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itostea · 9 months

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about you (rin x reader)

warnings: grumpy x sunshine!!! childhood friends to lovers, reader is delulu, image from our secret alliance

a/n: i had to title the fic about you since it was playing in the bg 😭😭

Being a teenage girl meant a few things. Consuming random content about silly romances and squealing over pixels; experimenting with make-up at 3 a.m; screaming at the top of your lungs to songs about heartbreak.

It also meant going delusional over your crush. In your situation, crush means your childhood friend, Rin Itoshi. Though he wasn’t yours. Not yet at least.

“Rinnie!” you greet him, not noticing the looks of bewilderment from his team. He’s calm, unlike his teammates or who he commonly refers to as npcs in his messages with you.

You already told him over the phone that you were going to visit him for a while. And to your surprise, he offered his place for you to stay at—telling you that it wasn’t a big deal since the house was too big for one person.

You think you must’ve saved a kingdom in your past life from how fortunate you’ve been lately. Like how even now, you were to manage to land early enough to visit him at practice. You’re so ecstatic that his team thinks you might be glowing.

“I found some sandwiches on my way here! You want some? Here let me go to you!” You chirp, running freely so freely that you don’t even notice the ball beneath your feet. Your ears pick up a few warnings and the sound of multiple footsteps. Yet your body picks up the feeling of a pair of strong arms and the familiar scent you’ve grown to love.

Disbelief washes over his team as they see how Rin quickly moved to catch you and their mouths are left open when they see him actually being gentle. You laugh awkwardly as you peer up at Rin who just sighs. “Idiot.”

“Hello to you too Rinnie,” you chuckle, letting him take your bag from you.

He frowns, seeing how the bags were piled with sandwiches. “Don’t call me that here. And why’d you buy so much?”

“For your team of course!”

“Why the hell would you spend your money on these shitheads—“

“Now c’mon Rinrin,” a deep voice snickers and you’re startled at the pair of pink hues that stare down at you. Your lips part, eying his tanned skin and hair of shades of blonde with pink streaks. “If a pretty lady’s offering to feed ya, you gotta say thank you right?”

“I didn’t ask you, antennaed freak. And stop calling me that.”

“Lighten up,” he grins, shifting his attention to you.

Your eyes widened in recognition, hands reaching to grab Rin’s arm—moving it so you could pull a wrapped sandwich out. “You must be Shidou right? I’m—“

“(Name) right? Heard all about you from this guy.” He takes the sandwich from, his hands purposely lingering on your palm.

Rin’s fast to shove Shidou’s hand off of yours. “Hands off.”

“What? You gonna make me?”

“You picking a fight—?“

“Rinnie talks about me?” You beam, ignoring the tension in the air. His teal-colored eyes widened, as if suddenly caught. You don’t let him stop you, instead making your way in between them to beam at Shidou. “What does he say?”

Shidou blinks, lips falling into a wide grin. “I might tell you if you let me take you ou—“

“Cut it out,” Rin’s voice interrupts, his eyes twitching in irritation.

“Are they good things?” You question, ignoring Rin’s look of exasperation.

“You bet. He talks about how pretty your eyes are and how he wants to kiss—“

“No I don’t,” your friend retorted sternly, sighing as he saw the hearts that were forming in your eyes. His hues take a moment to scan your appearance, noticing how you spent some time touching up. “You look different.”

“He means you look cute. Right Rinrin?” Shidou provokes.

“Really? That’s great because I’m trying to impress Rinnie right now!”

Both men watch in silence. You’re sure the whole field just heard that but Rin thinks you’re too oblivious to notice—sighing when you blink as a couple of his teammates give you a thumbs up as motivation.

Rin feels himself growing warm, red dusting his cheeks. He glances at you—how you smile so brightly at him. Only him. For a second, he forgets about the people around him, merely focusing on the way you grin at him. He would’ve enjoyed this moment longer if not for a shit-eating grin appearing next to him.

“Oh? Are you blushing Rin—?”

“Shut up antennaed freak,” he huffs, pulling on your arm. Rin’s eyes flit to you and how you eagerly anticipate his next move. He sighs. “We’re leaving.”

“We are? W-Wait the sandwiches!” You yelp, setting the basket on the ground as he drags you away from his team—his grip surprisingly gentle despite its firmness. You gesture at the basket, waving at his team who seem to be more bewildered at the sight of Rin pulling you away.

You smile as he opens his car door, ushering you in with a grunt. “Did you take a taxi here?”

“That’s right! Why? Did you want to pick me up instead?” you chirp.

He enters the driver’s seat, ignoring your question in his usual manner. He’s already reaching forthe seatbelt besides you, buckling you in—his scent filling your senses. Oddly enough, Rin doesn’t hear any playful remarks leaving your lips. Instead, he’s face-to-face with pursed lips and an expression that’s unmistakably embarrassment.

Oh shit, he thinks. Not again. That feeling swelling in his stomach returns, suffocating the car with tension. You’re not given much time to dwell on the pink that dusts his cheeks momentarily as he’s already reaching for his phone. “Here.”

The tension’s forgotten and it’s hard to slow your rapid heartbeat. You blink rapidly, your lips falling into a big grin once you realize his intentions. “I thought you hated my ‘lukewarm love songs.’”

“I never said that.”

“Oh? So you do like them!”

“I never said that either. Just take my phone already or else I’ll get mad. My arm’s hurting, idiot.”

“Liar. I know you like me too much to get mad,” you muse, taking his phone to open Spotify. You’re already humming to the first song that plays.

He knows you’re teasing but it’s hard to brush off the comment. Rin’s lips twitch, finding it amusing that some parts of you stayed the same since you two were children. You were always clinging onto him—making him listen to your random delusions or listen to you sob about some silly romance novel.

He knows you like stupid tropes about enemies to lovers and your strange obsession with sharing a bed. He knows that you have strange tastes and he’s never pass on making fun of you for that. He knows you like those cringey couple nicknames because they make you laugh. He also knows he doesn’t have a single romantic bone in him but for once, he doesn’t mind doing what the poets do.

You’re still humming, oblivious to what kind of thoughts linger in his brain. He hums. “Yeah. You’re right.”

“Right about what?” You ask, bemused at his sudden comment. He’s quiet, a ghost of a smirk on his face. You’re not sure if it’s the fact that About You by The 1975 is playing but the atmosphere makes you catch on far too quickly.

“Oh my god,” you say too quickly. “Rinnie do you like me? Rinnie? Stop the car! Rinnie tell me!”

Your constant pleading does little to dissuade him as he laughs silently to himself—the sight rare even for you. “You do! You do! You like me!”

“Shut up or else I’m taking the phone away.”

“That’s mean! Wait a minute, that means we’re dating now right? Does that mean I can call you pookie wookiee—?”

“No.”

“Oh you didn’t say no to us dating! You can’t take it back!”

He sighs again, smiling softly. Feelings are weird, Rin thinks. They’re even weirder when confronted but he doesn’t mind doing that when it’s for you. He sighs for the nth time.

“Idiot. Why would I take that back? You said it yourself. I like you too much.”

The car’s silent and About You is still playing. It’s silent and Rin can’t resist glancing over at you, his eyes widening slightly. He suddenly understands why you go so crazy for those books and shows of yours—the ones about love. Since seeing you wear such an expression is enough to make him realize that love isn’t so bad after all.

#itoshi rin x you #rin itoshi x reader #blue lock #bllk #bllk x reader #blue lock x reader #fluff #rin x reader #rin itoshi #itoshi rin #rin x you #rin itoshi x you #bllk fluff #childhood friends

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blackbutler-readerinsertsandjunk · 6 months

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Hello again!! Tomorrow is my birthday 🙈 so I just wanted one more self indulgent request!!

Could I please request phantom fam (plus snake) x maid reader, who is the newest addition but has been a great addition to both the staff and the weird little family so they are all secretly throwing a lil surprise party? Like the whole ‘avoiding said person and giving weird awkward short answers’ to keep the party a secret? Then of coarse the reveal and cute cake?!?

Many thanks to you 🥰

I'm sorry I didn't get this out for your birthday this year, but I hope you had a good one!!

also AAAAAAAAAAA <3

When SNAKE scurries away from you with little provocation, you don’t really think much of it.

After all, the poor man is still adjusting to life here in the manor. (Similarly to you. If you’re remembering correctly, he arrived just a few weeks before you did.) Not only that, he seems quite skittish in general, so it’s no big surprise that he’s shying away from social interaction. As welcoming as you try to be, there’s only so far that can go toward someone who’s naturally anxious.

However, when FINNY makes an excuse as to why he can’t spare a moment to chat today, you find it odd. After all, that man is as sunshine as they come! He always has a minute to talk to you, to make jokes, maybe even give you a little hug. He’s never beat feet from you no matter how busy things are.

And SEBASTIAN and BARD have been acting strangely too, seemingly in tandem; Bard all but shoos you away from the kitchen, telling you Sebastian will bring you something to eat and a glass of water. Certainly, you can understand that Bard says he’s trying to concentrate on a complicated dish and so can’t have anyone else in the kitchen… it’s just odd that he’s suddenly so focused.

Sebastian is a strange case. He’s not one who engages in too much idle chitchat, so you can believe that he doesn’t want you distracting Bard. Still, something about it strikes you as very strange.

Then there’s MEY RIN, who nearly falls down a flight of stairs in an attempt to run off in the opposite direction when she sees you coming. Even when you try to hurry over to make sure she’s alright, she yells that she’s fine and she needs you to go remake the master’s bed because she mussed it up.

Honestly, your young master might be the worst. CIEL is a bit cold to most people, but today it’s as if he barely has a word for you. He keeps giving you short, clipped orders, without so much as glancing at you.

You like to think of yourself as a resilient person. Today, though… it feels almost as if the entire household wants nothing to do with you. That stings, especially today.

You’re sitting on Ciel’s bed which you’ve just remade, intending to smooth the bedclothes out one last time once you stand up. You can’t help wondering if you’ve done something wrong, or if perhaps your presence simply isn’t a good fit for this household after all. It’s unfortunate, really ― you thought you were getting on so well with everyone.

Maybe not. They’ve all made up some reason to not be around you today, and not one of them has remembered…

Before you know what’s happening, Finny is in the room, so fast it’s as if he were a bullet shot from a gun. “(Name)! (Name)! Come with me, hurry! We need you!”

“Wha ― Finny!!” He’s so terribly strong, all you can really do is let him pull you down the hall. “What’s going on?!”

By the time he stops to answer, the two of you are at the top of the stairs. He takes your hands, gently, and looks in your eyes rather earnestly. “I hope you can forgive us all, but I think we’re about to make up for how confused we’ve made you today!”

You shake your head. “What on Earth do you mean, Finny?”

“Close your eyes and I’ll lead you downstairs! C’mon!”

The only option you have is to do as he says, right? Your curiosity won’t let you just turn around or go down yourself. So you close your eyes, letting him lead you down.

Even after the two of you get down the stairs, he keeps walking you. “Can I open my eyes now, dear?”

“Almost! I’ll tell you when.” A few more steps, and… “Alright, alright! Open them!”

You oblige as he lets go of your hand. What you see when you open your eyes is… the whole rest of the staff gathered in the parlor, along with your master. There are a few decorations strewn about, and a painstakingly detailed two-tier cake sitting on the table.

What’s more, before you’ve even processed everything, everyone chimes in borderline practiced harmony: “Happy birthday, (Name)!” (Well, with the exception of Snake adding in a quiet, “Says Webster.”)

You’re surprised you don’t fall back flat on the floor.

Is this what they were all avoiding you today for? So they could catch you off guard after pretending like none of them remembered your birthday?

Quickly, your eyes start filling with tears, and your hands fly up to cover your face. Oh, it would be so embarrassing to cry in front of Ciel and your coworkers, but… “I-I thought you’d all forgotten…”

“Of course not, my lady.” Sebastian steps forward, reaching to replace Finny’s hands with his. “Our sincerest apologies for making you think that. We had to keep you away until everything was just so.”

“We wanted you t’ ‘ave a special first birthday with us, we did!” Mey Rin pipes up, giving you a bright smile.

Bard clicks his tongue as he lights up the single candle on the cake. “Oi, sorry, it took me way too damn long with the cake, even with Mister Sebastian’s help. We didn’t mean t’ keep you waitin’ quite this long.”

You almost don’t notice Snake walking up beside you, until he gives you a pat on the shoulder. “We’re both new here… says Webster. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one struggling to adjust.”

Ciel silences everyone else by stepping forward. “(Name). I want to officially welcome you to the estate. Like it or not, you’re a Phantomhive servant now. If you don’t feel you can carry yourself with pride for any other reason, do so for that reason.” You swear you see his lips quirk up briefly, though it’s gone as soon as you notice it. “That isn’t a request; that’s an order.”

Sebastian moves his hands from yours to set his on your shoulders, gingerly guiding you forward. “Come, come. You must be looking forward to your cake. Do be sure to make a wish as you blow out the candle, won’t you?”

You look around the room before nodding. You feel so overwhelmed, you don’t even know what to say. “Th… thank you, everyone. Mister Sebastian… Bard… Mey Rin… Finny… Snake… a-and… and Lord Phantomhive. Thank you so much. I… I can’t tell you how much all of this means to me…”

Well, the best gratitude is to make sure your wish is a good one, isn’t it? You take a breath, then lean forward and blow out the candle. Knowing Bard, you’re shocked it isn’t some kind of sparkler.

There’s a scattering of applause among everyone else as you lean back, then Sebastian moves around you to start cutting the cake.

“What did you wish for? Asks Donne.” Snake tilts his head at you, briefly, before eyeing the cake with the gaze of a child in a sweets shop.

“Oh, Snake, you can’t ask her that!” Mey Rin chides. “She can’t say! If she says what it was, it won’t come true!”

“It won’t?! No, I suppose it won’t, Donne…”

Surrounded by people who truly care about you, for the first time in a long time… you feel like you belong somewhere. And you feel like even if you say something, your wish will probably come true. But you’re not taking the chance, because you’ve never wanted a wish to come true more in your life.

I wish… I get to celebrate my birthday here with my new friends next year, too. And the year after that. And every year until they tire of my company.

(Though, you get the sense they never will.)

#tehgreatboo #Black Butler #Kuroshitsuji #Bard #Ciel #Finny #Mey Rin #Sebastian #Snake #reader insert #platonic #friendship #fluff #AAAAAAAAAA #one hell of a queue

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survivalistghost · 1 year

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Top 10 kdrama friendships that had me bawling

#10 - alchemy of souls : mu deok/bo yeon + the boys

the only reason this doesnt get a higher rating is because they just didnt have enough scenes together. it was always pretty secondhanded, like the boys helping her with her servant exam in s1, or scenes between seo yul and mu deok/bo yeon. however, their friendship was amazing, and just adore this show in itself.

#9 - doom at your service : tak dong kyung, na ji na and cha joo ik

okay, they weren't a trio, necessarily, but they had such a great friendship through indirect interaction. joo ik and dong kyung had such a wholesome excited little sister and passive older brother relationship. and dont even get me started on the cuteness that was the friendship between na ji na and tak dong kyung.

#8 - strong girl do bong soon : do bong soon and gyeong shim

i wrote about this in my review of strong girl dbs as well, and the friendship between gyeong shim and dbs was so cool because both women were willing to go to such lengths for each other. one of the lesser-highlighted friendships of kdramas.

#7 - crash course in romance : nam haeng son and kim young joo

it takes a lot to sacrifice your national sports for your friend, and young joo made that sacrifice like a pro. their friendship was so cute, a bit annoying at times, but cute nonetheless. they were there for each through the goods and the bads, and that's all we really ask for.

#6 - lovestruck in the city : lee eun oh, suh rin i and kang geon

why! are! they! not! talked! about! ultimate peak best friendship, no romantic subplots to this gang, absolute delights. everyone should give lovestruck in the city a try.

#5 - twenty five twenty one : the gang

how could i say friendship and not have these people. this gang singlehandedly and platonically had enemies to besties, childhood besties, sunbae besties and just everything. right in the feels.

#4 - weightlifting fairy kim bok joo : the trio + the boys

the 'swag' trio. every time they did the swag thing it made me cringe so bad but they were very cute. the rooftop scene was legit so cute and the addition of the boys was even better. nothing beats these weightlifting girls and we stan.

#3 - extraordinary attorney woo : woo young woo and choi su yeon

this was sosososososo cute. the way su yeon was literally always there for young woo. she couldve easily been a villain, young woo took the guy she had a crush on, was higher in grades and well known. had an influential background. such telltale signs of bad women in kdramas. BUT this amazing person really was so good with young woo and totally spring sunshine su yeon.

#2 - the fabulous - the gang

everyone seems to hate the fabulous. genuinely, come at me. i dont give a shit about cinematic art or marketing strategies or whatever, this is my opinion gonna stick to it. i ADORED the fabulous. their gang was so amazing, the definition of supportive, cute and somehow maintaining that joke around stuff. they had their little pairs in the middle as well, but that didnt take away the overall love. go watch it.

#1 - hospital playlist - the band

im a recent to hosplay bandwagon, but. i fell in love. finished the (almost) entire show in nearly a week, an achievement considering it's my finals rn. we've got the piggies, buddha who is catholic, the guy who knows everybody and his dad. it was the little things with them for me, really. when they called jeong won andrea like that was so cute. when jun wan called seok hyeong ik jun's dad it made me laugh so much. and the fact that they're really not that close when u think about it but they still are? like that is adult friendships and we love.

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kdramaqween · 4 months

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To finish off the year, here's my TOP 23 Ships from dramas I watched in 2023

1. Kim Doo Shik ♥ Lee Mi Hyun

Moving

2. Cha Jin Woo ♥ Jung Mo Eun

Tell Me That You Love Me

3. Seo Do Guk ♥ Han Yi Joo

Perfect Marriage Revenge

4. Xin Qi ♥ Min Hui

The Love You Give Me (C-Drama)

5. Choi Kang Ho ♥ Lee Mi Joo

The Good Bad Mother

6. Dongfang Qincang ♥ Xiao Lanhua

Love Between Fairy and Devil (C-Drama)

7. Jung Ki Ho ♥ Seo Mok Ha

Castaway Diva

8. Moon Jang Yeol ♥ Bong Ye Bun

Behind Your Touch

9. Gu Won ♥ Cheon Sa Rang

King the Land

10. Cho Yong Pil ♥ Cho Sam Dal

Welcome to Samdalri

11. Yoo So Joon ♥ Song Ma Rin

Tomorrow With You

12. Kang Hee Shik ♥ Kang Nam Soon

Strong Girl Namsoon

13. Dong Go Yun ♥ Jung Da Eun

Daily Dose of Sunshine

14. Gong Tae Gyeong ♥ Oh Yeon Doo

The Real Has Come

15. Jang Seon Gyeol ♥ Gil Oh Sol

Clean With Passion for Now

16. Cha Min ♥ Cho Se Yeon

Abyss

17. Heo Joon Jae ♥ Shim Cheong

Legend of the Blue Sea

18. Kim Tae Hee ♥ Baek Dong Joo

May I Help You

19. Jung Gu Won ♥ Do Do Hee

My Demon

20. Nam Si Heon ♥ Han Jun Hee

A Time Called You

21. Jang Tae Sang ♥ Yoon Chae Ok

Gyeongseong Creature

22. Lee Kang ♥ Moon Cha Young

Chocolate

23. Cha Eun Ho ♥ Kang Dan Hee

Romance is a Bonus Book

#kdrama #top 23 ships of 2023 #shut up jo #my top

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mayskalih · 6 months

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Hey!

Last time I asked about anime recommendations and it was nice to add some to my list.

I love your Kakashi art, your Sasori art and I am happy about it, tbh.

When I was younger, I used to like the idea of Kakashi and Tsunade instead of Jiraeya, cause I felt like he waited to long for her and those two are more fierce.

And I also ship Sakura with Sasori and Gaara.

I feel like the pink and red is just so aesthetic and even tho I liked Sakura and Sasuke individually, I wanted to see her with Gaara, cause is also strong, similar to Sasuke but a healed and mature, caring person while Sasuke was heartbroken and focused on revenge cause of Itachi, Madara, Obito etc

Plus, she wanted to be like a doctor, she is a healer and I imagine that she'd heal Gaara heart.

But Sasori is like her assigned enemy, some people view her as the protagonist kind version of Konan, but I do not see it.

Deidara goes for Sasuke, Sasori for Sakura and from what I remember, Naruto goes against Pain.

I wanted to ask what are your opinions of Naruto and Boruto.

Who are your favourite characters and why?

Are there any characters you dislike? I remember you said that Minato hurt a lot of your favourites (Obito I assume, the uchihas).

Who are your favourite characters to draw?

Do you like the changes in Boruto? Like Orochimaru being way more kind or Sarada unlocking sharigan cause of love for Boruto instead of hate..like most of her clan?

Are there any characters you relate to?

Who are your favourite canon ships and non canon ships?

I am just grateful cause you are so talented and so open about these rare ship yet never critical over what the community likes, I wish more people in this fandom were like this.

Hiii! Thank you for sharing your opinion. I hope you are then ready for my essay below :3 I don't watch Boruto so will only talk about Naruto.

My all-time favourite characters are Kakashi, Zabuza, Sasori, Tsunade. I fell for them as a dumb teenager and carried my love for them through the ages. Can't explain why, they are very hot, strong and at the same time weak, have an emotional baggage that is interesting to explore. Plus they are not the main characters, I really like that. I also very much like Konan, Jiraiya, Sakura and Kisame.

The character I don't like is definitely Minato. He's this sunshine boy (which I don't like to begin with) who fails, and fails badly. But no one really gives him a hard time and he doesnt acknowledgeit himself. I think he's lacking the character, so-called oomph, so looks very boring to me, I guess. I also don't like Obito, another sunshine boy (initially). Too much energy, too hard to handle. And probably any Uchiha in general are not my fave.

When it comes to drawing, I always prefer drawing women. Sakura, Ino, Tsunade and Rin are the ones I draw most, but I honestly like all of them when it comes to making pretty arts.

Kakashi has always been a person who I aspired to be since I was 13. I did relate with Sakura when I rewatched naruto in my mid twenties, felt that we both grew up together.

I generally don't find the appeal of canon ships. It feels like there's no magic. I'm always interested in the 'first' events, and allt he firsts in canon are kind of done. For non canon ships, I have plenty. Kakasaku, Sasosaku, Inosaku, Zabukaka, Kisasaku, Kakatsu, Jiratsu, Kakarin, Shisaku.. the list can go on!

#sasha asks

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bebutings · 2 years

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A letter from Gab-gab to his girl.

Hellooooo, my love, my Chelsy!

It’s been a while. Mahigit isang buwan na pala tayong wala sa isa’t-isa. I miss you so much, baby ko! I hope everything’s going well for you, mahal. I can see that you’re having the best time of your life naman so far, sana magtuloy-tuloy lang ‘yan, mahal ko. Masaya ako para sa’yo, masaya akong nakikita kitang masaya.

Andito lang ako, langga ha. Hindi ako nawala kahit kailan. Minamahal pa rin kita kagaya ng dati, kagaya noong tayo pa. Higit pa nga siguro ngayon. Sa sobrang pagmamahal ko sa’yo, bebu, napagtanto ko na kailangan ko pala mawala para maging masaya ka.

Ali misses you too, Mama Chel. Lagi pa rin namin dalawa pinapanood videos mo sa gabi at talaga nga naman napapangiti lagi ang Ali boo natin sa videos mo. Mahal na mahal ka namin, Mama Chel. He’s a litol sick lang these past few days but he’s going to be okay!

Miss na miss ko kayo ni Mama. Palagi mo siya aalagaan ha? Our precious queen! I’m sure Mama is also having the best time of her life cos solo niya ang kaniyang bunso at no no kulit Gab-gab. I love you and Mama so much, bebu. She’s my dream mom! And you are my dream girl. You are so lucky to have her as your mom. Sana matupad mo lahat ng pangarap mo para sa kaniya, bebu ko.

Our litol business is going really well these days, langga. It keeps me busy but always in a good way. Ikaw ang nagbigay inspirasyon sa akin na simulan ito eh. This is ours, baby. Thank you for giving me the courage to get out of my comfort zone, babe. Thank you for always believing that I can. Thank you for not giving up and for always motivating me. You are my greatest blessing, my sweet angel. I couldn’t have done all of this without your support.

I miss everything about us, baby.

I miss your sweet good night messages and your colorful good morning messages.

I miss how we exchange our pure and genuine “I love yous”.

I miss bullying you.

I miss your lambing.

I miss the way you used to love me.

You are everything to me, bebu love. You are my ideal girl. You are my ray of sunshine. Ikaw ang nagbigay ng kulay sa madilim kong mundo, bebu. Ngayong wala ka na, hindi ko na naman mahanap ang liwanag. Pero kinakaya bebu, kakayanin! You trained me so well na maging strong.

I love you always and forever, Chelsyia.

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sneezefiction · 4 years

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please don’t go

Ushijima x Reader - Scenario

@moonlightaangel‘s event request: “congrats on reaching 600 followers!! 🥰 can i request ‘please don’t go’ with ushijima, if it hasn’t been requested yet! i need some angsty feelings in my life”

a/n: mmmm angsty Ushijima is my aesthetic :,,)) i also messed around with some flashback formatting, so i hope you enjoy!!

warnings: angst, breakups

wc: 1640

---

“Please don’t go.” It’s a soft, tearful whisper.

“I thought you would understand, y/n. We had established this.” His reply was blunt. Like a dull knife to the chest, digging deeply only to pull right back out, leaving you gushing and writhing at his words.

“Please don’t.” Your cry reached his ears this time.

“I need to focus.” He sighs, twinging with guilt.

Why didn’t you understand? Had you not known that his career would come first? Above everything else?

Or had he misspoken at some point, giving you the false assurance that this relationship would work forever? That he could always treat you as though it were possible to balance both you and his life’s work.

“Then I won’t distract you! Just don’t leave me. Please.” You begged, knees painfully falling to the cold floor, but your cries fell on deaf ears.

He remains resistant to change. Without accommodations. Nothing left to give or take.

“Maybe someday, y/n. But this isn’t working out for me anymore. I have to leave for now.” Ushijima’s response is icy.

He meant for those words to somehow be heartening. Promising, even. That maybe this was just the wrong time and place for a relationship. Where time could ebb and flow and someday he would be able to draw you back into his life.

Yes, there would be a day where you could take priority.

Because he wanted you… but not above his first love. Not above his skills and lifestyle. Not enough.

Volleyball comes first. Plain and simple.

And for that, he wouldn’t compromise.

---

White, crisp linens and fresh lemony scents.

Fluffed pillows fitted with new covers and soft patterns. Feather filled duvets. Curtains drawn to keep out the early morning light.

Everything has stayed clean, clear, and Pristine. Even the dust particles, dancing around the room, have always seemed to find their own peace, settling mildly in gentle formations.

You sleepily blink open your eyes, rustling your arms over the bedspread to what should be a happier sight. Soft pillows hugging your sides, the gentle birdsong outside your window, a conceivably delicious cup of coffee to be made in the kitchen.

Yes, you should be filled with contentment. You were safe. Physically you were fine, and nothing was on your checklist for today.

In fact, things had appeared fine for months now...

Yet all you notice is who’s missing.

There’s no longer a delicate divet where his dozing head used to lay. The scent and shape of the pillow had only recently dissipated thanks to your citrusy laundry detergent and the slow passing of time.

You don’t awaken to a recently showered, olive-green eyed boyfriend. You could still picture the water droplets, hanging freshly on the tips of his tufts of hair. How the towel draped around his neck, over his shoulders, catching the drips and drops as they fell.

That warm smile he shared with you before placing a chaste kiss upon your forehead, caressing the side of your face. It was pure. You can almost feel the ghost of his lips. Still lingering. Mocking you.

You were liberated from his presence… but you never wanted to be.

Being absorbed in his chaotic life had kept you busy, but you had never minded it. There was never a doubt in your mind that volleyball would be his first priority. That he would follow his passions. His plans. His abilities.

You just wanted to tag along. To sincerely celebrate his victories and mourn his losses. Supporting him and holding onto him when he needed it. Yes, he got home late at night, left early in the morning, and only connected with you on his very few off days… but you cherished every second of it.

Because you loved him. You poured your soul into watching him flourish and thrive. It made you feel whole.

However, eventually, to Ushijima, you started to rival volleyball, becoming a distraction. He had made space for you in his already complicated life. And at first, it was a welcome change. A breath of fresh air to his methodical and planned out character. You were complex, bringing new perspective and sunshine into his typically boring apartment. Beautiful in a natural, yet eye-catching way. Furthermore, you somehow knew how to keep up with his hectic pace along with his gruff personality.

In every aspect, you were perfect.

Expect one.

You were a diversion from the life he had in mind.

And even though you never pushed him to give you more… he longed to give you more of his attention. More time. To share his success with you. To love you deeper. To give you what you deserved. Because you are a profound being… and it burdened him to have to choose between his two greatest desires.

But, as most things do, these thoughts of love and devotion go unspoken, coming out all wrong. Mangled, unemotional, and misrepresented. Looking back, Ushijima wishes he’d been able to express it to you with empathy. To erase the tears that followed his brutal narrative. But softness isn’t his strong suit… and he needed you to know that, as powerful as he was, he wasn’t strong enough to balance you and volleyball.

---

“Ushijima, if you leave…” You take a deep breath, tears slipping down your face, “... you have to promise me you’ll never come back.” You choke out, your request came out in a sobering snarl.

For a moment, you question your own words- but your dignity was on the line.

“You can’t just break up with me and expect me to be there when you get back. I’m not disposable, you know?”

His body goes rigid. He hadn’t meant it that way.

You meant more to him than words could express… so why couldn’t he get it out clearly enough? How could he make you understand the gravity of his choices?

“...Y/n, it doesn’t have to be like that. I just need to concentrate right now.” The alarm, though subtle, shines in his eyes.

His usually composed, confident figure began to show cracks of uncertainty. He didn’t want you out of his life… Not at all.

He just needs you out of his mind for the time being. Just until he had things settled. You could come back at some point and he could love you so well. Just the way it was supposed to be.

But clearly he’d struck a deeper chord. He’d selfishly assumed you would wait for him. You weren’t some prized pony.

You’re a person. Someone with worth, plans, and dreams, just like him. He’d failed to acknowledge just how demeaning the truth of his actions were. But it’s too late.

You haven’t replied and the pain is etched intricately across your face.

“Okay, fine.” He breathes in deeply, letting out one final exhalation of defeat, “I... I’m sorry, y/n.” His brows furrow in deep, conflicted thought, but his mind is made.

He won’t be back.

---

Ushijima’s life hasn’t changed much.

It’s the same old routine. The standard, grueling workouts. Typical volleyball practice, group meetings, finances, paychecks, physicals, doctor’s appointments, fan meet-n-greets.

The usual.

But there’s a void settling like glacial frost in his soul. A snowy blue that seemed to melt into his bones, slowing him down.

He didn’t go a week… a day... a minute without thinking of you.

Even now, lying in bed, the room cloaked in a tranquil darkness, you rest on his mind.

It’s not just the emptiness of the bed or the lack of physical touch. It’s the bitter, clawing memories of what he’d done to you and your gentle spirit. His body is frigid and forever frozen in the recurring visions of his foolish explanations, by how heartless and indifferent he’d seemed.

He’ll never get over the venomous tinge to your words.

You’d felt used.

He’d never meant to make you feel that way.

But since he moved out of your apartment, everything has felt glaringly hollow. The icy, barren tundra he crosses every time he realizes he won’t come home to your sunbeam smile and those thoughtfully lit candles, wears on him. How you would lavish him in comforting words, lulling him into a restful sleep.

Ushijima hardly remembers the last time he slept well.

Those dark circles under his eyes follow him everywhere. His whole team can see the exhaustion seeping into his execution of serves and spikes. He’s never struggled with his game performance before, but somehow the crashing reality of you leaving him has broken his patterns and systems.

He’s weary from searching for an answer to his emotions. Your warmth gave him life… and with that gone, what was the point of all of this?

And then it struck him, the realization sinking its needle-sharp claws into his soul, shredding it in seconds.

He’d found something far more valuable than any unique skill. More remarkable than the legacy he’d built as a world-class volleyball player. Someone who wanted to be with him just for the sake of… love.

And for the first time since he was young, he lets a tear slip into his white pillowcase.

Just one.

But it’s for you.

Because in chasing after what made him feel known and alive...

He’d lost the only person who had ever wanted to show him that he was important all along. The only person who was satisfied with his bizarre schedules. Someone who expected nothing more than gentle kisses and weekend dates.

But you were right.

You aren’t dispensable. Nor are you someone to drop for the purpose of picking up later, like loose change on a sidewalk. You deserved to be cherished. Held tightly. Given the love that you offered others.

He wishes he’d listened when you’d pleaded with him to stay. That he’d thought it through and functioned on more than just logic and reasoning. If only he’d known what it really meant to choose you.

Because if you were here now, he’d be the one begging,

“Please don’t go.”

---

tags: @cherryonigiri, @yams046, @kaidasen, @miss-rin

(comment or send an ask to be added to my general tag list)

#haikyuu #haikyuu x reader #ushijima x reader #ushijima #hq #ushijima scenarios #ushijima imagine #haikyuu scenarios #haikyuu imagines #haikyuucreations #hq ushijima #hq scenarios #hq imagines #shiratorizawa #haikyuu angst #haikyuu fanfiction #600 follower event #sneezefiction

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kogetanotenshi · 3 years

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RATING NARAKU'S INCARNATIONS

Yay! Another opinion post!

I really want to do this because as I've already established, Naraku is one of my favorite villains of all time, therefore he will be out of this top, because he would obviously be N° 1.

This top will focus only on the nine children of anime's best single father.

Let's START!

8. These two

Yes, these two. Because I don't even remember their names (I think they both end with "maru'' I guess?). Let's put it this way: I totally skipped these two's arc because I found it to be incredibly uninteresting!

Rate: 1/10.

7. The Infant

I like this little ball of sociopathy more than the first two, but I still think he was too... "meh". He wasn't bad, I think he pulled a good threat but there's not much you can do as a character when you're just a talking baby.

Rate: 4/10.

6. Byakuya

I really like his design, let's start with that. He is a total bishounen and undeniably pretty, his dub VA was very well casted, and that tramp he put Sango in to force her into almost killing Rin? Damn.

The only reason he doesn't have a higher spot? He is basically a replacement goldfish for Kagura (Face it, he is). He has the same way of air transportation as Kagura, fills the same role as Kagura (keeping an eye on the Inugang, giving them info Naraku wanted them to know, all that jazz). Unfortunately he has no deep desire to be free like Kagura so he's just... Fine, for me at least.

Rate: 6.5/7.

5. Goshinki

There's a way to summarize Goshinki's whole character: Small Role, Big Impact.

Goshinki (as much as I can remember) only appeared for like 4 episodes and was an incredibly OP monster (and also I think the only child of Naraku that doesn't look human at all). He was fast, strong, agile, and could read freakin' minds! He might as well be almost the most powerful (behind Naraku himself)... My only problem? Remember I watched InuYasha last year, when I was in my 20s already. Therefore it was almost too easy for me to figure out something was gonna happen. Rumiko wouldn't have introduced such a powerful character so early in the story if she didn’t know there was a hidden reason for it. And lo and behold, Goshinki breaks Tessaiga (very cool moment) but also unleashes InuYasha's Superpowered Evil Side. And I said, I KNEW IT! Because it was kinda obvious. Again, small role, Big Impact.

Rate: 7/10.

4. Muso

For some reason I was unable to find a gif.

Muso was basically introduced to gives us an idea of how was good ol' Onigumo before he was mauled by fire and found by Kikyo. He is a hedonist, a murderer, a (possibly) rapist, and was proud of being a pure son of a b*tch. And you know what? It works, at least we know why someone like HIM would sell his soul to demons in order to move again. And his body horror, turning into a scorpion monster was very squicky, kudos to Rumiko for her body horror! Perhaps the only thing I don't like about Muso is his design, he looks too human. He is still supposed to be an Incarnation of Naraku and therefore should at least have eye makeup like his daddy or pointed ears. But whatevs. I really liked Muso. The Reincarnated Onigumo.

Rate: 7/10.

3. Hakudoshi.

Aka the Only one who acknowledges Naraku as his dad and proudly names himself "Son of Naraku". I really, really like this young punk, I like his weapon, his design, his battlehorse, his voice, and I find it hilarious how his 11 years old ass bosses around Kagura, it’s really funny. The problem is that he doesn't know his place and got killed because of it. Imo he needed more screentime, he had way more potential.

Rate: 8/10.

2. Kagura.

The fandom's favorite.

And I can really tell why. Her story is very sad from a certain perspective, she didn’t want to be working for Naraku and she clearly hated the guy. Her wind powers are on point with her "Lady of War" character and her necromancy is a very interesting contrast to such a lady.

The thing is, while I like Kagura, the only reason she's not number one is because, guys, let's remember she's not a misunderstood puppydog? At least not completely, she (in her first appearances) enjoyed fighting with the Inugang and didn’t seem too bothered with the idea of slaughtering Koga's whole clan. She might hate that Naraku bosses over her but I can't say she's a boohoo poor innocent sunshine baby who deserved better, sorry 🤷‍♂️

Rate: 8.5/10.

And the top spot goes to...

1. Kanna.

Ah yes, the firstborn, the eldest sister, the soul-taking, hole-digging white girl! I LOVE Kanna and you can tell with how much I bring her up in my Incorrect quotes that involve Naraku. This ghost-looking creepy child is a character I'd totally like to adopt.

I'm sorry but I have a soft spot for unemotional characters who end up becoming emotional and having feelings. And also, of all the Incarnations, you can tell Kanna was the only one who was NOT inherently evil. She just followed Naraku's orders but she didn’t enjoy anything she did (because she seemingly didn’t feel anything by the time?) and her death in the anime? My eyes watered more with her death than with Kagura's.

Kanna is and always will be, my favorite Naraku Incarnation.

Rate: 1000/10 because she's perfect and I want to adopt her!

Please remember this ranking is based only on my own opinions, you can share them or you can not, if you want, you can let me know if you agree or disagree with this ranking, I'd love to read your own opinions!

#inuyasha a feudal fairy tale #rumic world #rumiko takahashi #hanyo no yashahime #inuyasha #Naraku's Incarnations #Kanna #Kagura #Hakudoshi #The Infant #Muso #Byakuya #Goshinki #And the other two

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aonogifreactions · 3 years

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Birthday headcanons nobody asked for (kinda)

a/n: usually i dont write anything for our twins’ bday, but thanks to noodle and spice i kinda got motivated hehe,,, thank you guys so much! also, yes, timezones, but here we go. hope you guys enjoy! <3 not beta read, so there might be mistakes.

Happy birthday to our boys!

Words: 840+

Rin:

generally, he thinks about his birthday as a semi-special day; he’s excited about it, but he kinda wanna treat it as a normal day as well.

he hates it, but absolutely loves speculating in his head what presents he’ll get. he thinks about things that are way too expensive, only to shake and hit his head afterwards, feeling bad for caring so much about the gifts.

if you give him something handmade, that would include you two - like a decorated, framed picture of you along with some other things you made - he’d start crying on the spot; holding it with his hands firmly, he doesn’t realize at first that fat tears fall down his cheeks onto the picture. He comes back into reality once you ask him if he’s okay, then wipes the tears off and hugs you tightly; he’s the happiest person on earth if he gets something valuable - not materialistically but to his heart.

he’s happy if the party is solely for him or both with Yukio. well, he’s just excited about having a party in the first place. if the party is private, he appreciates that he has the entire day or night just for you and him! he’d ask you to help unwrap the presents he got, or to just chill in bed and watch something.

if he gets an entire party - oh boy, he’s grinning so badly and almost cries seeing everyone wishing him happy birthday; it calms him down inside, knowing his friends are no longer afraid of him, but mutually like and care about him, as he does for them.

though, he’d appreciate it if the party was shared with Yukio, too. he doesn’t want his brother to be left out, obviously, unless he has his own party thrown by his s/o.

there’s a possibility he might accidentally blow the candles and set the cake on fire if he’s too excited. beware.

Yukio:

first of all, he hates surprises AND birthday parties. he will attend if he has to, but if not - he’d gladly stay home. if it comes to his own birthday, he doesn’t wanna make big deal out of it. For him, it’s just another day.

trying to find him a good present is the worst thing possible. he does like wearing watches and stuff like that, but he probably has a lot of them now. though, he likes simple things - like clothes or shoes, but once again - he has a lot of them already. but! he is surprised if you get him new glass frames - even though he owns TONS, he likes having new, fresh ones that visibly differ from his usual ones.

just like Rin - he appreciates handmade things as well. particularly some aesthetic related stuff - even if its an album with your pictures together, or just a framed picture. he does like the album better, especially if the pictures are taken with a polaroid and decorated with cute stickers.

encouraging shit will make him cry. a picture with him doing a random thing or with you two, but titling it “my sunshine trying his best in [activity]”, “one year since he opened up to me”, or “on this day, he reached out to me. this was the best day I've ever had” will ABSOLUTELY destroy him. he’ll stare at it and just look at it for a while. in his head the memories will appear, reminding him of that days; stressful, something that he’d rather forget. but those moments when he allowed himself to accept your helping hand or just share some of the troubles - it made them better. YOU made them better.

despite the strong dislike for birthday parties, he’ll attend it for Rin’s sake if they both have one together. he won’t admit it and deny it if Rin keeps teasing him, but deep down he loves his brother and cares about him. despite his troubles voicing and showing it to him - he actually puts a lot of effort into his gift. since they hang out almost all the time, he knows what he’d like to get; he saves his money for it and critically controls how much money he spends if the gift is one of the more expensive ones.

but! if the birthday parties are separate for both of them - he’ll enjoy it a little better. he might share more stuff that he wasn’t able to before, or in general be more relaxed than if he was amongst his friends. he’s definitely going to tell you things he loves about you; he’ll compliment you, out loud say that he’s thankful for the things you have done for him. he’ll go on for hours, forgetting that... it’s actually his birthday. nonetheless, he’d like to spend his birthday that way - telling you things he couldn’t in the past and acknowledge them, wanting you to know that he was aware of everything and nothing went unnoticed.

#REPOST #PLZ #Ao no Exorcist #blue exorcist #rin okumura #Rin Okumura x reader #Yukio Okumura #yukio okumura x reader #Headcanon #Pure

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depressedhatakekakashi · 3 years

Note

Alright, Age Swap AU idea:

Naruto is Team 7's (Obito-Kakashi-Rin) sensei, and he has a Sharingan because Sasuke was the one ending under the rocks during the Kannabi Bridge Mission. Instead of Minato, Naruto's sensei was Sakumo, the former Kyuubi Jinchuuriki that eventually died sealing the Kyuubi in Kakashi.

Naruto is a seal master thanks to Minato and Kushina being his parents, but they died during the Third Shinobi War so Naruto is an orphan, and instead of the Rasengan he uses his mother's Chakra Chains (he still knows the Rasengan, he just rarely uses it).

The Uchiha massacre doesn't happen and either Shisui or Itachi is the current clan head, working to fix the problems between the clan and the village.

That also means that those of Kakashi's generation are the students while those of Naruto's generation are the senseis/older shinobis.

The new Sannin could be the Hiruzen-Danzo-Kagami trio, with Danzo taking Orochimaru's place and Kagami being the spy master (tho I can't really see Hiruzen being a healer...) while Tsunade is the Sandaime and Orochimaru is the one behind ROOT.

And since the Uchiha clan is still united and strong Danzo can't hope to lure Obito away without anyone noticing, and he's too much a sunshine baby anyway he would never leave his village, he lures Kakashi away instead with the Cursed Mark (it is said, if I remember correctly, that the Cursed Mark works as some sort of brainwashing, like, not totally but still compelling its victims to follow Orochimaru, in this au Danzo, for power. I don't know if it's a canon or a fanon thing, but I still find it an interesting idea)

(And maybe Danzo somehow convinces Kakashi that it's the village's fault for what happened to his father and for the fact that no one took care of him/everyone hates him because of the Kyuubi)

(Also, imagine Tenzo following Danzo around like Kabuto does with Orochimaru)

There is so much to explore here and i Love it.

Sakura survived and went to become the head of medicine (because i really hate the whole ‘Rin died for man pain’ thing).

Naruto gives Team seven the bell test, except both Rin and Kakashi hold out their bento’s to Obito at the same time because neither of them want to fail because Obito was starving.

Kakashi is that ass hole he was as a kid. He’s prideful and confident in his abilities, while also trying desperately to show that he’s a good shinobi that will protect the village. He doesn’t want to be Hokage, he just wants someone who will like him. His first friend was Gai, who’s father still died protecting him and was always made fun of anyways so he doesn’t care that Kakashi is hated by a lot of people. He’s going to be friends with him anyways. (Rin tries to be Kakashi’s friend, but she’s pulled away by family. Obito, meanwhile, just never got along with Kakashi but also never hated him like others)

Rin still has her crush on Kakashi, but when he chooses to leave the village (thanks to the curse marks influence, which you are correct about. Sasuke was actually not 100% making his own choice when he joined orochimaru and couldn’t so long as he had the curse mark) she gets over her crush and moves on because that’s the healthy thing to do. Her and Obito still want to get Kakashi back of course, but mostly because they do want their friend back.

Tenzo’s a little older in this AU of course, and is always annoyed by Kakashi’s attitude towards Danzo. Thought Danzo doesn’t really care because Kakashi is powerful and talented and that’s what he needs.

Kakashi has a lot of troubles with the kyuubi’s chakra, and is always struggling to keep his anger at bay. Espeshally under Danzo who’s trying to teach him to use the Kyuubi’s chakra without giving into the anger. Danzo’s training actually ends up making Kakashi shut down more, so that after the time skip (where Obito goes to train with Kigame and Rin trains under Hiruzen and learns his summons and skills) they barly recognize Kakashi. Sure, he was never exactly open with his emotions. But he doesn’t even have any showing in his eyes anymore which is terrifying.

Shisui would be a great clan head, working with the village to mend things and get the Uchiha the treatment they deserve instead of them being looked down on. He wants everyone to work together and make a stronger village and he needs them to work with him to make that happen.

Also, Sakumo’s face on the hokage mountain is life for me.

Kakashi doesn’t even know that’s his father, though he has his feelings since the man does look so much like him. He never asks though because he knows he won’t get a proper answer and he is terrified of his suspicions being confirmed. He hates that his parents are dead, leaving him to deal with the village on his own with no back up. Obito and Kakashi as the children of prophesy, and Rin forcing her way to their side refusing to be left behind.

#Age swap au

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skylxft · 3 years

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Precious. « a SessKik fic »

Her hands were masterpieces to behold.

They were delicate, gentle in touch and providing comfort in the simplest of caresses. With a brush of her fingers, tears were wiped away, lives were mended, and pulses would quicken. He had witnessed it time and again — when Rin or village children would cry, when she would heal the sick, and when the (lowly) human men would gaze at her in longing.

Her hands were powerful.

There was no one alive — human and demon alike — that didn’t know of her strength and skill. Years of work, years of fighting had hardened her hands and strengthened them. It spoke of her fearlessness and her dedication — to protect, to do what was right. A bow, no matter its quality, turned into the deadliest of weapons in her hands. An enemy wouldn’t stand a chance against her.

Even he, the great Lord of the Western Lands, found it hard to stand against her.

For different reasons entirely.

(Not that he would ever admit them aloud.)

“Lord Sesshoumaru, look! Lady Kikyo taught me how to make this!”

At the call of his name, he turned to look at Rin. A warm fondness filled him at seeing her bright smile, at the way she bounced in excitement and her eyes sparkled. Not a moment later, she presented him what she held in her hands: a crown of yellow flowers.

“Isn’t it beautiful? Lady Kikyo said she used to make them for her sister all the time when they were smaller,” Rin hummed, staring at him expectedly.

“It is.”

Although his answer had been short, it seemed to be enough for the young girl as her smile somehow managed to grow. Truly, the sun couldn’t compare to the shine and warmth of her smile in that moment.

"Oh, oh! I can give it to A-Un to wear! I'll make another one with Lady Kikyo! So they each have one!" Rin studied the little crown, practically bouncing again before stopping, looking up at him again. "Is that alright, Lord Sesshoumaru?"

His answer was a simple nod, a whisper of a smile tugging at his mouth. All at once, Rin threw herself at him, giving him a tight one-armed hug (as to not crush or ruin the crown he supposes), before running off, a bounce in her stride and laughter in the air. It stunned him momentarily, still so unused to the (now frequent) displays of affection the young child would give him.

She had gotten bolder, more sure of herself. There were still traces of the frightened child that would hide behind his leg every once in a while, but it was different now. Now, with the added help of Kikyo and her daily lessons, she was blooming into a surer Rin. And if the demon lord was honest, it was endearing.

Kikyo was a good influence on her.

It was… amusing when he looked back on things.

They started as strangers (or enemies, really) that simply tried to do what was best for Rin. Kikyo was certain that it would be better to not have her constantly at risk by staying at his side; that she would thrive better living in a human village. He, however, trusted no one to protect Rin as he would. Unsurprisingly, given both of their stubbornness, they came to an impasse.

('How could you possibly think it is safe for a human child to stay by your side when demons are constantly attacking you? How foolishly stubborn you are.')

Begrudgingly, they began traveling together for the most part. Sometimes Kikyo would drift off on her own, only to come back a few days later with new supplies and things for Rin. Other times, Sesshoumaru would be the one to wander off, leaving Rin behind with the priestess as well as Jaken and A-Un. Upon his return, he would often find them near a human village where Kikyo would be tending to the sick with Rin in tow.

Eventually, it grew to be their normal, their routine.

Rin genuinely seemed to enjoy having the priestess around — happy to have someone to talk to and teach her things. Kikyo would tell her stories and teach Rin all that she knew in return. And on nights where Rin would wake from nightmares or when her fear of being alone crept in, Kikyo would take the child in her arms and soothed her. At any point in which Rin needed her, Kikyo was there. It was almost as if the affection that they had for one another was familial — almost like a mother and her child.

(He was a bit jealous.)

As for how they treated another now, it was… a bit strange.

The demon lord wasn't quite sure when it happened, but there was an emptiness inside that would rear its (wholly unwanted) head during the moments in which he wandered alone. It wasn't surprising that he sometimes felt something similar when he left Rin alone with Jaken and A-Un, but this was different. This emptiness he felt was something else entirely. Almost as if something was gnawing at his heart, gnawing at his very being when he thought of the priestess during these times.

As if there was something that was missing — something that his heart was longing for...

How ridiculous.

The Great Lord Sesshoumaru, Lord of the Western Lands, would not long for a human priestess of all things. And he most certainly wouldn't long for someone like Kikyo. Certainly not.

(Or at least, that's what he would often say to try to convince himself.

...It wasn't working.)

The scent of bellflowers and rain filled his senses then, her familiar aura a gentle (and welcoming) embrace as the priestess drew closer. A shiver ran along his spine, settling into his heart as she walked through the trees. A hint of a soft smile still lingered on her face — one that he often associated with times she spent with Rin.

(Oh, to have that smile directed at him one day…)

"I see Rin has gotten her way again. Poor Jaken has been strong-armed into helping her find the perfect flowers for A-Un." There was a crinkling of laughter in her deep brown eyes, of fondness. The demon lord rather liked that look on her.

"Mn. Jaken is hardly a match for A-Un, much less for Rin."

The chimes of her laughter were quiet, stifled behind a hand as she tried to keep her composure. Her eyes were like jewels in the sun, glittering and brilliant. She was smiling. Truly smiling.

She was beautiful.

(For a human.

...okay, she was beautiful.)

A comfortable silence fell on them then, soft and warm and familiar. They weren't always very verbal when it was just the two of them — even if they were on much better terms now. When they first started traveling together, they would exchange biting quips and frosty words of provocation whenever they did speak, caring little for one another and yet trying to rile the other up. But now was different. Now, they would spend most of their time together like this, in the comfortable quiet as they went about their business. They would exchange words now and again as well as quips, but there was no real bite to them. They were… friendly. Kind even.

Her company was certainly better appreciated than the mindless squawkings of Jaken. Heavens know how he lasted as long as he did listening to the rambles of the little imp.

No, this was much better.

"Sesshoumaru?"

Another shiver coursed through the demon lord at her voice, relishing the way she said his name. She was one of the few (aside from his annoying brother and his brother's human) that dared to directly call him by his name alone, but she was the only one who called his name like this. Like it was something important — like something to behold and treasure. She called his name so rarely, so each instance that she did managed to sear itself into his very being.

"I believe Rin would appreciate it if you were to join us in making the crowns." A smirk pulled at the corners of her mouth, clearly teasing. "I don't expect you to make any yourself given that it's not something that a great demon lord such as yourself would likely be interested in."

He wanted to wipe the smirk off her face.

(And if he was honest, preferably with his mouth.)

Instead of answering Kikyo, he simply began to walk in the direction whence she came, following Rin's scent of sunshine and blossoms. Behind him, he could hear her stifled laughter carried on the wind.

He felt impossibly warm.

━━━━━━ ◦ ❖ ◦ ━━━━━━

He was beautiful. Anyone with eyes could see that. For all his venom and ice, he was virtually otherworldly in terms of beauty.

Sometimes — mostly during the times she would see him in the moonlight — he managed to take her breath away because of it. The priestess was nearly sure he was aware he did so.

He had to know; the way he would look at her at times spoke of something. What the something was, she wasn't sure. But it always burned deep within her when he would look at her that way.

It made her want things. Things that she perhaps would’ve wanted as a normal human woman.

(Not that she would exactly admit that. Not even to herself.)

For now, those thoughts would remain under lock and key, and Kikyo's focus would be on the scene before her.

There was something so endearing seeing a proud demon lord like Sesshoumaru sitting down in a field of flowers with a human child, attentive and present as Rin prattled on about something. It was perhaps one of the loveliest sights Kikyo had ever witnessed. Heartwarming, really.

There was a bounce to the way Rin moved when she was around him, a pleased sort of excitement that just oozed from her. As if all she wanted to do was to be in his presence and have him be pleased with her.

It reminded Kikyo of how a child would be with her father.

(And if it made her curious about how Sesshoumaru would be with his own child, she wouldn't say.)

"Rin, there is no need to bother Lord Sesshoumaru with your useless squabbling!" Jaken stomped his foot, steam practically radiating off of him. Meanwhile, the demon lord himself rolled his eyes ever-so elegantly.

"It's not useless!" Rin's lip jutted out indignantly, her little arms crossing. "Lady Kikyo told me that you could use some flowers in salves to help cure wounds! Right, Lady Kikyo?"

The priestess was almost sure her heart melted a little more each time Rin looked at her with those eyes, warm and expectant. She gave warmth like the summer sun. It was impossible to not love the child.

She'd defend Rin with her very life if necessary.

"It seems you've taken our lessons seriously. I'm proud, Rin." At her response, Rin smiled while Jaken bristled and set off, dragging along A-Un and muttering as he went (and surely cursing her no doubt). Despite this, Kikyo quietly chuckled to herself, knowing well that Jaken would be back soon after and bickering with Rin yet again over something small.

Just another typical day traveling together.

"Rin, are you going to show Se—Lord Sesshoumaru how you make the crown?" Calling him by his title always felt strange — distant even. Like they were complete strangers and hadn't been traveling together for some time now.

He didn't seem to like it either given the momentary crease in his brow. And if she hadn't known better, he glanced at her when she had. Had she blinked, she would've missed it.

Or maybe she was imagining it? Maybe it didn't matter to him at all. Perhaps to the demon lord, nothing between them had changed much and he was merely tolerating this? Whatever this was.

Maybe this tentative friendship — this companionship — didn't mean anything.

(She prayed it meant something.)

Rin, none the wiser, proceeded to explain the process of making the crown to Sesshoumaru, buzzing with enthusiasm as she did so. With every step, she would show and explain it to him much in the same way Kikyo had done with her. In return, he would nod and add a 'mn' here and there. It was the same cycle until Rin finished another crown.

It was cute.

It warmed her heart all over again.

"Look, Lady Kikyo! I did it!" Rin quickly ran to her to show her work, a bounce in her step and eyes sparkling as she went.

"It's beautiful, Rin. You're learning so quickly. Job well done," she smiled at Rin, gently caressing the side of her face. It didn't seem to be enough for Rin, however, as she threw her small arms around Kikyo and hugged her.

"Thank you, Lady Kikyo! I love you!" Her voice rang with happiness, nuzzling into the priestess' neck before stepping back from the embrace. "I'm going to show A-Un the crowns! I bet they'll be excited!"

And with that, Rin skipped off after Jaken and A-Un, leaving excitement and giggles in her wake.

And leaving both Kikyo and Sesshoumaru stunned all over again.

It wasn't the first time that the young girl had said that to either of them. No, in fact, it was more common to have her confess it to Kikyo than the others (with the exception of A-Un). Regardless, every time Rin said it, it sunk deep and filled in cracks that none of them knew they had.

Like being filled with molten sunshine.

(If Sesshoumaru wasn't in front of her, she'd perhaps tear up just a bit.)

"I'm glad that Rin enjoyed the crowns that much," Kikyo thought aloud, staring after Rin's direction, not really expecting conversation. But he was looking at her; she could just feel him watching her intently. Her skin was buzzing with it. "Perhaps she enjoyed it more because we were here with her."

It was quiet for a moment, the humming of insects and the occasional rustling of animals the only sound between them. But there was something in the air between them. It was almost tangible.

Like feathers whispering against skin.

"Thank you."

Everything in her froze at his words.

Did he really just… thank her?

"What ever for?" She hoped her voice was even; still and calm like an undisturbed pool of water. Within her, however, she was anything but still. Her heart was practically thrumming in her throat, in her ears.

A quick scan of his face held no answer, but he was looking at her and there was something in his gaze that she couldn't quite place. Something in his molten eyes that made her feel like he was going to consume her.

There were shivers crawling along her spine because of it.

(In a good way.)

"Rin is pleased to have you here." Sesshoumaru's gaze drifted off towards the direction of the others, looking but unseeing. There was something unspoken, something on the tip of his tongue and the priestess knew it. But what was it?

"Only Rin?" She scoffed then, a small laugh on her lips. "Surely A-Un and Jaken have warmed up to me after all this time. A-Un sometimes seeks me out to pet it, and Jaken… well, he no longer calls me 'troublesome wench' anymore."

He took a quick exhale of breath then, and Kikyo knew that he found it amusing to some degree. But still, he wasn't looking at her.

Why wasn't he looking at her?

If only she could coax him into speaking of his thoughts about her. Of how he saw their comfortable companionship. But words were never quite easy for her when it came to emotions, so how could she expect it from him?

They were both so quiet, so used to being alone in that way. To open up in that sense — to be honest and willing to share those parts of themselves — would be far beyond what either of them were comfortable with.

(Oh, to be as free as Rin and to talk of her affections as flippantly as other human women…)

"I enjoy being here. And I love Rin as well." There was more she wanted to add to the confession, but this was safe. It wasn't a lie, but the whole truth was so much deeper than it.

Just a singular drop in the ocean.

But bearing her heart on her sleeves hadn't always been the smartest nor safest choice for her. It had never been in her to give her heart so easily to begin with; it was more of a guarded treasure really. No, she was careful, mindful of who she let hold onto it.

If the demon lord asked for it, however, there would be a chance she would give it over easily. It sickened her as much as it frustrated her.

(Not as if Sesshoumaru could possibly feel the same.

She was a human…)

The sound of Rin and Jaken bickering (again) caught Kikyo's attention then, A-Un trailing behind the two with crowns of flowers sitting atop its heads. For all the chaos that would follow, it was a welcome distraction from her thoughts and this… interaction with Sesshoumaru.

She stood up then, brushing off her clothes as the darkness of her thoughts slipped away, slithering back into its box.

"Lord Sesshoumaru! Master Jaken said A-Un looks ridiculous with flowers!"

"Stupid girl! Don't bother Lord Sesshoumaru with such a troublesome complaint!"

"I'm not stupid! Lady Kikyo says I'm a quick learner!"

A smile settled on Kikyo's face as the two kept up their petty squabble, a laugh bubbling at the back of her throat at how suddenly exasperated Sesshoumaru looked. The demon lord was quick to end the fight, declaring it time to set camp for the night before wandering off to patrol the perimeter. Just like all the nights before, she would be in charge of setting up camp and everything that came after.

They would eat, Kikyo would tell Rin a story before bed, and right before the young girl would fall asleep, the demon lord would return and bid her good night.

How strange it is that this could fill her with so much warmth. That this little family (because she was willing to admit that's what they were) could put her at ease. That this routine would make her feel a part of something.

They were her home now.

Sesshoumaru was another case entirely, but it wasn't time for that. Those thoughts were for another day, another moment in time.

Perhaps one day, they could speak on it. And if words failed them, well… there were other ways.

Maybe one day.

#this was way longer than I expected it would be but i hope ya'll enjoy it #I TRIED WRITING FLUFF AND I JUST... YEAH #Had to throw in longing because of course I did #Found family is obviously a huge weakness of mine and i'm not sorry #RIN HAVING A BADASS MIKO MOTHER AND A BADASS TAIYOUKAI FATHER IS MY WEAKNESS #Inuyasha #IY #SessKik #Kikyo #Sesshoumaru #OTP #Fanfic #Mine #And yes this is absolutely a part of my 'Beautiful' verse AU #How much longing can I write before I actually finish writing the smut fic?

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lonelypond · 3 years

Text

Parent Trap, Ch. 6

NicoMaki, Love Live, 3.8K, 6/?

Summary: More things happen in the wrong order.

Girls On Film

Eli had texted that Nico had stopped by the office, upset, so Eli would be home too late for dinner. Nozomi frowned as the evening went on and the twins restlessness increased. So she sat them down with their own decks of playing cards, pulled out her Tarot cards and focused on Eli.

Lovers, always The Lovers, always connected with Eli. Magician Reversed, that was a little concerning. Something not going according to plan...followed by a reversed Ten Of Cups, the idyllic family scene overturned, conflicting values...Nozomi frowned and dealt another card: Queen Of Wands. That was a relief. Or a call to face up to something. But definitely an argument that even if Nozomi’s current path hit a few bumps, there was confidence in her decision.

“Mommy?”

Vik, ever sensitive to mood, sat next to Nozomi. Teddy was using both decks to build a card tunnel.

“Yes, Vik.”

“Is Mama mad at you?”

Vik always got to the point. They were extremely reliable about finding the one nagging weakness in either Nozomi or Eli’s arguments about anything and skewering it, directly on target.

“No, Auntie Nico just wanted to talk to her.”

“Is Auntie Nico mad at you?”

Nozomi chuckled, that was the question that kept coming back to her mind. “I don’t know, Рыбка (sweetie), maybe…”

Vik pointed at the Queen Of Wands, “That’s a Queen? She has short hair like me.”

“Yes, she does.”

“Is she friendly?”

Nozomi bobbed her head, debating how to reply. Vik had been showing more interest in the Tarot recently, “Friendly, but firm if you’ve messed up.”

“Like Mama.”

Nozomi couldn’t hold in the belly laugh as Vik spoke exactly what she’d been thinking.

“MOMMY!!! Look at this.” Teddy was waving frantically at her tunnel, tilting precariously at the start. “Take a picture for Mama.”

“Okay, Солнце (Sunshine).” Nozomi grabbed her phone, Vik sliding into her seat to examine the cards closer.

###

Nico hadn’t texted or called. Maki had to force herself to stop pacing next to Dia’s crib when she got her tucked in for the night. Dia had been fussy all day, but with no nap, actually fell asleep easily. Maybe a long soak was would be relaxing. Maki turned on the baby monitor, set up candles, dropped a lavender bath bomb, but couldn’t get Nico out of her mind. The mood had been so strange. Nico and her mother had obviously been having a private, complicated conversation and Maki couldn’t ignore the gut feeling that it was about her.

Maki really liked Nico. And although that morning in Philly had been intense, it hadn’t felt rushed. Nico had just made a safe space for them, for Maki to express what she wanted. What she really wanted. And really wanted again and again, which was an unusual feeling for her. The few times she’d been physically intimate with a potential partner, there had been affection, but no urgency about what next. Not seeing Nico, thinking maybe that this time Nico was the one indifferent, lacking urgency, that actually seemed to hurt. And Maki needed to know that she was guessing wrong about Nico’s feelings.

Panic stripped away subtext. And she sent the text before she could reread it.

M: Was today too much? Dia just really wanted to see you.

M: So did I. I’ve been looking forward to you being back in Chicago so we could ….

M: But we didn’t have to rush into the family thing...with your Mom...I can do casual…

Maki reread what she’d sent. And dropped her phone on the tray next to the bath. Too much, too clingy...Nico was going to forget Maki’s number and be on the way to her next, non clingy post concert groupie as soon as she could…

###

Nico stared intently at the screen of her phone, willing Eli to text her that Nozomi was crushed by the weight of guilt and Maki was fine with Nico continuing to court her....court her. Nico raspberried herself...this wasn’t courting, this was Nico wanting everything with the hot, fascinating, really into Nico Maki Nishikino...but what if Dia already happened to be theirs? Because of something Nozomi did. That would weird Maki out, make everything strange, and Nico had been sensing Maki leaning toward psyching herself out. Nico had been hoping getting back to Chicago would let Nico get them back on track, but what could Nico say if she saw Maki, without stumbling over Dia.

Maki’s text tone. Eli was weak and hadn’t done anything yet, she was probably driving around in circles pyching herself up to talk to Nozomi. And Eli had impressed upon Nico exactly how much grief Maki’s parents' lawyers could make for both of them, making Nico swear not to talk to Maki until Eli did. But Eli was weak… And Maki was texting.

M: But we didn’t have to rush into the family thing...with your Mom...I can do casual…

Nico had done casual a couple of times. She didn’t want it. She wanted the connection she felt when Maki looked at her, the openness, the vulnerability, the trust....and from what little Maki had said about her dating life prior to Nico, Nico guessed that intimacy had led to cooling off, so Maki was probably freaking out ‘cause Nico had been blowing her off all day. But not because of Maki reasons…

Nico’s promise to Eli wasn’t as important as Maki. Maki obviously needed emotional aftercare. Nico hit call.

“Nico?”

Maki sounded like she’d been caught mid yawn. It was adorable.

“Hi, Maki. Sorry I didn’t get back to you about takeout. Had to talk to Eli.”

“Is everything all right, Nico?” Nico heard a splash? Was Maki in the bath? The phone was obviously on speaker.

“Nico would like to join you in the bath.”

Maki laughed, it was euphoric, Nico was so hooked, Maki's voice hit Nico in all the good places. “They used to do that in movies, talk on the phone in their separate bubble baths, put their feet up, show off some leg.”

“Nico would love to see that.”

“So would I.” A little bit shy. Nico was beginning to forget why she’d been reluctant to call Maki.

“I’m in bed…”

“What’d you have for dinner.”

“Didn’t.”

“You sound like me in med school.”

“What were you like in med school? Were you buried in books? Or bodies? Dating cute nurses? Would you even have noticed Nico ten years ago?”

“How could anyone not notice Nico?”

“That’s what Nico always says…” Nico seized on an idea, maybe she could actually keep their conversation clear of things that Nico wasn’t ready to talk about, “What would we have talked about ten years ago?”

“I had this terrible roommate.”

“Really?”

“Really. Wild party animal, had to barricade myself in my room.” Maki sounded more amused than upset.

“You snuck into the parties, didn’t you?”

A pause, what might be towel noises. Nico desperately wanted a video call, “Maybe…but then my grades dropped and I moved back home.”

Keep this vibe going, Nico told herself. “So what did you do for fun after your brush with the wild side?”

“Piano. And Rin and I played soccer in a league. That was fun.”

“Nico bets you looked cute in your uniform.”

Sexy indignation that made Nico want to rip off whatever Maki had covered herself with, “ I looked HOT, Nico, I was 22 and in great shape.”

“You’re still in great shape, Nico knows.”

A giggle, a pause, two people syncing up again.

“What were you like ten years ago?” Maki asked softly, her voice a frisson in Nico's ear.

“Too busy for anything. Constantly on tour. Studying finance on the side. I got my economics degree over six years. Magna cum laude.”

“I didn’t know that.”

“Nico planned to be a success. Now the suits can’t say Nico doesn’t know how business works.”

“Impressive.” Maki breathed.

‘Nico strives.”

###

10 p.m. Nozomi was getting worried. Eli was never out this late. Nozomi had let the twins roughhouse past their bedtime because whenever Eli got home, there was going to be a serious conversation. Although the cards had been full of warnings about that, Nozomi knew the truth in her gut before she dealt out the spread.

Key in the door, sigh as Eli closed it behind her. Eli, looking tired, wearing glasses, she’d been crying. She stopped, clear gaze meeting Nozomi’s.

“I’ve hurt my oldest friend, exposed myself to litigation, and could lose my practice. Was that what you meant to happen, Nozomi?”

Nozomi winced.

Eli had her hands shoved in the pockets of her overcoat, “What were you thinking?”

“About?”

“Nozomi.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Eli. Has Nico been lying about me?”

Eli glared, her jaw set, nostrils flared. “If this is how you’re going to behave, I’ll be in the guest room.”

“That upsets the twins. Can’t you just pretend to fall asleep on the couch again?” Nozomi knew this was not the ideal way to react, but with Eli so serious, she found an edge of panic pushing her to impulsive speech.

“Nozomi…” Eli’s hands were warm and strong as she held Nozomi’s, “Please just explain why you altered Nico’s paperwork.”

“I had a feeling.”

“Nico was crying. Maki’s going to be livid.”

Nozomi felt a twinge of guilt, sure, but she also knew that everything would work out. This must be about Dia. Nico and Maki were getting along, that was obvious from Nico’s texts to Eli. Surely they could sort it out.

“I’d like to say something to Maki that doesn’t just sound like my wife played a stupid prank. Please, Nozomi, help me understand.”

Nozomi giggled, “I had a feeling, Eli. The cards had told me there would be a change in Nico’s fortunes and then I saw her in your office…she obviously wants a family, Eli, she always has, you told me that. I just want to help the universe give her one. Just let them work it out."

Eli had no reply. When Nozomi doubled down on ‘the cards’ and intuition, there was no opening for Eli to logic her out of her beliefs. And the damnable thing was, it always worked out. But this wasn’t their life, this was Nico and Maki and Dia’s. Nozomi had been wrong to meddle. And left Eli terribly vulnerable.

Too exhausted to argue or strategize any more, Eli tossed her coat on the couch. “I’m going to bed. I have to talk to Maki tomorrow.”

“Did you eat?”

Eli shrugged.

“It will work out, Eli. Have faith."

Eli shook her head, “Good night, love.”

A too quick kiss on the cheek, leaving Nozomi alone, to curl up in Eli’s coat, on a corner of the couch, unpleasantly surprised by Eli’s intransigence. Had she gone too far this time?

###

A long afternoon, Maki finally getting a chance to look at her phone. Message from Raye, Dia’s nanny. Dia fussy and running a fever, over a hundred. Maki bit her lip. That might explain yesterday’s fit of temper and how easily Dia fell asleep last night.

“Dr. Nishikino?” The lab tech came around the corner.

“What’s up, Kadir?”

“Do you want to see the results of Mx. Nabe’s bloodwork?”

Maki glanced at her smart watch. Her shift was over twenty minutes ago. And the late dinner with Nico was now probably not going to happen. “Let me check something.” Maki walked confidently to the call board. Tonight’s on call orthopedic surgeon was Dr. Wilhimena Mae Tompkins. Top of the line. Maki’s first or second choice. “Just send them to Dr. Tompkins. The patient’s already been moved to a room, right?”

“Orderlies just took her upstairs.”

“Guess I’m done here then. Dia’s running a fever so I’ve got one more patient to see.” Maki winked, Kadir grinned.

“See you in a couple days then, Doc. And I hope Dia feels better.”

“Thanks. I’m sure it’s nothing. She’s probably teething.”

Now to text Nico.

###

Nico hadn’t heard from Eli all day. Obviously Eli had chickened out. Like Nico expected. Time for a call. Eli picked up.

“Are you hiding from your wife in your office?”

“Shut up, Nico.”

“Don’t talk to Nico like that. You promised Nico you’d talk to Maki. Have you talked to Maki?”

No reply.

“Eli.”

“I’m still working out what to say.”

“Start with, I really didn’t mean for my nosy, pushy, annoying hussy of a wife to…”

“Don’t talk about Nozomi like that.”

NIco sighed, “C’mon, Eli. Nozomi is currently on the bottom of Nico’s friend list. I’m not going to be nice.”

“She’s my wife, Nico. It’s complicated.”

“What is happening to Nico is complicated. You’re just not willing to deal with the consequences of your wife’s intrusive, illegal, apocalyptic meddling. Nico could sue.”

“Yes, you could.” Eli sounded so tired, but Nico had zero sympathy for the enabler.

“Talk to Maki or I will.”

“Nico.”

End call. Before Nico could put her phone down, Maki’s text tone pinged.

M: Dia’s got a fever. I’m heading home. We'll have to postpone dinner ●︿●

N: Nico will bring dinner over (っ˘ڡ˘ς)

M: Pizza?

Nico chuckled.

N: Whatever the sexy doctor wants.

M: Pizza ᕕ[ ᓀ ڡ ᓂ ]ㄏ─∈

M: And you （＾_-）

N: Is an hour good?

M: Sure.

N: See both my best girls then.

Nico hit Eli’s number.

“Tell Maki.”

“Tomorrow.”

“Eli.”

“I’m drafting a presentation to explain right now.”

“Include a big picture of Nozomi with an arrow pointing to guilty.”

“Good night, Nico.”

“Talk to Maki, Eli. Or Nico talks to lawyers.”

Eli seemed more concerned about Nico and the Nishikino’s lawyers than what Nozomi’s action had cost Nico. Eli continued to fail, freefalling down Nico’s friend list. Another call. Mama. Nico let that go to voicemail. Maybe she should forward that voicemail and the three before it to Eli. Maybe then Eli would realize some of the pressure Nico was feeling.

###

Nico knocked. Maki was right there, opening the door, in a showcasing all her curves casual combo of black leggings and a mostly undone gray henley. She waved Nico into the wide open family room that seemed to make up at least 70% of the first floor of the carriage house. A baby grand was tucked into a windowed corner, a huge sectional sofa was centered and facing the fireplace, and the walls were decorated with seasonal photos of a shrine and what looked like birds and dragons restored from antique wooden screens. Set a calm, classy mood.

“So are the Disney movie posters in your bedroom, Cinderella?” Nico bounced up to kiss Maki.

Maki smiled, “I took these photos myself, during some visits to Kyoto and Tokyo, before med school, and the screens are damaged family heirlooms I restored sections of.”

“Hands on decorating.”

“I want Dia to grow up with her heritage around her.”

Silent, Nico walked around the sectional, putting the pizza boxes on the wood and glass table, not sure what to say about Dia.

“She’s feeling better, I think. Her fever went down.” Maki leaned on the sofa back.

“Good.”

“Want to check in on her and say hello before we eat?”

Nico deflected. “Pizza first?”

Maki opened the box with Carmen’s excellent stuffed pesto pizza. A garlic smell wafted out with the steam, filling the room, “It’s still hot.”

“Nico delivered pizzas for a summer. I know the tricks.”

“Nico knows a lot. Let's say good night to Dia.” Maki slid her arm through Nico’s, stealing a quick kiss and half dragging Nico to the stairs.

###

Dia’s nursery was blue and green and white, with a sea and lighthouse theme. Fish and mammals and turtles played on the walls. In the low light of the nightlight, there was an almost bioluminescent glow to the undersea residents.

“Nico is surprised Little Mermaid wasn’t a choice when we talked Disney movies.”

“Don’t like that one…” Maki muttered.

“No, it’d be hard to lose your voice.”

“And music.”

“Yeah. Nico would hate that.”

They stood at the crib, Nico staring down at Dia, Maki watching Nico, Nico trying not to remember Cotaro in his crib, dark hair, serious face...Dia was relaxed, arms flung out, a tiny smile on her face.

What if they were in their house, standing together, Maki and Nico, both of them, looking at a child they’d had together after a whirlwind courtship and marriage? What if this were Nico’s house and when Dia woke up, she looked at Nico, saying “Momma,” and reaching up for a hug? What if…?

“She’s beautiful.” Nico whispered and then her breath hitched and sudden water in her eyes stung. She let go of the crib and rushed to the door.

“Good night, Dia. We’ll see you tomorrow.” Maki left the lightest of kisses on her daughter’s forehead, wondering if she’d seen tears in Nico’s eyes. But Nico was already downstairs, considering the stuffed pizzas.

“Do you want pesto or sausage? And we need plates. And forks. And…”

“I’ve had stuffed pizza before, Nico. Just give me a minute to find the pie server.”

###

Cocoa had raved about a movie called The Half Of It so Nico suggested they watch that. Maki had recognized it, but said Nico needed to watch Saving Face, director Alice Wu’s first movie, about a doctor and a dancer and their families.

“You’ll love the mom. She’s so funny.”

“And the main character’s a doctor? So Nico will find out what doctoring is like?”

“Yep.”

The movie progressed; the pizza was eaten, with occasional garlic flavored kisses shared, but Maki kept picking up unease from Nico. Was it lingering from yesterday, the obvious tension between Nico and her mom? Or whatever Nico and Eli had talked about last night? Something obviously had claimed some of Nico’s attention. But after pizza, Maki had curled up next to Nico, encouraging Nico to drop her arm around Maki’s shoulder. And as the flirting between Wil and Vivian got sexier, kisses and more intimate gestures right there on the screen, building a mood, Maki could feel Nico pull her closer. Maki nudged Nico on the cheek, getting her to turn, tempting her into a luring, longing kiss. Whatever worries had been on Nico’s mind had been eclipsed, Maki smiling as she felt agile hands slide under her shirt, warm against bare skin, Nico murmuring endearments between kisses and shiver inducing nibbles along Maki’s neck and jaw.

And then Nico’s phone went off, one of her raps.

“Damn it.” Nico grabbed for her phone, Maki falling down on the couch when Nico let go, “It’s Cocoro’s emergency tone. Sorry.” And all Nico’s attention was on the call, “What’s up? Nico’s super busy....Yes, Maki and Dia came to the house yesterday. Did Mama tell you?”

Dia? Alert, Maki sat up.

Nico was listening. “What did Mama say...why...no, we can’t say that….Nico won’t let…”

Maki had no idea why Nico’s sister had anything to say about Dia. Nico had turned away, about to get off the couch, Maki reached over Nico’s shoulder, pulling the phone away, switching it to speaker.

“Why are you talking about my daughter?”

“Dr. Nishikino?” Cocoro’s voice was tense, “You’re there? Good, then we can settle what the language should be.”

“What language? Why does Nico have anything to do with Dia?”

Nico grunted, it reminded Maki of someone stubbing a toe.

“Pictures have been circulating on TWIG of Nico Yazawa’s secret daughter.”

“Nico doesn’t have a secret daughter…” Maki suddenly realized she was doing all the talking, “Nico?”

Nico took her phone back, leaving it on speaker, but switching to the TWIG app. A quick search of “#Nico” brought up a snap of Nico hugging Dia in front of her house, Nico’s mother in the background, Maki nowhere to be seen.

Nico stared. Cocoro continued to panic chatter, “All we need to do is release a picture of you, Dr. Nishikino, Dr. Nishikino’s daughter, and the statement that you and Dr. Nishikino are dating and Dia is not your daughter. People are running facial match software and getting confirmation. Next they’ll be wondering who the father is…”

“Dia doesn't have a father,” Maki’s fists clenched. No one but Eli was supposed to have any details of her pregnancy with Dia.

“Shut up. Both of you.” Nico snapped, the phone dropping to the couch, Nico’s head dropping into her hands.

“Just tell them Dia’s my daughter.”

Cocoro's tone brightened. “Dr. Nishikino is being unexpectedly helpful, Nico. We can get ahead of this.”

“Just release the statement, Cocoro. Nico and I can talk to the press.” A practical solution, Maki decided.

“Let Nico think. Both of you. Just be quiet. Nico needs quiet.” Nico ended the call.

“Nico, Dia is my daughter. We can just tell everyone. We don’t have to keep us dating a secret. I don’t care what my parents think.” Maki sat next to Nico, brushing fingers through Nico’s hair.

There was a long pause, Nico enjoying Maki's touch. Then she pulled away. “Maki could just marry me. That might save Nico.” Nico sounded like someone hanging onto a building ledge by a ladder made of split fingernails and cruel laughter.

Nico’s tone and odd behavior scared Maki, “How can you joke about that, Nico?”

Nico raised her head, tears streaming down her face, “You don’t know this yet, but Nico is a terrible liar.”

“What does that mean Nico? Do you have a secret daughter…”

“Maki…”

Maki’s ringtone went off. She glanced at her phone, “It’s Eli.”

Nico dropped her head again, “Answer it. We might as well blow everything up.”

Maki hit speaker, snarling, “What is it, Eli? Want to let me know Dia is Nico’s daughter too?”

“Oh good,” Eli sounded relieved, “Nico told you.”

Maki was on her feet, shouting, “NICO TOLD ME WHAT?!!!???!!!”

“About her paperwork? And Nozomi? I'm really sorry, Maki.”

Maki felt pale. Her knees wobbled. The room unfocused. Black spots dotting everything. Nico ended the call.

Before Maki could fall, Nico was there, “Maki? C’mon, breathe. Take it slow, breathe for Nico.”

Maki shook off Nico, and ran upstairs to Dia, pulling her out of her crib, holding her tightly, Dia blinking, confused. Nico was there, almost instantly.

“Can we talk?”

“Go away, Nico.”

“Maki. Please.”

“GO AWAY NOW, NICO!” Maki screamed. “Leave us alone.”

Dia started to cry.

Nico stepped back, “Call me later, please, Maki. Or let Eli explain. I’ll have Cocoro tell everyone Dia’s your daughter. I’m sorry this happened like this." A pause, Nico reaching a hand out, almost touching them. "It’ll be all right, Dia.”

“Don’t tell Dia anything.” Maki growled, Dia pressed against her as she glared at Nico, daring her to come any closer.

Retreating into the hall, Nico forced tears back, or she’d be wailing as loud as Dia. How had this gone so wrong?

A/N: Rainy, moody weather.

#NicoMaki #baby Dia #Nishikino Maki #Yazawa Nico #NozoEli #Ayase Eli #Tojo Nozomi #Single Parent AU #angsty

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angstyaches · 4 years

Text

Come Back to Me Pt.1

Follow up to Rin and Felix meeting at a park bench for the exchange of money and a Ouija board. Actual whump/sickness in this one, as Shayne's bad habits catch up on him. Part Two will be from Charlie’s POV.

CW: panic, nausea, dizziness, fainting, no emeto, hunger/disordered eating mention

Swallow the World, Halloween: Part 3

Shayne was sitting on the picnic table with his feet on the bench, and Charlie was sitting on the bench with his back against the table. Shayne had never seen him sitting with one leg crossed over his knee before. Relaxed. Confident, maybe. He might have looked slightly intimidating if he wasn’t wearing a bright yellow jumper. Or if he didn’t keep tapping his pink smoothie against Shayne’s leg.

“Piss off, I’m not touching that thing.”

“Damn it, Shayne!” Charlie laughed. “I asked for soy yoghurt specifically so you could try it. I threw dairy under the bus for you.”

Shayne sighed. Fuck’s sake. “Give it here.”

He took a small sip through the straw. At first, all he could feel was an icy stab in his throat and chest. He closed his eyes and breathed through his mouth, drawing the warm, early autumn air into his lungs.

“There’s no way it’s that bad.”

“It’s just fucking cold. Reminds me of –” Demons sliding down my throat. “Y’know.”

“Sorry, I should’ve warned you.”

Shayne was ready for the cold on the second sip, and the tart strawberry flavour made his cheeks tingle. The acidity was still sharp on the way down, but pleasant in the same way as splashing your face with cold water. There was also a sweetness he wasn’t used to, but wasn’t put off by either.

“Yeah, okay, that’s actually nice,” he admitted as he handed the cup back to Charlie, whose eyes brightened.

“You want some more?”

“No way. It’s yours.”

Charlie didn’t push it, but he still looked pleased with himself. He looked away in favour of gazing out across the park, at the sunshine lazily casting shadows through the yellow leaves. He let his finger hover close to the top of the straw, twirling it gently with his telekinesis without even looking, but that wasn’t what had Shayne’s attention.

He was examining the silver possession scar that curved around Charlie’s neck, invisible to the most people, but a clear mark for a demon killer. For Shayne. He felt a little light-headed with frustration at the fact that they still hadn’t made any progress with getting that demon out of Charlie. That he hadn’t made any.

It also felt a little strange to be taller than Charlie for once. Shayne wondered what would happen if he slid across the table, just a little to the left, and rested his head against Charlie’s. Imagining the smell of his hair from that close made Shayne’s own hair stand on end, and didn’t help with the slight dizziness.

A light whistling sound rushed past his ears. Echolocation; softer and more elegant than it usually sounded, but still unmistakable.

“You hear that?” he asked tightly. No. No, there was no way… He’d only been gone from the house a few hours; Madelyn and Watson wouldn’t care about that. Not enough to follow him all the way to the city.

Charlie looked up at him. “Hear what?”

That was when Shayne spotted him; a familiar figure across the park, sitting alone at another picnic table. His golden complexion and ridiculous clothes would have made him stand out anywhere, not to mention those glowing yellow eyes.

“Fuck.” Shayne hopped down and sat next to Charlie.

“Whoa - what is it?”

Shayne pulled his friend’s shoulder so that they were both turned and leaning towards the table. Shayne was hyper-aware of Charlie’s flesh and bone hidden under his clothes, how real and solid he was. How breakable. Shayne felt like his insides were slowly tightening, pushing more and more pressure up into his skull.

He blinked as Charlie’s hand rested against his cheek, tilting his head to make their eyes lock. “Come back to me. Shayne, you look so... When did you last eat something?”

Shayne couldn’t remember, but he also couldn’t see the relevance of the question. All he could think of were vampires elitists so desperate to rid the world of demons that they would set a trap for the kindest, most amazing –

“Th-the –” Fuck. Why was his voice so shaky? Why were Charlie’s eyes so blue, and why was he seeing four of them? Shayne tried to focus, lowering his head to his hand when the dizziness didn’t pass. “The – the guy on the bench over there, can you – can you quickly check if he’s looking at us?”

Charlie laughed gently. “What? Why would he be –?”

“Just – please.”

“Who, the guy in the suspenders? I don’t think so. He’s just – wait.”

“Wait?” Shayne’s breath suddenly felt like it wasn’t going all the way to his lungs. He clutched the side of his head. “Wait what?”

“He’s looking over at Rin, and – and the guy she’s with.”

Shayne looked up and saw Charlie’s lips move again, but couldn’t remember if he’d replied before leaning back and getting to his feet. He couldn’t remember how he made it so far across the park with his head feeling so floaty, his legs so shaky, his thoughts so detached.

Elliott intercepted him before he got to the side of the park where Rin was sitting. He called out his name a few times before tearing ahead, turning, and shoving Shayne backwards. Shayne stumbled but managed to catch himself, adrenaline clearing his head a little.

“Why the fuck are you here?” Shayne growled. “And who the fuck is Rin talking to?”

“Try and stay calm, alright?” Elliott raised his eyebrows. “You want a repeat of what happened with us last time?”

Remembering the agony of being punched by Elliott made Shayne almost gag. He stretched his jaw and tried to steel himself. “If she gets hurt, Elliott, I’ll – I’ll put you in the ground, whether you’re dead or not. You and your little friend.”

“Seriously, watch yourself, Shayne.” Elliott’s eyes darkened as he bared his fangs, which Shayne had seen rip open the ribs of a deer. “No one’s gotta get hurt here, man, let’s just –”

Shayne stepped forward, tightening his fists. “Let’s just nothing, you son of a bitch.”

“Shayne?” Charlie took hold of Shayne’s arm from behind.

Shayne froze up before he could even think about where to hit Elliott first. Charlie’s hold wasn’t strong, but it still made the wrong chemicals fire in Shayne’s brain, and he had to choke back the instinct to lash out.

He shivered as he realised Charlie was seeing him this angry. The rampageous energy leaked from his limbs and his heartrate dropped, though the panic was still screaming in his head. It was like his body was forgetting the danger while his brain fixated on it.

Elliott nodded over Shayne’s shoulder. “Who’s your friend?”

Shayne stepped right between Charlie and Elliott. He reached back with his trembling free hand, shivering again when he felt Charlie take it. He wasn’t sure anymore if all of this holding was purely for Charlie’s benefit.

“You – you don’t go near him, Elliott,” he breathed. “You don’t even look at him.”

“Okay, relax, man.” Elliott nodded, careful not to break eye contact again. “You want to tell me what you’re so worked up about?”

“How about the fact that you’re here,” Shayne said, “while our friend is meeting someone she’s never met before –?”

The way Elliott’s eyes glistened caught Shayne’s attention. No, this was no coincidence. There was a member of the Aldridge clan that Shayne had never met, and the hooded seller had to be them. The confirmation settled like cement in his stomach.

“The Aldridges planned – planned all of – all of this,” he muttered. Shit, why couldn’t he get his voice to come out any damn louder? Everything was coming out in such short, pathetic bursts. “Unless – unless this goes all the way – all the way back to –”

“Shayne, listen,” Elliott said. “Me and Fee didn’t have a choice in this. Besides, isn’t this something you needed, to help your friend?”

Shayne shook his head, wanting to draw Charlie a little closer behind him, but realising he couldn’t get any closer. His shoulders were already pressed against Charlie’s chest, and most of his weight already seemed to be taken into Charlie’s arms.

Charlie was holding him.

“Shayne, look,” Charlie said, moving one hand to rest on Shayne’s waist. “I can see Rin, and she’s just talking to the guy. She’s fine, if you just look.”

“He’s right.” Elliott’s face was swimming in and out of focus. “My boy would never hurt a fly.”

“Then why all the secrecy? Mad- Madelyn…” Shayne didn’t mean for it to be a whisper, but it was.

He’d wanted to make Elliott tell him whether or not Madelyn had orchestrated this, if she knew Shayne had been hoarding demons in jars, if she knew about Charlie.

God, he felt so weird.

The weight of the panic in his stomach made him feel like he was going to throw up, but all that came out of him were mumbled fragments of thoughts that burned whitely in his head. “Mads and Watson, they – they found the - they know about – don’t they? They – they’re going to… Charlie?”

“Yeah? I’m here. I’ve got you.”

“They – they’re…” They’re going to hurt you, they’re going to kill you, they’re going to make you go away, they’re going to –

“Shayne?” Charlie whimpered.

The last thing he remembered thinking was that Charlie must have abandoned his smoothie somewhere, because there was no way he’d be able to hold it and catch Shayne on his way to the ground.

#swallow the world #shayne #charlie #elliott #panic #fainting #tw panic #tw hunger #charlie being so good #no emeto #dizziness #nausea #sickfic

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