I'll take care of you now."

His smile widened, and he happily accepted your offer.

As the night wore on, you and Jeongin spent hours catching up, sharing stories, and reminiscing about old times. The bond you shared felt as strong as ever, and you both enjoyed every moment of it. The laughter and conversations flowed seamlessly, bridging the gap that a year of separation had created.

Eventually, as the hours passed, it became clear that there was no way Jeongin could head back to his dormitory at this late hour. You insisted that he spend the night at your place, assuring him that you'd drop him off at the dorm the next day.

The two of you settled in your cosy living room, reminiscing about your childhood and discussing your plans for the future. But as the night grew quieter and the two of you sprawled on your bed, the conversation took a more serious turn. Jeongin, his head propped up on his arm, mustered the courage to ask you about Mingyu.

Your smile faltered, and you gazed at the ceiling for a moment. You softly admitted, "We actually broke up just before graduation."

Jeongin couldn't deny the mixture of emotions that washed over him upon hearing the news. He tried to keep his expression neutral, not wanting to show any trace of his own feelings.

Truth be told, he knew he was hopeless from the moment he saw you again. You looked even more beautiful than he remembered, and his heart ached with longing. He tried to keep himself in check, to focus on being a good brother and a friend to you. But when you admitted that you were single again, a spark of hope ignited within him.

His concern was evident in his eyes as he asked, "Are you alright? What happened with Mingyu?"

You sighed heavily, the weight of your recent breakup still lingering in your heart, "I'm still working on healing from it," You admitted, "Mingyu got an opportunity to work abroad, and he didn't want to have a long-distance relationship. It was a mutual decision, but it's been really tough."

As you spoke, the disappointment and heartache came rushing back, and tears welled up in your eyes. The emotions you've been trying to hold back finally overflowed, and you started to cry. Jeongin didn't waste a moment. He pulled you close into his arms, kissing the top of your head and held you tightly as you sobbed into his chest.

Through your tears, you heard his soothing words, "I'm here for you, no matter what happens. You can always rely on me."

Nodding against him, you felt the warmth and comfort he provided. At that moment, you realised that your little brother wasn't so little anymore. He's grown into a dependable and caring presence in your life. With him by your side, you felt less alone.

In the quiet of the night, Jeongin watched as you gradually found comfort and rest beside him. He pulled the duvet up and tucked you in gently, ensuring you were warm and snug. As he gazed at your peaceful face, he couldn't resist leaning in to kiss your forehead softly, his lips brushing against your skin with tenderness.

With great care, he settled down next to you, the events of the day and your emotional conversation lingering in his mind. Seeing you so upset and heartbroken, he felt the need to help you find happiness again, even if it meant putting his own desires and feelings aside.

As he closed his eyes and began to drift off to sleep, his thoughts were filled with one singular purpose: to be the supportive, loving brother you needed to overcome the pain of your breakup. With determination, he silently vowed to be by your side, offering his love and comfort, ready to help you heal and find happiness once more.

The next day, you took Jeongin to his dormitory, pulling up to the entrance of the building. As he gathered his things and prepared to get out of the car, you shared a warm hug with him, leaning in to kiss him on the cheek before you drove off, a fond smile on your face.

Unbeknownst to both of you, Jeongin's roommate, Felix, had been standing by the entrance, watching the entire scene with a hint of amusement in his eyes. He grinned smugly as he saw the blush forming on Jeongin's face.

As he climbed out of the car, Felix couldn't resist teasing him.

"Whoa there, Jeongin," Felix said, crossing his arms and wearing an amused expression, "Already found yourself an older girlfriend here, huh?"

Jeongin's smile faltered slightly as he considered Felix's words. He hesitated for a moment before deciding to clear things up, "No, Felix. She's my foster sister."

Felix's playful demeanour quickly shifted to one of surprise and apologetic understanding. He realised that Jeongin's feelings for you might be more complex than he initially thought, and he decided not to press the matter further.

Jeongin's situation was a delicate one, and Felix respected that. As he stepped into the dormitory with Jeongin, he silently hoped that his roommate would find happiness and navigate the complex emotions he felt for his foster sister in his own way.

A few months passed since you started your new job, and Jeongin has settled comfortably into college life as well. You both made an effort to meet up during the weekends, cherishing the time you could spend together when neither of you had prior commitments.

This particular weekend, he came to your apartment for a cosy dinner and movie night. Before the night's activities, you decided to go grocery shopping to stock up on all the snacks and ingredients you needed. You grabbed a couple of bags, and together, you headed to the local supermarket, laughing and chatting along the way.

Jeongin accompanied you as much as he could, always by your side, not wanting you to be stuck alone with your thoughts of Mingyu.

In the grocery store, you both carefully selected the items you needed for your movie night, exchanging playful banter and sharing smiles as you navigated the aisles.

As you reached for an item perched on the top shelf of the aisle, you found yourself struggling to grasp it. Your fingertips barely brushed the edge of the product, and you huffed in frustration. Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed Jeongin snickering at your predicament.

Unwilling to give in to your momentary defeat, you stretched on your tiptoes, hoping to reach the item. But it was futile, and you sighed, admitting defeat.

Just when you were about to abandon your mission, you felt a presence behind you. Jeongin moved close, his warm breath brushing against your ear as he whispered, "Let me help."

He reached up effortlessly, plucking the item from the shelf with ease. As you turned your head slightly to look up at him, you were met with the close proximity of his face. The moment felt charged with unspoken tension, and your breaths hitched as you gazed into his eyes.

You couldn't deny how manly and handsome Jeongin has become. His features matured, and there was a quiet confidence about him that made your heart race. It seemed that he, too, was affected by the close proximity, his eyes flicking briefly to your lips.

Before either of you could react to the electric moment, an elderly woman passed by, and her eyes twinkled with amusement as she cooed at the two of you, "Aww, young love is so adorable."

You blinked rapidly, caught off guard by the unexpected comment. You moved away from him, shaking your head, "N-no, we're not—"

But the elderly woman waved you off before you could explain, her knowing smile intact as she walked away, leaving the two of you with a moment of embarrassment and the unspoken awareness that perhaps there was something more to your bond.

Despite the pounding of your heart and the replay of that intimate moment in your mind, you chose to continue on as if nothing had happened. It was the safer route, the one that preserved the comfortable sibling relationship you've cherished for so long.

As you moved through the store, your conversations and laughter returned to their usual ease.

You picked up groceries, playfully teased each other, and shared stories about your week. It was as though the elderly woman's comment had never happened, and you felt a mixture of relief and uncertainty about the unspoken tension that lingered between you and your brother.

For Jeongin, that quick glimpse he saw in your eyes has stirred something within him. He knew, even if just for a moment, that you didn't see him as just a brother.

It was a tiny glimmer of hope, a spark of possibility that he couldn't ignore. He tried to keep his own feelings in check, not wanting to jeopardise the relationship you shared, but the knowledge that there was a chance beyond being just siblings remained in the back of his mind.

After your grocery shopping adventure, you and Jeongin returned home to prepare dinner together.

You decided to make your mother's famous soybean stew, hoping to recreate the comforting flavours of home. As you began cutting up the ingredients, you found yourself struggling with the knife, and a momentary lapse of concentration nearly resulted in a close call as the blade neared your finger.

Before any harm could befall you, Jeongin rushed to your side. He gently took the knife from your hand, placing it aside. Like a mother hen looking after her chick, he instructed you to take care of the simpler tasks, ensuring your safety.

As you carried out the tasks he assigned you, you watched his back as he expertly worked on preparing the stew.

His competence and caring nature were on full display, and you couldn't deny that you liked what you were seeing. For a brief moment, you found yourself thinking.

I could get used to this.

But you quickly snapped out of your trance, realising the implications of what you've just thought. You've always seen Jeongin as your little brother, but now you wondered if your feelings for him were evolving into something more complex. The realisation left you feeling a mix of emotions, both uncertain and intrigued about the uncharted territory that lay ahead.

As you both enjoyed the homemade dinner, you finally took notice of his attentive actions.

They were hard to miss as he carefully blew on the stew to cool it down before feeding you the first spoonful. His gaze was unwavering as he watched you savour the flavours, and he didn't hesitate to wipe the corner of your lips when a grain of rice got stuck there. He even made sure your bowl was filled with all your favourite things and took the items you liked the least for himself.

In that moment, you wondered if he'd always been this attentive or if these actions were only becoming more pronounced recently. You questioned if you were overthinking it or if there was a possibility that Jeongin could see you as more than a sister.

Recalling what the elderly woman said about you two in the supermarket earlier, you realised that he hadn't bothered to correct her at all. He simply smiled shyly to himself when he thought you weren't looking. It was a small but significant detail, and it left you with an unspoken question that hung in the air between you and your foster brother: was there something more to your relationship than mere sibling affection?

After dinner, you find yourself doing the dishes in the kitchen, trying to focus on the task at hand and push those silly thoughts to the back of your mind. Jeongin has been your little brother since the day you met him, and it wasn't right to entertain such thoughts. You squeezed your eyes shut and told yourself not to give these emotions any time of the day.

Determined to shake off those uncertain feelings, you quickly finished the dishes and got cleaned up.

You made your way to the living room, where you found Jeongin laying out the snacks you bought earlier, preparing for your movie night. It was a cherished tradition for you both to play rock-paper-scissors to decide who got to pick the movie. You always fought hard to win because Jeongin loved horror movies, while you avoided them like the plague.

When the game ended and Jeongin won, you groaned loudly, preparing yourself for the horror flick that awaited you. But to your surprise, Jeongin handed you the remote instead, "I'll let you pick the movie just for tonight."

Little did you know, he had a hidden motive.

He was willing to sacrifice anything, even his own movie preference if it meant he could make you smile and forget about Mingyu, even if just for a little while.

Feeling a twinge of guilt that Jeongin had willingly given up what he wanted to watch for you, you decided to pick something that could please both of you. After some consideration, you chose a psychological horror film. It didn't have the typical jump scares, but it contained enough eerie and mysterious elements that you knew he would enjoy.

As the movie began, he couldn't hide the grin that spread across his face. He leaned over to tease you, saying, "Oh, a horror movie? Trying to toughen up, huh?"

You playfully slapped him on the arm, retorting, "Shut up and focus on the movie before I change my mind."

With a mischievous chuckle, he left you alone to enjoy the movie. But deep inside, Jeongin couldn't deny the happiness he felt. Your choice of the film was a thoughtful gesture. It was a simple act, but it spoke volumes about how much you cared for him.

As the movie progressed, you began to regret your decision bit by bit. The suspense and tension had you inching closer to your brother for comfort. He was focused on his snack when he felt your warmth getting nearer, prompting him to turn and check on you.

His heart melted at how adorable you looked, your eyes wide with anticipation and fear, as you worried about what was going to happen next in the movie. Unable to contain his amusement, he snickered and teased you, "Are you scared, noona?"

You scoffed and tried to act tough, "Psh, of course not." But your trembling hands and the way your eyes darted around the screen told a different story.

As Jeongin finished his snack, he cleaned his hands and opened his arms, "Come here."

This time, you didn't bother to keep up the facade. You gladly went into his familiar embrace, seeking the comfort and safety he offered. He pressed his cheek against the top of your head and muttered, "It's alright, I'll protect you."

You whimpered and snuggled even closer to him as the climax of the movie approached, seeking refuge in his comforting presence. Jeongin smiled, tightening his hold on you. This was precisely why he loved horror movies so much; they provided the perfect excuse to hold you close like this every time, and he cherished these moments more than anything.

After the heart-pounding horror movie, you decided to wind down the night with a cute animated film. You started to get up from your cosy spot in his embrace to change the movie, but he gently stopped you, his arms wrapped snugly around you.

When you looked up at him in question, he gave you a sheepish smile, "I'm too comfortable like this. Can't I keep my teddy bear a little longer?"

You chuckled and shook your head, realising that his hold was indeed quite comfortable. You settled back down in his arms, finding that perfect spot for your head between his neck and shoulder, and felt yourself relaxing.

As the animated film played, the warmth of his embrace and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat were incredibly soothing. Somewhere towards the end of the movie, your eyelids grow heavy, and you end up falling asleep.

Jeongin relished the moment, feeling your soft breathing against his neck. He pulled the throw blanket from the couch over your frame and nestled your head into the crook of his neck. It was a feeling of contentment he's longed for, and he held you closer, realising that it was becoming more and more difficult for him to hide his growing feelings, especially now that you were both away from your parents.

More time passed, and you experienced new emotions the more you spent time with Jeongin. He made your heart flutter more than once, and you found yourself having feelings that went beyond the bounds of sibling affection.

It was a bewildering and confusing experience, one you didn't dare voice to anyone, fearing the judgement and misunderstanding that might come with it. It felt like a taboo, a secret that was too delicate to share with anyone.

You kept these thoughts to yourself, trying to sort through your feelings. It was an emotional journey you were navigating alone, unsure of where it would lead.

The weekend arrived, and it was a perfect time to have Chan and Minho over to catch up. Jeongin was just as excited as you were to reunite with your friends, having built a strong bond with them over the years. Your living room was the designated hangout spot, and you all gathered there with bottles of soju.

As the evening progressed, stories flowed freely, punctuated by laughter and shared memories.

Jeongin was animated and engaged, contributing his own anecdotes to the lively conversation. It was one of those nights when you could forget about the complexities of life and simply enjoy the company of your closest friends.

But the tranquillity was shattered when Chan unexpectedly brought up your ex. He leaned back on the couch, one arm resting on the backrest, and casually mentioned, "Oh, by the way, I saw Mingyu in town the other day. It looks like he's back for good."

The room fell quiet as his words hung in the air. You didn't know how to feel about this revelation.

It has indeed been a while since you'd thought about Mingyu. His absence from your thoughts had been telling, but now it was all coming back. A swirl of emotions welled up within you, and you realised that your mind has been preoccupied with someone else recently, someone who has taken up more space in your heart than you'd ever expected.

Jeongin, sitting beside you, sensed the shift in the atmosphere and exchanged a concerned glance with Minho. You took a deep breath and tried to push those feelings aside, but the growing confusion and uncertainty about your emotions weighed heavily on your heart.

Realising how insensitive he must have sounded, Chan quickly offered an apology, "Gosh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories or anything."

You offered him a reassuring smile, "It's okay, Chan. I'm fine, really. I've moved on." It was a half-truth, for you have indeed moved on, but your heart was now muddled with feelings you weren't sure how to process.

Trying to steer the conversation away from yourself, you asked, "How's Mingyu doing, though? Is he alright?"

Minho shot his friend a stern, warning glare.

Chan understood that he needed to tread carefully when discussing your ex, so he nodded and replied, "Mingyu seems to be doing okay. He's back in town, but... he seems different, more regretful about certain things. It seems like he's returned to make amends."

Jeongin, who had been quietly observing the conversation, grew increasingly concerned for you. He worked tirelessly to help you move past your previous relationship, and the last thing he wanted was for that guy to hurt you again. He checked on you, a mix of worry and protectiveness evident in his gaze.

As the night came to a close, you hugged Chan and Minho goodbye at the door as they prepared to leave. After they departed, you returned to the living room to start cleaning up the remnants of the evening – empty soju bottles and scattered snacks.

Jeongin, however, couldn't help letting his concern show. The thought of your ex returning seemed to be bothering him more than it was you. He approached you as you worked, his eyes filled with a mixture of worry and protectiveness.

"Are you really okay, noona?" He asked, searching your eyes for the truth.

You smiled warmly and reached out to ruffle his hair, assuring him, "I'm alright, Jeongin, don't worry."

But before you could retract your hand, he gently held onto it and brought it to his chest, his heart beating steadily beneath your fingers, "Noona," He implored, "Promise me you'll always come to me, no matter what happens."

The touch of his hand and words sent a rush of emotions through you. You nodded, squeezing his hand, "I promise, Jeongin-ah."

He took a step closer, his voice a little more earnest, "I'll always be your favourite boy, right?"

Your heart raced in your chest, and your pulse quickened at his words. You smiled, though it was tinged with a hint of nervousness, "Of course, silly. You know it."

The atmosphere between you two grew charged with unspoken emotions, feelings that were beginning to spill out of the boundaries of your sibling relationship.

As the days passed, you found yourself growing more and more conflicted about your feelings. Jeongin's actions had taken a bolder turn recently, and it was becoming increasingly difficult for you to convince yourself that his concern and care were purely brotherly.

You sighed, pushing those thoughts aside as you enjoyed a meal alone at a restaurant you frequented during your lunch break.

The pleasant atmosphere was disrupted when the entrance bell chimed, signalling the arrival of a customer. You instinctively looked up and froze in your seat when you saw who it was. Mingyu scanned the room and, upon spotting you, made his way to your table.

"Hi," He said, hesitating slightly, "Mind if I take a seat?"

You gulped, feeling a mix of surprise and uncertainty, but you nodded, saying, "Please."

You blinked and tried to regain your composure, continuing to eat as he settled in at the table with you. Eventually, he mustered the courage to break the silence and ask, "How have you been?"

Taking a deep breath, you managed a smile, "I've been great, thank you. And you?"

Mingyu's expression turned more serious, and he confessed, "I haven't been fine."

His regret was palpable as he continued to speak, "I shouldn't have broken up with you, not like that, not when there was nothing wrong with our relationship. I've spent all this time thinking about it, and I've missed you so much."

He leaned in a little closer, his gaze fixed on you, as he continued, "Since graduation, I haven't been able to stop thinking about you, and I realise now how much I've missed you. I've even transferred back to the local headquarters to be near you, to seek your forgiveness, and to make things right."

His words hung in the air, and the sincerity in his eyes was hard to ignore. It was clear that he was struggling with his own feelings of regret and longing, and he hoped you might be willing to give him another chance.

You sighed deeply, your heart heavy with the mixed emotions his reappearance has stirred within you, "Mingyu, I appreciate your honesty, but you need to understand that I've genuinely moved on from our relationship." The words were difficult to say, and they pierced his heart like knives.

He couldn't accept the fact, his voice tinged with desperation as he asked, "Is there someone else?"

Your eyes widened when Jeongin immediately came to mind, and you shook your head, "No, it's not about someone else. It's about the fact that from the moment you made that decision to end our relationship all those months ago, things changed, and they will never be the same again."

Feeling the need to distance yourself from this uncomfortable conversation, you pushed your chair back and rose from your seat. Mingyu chased after you, his expression filled with regret and apology, "I'm sorry for coming on so strong. I understand how you feel, and I know I deserve this, but I will work to earn your trust and forgiveness again."

Your emotions were all over the place, and you were caught in a whirlwind of feelings. Trying to escape the situation, you told him, "I have to go back to work."

With a heavy heart, you left the restaurant, leaving Mingyu standing there, knowing that he didn't deserve your forgiveness so easily after how he abandoned you.

When you returned home that day after work, your exhaustion was still lingering from the tense encounter with Mingyu. As you entered your apartment, you raised your brows in surprise to find Jeongin already there, bustling around the kitchen, and making dinner. He wasn't supposed to come over until the next day.

"Jeongin-ah, why are you here already?"

He turned to you with a warm smile, "My professor let us off early today, and I thought I'd come over and cook us a proper dinner. You always end up eating unhealthy instant food when you're alone, and I wanted to take care of you."

You managed a half-hearted smile, still feeling somewhat distraught after Mingyu's sudden reappearance and his desire to reenter your life. But Jeongin was perceptive, and he could read your emotions well. He turned off the gas and approached you, gently helping you take off your shoes.

When you told him it wasn't necessary, he sat you down on the couch and kneeled in front of you, taking your hands in his, making your heart flutter, "Are you okay, noona?" He asked, his eyes filled with genuine concern.

You let out a tired sigh, feeling comforted by his presence and deciding to be completely honest despite your initial intention of keeping this from him. You knew it would worry him, but you couldn't hold it in any longer.

You recounted what happened with Mingyu during lunch, and Jeongin tightened his hold on your hand as he listened.

His frown deepened, and he told you in a protective tone, "You should call me the next time he dares to bother you again. I'll make sure he doesn't trouble you."

You patted his head affectionately and reassured him, "Mingyu won't do anything to hurt me. He just wanted to talk, that's all."

Unable to resist the growing curiosity in his heart, he finally asked, "Noona, be honest with me. Do you still have any feelings for him?"

You contemplated for a moment, weighing your emotions before answering honestly, "No, Jeongin-ah, I don't."

As you looked properly into his eyes, your heart racing, you assured him once more, "I have truly moved on from Mingyu." If only Jeongin knew, it was him who has been occupying your thoughts lately, taking over every corner of your mind.

He sighed in relief, his fingers tenderly tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear, "I'll always be here for you, noona."

You smiled at his words, the warmth in your heart growing as you replied, "I know."

In an effort to lighten the mood, he gently pulled you up from the couch and led you into the kitchen. Your heart swelled with gratitude and affection as you watched him cook and take care of you, realising that, despite your initial intentions to care for him, it seemed like he was the one taking care of you more.

The following day, Jeongin decided to take you cafe hopping to help get your mind off your ex.

And it worked like a charm.

From the moment you stepped into the first cafe, you were fully distracted from any thoughts of Mingyu just by being near Jeongin. The day was filled with visits to countless cafes, each with its own unique concept and a menu of delicious, inventive desserts.

As you entered what felt like the fifth or maybe sixth cafe of the day, you'd lost count, but it didn't even matter. It was all about enjoying the moment with Jeongin. You giggled with delight as he ordered a drink served in the shape of a cute cartoon character, and he couldn't stop telling you how it resembled you.

Taking a sip, you didn't realise you'd gotten some foam on your lips until he leaned closer to gently wipe it away with his thumb. His touch lingered, and you found yourself staring up at him with wide eyes. The gaze you shared in that moment told you that there was so much more to your relationship than mere sibling love. It was a feeling that you couldn't ignore any longer.

Before you or Jeongin could say anything, a voice suddenly interrupted, "So this is what you've been so busy with? And you said there wasn't anyone else?"

Your head snapped up to see the person standing behind your brother, staring straight at you, and you stuttered, "M-Mingyu?"

Jeongin's eyes immediately narrowed as he got up from his seat and turned to face your ex, his protective instincts kicking in, "And what's it to you? Have you forgotten you were the one who wanted to break up? She's no longer your girlfriend, so don't make it seem like she's cheating on you. If you're apologetic, then at least act like it."

You panicked when you saw Mingyu's nostrils flare, "Wait a minute, I know you. Aren't you her brother? Why are you—"

You got up and stood between the two men, not wanting him to finish that sentence, "That's enough. Let's not do this in here." Realising what you said, Jeongin and Mingyu looked around to see the other customers staring at the three of you, bewildered by the dramatic scene.

In a hushed tone, you continued, "Let's talk outside."

Jeongin nodded, ready to protect you from any potential confrontation, while Mingyu reluctantly followed.

Outside, the chilly breeze hit your face, and you felt a mixture of emotions swirling within you, as the two important men in your life stood in front of you, ready to face whatever was coming next.

You let out a deep sigh and pressed your face into your hands, gathering your thoughts before facing your ex with an unhappy expression, "I'll be honest, I didn't appreciate your accusatory tone earlier," You looked straight into his eyes, "We've already broken up, Mingyu, and you don't have the right to question me like that."

Sensing that Jeongin was about to step in and add more aggressive words, you held onto his hand and shook your head, signalling for him to stay silent, and he gave in, squeezing your hand in support.

Mingyu looked remorseful and admitted his fault, "You're right. I let my jealousy get the best of me, and I'm sorry. I just... I really want you back."

Your heart ached at his words, but you knew you had to make it clear that there was no turning back this time. Letting go of Jeongin's hand, you moved to stand in front of Mingyu, locking eyes with him.

"Look, Mingyu, you need to understand something," You told him, your voice firm, "Our relationship was always on your terms. You decided to end it, and I respected that decision, even though it was hard for me. And now, just because you want me back, you can't expect me to drop everything and go back to the way things were. What about what I want?"

Your words hung heavily in the air as you challenged him. Mingyu looked taken aback, realising that he'd never considered your feelings and desires in your past relationship. The silence between you was palpable, and you awaited his response, hoping that he would finally understand your perspective.

The realisation of his past actions and selfishness hit your ex hard, like a tidal wave crashing over him.

He could now see how one-sided the relationship had been, always revolving around his feelings and desires, without ever considering what you wanted or needed. He felt a deep pang of guilt for being so blind to your feelings.

His hands trembled as he let out a shaky breath, his eyes reflecting the inner turmoil he was experiencing. Slowly, he nodded, his voice filled with remorse, "God, you're right, I've been so wrong. I've never considered what you wanted. You deserve someone better than me, someone who will prioritise your happiness above all else."

His apology was sincere, and he continued, "I'm so sorry for not being that person for you, for not treating you the way you should have been treated. I... I promise I won't bother you again, if that's what you want. You deserve to be happy."

You nodded in response, feeling a mix of relief and sadness, "Thank you, Mingyu, I appreciate it."

His words seemed heartfelt, and you hoped he would find the self-awareness to grow and change. With a heavy heart, you wished him well and turned to rejoin Jeongin, who was still standing by your side.

As he watched you walk away with Jeongin, your ex felt a bittersweet mix of emotions. The sight of you with someone else, whether it was your foster brother or a new love interest, weighed heavily on his heart. He knew he didn't have the right to be upset, for he was the one who had ended your relationship, and he understood that you deserved happiness, even if it was with someone else.

Mingyu noticed your interactions earlier in the café, and at first, he misunderstood them.

The way you looked at Jeongin, and the comfortable way you interacted, gave him the impression that there was more to your relationship than just sibling affection. He'd been so sure that he was witnessing a new romantic connection in your life, only to later realise that it was your brother.

Deep down, Mingyu recognised that it wasn't technically wrong for you to have a romantic relationship with Jeongin. After all, you were not blood-related, and your sibling relationship existed mainly on paper. The legal and technical aspects of your relationship didn't diminish the deep bond you shared.

With a heavy sigh, he turned and walked away, understanding that he needed to accept the reality of the situation and focus on his own growth and self-improvement.

Meanwhile, your walk home with Jeongin was filled with a heavy silence, broken only by the soft rustling of leaves in the wind. As the streets grew quieter, your mind grew louder with thoughts of the encounter with Mingyu.

His words echoed in your mind: "You deserve someone who would prioritise your happiness over anything else." It struck a chord within you, and you felt a twinge of fear. The realisation that followed scared you even more—the first person who came to mind was Jeongin.

Lately, you noticed that your interactions with him were blurring the lines between sibling affection and something more. It was a feeling you've tried to suppress, but it was becoming harder and harder to deny. The way he cared for you, the moments that felt more intimate than they should be for siblings, it was all starting to blur the boundaries.

The weight of it all settled heavily on your chest.

You worried about the implications of these feelings. What would it mean for your relationship with Jeongin, for your family, for your future? How would your parents react if they knew? What would your relatives and friends say?

The fear of it all consumed you, and you couldn't shake the unease that settled deep within. It was a battle between your heart and your rational mind, a conflict that left you feeling lost and uncertain about the path ahead.

Jeongin was incredibly perceptive, and he understood that you needed some space and time to process your thoughts and emotions. He didn't press you for conversation, instead remaining a supportive presence by your side, offering a comforting hand or a warm meal when you needed it.

The weekend passed in quiet contemplation, and you were grateful that he respected your need for solitude.

As Sunday evening approached, the time for Jeongin to return to his dorm drew near. The car ride was quiet, with the radio providing the only sound in the background. He was worried but wanted to give you time to come to terms with your own feelings.

When you arrived at his dormitory, he hesitated before getting out of the car. He squeezed your hand and said, "Noona, remember to—"

You cut him off with a weak smile and understanding eyes, "Yes, I know. I'll come to you if I need anything. You'll always be my favourite boy, Jeongin-ah."

His heart swelled with affection at your words, but a hint of unease remained. The way you said it left him feeling unsettled. You leaned over and pressed a lingering kiss on his cheek, causing his cheeks to flush with warmth. Before he could say anything else, you gestured towards the outside of the car where his roommate was waiting.

"Go on, your friend's waiting," You said softly, your eyes filled with tenderness, "I'll see you next weekend."

He nodded, his emotions swirling within him. He stepped out of the car and closed the door, turning back to look at you once more before heading to meet Felix. The conflicting feelings within him mirrored your own as he left, and he knew that your relationship had reached a pivotal crossroads that neither of you could ignore.

Jeongin couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

Ever since the evening at the cafe with Mingyu, you'd been acting distant and aloof. He'd been eagerly anticipating the next weekend, hoping to see you and spend time together as usual, but his heart sank when he received a text from you telling him not to come over because you had a date. It felt like a punch to the gut, and he couldn't understand what changed.

In the days that followed, your interactions became more strained. You only contacted him when it was necessary, and you'd been spending your free time outside of work on dating apps and meeting new people.

Jeongin couldn't make sense of it.

He thought you shared his feelings, and he'd been more than willing to take that next step. But your behaviour now was pushing him further away, and he couldn't bear the thought of being relegated to the role of a mere brother.

Jeongin has kept his feelings to himself for too long. He was tired of the secrecy, the unspoken words that hung between you. He'd been convinced that you felt the same way, but your recent actions left him bewildered and hurt. He couldn't understand why you were suddenly treating him like a brother when it felt like there was something more between you.

The frustration was building within him, and he couldn't hold back any longer. He needed to confront you and get to the bottom of this, no matter how difficult the conversation might be.

His heart ached with the uncertainty of your feelings, and he had to find out what changed between you. He decided to go to your place, leaving you a text to inform you of his visit. He watched as the message was marked as "delivered" but received no response. The coldness of your silence stung him, but he couldn't abandon his mission.

Arriving at your door, he knocked several times and called out your name, but there was no response from within.

Panic started to bubble up as he called your phone and heard it ringing on the other side of the door. You were undoubtedly inside, so why were you not answering? Fear for your safety began to creep in, and he decided to use the spare key you'd given him to unlock your door and enter.

He cautiously moved through your apartment, searching for any sign of you. When he reached your bedroom, he noticed the door slightly ajar. He called out to you softly but received no response.

Jeongin pushed the door open gently, and relief washed over him when he saw you lying on the bed. But the relief turned to alarm as he got closer and realised that you were drenched in sweat, your face pale, and your body burning with fever.

You were sick.

Frowning with concern, he touched his hand to your forehead, wincing at the intense heat radiating from your skin.

Worry was etched across his face as he whispered, "Noona?" He knew he needed to take care of you, and at this moment, any confusion or doubts about your feelings faded into the background. Your well-being was what mattered most to him now.

Jeongin hurriedly grabbed a tub of water and a washcloth, gently wiping the sweat from your face and forehead. The cold water offered some relief from the fever that consumed you. He pulled the duvet up to your chin, ensuring you were snug and comfortable. Your slightly improved condition eased his worries, but his heart still raced with concern.

As he turned to go to the kitchen to prepare a soothing soup for you, your weak voice stopped him in his tracks. You reached out, your hand grasping his arm, trembling. The vulnerability in your voice broke his heart as you whispered, "Don't go, Jeongin-ah... I'm sorry, I know I hurt you..."

Sitting down beside you, he held your hand in his and wiped away a fresh tear that slid down your cheek, "Then why, noona?" Your eyes locked with his, and he saw the anguish in them. You continued, your voice shaky with emotion, "I'm scared..."

His heart constricted with a mix of emotions, understanding your hesitation. He knew exactly what you meant – you were afraid of the new and unfamiliar feelings that developed between you two. Your attempts to push him away and maintain boundaries had been out of fear, but now you realised it had only hurt both of you.

He squeezed your hand gently, a reassuring presence by your side, "Noona," he whispered softly, "You don't have to be scared. We'll figure this out together, step by step. You're not alone in this, and I'm not going anywhere."

You let out a shaky breath, finally allowing your emotions to surface as you nodded. With his support, you began to understand that maybe, just maybe, you didn't have to be afraid of your own heart.

As the evening light casts a warm glow in your room, you lay there, your mind finally free from the tumultuous thoughts that have been plaguing you for weeks. In the quiet space of your bedroom, you let your heart's true feelings wash over you, unencumbered by doubts and worries.

For too long, you've tried to suppress your emotions, viewing Jeongin as nothing more than a brother, even though you knew deep down that your bond was evolving into something different. The time you spent apart from him had been torturous. The realisation hit you like a tidal wave – you were in love with your foster brother.

It was a complex emotion, a mixture of joy and fear, excitement and apprehension. You couldn't believe this was happening, but you couldn't deny it any longer. You knew that you couldn't keep pushing your feelings aside.

Taking a deep breath, you made a decision.

You were going to face your emotions head-on and confront the truth about how you felt. The journey ahead might be difficult and filled with uncertainties, but one thing was certain – you were ready to explore the depths of your heart, and you knew you wouldn't have to do it alone. Jeongin would be there, beside you every step of the way.

After your recovery, your shared understanding of the unspoken feelings that have been growing between you became impossible to ignore. The day has come when you know you need to address the elephant in the room.

Jeongin had taken care of you during your illness, staying by your side and nursing you back to health. His caring actions only made your feelings for him even more evident.

With newfound clarity, you decided that the time had come to talk about your emotions. You stood alone on the balcony, feeling the cool breeze as the city lights twinkled in the distance. You gazed out at the vast cityscape, the view offering a sense of perspective and contemplation.

Jeongin, on the other hand, busied himself in the kitchen, tidying up the dishes. He insisted on taking care of everything after your meal, leaving you free to gather your thoughts. He knew this conversation was important, and he wanted to make everything as comfortable as possible for you.

Unbeknownst to you, he quietly approached.

You turned to him as he gently draped his oversized jacket over your shoulders, his familiar scent enveloping you. A warm, fond smile graced his lips as he broke the silence, "Wouldn't want you to be sick again." He said with a touch of humour in his voice, although his eyes held a deeper understanding.

You both settled into a comfortable silence, leaning against the balcony's railing and allowing the city's sights and sounds to wash over you. It was a peaceful moment, one where the unspoken words were about to find their voice.

After what felt like an eternity of shared silence, you finally found the courage to break the ice, "Jeongin-ah," Your voice trembled slightly, "There's something I need to talk to you about." You turned to look at him, and he met your gaze with a reassuring nod.

He moved closer, his shoulder brushing against yours, "I've been thinking about it too," He admitted, his voice soft but filled with hope, "There's something I want to tell you as well."

Taking a deep breath, you began, "To be honest, I... I didn't plan for any of this. I never thought I'd feel this way," You paused, trying to find the right words, "You've always been my little brother. But lately, something changed, something shifted."

He listened attentively, his expression a mixture of curiosity and anticipation. He was clearly eager to hear what you had to say.

"Maybe it's the way you've grown, how mature you've become," You continued, your voice gaining more confidence, "Instead of me taking care of you, I find myself relying on you, more and more every day."

Your heart was racing as you admitted your feelings, the words you never thought you'd say out loud, "Jeongin, I've been feeling different around you," You confessed, your eyes glistening with emotion, "I don't know when it started, but recently, it's as if our interactions are more than just brother and sister. And when Mingyu told me that I deserved someone who would prioritise my happiness above all else, it was you who came to my mind..."

Now, in a small, vulnerable voice, you finally let it out.

"I think... I think I'm in love with you."

The weight of your feelings hung heavy in the air between you, your heart pounding in your chest as you waited for his response.

Jeongin's smile began to bloom, and you felt his warm hand encase yours. The softness in his eyes mirrored the affectionate grin playing on his lips, and his words tumbled out, as if he'd been holding onto them for far too long.

"You have no idea how many times I've dreamed about hearing you say that," He admitted, his voice gentle and sincere, "I've felt this way for so long, and it's been... difficult, to say the least. Noona, I've loved you from the moment we first met." His thumb caressed the back of your hand as he continued.

You let out a small gasp at that. It was news to you; you had no idea he felt this way for you all along.

"I spent the first year trying to suppress these feelings," He confessed, "I thought I could get over this silly crush by distancing myself from you, but every time I saw you again, it just became impossible. The time I spent apart from you, like my final year in high school when I didn't see you, made me think maybe I could move on from these romantic feelings."

Jeongin's gaze never wavered from yours, "But then, I came to Seoul and saw you again. After a whole year of being apart, I knew it was hopeless. I realised that I'll always be yours, noona."

As his words settled in the air between you, you felt a profound sense of relief and contentment. The unspoken emotions that simmered beneath the surface were finally out in the open. Your connection was no longer confined by the boundaries of a sibling relationship.

The nights turned into days, and the two of you decided to keep your newfound love a secret. It was a shared agreement, a whispered pact, born out of caution and a desire to be sure before revealing your relationship to anyone.

The days that followed were marked by an unspoken understanding that you'd take things slow, allowing your feelings to deepen and grow organically.

You enjoyed every stolen moment together, experiencing the joy of love without the scrutiny of prying eyes. You ventured out on quiet dates, exploring the city together, building new memories while keeping your budding love hidden from your friends and family.

As you navigated this uncharted territory, you both acknowledged that taking the time to nurture your relationship in private was important. It allowed you to be absolutely sure of your feelings for each other and ensured that when the moment came to share your love openly, you'd be standing on a solid foundation.

Your relationship was something you were willing to protect and cherish until the right time came to reveal it to the world. It was a journey you were excited to embark upon together, and you were both determined to savour every moment of this beautiful, hidden love story that was just beginning.

Jeongin sat at the table one weekend, immersed in his assignments, determined to get as much done as possible while you buzzed around, ensuring he had everything he needed to concentrate. Cold water in his favourite glass, a bowl of fresh fruit, and some snacks on a plate were all arranged neatly on the small table next to him.

Every once in a while, you'd glance over to check on him, making sure he was comfortable. He couldn't help but admire your care and attention, which has become such an integral part of your relationship. The sight of you bustling around, making sure he was well taken care of, was heartwarming.

As dinner time approached, you busied yourself in the kitchen, preparing a delicious meal for both of you. The fragrant aroma of your cooking wafted through the air, making Jeongin's mouth water. He bit his lip as he watched you, feeling so lucky to have you in his life.

Finally, dinner was ready, and you both sat down to share a quiet, intimate meal. The conversation flowed naturally, your laughter filling the room as you talked about your day and the little things that's been on your minds.

After dinner, you moved to the living room, where movie night awaited. You settled on the couch next to him, and as the movie began, you leaned into him without hesitation. He wrapped his arm around your shoulders, pulling you closer, and you nestled comfortably against him. The warmth of his embrace felt like the most natural thing in the world.

Jeongin's heart swelled with contentment, realising that he didn't have to think of ways to keep you close anymore. You were already there, right where you both belonged, in each other's arms, a silent promise of love and companionship that's been growing stronger with each passing day.

As the romantic comedy movie played on the screen, a particularly passionate kissing scene unfolded before your eyes. You were engrossed in the storyline, the characters' connection so palpable that it tugged at your heartstrings.

Beside you, Jeongin has been fighting an internal battle, and the sight of that on-screen kiss has only intensified his yearning. He'd been patient, respecting your boundaries. You'd both held hands and exchanged countless cheek and forehead kisses, but that was it. The thought of sharing a first real kiss with you has crossed his mind many times, but he never wanted to rush it.

But this moment, with the movie's romantic ambience and your hearts aligned, felt different.

His heart raced as he shifted slightly closer to you. His hand, previously resting on your shoulder, inched toward your cheek, his fingers softly grazing your skin. He swallowed hard, the warmth of your proximity igniting an intense longing.

With a tender smile, he tilted your chin upward, his eyes searching yours for reassurance. Your breath caught in your throat as your faces drew nearer. You met his gaze with wide eyes, your heart pounding with anticipation.

His warm breath ghosted over your lips as he whispered, "Do you trust me, noona?" Your nod was all the confirmation he needed, and the radiant, almost boyish smile that lit up his face was nothing short of breathtaking.

Finally, the distance between you vanished.

Jeongin leaned in and gently pressed his lips to yours for the first time. His heart soared in his chest when he felt you kiss him back; your lips were even softer than he imagined. He still found it hard to believe that he was actually kissing you; his dreams were finally coming true, one by one.

As the kiss deepened, your worries and doubts melted away, leaving only the warmth of your love for each other. It was a sweet and heartfelt exchange, a testament to the trust and affection you've nurtured throughout your journey together.

After that first kiss, Jeongin decided that kissing you was his new favourite thing to do. But as much as he loved your kisses, he never failed to seek your consent before pressing his lips against yours. At first, you admired his respect for you and found it adorable whenever he felt the need to ask before kissing you.

But over time, there were moments when you wished he'd act on his own impulses, and let spontaneity guide your affection.

And today was one of those days.

You'd been playfully dancing around the living room, lost in laughter and movement until a slow song came on. As the music swelled, Jeongin gently pulled you close, his eyes locked onto yours. He leaned in, but before your lips could meet, he paused and asked, "Can I kiss you, noona?"

You chuckled, cupping his face in your hands, "Yang Jeongin," You whispered, your breath mingling with his, "You don't ever have to ask me again. Just kiss me."

His heart somersaulted at your words, and his hesitation melted away. At that moment, he leaned in without any more questions, capturing your lips in a sweet and passionate kiss. The music continued to play, but you had both entered your own world, a world where you didn't need words to express the depth of your love for each other.

He pulled away slowly to catch his breath, the lingering warmth of your kiss still hung in the air, and your eyes remained closed as you revelled in the delightful sensation.

When your eyes fluttered open, you found Jeongin staring down at you with a loving gaze, his fingers tenderly brushing a strand of hair from your face. You couldn't help pouting at him, curiosity dancing in your eyes, "Are you sure you've never dated around before?" You playfully inquired, unable to contain your amazement.

His eyes widened at your question, and he quickly shook his head, responding with fervour, "I swear, noona, you're the only one I've ever loved. You're my first girlfriend, my first kiss, and—"

Before he could finish his sentence, you interrupted with a light laugh, "Oh no, you silly boy! I meant that you're just so good at kissing, it baffles me that this is your first time."

His cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, and he hid his face in your neck for a moment, embarrassment creeping in. As he pulled away slightly, he managed to mumble, "Wait, am I better than Mingyu?"

You blinked, not quite expecting this question, but after a moment's contemplation, you nodded slowly, "Yeah, you are."

He immediately broke into a triumphant grin, thrilled at the idea that he was a better kisser than your ex, "Yes! Take that, Kim Mingyu!" He exclaimed, playfully taunting the ghost of your past relationship.

You scoffed, rolling your eyes with a chuckle, "Alright, alright. That's enough."

But Jeongin had mischief in his eyes, "No, it's not enough." He leaned in, capturing your lips again with newfound boldness, clearly intending to prove his point once more.

Many months have passed, and your relationship with Jeongin has evolved and become quite stable. You both decided to take things slow, enjoying your time together and strengthening your bond, all the while keeping it a secret from everyone.

But now, things were changing.

Jeongin was ready to open up to someone he trusted, and he believed it was time to let his roommate in on the truth. Felix had been a little suspicious for a while, especially after witnessing a near-kiss between the two of you when you dropped Jeongin off one day.

He took a deep breath and finally admitted, "Felix, you know that time you saw us nearly kissing... Well, we're actually together."

Felix's eyes widened with surprise, and he shot up from his bed, grinning from ear to ear, "I knew it!" He exclaimed, thrilled to have guessed right all along, "Man, I've had my suspicions for ages! Congrats, buddy! I'm here to support you every step of the way."

Jeongin couldn't help smiling, thankful for having a friend like Felix who would stand by his side.

Later on, you both discussed breaking the news to your friends, Chan and Minho. It was a decision that weighed on your minds for a while, and you felt that it was time to share your secret with your closest friends. The idea of keeping this from them had begun to feel more like a burden than a protective secret.

One weekend, the two came over for your usual catch-up session. They noticed that you and Jeongin seemed even closer and more affectionate than before, exchanging quiet jokes and smiles, leaning in to whisper to each other, and laughing about private little things.

Finally, unable to contain his curiosity any longer, Minho, with his arms crossed, demanded, "Alright, I know we're idiots, but even we can tell there's something different about you two. Tell us now, what is it?"

You exchanged a knowing look with Jeongin, and after a brief pause, you decided it was time to share your secret. Your voice trembled slightly as you began, "Well, there's something we've been keeping from you guys. Jeongin and I... we're dating."

There was a moment of shocked silence as the two processed this revelation, their eyes widening in surprise. Finally, Chan broke into a wide grin, "No way! You're together? That's amazing!"

Minho, after recovering from the initial shock, couldn't help laughing, "Honestly, it makes sense. You two have always been so close. It's about time you figured it out."

Seeing your friends' positive reactions brought tears to your eyes, but they were tears of relief and gratitude. You were deeply moved by their understanding and acceptance of your relationship with Jeongin. When Chan noticed your tears, he immediately expressed concern, "What is it? Did we say something wrong again?"

You shook your head, your voice filled with emotion, "No, it's just... I didn't think you'd both accept it just like that... Jeongin and I, we've been so worried about what other people would think."

Minho shook his head with a reassuring smile, "Look, I know it might seem wrong without proper context. But you two aren't biologically related, and Jeongin joined your family relatively late. It's not like you grew up together as siblings and then fell in love. There's technically nothing wrong with this. You have our full support."

The weight on your shoulders felt even lighter as your friends' understanding and approval washed away your concerns. It was comforting to know that your closest friends saw your relationship for what it was, a deep and loving connection that had grown naturally between two people who cared about each other deeply.

The tears in your eyes transformed from those of worry to those of happiness, and you gave a sincere smile of gratitude to Chan and Minho for being there for you.

As Jeongin's semester break approached and the return home to visit your parents became imminent, you found yourselves lying in bed beside each other one night. Your head was resting on his chest while he drew comforting circles on your back. In the midst of the quiet moment, you gathered the courage to voice your thoughts.

"Innie... we've been together for a while now, and our friends in the city all know about us. Should we..." You looked up at him, seeking his thoughts, "Should we tell mum and dad?"

He leaned down to press a reassuring kiss onto your lips before responding, "They'll have to find out sooner or later. We might as well get it over with once and for all. If our friends are so accepting, maybe our parents will be too..."

You smiled at his supportive response and nodded, "Let's hope so."

He closed his eyes, pulling you even closer, and you both tried to fall asleep that night with your minds wandering to how your parents would react to the news of your relationship.

It was a mix of excitement and nervousness, but you knew that whatever happened, you had each other to lean on.

As you both packed up for the trip back home after informing your parents of your return, there was a noticeable tension in the air. You carefully loaded your car's trunk with your belongings while Jeongin watched closely, his perceptive eyes not failing to catch the slight trembling of your hands.

Before you could make your way to the driver's seat, he reached out, taking hold of your hand and gently pulling you closer to him. He circled his arms around your waist, concern in his eyes as he asked, "Hey, what is it?"

You swallowed hard, "I'm just nervous, Innie. What we're about to tell them might change things forever. I'm scared."

He pressed your head onto his shoulder, holding you close as he placed a gentle kiss on your head, "I'm scared too," He admitted, "But whatever happens, we're in this together, right?"

You nodded against him, feeling the reassuring warmth of his embrace, "Right."

With a determined resolve, he squeezed you gently, "Then let's do this."

You took a deep breath, wiped away the threatening tears, and got into your car. As you started the engine and began your journey back home, you felt a mix of fear and hope.

Upon your arrival at your parents' home, you and Jeongin went to hug them. They expressed how proud they were of both of you for doing so well taking care of each other in the city. A slight falter in your smile betrayed the internal turmoil you were feeling. Would they still be proud once they found out the truth about your relationship?

Jeongin looked over at you and gave you an assuring nod. He understood your apprehension but was there to support you. For now, you followed your parents into your childhood home, deciding to wait for the right moment to break the news.

In the meantime, you caught up with your parents, sharing the latest updates and stories from your lives in the city.

The evening passed pleasantly as you all settled back into your family routine, but in the back of your mind, the knowledge that you needed to reveal the truth was a constant presence. You were both determined to face whatever would come next, knowing that honesty was the only way forward.

As you all settled down at the dining table, dishes filled with your and Jeongin's favourite food in front of you, the atmosphere was warm and comforting. Laughter filled the air as you enjoyed the meal.

Then, out of the blue, your mother turned to you and asked, "Honey, tell us about your love life. Have you met any nice guys or do you already have a boyfriend without us knowing, hm?"

The question hung in the air, and you stilled, your hand reaching for a dish in front of you halted mid-air. You threw a sidelong glance at Jeongin, who met your gaze with a nod, silently encouraging you to seize this moment.

You knew it was time to reveal the truth.

Setting down your utensils, you cleared your throat, "Mum, dad, there's something that we have to tell you both."

The cheerful atmosphere shifted, and your parents set down their utensils, their expressions curious. Your father asked, "What is it, honey?"

Your voice shook slightly as you began, "I do have a boyfriend," Your parents' faces lit up with excitement, and your mother asked, "Oh, that's great! What does he do?"

You held up a hand to pause their assumptions, "Wait, I'm not finished, mum. You... you both know this person incredibly well," They paused, clearly puzzled. Your father guessed, "You're not dating Chan or Minho, are you?"

Shaking your head, you lifted your hand, placing it over Jeongin's on the table, "He's right here, next to me."

Your parents froze, their eyes widening as they tried to process your words. They watched as Jeongin laced your fingers together before adding, "It's me... we're together."

The room fell into silence as your parents absorbed the revelation, their expressions shifting through a range of emotions.

You jumped in your seat when your father slammed his hand on the table, his voice filled with anger and disbelief, "What is this atrocity?! You're siblings, for god's sake!" Tears welled up in your eyes as his outburst shattered the room's silence.

Jeongin nervously gulped, "But dad... Noona and I, we really love each other. We hoped you could accept our relationship."

Your father stared at Jeongin with an incredulous look, "Are you out of your goddamned mind? She's your sister!"

Feeling a mixture of anger and sorrow, you couldn't stay silent. You stood up from your seat and implored, "Stop, dad! Don't yell at him; he didn't do anything wrong."

Your father, however, seemed beyond reasoning. He rose from his seat, his tone unyielding, "I don't care. You two better stop this madness, you hear me?" With those words, he stormed out of the dining hall and into his room, forcefully slamming the door shut.

Feeling overwhelmed and heartbroken, you collapsed back into your seat, overcome with emotion. Jeongin immediately gathered you in his arms, planting a comforting kiss on your head.

Amidst the turmoil, your mother finally spoke, her voice wavering, "Tell me, do you two truly love each other?" You both nodded, and Jeongin answered her, "I know this might be a lot to take in, but we wanted to be honest with you. Our relationship developed over time, and we've been together for a while now."

Your mother nodded slowly, taking a deep breath before responding, "It's alright, you have my support," Her words brought you both a sense of relief, and you looked at her, surprised, "Really?"

She smiled, her eyes filled with warmth and understanding, "Yes, honey. You're both my children, and I love you no matter what. I want to see you both happy. Besides, it's not like you're actually siblings. Your father... he just needs a little time to sort out his thoughts; he'll come around, I promise."

You breathed a sigh of relief, grateful that at least your mother understood and supported your relationship. While your father's reaction was hurtful, you hoped that, in time, he would come to accept the love between you and Jeongin.

The next two weeks at home were emotionally challenging as your father continued to give you both the cold shoulder.

Despite the fact that Jeongin wasn't even his biological son, your father's refusal to accept your relationship felt like a heavy weight on your shoulders. Every time he turned away from you or acted as if you were invisible, it hurt you deeply.

One day, after he walked past you and ignored your presence, you couldn't hold back your frustration any longer.

"Are you really going to behave like this forever, dad?" You asked, your voice laced with disappointment. He stopped for a moment, seemingly contemplating your words, before continuing to walk away from you.

Sighing heavily, you returned to your old room.

Lying on your bed, you cried silently into your pillow. The rejection and disapproval from your father felt unbearable. Eventually, you heard footsteps entering your room, and you felt a dip in your bed. A familiar hand landed on your trembling shoulder.

You turned to see Jeongin, and you didn't waste another second. You melted into his warm embrace, crying into his neck as he held you close. His presence was your anchor in the storm of your father's disapproval, and he whispered soothing words into your ear, promising that things would get better with time.

He couldn't bear to see you so upset and decided he needed to confront your father. After you've cried yourself to sleep in his arms, he gently laid you down and tucked you in.

Determined, he went in search of your father.

Jeongin found him sitting alone on the front porch, contemplating the turmoil within his own heart. With a deep breath, he sat down beside the man who had raised him as his own son.

"Hey, dad," Jeongin began, his voice steady but filled with determination.

Your father grunted, refusing to meet his gaze, "If you're not here to tell me you've come to your senses and realise what you're doing with your sister is wrong, then don't bother starting."

Jeongin sighed but decided to go on.

"I understand that this situation is difficult for you, and I appreciate everything you've done for me all these years. I came here to talk, not to argue. I know that we aren't blood-related, but we've lived under the same roof for years. You're the closest thing to a father I've ever had, and I love you as if you were my real dad."

He continued, "Noona and I didn't plan for this to happen. Our feelings developed naturally over time. We've tried to be respectful and considerate of your feelings and our family's reputation. But we can't change the way we feel."

Jeongin's eyes softened as he concluded, "We just want your understanding and acceptance. Noona and I are in love, and we don't want to hide our relationship from our family. I hope that, in time, you can find it in your heart to support us and be happy for our happiness."

As your trip home came to an end and you prepared to return to Seoul, you and Jeongin loaded your car trunk with your belongings. Your mother stood alone, getting ready to bid you both goodbye. Your heart ached at your father's absence, but you knew it was a step-by-step process.

You hugged your mother, tears glistening in your eyes. Just as you were about to enter your car, your father's voice rang out, "Wait up!" You turned and chuckled tearfully when you saw him approaching with a container full of kimchi that you'd watched him prepare just the day before.

He held it out to you, and Jeongin helped you take it, "Thanks, dad." You said, touched by the gesture.

Your father scratched the back of his neck sheepishly before he finally smiled, "Promise me you'll continue to take good care of each other, alright? And... I wish you both happiness."

Your eyes widened, and Jeongin smiled knowingly, "Does this mean you... you accept us, dad?"

He nodded, his smile growing, "I might have overreacted a little... but deep down, I know neither of you are doing anything wrong. It was just too sudden, and I needed some time to digest it."

You nodded, smiling through your tears, "Thank you, dad. It means the world to us." You hugged him tightly, relieved that the toughest hurdle was over.

You could both finally be together openly now.

With a warm farewell from your parents and the promise to visit again soon, you and Jeongin drove back to the city, hand in hand.

As you both settled back into your apartment that night, you couldn't stop smiling. All the most important people in your life had accepted your and Jeongin's relationship, and there was no more reason to keep it a secret.

But there was one thing you couldn't figure out: why did your father change his mind so abruptly? Did something happen?

Jeongin found you deep in thought as you brushed your teeth and crept up behind you to wrap his arms around your waist, "What's on your mind, beautiful?" He asked, his voice warm and comforting.

You blushed and quickly rinsed your mouth before turning around to face him, "I was just wondering what made dad change his mind so suddenly..."

He grinned knowingly, his eyes sparkling with mischief, "I may or may not have said something to him."

You softened, realising that Jeongin had played a part in bridging the gap with your father, "Of course, it's you... seems like I have to rely on you for everything now."

He nodded, a hint of playfulness in his eyes, "Guess you do." Then, he caught your lips in a loving kiss. Seeing you happy was enough for him, and he was determined to support you through all the challenges and joys life had in store for both of you.

A few years have passed since the night you finally revealed your relationship to your parents and the world.

You and Jeongin have been living your lives openly and happily as a couple, surrounded by the love and support of your friends and family. By now, everyone who mattered in your life was aware of your relationship, and they celebrated your happiness alongside you.

One day, you both decided to spend a leisurely afternoon shopping at the local mall. As you walked hand in hand through the bustling shopping centre, a familiar face caught your attention. It was Mingyu, your ex. He seemed surprised and intrigued as he watched you and Jeongin together.

His suspicions were soon confirmed as he observed Jeongin leaning down to press a kiss on your lips. He chuckled to himself before making his way over to the two of you, a friendly smile on his face.

"Hey there." He greeted you warmly. This time, there was no tension or unease in the air.

You beamed, not at all hesitant as you introduced the love of your life to your ex-boyfriend, "Mingyu, I'd like you to meet my boyfriend, Jeongin."

As the three of you chatted and shared stories of the past and present, Mingyu noticed the way Jeongin looked at you. The love and affection in his eyes were undeniable, and Mingyu realised that you've found someone who truly cherished you. At that moment, he felt genuinely happy for both of you, knowing that if Jeongin was the one who made you happy, that was all that mattered.

Weeks later when Jeongin's graduation day arrived, you were bursting with pride and excitement. Together with your parents, you cheered loudly for him as he walked across the stage to receive his degree. It was a moment of immense joy and accomplishment, and you couldn't have been happier for him.

After the ceremony, as the four of you stood together, Felix helped capture the joyous moment in family photos.

Your heart swelled with happiness as you looked at the man you loved, knowing that you've come so far together. What once felt like an impossible dream was now a beautiful reality. Jeongin, too, felt the weight of the moment, still somewhat surprised by the fact that you were finally his. It was a dream he has long harboured, and now it was his reality.

You both exchanged a knowing glance, understanding that this love you shared was your endgame. It was always meant to be, from the beginning until the end, and that's all that truly mattered.

Not long after, as Jeongin prepared for his first day at his new job, you helped him tidy up his work attire with a smile. He was about to start working at a kindergarten for refugee children near your office, and you were both thrilled that you'd be able to travel to work and back home together daily.

"Alright, now you're all set." You said as you straightened his collar and gave him a proud smile.

He beamed back at you, feeling grateful for your support, "Thanks, noona. Love you."

You leaned up to kiss him gently, "Love you too, Innie. I'll see you after work."

Watching him walk into the building with excitement, you drove away to your own workplace, feeling content and blessed. Life was going great, and you couldn't have been happier with how things have turned out.

The day went by rather slowly as you wondered how your boyfriend was liking his new job, feeling incredibly proud of him. Guilt washed over you when you realised you'd spent most of your day thinking about him more than getting any actual work done. Even after years of being together, he still had the ability to make you feel like a teenager in love at times.

You jumped in joy when the clock finally struck 6pm, signalling the end of the work day.

When you went to pick him up from work, it seemed he wasn't done just yet. So, you decided to park your car and take a look around the area. That's when one of Jeongin's colleagues, Jisung, quickly smacked him on the arm to get his attention, gesturing toward you.

"Dude, is that your ride home?" Jisung asked, curiously.

Jeongin nodded quickly, realising you've arrived. Jisung boldly stated, "Yo, dude, your sister's hot."

Before he could respond or clarify your relationship, his colleague was bounding towards you, sweeping a hand over his hair in an attempt to look cool, "Excuse me, noona. Do you have a boyfriend?"

Your eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected question, "Umm, hi," You greeted him, "Well, yes, I do have a boyfriend," Jisung sighed dramatically, pouting, "Of course, you do! You're so pretty; your boyfriend is one lucky guy."

Jeongin came up behind Jisung, clearing his throat, "I sure am," Jisung rolled his eyes, thinking he misunderstood, "Not you, doofus. Her boyfriend."

You stifled a laugh as you watched the exchange. Jeongin stared at his colleague, unamused, "I am her boyfriend, you idiot," Jisung blinked rapidly as he tried to wrap his head around the fact that he'd just attempted to hit on his new colleague's girlfriend, "Oh shit, dude, I'm sorry—"

Jeongin shook his head, trying to hide a smile, "It's fine. You're not the first one. Bye, Jisung. I'll see you tomorrow."

You waved at Jisung, and both of you chuckled as you walked away, Jeongin's arm wrapped protectively around your waist to mark his territory. He sulked slightly as he muttered, "You're too pretty, noona. Guys are always hitting on you."

You laughed, "Is that my fault?"

He scratched his chin thoughtfully, "I guess not."

You softened, cupping his jaw to make him look at you, "What does it matter, Yang Jeongin? In the end, I'm yours."

His smile returned, "That's right, you're all mine."

This is my failed attempt at staying loyal to Minho, all thanks to Jeongin's disrespectful ass for wrecking me lately, goddamnit.

No regrets though lmfao, this is probably one of my personal favourites. It's my first time writing for SKZ, and I didn't think it'd be for baby bread, but here we are.

Anyway, hope y'all enjoyed! As always, I love reading all your thoughts, reviews, and feedback, so feel free to leave as many replies as you want! Thank you, my lovelies! <3

#stray kids #stray kids fanfic #stray kids fanfiction #yang jeongin #stray kids i.n #stray kids jeongin #non idol au #forbidden love #jeongin x reader #jeongin x you #i.n x reader #i.n x you #stray kids fic #jeongin oneshot #stray kids oneshot

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holylulusworld · 1 year

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Two kings (prologue)

Summary: You have fallen in love with the king of Brooklyn. When your wedding day arrives, there is much more to discover about the man you fell in love with than you thought...

Pairing: Prince!Steven Grant Rogers x Princess!Reader

Warnings: angst, modern royal au, mentions of destruction/war/fighting/mystery, dystopian world (kinda), royals bashing (kinda), no dialogue in the beginning

A/N: Please consider this is a short prologue to get to know more about the world the reader is living in. It’s necessary to understand a few aspects of the story. We are living in modern times, but in a dystopian/post war world.

Two kings masterlist

Five decades ago, ...

Blood was staining the ground fifty years ago; feeding the world with more pain and hatred of those who had fallen.

Millions of lives were lost. A war without sense. Doomsday. Final tick of the clock.

With governments and armies losing battle after battle, the ones with royal blood raised their swords again.

Modern times have taken away their rightful place in society. They just had to wait for their chance to get it back. Hidden in the shadows they planned on taking over the world once again.

Their knights stood tall by their kings' and queens’ sides, fighting down the enemy threatening to eat their world alive. An enemy this world hadn't faced for centuries.

Enemies from a different time. The forgotten ones. Their history has been banished from history books.

Revenge of the second sons. The spare. Greedy corpses wanting to get their hands on the crowns their heads never felt.

Dark Age reanimated. Brutal. Deadly. Bloody.

It took more than five years and more losses – but the war was won.

Only winning always comes with a price. One that everyone agreed to pay.

An awful price paid with blood and death.

Today, age of seven, …

You always wondered how the world before the world war tearing it apart was alike.

Love. Freedom. Free will.

Did you have all of this? Was life better back then, when the powerful didn’t decide how you must live your life?

Of course, your father and your tutors tried to teach you about history. Reading about the world you lost before you were even born is just not the same.

You’re only a child, but you know there are rules that must be followed.

Rules you cannot break. Not even as a princess.

“Bunny Boo,“ your father tuts as you stick your nose into another book. “Y/N, you know today is important to our kingdom.”

You close the book, sighing deeply. “I know, daddy.”

“Today I’m not daddy, Bunny Boo,” he crouches down next to your chair to pat your knee. “Around our guests you must call me your majesty. You remember our lectures?”

You recite your tutor's words, "I should act like a princess today. I’ll make you proud your majesty. I remember every word. I promise to be respectful and well-behaved.”

“I know you will,” he runs his hand over your head. “You are my pride and the apple of my eye. One day, you will become queen and rule this kingdom.”

If not a brother will take my place," you remind your father. He smiles softly. You’re too young to understand that a male heir won’t take your place in his heart. Only the throne. “Who will come today, daddy? I forgot.”

“I’ll tell you on the way,” he softly says. “First we need to change into something new. You cannot run around in your shirt and jeans.”

As you drop your eyes to your chest, you reply, "But I like the bees on my shirt. They are cute and help the flowers.”

“For me, Bunny Boo," your father says as he gets back on his feet. “I’ll be waiting for you outside.”

“Hey, you cannot pick the flowers," you say as you let go of your mother's hand to move toward the roses. A boy just picked three red roses and now you are furious. “These are my mom’s flowers.”

As he looks at you sheepishly, he replies, "They're nice.”

“You can’t just…” you stomp your foot. “Who are you? How dare you rip my mom’s flowers out?"

“Sorry,” he looks at the flowers in his hands. The boy is a little elder and taller than you but oddly he shies away as you get closer to him. “I wanted to pick some flowers for the princess. My father said she likes flowers.”

“You want them for the princess?”

He nods. "I forgot the gift my mother bought for the princess. Dad was mad and I wanted to get some flowers to make up for the forgotten gift.”

“You’re an odd boy,” you giggle. “You want to give me my mom’s flowers?”

“You are the princess?” his cheeks redden as you look him up and down.

“Yes.”

He grins and hands you the flowers. “Princess Y/N, it’s an honor to meet you,” he bows. “I’m Prince Steven Grant Rogers. Will you give me the honor to show me around the gardens?"

“Only if you promise to stop stealing flowers…”

>> Part 1

Tags in reblog.

#steve rogers x reader #steve rogers #dystopian au #royal au #steve rogers x you #Two kings (prologue)#steve rogers x y/n

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lilacsandamethysts · 1 year

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No marriages of convenience please

Pairing: Kamisato Ayato x fem!Reader (she/her pronouns)

Summary: Kamisato Ayto is the most wanted bachelor in Inazuma; every elder in every clan wants him for their relatives. He, however, has his eyes set.

Warnings: some sexism but its only implied not straightforward, arranged marriages

A/N: Hi! The name of the clan was totally made up and I also guessed Ayato age.

“Please consider my daughter.” This was getting old. Old and tiring, oh so tiring. Kamisato Ayato had been receiving marriage proposals since the ripe age of one minute old and had declined every single one of them. Now, at 26, the proposals had multiplied and become more bold and demanding. He was reaching his limit as of late especially since the elders of several clans and powerful families from Inazuma and beyond had started crowding the entrance to the estate making it difficult for anyone to get inside and out without being bombarded by pleas of “Send for Sir Kamisato we have an urgent matter to discuss” or “Tell mister Kamisato my daughter has been in love with him and is a perfect fit for the Commissioner” and his favorite by far “Our clan is known for their strong warriors, my niece will give him capable sons”. Truly, if he ever found himself at such a pitiful position in the future he would give Thoma the green light to put him out of his misery. It was ridiculous how far people were willing to go just to get a small taste of power and wealth. Kamisato Ayato was formidable and feared and awed; all the clans in Inazuma would give away their female relatives freely without a second thought if it meant they would become somehow tied to the almighty Yashiro Commissioner. Ayato stared at the old couple in front of him with nothing but pity, eyes traveling to the mortified young girl to their right who seemed to be afraid of her own shadow at this point. He sighed, rubbing at his temples and pinching the bridge of his nose before motioning for the parents to stand up; oh how he hated it when they bowed.

“Once again, as I told you before, I would have to decline your offer.” He smiled softly at them, managing one last glance at the girl who seemed to gain back some of her color at the sound of his rejection. “I am not looking to marry.”

It was a routine that, despite his better judgment, he had gotten used to. Everyday there would be a small pile of engagement offers sitting on his desk -courtesy of Thoma who would always blush profusely if he were caught placing the letters- followed by two or three sets of parents or elders who didn’t take his rejection via letter kindly. They would talk for thirty minutes about the benefits of this marriage, their female relatives attributes (“she has wide hips, milord, fit to bear you strong sons”, “our family has been blessed with visions, she shall bear you a vision user.”, “we have a massive expanse of land for you to expand and grow.”) and how reliable they are as a family, how powerful both families would become with this union before waiting patiently for a nod in agreement that would never come. Always during these affairs, the woman in question would be with them, head bowed low, figure trembling and sometimes with tear tracks marking her skin. He felt horrible for them every single time. Later he would send them a goodies basket as an apology for the hassle and traumatic event they had to witness, making sure their families caught no wind of the interaction lest they interpret it as an action of love, attraction or agreement. Today was no exception as this was the second family he had shooed off and it was currently only noon. Another one was bound to come knocking on his door in an hours’ time. He sighed once again, allowing his head to rest in his hands while he rubbed at his eyes with the balls of his palm. Being the Commissioner was tiring. Before he had any time to slack further, a sharp knock echoed through his office and as the frame slid open, Ayato was relieved to come face to face with someone far more amusing and pleasant than the wrinkly faces of a new pair of elders.

She had a tray in her arms, the smell of his favorite tea invading his senses as she slowly trudged to him, eyes glued to his own with a soft smile decorating her plush lips. He wanted to kiss her so badly. Carefully she set the tray on the table and without a word began pouring him a cup, adding two cubes of sugar. Just like he wants it. He grazed his fingers over her own when taking the cup from her hands, a soft ‘thank you’ leaving his lips before he took a sip, eyes trained on her the whole time. She was irresistible. He truly didn’t know how he managed to get anything done when she stepped into a room. She was so mesmerizing, so enthralling, so addictive. The curve of her lips, the light in her eyes, the flow of her hair, even the scars on her body, the ones few had seen and even fewer had kissed -and by fewer he only means himself-. She was an angel come down straight from the heavens to bless his existence. An angel who looked oh so kissable.

“The Hanamaki clan has requested an audience, sir.” Voice sweet as honey, a hint of mischief hiding behind her words and behind her eyes. A tease that’s what she was; a tease with no regard for the agony the man whose heart she had stolen had to go through daily when he couldn’t announce her as his. He huffed into his tea, eyes rolling at the thought of having to go through this ordeal once again, sooner than he was expecting as well. “Do not fret sir. An emergency seems to have been scheduled ten minutes into your meeting. I’m afraid your negotiations will unfortunately be cut short.” She had the audacity to wink at him and it took every ounce of self control in his body not to jump across his desk and make her breathless for him, make her forget her own name at the taste of his lips, make her lose herself in his arms.

With a small nod she went to leave only to be stopped by her Commissioners’ hand wrapped around her wrist. They stared at each other for a few agonizing seconds, desire pooling in both their gazes before Ayato could simply not take it any longer. Pulling her towards him, she landed in his lap, legs wrapped snugly around his waist as her hands went straight to his cheeks, cupping them gently while he guided himself to her most desirable part. The moment their lips met, every frustration melted away and bled into the kiss, mouths molding to each other as he brought her flush to his chest, hands desperately trying to grab as much of her as he could. A gasp escaped her when he bit down on her lower lip giving him the chance to slip his tongue in her mouth deepening the kiss. What would those greedy elders think if they caught him like this with her? A disowned member of an Inazuman clan turned mercenary, his subordinate, holding his heart in her palms; the heart that he freely gave away to her, an action that he never regretted and never would regret for as long as he lived. She scouted impossibly closer, arms going around his neck as whimpers dripped from her lips. They separated for air, lips swollen and puffy, eyes glazed over with what he could only describe as pure lust. He dove for her neck, peppering her delicate skin with feather light kisses before reaching the spot he was searching for and biting down making her moan at the filing of his teeth on her skin. He could feel her flush at the sensation, her fingers tangling in his hair and tugging lightly making him groan at the action and suck another hickey just behind her ear. With a hand under her, he leaned forward laying her flat on her back on his desk before separating from her to admire his work; the mess he had made of her without even touching her where he knew she needed him the most right now. Lithe fingers went to the buttons of her uniform while she started to push the jacket off his shoulders, minds hazy with their need for each other. Kiss her more, more, more. He trailed down her neck slowly to her chest, tugging the fabric just unde rhee breast to-

"Commissioner sir, the Hanamaki elders have arrived. They are asking for your presence." Thoma's voice cut through the atmosphere like a knife, halting all movement from then both. Ayato frowned, letting his head fall onto the spot on her chest where her heart was.

"I'll be right out. Thank you Thoma." His voice betrayed his displeasure and paired with the lethal frown he dawned on his face she knew that the emergency ten minutes into the meeting wouldn't be needed; he will have them out of the estate in five. He sighed again this time focusing his gaze on her eyes as she smiled at him knowingly. Her hands caressed his cheek, leaning in to pack his nose once, twice before fixing his shirt and jacket.

"A marriage proposal is calling you milord." And right there he saw it. It was momentary and very easy to miss, if he had blinked in that moment he would've been none the wiser. But he did see it. A tinge of sadness, of desperation, of heartbreak. He has focused all this time on how unpleasant this chore was to him that he had failed to realize how much the situation might be hurting her. Seeing her lover being proposed at and fawned over whilst hiding behind closed doors for only a kiss must be unbearable. He wouldn't be able to take it for long and he hated himself for failing to see the hurt sooner, for failing her. It was certain that the announcement of their courting would rile up trouble both from the public and her estranged family; people would talk, gossip and hate whilst her family would have an epiphany, a need to reconcile and rekindle their relationship with the daughter they abandoned. But through all of it he would be there to protect and love her, to make everyone fall into silence, to make them see that she was more suitable for him than any other measly noble thrown his way. There was not a doubt in his mind that they could make it through it.

"Marry me."

#kamisato ayato #ayato kamisato imagines #kamisato ayato x reader #kamisato ayato x you #genshin impact #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact x you

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lanitalay · 5 months

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In the Woods Somewhere

Lucien x reader

A/n: I am a Hozier girly and this song just screams Lucien to me. Enjoy.

Warnings: angst

Word count: 1.1k

When I awoke

The moon still hung

The night so black that the darkness hummed

A gasp broke through the delicate quiet of the night. Clutch your chest, heart pounds. Shallow and jagged breathing cloud your ears. It's all you can feel. All you can hear. You don’t know how long it's been since you were unconscious. Or how you ended up in the middle of the woods.

I raised myself

My legs were weak

I prayed my mind be good to me

Calm now, you were calm. Check for wounds. Assess the situation. Feel around for your weapon. Find the dagger next on the ground. Sticky blood coating the blade. Slowly stand, try to avoid rustling any leaves. Feel trapped. Caged in by the walls of darkness, the moon a spotlight on your worst nightmare. They were getting closer, closing. The darkness now comes from above as a dense cloud blocks the moonlight. A coffin. The forest would be your final resting place. It was fair, you thought. The forest provides life but it also takes it. Eats up everything within, eventually. You feel wiggling underneath and over your feet. Worms.

An awful noise

Filled the air

I heard a scream in the woods somewhere

He had heard the scream and ran towards it. These were his woods, his forest. But they were also his brother’s. His father’s. The scream reminded him of nights spent being flogged, blood splattered on maple trees and sadistic, power hungry laughter. So he ran, dodging trees and boulders and low branches from memory. He and the forest were one and the same, an extension of one another.

A fox it was

He shook, afraid

I spoke no words, no sound he made

Dagger points in the direction of the rustling. The sound of crunching leaves nearing you by the second. You took a defensive position and hoped it was an animal. The noise stopped as quickly as it started. The lid from your casket lifted and the moon soaked the male face in front of you.

He raises his hands “I mean you no harm”, he says in a low voice. The dagger stays in place “where am I?”

“This is the Hickory Groves”

“What’s your name?”

“Lucien”. Vanserra. He didn’t have to say it and you knew enough of the High Lord’s heirs to know you were in danger. Killing him was not an option. Running would make it a chase. So you standstill. Knife pointed at his heart.

“I mean you no harm” he repeats, low, gentle.

The Hickory Groves… the part of autumn that borders Spring. Where females of all ages get discarded by their families, elders or, in your case, lover. The top of the coffin gets brought down again. You gulp. Foxes like to play with their food. If he was here it was for no good reason.

A small flame appears from one of his raised hands and you can see him again, more clearly now. He was handsome. At least you’d die at the hand of a pretty bastard. A miniscule mercy. His claws and fangs more preferable than the other creatures that stalk these woods.

I saw new eyes were watching me

The creature lunged

I turned and ran

To save a life I didn't have

Lucien remained still. You had not moved an inch in what felt like an age. Slow, calculating steps circled you. He extinguished the flame. You had seen enough. When the steps sounded like they were right behind him you turned and ran as fast as you could in the opposite direction. Leaving Lucien in between you and the creature.

Deer in the chase

There as I flew

Forgot all prayers of joining you

As you ran you heard the sound of a struggle. The thud of a fallen body. Then more steps racing. You zig zag and try to lose the hunter. The first rays of sun guide you towards the edge of the forest. You run and run and promise yourself that when you reach the valley whatever is following you will disappear. A pathetic wish of a desperate girl. But when you see more rays, the sky littered in pink and peach hues you run faster. The valley looks endless, mist coats the furry hills, green leaves fade to red in the distance. The steps had ceased, you notice but half way through a sigh of relief a towering figure appears next to you. Your heart stops.

“You’re a fast runner”

“I thought you dropped dead”

“That was not me, to the dismay of some”

“What is a lordling doing in the Grove of Rejects?” He snorts at the question “Is that what you call this place?” You shrug “everyone in my village knows that if you want to get rid of someone you send them here”.

“You were sent here?”

“Scrapped is more like it”

“By who?”

“Curious? I think it was a male from my village. He thought me too poor to marry but good enough to bed”

“Why bring you here?”

“I have a bit of a reputation for having a… temper. He must not want to face my wrath. Not that he had anything to worry about, I thought him too much of a brute to marry. Now though… I’ll gut him for this”

I clutched my life

And wished it kept

My dearest love, I'm not done yet

Warm skin presses against your back and drapes across your waist.

“What did you think of me when we first met?”

“I was sure you wanted to kill me”

“You were the one with the knife”

“You were chasing me”

“I’m still chasing you”

“You have me”

“Do I really?” You tense. Lucien had taken it upon himself to deal with the male that dropped you in the middle of the woods that day. Ever since he had visited you under the guise of a routine check up on one of the more isolated villages of the Autumn Court.

He visited frequently enough that you became friendly. He stayed late enough that you became intimate.

Turn to face him. Graze his cheek with the palm of your hand and savor the warmth that radiates within his caramel skin. Raw eyes pierce your own. He wants you. He wants this and he wants more.

“A bride of Autumn has no happy life” he knew it. He saw his mother cry.

“We could leave it all behind” you place a shaky finger on his swollen lips.

“One day, my love, but not today”

How many years

I know I'll bear

I found something in the woods somewhere

#acowar #acotar #azriel shadowsinger #acofas #acotar fanfiction #jurian acotar #lucien vanserra #acomaf #acosf #lucien acotar #lucien #a court of thorns and roses #feyre archeron #azriel #rhysand #acotar fanart #autumn court #autumn #hozier

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greatideas-badwriter · 2 months

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SasuSaku: Sacrificed To The Banished Prince Ch. 17

It made absolutely no sense, but Sakura felt a little better when she woke up from her long sleep after sobbing in Akuma’s arms until her body could no longer take the stress. The ever-present thoughts of escaping this life to avoid confronting her trauma were quieter, less frequent. She remained weak despite this.

Ino kept her company, having maids fetch books, puzzles, and the like to keep her occupied. Inwardly, Sakura knew how hard Ino was trying to avoid talking about what happened yesterday and appreciated the effort. There were moments when the blonde would get a sad glint in her pretty blue eyes, only to blink it away when the pinkette noticed.

The blonde talked about anything and everything while never pressuring Sakura to respond. She told the lady of the house about her father, who was one of three men in charge of training the kingdom's military forces. Coming from a well-respected family, it was uncommon for a woman of her age and stature to become a maid, but the blonde explained that her parents attempted to arrange marriages for her. When she refused, she vowed to only marry for love, even if it meant she had to relinquish her title as a noblewoman.

Apparently, when King Madara was made aware of her defiance, he went above the Yamanaka elders and sent Ino to Prince Sasuke’s manor. That was just over two years ago.

Sakura sipped her tea as she listened to the maid talk, “It was a blessing in disguise, my being banished to the Winterlands. At first, I was scared because of the rumors about My Lord, but he’s not what I expected.” Ino’s face became sad as she reminisced, her eyes low as though watching distant memories pass by her vision, “The prince’s existence is quite tragic. How he’s remained kind after all his suffering is a testament to his character.”

“I was under the impression you fear him,” Sakura quietly said. “That everyone in the manor fears him.”

‘It’s not fair, but it’s the truth. Even someone as dull-minded as me can’t help but notice how weary the staff behaves around Sasuke.’

“It isn’t him that we fear,” Ino’s bright blues met Sakura’s greens, “The Curse lashes out when us underlings fail to quiver at the sight of the prince. He sees it as an insult to his greatness.” Her voice was as sarcastic as possible without coming off as too unprofessional.

The pinkette averted her gaze to her teacup, a frown tugging the corners of her mouth downward, “Somehow, I cannot….” She trailed off.

She didn’t know what she meant to say. Was it that she couldn’t see him as a completely terrible being? It’d been a while, but she made herself recall their first encounter when he beheaded Butler Yamamoto with zero restraint or hesitance. A good person would never do such a thing. Then, she couldn’t help but remember the times he’d comforted her, the times he’d allowed her to weep into his chest when he could’ve shoved her away and called her pathetic.

“That’s because you’re special,” Ino disrupted her thoughts. Sakura held her breath in surprise while meeting her gaze. A reassuring, kind smile met the maid’s lips. Her words were warm and non-accusatory, “Both the prince and the demon have changed since your arrival. Perhaps it’s harder for you to notice since you’ve known them only a short while, but the rest of us are in awe of your bravery.”

“Bravery?”

Ino nodded, tears welling but not overflowing. Her voice wavered with emotion, “I’ve never seen a man look at a woman how they both look at you, Lady Sakura. It’s as though you’ve given them life anew.” She laughed, blinking while looking upward to try and rid of the waterworks, “My apologies. I’m just relieved the prince has found someone so wonderful. All of us were beginning to worry he’d succumb to the curse.”

“Lord Uchiha never used to leave his personal quarters. He’d take his meals in his office and avoid being seen for days at a time,” she explained, “Now, he joins you in the dining room, visits the library, and often wanders the halls in search of your companionship and well-being. There is a light in his aura when you’re around that didn’t exist before.”

‘Is she speaking of the same prince that I know?’

Sasuke had been nothing short of a gentleman, but he wasn’t an expressive person. It was rare for his face to show emotion, and he almost always spoke formally. ‘Perhaps she’s right that I can’t tell the difference because I’ve only been here a couple of months.’ Sakura tried to picture the cold and closed-off man Ino described but gave up when the image made her feel disturbed and unsettled.

Something wet met Sakura’s cheeks, and she blinked, surprised to realize she’d begun to cry. Ino softly smiled, offering a handkerchief.

The pinkette accepted, feeling vulnerable in the presence of her only friend, “I want to save him. He’s…important to me.”

The maid’s grin widened. She tilted her head amusedly, “If you ever feel courageous, you should say those words to him. I’m sure it’d make him happy.”

Akuma visited that night, and Sakura remained awake in anticipation. Ino excused herself, quietly bowing before leaving the room. The demon spared her a short glare but said nothing. Once they were alone, Sakura gestured for him to join her at the tea table, pouring him a glass as he did.

“Akuma.”

An unfamiliar expression met his prideful face, “Your demeanor is strange this night.”

The pinkette’s face warmed as she nodded, avoiding meeting his gaze as she tried to muster up the courage to speak her mind.

He appeared to understand that because he sipped the tea for a moment before saying, “Say your piece, Mouse. You’re aware of my short patience.”

‘He’s as brash as usual,” she thought, but her fear began to fade as she finally searched his face, ‘but Ino’s right. He’s changed since we first met. He’s still rude, but he hasn’t hurt anyone.’

“Thank you,” she managed to say.

“You are thanking me for sparing your life thus far?”

Sakura shook her head, her thumb brushing the lip of her own cup, “For last night. I feel embarrassed for you to have seen me in such a state.”

Quite unexpectedly, Akuma didn’t pause or offer a sarcastic remark. Instead, he immediately asked, “Who hurt you?”

Ice flooded the pinkette’s blood, her face paling.

Blood-red eyes held hers and refused to look away, “Tell your master.”

“I-I don’t know…” She tried, praying he’d believe her.

Akuma’s voice raised, the chaotic aura surrounding him flaring wildly, “Shall I cut out your tongue for lying?”

Tears stung Sakura’s eyes as she shook her head, lifting her hands in a calming manner, “Please, Akuma.” His rage simmered if only a bit. Sensing his attention, she pleaded, searching his face desperately, “I can’t bear to speak about it further. Please don’t ask that of me.”

It took a long time, more than a minute, for the demon to respond. When he did, he sighed, shaking his head, “I suppose we can avoid the subject for tonight, but I will discover his identity, and when I do, I’ll offer you his head on a pike.”

Sakura couldn’t stop herself from asking, “Why would you go so far for me?”

‘Akuma is a demon; one that hates humans and calls them insects. It makes no sense for him to want to punish my brother. Does he care about me, or is there a self-serving reason of which I’m unaware?’

“I…” He began but hesitated. It was bewildering to witness such caution in the usually assured and confident curse. The pinkette looked over him in disbelief when he reached across the small table to take her hand into his almost delicately, “I wish to destroy all who cause you to fall asleep with tears in your eyes.”

If this was anyone but Akuma, the girl would’ve blushed at the unyielding way he was holding her gaze. Instead, she shook her head in awe, “But why?”

He finally looked away, down at their hands. His voice became quieter, so she could barely hear it, “I do not know.”

The next day, Sakura felt strong enough to join the prince for lunch. He seemed surprised to see her enter the dining room and sit across from him at the table. She nervously spoke, “Is it alright if I join you?”

“Of course,” the man responded almost too quickly.

It went quiet between them as the meal was served. The kitchen staff did little to hide their intrigue or curious glances. Only once they were back in the kitchen and the pair alone did the prince speak again. “I received letters from both our families this morning.”

Sakura made an affirming noise, braving a glance in his direction as she chewed her food.

“Your father wishes you a speedy recovery.” He quickly moved on, knowing the topic was sensitive, “And the King intends to send someone to speak with you regarding the incident. They plan to investigate until the culprit is identified and punished.”

Sakura swallowed hard, nodding because it was too difficult to speak. ‘Just how talented are the people they’re sending? Will they be able to tell I lied about knowing my attacker?’

“Until they arrive, let’s focus on the wedding, shall we?”

She met Sasuke’s gaze in surprise. The dark irises seemed warmer than before, silently encouraging her to do whatever made her comfortable. She could tell by how tightly he was holding his knife, how white his knuckles were, that he was struggling to control his own emotions. Sakura felt grateful.

‘He’s trying so hard for my sake. I can’t let his effort go to waste.’

“That sounds wonderful,” she bashfully offered before taking another bite and turning her gaze to the table. ‘What will the wedding be like? Simply being officially engaged at the party was overwhelming.’ Truthfully, Sakura was grateful for such a massive distraction. Having something to focus on other than what happened could only be a good thing.

So, for the next two days, the pair spent most of their time together. They dined, conversed, and made decisions about their upcoming nuptials. Things almost felt back to normal, how they had before their visit to the royal castle by day three of planning. Sakura felt warm and comfortable in the prince’s presence even though he was a man of few words. His often curt responses didn’t come off as rude, but maybe shy or socially anxious. Since she often suffered from the same things, the woman was overwhelmingly understanding. It seemed the prince picked up on that because his manner of speaking became slightly less formal.

After breakfast on day three, the tailor from the capitol arrived with the wedding dress he’d constructed to perform the initial fitting. The prince initially joined them in the guest room, where she was being assisted by Ino behind the dressing shade but had to excuse himself when a butler arrived and requested his presence for something.

Ino whispered as she tightened the lace on the back of the dress, “Don’t worry. I won’t let that creep do anything weird. I have permission to castrate him if he makes a move.” Sakura’s face paled, but she nodded gratefully.

Minutes passed before she was able to step out from behind the shade. The tailor beamed, eyes searching her appearance, “You look marvelous, My Lady! I knew you’d made the correct choice. Allow me to pin it so I can perform the necessary alterations.”

He stepped behind the woman and began working. Ino stood nearby with her hands on her hips, and her blue eyes narrowed threateningly. Either oblivious or fantastic at acting, the tailor spoke comfortably, “The prince is a lucky man to have a fiance as elegant and gentle as you, My Lady. When the kingdom sees you in this dress, he’ll be the envy of many, as will you.”

Sakura tried to be respectful, “So long as my husband is pleased.” Then, her face burnt with blush because Ino gave her a knowing grin. ‘How odd is it to refer to him as my husband? I never thought I’d be getting married, and to someone so incredible at that!’

Time passed, and then the tailor was finished pinning the dress. He guided the pinkette to the tall mirror and gestured to her reflection, “Tell me your thoughts. Are there any changes you wish to be made?”

It was gorgeous. The dress was white and hugged her body in only the most flattering way. A strip of lace was sewn to the off-shoulder neckline, where a thin, sheer cape fell to drag behind the dress as a train. Her mouth opened, but no words escaped.

Ino gushed, her cheeks rosy with excitement, “You look amazing, like a real princess. I bet you’ll take Lord Uchiha’s breath away when he sees it.”

“I agree,” the tailor chimed in, his eyes crinkling as he beamed, “Choosing the same style of dress as his mother was a grand choice. I’m sure he’ll be touched by the sentiment.”

A knock came at the door before Sakura could figure out how to respond. All three turned as it opened.

The warmth and hope she’d found over the last few days disappeared as though she’d been thrown naked into an icy river. Dark green eyes locked onto hers and narrowed. Hihara offered a tense smile, stepping inside and waving off the butler who’d accompanied him before shutting the door, “You make a stunning bride, Big Sister.”

It took everything in her not to fall into an emotional heap on the ground or to cower in fear. She was sure she’d be able to avoid her brother until the wedding and then forever after that because she’d soon be dead. Here he was, though, and it was obvious he was silently threatening her to act normal.

With a pale face, Sakura inched toward the dressing screen. She quickly came up with an excuse, “A lady shouldn’t be seen in her wedding gown before the day of the event.”

“Not even by her little brother? You’ll hurt my feelings,” Hihara jokingly said. He didn’t stop Ino or her from disappearing behind the screen to change out of the dress, though.

‘What is he doing here! Has he come to hurt me again?’

It was all Sakura could do to not break down in front of Ino, who at least appeared oblivious to her panic. All the pinkette wanted now was for her brother to go away. If she couldn’t have that, the next thing was to selfishly wish to be by Sasuke’s side because she trusted he wouldn’t allow any harm to come to her.

‘But how can I keep my secret with Hihara here at the manor? Is he trying to get both of us killed?’ In her mind, if anyone found out about the disgusting act that’d transpired between half-brother and half-sister, they’d both be executed. The prince would surely hate her.

All the healing she’d done in the past few days began to unravel as she stepped out after being redressed in her usual clothing. Respectfully, she bowed to the tailor, “Thank you for your skilled work. I look forward to wearing the finished product.”

The elderly man seemed satisfied with her actions and returned the gesture, “It’s an honor to serve you, My Lady. Until we next meet.”

Ino guided her and Hihara to one of the tea rooms, where she excused herself to fetch libations and subsequently left Sakura with her attacker. Once the door was closed behind her, the Haruno man wasted no time. He hissed, eyes glued to the entrance to ensure no one was coming in, “You useless whore.”

Sakura’s limbs shook as she sensed the murderous aura surrounding him. She couldn’t bear to speak and instead cowered when the man turned his glare onto her. “Suicide? Seriously? You can’t even die without messing something up!” He pointed at her, lowering his voice even further as he threatened, “You’re going to convince the prince to call off the investigation, or I’ll tell everyone you drugged and forced yourself on me.”

This time, the woman couldn’t help but respond, “That’s a lie!”

Hihara scoffed, looking her over with a sneer, “Who will they believe: the whore-daughter of a traveling slut or a pure-blooded nobleman?”

Her mouth clamped shut in shock. ‘He’s right. If it comes to his word against mine, no one will believe me.’ She watched the terrible man carefully, “...If I stop the investigation, you’ll leave the prince and his family alone?”

The prideful smile that appeared on Hihara’s lips was reminiscent of Akuma’s but not quite the same, “On my honor.”

#naruto #naruto fanfiction #narutofanfic #narutofanfiction #sakura #naruto shippuden #sakura uchiha #haruno sakura #sakura haruno #sasusaku fic #sasusaku fanfiction #uchiha sasuke #sasuke #sasusaku

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gorbalsvampire · 28 days

Text

Statting Christof Romauld

Someone on Reddit asked if my favourite himbo had a canonical character sheet.

I looked him up in Clanbook: Brujah. He does not.

I felt compelled to stat him out in V5.

Now I kinda want to do the whole crew. I've been thinking about Dark Ages V5 for a while now and this is unlocking it all for me...

He's a swordsman, so a Melee combatant, so we're going for Dexterity 4 for that pool; 3s into Stamina, Resolve and Composure (say what you like about our favourite himbo, he can take a kicking), and the 1 in Intelligence (sorry, Christof, but if you weren't such a dim bulb you'd probably have gone insane).

For expediency's sake, and because he always has a supporting cast to cover his weaknesses, I'm gonna say he's a Specialist. Melee gets the 4 and the speciality, Athletics, Brawl and Firearms (which, RAW, covers archery) get 3s. 2s in Persuasion (he does get his own way a lot), Awareness and Stealth (there's a lot of corridor creeping in his adventures). For the 1s, I'm taking Investigation (he tries... and he's been through enough mysteries that he must be vaguely aware of how they work), Occult (he's seen some things in his time) and Etiquette (he's well spoken).

Disciplines? Let's start with Celerity 2 and Presence 1 (I don't know how I'd have got through the game without these two). For specific powers, I'm going Rapid Reflexes and Fleetness from Celerity, and Awe from Presence.

Into Predator Type, and I'm gonna be honest here, given how tricky it is to bite people in the streets without being caught, and how many other vampires there are in those "dungeons", and how often he frenzies and bites his own coterie: Christof is a Blood Leech. Extra specialty in Brawl vs Kindred, going to Celerity 3 and taking Weaving from the Players' Guide, leaning into the defensive applications, and obviously we're gonna take the Diablerist flaw because he ate Lucretia. Prey Exclusion (Mortals) is definitely a reflection of how I played Christof, too (goddamn Knights of St. John have eyes in the backs of their heads).

Advantages and Flaws: well, we're windmill slamming Archaic, of course (he's got the hang of guns, but he has no idea what a Central Computer might be). We're also gonna raid the Player's Guide again. For five points, we can take Untouchable - get away with doing something grand and stupid once per story. He's... definitely had that go off a few times during Redemption. From the same book, we can grab the Brujah Coterie Merit, Boot and Rally, for a bonus to his friends' combat rolls, and Remarkable Feature, because people do remark on all his thees and thous when they first meet him and then rapidly get used to it.

Convictions are probably derived from the Promethean ethic somehow (I'm bad at these), and his Touchstone is obviously Anezka (I have a house rule where you only need one Touchstone, like Requiem - and Redemption, now that I think about it).

Now, we get into experience. I'm going to count Christof as an ancilla here. He's lived a very storied life, the Clanbook leaves some wiggle room for how long his adventures took, he's quite low generation, and frankly I need the XP for his insane Discipline breadth. That takes his Humanity down to 5, his Blood Potency up to 3, and he needs another two points in Flaws - I'm going for another Player's Guide special, Twice Cursed, giving him an additional Clan Bane that causes physical and social damage when his Beast comes out.

He also gains another two points in Advantages, and I'm gonna pick up a Loresheet here: Sect War Veteran. He emerged from torpor right in the middle of the sect war, ended up fighting his way across New York, and he's made something of a name for himself among elders and neonates alike given what he got up to in the Dark Ages. The two dot ability here converts into Status or Mawla - one could very easily use this to model Ekaterina the Wise still looking out for him, or into his own personal clout, or... well, our Christof is at middling Humanity, so he might be... in a bit of a predicament. Spoilers for twenty-five year old game?

Finally, there's the 35 bonus XP. To start off, taking him to Presence 3, Daunt and Dread Gaze, that's 25 burned. With the remaining 10, I'm going to buy a dot in Protean (the game is very generous about handing out Protean) and pick up Eyes of the Serpent, since he did eat a whole-ass Setite, and the last three are going on the Stealth (vs Kindred) specialty from his Predator Type, just to really double down on the in-game playstyle.

And there we are - playable Christof!

#vtm #vampire the masquerade #vtda #vampire the dark ages #vampire the masquerade redemption #brujah #send help i have brain worms

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tickle-bugs · 1 year

Note

Lil idea for the 3 Peter Parkers!

Peter 1, the youngest, often gets snarky with the older two "brothers". They both eventually decide theyve had enough of his jabs about their age, and team up on him, working together to tickle him to bits and teach him to respect his elders

Attitude Adjustment

Okay so if you’re like me and literally can’t keep the numbers straight: peter one (referred to just as Peter here) is tom holland’s spidey, peter two is tobey maguire’s, and peter three is andrew garfield’s. I felt SO silly writing in the numbers but there really is no other way LOL

Also, au where they’re in sort of a Spiderverse situation and the other spideys are trying to figure out how to get back to their dimensions. Absolutely no canon, just vibes.

“Hey Pete? How do you work this thing?” Peter Two huffs and flails his hands around through the holographic energy core in front of him. It spins listlessly, unsure how to interpret his gestures, and beeps at him.

“Comin’.” Peter rolls off the couch, chucking his phone onto the rickety coffee table. His new place was small, achingly so, but it was starting to come together nicely. He had pictures on the walls, a rug on the worst spot of the floor, and a bedframe. All progress was good progress.

“Show me how you’re doing it?” Peter squishes beside Two, who sort of swats at the hologram like an irritating bug.

“Oh, okay. So, uh, the hologram maps its movements according to your fingertips. If it can’t get a good read, it’s not gonna respond. Here, like this.” Peter pulls his hands into the projected image, twitching his fingertips and twirling his wrists. The simulated core spins and zooms at his whim. Eventually, the image flashes green, and a small loading bar picks up at the bottom.

“Neat.” Peter Two watches in awe as the computer begins to synthesize his formula. He idly spins the image around. “We didn’t have anything like this growing up. It’s crazy.”

“Glad I could help, grandpa.” Peter grins, giving Two’s shoulder a good-natured squeeze. Two rolls his eyes and shoos him away.

“What a nice young man, helping the elderly,” Peter Three hums from the ceiling, typing away at his laptop as if his life depends on it. He looks a bit like a goblin, or maybe a vampire, hunched over all of them.

“I do my part.” Peter salutes, flips back over the couch, and pulls his phone back into his hand with a web. He’d lost his place in the Fantastic Four interview he was reading. He sighs.

“You both are hilarious,” Peter Two grumbles, watching a holographic array of complex mathematics spin in front of him.

Peter sinks down into the couch, into the quiet buzz of technology and Peter Three’s terrifying typing. It’s not silence, not quite, but it still gnaws into his bones in a way he doesn’t like. He’s been avoiding being Peter as much as he can lately, instead staying out on patrol as late as his body can handle. Collapsing on a rooftop as Spider-Man is easier than coming back to Peter Parker’s shithole apartment.

Spending time with people like him, people who get it, it’s…nice. Steadying. He knows it’s going to crush him when they leave, but having them now is more than he could ever ask for. He has no one, but he has them.

“Hey.” Peter leans over the back of the couch and waves at Three. “Need help?”

“Hm? No, I’m good. Still compiling that list of compatible metals. Hoping to keep this matter projector the size of a rubix cube. Or, worst case scenario, like a suitcase.” Peter Three gnaws at his lip, then squints at his screen. He flings out a web and snags his glasses, catching them out of midair. He puts them on with care, pinning the laptop to his upside-down lap with his free hand. After fiddling with the lenses, he gets them to balance properly.

“You’re still squinting.” Peter chuckles.

“It’s part of the creative process.” Three waves an idle hand, then squints more aggressively. “I, uh--I’ve got shit eyesight. It’s fine.”

“The spider bite didn’t fix your vision?” Peter furrows his brow.

“It did, but I wrecked it again. Too much blue light, too many flashbangs to the face--it all takes a toll, y’know? You should be grateful your eyes still work. Take care of them while you have them.” Peter Three nods sagely. He grabs his mug of long-cold coffee with a web and brings it carefully to his hands. He sips, gags, then comes back for more.

“Okay, dad.” Peter huffs with no venom. He tries not to be jealous that Three can drink upside down. He’s tried. Repeatedly.

“You have a remarkable amount of attitude for someone so tiny.” Three stares at him over the rim of his glasses, which shouldn’t be as funny as it is. Peter snorts.

“Right? It’s his tone,” Peter Two hums. The computer chirps at him that his equation is only sixty percent viable, would you like to try again? He thunks his head into the desk. Three’s mug slowly lowers itself down beside him. Two takes a sip, gags, and deposits the mug in the sink. Three balls up a piece of paper and throws it at his head.

“Alright, I’m starting to go a little stir crazy. How about we take a break?” Peter Two stretches, popping something in his back. He does the ‘keys, wallet, phone’ patdown on himself, turning in circles to make sure he’s set.

“Like a patrol break?” Peter perks up.

“No, a dinner break. I’m starving, and God knows when you two last ate. Or slept.” Two hazards a glance towards Three.

“Oh, I’m good. Go without me.” Peter Three keeps typing. Two’s glare chills the room a few degrees. He pointedly clears his throat.

“Y’know what, actually? A break sounds great. Super on board with the, uh, the break time.” Peter Three closes his laptop and flips down off the ceiling. He stumbles as he lands, hissing in pain. The laptop goes flying, but Peter just manages to snag it with a web. He cradles it to his chest.

“Thanks.” Three nods. Peter nods back. The room collectively sighs in relief.

“Is it your, uh--” Two maneuvers to support Three as best he can. They limp over to the corner of the kitchen together.

“My back, yeah. Shitshitshit.” Peter Three inhales tightly and leans up against the counter. He tips his head back against the cabinets and focuses on breathing.

“It just, uh--well, it locks up sometimes. No clue why.” Three shrugs, then winces.

“I think I have some painkillers. If it’ll help.” Peter sets the laptop down. Three smiles thinly at him.

“I’ll take you up on that. I’m usually fine after a few minutes. Just gotta wait it out.” Three winces again, gripping the countertop hard. The cheap vinyl cracks with the force of it. Peter tries not to wonder if he’ll have to pay for that--instead, he fishes out the pitifully empty bottle from his coffin-sized bathroom.

“Gimme your hands.” Peter Two crowds in front of Three and starts helping him stretch, slow and steady. After a heart-wrenching cry of pain, Three hums appreciatively. He twists side to side, working out as many sore spots as he can. Peter shakes the bottle at him and tosses it. He catches it and dry swallows the pills.

“Hm.” Peter leans against the wall.

“What?” Two huffs.

“Nothing.” Peter shakes his head with a smile. Fondness blooms warm in his chest. May used to tell him that he’s the only person who knows how to take care of himself best, what he needs. He wonders if she ever thought it would manifest this way.

“Alright, c’mon. What old man joke are you sitting on right now?” Two crosses his arms. His amusement is contagious.

“I wasn’t going to make fun of you!” Peter laughs.

“One day you’re gonna be a twenty-something with a bad back. You’re gonna be like ‘oh wise and mysterious Peter, please help me with my ailing spine’. Then you’ll get it.” Three grunts. He loudly cracks something in his back and all of them wince.

“What am I gonna do? Do a backbend over your walker?” Peter snickers. Three gasps and splutters, sending both of them into actual laughter. They’re terrible influences on each other.

“You are such a brat.” Two chuckles, mostly in disbelief. Peter sticks his tongue out at him.

“Were you like this?” Two jerks a thumb toward Peter. Three quirks a smile and regards Peter for a bit--the defiant jut of his chin and the fire in his eyes are heartwarming.

“I mean…yeah. Kinda. Just tall.” Three smirks.

“I’m not short.” Peter scoffs. Two and Three exchange a glance. Three leans on Peter’s head. Peter swats his arm away.

“You’re barely taller than me!” Peter huffs, throwing his hands in the air.

“First step is acceptance, buddy.” Two pats his shoulder. “Let’s get our shawarma on.”

Peter Three stifles his laughter into his fist, squinting in mirth through crooked glasses. Peter groans, smacking his face into his palm. He’s hiding a smile, though, and it makes Two smile in turn.

“What?”

“Let’s get our shawarma on?” Peter snickers, his shoulders shaking.

“Yeah, I can’t defend you. That was corny.” Three leans into Peter and soon they’re both giggling, set off by each other’s goofiness.

“You sound like a dad!” Peter giggles.

“Scratch that. We’re not going anywhere until we cure you of this attitude.” Two raises an eyebrow. Peter giggles at him which, while adorable, Two cannot stand for.

“You gonna send me to my room? Ground me? Oooh, I’m so scared--” Peter snorts, then he’s upside down. Peter Two’s got him around the waist like a sack of potatoes. He lets out an affronted squeak and tries to reach for the floor.

“Whatareyoudoing--” All the breath leaves Peter in a hefty woosh as Two worms his fingers into his sides. He squeals, his legs flailing wildly. He tries to pry Two’s hands away but gravity isn’t his friend at the moment.

“Spider deterrent,” Two says, deathly serious, but Peter can hear him smiling. Bastard.

“Nononohoho! Tickling is cheating!” Peter cackles, all hope of playing tough long gone with his breath. No matter which way he tilts, Two’s fingers are waiting to torment him--and he seems to have quickly figured out just how deathly ticklish his stomach is. Almost like he knew already.

“I didn’t know there were rules--” Peter Two ducks out of the way of an accidental kick-- “Hey! Violence is not the answer!”

“Gonna v-violence your stuhupid fahahace! Lemme go!” Peter growls, prying at Two’s wrists again. Two tuts at him and vibrates his fingers into Peter’s stomach. He shrieks and kicks his legs, all pent-up energy with nowhere to go.

“Aren’t you gonna help?” Peter gasps at Three, his voice way higher pitched than he’d like. His face is redder than his suit, little giggles still slipping free. He’s (mostly) deathly serious about murdering Two if he can just get out of this.

“Yeah, come help!” Two grins, beckoning Three over with a tilt of the head. Peter Three disappears out of Peter’s line of sight and he allows himself an evil grin.

“We’re gonna kick your--” Peter loses the last half of his threat to a yelp, then frenetic giggling as Three claws at his ribs. Peter screeches in betrayal and tries to swat at him, but he’s far from coordinated and it tickles, oh my god--

“Sorry. More afraid of him than I am of you.” Peter Three grins sheepishly, but his eyes shine with mischief. He walks his fingers up under Peter’s arms and he screeches loud enough to make a dog down the hall start barking. He lets out a snort and desperate syllables tumble out to follow. He manages to elbow Two in the gut and nearly gets dropped on his head for the trouble.

“S-Sorry! Tickles!” Peter hiccups and clamps his arms to his sides.

“You are so squirmy!” Two tosses him over the back of the shitty couch. Peter squeals at the sudden change in gravity, but then he’s squealing because they both follow him over the couch.

“I-I’m gonna get a noise complaint! Guys!” Peter throws his head back against the armrest and cackles, shoving at the two of them. He’s not sure where the ceiling is anymore, everything’s sort of spinning, but the slight burn in his chest is grounding.

“Alright, alright.” Two lays off and Three follows suit. Peter flings his arm over his face and tries to remember the sweet embrace of oxygen.

“Oho man. You guys suck.” Peter peeks at them with a goofy smile.

“Spider deterrent. Works like a charm.” Two puts his hands on his hips. Three leans up behind him and goes to poke his side, but Two catches his hand.

“Don’t. Do not.” Two points at Three threateningly. Three holds his hands up in surrender, but his grin is anything but innocent. He and Peter lock eyes.

“Spider deterrent, huh?” Peter leans up on his elbows with a cocky grin. “Every experiment needs multiple trials, right?”

“You’re both menaces.” Two grapples with Three, occasionally twitching but still putting up a fight. Peter manages to poke him a few times and get his arm caught, but Two can’t fight both of them.

A hush befalls the room as Peter Two visibly weighs his options, trying not to crack from Three’s pinching at his ribs.

Two throws himself over the couch, followed by Three, and Peter eggs them on from the safety of the couch. It’s like watching cats wrestle, really--there’s an indistinguishable tangle of limbs and shouting before Peter Three’s shocked cackle emerges from the pile.

“P-Peter! Help!” Three wheezes, holding his hand out for rescue.

“Oh, you want my help? Yeah, sure, I’ll help.” Peter cackles evilly, kicking off the couch and launching himself at Three.

“Wait, hold on--”

…

“98 percent viable. We did it,” Peter Two breathes, holding the hologram in his hands. The simulated core spins lazily. After hours of calibration and recalibration, the algorithm finally holds steady. Three squeezes his shoulder and laughs quietly, happily. They’re going home.

“Should we tell him?” Three casts a glance over to the couch. Peter’s out cold, curled up under a threadbare blanket that refuses to let go of its musty smell. Despite the bags under his eyes, he looks peaceful.

“Tomorrow. You both still owe me shawarma.” Two smiles, knocking their shoulders together.

#why are my most beloved blorbos the hardest to write ;-;#sorry the ending was rushed on this but i hope you enjoy!!!#my fics #mcu spiderman #ticklish!peter parker #peter parker #marvel #love and light i will not be tagging all of them LMAO #hope u enjoy anon!!#i dont think ive written any mcu spiderman fics yet so ill christen the tag i suppose #i have so many headcanons about like. just who they are as people and what their dynamic would be like if they worked together as a unit #god i gotta watch the tobey and andrew movies again i miss them #also it is SO important to me that peter parker is just. a little bitchy. i dont know why but i feel it's essential for the queens in him #also like. the three peters are totally different characters but when its time for mischief they share one braincell #GAH i love them #my boys!!!#edit: Peter two’s back issues are just my back issues. sometimes my back goes AAAAAAAAAAAAAA and then it’s fine

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some-pers0n · 10 months

Text

Hey again I made more short WoF writing. It's about Hailstorm. It's not too long. It's more or less a rewrite of that scene where Winter puts on the Pyrite mask. Goodie. Here you go.

...where am I?

Pyrite looked around, taking in her new surroundings. She was in a garden. Flowers of all colours sprouted from the ground, forming pretty little patterns. The sun shone down on her, giving warmth to her unusually cold body.

Why was she here all of a sudden? Wasn't she just on a mountain range? At night?

She shook her head. How could she be so forgetful as to forget where she was? Moon above, was her memory that awful?

"What happened?" she muttered. She glanced towards the SandWing- Qibli? Was that his name? She couldn't quite remember- and asked another question: "did we find Queen Scarlet?"

Even saying her name sent a lovely feeling through her scales. Burning loyalty and pride. Queen Scarlet! Her true queen. The only queen. Not this false one that currently sat on her throne. Queen Scarlet was bright, beautiful, and utterly wonderful. How she missed her. She knew what to do in these situations.

How proud she was to be a SkyWing. How utterly glorious to be free and live in the mountains. To soar through the sky without care. To be any other tribe would be dreadful. The SkyWings were loyal. They followed the rule of the most adept queen to ever exist. They were the most crafty and intelligent out of all of the tribes.

Life was good in the Sky Kingdom. She would never want to leave. Ever.

"Pyrite?" Qibli said slowly, "how do you feel? Okay?"

"Mh? Yeah, I'm fine. It's a bit foggy up here though." She giggled awkwardly as she tapped her head. "How did we get there? Sorry! I know that is weird to say out of nowhere but...I genuinely don't know how we got here. I assume we flew here and were doing something productive before I just...I don't know, panicked? Hit my head? Did I hit my head? I sure must have done something to cause this. Talons and tails, I'm such a klutz."

"Do you remember anything about Winter?" he asked.

She snorted. "Oh, definitely. I don't think I could think of a bigger grump than him." She stuck out her tongue in disgust. Past Qibli was a large IceWing, one maybe a year or so older than Winter. To her surprise, Winter was completely absent. Perhaps he left. Went back to his own kingdom where he can sulk around with the rest of his tribe. Though, now there was this new dragon in his place.

He looked...odd. He couldn't have been that old, but there was a look in his black eyes that said more than words could describe. They were hazy and carried a feeling of age that she'd only seen in elders. He stared at her with a strange expression. She couldn't tell what emotion he was trying to express, only that he was greatly unsettled.

"Who's he?" Pyrite asked, pointing at the mystery dragon. The IceWing winced, taking in sharp breaths.

"You don't know who Winter or Hailstorm is?"

"Hailstorm? Never heard of him." She shrugged.

"I see then." He gestured to her necklace. "Mind if I see that for a moment?"

She felt the pouch around her neck, grabbing it. "I guess? I don't know why you'd want it though." She began to pull it up and over her head. It went up and over her -

- and in a blink of an eye, she was gone.

Winter seized up, throwing the necklace as soon as he could. His own thoughts had returned to him, but he could still feel her lingering around. Her dull, daft and repetitive thoughts. Remnants of her ideals and image of the Sky Kingdom clawed at his mind. It was beyond horrifying.

That's when he looked up to see his brother. Hailstorm looked at the necklace, his breath heavy and strained. A realization collapsed in on Winter. He now understood what he had to go through. For two years, trapped as this idiotic and hollow excuse of a dragon. Put into stasis until they finally freed him.

I'm so sorry... Was all Winter could stomach to think.

#wof #wings of fire #somepersonswriting #hailstorm wof #wof fanfic #SP-writing

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thewalkingwillowtree · 10 months

Text

Safe Haven

Series Part Listing Found Here

Neteyam x Original Na'vi Female Character

Warning: This story contains smut, violence & abuse (please don't read if these topics will affect you)

Some characters have been aged up. Neteyam in particular is 23.

Xilä is my own creation.

Part 5 - Poker Face

“That was a bit…better,” Neteyam said, trying not to crack a smile. “Try again. Com-pu-tor. Computer.”

“Kum-po-tuh,” Xilä mimicked, trying her best to enunciate.

“Better. What is a computer?”

“A device used to store or share or create information- day-ta.” Xi frowned. “Wait so if it does that then is it not the same thing as the tahbleet? How do they look so different yet do the same thing?” she asked, confused looking at the strange device he’d shown her not even five minutes ago.

“The tablet. And yeah, you’re right…Think of it like a leaf and a bowl- we use them both to eat but yet they are very different. See? Both devices can do the same yet they are different…”

She grinned up at him with a little tilt of her head and he found himself returning the gesture. He realized she did that a lot more now. Smile. She laughed and giggled a lot too and he seemed to want to hear it all the time. It was his favourite sound and her nose would scrunch up in the cutest way too.

“Is that funny to you?” he grinned, poking her side and getting a giggle in response.

“A little,” she said- her nose scrunching up just the way he liked it.

As they strolled further into the empty lab, she ran forward, in awe. With rapt attention at each new thing she saw, she asked him question after question.

Spotting Grace, Xi moved to peer through the machine housing the floating Na’vi. “Kiri’s mother,” she said softly. “Hi Grace,” she whispered.

Neteyam observed Xilä fixated, “She told you?”

“Yes, she said she wanted to introduce us…Grace is so beautiful. Kiri looks just like her,” she murmured, pressing her palms against the glass.

“You two getting on okay?” asked Norm who walked in, in his Avatar body.

Xi clammed up and shuffled closer to Neteyam as the man drew nearer. Neteyam fought an amused smirk when she suddenly turned shy, reaching out to fiddle with a loose thread on the side of his warrior belt to avoid the newcomer.

“Yeah, Norm we’re good. We’re exploring the labs today. Hey since you’re here, can you show her what you worked on? The research on Li’ona?”

“Hell yeah! It’s Xi right? Well, welcome to my world,” he said with his arms stretched out as he turned to walk to the other side of the room. “If you’ll follow me-”

A small hand clutched his fingers and Neyetam almost stumbled when he realized it was Xilä. His head snapped to hers and she looked him right in the eyes with a little smile- she was nervous.

He squeezed her fingers in response and gave her an encouraging expression. “You got this,” he mouthed silently.

If Norm thought it was weird they held hands, he didn’t show it.

“So this is a map of Pandora.” He typed into a computer and a holographic map appeared. “And this…is Li’ona.”

“Wow,” Xi whispered in awe of the amazing technology, taking a step forward.

Neteyam immediately felt the loss when she released his hand to have a closer look, he wanted to snatch it right back up.

Norm pointed out a few things to her on the map then went on a long winded rave about “climate change” and “precipitation”, “droughts” and something called, “atmospheric conditions.”

Suffice to say it all went right over her head.

She did perk up once more when he started speaking normally again.

“-so yeah we’re basically stumped. I did talk to some of the Omatikaya elders to see if anything like this ever happened in their time but they all say the same thing.”

“And what is that?” she asked intrigued, her ears twitching as she stared at the oldly dressed Avatar.

“They say Li’ona’s been abandoned by Eywa. They think the people have dishonoured her in some way- and I mean, I’m kinda willing to bet on that at this point. There’s literally no other scientific explanation for the cease of rains. Over twenty fives years of no rain? That sounds like Eywa’s doing to me,” he shrugged helplessly.

“Oh….Well, thank you for showing me Norm and thank you for all your hard work.”

He lit up from her thanks. “Oh, yeah. Anytime. It’s no prob-lemo,” he winked.

Momentarily distracted, he turned back to the monitor to type something.

Xi pursed her lips in contemplation, there was a guilty feeling bubbling in her chest.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” Neteyam asked quietly as he stood beside her. His hand crept under her hair to cup her neck gently, thumb brushing below her ear.

She turned and stared up at him with those brilliant orbs of hers. “I just realized something ‘Teyam and I feel guilty about it,” she whispered, clutching his wrist. “You will think I am terrible.”

He frowned. “I could never think that Xilä. Never, alright?”

“I do not care.”

“Hm?” His frown deepened- not understanding.

“About Li’ona I mean. I do not care about them anymore. I do not care what will happen to the people left. I do not care if Eywa has deserted them. I do not care if their lands never flourish once more. There is nothing in here,” she said, laying her free palm against her heart. “I should care, but I don’t.”

“Then don’t,” Neteyam said, seriously. “And don’t feel guilty about it either, okay? You don’t have to care if you don’t want to. This is your home now anyway.”

Touched by his words, she stepped forward and hugged him in response- her forehead slotting into the space between his pec and shoulder blade, slim arms wrapping around his waist.

Norm, catching their sweet moment, grinned and wiggled his eyebrows at Neteyam over Xi’s head.

Neteyam simply rolled his eyes at him and hugged Xi closer without care, leaning down to hide his smile in her hair. She felt perfect in his arms.

The rest of their visit was eventful. Norm cracked jokes with Xilä and got her to open up, he showed her how the Avatar bodies worked, then introduced himself to her in his human form. They even managed to practise some English together.

“That was fun actually,” she chirped as Neteyam walked her back to Salveen and Jxo’s. “Heh-lo how ah ew,” she practised, curling her index finger around his pinky so she could swing their arms together as they strolled.

“I am fine, thank you. How are you?” he smirked, enjoying her little giggle.

“I am ha-peee too-nite,” she grinned, looking around in wonderment at the woodspirits littered in the air.

He stared at her as she twirled away, reaching her hands up for a woodspirit to land in her palms.

There was no one else but the two of them in that moment- she was all he saw.

“......I am happy too,” he admitted. And it was the truth.

Neteyam was completely content.

He was happy.

Xi grinned as she checked out the cards in her hands.

“You’ve got a terrible poker face Xilä,” Lo’ak said with a smirk, and Spider snorted in response.

“I can’t help it! Don’t look at me then.”

“That’s not how it works, Xi,” he grinned, “you have to pay attention to your opponent’s tells.”

“Okay, well pretend I am not grinning then,” she said, raising the cards to try and hide her face without success- she was having fun, how could she possibly not smile?

Both boys cackled at her antics.

Her and Neteyam’s lessons were on hold for the day because he had been called in for an important meeting with the council.

Although he did still come over that morning and ate breakfast with her, which made her quite happy. But admittedly- she truly missed him. She already didn’t like whenever they had to part ways every afternoon after her lessons ended.

“Can we play Go Fish instead?” Tuk pouted, pushing her hand of cards away. “I don’t like poker.”

“After this round Tuk, we’re teaching Xi a very important life lesson here.”

Spider nodded solemnly in agreement. “Exactly. Bluffing is the key to a successful life…the winnings are pretty great also,” he said with a grin from ear to ear as he slammed his cards on the table then proceeded to pull the pile of takings towards him.

Those winnings included a mismatched collection of a small whittled figurine, a few of Salveen’s famous sari cakes and some pretty colourful glass stones from the river.

Lo’ak sighed at his loss, tossing his losing cards down too. “Alright. One more round. All or nothing.”

The guys had a day off and so they decided to pop in on her for a while before they went off to do their exploring. They came armed ready with a pilfered deck of cards they said they “borrowed from Norm,” and one very excited Tuktirey who had followed her brother all the way here.

Tuk had finally grown bored enough it seemed. She wandered closer to Xilä, and began playing in her hair, twisting and braiding the strands with clumsy but determined little fingers- a tiny tongue poking out of her mouth in concentration.

“Is my brother still being a hard-ass with you?” Lo’ak asked, as he shuffled the deck. “He’s tough as heck when he runs our drills. Half the team usually hates him by the time we’re done.”

“Sometimes,” Xi responded, careful to keep her head still for Tuk, “but I know he means well. He’s a great teacher really, I enjoy our lessons.”

He and Spider shared a look. “Yeah okay I’ll take that as a no then.”

“What do you mean?” she frowned as she accepted her dished out cards, fanning them out the way Spider taught her to.

“Nothing,” he sang with a knowing grin.

Spider snickered, “Ignore him Xi, he’s just trying to stir up something he has no business trying to. Alright you’re up.” He nodded at her to start the game.

One more round turned into two, which turned to four and soon they had practically spent almost all morning sitting around Salveen and Jxo’s table as they bickered and joked with each other.

Tuk ran off a few minutes ago to raid her stash of beads at home so that she could make Xi’s hair “extra beautiful” which made Xi laugh. She’d truly grown fond of the six year old and her silliness.

Although they had gotten off to a rocky start, she and Lo’ak became fast friends, much to Neteyam’s dismay at times. Lo’ak could be rebellious and wild and in true Lo’ak fashion, he was always trying to find a way to include her in his hijinks.

One time last month he had taken her along with him and Spider to practise their shots. Shots, she soon realized, meant using a human invention called a machine gun, and not her silly little practice bow and arrows.

To say Neteyam was livid about the entire ordeal was a joke. When he found them in the clearing they'd snuck off too, he immediately grabbed the gun Lo’ak had been teaching her to hold and shoved it back into his brother's chest. He all but snarled at Lo’ak and Spider, followed by a slew of very creative curses.

With one last, “what the hell is wrong with you two?” he entwined his fingers with hers and dragged her out of there with a disappointed, “seriously sweetheart? What were you thinking going along with those skxawngs?”

Lo’ak and Spider, took Neteyam’s vexation in stride, calling out a series of, “You’re no fun bro!” and “Don’t worry Xi, you’ll get a turn next time!”

Before she knew it five months had flown by. Her circle of friends and acquaintances had widened, she no longer felt uncomfortable around the crowds at dinnertime, or nervous to walk through Home Camp. People would stop her to engage in conversation, or invite her to events.

She even went to her third communion for one of Salveen’s friends' grandsons just last week.

On an afternoon after Neteyam usually dropped her off, if she wasn’t at Salveen’s side helping to prepare the dinner feast with the other cooks, she was at the healer tents, unofficially studying under Mo’at’s wing.

The two women had quickly become the mother figures she had always wanted while Jxo, the gruff but sweet elderly man became the father figure she never knew existed.

One day Kiri had expressed to her that she too never had many girl friends- if any. Pretty much after that they’d usually have a weekly sleepover or two, which involved a lot of giggling and gossiping which Kiri described as “girl talk”.

Neteyam usually got chastised for trying to worm his way into Kiri’s sectioned off room, under the pretence of “just checking in” to which Kiri would sass back, “You had her all day, she’s mine now. Get out.”

Jake and Neytiri were another story entirely. They were both intimidating to say the least, yet they treated her as if she were already one of their own- as if their son wasn’t still training her to learn their ways.

Jake had her laughing so hard one night, tears leaked from her eyes as he told her stories about his own experience learning the Omatikaya ways- about his own clumsiness and accidents. Even about his “strict teacher” who seemed to have the motto “learn trying or die.”

Neytiri had simply rolled her eyes fondly at her husband and responded by saying, “he is exaggerating Xi.”

In those following months Xilä had only seen her father from afar a handful of times. Not once had he come to visit and she found that didn’t care.

Because life was good and she was happy.

Xilä was at peace.

She had found her home.

The Omatikaya’s forest echoed with the sounds of life……and grunts.

Xi growled as she tried to punch another blow at her attacker, failing from a clumsy trip and falling to the forest floor with an, “Umpf!”

Neteyam flicked his hair back- braids swaying dramatically as he shot her a disappointed look. “You’re moving too erratically, brisk deliberate moments remember? Stop second guessing yourself.”

She scowled, as she panted. They’d been at it for hours now. How hadn't he broken a sweat yet? He wasn’t even out of breath!

“You’re sloppy today. Are you practising your breathing exercises? Because it sure doesn’t sound like it. You’re not even trying at this point Xilä.”

“I am trying!” she snapped, “but you keep blocking my hits.”

Hands on his hips, he pursed his lips unimpressed. “Xilä-”

“I know I know, my attacker wouldn’t care. Can’t we go back to archery? I like that better than when we do hand to hand combat.”

“No. Now get up, let’s go again.”

“But I'm good at that one! You said it yourself…natural talent.”

“Xilä.” His tone was firm. “Can we get this done already?”

She frowned up at him, from her sprawled position on the ground. “Why are you so prickly today?”

He huffed. “Prickly?”

“Yes! All day you have been prickly! Practically since you picked me up this morning! You were rude to Salveen when she asked you to stay for breakfast, you keep muttering strange things under your breath when you think I can’t hear, you’ve got a permanent scowl on your face- hence I say prickly. You are brooding Neteyam…and not very nice at all if you ask me.”

“Good, I'm glad you are finally learning that I am not nice. I never claimed to be,” he hissed. “Now get up…please.”

She obeyed, dusting her hands off as she shot him a concerned look. “Are you alright ‘Teyam? Has- has something happened?” she asked, shuffling closer to him.

“No. I’m fine,” he said shortly. “Assume position, we will try the same sequence again.”

“No.”

“Xilä! For Eywa sake will you just- !”

“You want me to complete this lesson?”

“Yes!” he hissed impatiently.

“And aren’t we friends?”

“Wha- God Xi. Yes okay?!”

“Then be my friend and just tell me if something is bothering you. We will get nowhere with you being like this.”

Neteyam slumped his shoulders and hung his head with a snicker. He couldn’t help shooting her a proud look. Gone was the timid little Na’vi who would flinch at every move he made. Despite the situation, he was quite pleased that she was comfortable enough to stand up to him like this- to say no.

“Yes Xi. Something is bothering me, alright? I didn’t realize I was taking it out on others. I’ll stop now.”

She squinted at him with the tilt of a head. “Do you want to talk about it?”

“No…..maybe,” he said indecisively.

“Well I want to talk about it,” she decided.

“……Fine. I tell you and then we finish this lesson, agreed?”

“Agreed,” she echoed, biting down on her smile of success.

He walked over and casually leaned his side against a tall, thick plant, brushing off specs of wet moss from the front of his loincloth.

She followed him and did the same, fighting hard to not glance at the hard panes of muscle on his abdomen. She did that a lot lately- she didn’t need him catching on.

“I’m sorry if I’ve been prickly,” he said sincerely before continuing, “I didn’t like what the council had to say in my meeting yesterday.”

“Oh. Are they upset with something you’ve done?” she asked, concerned.

“Mmm, more like something I haven’t done yet,” he said, reaching out to remove a small twig that was tangled in her braid. Her hair had gotten longer, he noticed.

“Well that’s not cryptic at all,” she sassed.

He scoffed at her response, sending a flick to her thigh with his tail. “Your friendship with Spider and my brother keeps worrying me more and more every day.”

She grinned. “Sorry. Okay, okay, continue.”

“I have an important decision to make soon,” he said, turning serious again. “It’s impending and I’m unsure what to do about it. There are a lot of expectations riding on this and… depending on the choice I make, I will either please many people and make myself unhappy… or make myself happy but disappoint many.”

Her face softened and she reached out to hook her index finger around his large pinky in comfort. “That sucks. I’m sorry, ‘Teyam.”

He shrugged, with a sad smile. “Well it’s to be expected. I am the chief’s son after all,” he joked self deprecatingly.

“It must be tough, having all that responsibility…it seems like a lot of pressure if you ask me.” She reached up with her other hand to smooth a finger against the frown on his face. “You get a little crinkle right here every time you worry. I don’t like it,” she murmured.

He grinned at that.

“Now see…so much better already,” she said, lighting up at his expression.

He let out a breathy laugh and she found herself liking it much more than she probably should. As her eyes traced over his now relaxed features, she felt a little swoop in her tummy and she found that she could not look away.

“Thank you. I needed that,” he said, holding her gaze.

“Needed what?” she asked distractedly.

His attention flickered down to her lips fleetingly when he heard her change in tone. He blinked just realizing how close they were standing together, how easy it would be for him to-

He shook his head, as if that would erase the sudden thought in his mind. “You know, to talk about it, get it out- what I was feeling…A good laugh always helps too,” his speech slowed as he continued to stare.

Their locked gazes turned heated and the air was charged- both feeling the same thing.

Neteyam kept flickering between her pouty lips and brilliant eyes while she stared up at him as if he hung the moon itself.

“Well you know the saying… ” she murmured, and he nearly groaned out loud at the sound of her voice, it had turned low, almost husky.

“What saying?” he asked vaguely, unaware he was leaning in.

“What are friends for?…Spider taught it to me,” she said, in near whisper.

“Mhm, friends are the best…” he replied, his tone matching hers- he wasn’t sure he was even aware of what he was saying anymore.

Neteyam tried. He truly did.

Yet he couldn’t help himself could he?

Because the next thing he knew, he was shuffling closer, caging her against the massive stem of the plant with a hand above her head. She inhaled deeply and her heartbeat sped up as he tilted downward- their faces a mere inches apart.

“Neteyam,” she whispered almost inaudibly, wetting her lips in anticipation.

The moment he brushed a featherlight kiss against her lips, her eyes fluttered shut. He cupped her cheek and kissed her tenderly, as if she were delicate- breakable.

It was over before she knew it and the soft expression he shot her as he pulled away caused the little swoop in her tummy to somersault.

He cleared his throat as he straightened up, eyes diverted. Awkwardly scratching the back of his head he gestured to the clearing. “We should um- are you ready to finish the lesson?”

She grinned, and followed him with a little spring in her step. “If we must.”

It was later that week after a long morning on the trails and while they munched on the meal he packed for them that he finally broached a topic he knew she was daunting.

“The next Iknimaya ceremony is in the next two moons,” he stated simply, after he had his final bite of food.

She froze mid chew, cheeks a bit puffy, from the food in her mouth, tail slowed from its happy little wag. “So?”

He held a laugh- her new found sass was too much for him sometimes. “We’re almost getting closer to the end of your lessons, Xi.”

Xilä didn’t like where he was going with this already.

“Look I know you don’t like flying, but I don’t think you should rule out all your opportunit-”

“Your mother said I didn’t need to perform the ceremony to complete my lessons and secure my place,” she said panicked.

“And you don’t, that’s still a factor,” he soothed, his tail circling her outstretched ankle in comfort.

“Then why do you want me to do it?”

“Because I think you can. I want to help you face your fears.”

She contemplated his words. “I don’t mind never having to fly again and in any case, don’t only warriors and hunters have ikrans? Isn’t Iknimaya only for-”

“Not necessarily no. Many others went through the rites for various reasons. Whether to prove it to themselves or- look it doesn’t matter. Kiri’s got one,” he pointed out. “…but then again she is a special case.”

Trying to derail the topic she asked, “How is she a special case?”

“Because she did not have to struggle like anyone else. My sister simply walked into a nest of ikrans and asked one to claim her.”

Xi gaped, impressed. “Is that because of her special connection with Eywa?”

Neteyam nodded. “Now come on Xi, tell me what you think?”

Xi swallowed another bite and cleared her throat. “I don’t know ‘Teyam, can’t you just let me complete my lessons without it? I definitely know I won’t choose warrior or hunter and I don’t mind having a fear of flying…. So we can skip it. Please?”

Neteyam snorted, and released her ankle. “Nope,” he said, popping the P with a devilish smirk as he took a swig of water from their shared water pouch. He stretched out on his back against the forest floor, one hand propped behind his head.

“Why not?” she whined.

“Because Xi, I already told you. I think you have it in you,” he shrugged, closing his eyes contentedly. “I’m pushing you. Deal with it.”

Abandoning her leaf wrapped meal, she crept closer to him. “Neteyam.”

He was ignoring her, but the hint of a smirk and the twitch of an ear told her he was enjoying himself.

“Neteyam,” she called again, kneeling at his side, peering closer as if it would make him open his eyes. She huffed at his attics, hiding her own smile. He could be silly when he was ready, and seeing him like this in these little moments made her feel giddy.

With a serge of courage tinged with curiosity, she leaned in- balanced with a palm to his chest and pressed her lips to his. His eyes shot open in shock but he did not move away. If anything he closed his eyes again and kissed her right back, one large palm anchoring in her hair.

This kiss, unlike their first unspoken one, was exploratory.

She paid attention to what he did, how he moved, trying to mimic his actions with her own lips. Xi sighed against him when he tugged her closer, tilting his head to the right while she moved to the left.

Neteyam hummed against her lips, she could feel his smile against hers. When she pulled back she licked her lips- slightly dazed. The full blown heated gazed he laid on her caused the stirring between her legs to pulse.

“What are you trying to do sweetheart?” he taunted, squinting up at her suspiciously. “Are you trying to bribe me?”

“What? N- wait…is it working?” she asked hopefully.

Tossing his head back, he cracked up loudly. “Not even a little Xi. We’ll start training next week. Now come on, you're supposed to be practising your English.”

She pouted petulantly. “I do not like you today,” she said in perfect English.

Neteyam grinned. “Well I like you,” he teased as he sat up, reaching out to pull her close by the nape of her neck. And even though he knew he shouldn’t have, even though he knew it should have never happened before in the first place, he kissed her.

They ended up not getting any English lessons done that afternoon. They sat and made out until it was way past the time for them to get back.

He had to stifle his amusement when he swiped his tongue against her lips for the first time, she was shocked to say the least, judging by her little surprised squeak.

Then when he licked into her mouth- his tongue tangling with hers, she had pulled away looking completely scandalized by what he had done. Her facial expression alone had caused him to exhale a laugh as he grinned into her cheek.

And although she was momentarily shocked, she was quickly leaning in for more- gasping when he began to bite and suck on her bottom lip.

She was fucking adicting he thought- all sweet and delicious, it was difficult for him to stop. So he didn’t.

When they finally arrived back at her tent, that afternoon, Salveen had made him bend so she could reach to smack him upside the head like a naughty little Na’vi.

She scolded him for not only his rudeness towards her that morning but also for bringing Xilä back home so late.

He hid his smirk behind a cough when she asked, “What in Eywa’s name were you two doing for so long? Xilä and I have plans.”

Thank goodness for the elder’s terrible attention span. She moved to throw on a beaded shawl the exact moment Xi had turned a pretty shade of purple, unable to conceal her reaction like him.

He pressed a quick kiss against her cheek in goodbye while the elder’s back was still turned, loving the way her blush deepened.

As he made a dash out the exit, he could hear Salveen’s concerned fussing over Xilä. “Xi, darling are you unwell? You look quite flushed.”

Neteyam went easy on his trainee students that evening for the first time ever.

I'm here I made it! I apologize for my tardiness and any errors I missed in my haste to post this.

But you guyssss. They kissed! Eeeeep!

Okay as usual, lemme know what you think.

@jakesullyfatjuicypeen @granddearduck @riatesullironalite @strawberri-blonde

#neteyam #neteyam x oc #neteyam avatar #neteyam fic #neteyam x reader #neteyam fanfiction #neteyam sully #avatar twow

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doyozen · 1 year

Text

ROOM 37. haechan.

part 4. 6.8k words.

playlist here

in which she falls for the guitarist next door.

ft. jeno, renjun, jaemin, yangyang, xiaojun, kun, soobin, winter, yeji

genre enemies to lovers, band au

warning contains drinking, smoking, mature content, haechan is an asshole at first

❝that attitude of yours is awful,

lee haechan. i don't care how

hot you are.❞

❝you think i'm hot? how sweet.❞

stars luminated and danced in the night sky once the sun had fully set after the show. the friendgroup walked down the sidewalk under the lights of family businesses taking over the street, sticking close to one another as comfortable conversation filled the air.

the band had joined in on the friends strolling around tiresomely which had yangyang and xiaojun too interested in their lives as a local band, but sunny cautiously looked over her shoulder to scowl at their loud laughter. even haechan welcomed himself. even his girlfriend.

"are they dating?" jaemin asked to both yangyang and xiaojun silently, referring to youngmi and soobin holding hands.

xiaojun sighed as his thick eyebrows pushed together in thought, swishing the beer can in his hand around. "i actually have no idea."

"not officially," yangyang chimed in, "but i mean... look at them. they might as well put a title on it now."

"youngmi is kind of picky about the guys she dates so i have faith in this kid. he seems cool."

jaemin nodded, but stayed silent with nothing much to say about soobin, and the conversation about the pair remained short-lived.

youngmi kept her hand in soobins grasp as she became immersed in whatever it was sunny and eric talked about. mainly in attempt to drown out the voices from haechan and his girlfriend, the sound of their laughter that they didn't try to hard to conceal right behind her as they walked. her hand subconsciously squeezed soobins hand tighter when she suddenly felt insecure that they were laughing at her.

"dads started asking me for money again," youngja sighed as she twirled her fork around her food, feeling seemingly pull after a half empty plate.

the sisters sat in their favorite local diner together, as they did on their free time since kids. "really? you'd think him having a rich girlfriend the same age as you, he wouldn't have to do that anymore."

the elder shuttered at the thought, still feeling grossed out. "yeah, but apparently she wants to split up with him. i wish i could say i'm surprised but i'm used to it at this point."

as sad as it was, all three siblings were entirely used to watching their father go through girlfriends like nobodies business. they were all too familiar with him only contacting them when he needed something, even when they were kids, and once he started dating a woman the same age as youngja, they finally stopped having hope for his change.

"i wish he would just leave us alone forever," youngmi said, "i know he's our dad but life would legit be so much easier."

"i mean, i do too to an extent. i stopped believing he was gonna change but i don't know. something keeps telling me i shouldn't hold it against him if he ever actually wanted to change."

youngmi hummed, sipping on her lemonade. she didn't fully agree but she definitely understood where her big sister was coming from. "anything new with you lately?" youngja asked.

"i made some friends, met a guy, xiaojun came back, i hardly sleep at night because my neighbors kind of a dick. life is good." the two laughed at the final part of her sentence.

"i'm gonna need you to run that last one back."

youngmi huffed, "well, he's a guitar player and plays his little guitar for hours every single night and i hate to say it, but i think i got used to it."

"people can be assholes," youngja muttered, shaking her head at the thought.

and she was right.

"hey, i'm outside your place."

"...what?"

"sorry babe, i know it's early and sudden but can i ask you a favor?"

youngmi was barely awake when she answered a call from sunny, groggily humming as she stood up to go answer the door. sunny on the other side sent a wide grin. "good morning!”

the girl mumbled more incoherent words back as she moved to the side to allow her friend inside, still registering what was happening. sunny walked to the couch and plopped down, patting the seat next to her where youngmi trudged over lazily.

"what's up?" the younger yawned, her swollen eyes finally opening properly.

"can you come to dinner with me tonight?" she asked urgently.

"i'm flattered, but i only see you as a friend," youngmi joked back, earning a laugh and a light shove from the other.

"what i mean is, i have to go to dinner with my parents tonight but i cannot go alone. like i just can't. haechans bringing his girlfriend and it's bad enough that i have to hear my parents for an entire night, i don't wanna be a third-wheel in the process."

"not that i don't want to, but what about yeji or winter? or even eric?"

"the girls are busy and eric secretly can't stand my parents."

"okay, that sounds promising."

"i'm sorry, i know it sounds dreadful but i neeeeed you. i'll literally do anything."

the idea of spending a night with two adults she didn't know, a guy she can't stand, and his girlfriend (who she assumed was the same girl she met in the laundry room) who seemed just as bad as him, did not sound pleasing whatsoever. however, youngmi really had nothing better to do with her life. the least she could do was do this one favor for her friend.

"okay, yeah, i'll do it."

"holy shit, thank you," sunny sighed in relief, grabbing her friends face and placing a lingering kiss on her cheek, "i owe you. i'll pick you up tonight!"

the girl stood once sunny was out the place and had shut the door behind her. with another yawn, she moped back into her bedroom to go straight back to sleep.

hours later she was fully awake this time, no interruptions from friends asking for favors, no music or guitar playing. she now was rummaging through her clothes to find something decent to wear to dinner, awaiting a text back from sunny after asking her what she should wear.

when she finally responded and said it was quite the fancy restauraunt and to dress nice, she was in even more of a dilemma because she knew she hardly had a lot of clothes to begin with, let alone something formal. sunny seemed to have been too busy with something else to text back since when asked how nice, she kept it short by saying anything nice.

this didn't help at all.

youngmi decided finally with a plain black dress that hugged her body, one that she'd usually only wear on a normal summer day, but quite literally had no other option. she had no idea if it was too nice, especially paired with heals, but sunny had yet to open her phone and respond to the texts to the few mirror pictures sent from youngmi.

then by the time she did, she was already on her way to youngmis house and were running late. youngmi grabbed her things and quickly ran outside into the elevator and out the building.

"hi," she greeted sunny after she was inside her car, "i had no idea what to wear, i really hope this is okay."

"you look hot, please, and i'm wearing a dress too. if we were wearing anything else we'd be ridiculed by my mother."

"she sounds real nice."

the drive was silent, sunny growing more nervous as seconds went by and youngmi noticing her quietness and didn't want to further bother her by saying something stupid. the two were just a few minutes late, the others already seated and waiting.

"i see them," sunny said, stress clear in her voice. "if anything goes even a little bit left, we run."

youngmi laughed, though she was pretty sure sunny was completely serious, before their arms locked together and they went over to the table. her mom noticed them almost right away, a visible crease in her eyebrows from frowning an rapidly sending texts to her daughter asking when she'd arrive.

"sunhwa, you're late." she said, her voice low but just right amount of warning tone that easily made sunny fearful.

"i'm sorry, traffic was crazy," the daughter replied, leaning in to kiss her mother on the cheek before pulling away, "mom, this is my friend youngmi."

much like her son, their mother kept pretty much only one expression at all times. blank. her thin face accented by light makeup, the only pop of color being a bright red lip, only the smallest bit of wrinkles around her eyes with not even a slight grin.

"nice to meet you. mrs. lee, and that's my husband." the woman looked behind her and youngmi peered over her shoulder to give the man a slight wave, to which he responded with a friendly smile. "have a seat, ladies."

it was only then youngmi turned to make eye contact with haechan, as his eyes were glued to her the moment she made her presence at the table. she could see his piercings were gone, but didn't look for long as she sat down in between his girlfriend and sunny. the girl she met briefly in the laundry room made no attempt to seem even the slightest bit interested in the dinner, just latching onto haechan and her eyes looking everywhere that wasn't his parents.

sunny slipped her jacket off, twisting her body a bit to place it neatly on her chair when her mother scoffed. "i can't stand looking at those tattoos. you really ruined your body, sunhwa."

sunny kept her eyes ahead of her with a small sigh. "sorry you feel that way."

"i mean, how do you expect to get a real job with those? there's no way that can be ever deemed as professional."

"didn't we come here to eat? if i wanted to sit here and listen to you complain, i might as well just move back in with you." haechan stepped in, arms leaned against the table.

mrs. lee glared, lifting her head slightly before sucking her teeth. "right, okay."

"so youngmi," mr. lee began, trying to save the awkward atmosphere, "what do you do?"

"oh, i work at a record shop. i'm really big on music." the girl nodded, for some reason feeling embarrassed announcing her job to the table. the parents seemed well put together and probably expected more from her.

"really? my son here, he's in a band! they're amazing." the man beamed, smiling from ear to ear talking about his son.

"yeah, i've seen them. they're good!"

haechan couldn't have cared less about the conversation or the fact that he was being complimented, just stirring his straw around his glass mindlessly and slouching a bit in his chair like a child. he couldn't even bother at least saying thanks.

"i wish my kids would get real jobs." mrs. lee muttered.

"hey, didn't you say you make a good amount of money, doing gigs?" youngmi asked hesitantly, turning her attention to haechan and his eyes lighting up when he realized he was being spoken to.

"...yeah?" the boy replied with a 'so?' tone.

"money or not, it's not a career. he'll learn that someday."

"i have to use the bathroom," sunny interrupted as she stood up abruptly, "come with me."

before youngmi could think, sunny was practically dragging her to the bathroom, huffing loudly the second they were away.

"you see what i mean now, right? she drives me fucking insane." the girl rubbed her temples as if she felt a headache forming.

"she's kind of awful, i'm sorry."

"don't be. she is."

"i'm guessing that's haechans dad out there?"

sunny hummed with another sigh, turning to the mirror to fix her hair. "my dads a deadbeat, you'll probably never see him. i hardly even see him."

youngmi nodded at the situation that felt all too familiar. she was glad she at least wasn't alone in that. "do you wanna go? i can make up some dumb excuse to leave."

"nah, i'd never hear the end of it if i leave now. plus the food here is really expensive and really good, so we should stay here just to make my parents pay for our over-priced meal."

youngmi laughed, not fully hating the idea as she was just glad sunnys parents even offered to pay for everyones meals because the prices were nearly as much as her rent. the pair took their sweet time fixing themselves up in the restrooms to pass time before gathering back up the courage to get back to the table.

the rest of the meal was spent with more of their mothers complaining, bickering, haechans girlfriend speaking about absolute nonsense, haechan hardly speaking himself unless it was to protest about something he didn't agree with, and youngmi silently watching everything go down while chowing down on her food.

"thank you for dinner," she thanked mr. and mrs. lee, bowing politely before leaving the place as quickly as possible once it was over.

"we survived!" sunny exclaimed dramatically as the four young adults stood outside the restaurant, the sun fully set and now a fully luminated moon in the sky.

"i'm gonna wait in the car." the girlfriend huffed, moving her legs without waiting for anyone to respond.

sunnys eyes followed her, a glare and even a slight snarl over her face. "why are you still dating her?"

haechan, who held a cigarette stick between his lips and dug through his pockets for a lighter, turned to look at his sister. "because i like her, obviously."

"she's a dick. you really know how to attract your own kind."

"very funny."

before sunny could further insult him, she felt her phone vibrating from her purse and pulled it out. youngmi watched as her frown quickly turned into an annoyed expression. "i'll be back." was all she said before turning on her heal back into the restauraunt.

awkward silence filled the air with the occasional sound of the wind drifting past and light huffs of haechan exhaling smoke from this mouth. the two stood just inches apart from each other, but youngmi couldn't even look his direction. though she's called him names that aren't very nice, told him his head was big enough for her to further inflate his ego, but now she felt herself practically shaking in his presence.

"why'd you come?" he was first to speak up this time, startling youngmi as she finally looked his way.

"um, sunny asked me to."

"hm."

thinking he was going to say more, youngmi kept her attention on him and when she realized he was done, turned her head back with both embarrassment and confusion.

she took in a breath before reluctantly opening her mouth again. "i feel like we... we got off on the wrong foot. so, i wanna apologize for the stuff i said to you. that's not the type of person i am."

the dark-haired boy still kept his eye ahead of him, taking in another hit of the stick, it at this point being nothing but a nub before he let it fall to the ground. "you wanna apologize?"

"yeah, that's what i said."

now that youngmis eyes were ahead of her was only when haechan finally turned to look at her before chuckling lightly. "you'd be more likable if you weren't so... cautious of the things you say. you think i'm an arrogant, mediocre guitar playing, big-headed asshole? then fine, think that."

in simple words, that wasn't quite the response she was expecting. "i'd be more likable? that's so... that's just rude. i try to be nice to you but you have not once said a word to be that wasn't just fucking rude."

"the more you say it, the more i start to believe it."

"you shouldn't be proud of that."

"never said i was."

"you act like it."

a stupid little sly grin was now over the boys lips as he glanced at her again before looking straight ahead of him. "so you want me to say sorry now, or what?"

"not if its insincere, which i know it will be so don't bother." her voice got quieter as she grew more annoyed, crossing her arms.

"not a problem, youngmi," with his tone in voice emphasizing the way he said her name, she didn't get a chance to say anything back before he was walking to his car.

"oh my god, is that the park youngmi?" was the very first thing yangyang said when youngmi entered the doors of the record store. a frown followed by a laugh left her as she set her bag down.

"the hell you on about?"

"two of the guys in that band came by, asking for you," he said with a playful grin, "renjun and jaemin, i think? something like that."

the shorter froze in her feet for a moment, the frown reappearing. "...did they say why?"

"no. i told them you wouldn't be here until later and then they just went on buying records and shit."

youngmi nodded slowly, not sure of how to reply and couldn't think of any reason why them, of all people, would be asking for her. "that's weird."

"weird as hell. but like, also, can't even lie, they seem so cool. like they're in a band, and they just do whatever they want. is that not so sick to you?" the boy beamed, following youngmi around, as he usually did during their shifts.

"yeah it's cool, i guess," she replied, obviously not that interested in the conversation. "you can always be friends with them if you think they're so cool."

"um, wasn't it you saying not to get involved with them? for whatever reason?" yangyang said, crossing his arms. "no! all because you hate haechan. that's why."

a glare was shot quicker than yangyang could think from youngmi, but she realized he was right. "maybe i was wrong. not about haechan, about the other ones. because i know first hand that haechan is a prick, but from what i've seen from the other guys, maybe they're not all that bad."

youngmi was never the type to judge people based on first impressions, or gossip, because she knew she'd hate if people did that to her. the band, besides her neighbor, seemed normal as far as she'd seen. although her new friends seemed entirely sure of their opinions, and that the best option was just to stay away, maybe it wasn't really fair to do that.

"right, but, i've never seen so many people so interested in getting to know you. no offense."

"me neither."

it didn't stop there, of course. yangyang had left work while youngmi was just in the beginning of her shift, just in time for soobin to come strutting in. his big eyes lit up when they landed on youngmi, the corners of his lips curving upwards as he walked his tall body her way.

his hands behind his back and a lively expression on his face. "i brought you something."

confused, but still way too happy to see him, youngmi placed all of her attention on him. "yeah?"

he pulled his hands from behind his back, revealing an iced drink in his hand, which youngmi immediately thought there couldn't be anything more perfect on such a hot day. "for me?!"

"yes, duh," he chuckled, "here."

the girl happily took the drink from his hands, sipping on it and thanking him. "you didn't have to, but thank you."

"no, of course, i wanted to," soobin replied, leaning his side into a shelf, "i also wanted to ask if you were free tomorrow night?"

"yeah, i should be. what's up?"

"can i take you out on a date?"

the simple question that easily made youngmis heart beat faster than usual. the straw between her teeth bent down as a toothy grin formed while she nodded. "yes, you can."

the taller smiled the second he saw her smiling, his stomach twisting and turning at the sight, even more so when she agreed, trying hard to seem confident when he was really internally losing it. "okay! be ready by 6."

cliché was the word to use, but it didn't feel right to youngmi. she'd never met such a gentleman in her life and he was so her type, for the first time ever she was anticipating a date.

her sudden glow was so prominent for the rest of her shift, even kun was looking at her like she had two heads until she was fully out the door. unable to wait until she was home, youngmi spent the entire car ride gushing to sunny on the phone about the date, the girl on the other line being just as excited.

"i'm here," the sound of sunnys voice followed by the front door being slammed shut echoed through out the small space, "i came as quick as possible, but i can’t stay long. what's up, babe?”

youngmi had tried on about 5 different outfits in the span of 5 whole minutes, doing twirls and poses in her body length mirror, being completely unsatisfied with every single one of them. sunny happened to enter the place as she wore a tight lacy dress she bought when she was 18 without the intention of even wearing it.

"holy shit," she gasped, "you're fucking hot. tell me you're wearing that."

"thank you, but absolutely not. this is too... much. it's too much, right?" the girl huffed, getting ready to pry the dress off but was cut off by a knock at the door.

the two girls looked at each other, each with widened eyes of both fear and confusion. "...soobin?"

it was nowhere near 6.

youngmi stepped her bare feet out of the room and to the front door, sunny following closely behind to ensure she was there if someone needed to get knocked out. youngmi stepped up, looking through the peephole before turning back to sunny.

"who is it?"

"the guys, from the band? the one we saw?"

sunnys head cocked back in surprise, that being the last thing she expected to hear, and got ready to tell her friend not to open the door but was beat to it when youngmi swung the door open.

the three boys she knew as jeno, renjun, and jaemin stood on the other side, in their usual dark clothes and messy hair and piercing in their face and ears, paired with silver jewelry. they looked as if they were positive on having something to say once the door was opened, but suddenly couldn't even remember what it was when seeing youngmi in such a tight dress.

once she saw them eyeing her body with slightly parted lips, she quickly grew shy and crossed her arms. another minute went by with no one saying anything, and sunny couldn't stand it. "what do you dickheads want?"

"hm? oh," jeno was the first to speak up, "we were chilling at hyucks and he told us youngmi lived here, so we're saying hi!"

"okay! you said it! bye!" sunny wanted badly to urge them away, but they insisted.

"sunny, babe, when will you become nicer to us?" jaemin teased, his perfect playful smile over his lips.

the girls face twisted in disgust at the nickname, "don't call me babe. if you don't need anything else, be on your way—"

"what are we talking about?"

behind the guys of three, haechan appeared, entering the conversation which only made sunny become more irritated. youngmi still hadn't said a word, on the other hand, watching everything go down in her too revealing of a dress that all she wanted to do was change out of.

while her eyes were glued somewhere else, haechan couldn't help but notice the attire over her body. "you gonna invite us in, or what?"

youngmis eyes lifted up from whatever it was she stared at, getting ready to snap at haechan about how she didn't need to do anything before remembering who else was in front of her. the others didn't protest, perked up eyebrows as if they were waiting for her to invite them in, and she found it rude not to.

"um, come in," she said quietly, moving to the side to allow them in fully before closing the door. sunny grabbed onto her wrist before she could go anywhere. "i wish i could stay so you wouldn't have to be alone with these dorks, but i have work. let me know how the date goes, alright?"

youngmi nodded with a small smile, gently squeezing the girls hand. "don't worry about it, and i got you."

as the older stepped out of the door, closing it behind her, youngmi then realized she was fully alone with four boys she hardly knew. "it's crazy how identical your apartments are, yet youngmis is so much cleaner." renjun commented, plopping onto the couch.

"thank you?" the girl chuckled, "uh, i'm gonna change."

"change? why? you look good!" jaemin beamed.

she quickly felt her cheeks heat up from the compliment. "too revealing, but thank you." and scurried away into her room before the redness on her face became too noticable.

though she still had no idea what she was going to wear, she stripped out of the dress and rummaged through the pile of clothes she already went through piece by piece, settling with a mini skirt and a cute blouse, deciding it was just going to have to be good enough.

the four had already made themselves comfortable in her place, tv blaring and arguing over what to watch, haechan in the kitchen head first in the fridge. if it was anyone else, youngmi really wouldn't have minded, but everything haechan did just irked her soul.

her faint footsteps stopped just as he stood tall to look her in the eye, being the only two in the room with just the view of the back of the other guys' heads in their sight.

"why do you not have any alcohol?"

"i..." she started, feeling small, "i don't really drink. that's why."

"you should. i feel like you could use letting loose a little bit."

youngmi couldn't stand how condescending his tone was whenever speaking to her. he was always sarcastic, but never in the way it was when just talking to her. "i don't like it, so no thanks."

her arm reached down into the fridge, hand grasping at a water bottle but was stopped by being caught in haechans grasp. a small gasp left her lips, but he seemed unphased. "where are you going dressed like that?"

"a date."

"a date? like that?" a hoarse chuckle left his lips, making youngmis confident smirk leave her lips.

the two now too close to each other for her liking, her being able to see every single detail over his face, youngmi snatched her wrist away. "i didn't ask you for fashion advice, asshole."

"all good, sweetheart. whoever's taking you out must be really lucky." with his expression so blank, youngmi couldn't tell if he was genuine or not, but quickly realized he likely wasn't because that was just the person he was.

as it always went when talking to haechan, youngmi wasn't able to get another word out before the boy walked past her to the living room where the others were. youngmi inhaled a breath before exhaling deeply, reminding herself silently not to let this guy push her buttons as much as he was clearly intending to. giving him the reaction he was so craving would only motivate him further.

the clique had barely been in her home for no more than five minutes before youngmi decided she needed them to go to get ready.

"excuse me," she called politely, catching all four heads turning her way, "um, i have to get ready so.. sorry to cut your time short?"

they looked at her for another second, processing what she was saying, before standing up hastily. "no problem. sorry for bothering, love." renjun apologized.

"no, no! it's all good, just... yeah. you guys seem cool though, maybe another time?"

jenos hands found haechans shoulders, squeezing tightly as his eyes stared down youngmi while walking past her to the door until they were gathered near it.

admittedly, she almost felt bad kicking them out. they genuinely seemed like nice guys, as much as sunny wanted her to believe otherwise. she hoped this wasn't just her taking the too-trusting route over the safe route, giving them the benefit of the doubt, and wouldn't regret it at some point.

a tense sigh left youngmis lips as she read the text on her phone from soobin, telling her he was just outside her apartment building. somehow the outfit and hair she decided she was satisfied with looked awful to her suddenly, and she went back to her room before realizing it was definitely too late to change and left.

she was so nervous that she started overanalyzing every thing she was doing, from the way she held her purse, to the way she walked outside and approached soobins car. there was no doubt that she possibly looked like she had a cramp in her leg with the way her short legs moved.

once the boy heard footsteps his way, his head perked up while he was leaned against his car, immediately standing up straight with his signature charming smile that sent crazy butterflies to youngmis stomach. she felt her relax a bit when she noticed he was dressed pretty much the same as her, formal but not too formal as if they were going to a ball.

"wow, you look stunning," he complimented.

refraining herself from rejecting the compliment, youngmi waved him off. "ah, thank you! you look good!"

"thank you! just like, 5 minutes ago, i saw haechan and the guys leave."

"really? did you talk to them?"

"yeah, um, jaemin said you look really pretty. he was right." the boy laughed awkwardly.

"oh, yeah, they stopped at my place to say hi. i told you that haechans my neighbor, right?"

soobins already high eyebrows perked up, shaking his head lightly, as if the news was more surprising than it should've been. "he is?"

youngmi hummed in response and the two didn't say anything else as soobin opened the passenger door, a flustered grin growing on her face as she stepped inside before he went on the other side.

the night was warm, as it was during summer nights, cool air from the car air conditioning causing goosebumps to cover youngmis bare arms and legs. the excited smile couldn't leave her face as soobin drove the bumpy roads and past the little buildings on each street.

"where are we going?" she turned to ask, unable to fight the curiosity.

the grin on his face further grew, but his eyes remained on the road. "there's this restaurant i really like not too far, and i wanted to take you there because the food is amazing."

they passed all the typical restaurants youngmi has seen and even been to herself, all cheap and easy but had some really good food. she didn't make a whole lot of money, and spent way too much time at family owned places and fast food services that quickly got tiring before she decided she definitely needed to start cooking for herself.

the last thing she expected however, was for soobin to pull into one of the most expensive places in town. even from the outside it was obvious the place was not cheap, with its fancy build and beautiful lights on the outside. not to mention it was huge, much bigger than an average restaurant.

the girl gasped lightly when she realized they weren't driving past. "soobin... this place is—”

"i know, i know," he laughed, "it's probably too much, it's just—when i like someone, i wanna be spontaneous and all that. i hope you don't mind."

don't mind? this is outrageous. "no! no, it's perfect, you're perfect. this is so expensive, i just... i can't afford it."

after fully putting the car in park, soobin turned his head to look at her. "youngmi, that's okay. you didn't think i asked you out to make you pay, did you?"

"no! of course not, but seriously i can't let you—"

youngmi stopped herself when she felt the boy grab onto her hand, not letting her further talk herself out of letting him do something nice. "hey, i promise it's fine. i got it!"

his doe eyes made it impossible for her to say no, just nodding her head as the two stepped out of the vehicle and walked inside together arm in arm. the sound of chatter hugged youngmis ears and she instantly felt out of place, watching people who more than clearly looked like they had a lot of money eat their exquisite meals.

she hated when people did anything for her, of course she was grateful, but she felt bad people wasting their time on her even if it was the smallest thing. she knew she was going to have to do something even better for soobin after this, she just didn't know what.

a hostess didn't waste a second lifting his eyes at the sound of the door being pushed open, a friendly smile formed over his lips. the talking from the people surrounding them made it hard to hear, but soobin held up two fingers and the hostess nodded, immediately understanding and signaling for them to follow.

youngmis arm found its way hooked into his own, keeping her body close to his as they past tables of guests enjoying their over-priced small-portioned meals.

just moments later they were sat a cornered table, a booth with a perfectly round cushion with just enough room to give space between the two. a menu was handed to each of them, giving a kind smile to the hostess before they left the two alone.

the night was luminous with stars and the infatuated pair sat with plates of expensive food half eaten in front of them, other guests already begun leaving but youngmis ears were occupied with soobins chatter with stories from when he was younger.

he had endless things to talk about, and she loved listening to it. she just couldn't relate to a single thing he said. their lives were incredibly different and it almost felt embarrassing comparing her troubled childhood to his, which seemed perfect.

eventually the conversations died down and nothing else was left to be talked about, awkward silence filling the air between them while their eyes wandered everywhere but each others.

"should we head out?" the boy asked, eyes glancing between the food they were no longer touching.

youngmi hadn't realized her slight slouch until the question made her sit up straight immediately. "yeah, definitely."

after a check had been paid, the two were walking out the doors of the restaurant and to soobins car. his hands tapped against the steering wheel during the quiet drive to distract himself from feeling a slightly uncomfortable atmosphere, while youngmis stayed on her lap with her eyes on the road ahead.

for the event that had youngmis heart beating out of her chest the entire day, she hated how in that moment she was just a little disappointed with the outcome. with it being the first real date she's ever been on, she didn't fully know what to expect or how she was supposed to feel by the end of it.

too tuned into her thoughts, she hadn't realized where they were until she felt soobin slow down in front of her apartment building. a hand brushed through her hair to get it out of her face before turning to the boy, who was already looking at her with a small grin.

"that was really fun," he spoke quietly, as if the moment was delicate. youngmi nodded, too immersed in the way he looked at her as he unbuckled both of their seatbelts.

snapping back to reality, the girl followed his movements and opened the car door, stepping out into darkness with nothing but a street lamp giving light to the two. the atmosphere was still warm, just a breeze giving a slight chill across their bodies.

stopping just outside the doors of the building, they turned to each other. "thank you, so much for dinner. i did have a great time and you were right, the food was amazing."

the pair stood in silence for a moment and youngmi could've sworn she was hallucinating when she saw him slowly lean in. it wasn't until his eyes started to flutter closed when she panicked and jumped back. "uh—sorry."

fuck this is so embarrasing.

"oh! no, sorry. sorry. i don't know what i was thinking," the boy pulled back, awkwardly holding his nape. "i'll get going."

the girl could feel herself wanting to curl up into a ball and pray for the awkward feeling to go away. the second soobin was out of sight her hand flung up to her forehead.

"what a way to reject someone," the sound of another's voice caused youngmi to jump ten feet into the air, turning her head in the direction of the sound just in time to catch haechan dropping a cigarette to the ground and squashing it with the tip of his feet.

"jesus—what are you doing here?" the girl asked, holding a hand to her pounding heart.

with one hand shoved in his pocket, he gestured with the other one the bud he'd just dropped, "smoking. obviously."

his tongue grazed over his ringed lip as his eyes moved to hers, watching her blank expression move into pure irritation while a heavy sigh left her lips. he didn't move his vision away when she didn't say another word, just opening the doors and walking inside. his head shook slightly, fighting laughter behind a small grin as he followed her inside.

"not gonna tell me how your date went?" he taunted, standing beside her when she stopped at the elevator.

"don't follow me."

"we live on the same floor, darling, i can't not follow you."

youngmi kept her eyes ahead at the elevator door that opened after what felt like forever, stepping inside while haechan followed after.

"is it safe to assume it didn't go great?" he asked again once the door was closed.

"no, it went great, haechan." she muttered.

the taller felt himself freeze up at hearing her say his name, relaxing quickly and going back to his usual self before he thought too much into it. "yeah? why didn't you kiss him then?"

honestly? because it didn't feel right. maybe because it was only our first date, maybe the fact i feel like we didn't click and we might never click after this. "some people don't kiss on the first date, believe it or not."

haechan chuckled. "some people are pussies."

"what? no?" the girl exclaimed, dropping her crossed arms to her sides.

"never said it was a bad thing. if you wanna be a pussy, go for it."

a scoff instantly left youngmis mouth as she shook her head, a million different things to say back running through her mind but didn't want to give him what he wanted, though it pained her not sending some snarky remark back to him.

silence fell between them with nothing but muffled elevator music playing, and though they were only going to the third floor, it felt like the they were on their way past the clouds. youngmi hadn't realized how close together they stood until the light scent of cologne entered her nostrils. it was the farthest thing from overbearing, so pale of smell that it just made haechan that much more attractive.

he let out a huff as he impatiently rocked on the heels of his feet, his hands shoved into his pockets with his elbow occasionally brushing against her body. the small motion easily caused her heart to beat faster than it should've been.

when the elevator door finally slid open, she practically flew out of there with haechan slowly trailing behind as they walked to their doors.

youngmi felt the breeze from his body as he passed her to his own, pulling out his keys lazily in contrast to her rummaging through her purse as if her life depended on it.

he seemed the notice the eagerness the second his eyes moved her way, as he was always so entertained watching her do anything. "that eager to get away from me, huh?"

the girl finally lifted and turned her head to make eye contact with him. "do you ever have anything, you know, not sarcastic to say?"

haechan tapped his index finger to his chin; sarcastically, pretending he was thinking hard about what to say next. "probably not."

a small sigh fell from youngmis face. "you're such an asshole." before finally jamming the keys into the doorknob and twisting open her apartment door.

part 1

part 2

part 3

taglist (comment to be on it) @matchahyuck @sundamariis

#nct dream #nct #nct fanfic #haechan #nct x oc

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