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headcanonsandmore · 2 years

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“The Turtle Moves”, Chapter Two

Summary: After his initial introduction to life in Ankh-Morpork, new acting-constable Ron Weasley is hoping to ease himself into things without causing too much of a stir. But where would be the fun in that?

TWs in the tags.

Tagging: @thefandompixie @areweunderscoreweare

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Read on FFN. Read on AO3.

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‘Don’t worry, Ron; first crime scene, always happens.’

Ron wiped his mouth with his arm. He and Cheery had headed over to Hen and Chickens Field. Funnily enough, it was the school where Ginny had been sent to. Although Ron was glad that they hadn’t bumped into Ginny; he very much doubted that she would want to know that one of the teaching staff had been murdered in their office. Hence why the contents of Ron’s stomach were now covering the cobbles of the street two floors below.

‘Sorry,’ he muttered, queasily.

‘No need to apologise. All better now?’ Cheery said, encouragingly. ‘I was much the same on my first day.’

Ron stood up, took a deep breath, and surveyed the crime scene.

It wasn’t especially pleasing to look at. But, then again, what crime scene ever was? The teacher who had previously occupied this office was lying on the floor, face down. Ron tried not to think about the dried red marks on the carpet around her head.

‘Looks like a blunt weapon was involved,’ Ron said, bending down beside the former Ms Smith. ‘Trauma to the back of the head. Presumably, they caught her unawares.’

‘Possibly,’ Cheery replied, nodding. ‘Although we can’t rule out that she tried to stop it from happening until we’ve checked over the body.’

Cheery took out some glass containers and, with Ron’s help, began to take samples of the dried blood from the carpet and from Ms Smiths’ head. Ron was very glad that he now had an empty stomach*. This wasn’t exactly the same as gathering herbs with Mistress Weatherwax, although Cheery was a lot less likely to glare at him. That was a positive.

‘Who’d want to kill a teacher, though?’ Cheery said, absentmindedly**, as she closed the last glass container and slipped it into her bag. ‘The school year was about to begin. By the sounds of it, she was well-liked by both students and staff. Quiet sort of lady but no-one had anything bad to say about her.’

Ron nodded. He had never actually been to a school that much; his mum had taught him how to read, write, add two and two together, and polish his shoes. Mistress Weatherwax tended to look down on what she called “sit down edddycation” and Ron had been in no mind to disagree. You didn’t argue with Mistress Weatherwax unless you wanted to spend the next week terrified about how she’d react***.

‘If she was as quiet as they say,’ Ron mused. ‘Then maybe the reason wasn’t to do with her as a person. Maybe internal politics at the school-’

‘I was just thinking that.’

Ron jumped, turning to the door.

Commander Sir Samuel Vimes, leader of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch, strode into the room.

Despite his rather diminutive size, Vimes had a presence that accounted for several extra feet of height. When he was standing nearby, you couldn’t help but pay attention to him, even if he wasn’t saying anything. Ron wondered if he was overthinking this; it could just as easily be that he was so used to the legend of Vimes that his brain connected dots that didn’t exist.

Stop it; just get on with the things you can do.

‘C-Commander Vimes,’ Ron exclaimed, quickly saluting. ‘We didn’t realise you were-’

‘Oh, relax, lad,’ Vimes said, bending down to inspect the body of the former teacher. ‘I’m not here to embarrass you; good evaluation of the crime scene, actually.’

‘Er… thank you, sir.’

It seemed like Vimes was deliberately not mentioning the things Ron had mentioned during their patrol earlier, which he appreciated.

Ron stared around the office. It was almost the poetic ideal of a teachers office; musty, filled with books and with paper scattered everywhere. And anyone who thinks that isn’t poetic has clearly never been inside a poet’s room.

A withering pot plant was stood on one of the two windowsills (the other of which had been the one Ron had vomited out).

‘Hang on,’ Ron said, walking forward and bending down to inspect the plant. ‘Was this plant here when we arrived?’

Cheery approached.

‘I think so. Why?’

‘Well… it looks like it’s been potted strangely…yes, look; the soil doesn’t reach up to the brim, see? The pot looks a size too big for the plant and soil.’

‘Hmmm,’ Cheery said, rubbing her beard in thought. ‘But that doesn’t automatically mean anything?’

‘Maybe. Unless… hang on…’

Ron bent down further.

‘Soil on the ground,’ he said. ‘Still warm, so it couldn’t have been moved long ago.’

Staring up at them was a small piece of pottery.

‘So… someone smashed the plant pot and repotted it quickly?’ Ron muttered. ‘Why bother?’

‘In a hurry, perhaps?’ Cheery mused.

‘A hurry for what, though?’

‘I’ll take a chunk of this back for testing,’ Ron said, placing it inside a container. ‘Maybe it might shed some light on it.’

‘Good lad,’ Vimes said.

‘Thank you, Commander,’ Ron replied. ‘I know it’s not much of a clue but…’

‘Don’t worry; I don’t believe in clues,’ Vimes said, grimly. ‘Ha! A crime scene might reveal a single tap shoe, a beret and an old beer mug, and people end up thinking the suspect could only be a one-legged alcoholic Quirmian. Nah; always take clues with…’

‘A grain of salt?’ Ron offered.

‘I was gonna say “with the mind of a suspicious bastard”, but that works too.’

Ron nodded, not being sure whether Commander Vimes was being serious. He was starting to get the sense that you never could tell with Old Stoneface, as he seemed to be known in the city.

‘I’m gonna head back to Pseudopolis Yard,’ Vimes said, scratching his right ear with a fingernail. ‘Carrot said he’s got some forms for me to fill out and that he’ll send them to Sybil if I try to sneak out of it. Cheery, write up a report after you finish examining those samples, will you?’

Cheery nodded and Vimes began to walk out of the room.

‘Nice work, Constable,’ Vimes said, pausing at the doorway and turning to look at Ron. ‘Keep it up.’

Ron swallowed nervously and nodded. Vimes flashed a brief grin and departed.

‘Are you feeling fine, Ron?’ Cheery said, as they exited the school a few minutes later. ‘You looked a little on-edge around the Commander.’

‘I think I embarrassed myself in front of him earlier,’ Ron mumbled.

‘On the patrol, you mean? I can’t imagine it was that bad.’

‘It was; I even asked him whether Commander Vimes was tough to work for.’

Cheery chuckled in a good-natured way. Ron tried to ignore his ears turning pink.

‘I don’t think you need to worry,’ she said, brightly. ‘I imagine he appreciated that you didn’t seem flummoxed to be taking a patrol with him. He started out as a street copper, you see. Hates all the pomp and ceremony.’

Ron sighed and followed Cheery through the packed city streets. The two of them arrived back at Pseudopolis Yard about fifteen minutes later, and hurried across the front room of the Watch House. Ron was starting to think that people appeared out of the woodwork in Ankh-Morpork, because they were more people around him everytime he blinked.

‘Not you again?’ groaned the dwarf behind the desk at the person at the front of the queue.

‘I vont to complain!’ exclaimed a vampire, irritably. ‘How can I be expected to vork in a place with running vater everyvere?’

‘Yes,’ replied the dwarf, sighing heavily as he stared down at the complaint form, ‘But you surely realised that when you applied to be a lifeguard at the Ankh-Morpork Swimming Baths-’

Chuckling to himself, Ron followed Cheery up through the staircases towards the Forensics room.

* The road sweeper who would arrive on the road two hours later was not glad of this, and spent the next week complaining of binge-drinking schoolgirls.

** Dwarfs are, by nature, a dutiful and sensible bunch who respect those with knowledge. Especially if that knowledge happens to include “which seam of the mine is going to collapse”.

*** Hence why Lacre has never really had much of a peacekeeping force other than Shaun Ogg, who comprised the kingdoms entire standing army (except when he was slouching, which happened a lot due to how little peacekeeping he actually had to do).

‘How strange.’

Cheery peered into the glass tube. It was a few hours later; the two of them had been experimenting with the blood samples.

‘Blue again,’ Ron muttered, adding that to the table of results they were compiling. ‘Exactly the same shade.’

‘It must be reacting to something,’ Cheery said. ‘Some sort of chemical reaction is taking place, but at a delay.’

‘Hmmm. Could have been mixed in with the blunt object that was used to kill Ms Smith?’

Cheery nodded, mulling this over.

‘Given the situation,’ she said. ‘I think there’s one place that may just help us.’

One walk through the city centre later, Ron found himself following Cheery through the iron gates of the Assassins Guild.

Only to be immediately told that they would need to go to Unseen University instead*. Cheery sighed, nodded and Ron followed her across back towards Sator Square.

‘So… you think Unseen University might help us with this?’ he asked, as they pushed their way through the crowd. Well, Ron pushed; Cheery was too polite to.

Cheery nodded.

‘Generally speaking, we avoid talking to the wizards if we can,’ she said, scratching her long beard. ‘But, on this occasion, we’ll need to.’

Unseen University’s enormous gates loomed in front of them. Ron got the sense that the upper classes liked being hidden behind large gates. This was presumably the origin of the proverbial “gilded cage”.

After the porters had let them through the gates (Cheery showing her badge to help speed them up a little), the two of them crossed the large grassy square inside, heading for the main Octangle. Ron was immediately struck by how old most of the wizards around seemed to be, as well as a plethora of physiques that Mrs Weasley would have referred to as “armchair dependent”.

‘Oook?’

Ron had never heard ‘oook’ used as a question before. But, then again, he had never seen a huge orangutan knuckle across a courtyard before.

Ron stared at them, eyes widening.

‘Er…’

‘Special Constable Librarian,’ Cheery said, smiling as she saluted. ‘How lovely to see you.’

‘Oook.’

‘We’re here to see Mr Ponder Stibbons,’ Cheery continued. ‘Have you seen him?’

The librarian, if that was their name, nodded and pointed towards a building on the far end of the grassy courtyard.

‘Oh, the High Energy Magic Building?’

‘Oook.’

‘Thank you!’

The librarian gave a wide grin and knuckled away over the pebblestones.

Ron turned to Cheery, his mouth falling half open.

‘They’re… they’re with the Watch?’

‘Yes,’ Cheery replied. ‘It was before my time, but Carrot says that it was around the time of the Dragon ruler.’

Ron stared at her in bafflement.

‘He had ait of an accident with the books in the UU library, poor chap,’ Cheery continued, not seeming to notice Ron’s confusion as they began to cross the courtyard in the other direction. ‘But, apparently, he prefers it this way. Far easier to climb up bookcases, you see.’

Ron thought of asking further questions, but decided again. Somethings were best left to themselves.

Upon entering the High Energy Magic Building, Ron could immediately tell why the building had been named such. Unlike the strangely sleepy quality of the rest of the university, this place was alive with excited young wizards, many carrying large stacks of books, running back and forth.

‘Er…’ Cheery said, pulling on a passing wizard by the elbow. ‘We’re from the Watch; is Ponder Stibbons about?’

The (in Ron’s opinion) rather gormless-looking young wizard* nodded and pointed towards a slightly older man. Unlike the other university staff, he was clean-shaven and had the mildly irritated expression of a man who spent most of his time surrounded by people who refused to think logically about anything.

‘Mr Stibbons?’

‘Yes,’ replied the bespectacled man, looking up from a piece of parchment with coffee-cup stains on it. ‘How can I help?’

‘We need some questions answered.’

‘Well, I’m a bit busy at the moment but… ah, just the fellow, Mr Potter…’

A younger man, roughly Ron’s age, happened to have been wandering past. Stibbons reached out and pulled him by the arm towards Ron and Cheery.

‘Whatever it is, I didn’t do it,’ the boy said, quickly, staring at them with bright green eyes through large round spectacles. He was surprisingly skinny, meaning that his wizard hat kept slipping down over his ears. ‘You can’t prove anything.’

‘No, Mr Potter,’ sighed Ponder, rolling his eyes. ‘The Watch are enquiring after some information.’

‘The Assassins Guild recommended we come to UU regarding this matter.’

The young Mr Potter swallowed, and gestured over to a corner. Ponder Stippons swept away, leaving a smell of dusty books and not enough decent baths.

‘Is there a type of substance that could cause a delayed discolouration of blood?’ Cheery asked, as they sat down around a workbench. ‘For example, a blue pigment?’

‘Blue, you say?’ Harry repeated, scratching his head. ‘Well, I’m not surprised the Assassins sent you here; they consider that particular substance to be rather beneath them.’

‘Wait?’ Ron cut in, sitting down on a stool. ‘You know which substance would cause this?’

‘Oh, yes,’ Harry nodded. ‘It’s… well, it’s just a type of pottery. Pretty cheap pottery, at that. It’s meant to give a nice blue shine to paint, although it’s not very fashionable now. My dad’s best mate calls it tacky.’

‘Oh, well; that doesn’t really tell us much,’ Cheery said, looking disheartened for a brief moment. ‘Although… you say it’s not so commonplace nowadays?’

‘Yeah, it went out of style a while back. Usually only bought by old farts now.’

‘Hmmm…’ Cheery muttered, jotting this down in her notepad. ‘Could I have the name, please?’

‘Djelibeybi Blue,’ Harry replied. ‘It’s chemical composition is fairly straightforward but, like I say, barely anyone wants it anymore.’

Cheery nodded, noting the name down.

‘Ron, I’ll handle things here with the UU staff,’ she said, turning to the redhead. ‘You go off shift and get some food. It’s time for you to go on break anyway.’

‘Are you sure?’

‘It’s your first night in the city,’ Cheery said, grinning. ‘Everyone seems time to enjoy themselves. Just make sure you’re at the Watch House in a few hours, okay?’

Ron nodded, saluted quickly, and headed out into the courtyard, followed by the young wizard.

‘So,’ Harry said, walking quickly to catch up to Ron’s long stride. ‘You’re in the Watch, then?’

‘Er… yeah,’ Ron said, staring down at the boy as they walked along. ‘Although I am officially on break now, so don’t worry about me arresting you.’

‘Fancy a drink?’

‘Er…I thought wizards were supposed to avoid habits like that.’

Harry let out a laugh.

‘You’re funny,’ he said, grinning. ‘Some of the wizards in this place are about as cheerful as a chopping axe- oh, evening, Professor Rincewind!’

The professor in question, a spindly-looking wizard with a wispy ginger beard, jumped several inches into the air, sprinted in the opposite direction and disappeared under a bench.

‘Er…’ Ron said, turning to Harry. ‘Is that normal for him?’

‘Bit of a nervous bloke. Anyway, c’mon,’ Harry grinned, slapping an arm on Ron’s shoulder. ‘I know a nice place nearby. For food as well as drink, before you ask.’

Ron grinned and nodded.

‘Alright; you’re on.’

Harry smiled.

* To be fair, Ron didn’t mind this. The Assassins Guild seemed to be filled exclusively with people for whom genetics had forsaken chins.

** Ron based this impression mainly off the vacant stare of the young man. And the fact that he looked as if he pronounced “bath” with three different types of “r”.

‘And then,’ Harry continued, sloshing a large portion of his drink onto the table. ‘This nitwit turns up at my parents’ house -kicks down the door like one of those martial artists- and storms upstairs to my room. I’m… I’m sleeping like a baby, what with -hic- being a baby at the time. He’s standing by the cot, with this stupid twig raised in front of him.

‘And… you know what this twerp does? Trips on the sodding carpet and falls forward. This twig thing of his goes straight against my forehead, gives me this bloody scar. Seriously, what kind of wannabe assassin fails to kill a baby? He could have thrown me out the window, for godssake!’

Ron chuckled, nursing his apple juice. The food had been pretty good, all things considered. And Harry clearly enjoyed the local ale, as the several empty pint glasses cluttered around the table proved. Ron was surprised to learn that no-one had paid any attention to his uniform, possibly due to the fact that another member of the Watch* was sat near the bar.

‘So… what happened to this… Voldemort bloke?’

‘My parents tackle him and tie him up. Call the -hic- local night watch. A wizard, a proper one this one, turns up with the Watchmen. Apologises to my parents, and then -boom- seals up the cut on my forehead.’

‘So, why does he make it look like a lightning bolt?’

‘Sod -hic- if I know,’ Harry hiccupped. ‘Wizards are… wossname… austin-ostertat-er- dramatic for the sake of being dramatic. Miracle I didn’t end up with ‘LABBO IS IMPRESSIVE’ stuck there instead. That was the wizards name, by the way.’

‘Yeah, I gathered.’

‘Anyway,’ Harry continued, slopping what remained of his drink down his robes. ‘A couple of -hic- years later, Unseen University send my parents a letter, saying I’ve been given a scholarship in exchange for being such a good sport about the whole assass… assasso… trying-to-kill-me thing.’

‘Er… what do you wizard students actually do all day? Go to lectures?’

Harry laughed.

‘Nah… the professors are all terrified that the students will actually -hic- turn up to those. Except for Ponder, course. He basically runs the place, but don’t tell anyone I -hic- told you that.’

After a few more drinks (for Harry), Ron eventually decided that the poor wizard needed to get back to UU before he fell asleep on the table. He helped Harry to his feet and the two of them wandered out into the streets, heading in the general direction of Unseen University.

‘You’re my best mate, y’are…’ Harry slurred, dangling off Ron’s enormous height. ‘Wes… we should… have a double act… Potty and his weesle… weaslo… weezy…’

‘I’m not exactly a comedian, mate,’ Ron said, as they rounded the corner of Peach Pie Street and into the backs. ‘Are you sure this is the right way?’

‘Gates… gates get closed,’ Harry mumbled. ‘But there’s a way to get over the -hic- wall…’

Sur enough, there was a line of very wobbly wizards stood nearby, with each of them slowly climbing into the university, using bricks that slid out from the wall itself*.

Harry grinned, clapped Ron clumsily on the shoulder and climbed unsteadily up the wall. He waved at Ron, before disappearing from sight over the top. There was a loud thump.

‘Oy…’ came Harry’s voice, sounding irritated. ‘Whass’ yorgame’… stone pillar… getout me way…’

Ron chuckled to himself. Nice bloke.

He headed back towards Pseudopolis Yard, enjoying the feeling of the city at night. Ron had just entered into the Watch House when-

‘Pssst!’

Ron stopped, and turned to the side.

‘Ginny!’

The younger redhead sprang up from the seat she was seating him.

‘What are you doing away from the school?’ Ron exclaimed, hotly. ‘You can’t just go wandering through Ankh-Morpork by yourself at night!’

‘Oh, and you can?’

Ron stared down at her from his great height.

‘Okay, you’ve got me there, but at least I’ve got armour on-’

‘Constable Weasley, who is this?’

Ron jumped.

Sergeant Angua had appeared next to him. She was looking as serious as ever.

Behind him, Ron heard Ginny let out a low breath.

‘Sergeant!’ Ron said, saluting quickly. ‘This is my sister, Ginny!’

‘And just why is she at the Watch House?’ Angua replied, staring at Ginny, who looked like she was trying not to hyperventilate. ‘That’s a school uniform; shouldn’t she be at the school in question?’

‘Yes, she should be,’ Ron replied. ‘I’ll walk her back there right away, Sergeant.’

Angua nodded, curtly.

‘Best keep your wits about you this evening,’ she said, looking around into the murky depths of the city nightscape. ‘I don’t know, Constable, but… I’ve got a feeling in my gut that somethings happening.’

Ron saluted as Angua walked away, a door closing behind her.

‘By the gods,’ Ginny said, grinning. ‘Your Sergeant is hot!’

Ron rolled his eyes.

‘Please don’t flirt with Sergeant Angua; she’s, like, five years older than you, for a start.’

‘She’s so… animalistic,’ Ginny continued, clearing not listening to a word Ron was saying. ‘Like a caged beast…’

Ron decided not to dwell too much on the irony of Ginny’s words. Instead, he grabbed his sister by the arm and began pulling her in the direction of Hen and Chickens Field.

* Ron would have referred to them as a “Watchman” but Nobby Nobbs could only be classified as human by sheer force of probability.

** This technically should have been stopped by the university faculty. But, since the faculty had all been students themselves at one point, they felt this was an important and memorable part of the students’ academic careers. And was very fun to watch from the comfort of a nearby staffroom.

‘What is going on here?’

Ron’s head darted sideways.

A young woman, roughly his age, was glaring suspiciously at him. She looked very familiar. She was short, with a huge mane of bushy brown hair. And she was very, very cute.

Ginny then chose this particular moment to lose her balance. As she had been stood on Ron’s shoulders at the time, this wasn’t a good thing.

There was a muffled crash as gravity took hold, in the form of one small redheaded girl crashing discwards and knocking them both to the ground. Ron had been trying to covertly help her climb into her dormitory window, but their attempts to do this quietly had now been made redundant by the resulting noise.

‘Oww…’

‘Stop complaining and let me stand up,’ Ron muttered, irritably. ‘Bloody hell, Gin.’

Ginny helped Ron to his feet.

‘Er…’

‘Sorry, Miss Granger,’ Ginny said, turning to the girl. ‘This is my brother Ron; he was escorting me back to the school.’

And the puzzle pieces clicked into place in Ron’s brain. Of course he recognised this young woman; he had met her only a few hours previously.

‘Ginny, you know her?’

‘She’s a student teacher at the school,’ Ginny said.

‘Ron… you’re that nice Watchman from earlier today,’ Miss Granger said, her frostiness disappearing somewhat. ‘You helped me with-’

‘The dwarf bread museum,’ Ron finished. ‘Have you been able to contact Captain Carrot yet?’

‘Yes,’ she replied, smiling. ‘He is looking up the available days that he can open the museum for an excursion. Thank you, by the way.’

‘Pleasure,’ Ron said, smiling in return.

‘Ron… may I call you Ron?’

‘Well, I am technically off duty, so yeah.’

Miss Granger smiled.

‘My name is Hermione,’ she said, large brown eyes twinkling.

‘Hello, Hermione.’

‘Am I gonna get detention for this or what?’

Both Ron and Hermione jumped. They had forgotten that Ginny was stood nearby, now looking from one to the other with a raised eyebrow.

‘I… I will let this slide,’ Hermione said, sounding somewhat flustered. ‘However, you really ought to not run off into the city unaccompanied in future, Miss Weasley.’

‘Thank you, Miss Granger,’ Ginny replied. ‘Goodnight, then. If you could just…’

A few seconds later, Ginny had climbed into the window.

‘Do you need to get back in?’ Ron asked, turning to Hermione.

‘Oh, no; I have my key to the front gate,’ Hermione replied. ‘But thank you-’

‘And just what is going on here?’

This phrase was a cliché, but a cliché for a reason. It was part of the nuts and bolts of these situations. Or so Ron was starting to suspect, anyway.

A woman had appeared nearby. She was short, with blond hair tied into a sharp bun. A pair of glasses were held up on a protruding nose. She had one of those noses that lent itself well to looking down at people, regardless of whether they were shorter than the person to whom the nose belonged. Ron got the distinct impression that she spent a lot of time looking down on people.

‘Miss Granger,’ she said, in a nasally voice. ‘Might I enquire as to why you are speaking to this… er…’

‘Constable Weasley,’ Ron replied. ‘Ankh-Morpork City Watch.’

‘Ah, yes,’ said the woman. ‘I have the Watch have started letting in… all sorts.’

Ron’s eyes narrowed at the woman.

‘Need a watch of all sorts to police a city of all sorts,’ he said. ‘I take it that you are a teacher at this school?’

‘Ye-es,’ replied the woman, pushing her glasses up and displaying slightly tarnished blue nail varnish that clashed horribly with her hair. ‘I do have the burden of imparting wisdom onto young minds. Even if some are not… culturally disposed to engaging with the wisdom imparted.’

The back of Ron’s neck was starting to itch.

‘Be off to bed, Miss Granger,’ she said. ‘I can’t have you fraternising with every street watchperson who passes.’

Hermione’s face seemed to stiffen at this.

‘I do not have a curfew,’ she replied, sharply. ‘I am at perfect liberty to talk with this gentleman if I so choose.’

The woman glowered at her, before turning and leaving.

‘Who was that?’ Ron said.

‘Ms Roller. One of the most experienced teachers at the school.’

‘Don’t think she liked me much.’

‘Yes, she was rather rude,’ Hermione agreed, tucking a lock of her bushy hair behind her ear. Was… was she blushing slightly? ‘I… I thought it was rather sweet of you to escort your sister back to the school.’

‘W-well,’ Ron said, feeling his ears pinken. ‘Thank you. I was just trying to help.’

‘I’ve noticed,’ she replied, smiling up at him. ‘And you do an excellent job at it, too.’

A few minutes later, Ron was walking back through the streets, a slight spring in his step and Hermione’s parting smile still fresh in his mind. He had just reached the Watch House reception area again when-

‘Constable Weasley?’

Sergeant Angua had appeared. Ron saluted quickly.

‘Your sister got back alright?’

‘Yes, Sergeant.’

‘Good lad,’ Angua said, before pulling an envelope out of her pocket. ‘Oh, we need this message delivered over to Commander Vimes’s house. You know where Scoone Avenue is, right?’

‘W-what?’ Ron stammered, as she thrust the envelope into his hands. ‘I-yes, I know where it is, but-’

‘Then it shouldn’t be an issue,’ Angua said. ‘You’ve met the Commander already, from what Cheery tells me. Just knock on his door, and ask to see him.’

Ron stood rooted to the spot, staring down at the envelope in his hands.

Commander Vimes -URGENT

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Thanks for reading, everyone; hope you enjoyed the second chapter! If you enjoyed, please like, reblog and (if you want to be tagged when each new chapter is published) ask me to add you to the tag list. Apologies for the delay in this being published, but IRL stuff got in the way. Stay tuned!

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script-nef · 3 years

Text

Presents (and other things)

Category: fluff

2k words; Shopping date [3/6]

← Previous chapter | Masterlist

Out of everyone in the whole world, the person you love most in the world is Nanami Kento, your brother. He was the one who saved you from the cursed spirit that haunted you and took your parents’ lives. He was the one who took you in so that you wouldn’t be put in the system since you were still a minor. He made sure every day that you were safe and healthy even if he was injured or exhausted after a fight.

That's why in the weeks nearing his birthday, you made sure that he would have a relaxing time. He said you didn’t have to and he’d rather have you not fret over him, but that is unacceptable. He needs to have a good birthday. If you could, you would make the whole month just about him. But the last time you tried that he sat you down for a long, scolding lecture about how it’s unnecessary. So that’s out of the option.

Right now, just a few days shy of his actual birthday, you have a problem. Because you were buried in work and have a terrible memory.

His present.

You forgot to buy a present.

“I forgot to buy a present! Why am I so dumb… Why am I like this, Gojou? It’s literally one of the most important things with birthdays and I forgot it. Because I’m an idiot. I wish the ground would swallow me up… I deserve it…” Thuds reverberate through the room as your head makes contact with the table. Repeatedly. Hard.

Wallowing in self-hate is great but your brain starts spitting out all viable present options.

Shopping for Ken-chan is hard because he’s not materialistic in the least. He also doesn’t have a lot of hobbies. “I don’t need presents.” is a regular phrase every time his birthday or holidays come up, but then he gives presents to you and you end up feeling worse. This is all while your brain is getting thrown around.

A hand comes between your forehead and the desk, gently bringing it up. Gojou has a small pout as his cold fingers try to soothe the burning sensation.

“You still have a couple of days left! Don’t bang your head against the table, your brain doesn’t work enough as it is.” He easily moves out away from your slap. But returns in time to stop your head from falling again.

“I should have remembered this weeks ago. There’s no use trying to make me feel better, Gojou. I’m a terrible sister. I deserve this pain.” His fingers poke against your cheeks and he smooshes and stretches them. It’s uncomfortable but you let him.

“I haven’t bought a present either.”

“You’ve never given him a present.”

“This is the year to start! I have to get on his good side!” That’s weird since he never cared about what Ken-chan thought of him.

“Why?”

“We can shop together!” Classic ignoring. His face comes to level with yours. “Let’s go to Shinjuku, I’m sure there are things even Nanami will like. Also, I found a new sweets shop.” You stare at him. “But I will focus on the present for today! C’mon, I can fly us there. You’ve never flown before, right? I think it’ll help.”

For some inexplicable reason, floating in mid-air with nothing to save you other than Gojou is amazing. Adrenaline pumps through your veins at the thought of crashing down to Earth if Gojou lets go. You know he won’t though.

The air is chilly up here and there’s constant wind makes your hair whip everywhere, getting in your mouth and eyes. It doesn’t dampen your mood.

Your arms tighten around Gojou’s neck, watching the city blink with life way underneath your feet. Well, his feet, since you’re bunched up in his embrace.

“This is so cool! Do you do this every day?”

“Yup.” He pops the p and slowly walks closer to your destination. The world looks like a child’s playhouse.

“No wonder you’re constantly in an amazing mood! I would do this every time I’m feeling down!” Gojou’s chuckle reverberates through his chest and into your body.

“I can take you out again when you’re sad.” A buzz takes over your body at the thought sparkles come to life in your wide eyes.

“You would do that for me?” Gojou is an incredibly important asset and therefore also very busy, needing to take care of special-grade curses that others can’t while also teaching and looking after his three students. He couldn’t be at your beck and call, you can’t ask that from him. But the gentle smile he gives is so warm and sure, assuring you that his words are true.

“Of course I would. Any day.” His grip around your body tightens.

Something weird fuzzes in your chest. It’s not uncomfortable or bad but… unique. And foreign. You got a good report back from your physical evaluation last month so it’s not something physical. Questions about what the cause could be takes over your mind but the sudden sensation of zero gravity makes all of them fly out the window. Burying your face into Gojou’s neck, you prepare for the worst.

“And we have arrived! M’lady.” Chipper as ever, Gojou’s feet touch the ground with a light plop and he lets you down gently. You look at him in confusion until realisation kicks in. And you kick him.

“Don’t do that! I think my heart stopped!” He cackles at that, finishing with a “Won’t do it next time.” If there is a next time. The probability is reduced significantly because of what he just did.

Taking your hand in his, he escorts you down the stairs from the rooftop and into a department store. The people who couldn’t see mere moments ago high up in the sky.

As expected, it’s loud and crowded. There are hundreds, maybe thousands of people shuffling about and sweeping everyone to move even if they wanted to. It’s fortunate that Gojou has a firm grip on your hand because otherwise you’d be completely lost. Still, it’s nice to be buried in the commotion of everyday lives. It helps you forget about the whole war that’s looming over everyone.

“Any ideas on what to get?” The question you’ve been asking yourself for the past hour or so is echoed by Gojou. “We have all the time in the world, so don’t worry. I’ll keep you company for as long as you want.”

Blisters form on the back of your feet thanks to the amount of times you walked around the huge place. Gojou bought you bandaids even though you said Shouko can fix you up. It hurts a lot less thanks to that. Finding a present is still a challenge. Every time you think you have one, your brain comes up with a rebuttal for why Ken-chan won’t like it. Two hours and nothing to show for it, you’re on the verge of collapse. Even a quick snack break didn’t help.

Gojou sets you down on a bench, letting your head roll on the backrest. The sight of thousands of coats and jackets running around upside down makes you giggle. Maybe the stress is finally getting to your head. The mantra of “I’m a terrible sister” tries to sneak in and wreak havoc. You’re just about to let it when the upside-down brand of a designer clothing shop catches your attention.

“Gojou.”

“Yup?” His head comes into view as he copies your posture. It must look really weird to passersby but you don’t care at all. “Got an idea?” You point to the brand. Or at least you think you do. The lack of blood in your brain is making everything dizzy. “Clothes?”

“I wanna buy him a good suit.” Standing up, swaying a little from the sudden oxygen influx, you try to drag him towards the shop. He tries to make your attempt harder by using his weight and height, but a firm glare makes him concede.

“I thought he said he doesn’t want suits.” Oh yeah, you told him that when it was rejected. Ken-chan did say that, years ago, when you bought him one for your first present. While incredibly appreciated, he reasoned that there is a high chance of it being ruined since he has to fight in them. And this was around the time when you started getting paid. It was his way of saying that you should invest it in something more durable and preferably for yourself. How does Gojou remember this when it was just a fleeting complaint that you barely remember?

“He said it’s because there’s no point in spending so much money on something that might be damaged so quickly. But I’m going to buy it for a different reason.”

Collections of suits, varied by colour and pattern, line the huge shop. Skimming over a lot of them, especially ones with questionable designs, you turn to the monochromatic area. Simple is best when it comes to Ken-chan’s taste. Shuffling through the shades, you contemplate between either beige or blue.

“What’s the reason?” Gojou’s voice calls from the change room. You wonder when he got there.

“For him to wear it if he goes back to work in an office after the war has ended. Or just when he goes out, without the worry of getting attacked and ruined. It’ll be like a promise! That he’ll do his best to survive the war to wear it.”

Gojou is silent in response. It drags out and now you’re sort of embarrassed about what you said. Your partner loves taking advantage of others’ sappy moments, teasing them mercilessly over it. That little speech is basically perfect ammunition against you. You expect his high voice to make fun of you.

What you don’t expect is for him to pat your head, slowly and softly, like he won’t ever get to do it again.

“Nanami must have used all his luck when he became your guardian.” Voice low, bringing shivers down your body, he cards his fingers through your hair. Like he’s combing them. Seconds tick by and it feels sort of nice, telling you to relax, but your body’s on high alert for some reason.

“I think he’d like the blue one. Since he already has a brown suit, beige is too close.” A black suit adorns his body when he comes into view. Even the shirt is black. It fits him perfectly and he looks really good in it, courtesy of a good body proportion. He could possibly pull off the hideous suits you elected to shy away from at the front of the display. You clear your throat.

“Wow, you look really good in that.” His hands smooth down the creases on the jacket, preening at your compliment. “You should buy that. Wear it to dates or whatever. Ladies will fall to your feet if you show up with that.” Holding up two blue suits, your eyes scrutinize them and you try to imagine which shade will look better on your brother.

“Ladies will fall to my feet? Really?” Amusement tinges his words. The left one looks better.

“Yeah, probably. Girls love guys in suits. Well at least, I do. If they wear the right one for them, it’s really hot. Left one is better, right?” He gives a nod, a wide grin playing on his face. “Alright, this one then. Are you buying the suit?”

“Yeah. I think it’ll be put to good use.”

The checkout is quick, and it’s night when you step out.

“You wanna go back by flying? We can try doing the Howl thing.” That’s really tempting, being able to reenact one of the most iconic scenes in the movie. But not today.

“No, I prefer being in your arms.” Gojou stares at you with such intensity that you can feel it even with the blindfold. Then he immediately barks out a laugh, one so loud that people nearby flinch at the sudden noise. You flinch at the sudden noise.

“Ah… You really keep me on my toes, you know.” Before you can ask what that means, he takes your hand again and starts walking to the stairs. His steps are faster than usual.

Next chapter →

#gojou x reader #gojou imagine #gojou satoru x reader #gojou satoru imagine #gojo x reader #gojo imagine #gojo satoru x reader #gojo satoru imagine #jjk x reader #jujutsu kaisen x reader #jjk imagine #jujutsu kaisen imagine #jjk #jujutsu kaisen #gojou #gojou satoru #fluff #series #female reader

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afishcalledfatin · 4 years

Text

kítrinos - Qian Kun

kitrinos( κίτρινος) - yellow

pairings: professor!Kun x fem student reader

summary: meeting Cyan was either a horrible mistake or a blessing in disguise. In a world where soulmates exist, you were starting to believe that yours didn't exist. Not until, you picked yellow from Cyan's book of colours which transported you to another reality where your soulmate's feelings are shown on you when you share the same emotion. Sharing a rare mark made things easier but theres a catch, both of you won't know until the very last moment. What will happen then?

genre: studentxteacher, fluff, angst

warnings: mentions of death, losing eyesight, arguments, swearing

A/N: Hello lovelies! this is for the colours collab made by @neo-cult-ure i’d like to thank everyone for supporting us and i’d also like to thank the other writers for being so lovely and amazing and just being a great bunch of people. also want to thank @fairielightsss for proof reading this. to be honest, this isnt greatly written. there will be many mistakes so bare with me. so i hope i dont offend anyone and i apologise for any mistakes.

P.S: I recommend listening to this which will give you a good feel on the story. i also recommend watching Howl’s Moving Castle to understand some of the references, but if you haven’t then its okay!

As the sky fades into the night sky, your eyelids begin to droop and the attention towards the song had started to slowly make your head spin. The need to finish practising this piece kept you awake in fear of getting into big trouble with your lecturers. You slap your face in an attempt to make yourself stay awake before preparing to play the piano.

"Are you going to continue torturing yourself or should we head back?" Your best friend, Renjun said while walking into the music studio. You chuckled, "I'm almost done. Wanna wait for me?" You asked. He nodded as he sat on the edge of a table making himself comfortable.

You’ve been practising a song from one of your favourite movies, Howl's Moving Castle but something didn't feel right. Renjun took note that you were taking longer than usual.

"How come you're struggling so much with this song?" Renjun asked. "I'm not saying this in a mean way but I've seen you play,” he said cautiously, not wanting to hurt you with his words. “This song should be easy compared to what you’re used to." He said with a tilt of his head, confusion hinted on his features.

You shrugged while deep in thought, "I know,” you took a deep breath, collecting your thoughts. “I can't explain it but it feels like this piece is missing something." you finally explained.

He nodded at your words. He didn’t say anything more but you knew he wanted to ask more. You began playing the first few notes before Renjun gasped making you falter in your playing, "What if you were Sophie in your past life?” he said with wide eyes, “Better yet, what if you were the Witch of the Waste?" You stared at him with wide eyes holding confusion. "Really, Renjun?" You narrowed your eyes, not liking the way he was messing around.

"Just kidding." he laughed with eyes holding mischief. You broke down your façade and laughed. Shaking your head, you ended the song frustratedly.

"That's it, I'm continuing tomorrow." You sighed and got up, slinging your bag over your shoulder.

"Jaemin asked if you wanted to a sleepover?" You nodded excitedly and Renjun cheered as both of you walked out.

Throughout the walk back, you tried to wrap your brain mind around the question, "Why did that song feel different?" you mumbled to yourself. Beside you, Renjun was questioning your unusually quiet behaviour.

When you were offered to play for the school's annual dinner, you were completely overwhelmed and honoured. They gave you a selection of songs but this song attracted you the most.

Why?

The walk was eerie and quiet, you could feel the cold and sharp air pricking at your skin. Renjun stood close to you when you suddenly heard footsteps behind you.

You turned around and you were greeted by an old lady. You real ed it was a lady named Cyan from when you both met earlier today. She was a funny looking lady who showed you her book of colours. She told you to pick one and you chose yellow. She also mentioned something about a soulmate but you weren't really paying attention.

"Cyan?" You called. The footsteps quickened.

"What are you-"

"I'm sorry, sweetie. Everything will make sense soon." She said hurriedly, cutting you off.

"What do you mean?" She smiled and pulled out a pouch from her pocket, blowing a yellow powder onto you. You waved your hands around to try and stop her while Renjun was beside screaming at the old lady but to no avail, the powder dusted your figure. Next thing you knew, everything went black.

You drummed your fingers across the table, waiting for Jaemin and Renjun to arrive.

You were the only one in the studio and the silence was driving you mad. With a loud sigh and you reached in and grabbed a chocolate bar from your backpack, unwrapping it. Just as you were going to eat it, the door opened.

Low and behold it was your favourite lecturer, Professor Qian or more casually known as Kun. It depends on when you're talking to him. Walking to his table and he places his stuff down before realising you were in the studio.

"I'm hurt Y/N." He starts. You grinned, leaning forward, "Why is that, Kun?"

"Professor Qian in class, missy." He points.

You rolled your eyes and snorted. "Okay, why are you hurt, Professor Qian?" You repeated.

"Well, I come in and the first thing I see is your feet on the table and you’re eating a chocolate bar. And you didn't even bother asking if I wanted some." He wipes a fake tear.

You laughed and jogged to his table, "Aha, but the thing is, sir," you showed the extra bar you brought for him, "I already brought an extra for you." You passed it to him. He chuckled, "Well, won't you look at that. I knew I chose the right favourite student."

You snorted, "The only reason I'm your favourite student is that I'm the only one playing the piano in this class." You stated. “And secondly if I’m not mistaken Professor Qian,” you continued, eyes holding mischief, “Didn’t you say Jisung was your favourite student last week? And Sara about two days ago?” you hummed, a hand on your chin with a pondering look on your face.

He laughed and shook his head, "I'm guilty. I love all of you equally." He raised both his hands defensively. "Ah, I wanna ask you a question." He walked over to the other side of the table, sitting on the edge of it while facing you.

"How would you feel about playing with me?" He suddenly said. You raised a brow.

"Wow, Sir, I didn't know you were that adventurous." You wiggled your brows. Kun furrowed his brows, "What are you- OH MY GOD Y/N NO, NOT LIKE THAT." he said embarrassedly, hiding his face in his hands. You burst out into laughter, clutching your stomach as you saw your teacher getting flustered.

"Geez, Y/N, go clean that brain of yours." He rubbed his temples. You punched his shoulder lightly, sitting next to him on the table.

"Well, you should've worded it better. It's not every day you hear your professor asking to play with him. Anyways, what did you mean by that?" You asked him.

"I meant doing a duet performance with me during the annual dinner." He explained.

"Ahh, I see. What song are we talking about though?" You turned to him.

He rolled up his sleeves and crossed his arms, "I was thinking Merry Go Round Of Life? Y'know the one from Howl's Moving Castle." He sat on the edge of the table.

"I'd love to do it but you could easily do that song alone. Why do you need me?" You asked, genuinely confused. You've seen how Kun plays and it's absolutely amazing. It doesn't make sense why he would need you.

He scratched the back of his neck, "Well, it is a dinner with both the lecturers and students. I thought it would be cool to have us both play. Plus, imagine the power of both of us playing." He bumped your shoulder with his.

"Are you complimenting my skills?" You asked shock painted on your face. He looked quite taken aback, "Y/N, I'm pretty sure I've made it clear that I'm very impressed with your skills since day one."

Ah, first class, you remembered when Kun walked in and he did an evaluation test on all of you.

As both of you walked to class, you were greeted by a squeal. "Renjun! Y/N!" You smiled and ran to Jaemin, giving him a hug.

"How were holidays, babe?" Hewereapped an arm around both of your shoulders.

"It was nice to go back home, my parents kept pestering us on our soulmates though," Renjun informed.

"Have you found yours yet?" You asked Jaemin. He smiled softly, looking at you shyly as he nodded slowly.

You squealed and began jumping with him. "Congratulations, honey!" You hugged him tightly.

"What's she like?" Renjun asked.

"She's so… perfect." he sighed dreamily. You and Renjun began poking fun at him and teasing him.

“What did it feel like?” you asked curiously.

“Not gonna lie, it hurt like a bitch when the mark burnt off but after that everything was amazing,” he explained as you sat in between the two of them.

"What was your colour?" You asked.

"It was grey," he said proudly. Renjun snorted, "What were both of you confused about?" he said shaking his head.

"Well, I was confused about what to order and she was confused about a math question. We suddenly felt the mark stinging and I immediately looked around and there she was, all cute and blushing." He said dreamily.

The door opened and a chill pricked at your skin. You turned around to see an unknown man walking in. You went to sit down with your friends. "I think he's the new lecturer," Jaemin whispered to you.

"Good morning, everyone. You may call me Professor Qian, I'll be teaching you from now on. So let's start shall we?" He said.

You heard the chatter of the girls behind you, "oh, Woah, he's really handsome" You grinned, he really was.

He wore a blue button-down shirt with a pair of brown slacks. His brown locks gelled back nicely. Kun The professor looked around the studio and his nerves calmed down, everyone seemed quite friendly. This was his first time teaching and he worried he would make a bad impression.

"According to Madam Rowena, your previous lecturer, she informed me to do an evaluation test first so that I'll know what level you're all at but I'm pretty sure you're all very advanced, let's start with that." He took out a list from his bag, and he began to read out the names of your classmates.

Everyone had to play a song on their respective instrument. You took note of your classmates looking nervous, trying their best not to mess up.

"Alright, thank you, Ms Seo. Now, Ms Y/L/N?" He looked around.

You raised your hand and walked towards the piano.

"Are you the only pianist?" He suddenly asked you.

"Yes, I am." You said nervously. He nodded, signalling for you to proceed. He continued reading the list, pushing his glasses to sit comfortably on the bridge of his nose. You breathed in, immediately pressing the right keys to Victor’s solo in the Corpse Bride.

His eyes perked up as he watched closely. He watched as you focused on the song and your fingers moved with grace. He could feel the passion wafting off of you as you played. The beautiful tune resonating around the room.

Your classmates watched in awe, they've always enjoyed watching you play. You were the best in the class after all. To everyone, this was a sweet melody that you knew, but it meant so much more than that.

It was a painful memory.

As you hit the last note, your breathing turned rapid. Everything was quiet before everyone began clapping and cheering.

"Thank you, Ms Y/L/N. You may return to your seat." He smiled softly. You nod and return to your seat.

"You surprised him, Y/N," Jaemin whispered as both of you watched Renjun play his flute.

"What do you mean?" You asked quietly.

"Throughout the entire evaluation, he hasn't looked up. Except for when you began playing." he nudged you with his elbow.

"Sure, Jaem. Sure." You rolled your eyes.

"So, do you wanna do it?" He asked. You thought about it again. Your mind weighing the pros and cons before coming to a conclusion, "Sure, plus I get to annoy you even more now." You teased as you walked over to your seat.

"Oh god please protect me from this child." He said out loud.

You were going to counter when Jaemin and Renjun came in, sandwiches in their hands.

"Professor Qian~" Jaemin bowed. "Good morning!" He said cutely.

"Morning, Jaemin, Renjun." He smiled back. Jaemin and Renjun walked up to your usual seats, plopping beside you.

"What were both of you doing alone, huh?" Renjun asked.

"Talking?" You replied.

Jaemin snorted, "Yeah, and I have three legs." He added. You scowled and pinched his arm causing him to yelp. Soon, the class began to fill up and Kun started teaching.

As class ended, you walked up to Kun and sat on the edge of his table. "So, what day are we practising?" You asked. Kun turned around at the sound of your voice, he loosened his tie and slid his hands into his pockets.

"It's up to you, kiddo. The dinner is on the 25th." He said nonchalantly. Your eyes widened and your mouth hung open. "Wait, 25th?" You stuttered. He nodded. "That's not too far away!" You squeaked.

Kun shrugged, "I've seen you master a new song in three days. This is easy for you." He claimed.

"But Kun, this is a performance in front of many people. Not just the class. Plus, I'm going to be playing with you, how are you so sure I'll be able to keep up with you?" You whined.

Kun walked closer to you and patted your head, "You'll be fine and you'll do so amazing. Like usual." He reassured you. Your cheeks warmed, "thanks, Kun." You picked at some dust off your sweater.

"I'll tell you what, we'll practise twice a week. The duration is up to you. We can do it for 20 minutes or 2 hours. I'm okay with anything." You pouted, "Kun, that's not fair on you. I'm pretty sure you're busy as well."

"Y/N, I'm a single male with a cat and several assignments to check. Do I look like I have plans soon?" He joked. You laughed lightly, "How are the guys and Louis, by the way?" You asked.

"They're great. Xuxi recently adopted a puppy named Bella so the house is a bit noisier than usual." He said. You giggled, "Must be fun."

“You should visit someday. The boys really miss you,” he said.

“Sure. how about this Friday?” you asked. He nodded, “Should be fine. Bring Jaemin and Renjun too if you’d like.”

“I’ll inform them then.” you smiled.

You threw your bag over your shoulder, “So, Wednesday?”

He nodded, crossing his arms over his chest, “Yeah. Want me to bring snacks for you?”

You placed a hand over your heart, “You know me so well. Yes please.” you nodded cutely.

He shook his head, “I’ll see you then, yeah?” he waved. You skipped out of the class, nearly smacking face-first into the door.

"Oops…" you nervously turned and ran out.

Kun chuckled, shaking his head. "Clumsy girl." He muttered.

"Nana! Injunnie!" You ran, wrapping your arms around their necks.

"Wanna follow me to Professor Qian's house this Friday? They’ve recently gotten a puppy." You said. They immediately nodded their heads at your suggestion, "sounds great! We'll bring food as well." Jaemin added.

The three of you hung out for lunch, chatting about any new events that seem to catch your ears. "Oh, what were you and Professor Qian talking about?" Renjun sipped on his hot chocolate.

You grinned, "he asked me to perform with him during the dinner." You beamed.

The two boys clapped excitedly, "That's so cool, Y/N!" They both gave you a side hug.

After talking a bit, Jaemin sighed. "I can't believe we're graduating soon." He said sadly.

"I know right? A few more exams and,” you paused, “we're out." It dawned on you that you wouldn't be able to see them all time like usual. You began tearing up at the thought, "Guys,” you said softly, grabbing both the males’ attention, “Promise me we won't drift apart." You sniffled.

Renjun and Jaemin pouted, "Oh baby." Renjun got out of his seat to hug you. Jaemin too soon after.

"We promise. Also, we'll still meet up as much as we can. I don't care if it's once a week or month, I just need to see you guys." Jaemin tugged at his sweater sleeves. Before you could finish your lunch, the three of you were a sobbing mess. You loved the two of them so much, they were your best friends.

You got off your motorbike and sighed before turning the doorknob. You opened the door only to be graced with the familiar sound of to Italian Opera music and the smell of brownies. You tried to sneak upstairs, avoiding getting called.

"Y/N, is that you?" The soft voice asked. You turned slowly, "Yeah, it's me." You stood in the middle of the stairs.

You saw your stepmother walk out the kitchen, cocoa powder on her apron and some flour on her cheek.

"How was your day, dear?" She asked. You shrugged, "It was okay, I guess."

Silence. This was your routine every day for two years. She'd ask how your day was and you'd stand awkwardly.

"I'm gonna head upstairs. I'm tired." You said stuttering between your words, not looking at her.

"Oh, uh yes. Well, there's some brownies on the oven if you'd want me to bring some up?" You shook your head, "It's okay. I'll get them myself." you said politely. Before she could reply you walked into your room, closing the door behind you.

Your mom passed away when you turned 7, so all that was left was you and your dad. For a very long time. Even then, you remember him not really being around for most of your childhood. You were brought up by your grandmother. Though whenever your dad left for business trips, he would never fail to always bring back a gift for you.

However, you didn’t expect him to bring back a woman on your 20th birthday. Anyways, Not wanting to stay for long, so you called Jaemin and asked if it was okay to sleep over and he agreed.

You walked down the stairs, peeking into the kitchen and grabbing a brownie. You saw her sitting in the living room and you’d thought it would be best to just inform her. She noticed your presence and immediately straightened up.

“Uh, I’m gonna sleep over at Jaemin’s.” you awkwardly scuff your feet against the hardwood floor.

She nodded, “Alright then, stay safe.” she smiled. “Your father will be coming back tomorrow afternoon, by the way.”

You nodded, “Ah, okay. Thanks for informing me.” you scratch the back of your neck.

“No problem, Y/N.” she replied.

You head out, starting your motorbike and riding it away from your house. It’s not like you hated her, it’s just hard to accept someone. It doesn’t help that Dad is barely home so things get even more awkward when it’s just the two of you.

Your mom wasn’t there to help you out when you got your first period or for you to talk to when you had your first crush on a boy. The only person who you could talk to about these things was your grandmother who had sadly passed away a year ago. Sometimes, you wish you called her more often to check up on her.

A tear trickled down your cheek, you sighed. “I miss you so much,” you whispered.

Upon arriving at your best friends house, you parked your motorbike and knocked on the door.

“Coming!” you heard Renjun running to the door. “Hello again~” Renjun leaned on the door.

“Hey boo.” you poked his stomach and walked in. “So, what are we going to do tonight?” You asked.

“I would’ve wanted to say drinks but we’re broke so pizza and movies sound good?” Jaemin pointed to the mountain of pillows and boxes of pizza. “It’s perfect.” you beamed.

You changed into the pyjamas you brought and settled into the pillow fort.

“What are we watching?” you asked. Renjun shrugged, “Nana wanted to watch a rom-com.”

Jaemin came crashing down into the pile of pillows. “We’re watching Sensei Kunshu.” he said excitedly, n,t hesitating to press play.

“What’s it about?” you pulled the blanket over your body as you took a slice of pizza.

“It’s about a girl who falls in love with her teacher.” Jaemin chomped onto a breadstick.

Thirty minutes in and you can’t help but hide behind the blankets, you loved the movie so far but you had to admit, you got second-hand embarrassment watching the movie.

“AYUHA, PLEASE,” Renjun screamed at the main character along with some incoherent noises. Frustration dripping from his words.

“I need to pee,” you said as you ran towards the toilet.

As you were walking out, you suddenly felt a buzz, it was Kun. you opened the message to see a document he sent.

“These are the notes for the song! You can try playing it first :)”

You smiled and quickly typed back a response,

Thanks, Kun! I’ll see you soon.”

“What are you smiling about?” Renjun asked he sipped on his drink. “Kun sent me the sheet music for the song we’re going to perform.”

“Ahh, what a fitting movie~,” Jaemin said in a sing-song voice as he wiggled his brows. Your brows knitted, “What?”

Renjun smirked, “You and Professor Qian?” you gasped and plopped in between them.

“No! he’s like an older brother, friend kinda thing.” you tried to explain.

“I like how that was your reason and not simply because he’s our teacher.” Jaemin giggled.

You pinch his arm lightly, “Shut up.” you pout.

“It’s true though, Y/N. everyone in the class agrees.”

“EXCUSE ME, WHAT?” you shrieked.

“Let's put it like this, you guys act as if you’ve been engaged for two years and you live in a studio apartment along with your two cats and you travel around the world to perform at concerts,” Renjun stated.

Jaemin began clapping, “Bravo, my boy, bravo.” he pointed “That’s basically how everyone sees you guys.” he drank his cola. “Also, you can’t deny the fact that he has a soft spot for you. He’s already a genuinely nice guy but when it comes to you, it’s on another level. This performance is basically feeding us and our classmates with good content.”

You sat there and thought about it. Yes, you were much closer to Kun then others but you didn’t know your classmates shipped the two of you.

“Whatever, it’s not gonna happen anyways,” you said whilst shaking your head, silencing the both of them. “Plus, we both have our own soulmates.” you pointed out as you reached out and grabbed a slice of pizza.

Renjun was going to argue until he heard your ringtone.

It was your stepmom.

Your brows furrowed, “Hello?” you started.

“Hey, Y/N, I know you’re at your friends’ house but you might need to come back soon. By tomorrow morning.”

Your brows knitted, Renjun and Jaemin sat next to you, wondering and waiting on you to tell them what’s going on.

“What? Why?” you asked, a tad bit irritated.

“Your father is arriving home sooner than expected.” you groaned internally, “How soon?” you asked.

“I think around 8 in the morning?” you rubbed your face,

“I’ll come back now.” you hung up and slammed your body back onto the pillows.

“Looks like I have to head out, fellas.” you got up and helped them clean up.

“We’re really sorry, Y/N,” they said in unison. You waved them off as you stuffed the last breadstick into your mouth, “It’s okay, guys. Plus, my dad probably wanted to ‘surprise’ us.” you muffled.

“Don’t talk with your mouth full, woman.” Jaemin bumped you with his hip.

“Sorry.” you giggle.

After cleaning up, you said goodbye and headed back home.

You carefully got upstairs, she was probably asleep so you didn’t want to wake her up.

You opened the door and plopped onto your bed, turning off the lights and falling fast asleep.

You heard laughter and chatter downstairs as you woke up. You stretched your tired limbs and went down. Your dad was hugging your stepmom and they were just chatting about something.

“Y/N!” he called. You walked down the stairs and greeted him. “Hi, dad.”

He smiled and immediately went for his bag. “Here you go, I got you this.”

Like usual, he’ll hand you the gift before asking anything.

In his hand was a black box with a white ribbon on it. You opened it and smiled, “Thank you.”

“No problem, kiddo. Now, what’s for breakfast?” he turned to your stepmom and held his stomach. They both walked to the kitchen, your father’s hand wrapped around her waist.

In the box was a beautiful, sapphire necklace. You closed the box and walked to the kitchen where your dad was already eating.

She prepared a plate for you, placing it next to your dad.

You sat down and began eating at the hearty breakfast she prepared.

"So, how's school?" He starts. You swallow and face him, "everything's going well, my exams are in a few weeks and then I'll be performing at the annual dinner."

“Wow, really? That’s very exciting!” Lilian praised.

"That's great honey." He says, unimpressed as he checks his phone.

"Do you have a boyfriend yet?" He suddenly asked. You choked on your toast, drinking a bit of water to ease your throat.

"Uh, no." you shook your head, “I’ve been really busy so… yeah.”

“When you do, make sure you bring him for dinner.” he points at you with his fork.

It sucked how you couldn’t talk to your dad like old times. It’s not that you didn’t want to but it seemed like he only cared about work and making sure your grades are absolute perfection.

“How about that Jaemin boy? Or Renjun? They’re from very good families.” he asked. Your stepmom walked behind him and placed her hands on his shoulders, “Sweetie, they’re her friends. Also, you should always wait for your soulmate when the time comes.”

You’re lost for words and you couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable.

“Uh, I have to get ready for class.” you shuffled out of your seat.

When you entered your room, you leaned against the door and let out a long sigh.

It's like I don't know you anymore...

Kun sat at the counter, stirring his coffee.

I hope the song works this time, he thought.

Kun furiously pressed at the keys, getting agitated by the silly mistakes he seemed to have made. He was going to reach the end but he accidentally pressed a different note, causing him to groan.

"What's up with you?" Sicheng walked towards his roommate. "You've been at it for 3 hours now." He leaned against Kun's piano in his room.

"Sorry, must've been really noisy huh?" He asked Sicheng apologetically. Sicheng waved him off, "Pft, it's okay. They're much noisier downstairs."

They laughed a little before Sicheng sat next to him. "What seems to be the problem?" He asked Kun.

Kun sighs, "I know this might sound weird but for some reason, this song doesn't feel… complete to me? I don't know how to explain it but it feels like I'm just pressing notes rather than actually feeling the song. I can’t seem to play it at all."

Sicheng's brows knitted, "Have you tried playing with someone?" Sicheng asked.

Kun nodded, "I played it with Johnny, Taeil, Doyoung and all those tries failed as well. I don't know who else to ask." He rubbed the back of his neck.

"Okay, c'mon let's try." Kun excitedly nodded at Sicheng's suggestion. Maybe he just needed someone he was a lot closer to.

The song started out smoothly, like usual but then suddenly, both of them played the wrong key.

"Huh…" Sicheng placed his hands on his hips.

"Exactly. It's always there." Kun got up and sat on his bed.

"Maybe… change the song?" Sicheng suggested. Kun shook his head defiantly, "No, there's something about this song and I can't put my finger on it. It's stressing me out. I could easily play that… I just don't know why I can't right now." He ran his fingers through his brown locks.

Sicheng leaned against the piano, "How about playing with your students?" He asked.

"Y/N is the only one who plays the piano right?" He pointed out. "Why don't you try with her?" He smiled.

"Actually… that's not a bad idea." He stood up and paced around the room.

"I'm going to ask her. If the song still fails, I'll change the song."

"Kun? KUN!" he heard the loudest clap ringing in his ears. He turned and saw Yukhei who was pressing Bella to his chest, staring at him worriedly.

"Oh, hey Xuxi. What's up?" He asked, still quite dazed.

"Uh, you're gonna be late for your class, again." He pointed to the clock on the wall.

Kun's eyes widened, he ran out the kitchen, suitcase and keys in hand.

"SHIT, SHIT, SHIT." he repeated as he started his car.

"Kun, your coffee!" Yukhei stood by the doorway with the mug in hand.

Kun waved him off, "You can have it, man." He yelled before speeding off.

Kun ran, making sure he wasn't too late. He kept checking his watch over and over until he bumped into another body.

"Oomph!" The voice squeaked. He turned around and saw Y/N on the floor, rubbing her back.

"Oh thank god it's just you." He breathed.

You scoff, "Are you late, again?" You got up, feeling a bit sore from landing on your butt. "Also, what's that supposed to mean?" You poked at his chest.

"Yes, and it means I won't be awkwardly apologising to some random student I've never met before." He brushed the dust off his pants. "So, I'm sorry and I'll buy you snacks. See you later, byeee!" He said as he ran off to his class.

You shook your head, smiling a little.

"Silly professor."

Your music history class had ended and you stretched your stiff limbs.

"I love music history but Miss Leanne makes it so… miserable." Renjun rubbed his sleepy eyes.

You snicker, "same. I'm pretty sure I nearly dozed off twice." You yawn.

"Y/N, are you coming over later?" Jaemin asked. You shook your head, "I don't think so, bubs. I have practice with Professor Qian and my dad is home so he probably wants to 'spend time' together." You rolled your eyes.

Jaemin pats your back, "He's still at it, huh?"

You nod angrily, "he always complains how I never want to spend time with them but when we do, he's always on his phone leaving me and my stepmom to talk." You rant.

"But you don't talk to your stepmom?" Renjun pointed out.

"Exactly! Do you know how awkward it was? Also, this morning he asked me if I had a boyfriend and told me to date either one of you."

Their eyes widened, "Sweetie, I love you but I'm taken." Jaemin pointed at where his mark once was.

"Yeah, I love you too but you're like a sister to me." Renjun shrugged. "I can't imagine dating you." He admitted.

"THANK YOU! Now, tell my dad that." You groaned.

You checked your wristwatch and it was almost time for practice. You pat both of their shoulders, "I've got practice in a few minutes. Wanna call later?" You asked.

They nodded, "Is it okay if Minseo joins? She's visiting us." Jaemin asked.

You nodded, "of course! Also, tell her I'm really sorry for not being able to meet her properly, I swear after graduation both of us are gonna go on dates without you." You winked.

Jaemin looked incredibly offended, "It's bad enough that both of you gossip about everything. Now, this. I feel so betrayed, my best friend and girlfriend." He grasped his chest, leaning onto Renjun.

"There, there, bud. You have me." Renjun patted his shoulder.

You laughed, walking towards the opposite direction, "I'll talk to you guys later!" You waved and jogged towards the studio.

Walking into the studio, you saw Kun with his eyes shut and earphones in, on his chair with his feet propped on the table.

You giggle softly, walking up towards him and tapping him lightly.

"Professor Qian?" surprisingly, your light tap caused him to wake up in shock.

"Fuck!" He yelled right before falling off his chair. You panicked and quickly helped him up.

"Jeez Y/N, you gave me a heart attack." He uttered.

"Sorry about that." You grinned mischievously. You noticed his face and sluggish movements. "Are you okay? You don't look so well." You commented.

He smiled, "I'm fine. I just haven't had any coffee today so I'm a bit sleepier than usual." Your mouth formed an 'o' until you remembered you had a thermos of coffee.

You pulled out the metal thermos and poured some into the cup. You handed it to him, "Here! I usually give this to Jaemin and Renjun to drink but it won't hurt if you had some." You smiled.

He chuckled, "Thank you, Y/N." He took the small cup and sipped on the warm liquid.

"Ah, just what I needed." A few more sips and he looked a bit more energetic.

"Are you ready for practice?" He asked you. You nod excitedly, "Sir, yes sir!" You salute.

Both of you shared a laugh before heading to the grand piano.

You took out the sheet music you printed earlier and arranged it on the music rack.

"Have you played the song yet?" He asked. You shook your head, "Nope, sorry." You apologised. He bumped his shoulder with yours, "It's okay."

Truthfully, Kun was nervous. He really wanted to play this piece. Why? He had no clue. It just felt right.

He silently prayed it would finally work.

You looked over the notes a few times, processing each bar and note.

"Ready?" He asked. You nod, your eyes not tearing away from the sheet music.

He began playing first and eventually you followed along.

So far so good. He thought

The song began to form a sweet and beautiful melody that resonated around the room. Both hands working together in harmony.

It was reaching the part where Kun would always fail but both of you went through it swiftly, not a mistake in sight. Kun's eyes widened as he couldn't hide his wide smile.

Y/N was too focused on the song to realise her partner's reaction. As the song came to an end, both bodies began breathing heavily, as if they were dancing together.

Kun turned to you with a full-blown smile. "I don't think we'll need that much practice. That was incredible!" He cheered.

You laughed at your professor's cute reaction. "Surprisingly, yes. We did quite well for a first try." You agreed.

Kun couldn't believe it. All this time, he was struggling to play this song alone or with someone else when really all he needed was you.

"This calls for a celebration!" He clapped. He ran out of the studio, stopping by the door "Wait here!" He said excitedly.

You giggled as you watched him run off somewhere. You sat in the studio, looking around and realising that soon, you won't be coming here anymore.

You won't be having music evaluations all the time, or you won't get to play together as a class anymore.

And most importantly, you won't get to see Kun anymore.

Your heart suddenly clenched at the sudden thought, you placed a hand on your chest and rubbed it to ease the tight feeling.

Although Kun was your professor, he has always been more to you.

An older brother? A friend? A guardian angel?

He would always listen to whatever you had to talk about, he basically knew everything about you except for your family situation.

"Snacks for my prized student!" He ran in, bags of different kinds of snacks in hand.

You let out a loud laugh, watching as he ran in.

He sat down on the floor and opened the bags and placed it towards you. "Here you go!"

Both of you began chowing down on the junks and you noticed how it was a bit too quiet for your liking.

"Wanna play 20 questions?" You suggested. He nodded, "sounds good." He popped a chip into his mouth. "You go first." He said.

"Okay… your favourite time of the year?" You asked. He thought about it and snapped his fingers, "I really enjoy the springtime. Everything is in bloom and the weather is just right." He explained.

"Alright, how are you always arriving to class so much earlier than everyone else?" He asked.

You took a piece of popcorn, "Uhm… I just like to get out of my house as fast as possible." You uttered. Kun's playful expression soon changed to a more serious and worried one.

"What do you mean by that?" He asked. You threw a piece of popcorn to him. "That's two questions, sir. My turn first." You joked. He rolled his eyes playfully as he threw a piece of popcorn in the air and catching it with his mouth.

"Your thoughts on soulmates and the process of finding them." You asked.

Kun straightened up. This topic has always been a bit touchy for him and it wasn't because he doesn't believe in it but it's because he can't find his soulmate mark. He's checked every inch of his body and it was nowhere to be seen.

"I think… soulmates are a fascinating concept. Just the thought that there's someone out there for you who will make you feel whole and loved till the end of your days is just so beautiful."

"As for the process, I wish it was easier. I wish it was something more noticeable, y' know?"

You stared at Kun. You've never seen this side of him and you're glad you did. Kun played around with his shoelaces, a simple and cute action.

"Okay, my turn. Same question, why do you like leaving your house early?" He asked.

You sighed, "I promised myself not to drag you into this but since you asked," you breathed out. "My relationship with my dad and step-mom is kind of… awkward." you started.

"You see, it's not like they're mean to me or anything, it's just that I wasn't really close to my dad, to begin with, and he married a lady two years ago and well, it's especially worse whenever he leaves for trips." You explained.

"And whenever I do see my dad, it's always about work. It's really difficult for me to hold a proper conversation with them." you drank a bit of Sprite.

"So, in short, you don't hate them, you're just not close to them…?" He asked. You nodded, "Basically."

"Ah, I see." He continued. "What's your stepmom like?" He asked.

You shrugged, "She's nice and all but I've never experienced a proper mother and daughter relationship so maybe that's why it's a bit hard for me to accept her. The only motherly figure I had was my grandma."

He nodded, "That's understandable but you should give her a chance. Maybe get to know her a bit. She could be a great person." He suggested.

You shrugged, "One day, I'll try." You said. He nodded, “Slowly but surely, Y/N.”

Many questions later and soon both of you were sprawled on the floor, full of junk food.

"I feel so… bloated." You said. He burped, "Yeah." He agreed.

You turned over to face him, "If someone were to pass by, they'd think we're friends and not teacher and student." You joked.

His brows furrowed as he turned to face you, his face slightly closer to yours.

"Aren't we friends though?" He turned to you. You stared into those beautiful, brown eyes and smiled softly.

All this time, you never knew Kun saw you as a friend. You always just thought he saw you as a friendly student but now that he said that, you couldn't help but feel your heart swell.

"Yeah, I guess we are."

You reached home, your body still feeling a little giddy from earlier. You didn't know what it was but the way he stared at you made you feel a certain way.

Before opening the door, you sighed. You began patting your face.

"Y/N, he probably has a soulmate and you have yours. We can't ruin the process just because of some stupid crush you have. C'mon girly, push those feelings aside for now. He's just being friendly." You told yourself.

Walking into the house, you heard the same Italian opera but this time you heard laughter. You walked towards the laughter and saw your father and stepmom slow dancing.

You wanted to leave them to it but you couldn't help but watch. Something about the way your father was softly caressing her hair as she rested her head on his chest made your chest warm a little.

"Oh Y/N!" Your stepmom noticed your presence.

"Uh hi." You waved. Her cheeks were turning a soft shade of pink while your dad couldn't help but laugh.

"No, no, keep going. Don't let me be the reason for you guys to stop. I'll be upstairs." You teased lightly as you walked up. You turned on your computer and waited for Jaemin and Renjun.

"Hey bubs, how was practice?" Renjun asked.

You sigh, a longing looks evident on her face, “It was good."

Kun reached home excitedly, wanting to tell Sicheng about Y/N.

"Dong Sicheng!" He called. Sicheng who was working in the kitchen peeked through the walkway, "Oh hey Kun." He walked towards Kun, keeping his glasses in his pocket.

Kun gave Sicheng a big hug, "it worked, Y/N helped me finish the song." He said. Sicheng smiled and patted Kun's back.

Kun began telling Sicheng about everything that happened and Sicheng noticed how there were crows feet forming at the side of Kun's eyes and how he was smiling so much.

And Kun wasn't just talking about the earlier events but he was talking about how amazing you are, as a person.

Sicheng grinned and thought to himself, for the first time ever, Kun actually likes someone.

"So, he got your snacks after class? That's so nice!" Jaemin pouted.

"I'll buy you snacks, love." Minseo kissed his cheek.

Renjun made a face, "I've never felt more single." He sighed.

You let out a laugh, "It's okay, me too." you reassured Renjun. Jaemin smacked Renjun on the back, “Dude, don’t worry she’s out there somewhere! You just gotta keep hoping and never stop believing” Jaemin gave him a side hug, “Also, here!” he gave a fat kiss on Renjun’s cheek.

“OH MY GOD JAEMIN, WHY?” Renjun screeched. Jaemin grinned, proud of himself, “You needed some love and I gave it.” he said.

Minseo looked at you and you turned to her, shaking your head. “Do you now know what I have to deal with every day?” you pointed. Minseo giggled and nodded, “They are quite a handful.” she agreed.

“You too, Y/N. Don’t give up, be patient, and hope for the best.” Renjun finally pushed Jaemin’s face away and smiled. The corner of your lip raised slightly.

“AND BY THE BEST, HE MEANS PROFESSOR QIAN!” Jaemin pushed Renjun out of the frame.

You groaned and gave yourself a facepalm, “Really, Nana?” you shook your head.

Just as you were going to continue, you heard a faint knock on your door.

“Come in.” you press mute on your mic. Your stepmom walked in with a plate of cookies.

“Hi, dear. I made these earlier. I thought maybe you’d like to try some.” she handed the plate to you. You smiled softly, “Thank you, Lilian.” you thanked her. Her eyes widened and she tried to hide her wide smile.

“I’ll be in the kitchen if you need anything, okay? Your father had gone to play golf with a few friends.” you chuckled, “What’s new?” you joked and she laughed along.

The door closed and you turned to the screen, Renjun and Jaemin watching you with their eyes widened and mouths hanging.

“Did… did you just have a proper conversation with her?” Renjun asked, clearly shocked. You shrugged, “She came all the way up here to give me cookies, plus, I was just thanking her.” you bit into one and it was absolutely delicious.

Slowly but surely.

“Kun, this part is a bit confusing. Can we try again?” you asked. Kun nodded and the both of you were playing again and again but something was missing.

It wasn’t the same as the first day and both of you knew it. “What are we doing wrong?” you whispered.

“You noticed too, huh?” he asked, sweat trickling down his forehead. You nodded with scrunched brows. “I don’t get it, we were playing just fine the other day.”

You breathed out and looked over the music sheets. “This is the fifth time we tried. What could it be?”

Kun stood behind Y/N and stared at the piano, he was trying to figure out the solution to this.

A sudden knock scared the both of you, “Mr Qian?”, Mr Micheals, the music therapy teacher peeked into the room.

“Oh, Agus, how can I help you?” he turned. Professor Micheals didn’t seem to realise that you were there.

“I actually need you for a few minutes.” he gave Kun a knowing look. Kun’s eyes widened and he nodded, “I’ll be out in a sec,” he told Professor Micheals.

He turned to you and he gave an apologetic look, “Y/N, I’m really sorry-”

“Wait what, no, no you don’t have to apologise. I’ll figure out what’s wrong with the song.” she smiled cutely.

He poked her cheek and grinned, running out of the studio.

She placed a hand on her cheek, at where he touched. The sudden action causing her to smile shyly, internally squealing.

She began to play the song but this time, it was much worse. On the first day, the song felt light and smooth. It was as if you were in the movie and experiencing all the magic. It was as if you were in the flower field with… him.

But today it was empty and it didn’t give you the same feeling. Why did Kun choose this song?

You decided to play a different song, for the time being. The piano solo played by Victor in Corpse Bride, your favourite.

Kun and Agus were going to walk in when he heard Y/N play a different song. She calmly pressed at the keys, the notes probably engraved in her mind.

Kun recognised the song, it was the song that caught his attention on the first day of class. The morning was cold and he was rather sleepy and would rather like to sleep in but alas, he was in the studio, having an evaluation test that was requested by their previous lecturer.

When he first called out Y/N, he didn’t think too much of her. Yes, she was very pretty and the beige overalls she wore on that day were very cute but that was all.

It was no wonder, everyone seemed so excited to watch her play. She was… breathtakingly stunning.

And throughout that entire class, he looked up to see the young student show her talents. He looked around and noticed how engrossed her peers were as she played the song.

He was expecting to hear a classic but till this day, she has never once failed to surprise her.

Kun watched as she played the same song, just like the first time, her expression was sad and you could tell the song meant something to her. But what?

“She really is a talented student. No wonder you chose her to play along with you.” Agus praised as he too watched by the doorway.

“Yeah, she’s incredible.”

There was a small but growing feeling in his heart that maybe, just maybe, Y/N was always meant to play this song with him all along. He didn’t need anyone else. It has always been her.

But his heart sank at the harsh reality that someone better is out there waiting for her.

“So… why did Professor Micheals call you?” you asked. “Did you get into trouble?” you asked seriously.

He shook his head, “Mr Micheals was just informing me of something.” he waved the topic off.

The walk to the parking lot was quiet, you were going to his house with Jaemin and Renjun a bit later.

He walked you to your motorbike and you turned to him, "Thanks for walking me." You thanked him. He nodded, "it's the least I could do since I made you stay back." He said.

You were going to get on but you turned to him. "We'll figure it out. I know we will." You looked at him with determination.

"That's what I like to hear. I'll see you soon, Y/N." He spun on his heel and walked to his car.

You smiled to yourself and wore your jacket and helmet. You made an order this morning at Kun's favourite noodle place across town. He told you he loved going there but he never had time to go. You thought it would be a nice surprise.

You weren't planning on staying home for long, just needed a quick shower and a change of clothes.

"I'm home." You shut the door. Lilian walked in, wiping her hands with a towel.

"Welcome home, dear." She said before massaging her head softly.

You walked towards her, "Are you alright?" You hesitantly asked. She nodded, "Of course, dear." She smiled.

"Are you sure? I have some medicine in my room if you'd like?" You offered. She shook her head, "I'm fine, Y/N. Just a little dizzy."

You nodded, "Where's dad?" You asked. She sighed, "He had to attend a meeting in town."

She looked down at the bags of food in your hands.

She pointed at them, "I'm guessing you're going to Jaemin and Renjun's?" She grinned.

You shook your head, "It's a different friend. He and his housemates recently got a dog and he asked if we'd like to visit." You explained.

She nodded and smiled, "I see. Well, tell the boys I said hi and be safe, okay?" She smiled one last time before turning around to the living room.

You smiled, slowly but surely.

You walked to the kitchen counter and took out the two tupperwares of noodles you got for them. You got your dad's favourite beef noodle soup and potato and beef noodles.

You took a post-it and wrote,

"bought you guys some food! I hope you like them, I might be home a bit late. :))"

You ran to your room and took a quick shower and changed into a black turtleneck and tucked it into a pair of high waisted, beige pants.

You wore the necklace your dad bought for you and let your hair down.

You looked at yourself, pretty proud of the look. Your eyes glanced to your medicine box. You smiled and took out the medicine that has helped you for coughing and headaches. You took your bag and skipped down the stairs. You walked back to the kitchen and placing the medicine on the note.

You grabbed the food and placed it in between your legs as you started your motorbike.

You heard the chatter and laughter outside their house and pressed the doorbell.

The door opened and you were greeted by Yangyang.

"Yangyang!" You squealed as you attacked him in a hug.

"Hey, Y/N! Come on in, Jaemin and Renjun just arrived." You walked in and saw that everyone was preparing the food.

"Everyone, Y/N is here!" Yangyang announced.

Yukhei came running for you, picking you up and twirling you around. You laughed loudly, "Ah, it's good to see you again!" Yukhei gave one last squeeze.

"I haven't seen you guys in so long." You smiled at the noisy but welcoming atmosphere.

Xiaojun came in, Bella in his arms while Louis was playing around Hendery's feet.

You squealed, "Oh my god, she's so small!" Xiaojun handed her to you.

You gave the puppy kisses, earning an adorable whine. You awe and tickled her little round belly.

"Okay, who is ready for some- Woah." Kun walked out of the kitchen, looking at you.

He looked at you and his heart did a few turns.

And the fact that you were being extremely adorable with Bella made it even better.

You turned to Kun and waved at him. He wore a navy collared shirt, loosely tucked into a pair of black pants.

You couldn't help but giggle at the pink mittens he was wearing. You placed Bella down and walked up to him.

"Look what I got for you!" You lifted the bag. He gasped, "But their shop is halfway across town!" His eyes widened.

You nodded, "It's a quick trip if you go by motorbike. Plus, take it as a thank you." You handed it to him.

He raised a brow, "what for?" He asked.

"Well, firstly the snacks and well, for being an amazing teacher and friend." You smiled, giving him a hug.

Before Kun could react, you walked to Renjun and Jaemin who were talking to Xiaojun and Yukhei.

His face warmed and he ran to the kitchen where Sicheng was preparing the plates and cups.

"What's up with you?" Sicheng asked. Kun jumped and shook his head, "Nothing, just a bit warm out there."

Sicheng peeked outside and smirked when he saw Y/N.

"Ah, I see. Well, I'll make sure to decrease the temperature then." He said cheekily as he walked out.

Soon all of you were sitting around the living room and chowing down on all the good food.

"Whoever made this, can I marry you?" You muttered without thinking.

Kun's eyes widened. Sicheng began cackling to the point he was coughing.

"Kun made this! It's his speciality." Ten pointed at the beef and vegetable dish on the table. Your mouth fell and you turned to your two best friends who were holding in their laughter.

"Oh, uhm… it's really good!" You smiled awkwardly.

"Thank you, Y/N." Kun looked down, hiding the now obvious red blush on his face.

It was nice seeing everyone talking, eating and overall enjoying each other's company.

You were currently having a nice cup of coffee with Sicheng talking about random topics.

"How's practice going?" He asked. "It's been okay, I guess."

Sicheng placed his mug down, "oh, you don't sound so pleased." He stated.

You shook your head, "no, no. Everything is good but in our recent practice sessions, the music just doesn't feel right." You explained.

"Y'know when you do something and it's perfect but for some reason, you can't do it ever again? That's what's been going on." Sicheng nodded as you spoke.

"I can tell Kun is getting stressed out by it. He tends to blame himself for it but it's not his fault at all. I don't think I'm the right person for this." You continued.

Sicheng turned and saw Kun playing a board game with Jaemin and Hendery.

He sighed and turned to you, "I don't know if he ever wanted to tell you this but… he's been stressed out over this song even before you played it together."

You tilt your head to the side, "What do you mean?"

"Kun hasn't been able to play this song by himself or with anyone else. It's like a block, he can't pass it no matter what."

"He had played it with a few other people, including myself but it never worked."

"So, when I suggested playing it with you, he wasn't so hopeful at first. It's not because he doesn't believe in you but it's because he genuinely thought he could never play this song. When he came home telling me that you were the right person, he was beyond happy."

"Y/N, you are the right person." He placed a hand on your shoulder.

You parked your motorbike out at the garage and walked in. After the little talk you had with Sicheng, it made you think. Why am I so special? How come it only worked with me?

You walked into the house and stopped dead in your tracks. You spotted Lilian unconscious in the living room.

"Oh my god, Lilian!" You ran to her, dropping your bag on the floor. You began slapping her face lightly, trying to wake her up.

She was still breathing but it was very slow. You quickly called an ambulance. They gave you instructions to try and wake her up but nothing seemed to have worked.

Soon, you heard the sirens outside your house and the paramedics ran in.

"How long has she been unconscious?" They asked. You shook your head, "I-I don't know. I just got back." You stuttered.

They took her out and you follow behind on your motorbike.

She was brought into the ER and you were told to wait outside. You quickly called your dad, freaking out.

"Hello? What's the matter?" Your dad asked, slightly annoyed.

"D-dad… please come to the hospital. Something happened to Lilian."

He was silent before he hung up. You waited and waited and waited. No one has come out to tell you what happened.

Your dad rushed in, looking everywhere.

"Dad!" You ran to him.

For the first time in years, your dad gave you a proper hug.

"Where is she? What happened?" He asked.

"The doctors are still checking up on her." You said.

"Miss Y/N?" You heard someone call you. You turned and pulled your dad with you.

"Yes, that's me." You declared.

"Well, the good news is she's awake. She experienced a sudden drop in her blood pressure. Do you know if she's had that problem before?" The doctor asked.

You shook your head, so did your dad. "Well, it would be best if she stays in the hospital for a while. We would just like to observe her since she's never had this problem before." He informed him.

"Ah, thank you, doctor." You bowed a little.

Your dad turned to you as soon as the doctor left.

"Why didn't you call me sooner?" He asked, pain in his voice.

"I came home and she was already on the floor." You said. Before you explained further, your dad turned you to face him.

"What? You weren't at home?" He asked, his face hardening.

"Well, yeah. I got home and I even bought you guys food. I told her that I was leaving and she told me to stay safe." You explained.

"Was she already different before?" He asked.

"She did complain about a headache but she told me not to worry about it." You added.

Your dad's brows furrowed, "You're telling me you left her alone even when you already noticed she wasn't feeling well?" He raised his voice.

"Y-yes. She said I could go." You tried to reason.

"That doesn't matter, Y/N! That was very irresponsible of you. What would've happened if it was worse, huh? Gosh, you only think of yourself." He yelled.

"I get it, you don't like her but seriously, this bad?!"

Some people were already looking at you. "Dad, please not here. People are staring." You whispered.

"Do I look like I care? How could you do that, Y/N?" He grabbed you by the arm.

Your eyes turned glassy, blurred by the tears. You were angry but also sad at the fact that he somehow twisted it to be your fault.

"You wanna lecture me about being selfish? What about you? You went out to play golf with your friends! You're barely home, to begin with, and when you are you don’t care about us, About me!" You yelled back.

"Don't you ever think about how I feel, huh? You came home on my birthday, suddenly announcing you were getting married again and you didn't even ask if I was okay with that!"

"I don't even feel like I'm at home anymore. I wish grandma was still alive so I could've lived with her instead of being stuck the both of you." You pulled your arm away. "At least, she actually loved me. You could've at least pretended like you actually cared and not just use me to brag to your friends."

"Y/N…" he sounded hurt, maybe a bit regretful but you didn't care.

"No, don't. Just leave me alone. That's what you're good at, right?" You hissed as you ran out of the ER.

You got onto your motorbike, starting it with tears streaming down your face.

"I can't go home." You muttered.

You stopped by a building and called Jaemin.

The number you're trying to reach is currently busy. Please try again.

You pressed Renjun’s number this time and it was the same.

Whose place could you stay at for now?

Then suddenly, the very person you knew you needed the most popped up on your mind.

You pressed his number, silently praying he'd pick up.

"Miss me already?" He answered in a playful manner. You let out a sigh of relief.

"Kun?" Your voice broke a bit.

Kun shifted from his seat. "Y/N… what's wrong?" He asked, noticing the sound of sniffling.

"I… can I come over?" She asked.

"Of course, where are you? I'll come to get you." He stood up.

"N-no, it's okay. I'll be there in a few minutes. I need to get some stuff anyway."

She hung up and Kun immediately ran to the guest room. Hendery and Xiaojun who were up were curious about the noise and checked on Kun.

"Everything okay here?" Hendery asked.

"Y/N's staying over." Was all Kun said as he replaced the bed sheets and pillowcases.

"Wait what? Is that allowed?" Xiaojun asked.

Kun stopped whatever he was doing and thought about it.

"No… it isn't but she sounded like she needs help and I hope you guys are okay with that."

"Oh dude, of course, we are. I'm just worried that it would affect both of you, y' know since she's your student." Xiaojun explained himself.

Kun had forgotten that Y/N was his student. They were both so comfortable with each other, they just sought like close friends.

"Thanks, Xiaojun." He smiled. "And we just have to pray nobody finds out."

Xiaojun and Hendery helped Kun tidy the room up when Sicheng suddenly walked in.

"What's going on?" He asked, clearly confused.

"Y/N is coming." Hendery simply answered as he pulled the bed sheet to straighten it.

Sicheng turned to Kun. "This late?" He crossed his hands over his chest.

"Yeah, seemed pretty serious." He replied.

Sicheng smirked again, "I see, I see. No funny business, now Kun." Sicheng turned around as he walked out.

Wait for what? He paused.

"How did you - oh fuck." He plopped on the bed. Was he that obvious?

Xiaojun cocked his head and turned to Kun, who was really questioning everything.

"No…" Xiaojun covered his mouth. "NO FUCKING WAY!" he said.

"Can you quiet down?" Kun smacked his shoulder.

"THIS MAKES ME WORRY EVEN MORE." he pointed at Kun.

Hendery who was still confused finally caught on. "OH MY GOD, YOU LIKE HER DON'T YOU?" Hendery screamed. "Why didn't you tell us?" He asked as he giggled.

"Because I knew you'd react that way." He sighed as he rubbed his face.

"Whatever, we'll talk about this another time. She'll be here anytime now and-" they froze as the doorbell went off.

Kun pushed Hendery out of the way and ran down the stairs.

He quickly opened the door and his heart dropped.

Y/N's was clearly red and puffy from crying, she had some makeup smudged and she looked like she could barely talk.

Kun pulled her into the house, giving her a tight hug.

This was the second hug they shared in one day. The first one was quick and barely meant anything but this one, was warmth and worry.

"C'mon." He tried to pull away but Y/N pulled him back and wrapped her hands around his waist.

"Wait… a bit longer please." She whispered. Kun sighed and hugged her even tighter.

He placed his chin on the top of her head while she rested her cheek on his warm chest.

She finally pulled away and looked up. "Thank you." Was all she said.

He pushed a strand of hair behind her ear, "Anything for you." He smiled.

Both of them walked up to the guest room and Kun let her settle in.

Kun walked into his bedroom, sitting on his bed before finally lying down.

So many thoughts were going through his head but he had to wait for her to open up when she was comfortable enough.

You heard the soft chatter and bustle downstairs and you thought it was best to get up and freshen up a bit.

You looked into the mirror and hissed at your appearance. Your eyes had gotten red and puffy from all that crying. You didn’t even bother washing your face before passing out.

Kun had prepared quite a big breakfast since it was the weekend. Yukhei walked in, still in a robe as he yawned.

“There’s so much food!” he said excitedly. Sicheng drank his tea, “We had a late-night guest and Kun wants her to feel very welcomed.” Sicheng opened the newspapers and crossed his legs.

Kun came behind Sicheng and smacked the back of his head, “Quit it, yeah?” he said with clenched teeth.

“Can’t help it, Kun. It's the first time you’ve ever liked a girl. The best part is that all of us know her.” Hendery defended Sicheng as he grabbed a piece of toast.

“Woah, Woah, Kun likes someone? And we’ve met her? And she’s here?” Yukhei questioned. Hendery nodded and Sicheng smirked.

Kun groaned, “Seriously guys? Stop it, it’s never gonna happen.” he waved his spatula in the air.

“Who is it?” Yukhei whined.

“How are you so sure it will never happen?” Sicheng countered.

“Because she doesn’t feel the same? And it’s wrong in many ways like firstly, I’m her lecturer and two, she probably has a soulmate.”

“Who is it??” Yukhei kept asking, jumping around in his seat.

“How is it wrong if it’s true love?” Hendery replied.

“Because it would be true love if it went both ways. She doesn’t like me like that, now drop. It.” Kun said seriously.

“FOR FUCK SAKE WHO IS THIS GIRL?” Yukhei finally stood up and yelled.

“What’s going on?” they heard a small voice. Yukhei turned around and froze.

He slowly turned to Kun, shock evident in his face. He began stuttering and pointing at Y/N.

Before he could say anything Xiaojun swiftly covered his mouth and pulled him to the kitchen. Kun smiled awkwardly, “Uhm, I’ll go get the rest of the food.” He scratched the back of his neck before running into the kitchen.

Upon Kun’s arrival, Yukhei began to freak out.

“KUN, WHAT THE FUCK?” Lucas nearly screamed before the two other shushed him.

“I know but it’s complicated, okay?” Kun replied back.

“No, I meant WHAT THE FUCK WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL ME SOONER?” he repeatedly smacked Kun on the back.

“How come they got to know before I did?” he asked, slightly offended.

“Wh..what?? You’re mad because of that?” his shoulders drooped. Yukhei nodded, “Yeah man. I always had a feeling that there was something going on between the two of you. Like, have you seen the way both of you interact?”

Kun sighed as he leaned against the counter, “I thought you were disappointed in me.” Kun confessed.

“Why would I be disappointed? I mean, I’m lowkey worried if you get fired but you’re both grown adults, you’re only four years older than her. Plus, what if she was your soulmate?” Yukhei questions.

Kun looked taken aback. If Y/n was his soulmate, he was pretty sure they would’ve realised by now.

“Don’t give me hope,” Kun muttered.

“No, seriously think about it. What if Y/N do like you too but you can’t see it? Stop putting yourself down like that.” Yukhei walked up to Kun and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Thanks, Yukhei but I highly doubt it. Now, c’mon before they get curious.” he walked out.

Y/N bit into the slice of buttered toast and hummed at the warm and melted butter.

“You okay, kiddo?” Sicheng rested his arms on the table.

You shrugged, “I don’t know. I’m pretty sure I won’t be able to go back home for a bit.”

“Hey, it’s okay. Just stay here until you feel ready to go back.”

“Thank you, Sicheng.” you smiled warmly.

Kun finally walked out and this was the most casual you’ve ever seen him. He wore a white sweater paired with black sweats.

“Morning.” he greeted. You smiled, “Morning, Kun.” he took the seat next to yours.

“So, what do you guys usually do on the weekends?” you asked.

Hendery shrugged, “we usually hang out and do our own thing. Sometimes, we go out together.” you nodded, chewing slowly on your toast.

“We weren’t planning on doing much this weekend though. So it might get a bit boring.” Yukhei mentioned.

“It’s alright. I’ll probably play with Bella and Louis if I’m bored.” you smiled.

“You can call Jaemin and Renjun if you like,” Sicheng added.

“Oh no, they’ve gone to Jaemin’s hometown for the weekend. Jaemin wanted to introduce his soulmate to his parents,” you said. “Renjun followed for support.”

The men all awed, “That’s really nice. Tell him we wish him good luck.” Hendery exclaimed.

You began talking with everyone comfortably, smiling and laughing once in a while.

Kun smiled at how perfectly you fit into this situation. Having breakfast with him and his best friends, chatting about, quite sleepily.

And it made him wonder, would life be this great if Y/N stayed in it?

Y/N turned to Kun who was adding his inputs once in a while, chuckling along to whatever joke Yukhei had made. Smiling and shaking his head once in a while with his messy hair and black slippers.

Her mind began to drift into thinking of how nice her life would be if Kun was in it. Not just until graduation but for much, much longer.

You liked him and you were too scared to admit it because you were scared of rejection and being pushed away once someone better comes along in his life.

It was your second week there and you were adamant on paying rent but the boys didn’t allow it. Instead, you pay in the form of doing chores. The boys had stopped you several times but they gave up after realising there was nothing stopping you. You and Kun also continued with practice but you still faced the same problem.

You were currently studying at the dining table when Kun walked downstairs.

“Hey, what are you studying?” he sat next to you.

“Music history and therapy.” you sighed as you looked at him. At this point, both of you were comfortable to the point of cuddling on the sofa while watching movies or him letting you borrow his hoodies.

And to be honest, you don’t want things to change.

“Do you need help?” he asked. You shook your head, “I’m good. Also, Kun can we continue practising later?” you asked.

He hummed, “If you mean tonight, then sure.” he stood up.

You looked at him in confusion, “I actually wanted to practice after studying.” you suggested.

“Ah, no can do, Y/N. we’re all going out.” he grinned.

“Oh, where are we going?” you asked. You got up. He wiggled his eyebrows, “You’ll see~ Just wear something casual.” he walked back up.

“So, nobody is telling me where we’re going?” you asked. Kun shook his head, “Nope! It’s a surprise.” he grinned as he drove.

Yukhei and Ten sat behind, laughing among themselves.

“Do you realise something?” you asked. He hummed, “What?”

“Study week is a week from now,” you said.

He turned to you and nodded, “What about it?”

“It means, I’m gonna be graduating soon,” you added.

“Aren’t you happy about that though?” he smiled. You shrugged and faced the window.

“I don’t know really. I mean, besides studying, I had a great time.” Kun snorted at your previous comment.

“I have two amazing best friends, my classmates weren’t problematic and I have a pretty cool teacher who cares about me alot.”

Kun grinned smugly, “Ah, who is this ‘pretty cool teacher, eh Y/N?” he turned to you.

You thought about it, “Madam Lim, without a doubt.” you joked.

Kun’s face dropped and he began to pout, “Ah, I see. Well, I guess your rant the other day doesn’t mean much to you anymore, huh?” he replied.

You gasped, “Oh no, I’m still mad about her calling me out like that.” you smirked. He rolled his eyes causing both of you to laugh.

“I’m gonna miss you,” you said. Kun’s face soften,

“You can always visit, y’ know? I’m pretty sure you’re an honorary roommate now.”

“Mhm, that’s true,” Yukhei said.

“Definitely.” Ten added.

“Thanks, guys.” you turned behind.

“It’s not gonna be the same y’ know?” you sighed. “I see you almost every day. Even when I don’t have class, I’ll always bump into you.”

He sighed and smiled, “I know, Y/N. I’m gonna miss you and your large appetite.” he took one hand off the steering wheel to pat your head. You giggled, “I like head pats.”

He raised a brow, “You do? Well, I should pat your head more often.” he smiled.

You giggled and shook your head.

You thought about your life after uni. You’ll have to find a job, hopefully, move somewhere.

But the worst of all, you won’t get to see Kun as much as you’d like to. Your heart hurt at the thought. He’s been there for you ever since he came to teach and you couldn't imagine life without him in it.

“We’re here!” Ten points. To your right, you saw bright and colourful lights and your eyes widened. You grabbed his arm, “Are we… at the lantern festival?”

He nodded proudly, “I remembered you told me your grandmother used to bring you but he stopped. I thought it would be nice to bring you.” he chuckled.

“KUN!” you whined cutely, “That’s so sweet. I can’t believe you remembered.” he couldn’t see it but you were blushing like crazy.

Kun rolled up his black sweater sleeves, turned and placed a hand behind your headrest to park.

With the beautiful lights reflecting onto his face, he looked like he jumped out of a romantic drama.

You felt incredibly small when he did that and the only thing going through your head was,

Oh my god, that’s so hot

Ten and Yukhei cheered as they ran out of the car. Kun turned back and unbuckled his seatbelt.

He turned to you and waved his hand in front of your face, “Y/N? We’re here.” he said.

“Huh?” you snapped out of your trance, “Oh, we’re here.” you looked around.

He chuckled and nodded, “Yeah, we are.” Kun opened his door and walked over to yours. He opened the door and held his hand out. You grabbed it and got out.

The other boys waited for both of you.

Sicheng and Yukhei nudged each other, giggling. Kun narrowed his eyes, signalling for them to stop.

“Hey, what’s so funny?” you asked innocently. Sicheng shook his head, “Nothing, Yukhei just pointed at something funny.” Sicheng answered calmly.

Yangyang and Ten were jumping out of excitement, they were already running around and looked around in awe, amazed at the colourful lights.

You walked side by side with Kun, reminiscing the times you walked around with your grandmother.

“I remembered having so much fun and grandma had to chase me around because I would run off without her realising,” you mentioned.

“Ah, your poor grandmother’s kneecaps.” he hissed. You lightly bumped into him, “She was a strong old lady. She’d wack, my dad if she had to.” you chuckled.

“Do you remember the song I played on the first day of class?” you asked.

He nodded, “Yeah, it was from The Corpse Bride right?” he asked

“Yeah, well that was my favourite movie when I was a kid. My grandma taught me that song.” you reminisced.

“Could you believe that was the first-ever song I learnt? She was tough but loving. I basically started playing with songs from movies.”

“But nowadays, I can’t watch that movie without crying. I miss her alot,” you said.

“She would be very proud of you, Y/N.”

“I hope she is.”

You admired the beautiful lights and lanterns. Families and couples were enjoying themselves. Kids were all running around, even Yangyang and Ten.

Kun kept looking at her, “Y/N, do you plan on going back home?” he asked, a bit more serious than usual.

You eyed him, “Planning on kicking me out, sir?” you asked.

“No, I like having you around but… why did you leave, exactly?”

Y/N hasn’t opened up about what had happened and he thought it was best to finally ask.

“Hmm, how about I tell you later when we’re practising?” you sighed, “I’d like to enjoy this.”

“Of course, whenever is fine.” Kun smiled and they continued walking around.

The boys were all pushing and playing around, you and Kun just watched from behind.

“This is really nice.” you breathed in.

“Yeah, it is.”

“Kun, they’re lighting lanterns!” Yangyang called.

“Shall we?” he pointed. You nodded enthusiastically, grabbing his hand and running to the area.

“C’mon, write a wish!” Hendery pointed at the lanterns.

You and Kun paid for your lanterns and began writing.

Everyone began hanging your lanterns on the wall, alongside the hundreds of other lanterns.

“What did you wish for?” he asked. You shook your head, "It won't come true if I tell you, dummy." You teased.

You looked around and sighed, "Sure is beautiful, isn't it?" You smiled softly.

"Yeah, it is."

As your eyes were on the colourful lanterns, his were on you, the entire time.

"Okay, we'll do one round and we'll continue another time, okay?" You offered.

"Sounds good. I'm pretty sleepy, not gonna lie." He yawned.

Both of you sat closely, breathing in and beginning in sync.

Still no changes. You shrugged, "It's okay. We still have more time." You smiled.

He sighed, quite disappointingly.

You nudged him, "I think it's time to tell you about what happened with my parents."

"Well, before the potluck, my stepmom mentioned her having a headache but she told me I could, y' know to go for the potluck anyways. Well, she fainted due to low blood pressure and my dad decided it would be better if he blamed it on me."

Kun's eyebrows furrowed, clearly irritated.

"All I want is to be loved. Yes, I have Jaemin and Renjun but I don't know what familial love is and it sucks because I want to know what it feels like to have a loving family but I don't know what family is…" a tear fell from your face.

Kun immediately pulled you in for a hug, stroking your hair gently.

"Hey... hey. I'm here, I'm here." He whispered.

"My dad was never there for me and my mom passed away before anything happened in my life. I just… I feel so lonely." You said. "Maybe I was destined to be alone forever."

Kun pulled you so you were facing him. He stroked your cheek with his thumb, "Listen to me, you're not alone. You have amazing friends who are willing to do anything for you. And I hope… someone special will come into your life and show you what love and family truly is." He ended.

"Kun, I don't even think I have a soulmate." You coughed.

"What? No, Y/N everyone does. You just need to be patient." He kissed the top of your head lightly.

You sobbed even harder, "I don't even have a soulmate mark, Kun." You admitted.

Kun's heart dropped, he thought he was the only one who couldn't find his mark.

He breathed in and faced you again, "Y/N, did you know that yellow is the rarest colour for soulmates to achieve?" He asked.

You looked up, "What?"

He nodded and hugged you tighter than before. He placed his chin on your head and rubbed your back.

"It is stated that soulmates who get the colour yellow are said to be so perfect, it's impossible to ever separate them because they have achieved true happiness, together with each other. With normal people, you could easily bump into your soulmate on the street and have no idea who they are but with this special group are blessed to have already known their soulmate." He rocked you back and forth.

He looked down and saw that her eyes had shut, sleeping soundly.

He chuckled, "And I wish, you'll meet your soulmate with the colour yellow."

Your exams were going to be for a week, and you were a nervous wreck.

You called Jaemin and Renjun, initially to study but you guys ended up talking.

“Wait, so your soulmate is Jaemin’s childhood neighbour?” you giggled.

“Yeah! We both got red.”

“Red? What were you arguing about?” you asked.

“You won’t believe it, they were fighting over peaches.” jaemin sighed.

“In my defence, she took the ripest one just as I was going to pick it.”

“Only you, Renjun. Only you.” you chuckled.

Jaemin went quiet for a while, his brows furrowing as he looked at you.

"Y/N, where are you?" Jaemin asked. "We've been calling since a few weeks ago and I know for a fact that’s, not your room."

You suck in a breath, "I never mentioned it huh?" You asked nervously.

"Mentioned what, exactly?" Renjun asked. "Bubs, where are you?" He asked, a bit more worried.

"Well, I'm obviously not home because I, uh had a fight with my dad and I'm actually at… kunzhouseh." You mumble at the end.

"What?" Jaemin asked.

"I'm… at kunshouse." You mumbled again.

"Speak louder, woman!" Renjun yelled.

"I’M STAYING AT KUN'S HOUSE!" you finally said.

"WHAT?!" they both said in unison.

"Well, you guys weren't home and well, he was the only person I could think of." You said softly.

"How long have you been staying there?" Jaemin asked.

"...I think we're about to reach a month." You replied.

The two of them looked at you and began screaming.

"AND WHEN WERE YOU GOING TO TELL US THIS?"

"YOU'VE BEEN FULFILLING OUR SHIP AND YOU DIDN'T EVEN TELL US?"

"Guys, calm down!" You panicked.

"HUSH, TELL US EVERYTHING. RIGHT NOW."

You were going to explain your situation when you heard a knock.

"Come in!" You said.

Kun peeked through the door, "Hey, it's dinner time." He said, walking towards your bed.

"Oh my god, is that Professor Qian?" Jaemin asked.

Kun popped up into the screen and waved, "Hey guys." He greeted them.

The two of them were trying their best not to scream and waved back.

"I'll see you downstairs, yeah?" He tapped your shoulder.

"Will do." You replied meekly.

At the sound of the door shutting the two of them began fanboying ridiculously, "I can't believe it, it's actually happening." Renjun panted.

"Whatever, I'll talk to you guys later." You pressed the hang-up button and went down for dinner.

You were washing the plates when you felt someone poke your side. "Shouldn't you be studying?" Kun asked. "Let me do the dishes." He said.

"No, no. You already prepared dinner. It's the least I could do." You said.

"We'll do it together, okay?" He bumped your hip to the side.

"I'll soap, you rinse?" He suggested. You hum and continued washing it quietly.

You suddenly chuckled at a thought.

"What is it?" He asked.

You shook your head, giggling "It's nothing."

“C’mon, tell me.” he bumped his hip with yours.

“I was just thinking of when we started getting close,” you told him.

“Miss Y/L/N, I’m pretty sure that’s the last thing any of your lecturers would like to see.” he stared at the girl who was lying down on the floor of the studio. Y/N jumped at the sudden voice.

“Sorry, sir. I was just listening to a song I wanted to play.” you sat up and pulled your earphones off.

“What song is it?” Kun asked, walking to his desk and putting on his glasses.

“Just some song from a movie.” you packed your satchel and looped it around your body.

He rolled his eyes, “Miss Y/L/N, I would’ve expected a classic from you. It’s a better practice than some… meaningless soundtrack.” he pushed his glasses to sit on the bridge of his nose comfortably.

“Really?” you smirked, slightly taken aback.

“Of course. You’re smart enough to know that you should master the classics first.”

You walked to his table and cocked your head to the side, “I think you’re wrong.” you stated confidently.

“Pardon?” he furrowed his brows and took off his glasses.

“Music is so broad and different, it’s not fair that we only pay attention to one type of genre.”

You replied.

“I’m merely teaching you what my teachers thought me.” he leaned back and crossed his arms over his chest.

“Okay, sir. New lesson, what’s the meaning behind this song?” you jogged to the piano and began playing Fur Elise.

Kun was surprised to hear you play it so professionally.

“So?” you asked.

“Well, it means you don’t need that much practice anymore,” he remarked.

You gave him a look and he raised his hands in defence.

“The song was thought to be written for Therese, a woman that Beethoven wanted to marry in 1810, however, his handwriting was misspelt undergoing transcription, allowing the piece to be known as Fur Elise rather the Fur Therese,” he said cooly.

“Okay, so that’s what you learned right?” you asked.

“Where are you going with this, Miss Y/L/N?” he rubbed his face.

“Now, what’s a movie you watched recently?” you asked.

He thought about it, “How to train your dragon, the second one to be exact.”

You scrunched your eyebrows, “Wow, I didn’t think you liked watching cartoons.” you said.

“My housemates wanted to watch it,” he answered.

“Ah, well perfect actually.”

You began playing For the Dancing and Dreaming, the song Stoik and Valka sang together.

You played the song with two hands, making it sound sweeter than ever.

“That’s the song Stoik sang to Valka. Their wedding song,” he said.

You nodded, “Yes, and what did you remember about this song?” you asked.

“That he promised to love her for eternity.” he finally said. “I really have no idea what you’re doing.”

“Professor, don’t you realise something? Fur Elise was about a man who wrote a song about a girl, who was his student. She declined his proposal and didn’t end up marrying her.”

“But For the Dancing and Dreaming was about a couple who promised their loyalty and love even after they part. Stoic never stopped loving Valka till the end. Both songs had deep meanings behind them and they both had a similar theme. Love. ”

“So, yes maybe classics is what you were thought but why keep it there? What’s so wrong about starting fresh and learning something different? To say that soundtracks are meaningless is quite wrong, the songs usually reflect the stories of the characters.” you smiled at the end.

Kun was speechless, all his life he never delved into playing songs besides the ones he was thought or songs from ages ago. He looked at the student across from him, how did she manage to open his eyes so quickly.

“For a second-year student, you’re very wise,” he admitted.

You shrugged, “I just never understood why we had to keep it the same for so long. Change isn’t always bad, y’ know.”

The following week, Kun was handing out different sheet music to the students.

Everyone’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets, he had given a piece from Beauty and The Beast.

“How about we change things up a bit, huh?” he smiled at everyone, his eyes especially focusing on you.

“I’m guessing the talk we had stuck with you, huh?” you walked to his desk after class. He arranged some papers, “Yeah, it did. I guess I wanted my lecturers to do the same but they were to old school to change anything. I’m glad you opened my eyes, Miss Y/L/N.” he bowed his head slightly.

“No problem, Mr Qian. and also, you can call me Y/N. I don’t particularly like my last name.” you admitted.

He nodded and raised his hand, “Well, thanks for the talk, Y/N.” your name rolling off his tongue smoothly.

You grinned, “No problem Mr Qian Kun.” his eyes widened,

“How do you know my first name?” the corner of his mouth raised.

“I heard the Dean call you that. Nice name by the way.” you complimented.

“Can I call you Kun?” you asked. He looked quite surprised at your question.

“I… I guess?” he stuttered.

“Great, well nice talking to you Kun!” you turned around.

“Only outside of class!” he commented. You nodded and waved at him from the back.

“You still never listen to me, huh?” he stated.

“What do you mean?” you laughed. He elbowed you gently, “I meant by you always sit with your feet on the table and you call me Kun in class anyways.” he said.

You chuckled, “Yes, I’m guilty.” you confessed. Both of you shared a moment of laughter.

“It’s only with you, though.” you smiled as you rinsed the cup he passed to you.

He soaped the last spoon and handed to you, “What do you mean by that?” he asked, with a raised brow and a curious smile.

“I only sit around like that when it’s only your class and I only call you by your first name.” you took the spoon from him.

“Really? Wow, I should’ve been stricter with you.” he teased. You shook your head and rolled your eyes playfully, “No, I didn’t mean that you weren’t serious enough. I meant…”

“I like you, Kun.”

Kun’s playful manner vanished and he was now facing you, “What?”

“Not as a friend or a teacher. I like you, like alot for a while now.”

Kun’s heart was beating faster than he could ever imagine. She likes him too?

“And I know you might reject me but-” before you could continue, Kun gave you a quick peck on the lip.

You were so shocked about what happened, you instantly froze. Kun pulled back and scratched the back of his neck, “Me too, Y/N. Me too.” he admitted.

You giggled and smiled, you quickly wrapped your arms around his neck and kissed him again, a bit longer this time.

“You have no idea how long I’ve been wanting to do that,” you whispered. Kun smiled and wrapped an arm around your waist while the other hand, held the back of your neck

It felt so natural to be in his arms, to be this close and it felt so perfect.

The next morning, you woke up and got out of bed. As you walked out of the room, you bumped into him.

He looked down and smiled, "Morning, lovely.” he greeted as he pushed a piece of hair behind your ear.

“Mm, good morning.” you wrapped your arms around his waist, resting on his chest.

“How did you sleep?” he asked, placing his hands on your shoulders.

“Like a baby.” you scrunch your nose. He chuckled when you heard a cough behind you.

“Well, I guess we can say that it’s finally official. We’ll see you downstairs.” Yukhei said, pulling along a speechless Yangyang and Ten.

You blushed as Kun wrapped his arms around your head, hiding you from his roommates.

You walked to class excitedly. Today, Kun decided to leave early so that he can drive both of you to uni without anyone catching you.

He yawned loudly, and you giggled. “I’m proud of you for coming early,” you said. He nodded sleepily, “I wanted to take a drive with you.” he smiled.

“And I appreciate the gesture.” you gave him a kiss on the cheek.

You reached the studio and ran to the piano, “Hey, how about a short practice?” you asked.

He agreed and you pulled him to the piano.

You began playing and sadly, still no luck.

You nudged him, “Just ignore it, we’ll be fine.” you leaned your head on his shoulder. He smiled and gently patted your head.

Kun continued yawning and you chuckled, “I’m going to grab a coffee. Do you want one?” you asked. He nodded, “that would be lovely, thank you.”

“Be right back!” you kissed him on the lip and ran out.

You were thinking of how great things were and you prayed they never change.

When you walked back to class, you heard someone else in the class.

You stood outside, not wanting to interrupt.

“Kun, he wants you in Slovenia by the end of the month. I can’t negotiate anymore.” it was Professor Micheals. "If we postpone it, you'll lose this."

“Agus, please. Just by graduation. I promised my students I’ll see them graduate.” he begged.

“Kun, You agreed to resign this job so you could have your own concerts. This is the one time you’re ever getting an offer like this and you’re pushing it away?” he raised his voice.

"I'm not sure I even want to do this anymore." He admitted.

"You can't be fucking serious…" Professor Micheals groaned.

"I found someone and I'm not ready to leave her. I won't do that to her."

"Well, you better figure out if you'd rather pick love or your dreams. Time is running out, Kun. You must hurry."

your heart dropped, and your mind was filled with different thoughts.

He’s leaving?

The class went by and Kun mentioned a few things for the exams before class ended.

Everyone thanked him before leaving class.

"Y/N!" He called.

"Hey, you okay?" He asked, noticing how quiet you went after coming back.

"Uh, yeah. I just don't feel too great." You said.

"Oh no, do you want me to send you home? It'll only take a few minutes." He grabbed your hands.

"No, no. I'll take a cab or something. Your students are much more important." You let go and turned.

"Oh, well if you need anything please tell me." He reminded.

That's strange, She was fine this morning, what happened? He thought.

Kun couldn't wait to get home and snuggle with Y/N.

He was overjoyed when he realised she shared the same feelings as him.

But for now, he'll take it slow and give her all the love she deserved.

He unlocked the door and walked to the kitchen. To his surprise, Y/N was on her phone while eating something.

He hugged her from behind which spooked her a bit.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you." He kissed the top of her head.

"It's not a problem." You smiled. Kun stayed in the same position when he noticed what Y/N was looking at.

Apartments in the area

"Why are you looking for apartments?" He asked.

"Well, I'm going to have to move out one day. Might as well get ready soon." You replied. Kun let go of you and sat next to you.

"But you can stay here. Especially since we're… yknow?" He pointed out.

You turned to him, your face slightly guilty.

"Kun… I heard what you were talking about with Mr Micheals." You admitted, avoiding eye contact.

It all dawned on him, that's why she was so quiet.

"Ah…" he furrowed his brows. "How much did you hear?" He asked.

You got up and walked to the sink, "That you'll have to move to Slovenia by the end of the month." You said.

He stood behind you, "Princess, please understand, I'm trying my best to push the date." He reasoned.

"Kun, I do understand. Which is why I'm telling you to go." You said.

Kun stared at you, "What? Y/N, no I'm not gonna leave you. I won't be able to come back for a long time." He said.

"Kun, that's not fair on you! Maybe I'll be happy but what about you? What if things don't work out and you totally missed your chance at being an international musician?" You said.

"Kun, I'm not saying we have to end whatever this is just cause you're moving but if it does happen, at least I know you fulfilled your dreams." You reasoned.

"What's the use of doing it if you're not there with me? What dream if you're not in it?" He said, his voice broke.

"Kun, are you hearing yourself? Don't risk things for me!" you raised your voice.

"But I want to! I want to love you and show your love in so many ways. Don't talk about ending it please." He begged.

"Kun, we both know we can't avoid that. like you said to me, you'll have someone out there, far better than me." Tears fell, covering your cheeks.

"Why do you make it sound like you don't want to be with me?" He asked tears on the verge of falling.

"I do! I really do and it breaks my heart knowing that you've worked so hard for this but you're giving it up for me!"

"Then don't tell me to go, not yet."

"Kun…" you whined. He got up, his back facing you.

"No… we're going to talk about this later. We're both frustrated and I don't want to argue." Kun finally said as he walked out of the kitchen.

You fell to the floor, hugging your knees. You didn't know what to do to get through him.

I don't want to be the reason you won't get to fulfil your dreams.

You finished the paper and handed it to Mr Micheals who smiled at you.

You walked out of the class and sighed. That was your last paper of the week. You smiled, relief washing over you.

You also haven't spoken to Kun for a week. He kept pushing the idea of having a soulmate, why won't he accept that he is out there as well?

You walked out of campus when suddenly you heard your name. You turned and sucked in a breath.

It was Lilian. "Y/N, hey." She walked towards you.

"Oh, Lilian. Hi, uh what are you doing here?" You asked.

Well, aint this awkward?

"I wanted to talk to you. Y'know, since you've been gone for almost two months." She stated.

You scatch the back of your neck, "Yeah… I'm really sorry about that."

"No, no. I wanted to ask you why it happened. I don't want to just hear your father's side of the story, that won’t be fair." She said.

She held your hand, "Shall we?" She asked.

You nodded and followed her.

You were awkwardly drinking your tea when she came back to the gable with two slices of cake.

"Here you go. Now, how are you?" She asked.

All this time, Lilian has always paid a lot of attention to you because she actually cared. She didn't completely ignore you after marrying your dad. She made an effort to get to know you.

"I'm…" you were going to lie but your face betrayed you.

"I don't think I'm fine." You admitted. Her face instantly changed to a worried one.

"Oh my dear, what happened?"

You breathed in and told her everything that has happened. She listened to everything closely, not interrupting you at all.

She held your hand and squeezed it gently.

"Y/N, I'm so sorry you had to go through that." She apologised. "You didn't deserve that and your father was being very unfair." She said.

The shock was evident on your face, "Wait… you're not going to side with him?" You asked.

She shook her head, "Your father may be my soulmate but that doesn't mean I have to side with him for everything." She sipped on her coffee.

Your eyes widened and you choked on your tea. "Wh-what? You're dad's soulmate?"

She placed the cup down, "Honey, I thought you knew? That's why we got married so quickly." She passed a tissue to you.

You shook your head, "I'm not close enough with him to tell me anything." You played with the sleeves of your sweater.

You sat down quietly, it made so much more sense now. All this time, you thought she married him for his money.

But you also realised that your mom wasn't his soulmate.

"So, my mom…?" Lilian knew where you were heading and she shook your head.

"I should've let your father tell you this but since I'm not sure when you’re going to see him again."

"As much as your father adored your mother, she wasn't his soulmate. Your mother's father helped your father with his business and in return, he asked for him to marry his daughter."

You breathed out, head spinning a bit. All this time, you thought your mother and father were so deeply in love but in actual fact, they weren't.

And your mother died too early in her life to meet her actual soulmate.

"What's it like? To have a soulmate?" You asked her.

She thought about it and smiled, "Well, you feel… complete. You'll realise that you'll bring the best out of each other and only want to support them and their dreams." At the sound of that, your face fell.

Kun wasn't your soulmate and you didn't understand why he was so against leaving you for his dreams. He has a soulmate waiting for him somewhere and he was ready to risk everything… for you.

No, you couldn't let this happen. You had to leave the house, you had to leave him.

You reached home quickly after meeting Lilian. So far, everyone wasn't back from work yet and you thought that it was the best time to pack up.

Thankfully, you didn't bring alot of things with you so packing was a breeze.

Once everything was in your backpack, you looked over at the empty room that you stayed in. It was a simple room but you found so much joy and love staying in this house.

You suddenly heard a bit of noise downstairs. You froze, scared that it was Kun. You walked out to see Sicheng walking up the stairs.

He hadn't realised your presence so when he saw you he jumped a bit.

"Oh, it's just you." He smiled. But his face fell as soon as he noticed the empty and clean room.

"Y/N, what are you doing?" He asked wearily. You sighed and gave him a hug.

"Don't tell Kun." You whispered. He knew what was happening.

"Why?" He asked. You sighed, "I don't want to do this either. I love staying here with all of you but if me leaving is what it takes for him to go to Slovenia then I'll do it."

"Y/N, i don't think you realise how incredibly selfish this sounds."

You scoff, "How? I want him to do what he wants and suddenly I'm the selfish one?" You raised your voice.

"No Y/N, you're being selfish by leaving without even settling the topic with him." He replied. "Do you think he's going to be fine after all this happens? You're the first girl he's ever loved and how do you think he's going to feel when he realises you’re not home and that you left without even saying anything."

You paused before continuing, "Kun… loves me?" You asked.

"Of course he does! Have you not realised how much he cared for you? Y/N he was willing to give up everything after the two of you got together. Did you think you could hide it? All of us could see the love between the two of you."

You massaged your temples, "Sicheng, you do realise if you stop me from leaving, Kun won't ever be able to leave for Slovenia." You said.

"No, there are other ways you could do this. You don't have to leave him."

"You were going to leave?" A sudden voice scared the both of you.

There he was, eyebags forming under his eyes.

"You were going to leave… without saying goodbye?" He walked closer to you.

"Kun…"

"No, I want to know why you thought that would've been a good idea?" He asked, his voice bouncing off the walls.

"You said you wouldn't leave me so the only way for you to go was if-"

"If you left me?" He asked, his voice showing hurt.

You nodded, too embarrassed to look at him.

"For fuck sake." He sighed, before pulling your hand into your room and shutting the door behind him.

"I swear, they'll be the death of me." Sicheng sighed as he walked into his room.

"We are going to sit in here until we figure out a solution." He said.

"Kun this isn't just because I want you to go. You have a soulmate out there and what if she was in Slovenia, huh?" You asked.

"Y/N, I don't have a soulmate!" He yelled. "Do I look like I have a mark?.\" He yelled.

"W-what?" You stuttered. "You don't have a mark too?"

He sat beside you and held your hands, "Y/N, you make me so happy and I can't imagine life without you."

"But Kun, I can't be happy knowing that you didn't go to Slovenia because of me."

"Then I'll go. We'll do long distance, I'll do everything to make sure we're happy. Just, don't end it please." He hugged you, his head on your shoulder.

You hugged him back, "i won't. Kun, thank you." You said.

"Anything for you. I'm not gonna leave you, ever."

It was the night before Kun's departure and everyone wasn’t feeling too great.

The once lively and happy house had quiet down and had gone grey.

"Guys, this is too depressing for a farewell party." He joked.

"We can't help it. You leaving for a few years wasn't part of the contract of being friends." Yangyang replied.

Everyone snickered at the young man.

He stood up and raised his glass, "I'd like to propose a toast." He said.

"Firstly, I'd like to thank everyone for their support and love all this time. You guys mean the world to me and I wouldn't be able to go without your support."

"Secondly, I'd like to thank Y/N for coming into my life and causing chaos in it." He teased.

You narrowed your eyes and shook your head.

"In all seriousness, I thought I'd never meet someone so talented, caring and well, different. I'm glad you're here." He held your hand and kissed the back of it.

The guys all made kissy noises, Renjun and Jaemin were a sobbing mess.

At that moment, everything felt right. Everything in life was perfect.

He laid down beside you, both of just looking at each other.

“Who knew this would happen,” you whispered.

“I guess fate was kind to us and led us to each other.” he kissed your nose.

You snuggled closer, your face pressed against his chest.

“I don’t want things to change,” you said.

“And it won’t. I promise.”

“Passport?” you asked.

“Yeap.”

“Coat?”

“In my carry on.”

“Phone?”

“Yes, Y/N. now stop worrying.” he chuckled as he kissed the top of your head.

‘I’ll call you whenever I’m free.” he said.

“Don’t worry, make sure you settle in properly then you call me,” you said.

Kun turned to his friends and gave them all big hugs. “I’m gonna miss you guys.”

“We’ll miss you too,” Sicheng said.

“Kun, can you get me chocolates when you go to Belgium?” Ten asked. Everyone laughed, shaking their heads.

He gave you one last hug before walking away.

You turned around when you heard running behind you and when you turned around, Kun pulled you by the waist and gave you a kiss.

The boys all turned away to give you two a little privacy.

He kissed you on your forehead, “I’m gonna miss you, Y/N.” he said.

“I’m gonna miss you too,” you said.

He had walked over to check-in, waving at you all before leaving.

You had your arm looped around Xiaojun and Yangyang when you saw a familiar face.

If you didn't look properly, you wouldn't have been able to recognize him.

“Y/N?”

“Hi, dad.”

The cafe was quiet and small, you sat across from your father awkwardly.

“So, you're going for another trip?” you asked.

He nodded, “Yeah, I’ll be in Japan for some business.” he stated.

“What about you? What are you doing here?” he asked.

“I was sending off a friend,” you replied.

“Is Lilian at home?” you asked. He shook his head, “She’s staying at her sister’s house for a while.”

“Ah, I see.” you nod.

“Y/N?” he called.

“Yes?”

“I’m sorry… for everything.” he bowed his head.

“What?” you wouldn't believe what you were hearing. Your father has never apologised for anything before. Seeing him so vulnerable and sad was so foreign, you didn’t know how to react.

“I wasn't there for you when you needed a dad. I never realised how selfish i was. I thought marrying Lilian was a good idea because you would finally have a mother and you would be happy. I never thought it would create an even bigger gap between us. I’m really sorry i never thought of how you felt.”

“I used to not understand why you always wanted to go to grandmas but then I realised it was because of me. I never became a good father,” he said.

You remained silent, you had no idea what to say or do. You walked over to his side and gave him a short hug.

“Thank you. Thank you for that,” you whispered. He hugged you back, a bit tighter.

“I’ll do my best to be a better father.”

After meeting dad, you got a text from Kun.

Just boarded! I’ll text you when I arrive :)

You smiled and quickly typed,

Have a safe flight! Make sure to get some rest, I’ll talk to you soon.

You took a cab to Renjun and Jaemin’s house. They wanted to celebrate finishing exams and they even brought along their soulmates for you to meet.

The door opened and you were greeted by Minseo.

“Oh my god, Y/N!” she said excitedly, “it’s so nice to finally meet you, in person!” she laughed.

You giggled and waved, “Is everyone here?” you asked, she nodded, “Yeah, we were waiting for you.”

At the sound of your voice, Jaemin came running out of the kitchen.

“Hey, bubs!” he gave you a hug. “Did you just come back from the airport?” he asked.

You nodded, “yeah, Kun’s plane just took off.” you informed.

“Who would’ve known the both of you would get together? Oh yeah, us!” Renjun rested his arm on Jaemin’s shoulder.

“Ha-ha, very funny,” you replied sarcastically.

“But I’m happy and it seems like alot of things are good in life right now,” you answered.

It’s been a few weeks since Kun left and he hasn’t had enough time to call you. With the time difference especially, you couldn’t find the right time to talk to him.

Even his messages were getting shorter and shorter. You sat at the piano in his room and played the song you were going to play with him.

You weren't sure if he was going to even attend graduation and you took the initiative to learn the song as a solo piece.

Sicheng walked in and saw you practising, “Hey, kiddo.” he sat beside you.

“Hi, Sicheng.” you smiled weakly.

“Still no calls?” he asked. You shook your head, “He’s probably really busy. That’s why i’m learning how to play this song alone.” you pointed.

He nods, “That’s good. Well, we’re going to start dinner soon. So, come down when you’re done.”

“Okay, see you later.” you waved.

It was two nights before graduation and it was pretty obvious he wasn’t coming back. He hasn’t even answered any of your messages.

You were slowly losing hope as you laid in your bed, thinking of him.

“Y/N! Can you come down for a sec?” Yukhei called. You begrudgingly went down. You heard chatter before a bunch of shushing.

“What is it?” you rubbed your eyes.

The boys all grinned excitedly, “Well, y’ know how you told us you were going to just wear something you already owned for the dinner?” Xiaojun asked.

“Yes?” you eyed them. “Well, guess whose boyfriend just sent us this?” Hendery pulled a big white box from behind him.

“Wh-what? Kun sent this?” you pointed at the box. All of them nodded excitedly, “Straight from Paris!” Ten remarked.

You smiled happily, knowing that he still does think about you.

You took the box and opened the box slowly.

You let out a loud gasp, you pulled the gorgeous blue dress by its straps.

It was a beautiful flowy gown with a plunging neckline.

Attached to the dress was a note,

You can’t play Merry Go Round of Life without dressing like Sophie, my dear. It's a bit more modern but I hope you love it, Y/N. I'll return soon, I promise.

You sighed dreamily, smiling like an idiot.

“Well, go on and try it!” Ten pushed you to the stairs.

You ran up excitedly and quickly wore the dress. You gasped and awed at its beauty.

The glitter in the dress shined so beautifully and it fits you perfectly. You're surprised Kun knew your size so well. You looked at yourself and squealed.

“Y/N, come down here!” Sicheng called.

You walked out of your room and posed dramatically at the top of the stairs.

“OHHH, LOOK AT HER!” They all praised and hyped you up. You did another pose and screamed.

“It’s beautiful!” you jumped. The boys all gave you a group hug, squealing and jumping together.

“Just dye your hair grey and we’ll be done!” Yangyang said as he showed the box of silver hair dye he bought.

Everyone paused and turned to you, “Wait what?” you asked.“When did he even buy that?” Xiaojun whispered to Yukhei. Yukhei shrugged and walked up to Yangyang, he pushed the box of dye slowly.

“Why don’t we bring her to the salon? Seriously, I don’t trust us to do that,” he said.

“I mean, I think it’s a good idea. It would be nice to change things up a bit.” you sat in between Xiaojun and Sicheng.

“Actually, my friend Darcie used to work at a salon. I could ask her to come over?” Ten suggested.

“That’s actually not a bad idea. Yeah, we’ll go buy the other stuff that she needs and we’ll just do it here,” you said.

“Sounds good! I’ll go call her.” Ten got up and went to make the phone call.

You sighed, “I can’t believe I’m graduating in two days.” you said. “I wish he was here though,” you admitted.

Sicheng wrapped an arm around your shoulder, “There, there. We’ll be there to cheer you on.” he smiled. “Jaemin bought the tickets for us the other day.”

“Thank you, guys.”

“Good news! Darcie’s coming and she has all the equipment at her house. She’ll be coming in an hour.” he declared openly

The guys all waited in the living room, waiting for you and Darcie to finish.

They all instantly got up when they heard the toilet door open.

“Let me introduce to you, the new Y/N!” Darcie announced.

You walked out of the toilet shyly, smiling nervously.

Darcie had done an amazing job, instead of dying your whole head silver, she added silver highlights instead.

The boys gasped, covering their mouths.

“YOU LOOK STUNNING!” Yukhei lifted you up and twirled you around.

“Darcie, you really outdid yourself.” Ten fist-bumped Darcie.

“Let’s take a picture!” Xiaojun took out his Polaroid camera. He set up the camera on the table and all of you posed.

You looked at the picture and smiled fondly, everything was going great in life.

On the day of graduation, you sat at your vanity, curling your hair. Jaemin and Renjun walked in along with Minseo and with Ae Cha, Renjun’s soulmate.

“Hey, Y/N we’re he- OH MY GOD!” Jaemin screamed. “Your hair!” Renjun pushed Jaemin out of the way and gasped.

“Yeah, I wanted to change it a bit.” you chuckled nervously. Minseo came running and she squealed, “YOU LOOK GORGEOUS!” She praised.

“Thank you! You look amazing, Minseo.” you hugged her.

Behind Renjun, you saw another figure. You walked towards her, “You must be Ae Cha! I’m Y/N.” you extended your hand and smile warmly.

She shyly shook your hand, “Hi, nice to meet you.”

All of you spoke for a while when suddenly you heard a knock on the door.

“Y/N, we should be heading out,” Sicheng said. Sicheng wore a navy suit with silver detailing.

“Don’t you look handsome!” you praised. He blushed, “I tried.” he said bashfully.

You sat in the car with Sicheng, Yukhei and Ten who wore their best suits. Ten wore a grey suit while yukhei wore a maroon suit with a floral shirt underneath.

“Are your parents coming?” Yukhei asked. You shook your head, “Dad’s trip got extended and Lilian had to take care of her mom. They did call me earlier though, it was nice.” you told them.

When you reached the ballroom of the university, you were amazed at how they managed to decorate it that well. Everyone definitely wore their best dresses and suits.

You found the table you were all sitting in, you sat down in between Xiaojun and Hendery.

You were just about to have a conversation with Xiaojun when your classmate tapped your shoulder.

“Y/N, you're the first performance after the speech. They need you backstage,” she informed you.

Your face fell, everyone at the table began cheering you on. You kind of received stares but you followed your classmate nervously.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the dinner will soon begin. Please take your seats.” the emcee announced.

The dean of the university was giving his speech and you were looking over your notes.

“Without further delay, I’d like to invite our talented pianist, Miss Y/N.”

You walked onto the stage, where the grand piano stood.

“Miss Y/N will be playing Merry Go Round of Life,” they announced.

“Alongside, rising musician and ex lecturer, Professor Qian!” at the sound of that, your eyes widen and you turn to the other side of the stage.

There he was, you never knew he could be any more handsome. He wore a white shirt and tucked it into a pair of black dress pants. Just like Howl.

He stood beside you, grabbing your hand and pulling you for a bow.

“Kun…” you said, not paying attention to the audience.

“Your hair, it’s just like starlight,” he whispered. “It’s beautiful.” he quoted Howl from the movie.

You couldn't believe he was here, both of you sat down on the bench and breathed in.

“Ready, love?” he asked.

“Now that you're here, I am.” you winked.

You breathed in and began playing.

And just like that, it was as if nobody else was in the room. Both pianists worked together in harmony and the entire ballroom was in awe of the beautiful chemistry between them.

You eyed him and smiled, which he too smiled widely. You continued and for the first time in weeks, you got it.

You played it like the first time. Everything was there, the sweet, the smooth tune and the gentle way it radiated around the room.

Once the music stopped, the room was quiet before the roaring applause began.

Both of you stood up and bowed, holding one another's hands. Your friends were whistling and cheering loudly.

You giggled and faced Kun but your heart stopped.

He was happy that he made it in time to play with her but when he turned he wasn't expecting to see,

Yellow. True happiness.

Both of you stood frozen, his eyes were yellow and so were yours.

Your soulmate mark… was your eyes. That’s why you couldn’t find it.

You ran backstage, pulling Kun with you.

“I love you,” you said before slamming your lips onto his. Kun pushed you gently against the wall, kissing you much more eagerly.

Thankfully, everyone was on the other side of the backstage so you took your time. He pulled you close, hugging your waist while you wrapped your arms around his neck.

You kissed him so close that your whole body curved into his.

You pulled away, both of you panting at the kiss. Your eyes were close for a few moments before you opened them, you placed a hand on his cheek.

“I knew you were meant for me.” he pushed a strand of hair behind your ear. “And i love you too.” he gave you one more peck.

You rested your foreheads against each other, still in each other's arms, happy as ever.

You walked out, hand in hand. Some gave you strange looks but you didn’t care. He was your soulmate and that’s all that matters.

Your classmates were all staring at you, whispering among each other. You caught them whispering so you decided to give Kun a kiss on the cheek.

Everyone’s stopped what they were doing before screaming and squealing. You giggle and pulled him to the table.

“Ah, making it public I see?” Hendery asked.

Both of you looked at each other and smiled.

“Wait… oh my god.” Sicheng realised the look on your faces. Everyone reacted similarly.

“Everyone, this is Kun. My soulmate.” and with that, there were tears of joy, praises and plenty of hugs.

You took a walk at uni one last time, you told everyone you wanted some time to reminisce about your last time there.

You walked into the studio and smiled at the familiar setting. The piano at one corner and the many desks scattered everywhere.

You sat at the piano and thought of all the long practices you had with Kun, those moments that made you closer and closer.

You decided to play one last song, For The Dancing and Dreaming. The song that made you friends in the first place.

You chuckled when you heard the door open.

“I knew you'd be here.” the honey-like voice said. You felt him hug you from the back, resting his chin on your shoulder.

“Just enjoying my last time here,” you said, holding onto his hand.

“I know. I’m gonna miss this place too. So many great memories here.” he sighed.

You turned and faced him, kissing him once more. “Shall we go back?” you asked sweetly.

He nodded, “Yes please, I’m still very jet lagged.” both of you laughed.

When you got up from the bench, you stumbled slightly, a sudden pain shot up from your spine.

You suddenly saw you and Renjun in the studio. Why does that look familiar?

You held onto his hand while you pressed a hand against your head.

“Hey, you okay?” he asked, he held your face in his hands.

“Y-yeah. I’m just feeling a bit dizzy. Let’s go home, yeah?” you smiled.

He nodded and both of you walked out hand in hand.

The drive was quiet, Y/N had fallen fast asleep and Kun was smiling the entire way.

You stretched, opening your eyes.

"Hey, feeling better?" He asked.

You nod, "A bit better."

You could only hear the sound of the air conditioner and the music.

"Kun?" You called.

"Yes, love?" He answered.

"Are you going to go back?" You asked.

He sighed, "I was actually gonna avoid this topic but no, I don't want to. Especially after finding out that you're my soulmate. I never wanna leave you." He held your hand and kissed the back of it.

"B-but…"

"No buts Y/N. I'm staying. I'll continue being a lecturer." He said.

"Kun, be honest, did you enjoy yourself when you were touring?" You asked.

"Well yeah but I enjoy teaching as well so your point is invalid." He replied.

"Kun, I can follow you. I'll travel with you if that means you'll continue." You pleaded.

"I can't believe we're arguing about this again." His hand tightened on the steering wheel.

"We don't have to! Kun, I don't mind following you. We'll still be together!" You said, voice a bit louder than before.

"Yeah and leave your friends? I can't do that to you." He was getting irritated, you could see his knuckles turning white.

"So what? You did it too!" You pointed out.

"That's different." He muttered.

"How? In what way is it different?" You almost yelled.

"It's because I can handle being alone!" He finally yelled back.

"Goddamnit Y/N, I can't go through what happened the other day. If you follow me, you'll only have me. If you stay at home you have the boys, your friends and family."

"Kun, I can always make new friends!"

"Enough! I don't want to he-"

Suddenly, a loud honk was heard and Kun swerved to the side. The last thing you heard was him calling your name and screaming. A weird buzz began tickling your body and suddenly, everything went black.

"Y/N?" You heard a muffled voice. You opened your eyes but it was still black.

"Kun? Kun! Why can't I see?!" You yelled.

"Woah, Woah bubs. You're okay." You heard Jaemin's voice.

"Nana, Where's Kun? Is he okay?" You tried to get off the bed but you fell.

"Y/N!" Renjun yelled, picking you up.

"I can't see, Nana, Injunnie what's going on? Where's Kun?!"

"Baby, who are you talking about?"

It's been a year since you lost your eyesight. You sat in your bed and cried. You lost your soulmate as quick as he came.

"Is she okay?" Lilian asked her husband. He shook her head, "She's been crying every night. I don't know what to do. The doctors still don't know how she lost her eyesight. Renjun said she just fainted." He drank his coffee.

"Sweetie, what about we bring her for a concert? A pianist is coming to town. I think she would enjoy it very much." Lilian suggested.

"That would be nice. Let's go ask her." Both of your parents knocked on your door.

"Sweetie, can we talk?" Your father shook your body slowly.

You wiped your nose, "sure." They helped you sit up.

"Y/N, how would you like to go to a concert? A famous pianist is in town and I think you'll enjoy it very much." Lilian suggested.

You sighed, "What's the use. It's not like I can properly enjoy it." You complained. They both gave you a hug, Lilian rubbing your back gently.

"Baby, you haven't gone out in ages. Jaemin and Renjun miss you alot." Lilian said.

"Please? I think you'll love it." Your dad asked once more.

You groaned, "Sure. Why not?" You agreed.

Renjun and Jaemin immediately gave you a hug. You missed seeing their faces so much and just seeing things.

Every minute you're awake, all you can see was Kun's beautiful brown eyes.

"C'mon, it's starting." Your father ushered you in.

The moment the song played, your heart broke.

The pianist was playing Merry Go Round of Life.

"Mom, can you please bring me to the toilet?" You pat her hand.

"Of course sweetie." She said.

Once you entered the toilet, you began crying your heart out. You miss his touch, his kisses, his kindness and his stubborn habit of not following what he wants. You cried realising that your last time with him was wasted on a useless fight.

You cried and sobbed when you felt a hand touch your face.

You gasped, "Lilian?"

"No, dear. It's me." That voice… Cyan!

"Cyan? Is that you?"

"Yes, Y/N. I’m sorry everything turned out so badly."

"Cyan, please I need to see him." You begged.

"I know, love. Which is why I'm telling you this."

"Once you go to that world, all memory of you will disappear in this one and all the lost memories of you will return to those in the other world."

"The choice is yours."

You stood up and breathed out.

"Anything for him."

She chuckled, "Good. Now, be good when you reach that world." She snapped her fingers and suddenly you fell to the ground, the cold tiles coming in contact with your skin.

When you woke up, the white light blurred your vision but you could see again. You looked at yourself in the mirror and you slowly touched your face.

You began tearing up when you heard the applause from outside.

You ran out of the toilet and searched around. You began running around when you bumped into a hard chest.

"Woah, you okay?" Jaemin asked. He looked at you closely, "Y/N, are you okay?" You knew that both Jaemins was the same but you couldn't help but hug him. Once you saw Renjun as well, you ran and gave him a hug.

"What happened?" He asked. Jaemin came towards you and shrugged.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the man of the night." You heard someone announce.

When you turned around you saw him.

The love of your life. But he looked so different, instead of his once lively features, he looked tired and emotionless.

"QIAN KUN!" you yelled.

No… that can't be her

"KUN!"

"Y/N?" He looked around when his eyes landed on you.

He stood frozen, not believing that you were there. You ran to him and immediately looped your arms around him.

"Where have you been, my love?" He hugged you back, sobbing as he asked.

"I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry." Both of you sank to the floor not letting go of one another. You cried together, forehead pressed against each other.

You pressed your lips to him, holding his head in your hands. Tears streaming both of your faces, both not ever wanting to let go, ever.

You woke up, stretching your body. You turned and saw Kun sleeping soundly. His bare chest rose and fell, his breathing steady.

You turned to the balcony of your hotel room. You tied your robe and walked out, inhaling the cold air of Vienna.

You watched the figures walking around and you smiled.

A pair of strong hands wrapped around your waist. "Baby, come back to bed." He kissed the nape of your neck.

"Good morning, Kun." You greeted sweetly.

"Good morning, baby." He rested his chin on your shoulder, shutting his eyes.

"You'll have to get up soon, Kun. We have a performance at 3." He groaned.

"Don't remind me." He sighed.

You chuckled and turned around, wrapping your hands around him.

"Y'know I love you right?" You asked.

He kissed your forehead, "Of course. I love you too."

"And I promise to never leave you, ever." You said. "I'll be here with you until we're old and wrinkly."

He chuckled and kissed your lips, "I like that." He said.

You smiled and rested your head on his chest.

"I love you."

"And I love you."

As they stood there in each other’s arms, they had not realised that both their wishes from the festival had come true.

Hers was to not be alone and to be loved.

And he was to find his soulmate and love her forever.

293 notes · View notes

goindownshipping · 4 years

Note

‘ this is your favorite, right? ' - frostiron, if you please :D

A few of my favorite things

Pairing: Tony Stark/Loki (Frostiron)

Rating: Gen (G)

Notes: Some snarky frostiron fluff for your consideration! Thanks for the prompt @ohwereusingourmadeupnames!

Warnings: Quasi teacher/student (Tony is a student teacher, Loki is his cooperating teacher), but everyone is of age and nothing happens until it would be deemed appropriate :)

Word count: 2k

Summary:

The last day of school was always bittersweet for Loki, but this year brought a whole new meaning to the word ... Anthony Stark, his student teacher for the semester, was causing more trouble for him than he ever expected. The trouble had nothing to do with his knowledge of science or his teaching ability. As a student teacher, Mr. Stark excelled and had a bright future wherever he chose to go next. No, the challenges came in Loki’s personal attachment to the man.

Or, Loki and Tony connect when Tony is assigned as Loki’s student teacher for a semester. Some lack of communication can’t get in the way of their witty infatuation and eventual love for each other.

The last day of school was always bittersweet for Loki, but this year brought a whole new meaning to the word. He had some of the brightest students he’d ever taught in his classes that semester; the AP students were bright and up for the challenge, the ninth graders were eager to learn, and his research students asked all the right questions. He knew all those students were going on to bigger and brighter things, many of them would be back the following year, though.

However, the students weren’t the challenging ones to say goodbye to. Anthony Stark, his student teacher for the semester, was causing more trouble for him than he ever expected. The trouble had nothing to do with his knowledge of science or his teaching ability. As a student teacher, Mr. Stark excelled and had a bright future wherever he chose to go next. No, the challenges came in Loki’s personal attachment to the man.

Five months ago, Anthony Stark walked into Loki’s classroom with a natural affinity for science and education that Loki had never seen or experienced. Sure, he was a young teacher himself, but he knew that what Mr. Stark possessed was special. He was proven correct when he observed Tony build real relationships with students, reimagine teaching styles to meet their needs, and take on responsibilities that neither Loki nor his professors expected of him.

Tony’s knack for high school chemistry and physics only scratched the surface of who he was. Loki couldn’t pretend that he wasn’t struck by Tony’s beauty from the very beginning, but he knew that wasn’t a subject that he could broach while Tony was under his mentorship. Tony never pushed it, but he knew the lingering glances and accidental touches were mutual between him and his cooperating teacher. There was one particular interaction between the two men that neither of them seemed to be able to shake.

About halfway through the semester, right around spring break, Loki and Tony were sitting around Loki’s desk grading exams and going over Tony’s progress. Loki had his daily English Breakfast tea in hand and Tony had to physically force himself to keep his eyes on the stack of tests in front of him rather than the gorgeous man across the desk.

“You know, these kids are only doing so well this year because you’re such a great teacher,” Loki said.

Tony blushed slightly. “I don’t know about that. You designed the curriculum.”

“Sure, but you’ve been taking the lead for the past few weeks. You figured out the best way to teach the concepts, not me.”

“Well, thank you. But I really am learning from the best.”

Loki blushed this time, but couldn’t bring himself to meet Tony’s gaze. “Have you thought about your plans for after graduation? You could get a job teaching physics or chemistry anywhere, Anthony. You’ve done really well here.”

Tony shrugged. “I’m not sure. My family really doesn’t want me to go into teaching at the high school level. I’ve been accepted to a Ph.D. program with a research emphasis…” Tony trailed off.

Loki looked up at the hesitation in Tony’s voice. “Is that what you want Anthony?”

Tony held his gaze. “It doesn’t really matter what I want, does it?”

Loki paused. He knew Tony’s family life was complicated. Being a Stark certainly wasn’t easy. He also knew that Tony wasn’t only referring to that particular situation with his comment.

“Anthony,” Loki started.

“No, don’t,” Tony said firmly. “Please.” His shoulders sagged, all the fight going out of him with that final plea.

“For what it’s worth, I know what you mean,” Loki conceded.

Tony snorted, “Thanks, Mr. L.”

“Really, Tony? Mr. L?” Loki’s face morphed into a combination of hurt and confused. Over the past few months he and Tony had grown close; closer than he could’ve expected to grow with a student teacher. He knew it wasn’t breaking any rules, but he made sure that their relationship, if you could even call it that, never crossed any lines.

Loki cherished their daily chats over coffee and tea, countless inside jokes, and private smiles more than almost anything. He would give anything to explore a relationship with Tony outside the classroom, but he couldn’t do that - not yet. Tony just had a few more months under his guidance, then they could figure it out. He only hoped Tony would still be interested that far down the road.

“Sorry, Loki. It’s just- you know.”

“I know, Tony. Let’s get just get through this,” he gestured to the tests between them, “and go from there. Then once the semester is over, we’ll figure that out too,” he said hopefully.

The rest of the semester passed smoothly. Their students continued succeeding and Loki and Tony moved around each other seamlessly in the classroom, creating a positive learning environment for everyone. After school hours, Tony and Loki chatted over their hot beverage of choice and continued to build a connection neither man saw coming.

That was why Loki was so surprised when the last day of school came and went without so much as a goodbye from his student teacher. Tony’s semester had ended a few weeks prior, so his final evaluations and observations were already completed. When the high school semester came to an end, there weren’t any loose ends for him to tie up. As soon as that final bell rang, he was out the door without so much as a backward glance.

At first, Loki was hurt and confused. He thought they would’ve at least talked about whatever they could be once the school year ended. Tony’s disappearance made it abundantly clear that he wasn’t interested in figuring anything out.

A few weeks into summer, Loki’s confusion turned into acceptance. He knew how much pressure Tony was under, both self-inflicted and from his family. Loki resigned himself to thinking wishful thoughts that Tony found a way to pursue his own dreams, not the ones he was pressured to explore.

3 months later

The start of the school year was always chaotic. No matter how much planning and preparation Loki did, the first day of high school chemistry never seemed to go smoothly. From the fear in the eyes of his advanced placement students to the sheer boredom of his last class of the day, it was always the longest day of the year. At the same time, he never seemed to have enough time to actually get the ball rolling. When the last 16 year old sluggishly exited his classroom at 2:30pm, Loki was ready to collapse.

And he would have if there wasn’t an immediate knock at his classroom door. So much for catching his breath. He glanced through the narrow rectangular window and was surprised by the familiar dark eyes he found peering back at him. He nodded at the visitor, indicating for them to come in. His breath caught at the sight of Anthony Stark standing on the threshold of his classroom. It was a familiar sight and yet everything was different from that day nearly nine months prior.

“Anthony?”

“Figured I should make the rounds finally,” Tony shrugged. “Being the new kid on the block can be pretty tough.”

“The new- what?”

“Didn’t Fury tell you there was a new Physics teacher in the department?”

“Well, yes, I knew we were hiring, but just last week it was still vacant.”

“Well just last week I decided research was overrated,” Tony said with a smile.

“It’s lovely to see you, Anthony.” Loki’s face stretched into a grin without his permission and suddenly he was grinning like an idiot at the man in front of him. He took a few steps toward the door as Tony pulled the door shut behind him.

Tony smiled that crooked grin and Loki’s resolve nearly broke. “Oh,” Tony closed the distance between them and reached a hand forward, extending a large reusable mug into Loki’s hand. “This is your favorite, right?”

Loki looked down in disbelief then back up at Tony as the scent of English Breakfast filled his nose as the steam billowed up from the mug. “Depends on what you’re referring to. You or the tea? Because it’s a hard decision right now.”

“I’ll leave that up to you,” Tony smirked. With that, he spun on his heel and headed for the door.

“Wait!” Loki called, desperate to stop Tony before he opened the door to the chaotic after school hallway.

Tony turned around, his hand loosely gripping the doorknob. “Yes?”

“Don’t just leave again,” Loki whispered, a hopeful smile on his face.

“I couldn’t have gone far, Loki. My classroom is just down the hall.”

“Still. Let’s get out of here. There’s never any real work to be done on the first day, right?”

Tony’s face broke into a grin again. “You tell me, Mr. L.”

“Oh god, no. None of that,” Loki groaned.

“I’ll meet you in the parking lot in 15 minutes.” Tony waved and before Loki could reply, he was disappearing down the hall.

Loki smiled as he sipped his tea, not quite sure what he was doing, but he couldn’t be mad about it. He quickly straightened up his classroom and locked the cabinets before laying out his plans for the following day. Before he knew it he was packing up his briefcase and locking his classroom. The halls were gratefully quiet by then, and when he made it to the parking lot he couldn’t help the pleasant butterflies in his chest at the sight of Anthony leaning against his car.

By the time he was directly in front of the slightly younger man, he had to physically stop himself from reaching out.

“So, where to Mr. Stark?”

“You’re not too far from here, yeah? Is it too forward to invite myself to your house?”

“Certainly not,” Loki smiled. “I’m just over there,” Loki gestured to his car across the lot. “Follow me out?”

“Sure thing!”

Loki stood still for a moment too long, and Tony didn’t miss the opportunity to let his eyes sweep up and down Loki’s tall figure. Loki felt a blush rise to his cheeks at the attention Tony was giving him. After just a few months away, he couldn’t seem to get his fill.

“You want a ride or something?” Tony asked with a smirk.

“Excuse me?!” Loki spluttered.

“To your car, Bambi. You look like a deer in the headlights.”

Loki cleared his throat and took a small step backward when he heard a group of students on the field behind the parking lot. “I’ll be just fine, Anthony. I’ll see you shortly.”

Loki could hear Tony laughing softly as he took long strides across the concrete, desperate to stop embarrassing himself for just a moment. He knew it would continue at his house, but a short break was better than nothing. As soon as he was behind the wheel he glanced at his reflection in the mirror. His cheeks and the tops of his ears were bright red, no doubt due to Tony’s flirting and teasing. Loki shook his head with a smile. He was in for an interesting afternoon.

3 years later

“Hey, Lokes!” Tony called down the hall. “We’ve gotta go if we don’t want to be late!”

Loki scurried down the hall from their bedroom into the kitchen, looking nowhere near ready for the day. His hair was barely pulled back and the buttons on his shirt were off by one, creating an unintentional asymmetric look.

“Fix your shirt, I’ll get your tea,” Tony said fondly.

Loki pressed a quick kiss to Tony’s cheek, continuing his tornado-like movement throughout the kitchen. “Thank you, Anthony. You’re the best.”

Tony just nodded and smiled to himself, watching his fiance bustle around the kitchen and grab random papers and books that had been strewn across the counters for weeks. As soon as Tony placed a lid on Loki’s tea and his own coffee, he turned to find Loki smiling right back at him.

“Ready, love?”

“After you, Mr. L.”

“Hey, that’ll be Mr. S soon enough,” Loki retorted as he headed for the front door.

Tony shook his head, “You still sure about that?”

Loki squeezed Tony’s hand, “More than. After all, you are my favorite.”

#frostiron #frostiron fic #mine #loki x tony

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theteej · 3 years

Text

“You need to take serious time for yourself, do self-care, or something,” my best friend Mark said to me, uncomfortably earnestly.

“I’m serious. You haven’t been letting anything in, and you just have to sit and stop running. Go process, or feel, or just let it sink in that you did things and you surprisingly don’t suck.”

Fuck, he’s right.

And so that’s what I’m doing. Last week I booked an Airbnb in La Jolla, a tony coastal enclave of San Diego near where I went to undergrad. I pretended I was on vacation, but in a pandemic. I booked a small studio near the water, and planned to spend these next few days reading, reflecting, walking along the ocean, and staying otherwise indoors and trying to wrestle with this whole semester. I pulled up to the studio last night, unpacked my bags, and cried. Like cried a lot. I felt lonely and scared, but also so numb. I felt a sea of blankness all around me, and a sense of trepidation.

Honestly, I don’t know what to do about all of my stupid feelings.

Where to start?

I feel like I’ve been anxious nearly my whole life. It’s absolutely something that developed as a kid with a violent, drunken father. You learn to live in between heartbeats like that, always testing what’s about to happen, trying to think of the next thing to plan in order to stay safe. Sure, your brain says tauntingly. Things are OK right now, but what if they’re not in a few minutes? Or even worse: Things ARE terrible—what are you going to do if they stay that way forever? These are the gifts Tyrone Tallie Sr left me, along with an unoriginal legal name and a stubborn widows peak visible whenever I grow my hair out for a few weeks.

Couple that with a natural tendency to think quickly, and you have the birth of a personality that masked my calculating self-security by turning those constant permutations into clever moments for interaction or comment. Like many people, my wit is born of trauma; the ability to process things in quick time is born out of needing to feel safe, and frequently gets deployed to put others at ease. That’s one of the weirder contradictory things about being me. I am simultaneously witty and clever and in control, and I am also always quietly freaking out, or at the very least, waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Which is why this has been….a damn semester. Teaching two classes fully remotely with panicked, overwhelmed students in the shadow of an ever-worsening pandemic that stretches on and on without end and feeling daily gaslighted by the endless selfishness of your fellow citizens—what a gift for the anxious. Ironically, anxiety helped to a certain extent because I didn’t have the shock of falling into a new world of uncertainty or fear that so many non-anxious folk did this year. But that’s hardly a gift, is it? Congratulations! You’re already living as if a bomb can go off at any moment, so you’re not struggling to adjust to the new horror show of life!

Teaching this semester has been…just without any context. I’ve taught online, but not in this same planned way and with everyone panicking, and the looming threat of pandemic and election. And yet we did it. We pulled ourselves together, and my students were honest about their needs and their breakdowns and I tried to model humility and grace and confusion and rage as well as they did. We didn’t fuck it up. Or, we all fucked up, and it was okay. We learned things. Students surprised me, and it was glorious. I got to be broken and I didn’t die.

It was an intense semester of overworking as well. I was on a bunch of committees, formal and informal, and we managed to get a new minor—African Studies—passed. I’ll be heading a new program on campus next year, and that’s exciting and terrifying. And on top of all of that, I couldn’t stop volunteering for stuff, or talking about things I cared about. In addition to teaching, I gave fourteen different presentations or talks this semester, an increase in expectations or agreements on my part thanks to the ubiquity of zoom. It grinds on you: the whole, get up, trudge to the back room, power up a personality for the zoom camera, and pour yourself digitally into a screen, only to feel yourself broken into little packets of light and data and scattered across the universe.

The talks went well. The student evaluations went well. Honestly, both were fucking great. And I haven’t let myself feel a goddamn thing. I let it slide off me like rain on a waxed deck, the droplets beading on the slick wood before slipping away into the darkness. I cant let it sink in, because then something good might be happening, and the very skills that have made me capable—the whip-fast reflexes, the self-deprecating humour, the rapid analysis—are also tied to the very deep-seeded anxiety. Everything has to be calculated and understood and prepared for, because at some moment a dark curtain is going to fall over the face of a man with my same name. He will smack me so hard I will go flying out of a chair and hit the wall with a soft, sickly whump, a particularly unpleasant of me at seven that I carry sewn into every cell of my skin and fiber of my being.

I can’t stop and let it sink in because I have internalized the worst calculus of overachiever life—push harder, don’t stop for the good, that’s normal. Stop only for the bad to learn from it, take in its horror, and let it never happen to you again. And so I found myself at the end of the semester holding a bag of relative joy like a party favour, looking around anxiously for bullies to come snatch it out of my hands.

And then Jeopardy fucking happened.

I got to be on television. I got to talk to Alex Trebek, the same man who held my grandmother’s hand on Classic Concentration and saw that her for the beautiful, formidable queen that she was. I got to turn silly trivia knowledge into cash—and I got to do it while being me. And to my confusion—people liked me. It went well, they felt I resonated with something inside of them, and they liked it.

I do not, in my own skill set, have the tools to deal with that. I am supposed to be clever and fast, and witty, and engaging and lovable—but I do not know how to actually think of receiving goodness. I know how to process being witty and clever and delightful—I did what I was supposed to do, good job, next—but I don’t know how to actually take that positivity in.

I keep waiting for all of this to fall apart, for everyone to hate me in the reassuring ways that I distrust or marginalize or disbelieve myself. And yet, I know that’s not helpful. Hence, overachiever’s therapy: forcing oneself to prematurely trade on prize money and spend a three day love/relaxation retreat, less than fifteen miles from my own apartment.

I woke up and cried a little. I then tried to mediate or at least focus on the positives of late. Nope. Nothing came. I decided it was time for coffee. I drank some that I made in the Airbnb, but realized I needed to get outside for a walk. I changed into a bright yellow caftan and an extra-dramatic face mask, and went for a walk on the streets of La Jolla, the bougie and strange bubble by the sea.

La Jolla can double in weird ways like other parts of the world I frequent. It feels sometimes like I’m in Durban (if you’re more partial to Umhlanga Rocks or Durban North) or Wellington (if you love Mount Vic or Oriental Bay), or even Vancouver (if you feel like West Point Grey or the haughtiest parts of Kitsilano are your thing). It’s a rich place, one that I don’t belong in, but one that I can feign a few hours of enjoyment and sun.

Today I walked down palm tree lined streets in the perfect weather, the breeze pushing through my still-short hair with a strange urgency. I picked up a cold brew coffee and a freshly caught and grilled halibut sandwich that my therapist recommended (we decided to briefly be pescatarian for a day and chalked it up to the ‘medical advice.’), then I turned toward the coast. I sat for a long time looking at the waves—unsurprisingly—with a bit of anxiety.

What if I relaxed WRONG? What if I couldn’t let myself feel joy? What if I just wasted the day by…eating this sandwich and not fully appreciating the beautiful ocean waves, golden sun, or nature all around me. After a while I realized that sounded ridiculous, and just forced myself to sit.

And as the old Zulu language dance song “Unamanga” by the late Patricia Majalisa started to filter to my headphones, as I stared out at the sea and the sun, something shifted. I felt something like, I don’t know, a failure in the sealnt around myself, and some drops dripped in, slowly. Maybe, just maybe, I didn’t have to do this in a grand gesture. I could enjoy myself and the small joys I’d found in life so far.

I could be grateful and quietly glad for the little things that happened. It wasn’t about deserving it, or about it being worthy of me. I could imagine for right now, that this was a thing that I could have. I could sit and marvel that some great shit happened to me, and it was OK. Let’s not get it twisted—I didn’t have an epiphany, there were no turnbacks on the road to Emmaus. But I did find a little quietude in my soul for a second and stopped frantically Teflon-ing my heart from joy for a second.

I survived a hell semester, and did well. I got a wonderful opportunity and it went well. I could just let hat happen and also not ignore that it happened, to focus on negatives in an outsized way. I could, in this single afternoon moment, be delighted that things had gone okay. And not worry or strategize about the next disaster, which would happen on its own anyway. And…that’s all I can do right now.

Also, I’m going to work on this more, this whole letting people love me and letting it sink in. I usually avoid it because I feel like it keeps me off my game from the inevitable disaster to follow. But that’s not how I want to live. I’m going to try to think about what it means that some of you all tell me you love me, and then to show it. I need to reconcile the nonstop whirligig of my mind also turns menacingly in on itself so often, and that acknowledging the gift of calculated wit and mirth also means I have to cultivate love and joy.

So tomorrow, I’m going to go for a brief run, I’m going to drink some lovely coffee, and I’m going to walk along the ocean again. (And then I’m going to keep staying in this Airbnb so I don’t catch or spread this plague.)

What a fucking semester, y’all.

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youtuberswithalex · 4 years

Text

PRVL Vol. 3, Ch. 2: New Challengers...

(A/N: "I'm not gonna update every week" I said, before I proceeded to scramble to finish this chapter today so it could go up one week after the first chapter)

Summary: On their way back to their dorm, Team PRVL meets a couple of interesting characters that teach them a little more about one of their teammates.

Word Count: 4,168

Warnings: Fighting (in a tournament), cursing

Taglist: @haikyuupaladin @an0therrand0 @isabel3710 @ilia-a-isms (Let me know if you want to be added or removed!)

Masterpost – Volume 1 -- Previous -- Next

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Stepping off of the airship, Virgil wrapped his arms around himself. “You guys really don’t have to come, if you don’t want,” he said. “Seriously, I’m fine.”

“It’s okay, Virgil,” Patton insisted. “We could all use a break. Maybe we can even go to the fair grounds to get something to eat!”

Roman gasped as he jumped to hover in front of them. “Ooh, doesn’t Simple Wok have a booth?! We should check that out at some point!”

“Ah, yes, over-priced and over-salted noodles,” Logan grumbled. “What a wise use of our Lien.”

“There’s more than just noodles in them, Logan,” Roman shot, crossing his arms. “Have you ever had the seafood special? The fish is cooked to perfection!”

Patton paled, and his voice cracked. “What?!”

“Uhh, I mean…”

Virgil grunted and took a step away from them. “Look, you guys go wherever you want. I’m going back to our room.”

“It would be beneficial for you to eat something,” Logan pointed out.

“I’m not hungry.”

“You may not feel like it, but after a panic attack like that—”

“Logan, I’m not eating!”

The other three froze, and the air around them grew tense; other students passing by shot them a look, to which Virgil curled away from. He let out a huff and frowned, rubbing his face.

“Look, I’m sorry,” he sighed. “I’m just…”

“Overwhelmed,” Patton softly finished.

Virgil slowly nodded. “Yeah.”

Roman let out a hum and landed. He placed a hand on Virgil’s shoulder, but when he ripped away, he settled for placing it on his own hip instead. “Maybe taking a break isn’t such a bad idea.”

Letting out a slow, shaky breath, Virgil let his arms relax a bit. “Yeah, that… That sounds good. I just don’t want to keep you guys from anything.”

“Personally, I don’t know of anything that would require our presence immediately,” Logan said. “You have nothing to worry about.”

“Logan! Logan!!”

“Logie!!”

Logan froze, eyes widening as he spun around. The others followed suit.

“Uh, Lo?” Patton asked. “Do you know them?”

Further down the path, and man and a woman were sprinting towards them. The man’s face was mostly covered by a dark blue cloak and medical mask, and the woman’s head by a hijab, but Logan didn’t need those details to know exactly who they were.

He blinked.

“Ah,” he said. “It’s my parents.”

“Your parents?!”

Before he could respond, the two tackled him to the ground.

The other three let out yelps and jumped to get them off, but were stopped by the sound of laughter. Logan wasn’t cringing or trying to get away; instead, his arms wrapped awkwardly around theirs, and he was laughing softly.

“Father, Esther, please!” he chuckled. “You’ll draw attention!”

“Oh, who’s gonna care?! All they’re seeing is a family that’s been separated for too long!” the man laughed.

Regardless, they pulled apart and climbed to their feet, pausing when they saw the wide eyes of the other three. The man gasped and pointed at them.

“You’re his teammates!” he exclaimed. “Patton, Roman, and Virgil, right?! You kids were fantastic today!”

The woman beamed and nodded, holding up a pair of balled fists. “A set of promising Huntsmen for sure! You’re the perfect team for our Logie!”

Virgil raised an eyebrow, smirk forming. “’Logie’?”

“Yes, it’s a term of endearment Esther has attributed to me,” Logan explained.

Patton smiled, leaning out just a bit from where he was hidden behind Roman. “Aw, that’s sweet.”

“You know what else is sweet?! That knock out you made!” his father laughed, punching Logan’s shoulder. “What a hit!”

“That Sanders kid really had no idea what was coming!” Esther added. She pulled him into a headlock. “Way to beat the competition!”

He grabbed him from the other side before pecking Esther on the lips and ruffling Logan’s hair. “Where’d you learn to fight like that?!”

Logan rolled his eyes. “Oh, I may have gotten a few tips over the years from a couple of exquisite Hunters…”

“You two are Hunters, aren’t you?” Roman asked. “What in the world are you doing here? I thought Logan said you were on a mission in Vacuo of some sort!”

Logan’s father scoffed and waved his hand. “And miss the chance to watch our son in his first big league tournament? Never!” He yanked the medical mask down to his neck and beamed a bright, white grin. “You can call me Virtus. Really, it’s so great to meet you guys! Thanks for taking care of our son!”

“Oh, we’re not—”

“We aren’t really—”

Virtus let out a loud laugh and threw his head back. “Humble kids, huh? Reminds me of my days back at Haven!”

His hood tipped over, causing long, dirty blond hair to spill out and over his shoulders. Logan ripped away and scrambled to snatch it up, stuffing it back into place without missing a beat.

“Father!” he hissed. “You must keep your hood up! What if someone saw?!”

Grimacing, Virtus clung tight to his hood and spun his head wildly; as soon as he was sure no one was looking, he let out a breath.

“That was a close one,” he muttered. He reached up and ruffled Logan’s hair. “Thanks, kid.”

Logan pulled away and fixed it, but not without a small smile. “Just be careful.”

“Hey, that’s our line!” Esther laughed. She ran a quick hand through his hair, as well; he sighed and let it remain mussed.

“Um,” Roman said, “Why, exactly, is it, that you have you keep yourself hidden at all times?”

Virtus winked. “Well, when you’re Hunters like us, you gotta keep your potential enemies on their toes in case they’re searching for you!”

Virgil paled. “What?”

“You never know who’s after you,” Esther added, leaning forward and waving her fingers. “Someone could be right here, hiding in the shadows, just waiting for their moment to strike!”

“Please, you two. We aren’t children,” Logan said. He crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow at them. “We know the dangers that come with being Hunters. I would appreciate it if you didn’t attempt to frighten my friends, especially considering the fact that we’ve already had a few encounters with people trying to kidnap us.”

Virtus grinned. “How can you be kidnapped if you’re not kids anymore?”

“Father.”

Patton let out a giggle and slammed his hand over his mouth; Logan shot him a sharp glare.

“Do not encourage him, Patton,” he huffed.

He coiled back further behind Roman. “Sorry…”

Roman paused, glancing over his shoulder as Logan’s parents went back to doting all over him. Patton had his arms wrapped around himself as tight as the film that he could still practically feel yanking the sword out of his hands. He was chewing on his lip hard enough that Roman feared he was about to draw blood; his brows were furrowed, and his eyes wide, glued to Virtus’s boots.

Ah, Roman thought.

He pushed his wing back to cover Patton’s field of vision, and then he let out a wail, throwing a hand over his forehead.

“Oh, how parched I am after all that fighting! And how foolish I am for having left my water bottle in our dorm!” he cried. He fell back against Patton, light enough to keep them from falling over. “Please, Patton, I beg of you, go fetch it for me before I perish!”

Virgil raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. “Roman, you can fly.”

“I beg thee, Patton!” he repeated. “And please, take our dear Virgil on this perilous journey! It could take weeks! Or months! Or however long it will take for a nap to replenish your energy!”

“Aw, you poor thing!” Patton exclaimed, muffled by the wing pressed against his face. “Of course we’ll go! Where’d you leave it?”

“I’m afraid I can’t remember! My mind is far too gone to recall! You’ll just have to spend however much time is needed to search for it!”

Logan rolled his eyes.

Patting Roman on the shoulder, Patton peered around and gave him a reassuring smile. “Don’t you worry, kiddo. Virgil and I will find it!” he declared. “Where can we find you? You probably need to sit somewhere…”

“Oh, thank you!” Roman stood up straight and turned, keeping a wing out between Patton and Virtus. “Just contact me on my scroll, I’ll let you know! You are a saint, dearest Patton!”

He nodded and grabbed Virgil by the hand, dragging him off without another word. As soon as they were out of sight, Roman smiled and turned back to the Lyceums.

“I hear Team AMBR is about to have their match,” he said. “Would any of you like to join me in watching what is sure to be an almost flawless victory from two skilled students, one handsome boyfriend, and their wonderful yet irritating leader?”

Logan raised an eyebrow. “I thought you were dying of dehydration?”

“Oh, no! That was just a ploy to get those two to go take a nap!” Roman admitted. “I don’t even own a water bottle, truthfully!”

“Roman, you realize that Patton is just going to spend his whole afternoon searching for that nonexistent water bottle instead, right?” Logan pointed out.

He paused, and then he shrugged. “I’m sure Virgil will figure it out and explain it to him.”

Logan sighed. He turned to face his parents and placed his hands behind his back. “Well, if it’s alright with you two, I would like to watch some more matches and evaluate the students of the other schools. I know you’ve probably seen more than enough fighting out in the field and aren’t too excited to watch more—”

“Are you kidding?! I was worried you were gonna say no!” Virtus exclaimed.

Logan and Roman blinked. “What?”

Esther laughed. “Oh, come on, you think it’s like this out in the field? It’s life or death out there!” she said. “Here, there are rules! You can root against your favorite team without worrying about the danger!”

“And your partner getting knocked out doesn’t mean they’re going to be killed,” Virtus added, shooting a wink at Roman.

“Besides, we’re not going to be here for the whole competition. As long as we’re spending time with you and your friends, Logie, we’d love to do whatever you guys want while we’ve got the time!”

“Oh. Um, well,” Logan stuttered, “Then I suppose we’d better get back to the colosseum before we miss many more matches.”

Esther and Roman cheered; she held up a hand, which he gave a high five with a twirl in the air. As he shot off back towards the airships, she grabbed Logan’s hand and dragged him along, pressing a rough kiss into his hair. He let out a noise of protest, but followed along anyway.

Virtus stayed still for a moment and crossed his arms, watching them go with a soft smile. A warmth settled in his chest; he glanced up at the clouds before looking back at Logan.

A flash of magenta caught his eye. His smile dropped.

A woman with a long ponytail was stepping off the ship just in front of his family. Her back was turned, but her tattered, pink cloak revealed enough armor and ammo for him to take note.

She looked to the side. Sunlight glinted off of the metal guard over her mouth.

“Father?”

Virtus blinked, glancing to where Logan stood, raising his eyebrows at him. By the time he looked back to where she was, the woman was gone.

Narrowing his eyes, he pulled the medical mask back over his mouth and headed towards the ship.

----

New Message from: [Deleted]

Hey!

New Message from: [Deleted]

How have you been?

New Message from: [Deleted]

I hope you’ve been good. We’ve been doing alright here!

New Message from: [Deleted]

We love and miss you a lot

New Message from: [Deleted]

Call me sometime, okay?

Delete Messages?

>YES< >NO<

----

“And that’s it! Team SVIJ wins the match for Haven Academy!”

Nila leapt out of her seat, throwing her arms out. “What?! No way! He totally had her cornered!”

“Were we watching the same match?!” Roman shot back. “She wiped the floor with him!”

“Um, did you see his use of Fire Dust?!”

As the stage began to reset, Logan slid down and pinched the bridge of his nose. “At this rate, the two of you are going to start attracting Grimm…”

“Oh, it’s all in good fun! Haven’t you ever placed your bets on a match?” Virtus asked.

“Considering you never allowed me to go to matches by myself, no, I haven’t.”

On the other side of Logan, Thamir laughed. “We can bet on this one, if you’d like.”

Logan raised an eyebrow. “Aren’t we both rooting for the same team?”

“Eh, like your dad said, it’s all in good fun. I’m sure they’ll understand,” Thamir replied. “Wanna wager… a cup of coffee?”

Logan smiled. “That sounds adequate.”

Thamir grinned and looked back at the field. “Good,” he said, “Cause I happen to know a nice little coffee shop down in Vale that’s got some pretty good stuff.”

“Oh? Which shop would that be?”

“Up next, we have Team SAMM of Atlas versus Team AMBR of Beacon!”

Roman screamed and shot into the air, gesturing wildly at the teams coming onto the field. “That’s my boyfriend!” he screeched. “That’s my boyfriend!”

“And your brother,” Lloyd called.

“Right, right, of course—Oh, look at how the light just accentuates his eyes! Look how handsome he is!”

“No wonder Anole doesn’t like them dating,” Thamir muttered.

Esther snorted and snuggled into Virtus’s arm. “That’s just young love.”

Riad turned around and waved up at Roman; in return, he beamed and shot a kiss. Grinning, Riad moved to give one back, but Anole grabbed him by the shoulders and turned him around to face the other team before he got the chance.

“C’mon, dude, focus,” he huffed.

Riad let out a soft laugh and got into a fighting position. “Right. I’m all ears.”

“No, you’re not,” Marjani giggled, pulling her swords out of their sheaths. “You’re a whole body!”

“Babe, please,” Bora sighed.

Across the way, one of the four girls in front of them laughed.

“Thank the gods you clarified. I would have shifted my whole strategy to fighting a giant ear if you hadn’t have said something,” the girl in pink said, pointing to her faded, cloudy eyes. She raised her eyebrows and smirked. “Might’ve just ruined your chances of winning, though.”

Anole returned the look. “Oh, I wouldn’t bet on that.”

The one in the long, purple dress chuckled. “I certainly wouldn’t, either. We’re practically guaranteed to win, regardless of what Sakiz thinks she’s dueling against.”

The smaller screens popped up around the stage and began to spin, and the two teams turned to watch them slow to a stop.

“What do we got?” Sakiz asked.

“They’ve got the Volcano Fields,” the girl with feathers poking out of her scalp answered. “We’ve got… Shit.”

“What?”

“The pirate ship,” the one in purple said. “In a pool.”

As the floor began to recede, the girl with feathers looked down at her metal arm and leg. “Shit,” she repeated.

The girl in all black turned to glare at AMBR, but kept her face towards her teammate. “Don’t worry, Myrtille,” she said, “we’ll keep you out of the water.”

As soon as the stages were set in place, the two teams jumped into their battle stances.

“What’s the plan, Anole?” Bora asked.

“Operation Four Square,” he answered. “Let’s knock these girls out as quick as we can.”

“In three… two… one…”

Myrtille looked to their leader. “Sakiz?”

“BEGIN!”

“Mauve, Ash, go!”

The girl in black shoved her chain into the hands of the girl in purple, who wrapped it around an arrow and fired it into the birds’ nest at the top of the mast. Ash spun her arm around Mauve’s waist and lifted her into the air just as the chain sent them flying after it.

“Don’t let them get the high ground!” Anole shouted.

Bora and Marjani sprinted towards the ship, each going in a wide arc on opposite sides of the remaining members of Team SAMM. Sakiz and Myrtille drew their weapons—a pair of machetes and an ice saw, respectively –and charged towards the boys.

Riad lifted his mace. “Plan?”

“Keep Myrtille out of the water and Sakiz out of the lava,” Anole ordered.

“That’s it?!”

Myrtille threw her saw down between them, and the two leapt apart.

“Do you have a better idea?!” Anole shot back.

Riad opened his mouth to respond, but Sakiz swung her machetes at Anole, drawing his attention away to dodge. Myrtille shot towards him just a second later, and Riad had to throw up his mace to block.

In the stands, Roman punched the air. “That’s right, don’t you touch my boyfriend!”

“Roman, this fight couldn’t continue if there was no contact,” Logan pointed out.

Calanthe let out a yell and began to repeatedly smack Lloyd’s arm, grinning as she pointed towards the ship. “Look! Look! They’re about to do that—that bounce-board thing they do!”

“Bounce-board thing?” Virtus repeated.

As Bora and Marjani made it to the bottom of the mast, Bora held out her scythe, and Marjani hopped onto the blade; she swung as hard as she could at an angle, and Marjani leapt off at the peak, sending her flying to about the height as the bird’s nest. As she began to descend again, she drew her swords and wedged one in between the planks.

Marjani glanced up just in time to see Mauve aiming an arrow directly at her face; she gasped and flung herself under the post, digging her other blade into the wood of the mast. The arrow slammed into the sand, just barely missing Bora as she sprinted her way up the mast. As soon as she was close enough, the girls latched hands, and Marjani pulled Bora up to stand next to her.

“What do you think, should we pull a ‘Bi-Bi’ on them?” she asked.

“You read my mind,” Bora replied.

She swung to the other side of the mast and threw her scythe up to the edge of the bird’s nest while Marjani jumped back and stuck both of her blades back between the boards. The two launched themselves into the air…

…Only to find Ash and Mauve standing back to back with their weapons already pointed towards them.

Mauve fired a black arrow, to which Marjani spun and sliced in half as Mauve hopped onto the edge and flipped backwards; she twisted to shove Marjani’s head into her bow and held it tight against her neck.

At the same time, Ash flung her chain to wrap around Bora, the sudden pinning of her arms causing her to drop her scythe. She yanked, and Bora went flying around the other side of the mast, slamming into Marjani just as Mauve leapt off of her, kicking her forward in the process. The chain continued its momentum, and within just a few seconds, the girls were wrapped tight around the mast.

“This is homophobic,” Marjani grunted.

Anole dove backwards and rolled as one of Sakiz’s blades swooped by, just barely tweaking the tip of his nose. As he slid to his feet and ground to a stop, he felt one of his shoes crunch at the very edge of the lava field. He shot it a glance and cursed, moving to raise his bow to push Sakiz back, but she slammed both of her machetes down and pushed him further onto the rock.

She gave him one final shove before spinning and raising her weapons; Anole took this chance to snap his bow apart, and he flung one half around her wrist just before she could strike.

He whipped her around, realizing a second too late that they’d been standing mere feet away from a bubbling lava pit. Holding back a yelp, he fired a shot of Gravity Dust and yanked her back just as her foot scraped against the drop. She slammed into his chest with a high-pitched yelp, and he held her tight. A plume of lava shot into the air.

“Watch yourself!” he exclaimed.

Sakiz slammed the top of her head into his chin; as he stumbled back, she slammed a punch into his stomach, and a knee into his face.

“Don’t make those jokes,” she growled.

Guilt and heat shot up his spine, and he waved his hands.

“I—N-No, that—That wasn’t what I meant!”

Letting out a yell, she whirled around and kicked him in the head, knocking him to the ground.

Metal clinked and clanked as Myrtille and Riad parried, inching their way back and forth into each other’s space with each hit. They glared and kept their eyes close on the other’s, neither daring to look away. The strain and the autumn heat mixed into sweat dripping down their foreheads; a drop fell into Riad’s eye, but he forced himself to ignore the intense stinging.

Myrtille suddenly reached way back and spun her ice saw before gripping it tight with two hands and stabbing it towards Riad. He twisted just out of reach; while she readied another attack, he pressed a button on his mace and slammed it into the ground. She jumped just in time to avoid the sheet of ice spreading, but slipped as soon as she landed, hitting the ground with an Oomph!

Riad took a second to glance up at the scoreboard, and then over towards the bird’s nest; eyes widening, he whirled around towards their leader.

“Anole, the girls!”

He snapped his head up to follow his teammate’s gaze, letting out a curse as soon as he spotted them. Sakiz let out a yell as she slammed her machetes down; he rolled out of the way just as they made contact with the floor. Anole used the momentum to slide to his feet and sprinted forward, tackling her just long enough to wrap his bow string around her waist. Firing another Gravity Dust bullet, he leapt into the air, dragging her with him, and twisted.

As soon as he unwrapped his weapon, he put his feet on her stomach and kicked her, sending her into the Volcano Field and him towards the water. He watched close to make sure she landed safely—if roughly —on one of the rocky hills.

“Don’t move!” he yelled, before he sunk into the water.

Riad threw his hands out, glancing back at Sakiz before shooting a glare towards where Anole had disappeared. “Bro!”

His legs were suddenly swept out from underneath him, and he and Myrtille slid across the field, him struggling to get his calves out of her grip while she kept pushing them towards the edge of the ice. He dug the spikes of his mace down to try to slow them, using a bit of Fire Dust to help the cause, but she punched it away with her metal arm. The force ripped the handle from him, and he watched with an outstretched hand as it slid out of reach.

They finally made it to tile; the rough tiles burned Riad’s bare arms as they skidded across. He moved to kick Myrtille away, but she held him firm stood, pressing a foot onto his chest.

“Ha! Gotcha!” she exclaimed.

Movement caught his eye; he looked over to watch Sakiz as she carefully felt her way around and tried to find a way down.

“Don’t move,” she mockingly said under her breath, using her foot to search for a good place to put it. “How about you don’t tell me what to—”

A shriek slipped out of her throat as a rock crumbled; she slid down a steep edge, digging her fingers into the ground as her legs and torso began to dangle in mid-air, right over a bubbling pool of lava.

Riad let out a yelp of his own and snapped his head to look at Myrtille. “Dude, your leader—!”

“What, do you think I’m an idiot?!” she snapped. “I might be a starling, but that doesn’t make me a birdbrain! You can’t trick me into looking away as I’m going for the kill!”

Sakiz tried to pull herself up, only to lose her grip and fall another few inches. A pebble dropped and bounced off of her foot at just the right angle, landing on a loose boulder that was just out of her reach.

Myrtille lifted her ice saw like a golf club; Riad refused to look, forcing himself to try to remember anything and everything from those seemingly pointless math classes they’d all been forced to take.

Roman jumped to his feet. “Riad, get out of there!”

With a deep breath, Riad summoned as much aura into his fist as he possibly could and slammed it against the floor.

#sanders sides #sanders sides fanfiction #rwby #rwby au #prvl #alex writes

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nomnomsik · 5 years

Text

In Sync | Pt. 1

Summary: The dance teacher and choreographer, Jung Hoseok, appears as a guest for UNDER 19, a judge for the showdown round, with only half of all the trainees qualifying for the next round. Despite his intimidating manner, his interest in you, a trainee, must mean he wants you to qualify to the end, right? What happens if he wants something else from you, completely unrelated to dance?

Pairing: Dance Teacher!Hoseok x Trainee/Idol Fem!Reader

Genre: Slow-burn, Idol!AU

Word Count: 4.6K

Trigger warnings: yandere-themes, manipulation, profanity, possessive tendencies, and panic attacks. Please read with caution.

≿————- ❈ ————-≾

The squeak of about fifty pair of sneakers echoed throughout the whole room, dozens of teenagers staring at their reflections in the mirror as they monitored each move and expression. From fierceness to elegance etched in their face, arm to leg movements that swiftly carried them throughout the room, the entire space was filled with harsh breathing, pants, and the fluttering of clothing.

The door to the large dance room creaked open, some of the trainees halting in their tracks as they stared at the door through the reflection of the mirror, while others turned around in nervousness. Your movements slowed down as you came to a stop, your eyes fixated on the door from the mirror. You stood up straight, arms crossed with sweat riding down your forehead. As you took labored breaths, your legs cried out, begging to sit down but you firmly stood in place.

“Good morning, everyone.”

“Good morning!” The class roared in unison, bowing in a straight 90-degree angle before snapping their heads up.

Following the director, stood a man in black hair, his piercing eyes scanning each student, some flinching back in fear. As his intense eyes met yours, you held your gaze, your eyes staring straight back at him. As the man kept his gaze on you, he continued to walk to the middle of the room, before giving you a smirk and breaking eye contact.

“Everyone, line up.” The director’s stern voice caused a quiet shuffling as you lined up behind your own team members. “Today, we have a special guest who will be teaching all of you for a week.”

Some of the trainees squealed in excitement, instantly recognizing him as you stared curiously at the young gentleman, who was probably not older than 25. His black cap sat on top of his head, sunglasses joined at the front of it with his hair tucked underneath his hat.

“Some of you may recognize him.” The director acknowledged, before instructing his hands at the guest. “Please introduce yourself.”

“Hello, everyone. My name is Jung Hoseok. It’s a pleasure to meet you all.” His sweet voice echoed off the walls and carried a hidden tone underneath, almost threatening and viperous as his eyes seemed to meet each trainee. “I can’t wait to see all of your abilities. Please do your best and intrigue me.” You watched as his wet and pink tongue slipped from out his mouth, swiping and licking his lips before hiding back in.

“Today’s objective and the round will be ‘Outside the Box.’”

The director stepped forward, his hands folded together as he quickly explained the rules. “You will be trying out a different style of dancing, all assisted by Mr. Jung here. In the end, you will be versing someone from another team. However, each member is evaluated individually, no group performances, and not the same choreography for an entire group. The only thing is that the group must have the same dancing style. Half of you will be eliminated by Mr. Jung.”

A large gasp erupted from the trainees as murmurs quickly filled up, overpowering the director’s voice. Shuffling of sneakers and disbelief coming from the mouths of the trainees overwhelmed the director as he tried to bring their attention back.

A loud whistle sliced through the room as all the trainees hushed, bringing their attention back to the center of the room. Hoseok stood there smiling, his slender fingers coming down from his mouth as he clapped his hands together.

“Now, are you all going to pay attention or not?”

His booming voice stood over everyone as a warning, as most students cowered in fear, lowering their heads down to avoid his dangerously sharp eyes. “Now that’s better.” Hoseok smiled again, his voice seeming to mock all the students.

He took a step toward the several lines, looking at the leaders of each, his eyes once again meeting the determined look that you held. “Five minutes. Decide what each one of you will be learning in five minutes. I’ll give you a quick lesson for each.”

All the rookies huddled together, whispering as they worriedly looked at each other.

Five minutes?! Is he crazy?! Does he think this is a joke? How can we decide in just five minutes?

You ignored the complaints coming from the other groups as you quickly sat your group down, everyone sitting in a circle as the tension began to build up. “So what are we doing?” A girl squealed from your group, looking at you for guidance.

“Hip Hop?” You questioned, not sure yourself. What was outside the box for you? “We can try something new, I guess? What does everyone think?” You inquired, trying to suppress the worry that was growing in your body, anxiousness building up as you tried to put up a facade of confidence.

“Yea, we can do that!”

“I agree!”

Your group came to a general consensus, with only some members muttering that it didn’t fit the objective well. As your members stood up, Hoseok’s eyes perked up at the first group with an idea. He took slow strides, his chin up in an intimidating banner as his arms folded across his chest.

“Well, what will your group be learning today?”

“Hip hop.” You collectively spoke, looking up at him, trying to stay strong despite his suffocating aura. His eyes dulled out for a second, a sort of unhappiness lacing his expression as he nodded and directed you to the mirrors. It was an instinct that shot through your body as Hoseok brought you to the mirrors. He was disappointed, but why? Was he expecting something more? Was hip hop too-

“You.” He called out, your eyes meeting in the mirror.

Was he talking to you?

His face seemed to suggest that as his voice, laced with seriousness spoke out for almost all to hear. “Are you zoning out? You better focus.”

You flushed in embarrassment, muttering a small apology as you lower your head in shame. The other girls in your group gave a worried stare, feeling sympathy as you hung your head, ashamed. Even though everyone was in a dancing position, Hoseok relaxed, standing up normally even those the other girls had their knees bent on his instructions.

“Where are your manners? Look me in the eyes and apologize.”

“I-I’m sorry…” You whimpered, barely holding your gaze. He turned back to the mirror as you listened to hushed laughs and scoffs behind you as you dejectedly followed his directions. You couldn’t believe he just embarrassed you with the cameras on, your cheeks flushing red as you suppressed the tears pricking at your eyes.

As he dismissed your group, you furrowed your eyebrows, trying to forget the embarrassing accident.

Was that it? It didn’t seem very difficult. The few moves he taught, certain techniques for body rolls and ways to position your feet for better posture, weren't as complex as you thought they would be.

“Pff…” A laugh erupted from behind you as you turned around, only to roll your eyes. “You should be ashamed, y/n, really.”

“Ugh, shut up, SuAh, before I clock you.” You glared at the smaller girl, turning away from her.

“Try it.” She challenged, huffing. “I’d love to see you kicked out, you piece of-” Her team member grabbed onto her as she tried to lunge herself at you, throwing a tantrum right in the other girl’s arms.

Your relationship with the annoying kid, fitting for a 14-year-old, and your 4-year difference made you frustrated and annoyed with her antics. Not only was she one of the youngest trainees in the program, but she was the opposite of the word, humble. She boasted about her age, bleeding everyone’s ears as she paraded around in the hallways of the dorms. She was a brat, to sum it up, making unnecessarily rude comments and making fun of other peoples’ misfortunes or mistakes.

What made you absolutely erupt in anger was when SuAh decided to mock the trainees who were unable to pass the next round, getting kicked from the program. As she sat in the lounging area, sucking on a lollipop in the most annoying way possible, her legs obstructing other people’s way, you couldn’t stand more than five minutes of her yapping.

And she knew.

She noticed the way you shot her a nasty glare from across the room when she had some unnecessary comments about other trainees or the way she objectified male trainees, from their looks and skills, believing she was never in the wrong.

“Can’t you ever just shut up?” You had spat, forced to be in the same lounging room as her.

“What are you jealous that I’m more popular based on fan voting? Ha, I knew you would be.”

You took a deep breath, refusing to lift up the book you were reading and launch it right in her face. SuAh scoffed, knowing she was right, which infuriated you even more because she wasn’t. At all. You wanted to crush this girl into pieces, teach her a few things, but you knew the consequences if you did. You trained hard to become an idol, yet SuAh’s existence made you sometimes question how hard you should work.

Just tolerate the stupid 14-year-old, y/n. Be the mature one.

“What’s going on?” Hoseok interrupted, coming between the two groups. He shot an intense glare at SuAh as she immediately calmed down, her member releasing her as she hid behind her back. SuAh had the nerve to point at you, her arm shaking as if to shift the blame on you. Your mouth widened as you took offense to her short and stupid finger.

“Are you serious?” You deadpanned, shaking your head in disappointment. Hoseok took a look at the two females, tapping his chin. You wouldn’t be surprised if he was planning a death game between the two of you, from his curled up lips and the elation in his eyes. “Oh boy…” You sighed, giving yourself a mental reminder to forget SuAh’s existence the next time you come into practice.

“I’ll be deciding who you face off against,” Hoseok stated as a matter of factly, earning the attention of all the trainees in the room. “And the first showdown with be the two young ladies here.”

You expected a worse punishment, but upon hearing his words, you sighed in relief. The eased looked in your face struck a nerve in Hoseok’s body as irritation began to take over. He licked his lips ready to call you out, but turned the other way, walking from the commotion. You thought it was going to be easy? He had a surprise for you.

For the next couple of days, you ate and slept in the practice room, only getting kicked out when you were forced back to the dorm. Every second of your life involved dancing, not only to go to the next round but to also wipe that disgusting smirk off SuAh’s face.

As you stood in front of the mirrors, the practice room filled up at the busiest part of the day, Hoseok stood next to you, giving you a few pointers before he had to move onto the next student.

“Keep your back straight!” He shouted over the other voices in the room, his arms coming up to your back, pushing it forward. “Stick out your chest. You need to be more confident.” He demonstrated as an example, his arms coming up to display his perfectly straight back and chest.

You breathed heavily, sweat running from your forehead, drenching the back of your shirt, and rolling down your neck. With a loud thud, your feet collapsed onto the floor as you took a thirty-second break, Hoseok hovering above you.

“Your stamina is weak.” He stated bluntly. “You’re going to have to put more effort if you want to impress me.”

You sent him a glare from the ground, to which he chuckled, feeling no intimidation in your dirty look. Thirty seconds on the dot, you stood back on your two feet, practicing over your choreography as Hoseok watched every movement like a hawk. He smiled as each arm movement and facial expressions was executed perfectly, a satisfying feeling building up in his stomach, watching in greed to train you on his own.

“Good. Good.” He nodded, following along. He gave you two claps before moving onto the next student.

Every day was carried the same, Hoseok watching over you for a few minutes, before moving on. Even though you didn’t notice at the time, he spent more time with you than any other student. He would try to hide his disinterest with the other trainees, wanting to focus more time into sharpening your skills. You were too enamored in your practice to notice his preference in you, assuming he spent the same amount of time with all the trainees.

The week flew by as the day for the showdown approached. Every snarky comment that came out of SuAh’s mouth was filtered immediately, to the point where she was growing frustrated. There was only one thing she hated the most: being ignored. If she couldn’t get herself into other trainee’s minds, there was a disadvantage for her. So as you stood in front of the studio mirror, stretching your body and cracking your neck and back, she felt on edge.

You walked toward the center of the room, eyes closed and arms at your side, waiting for the upcoming introduction of your chosen song.

Pumping your chest and arms to the heavy beat and bass that vibrated throughout the studio. Hoseok sat at the table, pen in hand ready to mark the paper that sat in front of him, his eyes analyzing every facial expression, foot placement, and body movement. The amazed gasps from the trainees did not faze you as you continued to synchronize your body to the rhythm. There was a slight bounce of Hoseok’s head to the beat as you challengingly met his gaze.

The rush of adrenaline riled you up as you worked through the intricate footwork and the snap and pop of your muscles.

Your body ached as you had to survive the last minute of your complex routine, large shifts of altitude, from down to the floor to springing yourself up, you struggled to control your breathing. But when the satisfying last note echoed in a bang, you pumped up your fist in triumph, knowing you killed the performance.

A round of applause met you as you looked back up, a wide smile on your face as you waved to the several cameras in the room. When you looked back at Hoseok, he was buried deep into his sheet, marking and evaluating your performance. You bowed, walking over to your team, giving several satisfying high-fives, and sitting down to watch the next performance.

It was SuAh’s performance. She chose ballet, definitely something the trainees have never practiced for. You didn’t know the criteria for ballet, so you watched in confusion, unsure how she was being graded. But, you could see Hoseok’s eyes examine every move she made. In your opinion, you could tell it was not the most graceful thing you’ve ever seen, but her pointed feet were impressive.

It was obvious she had done before.

When her performance came to an end, she also earned a round of applause as you walked to the center of the room to join her. The two of you stood in front of Hoseok, your hands folded as you patiently waited for his remarks. SuAh took a glance at your face, slightly irritated at how calmly you stood, how your straight back exuded a subtle confidence that she despised.

Hoseok looked at both of you, his pen repeatedly tapping his chin as a camera smile graced his lips. Something about how fake he was on camera made you sigh internally.

“So, for our first round. I was disappointed and surprised at both of your performances.”

Both of you nodded, ready for his critique. Hoseok continued on. “For y/n, I was disappointed in the concept you picked but was surprised how precisely executed it was. So well done.”

You let out a soft “thank you”, a small smile gracing your lips.

“For SuAh, I was disappointed by the lack of moves, but I understand that technique in ballet is difficult. I also was surprised you were daring to even pick that concept, so well done.”

She gave her fake camera smile even though you could tell she was not happy with his evaluation. Any critique towards her dancing always seemed as worthless criticism. If it wasn’t completely positive, SuAh was never happy. Her fists were clenched as she held in her anger, aware of the cameras recording her.

“So,” Hoseok began, placing both papers on top of each other. “My evaluation is that-”

“Y/n, you will not be advancing to the next round.”

Time stopped as your wide eyes stared at him, a hidden smirk that seemed to be masked under his face as he showed a smile to the camera. His statement seemed to mock your breathlessness as the room burst into cheers and groans, seemingly to split in half.

SuAh jumped up in joy, a wide smile on her face as she sprinted into the arms of her team members.

“I did it! I won! I won!”

You slowly straightened your legs out as you brought both hands to your chest, trying to stop the crushing pain that constricted tightly. You desperately sought out your team members as they too, stood frozen, just staring at you with pity. You were out and you not only lost the showdown, but also a moral battle between the most despicable trainee in the entire show.

Walking with your head down, not sure whether it was embarrassment or shame, your group accepted you back in, one of the girls bringing their hand up your face. As her hands caressed your cheek, only then did you realize you were crying. Realizing how devastating the defeat only made your throat constrict harder as more tears streamed down your face. The girl frantically tried to wipe all the tears, rubbing your back soothingly.

“You did your best. Just know that.”

You zoned out for the rest of the program, unable to watch and cheer for your own members, completely engulfed in sadness. Many of the members who failed just like you did cried out in frustration, joining you by the back of the room. You swore you could feel SuAh smugly looking at you from the other side of the room.

I guess she’s the better dancer then.

As the cameras slowly came to a close, staff bowing and waving their goodbyes for the day, your body sagged against the wall, the other trainees who had also lost, slowly rising to their feet. Yet, you sat there, staring off into the distance at nothing in particular. It was until a blob of black colors appeared in your vision that you looked up, only to be met with the eyes you had grown to hate.

“Are you disappointed that you lost to SuAh?”

You had expected his voice to mock your defeat, but instead, he stood in front of you like a respectable teacher, trying to guide a student.

“I’m surprised I lost.”

Hoseok hummed, shoving his hands into his pocket as his gaze shifted to a demeaning look. “Overconfidence?” He questioned, almost as if he was explaining the exact reason why you lost.

“No. I danced better than her. I know I can dance better than her. I am the better dancer. I worked so much harder!”

“But you lost.”

“Oh, I wonder why.” You rolled your eyes, huffing in your spot on the floor.

Hoseok erupted in laughter, turning the other way to suppress his smile. “You didn’t even follow the objective of the match, and you’re mad?”

Before you could argue your point that what you did followed the task, Hoseok cut you off. “You lost when you chose hip hop. This round was meant to challenge you as a dancer, to do something you’ve never tried before. Also don’t lie to my face saying, ‘oh but I really never danced in the hip hop style.’ because we both know that’s so not true.”

Hoseok continued. “Whatever the other person’s name was, she wasn’t as good in technique, but that wasn’t the point. The concept had to be an interesting factor.” Hoseok continued, your confidence dropping lower and lower.

“But…Y-you…” You looked away ashamed. “You approved it and told me I was doing well!”

"Oh, you thought I'd let u win because I've been showing an interest in you? Cute of you." Hoseok taunted, causing you to rise up from the floor.

“That’s not…!”

Hoseok rose his palm in the air, silencing you and continuing. "As much as the industry cares about influence and power, often biasing a certain individual, which I guess you had the right mentality going in, my decision is final.”

You were in a loss for words as Hoseok’s hand came up to your chin, tapping it playfully, his face shooting you a confidence smirk before letting you go. He turned on his heel, leaving you alone in the dancing studio, giving a nonchalant goodbye wave. You had expected to be defeated again, but instead, rage burned through your body at the man who continued to insult you in every sentence he put out.

As Hoseok stepped outside, he grinned to himself as he pulled out his phone. After waiting a few seconds for the other line to pick up, he chuckled.

“I have a proposal for you.”

≿————- ❈ ————-≾

“BigHit?”

“Yes! We will send up a follow-up email to you about the details. But we would love to give you a tour around the company's facility and hopefully get you signed as a trainee! Have a nice day!” The bright sound of the women’s voice died out, as the phone clicked off.

After the recent airing of the showdown episode, you had expected to receive a few calls from companies, scouting you to become a trainee under them. However, the only and last company to contact you was BigHit. It was demoralizing for you to only receive one company. Yet their eagerness to sign you as a trainee made you feel a bit better. The image of an amazing trainee was slowly diminishing within each passing day.

So as you walked over to the building, the fall weather coming out, chilly winds passing by as steam escaped from your lips, you noticed a difference. Maybe it was the nice weather, or maybe it was the warm welcome from the staff, but you really liked the resources given you to.

From artistic freedom to a range of teachers to be taught under, you had quickly signed to be one of their trainees that day.

You met a few dance teachers, each explaining their specialty, with BigHit encouraging you to pick the teacher that best suited your style. You appreciated their concerns and all the dancer teachers seemed skilled. However, as your guide entered the next room, you were with the familiar black blob of hair.

“Hello-”

You gawked, staring at the one-week dance instructor, who had not only humiliated you on television but also made the decision for your loss. Hoseok stood in front of the set of mirrors, stretching. As you both made eye contact, Hoseok slowly smirked, recognizing you immediately. It was a devious look that sent a bad feeling through your mind.

“Wait outside,” Hoseok commanded at the person standing next to you, the guide hesitating and flinching as he spoke to him. But when Hoseok shot him an intimidating glare, the guide scrambled out of the door.

Hoseok waltzed over to you, a baggy white tank top revealing his biceps and slender arms. From his oversized grey sweatpants to his red and white Nike Air Jordans, you hated to admit that he looked handsome. You could even tell that he was working out prior to his damp hair that fell in front of his forehead.

“Well, well, well, I can’t believe I have the honor of meeting you here.” He smiled.

“You’re crazy if you think I’m going to train under you.” You spoke irritably.

“I didn’t even say anything, angel.” He grumbled.

“Don’t call me that...” You muttered, rolling your eyes.

“What if I said it’s because you dance like an angel?” Hoseok smirked, anticipating your reaction. You tried to suppress the way you wanted to gag, but Hoseok only found it endearing.

“Just...stop…” You sighed, squeezing your eyes in cringe.

However, as you opened your eyes, Hoseok’s forehead connected with yours. His piercing eyes stared deep into your soul, his arms coming up to firmly plant you into the floor.

“I want you to train under me.” He growled as if it was an order.

“What?!” You almost shrieked, trying to push him off. “You’re the one that failed me and you want me to be your student?!”

Hoseok grunted, maintaining his tight grip on your shoulders.

“I failed you so you would come to BigHit. I failed you so I, me, Jung Hoseok, could train you.”

“You, what?!”

“Your talents should be enriched under me!” He raised his voice, a sort of desperation underlying his words. “I wanted you to myself. I wanted to use your talents and determination. Your work ethic is what I want from my students.”

Hoseok sighed, almost in pleasure. “When I look at you, I see so much potential. So much potential to force this disgusting industry to accept you. You want that too, right? I know you do when I see that look that burns in your eyes.”

“Second-rate trainees looking for the short way out will never make it. I’ve seen them and I’ve even trained some. They’re all pathetic. But when I look at you, there’s so much the future holds for you.” His hand caressed your cheek. “I’ll make sure it does.”

You stood speechless as Hoseok stood in front of you, not as a dance instructor, not as the man who humiliated you, but as a person who had seen first-hand and experienced this dreadful industry. His words were real and honest. He cared enough about you to tell you the truth, his heartfelt words revealing his truth and genuine intentions.

“If you accept to be trained under me, you will undergo so much pain. Your body will be scorched like you've never felt before, but you will reach the top, I promise you that.”

“W-why me?” You whispered, your fingers bundling the cotton of your shirt as you stared fearfully at Hoseok. “There must be other people like me, who are determined just the same, right? But why...” Your voice slowly trailed off as Hoseok looked like he was about to laugh at you.

“Is it wrong to want someone to succeed? Someone who reminds me of myself back then?” He gave you a tender smile, his lips curling up at the top of his teeth peaked through his lips. “I can see your passion. It’s not for fame and fortune but it’s because you like to sing and dance.”

“There is also a part of me that wants to succeed with you. I lost my chance back then to debut. People would say I’m too old now. Nowadays, kids debut in their teens.” His voice trailed off, a calming atmosphere coming over the two of you.

His arms released you, his feet slowly backing away from you as both of your eyes locked with each other.

“So, will you be trained under me or not, angel?”

[Part 2]

#yandere bts #yandere hoseok #yandere hoseok x reader #bts series #bts hoseok #hoseok x reader #yandere jhope #jhope x reader #bts jhope #yandere jhope x reader

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forgottenpasta · 5 years

Text

Teach Me Dirty (m)

➤ Summary: Taehyung has a lot to teach his English teacher. Fortunately for him, you’re an eager and willing pupil.

➤ Taehyung x Reader

➤ Warnings: Oppa Kink, Unprotected Rough Sex, Oral Sex, Urethral Stimulation, Squirting, Fingering, Creampie, Pregnancy Risk(?)

➤ Word Count: 2.9k

➤ A/n: This is something I wrote a long while back, recently made some changes and decided to put it up. If the writing looks weird, then its probably because some parts were written more than a year ago. Also wrap it before you tap it please. Enjoy :D

Your feet moved fast on the pavement, breath laboured as you rushed past the pedestrians on the busy footpath. For the first time you were late for your tutoring session.

A tutoring session with the most coveted heartthrobs of the nation.

How did you get this job? Well, family ties tend to take people a long way. Just that one right connection and poof, you’re being paid 3 times more for a job that would otherwise make chump change for a person with way more experience than you. You were just an average university student who took a one year foreign exchange program with one of the biggest universities in South Korea.

Until you came here and the weight of the living expenses almost drove you to starvation. The scholarship only covered your tuition and the extra menial jobs didn’t even come close to paying the full rent of your apartment.

Fortunately and through sheer luck, your uncle was an old friend of Bang Si Hyuk.

You’d met him before on family gatherings and other such occasions and he was almost like an uncle to you too. He trusted you. You’d mentioned in passing that you were a literature major and joked about having no money and no life in the typical self condescending humour of someone trying to look cool in front of an intimidating elder. The next day you had an email siting in your inbox asking for your credentials and an interview for a teaching position with his entertainment company.

The thought had crossed your mind that you were ultimately selected only because of your uncle, because it couldn’t possibly be that half a million English teachers wouldn’t jump at the chance of teaching Bangtan. But you didn’t want to hear the truth, so you’d never brought it up to either your uncle or the Bighit CEO.

It had been a month into your new job and you still weren’t used to teaching boys who made your hands tremble and palms sweat with just one casual look in your direction. And you knew that they knew that you were a fumbling, nervous mess in front of them 90% of the time. At least they were gracious enough to not laugh at you or point out how maladroit you were for this job.

Well, except for one person that is

The familiar quickening of your heart meant that you were going to be one single jittery girl in between seven testosterone filled sex-on-legs boys who probably thought of you as their daily one hour of free amusement.

But when you opened the door to their dorm after a quick customary knock, Taehyung was the only face you could see. Sitting on the long couch, he munched on an apple while a wildlife documentary played on the television.

Of course it had to be him.

He glanced at you lazily as you entered the living room. "You're late. The others left."

"Huh.", you huffed, still catching your breath as you put your heavy bag full of assignments down. "Where?"

He gave you a playful smile which did not match the heat in his roving eyes at all. A slow once over of you from head to tow. When his eyes reached yours again he tilted his head, as if in approval.

"For practice. Our comeback is soon. You know that, Ms. __.”

A shiver rushed down your spine at the way he said "Ms.__". He was the only one who called you that, the rest just calling you __-ssi. Apparently, calling you Miss instead of the honorific made the English lessons more "immersive" for him.

His words not yours.

You gulped. "And you didn't go?"

He gave you a wide eyed innocent stare. "I couldn't leave you here alone. Besides you gave me a punishment last time remember?"

You raised an eyebrow. His puppy dog eyes always spelled trouble for you.

"You told me I'd get an F in evaluation if I didn't complete my assignment this time."

Right. The assignment. Every other member, even Jeongguk who struggled with English, had completed it. But for some reason Taehyung always day dreamed in class instead.

Daydreamed or gave you heated stares which made you blush in unspeakable places. More than once you’d caught him staring at your legs.

"Okay." You sat down on the carpet in front of the coffee table. "Give it to me."

His voice went husky. "Give what to you, Ms.__?” He joined you on the floor, sitting so close your knees were almost touching.

He always did this. Turned your conversations into sexual innuendos, while purposefully teasing you.

You gave him a stern look and held out your hand. "Your assignment."

His cute box smile made an appearance."Of course." He grabbed a paper from the side table and handed it to you.

Ugh. He could go from intense sex god to aegyo expert in a second. It gave you whiplash.

You grabbed your marker to evaluate him when he spoke again, shifting even closer to you. "Are you sure you want to read it though? I was brutally honest with my answers."

His deep baritone so close to your ear made goosebumps break out on your skin. You tried your best to ignore the lack of proximity between you.

"Good. Honest answers are exactly what I want.” You opened the front page.

"Don't say I didn't warn you."

You furrowed your brows but ignored him, focusing on correcting his English.

1. Write a compliment for someone you admire.

~ Ms. __ has the most kissable lips ever.

Your breath caught in your throat and your heart raced a mile a minute. You hadn't expected this. You could feel Taehyung's heated gaze on you.

2. What is your biggest motivation to wake up in the morning?

You were sure his answer would be regarding their fan base, the Armys being his motivation. That's what most of the other members had written.

Boy, were you wrong.

~ Seeing Ms.___ in short skirts.

You didn’t dare look up at him. Your face was ten different shades of red.

3. What is the one wish you want to fulfill?

~ My English teacher's long legs wrapped around me while I fuck her against her precious blackboard.

Your eyes almost popped out your sockets as you looked up at the blackboard you had had installed in their dorm during the first week of your classes.

"Are you thinking about it, Ms.___?", his whisper snapped you out of you daze.

You blushed even more, if that was even possible. You had been imagining you both doing it against the blackboard.

Face screaming embarrassment, you looked at him finally. The top buttons of his shirt were unbuttoned, you realised for the first time. His hard pecs visible.

He smirked. "My eyes are up here, Ms.___."

"Hmm.", you snapped your eyes up, your own chest heaving with heavy breaths. "Taehyung-ssi you can't write-"

His lips crashed down on yours.

He moved his mouth against yours roughly, then softly, with expert ease that scrambled your brain and made all thoughts in any language nigh impossible. You were in sync when he moved above you, placing his large hands on your dainty shoulders and pushing you back on the carpet.

"Kiss me back, __.", he breathed harshly against your mouth. You gasped at him calling you by your name.

And he took the opportunity to thrust his tongue into your mouth, tasting yours. Your mouths made a frenzied mess as you couldn't hold yourself back anymore, pushing your hands in his soft hair, you clutched him even closer.

His tongue moved in and out of his mouth, mimicking his pelvis between your now open legs.

You moaned loudly at a particularly harsh thrust between your legs, your core pulsing with pleasure.

He broke the kiss abruptly, a string of saliva still connecting your mouths. "Say my name.", he ordered as he ground himself against you. The hard outline of his dick stimulated all your right places. Apparently he was generously endowed, and with that you had knowledge about something you were sure a good percentage of their fan population would want to know.

"Taehyung!", you screamed as you felt yourself gushing down there. Your panties were ruined and you could smell your arousal clear in the air.

"Properly!", he scolded, clutching your jaw in his hand. "I'm older than you."

"Taehyung oppa...", you trailed off as one more thrust made you topple off the edge. "Aahhhh.", you moaned as spasms after spasms of uncontrollable pleasure fired your nerve endings, your orgasm crashing through you out of left feild.

A first off. It usually took you at least thirty minutes to come by your own fingers and he hadn’t even touched you and you had went off in two.

He gave you no time to be mortified though.

When you finally opened your eyes after coming down from your orgasm induced high, you saw Taehyung smirking down at you. He clearly wasn't done with you yet.

"That's one out of the way. Shall we focus on making you come again now, Ms.___?", he asked, trailing his hands under your shirt before pulling it over your head.

The cool air on your naked breasts made you shiver. So did his reverent gaze. You hadn't been wearing a bra.

“Fuck. Such a tease. I knew you were purposefully driving me wild." He unhooked the belt on your short shorts, then proceeded to pull them off you, leaving you in your panties. "All these shorts and mini skirts. And don't get me started on those crop tops. I’ve wanted you beneath me since the first moment you stepped inside our dorm, all awkward, clumsy and so fucking sexy I could barely restrain myself from eating you out in front of my members.”

“I’m not gonna restrain myself now.” He hovered over you now, scooping down for a quick kiss as you still couldn't feel your limbs after the earth shattering climax. "Tell me you want this,__." , he pleaded desperately against your lips. "Please. I'll go insane if you stop me right now."

You pulled his shirt over his head in response, trailing both your hands down his toned chest and abdomen. "I want this.", you whispered just as urgently.

"Good girl." He moved your panties to the side, abruptly entering one long finger inside you. You grabbed at his hand as your eyes rolled back in your head when he sought and found your g-spot in less than a second, pressing against it in a circular motion.

His head swooped down covering you nipple with bites and nibbles. He took one in his mouth, suckling for a minute before doing the same to your other breast. Both his finger and his mouth were sending you to heaven.

He was good at multitasking.

Not wanting to be a passive lover, you pushed your hands inside his sweatpants and boxers, taking his thick cock in both your hands. He was rock hard and hot as you stroked his long length up and down.

"Fuck, baby.", he groaned against your breasts, his rhythm faltering between your legs. He sat back up and pulled your hands out of his pants.

"What?", you whined. He pecked your lips.

"I won't last long if you continue that. When I come it'll be inside you."

With those words he moved between your knees, pulling his own finger out of you. Only to replace it with his hot mouth on your core.

"Oppaaa!" Dizzying pleasure overwhelmed you when he caressed your sensitive clit with his tongue in a manner that told you he wanted to take his time enjoying eating your pussy. One finger circled your entrance delicately, only pushing inside shallowly to make you keen with wanting something to fill you up asap. Preferably his engorged cock.

“Your pussy tastes divine,__. I could spend hours between your legs.” A wide lick up your inner labia punctuated his praise of your cunt. Then he went exploring, parting your folds to go deeper, to the parts of you no one, including you, had ever even thought to stimulate. Pulling apart your labia with his fingers, he tongued your urethra, digging at a hole too small to penetrate and a shock of forbidden sensation jolted through you.

“Taehyung! What are you—”

“Do you squirt, baby?”

You peeped down at him, your heaving breasts small mountains of obstruction to your line of sight. He grinned against your pussy, a mischievous glint in his eyes setting you on edge.

“N-no, I haven’t before.”

“Great.” He gave your cunt an open mouthed smooch. “Lets see if you can.”

With one thumb he pulled back the hood of your clit, exposing the sensitive bundle to his hungry gaze. Two fingers slid inside your entrance with a slick sound, thrusting in and out, making you clench yourself around his digits. Then the torture began.

He would lick your clit till you felt your high approaching, his fingers exerting the exact amount of pressure on your g-spot as he drove them in you in shallow thrusts. Just when you started spasming around his fingers, he would slow them down, a smirk on his face as he abandoned your clit for the tiny hole hidden deep in your folds. And a different kind of sensation would assault you, a pleasure-pressure you associated when you wanted to pee real bad but couldn’t.

“Tae! Oppa, I don’t- I wanna—“, you cried for something, you didn’t even know what. “Please!”

Then he backed off, and repeated the whole thing all over again. By the third time, you were a sobbing mess, tears running down your temples from the way he denied your orgasm multiple times.

Grabbing his thick hair in tufts, you made him look up at you. “No no. Tae please, let me come.”

He tsked, pouting. “I will, Ms.__. But you taste so fucking sweet I just can’t help delaying the inevitable.”

“You can eat me out anytime, alright!”, you almost shouted at his cavalier tone. “Just let me come right now.”

Taehyung brightened up at that, like you’d just handed him a trophy. “I’m gonna hold you to that, Ms __. Don’t think you can back off later.”

“Whatever. Just make me come!”

He happily dove back down, fucking you with his finger with a renewed vigour as he finally took your clit in his mouth instead of giving it teasing licks.

“Oh, fuck, yes!”

That forbidden, delicious pressure built again, peaking into a crescendo as Taehyung pressed your every right pleasure point, his fingers thrusting into your pussy with a rough speed that sent you to heaven on earth.

“Tae, I’m gonna— Oh my god!”

Taehyung pulled his head back at the last minute, watching with a delighted groan as your abused pussy gushed clear liquid in quick streams, drenching you and the carpet below as your hips involuntary lifted with spasms.

“Fuck, that is such a pretty sight. I knew I could make you squirt.”

Taehyung pulled his fingers out of you abruptly, rushing to shuck his pants and boxers. Evidently, he’d had enough of neglecting his own needs. He lined up against your well lubricated opening while you were still coming down from your climax.

He didn't give you a moment to breathe before he pushed inside. Seating himself inside you completely, bottoming out and stuffing you so full, you twitched when the smouldering embers of pleasure flared up in your core again.

"You're so fucking tight,__.", he exclaimed. Even after two orgasms your walls clasped around him greedily, making him throb inside your tight sheath.

"Baby.", he called turning your face up with a hand on your chin. His fingers smelled like your arousal. Desire reflected in both your gazes. "Keep your eyes on me while I fuck you.”, he commanded, slowly pulling his thick length out of you, only to glide back in with a satisfied grunt. “I want it rough, is that okay?”

"Yes, oppa." You clutched his back, your nails digging in as he increased his speed. Overstimulation making you more desperate, you moved your pelvis along with his, meeting each and everyone of his downward thrusts. It was frenzied attempt to reach the fastest route to the finish. He gripped your hips harshly, leveraging himself with his feet to fuck down into you with brisk precision.

Taehyung made sure to go in deep though, letting you feel the tip of his cock against your cervix with every drive of his hips, pummelling your cunt into complete submission.

Your foreheads touching, you breathed each other's air, never breaking eye contact.

"You look so beautiful underneath me, baby.", he grunted. "So wet yet so tight. You're gripping me so tight...", his words turned into incoherent, half complete whispers and sweet nothings. He thrusted in you with lightening speed now, both of you so close to finishing.

"I-I'm gonna...", you gasped feeling herself losing control once again.

"No. Wait for me. Together baby."

You wrapped your legs around Taehyung, clenching your core muscles to delay your climax. "Faster, oppa.", you moaned.

"Almost." He thrusted twice. "There." One more time. "Now, __.”

You let yourself go. At the same time you felt Taehyung come as he emptied himself inside of you. He groaned your name like a plea, slowing down.

You raked your nails down his back, aftershocks coursing through your every nerve. You felt like a limp noodle and you weren’t sure you’d ever be able to walk again.

Taehyung slumped down on top of you, his warm comforting weight felt relaxing. Lips moving on your neck as he leisurely gave you a few loving kisses.

After a minute he spoke.

"I hope you're on birth control."

Oh shit.

#bts fic #taehyung smut #bts smut #bts scenarios #bts fanfiction #bts x you #taehyung x reader #teach me dirty

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nubnubblr · 4 years

Text

If You Do. 26 A Day At 1Million Part 2

CHARLIE

"Good afternoon students, I'm Koosung and this is Charlie. We're going to teach you a few steps today," Koosung greeted the class.

I didn't feel much like putting on a happy face for students. Especially when one of those students was Bianca, and another was a dirty whore bag. Doobin's face seemed to reflect my mood, I was smart enough not to show it to the whole world though. His face did give me a small feeling of joy. It was fun knowing that he was jealous of Koosung, it was also entertaining to know that I was about to get payback for his little hallway stunt. I meant technically I did that already with the choreographer's position, but he doesn't know that yet.

"We'll start by stretching, then Mina and I will show you our dance and we will learn the steps bit by bit from there,"

"Doobin, why don't you come up here and show everyone how to stretch properly?" Koosung instructed.

"Shouldn't everyone already know how to stretch?" he raised an eyebrow.

"You and I both know that stretching, and stretching for dancing are different. If you don't want to take on the teaching position then just say so," Koosung retorted. Doobin rolled his eyes but get up anyway.

He stood in front of the rest of the students, gestured for them to stand up and started to stretch his arms.

"This is how you correctly stretch your arm muscles, if you look to your right you will see yourself stretching the arm muscles correctly but mirrored, if you look to your left, then you're not stretching correctly,"

"That kid has such an attitude today," Koosung shook his head.

"Wait until he finds out about the choreographer position," I mumbled.

"Yeah, I'm beginning to think you were right," he nodded.

"I'm always right," I pulled a face.

Once Koosung and I had finished discussing what where we were going to teach from, and everyone had stretched, we drew their attention back to us.

"Okay so this choreography wasn't completely created with a beginners class in mind, so we won't be expecting you to learn the whole thing, mostly just the part in the middle but we'll get to that after Charlie and I show you the routine,"

I tied my hair up on tot of my head and laid down on the floor next to Koosung using his arm as a pillow. I risked a slide glance at Doobin who looked like he was ready to kill Koosung, I had to clear my throat to stop myself for laughing.

Once we were finished everyone applauded, well, almost everyone. Doobin looked more pissed off and Bianca she gave me a judging look. I wasn't sure which entertained me more, actually, that was a lie, Doobin's irritation was the highlight of my day.

"Oh my gosh, you guys make such a cute couple," Alissa cooed.

"They're not a couple," Doobiin stated through clenched teeth.

"Not publicly," another student muttered.

"Okay, enough discussion about whether or not Charlie and I are dating," Koosung winked at me just to get a reaction out of the class.

"Would you stop? are we here to dance or talk?" I raised an eyebrow.

"I don't think you're here to do either," Bianca commented.

"Do you have something to share with the class?" I questioned.

"Not as much as you, apparently," she shrugged.

"I'm going to ignore that insinuation, but if you continue to be so careless with your opinions in my class then you won't be welcome," I stated.

"Very professional," Koosung muttered, but pretty much everyone heard him.

"That's not really how I would describe her," Bianca continued.

"One more comment and you'll be removed from my classroom," I warned.

"I didn't come here to dance anyway. I wonder if all of your colleagues or students know how freely you open your legs? Do they know that you just go around stealing other peoples boyfriends and ruining relationships?"

"Are you done?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Not even close,"

"Please continue," I gestured crossing my arms over my chest.

"The whole time I dated Sam you bullied me and made me look small,"

"Feel small," I corrected.

"See, just like that. You turned him against him so you could have him for yourself because you're a crazy lonely bitter person. I'm surprised you even have friends with how cruelly you treat people,"

"I'm surprised that you managed to say that and only screw up once," I shrugged,

"Did you consider what you were doing to Sam? He was happy with me,"

"Look, I understand you're upset about your breakup. But this is a class, all these students paid to be taught and you standing here discussing a personal matter is wasting both their time and money. If you wish to further discuss your grievances with me then please wait outside, if you wish to learn some choreography then please be quiet unless you have a question directly related to this class. If you don't want to do either of those things, then please leave and stop wasting everyone's time," I swear it almost killed me to be professional about it rather than tearing her down in front of everyone but I wasn't going to let her ruin my reputation here.

"Nice act," she retorted.

"Okay, please leave," Koosung stated.

"I paid for this lesson," she frowned.

"No, you paid to participate in this lesson, instead you're disrupting it and that's not fair on the other students," Koosung stated seriously.

"Whatever," she rolled her eyes walking out the door.

"Thanks,"

"She was disrupting the class," he shrugged as if it were nothing to do with me.

MARK

"Whitney," I called.

She walked into the office with a frown on her face, she did that when I yelled for her through the door instead of using a more polite way of calling for her. I didn't really see the point of calling her when she was right outside my door.

"Yes?"

"Can you set up a meeting with the organiser for the charity gala for this week some time, and send Jason up from the finance team, these numbers aren't right, and get HR up here, I want to know what's taking so long with Bit I g a receptionist, " I listed.

"Would you like me to go and get you lunch?" She raised an eyebrow.

"Actually, yeah that would be good," she just nodded knowingly.

"What?" I questioned.

"Nothing, you just get a little hangry around lunchtime," she shrugged leaving the room.

"I don't get hangry," I frowned after her.

CHARLIE

"Wrong," I frowned shaking my head.

"Stop picking on her," koosung mumbled.

"I'm not picking on her, she's wrong I'm trying to help her," I lied.

I had been irritated enough about Alissa being in the evaluation, how she was in my class? I mean I get why Doobin was here, but why was she? Was she following him?

So my irritation towards her came out in what I thought was helpful criticism, in the sense that it helped me get out my frustration. She had looked to Doobin a few times for help because it's not like he was shy about speaking out in class, be he just shrugged at her and looked away.

"Okay, let's break it down, step by step," I stated, we had already done that six times so it was understandable when half of the students groaned about it, she was the only one who kept messing up the moves.

"It's a beginners class guys, we all need to be on the same page," I said, knowing that the rest of the class was also getting annoyed with her. This way I wasn't the bad guy, I was just the teacher trying to help a student.

"Can't we just kick her out of class?" One of the other girls mumbled. It took a lot of effort to stop myself from laughing.

"Hey, we don't put other students down," I stated trying to reframe from smirking.

"We kicked the other girl out who was disrupting the class," someone else commented.

"Isn't there a beginners class for the beginners class?" A guy towards the back asked.

"Okay, why don't we take 5?" Koosung interjected.

Alyssa looked like she was going to cry, there were a few girls behind her mumbling about how she was picked for the choreographer's evaluation, one asked if she was sleeping with one of them. It almost killed me inside to be a teacher rather than agree with them.

"You two, out," I stated.

"Sorry?" One of them frowned.

"Out of my class,"

"Why?"

"We have a no-bullying policy, making comments like that, even if you're joking, can ruin someone's career. I'm not going to have gossiping teenagers in my classroom. This is a beginners class not everyone will be at the same level, you should be supporting each other,"

"I thought she was an advanced student though?"

"Whether she is or isn't, is not the concern here. It's also not your business, and making jokes about a student sleeping with a teacher to get ahead is belittling the professionalism a d undermining the reputation of all the choreographers here. This may just be a class for you, but this is our job, our livelihood and we take pride in it, so, I'll tell you again. Get out of my classroom,"

I wasn't really sure when that had even come from, maybe the fact I didn't have anything solid to kick Alissa out, maybe the fact I was still pissed about Bianca, probably the fact that I had actually slept with a student.

"Are you okay today?" Koosung asked.

"I'm fine,"

"I think maybe you should go home after this class," he gave me a concerned look.

"I have a second class and then I have to go to work,"

"I'll take your second class,"

"No, you won't,"

~~~~~~~

I swear I couldn't get away from him, the second class I had today I was a little relieved to have because I was sure that Doobin wouldn't be in it, it was like the room was sucked of oxygen he strolled on, Jacob right behind him.

"Hey," he smirked. Jacob smacked him in the back of the head.

"Ow," he frowned.

"Stop flirting with the teacher," he reprimanded.

"Go sit down," I stated nosing towards the group of students already sitting on the floor stretching.

I waited a few more minutes for the last of my students to arrive before I stressed the class.

"Hey guys, I hope you remember the choreography from last week, we are going to be carrying on from where we left off," I began, I noticed Doobin and Jacob muttering to each other. I ignored it and continued on.

"We will do a quick recap just to jog your memories, who would like to brave the stage and show us what we learnt last week?" I asked, a few faces paled, a few others looked away, Doobin and Jacob were still whispering away.

"I will," a girl who's name I don't remember, volunteered.

"Come on up," I stated playing the song, I could only half concentrate on when she was doing because o could see Doobin and Jacob in the mirror mumbling away.

"I'm sorry," I paused the song. She frowned looking a little frightened.

"Was I wrong?" She asked sheepishly.

"No, I'm sorry you were fine. Doobin and Jacob, is there something you wish to share with the class?"

"I mean not really, but if you want me to I can," Doobin shrugged.

"Either be quiet and show a little respect to your classmate ore share whatever it is with the class so we can all understand what is so engaging that you fi d it necessary to discuss I'm my classroom,"

"Okay, we were just talking about how attractive you are," he smirked.

"Get out," I sighed.

"You told me to share,"

"And now I'm telling you to get out, I've had enough of rude students today, I'm not in the mood for any more. So out,"

"Told you," Jacob mumbled.

"Both of you," I raised an eyebrow.

"What did he do?" Doobin frowned.

"You were both talking when you should have been focusing your attention towards the student that was standing in front of the whole class. Unless you are talking to yourself, both of you stand up and leave my class,"

"Are you kidding?" Doobin frowned at me.

"Do I look like I'm kidding?" I raised an eyebrow.

He just stared at me stunned for a moment before Jacob ushered him out of the room, but not before apologising. I heard a few of the students mumbling about how I was harsh and mean but it didn't really phase me.

THEA

I pulled into the parking lot to wait for Sam, Charlie had to be at the dance studio all day so she couldn't bring him and BM just sits there with him the whole time feeling guilty so I guess that's why Sam asked me if I could drive him.

I hummed along to the song on the radio, while I waited. I had only been sitting there for 5 minutes when I saw Sam walk out the door of the physiotherapy building. I frowned when I noticed he wasn't alone, he had a short blond girl walking out beside him, she was wearing a knee brace and using crutches so maybe she was just another patient he had started talking to?

He hugged her, giving her his bandaid smile, I let out a sigh. That was the smile he gave girls when he had started dating them, I called it the bandaid smile because he only ever dated a new girl when he was trying to distract himself from Charlie, but she was still there.

He made his way over to the car and got in the passenger's seat without saying any more than a hey.

"So, who was that?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Oh, you say that?" he rubbed the back of his neck.

"No, I've been sitting here with my eyes closed," I frowned.

"That's just another patient," he shrugged nonchalantly.

"Right,"

"What?"

"Just another patient that you're friends with or just another patient you're dating?" I questioned.

"Why? Do you want to date me?"

"What? Ew, no," I frowned.

"I'm offended,"

"I've had no interest in dating you since the first five minutes after I met you when I noticed the longing love for Charlie you had in your eyes,"

"I did not have longing love for Charlie five minutes into meeting you guys," he frowned at me.

"No, you fell in love with you the second you saw her, there was just like five minutes between you meeting her and me showing up," I shrugged.

"How would you know if you weren't even there?"

"Because I know you, so who was she?"

"She's just a girl I've been texting," he muttered.

"You thought you had diverted my attention away from the fact you have a new girlfriend?"

"She's not my girlfriend, she's just not, not, my girlfriend,"

Charlie was going to be so pissed when she found out. Unless she didn't find out, Sam wasn't about to tell her and if I didn't then she wouldn't know. Except if she finds out I knew when she learns about it later, then she is going to be so pissed at me. I could have just left the whole thing alone and then I wouldn't be in this situation.

CHARLIE

I let out a long breath collapsing into the couch, my body was sore and I was drained, mostly emotionally, it had been a very trying day.

Doobin had tried to talk to me after class, that I wouldn't let him back into. Jacob had apologised again before leaving/ I had somehow managed to ignore Doobin and retreated home before I caved. I was sure that the only reason I didn't talk to him was that I was worried about Shawn noticing something going on between us.

The first thing I'd done when I got home was have a shower, Sam and Jae were here and I don't know why but I felt like if I didn't shower Jae would be able to tell that I was fighting the desire to have sex with a 19-year-old all day. He has a really weird sixth sense for other peoples sex lives.

"Whose shirt is that?" Sam frowned.

"Jae's" I shrugged. Who else's would it be?

"That's not mine," Jae shook his head.

"Who else's would it be?" I looked down at the shirt, I had definitely seen it on someone before. I stopped breathing for a moment when I realised who I had seen wearing it.

"You bought it a few months ago," I tried to shrug the topic off.

"I've never worn that shirt before, I'm not sure I've even seen it," Jae tilted his head.

"How many shirts have you bought and never worn? You probably bought it because there was a two for one deal, you never really pay attention to the second item because all you hear is free. Let's be real here, how many items of your clothing that you've never worn, are in Charlie's wardrobe?" Thea stepped in to help me when she realised that the shirt was actually Doobin's.

"You have a point," he nodded.

"Did you just agree with me?" Thea looked mortified.

"Anyway, you can keep that one, it's almost as ugly as Thea," he shook his head.

"Why don't you just choke," Thea rolled her eyes huffing at him.

"I wouldn't want to take your job," he retorted.

"But you do it so much better,"

"I do a lot of things better than you, that, however, is not one of them,"

"Why are you even here?" Thea muttered leaving the room before Jae could hit back at here, not that it stopped him.

"So you can feed me, that is your what you're studying towards,"

"I'm studying to feed people with some class, not someone who would eat a soggy slice cardboard if someone smeared some sauce on it," she stormed back down the hallway.

"Would you two stop?"

"I'll stop when he leaves," Thea huffed.

"I'll leave once you've fed me," Jae retorted.

"I'll feed you something," Thea muttered leaving the room.

"That's why I'm here" he yelled back at here.

"Dude, stop," I rolled my eyes.

THEA

So after Jae and Sam had eaten and left, with some leftovers for BM, I sat down on the couch next to Charlie and debated how to tell her about Sam's new interest. I wasn't really sure how to bring it up, it's not like I could just blurt it out, I mean I could but I probably shouldn't.

"How did Sam's appointment go?" Charlie asked. In an attempt to not blurt it out I had been a little lost in thought, so when Charlie spoke unexpectedly, it scared the truth out of me.

"Sam has a new girlfriend," I word vomited.

"I'm sorry, what?" she frowned at me.

"I mean Sam said that they aren't dating but they aren't not dating either," I clarified.

"How do you know this?"

"I saw them walking out of the clinic together, they seemed pretty friendly, so I asked him about it," I shrugged.

"She's not Beunka, so that's a start, I guess," Charlie stated.

It was pretty clear all over her face that she was pissed about it though, I guess it's better than not telling her, this way she's not mad at me. But I didn't want to be Sam right now, and I really wouldn't want to be Sam's not plaything. Because let's be honest, that's exactly what she is, his plaything to distract himself from Charlie for a little while until he gets bored and decides to focus his attention back on Charlie.

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magnolia-penn · 4 years

Text

Aizawa.Exe

Just a drabble that ended up being waaaay too long.

Warnings: Swearing, Mentions of sex, Shitty writing

Under the cut cuz it’s long af

Life has never quite gone your way. There would be high moments that came with teaching high schoolers that strove to become heroes but the loneliness was unbearable. Living in Japan away from your family and friends left a hole in your heart that only got deeper after every failed date or hookup.

You had often joked about your high standards with your colleagues at UA, even to the point of openly wishing for a Build Your Own Boyfriend website. Everyone had laughed but continued to reprimand you for having your standards too high.

It was on your walk home that the ad had first caught your attention.

“Are your standards too high?” The smooth female advert cut through your epic jam session. “Well, do we have a solution for you.”

The advertisement had listed off a website that would allow you to custom order an intelligent robot that would learn and grow to your needs.

You blew it off as clickbait and skipped the ad as soon as you could. You finished your walk home and promptly took a shower. A certain ash blond in your heroics class had chased another student into the forest and you had to chase the both of them down.

As you settled into your nightly routine, you found it hard to keep your mind from wandering back to the ad, imagining the sort of man you’d order.

‘He’d have to be at least six feet tall and handsome as the devil. Hmm, punctual and unafraid to sleep until noon with a sense of humor.’

You continued to play with that idea through the evening and into your slumber, dreaming of what he might look like and how he would feel.

The next morning, you were awoken by a very flustered and excited Nemuri, who let herself in again.

“Y/N! Y/N! Y/N! HAVE YOU SEEN THIS!” The R rated hero shoved her phone into your face before you had even opened your eyes to process what was going on.

Her web browser was open to the website you heard about yesterday.

“YOU CAN CUSTOM ORDER A ROBOT BISHIE BOYFRIEND! THEY EVEN HAVE A COLONEL SANDERS!”

“Nem, you’re an absolute horndog and you don’t need a bishie boyfriend Colonel Sanders. What time is it?” You pulled some hair that had stuck you face via drool from your mouth and stretched.

“ITS 5:45 AM!”

“NEMURI WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK!”

You wrestled her into your guest bedroom and pushed an old wardrobe infront of the door to keep her in while you finished getting your beauty sleep.

When 7:00 rolled around, you released your friend and listened to her rant about the website over breakfast.

“Just look at it, Y/N. Please~” You swiped her phone from her hand and scrolles through the other tabs that held customization screens.

“Oh lord.” They had an entire tab for just his manhood.

“Pretty great, huh?”

The idea of customizing a boyfriend almost seemed taboo to you.

“It sounds like it could be clickbait or a way to steal your credit card information.” You returned her phone and turned to the stove to flip the egg you were cooking.

“Uh huh. And what if I told its not?” Nemuri pushes her chest against your back.

“Get off me, and how?” You gently pushed her away from you.

“I ordered one. He came last week.” The smirk she gave proved she was not kidding. “He’s absolutely perfect. After classes today, you can come and see him.”

She really did it? Strangely enough, you’re not surprised she did that.

“Wait, what about Snipe?” You thought everything was going smooth between them.

“Well, our relationship just was kind of a blur between dating and friends with benefits. Our sex was more chill and relaxed then it ever was actually passionate.” Nemuri reached into a cabinet and grabbed a plate.

You nodded in understanding. The majority of your dates ended up in friendships then actual relationships.

“And when I heard the ad for the boyfriend builder, he told me to get one. He said, and I quote, ‘You should get him. He’d make a better relationship. But if y'all ever need a real fuck, you know where to find me,’. AND I DID!”

Nemuri danced around with her egg on a plate before she sat down.

“Have you done anything with it yet?” You sat across from her and tilted your head in curiosity.

“Oh yes. We’ve been on dates and Hizashi is the absolute sweetest. I can’t wait to ravage him.”

“Hizashi?” It had a name?

She nodded. “The website has a name generator that you can use. They base their names off of the set personality. It chose Hizashi Yamada.”

“He sounds sweet.”

“Yep! He’s really loud though. They grow with you, so it’s understandable.”

You almost choked on your egg hearing that. “They’re practically sentient?!”

Nemuri nodded and quickly finished her egg. She washed her plate and announced that she had to go get ready for school. You followed her words and proceeded to get dressed. You lay everything out in the evening, so it didn’t take long to get ready.

As you ran a comb through your hair, you opened the website on your phone. Deciding that there isn’t much to lose, you began to fill the order form out.

Six feet tall, Long Dark Hair, Just Enough Stubble To Be Sexy. The list went on. You managed to fill it out just in time to leave.

The daily trek to UA was as boring as ever, until you heard an strange noise. An animal in distress. Choosing that you’d rather be late to work then leave an animal hurt in the streets, you followed the noise. It lead to deep in an alley not far off your route.

You sifted through some garbage bags until you found the source of the noise. It was a mother cat with two little kittens. They were sickly thin and clearly struggling to survive.

Evaluating your options, you came to the conclusion that instead of wasting more time to bring them to the vet all the way across town, you used your quirk to convince the mama cat to let you pick her and her babies up and quickly called up Recovery Girl to cash in a favor she owed you.

She agreed to help the cats and keep them in her office until the end of the day so you could take them home. Rushing to her office and then to your class left you breathless and dead on the floor in front of your students.

“Um, Miss. L/n? Are you alright?” Your problem student, Izuku Midoriya, asked.

“DANDY! JUST DANDY!” You yelled through the muffle of your hair and the floor. “I saved three cats from right outside my house, which is a half an hour walk from here, ran here, ran to Recovery Girl’s office, then up two flights of stairs to get here. I’m pooped.”

You got up and brushed yourself off. After apologizing to your class, you read off the daily announcements. You handed out graded papers and assisted students where they needed it until it was time for their first class of the day.

Using your free time, you stopped in to actually chat with Recovery Girl and check on the cats.

“They were malnourished and most likely wouldn’t of survived another day out there. Both kittens are sick but should recover swiftly, and the mom is already up and walking.” She explained.

“Have you figured out their genders?” You planned on keeping them and wished to find names for them as soon as possible.

“Ones a girl and the other is a boy. Are you going to keep them?”

You shook your head yes and squatted down to pet the mama who came up for some love. “I like the name Kayuma for the mother, but I still need some time for the babies. Maybe I’ll ask my class.”

Recovery Girl agreed and wrote some notes on the cats. You picked Kayuma up and pulled your phone from your pocket. You wanted to get a picture with your new cat, but your attention was pulled to a notification that went unnoticed.

Your order has been shipped! The package should arrive by 4pm!

“It’s already been shipped?” You wondered out loud.

“What’s been shipped?” You jumped at the new voice. Toshinori Yagi.

“Ah, some pet supplies for the cats. I ordered some after reading the announcements.” Technically not a lie because you really did.

“Oh! Already thinking about the newest additions to your family, how lovely.” Toshinori put a hand on your shoulder and gave a reassuring squeeze. “If you ever need any help or a cat-sitter, you can always ask me. My master loved cats so I know a thing or two.”

“Thanks for the offer, Tosh. You’ll be the first I call.”

The bell rung signaling the start of lunch and had the three of you scrambling to prepare for the second half of the day.

A few brief meetings and some class prep later, the day had finally ended. You sent out a quick email to your students asking about names for the cats and packed up your stuff, ready to go home and meet your new boyfriend.

“Hey! Y/n! Wait up!” Nemuri bounced up to you and clung to your arm. “Are you going to come over tonight?”

“Um…. No. I have the cats and I have to get everything ready for them.” You rubbed the back of your neck sheepishly, hoping she wouldn’t catch on.

“Uh huh. How about Hizashi and I come by to meet your new boy?” Nemuri placed her hand on her hip knowing full well that you weren’t paying attention to what she said.

“Oh yes, that would be lovely.” It took a bit before you processed what she said. “NEMURI, WAIT! THE CATS! I THOUGHT YOU MEANT THE CATS!”

“NOPE! WE’RE COMING OVER!” Nemuri skipped away before you could get a word in otherwise, leaving you alone and quite exasperated.

You picked up the cats and trekked home, a feat easier said than done with three now energetic cats in your arms. You pushed the door of your house open with your foot.

Sighing, you let the cats roam for a bit as you set up the litter box and feeders from previous pets. It was almost four and the nerves were getting to you. Watching the new kittens romp around the living room while Kayuma lied on a pillow by the heating vent.

‘I hope my bot likes cats. I want so many.’ You didn’t get much time to think about your new boyfriend due to Nemuri and Hizashi bursting in at exactly four.

“WHERE IS HEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!” Nemuri squealed as soon as she entered the living room.

“Hey! He hasn’t arrived yet. Do you see a large crate?” Hizashi placed a hand on her shoulder to keep her from pouncing on you. “I apologize for her, she’s terribly excited.”

“Oh yeah, I know. She’s literally vibrating with excitement. I don’t think she’s calmed down since high school.” You stood from the couch where you had placed yourself in preparation for her outburst. “My name is Y/n Y/L. Nem sings praises of your name.”

“I’m Hizashi Yamada. She speaks about you quite often.” He extended his hand and you took it.

Your eyes widened at the warmth of his hand. You weren’t expecting him to feel so…

“Real? Is that what you were thinking?” Hizashi’s words startled you from your thoughts. “It’s always that look when people know I’m a robot.”

“I hope I didn’t offend you! I just wasn’t expecting it.”

“Nah, it’s fine. Better to get the shock over with me then with him.” Hizashi pointed to the door a second before a knock resonated through off of the front door.

You walked to the door and opened it up. A beautiful woman was standing next to a six-foot large wooden crate. She resembled Nemuri.

“Hello! My name is Kiara! Thank you for ordering a Boyfriend! May we come in?” You nodded and open the door wider.

She picked up the crate with a trolley and rolled it into the house. She wheeled it into the living room and stopped in surprise when she saw Nemuri and Hizashi.

“Well, hello! How have you two been faring?” She set the crate down and stepped up to Hizashi. “You’re looking good.”

“We’ve been fine. How about you?” Hizashi responded.

“Oh, you know, delivering joy and boyfriends. My life and passion.” Kiara patted his shoulder and turned back to you. “Hizashi is probably one of my best. I’m so proud he got placed with my amazing cousin.”

Nemuri blushed and buried her face in Hizashi’s neck.

“Do you… Do you make them all?” You looked to the crate and to Hizashi.

“Yep! I hand make all of them! My quirk makes it super easy to finish quickly!” She clapped her hands together and her expression turned serious. “But enough about me. It’s now about you and your future!”

She quickly walked over to the crate and pulled the front off, revealing your new bot.

No, Boyfriend.

He was everything you imagined him to be. He was just right. He was perfect. He was…

NAKED

You quickly moved to throw a blanket over him while Nemuri cackled like a witch.

“Hah! You should’ve seen the look on your face! Oh, I should’ve gotten a picture!”

“YOU NEVER METIONED THAT THEY COME NAKED!”

“i DIDN’T FEEL THE NEED TOO!”

With that exchange, the two pro heroes pounced on each other in fight of friendly anger. With the attention on them, no one noticed the man in the crate open his eyes to the harsh light of the world.

He looked down and noticed the blanket draped haphazardly across his body before readjusting it around his waist and stepping out of his container.

A brief glance around with apathetic eyes shown that the room he was in was loud and obnoxious. Two people stood idly by as another two women fought on the floor. He padded up to the group undetected and observed the others in the room. With every attempt to tear his attention away from your form, the pull to you was overpowering.

Everything about you was mesmerizing. From your H/c hair to the gentle pull of your clothing around your curves. He was enthralled, absolutely enchanted.

“What the fuck is going on here. You two are squealing like pigs in the slaughter.” His mouth moved on its own, bringing the attention to him.

The look in our eyes is something that he’ll treasure forever. It was sweet and full of excitement and love. How he knew this, the answer never came to him, but he knew it was love and all he wanted was to see that look on your face forever.

“Oh! He’s awake! How are you feeling?” The woman in the business suit asked.

“Tired.” As much as he tried, he could not pry his eyes away from you. “Yet, I feel so full of energy.”

The only other male nodded. “Yep. When I first woke up, I felt like that.”

He cast his gaze to the male for as long as he could before his eyes trailed back to you. He smirked and took a step closer to you.

“Are you like us?”

You shook your head ‘no’, “Sadly, I am not. But I promise to love you like we are the same.”

“What’s his name?” The bluette asked suddenly. “Didja get one picked out from the site or did you have one in mind?”

With their eyes on you, it hit you like a truck when you realized that not only did you not have a name picked out for him, you forgot to click the enabler for the name generator.

“Shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit,” you dragged out. “I was so busy with classes and the cats that I forgot. Ughhhhhhhhhhhhh. I’m a shitty girlfriend.”

“Cats?” He asked.

“Yeah. Three cats. They’re around here somewhere.” You flopped dramatically onto your couch and buried your face in your arms.

“Well, we could help. I made him and I know Hizashi’s creative. Not too sure about Midnight though.” Kiara suggested.

“Thanks Kiara. Nem, don’t take any offense to that. She doesn’t know you the way I do.” You peeked at your friends through your hair and noticed that your boyfriend has disappeared. Probably to find the cats.

“She’s right though.” Hizashi snickered.

Nemuri tackled him to the ground and all you could do was watch while they wrestled on the ground.

Suddenly, a knock at the door made you all jump.

“Shit, who is that?” You cursed before standing to get to the door when you heard it open.

A faint, “Um, hello sir. Is Y/n home?” was heard and then some shuffling. Toshinori.

“You’re fucked.” Nemuri said from the floor.

“Yeah, no shit.”

Not a second later, Toshinori followed him into the room where you all were. Thankfully he had found some clothes.

“Hey, Tosh~” You tried to say as casual as you could. “What brings you to this part of town?”

“Y/n, I live down the street from you and you left your papers back at U.A.” Toshinori held up the stack of paper you were certain you grabbed. “And I think you might have mine.”

“Oh yep! Probably. I was so frazzled and excited about the cats I must’ve grabbed the wrong stack. Here, come with me. They’re still in my bag.” You lead Toshinori into the hall where your bag was.

“The cats or him?” He asked and you choked on air.

“W-wait. You’ve got the wrong idea.”

“Uh huh. And what of that giant crate in your living room? It looks suspiciously like the one Nemuri threw out when she met her boyfriend.” He cocked an eyebrow at you.

“Ugh. You’re a dumbass but you’re too smart.” You looked around despite the fact everyone in the house already knew. “He’s a bot I ordered.”

“Do you like him?” He asked.

“Huh? I’m not sure.” You pulled your bag off of the hook and started rifling through it. “I’m definitely attracted to him, but feelings will take time.”

“Yet I can see the empathy in your eyes. There is some infatuation there.”

“LEAVE ME ALONE! STOP BEING SMART!” You found the papers and checked to see if they were his. “Here. Do you want to meet him? I was going to have everyone stay for dinner to get to know each other.”

Toshinori nodded and quickly tucked his papers in his bag.

You walked back into the living room and the sight made your heart swell. All three of the cats had curled up on his lap while he sat on the couch between Kiara and Hizashi as Nemuri brushed his hair. They were quietly chatting about the cats that paused when we came in.

“Didja get it all figured out?” Nemuri asked.

“Yep. And you’re all staying for dinner. No questions.” You crossed your arms. “And we have a big problem. His name.”

“Oh. We handled that already.” Hizashi said. “Nem emailed your class asking about real names for the cats and then we gathered the responses and let him choose.”

“And?”

“Shota Aizawa.”

That name sent fuzzy feelings through you. It sounded perfect to you.

“Shota Aizawa.” You repeated. It rolled off the tongue beautifully.

“That’s my name. Don’t wear it out. I just got it.” Shota quipped.

Nemuri coughed to hide a laugh and spit out her two-cents, “She’ll definitely be wearing it out tonight.”

You chucked a decorative pillow at her and went for the tackle.

As the two of you wrestled on the floor and the other three attempted to pry you two apart, Shota couldn’t help but to smile at the new family he was gifted.

#bnha #bnha aizawa #bnha midnight #bnha present mic #mha #mha aizawa #mha present mic #mha midnight #robot boyfriend #x reader #fanfic #fluffy

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mattpitman · 4 years

Text

Flummox.

There is a lot of confusion out in the world at the moment. We seem to be heading back to school in two weeks and I am worried that things will go back to how they were and much of the progress we have made in the past 2 months may be lost. I am grateful again, to live in this state (Victoria) and I feel the cautious approach was an educated way forward. As a science teacher I appreciate administering more tests, collecting more data, and conducting further analysis. But it seems that educated way of managing a serious pandemic might be lost in the Twitter feeds and Facebook posts of some others.

Either way, face to face or remote, continuous learning is so important.

Education is so important.

This weekend as I looked at the crowd forming outside Parliament House I thought: did our system let these people down? Who organised this random group? Are they just antagonists? A group of conspiracy theorists, anti-vaxxers and full-time Facebook posters?

Why haven’t they realised that is not Bill Gates’ house?

Education is so important.

Then there has been the absolute joke that stands for professional journalism. One Victorian newspaper in particular (no names, but I think you probably know), has had an absolute awful run of late; prediction disguised as fact and opinion disguised as policy. Those articles and those “journalists” are as dangerous as the virus. Dragging us further and further apart and away from the truth while masquerading as honest.

Why would you write and publish such rubbish?

Education is so important.

I am a bit of a “word nerd”. I love trying to bring back words that I subjectively believe do not get the frequency they deserve. The eye-rolls from my VCE students usually confirm that I am on to a winner. The word this week is: Flummox.

Flummox is to “confuse someone so much that they do not know what to do”.

Those protests, in my opinion, demonstrated a lack of critical thinking and autonomous thought. Adults who followed rather than determining their own path and who sort truth from their news feed. Future citizens need to be more equipped to deal with the onslaught of misinformation that has increasingly become the norm. I want citizens who ask before acting and question when flummoxed.

Looking at the confusion that is being created and the manner in which select “adults” are coping with it all, I can’t imagine what a young person is thinking as they try to digest everything that is thrown at them each day. Those protests and those articles, if nothing else, made me much more determined to ensure my students are constantly being challenged to question every time they join my classes online, face to face or otherwise.

I recently stumbled across (while randomly reading), Kent Beck’s article “The Product Development Triathlon” on Medium. Kent has a lot of ideas floating around the internet but the concept in this article is his 3x model for product development: explore, expand and extract.

“Explore: Successful exploration is unpredictable, so the highest expected value strategy is to reduce the cost of experimentation and put a little investment into many, uncorrelated experiments. If you’re lucky, one of these experiments turns out to be unexpectedly successful, which leads to:

Expand: Unanticipated bottlenecks appear. All you have time for is to eliminate the next bottleneck just before it derails you. Once growth becomes routine, it’s time to:

Extract: now the shape of the problem and solution spaces are clear. One euro in equals three euros out. Playbooks emerge: here’s how you roll out the service in a new city.”

Doesn’t this look a little like the transition to remote learning?

As a sector we dabbled in online learning, flipping a classroom here, trying an app or two there, then...

Drastic changes occur rapidly as our experimentation takes off and becomes the predominant method of delivery and communication. Those who had experimented more were perhaps better off than those who didn’t so much. Throughout his period we’ve come to bottleneck after bottleneck and managed to keep our classes running and our heads above water. In many cases we have also improved and increased the quality of our pedagogy and developed robust, contemporary learning programs. We are now in...

Extract. The “shape of the problem” is clear. We must maintain the ground we have covered as we return to school.

It might actually be more accurate to call this period that is approaching “explore”. I feel more than ever we are ready to take bigger risks and challenge what a lesson looks like. Our mindsets have shifted from purely “does this address the curriculum?” to “does this benefit the learner?” We can’t risk returning to a predictable way of operating. We need to explore for our students sake.

Finally.

I recently observed a huge increase in a student’s result on a formative assessment task. At first I was sceptical, I did some quick Google checks to ensure there weren’t obvious signs of plagiarism, but the student had produced those responses and completed that task by themselves. A parent teacher phone call confirmed that the student had sat quietly and completed the task without any additional assistance. I asked a student what had changed and they replied:

“I don’t have to worry about other students any more. I can ask you questions whenever I want. Asking questions really helped. I wasn’t worried about not knowing the answer because we talked about it already and I knew what I needed to do this time”.

Remote learning has removed the “noise” for this student and allowed them to perform at a much higher level.

I can’t and won’t say that remote learning works for everyone, but removing some of the “noise” created an environment of clarity, allowing this student to ask questions and avoid confusion. In the classroom, this particular student was so confused (flummoxed?) they likely didn’t know where to start.

Is some of that confusion my fault, of course! I am on my own learning journey, consistently trying to be better. The key is reflection. This change up has definitely provided me plenty of opportunities to take stock and re-evaluate. To stop and realise. This reflection is essential as we head back towards that classroom again. The next two weeks will be dedicated to designing my own “return to school program” in order to cater for all of my students: those who have embraced online and those who are desperate to return.

This pandemic is a horrible thing, but for this student (and myself) it provided the environment they needed to succeed. I am hoping there are plenty more student success stories to come as we continue to provide continuous learning programs all over the country. As we continue to explore, expand and extract we are all redefining what teaching is and what education looks like in 2020 and beyond.

Flummox is to “confuse someone so much that they do not know what to do”.

To flourish is to “grow or develop successfully”.

Whether it’s online or offline, let’s get all students from flummox to flourish.

Here’s a few things that have inspired me this past week as an educator and a leader:

Haileybury Teachers of the Future: Science

Haileybury are a school community that explored online learning before all of this happened and are kind enough to share their expertise in these webinars. The Science team delivered a very insightful program this week and the Junior School team are lined up for Thursday 21st May @ 4pm. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gr6cFaK

Artificial Intelligence(AI) in K-12

(https://emma-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/paqab/71de919fd20c5e29fc83197664a59888/CoSN_AI_Report_2020_R8_4.24.pdf)

Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) released this fascinating report exploring the augmentation of learning with A.I. rather than replacing the teacher. Well worth a look!

HGSE: Education now

(https://www.gse.harvard.edu/education-now)

Harvard University Graduate School of Education have been offering some great webinars early (for Australia) on Thursday mornings covering a variety of topics. Upcoming this week is “Teaching to Navigate Challenge and Uncertainty," a conversation with Sarah Dryden-Peterson (Ed.D.’09) about preparing young people — and ourselves — to adapt to change, confront inequities, and strengthen our communities in a time of turmoil. All of the previous offerings are available on the website. I highly recommend last weeks episode which featured current students on the panel.

Game Changers Podcast

(https://soundcloud.com/user-127023293/season-1-epilogue)

Adriano and Phil wrap up the first series of the podcast and set the stage for the second series which releases this week.

Image: dictionary.com (https://www.dictionary.com/e/s/funny-words/#flummox)

#education #theexistingreality #flummox #reflection #randomthoughts #random

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schrijverr · 4 years

Text

Professor Elric?

After The Promised Day Edward is sent on a miliary mission to Hogwarts where he will teach Alchemy to his students. He is told not to interfere with their business, but he has a hard time not getting involved with this weird Voldy prick.

On AO3.

Ships: none

Warnings: none

Chapter 5 out of 10

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

“I really don’t get him.” Hermione said frustrated, “He doesn’t want to be here, he doesn’t want to teach us and he doesn’t want to tell us everything about Alchemy, but he also doesn’t want to tell us why. And he has that stupid riddle that I can’t seem to figure out!”

They were in the library again and Hermione had told them what she had learned in Colonels Elric lesson, although it was mostly complaining about being sore. Harry and Ron didn’t really know how to help her and Harry wasn’t sure they should focus on Elric, especially with Umbridge running around. He tried to tell her that: “Hermione, I’m sure Elric is a mystery and all, but maybe Elric will be better than expected, but we already know Umbridge is evil.”

“Ugh, fine, but I will say I told you so if that’s not the case.” Hermione said with a pout, “So far Umbridge has only been giving undeserving detentions and punishments, but she is a Ministry spy and it will get worse, besides all that she isn’t teaching us. We need a way to be taught to defend ourselves.”

And that was that, she didn’t talk about Elric for the three weeks after, except complain about her aching muscles and the riddle, although she stopped with the last one, Harry and Ron figured she had the answer.

Edward was looking over his class, it had been a month since his first lesson and there were now sitting thirty eight students in his class that number would soon be down. He put his hands in his sides and said: “In front of you is a piece of paper. You will write what you think ‘All is One and One is All’ means on it. You will not talk with you neighbors or communicate in any other way. When you’re done you will hand your paper in and go back to your spot. You have ten minutes to write your answer down, the time starts now.”

He watched like Hawkeye as they started to write, some knew what they were doing and were quick to give him their piece of paper, other were obviously clueless and just doing something. When he had all their papers he went through the stack and divided it in two stacks. Then he said: “If I call your name stand up. Hermione Granger, Neville Longbottom, Draco Malfoy, Padma Patil, Dean Thomas, Hannah Abbott, ...”

He went on until twelve people were standing, he looked at them all and said: “Congratulations, you get to continue this course. The rest pack your bags, I’m sorry, but you’re not cut out for it.”

There was a bit of commotion as the others left the room. They all watched them leave with mixed emotions.

When they had all left Edward clapped in his hands to get their attention and said: “Now that’s done, we can get started. First we need to learn how to make a transmutation-circle to do that we need to know the symbols for the different materials. Write this down with me.”

And he started to write down the Alchemical alphabet down on the board, then he went on: “You need to know which elements you can turn into corresponding other elements. A transmutation exists of Comprehension, Deconstruction and Reconstruction, in short CDR. This part is comprehending which material you’re using and what material you can transmute it into.”

“We need to do something about Umbridge.” Hermione exclaimed as she went to sit down next to Ron and Harry in the common room.

“What happened?” Ron asked.

“She’s assigned as High Inquisitor, which means she gets to evaluate the other teachers and make rules. The Ministry is taking over.” Hermione told them.

They hadn’t transmuted in class yet, but Hermione had been surprised to learn that Mister Elric, he asked them to call him that, apparently he found Colonel too formal, was a good teacher. He knew what he was talking about and although he liked to lecture them and ask them questions while they were punching thing it seemed like he really loved Alchemy. He would sometimes get lost in his explanation, realize what he was doing and tell them to forget the last few minutes, because it would be too advanced. Yet, most of the time they could still follow him, at least a bit, he was great in telling them really complicated things in a very easy way.

He was a chill guy once they had learned to not comment on his height. Draco had once asked him if everyone in Amestris was shorter than here or if it was just Colonel Elric. After which Mister Elric had exploded: “WHO ARE YOU CALLING SO SHORT THEY COULDN’T BE SEEN BY A MAGNIFYING GLASS AND WOULD BE CRUSHED ACCIDENTALLY UNDER SOMEONES BOOT LIKE AN ANT BECAUSE THEY’RE SO LITTLE!”

Hermione had thought that Draco was pretty pale, but that showed that he had the ability to lose some more shades and turn completely white.

Today had been a normal lesson, a lesson like any other, but Hermione was still curious about why Mister Elric would hate magic and teach at a magic school, it just didn’t make sense. So when they were packing up she stuck her hand in the air and waited until she was called on, then she asked: “Sir, why do you teach at a magic school if you hate magic?”

Everyone fell silent as Mister Elric looked at her and raised both eyebrows, he then asked: “What gave you the impression I hated magic?”

Hermione flushed and repeated what Ron had told her: “Well, you once used witch as an insult and you hate it when people refer to Alchemy as magic, even though it is referred to as magic in all the books and you never use magic, so I guess that I just kind of, assumed.”

Mister Elric though it over and said: “You do have a point, I have a strong dislike for magic. You see, for me magic isn’t fair. You can create things from nothing or into anything without repercussion, this is not the case in Alchemy. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost that is Alchemies first law of equivalent exchange. Magic doesn’t follow this rule, so I don’t trust it, something must be given and it isn’t. I myself have also looked in the library, but I haven’t found why magic works and how. You magic folk just accept that something is given to you, but you never wonder why and what will be asked in return. It is dangerous to rely on magic.”

“But nothing bad happened in centuries and we’ve used magic freely.” Draco said.

“And it probably won’t, but I still wonder if you are just lucky or if someone or something will come and ask for you to pay your dues. A lot of people will have profited and will have been able to use magic freely, but the people who will be there when something bad happens will still have pay for them.” Mister Elric told them.

Hermione frowned and said: “Sir, you just said ‘you magic folk’, why didn’t you include yourself?”

Mister Elric smiled and said: “If I’ve read correctly, I’m what you call a muggle. Now that’s enough questions for today, dismissed.”

The class exploded as people tried to process this information. Draco yelled: “What? Explain or my father will hear about this!”

But Mister Elric didn’t respond, he just gave them all a look and said: “I said, dismissed, in the army that means this conversation is over and you leave.”

Then he casually started packing up his stuff and make his way to the door, once he was there he said: “I need lunch, if you don’t want to get locked in I suggest you move.”

“You will never guess what happened during Alchemy.” Hermione exclaimed when she entered the Room of Requirements.

Harry and Ron had just been setting up to practice the Stunning Spell when Hermione had interrupted, they gave her a confused look as she said: “Mister Elric is a muggle.”

“What!” both cried out at the same time.

“I know, but this also means that we can definitively rule him out as one of Voldemorts men.” she informed them happily.

“Are still really on about that?” Ron asked.

Hermione gave him a mean look and said: “I never stopped, I just didn’t discuss it with you two anymore. It’s getting dangerous, Voldemort is back, the Ministry is doing nothing and just last year a Death Eater infiltrated the school! Is it really such a stretch to be wary of new members of staff?”

“I hadn’t thought about that, Hermione, sorry.” Harry sheepishly admitted.

Hermione rolled her eyes and said: “Whatever, let’s just go on with this meeting. We just lost a problem, not gained one. We should be happy.”

#RR writing #bamf edward elric #edward elric #alchemy teacher edward elric #hermoine granger #Ron Weasley #Harry Potter #fma brotherhood #FMA AU #fullmetal alchimist brotherhood #fullmetal alchimist brotherhood and harry potter crossover #harry potter au #Professor Elric #Professor Elric?#Professor Elric? Chapter 5 #draco malfoy

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theawkwardterrier · 5 years

Text

things left behind and the things that are ahead, ch. 22

AO3 link here

Harvard is, in some ways, everything Drea wanted. She’s on her way, she's gotten to this place, earned her spot: as supportive as Mom is, she would never allow herself to use whatever friends or influence she might have to get special consideration, and Drea would never want her to.

Everything is different from high school. It’s easy to find people who love learning the way she does. They’re everywhere. There are trust fund kids and legacies, of course, plenty of them, but there are also talented people who want to make the future. And all the sorts of things Rose talked gleefully about when she started college - staying up until 4 AM one night to write a paper then staying up again the next to go see a band, people being so casually passionate about this cause or that protest, sliding with your friends into your regular booth at your regular off-campus pizza place, having a regular off-campus pizza place - it’s all happening for Drea too, just like she had hoped.

In some ways it’s just as bad as she feared. Worse.

She’s gone from being one of the youngest in her class to being one of the oldest, and she feels like she should be wiser for it. She has stories to tell during icebreakers or house mixers; when called to it, she can speak honestly about the year she took off between high school and college. When it's her turn, she talks about volunteering and getting a different type of experience before coming back to the classroom. She can see that it impresses the people around her, both professors and fellow students. It makes her different and special and interesting in a way that’s acceptable.

She never talks about the parts with doctors or surgery, the relief of it and the pain. Keeping her business to herself has always been second nature, and she had thought it was something she was used to, going on with that background tension, that worry. All those years of carefully using school bathrooms and accepting rare sleepover invitations...It’s not the same as living with suitemates. She had thought that having her own room would be enough. She wasn’t prepared for the emotions of it: not being able to go home at the end of a day or maybe two, to the people who knew everything, who she didn’t have to put up walls around. Even as she makes friends and laughs with them, joins study groups, finds a favorite spot in the library, it feels as if she is more guarded than ever.

Those blending-in tricks that she taught herself still work, and she starts using them more and more. Each time she puts on a blouse instead of a T-shirt, laughs and says that of course she couldn’t have a second bowl of ice cream, she feels a bit less exposed. She has a deft hand with makeup now, and when the boy next to her calculates the tip wrong at the pizza place, she doesn’t say anything, only puts in the extra money herself. She makes little errors, doesn’t try as hard as she might on exams or papers, averages somewhere between a B and B-plus instead of her high school As. Her group of friends gives in to tradition, going to see the Red Sox play a Saturday afternoon game, and she doesn’t cheer without looking purposefully at the others, never gets up to shout at a batter, doesn’t list off any of the stats or rules that are still in her head. But there’s a frustration even with feeling the need to do those things. College, for everyone else, means pushing boundaries and exploring who they really are. Drea thinks she knows who she is, still, beneath it all, but digging it out and showing the world seems so dangerous a proposition.

There’s a group for gays and lesbians on campus, small and pretty quiet, but she could find out where they meet if she wanted to. She thinks they might understand, at least a little, but she can’t bring herself to do it. Even beyond the fear of calling attention to herself, she isn’t gay or lesbian and she won’t pretend to be just so she can talk to people who might have experiences something like hers. These are people who know lies well; she won’t add more. And she does not know whether they would be any more accepting of the truth than anyone else - perhaps even less, if they considered her a distraction, someone who would only serve to confuse their cause to outsiders.

She isn’t ready to be a cause. She’s trying hard enough to be a self.

The last week of April, people start talking about their summer plans, none of which are even being planned anymore, all foregone conclusions: travel, a job, summer classes, going back home to laze around or help with the family business. In some ways Drea craves the idea of home more than anything in perhaps her entire life. She imagines lying on her old mattress in Maryland and thinks that she would sleep for days as soon as she touched it. She wants Dad to hand her a bag of green beans to tip while he makes Surprise Meatloaf simply because he knows it’s her favorite, wants to talk politics with Mom and ask how she works with people who are vehement about opinions that are just entirely wrong. She wants to be shocked at how tall Nate is getting and go to the roller rink with Emma. She wants Rose to talk to, even when she’s pretending that she doesn’t. She wants everyone back in their place, how it was. She wants to be back in her place.

“If I come home,” she tells Dad one night, “I’m afraid I won’t be able to make myself come back.” It is late and she knows that she’s woken him, but this is the only time to take a turn on the hallway phone without anyone overhearing. She shivers a little and tucks herself closer; her nightshirt is fairly thin and she forgot to bring her robe.

“You worked so hard for it, and you've nearly exhausted the library here anyway. You need a challenge for your mind. A few months and I think you’ll want to go back.” He says it gently, lightly, but with such confidence that she can’t bring herself to tell him that just hearing his voice makes her throat feel thick and teary, that just saying the words “come home” gives her an ache along her breastbone. Never mind how Harvard is important, how she did work hard for it and has found things to enjoy despite it all. Never mind that once she makes it through, no one can take it away.

But he must hear something in her breathing, in that extra beat of silence. “Let me talk to your mom,” he says. “I think she’ll have an idea.”

She hadn’t realized until now just how much she’d missed hearing that.

Mr. Jarvis wears glasses now. He gazes at Drea over them, then looks over at Tony, who seems entirely absorbed in assembling an elaborate structure using blocks.

Jarvis doesn’t look convinced by his demeanor. Drea decides that she won’t either. She knows for a fact that the blocks are only a last resort anyway; Aunt Maria said that the chemistry set and the electronics kit aren't allowed to stay in Tony’s room until he's at least nine.

“Well, I shall leave the two of you to it,” Jarvis says. “I’m sure I don’t need to remind you to remember your manners, Master Stark?”

“I always remember my manners,” says Tony with solemnity, still stacking busily. Jarvis makes a dubious “hmm” sound as he leaves, but Tony waits until he’s out the door before adding, “But sometimes I don't want to use them.”

Drea snorts, then coughs to cover it up. To Tony she’s an adult, and she’s pretty sure that means she isn’t supposed to think sassing the other adults is funny.

Tony looks over at her. She suspects that he’s seen through the cough.

Crouching on the floor beside him, she picks up some blocks herself, trying to add them in places that won’t disrupt the careful architecture. Tony watches her silently for a minute, then seems to decide that she’s foolish but fairly harmless and goes back to his own work.

“Are you supposed to be my babysitter?” he asks after a minute.

Drea pauses, nudging a block carefully into place before answering. “Kind of, I guess. Just for the summer. I think Mr. and Mrs. Jarvis have other work to do.”

The Jarvises have been somewhat old for practically Drea’s whole life, but there’s a difference between general fitness despite graying hair or a little slowness to the limbs, and the energy required to keep up with Tony. Mom always says that one shouldn’t underestimate the Jarvises, but at this point even they seem to be open to the idea of some type of help, at least to tide them over until Tony starts school. She just has the feeling that she wasn’t exactly what they had in mind.

“What kind of babysitter are you?” Tony asks, as if he's interviewing her for the position. She doesn’t think he’d take kindly to her reminder that she’s already gotten it (on the merit of a call from her parents to Uncle Howard, but still).

“A pretty good one,” she lies, trying to inject some reassuring boisterousness into her tone. Her childcare resume is fairly sparse - her own siblings don’t count - but he doesn’t need to know that. Tony looks her over consideringly.

“I hope,” he says, prodding another block into place, “that you’re different from your sister.”

He means Rose, who has watched Tony along with the rest of them when they’ve gone away together to Maine or when the Starks have come to visit and the parents have gone out for the evening. Rose has very strict ideas on exactly who needs to listen to her, and how immediately, with which Tony has fundamental disagreements.

“I’m not exactly like Rosie.” She stops one of the pillars from toppling, straightening the blocks. Tony evaluates it and then gives a firm nod. “But if you want a really good babysitter, you should get Emma. She’ll bake you cookies, and maybe even teach you her secret recipe.”

“Do you bake?”

“Sure, but I don’t have a secret cookie recipe.”

“Not a secret’s okay too.” He blinks at her.

She finds herself grinning over at him. Drea doesn’t do that a lot; usually she just gives nice little smiles. “You want to go bake some cookies?”

The remaining blocks shed off his lap as he stands. “I have a better idea, actually. It’s all mostly just chemistry anyway.”

An hour and a half later, the big kitchen downstairs is covered in powdery white - flour and yeast and baking soda all floating into a snowy layer. It’s drifted even onto the pages of the still-open cookbooks that hadn’t offered what they’d needed. Drea rests the tray of hot pretzels on the counter just as Jarvis comes in and looks around in dismay.

“The baking soda is important,” Tony tells him. “It’s how the outside gets crispy and the inside stays soft. Just like for bagels.” He reaches to break off a piece, but Drea pushes his hand away, looking up to shrug at Jarvis.

“I have to support his science education. He can’t fall behind just because it’s the summer.”

“Or because he’s a child,” Jarvis says, raising a wry brow, and hands them damp clothes while he goes to fetch the broom.

They go to Central Park often, and Drea lets Tony think it’s her first time being there. He shows her all of his favorite things, a surprising number of which involve nature for someone who is being raised by one of the foremost technological minds of the century and seems happy to follow in his footsteps. He frequently requests a picnic basket for them to carry to Sheep’s Meadow or Cedar Hill, standing on a stool at the kitchen counter while Jarvis suggests sandwich fillings as if they are a Victorian lady and her cook putting together a dinner party menu, selecting fruits only after careful consideration, a miniature and bull-headed connoisseur.

Tony eschews the zoo in favor of the birds and bugs and flowers of the Ramble, the turtles in their pond. She can’t find it in her heart to tell him that all of that is human-created nature too. Though perhaps, she thinks to herself as Tony crouches to silently watch a butterfly land on a branch near him, taking in the careful and beautiful converging details of abdomen and wings and coloration, nature has taken over here anyway and made it all its own.

“How come you’re always fancy?” Tony asks as they stand at the edge of the Gill, watching the stream flow away. This deep in the park, it’s hard to remember that she isn’t in the woods back in Maryland. “It would be easier if you wore pants. Then you could get really close and not be worried about getting dirty.” He frowns at the way she has edged back from the mud and water.

Drea switches the picnic basket to her other hand. It’s gotten lighter since she made a rule that he has to carry it for one minute per every ten that she does. “I’m just being safe. What if you slipped and fell in? I’d want to be able to make a plan and rescue you instead of falling in too.”

“I wouldn’t fall in. And anyways, it isn’t that deep.” He crosses his arms. “What the real reason?”

“I’m just more comfortable this way,” Drea says, the basket in her hand preventing her from crossing her arms too. It’s too hard to explain the difference between her actual comfort, and the comfort she gets from avoiding scrutiny. “Now, come on, let’s go have lunch.”

They visit the Planetarium with frequency, clearly not Tony’s first time there. One of the attendants greets him with a smile and a welcoming sweep of the arm, nodding a cheerful “Mister Stark” as they enter the theater. Another watches them approach with eyes glaring, muttering “Mister Stark” through clenched teeth and trying to glance toward Drea with some sort of solidarity as she passes.

“The universe is so big,” Tony says with satisfaction as they sit, still staring up, after the show has ended one afternoon. The rest of the visitors are getting to their feet around them. “I bet there are aliens out there, huh?”

“I wouldn’t be too surprised,” Drea says. “Anything could be out there. There's plenty right here, after all.” And, to her own surprise, she laughs.

Each Wednesday, Tony goes to spend the day at Stark Industries with his father. It’s been a tradition since Tony was little. There’s a famous picture of Uncle Howard sitting at a big table during a presentation, a baby seat set up next to him. Uncle Howard is pointing to something, and baby Tony is leaning forward in his seat to do the same.

Among the SI scientists or outside contractors coming to pitch ideas, agreeing to a meeting on a Wednesday is seen as either extremely confident or extremely foolish, or both. Tony has a habit of interrupting with loud questions, and Uncle Howard has a habit of making decisions based on whether his son falls asleep or wanders off during a particular presentation.

Drea uses her Wednesdays for herself. She takes long walks down the city streets, and even as she revels in not having to answer a million questions a minute, she misses the way Tony makes her think and how his chatter quiets her mind. Settling herself into the oddly wonderful smell of books and old carpeting at the New York Public Library, she pages through the favorites of her childhood and doesn’t think for a moment about getting a leg up on class readings for next semester. (She does think, however, of her favorite carrel deep in the confusing stacks of the Widener.) Once, she goes out with Aunt Maria to the rehearsal of a play called Mrs. Murray’s Farm at the Circle Theatre, which they both agree probably won’t have very much success off-Broadway, much less on. Another time, she’s invited to some sort of philanthropic lunch. When she declines, Aunt Maria just laughs and says, “I’m sure you’re having plenty of opportunity to get involved with causes at school and you don’t need to listen to us prattle on.” Drea gives something like a smile and crosses her arms and doesn’t mention that she’s scared to attend protests and even sign petitions. It feels as if it would call too much attention to her, and she’s ashamed of herself.

Tony is actually fairly well-behaved in museums, chattering, pointing to everything, but not throwing tantrums or incessantly requesting to leave like some of the other children she sees (unless she really overdoes it). Still, there are some exhibits which hold so little interest for him that making him attend would be selfish. She goes by herself, walking with slow steps through the galleries, trying to take in all the art and history. She sends her dad a postcard of the prints from the Museum of Modern Art: It’s not the same, she writes, without getting a lecture about shading or how lithographs are made. And, of course, it’s no National Gallery.

Some afternoons she makes her way to the Stark Industries building too, giving her name and waiting for Uncle Bucky or Aunt Layla or both to come out and join her for lunch. There’s something grown-up about walking beside them with a pocketbook over her shoulder, asking about what they’re working on and telling them about Tony or something she read recently, as if they are fellow adults out for a bite to eat together. She’ll be twenty in the fall, voting next year, and she still isn’t quite used to that sort of feeling.

One morning in early August she sleeps in, spending several hours reading lazily in bed and then taking a long bath sometime in the afternoon. In some ways it’s relaxing. There are several bathrooms back at home, but she rarely gets to lock herself in for an hour or more without being disturbed, having someone pound on the door and beg (or, in Rose’s case, order) her to just get out of there already. Also, the Starks have much better bathtubs. Even the one adjoining her guest room feels like a small swimming pool.

She holds her breath beneath the luxuriantly hot water, eyes open, long hair billowing outward. She finds herself wishing that Thursday would come already, so she will have Tony’s whims as an excuse for laughing and expelling her energy and getting messy.

When she gets out, she puts on her robe and sits on the edge of the bed. She holds the remote control in her hand, but doesn’t turn on the television set.

There’s a knock on the door and she startles a little, settling when she hears Ana’s light, chiming voice saying through the wood, “I have your blouse, dear.” She had asked Ana a couple of days ago to repair a tear for her; she does know how to do it herself, but Ana is fast and neater.

She stands to answer the knock, smiling at Ana as she takes the blouse without bothering to examine the stitching. “Thanks,” she says, going to close the door again.

“Oh, Drea, dear,” Ana says quickly. “I see that you’ve washed your hair. Would you mind—It’s been a long time since I had a chance to braid someone else’s hair. Could I possibly try my hand with yours?”

Ana’s hair is always so carefully arranged. As hard as Drea tries, her long, dark hair never seems to lie as evenly or stay as neat and pretty.

“Oh,” she says. “Okay, I guess.”

She’s directed to sit on the floor while Ana sits on the bed. It’s quiet except for the sound of the brush working through her hair. Ana’s concentration seems to be on smoothing out the knots and tangles. It actually feels very soothing.

“Sometimes,” Ana says, still untangling, “even today, a person will make a terrible remark in front of me about Jewish people. And when I say that I am Jewish, they will say of course I’m not, because they know those people and I don’t act like one of them.” Her voice with its familiar slight accent, still there after all this time, is calm. Even the non sequitur feels dreamy and relaxed. She sets the brush aside and picks up a comb, tracing out sections along Drea’s scalp. “And sometimes, I will tell a person that I am Jewish and they will ask then which synagogue do I attend and where are my Sabbath candlesticks and my Jewish husband.” Her hands work gently with the strands of hair. “But no matter what these people or those people think, I still am who I am and very proud of it.”

She must hear Drea’s intake of breath but she does not pause to allow for any sort of answer or interruption. “I know very well how dangerous it can be to reveal yourself for the world. My friends, members of my family, were hurt or killed as people began to say that they were fooling everyone by pretending to be ordinary Hungarians. People who were kind can become cruel, even if simply with their words or by turning away with sympathy in their eyes. But caring so much for the way that others’ think and look at you, changing yourself and trying to pretend it all away - what kind of life is it to live?”

The braid is weaving into formation behind her. Drea feels tears in her eyes. “It’s too dangerous,” she whispers. “It could ruin everything. I know I should be brave and say to hell with everyone, but I can’t. It’s terrible, sometimes, trying to be just what people expect from a girl, but it’s so much easier, too.”

“Hmm.” Ana’s cheek rests briefly against the top of Drea’s head. “I understand. But there are so many different types of girls, the way that there are so many different types of Jews, and we are allowed to be a little of this and also a little of that - multitudes, as the poet says. Letting the person you are out into the world, perhaps just a little, might not be as dangerous as you think.”

The next Wednesday, Drea goes to Central Park by herself. She starts up one of the trails of the Ramble and before she knows it, she is running. Despite her skirt, despite what people might think of her, despite the man who yells, “Are you alright, young lady?” as she passes - she runs until she is panting, until she is laughing, broad and triumphant, until she has no breath.

She goes home for the last two weeks of the summer. Tony expresses his disapproval both vocally and by planting himself outside her door the day she is meant to leave.

“I’ll come back,” she promises, allowing him to keep a hold on her wrist even as Jarvis pulls the car around and parks.

“Next week?”

She ruffles his hair. “Try next summer, kid. I have things to do until then.” He has that mulish look back on his face, so she adds, “And so do you. You think three months of activities are going to plan themselves overnight? You have to show me a good time. I need you thinking about this until next year.”

“How very delightful the next months are certain to be,” Jarvis says dryly, picking up her suitcase and hefting it into the car.

She knew that Dad was going to come get her at the station, but Nate is there too, and Emma, and Mom, and even Rose.

“I don’t start again until next week,” her big sister says as they pile into the car. “And I couldn’t exactly leave without seeing you.”

There’s news to share all around, and souvenirs to hand out. They ask so many questions that Drea feels like a traveler back from exotic lands rather than the familiar premises of the Stark mansion.

Dad has made Surprise Meatloaf, and she doesn’t even have to tip the green beans. “Well, there’s always tomorrow,” he tells her with a wink, and she laughs.

There’s no chance to speak to him and Mom alone until late, when she comes downstairs from talking with Nate in his room to find them having a cup of tea together and probably waiting for her. There’s a third cup sitting empty; Mom pours, adds sugar, pushing it across the table as Drea sits down.

She stirs her cup thoroughly, staring into the cloudy heat of it, before she starts. “I’m going back,” she tells them. “Because I deserve to be there and to make the most of it. Because I want to. But I’m also—” She takes a breath. “I want to start seeing someone. A psychologist or a counselor, whatever you want to call it. There has to be one who’s safe to talk to, because I don’t know that I can keep everything hidden away anymore.” They are both watching her with care, neither preparing to interrupt, but she barrels on as if they might. “I know that you'd be here if I wanted to talk. And I know that you’ve worked hard to just let me be an average girl, and so much of my life has been normal and wonderful for it. But I’m not really average, I never will be, and I need some help dealing with that.”

Her parents trade glances. They don’t look upset or betrayed or anything of the sort, but Drea can’t bring herself to relax just yet.

Mom stands, and walks over to the front hall. Drea starts to get up to follow her, but Dad places a hand over hers, and she sinks back down. Her mother is back in only a minute, holding a manilla file folder.

“There are five in the area who seem reliable, but if you find someone else you’d prefer, I can certainly look into them as well.” She hands the folder over to Drea, who flips it open. “And if you’d like, we can contact the group at Hopkins to see if they might have former or potential patients who live close by who would be willing to speak with you. A bit more of an insider’s opinion.”

The list is neat and slightly clinical: names, office addresses, educational and occupational history. The typed Gs are a little wonky - Mom’s typewriter in her home office makes them like that; she’s been complaining about it absently for years without actually finding a replacement.

“I’ve put blue stars beside the ones that you would have to travel to using the bus system, and red stars for those accessible by subway,” Mom adds. “And tracing those routes was truly a nightmare. Why anyone would live in such a poorly designed city is outside of my comprehension.”

Drea looks at Dad, a bit of a question in her face. “Well, don’t expect me to stand up for Boston,” he says, eyes crinkling softly at the edges as he looks at her. He squeezes her hand.

It was this she was missing all year: being able to collapse, to allow truth into the open air, and to know that someone would have some sort of answer or at least be holding her hand after it all.

She’s the second one to arrive at the new suite in September.

Her parents help carry her things up to the fourth floor, take her for lunch, put up her posters where she directs them, lay fresh sheets on her bed. It’s several hours before they prepare to leave. Her mother holds her tightly. Her father kisses her forehead. “Have a good year,” he tells her, looking her directly in the eye, and she nods.

“Did you have a good summer?” asks Marnie, leaning in the doorway as Drea goes to finish unpacking once they’re gone. They had been roommates last year too. Alice won’t arrive until tomorrow. Kim had decided that she wanted a house close to the Yard instead of the Quad and joined another group instead, so a new girl called Bethany will benefit from their four South singles and big common room.

Drea tucks an orange T-shirt on the top of the pile and slides the drawer closed. It’s bright and sort of ugly, and will be the perfect thing to stand up wearing the next time they go to Fenway. “Yeah, summer was good. But I’m glad to be back.”

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