#i came across it by chance and it took me hours to find evidence that anyone else had ever owned one | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

Visit Blog

Explore Tumblr blogs with no restrictions, modern design and the best experience.

Fun Fact

The Tumblr office adopted Tommy, an 11-year-old Pomeranian.

#i came across it by chance and it took me hours to find evidence that anyone else had ever owned one

paeries · 7 months

Text

Sick Of You III — h.s.

[when a boyfriend of two years breaks it off and offers a new arrangement, of course you’ll take it up. this is your prime chance to prove him wrong. and Harry can’t bear to watch it]

[part one is here, part two is here, and i just wanted to say thank you thank you thank you for all the love you’ve shown. this one took a loonnngggg time to hash out because I wanted to give it a good realistic feel to the argument, bc y/n fucked up badddd. so, that being said, i'm hoping i was able to deliver and i really hope you enjoy it xxx]

wc; 13.3k

pairing; harry x reader

cw; friends to lovers au, brief smut, annggsssttttt, harry tears, lots of arguing, drinking, smoking, swearing ALOT of it, we’re not exactly y/n’s biggest fans

pov; y/n, but third person

[pssst…. you can find my masterlist here]

“There y’go, sweet girl.” Harry panted out, his hands cupped under her ass as she rocked back and forth on his cock, the tip practically smushed against her g-spot. “Tha’ feel good?” He hummed, as she buried her face in his neck, her hands gripping tight at his shoulders for leverage. She nodded quickly, gasping out a weak ‘Yes!’ before whimpering against the crook of his neck. “So full, Harry.” She hiccuped and Harry’s head fell back, Y/N taking the opportunity to litter kisses anywhere she could at the newly uncovered area. His hands came up to smooth along her back, one hand finding the soft ends of her hair, his fingers twirling the strands around each digit. He’d learned long ago about how she’d coo and preen into his touch. He had moved his head back to watch her do just that, and watch the goosebumps skirt up her arms. “All mine, dove.” He had hummed against her skin. “Tell me.” He begged, sliding an arm around her waist to lift her up a bit, his hips rocking up into her. He heard her gasp, whine, whimper, everything but what he really wanted to hear. “Tell me, Y/N. Please, tell me you’re mine.” He asked again, peppering kisses across her chest. Just as he found her nipple beginning to suck gently, as he knew would get her to say what he wanted to hear, a lower voice from the corner began to laugh.

“Go on, tell him.”

Harry’s head snapped up, ignoring Y/N’s cries as she came, her hips still rocking against him with her head thrown back.

Mark was standing by the door.

•••

Harry’s eyes flew open, sitting up immediately before scanning the room for his clock that he must’ve kicked to the floor in his sleep. 4:16am. He groaned, his hands reaching up to rub his face before laying back down. Maybe I can stare at the ceiling some more and fall asleep?

“Tell him.” Harry audibly scowled, pulling the pillow over his head. He couldn’t even find peace in his sleep, his own brain won’t let him get the girl while he’s unconscious. Ridiculous, really. At this point, he’d rather just scrap the whole day and try again tomorrow. He didn’t feel like moving. Didn’t feel like sitting up and he didn’t feel like stretching his aching limbs. He certainly didn't feel like pulling his curtains back to let the daylight in, definitely didn’t feel like getting in the shower, didn’t feel like tidying up his living room from the night before, he didn’t feel like doing anything but lay down.

So he did. With the T.V. on whatever was already channelled in, he laid in his bed and let his thoughts drift. If he looked out to the aforementioned curtain covered window, he wondered if it was going to rain, since the sun should’ve begun coming up by now. It had to have been covered in clouds, a perfect start to a shitty morning evidently. He dared look back at the clock. What had felt like it had at least been ten minutes, in fact was a little of an hour had gone by. So, with his throat scratchy, his eyes raw, his head pounding, and feeling like shit, he pushed himself up to trudge into the bathroom despite his lack of motivation. Start with a shower, he thought to himself, as he brought a heavy hand to the knobs before stepping under the water.

Usually, he would let his mind wander. Sometimes long enough for his hands to find his cock, tugging till he found his relief under the water. Now? He shuts his eyes, focusing instead on the feel of the hot water pelting at his skin. If only he could put it all off until tomorrow and stop existing only for the day. He was well aware that the minute he’d let the reins go, his thoughts would return to her.

Yet, Harry suddenly can't seem to catch his breath in the shower, the inevitable tears slipping past his cheeks as hard choking sobs wracked through his body, his forehead resting against the ceramic tiles. Nothing could stop whatever noise clawed its way from his gut and out of his mouth when he thought about the night before. He wasn’t even sure why this time was so much worse than all the others.

Was it because he felt like the end was near? That his efforts paid off, or that it was looking like he’d come out on top after all? That all signs were pointing to yes? Not, watch out for the rug that's about to be ripped away from under your feet? Or was it how stupid he never thought she’d have been to throw away what was obviously the right kind of love? That she'd be so blinded to deny it?

You shouldn’t think like that, it’s not like you don’t love her anymore.

Finally stepping out of the shower, he grabbed whatever clothes his hands found from his drawers and began down the hallway to the kitchen. As Harry brewed himself a cup of coffee, he scrolled through his phone for unanswered texts or calls, even updating himself on the news. Again, anything that allowed his mind to venture away from her. Sure there were things that always reminded him of her but he did his best to steer clear as best he could.

While he waited for the machine to finish, he glanced over his living spaces. Nothing too terrible. There were some empty pizza boxes on the kitchen island (he later learned that someone was kind enough to put the last unopened box of pizza in his fridge along with the drinks), and the chairs were a bit haphazard and the couch was covered in crumbs and pillows. This really shouldn’t take too long to tidy up.

About an hour passed, and Harry had gotten through his second cup of coffee, feeling somewhat better and more alert. At least enough to get the day done and over with. So Harry, after looking at the state of his neglected garden from the window, decided to dip into the closet for his broom to start there. The area hadn’t been used since the summer, and with the snowier months on the way, he thought he’d better tidy it now so it wasn’t so atrocious come next springtime.

By the time he finished and stepped back inside the heated walls, a knock came from his front door. Dread ran through his blood, as he stared at it before hurriedly opening the door, immediate relief rippling through his body when Daphne was revealed to have been standing at the other side.

“Hey, Daph.” He sighed, his head tilted in confusion afterwards. “S’quite early, isn’t it? Why’re you up?” He asked but Daphne shook her head, and he noticed she looked quite frazzled. “Nevermind that, y’busy?” She asked hurriedly. “Not exactly, but,” Harry started before Daphne was pushing past him into his house. “Come on in, I guess.” He muttered, shutting the door to follow her. “Are you cleaning?” She asked immediately and Harry’s eyes widened. He wasn’t exactly awake just enough to have prepared himself for company. “Not deeply, just tidying.” He replied, eyeing her carefully. He couldn’t tell what was wrong with her. She wasn’t as put together as usual. Honestly, she looked quite dishevelled. “Good. I’ll help you.” She answered, going to grab a trash bag to collect the empty beer cans and bottles. Harry waited a second, feeling his confusion grow deeper before grabbing a bag as well.

They cleaned in silence for a while before Daphne, who was now holding paper towels and some sort of spray to wipe the counters. “Y’sleep okay?” She finally asked and Harry straightened up. “Slept fine.” He answered quickly, hoping that was the last question. (Somehow, he wasn’t convinced.)

Silence again, apart from the occasional spraying sound from her surface cleaner. “Because, y’never came back out after you got sick.” Daphne pried again, and Harry let out a loud exhale. “I’m fine, Daphne.” He reiterated, looking at her sternly. He reaaallllyyy did not want to talk about it, especially with Daphne. She had barely paused, still wiping down the tables or setting glasses in the sink. “It’s just that, I-I’m having a hard time believing you, Harry. I know how you get.” She began again and Harry groaned, his head tipping back. “Daphne. I’m fine. S’alright.” He said again, staring at the ceiling as silence filled the room again.

Thank Go—

“What’d y’mean, s’alright, Harry?” Daphne shouted suddenly, her eyebrows furrowed at him in some form of disbelief. Surely, he’s joking, she thought. “It’s not alright, you get that, yeah?” She huffed, shaking her head at him. “That, that, what she’s doing, is, is- She’s stringing you along! I-It’s nasty, it’s cruel!” Her voice climbing higher and higher, until she was shouting.

“Enough, already! Alright? I know what it is, Daphne! But, you popping up out of nowhere at six a.m. and throwing it in my face at volume 10 isn’t helping things either!” Harry snapped, pausing from picking up the pizza boxes and glasses strewn about the coffee table. “I don’t need you to tell me any of this shit, I can handle m’self, thanks.” As much as he tried not to, he took one look at her and guilt rushed over him. “M’sorry, for yelling. I’m just,” He sighed, setting the garbage bag down to free his hands. “I’m trying to get my mind off it, so, it’s just not something that I really want to talk about. I appreciate your concern, I do. But, I think I just want to be alone.” Daphne chewed at the inside of her lip as she listened to him, “I’m sorry, I really didn’t come here to pry. I just wanted to check in.” She finally uttered out, going to finish tidying in the kitchen. “I’m at least going to help you finish first.” She said adamantly. And Harry let out a sigh of relief. That, he could manage. “Thank you, Daph, really.” He reiterated, grateful for the help and now silent company.

By the time Y/N left Jodie’s and arrived at Harry’s, she found that his car was running in the driveway, and his front door seemed to be cracked open by a smidge.

Where was he headed off to? Should I go?

Before another thought could form in her brain, Harry came out in what looked like a hurry, stopping briefly at the sight of her before bounding right past her to the boot of his car.

She stayed still while chewing at the inside of her lip, watching as Harry wrapped up six or seven bags in his arms. Without much acknowledgement, he slid past her again to get in the door. “Would you take the keys out of the ignition for me, this is the last of it.” He grumbled as he passed her. “Sure-,” She sighed, opening his driver door to pull the keys out, the engine shutting down immediately.

After making what felt like a walk of shame to the front door, she froze upon entering. Harry was busying himself with getting the groceries put away, walking back and forth between the bags on the kitchen floor to the fridge or cupboards. Harry was determined not to show her how upset he really was. He wanted to give her the same treatment he had been experiencing from her. Besides the fact, that he was terrified he’d start crying the minute he got a good look at her.

“How have y’been?” He asked, barely taking a glance at her as she shut the door behind her. Just focus on the groceries and the house, he thought to himself. Chairs were still every which way, and Harry had relieved Daphne of her duties about an hour earlier once she finished mopping, so he could manage to pop out to the store and grab some groceries for the week. Organising his apartment, unfortunately, took a brief back corner.

Y/N had stepped in, cautious to watch him as he moved over his apartment. “Have t’say that I’ve felt better.” She mumbled, choosing to stay in the entryway and out of his way. “That so?” Harry replied, his jaw clenching. It was clear that she wasn’t going to let it blow past another day. He decided to prepare himself for the second argument of the day.

“Yeah, um, Harry?” She said hurriedly, wringing her hands together to try and work up the nerve. Harry sighed, ducking his head in the fridge to keep himself busy. “Yeah,” He said dejectedly. There’s no running from it now.

“I wanted to apologise for leaving everyone in the dark last night.” There it was. Harry felt his teeth begin to grind against one another, and he turned to collect some of the emptied reusable bags amongst the others to put them away for his next trip. He hated the plastic bags.

Maybe we could distract ourselves with our thoughts long enough to tune her out?

“It was a rough night, and,” she paused for a moment, “Clearly, I had had a major lapse in judgement.” He feels like his blood's boiling a degree or so higher with every word coming out of her mouth.

He clears his throat, “It’s fine, Y/N.” Can’t you take a hint?

“But it’s not fine, and,” She goes on, but Harry isn’t listening. He knows she's still talking and he’s fully tuned out, but he can’t stomach this much longer. He knew what she was saying without even listening. It was always some excuse, or half-assed ‘Sorry’. So, trying everything he could to cut her off, “I don’t want to talk about it right now.” he griped, hoping that was enough to let her know to back off. What was everyone’s deal? Wanting to talk about it? When did everybody start caring about it?

“Harry, I’m sorry,” She began again, “you’re clearly angry, so just let me,” Harry’s loud groan interrupted her again as he lifted a hand to stop her, “Just stop, yeah?! Sorry?” He spat, “Sorry’s not good enough! You can’t just say- M’tired,” He seethed, “Of hearing how sorry you are. This time, sorry won’t fix it. S’just too soon.” His long legs carried him to the living room to bring a chair back to the kitchen table along with a few wine glasses to sit in the sink, desperate to find something to busy himself with. Anything to avoid this exact argument.

“Wow, y’sound like Daphne.” She muttered, and what meant to sound like a lighthearted joke to lighten the mood, now sounded bitter and demeaning as she now understood, shutting her eyes tight when she saw his head snap back to her. “What?” He asked carefully, taking a few steps in her direction. “What did you just say?” She’d never seen him so angry, taking a few steps backwards as well. “I-I- I didn’t mean,” She stuttered, chewing at her lip when her back met the front door. “Cos’ t’me? Sounded like you had somethin’ snippy to say, and I’d say that you’re in no place to make petty remarks. Especially, when asking me to forgive you all while you stand there, mottled with bruises and hickeys from him.” He spat, shaking his head at her. “How stupid do you think I am?” His head tilted at her, finally backing up to continue unpacking the bags from the store in the kitchen, even laughing as he did. “Hilarious.” He laughed out, glancing back at her before laughing again as he dug through the groceries.

“I-I don’t- think you’re stupid, that’s,” she sighed, starting again with a concentrated breath, “I know you’re angry. And, I know that I deserve to hear it.”

It made his head spin. The same way it always did when he would put his argument aside and give in. Harry could feel his blood bubbling with anger, with hurt, sadness, all of it coming to a head. Before he could do anything to stop it; he turned around again.

“No, what you deserve is each other.” He spat, immediately regretting the words the minute they came out. He knew it sounded morose and beneath him. But he wouldn’t take it back. He was angry, he is angry. Her eyes went wide, opening her mouth before closing it shortly after taking a few steps towards him again. “I-I,” She began again and he watched as her eyebrows furrowed, her lips pursed as her eyes danced around the floor before continuing, “You used me! I can’t continue to be the backup, Y/N! That’s all I am! When he doesn't want you, I’m suddenly good enough. Do I matter that little to you?” He felt like he was gasping for air, suffocating slowly and desperate for relief.

She stopped in her tracks, “Of course not, Harry. You know how I feel about you.” She couldn’t think of a time when Harry didn’t matter to her. So her confusion, trying to understand where everything went so wrong, left her at a loss. How she couldn’t see when it went wrong. If she had just talked to Jodie months ago, would they be standing at arms with one another? She’s never seen Harry like this before, ever. The normally cool, calm, collected and goofy Harry, was now hard-eyed, rigid, and cold. Hurt.

Harry scoffed, narrowing his eyes at her. “When?! When have I ever known how you feel about me? When was I something other than your plan b?!” He spat after turning back around, angrily putting cans in the cupboard and throwing frozen vegetables in the freezer. “Worst part is that I fucking knew what was going to happen at breakfast that morning! I knew it!” She thought she was hearing things, but she swore she could hear a choked whimper in his voice. Y/N pursed her lips, shaking her head in disbelief. “I don’t believe this, Harry. Everytime he cancelled on me, I called you. Anytime he said or did something wrong, I wanted your company. It wasn’t about the sex.”

Harry felt like throwing a full-blown tantrum as he turned around, his eyes widening. “Jesus, so what? Y’telling me I ought to be grateful then?” He quipped, staring at her.

“Of course not! I’m trying to say that I always wanted you around. And that, maybe sometimes, I was happy Mark would cancel.” She explained but Harry wasn’t buying it. “You’re something fucking else, y’know that? ‘Maybe sometimes?’ Fuckin’..” He huffed, deciding to leave it there as he went back to rinsing the wine glasses in the sink. “It’s my fault, I should've got out sooner. My bad.” He spat, leering at her over his shoulder.

“Why did you stay then?!” She yelled, her eyes boring into his back, her frustration reaching its peak. “If there were a million reasons to stop like you make it out to be, why did you stay?!” Harry rolled his eyes, “Oh, come on now. Don’t be daft.” He huffed, shutting the water off to turn to her again, drying his hands on the hand towel over his shoulder. “No, seriously! Why?!”

His eyes met hers, searching hers to try to figure out if she was being serious or not. If she was making some cruel point. “Do you really want to know?!” “Yes!” She breathed, throwing her arms in the air exasperatedly. “Do you?! You’re sure?!” “Jesus, Yes, Harry. I want to know!”

“I,” He paused for a moment to collect himself, “M’- I am in love with you.” He managed in one exhale, his body taut and tense as he looked at her.

Silence for a moment, In love? “Harr-”

“There is no ‘I think’ or ‘maybe’ or ‘could I be’, I am in love with you.” He was breathing heavily now, and deeply thankful she was keeping her distance because he was sure he’d have bursted into tears by now. “If I were Mark, I’d have married you by Month 3.” He practically growled, pained by the comparison. Harry knew full well Mark would never be a quarter of the man he was. “Unfortunately, I haven’t got the money, as we all know, but, I like to think I do well enough on my own.” He was breathing heavily, staring at her fiercely. That was a low one to hurl but he couldn’t stop himself. A full year of his misery, and now she had to make him tell her like this?

“The money?!” She was glaring now, her hands finally settling on the island counter opposite him. “I don’t give a fuck about the money, Harry. I never have, and y’know that. My mother introduced us because she knows his family. Just so happened, I fucking fell in love with him!” Harry rolled his eyes and it only fueled her on. “Right, shocking. As if you’d know what love was if it had landed in your lap.” He spat sarcastically, turning again to flip the tap back on to go back to the last few dishes left.

“Harry, I came here to tell you that I love you.” She admitted, causing Harry to flinch. Something he’d once die to hear, now he couldn’t take seriously. ”No, you don’t.” He groaned, pained to even have to reject it, his lips pulling tight to stop himself from saying anything else. “Yes, I do.” She repeated, her voice catching an irritated tone. Harry couldn’t take it, she just kept pressing, and pressing. “I want to believe you, I do,” He said, his hands shaking while scrubbing the pots and pans. “but, I can’t, not anymore.”

“You can’t- What do you mean you can’t believe me?” She breathed out, bringing her hands up to brush the hair messed around the frame away from her face, the weight of this argument growing heavy. They’d hardly argued before, and never before to this degree. “I can’t believe you when you say you love me. I believe you care for me, or about me, or whatever.” He paused, swallowing thickly so as not to break down. “I don’t believe you’d ever give me an honest chance.” He admitted, his head hanging as he leaned against the kitchen sink, refusing to look at her.

She laughed almost incredulously, “Why not?” And Harry splits, “Because of Mark!” He barked at her, spinning around to finally face her. “It’s always Mark! You've never even considered me as an option!”

“Not once did you ever even contemplate it!” He was seething now, unsure as to how he could possibly get her to grasp a fraction of an idea as to how bad she's hurt him. “What do you want me to do, Harry! I can’t go back in time! I’m apologising now!”

“Oh, Christ, Y/N- They’re just fucking words! If that’s all you have for me, you’d better just go.” He admitted, a mixture of sadness and disappointment etched across his features.

She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose as she tried to collect herself. “What do you want, Harry?” As she finally spoke, her voice was timid and defeated, and as Harry’s voice boomed over, she jumped.

“I wanted to be first!” He shouted, veins popping out on his neck from the force. “I wanted you!” His chest was heaving, fully unloading his anger. “Every time I think about you, Y/N, my chest hurts. Like, like someone is stepping on it. Especially when I think about you with him! It’s killing me, and I thought, I-I thought that I could,” He sighed, his eyes fluttering closed, deciding he had shared enough. He said what he felt he had to say.

She didn’t really know what to say, taken aback by his outburst. “I’m-,” She managed before Harry decided he had enough. “I think you should leave.” He muttered, his shoulders slumped in defeat. “Harry,” She tried, even going as far as to take a step closer to him. “Get out.” Whatever sorrow she thought he could be feeling was so clearly gone. Now, he stood in front of her, tense and angry.

“Leave! I’m tired of this!” I can’t trust you anymore.

“H-Harry, I can’t lea- m’not leaving.” She tried again, begging herself not to let the tears fall. “Now you’re crying?!” Harry barked, reaching up to move his hair from his eyes, tugging as his fingers reached the ends. Rage surged through his body, grabbing her keyring off the counter to take his home key.

He snatched his own keys off the hook to take her house key off, linking it back onto her keyring. “I’m dead serious, Y/N, leave.” He said, cursing himself at the way his voice shook. He knew how scary he could look when he got angry like this, catching a glimpse of his reflection one time in an argument at work.

After pushing her keys back into her hands, he opened the front door and waited, his teary and red-rimmed eyes trained to the ground in front of him. “I-I’ll, I’ll earn it back, Harry. I promise, I-I’ll get the key back.” She murmured, as she walked past him out the door reluctantly. “I swear I’ll prove it.”

Harry managed a small half smile that bordered on sarcastic through his blank stare, hoping she would but still doubtful. “I guess we’ll see.” He gritted, shutting the door immediately afterwards before the unshed tears creating a gloss over his eyes finally fell. Only standing there another few seconds before going back to the distraction of cleaning his apartment again.

“Jod?” She called, stumbling through her best friend's house while fumbling to put the keys in her pocket. “Jooooodddddd!” She giggled out, her vision fuzzed enough as it is without it being pitch black.

Jodie opened her bedroom door quickly, “Y/N? Is that you?” She mumbled, knuckling at her eyes to make sure it was in fact, her drunk best friend. “D’y’know it’s about four in the morning?” A giggle came from the kitchen, as well as some glasses clinking. “Is it?” Y/N hummed, finally finding the kitchen while blindly feeling around for the lightswitch. “Goooot iiiit.” She sang before flipping the light on.

Jodie grabbed a robe, tying it across her waist and shuffled down the hall. “Are you drunk?” A good question, as she was slurring her words while pouring up another drink from her cabinet. “Is Daphne ‘ere?” Y/N hummed, teetering to one side momentarily. “No. Why don’t y’sit down and we can talk about it?” Jodie tried again, reaching for her friend's arm to tug her into the living room.

As both the girls sat down, the room fell quiet. “Talked to erm- Harry.” Y/N muttered, lifting her glass to her lips for a sip. “And?” Jodie asked, leaning forward to lower the other girl's glass. “C’mon, s’just me, relax.” She pressed and frowned as she watched the girl shake her head, more to herself than to Jodie. Y/N scoffed, standing up again to look for her speaker. “It's just us here, right?” She asked again, and Jodie furrowed her brows. “Yes, Daph’s out for the night but I don’t see why that matt-” And suddenly she was cut off by music. “I knew I’d regret giving you the house key.” She muttered to herself, knowing the music was too loud for her friend to hear her.

“Are you alright, Y/N? Have t’say, I’ve seen this kind of behaviour before.” Jodie said after standing up to turn it down. “I talked to Harry.” She repeated, giggling as she did so. “He looked sad. Sooo, sooooo beautiful, but sad.” She sighed, pouting before sitting against the couch’s arm rest. “Everything they said, s’true.” She muttered, staring into her lap as she swirled the liquid around the glass. “Y/N…” Jodie began, “I don’t know where this is go-,” Jodie stopped, as she was interrupted again. “I’m a terri- ‘hiccup’ -terrible person.”

Jodie took a breath, and decided to try again. “Just because you made a bad decision, doesn’t make you a terrible person.” Jodie sighed, somewhat pleased she was able to finish her two cents as she leaned her head against her palm.

“Jodie?” Y/N murmured, hardly looking up from the glass in her lap. “Yeah?” Her friend answered, her head snapping up at the mere thought of her best friend opening up. (Or the exhaustion, it was nearly 4am after all.) “I think I missed my chance.” Y/N whimpered, “I mean, he hates me. I thought I was goin’ over there to tell him what we,'' a hiccup interrupting her, “we had talked about.” She hummed, taking a quick breath to continue. “Was not the case.” She breathed out, shaking her head sadly at the memory of the fight.

“Y/N, I don’t think he hates you.” Jodie repeated, sighing before leaning back against the couch cushions with a soft yawn. “Jod, I’ve never seen him so angry. Ever.” Y/N mumbled, playing with the rings on her fingers. “I’ve just been an awful, awful, person lately. And, I know s’late a-and I wouldn’t normally be here. Becos’ usually, I can go to ‘arry’s. But I fucked that up for m’self, didn’t I.”

“He’s hurt.” Jodie reminded again. “Y/N, you realise that you’ve become his own Mark?”

Y/N’s eyebrows furrowed, “What?” She gasped, and her friend forgave the dramatics, chalking it up to her level of intoxication. “Don’t ‘what’ me.” Jodie laughed, sighing after she caught her breath. “Seriously, you did damn near everything Mark did to you. Whether or not you meant to, is not the issue. You did it, and you need to make it right.” Y/N frowned, reaching for her glass again. Jodie sighed and lowered it again. “And, this? This is not how you make it right. Straighten yourself up. M’not letting you go down this road again, and definitely not when it's from your own doing.” She stood, taking the rocks glass and brought it to the kitchen. “Now, what kind of sandwich would you like?” She asked curtly, dumping the remnants of the glass in the sink before turning to open the fridge and fish out the necessary items. “I’d like you sober now.”

———

Now that Jodie had been certain she had somewhat sobered her friend up, she settled on the couch with a blanket strewn across her lap. Y/N was eating a carefully crafted turkey and brie toastie with a glass of water, laid across the other couch. The two girls were watching some of the ‘007 movie series to settle back down for the night. Jodie was undoubtedly closer to sleep than Y/N, but she didn’t mind staying up with her if it brought her friend some solace. Of all the times she could remember, (other than recent unfortunate events) Y/N had never let her down. Always there, even when her mother died, Jodie actually had to send her on random ‘quests’ to find some alone time in those first few months. “Jodie, I couldn’t imagine going through what you’re going through and keep the same…. Jodie-ness about you.” She’d said all those years ago. They were young, just freshly in the middle of their college careers. In all honesty, Jodie had stayed ‘Jodie’ because she had Y/N. As silly as her statement was at the time, it truly summarised her most valued friendship.

“What are you thinking about?” Y/N suddenly asked, and Jodie lifted her head, “Are you asking me?” She giggled, “You never ask!” She admitted when she received a ‘duh’ and Y/N shrugged, pursing her lips. “Well, you’ve been practically counselling me for the past week and a half and I haven’t asked. S’been eating at me for a while.” Y/N explained, watching as Jodie frowned. “I just, I know you’ve been dealing with a lot too. About the house and,” To her relief, Jodie cut her off. “That’s okay. Your little dilemma offers a much appreciated distraction if we’re being honest. I’ll be okay, I’ve got time.” She explained through another yawn. “You, however, are fucking up left and right hourly.” Jodie teased and somehow successfully dodged a throw pillow tossed her way.

“I wish you would just cry and that could be it. Y’have to get confusing and block everybody out.” Jodie huffed, cracking a smile at her friend who feigned shock. “Honestly!” She laughed, Y/N joining along. “I’m not doing it to push people away, I just hate to complain about something so trivial. I mean, Daphne’s moving for her new job, stressful. You have this house to worry about securing, I-I mean, I can’t leave a man alone if it killed me. All the while, mucking up a great relationship with a guy that actually cared about me enough to at least try and wait it out. That’s done with.” Y/N huffed, her face burying into her hands. “It’s just embarrassing, that this is my life issue.”

“Your life issue?” Jodie laughed, “I somehow doubt that this is it for you, Drama Queen.” She giggled again at the thought, shaking her head. “I’m gonna try to fall asleep, you nutcase. You’re welcome to stay.”

“Love you, Jodie.” Y/N hummed, standing to collect the plates and glasses to set down in the kitchen. The very least she could do was fix her kitchen back up after she barged in and woke her friend from a dead sleep.

—

When Daphne walked in the door the next morning and saw Y/N on the couch, she immediately stormed down the hall to Jodie’s room, who had gotten up just an hour prior to go to her bed. “Jodie!” She whispered, opening her door a crack to poke her head in. “Get up! Right now, get up!”

Jodie groaned, whining as she flipped over, pulling her pillow over her head. Daphne walked over to her bed and pulled the pillow away. “Y/N is on our couch!” She huffed, Jodie grumbling out, “Yes.”

“So! What is she doing here?!” Daphne huffed, setting her hands on her hips. “Christ, Daph, does it look like I’m alert and ready for the day?” She complained and Daphne pulled the blankets back. “I’m serious!”

“She got drunk and came over in the middle of the night, we talked and fell asleep. What is the big deal?”

“The big deal is that I’m pissed off at her! So I’d like to know if and when she’s here.” She explained, irritance written across her face. “And I still live here too!”

“Stop it, Daph! She wasn’t here for you, she was just here to talk. You weren’t even here last night.” Jodie grumbled, blindly reaching for her covers. “Well, I’m leaving. Text me when she leaves.” Daphne huffed, leaving Jodie’s room to duck into her own to collect the things she’d need for the day, showering and dressing before slipping back out the door. (She did, however pack a bag with her ‘daily essentials’, her hair and makeup products. She absolutely couldn’t risk taking any longer.)

“Thank you.” Jodie grumbled, before burying herself back against her bed.

—

“Hey you’re up! I was just getting my things to head out.” Y/N hummed at the sight of her tired looking friend.

“Yeah, might need another nap.” Jodie yawned, going to the fridge for a glass of water. “Daphne’s mad at you.” She added, turning to look at her friend. “I figured, she hasn’t been answering my texts.” Y/N sighed, taking her keys and wallet. “She ever tell you why?” She pried, chewing at her lip. “I mean, I know why, but,” She sighed again, shrugging.

“Well, s’the same shit. I’m assuming she’ll have to talk to me about it at some point. Dunno why shes so pro-Harry all of a sudden.” Jodie answered, “Thinkin’ she thinks this is her chance?”

“Not my business.” Her friend replied curtly, pressing her lips together before taking a step to the door. “Well, I convinced Cade to come pick me up to take me home and he’s here so, I’m just going to try and pretend everything's okay for a little while longer. I’ll see you later Jodie. Thank you, again, and m’sorry again for keeping you up.” Y/N apologised, before she stepped out to meet Cade at the end of her drive.

Jodie sighed, shutting the door and headed to the kitchen to start a kettle for some tea. It always put her in the mood for a nap. With her tea ready, she shuffled to the couch to collapse against it after carefully sitting the cup on the table in front of her. “Peace,” She hummed, “and quiet.” before settling for another rest.

Somehow she had spoken too soon, the front door was opened again and Jodie grumbled something incoherent about having been so close to sweet sleep. “Is she gone?” Daphne’s voice rang through the entryway. “Jesus Chr- Yes, Daph, she left about ten minutes ago! You practically passed her, how long are you gonna keep this up?”

“As long as I feel is necessary.” Daphne countered, heading to the kitchen to set her bags down. “What’s all this?” Jodie asked when she sat up, shuffling to the kitchen to look at what her housemate brought home from the store.

“Went out to the store, grabbed some stuff. Are you hungry? It’ll be some sort of an orzo pasta salad.” Daphne shrugged, pulling the ingredients out of the bags, as well as pulling out the necessary pots and utensils.

“I suppose,” Jodie yawned again. “Let me get cleaned up and dressed, I’ll help you.” She muttered, taking her tea to the room to shower and change. “No, no, get your rest, shouldn’t take too long. I’ll let you know when it’s ready.” Daphne called as the other headed down the hall.

—

“And that’s it, it says, Chill overnight or serve as is.” Daphne read off her phone, “I’m hungry now, so as is it is.” She snickered to herself, setting her phone to the side to give a few final stirs before turning the burner off. “Jod! S’about ready, now or never! M’starving.” She called out, loud enough that she was sure her friend could hear her clearly. “Coming!” Daphne heard back, muffled as it was, as she began to run cold water over the orzo before mixing the vegetables, cheese cubes and dressing.

Before long, Jodie came down the hall with a swiftness. “Been smelling it for ages wondering when you’d call me down.” She hummed, “Looks amazing, Daph.” Jodie praised, taking the time to give her friend a good once over. “Hey,” Jodie began cautiously, “You okay?” Daphne huffed, cleaning up the counters' surface. “Yeah, Jod. I’m perfectly fine.” She sighed, disappointedly. “You could have at least let me accept your compliment before you dug into me.” She mused, rolling her eyes, worrying now that their lunch was ruined. Jodie stared at her for a moment, blinking every now and then. “You realise everything you’re currently doing is in fact not fine?”

“Okay, I’m not. It’s not like it matters. Nobody listens to me anyways.” Daphne grumbled, taking her seat after passing a bowl to Jodie. “What’s your problem then? You’ve been as irritable as ever for the past three days.” Jodie asked, her brows furrowed with confusion.

“Because! You baby her! Let her get off the easy way and she’s in the wrong. I don’t care if she cries or begs, she fucked up and she deserves to hear about it.” Daphne sighed, shaking her head gently in thought.

“Yeah, Daphne, but some people learn differently. How can you expect someone to learn from their mistakes if you throw them to the wind and never give them the chance to fix it?” Jodie asked, still leaned against the counter as she watched Daphne clear the kitchen and turn the light off to sit at the breakfast counter. “And, I don’t baby her.”

"Oh, come on. Why’d y’think she stuck with Mark? She likes playing games, and she doesn't care about the victims of those games; even when they're her own best friends." Daphne griped, finally taking a bite from her bowl. “I’m not sure why you act like she’s been like this for your entire friendship.” Jodie counters, both unimpressed and growing irritated with how her friend is speaking about their supposed shared friend.

“She practically has! She was always the nicest, the smartest, everybody loves her. Even while making the most colossal mistakes!” Daphne groaned, rolling her eyes. “I love her, I do, like I would my sister! But I make one measly misstep and I’m done for. It’s time she gets a little bit of reality.”

“There’s reality, and then there’s meanness.” Jodie shrugged, grabbing a spoon to sit down with her friend. “And Daph, you’ve made tons of measly mistakes, and the world never ended, nor did we ever throw you out.”

The group met at the Stumble close to a week and some days later, and the night was getting into its usual spring, with Cade drunk and slumped at the bar booth they sat at. Unfortunately, Cade lost another shot challenge to Jodie, as usual, and it had left him incapacitated for the evening.

With Daphne at the bar and Cade practically asleep, Y/N scooted closer to Jodie. “I fucked up.” She whispered and Jodie’s eyes widened, “Do not tell me you slept with Mar-,” Y/N shook her head quickly, watching for Daphne. “No! Nice vote of confidence, that, thanks. No, I went to Harry’s last night to drop off a pizza, he said he didn’t get to eat so I thought it’d be a peace offering.” Jodie nodded, leaning in closer to hear her better. “He had a girl over.” Y/N murmured, watching as Jodie’s eyes widened again. “Harry did?!” She practically shouted, “Yes, shh! Not too loud, Daphne’s coming back. Mums the word, Jod, I mean it.” Y/N winced at the memory, reliving the humiliation all over again before shooting a glare at her friend and straightened up as Daphne began walking back over.

“What are you doin’ ’ere, Y/N?” He hushed, his breath leaving him at the sight of her. She had a box of pizza in her arms and a hopeful smile. “Y’said you hadn’t ate today, thought I’d bring some pizza for you.” She explained, her eyes holding his for a minute before she began feeling her cheeks heat up. As she looked around to avoid his stare, she caught sight of a jacket on the coat rack and a thin silked scarf. Brown leather, that looked far too small to fit around his broad shoulders. Harry’s stomach dropped, and he felt his mouth go dry. “Thank you, but uh, s’not really a good time. Could I call you tomorrow?” His heart was hammering, thumping through his eardrums. Y/N could feel herself deflate, putting the pieces together. His hair wasn’t dishevelled from napping, he had a girl over and she was interrupting their date. Her eyes widened and she began nodding, “Yeah! No worries,” She assured him and handed him the pizza box. Harry felt like he could die right there, his arms taking the box from her out of shock. Why tonight? Of all nights?

“It’s for you, I uh, already ate.” Come on now, Y/N. Just get out of there already! “Er, right. Talk to you tomorrow.” She muttered again and awkwardly turned to get back down the driveway to her car, walking as fast as she could without obviously running.

Harry watched as she retreated back to the car and groaned, shutting the door. “Everything alright?” His brown haired guest asked, coming down his stairs in one of his shirts. They had hardly gotten very far, really. The doorbell chiming just as the woman, Claire?, had broken their makeout to remove her shirt. Harry sighed, looking to the box and grumbled. “Yeah, everything’s fine.” He managed to make the trip to the kitchen and set the box down on the island. “You ordered a pizza?” She asked, coming up behind him to look from around his shoulder, before taking a sip of her wine. Harry tensed and rolled his shoulders back to get her off them. “Sorta,” He sighed, ”Listen, m’really sorry, but I’m not feeling too well. Could I order a ride share to come pick you up?” He asked, feeling as though his legs were cemented to the floor under him. Her eyebrows furrowed, and he could tell how awkward the air got. “Uh, sure? Are you alright, Harry?”

“Er, not really, m’so sorry but,” He sighed, shaking his head at himself. “I’ll help you grab your things.” He murmured, picking his phone up to order a ride for her. The woman, looking very confused, began to gather her things and slip her boots on. “Did I do something wrong?” She paused when she got to the doorway, looking at him for some better explanation. “No, no, really, believe me. It’s my fault. I’ll give you a call.” He added, chewing at his lip just desperate to get this girl out of his home.

“Anyone know if Harry’s coming by tonight?” Y/N asked, sipping cautiously at her drink as she watched her friends turn their attention to her. She really just wanted to apologise to him for intruding and that she hoped it didn’t ruin his night, as crushing as that reality felt. There was a lot she wanted to apologise for, the list just keeps growing by the day.

Daphne giggled as she returned, clearly having just caught her question. “Well, I imagine he has other friends, Y/N. He’s probably out with them.” She snipped, setting the drinks on the table and took her seat next to her date she decided to bring along impromptu. Y/N grimaced at her answer, of course he has other friends, lots of other friends.

The two girls haven't been on the best of terms, hardly speaking to one another if Daphne didn’t have something snarky to say. Jodie tried her best to dispute any minor arguments, for the sake of the two's friendship. They’ve butted heads before but they’d also gotten over worse situations. The fact that Daphne seemed to be going out of her way to bring it up, had Jodie on edge the past week. And Harry hadn’t texted Y/N nor had he really been seen in the same amount of time. The last time he came out with the group, he had to leave early after he began introducing the group to a random girl he met by the bar that looked a lot like Y/N, even going as far to introduce her as The Nice Y/N, the poor thing, after having a bit too much to drink. From then on, if he did come out, he never stayed long.

“Chill out, Daph.” Jodie spoke up, eyes practically searing at Daphne. “Y’sound jealous.” She giggled, playing it off as a joke effortlessly for her date whose eyes went wide at the accusation.

Most of the group rolled their eyes, preparing for another gruesome catfight between the two girls. Peace was found few and far between nowadays, Daphne just wouldn’t drop it.

The truth was, Harry was out with some of his other friends. A rehearsal party for a wedding in Italy to be exact. One he had planned to take Y/N to when he got the invitation a few months or so prior, but, well… that played out the way it did all on its own.

So, as he sat on his own at the full service open bar, making friends with the hired bartender. “Think I can get another one of those pomegranate things, mate?” Harry asked, having just finished his first drink. “What’s in it, by the way?” The bartender smiled, setting out the bottles he used for the drinks. “Bit of Prosecco, the pomegranate liqueur, and some white rum. Garnish and whatever else.” He shrugged. “Agli sposi è piaciuto molto.” Harry sighed and nodded, taking the drink besides not knowing what he had actually said. “Salute” He said before taking a big gulp. “Make that two of these.” He gritted, raising his glass.

———

“So, did you come here with someone?” Harry asked, staring into his glass. He wasn’t exactly sure how long he’d been sitting on the ground with…Luca, and Luca, as he found out, didn’t speak great English, but he’d been doing well thus far. And surely, it could’ve gone smoother had alcohol not been involved.

Luca’s brows furrowed, shaking his head at him. Harry frowned, trying to remember some basic keywords he tried to learn while on the plane. “Erm…fidanzata?” Harry tried and Luca nodded, turning his head to look for his girlfriend. “Mia ragazza, Vita, è seduta lì. Over there.” Luca repeated in his best English after noticing Harry’s confused look. “Ahh, ‘Ve got a girl, whooo, by the way,” He mused as he sat on the floor by the bar, leaning against the wall for stability. His head falling heavy on his neck as he gave in to his memory, those pomegranate things…or whatever they were seemed to be working their way through him. “Would’ve looked gorgeous tonight. Could’ve outdone the bride-to-be.” He hummed, lifting his head to take another gulp of his drink and loosen the tie around his neck. “Probably best I didn’t bring ‘er after all, isn’t it?” He laughed out, letting his heavy head fall back again, his hand coming up to run a hand through his dishevelled hair. “Would’ve left early, back to the ‘otel,” He hummed, his eyes fluttering closed, “Jesus Christ, she’d give the sloppiest blowj-“ He was interrupted by a sudden weight at his knees. When Harry quickly opened his eyes and looked down, a dog had laid its head on his lap.

As he looked around, the guy he thought he was talking to from the groom’s side was nowhere to be found. “I thought we were bonding, Luca!” Harry laughed out to nobody, his hands scratching behind the dog's ears. “S’a good thing you stopped me, far too young to hear about all that yet. Where’d you even come from?” He laughed to himself.

To: Y/N

I just poured my feelings out to a dog.

Y/N turned over in her bed, her phone buzzing on her bedside table had lifted her out of her pathetic half sleep. She grumbled to herself in annoyance, knuckling at her tired eyes before pushing herself up in the bed. Finding the lamp's knob to turn it on, she reached over to grab her phone.

*Message from Harry*

Her brows furrowed, rubbing at her eyes again to clear her hazy vision before unlocking her phone to view the message.

From: Harry

I just poured my feelings out to a dog.

Y/N let out an involuntary giggle, trying to ignore the daunting question forming in her head as she wondered what exactly that dog got to hear.

She stared at the message for a while, glancing at the time before tapping on the character field to type out her reply.

To: Harry

am I supposed to laugh? because that’s funny

I hope he didn’t bill you for the therapy

Harry chortled embarrassingly as he read her text, staggering down the hall of his hotel until he got to his door. The shock that he normally would have felt, had he not drank as much as he had, was nowhere to be found. If he was sober, he’d surely not have sent any text whatsoever like he bad been doing. He just missed her, annoyingly. Nevermind the aches and pains from the memory, apparently, going more than a week without talking to her hurts more. He rolls his eyes at that, “Go figure.” He muttered to himself.

Once the door was unlocked and opened, he trudged inside, yanking at his tie to slide it off his neck while looking at her reply. “Y’could’ve been here wiv’me.” He mumbled to himself, sighing as he toed off his dress shoes, stepping out to the balcony for a few quick puffs of a cigarette to ease his nerves. Cefalù, Sicily seemed to have gone quiet for the night, apart from some clubs and bars, and a few stragglers still at the beach, surprisingly quieter than he had expected. Harry sighed, looking over the view as he took a drag, snubbing it out and tossing it in the trash before dipping back inside to finish getting undressed for bed.

His thumbs fiddled around his keyboard for a few minutes, and he decided to send whatever echoed in his head, pressing send before another moment could go by and began unbuttoning his dress shirt.

To: Y/N

I wish you could be here.

He had only sent the message just over a minute ago but the anticipation was eating away at him, nevermind the fact that he was pretty drunk from the four, or was it five? He lost track after the conga line. Needless to say, the pomegranate drinks did their job well.

His thumb immediately hit the call button, putting it to speakerphone as he attempted again to undo his buttoned dress shirt. One ring, two rings, three… four… Is this a bad idea?

“Harry?” He could hear her whisper, and he held his breath. Maybe this wasn’t a good idea after all. She sounded like she was asleep and he brought his hands up to rub across his face. “Shit, m’sorry, I wasn’t thinkin’ about if you’d been asleep.” He started but Y/N was quick to cut him off. “No, m’not, I haven’t,” She sighed, starting her sentence again with an amused giggle. “I hadn’t been to sleep yet.”

Harry hummed, taking a seat on his temporary bed for the remainder of the week. “Havin’ trouble?” He asked hesitantly. She snickered, propping her pillows upright so she could lean against them. “Something like that.”

There was a few seconds of silence, the both of them somehow content with the knowledge that the other was there.

“Did you have something to say, Harry?” She asked timidly, unsure why he was calling her at 3am. She could hear him take in a deep breath on the other line, and she sunk further into her bed as she waited anxiously. “N-Not that I’m trying to get off the call, o-or anythin,” Harry laughed, effectively stopping her rambling. “I really don’t have anything else to say.” He admitted as laid himself down, and tried to ignore the flutter he felt in his stomach when she giggled.

“Why? Because you said it all to a dog already?” She giggled out, the line on the other end going quiet, deathly quiet.

—

“Did you mute me to laugh? Or were you just acting like I was funny this whole time?” She countered, her eyebrows furrowing.

A faint click was heard and Harry’s giggling voice rang through the phone again. “As if you know me.” He laughed out, sighing as he relaxed on the bed. She giggled, pursing her lips as she thought of anything else to keep the conversation going. “Oh! How was the wedding?”

Harry hummed, exhaling as he prepared to answer. “S’tommorow, so we’ll be expected to be fully sober and prepared. Tonight was the rehearsal dinner, or party, or whatever they called it. M’hopin they’ll have more of that pomegranate drink they had tonight.” Y/N snickered, thankful they were on the phone so he couldn’t see the stupid grin plastered across her lips. “I wanted you here with me.” She could hear him murmur and sighed at his admission, her eyes shutting closed as she laid on her bed. “I hope m’not keeping you up.” He spoke again, suddenly remembering there was a time zone difference. Y/N giggled, shaking her head. “No! No, you’re only an hour ahead, Harry. I’m technically keeping you up.”

“Have I mentioned how beautiful it is here? I know m’pretty trashed, but seriously. The pictures don’t do it justice.” She had seen the pictures, the sunsets, the meals, the giggly videos uploaded to a story she was somehow still allowed to see.

Y/N sighed, staring at her ceiling as she listened. “I can imagine, are you near the beach?” She hummed, tucking her legs up closer under the covers so she could turn slightly to look out her window; a true fashioned England thunderstorm was reaching its peak. “Well, I’ve got a slight view where our hotel is, but the wedding will be closer when we head that way tomorrow evening.” He hummed, finally laying in his own bed.

“It’s raining here, thundering, actually.” She sighed, her bottom lip tucking under her teeth as she looked to twirl her rings around her fingers. Harry closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. There were a few nights that they spent together during a storm, some of the best time he’d argue they ever had. The house would inevitably get colder, and they’d have food prepared, movies downloaded and flashlights nearby. Harry would get a fire going in the fireplace, and they’d sit on the couch with all their snacks, waiting the storm out.

Here comes the ache. It felt like shutting down, the way his brain cut that train of thought, the memories. He shouldn’t have called. “I can imagine.” Harry repeated, a low rasp settling in his voice as exhaustion began to set in his body. “Harry?” He heard her soft voice through the receiver, her tone letting him know what was coming. “Y’ought to get some sleep, Y/N.” He sighed, reaching up to turn his light out.

“I’ve tried.” She murmured, clearing her throat after a moment of silence. “Well, try again.” He hummed, setting an arm behind his head. She snickered herself before laying back down in her bed. “Yeah. Goodnight, Harry.”

Harry frowned, brows knitted together before uttering out “Goodnight.” just before the call ended.

“I’m tellin’ you, all of a sudden everyone was gone, and it was just me and the dog!” Harry laughed out, leaning back against the backrest of the booth, listening to the confusion and laughter spread amongst the group.

He looks so good. She couldn’t stop staring at him. Italy did him well, a full tan across his skin. He was truly glowing. Thank God he was telling a story so no one else would notice her absolutely staring at him. And she wished she could pay attention to what he was saying, because everyone was hysterical around her. So much so, that now it was clear she hadn’t been paying attention. She faked a laugh, looking around at everyone else in order to gauge just how funny the conversation got.

“And you didn’t realise everyone was leaving?” Jodie laughed out, a little more than skeptical at his story. “Or the lights dimming?! Music stopping?” Harry laughed and shook his head, “Not at all! Hand over my heart, s’them drinks! Which, I’ll be recreating as best I can because they were phenomenal.” He sighed, going over (to the best of his ability, in hindsight he probably shouldve asked the bartender to just write the ingredients down) what was put in those drinks.

“Italy was beautiful, I mean, everything was gorgeous. The food, the villages, I mean, my God.” Harry sighed, his hand placed over his heart. “I’ll miss it.”

Y/N was busy with her drink when she felt a nudge under the table. Her head snapped up, finding Jodie who had locked eyes with her, a smirk placed on her lips before mouthing ‘worldly experience’. A small gesture to cheer her up, something she had always loved about Jodie. Nevertheless, Y/N rolled her eyes playfully. ‘Rub it in, why don’t you?’ She mouthed back.

“You’d all love it. We ought to rent out a place for a week and all us of go together.” Harry suggested, reaching for his glass to finish off. “Have t’say, wasn’t the same without you guys.”

“Let’s just crash our own wedding.” Cade offered, snickering as he was probably already drunk. “I don’t know anyone getting married, Cade, do you?” Daphne asked, shaking her head at him. “Doesn’t have to be someone we know, Daph,” Jodie piped up, “you’re supposed to check out venues, times and all that. If there's a wedding event, then you go. That’s a properly crashed wedding.”

“But they wouldn’t recognise us! They’d escort us away immediately.” Daphne argued with a huff. “Yeah, but anyone that asks, you just tell ‘em that you’re a friend of either side. Family doesn’t really care about the friends part of the invited.” Cade explained, holding his head up. “Tell ‘em Y/N. She’s done it before.” He grumbled, “If y’dont believe me.”

Y/N giggled, shaking her head at Cade before sliding a glass of water over to him. “We have done it before,” She replied, gesturing between herself and Jodie. “Nobody bothered us.” She shrugged, before standing. “I think Mr. Man over here, needs a burger and chips.” She giggled, Jodie standing as well. “I’ll go with you. Anyone need a top off?” Jodie asked, looking around the group for the show of hands. “Not you, Cade.” She laughed out, before the two made the trip to the bar for the tables orders.

“So,” Jodie started, leaning against the bar while waiting for the bartender to finish their serve. “So?” Y/N laughed out, shrugging her shoulders as she scanned the menu items for a decent burger for Cade. “Sooooo, have you talked to Harry?” She asked again, wriggling her brows at her with a giggle. “Christ, Jod.” Y/N laughed and shook her head, “No, nothing since the phone call.” She sighed and pursed her lips, “Think he’d do that onion and bacon cheeseburger?” Y/N asked, trying to change the topic. “Cade would eat styrofoam if you handed it to him, now, are you planning on talking to Harry?” Jodie pried again, rolling her eyes as Y/N grinned at the bartender, relaying the orders to ignore the question again.

When the barman shot off, Jodie huffed and tapped on her friend's shoulder. “Er, Hello? M’talkin t’you here, sweets.” Y/N groaned, tipping her head back, “What do I say to him, Jodie? Hey, remember our phone call when you were slaughtered after living it up in Italy? Ooh, or, My God, Harry you look great! I wish I wasn’t such a nonce, and we could’ve gone together!?” Y/N rolled her eyes, “No thanks, really, m’fine.”

“Not really a bad start is it? And, you still haven’t talked to him about the pizza incident.” Jodie reminded, watching the bartender talk to the cook in the back. Y/N sighed, her eyes shutting. “Jodie, please..” She breathed and Jodie scoffed, “Don’t give me that, I think he should’ve at least mentioned leaving for a week, after whatever that was. He never explained himself to you.” She asked and Y/N shook her head, “And he doesn’t have to, I had no business being there, and if I had just kept to myself then I’d never have known anyone was with him that night. So, please. I’d like to drop it.”

Jodie sighed, collecting the drinks tray as Y/N reached for Cade’s food before they made their way back to the table, Jodie uttering a quiet, “If you say so...”

“Well, Harry told me earlier that the same night he had Carina over, Y/N had showed up with a pizza.” Daphne murmured to the table, consisting of Jodie, Cade, and Daphne’s date for the night. Jodie’s eyes widened and carefully slipped her phone out to send a message. The group had just arrived at the bar after a pregame party at Jodie and Daphne’s to celebrate Daphne’s birthday, and Harry had just stepped out to the bathroom, thankfully.

To: Y/N

Daphne knows about Pizza Night

“While Harry was with her?” Cade asked, his brows knitted together in confusion. “No, you idiot,” Daphne laughed, “He said she just showed up with a box of pizza while he had my friend Carina over.” She explained and snickered again when she finished. “Why is that funny?” Jodie asked, her tone quick and sharp as she dug in her bag for her lipstick.

“Guess it’s not funny, just, er, unideal.” She giggled again, shrugging her shoulders in response, to which Jodie rolled her eyes. She’d never known Daphne to be so petty in her life, and she couldn’t stand to see it. Just as she was going to correct her friend, Y/N had come bursting through the front doors.

“What took you so long? Ordering pizza?” Daphne snickered as she watched Y/N rush in haphazardly to get to her seat. “No,” Y/n snapped, setting her coat and bag down to the inside of the booth. “Had to take care of some things, my car’s been acting up so I had just now gotten to pick it up from the mechanic.” She breathed, sitting down finally with her forefinger and thumb pinching at a throbbing nerve at the bridge of her nose. “Had to call three rideshares, the first two just never showed up. It’s just been,” Y/N sighed, trailing off as another throb derailed her train of thought. “Well, lemme get you a drink, babes.” Jodie offered, ignoring the wave of Y/N’s dismissive hand as she got up anyway to fetch her friend a drink.

“Ought to get some sleep, all those headaches.” Daphne chirped, shrugging her shoulders as she sipped at her own drink. “Never known you to be late for my birthday.”

Y/N sighed, nodding, “I know, and m’sorry Daph, really. Happy Birthday.” She muttered before sliding over the gift she somehow managed to pick up before the shop closed. “V’been so stressed lately, wasn’t sure if you’d like it but there's a gift receipt if you want to exchange it.” She explained breathily. No matter how bad they had been fighting lately, a birthday is a birthday. A silly promise they made all those years ago but something Y/N took to heart.

“A birthday is a birthday.” Jodie raised her glass to the air, huffing as her friends stared at her before bursting out into laughter. “C’mon, it’s a toast, you idiots!” Jodie groaned as they began to laugh harder. “To what?!” Daphne gasped out in between giggles. “That no matter where we are, different time zones or with one another, mad or not; a birthday is a birthday. And y’can’t miss it.” Y/N wiped her eyes and clutched her stomach, an attempt to calm herself down.

“S’not bad, actually.” She hummed, raising her glass as well before looking at Daphne. “Come on!” Jodie coaxed, grinning as the third rolled her eyes playfully, lifting her arm in the air to gently tip against the others' glasses. “A birthday is a birthday!” Daphne grinned, the three girls knocking their shots back to begin their night.

Daphne’s eyes widened for a moment, reaching across to accept the bag. “I- Thank you.” She breathed out, pursing her lips as she set the gift to the side.

Harry had emerged from the bathroom, stilling slightly when he saw Y/N had in fact made it before continuing to the seat. “You look exhausted.” He said, a frown pulling at his lips at the sight of how tired she actually looked. “I know, I know, they’ve said so.” She sighed, straightening up as Jodie came back with her drink and a chip and wings platter for Cade. “Thank you, I’m poor at the moment.” Y/N laughed, reaching into the chips pile.

“Are you sleeping well?” Jodie asked, nudging her friend's shoulder when she shook her head no. “Keep waking up throughout the night. Might need a new pillow or something.” Y/N explained, sipping quickly at her drink and hoping the conversation would venture elsewhere.

“Maybe if you weren’t showing up at random times to peoples houses-,” Daphne started again, only opening her mouth once more before Y/N lifted her head to look at her. She couldn’t really be this mean? “Then perhaps you’d getting better sleep.” She finished, and Harry froze, swallowing thickly. He never meant for Daphne to use it as informational ammo. Harry cleared his throat, shifting in his seat as he prepared to intervene but Y/N had beat him to it after finishing what was left in her glass.

“Are you done?” Y/N cut, glaring at her. “Shut up about it already, okay?”

“Touchy.” She quipped, giggling as she glanced at Harry. Y/N rolled her eyes, excusing herself from the group to get the next round of drinks.

“I like when Daphne drinks.” Cade laughed when he was sure Y/N was out of earshot earning a smack on the arm from Jodie. Daphne grinned, pretending to fan herself at the praise. “Happy Birthday, to me.” She hummed, reaching for a shot from the centre and downing it. “Wasn’t really that big of a deal, was it? Some advice and she takes off.”

“Y’have to love the theatrics, though.” Harry added, shrugging as he reached over to down a shot as well. Jodie huffed and leaned back in her seat, her legs crossed one over the other as she braced herself to tell the whole group off. “Hardly theatrics, isn’t it.” Said Jodie, as she couldn’t take much more of the banter. “Well, she stormed off over nothing.” Harry huffed and Jodie's eyes widened. “Nothing?” She scoffed, rolling her eyes again. “Don’t act stupid, Harry, you know what Daphne was getting at, and you!” She glared at Daphne, sneering at her even. “That’s far too low for you, you’ve got more class than that.” She added, leaving Daphne with her mouth hung agape.

“S’a fucking ploy, Jod. So, she’s a lil’ embarrassed, she’ll be fine.” Harry reluctantly replied, his eyes darting at the rest of the table as a silent plea for help.

“Oi, I hear her crying in the middle of the night, Harry. S’hardly a ploy. You, of all people, should know what I’m talking about.” Harry, of course, did know immediately what she was talking about, and it made him sick. The first time they got together, what started it all. So long ago, but somehow still as bittersweet as it was now, it was the happiest time of his life. Before he knew, before it was ruined. His jaw clenched, thinking back at it now and remembering it’s not his fault.

“I’ve cried too, Jod!” He argued, his chest beginning to feel the far too familiar ache. Jodie rolled her eyes, with a sarcastic laugh. “It’s your doing! Both of you! Harry, you could very easily get all this over and done with a simple yes or no. Just rip the bloody bandage off already. We all know what Y/N did, and I don’t know why Daph’s so set on making it ten times worse. I don’t feel bad for you, for anyone!” She argued, crossing her arms over her chest. “And Daphne, just because it’s your birthday doesn’t mean you get a free bitch pass, not from me anyway.” Jodie finished, leaving Daphne to grumble her response. “You all suck. I want new friends.” Jodie huffed at that, cracking a small smile to ease the tension. “I expect to hear apologies in the next coming days. Cade, you too!” Jodie sneered, grabbing from the chip pile to toss at him, “What did I do?!” He whined, groaning when Daphne grabbed some of the fallen ones to toss at him too. “Shut Up, Cade.”

Jodie sighed, feeling the weight loft from her shoulders now that she’d spoken her mind. “She’s not even there anymore, I don’t see her.” Jodie grumbled as she turned to scan the bar area. “Lemme…” She trailed off, pushing her chair from the table to get up and find her.

When she got to the bar and tried explaining what Y/N was wearing to the barman, she caught a glimpse of her dress in the outside area. “That’s okay, think that’s her outside, thank you anyway.” She said over the music, grabbing for the made drinks and hurried out the door.

“Y/N?” She started, quietly and sighed as her friend's head tipped backwards at the acknowledgement of her presence. “It’s fine, Jodie.” She breathed out. “No it is not. You were supposed to be at the bar, know better than to just disappear.” She scolded, setting the tray of drinks on one of the iron wrought tables sitting on the stone patio, sprawled each way for any patrons needing a smoke break or fresh air.

“Didn’t disappear, paid for the order and thought I’d earned a smoke break. I’ve been running around all day, stressing. Thought tonight would be a nice peaceful distraction, but nooo, not as long as Miss Perfect is around.”

“Miss Perfect,” Jodie laughed at that, “Really, you both act like you’ve never been friends in your life! Over what? Mark of all things?” she added exasperatedly.

“Yeah, well, I tried being nice. Tried a birthday is a birthday, she doesn’t care. Harry doesn’t care, m’over it. I fucked up, and it’s done with. M’tired of feeling like I’m the only one trying to mend my mistake. Feels like beatin’ a dead horse. So, so, so fuck it.” She rasped, bringing her arms around herself as she took another drag. “Fuck it.” Jodie repeated and sighed, “Alright, well, I’ll leave you to yourself then.” And Y/N spitefully laughed out, “Yes, Thank you!” before turning her head to the door to find Jodie had already left.

—

“Did you find her?” Cade asked, lifting his head as Jodie returned with the forgotten tray of drinks. “Yes.” She griped, setting the tray down and returning to her seat. Daphne and Cade carefully reached over for their drinks, watching as Jodie glared at Harry who kept his head down.

Cade nudged Harry, “What?” Harry barked, annoyed he was shaken out of his thoughts. Cade glanced to Jodie and then away again, acting like he heard his name from behind him. “O-Oh, h-hey…. Charlie, haven’t seen you in a while!” He said before scrambling away to the back of the pub.

“What?!” Harry asked again incredulously and Jodie rolled her eyes and pointed to the outside area. “Fix. It. Now.” Harry groaned, pursing his lips. “She doesn’t want to talk with me.” He tried and jumped when Jodie gave a swift kick to his shin under the table. “Alright, alright…” He winced, standing carefully with a slight limp as he hobbled to the side door.

As he opened the door, he brought his arms around himself at the feel of the bite from the wind. And upon a short glance around, he saw her toeing at the cobblestone in the back corner, half burnt cigarette in hand that desperately needed ashed off. He sighed, a little too loudly as she had jumped, spinning around with a hand to her chest. “Jesus, you scared me.” She admitted, and Harry could see she’d had herself a little cry.

“Hey.” He mumbled, his hands shoved into his pockets to keep from pulling her into his arms. He really hated to see her so upset, “You okay?”

“Oh, m’fine, Harry. Thanks.” She huffed, taking another drag of her cigarette after she turned back away from him. “Really, for everything. S’nothing for you to worry about.” She snipped, gritting her teeth together. “I’ll guess, Jodie sent you.” She scoffed, rolling her eyes.

“Y/N, about the other night,” He began, taking a step closer. “I, it wasn’t, well-,” He struggled, pursing his lips tight. “S’fine, Harry. Daphne’s right, I shouldn’t have just shown up. Wasn’t my place to do so.” Y/N interrupted, shaking her head. She just didn’t want to know, she felt stupid to have tried a stunt like that to begin with. But Harry continued anyway, “A-and, I didn’t think she’d use it like that when I told her, and! We weren’t like, making fun of you. I was just venting, I felt awful. The timing of it, it was just, it was awful.” He finished, watching her carefully as his hands dug into the material of the pocket of his trousers.

“And, I wanted to erm,” he added, looking at his shoes and began to fuss with a loose cobblestone. “I wanted to apologise, for how I acted the other day. Well, really, days ago now. Er, I know, I wasn’t exactly fair.”

“Please don’t apologise, Harry, I don’t know what I was thinking. Of course a simple sorry wouldn’t have fixed it. I just, I talked with Jodie about it and it- it all hit me that I had it all wrong. And,” She sighed, shrugging it off. “I fucked up, a-and, it’s done for, so, if we could swiftly just er- try and forget?” Her voice began to shake, her lips quivering as she struggled to get the words out. Harry frowned, taking another step closer. “Y/N, I don’t want to forget.” His voice was strong and sure, and she groaned in frustration, “Cor, Harry, I’m so confused.”

Harry grumbled a bit to himself, “Look, just, come back inside. We’ve got all of our friends inside. S’Daphne’s birthday, possibly her last with us, yeah?” He tried to reason, to get her mind of it. He loved her, yes, but he wasn’t quite ready to forgive and forget either. He wanted the opportunity for the pair to get their frustrations out, the dramatic side of him needed to get to the bottom of this. Whether it meant he had to yell, and hear her yell too. He felt it was the most raw way to get to the solution of an argument. Or maybe that he needed to hear that she cared about losing him as badly as he did. That she’d been as miserable as he was.

Y/N stayed quiet, chewing at the inside of her lip. “Know it’s her birthday an’all but, fuck Daphne right now.” Harry laughed a little, reaching a hand out to her. “Come back in, s’bloomin’ cold out here.” She sighed and tipped her head back. “I don’t know, Harry. Think I should just go home.” She admitted, reaching through her bag for her phone. “Noo, really. Stay, please.” He shifted closer and grabbed her bag. “So Jodie won’t chop me up into a million pieces? Because she’s really scaring me.” He added and glanced back through the door to see Jodie staring at them through the glass. Y/N laughed and shook her head fondly at her friend, “She’s come a long way to get that intimidating,” and with a heavy sigh, “yeah, c’mon. it is cold.” Before she could take a step towards the door, Harry stopped her. “We will, talk later, y’know,” He assured, swallowing thickly as he ran a hand through his hair; a poor attempt to retain his newly set boundaries, he thinks. “Later?” She repeated, her brows knitted together. “Yeah, later, s’alot to say, wouldn’t you agree?” He grumbled, something of a curse was all she could make out, yet seemingly annoyed with himself. “I-I do…” She mumbled, even more uneasy than before somehow. “Plus, we’d better head in before the Birthday Girl gets drunk before we do.” He added and Y/N laughed, still uneasy but shrugged it off all the same. “Later works with me, yeah.”

[part i.] [part ii.]

(a/n: WOW its here, and dont even let me BEGIN on tumblr’s mobile editing format bc it SUCKS!! anyway! sorry again for the long wait, and i hope your patience is rewarded with the third part!!! xxx as always, feedback and comments are always appreciated!)

182 notes · View notes

chestnutninny · 7 days

Note

Hii! Can I request alex cabot x reader where they fall inlove during law school but then after they graduate they had to leave eachother for different law firms. Then after a few years, they finally meet again because of a case and give eachother a second chance? thank you!!

Second Chances

Alex Cabot x Reader (Fluff)

Warnings: Normal SVU topics (rape, murder, assault)

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

Stepping foot through the grand entrance of Harvard, your nerves kicked in, your skin flushed and sweating slightly as you looked around at the bustling corridors. To say your was nervous was an understatement as you came here without knowing anybody.

As you arrived at your first lecture, you sat towards the back of the classroom in order to hide and conceal yourself from many of the other students there. Part way through the lecture, the doors burst open to reveal a blonde girl, flushed and panicking, sweat glistening on her forehead, revealing the sprint that she had endured to try and get to the lecture on time.

"So you must be Miss Cabot. You're late!" The lecturer gave the girl a stern glare, which even you felt despite being nowhere near them both.

"I'm sorry, sir. I couldn't find the classroom." She explained.

"Don't let it happen again. Sit down."

The girl looked at her surroundings, taking note of the only empty seat being next to you. She walked over, lugging her briefcase over shoulder onto the desk infront of her with a huff. She took a seat and got her equipment out infront of herself, hastily taking notes from the board at the front of the class.

The lecturer droned on throughout the class hall, however the groan of many student gained your attention back to the front, where it was evident that the tutor was already giving you all an assignment and pairing up everyone in the class. He told you that you would be in a pair with the girl that arrived late and that he expected the work to be done for next week's lesson.

You sighed, knowing that the girl would most likely be unreliable, however the she turned to face you with a nervous smile on her face and her hand outstretched for you to shake.

"Hi, I'm Alex. I know you think that I'm not reliable and you're worried about doing this assignment on your own, but I can assure you that today was an honest mistake and it won't happen again." She smiled as you took her hand, the spark fluttering through making her blush.

"Hey, I'm Y/N. Meet me at the cafe on campus. We look at the work there and start on our ideas. Don't be late." You wrote down your number and the address of the cafe on a post-it note, sliding across the desk towards her.

The bell rung, signalling the end of the lesson, and you sprung from your seat, giving Alex one final smile before you headed out the door to your next lecture.

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

As you arrived at the cafe, you were shocked to find Alex already occupying a corner seat, a coffee sat on either side of the table.

"Hey." Alex's eyes lit up as she saw you. "I wasn't expecting you to be here yet"

"I told you that was just a one off." Alex explained with a smirk. She gestured to the coffee that was opposite her side of the table. "I didn't know what to get for you, so I just ordered the same as me."

"Thank you, you didn't have to." She pushed the drink closer to you as you took your seat, your hands grazing as you gratefully accepted the steaming beverage from her hands. You didn't miss the blush that accented her pale cheeks, creeping its way down her chest as you grinned at her flushed state.

A few hours into the stay at the cafe, the assignment was long forgotten, as empty plates and drinks littered the table, where both of you chattered, laughed, and joked with each other. The waitress came over and informed you both that the cafe was closing soon, so both of you packed your things up and set off through the doors into the breezy, autumn evening.

The wind whipped your hair around your face, and the trees around you rustled with the fierce breeze that soared through the air. Alex reached out her hand and removed the hair from your face, tucking it behind your ear. Her eyes glistened under the fading sun as she leaning in, her face inches away from your own.

"I really want to kiss you." Alex admitted. "Can I?"

You leant in, your lips brushing against hers, sparks shocking your lips as you added more pressure to hers lips. One of Alex's hands rested on your waist, pulling you closer to her, whilst her other hand caressed your chin, silently pleading you to stay.

"Would you like to come back to my dorm?." You muttered as you pulled away slightly from her embrace.

"I thought you'd never ask."

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

You both spent time together over the next few weeks, and then weeks turned into months, and then you had admitted that you loved Alex, however you were too afraid to admit them to her.

You had both become best friends and supported each other through thick and thin, yet the kiss and the night that you had spent together had never been spoken about since it occurred.

The end of the school year was rapidly approaching and neither you or Alex had discussed your next steps with each other. You had figured that should would become a defense attorney at the same firm that you had your eyes set on, however you couldn't be too sure.

Later that day, you met up with Alex at the cafe on campus, ordering on behalf of both of you as you awaited her arrival. She waltzed through the door and planted herself in the opposing seat to you. A light sheen of sweat covered her face as she huffed out a breath.

"I'm sorry for being late. Today's been hectic, and the workload is too much. I haven't had a break all week."

"It's okay, Lexi. You need to take a break though, I've never seen you so tense and stressed out."

"I have the weekend off, I was hoping that maybe we could spend the weekend together."

"I'd love that, more than you'd know."

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

Alex had booked a reservation at a nice restaurant just outside of the Harvard campus, the decoration classy and the atmosphere calm and relaxed.

You decided on wearing a figure-hugging, short black dress and your hair updo in a messy bun, with a little makeup. Alex met you at the restaurant, her blue eyes boring into yours, and then her eyes dropping down to drink you in.

"W-wow, you look...gorgeous, Y/N." Alex stuttered, her lips splitting into a shy grin.

"Thank you, Al. You don't look too bad yourself." You winked at her with a smirk on your face. You chuckled at the flush that enveloped her cheeks.

The evening went by amazingly, both of you indulging into your meals and drinks, and sharing your dessert.

"Y/N, I need to talk to you. I've decided that I'm joining prosecution at the DA's office in Manhattan. I'll be moving to New York next week and starting there shortly after."

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

That was 4 years ago.

After studying at Harvard, you got a job in Chicago as a prosecutor for White Collar crimes, as well as Homicide too. However, your boss had just convinced you to transfer to Manhattan to work alongside the Special Victims Unit, as they were short-staffed and were drowning in cases.

You had caught a flight to New York on Friday and spent the weekend preparing for your new job and finding your way around the city.

Monday morning flew around and beofre you knew it, you were striding into the precinct that you had been assigned to. You were walking through the corridor to the main room you'd be spending time in when you smelt the perfume, the perfume that Alex Cabot always wore. You were hit with memories of your time together, the kisses that you had shared and especially the love that you had developed for her.

For years, you had hoped to see her again, but you hadn't heard anything from her after you had tried to contact her, with no record of her on social media.

You enter the briefing room in the precinct, where Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson were quick to fill you in on the case that you would be working on with them and another ADA. Your eyes almost popped out of your head as you were introduced to the ADA that you were working alongside, when you realised you were in the presence on Alex Cabot, the one who got away.

"H-Hi Miss Cabot, I'm Miss Y/L/N. I'll be working with you on this case." You sputtered as you offered her your hand to shake whilst you re-introduced yourself to her.

"Y/N..." Alex's eyes softened as she regarded you, her hand lingering in yours as she shook it.

Tears pricked at your eyes as you tried to desperately blink them back, refusing to cry in front of the squad and Alex, especially on your first day. Throughout the day, you felt Alex gazing at you every time you made a pitch or expressed your opinions.

You were ready to leave the precinct when you felt a tug on your blazer sleeve. You turned to see Alex towering over you, her piercing blue eyes glazing down into yours.

"Y/N, can we talk?" Her face showed worry that she would be rejected, and she honestly wouldn't blame you after she just left without any contact.

"Sure." You agreed as you opened the door to an empty interrogation room, leading the way inside of it.

"Alex. Why did you just leave? I understood you leaving for this job but I never heard off you. I really missed you!" Tears were threatening to fall from your eyes, but you tried your best to mask your sadness with a serious facade.

"I'm sorry, Y/N. I heard so many stories about how relationships and friendships faltered under the stress and intensity of working at the Special Victims Unit. I was so scared that you'd have enough of me being too busy to talk or to see you, so I thought that if I cut contact with you, it wouldn't hurt as much as if you ditched me. I was so scared to let you go Y/N and I'm sorry that I never got to tell you."

"Tell me what?" You questioned.

"That I...I love you." She admitted.

"W-What?"

"Y/N, I love you so much. I never wanted to leave you and I regret never telling you any sooner."

"Alex... I-I love you too. I missed you so much."

You embraced her, tucking you head into the crook of her neck, taking in the scent that you had missed so much since she had left. She kissed the top of your head, before lifting your head to face her. Her eyes gazed at your lips, her tongue reaching out to wetten her own.

You leaned in towards her, your head tilting upwards, your lips locking in a gentle but love-filled kiss, the kiss speaking louder than any words that Alex could say.

"Will you give me a second chance?" Alex's eyes were full of hope, awaiting your answer to her question.

"On one condition. You don't leave me again."

"I promise."

#alex cabot #alex cabot x reader #alex cabot imagines

19 notes · View notes

rainydaywhump · 4 months

Text

Reed pt 8 - Forced to Watch (Whumpcember Day 16, Alt 2)

<- Pt. 7 - Pt. 9 ->

Cervine finds that Reed has been captured again, and she's feeling guilt. Aaaaand murder.

In other words: Cervine remembers being made to wait to rescue Reed until the cover of night, during which she had to watch what the enemy soldiers were doing to him.

CWs: male whumpee, degradation, dehumanization, creepy whumpers, multiple whumpers, caretaker fucking kills them, please not that irl medieval-ish combat was not nearly this easy unless you were really good at it, which I've decided Cervine is. Blood, some gore that isn't described much, restraints on whumpee.

I lost him.

I left him alone and defenseless.

I may as well have tossed him over enemy lines myself.

Cervine stared at the hoofprints leading away from their campsite, lips pursed and eyes smarting with anger. She had left for a last-minute forage for some more medicinal plants, and she'd left Reed on his own. After being held captive for two weeks and then being under her constant care and company for nearly another week, she figured he'd want some alone time before the journey home. Seeing as they were in no man's land, she'd thought that no one would stumble across him in the two hours that she was gone.

The shirt he'd been altering was cast aside, needle and thread still nearby. A little more searching and she found his dagger lying in the grass. But none of the items in their shelter had been taken or moved -- meaning whoever had taken him either didn't think to look or didn't even realize that they were there.

Evidently, she'd been wrong. Reed was incredibly strong considering he'd held out against his interrogators. He had been a capable agent before his time in captivity, and he would certainly become one once again, once he was fully recovered. But he wasn't fully recovered yet, and though he was highly intelligent, brave, and strong-willed, those traits wouldn't have been enough against brute strength.

Which meant Reed hadn't told anyone about her.

Which meant she stood a better chance of finding him again.

I lost him. I did this to him.

He suffered so much and he was just starting to heal a little mentally, and I betrayed him.

If he had told his attackers about me, I would've deserved it. I would deserve to be in his place. This was my mistake, not his.

The Laarylni agent knew that she had made another mistake in her mission to rescue the missing allied spy, and that was getting attached to him. She'd actually let herself care about him, not just for him. And she didn't try to resist that anymore, either. Cervine had been on rescue missions before, and she'd always been able to be calm and compartmentalized about it, but this...this was different.

A cold chill ran through her as she considered another aspect of her failure: she had never properly hidden the bodies of Reed's previous captors, the band of semi-autonomous Halyen warriors who had kidnapped him and tortured him relentlessly for two weeks. To be fair, she reasoned, she hadn't had time -- Reed was in desperate need of urgent medical attention, and that took priority. But Cervine had to admit that a large part of her carelessness came from pure emotion.

She closed her eyes and slipped into a memory of the day and night that followed her search for the missing spy.

...

The soldiers were awake and mostly sober when she settled into her hiding spot.

On a slight rise on the knoll, hidden by rocks and scraggly bushes, Cervine hunkered down under the protection of her cloak -- mottled with the colors of the landscape and breaking up her silhouette -- and forced herself to take deep breaths while otherwise staying as still as possible. She needed to make sure that she was calm despite what she was seeing, and she needed to stay perfectly still so as not to attract any attention. As darkness fell, motion would be all the more visible to the soldiers.

She wanted to jump right in and grab Reed, but she had come all this way and she wasn't going to risk mission failure just because she was being forced to watch the torture they put him through.

She watched them pull his hair and tie a thick collar around him, then tighten it until he passed out -- and then they slapped him awake or carved slits into his skin until he came to from the pain. They tied a chain leash to the collar and bound him in a kneeling position by their feet as they ate and he starved. They beat him, and then they patted his head and stroked his thighs and chest after in a sickening show of possession and dehumanization.

She watched as one of the soldiers eyed him up all afternoon and then advanced when the sun fell, rope and knife in hand. Reed, who had been reduced to a limp, bloodied, bruised body at this point, flinched at the sight of him -- and though Reed was too weak and likely too starved to retaliate at all, the soldier took sickening pleasure in calling over his comrades to hold Reed down and twist him into a painful hogtie, gagging him even more for the night.

I'm sorry, she thought, wishing there was some way he could hear her. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I'm not saving you now. I can't risk them hurting you or threatening to kill you if we reach a stalemate. I need you out of the way, safe.

Throughout all of this, Reed didn't crack -- and, more strangely, the soldiers only demanded information from him a few times. The rest of their abuse was merely for fun. To Cervine's horror, two of them (including their apparent leader) could even be heard talking about just taking him as a plaything instead of giving him up to more effective interrogators.

When the Harp constellation was high and the insects stopped buzzing for a moment, Cervine made her move.

The soldier on watch duty was first. Reed had made some sort of noise -- a whimper, she thought -- and the guard had made a derisive remark. Cervine shadowed spider-like through the tall grasses until she was poised, crouched on the balls of her feet, just behind the soldier.

She felled him with a simple and silent blow to the neck, nearly severing his vead and stifling his chokes with his own tunic. He may have made a small noise as she stepped over him, but he was far enough from the others that no one heard.

Eleven to go.

With a rush of addictive adrenaline, Cervine advanced and managed to stab two more through the heart before the others woke. They were up in a fury, shouting to each other and grabbing their weapons --

-- and Cervine let them.

She didn't want to kill sitting ducks. She wanted to show them that they deserved their deaths.

"Who the fuck are you?!" One soldier shouted, but Cervine didn't answer. They didn't need to know.

After that, the only sounds she heard were those that were relevant to the fight. Quick as a hawk, Cervine ran one enemy through and pivoted to parry the next, then slice the soldier from her collarbone to her armpit. More came and Cervine dodged, nimbly avoiding killing blows and turning to face them from a new angle, then another, and then another at which point the soldiers were disoriented in the dark and Cervine launched herself at them with cold, vicious pleasure.

Disarm, stun, stab to the torso, slash to the guts. Fresh blood and sickly sweat permeated her nose. Cervine breathed it all in. Parry, dodge, jump, forward, slash -- Cervine tumbled under two soldiers and cut them both down at the knees, their screams going unheard.

A killing blow to one, two, three. Two more left to kill and one actively dying. By now the two left were running away, but Cervine caught up easily. She took down one and slowed as she advanced on the last, who had fallen and was now scrambling backwards on the ground, pleading. He'd dropped his axe in panic; Cervine picked it up.

Her ears tuned in. "Why are you doing this? Just take us prisoner, we haven't done anything!"

She blinked slowly and jerked her chin over to where Reed lay.

The soldier's eyes widened even more, if possible. "Him?! He's a failed messenger! He's a worthless piece of meat! Why are you --"

"The custom in your army," Cervine cut in. "It is a disgrace to die without weapon in hand, yes?"

The enemy slumped back, staring at her with something that resembled acceptance.

"You are...an honorable enemy," he whispered gratefully.

Cervine made sure he saw her toss the axe aside before she killed him.

...

The rest of the night's sound finally returned to her conscious brain, and Cervine checked to make sure that each of Reed's torturers was well and truly dead. The whole fight had taken nearly thirty minutes. When she wrote up an official report, she knew, it would sound as if it was easy -- but she was panting, bloodstained, and nearly completely exhausted.

None of that mattered compared to Reed, though.

Cervine rushed over to where he lay. Turning him over to cut his restraints, she found that he was out cold -- whether out of pain, exhaustion, injury, or a mix, she didn't know. She checked his pulse and did a quick scan of his bare body for any urgent wounds. Finding none of the latter, Cervine sat back with his head in her lap for just a moment to catch her breath.

The adrenaline and anger were quickly wearing off, and the agent had to fight off a wave of despair at Reed's state.

"Come on," she whispered to him, although there was no way he could hear her. Cervine gently lifted the unconscious young man into something vaguely resembling a bridal carry and wrapped his ragged blanket over him, shielding his back from the cold and pressing his chest against hers.

"Let's get you home, Reed."

...

Standing alone in front of Reed's discarded shirt, Cervine forced herself to calm down. She needed to be calm if she wanted to find him again, after all.

She wondered if his new captor knew about the twelve murdered soldiers. If his new captor had told him, Reed would know that it was she who did it.

Cervine didn't regret it for their sake, but she felt a quiet sadness when she thought of Reed's potential reaction upon learning how easily she'd done it.

@whumpcember @i-eat-worlds @pigeonwhumps

#whump #whump writing #whumpee #whump prompt #whumpcember #whumpcember2023 #whump caretaker #whumpcember2023day16 #i am so goddamn tired

23 notes · View notes

bi-bard · 2 years

Text

Peace - Dream of the Endless Imagine (The Sandman)

Title: Peace

Pairing: Dream of the Endless X Reader

Word Count: 1,056 words

Warning(s): hints to some suggestive moments, nudity

Summary: An angel and the ruler of dreams find themselves in a hidden corner of the universe. Feelings find a home between the two.

Author's Note: I was trying to make this feel the way Normal People on Hulu does. I think it's best described as "Holy shit, I am so touch-starved that every ounce of intimacy in this show makes me feel like I'm drowning."

And I mean that as a compliment.

--------------------------------

I let out a content sigh as I looked out at the garden.

Sprawling on and on for what felt like infinity. Calm and perfect. Undisrupted and natural. It was the only place where I found true peace.

It was a quiet place. A small cabin along the scenery. A fireplace, a kitchen, a bed. Nothing extravagant. But I didn't need that. I just needed the escape to something so beautiful.

"I've never known an angel to hide from heaven."

I turned around quickly when I heard someone speak. I stopped tensing when I saw who it was.

"Lord Morpheus," I greeted.

We were old friends. We seemed to always stumble onto each other. It was nice. I had never entertained the idea of an angel having a relationship with anyone, let only the King of Dreams. But he made me want to.

"I've told you that there's no need to call me lord," he explained. "We are far too close for such formalities."

"Sorry," I nodded. "It's nice to see you."

"You too," he replied. "What is this place?"

I looked around the room. "I call it my safe place. Peace. An escape."

"Running from heaven?"

"Not at all," I shook my head. "Just from some of the angels."

"Is that why you're hiding your wings?"

"No. I'm just worried about breaking something by not being careful with them."

He chuckled. "I hope I'm not intruding."

"You never could," I said. "Though I don't know why the Lord of Dreams would want to spend time with an average angel."

"You are anything but average."

I didn't have a proper response for that. I couldn't fight with him on the fact, but I still had trouble accepting the idea.

"I've long seen you as more important than anyone else."

I let out a shocked laugh.

"I mean it," he continued. "You have long been the center of my attention."

"What do you mean by that, Morpheus?"

I felt like I knew the answer.

But I wanted to hear it from him. I wanted him to look me in the eye and tell me. He took a few steps forward, intense eyes making me want to look away. I didn't.

His hand reached up to cup my face. Another step forward eliminated any chance of this moment being reversed. This was the point of no return. And I was happy to be there.

I must've hesitated for a moment too long.

"I'll go," he promised. His breath barely brushed my lips. It made me crave nothing more than his lips on mine. "If you tell me to, I'll leave you be."

"Please don't," I begged. "Stay."

His nose nudged mine gently. I felt my breathing pick up as his lips got closer to mine.

When they finally touched, it felt like everything came into focus. I finally had something to hold onto. My hands grabbed the fabric covering his chest. My knuckles must've been turning white. Pure desperation was evident. I knew that much.

Morpheus pulled away slowly. He seemed as entranced as I was. It gave me a sense of comfort.

"Will you stay here tonight," he asked after a moment. "With me?"

There was a pause as I waited for the shock of the kiss and the request.

"Spend one night with me."

"I could get in trouble for that," I said softly. My eyes jumped from his eyes to his lips. It felt like an instinct. "I've never stayed here longer than a few hours."

"Heaven will survive for a night without one angel."

"And the realm of dreams?"

"That's mine to worry about," he muttered.

I finally relented, nodding to him before pressing my lips to his.

He pulled me even closer to him, turning us away from the window. He took slow, guiding steps across the floor.

It was going to be a long night.

--time skip--

In theory, no angel truly needed to sleep. But the option was always there for us. Being in Morpheus's presence made me feel safe. Even without his interference, I found myself relaxing enough to fall asleep.

I woke up to sunlight running along my skin and Morpheus running his thumb along my cheekbone. My eyes opened to see his eyes scanning me.

I was laying on my front with my head turned toward the window. Morpheus laid on his side, grinning at me softly. The sheets had gathered around our waists, leaving nothing but sunlight around us.

When he saw that I was awake, he leaned forward to press his lips to mine. I hummed quietly as I kissed him back. His hand moved to cup the back of my head, holding me in place as his lips moved against mine.

His hand slowly moved to allow his fingertips to run along the back of my neck and down my spine. I felt a shiver run up my spine.

His lips left mine just enough so I could smile at him. He grinned back before kissing my cheek. His lip continued moving from my cheek to my neck. Soft, careful kisses continued trailing down my neck and to my spine. He was leaning over me, humming quietly against my skin as he continued moving down.

His lips stopped halfway down my back.

"Let your wings free. Please."

In any other circumstances, I wouldn't have heard his voice. But then, it felt like he yelled. The silence had been so delicate.

He leaned back far enough to let my wings stretch out again.

"Beautiful."

I had grown so used to them. They were normal in my life. He made them feel so special. So valued. I wonder how long I had neglected to appreciate them.

I sighed as Morpheus's lips ran along the place where my wing and my skin met. My eyes fluttered shut again, letting the sun warm me. I could spend eternity here. Being loved like this. And I would be happy.

"I love you," he whispered. "My angel."

I reached out to grab his hand that was resting on the mattress next to me.

"I love you too," I mumbled.

I never thought that I'd get to say those words. I never thought they were meant for me. But saying them felt right.

And for just a moment, I felt true peace.

I reached out to grab his hand that was resting on the mattress next to me.

And for just a moment, I felt true peace.

--------------------------------

Navigation Guide

What I Write For

Some Original Characters

#dream of the endless x reader #dream of the endless fanfiction #dream of the endless imagine #fanfiction #imagine #x reader #the sandman x reader #the sandman fanfiction #the sandman imagine #sandman imagine #sandman fanfiction #sandman x reader #dc x reader #dc imagine #dc fanfiction

292 notes · View notes

until-the-brahmin-come-home · 1 month

Text

Kaga slipped, lost his footing, and that was it. It was over.

He collapsed on the sands and lay there, panting. Any attempt to move failed, his power armor whirring and clicking in distress; Alexandria must have hit some vital components. The woman herself loomed over him; she, too, was clad in power armor, although she had forgone the helmet. Her wild mane of hair probably wouldn’t fit under it.

Alexandria had managed to slip her spear into a few gaps in his armor; the wounds spiked painfully in time with his heartbeat.

Stupid. Why had he ever even tried? What chance did he have against the golden child, Arroyo’s perfect, precious, Chosen One?

He closed his eyes and waited for the end.

And waited.

There was a shuffling noise, and then a heavy thump. He cracked open one eye and peered at his sister, who was now sitting at his side. She wore an unreadable expression.

Fuck. They had been close, once. So much so that it felt sometimes like he could read her mind, and she his. And now, eight years apart, he felt like he knew nothing at all about her.

“Get it over with,” he rasped. “Kill me.”

Her voice shook slightly when she spoke.

“I couldn’t kill you back then, Kaga. I’m not going to kill you now.”

What?

“I was exiled,” he said slowly, as if either of them could have forgotten.

“Only because I managed to talk mother down from executing you,” Alexandria replied. Kaga blinked slowly, stunned. “When she found out...Kaga, she was furious. She would have had me prove a point to the whole village: a life for a life. That she was impartial, even when it came to her own kin.” Alexandria laid her spear across her lap. “I told her she couldn’t, said it would set a terrible precedent, that it wasn’t what grandfather would have wanted.” And here she met Kaga’s eyes again, expression soft and tears in her eyes. “I’m sorry I couldn’t do better.”

Kaga opened his mouth, closed it. Tried to sit up and then cried out in pain, falling back against the ground. Alexandria instantly became a whirlwind of movement, pulling stimpaks from the pouches around her waist and moving to treat his injuries. He watched her work, less confused now as to why she would even bother.

Alexandria was covered in tattoos. Kaga had seen her receive her first, and although he would later find out how painful they were to get, she had been stoic and resolute through the whole process. The needle had dipped into her skin again and again, and she made no sound as the prancing wolf that represented the Miller line was inked onto her shoulder. Kaga’s own wolf had been altered, a dozen arrows stabbing through it, branding him a traitor and an outcast.

Right now he watched the ink on her hands as she worked. On her thumb, pointer, and middle finger were fine, highly detailed tattoos of the bones that lay just beneath her skin, marking her skill as a healer. She was always going to lead the village, but in her teen years she had spent hours in the perfumed medical building, following Hakunin around like a puppy. Wide-eyed in wonder at the man’s abilities and knowledge. Kaga had always though him a crazy old man, wildly superstitious and speaking in riddles, but had never said any of that to the man’s face. There was no use in insulting your doctor. And the man had talent – it was evident in how he had managed to pass it on to Alexandria. She sat back, and Kaga could breath without pain now.

Slowly, he sat up. Alexandria was looking away from him, out into the distance.

“It doesn’t matter anymore, anyway,” she said. “You got what you wanted. Arroyo is destroyed.”

“What?!” he yelled. She didn’t even flinch.

“This group – the Enclave – they came in while I was away, on a mission to try to save the village from starvation. They burned everything down, took everyone who didn’t die in the initial attack away with them, I’m going to their base now.”

He stared at her – at Arroyo’s perfect, precious Chosen one – and realized that she had always been just that.

Even when they were children.

“What are you going to do there?” he finally asked.

She turned to him, smiling bitterly.

“I’m going to kill every one of those bastards I can get my hands on. Probably die in the attempt.”

He tapped a finger against his leg, metal against metal. Looking across the sands, he saw the car he had defiantly stood in front of to force her out to confront him.

“Got a seat for one more?” he asked, nodding towards it.

Lexi grinned, genuinely this time.

“Like I said, it’s probably a suicide mission.”

“And what better way to go out, than in a glorious battle of revenge alongside my sister?”

She stood, and offered him a hand.

He took it.

#my writing #fallout 2 #fallout kaga #oc tag: alex 2

7 notes · View notes

nottheangel-raphael · 1 year

Text

Raphael strode briskly through the castle halls for the magical security offices. It’d been a few months since he and Cairo last agreed upon ridding the world of Aurelius Hathor and the ghoul’s patience was wearing thin. He couldn’t wait to remove that man permanently from Lucien’s life so that his fledgling could properly move on. Of course, he knew full well that however they went about their scheme, it would have to be full proof and extraordinarily meticulous to avoid arousing any unnecessary suspicion within Lucien. As much as he adored the Frenchman’s brilliant mind, he knew how the dangers of such intelligence coupled with wealth could discover the true nature of Aurelius’ death. That, and Lucien was incredibly petty like most ancient vampires that comprised the council. Raphael thought it was endearing most of the time and would support it, however, he wasn’t quite fond of the possibilities that his favorite doctor could think of when it came to the death of the man he was obsessed with.

He knocked once on the door to Cairo’s office before entering, his son aware that he would be coming at this hour. He figured the two of them meeting as councilman and head of magical security like this would arouse less suspicion from Lucien anyone of why they were meeting. “Mr. Renaud, thank you for taking the time to meet with me,” he spoke very clearly for the few magical staff members lurking about the suite. “I was hoping to discuss the effectiveness of the barriers surrounding the castle and town.” At that point, he closed the door and locked it behind himself. In his position, Raphael assumed that Cairo had some protections already warded on his office. For extra measure with their conversation, he cast a few additional wards and spells in the room to defend them against any eavesdroppers or nosey seers attempting to peer inside and see what the councilman of Italy and Cairo Renaud were getting up to. That was confidential information.

He took a seat across from his son now that he felt truly secure in this room and that anything said in here wouldn’t leave. “How have you been, Cairo? Have you had a chance to use that grimoire I sent you for Christmas?” he asked, starting off with pleasantries. Perhaps one year they could actually spend the holiday together – maybe even with Lucien – and celebrate like a real family. First, they needed to remove the parasite who’d infected a certain moroi’s brain. "I have a few ideas in regard to our little plan. Of course, it won’t be as simple as just offing him and calling it done with how your mother thinks.” He waved his hand, producing a leather-bound notebook with his ideas written down. The thing would be burned immediately once they completed their task so that Lucien would find no evidence that could link Aurelius’ death back to Raph or Cairo. “Tell me, have you given this any thought since we last discussed?”

@cairorenaud

#p: scheming #para #cairorenaud

14 notes · View notes

shintin · 1 year

Text

Forget Me Not: Chapter 33 (Touch)

↳ Gojo Satoru x Female Reader

Description: Imagine that from the moment you opened your eyes into this world, you had no choice but to kill and shed the blood of others, that you had to fight alongside Toji Fushiguru and die with him

What would you do when they force you to do something you don’t like? When the torment of conscience presses on your throat, will you give up? Now think about a day that life gives you another chance; how would you use it?

This is the story of a murderer who seeks salvation. Will she find it in the arms of Satoru Gojo? Or will pain find her sooner than redemption and drive her out of heaven forever?

Genre: heavy angst, sad love story, maybe tragedy, violence, lonely hearts, broken souls, +18.

Tags/Warnings: Please don't curse me. I feel like you'll hate me after this chapter.

Song Recommendation: Paloma Faith - Only Love Can Hurt Like This

Chapter index -> Next Chapter

Year: 2019

"Did he take it well?" the man with blond hair asked, removing a cigarette from the package and putting it between his lips. Nobody had seen him smoking much, but today seemed like an exception. A grand exception. His coat was hung on the wood railing next to him; contrary to usual, he had no tie. Based on the mess in his hair and the dimples under his eyes, it was apparent that he had had a rough night. He pulled out his lighter, lifted it slowly, and flickered it a few times while protecting the small flame from the autumn wind with his hand. Eventually, something better came along, and his cigarette was lit. He took his first whiff and breathed a sigh of relief as if the air had returned to his lungs.

"I don't think anyone can call it taking, Kento," the brunette answered, holding out her hand to pick up the lighter from him. She looked at him from the corner of her eyes. Damn! He seemed worse than she did, that's for sure. "He shouted, knocked on the walls, and blamed himself. I guess what we feared finally happened."

She pressed the trigger on the lighter with her thumb and continued, "he lost it. Completely." A buzz of Nicotine pleasure was evident on her face; she wanted to enjoy it all the way before fading away. Why not just smoke? The reason for her quitting smoking vanished hours ago. Fuck! When would the pain disappear? "I'd never seen him that desperate."

Dawn was nearby, and the school was buried in silence. The clouds had rained, the thunder had rumbled and wept, the yellow and orange leaves had covered the ground, and the smell of wet earth had invaded all around. Still, no bird or cricket chant could be heard. Maybe even the animals mourned quietly for the soul of the unborn child who left this world before her first cry.

Maybe if it were a typical day, that view wouldn't be as gloomy, but taking into account their red and sunken eyes, it was clear that sadness owned the day. Even though there was not yet any sun in the sky, both stood by the infirmary, under the canopy, and leaned against the wooden wall behind them. Perhaps they simply wanted to be close to those across the wall.

Nanami placed his hand upon his eyes and began rubbing his eyelids before opening his mouth. "The meeting with the Higher Ups went poorly." His voice sounded more hoarse than a couple of minutes ago. It couldn't be said that the smoke was squeezing his throat or a smothering lump. Of course, he reproached himself for playing a role in the chain of anguish that had overcome them. Maybe if he hadn't hugged Y/N in the bathroom on that wedding day, Satoru would never have left, and she would still be a mother now. But since no one could hear the voices resonating in his brain, no one told him not to torture himself. Nobody said to him that it was okay because he just wanted to help his friend. His best friend after Yu Haibara.

It was then that Nanami promised himself that if Y/N ended up like his old friend, he would never forgive himself and abandon sorcery forever.

Shoko took another drag from her cigarette. Predicting events was more evident than daylight, but she still asked, "what happened there?" Her gaze was fixed on the little drops of water piled up on the large leaves of the trees. "They condemn her for missing 3 of the cursed wombs and 6 of Sukuna's fingers." Shaking his head with disbelief, Nanami let out a breath of anger and patted his cigarette for the ashes to fall. The absurdity behind this vote had been the source of an eternal headache that stuck like a parasite.

Shoko quickly turned her head towards him with raised brows. She opened and closed her mouth several times but couldn't come up with an appropriate word to express her shock.

"Can you question their decision? I mean, the cursed wombs are counted as Y/N's siblings."

"But she had no idea they were here, did she?" Nanami saw her hand clenching into a fist. "Their cursed energy was sealed! Even assuming she knew about them, she was no fool to steal them at the day school was full of sorcerers." Her knitted eyebrows stayed untied. She always tried to be moderate, but recently, Higher Ups had taken many unforgivable measures. " She lost her child to protect the students," she said in a whisper while lowering her head. Her fist slowly opened and released her fingers. Like everyone in the story, she had her own reasons to blame herself. If she'd let Y/N flee without convincing her to stay at school, the baby would still be safe, and she would be awake, not in a fucking coma. It pricked her heart that Y/N had selfishly chosen to carry the burden of all the wrong decisions of others by herself and pay the atonement alone.

"Why didn't you tell us she was pregnant?" Nanami's tone was calm. He was clearly only looking for answers, not the culprit.

"She wanted no one to know, including the father." Shoko smacked her forehead. Now that she looked back, she better understood her mistakes.

She should never have kept the truth from Satoru. What was she thinking? She took another drag, then another, and another. After some quiet time, she started speaking again.

"Those mother fuckers know about her miscarriage?" She flipped her head and looked at Nanami.

"Satoru's father is one of the higher-ups; what do you think?" He crossed his arms across his chest and, with his head bent, he stared at her.

"I thought that asshole would be a little more cautious after the troubles he's caused." She blew out a frustrated breath.

"If he could, he would gladly kiss the hand of the curse that brought this calamity to Y/N! His eyes were as happy as I've ever seen!" He chuckled angrily and tossed his cigarette into the trash can.

"In his son's presence?!!!"

"He's not aware of his clan's actions right now. When these matters were discussed, he was beating the shit out of the curse users that had been arrested for getting them confession and proving Y/N's innocence."

Shoko clasped her lips together. Her throat slowly rolled with her swallow, but she still said nothing. She just looked torn as her face took what looked like a world of pain. "Did Satoru succeed?" She locked her eyes with Nanami again with the hope of good news.

"No." Nanami shook his head. "They said nothing, but bullshits." He eyed her, holding her elbow with one hand, looking down, and moving a stone on the ground with the tip of her shoe. Remorse was a rope that was tightened around the throat of all. "No one blames you. All you wanted to do was keep her safe behind the school walls." He put his hand on her shoulder and pressed it softly.

Shoko inhaled a big gulp of air, turned her back to Nanami, and walked towards the stairs, leaving traces of regret behind her back. She leaned her head toward the wooden pillar. "It doesn't matter what others think. I blame myself." She bit her quivering lower lip.

After the darkness of the night, the star of the earth rose from the horizon, spreading its gold in every direction. Minutes later, the sunrise became even more beautiful. The sky had pink layers like a sea of cotton candy, with sunlight coloring the clouds above with a pink tint. As the sun slowly ascended, the sky in the west became a deep neon blue as the light reached further out.

"Nobody knows what the attack was for?" Shoko came up all of a sudden.

Nanami took his gaze from the sky and turned it to the woman who seemed not to be the first time she was overwhelmed by guilt that wasn't hers. Aha! He remembered now. She had blamed herself after Suguru Geto's massacre too. Was there anything he could do to help with the hurt? Was it possible at all? "Maybe they wanted Sukuna's vessel; maybe they just wanted to cause damage. Nobody knows, but I don't think their purpose is going to be long hidden." He let out a sigh.

The cigarette in Shoko's hand had reached its end long ago, and now it was burning both fingers holding it. She shivered, but a sigh and a question mark almost immediately followed that. "There are thousands over there who are after Sukuna's fingers. Why do they doubt Y/N?" Throwing her cigarette stub in the bin, she tried to make eye contact with Nanami, believing that there were still truths that had not been revealed. "What are you hiding, Kento?"

There was no need to insist. After all, Nanami was against keeping this secret from the get-go. "Yuji is one of Y/N's brothers." He shrugged his shoulders.

Shoko quickly brought her hand to her mouth. "Are you kidding me? This is impossible!"

"I know how it looks. I didn't believe it either, but their DNA is over 98 percent alike. You're a doctor yourself. You know the meaning better," he said, leaning toward the wall while closing his eyes. Considering his recent bad decisions, it was inevitable that Satoru's stupidity had taken its toll on him. Maybe confession was an excellent way to start getting rid of it.

Biting the palm of her hand, Shoko shook her head. "When did you even...? Never mind! I've seen Yuji's case. He was born on March 20, 2003, and there were no sorcerers in his family lineage. He can't be her brother!"

"Maybe Yuji is related to the girl in the parking lot to which Y/N's primary body belongs."

"What? No! Once cursed wombs take over a body, they change it to their own form," she said and thought. Supposedly impossible even if that girl was one of Yuji's relatives, the similarity couldn't be 98%! It means a close blood relationship, but how?" She rubbed her chin.

"For God's sake, Ieiri! Didn't you hear the boy's screams calling her his sister?"

Nanami lowered his head, and seeing Shoko's surprised looks, he continued, "probably not, because you were treating the wounded at the time. Okay. Yuji kept talking about a strange memory of him, Y/N, and other cursed wombs sitting at a table and picnicking."

Shoko looked at Nanami as if she doubted his sanity.

"It sounds crazy, but think about it. Y/N surrendered precisely when Yuji's life was at risk. The same thing happened with Yuji too. This couldn't be a consequence!" He moved his body away from the wall, adjusted his shirt collar, and while grabbing his coat from the railing, he stood beside Shoko. "I think the school staff tipped Higher-Ups about Yuji's hallucinations."

"Do they know everything now?"

"I think they just doubted since Y/N was always willing to do anything to protect Yuji, but let's be careful and keep it hidden as long as possible," Nanami said, wearing his coat.

Shoko nodded. "And I guess she has no idea about this, right?"

"Nope. Satoru didn't want her to know anything until he was absolutely sure." He stretched his arms. "I'm going to get some coffee. Are you coming with me?"

Shoko looked back at the entrance of the building and then turned her head. "No, I'm going to stick around. Satoru is still there; injured students may also need my help." She forced a smile and rubbed her shoulders with her hands.

"So I'm bringing you a coffee here." He put on his famous glasses to hide his red eyes, agitated his hand, and left.

And again, Shoko was left alone to stand there and help others gather their broken pieces. All that is broken could be tied with the appropriate binder, even if it would never be the same. But based on recent events, she doubted fixation would be possible this time.

-----

It was quiet between the room's white walls, and only the sound of the beeps and raspy breaths could be heard. Satoru took his gaze out the window and the rising sun back to her. Many machines were attached to her body to prevent her from giving up. The bed looked so huge with her in the middle of it. Wires and needles were all connected to her fragile figure as she lay there, unmoving.

The only promising movements that Satoru's six eyes could capture were the heaving of her chest and the slow sliding of her pupils beneath her lids. Was she dreaming? Was she at least happy in there? Is that why she refused to wake up?

But her creator was crueler than giving her some relief. She had a frown on her innocent face. The corners of her dull lips were turned down, and her eyebrows were slightly furrowed, as if she was caught in the worst nightmare of her life without being able to move on. Or maybe she was unwilling to wake up. Perhaps she knew that the moment she opened her eyes, the loss she felt would knock her down. Maybe her worst nightmare was a sweet dream compared to the hell ahead of her.

The stinging pain in Satoru's chest lingered, and the breath he took in felt so thick, like a cold spear thrusting into his lungs. Holding his head in his hands, he leaned his elbows to the edge of the bed and allowed his thoughts to consume his mind.

'What if she never awakes? '

Satoru closed his eyes and bumped his head against the bed's metal ledge. No. He could never let that happen. He would go fucking insane without her. He hadn't even apologized to her yet. He hadn't even taken his words back yet. She couldn't fucking die because he still had tons of things to say to her. His chest heaved as he took a deep breath, letting it out with a groan. If he could, he would make a deal with God and get him to swap their places. The angels of the seven heavens knew that he would do anything for her. He would take her pain, take it all the way, if it would force her to open her beautiful eyes, once filled with life.

After all, it was all his fault, wasn't it? A lot of factors indeed contributed to this disaster. But based on chaos theory, the flapping of a butterfly in one part of the world can create a tornado in another part, and indeed, this storm started when Satoru forced her to attend a wedding she didn't even want. "It'll be fun, trust me," he said, but he left her alone among the wolves thirsting for her blood. And when he saw her sheltered by someone other than himself, his stupid ego built such a large wall before all his eyes that he blindly, not knowing what he was doing, crushed everything before him, including her heart. The heart that loved him unconditionally.

Regrettably, that wasn't the end of the tragedy. Instead of apologizing, he forced himself to her purely out of selfishness, solely to prove her loyalty to himself. He wanted to ensure that she belonged only to him, and when he got it, he just noticed her tears. He just realized what the fuck he had done, and somewhere in his being, he knew that the catastrophe his tornado had caused could never be mended. So he ran off away like a coward rabbit and hid in his dark corner. In comparison, Y/N remained and fought, not just for herself, but for his school, his students, and their daughter. Yes. The daughter he let down.

He could feel his chest tightening at his thoughts. Not because he was angry at himself, but because he was scared of the damage he had done.

Satoru lifted his head, his gaze fixed on her stomach. This time yesterday, he had a family, he hadn't embraced. This time yesterday, he had a daughter, and he hadn't sung a lullaby. This time yesterday, he had a woman, maybe with a place in her heart.

What good is it to be the strongest when you can't even save the ones you love?

He was so devastated, but his heart kept beating, over and over, reminding him of all the heartbeats his daughter would never feel. Had Y/N told their daughter about him? Was she expecting him to help her? Or did she know from the beginning that her father was the most stuck-in-the-mud man on earth?

He tried to hold back the seething torrent of tears that had been building up since the moment he had seen her, but there wasn't much fight left in him, just a sack of anguish in his chest he refused to let go.

'What if she had her hair? Were her eyes blue like mine, or were they holding the world like hers? Did her little heart beat fast or slowly? Did Y/N feel the moment it stopped?' He thought, and a cry mixed with a gasp that sounded filled with years of heartache released itself when he said, "was the pain so unbearable, love?"

He pressed his lips together as he clung to the sheets, resembling a shroud. The ache in his soul and sanity raged. Then it was over. He tried to stop himself as his throat tightened, but it was a futile effort. Tears burned in his sinuses, then filled his eyes and descended slowly on his cheeks, leaving him weak and frail as he dug his nails into the white cloth.

Once that first tear broke free, the rest followed in an unbroken stream. Satoru bent forward, clenching his hands; he began to cry with the strength of a person vomiting all his grief. These weren't only sad tears. They were also angry ones. Tears filled with regret.

Several drops fell upon her pale hand. Satoru reached out to grab and kiss it, but his hand stopped a few inches from hers, and a graceful agony washed over his face.

"ARE YOU FUCKING SERIOUS?" Satoru shouted, but Shoko stood firm, crossing her arms over her chest and looking down at the ground. "I'd never hurt her, let alone kill her! Are you out of your mind?" His words weren't a yell anymore. They were just a subtle and piercing statement. He stretched out his hand and grabbed the knob, but she still remained motionless. "GOD DAMMIT! MOVE AWAY, OR I'LL MOVE YOU!" He was so angry he had to blow out a steady breath to avoid shouting at her.

Shoko raised her head, but before he could do anything, he saw the look in her eyes. It was apologetic. Sad. The knob felt cold in his hand, cold enough to burn his palm and freeze his arm to his shoulder, but he still didn't let go of it. As if dropping it was like accepting never to see her again. As if something terrible would happen if he took his hand off it.

"You don't get it." The sting of agony in his voice made her flinch internally, but she remained as stoic as possible. "I need to see her." His voice trembled, and he stared straight into her eyes, pleading. "Please let me see her."

"Satoru," Shoko said. She drew him towards herself and wrapped her arms in a comforting embrace. He was stiff against her, unsure what to do with his persistent anger. She leaned her forehead against his shoulder and repeated the undeniable sentence she had said a few minutes ago. "Your love is fatal for her. You shouldn't even touch her!"

Her words were barely above a whisper, but they felt like a scream echoing inside him. He began to laugh hysterically. His dry, shattered laughter was as if he was throwing glass dust.

It continued for some time until her grip tightened around him. It was then that reality slapped him. His mind crossed the gates of madness to protect him from what had happened. There was no evidence of surprise or sadness on his face. He was given up and had the face of a man who had just received the bad news he knew was coming.

His mind went blank. Not thoughtless as in uncaring, but thoughtless as in empty inside his head, and feeling everything in his chest, like a ball of fire was building inside him. He could hear her words one by one, knew they had meaning, and even knew what they meant, but he couldn't understand them. He just wanted to hate her, but he was aware that she wasn't at fault. She was just the messenger.

Now that his wrath had left him, he seemed surprisingly defenseless. She gasped for breath, trying to wipe away the few tears that were beginning to form, and since he had no idea what the fuck to do, he just stayed in her embrace, his hand still holding the fucking knob. It took all the effort inside him to keep his tears at bay.

"She is a half-curse. Curses feed on bad feelings..." Shoko muttered, and disbelief waved in the unbridled sea of his eyes. He had messed up a lot, but how could he slowly kill the one willing to trade his life for a deadly poison?

"...and I guess your touch was free of those bad feelings," she continued, and he closed his eyes. Because her voice was painful enough, keeping his eyes open and accepting that this crap wasn't all part of a joke would make it much worse. "I'm sorry, Satoru."

He felt a pang in his chest as he digested all her words in his gut. He had hurt her with both his actions and inactions. His breath took hold of his throat, and he couldn't even scream. He believed he was worthy of any shit thrown at him.

Shoko slipped her hands on his arms to console him and then distanced herself. His face looked like those whose world had been smashed before their eyes. There was no intangible hope for him to cling to anymore.

Ever since she had realized this, she'd been trying to find a silver lining in this misery. She assumed she was wrong, but all her assumptions were shattered when she saw how quickly Y/N's injuries healed after the Gojo clan attack. She checked out Satoru. There was never a good time to come clean about his clan. His plate was always full enough.

"Are you sure about it?" Satoru's voice trembled in shock and sorrow. He was always frightened by this moment. The moment that someone or something would take her away from him. And Satoru was well aware that there was no way out of fear.

He turned his head slightly, and his eyes met hers. He stared at her, studying her, and sought her face for a little ray of hope. But there was no hope left in the market. She nodded. "When you were close to her, her wounds took much time to heal. She looked weak even though she was a special grade." She paused and gulped. She knew what she would say next would be the last nail in the coffin. "But she recovered quite quickly when you weren't around."

The words pierced into his heart. He couldn't say anything. He had more tears in his throat than words, but Y/N was the only one to whom his weakness belonged. After tasting the bitterness in every word of Shoko, his ears refused to hear anymore. The echoes of the rain falling outside became meaningless. The sound of the wind rattling the windows disappeared. The echoing footsteps of Shoko's approaching him entered an endless silence. He leaned his head against the door and looked down at his feet. Suddenly, his knees felt very tired, as though the world had drained him of everything, and he had nothing to lose anymore.

Satoru slowly withdrew his hand. He couldn't hold back the tears. He cried as if something had broken inside him, and all his emotions had poured out. It was the first time since he entered the room that he acknowledged what it meant to be at her side without holding her hand. She meant the world to him. How was he supposed to let her go?

But isn't it what true love demands? A sacrifice? Sometimes you need to sacrifice something that matters to you to offer something that matters more to someone else. As a lover, he would give her the world, but in this cursed case, he had to give up his world for her. He had to give up on her.

He blinked back tears and blew out a calming breath, trying to dry up them as if a claw ripped open his memories, pulled out what was left of his heart, and dropped it on the floor. He didn't deserve to cry, to find a piece of relief. He just deserved a raw, aching wound that would stay fresh until he died.

Satoru pushed back the chair and rose. He slowly bent over her, and his fingers gently brushed a lock of hair on her face without touching her skin. His hand hung in the air for a moment, as if he didn't know what to do with it. What was he supposed to do with these hands? Just pouring blood? He leaned down, and his cheeks touched her hair. It was still soft, but now the strands smelled of blood and dirt. He turned his face, and his warm breath struck her ear lobe.

"When you see me again, you'll hate me." He smiled what was probably the most painful-looking smile, simply because he didn't want to do what he had to, but he had no choice. "It'll be worth it," he murmured in her ear. "Because you'll wake up." For him, she was a type of flower that could still grow after a forest fire. And the sight of her made him sad without effort.

It is what it is. A fucked-up situation, with no escape for Satoru. After all, aren't we all a bunch of sad people doing what we have to do to make it until tomorrow? Some of us are sadder than others, and some of us luckier.

"I miss knowing you're waiting for me. I miss the peace I felt with you. I miss the dumb fights that kept us quiet until the next time or made us laugh. I miss holding your hand. I miss you holding back. I miss you not holding back. I miss your burnt food. I miss those nights when we didn't want to stop being together. I miss you getting so pissed at something I would say or do and trying to deal with it on your own until I made you fess up. I miss surprising you. I miss being surprised by the glimpse of your humanity every now and then. I miss the look you would get when I would touch your cheek. I miss how you thought you were so stealthy with your cursed energy when you really couldn't hide your presence from me, because you wanted to be found by me." He sniffed. "Most of all, I miss your hugs. I didn't need them often, but now I do. It sucks to know you won't give them to me anymore." A tear formed and spilled down his cheek. Just one lonely tear. He raised his head and angrily wiped it out with his sleeve. "I miss my home, Y/N." His voice was like a saw cutting bones.

It hurt to be without her. The thought of it made his stomach feel like it was full of tight, knotted ropes, and they were all about to snap. He was too weak to endure but had to pretend he was strong. He closed his eyes, and his expression tightened up like all his facial muscles held in his emotions and only managed to contain them.

He clenched his fists, and his nails dug into his palms as if he was trying not to lose it. Walls could witness him silently screaming, suffocating with each breath he took, holding onto his agony.

"Y/N, forgive me and forget—" He felt something else trapped in his chest other than his voice. Maybe it was a few extra heartbeats. Maybe it was an erupting volcano. Maybe it was his last ...

Never before had he wanted to say so much but said so little; felt so much but stayed so silent. He didn't know what to do with these feelings. So he wadded them up and tried to keep them stuffed in his throat, stomach, or wherever people tucked away this shit.

He looked at her once again and then turned his back on her; even though it was gut-wrenching for him, he strode towards the door. It would sound entirely mythical to say that he didn't look back, but that wasn't true. It was like the last moment before the string between them fell apart. He was about to return, but he knew that he would never be able to leave there if he returned. So no matter how hard it was, he shoved his hand in his pocket, pulled out a blindfold, hid his sad eyes from the whole world, and opened the door.

The sky was on fire when he walked outside. He shielded his hand over his covered eyes, forgetting how assaulting the light always was when tears scorched his eyes. As he expected, Shoko was standing outside. He walked towards her with the slowest steps, like a magnet leaving its magnetic circuit.

"I'll do it," he said, with no preamble.

Shoko looked at him with concern. "Are you sure?"

Satoru's gaze was locked on an unknown spot that didn't seem to be in this world.

"Didn't you say this was the only way to wake her and prove her innocence?"

Although she couldn't see his eyes, she could hear the back-breaking pain in his voice, just like a very deep wound that was impossible to heal. "But..."

"I deserve it," declared Satoru and walked away from his friend with long paces.

The sun had been in the sky for a long time, and its combination with autumn colors had given a particular warmth to the landscape. Today was one of those beautiful autumn days abounding in stories and seldom found in the real world. It could have remained as it was, but sadly the blood was about to be spilled.

Tag list: @hecateria @whattowritewhattonot @readxeer00 @sunamew @yoongi-holland @sanokana @soft--grunge--burrito @move-in-mysterious-ways @tanu003097 @spookytreeeagle @wonderlandjthedaydreamer @littlecarrot06 @kurooyy @angeliccutie007 @misaki17 @yungliddysyx @nanamiswh0r3 @smokeyfuzz @sumii @zukisbabe @geidly @evalynanne @antheialy

38 notes · View notes

jann-the-bean · 2 years

Text

Something old, something new

Fluffynightkiller week day 2

•

Ccino stared at his reflection in the bathroom mirror. Dark circles deeply embedded underneath his sockets, evidence that he wasn’t sleeping properly.

But how could he?

The wedding day was only a few weeks away and it felt like nothing was ready. So many things left to do!

They needed to decide on the flavor of the cake but every time he discussed it with his partners it ended with Nightmare and Killer fighting. Not only that but the flowers still hadn’t been picked, the color theme was still pending, several of the invitations hadn’t been sent, he had yet to go buy a new outfit-

His cats!!!! His fur babies needed a cat sitter!

He groaned and cursed at himself for forgetting such an important detail. He swore if his head weren’t attached he would’ve lost it long ago.

“………..”

He supposed he was worrying about nothing, this was just a formality.

The white eyed skeleton stared at the ring on his left ring finger. They had eloped and married in the town of Las Vegas.. and had a small celebration in their hotel room. The three of them dancing.. elated that after years of hardship they were finally united in marriage.

He supposed he should just worry about one thing at a time.. I mean so long as he solved the issues before the formality wedding it would be alright.

“I-I should really head t-to work… don’t want to be late. But m-maybe… I’ll leave the ring h-here… I don’t want to lose it.”

The barista had made it a habit of leaving his ring either in the bathroom or his nightstand. He feared if he took it to work he’d risk the chance or losing it. For now this was his best option to ensure the security of the ring.

~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~

The days passed until it was the day of their ‘formal’ wedding.

“Killer! What are you doing in there? Some of us need to use the bathroom too you know?” Nightmare scolded as he intermittently knocked on the bathroom door. To the violet skeleton it felt like Killer had been in the bathroom for at least half an hour.

“Chill babe, I was showering. You can’t rush perfection you know.” Killer purred as the door clicked open.

“Don’t tell me to chill!! Because of you we’re going to be late!”

“N-No! We can’t b-be late!” Ccino stuttered as he stumbled into the bathroom. A look of panic across his face. “If w-w-we’re late people w-will think s-something happened!”

Ccino frantically opened several drawers and desperately rummaged through the items that each one had.

“And t-then the priest w-will leave! Oh shoot… f-fiddlesticks…”

Both Nightmare and Killer exchanged a look as their husband kept scattering items around.

“Marshmallow… is everything alright? You look very stressed…” Killer stated.

“N-no!! Everything is n-not alright!! I-I… I… I can’t find anything! I d-don’t have the other items t-that I need!!”

The white eyed skeleton began nibbling his thumb as he rushed out of the bathroom to the living room area.

“Ccino.. what are you looking for? Perhaps we could help locate it for you.” Nightmare said as he followed the barista out of the bathroom.

The violet skeleton knew that Ccino was someone who would stress about small details.. and often times wouldn’t share that responsibilities with others.

He certainly was a hard worker.. but Nightmare knew it’s what often caused his poor husband to become burnt out so quickly.

“I… I-I…” Ccino began to respond, but soon hot tears began to roll down his cheeks. “I d-dont… I c-cant believe I f-f-f-forgot.. I’m s-so s-s-stupid!”

“Woah.. now Ccino.. you’re not stupid..” Nightmare walked towards the small skeleton and held his hands. “What is it that you forgot?”

The white eyed skeleton opened his mouth to respond but no words came out. All he could do was cry and sob, his breathing irregular and shaky.

Killer upon hearing his partner cry rushed over to join the two skeletons.

“Marshmallow!! My sweet little cinnamon roll! Why are you crying?”

“B-Because… I…” Ccino took in a shaky breath trying to calm himself. “I w-wanted t-t-to follow the t-tradition!”

“What tradition..?”

“Where s-s-someone w-wears… s-something b-borrowed… n-new.. blue.. and o-old…”

Killer furrowed his brow bones a bit puzzled. “Why would you want to wear something old?”

“Killer do you really not know? It’s a very popular and used tradition. Typically a bride will wear something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. You could say it’s for good luck.”

Ccino nodded in agreement and wiped his tears with the back of his hands.

“Well that’s easy! We can definitely find all that!” Killer exclaimed. “Wait right here marshmallow I got something for ya.”

After a few minutes passed Killer returned with a narrow long rectangular box.

“Moonpie and I had actually planned on giving this to you later but… I think now would be better.”

Killer looked at Nightmare for any sign of protest. But the violet skeleton gave a nod of agreement. Smiling, Killer went ahead and opened the box to reveal a thin silver chain.

“W-what’s that…?”

“Well.. you need something new right? Nightlight and I realized that you often leave your ring behind because of work.. so we thought to get you this neck chain so you could put your ring in it. That way you won’t lose it. And always have it on you, even if it’s not on your finger.”

Ccino’s eyes widen and his eyelights grew into those beautiful white round orbs that Killer loved dearly. “Oh.. yes!! O-oh I love it s-so much!!”

Ccino smiled as Killer placed the chain on the barista.

“As for something blue.. your tuxedo is already blue. And for something borrowed you’ll be borrowing my bow tie. So two things are already covered.” Nightmare stated.

“Y-you’re right! But… w-what about something old..?”

“Oh that’s easy, Killer is right here and he’s plenty old.”

“Oi!! I am not that old!!”

“Could’ve fooled me.”

Ccino smiled, and soon erupted into a fit of giggles. He remembered the times he used to worry about his boyfriends banter and light insults. Worried that they truly couldn’t stand each other.

But he realized that strangely enough that’s how they express their feelings for each other. Because it wasn’t too late after that, that they would be kissing each other.

“I-I think.. I have a-an idea.” Ccino chimed. “It m-may look tacky b-but..”

He trailed off as he made his way to the bedroom, and after a few minutes he returned. But as far as his partners could tell, he didn’t have any new item on him.

“Uhm marshmallow..?”

“I…. I t-thought I could wear m-my shoes…” the white eyed skeleton looked down at his shoes. They were very worn down, and with few old coffee stains splattered across.

“These a-are my old s-shoes… I know it’s s-silly but… I k-kept them b-because I was w-wearing these when we f-first met… I c-can change out of t-them though if they l-look bad!”

Nightmare blinked a few times a tad surprised, but soon smiled affectionately at his husband. “I think it’s perfect…”

Killers smiled as well, a gentle and soft expression displayed across his face. “Perfect… just like you are.”

The eyeless skeleton grabbed hold of Nightmare’s hand before extending his free one to Ccino. “So… what do you say marshmallow… Marry us again?”

The small skeleton’s sockets welled up with tears, he could feel how they pooled in the lining of his sockets. Could a singular skeleton really be allowed to be this happy?

“Y-Yes!!” The tears spilled from his sockets as he jumped into his partners arms. “A-always!”

You know I can’t resist some good old fashion studio fluffynightkiller with the extra fluff! I’ve been on an angst spree recently soooo I thought to give y’all a nice little break before continuing ;)

This little bit does contain some headcanons that gayfish and I came up with during some old rp’s! And a headcanon that gayfish had that as soon as the trio was allowed to marry they immediately eloped.

Original Ccino by @black-nyanko

Original Killer by @rahafwabas/ @rahofy-sketch

Original Nightmare by @jokublog

Studioverse/ studio au by @zu-is-here

Fluffynightkiller week hosted by @help-im-a-gay-fish

31 notes · View notes

galarianblogger · 1 year

Text

Here's the rest of my story, as promised. As I mentioned, this half of the story has some trigger warnings. They are: TW Pokemon abuse, TW Pokemon neglect, TW organized crime, TW Pokemon death (from health condition).

The tl;dr up front, just like the first post: I had unrealistic expectations about being a pokemon breeder, accepted a job offer I shouldn't have, and ended up witnessing truly horrible things happen to pokemon. Things turned out alright in the end, but I've never been able to forget what I saw.

You can find the link to the first half here.

The first three weeks at the breeding farm were uncomfortable. I was only allowed on the above-ground level, but even on the ground floor, pokemon were kept in unfurnished cages and only fed once every other day.

I was reassured by a co-worker that the conditions were temporary, that this branch of the farm was still paying off some debt, and that they'd be able to afford better in a month.

Sometime during my fourth week there, a supervisor from a lower floor came in late and told me to run a note down to his floor (the sixth floor down).

I told him I didn't have clearance to go to that level and he started laughing.

"Do I look like I care?" He snapped.

He told me to hurry and suddenly I was running down the stairs to the lower levels.

I glanced to my right as I reached the first lower floor and saw five tauros with matted fur being led deeper into the facility through a set of double doors. A single calf broke free and was shocked by a taser until he rejoined the group.

With every floor I went down, the conditions I saw only got worse.

By the fifth floor- oh dear Arceus, by the fifth floor down, I caught sight of a bewear with fur so dirty it looked brown being jostled into a room labeled “Termination”.

I couldn’t take it anymore. I barged onto the fifth floor and shoved the bewear away from the door. It wasn't until I was running across the fifth floor, dragging the bewear with me, that I realized what a dangerous thing I'd just done.

I ducked into a side room and called the police and pokemon rangers as soon as I was no longer being chased. They got there in less than half an hour.

The rangers came with a permit to evacuate all of the pokemon on site and were able to get the breeding farm shut down in a matter of days.

I later discovered that they hired new ground-floor staff every five weeks and that if I hadn't been sent down to the lower floors with that note during my fourth week there, I probably never would have discovered what was going on.

I volunteered to foster the bewear and would later end up adopting her and naming her Winnie. I took care of Winnie for the last three years of her life, before she died of heart disease.

Winnie and I relied on each other for those three years, and I'm truly grateful to have had such a perseverant and supportive partner during that time.

I never got the chance to read the note I was sent to deliver (it was seized by the police as evidence) but I've been told that it tied the breeding farm back to a prominent evil organization.

And for that reason, I'm glad I never read the note. I can hardly imagine what I might have done if I had been given a group to blame in the wake of such a horrible experience. If I had been given a scapegoat to lash out at, I would have done terrible things to avenge the pokemon I'd seen suffering.

But rather than revenge, I set my sights on healing. I ensured the health and safety of myself and Winnie, as well as countless other pokemon who had been victimized at the breeding farm.

I'm still in touch with the person who took in the tauros calf, as well as several other pokemon from the breeding farm. The tauros calf is all grown-up and living his best life. That gives me hope- hope that with time and healing, we can overcome

[Below is a photo of a full-grown tauros standing next to a man in overalls. Written in sharpie in the lower right-hand corner is "Brady just weighed in at the average for a tauros his age!- Levi"]

#pokeblogging #pokemon unreality #rotomblr #pokemon irl #Florence's trauma arc

5 notes · View notes

moominpapasfanficblog · 1 year

Text

The Growth Spurt

On rediscovering your supportive community

William Harris Snork had followed a strict schedule for most of his life that started at a ridiculously early hour of the morning. Becoming a part of his brother and Sniff’s family had almost immediately made it clear how absurd this lifestyle was. For the better part of the first year he lived in The Snork’s household, he had to occupy himself with cleaning the house as quietly as he could while he waited for everyone else to wake up so that he could make them all breakfast. Snerf had helped him fit in with the much more relaxed lifestyle of Moominvalley and he helped Snerf with overcoming his fears. William treasured his adoptive nephew and he was constantly surprised that Snerf felt the same way about him.

The morning of Snerf’s sudden growth spurt William had been awakened in his bedroom by Snerf’s crying coming from The Snork and Sniff’s bedroom and realized that the young monster had had another crisis. He went out into the hallway to discover that the second floor was completely deserted and the other bedroom doors had been left open. He went to the bathroom and did a quick cleaning of himself and composed himself so that he could be of the most help and comfort to Snerf.

William went downstairs to the kitchen to find that the rest of his family were about to eat breakfast. Snerf’s much larger size was the self-evident cause of the earlier commotion upstairs. William was, of course, taken by surprise, but he knew immediately what the plan would be to help Snerf overcome his initial fearful reaction to the change that he had undergone. He was determined to join in as well.

“Congratulations, Snerf! You look even handsomer than you did before! You all must let me join in showing you off to everyone in Moominvalley!”, William said as he set out a place setting for himself in front of the chair next to Snerf’s and Sniff served him some pancakes, fruit and juice. “You should be so proud and pleased with yourself! I’m sure that all of your friends in Moominvalley will feel the same!”, he continued as he sat down next to Snerf.

Snerf’s eyes teared up a little and he gave William a light, loving hug in gratitude. After breakfast, the four of them set out for Moominhouse. As they walked, they crossed paths with The Inspector and Sir George on patrol. Their eyes widened as they saw that Snerf was now a full head taller than anyone else in his family. Sir George in particular looked overjoyed and rushed over to Snerf.

“I say, my dear Squire, well done! Thou hast clearly been eating well and keeping up thy exercises every day, just as I recommended! We are going to have to redesign the obstacle course for thee! It’s going to be too easy for thee as it is!”, said Sir George, shaking Snerf’s right paw vigorously.

The Inspector politely saluted the group as he and Sir George went on their way. Snerf blushed at this reception and a new look of confidence and hope came over his face. He and his family soon reached the footbridge that crossed the stream near Moominhouse. There they were greeted enthusiastically by Moomintroll, Snufkin, Snork Maiden, Snusmumrikken, Moomin, Tayberry, and Little My, who had been playing Mymbleball in the front yard. Little My took Snerf by the paw and dragged him across the bridge to Moominhouse’s verandah, where Moominpapa and Moominmama were enjoying the morning sun and fresh air from the verandah table. Everyone else in the Moomin family gathered around Snerf to celebrate his growth. They congratulated him and pelted him with questions all at once. Snerf couldn’t begin to respond properly, mostly because he was overwhelmed by their warm, affectionate, and happy welcome.

“Now, now everyone! You’re crowding Snerf and not giving him a chance to understand let alone answer any of you!”, said Moominmama as she made her way to Snerf’s side. They all obeyed and stepped back enough to give Snerf a proper amount of space. Moominmama took Snerf by the paw and pulled gently at it, causing him to lean forward. She planted a tender kiss on his cheek and asked him kindly, “Who are you planning on visiting next?”

“I…I need to see Gerard…show him what’s happened. He…”, said Snerf, his voice trailing off.

“Be sure to pass through the village as you go! Everyone in Moominvalley should have a chance to congratulate you! Everyone here is on your side. Moominvalley needs you and cares about you. You mean a lot to everyone, Gerard in particular. I hope you know that.”, said Moominmama.

Snerf smiled broadly and blushed brightly as he returned Moominmama’s kiss. Then he and his family bid everyone farewell warmly and crossed the footbridge and began to make the long walk to Count Fuzzy’s mansion on the other side of the valley filled with new reassurance, confidence, and hope.

To Be Continued

#moomin #moomin fanfiction #moominvalley #the snork #sniff #moomin oc

2 notes · View notes

indigo-blueses · 6 months

Text

So at the beginning of this month I had set a one word intention for the month which was growth.📈🌷

And so during the first week of this month, I took easy but at the same time I was consistent with my morning exercises and watching the required lecture videos (for each day) for the course I'm currently taking and also reading the books for this month - which I mentioned in my previous post.📚📖

Then come the second week, my dad sent me an email on this opportunity to help recent graduates learn about entrepreneurship and how later on you can present your idea and they could help you with funding if it's feasible, realistic etc.

And my first thought was "Nah, this is not for me. I'm so done with anything that has to do with university ( since that had to do with my burnout and all)."

"And also I've never really been good at stuff like this, so why even bother try." So I ignored it.

That week I also managed to finish the level 1 part of the course which is just content.📖 And for some reason I couldn't move on to level 2 - which requires interviewing people and having a practice session with them.👥

And so for the rest of that week I relaxed a bit telling myself I've done enough and this looked like bingeing on kdramas and just binge-reading a series of books (fiction) to pass time. Anything to avoid the work I was actually supposed to be doing.

And so come the third week, stuff just started happening. Like yes I had been focusing my attention and energy on stuff that had absolutely nothing to do with my intention or my goals but the amount of anxiety and overthinking that I started experiencing was insane. Like all these negative, fearful thoughts and self doubt was showing up. Like I haven't experienced that level of anxiety in a very long time. So let's just say that experience was awful. 😫😖😣

And so my plan was to get rid of it as soon as possible. So I did a bit of exercise just to ground myself and it wasn't very helpful. 🧘🏽‍♀️🏃🏽‍♀

So I pulled my big girl pants on and sat with myself and those "ugly" feelings that were showing up and in that moment I was just asking for clarity. And so I slept hoping I could sleep it off.

Come next morning, those weren't that intense but they were still there. And sometime during the day I came across a post about limiting beliefs. And so I decided to do some journaling on the underlying and hidden beliefs underneath the behaviours I was portraying. And it's safe to say all that anxiety was my body's way of protecting me from pain. What pain you might ask? The discomfort of having to take actions that I normally just don't take - that could enable my growth. So these actions included starting level 2 of my course i.e. starting these practice sessions as I've never really been confident in my presentation skills. And also taking a chance on that entrepreneurial opportunity to enable my growth.

And so I came to find out the limiting beliefs around that were I did not believe that I was good enough to be wellness coach. I did not believe that I was capable of actually making a difference in the world. I was also very scared of failing.🙈😣

So that was the pain I was avoiding. The pain of having to face my fear of failure, fear of being judged or criticized.😬

So that's what I'm currently working on. And in order for me to prove that belief wrong I am going to have to take action as evidence that maybe I am good enough. That I can actually make a difference in the world. That I am capable of doing "hard" things.

And in order to do that I'm gonna need people I can practice sessions on. So if you've read till this point and you're wanting to make some changes in your life and you're willing and able to spare me an hour of your time per week. Please dm me to let me know.😊

#growth #purpose #taking action #passion #personal growth #meditation #peace

0 notes

itsmeemeg-fandomsandfics · 1 year

Text

Mastermind Chapter 3

I sat in that dark empty library for nearly an hour, unable to tear my eyes away from the four corpses before me. Half of my answers had been guesses, a thirty-three percent chance to live each round, yet here I was, the sole victor. What made me so special that I got to live while the others who had been here longer than I didn't?

An hour and a half into my self-appointed pity party, I had grown tired of staring at the hanging bodies. The sight was no longer shocking, and the thought of already being so accustomed to the view was somehow more disturbing than the corpses less than ten feet away from me. Decomposition had already begun, bloodshot eyes clouded over and veins standing out against the graying skin. I couldn't stay here any longer, the smell was getting stronger with every passing minute.

Using the old dusty bookshelf to stabilize myself, I stood up, brushing away any evidence that I had ever been here before leaving the dark library. The white table that had previously held the phones on them had been wiped clean, a lone playing card resting on the surface. I pocketed the card, careful not to bend it as I did. This had been left for me to find for a reason.

The sun was beginning to peak over the horizon, painting the sky with a myriad of colours. The pinks and oranges looked like ripples of sherbet between the clouds in a strangely comforting sight. It was indeed a beautiful sunrise, despite the circumstances.

The muffled roar of an old car engine tore through the silence, pulling me out of my thoughts. Distant shouts and cheers bounced off the abandoned buildings growing quieter and quieter as whoever was behind the wheel drove further and further away. Others had survived their games, and I wasn't totally alone here. I could go back to the hotel with that little sliver of comfort.

The walk back was as eventful as it could be in an empty city. Trash skidded down the street, riding on the breeze. Occasionally a stray animal would stop in front of me, observing with a strange confidence before darting away and leaving me alone once again.

Rounding the corner, I ducked into the hotel lobby, still half expecting a receptionist to greet me at the front desk. Instead, everything was scattered around in the haphazard mess it had been in before I set out for the game. The smell of mildew permeated the air with a strange comfort, a reminder that within these four walls, I was safe from the life-or-death games we were forced to play.

Exhaustion weighed me down as I trudged up the stairs to my room. Each step was agonizingly slow as I once again made my way back up sixteen flights of stairs. Tomorrow I'd move myself down to a lower level and avoid putting myself through hell every day. Throwing the door to my room open with more force than necessary, I took a few steps in before collapsing onto the bed. My body melted into the mattress as if it had been made for me and only me.

Sleep came surprisingly easy, all things considered.

It was dark when I finally woke up. "How long was I out?" I wondered out loud. The sun had just settled in the sky by the time I had returned here. Was I so tired that I managed to sleep a whole day away? Chuckling to myself, I recalled the last time I had done so, at high school graduation, after a few of us snuck a few drinks into the school. Half the gymnasium was wasted before we had even received our diplomas. I could still recall how my legs wobbled as I walked across the stage and muttered to myself not to trip, the heels I had worn doing nothing to help my balance.

With the remnants of that happy memory still lingering, I begrudgingly untangled myself from the web of blankets and pillows I had weaved in my slumber. I could get a head start on relocating since I was awake.

My luggage was still remotely untouched in the corner of the room. A few stray articles of clothing were scattered around the floor. Some makeup had been strewn across the counter in the bathroom. All in all, it only took ten minutes to collect my things and shove them haphazardly into my suitcase.

Slinging my backpack over my shoulder, I grabbed the suitcase and headed out to the hall. Despite the heavy load, the stairs were more manageable going down them than it was climbing them. My plan was to set up on the third floor, close enough to the ground floor that I wouldn't kill myself when climbing up the stairs after a game. I had made it down to the fifth floor when a loud bang from a lower floor drew my attention. The hand holding my suitcase went slack, leaving it on the landing as I cautiously made my way down to the first floor.

Cautiously I opened the door to the stairway and peeked my head out to see what had caused the loud bang. The answer came a few feet away as a group of three came tumbling out of one of the hotel rooms laughing loudly.

"I'm telling ya' there ain't nobody here." One guy slurred with apparent drunkenness. He was wearing an ugly patterned shirt that didn't match anything else he was wearing. The only girl in her group shook her head and lightly pushed the drunk man out of her way.

"We gotta make sure. This is only the second room we've looked in." Something about the way the woman spoke sent chills up my spine.

The third trio member only nodded his head as the woman spoke, swinging something in his hand. With a huff, the drunk one moved to the next door forcing it open without resistance. The three disappeared, and I took the opportunity to slip out from the stairwell and duck behind the front desk. The trio emerged a few minutes later. I could make out a hammer in one man's hand from this new angle. The head of the tool dripped with something that looked too much like blood for my liking. Whatever it was they were searching for, I didn't want to be here when they found it.

With their backs turned to me, I darted from my hiding spot and made a b-line to the front door. I made it halfway across the room before the woman's chilling voice filled the air, stopping me dead in my tracks. "Where do you think you're going?"

A few moments passed as the trio waited for my response. My mouth was dry, unable to form the words to respond.

"I believe my friend asked you a question." The man holding the hammer laughed, the weapon raised for me to see.

"Look, I don't want any trouble," Slowly backing up as I spoke, I held my hands up in surrender. "You guys can stay here; I'll find somewhere else."

The drunk man scoffed as if I had said something to offend him. His eyes bore into mine with such intensity that I worried I might catch fire where I stood. The other two looked almost amused, the same way a predator might stare down their prey.

Oh.

Without thinking, I grabbed a broken vase off the floor and threw it at the closest of the three, not bothering to see if it made contact before bolting to the door. Body checking the door, I fumbled out onto the deserted city streets. Squinting at the drastic change in lighting, I blinked rapidly, hoping to force my eyes to adjust faster as I ran blindly down the road. Behind me, the girl cheered, overjoyed by the thrill of the hunt.

My lungs burned with each stride, but I had to keep going. If I stopped to catch my breath for even a second, who knows what those freaks would do to me.

Hopping over a fence, my feet trampled over someone's garden. The once beautiful flowers were now broken and crushed beneath my feet. However, the guilt was quickly pushed aside by fear and the need to keep going. The girl's shouts bounced off the empty buildings, surrounding me with taunts. Every turn had the potential to lead me to an early grave, but if I tried to hide, they would find me without a doubt.

Adrenaline had once again taken over my senses. My laboured pants, the taunts and the sounds of my footfalls blended together into white noise. The only thing I could focus on was keeping my body in motion. Even how long I had been out here running for my life was lost to me.

There was a flash of blue in the corner of my vision and the screeching sound of metal on metal. Time slowed and the next thing I knew, I was on the ground with the wind knocked out of me. My ears were ringing, and my head throbbed. It felt like I was bleeding. Was I bleeding?

"She came out of nowhere." Someone placed two fingers on my neck to check for a pulse, and despite them being right in front of me, they sounded a million miles away.

"Are you alright?" Another voice asked as the first person pulled me into a sitting position. Panic flooded through me as I remembered what I had just been doing. I thrashed against the person's grasp, desperate to free myself. "Calm down. We aren't going to hurt you, okay. Why don't you come with us?"

"Is that really a smart idea?" Another asked. Everything sounded weird, and every time I opened my eyes, I was met with the nauseating sight of the world around me spinning.

"I'm not just going to leave her here after I hit her. Hatter won't give a damn." Another set of hands grabbed my other arm as they helped me to my feet. My legs felt unfamiliar and nearly gave out as I stepped toward what I assumed was a car. Had I really been hit by a car here?

"We need to go." My voice was slurred, and I could taste blood on my tongue. The three who had chased me were still out here, roaming the streets looking for me. It was only a matter of time before they followed the roar of the car's engine like moths to light. "They're gonna kill me."

"She definitely has a concussion."

"Hurry up and get in the car."

"We have a group. Food, water and electricity ya. We also have someone who can patch you up good as new. It's much safer than being alone out here, okay." The woman's words barely registered in my mind as I nodded along. Shouldering most of my weight herself, she shuffled towards the back door, opening it up and ushering me inside. Against my better judgment, I got in, allowing these strangers to take me who knows where.

#aib chishiya #aib #alice in borderland #chishiya shuntaro #Chishiya x reader #alice in borderland fanfiction

1 note · View note

thearchivistsjournal · 1 year

Text

Day 140,

Morning thought: the sound of thunder woke me today. I’ve grown used to regular distant rumbling like murmuring from across the room but this was more akin to shouting in my face; far less common, startling, and rude. Still I wonder what it said.

Heh… what the thunder said. A reference to a reference. The title of one story thread in a complex web of stories of a sort that I could never properly retell in the oral format used in this place that borrowed imagery and title from a passage of a poem I only read once and didn’t understand by an author of whom I only recall that I was introduced to their work at a time in my life where I couldn’t properly appreciate it.

What is the point of making a reference that no one will get? Particularly one made knowing the audience won’t get it. Is it still homage or allusion if everyone assumes it is one’s original statement? At what point does it become plagiarism? Is the point to sound clever by reiterating the thoughts of those who came before? Or is it just to hold on to a thing you loved and comfort yourself with its closeness as it bleeds into your speech? How many of my own verbal quirks and stock phrases are borrowed from things I’ve heard and read? Minor lines that should have been forgettable in the grand scheme of things but struck a chord and became etched into my patterns of thought and speech, eventually drifting so far removed from their source that everyone just figures that’s how I talk and even I forget that it was once a quote.

Or perhaps all references are made with the hope that someone will get them, even when all evidence paints the audience as unfamiliar with the source material. All for the chance of stumbling across that one person who will understand and in that moment of recognition the two of you will be in on the joke together; a connection made across the void burning all the brighter for the surrounding darkness. Even if no further words are spoken and paths never cross again, in that moment of recognized obscurity the two of you have shared a secret unknown to even your closest companions.

I’m waxing fauxlisophical again. This entry’s gone on long and Maiko is growing restless waiting for me.

Still, I find myself stormy eyed this day.

*******

I find myself pleasantly exhausted. I think I shall sleep well tonight.

The storm’s gone from one night into the other without cease. Lessening in intensity to a light shower from time to time, but at no point since yesterday has there not been some form of rain.

We stuck with Maiko’s lessons for a time. She’s making swift progress. Then again, it’s not like she was totally illiterate to start with, just unpracticed and uninformed of some of the root building blocks with which she might be able to more easily piece together the parts she was unfamiliar with. Also, it seems she’s been diligent with practice even when I’m not around. Perhaps I should begin assigning my regular students homework.

Still, diligent learner or no, it seems the two of us together have only so much patience for such activities in one day. I couldn’t quite bring myself to take the laundry all the way out to the stream that was surely overrunning its banks and running more swiftly than usual by now, so I went back to the washboard and basin I’d been making (probably incorrect) use of before I’d switched to fully river washing when the cistern ran low toward the end of the dry season. There’s certainly little concern of that happening now.

That only took so long though and as I laid garments out to dry as best I could indoors, I found myself with hours left to spend and too abnormally restless to get comfortable with any one activity.

It was then that I walked to the door with only an “I’m stepping outside” to a confused Maiko and proceeded to do just that.

A moment of closing my eyes and stretching to the endless trill of raindrops on the awning. A breath taking in a scent that I want to call petrichor but recognize as being too far into the rain for that. A descent down the steps into the precipitatous curtain.

Soaked to the bone immediately.

Slowly across the yard as I feel the mud and grass beneath my bare feet in water up to my ankles. Slowly, for I feel embarrassed. A smile tugging at the corner of my mouth as I realize I’m beyond that. Slowly still, for I’ve raised my face to the sky and have no wish to trip.

Arms raised to the sides, palms up like my face. Standing still, eyes closed, taking in the wind and rain.

Smiling in a storm.

Something said by the thunder.

A reflexive jump and cringe. Eyes open. Laughter, half-forced, half-genuine. Growing more toward the latter by the second.

A moment to pull aside the hair plastered to my face. Arms back out. Smile finished creeping into a grin. Turning in place. Slowly at first, footing unsure, water giving resistance. Picking up speed. Can I go fast enough for centripetal force to lift my hair parallel to the ground? Probably too heavy from water to work. Try anyway.

Dizziness setting in. Make use of the imbalance as the top wobbles. Transition the momentum-carried steps into something else. Stumble dance. Movement never fully stopping. Only slowing until vestibular equilibrium is regained. Arms no longer at rigid perpendiculars. Now flung out with each step. Each bend of the spine and waist. Accentuate the movements. The movements more measured. Increasing tempo.

An attempt to match to a rhythm. Many rhythms. Of the wind and rain. Of memory. Of tunes cycling through the mind of a body that lacks the skill to ever do them justice in attempting to repeat them aloud. Leave them silent save in memory. Let the observer guess at what they might be.

An observer?

A stutter of the body in motion. A smile sent that way. A wave incorporated into a scooping of the standing water that returns it to the air.

Eyes closed. A forgetting for a time. A return to the dance. Mere wild flailing to the observer. Dance to the dancer. Observed? Remember, forget.

Gyre and gambol. A grin flashing with the lightning. A knowing that the thunder will incite a jump. An unconscious decision to use the reflex instead of fighting it. Laughter at what the thunder said. A dare to the storm to take the dancer. To strike down. Not a boast but a tease. A playful utterance to a partner. Irony in how unthinkable it would be.

Sight gone dark. Exhaustion, but not that much. A sunset hidden by grey clouds gone black. Was the dance that long or did it start late?

A breathless ascent up the steps. A short distance made mountainous. Out of the rain but not nearly dry. A collapse into a seated position leaning against the house. An invitation to the observer to join next time. A bemused pronouncement of strangeness. Agreement. A request for a towel. A head shaken in disbelief, exasperation, as the observer goes to retrieve one.

Maiko brought me a towel.

Dry. Mostly anyway.

I still wound up taking shower afterward. It might have felt a bit redundant, but there was plenty of mud and bits of grass in addition to the rain. Also, it helped dispel the chill that had set in once I finally stopped.

Dinner was simple. I had worked up an appetite to eat just about anything and was too worn out to properly cook anything. Even this entry was written in the residual haze of that fevered trance. I wonder how much of it will even be intelligible to me come morning.

As I said, pleasantly exhausted. I expect to sleep well tonight.

I wonder if I will dream.

<==Previous Next==>

1 note · View note

fanficshiddles · 3 years

Text

Bargaining, One Shot (Slight spoilers for Ep5!)

Summary: You get pruned and think you’ve died, but when you wake up you find President Loki staring down at you. You beg him to help you. So he makes a bargain with you. In return for safety, he wants your body.

Warnings: Dub-con

Your eyes fluttered open, expecting to see some kind of bright light or angels, perhaps. Or maybe you’d gone to the depths of hell, so would see demons and fire everywhere. But you were surprised, and confused, when you opened them to see dark clouds above and a man with black hair and a weird horned crown popped into view, looming over you, with some others surrounding him.

‘Oh dear, is she dead?’ President Loki asked.

One of the others he was with nudged your shoulder with his foot. Making you groan as you blinked hard to focus.

‘Apparently not.’ Loki chuckled.

You rolled round and got up onto your hands and knees, looking up at the men surrounding you. There was then an almighty roar from not too far away. You looked over and saw the most terrifying monster in the clouds.

‘You’re not a Loki, are you?’ Loki asked you.

‘A what? Loki? What do you mean?’ You frowned.

Loki sighed and rolled his eyes. ‘Clearly not. Waste of our time.’

‘Do we kill her, sire?’ One of the men asked, making your eyes widen.

‘No, Alioth will get her soon enough.’ Loki sneered and turned around to leave with the others.

You quickly put two and two together that Alioth was the name of the terrifying cloud monster that was getting closer and closer.

‘WAIT!’ You scrambled towards Loki. ‘Please… Please, don’t leave me here.’ You begged.

He turned back to face you, raising an eyebrow. ‘Why should I help you? You’re not one of us, no one but Loki’s survive here.’

‘Please… I’ll do whatever you want, anything, just please don’t leave me here. I beg you.’ You cried and was literally begging at his feet. You looked up at him through teary eyes. ‘I’m scared, please.’

Loki tilted his head as he stared down at you. Then he tapped his lower lip in thought for a moment, before a wicked smirk spread across his lips. You noticed he was then actually looking at you rather thoroughly for the first time.

‘I suppose, having a woman around could be rather useful.’ He hummed. ‘It has been so long since I’ve felt the soft lips of another…’ He reached down and brushed his thumb against your lower lip, making your lip quiver at his meaning.

Though the thought of doing sexual favours in return for safety didn’t exactly sound like a bad idea in this situation. Besides, he was rather good looking. And considering you’d thought you had died, the chance at survival was too great to pass up.

‘Please.’ You whispered again, pleading him with your eyes.

You knew he was dangerous, it was obvious. The fact that he and the others with him were even alive in this place. Even at first glance you knew it wasn’t a safe place to be.

He stood up straight and slid his hands into his pockets again. Then he nodded once. ‘Come with me.’

You scrambled up to your feet and followed as he started heading off quickly, it was hard keeping up with his large strides, but you managed. The others were staring at you weirdly, not sure whether to trust you or not. Since they didn’t trust anyone, really.

The monster was getting closer, making you shake more and more in fear. But Loki was completely calm as he led the way. Then eventually, after what felt like hours but was actually just a few minutes, you came to a large circular hatch in the ground.

Some of the others opened it up and started climbing down. Loki looked at you and motioned to the ladder. But you were frozen, the thought of going down there and being trapped god knows where…

‘Suit yourself. You can come down and take your chance with me, or you can stay out here all alone with the monster. But no one apart from Loki’s ever survive here alone.’ He said darkly, smirking a little.

He went towards the ladder, but you quickly moved forward after hearing another roar from the monster. ‘I’ll come down.’ You blurted out quickly.

Loki grinned and motioned for you to go first as he took a small step back. You hesitantly began to climb down the ladder and Loki followed. When you reached the bottom, you turned around and were faced with even more people that you assumed were other Loki’s. They all had various weapons aimed at you, making your eyes widen.

‘Hey, hey, hey! Back off, she’s no threat. She’s mine.’ Loki growled at them all roughly when he got down the ladder behind you.

They instantly backed down, obeying their King.

Loki gripped your upper arm firmly and led you through the other Loki’s, he started spouting some green energy from his hand when one of them tried to get over to you. You gulped hard, just what exactly had you gotten yourself into?

He took you through to what you assumed was his private bedroom. It was just as weird and dark as the other room. But this one at least had a bed.

Using some magic, Loki locked the door without a key.

‘Well now.’ He said as he shrugged off his black jacket, leaving the rest of his clothes on. But he started rolling his sleeves up his forearms. You weren’t sure why, but you felt the green waistcoat and tie really suited him, like it was his colour.

‘Are you going to hold up your end of the bargain?’ He growled low, licking his lips.

You felt your own mouth go dry as you looked down and saw a bulge in his trousers. Not knowing for sure what he might be capable of, and holding up your end of the bargain, you walked over to him and sank down to your knees.

A smirk tugged on his lips as he gazed down at you. You were so nervous as you reached up and slowly started palming at him through his trousers. God, he felt so big. You were kind of scared to see for sure.

‘Come on, pet. Don’t keep me waiting, it’s not too late for me to chuck you back outside to the monster.’ He said in warning as he narrowed his eyes at you.

With a gulp, you began to free his cock. And when you did, it didn’t ease your nerves at all. You felt his piercing gaze upon you as you tentatively started stroking him, slowly becoming bolder and bolder as you got used to his rather intimidating size.

‘Don’t be scared. This beast doesn’t bite much, unlike the one outside.’ He chuckled.

You licked your lips and then looking up at him, you leaned forward and took him into your mouth. His eyes fluttered and his mouth parted in a throaty groan when he felt your warm mouth engulf him.

‘That’s it, good girl.’ He growled and reached down to slide his long fingers through your hair.

You felt a delightful shiver run down your spine at his praise for some reason. You hollowed your cheeks and tried to suck him down as far as you could, pleasing him that you were trying. But what you couldn’t take down your throat you made up for with your tongue work.

His hand in your hair suddenly tightened, and to your shock he started fucking your mouth roughly. Giving you no option but to take him down your throat, making you choke on him. You put your hands on his lean thighs for support and was pleasantly surprised with how muscular they felt beneath the fabric. But you didn’t get long to think on it as your throat started to hurt.

‘Your mouth is simply wonderful. Oh, yes. I think this was a very good bargain indeed.’ He snarled.

When he was close to cumming, he eased up and just rested on your tongue. You didn’t want to disappoint him, to have him toss you out. So you moaned around him, causing vibrations to dance all over his cock. And you moved your tongue along the underside of him, doing everything just right. So when he came, he came hard, shooting down your throat. You did your best to swallow all of his cum, some dribbled down your chin but that only made him lust after you even more.

After his loud moaning and grunting, he took a few deep breaths to compose himself. But his eyes were still full of dark lust as he pulled out of your mouth.

‘Get on your hands and knees.’ He demanded gruffly, his cock bobbing, still aroused.

You were slightly startled when he waved his hand and suddenly you were completely naked. But you didn’t get time to dwell on it, because he moved behind you as you did as you were told and got into position, you gasped when you felt his fingers sliding against your cunt. ‘Ohhh, pet.’ He cooed and rubbed over your clit, making your body jump. ‘It seems this bargain is not only satisfying for me, but it seems it is for you too.’

You hung your head down in shame at how wet you were just from sucking him off. But Loki’s firm grip in your hair suddenly tugged your head right back, making you gasp.

‘No, no. Do not hang your head in shame. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying sucking your King off.’ He growled seductively into your ear, then licked up the side of your neck, making you whimper.

He let go of your hair and instead wrapped his hand around the front of your neck as he lined up with your sopping wet cunt. In one smooth thrust, he was inside of you, filling you up completely. His hand around your neck controlled your breathing, only letting you do so when he deemed fit.

You had never been so aroused in your life. It was evident with the obscene noises coming from between you both as Loki pounded into you.

Your own orgasm hit you like a train crash, you’d never felt anything so animalistic and purely chaotic in your life. It felt so rushed and needy, but it was the most mind-blowing orgasm you’d ever had. Not long ago you thought you had died, and now you felt like you were dying all over again but this time in over pleasure. With Loki laughing wickedly over you from behind as he spilled into you from his own orgasm.

He collapsed on top of you, knocking you down to the cold hard ground on your stomach. But you didn’t care much, feeling his heavy weight on top of you didn’t bother you either.

‘Mmm… This is a good deal indeed.’ He murmured as he nuzzled his nose into your hair. ‘I give you my word, that I will keep you alive and safe, pet. If you keep your body available to me, always. Can you do that?’

Your mind was so fuzzy, you could barely even think straight. But you nodded and managed to squeak out your answer. ‘Yes… My King.’

#Loki #Tom Hiddleston #bargaining #one shot #fan fiction #president Loki #Loki x reader #Loki x you #president Loki x you #president Loki x reader #Loki fics #Loki fic

911 notes · View notes

rayofsunas · 3 years

Text

s/o goes on a mission with them.

A/n: so, as you may or may not have seen by my recent “updates” I’m obsessed with genshin, and I’m pretty sure for one day I played for a solid 5 hours- my eyes hurt pls. but I did miss writing, I’ve just been unmotivated and busy with college stuff (mainly stressing, I haven’t even started my essay yet shh). n e ways, here’s an update, I hope this quenches your thirst 🙊

Summary: s/o goes on a mission with them.

Parings: Kaeya/Reader, Diluc/Reader, Xiao/Reader, Scaramouche/Reader (all with a fem reader)

Warnings: crack, swearing, worrying Teyvat bois

Word count: 1.7k

Kaeya

when you’re assigned to be on a mission just the two of you, you assume he’s happy, and don’t get me wrong, he totally is!

usually you’re never on missions together, deciding it was better that way because you both get distracted (you realized after marrying, space was always nice too, space was healthy)

though the decision mainly came about because you two good around a lot... and other things 😏

no but deep down he’s worried when you go on this mission together, it’s been a while since the two of you have, a little too long, and the nerves came back

he’s always worried whenever you go on missions, and sure he’ll always be there to protect you when he’s with you (not that you need it) but anything can happen

sure taking out a bunch of Hilichurls was deemed easy, especially together, but he still worried

he never said a word about it though, he’d always keep a watchful eye on you (he does have a reputation to keep after all)

“Ya know, you did well today.” You said plopping down beside your husband, using your pyro ability to light the twigs and leaves in front of you.

“Of course I did,” he boasted, eye lighting up in the dark of the night. “What kind of Knight would I be if I hadn’t, babe.”

You groaned in annoyance, this was the ever so haughty husband you knew.

“Please, I could’ve easily wiped your ass if it weren’t for the fact that we haven’t been paired together in a while; I forgot about your skill.” You teased. The cryo user glared at you.

“Skill? Surely, I have more than one.” He snipped teasingly. Your head shook, feigning innocence. “Are you sure?” A hum sounded in your throat. “I couldn’t tell... Maybe if you hadn’t been staring holes into me every time I used my sword, I could see your progression.”

Kaeya visibly tensed, but he tried to make it go unnoticed, you saw his shoulders raise slightly.

“Hmm?” You laughed wholeheartedly.

“Don’t ‘hmm’ me, mister.”

Despite having been caught, a grin spread across his face, he was enjoying your teasing tonight it seemed.

“There’s a reason we don’t go on missions together, but, I did have fun with you today, despite the worrying part.”

Diluc

um, the ever so stoic and emotionless fire boy is WORRIED AF

and he accidentally lets it show

he’s totally fine if you’re only going against a few low-rank Hilichurls and Slime, but against any of the Hypostasis’s, he’s worried for your wellbeing (after a few days of trying to beat one of the Hypostasis’s I finally did, APPLAUD ME PLS, I was crying)

the very first mission you went on together, the job was done quickly and without much trouble, but before and after, he would not stop asking you if you would like to be escorted back to the Knights headquarters

he said it was his duty to protect any and every Mondstadt Citizen

you knew he was also just particularly worried about you

despite being worried, he is happy you’re here, though wishes it were under different circumstances other than battle

he rarely sees you, so it’s a nice change to be placed on a mission together instead of alone, you missed each others company

BUT HE’S STILL WORRIED

“I’m a Knight of Favonius, I don’t particularly need to be escorted back, I appreciate your concern though.” Poor Diluc, the face he made looked like pure defeat, you used the Knight of Favonius card on him. And yes, you were capable, but he did know a certain Knights of Favonius Captain who he loathed a little too much,

“That’s why I’m worried.”

You scoffed at his jab, though it didn’t necessarily hurt too much.

“Please, I can handle myself. We’re not all like Captain Kaeya, but even then give him some credit!”

“I know you’re more than capable but-”

”No buts! Let me do what I know how, please. Or else I could slip up, and then actually put myself in danger.”

“Okay...” You nodded, sending a soft thanks to your lover's way, but he just stared at you before muttering, “But let me escort you back to Mondstadt.”

👁 👄 👁

“I’m sorry, did you hear a word I just said?”

“I see your skills darling, but-” He paused, noticing how your arms folded across your chest. You were annoyed. “I’d much prefer if you took care of the greatest battle of all; Kaeya.”

“Kaeya does not need my assistance.”

“He’s probably in a ditch somewhere, and it would be much appreciated by Jean if we did not leave him to rot there,” Diluc explained.

You had seen Kaeya earlier, and yes although he usually frequented the bars and whatnot, he was surprisingly sober. He hadn’t promised he would stay that way, but it would take hours for said man to get completely drunk to the point where he was immobile. You had only left Mondstadt four hours ago.

“Amber can find him. She did last time,” He watched in disbelief as you sauntered off towards the hill in front of you, dead set on continuing your mission. “Come on I see an Electro Hypostasis ahead.”

“Also, you could’ve just said you were worried about me, instead of trying to send me back home! Kaeya is fine, worrywart.”

Xiao

it’s not that he’s worried about you and it’s not that he shouldn’t be worried either

he can be both given the right moment

the only reason he doesn’t want you going with him is because he claims he focuses better on missions alone

you could understand where he was coming from, but you would’ve liked to have gone with him when he first left

you mentioned going on a mission with him in Liyue the night before he locked you in your Liyue Harbor Guesthouse room

you were still asleep when he’d snuck out and had found a note in the sheets where he’d previously been sleeping hours ago

it read, went on a quick mission, be back soon. - Xiao

...one of the cleaning ladies had come to your rescue after seeing various lounge chairs from the hallway stacked and pushed against the door (she was supposed to clean the room that morning after having seen Xiao leaving, figuring it was empty to begin cleaning)

she was shocked to see you hurriedly throwing your shoes on and grabbing your spear, confused obviously

she’d asked if you were being held against your will or if you were in danger, but you’d dashed off before you could give her an answer

eventually after asking a few Liyue Harbor Merchants, you were able to get a rough estimate as to where your boyfriend went

when you finally caught up to him, out of breath, he was somewhat shocked to see you

“Hey!” You called after the ancient man, watching with glee as he turned around with wide eyes. “Locking me in the room seriously?”

“I didn’t think you’d catch up. I left hours ago.”

“I thought so too. But one of the Merchants gave me a shortcut to your destination.”

“Interesting.” He said, hand going to his chin in thought.

“That’s it? That’s all you have to say?!”

“Interesting.” You mocked

He stared blankly, without a doubt the gears working in his brain, spinning and ticking at an unbelievable rate.

“No, one more thing... How did you get out of the room? I barricaded it.”

👁 👄 👁

Scaramouche

you better be someone who can handle yourself, and you probably are, or else he would not be able to stand being with you romantically AT ALL

he’s had you practice with him, just to show him what you’re capable of, before he ever allowed you to travel with him

after deeming you a worthy opponent, he decided you would fair well with him

he would’ve never allowed you to come if he knew you’d be a burden, slow him, or get hurt

after you proved yourself, he does not doubt you so he’s not going to be worried at all

he’s only worried if you start slowing him down, then he’ll think you’re incompetent to be traveling together

if you slow him down, you’re being sent home, no questions asked

though because he does love you, you receive a bit of a less severe punishment for doing something wrong on a mission

he may ask you once or twice to keep up with him, or take your enemies out without less hesitation, but that’s if he feels particularly generous, most of the times he’s harsh and will not tolerate your mistakes, no chances given

fortunately for you, he felt extremely generous today

It was truly evident that you were slowly pissing off the sixth Harbinger and he was losing his patience with you. Yet you continued flirting with him to get a rise out of said man (yeah, same); he often reacted, and you enjoyed it when he did. You liked seeing him react and appear differently than always being so uptight and mean.

It was a common belief that he often traveled with a young woman, who had Pyro for a vision, and she was strong but often loved to distract and tease her fellow Harbinger. You were not so surprisingly, that young woman.

“Keep up, I won’t ask you again.”

Today, you were on a mission together which wasn’t rare, but your other mission was to piss him off as much as you could. So, you purposely walked behind him, very slow. Pretending to take in the chilly scenery of Snezhnaya, although you had seen it thousands of times, acting as if it was something new.

“You said that the last two times.” You said, cheerfully laughing to yourself when you heard him growl lowly. He didn’t pay any mind to your retort but began showing more signs that he was aggravated.

He hissed, “There’s not much to admire, you can barely see.” Yes, he was right, he’d caught onto your antics very fast, but that didn’t matter.

“As I said, if you keep slowing me down, I’ll continue without you.” Your eyes rolled. Would he?

“Leaving a member of the Harbinger behind wouldn’t be very honorary, but if I must, I will.”

A pout took shape on your lips. “Please, you wouldn’t leave your lovely girlfriend out here to freeze would you?”

“You have pyro abilities, you would fair just fine.”

“Hmm... I suppose so, but I’d get lonely.”

“Then be quiet and walk faster.”

1.13.21, rayofsunas

#rayofsunas #genshin #genshin impact #kaeya #kaeya x reader #diluc #diluc x reader #xiao #xiao x reader #scaramouche #scaramouche x reader #genshin imagines #genshin impact x reader

1K notes · View notes

Last Seen Blogs

hankwag93

Outdoor Adventures

singular-braincells

lun

gomeven18-blog

Untitled

genderlesskiwi

Kwizious

tarjiem

Tarjiem