doodle orz

Hi i just wanted to say I love your works and profile sm, I love how you represent fireafy and coinpin and each of their respective characters, and I especially love how you represent Coiny. I feel like from what I've seen people don't see how Coiny really is, they usually just reduce him to a jerk or a firey slapper. But he's so much more and so different from that lke in canon he's so driven and serious but then fun and chill when needed, and how he can be fun and silly but then empathetic and sweet when given. and I feel like the way you represent him is so accurate and takes evey aspect of him in canon as well as headcanons that just FIT HIM SO WELL and idk it just makes me so happy. I also LOVE your headcanon of him being able to pull both masculinity and femininity, I love it so much it emulates the essence of him so well so be so comfortable in himself and not have a shred of toxic masculinity or anything like that. And I love how you make him adore pin like YES HE ADORE AND LOVES and does whatever pin wants it just makes me so happy esp with how gorgeous she is and as someone who is also plus sized and having issues with self image seeing coiny adore pin like that makes me believe in myself more idk how to explain it but YEA hahah just really like how you depict his charcater as a whole

I also love all your designs for every character

But ye I just want to say that hahah

i saw this when it was sent yesterday and i was in school and i was SOOO HAPPY i was telling all my friends with tears in my eyes and squealing over how sweet of a message i received LIKE I HAD TO FORCE MYSELF NOT TO CRY AND I KEPT GETTING UP AND PACING AAHH😭😭😭 i have waited for when i have free time where i’m not super tired to respond better than i would tired But! THANK YOU SOSOSOSO MUCH!!! YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH THIS MEANS TO ME!!! YOU REALLY DONT!!! thank you thank you so much!!! i’ve been struggling with forming my thoughts and feelings into words recently so forgive me if this is a messy reply but AHH!!!

coiny is one of my favorite characters he’s sooOOO FUNNY AND CHARMING! i love expressing his silly side and how dumb he is sometimes so i do it in most of my work (because it’s lighthearted almost every time) and it makes me so happy to see him being so.. coiny! he is genuinely such an amazing character and the perfect balance of cool, kind, and idiotic(affectionately) he’s so nice and so compassionate and i appreciate that about him so much and I AM SO HAPPY THAT YOU CAN ENJOY MY PORTRAYAL OF HIM BECAUSE HE IS SO AWESOME! I LOVE EVERY PART OF HIM!!! and you like my headcanons!!! i forget what kind of coiny headcanons i have represented on this account but YESSS!!! COINY PULLING OFF FEMININE CLOTHES IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS TO THINK ABOUT! he is SO proud of it. he will put on a pink frilly dress and walk with confidence and feel as pretty as can be! i’ve been meaning to draw him in a dress for months actually (i have so much i want to draw all the time but i’m either really busy or i have zero motivation But this message gave me the motivation to actually try soon KEEP AN EYE OUT! maybe ill draw pin and coiny with their outfits swapped 🤫) he is one of the most positive and caring contestants on bfdi and he makes me so happy!!! he can wear both girly clothes and masculine clothes HE CAN WEAR WHATEVER HE WANTS and he will look TOTALLY AWESOME IN IT! and OMFGGG DONT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON HOW MUCH HE LOVES PINNN SHE IS HIS WHOLE WORLD AND COINY IS HERS AS WELL! coiny will do anything for her he loves her so bad… AND!!! AHHHH!!!! I AM SO SO SO INCREDIBLY HAPPY MY PIN HUMANIZATION MAKES YOU FEEL THAT WAY!!! BRINGING PEOPLE SELF-CONFIDENCE AND EMPOWERMENT THROUGH MY DESIGNS AND REPRESENTATION IS MY ABSOLUTE GOAL WITH WHAT I DO!!! it seriously means everything to me that i’ve Actually been able to achieve that and help people with how they feel about themselves indirectly. my eyes are watering while typing this ARGHH i really just want everyone to know how beautiful they are no matter what their size or weight or height or color or LITERALLY ANYTHING is. and as someone who also struggles with their self-image/esteem it means even More to me because i know how it feels!!! seeing yourself in a design of your favorite character or a character you enjoy in general feels SO GOOD so i strive to do that as much as i can. body diversity and diversity in all aspects is incredibly important to me and i want to sprinkle it everywhere in whatever i do!!! everyone is so beautiful and different and i think that is a blessing!!! whoever is reading this is beautiful and whoever in the WORLD is too just how they are now!!! EVERYONE IS GORGEOUS!!! it may take a while to feel it and that’s okay but just know that you are!!!

in short i am happy i was able to touch your heart and make you smile and give you at least a little bit more confidence in yourself. you are amazing and so kind for sharing this all with me!!! i think you can tell now how much this did for me by how much i wrote (SORRY ITS HUGE BLOCKS OF TEXT) and i can’t thank you enough for liking my work from characterization to design. every time i get a message like this i will not stop thinking about it and i hold it close to me every time i draw Like those other messages about my pin gijinka from months back I STILL GET SO EMOTIONAL OVER. i’m really glad i can make you feel that way and i hope i have made many others feel the same way too. THANK YOU!!!💖💖💖🫶🫶🫶

I see a lot of fix it (and other) fics suggesting Rhaenys and Corlys were there for the birth of their grandsons and while Kings Landing and Driftmark are close I couldn't quite see them staying for as long as it takes for an estimated due date to hit given they didn't have exact dating then.

Do you think they were there for the births, arrived immediately afterwards or had to wait to meet the boys? I'm curious on the matter and can't decide what seems most likely honestly.

Ooooh, tough to decide the specifics. Certainly, in the book, there's no talk of any involvement from the Velaryon side of things except Corlys insisting on Jacaerys's name (not particularly something that needs him to be around in person - could just be a sternly worded letter). All celebrations surrounding the births are confined to Viserys and the court. I think she births the first two in the Red Keep and Joffrey was born on Dragonstone.

My gut? My gut would say that they might have been there for Jace. But were probably not there for the other two (in the show they definitely were not for Joffrey, but then again they also changed the location of Joffrey's birth so it's hard to compare the two canons arghh) - . And I don't think that wouldn't be seen as unusual, whatever the distances. Viserys doesn't make the trip for his grandchildren. Otto is never mentioned rocking up to see a grandchild born after he's fired. Noble family members go months and years without seeing one another, whatever the distance.

And you couldn't be precise about births, as you say. If Corlys and Rhaenys wanted to be there, they'd have had to set up camp and I don't think anyone wants that! Think about how long the celebrations were inferred to be, regarding Baelon. So many awkward family dinners. They've got their own home to be dealing with; their duties and responsibilities on Driftmark. Sure, the travel time is less if you have a dragon, but Corlys would still have to sail. That's a few days or a week or so, not to mention preparation on either side of the journey.

And neither Corlys or Rhaenys really like King's Landing. They aren't close to Rhaenyra. They aren't close to Viserys either, that gap keeps getting wider and wider. There's nothing they can do to help with the births. They'd be ornamental. And their actions would be watched to see if it bolstered rumour. Not sure where I'm going with that thought but public appearance is everything. Especially to seasoned political veterans like Corlys and Rhaenys. So you act normal. And if normal is "I'm sticking to my island until we're sure the baby isn't going to die" (as an example) then that's what it is. If it's "we'll wait until Viserys invites us" then that is what it is as well. If it's best not to crowd King's Landing with a bunch of Velaryons who plainly don't look like the brand-new Velaryon, then you stay away. But it might be best to do a whole show of solidarity. I don't know. We don't know. It's not known.

Listen, would I like Corlys and Rhaenys to be a more present presence at this period in time? Sure! If nothing else but to support their son, who has basically been thrown the sharks in that place. But I can see the reasons why they kept away, if they did. If they didn't, then great. But for me, the evidence in the show points to them staying away - that is what my gut says. Rhaenyra and Laenor can bring the boys to Driftmark, or Rhaenys and Corlys can meet them at another time.

Not sure that answers your question, I'm afraid!

Bells' secret diary 1/7

So far on ao3 this has been an epic fail, so let's try here, too:

this fic was born thanks to a challenge in an Italian group: choose a character and go introspective writing his diary. Two rules: it must start with a 1st April and it can't have more than seven entries. So... guess which is the character I picked up?

whichever could be the pairing then? ;P

it's 1992, welcome to Teignmouth: Summary:

What if Matthew kept a secret diary since his very first meeting with Dominic till the birth of Muse and all its consequence? And what if said diary wasn’t just about music? This work participates to the 'FirstApril' challenge of the group @Non solo Sherlock - FB multifandom events group

Disclaimer: I don't own/know Muse, least of all Matthew Bellamy (but it's fun trying to get inside his young, bwilliant head, lol), it's all totally invented (save for what it's true in Wiki, articles, interviews and books) and I earn less than nothing from it And, of course, the title of this fic is taken from the lyrics of the beautiful 'Unintended' by Muse I: 1st April 1992

Teignmouth, My house, 1st april 1992

If I write it then it’ll come true: I, Matthew James Bellamy, will have a band with worldwide success! Huh, did I say 'worldwide'? Planetarium, we will be the first band to play on the Moon!

After all, with you I can allow myself to talk big, right? You are my diary, starting from today, because I have decided so.

Finally what I thought was a useless gift from my brother Paul last Christmas makes sense.

You will be my confidant, dear Diary, that's what average people call you most of the time isn't that? I will tell you all my deepest thoughts.

And I'm just starting today because something epic happened.

I've been playing the guitar for a few years, the piano for practically more than half of my life and I'm still not part of any band, not stable at least... but today something has changed.

I mustered up the courage to go to Dominic Howard, who is so popular and can play so well, both drums and guitar.  

I've been so stupid for all these months, blocked by bloody prejudices that have turned out to be unfounded: I thought he was an arrogant, that he liked to show off, that he would be extra elusive ... but no, he's the most available and kindest person in the world.

I asked him if he could give me some guitar lessons to improve myself, I was sure he would refuse, but not only did he accept, with a big smile, (I'm starting to believe that boy always smiles and risks dazzling you when he does, next time I'll I'll meet him wearing sunglasses!) but he also said that he just needs one more guitarist for his band, Carnage Mayhem, isn't that a really cool name? And so, in a way, now I can consider it my band too, don't you think?

Well yeah, it's not like he's said yes yet, he just said he's looking for another member and he'll audition for me tomorrow after school... a real audition, like professional musicians, so cool! But I will try all my very best, he must understand that I am the right element to complete the band!

You know, I'm generally a cosmic pessimist about everything, but this time I allow myself the luxury of expressing some optimism and already consider myself one of them.

So… yes, let me say it: I will be part of a band, but this time in a serious way, I'm sure it will last!  

Today is the beginning of something important, I feel it.

Now I have to stop here.

Dominic said he's starting guitar lessons today and he's on his way here and I can't leave my room in total chaos, it’s already more than enough the one in my mind, but at least I can rearrange the room.

You know, Dominic is… I don't think I've ever seen a guy like that… he's blond, yes, but he's really sunny in his own attitude! Oh God… his hair is so long that… maybe he's gay, maybe I'll grow it too, to make him feel less uncomfortable! Arghh what am I doing? I said I had to stop writing to you, there's a devastated room waiting for me!

Queen of Masks ~ Alfie Solomons

Life as a woman, in any country really, isn’t the best, unless you score a jackpot with the most gentle, sweetest man and you become his housewife and agree to be some kind of baby factory and a maid, should he not have enough to provide for one, and a chef, nonetheless.

However, there are enough ambitious women who have enough spite in their veins to trample over anyone standing in their path of success, and would spit on graves and crush cadavers under their heeled boots that they wear with much pride and conviction.

That is exactly the case of Y/N, a gorgeous woman who won against all odds and became a Veterinary Physician in London, Camden, to be precise, and had to work under an older man who had a clinic - But it was fine, she got to learn loads, and interacting with animals on a daily basis was enough to keep her going and not to answer to any provocation from her male colleague who was far inferior to her, intellectually and intuitively speaking.

And one day, after tending to a gorgeous black race stallion, a tall and broad man walked in with a Bullmastiff boy who, upon seeing her, managed to snatch away his chain leash and jumped on her, trampling her to the ground and licking her all over her face.

The man jumped in shock, trying to pry away his pet from the poor woman, only to notice she was laughing and that he face was bright like the sun, as she tried to wipe away all the slobber from her face.

“I’m so sorry, aye, he’s never done somethin’ like this before. Here, let me help you up, right.” the man extended his hand for her to take, helping raise her up, then reprimanded his dog. “Don’t worry, mister, it’s quite alright. I kinda like when animals act so affectionate, it makes it feel as if I’m doing something right. What’s your name, darling? Let’s get you up on the table...Arghh...What a heavy baby...You’re gonna break every bone in my body...” the woman sweet talked the dog, struggling to hold him in her arms like a baby so she could put in on the table to examine. “He’s name’s Cyril, I got him last year. ‘S just a routine check up, but I think there’s a bump on his neck, yeah, right here.” the man explained, letting the girl palpate his dog and continuing to sweet talk him to calm him down. “Thyroid Carcinoma.” the male doctor spoke, which made the girl whip her head to him with a disturbed look. “Thyroid Cancer? Surely, you must be joking. Have you even been to Vet school?!” Y/N protested, shaking her head in protest at his sudden diagnosis. “What else could a bump in the thyroid area mean? Don’t play smart, just be humble and accept when you’re wrong.” the man rolled his eyes, not lifting his head from his papers. “First of all, even if it IS a tumour, it doesn’t HAVE to be cancer, it can still be completely harmless, thus, benign. Secondly, out of all tumours a dog can have, thyroid cancer is the least common one, the percentage going to maximum 2%. Therefore, NOT cancer! Besides, it could be hyperthyroidism, if you want to go over the top, but again, it could just be something the owner felt because something got stuck in his neck and-....Oh.” the girl then carefully touched the neck area, and smiled widely, looking down, nodding to herself. “What? You shut up ‘cause you finally realised I was right, despite your useless statistics?” the doctor grumbled in annoyance, not caring, obviously. “Wanna bet 100 pounds that it’s not cancer?” she asked, kissing Cyril’s head and playing with his floppy ears, action which made the dog bark playfully. “Ah, sorry, mister, I didn’t ask for your name and whether you find it insensitive or not for us to bet on a diagnosis.” she smiled awkwardly, extending her hand towards the bearded man who was watching the interaction carefully. “Alfie Solomons, lass, but call me just Alfie, right? So, yeah, ‘s fine, bet all you want, just make my boy better, eh?” Alfie shook the girl’s hand, seeing her cunningly going to the other doctor and spitting in her hand to shake and make the bet go through.  “Okay, Alfie, you might want to step to the side a bit...If you value your shoes, that it. They look pretty new.” she chuckled softly, signing him with her head to move to the side, and so he did, as she made the dog vomit, and thus, revealing a small ball. “Oi, I can’t believe it! You stupid dog, Cyril, aye, how could you manage to swallow your own toy, yeah?!” Alfie gasped, his brows furrowing from shock. “Weirdly enough, dogs, especially big ones, are prone to swallowing little things, just like human babies are. It was small enough to just make him cough, but it’s a good thing you got him here in time.” the girl started quickly cleaning up the floor as she explained everything, as the Jew was still staring in shock at the idiocy of some animals. “Well, lass, thank you for solving the mystery, yeah, of whatever the hell this was, right. So, then, tell me how much I have to pay you for this consult, aye.” Alfie asked, which made her snap her head upwards, looking up at him, her eyes wide in shock. “No, God, no, nothing, it’s on me! I mean, if it weren’t for you...” Y/N smirked, reminding Alfie of a vixen, as she twirled around and went to snatch away the hundred pounds banknotes from her employer’s hand, who was looking at her with anger and bitterness. “I wouldn’t have been paid more than I’m paid in 3 months in just one day! It’s the least I can do to thank you...And to also see Cyril again, because I think it’s a connection. Right, Cyril? You’re such a sweet baby boy-....ARGH, GODS, NO-...!” but before the girl could compose herself, Cyril jumped on her torso, knocking her down again, coating her face in yet another sleek coat of drool from the lickings. “Damn it, Cyril, you’re impossible! Let the poor lass live, eh? I know, I know, she’s pretty, but leave her alone, alright?” after he finally managed to pry away the canine, he helped the girl up, who, once again, was laughing. “Let me make it up to you, yeah, for all the trouble this prankster’s been giving you, right. I’ve this bakery, y’know, the one nearby, so, anything you want, yeah, anything, you ask for it, you say my name, right, you say Alfie owes you a favour, and it’s all on the house, eh. How’s that.” he spoke, and he could see that her overly confident and extra demeanour shattered in an instant, making her look down, her beautiful, long hair hiding her features, as she was most likely blushing and smiling. “O-Oh, then, if that’s your bakery, means I’ve heard of you, you’re THE Alfie Solomons. Yeah, I’d love that, if you’d have me, but I told you, you don’t have to. I used you to get money worth of about 3 months, or more, so really, I should be thanking you somehow, but I don’t really have anything else to offer, other than to pay for the consult myself.” her serious, boastful voice turned very soft and shy, as fast as the flick of her fingers, as she walked him out of the clinic, so only he would hear. “Your boss there...He seemed kinda...Angry, eh. Are you gonna be fine dealing with him, lass?” he asked, bending down a bit, speaking to her tone level. “I guess. What’s the worst he can do, anyway. Besides, I care more about this conversation right now, and...About this.” she smirked softly, showing off the rolled pounds from her coat’s chest pocket. “So, Mr. Gangster, is there any specific time you’d be okay with me coming by the bakery? Maybe...Under the pretext of yet another regular check up on Cyril? Or...The smell of freshly baked cookies just captured me enough to find myself senselessly walking into the place?” she asked, diving her hands into her pockets, waiting for an answer, too timid to look him in the eye. “Ahhh, I see you’ve heard of me. Well, lass, I guess I can’t pretend to be some ordinary man, right, but maybe we can still enjoy a nice chat once in a while, eh, it would be nice, right?” the corner of Alfie’s mouth turned upwards, extending his hand for her to shake. “Y/N L/N, it’s great meeting you, Alfie. And yeah, it would be great. I’ll be seeing you around, alright? Hope I’ll see you soon and maybe we can have a nice cup of tea and anything that you’ve baked. I’m looking forward to that.” she shook his hand, smiling brightly at him, gesture which he turned. “And I’ll be seeing you as well, sweetheart.” with that, she kissed Cyril’s head once again, before waving Alfie goodbye and walking back into the clinic. “And I’ll be seeing you too...Y/N.” the gangster muttered, grinning at his dog and praising him with a few pats on his head. “Cyril, my boy, you’re my lucky charm.”

A week passed, and Y/N walked into the bakery - However, it wasn’t the front up, the bakery shop that smelled heavenly - It meant the gangster warehouse where Alfie would usually conduct his business meetings. And, of course, it was shocking to him when heard the click of heels and saw a beautiful, slender woman, dressed in high-waisted pants, with a black turtleneck tucked in her pants, beautiful brown leather boots with heels and a black trench coat that elegantly, yet imposingly hung from her shoulders, as if she was some kind of mafia Queen - Elegant, but deadly.

“Hello, Alfie. I heard you have a job around this place. Not sure what it is...Medic? Secretary? Dog-walker? Maybe you could fill me in.” she asked, her hands in her pants, fidgeting in her spot. “Where’ve you heard about this...Supposed job, eh, lass? And why’d you quit your job from the clinic, eh?” he asked, his fingers intertwining as he leaned forward, elbows rested on his desk. “Ah, well...Y’know...I got my medical license pulled, so I need a way to make money, and you’re the only one that I trusted not to treat me like garbage, so here I am. I know there’s no job, but I had to try my luck and be comedic in a way. It’s probably about the only thing I’m good at, sort of. It’s fine if you don’t want to give me a job, I mean, you can’t trust me with your business info after just speaking to me once, I can imagine, and - “ she kept on ranting, until Alfie raised both his hands in the air to calm her down and stop her speaking, before he raised to his feet, getting in front of the desk and leaning back on it. “Well, I did owe you a favour, right, so, sure, you’re hired, right, I’ll find you something. While we’re at it, can you, yeah, can you fire a gun?” he asked, with a mix of seriousness and playfulness in his voice. “Is it...In the job requirements?” she asked, looking around the place with a fake kind of curiosity. “There’s no job seeking, yeah, so, therefore, no job requirements. I was just being curious, alright, y’know, I have to know what everyone around is capable of, okay.” he explained, which made her smirk and turn on her heel to look at him. “That’s only fair. After all, now that you know that I’m particularly incapable of defending myself against people in general, you’ll just have to be extra careful to keep me safe, right, Alfie? We wouldn’t want Cyril to grieve over me, would we?” she chuckled, extending her arms to her side in a dramatic manner. “Haha, yes, lass, I s’ppose you’re right. Can you handle more than one job, eh? I can hire you as a physician, right, but we don’t always have wounded men, yeah, so, you’re a smart woman, alright, I’m sure you are very capable of reading, writing, doing calculus and other stuff that involves using your head, right, so, I don’t know what name will this job have, but, maybe an assistant of sort, eh? Ollie here helps me out a lot, yeah, but he can’t do everything, he ain’t some God, y’know.” Alfie gesticulated, pointing towards Ollie, then tried to explain to her that things are serious, and not to be taken lightly. “Guess this is gonna be the thrill of my life, huh? I’m in, Alfie. At least I can get along with you without fearing having my license pulled-...Oh, wait, I have nothing to fear about anymore.” she chuckled in a self-deprecating way, making Alfie cross his arms to his chest. “You never told me what happened. Go on, tell me. I’m sure you didn’t kill a dog, or somethin’, you’re too smart a doctor to fuck up.” his curiosity got the better of him, as he saw her turning to look at him, her eyes wide, her mouth slightly agape, and he could almost see her brain gears moving, trying to think of a witty answer. “Didn’t you say something about freshly baked goodies and tea? I bet that’s gonna be a much more...Hospitable way of chatting with your new employee, wouldn’t it? Or better said, friendlier? I mean, this place is so...Ugly and humid...Only good for gangster business. The echo here, if you shout, can intimidate anyone, I’m sure. Come on, show me the actual bakery...And you better have a gramophone. I like music.” she smiled up at him, hooking her arm to his, pulling him in a random direction to urge him to guide her to the bakery, where the beautiful smell of bread and cookies mesmerised her, and she playfully swooned in her chair. “I see you’re enjoying this place very much, eh. Well, can’t say I expected you coming today, so I didn’t bake them myself, yeah, but I’ll make it up to you. Sure you want tea and not rum or somethin’?” Alfie asked, a bit awkward staying at the cute little table, with a cute, little cup of tea in his bear-like hands. “Yes, I’m quite sure, Alfie. But it’s fine, you don’t have to drink what I’m drinking, I won’t think of you any differently. In your home, you do as you please.” she chuckled at him, watching as he nodded solemnly, only to down that tea in one go, small droplets of liquid embedding themselves in his beard. “Right, right, I understand, y’er a people pleaser, you want everyone to like you, unless it goes against whatever scheme you have. You’re smart, alright. Very smart, and you’ve sharp eyes, and are cunning. I need someone like you around, yeah. But tell me, how’d you manage to lose your dream job in a week?” Alfie asked, extending his hand to gently grab her chin, pulling it so he could peer right into her gorgeous, vixen-like eyes. “Remember the bet I did when you came around with Cyril? Well, apparently that jerk got mad at me for, to quote, steal his money, so he filed a malpractice lawsuit to get his money back, 5 times more, and pulled away my license, to get revenge on me for humiliating him in front of a customer...Allegedly. Very petty, I know, but, as they say...C’est la vie. Not much to do about it, really. Now I’m seen as a con-artist thief who kills animals, so I have no way of getting a job anywhere anymore, hence why I’m here. Lovely, innit?” she snorted as she took a bit of the cookie, closing her eyes to savour it’s flavour. “And now, I think I died and went to heaven, ‘cause this is the best thing I’ve eaten in my life.” “You’re so hired, lass. Did ya pay the 500 pounds?” he asked, propping his jaw on his hand. “Yeah, thankfully. And by that, I mean I to sell my apartment so now I’m using my saving to stay at a cheap hotel, but, y’know, life’s life. At least I know I won and I was right. Maybe if I had the right connections, I could have won 10 times what I lost...But what do I know. I don’t really know how non-legal things go by.” she chuckled softly, scratching the back of her head in a playfully guilty manner. “Y’know, Y/N...I think we can solve that fairly quick, yeah. Tell me the name, and I’ll make sure things are sold. In the meantime, I’ve a nice, warm room where you can stay, right, and surely, Cyril’s gonna love your company.” Alfie smiled at her, signaling for her to follow him.

At that time, she had no idea this was actually his home, but when she did find out, she was more than grateful, if not, a bit awkward, for  having to rely so much on his kindness. However, just as he promised, Alfie managed to get that jerk of a doctor to pay her 10 times the money she paid him, and thus, she would have been able to get a very modern and luxurious place, only for herself, and even buy a dog, a cat, or hell, more of them.

But she refused, and asked to continue staying with him, if she wasn’t too much of a burden, since she really enjoyed spending time with him, and she had no idea, other than working 200% of her capabilities for her job, whatever that was, at the moment, and, of course, she would have missed Cyril too much.

It didn’t take long for Alfie’s people to realise the obvious chemistry between the two, and Ollie kept trying to convince him to ask her out, but things are always so difficult, aren’t they? Business and logics are much easier than subjective emotions.

It became sort of a routine for everyone around to see their boss writing and reading documents at his desk, while Y/N would sit on the desk, her legs resting on his chair’s back rest, as she would write on her clipboard whatever relevant things she thought were worth noting down, and would occasionally express her opinions regarding ideas that Alfie had, or some businesses that he was dealing with at the moment - All that, with, of course, the frequent witty comments they would exchange - And it was never anything hurtful, or reproachful jabs, only playful and domestic comments that always made her laugh.

“You never told me why you always look down when you interact with people, y’know, and by that, I don’t mean when you’re being some dramatic Queen, but when you’re being yourself. I mean, I haven’t seen women who let their hair so long these days, right, so I was curious about you. You do things much differently than most people, y’know that, don’t you?” Alfie asked, raising his head to look up at her, only to see, once again, trying to think of how to explain things that don’t rely on rational and objective behaviours. “Ah...Well...Uh...Y’know...I’m...My face is very expressive, y’know. So, like...I get embarrassed easily, or...Uhm...When I lie, or something, I tend to grin or laugh. I’m a messy failure who can’t do a pokerface, like, ever, so, since most people are taller than me, if I let my hair cover my face, they won’t see the truth. Or, well, y’know, at least that’s what I hope. I can’t look at them while hiding, so I’ve no way of telling whether it works or not. Contrary to me being flashy and dramatic, I’m kinda shy and terrible around people.” she chuckled awkwardly, looking away from him, bringing up her clipboard to cover half of her face. “Ahhh, I see, I see, so you go to real great lengths, yeah, to get what you want, and so far, you’ve done really well, eh. Is there anything you can’t do, lass? You’ve been doing this job for over a year, and business has improved with...Uh...Lemme see, how much did you say...Ah, yes, here, it says 23%.” he had his glasses on as his eyes scanned the documents on his desk. “I...Can’t socialise, I guess. And I can’t relax. I don’t know how to have fun. Uhm...I can’t human, I guess? I don’t know what to call it, but I think you get what I’m saying. Anyway, we have business work now, so read this paragraph here, I think we have to talk threaten Sabini a bit, he’s over his head now with power, someone has to humble him, give us a better percentage of his business, and -” Y/N tried to quickly redirect the conversation, hating when she had to talk about herself, but obviously, she couldn’t say no to the man who was always so kind and sweet with her, could she? “Nahhh, it’s fine, Y/N, let’s take a little break, right? We’ve been working since early morning, it’s evening now. Ollie, go make tea and bring those treats made today, eh. Now, lass, why don’t you tell me how did you get around to practicing medicine? I’ve always been curious by that, you know, you don’t see many women unafraid of stuff like that, yeah.” he pointed out, letting himself fall down on his chair’s seat, looking up at her. “Y’know, Y/N, you say you can hide your emotions when you hide your face from people taller than you, yeah? But what happens when they look at you from below? Gotta say, Y/N, sometimes, your worried face is rather pretty...Better now, let me look at you when you speak, yeah, we’re equals, when you go all meek on me, you make me feel like some kind o’ merciless boss or somethin’.” he chuckled, raising a bit to put her hair behind her ears, revealing a soft blush coating her cheeks, and god damn, he could feel his heart beating a bit faster. “Uhm...Okay, fine, sure, I owe you that much. Uhm...My dad was a medic too, so it became a family business for a while. And, uhm...Dad was recruited as a war medic, and went with my brother, while I and mum continued to take care of the people and animals from our city. When it was all over, I decided to get to London to practice properly, get more money and provide for my family better. They’re getting old and they need someone to take care of them, somehow.” she explained, but her eyes were darting around, and he could feel she was still hiding something because of her hesitance, but he wasn’t sure what exactly was it that she was trying to hide.

But before either of them could say anything about it anymore, a loud bang echoed through the warehouse, somewhere from the entrance, which made the girl jump in her place with a mouse-like squeak, slapping her hands over her ears.

It’s true, any person would get frightened by a gunshot that resounded so loudly through that place - And yet, this one looked like a panicked, scared fawn in the headlights - And Alfie, of course, noticed that and came to a few conclusions for himself.

However, before he could say anything, a man entered their field of vision, and he could feel Y/N tensing up, her face showing shock and disgust at the person who she clearly recognise. She turned her head to look at Alfie, and with pleading eyes, mouthing a few simple words that may or may not have shocked him.

“Let me kill him” she tried to say, but this mystery man spoke out faster than expected, and it was clear she was getting more and more angry and embarrassed by the moment. “Y/N, darling, what are you doing here? Whoring around with other men, getting into illicit business, thinking you’re superior to men just because you have some over the top ambitions that are completely unreachable, and now you think you can get rich by staying around wealthy old men, huh?” the man kept speaking, igniting an infernal fire into her eyes. “Alfie, I pride myself with my never ending patience, but I swear to God, if you don’t let me kill him...I don’t know what I’m gonna do.” Y/N muttered between her gritted teeth, shocking Alfie since he never saw her as the violent type. “I’m not doing any business with him, alright, do what you feel like doing, Y/N, he’s all yours.” Alfie sat back in his chair, his fingers intertwined over his stomach, watching with interest whatever she was going to do.

Y/N jumped off the desk and slowly prowled around it, her head hanging low, before she snapped it up, glaring lightnings at the man.

“Fuck off. Now. Or you’re dead. Do you understand this simple language, or do I need to put it in words that even a monkey would understand?” she crossed her arms, spitting poison at him. “What, can’t I be angry at my own girlfriend for being a bitch and leaving me alone? I mean, you really fucked up, y’know? You left me when I needed you the most, how tragic is that?!” he yelled at her, but she only rolled her eyes, scoffing. “Yeah, I left you ‘cause you were abusing me. The way I see it, you’re the one who sucks, not me. Now get the hell out of here. Before I do something you will regret.” her voice went an octave lower, threatening him the same way she learnt from Alfie over the time of business making. “Woaw, Y/N, woaw, that’s pathetic, even for you. You’ve never been able to even raise your voice at anyone. You were nothing more than a crybaby who couldn’t step up to anyone, and then you went to war, and what, you think you changed? You didn’t! Underneath this dumb, tough facade that you’re trying to pull in front of everyone else, you’re nothing more than the frightened little girl who needed to have everything in control and grasp a bit of power to feel superior to others after you got beaten up and had a gun pointed at your head by the Germa-” but he couldn’t continue speaking for, in the blink of an eye, she pulled out a gun for her trench coat and shot him in the head, his blood and brains shooting everywhere, all over her, on the walls and floor. “Well...Ask me anything and I will provide you with an answer that is completely honest this time. But, uhm...Take of your shirt, will you?” she had a solemn, pissed off expression as she threw off her coat before hurriedly taking off her shirt, nonchalantly cleaning up her face, then pulling it into a ball, throwing it on the cadaver, then stepped in front of a very shocked, yet impressed Alfie. “Go on, take off your shirt, will you? It’s clean. You promised I’ll never have to shoot a gun, and yet, I did, therefore I need a clean top, right? So, while I tell you the truth, don’t let me stay like this in front of you, okay?” extending her hand in front of her, while her other arm was over her chest, trying to cover her pretty white laced bra, it took a mirthful laugh out of the Jew for him to finally take off his shirt and put it around her, not caring that he was the topless one now. “Will you ever stop impressing and surprising me, lass?” Alfie asked, petting her head as a way to say she did well. “Once I stop shocking myself, sure. Until then...I believe you want to say something, don’t you?” she asked, slowly stepping in front of him, looking up at him as she properly put on his shirt that looked like a dress on her. “Yeah, lass, I think I did.”

With a gentle smile, he cupped her face, leaning down to plant a soft kiss on her lips, one hand stroking his fingers through her beautiful long hair, while the other caressed her soft visage. The tender look in his blue-green eyes felt like the safest, warmest haven she ever felt, and with an impulse decision that her heart made, she leaned forward, her arms slowly snaking around his torso, her head resting on his shoulder, and closing her eyes, she could finally feel her heart calming, for the first time in her life.

“It was you who went to war, wasn’t it?” Alfie muttered in her hair, holding her tightly. “Yeah. I don’t have a brother. It was me who went with my father to war, but he died, so I had to be the backbone of the troops. When I got home, my mum was devastated and she died of grief. I left that place to get rid of memories...And get rid of that fuckass. War left me with traumas, but it also made me strong enough to face up to who I am and stop taking everyone’s shit just because they think I’m lesser than them. Sometimes...When you talk about your time as a captain...I remember my time there...And...I realise how much I respect you...And also, how different you are from all the people I had contact with there.” she explained, her grip tightening around him, her heart quivering from the deep emotions she was feeling. “You’ve been through quite a lot in your life, haven’t you, lass? And you managed to make a life all for yourself, from the scratch, right, so, I think you’ve been doing great. France?” he asked, guiding her to a more private room, much warmer and cozier, while Ollie was to find him another shirt. “Yeah, France. Thing is...You went through all that, and it was worse for you, since you were a Captain, and you must have felt responsible for every death from your troops...And yet...Ever since we met, you’ve been sweeter than anyone has ever been, and that includes my own family. Don’t get me wrong, I loved them, but maybe...Maybe I’m just a bit softer than I let others think. And you managed to hit the right spot, in the good way, I mean. War changes everyone, and yet, you’re...I have no fitting word to describe how much I appreciate you, Alfie, but here...This thing here feels it, and I think you can feel what I’m feeling too.” she explained, resting her head on his shoulder once they sat down on the sofa, as he pulled her closer to his side, kissing her temple lovingly. “You know, Y/N...You’re not wrong. I tried not to think about my time there and the horrors I’ve seen, yeah, so, maybe it doesn’t come off as anything fantastic, and I still don’t think that being a decent person, right, to people who are close to me, is a big deal. But maybe sometimes we take things for granted, don’t we, so, maybe, you’re right. But that guy has no excuse for being a bastard. You’re safe now, Y/N, and when some day, when we’re done with this gangster mess...We can go to Margate and live a normal life there, eh. You, me and Cyril, and the sandy beach and the waves, right, and maybe, if we get bored, we can shoot those damned seagulls, yeah? They’re so annoying, I’m telling ya!” Alfie chuckled, which, in turn, made her grin at him lovingly. “I’d love to go to Margate with you, Alfie, and have seagull shooting contests together, and run barefoot on the shore, and if it’s enough light from the moon, we can swim a bit. Sounds like the perfect life if you ask me.” Y/N kissed his cheek, lovingly caressing his face before hugging his side. “That’s what I like to hear, lass. I’m sure Cyril would bark like a mad dog from happiness if he was hear, right. S’gonna be fun when we get home, eh.”

Yo, so I think I’ve got the right acc- I saw the Song Writing Prompts on AO3 and it lead me here. I just wanted to give a song, so Partner’s in Crime by Set It Off- Julian x MC. Maybe in a setting that, instead of Julian staying to be hanged, He and MC ran away and became fugitives. Woot woot. Thanks.

Yes you came to the right account, even know it’s taken me like literal years to answer this. So sorry, i was depressed. Anywho, this was a super cute idea thanks for the request! <333

You can find the rest of my Song Prompts on AO3!!

Words: 973

A chaste kiss decided your fate. You looked in to Julian’s tired grey eyes. He was afraid of dying for the first time in a long time, and you couldn’t lose him so soon. You couldn’t risk it, the cons heavily outweigh the pros. Losing Julian forever, or the chance of a normal stable life together forever.

No, the risks were too great, if he were hanged for a crime he didn’t commit and didn’t come back... You don’t want to imagine what you would do. You gave Julian’s slender gloved hand a final squeeze before bolting for from the dungeons under the coliseum.

“Hey! Stop!” Shouted a guard, before he was roughly shoved into a cell and locked inside. The guard waiting at the top of the stairs heard the commotion and came running towards you and Julian, hand on her sword. You called upon your magic, lifting the guard off her feet and tossing her to the side out of the way.

You and Julian dashed across the sand of the Coliseum towards the gate, you heard the confused murmurs of the crowd and the Courtiers floundering to give chase.

“How dare you!” Vlastomil shrieked, hiking up his gown to stomp clumsily down the steps of the stage. Valdemar didn’t move an inch, they only stared at you both running away and tilting their head off to the side.

Valerius choked on his wine and smashed the glass in anger, “stop them”! Vulgora was hot on your tails and you used your magic to slam the gate down in their face just after you and Julian crossed the threshold.

Asra watched your two figured disappear in the distance, shocked, disappointed, and sad. He always thought of Julian as a bad influence for you, and now he was making you a criminal. Whether he was guilty for the Count’s death or not, running away from the gallows was a crime in and of itself, and you became an accomplice in that.

Portia left Nadia’s side, tears streaming down her freckled cheeks. Her hand reaching out as if she could grab Julian out of thin air. “Ilya...”

The Countess sunk into her chair, massaging her temples to ease her growing headache. Asra placed a hand on her shoulder in support. There was nothing to do now except hope they make it out of Vesuvia alive and safe as a crowd of guards and Vulgora hunted them down.

On your way to the docks, you and Julian whipped passed Muriel, who happened to be in the market as he suspected it would be nearly vacant with most of the townspeople at the coliseum to see Julian hang.

His eyes widened in shock as he stepped out of the way, his eyes tracked your movements in disbelief. You snatched Julian into an alley off to the right and disappeared from sight. Moments later a slew of guards led by Vulgora stormed through the market place.

Vulgora stomped up the Muriel impatiently, grabbing him roughly by his metal collar and yanking him down to their height.

“Which way did they go, you worm!” They snapped. Muriel scowled and pointed to the opposite alley to the left. He didn’t agree with you and Julian running but he wasn’t going to lead them right to you.

“Let’s go men!” Vulgora shoved Muriel out of the way and they raced down the left alleyway. Muriel was quick to leave the market place and head home, not at all mentally prepared to shop with palace guards littering the streets.

You and Julian made it to the docks without much incident, finding a ship that was waiting for you both to dock. Mazelinka aboard looking disappointed but supportive if it would keep Julian alive.

“Below decks you two, quickly!” With that, the ship swayed and pulled off from port just as Vulgora and the palace guards made it to the beach. Vulgora kicked up the sand at their feet and growled.

“Arghh!” they watched in anger as the ship that must have Julian Devorak aboard was sailing off in the distance. They panted angrily and stalked off back towards the Coliseum to inform Valdemar that the doctor and the apprentice got away.

When you both caught your breath you and Julian looked lovingly into each other’s eyes. He chuckled pulling you into a hug.

“I’m sorry I got you into my mess, darling.” He was truly upset about that, from the beginning he wanted to keep you from getting entangled in his baggage but you loved and accepted him despite that. Now look at you, a fugitive when only days ago you were a trusted confidant of the palace. You were leaving your friends and family behind; Julian was used to this life but you? He didn’t want that for you.

“No, I wasn’t going to let you die.” You replied, squeezing him tight and taking in his scent, your face buried in his chest.

“We can never go back...” He warned.

“I know.” You were sure of your decision; you’d never regret running away with the love of your life.

“We’re criminals now...” He added, making sure that you were okay with the reality of the situation.

“Yes. Partners in crime.” You smiled up at him, swiping auburn curls from off of his forehead and removing his eyepatch.

Julian chortled and gave your head a pat, he peppered kisses all over your face. He admired you, he was so lucky to have you, if he was going to be on the run forever, he was glad he’d be on the run with you.

Months passed, and oceans away back in Vesuvia, Asra sighed as he snatched a WANTED poster off the wall of his shop that displayed you and Julian’s faces.

Ateez reacting to their s/o getting a pixie cut and feeling insecure

❦ Genre: Fluff.

❦ Pairing: OT8.

❦ Word count: 10k6.

❦ Requested: Yes, thank you! 🦋

❦ Masterlist.

❦ A/N: if you don’t know what is a pixie cut (like me) here it is.

HONGJOONG

Hongjoong was waiting impatiently your return. Today, you finally went to the hairdresser to get a haircut. He knew that you were reticent at first, but you really wanted to give it a try. Hongjoong knew that you would regret it. He stood up instantly when he heard your key unlocking the door. He rushed to the hallway. His heart missed a beat when he saw your face being so exposed and the same for your neck. You entered the hallway and asked shyly, playing with your short hair. “It’s weird? Or ugly?”

He shook his head, making you understand that you were beautiful. “You look prettier than what I would think.” “Really?” You asked shyly. He nodded and pulled you by the hand into the living-room. “And because I know that you might regret your choice or at least need to get used to.” He started. “I got this for you.” He handed you a Tiffany&Co little box. You blinked few times, being speechless by this sudden situation. “Hongjoong-ah... you don’t need to propose me just for a haircut.” “Huh? Wait what? I’m not proposing!” He freaked out. “Just open it.” He ordered, stepping away from you shyly. You opened slowly the little box. When you saw the 2 beautiful longs earrings, you stood up and stared at your boyfriend. “Hongjoong! It’s beautiful!” You said, holding one between your fingers. “I thought that it would fit well with your new look.” he scratched his head. You ran to your boyfriend to hug him. “Thank you! That’s exactly what I needed.” You thanked him. He patted your back softly, “I’m happy that you like it.” He was so good to you. He probably bought it the day you took the hairdresser appointment m. What would you do without him?

SEONGHWA

Seonghwa was waking up of his nap when he heard you slamming the door. Usually, you would run to the living-room and greet him with a hug, telling that you missed him even if you were gone for 10 minutes only. But today, you ran to your bedroom, ignoring your boyfriend. He was worrying for you. So, he quietly walked in the hallway and stopped right in front of your room. You were not facing him, but your new look surprised him. The way your neck was exposed affected him differently. You hadn’t spotted your boyfriend’s eyes on you yet. You were just admiring your new haircut. “Ah… maybe it’s too short... what If Seonghwa doesn’t like it.” “Why I wouldn’t like it?” He said, finally entering. You faced your mirror, inspecting your hair. Your boyfriend wrapped his arms around your waist, “you look amazing.” You giggled shyly, “don’t you think it’s too short?“ He rested his chin on your shoulder, enjoying your perfume in the same time. “I think you are too pretty to go out now. Everyone would look at you.” You rolled your eyes, “stop saying that because I’m your girlfriend.” He kissed your neck softly, enjoying the smoothness of your skin. “I say that because you are pretty.” He paused before kissing your nape, “and mine.” You smirked, looking at Seonghwa’s reflection on the mirror. “I think that you are enjoying it a little bit too much.” “Probably,” he replied. “You have this effect on me and your new hair cut is not helping.” Finally, you were thinking wrong about this pixie cut. He probably liked it more than you.

YUNHO

You were watching a movie with your boyfriend, Yunho. You were sitting on the floor between Yunho’s legs, grabbing popcorn time to time. Finally, both of you found time to see each other. This month was probably the fullest that Yunho got in his whole career. At first, he was supposed to be your mental support when you needed to get your haircut. But because of his schedule, he didn’t manage to be there. So, tonight was the first time, he saw you with your pixie cut. You were waiting a bit more of compliment. But you simply thanked him and settled the movie, snacks and the atmosphere. While you were focused on the scene, you were ignoring that Yunho was not watching the movie. He was right there behind you, but he couldn’t stop staring at your hair. When he saw the result earlier, he hadn’t found the good words to express how gorgeous you were. “Hello earth? We are calling Jeong Yunho!” You said, waving your hand in front of you. Yunho blinked few times, he was so deep in his thoughts that he didn’t notice you calling him. “Huh? Yes?” “You don’t like my hair huh?” You bit your lip, finally asking. “What? No! I mean- Yes, I do! I like it- arghh-“ he sighed, frustrated. “I like it. I really do. It’s just that I don’t know how to compliment you well. You smiled shyly, “it’s okay, you don’t have to. I have my answer!” When you were doing to sit back on your seat, he grabbed your hand. “No, I really want you to know that you are the prettiest girl I ever saw. And even more with this haircut. You are absolutely gorgeous. Amazing. Handsome. Pretty. Sexy-“ “Okay okay!” You giggled, stopping him. “Thank you.” You sat on his laps, hugging his tall figure. “Only you can make me feel like I’m the prettiest girl on the earth. Thank you.”

YEOSANG

Even if Yeosang insisted to see your hair since the end of your hairdresser appointment, you were not removing the ridiculous beanie you were wearing. “Y/N... it’s okay! I’m sure you look pretty! You are whatever you do anyway.” He tried to comfort you. “Really? Then why everyone is looking at me?” You asked, fixing your hat again. “Probably because you are wearing a beanie even if it’s 25°C today.” He chuckled. “I won’t remove it!” You replied, sitting on the grass. “Okay. At least I can see your exposed neck,” he mentioned tickling your nape. “Don’t!” You slapped his hand. Yeosang lay down next to you. The park became emptier, but you still refused to show your haircut. “You know that I’ll see your hair tonight, you won’t sleep with it.” He warned you. “I’ll sleep with it. Till my hair grow again!” Your boyfriend sighed and finally asked you. “Why you decided to cut your hair? If it’s to wear this ugly beanie?” “Because I thought it would look nice. But I’m not sure anymore.” You replied. “And this stupid beanie is yours.” He raised a brow, almost disgusted, “really? Why did I buy this?” You raised your shoulder as an answer. Yeosang held you hand, enjoying how it fits perfectly in his. “Baby, you look amazing whatever you are wearing.” He kissed your hand. “So, please. Remove this beanie.” You bit your lip, hesitating a bit but finally executed. You avoided his stare on you. Yeosang stood up, grabbing you by the hand. “What are you doing? If you don’t like it just-“ “Let’s go home. If anyone see how pretty you are, they will think that you are a top model and that I’m not good enough for you!” He explained, trying to hide you with his jacket.

SAN

Your boyfriend San noticed how you were a bit reticent and sad about your hair cut. He liked it so much but seems like that you didn’t or that you needed to be used to. Most of the time, you were hiding your hair with the cap of his hoodie, that you loooved to wear. He even spotted you looking for hair extension on Internet. So, while you thought that you were joining your boyfriend and his dad for a fancy dinner, San planned a complete other program. [“Y/N, the address is this one. I found another restaurant.”] “Oh, it’s near my apartment,” you whispered, seeing the red pin on the map. [“See you there.”] you replied. While you got ready, you tried to remember a restaurant near your apartment. But you could only think about a library, a photo shoot studio or a little shop. You gave up and exited your apartment and walked to the address that San gave you. Once you got there, you called San, thinking that he gave you the wrong address. “Y/N! Come in!” Interpelled your boyfriend, in front of you. “What are you doing here? And where’s your dad?” You asked. “I lied,” he giggled. “There’s only both is us tonight and Jongho as a photographer.” He said leading you inside. “Photographer? Wait San, I-“ He faced you, “I know that you are not used to your haircut. But trust me, when I say that you are pretty! So, do this little photoshoot.” He kissed your cheek, before joining Jongho. You understood what he wanted to do. He wanted to boost your confidence and help you to love this hairstyle as much as he liked it. “Are you ready Y/N?” Asked Jongho. You nodded and shouted,” more than ready! You will see San-ie! I’ll rock this hairstyle!” “That’s my girl!” Shouted back your boyfriend, proud of you.

MINGI

You were trying to calm down your boyfriend. He was so excited about your new haircut. “Did I say that you were so pretty?” He giggled, tickling your exposed ears. “Mingi... calm down,” you said to him gently. “Why?” He asked, tilting his head at 2 centimeters of you. “I can’t tell that my girlfriend is the PRETTIEST girl in the world?” He yelled, making people stare at you. “Argh! Stop! Everyone is looking at us!” “Not at us! At you!” He tickled your chin. “No... this is not really pretty or at least not on me.” You muttered. Mingi looked at you, outraged that you could think that you were ugly or not attractive with this haircut. “You look amazing!” He wrapped your arm around your shoulders. “It’s me, who’s not looking good enough next to you.” You giggled, “you say that because you are my boyfriend.” “Oh, then okay...” he simply replied. When you thought that he was calming down and that you could go back to the dorm, Mingi rushed to a couple in front of you. “Excuse me! My girlfriend is pretty huh?” He asked as if he was asking the weather.” You pinched his arm, “Mingi!” “Excuse me mister!” He said to an old man. “My girlfriend is pretty, right?” The old man laughed at his question and answered, “yes. She’s in an angel! You are lucky.” Mingi turned around, “see! Everyone finds you pretty!” “Okay okay I got it!” you laughed, “stop now.” You wrapped your arm around his. This boy was unbelievable, but you felt more comfortable and less insecure now thanks to him.

WOOYOUNG

When you said to Wooyoung that you wanted to cut you hair, he was a bit reticent. He was not really a fan of short hair but that was your choice and you were free to do whatever you want. Finally, the day of your hairdresser appointment, you sent a message to your boyfriend. [“Say bye to my long hair!”] [“Are you sure?”] [“100% Wooyoungie...”] you sighed. You were just in front of the hairdresser shop. It’s not the right moment to doubt. [“Then I want to be the first person to see your short hair.”] [“Come and get me in 1 hour then.”] After sending your message, you got in. But, when you saw all the scissors there, you just wanted to run away but finally you took all the braveness that you had and joined the employee. After the appointment, you felt different but anxious about your boyfriend’s reaction. “Y/N-“ You turned around. Your cheeks were burning instantly when you saw Wooyoung staring at you intensely. “H-Hi,” you waved shyly at him. You thought that he wasn’t liking the result, but he was just staring at your beauty with his new look. “Well I know that you won’t like it but it’s not that bad huh?” You tried to convince him. But out of nowhere, he hugged you, rubbing your head. “Don’t ever grow your hair again. You look amazing and I’m sorry for not supporting you enough.” He apologized. “It’s okay,” you whispered. “And if you like it then it’s perfect. He hugged you tighter, “you are so gorgeous that I don’t want to let you go. Who would thought that your neck was so pretty?” He laughed Hearing his laugh, completely reassured you. Now you will just need to get used to.

JONGHO

When you called Jongho to tell him that you really cut your hair, he freaked out. Few days ago, when you told him that you wanted to do a pixie cut, he was scared that you would look more mature. He didn’t want to look like a baby next to you. But of course, he didn’t say anything. You needed to do whatever you wanted. So, when you were about to meet him at the coffee shop next the KQ building, he was a bit stressed. He was preparing mentally to your new style. “Hello Jongho...” you greeted him, sitting on the chair in front of your boyfriend. He couldn’t detach his eyes off you. This pixie cut gave you a kind of mature look. But also, a cuter one. He ignored if it was because of the shy expression and the pinkish make up you had or the haircut only. “Ah... it’s different huh...” you rubbed your neck. “Yes. Totally different.” He smiled. “I like it but maybe I needed to do it less-,” you doubted. “You are perfect!” He reassured you. “To be honest I thought you would look mature. Even a bit too much but,” he paused, sitting next to you. “You look so cute!” He giggled, pinching your cheeks. “Huh wait. Ouch- Jongho it hurts.” You slapped his hands. “Sorry but I can’t help it…Your baby face!” He claimed with a soft voice. “I look grown, mature and sexier!” You contradicted him, pouting a bit. He looked at you intensely, “yes sure... my little girl.” You rolled your eyes, “stop babying me Choi Jongho.” “I can’t help it!” He replied, pinching your cheeks again. Finally, it’s a good thing that you got this pixie cut. 

Epilogue

Henry Cavill x OC Lisa - multi-chapter fic

Author’s note: OH! I absolutely adored writing about these two, but alas, it is time for us to part. And as I bid these two lovebirds (and their 100k long “short” story..) adieu, I will definitely continue to write. Please feel free to send me prompts or ideas and enjoy your day. 

Word count: 1.592

Disclaimer: fluff

--

This is the final part of the Tea for Two series. *sadness* I hope you enjoyed it <3

Read my other stories here.

--

Is the air thick, or is it just me?

Tapping my foot on the grey slate tiles of the bathroom, I glanced at the obnoxious piece of plastic that was currently taking its sweet time to give me clarity. Here I was, sitting on the toilet, a fumbled up box in my left hand and this pregnancy test in my right. A soft singing drifted in from downstairs, as Henry was cooking us dinner. Probably singing along to this jazzy cooking playlist I made, I thought.  

I smiled and sighed. I really don’t need to read the wrapper AGAIN, right?

I stretched out to place the stick on the edge of the sink, before tossing the wrapper and box in one graceful bow straight in the bin.

GOAL.

I smirked and half-eyed the stick again. No result yet.

Arghh..How long could a few minutes be?!

I knew the drill by now. Especially after that little heart attack moment a few months ago.

What probably had just been some mild stomach flue, had awoken a whole new phase in our relationship. Suddenly there was this baby-situation we needed to discuss. And I, for one, was not quite ready for that.

It became a mind boggling 12-hour rollercoaster that came to an immediate halt as it happened to be a false alarm. Just some painful boobs and a bit of throwing up.

Now, however, it seemed more game on. For a few days now I had been having morning sickness, unbeknownst to Henry - I didn’t want to flip his guts again for no reason. And ..well…there HAD been this Japan trip where I had accidentally forgotten my pill strip. And we did have sex. Hot HOT sex.

Oops.

What a few months can do, right? My life changed so fast, I barely even realised it. Two years ago I was living a very single life in LA, my mind more occupied with work than love. Fast forward a few months and I was suddenly cooping up with this hella cute guy in a trailer on the Witcher set in Poland. The next thing we’re meeting the parents, we’re moving in..he’s proposing. Holy hell.

And did I want to have babies with him?

I guess I..

I glanced at the stick again, noticing a line was starting to appear. My eyes grew wider.

HOLY HOLY HOLY..

OH MY…

‘Honey, dinner’s almost ready.’ I barely registered Henry’s voice as he called for me, my fingers now grasping around the test to get a better look.

‘Oh my..’ I whispered, quickly getting up from the toilet seat and folding my fingers around the plastic object, looking at it one more time before pushing it in my sweater pocket, my legs blindly carrying me down the stairs.

A waft of roast veggies and meats hit my nostrils, the sound of some jazz music joined by Henry’s soft humming. Ah the Sunday roast. I practically floated into the kitchen, my stomach rumbling at the notion there was some delicious food at the ready. And a delicious fiancé too.

I squeezed Henry’s ass and popped my head over his shoulder, looking at him work as he cut up the roast meat.

’Smells goooood.’ I all but drooled. Henry snickered in response.

‘That’s gooood to hear.’ He sang-sung in his low baritone, half-wittedly tuning in with the beat of the music. I chuckled, moving to fill a pitcher with water, before following Henry to the dining table.

Tony Bennett’s Tea for Two was playing softly in the background.

“Picture you upon my knee

Just tea for two

And two for tea..”

We sat down and as Henry started to open a bottle of red wine my mind all but reeled.

OH darn. I have to tell him..right now.

Or later? After dinner?

Maybe just..

Fuck..I can’t drink alcohol.

I looked at his hand as it deftly turned the bottle opener into the cork, the cork scrunching under the force.

‘I ..eh…’ Henry looked up, his hand now starting to tug on the opener, the cork slowly rising from the narrow neck of the bottle.

My cheeks turned bright red and my mind couldn’t form a single word.

‘You okay dear?’ He asked, not sure what was the matter as his eyebrow raised. ‘Please don’t tell me you just now became a vegetarian..’ He nervously chuckled, eyeing the roast meat as it lay enticingly steaming on the wooden board.

‘I’m pregnant.’ I finally gasped.

Suddenly there was wine everywhere. Henry’s hand slipped and the bottle all but tumbled from his grip as his mouth fell wide agape, the red liquid staining his shirt and arms as he stared at me wide eyed.

‘Really?’ He whispered, completely ignoring the wine spill as he turned on his chair.

I smiled nervously, my cheeks burning even more red as I fumbled, reaching for the test that was snugly hidden away in my sweater pocket. Just like a baby. My fingers grasped around the plastic and I tugged it out, my eyes also instantly dragging back to the little + icon that had appeared only minutes earlier. It was still there.

‘I’m pregnant.’ I smiled, a giddy laughter starting to bubble up in my chest as Henry’s arms were suddenly around me, his lips pressing precious little kisses on my face.

—---

*on Instagram* 

To my wife.

On a very sweaty early morning in LA I was preparing for my walk with Kal. Like I do everyday before work. Little did I know that Kal had different plans that day. He escaped. Something I can easily ascribe to be one of the most terrifying moments of my life, were it not that within minutes my phone rang. I heard your voice.

‘Are you perhaps missing a dog?’

I went out to find you and Kal. Which happened to be at the highest hill top. You smiled at me casually while handing me his leash, a sunset setting the world around us aglow. We chatted a bit while walking back down - you worked on the Witcher set as well and had this sweet quirkiness going on. “Lisa from marketing” is all I knew about you when you waved us goodbye.

Well. I asked around. And apparently there worked over 20 Lisa’s at the Witcher set.

I had almost given up on finding you again, when I finally saw you. Sipping on a cup of tea at the breakfast bar. And once more we had such fun, that I felt that this cup of tea was empty way too soon and you had hopped off your chair and disappeared before I could ask you out. It left me a bit confused. Should I just call you? It felt like we clicked. I had your number. No.. that’d be weird. Oh, how silly I felt when I would then continue coming to that breakfast bar again..and again..and again. Until I found you there once more. And we chatted again so very animatedly. You invited me for a hike after work. Which turned into dinner at your place. And the rest…well..it’s kind of history.

Just one week ago you have made me the happiest man alive. Because I may now call you not just my best friend, my arch nemesis on Mario Kart, my conscience when I so need it, but also ..my wife. I love you, my sweet Lisa.  

PS. Thanks Kal for that hook up. I owe you one, BIG time.  

“Just tea for two

And two for tea

Just me for you

And you for me alone”

—

‘PUSH! Come on! PUSH!’

‘I can’t do it.’ I cried, my fingers tangling desperately around the sweaty sheets as another contraction rippled through my wrecked body.

‘Come on baby. A little more. You’re nearly there.’ Henry dabbed the sweat off my forehead, the cool cloth somewhat alleviating my toasty hot skin as I squeezed every muscle I could squeeze.

Why did this baby have to decide to come out on the hottest frigging day of the year?!

‘AAAAAAHHHHHH BY THE GODS WHY..FUCK..AHHHHHHH.’ I scolded, fury raging through my boiling blood.

The whole world kind of swam around me in colours and sounds. There were indistinct voices cheering me on as I could feel the dull pressure at my lower abdomen, the almost natural need to push rushing through my very being. And then there was Henry. His head floating above me as he coached me through it all, his voice focused and steady as a rock in a wild, restless surf.

‘I am so proud of you. You are doing it. YES baby! YES!’ His voice became more excited.  

Flop.

Silence.

For just a moment, as all faces suddenly turned downward, I felt my heart sink. Was it…?

And then he cried, our baby boy.

Still a bit at loss at what just happened and even more confused at what to do, I looked over at Henry. His hair a tumbling mess of dark curls and his blue eyes glazed over with tears, he smiled, unbelieving of what just happened. I felt my heart sing through the realms of my painful body. All was well.

And then suddenly there was this tiny little person placed on my breast. All soft skin, caked with blood, a roaring wail coming from his tiny mouth. Our baby bear.

My heart swelled as Henry’s eyes met mine. 

Green meets blue. 

Mommy.. meets daddy.

---

“We will raise.. a family

A boy for you

And a girl for me”

--

The end. 

unknown love

Pairings: Cedric x reader

Warnings: none

Notice: some words may be spelled incorrectly. 

Requested: no, but you can always request!

Summary: you meet a unknown boy in the library and things get complicated afterwards.

This story is written from inspiration to put yourself in the story!

Reading has always been your thing. Since you were little, you were always reading books. So now, in hogwarts, library was totally your favourite place to be in. You spent almost all of your time reading and studying, while others were having fun. You didn’t care about popularity. It meant really nothing to you. You still had a couple friends, even though you didn’t spent that much time with them. Just like yesterday, you were in the library reading about different spells. Reading and also writing was your type of fun. The books in front of you were old and dusty. There was only a couple more pages left. You finally finished your book and stood up. You had about five books that you were going to take to your table. You were trying to balance everything and almost falling every minute. Suddenly all of your books were on the ground and you fell.

‘‘ARGHH, STUPID BOOKS’‘ you yelled.

of course you thought that no one was there. Only crazy people would yell at the library! as you were picking up your books, you noticed a hand helping. It was kind of scary AND embarrassing, because just a minute ago you were yelling at the top of your lungs.

‘‘thank you, but i can handle these.’’ you said, trying not to sound rude.

you looked up and saw a boy. You’ve seen him a couple of times. You knew that he was that ‘’popular’’ type of guy. whatsoever you didn’t even know his name.

‘‘Oh, i’m sorry. I just thought that you needed some help.’‘ The boy said and stood up.

He handed the books over. He waved and turned around. As he was walking away, you yelled;

‘‘Hey! Didn’t mean to be rude or anything, just not good with people!’‘ 

He turned around and walked back. Your mind was thinking about the next words that were about to come out of your mouth.

‘‘I just- the thing is... uh.. thank u!’‘ you muttered.

‘‘you’re welcome. by the way, what’s your name? i don’t think i’ve seen you before’‘ he said.

‘‘oh, it’s y/n. I usually stay inside all day and i’m not very social. what’s your name?’‘ you felt more comfortable talking to him. He didn’t feel like a stranger anymore. 

‘‘Nice to meet you, i’m cedric.’‘ He said with a smile. Even thought you have never been with anyone or didn’t have the slightest clue about love, you knew that a handsome face like that must have a lot of admirers. 

‘‘Nice to meet you too, i must go now. I have to study more or i’ll never be able to learn deletrius.’‘ you tried to smile, but it looked more like a awkward movement. 

‘‘I actually know how to do that, i can teach you.’‘ He said and sat down at the closest table. you sat next to him nervously. You didn’t really know what to expect from the evening. It’s not like you know how is it like to spend a evening with a boy. He showed you the right movements and how it’s done. The time went so quickly away and you kind of hoped to stay a little longer with him.

”Thank you for the evening, y/n, hope i see you later!” Cedric said with a bright smile.

”thank you for teaching me how to do the spell, i owe you a lot!” You yelled before he left.

woah, what a great day was that? a lot of people must be pissed at me for spending time with him. No one should know about it. your friends weren’t really interested on how you spent your free time. You walked to your bed and you sat down. you changed your clothing and fell asleep. The next day started differently. When you woke up, everyone else was somewhere else. For the first time, you were alone when you woke up. You stood up and changed your clothes to your daily suit. It was still very cold outside, so you took your scarf. Now you were in your common room and there was only one person sitting in the couch. It was one of your friends, y/f/n.

‘‘Hi y/f/n, where exactly is everyone?’‘ you asked.

‘‘I think it’s about the yule ball, everyone wants cedric to ask them.’‘ you got an answer. 

that was a totally unexpected answer, but what did you care anyways? you’ve never cared about things like that so why should you care now? you didn’t know what was going on, but something felt different. 

‘‘oh okay, thanks.’‘ you replied.

as you were walking out of the common room, your friend stopped you and said:

‘‘you know that pretty boy cedric is still missing a partner for the dance. You two would make a great couple.’‘ 

wow. that was so weird to hear. me and him? no way. He was the perfect guy in hogwarts and you were just a nerd. That wouldn’t make any sense, right? you didn’t reply and walked away. every girl was whispering to each other about something. You didn’t of course know, what was going on. few of the girls were talking loudly and you could hear what they were saying. 

‘‘i can’t believe that he said he was waiting for somebody, i bet i would be so much better and prettier.’‘ one of them said. 

That was probably the most stupidest things you’ve ever heard. who would say such a thing to someone they didn’t even know. you didn’t know who he was waiting for, but you didn’t care, much..

you were almost outside and then noticed cedric and his friends under the tree. they were laughing and giggling, as usual. you tucked your head down, so they couldn’t see you. 

‘‘i’ll be right back guys.’‘ a familiar voice said outside. 

you looked up to see what’s going on and then saw cedric. he was walking quickly towards you. oh no... you thought. now EVERYONE was looking at you. 

‘‘hi y/n, how are you?’‘ cedric asked. you could feel that he was nervous for some reason.

‘‘i’m great, what about you?’‘  you asked him nicely. 

‘‘i’m great too, thanks. uhm.. i was just wondering..’‘ he started muttering. 

what was going on? you asked yourself. it was extremely awkward and everyone was staring at the two of you once again. 

‘‘would you like to go to the yule ball with me?’‘ he asked and froze. 

awkward silence filled the whole place. no one was saying anything and you were shocked. was cedric diggory asking you to the yule ball? oh no... all of the girls must be so mad at me. 

‘‘i..ah..well..i-’‘ you muttered. your cheeks were bright red and he was looking into your eyes and waiting for a reply nervously. 

‘‘it’s okay if you don’t want to.’‘ cedric said and had a nervous look on his face. 

‘‘NO NO NO NO.. i meant.. i’d love to go.’‘ you said to make it less awkward. now everyone was looking at you like you were some kind of a bug that needed to be killed. 

‘‘oh great! i’ll see you later!’‘ he said and rushed back to his friends.

now everyone was staring at YOU and whispering something. you ran to your next class and hoped that everyone would have stopped staring. it made you very uncomfortable. the day went quickly and you didn’t see cedric since. your mind was full of different thoughts and mostly you were just thinking how could have this happened? the next morning was rough. everyone looked at you differently except your friends. they supported you and thought that cedric made the right choice. the next week was also very difficult, because no one wanted to be your pair at anything. Your friends chose each other. The only person who talked to you was cedric. He felt so sorry for you and promised that everything will get better. in your free time, you were always with him. you were having fun outside. you two were reading about different spells and plants. the night of the yule ball was frustrating, because it could go horribly wrong or then it could be an amazing night. you wore your purple long dress and your friends helped you with your hair and makeup. you kind of hoped that cedric would like your appearance. you walked in the hall with your friends. He was waiting for you in the corner of the hall. He was looking extremely handsome. when he saw you, he greeted you with a bright smile. 

‘‘you look very beautiful y/n’‘ he said and blushed.

you giggled: ‘’thank you, you look very handsome yourself.’’ 

he offered you his arm and he took you deeper to the hall. you knew that it the champions needed to go first. 

‘‘are you ready?’‘ he asked you and smiled.

‘‘yes, i think i’am’‘ you said to him and walked in to the dance floor

the dance felt like it lasted forever, but it felt like magic. Cedric looking in to your eyes while dancing around the floor. People gasping and whispering. The only thing you could focus on, was him. after the dance you went to get some drinks while cedric talked to his friends. As you were picking up the cups, a boy named draco malfoy stepped beside you. 

‘‘hello y/n, you look very pretty this evening’‘ he said with a smirk.

‘‘uh thank you, i guess?’‘ you replied to him. you didn’t know why he was acting like that. All of the other days he had yelled mean things to you. 

‘‘i think we should go outside, the moon is looking pretty too.’‘ he said and grabbed your arm. 

you didn’t answer him anything and he was just staring at you with smirk. After few seconds, you could feel someone behind you and watched draco stepping back. you looked your back and saw cedric standing there with a furious look on his eyes.

‘‘draco, i think you should leave.’‘ he said with a cold tone, but still sounding very polite. draco gave him that cold look back and walked away. looked like he couldn’t fight today.

‘‘are you ok? did he do or say anything offensive?’‘ cedric asked, kind of nervously. 

‘‘yes, i’m perfectly fine, but i think we should go somewhere else maybe.’‘ you said. you were tired of the dancing and wanted to relax for the rest of the evening. 

‘‘of course, i’ll show you the perfect place.’‘ he said and took you by your hand. he was such a gentleman  and you were totally in love with him. the past month has been the greatest so far. the next thing you noticed was a dark sky with a full moon. that was so beautiful. he grabbed both of your hands and looked down. then he said:

‘‘you know, you make me really nervous, but extremely happy.’‘ 

you smiled at him and your eyes were sparkling. 

‘‘you are the greatest thing in my life’‘ you said back to him. 

he placed his hands in your cheeks and your lips were pressing against his. 

THE END.

what should i write next about? 

Good Fences - The Perfect Cliche Part 2

A/N: I don’t know why I wrote this... I wasn’t planning to continue this au/series/thing but my brother gave me the hilarious idea for the unfortunate incident later on so *shrugs*

PART 1

Trudging up the stairs because the elevator was broken yet again, Elizabeth fished for her keys in her bag to unlock the door to her new apartment. Could you still call it new when you’d already lived there for a month? She shrugged, pulling her hair out of its ponytail while jiggling the key in the door. She cast a cursory glance to the door labelled 144 which housed the subject of her sustained interest. 

Other than that first interaction with Drake in the elevator, she’d failed to have any interaction with her neighbour who was equal parts attractive and grumpy which only intrigued her more. While she was still job hunting, he already had an established full time job and their schedules seemed like polar opposites. Throwing her keys into the bowl near the door, she set her bags down and headed to her bedroom. Actually she corrected herself, there was that time last week..

-

Elizabeth had almost made it home when New York decided to unleash her unforgiving downpour of rain after a long day. Ducking into the concierge, she swiped her damp hair off her face before checking under her coat for the big textbooks she’d borrowed from the library.  Hurrying towards the elevator past the row of mailboxes and highly aware of the judgemental stare of the building’s burly female superintendent, she was painfully aware of the wet footprints she was tracking in. Between balancing the textbooks and struggling to get her keys out of her pocket, she wasn't paying attention to where she was going. The wet soles of her ballet flats failed to find purchase on the tiled floor and before Elizabeth realised it she was pitching towards the floor. 

Dropping the textbooks, she let out a yelp of surprise expecting to meet the hard cold surface with her face when something gripped her arm, halting her descent. Inching her eyes open she looked up to see Drake towering above her, his left hand gripping her bicep. Dressed in a white t-shirt with a denim button down spanning across his broad shoulders, Elizabeth gulped at the sight of her handsome neighbour. 

Helping her to her feet, he gave her a precautionary once over. ‘You okay?’ 

‘Yeah, thanks for the save,’ she replied, straightening her clothes and crouched down to retrieve the books she’d dropped, keeping her head down to hide her embarrassment. 

‘Next you decide to take a dive, tell someone first. I won’t always be there to catch you.’ 

Drake dipped down beside her to help her retrieve her books, handing her one before squinting at the cover. ‘Diagnostic Principles by Dr. Ethan Ramsey.’ 

Elizabeth tucked her hair out of her face nervously. ‘Yeah just a bit of light reading you know.' 

Drake looked like he was going to ask more but seemed to think better of it as they stood up. 

 ''m guessing your last name is Richmond.' Distracted with her coat, she glanced up at him quizzically. 

'Yeah why?’ 

He handed her a letter out of his stack of mail. ‘Must have gotten mixed up with mine.’ 

 Seeing the crest on the top left corner, Elizabeth hastily set her bags down and grabbed the envelope, tearing it open immediately to the amusement of her neighbour. 

 Dear Miss Richmond, Thank you for your application however we regret to inform you that… 

 She sighed in defeat, body sagging a little as she vacantly scanned the rest of the letter. Despair welled up in her as she fought to keep the tears from falling, not wanting to cry and definitely not in front of her hot neighbour and the superintendent lady who was clearly still judging her. 

 ‘Everything okay?’ 

 If she had looked up, Elizabeth would have seen the small crease of concern between Drake’s eyebrows as he looked at her with mild concern. 

 ‘Yes. No. I don’t know. No. I should go,’ she muttered, barely able to keep it together. Hoisting the books in her arms, she gave him a tight lipped, watery smile. ‘Thanks for the save.' 

She didn’t wait to see him shrug or catch the lingering look he gave her as she walked away. 

-

The letter was still sitting on her kitchen counter, squashed towards the side where she’d left it in her distaste. What had she been thinking? No self respecting work place would want a med school drop out period. Sure she could have used her father's connections to find something but she’d walked out of his out having sworn to make it on her own. And that is that she was going to do.  

Right what she was going to do was engage in the longest self pamperation session possible. The last interview was rigorous and from the looks on the interviewers’ faces they’d been less than impressed. 

Shedding her clothes as she walked through her bedroom, she donned her purple silk dressing gown and scrubbed off her makeup in the sink before lighting a few candles all whilst humming to herself. As she reached down to fill up the bathtub, a movement caught her eye. Glancing up, Elizabeth was horrified to find the biggest blackest spider on the wall staring back her barely six inches from her face.   

‘Ahhh!’ 

-

Drake eased into his comfy armchair, equipped with pizza and a beer, eager after a gripping workout to turn on that night’s game and just relax. Things at work were tense and things with Kiara? Even more so. After their last hook up, he’d thought things would ease up a little. Boy was he wrong about that too.. Before he could descend any further into the pit of self pity, his phone vibrated from where he’d left it on the coffee table. 

 ‘Liam?’ 

‘Hey Drake. Don’t sound so surprised to hear me calling or anything.’ 

He shook his head recovering. ‘Nah nah man. Its just… It must be early for you over there. Or late..’ 

There was a quiet chuckle on the line. ‘Yeah can’t sleep.’ 

 Drake felt his brows knit together in concern. ‘What’s up? King stuff..?’ Liam grunted a negatory response. 

Liam hesitated. He never hesitated. 

‘Its... its.. Liv.’ 

‘L-Olivia? What did Red do now?’ he scoffed, his least favourite person in the world springing to mind. 'I knew she was bad news. What she do huh? String another footman from his toes?’ 

 ‘Drake no. Its not like that.’ 

‘Dude if you need a-‘ 

‘I’m thinking of asking her to marry me.’ His best friend’s voice brought him screeching to a halt. 

‘Oh.’ 

‘Yeah..’ Taking a moment, Drake gathered himself. ‘Thats.. wow. Thats awesome man. Really.’ 

‘You think so?’ 

‘I do. I’m happy for you man. I really am.’ 

‘She’ gonna make a hell of a queen.' 

‘That she is.’ Liam laughed, obviously relieved that he thought so. ‘How’s Kiara?’ 

‘Mm fine.’ Drake grunted. 

 ‘That bad huh?’ He ran a hand over his face, staring up at the ceiling. ‘I dunno man. She’s just so… complicated.’ 

‘I have no idea why you’re still with her. The Drake Walker I knew was a simple man. Who are you and what have you done with him?’ 

‘Shut up. You don’t get it. Its.. its…' 

‘Complicated?’ 

 Drake was just about to reply with a snappy response when an unearthly screech ripped through the air. ‘I’ll call you back.'

Frowning, he made towards the door of his apartment before something very purple barrelled through it, dazing him for a moment before he recognised it to be the source of the screeching. 

 ‘Spider… spider… in the bathtub.’ His new very attractive neighbour — Elizabeth if he remembered correctly — gasped out, her towel balanced very precariously on her head as she visibly shook with fear, clutching his arm. ‘I… spider… this close to my face.’ She illustrated her words with a thumb and index finger bent together with barely any space in between. 

‘Just catch it.’ Drake replied, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. 

‘What?’ She gaped at him. ‘I can’t… I can’t just…’ She shuddered vigorously. ‘I.. I have a fear.’ 

‘You’re a thousand times bigger than it. I promise you its more afraid of you.’ 

‘You want me to catch it?’ Elizabeth stared at him. ‘With my hands? My bare hands?’ 

 Regarding her for one long moment, Drake muttered something under his breath about good fences making good neighbours before he gave in. ’Show me where it is.’ 

 Elizabeth's apartment was an exact mirror of his and while he had opted for the minimalist decoration style, her take was much more.. boho. He eyed the colourful tapestries and fairy lights she’d hung up on the walls and colourful throw pillows that he would die before seeing on his own couch. And for the finishing touch, the scent of lavender hung in the room, thanks to a small diffuser in the corner. 

 ‘In there. In the bathtub.’ Elizabeth’s voice echoed out from behind the wall she was hiding behind.

 Drake shook his head again before entering the small bathroom. Here, candles had cast a warm glow on the tiles, their light scent tickling his nose. It was nice but it was also making it harder for him to see. 

‘Alright spider where are ya?’ When he had located and squashed the offending arachnid, he called over his shoulder. ‘Okay, its dead.’ 

Elizabeth shuffled into the bathroom, her eyes squeezed shut, brandishing a wooden spoon. 

 ‘You can open your eyes now,’ he informed her, his voice giving way to a chuckle at the sight of her covering behind him. 

 ‘Where is it?’ 

‘I squashed it.’ 

‘You squashed it?’ Her eyes flew open. ‘In the tub.’ 

'Yep. You’re welcome.’ He dusted off his hands on his pants, turning to leave. 

‘You squashed it in the tub?’ 

‘Yeah... Are you going to repeat everything I’m saying?’ 

Elizabeth’s eyes widened in horror as she clutched the wooden spoon harder. ‘The tub that I was going to have a bath in.’ 

Drake shrugged. ‘Yeah.. So?’ 

‘Can you get it out?’ He forced himself not to roll his eyes, muttering under his breath about how good fences made good neighbours, no matter how pretty your neighbour was. Grabbing a piece of toilet paper, he bent over to pick up the carcass. 

‘See Richmond,’ he started to say, 'there’s nothing to be afraid o-ARGHH!’ 

It was at that moment that the spider who was decidedly not dead decided to exact its revenge, somehow leaping out of the tub and landing on his face. Drake's yell was soon joined by Elizabeth’s high pitched scream and out of instinct she swung the wooden spoon she was holding and 

CRACK!  

-

The TV blared with the highlights of the game that had just played but Drake couldn’t concentrate on anything at that point in time, not even the impressive shiner that was blooming on his left cheekbone. Nope not even the biggest bruise known to mankind could distract him from  the faint sound of someone singing. He shook his head to clear his mind and winced immediately, clutching the frozen packet of peas to his face. 

 Phonebooks, Wall Street, tax fraud. 

Think of anything else. Anything except the fact that the only thing separating him from his very attractive, very naked new neighbour was a ten inch thick wall. 

He tried not to think of how he’d already seen her almost naked twice. Once just then and another time in the laundry room when he’d walked in on her dancing. The moves she’d been making, the way her hips shook stayed with him for a long time after that. If he was honest with himself, if Kiara wasn’t in the picture, he’d totally be down to hit that. 

  Stop. Stop it. He grabbed a pillow and shoved it between his legs, willing his dick to stay down. Elizabeth would inevitably have to come out of that bathroom and he did not want to be sporting an erection when she did.   

’S what I get for being nice,’ he muttered to himself moodily. ‘A bruise the size of Texas and a goddamn boner to match.’

After they had both recovered from the initial shock, Elizabeth had been extremely apologetic after she realised what she’d done, launching into a flurry of sorry’s. 

Drake had groaned in pain, clutching his face as she sidestepped the now dead-for-sure spider to rush over to him as he stalked out into the living room..

 ‘Ohmygod I’m so sorry!’ 

 ‘Its fine. I’m fine. Just.. don’t bring that thing anywhere near me.’ 

Elizabeth had sheepishly lowered her wooden weapon. ‘Are you okay?’ 

‘I will be. I think I’ve got something in the freezer back at my place for this.’ 

 ‘At least let me walk you back. Its the least I can do.’ She was so insistent, Drake could barely refuse and had found himself seated on the couch with a bag of peas to his face and a very worried Elizabeth. 

 ‘You sure you’re gonna be okay?’ 

‘Mmhm.’ 

She'd seemed to collect herself, remembering that she was still scantily clad in little more than her dressing gown and stood to leave. 

‘Well thank you again for killing the.. yeah. And I am so sorry.’ 

 Drake had waved her off, shutting the door, hoping finally to get some peace and quiet. Through the wood of the door, he could still hear her voice however. 

‘He squashed. Its gone Elizabeth. That slimy little bug. Its dead. Squashed. Probably left its disgusting little bug juice all over my tub now. And I was going to have a bath. In bug juice. He’ll be looking at me from bug heaven knowing I’m sitting in his bug juice.’ 

Drake'd sighed for a moment, taking a second to make up his mind before opening the door. ‘Would you like to use my shower?'

By that time the shower had stopped, which meant Elizabeth was done and he shoved the pillow down harder, hoping it would look suspicious. A cloud of peach scented soap filled his nostrils as he heard the door unlock and Elizabeth step out, dressed again in that purple dressing gown, her hair wrapped in a towel. 

 ‘I’m so sorry.’ 

‘Don’t be. It was an accident,’ he waved her off. 

‘Let me see.’ Before he could protest, she dropped herself onto the couch next to him and was gently lowering the bag of peas, her hand warm on his cold one. 

From this angle, Drake had a fine view of the way her brows drew together in concentration and the tiny crease that appeared between them as she did. He hissed when her fingers touched the sensitive red skin and she mumbled an apology, studying the area with a focus that both unnerved and thrilled him. The fruity aroma of her shampoo filled his nostrils and he felt the tip of his ears burning when he realised how close she was, looking carefully over him with a concerned eye. His eyes flitted to her full lips that had the slightest bit of water still clinging to them, wondering what she’d do if he reached over to wipe it off.

Elizabeth must have noticed their proximity as she dropped her hand from his face, eyes sliding down to his lips and back up. Her breathing had picked up a little as they drew closer and closer, until their lips were centimetres away and- The sound of the frozen peas falling out of his hand to the ground was enough to make them both spring apart. Drake cleared his throat awkwardly.  

‘So umm…’ She looked just as uncomfortable, reaching up to tuck her hair behind her ear only belated realising that she’d twisted it all up into her towel. 

‘I should go. I need to go. Put on some clothes and all,’ she rambled, clearly still reeling from what had almost taken place. ‘I… uh..Sorry. Again.’ 

She made her way towards the door and he followed vacantly. ‘Its fine.’ 

Elizabeth nodded giving him a timid smile. ‘Goodnight Drake.’ 

‘Goodnight.’ 

She gave him a last look before closing the door to his apartment behind her and Drake sagged against it, unable to process the last few minutes. 

 What the hell just happened?

Bloodline, Part VII

Previous Chapters

Soundtrack: Mind Games by Sickick | Call Out My Name by The Weeknd

He doesn’t see Jiwon for a week. Then it’s two weeks. Then it’s nearly a whole entire month.

There’s a fine line between the growing resentment in his head and overwhelming dread in his heart. Without ever wanting it to happen, he now has someone he has to worry about; and it’s not just whether Jiwon was healthy, if his wounds were healing, if he took all the antibiotics, if he was eating properly…..

No.

He’s worried Jiwon will never come back at all.

He’s worried Jiwon is somewhere out there with the type of people who carry guns in their jeans and won’t hesitate to cut his skin with rusty blades or betray him at the first chance they get.

He’s worried Jiun won’t have a brother. 

He’s worried Jiwon is dead.

The worry and uncertainty makes him ache like there’s a deep dark chasm somewhere inside his chest.

It’s fucking stupid.

He’s fucking stupid.

He hates it.

He never asked for this. They aren’t anything to each other and he’s been so blinded by the face in front of him that his heart had gone right ahead and gotten itself attached to something that can never be caught, like water slipping through his fingers. They aren’t anything to each other and all he has to show for it is this gnawing anxiety that never leaves his stomach.

If his personality and behaviour were irritating before, it’s bordering on unbearable now. If he was already trying to socially isolate himself before, he’s completely socially isolated now. There are brief coffee breaks with Yun and raspberry danish pastries with Jin but neither of them pressure him to talk any more than he wants to. Their understanding is just enough to get him through the day.

Or at least it does until 5:30 pm comes round and his head begins its fight with his heart about staying late, just in case.

Just in case what? Jiwon comes in and bleeds all his floor again? Or tells him he’s being creepy? Or maybe he’ll announce that he’s seeing a girl he’s crazy about. Or maybe Jiun gets sick again and he’ll have to deal with everything that goes with that.

He sits there cleaning his desk distractedly and lets his brain chew itself to death. It’s 5:55 pm when Jin shuffles carefully into his room.

“Hey, what are you still doing here? There’s no appointments left. I’m about to close soon.”

“I’m just finishing off some work.” He says, hoping it sounds convincing but knowing it really doesn’t, especially when he’s been cleaning his stethoscope for 7 minutes straight.

Jin looks at him for a few seconds before taking a breath in.

Well, shit. Here we go. He knows what’s coming.

“Look, feel free to tell me to fuck off but I’m kinda worried about you. I know you’ve probably got it all sorted out but well, it’s my job to worry about all you punk doctors.”

The last thing he ever wants is to bring his personal life to work and make it everyone else’s problem. 

“Thanks Jin but I’m okay.” He cracks a smile and starts to pack up his bag. “Just been a crazy time, you know?”

Jin leans against his doorframe with a skeptical but sympathetic look. “Something I can help you with?”

“No, it’s fine. Just need a good night’s sleep or something.” He claps Jin’s shoulder on the way past. “See you tomorrow.”

It’s just a short walk to the car, he parks next to the clinic now but still, he walks with one hand clutching his bag and the other in his pocket, the fingers curled around a cold black butterfly knife. Just in case.

But no-one sneaks up on him. The car park is empty. He’s not sure why that’s more disappointing than it should be. The sun was setting, the sky was almost pretty to look at if he was into that kind of thing. Well, he pauses to look anyway because it’s violet and indigo and he likes how violently the colours bleed into each other.

“Hey.”

“ARGHH FUCK!” He jumps back, banging his butt painfully on the side door mirror and fumbling so much that the butterfly knife in his hand falls to the ground with a loud clatter.

His head calms down once he sees Jiwon’s face and smells his familiar scent but it takes his heart a little long to follow.

“Don’t do that! Geez!” He rubs his butt gingerly, it’ll probably bruise and make sitting down for the next week a damm annoyance. Once the initial pain, irritation and anger boils over, he just feels cheated and betrayed somehow, like he’s been abandoned all this time. 

Don’t be stupid, Hanbin.

You’re nothing to him.

Jiwon pulls down his hoodie and throws him a look that’s more apologetic this time. “Sorry. You kinda scare easy huh?”

He shoots Jiwon his dirtiest scowl. “Pretty normal response to being jumped in a carpark.”

“Sorry.” Jiwon repeats with a lopsided smile before bending down to pick up the butterfly knife. “Here.”

“Thanks.” He mutters, feeling exposed, embarrassed and stupid that he even carries it around.

“If you get jumped again, drop it and kick it under the car so they don’t see it.”

They? Who is they?

“How am I supposed to use it if it’s under the car?”

“Pretend to fall down.”

“And what? Lay on the ground and stab the guy’s toes?” He jokes, trying not to freak out about how ridiculous this entire conversation is.

Jiwon shrugs casually, like he’s discussing the weather. “Ankle is a better option. He won’t be able to run properly.”

He doesn’t know how to respond to that so he just stares at Jiwon’s face, taking in the dark circles and tired eyes. He hates talking and being forced into socialising but the silence between them now is even worse, like neither knowing how to ask what they want to ask.

“What are you doing here?” He says eventually when the silence stretches on too long. It comes out as an accusation but he can’t help it.

Jiwon shrugs with the kind of nonchalance that infuriates him.

“I think I need antibiotics.”

“Why? What’s wrong?”

“Infection or something.”

He turns around to look back at the clinic but Jin’s already closing and punching in the security code. Jiwon follows his line of vision with a disappointed and distrustful frown.

“Forget it, I’ll figure something else out.”

He whips his head back but Jiwon is already pulling his hood up and backing away. His ignores the panic in his head and heartsink in his chest because he really hates watching this problematic idiot walk away from him again.

“What? No. It’s fine. Jin’s cool. He’s not going to say anything.” He blurts out, half pleading. “If you’re sick-”

“No, it’s okay. I better go before he starts asking me shit again.”

He barely gets a protest in before he’s watching that broad back walk away.

“Jiwon! Wait!”

For a split second, he thinks that maybe Jiwon will just keep walking but no, there’s finally the freeze of those shoulders and then, slowly, like in a goddamm movie, Jiwon turns around to look at him, face curious but cautious. Maybe a little hopeful. Dark eyes still tired, colour a little ashen, everything a little drained but nothing takes away from all the shadows and angles that cut across that face.

Fuck. Why does he always have to look like that?

He forces himself to tear his eyes away and digs around his doctor’s bag for the spare packets of antibiotics he keeps for emergencies. It’s broad spectrum. It’ll cover most infections. Not ideal but since when was anything to do with Jiwon considered ideal?

“Here.” He says, holding out two boxes of tablets. “It’s one every 12 hours. Instructions and info in the box. You’re not allergic to these.”

Jiwon stares at his face with a completely unreadable expression before looking at the tablets like they were a bomb about to go off. In the distance, Jin is already making his way to the car park and it’s probably that fact that kicks Jiwon into a more urgent action.

Warm fingers brush his briefly and there’s the slight scrape of blunt finger nails as Jiwon takes the tablets and stuffs them in the pocket of his hoodie.

“Thanks...um, I....er....”

In any other lifetime, in any other situation, he’d find it fucking endearing and adorable how a stubborn guy like Jiwon even stutters at all. But. This wasn’t a normal situation. There’s no time to dwell on it. 

“Go. Before he gets here.”

There’s a grateful nod before Jiwon turns and walks back into the violet-indigo evening. He wants to look, wants to watch, but he can’t, he shouldn’t. His brain is still offline, he can’t trust himself not to do something stupid.

It takes too long to find his keys and soon enough, Jin siddles up with a knowing smirk.

“Couldn’t keep away huh?”

“Jin, drop it okay?” He replies wearily.

“What did he want?”

“Antibiotics.”

“Ah, cut himself accidentally again?”

“I guess so.”

“Do you know what you’re doing?”

He knows Jin isn’t talking about medicine.

“I’m not doing anything.” He says defensively. “We’re not doing anything. It’s just medical. I swear.”

It’s the truth but for some reason, it feels like a lie.

“Just....be careful. Okay?” Jin says with an unusually sympathetic smile. “It’s a lot of paperwork to find a replacement for you.”

“Yeah, yeah.” He says with an eye roll. “Go home, dad.”

“See you tomorrow, you punk.”

The bruise on his butt aches a little during the drive home. He eats dinner on the couch watching anime because the news got too depressing. He dreads sleeping, delaying it to the last possible moment, when he is physically so exhausted that his body crashes and his mind finally gives in.

He dreams.

He dreams of a sharp jawline smiling against his skin and of blunt fingernails running down his back. There’s the faintest echo of a Thank You and a smile that never reaches those dark cautious eyes.

When he wakes, there’s just the quiet pale dawn streaming through his window. There’s nothing else. Just his breathing, his loneliness and a cold butterfly knife on his bedside table.

Mage- Chapter 11: The Girl From The East

Written By 50Funny

Part 1- Two Days after 

Liz, Bip and Alex walked into the packed train station, down the platform past the ornate steam engine sitting on the tracks. Two days had passed since Liz’s battle with the mysterious stranger. As Liz walked in front of her companions, a thick cloud of shame hung over her. Bip’s eyes darted around the train station.

“We finally made it,” Bip sighed. 

Bip’s eyes lingered on Liz back as she stared off through the crowd.

“Liz… are you ok?” Bip asked as he approached her, a kind expression on his face.

Liz stared off into the crowd, her eyes meeting the familiar figure of the mysterious man staring back at her. The man turned his back to Liz making his way through the crowd out of sight.

“Yeah… I’m fine,” Liz said hanging her head , walking off towards the train.

5 looked down at her watch impatiently in the dimly lit train. “It’s time,” 5 said looking around to her four companions inside the train carriage.

5 took a long stride towards the train doors pulling the small lever sending it flinging opened. She walked out onto the small platform looking out over the crowd.

“Attention everyone,” 5 called out.

The crowd continued to talk loudly among themselves drowning out 5’s words. 5 let out a loud sigh of frustration. She placed her finger to her lips and blew strongly sending an ear piercing whistle echoing through the station. The crowd’s ears rung out in pain, their attention drawn towards 5.

“Ok everyone, congratulations on making it here in one piece. For the next stage of your test, we will be travelling deep into the mountains, about a day’s journey from here. If you would please begin to board the train in an orderly fashion and we will begin our journey.” 5 called out over the crowd before re-entering the train.

The train door’s suddenly all flung open. The hoard of people began to file into the train carriages. Of the two hundred or so test takers to make it to the second stage, only eighty-seven participants remained to board the train. 

Part 2-The Journey To The Hills

Alex walked over to his friends balancing three trays. They were stacked with plates of food and cups full of drinks swaying precariously, spilling messily over the floor, as the train rocked back and forth. He sat down next to Bip placing the trays carefully in front of himself and his companions.

“Phew, that line was hell,” Alex exclaimed. 

“At least they have free food. Come on, let’s tuck in,” Bip said, his mouth watering.

Alex and Bip prepared to dig into their feast. Alex looked over to Liz, staring vacantly out the window over the wide open field. Bip and Alex glanced at each other in silence as Alex shrugged his shoulders.

“Ahh Liz, are you sure you’re ok?” Bip asked.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Liz said in a monotone voice, turning around and beginning to poke her fork at her food.

“Ahhh so, Liz. I was wondering something,” Alex stammered, trying to relive the uncomfortable silence.

Liz lifted her gaze up from her food to meet Alex’s eyes. Alex’s mind raced trying to think of something to say.

“Umm, so what was your childhood like?” stammered Alex.

“My childhood? That seems like the last thing you’d want to hear about.”

“Come on Liz, I’d really like to know,” with forced enthusiasm.

“Forget it,” Liz said sternly. “Even if I did believe you, it’s not like I’m exactly itching to relive it.”

Alex and Bip glanced at each other, suddenly intrigued by Liz’s hesitation. Bip looked over to Liz.

“Please Liz, I’d like like to hear about it,” he pleaded.

Bip’s eyes widened and his mouth formed into a tight pout. His face begged Liz to reveal her story to him. Liz turned her head away from Bip to avoid his adorably persuasive gaze.

“No means no, Bip,” Liz said attempting to hide her wavering will under a tone of false steadfastness.

Bip’s eyes grew even wider as he began to let out a soft purr. Liz's head began to turn against her will. Her eyes met Bip’s adorable gaze eroding away her will to resist.

“Arghh fine I’ll tell you, just quit it with that look would you?” Liz groaned.

Bip smiled devilishly at Liz.

“Really, thanks Liz,”

Liz looked down at the food in front of her solemnly. She took in a long deep breath.

“Ok,” Liz said letting out her breath. “The truth is, I grew up on a small island in the eastern sea called Norik.”

“Norik? Never heard of it?” said Alex.

“Yeah, I’m not surprised. Until thirty years ago it used to belong… to Lemia,” Liz hesitated.

“Lemia,” Alex exclaimed in shock. “You mean like that terrorist we met on the train.”

“Yes Alex, can you keep it down? People don’t tend to take to kindly to that little tidbit,” Liz whispered sternly. “Besides, Norik was annexed at the end of the last war.”

Liz leaned back against the train seat letting out a long sigh as she prepared herself.

Part 3- The Girl From The East

“Like I said before Norik is a small island in the eastern sea, the only way to get there is the ferry and it only made the trip once a month. There were only about a hundred and fifty residents living on the island, so everyone pretty much knew everyone else. Even though it used to be part of Lemia, the people there never really agreed with the whole magic user hating thing, well… most of them anyway”

The sun glinted off the windows of the small wooden cottage sitting atop a tall hill. It overlooked the harbor side village bellow, surrounded by the glistening sea. The front door began to creak open and a middle aged woman in a long white skirt emerged, carrying a tray of drinks. She walked out onto the porch and smiled with contentment as she took in the familiar scenery.

“Elizabeth!” called out the woman. “Where have you gotten off to?”

“Over here Mummy!” came a young girl’s voice from behind the house. “Come look at what I can do Mummy!”

Liz’s mother walked down the stair onto the grass beneath. She walked along the fence line turning the corner to look down the side of the house.

“Darling, you must be thirsty. Come have a drin…” the women’s words were cut off.

The lady stopped dead in her tracks as she stared off down the house. Her hands shook with dread causing the tray to fall to the ground, sending shards of glass shattering everywhere. Liz sat on the ground holding her arms out in front of herself emanating with a light blue glow. Several pebbles floated around her glowing with a similar colour as her hands. Liz turned her head to face her mother.

“What’s wrong Mummy?” Liz whimpered.

“I was only four years old at the time, I barely even knew what magic was, but the horrified look on my mother’s face told me all I needed to know. From that moment on my life changed for the worse. I was kept locked away in my room for most of my time so I wouldn’t bring shame to my parents. The few times I was let out of the house one of them would always accompany me to keep me under check. They made me drop out of school so my mum could give me a traditional Lemian education. I was taught the history of Lemia, how the king of magic almost destroyed the country, and why magic users deserved their persecution. The talk or practice of magic along with many other things were strictly forbidden, enforced by my father belt. To my face I was called by name, but when no one thought I could hear, I was referred to as it, that thing or monster. I lived like that for three years. Despite the conditions I was raised in I was expected to be grateful, and in truth… I was. I had been taught what was meant to happen to magic users, if we had been living in Lemia, my parents would have been executed for harbouring a criminal. I was grateful for the life they’d let someone like me have. I was willing to do anything to make it up to them, and one day… I got the chance”

Liz crept down the rickety staircase as slowly as possible to avoid causing any noise.

“I just don’t think I can keep doing this,” came the sobs of Liz’s mother.

Liz stopped near the bottom of the staircase and knelt down. She peered through the doorway seeing her parents sitting on the couch.

“I know darling, but what other choice do we have, she’s our daughter,” her father comforted.

“There has to be something else we can do. Honestly, sometimes I think It would be better if she…” Liz’s mother took a long pause. “…If it would just die.”

Her mother’s words echoed through her mind. Liz’s head sunk to the ground as waves of shame flooded over her. Her eyes glanced up to the front door, staring it down. She stood up slowly, tiptoeing her way to the door and opening it quietly. Liz walked out into the darkness stopping as she reached the side of the hill. She stared out over the darkness and the village below. She took in a long deep breath, closing her eyes tightly.

“It wasn’t until the next morning that someone found me. A couple of passers-by from the village noticed me at the bottom of the hill. I woke up in the local clinic completely fine and more than a little confused,”

Liz lay in the hospital bed looking around the room.  The curtains suddenly pulled back and a man wearing a white coat walked into the room.

“Oh you're awake, that’s good. How are you feeling this morning?” the doctor asked as he approached Liz.

“Uhh, I’m fine,” Liz said. “What happened?”

“Well, I was hoping you could tell me that. We found you at the bottom of the hill this morning,”

The memories of the night before flooded back into Liz’s mind. She sat up in the hospital bed and swung her legs around the side.

“I need to get home, my parents are probably worried sic... arghhhh,” Liz was cut off by a sudden pain in her side as she attempted to stand up.

“Are you ok? I must've missed something, terribly sorry about that,” the doctor said approaching Liz.

The doctor gently placed his hand on Liz’s side. A light green glow began to emanate from his fingers. Liz was overcome by a sudden horror as she felt the man’s magic against her skin. The doctor removed his hand from her side.

“There we go, should be all better now,” the doctor said.

“You’re a…. a magic user,” Liz stammered.

“Yep, a mage in fact. I come down here every year for a couple of weeks to help out with the clinic,” the doctor explained.

In an instant, Liz stood up from the bed running as quickly as her legs could carry her out of the hospital.

“I sprinted as fast as I could manage back to my house. I had never met another magic user, but my parent conditioning was strong enough to have me terrified at the mere sight of one. But even with how terrified I was, I couldn’t help but let my mind wonder. That doctor had used his magic to heal me out of the goodness of his heart; it went against everything I had been taught about magic users. I tried to push the thoughts out of my head. When I got home my parents hadn’t even noticed I was gone, but once they realised I had left the house without permission, all hell came down. I was beaten and locked away in my room for three whole days without any contact; it gave me plenty of time to reflect. The mage I had met had been so much kinder to me than my parents ever had. I was intrigued. For the first time ever I actively went against my parents, I snuck out of the house one night to learn more about the doctor. I managed to catch him at the end of his shift and I explained everything to him. For the rest of the night he taught me the truth about magic and how much good it has and can do for the world, he even taught me how to harness my powers a little. I wanted to know even more but as the sun rose I knew I had to get home before my parents realised I was gone. He was leaving that day to return to the main land, but he agreed that when he returned the next year that he would continue to train me as his student. And that’s how my life went from then on out. Every year for two weeks my mentor would return to the island. By day I would be the perfect daughter for my parents, by night I trained my magic. I learnt more about the world outside of the island, how strange, wonderful and terrifying it could be. I dreamed of one day catching the ferry to the mainland, becoming a mage and seeing it all for myself. I started rebelling more against my parents, I resented them for how they had mistreated me. One year though, when I was fifteen, my mentor didn’t show up. I waited for months but I never saw him again. One year my parents caught me practising my magic, they completely lost it. For the next two years they doubled down on their punishments. I kept up my rebellious attitude the whole time; I drove my parent to their wits end, until one day.”

“Come out Elizabeth,” Liz’s mother called looking towards the changing room.

Liz opened the changing room door holding an elegant white dress in her hand by the coat hanger. She walked out into the dress store watched on by the disappointed glare of her mother.

“Did you even try it on?”

“I told you it’s not happening,” Liz stated firmly.

“And I told you it is, whether you like it or not. In six weeks you will be eighteen and you will be married. You need something to wear for the big day darling,” her mother explained.

“I’ve never even met this guy. You can’t make me do it,”

“Elizabeth please, this is a good thing, and he’s a good, wealthy man. He can give you a much better life than someone with your… predicament could ever ask for.”

“I’ve told you, my name is Liz. And why don’t you just say what this really is, you're just trying to get rid of me and make some money out of the deal at the same time.”

“Fine, you want me to tell you the truth! You were a disappointment as a daughter and this is more they you deserve,” Liz mother spat. “As long as your seventeen you’ll do as I say. Now go find a dress so we can get home.”

Liz’s eyes sunk down to the ground. Despite already being prepared for it, hearing her mother’s words still cut her deeply.

“Fine, you want me to find a dress, I’ll find a dress,” Liz hissed under her breath.

Liz stormed off to a nearby rack of dresses and began to rummage through them. She pulled out an elegant, gothic looking, black dress. 

“Really Elizabeth, why do you always have to be this way? Why can’t you choose something more, traditional?” Liz’s mother pleaded.

“It’s my wedding isn’t it? I get to choose the dress,” Liz countered.

“Fine, whatever, if you wanna ruin your special day then who am I to stop you. Let’s just get out of here.” 

Even if I couldn’t stop my wedding, I was going to go down fighting the whole way.

Part 4- Arrival.

“The best present was that the ferry arrived into Port on my birthday. It was perfect. So on the day I was to be married I snuck out of home with as much cash as I could steal and left the island. I made my way to Seaside and well, you guys know the rest,” Liz continued. concluded

“Wow, that’s pretty intense,” Alex exclaimed leaning back in his chair. 

“Yeah, that’s why I can’t give up on being a mage, no matter what it takes. Even if it gets me killed.”

There was a brief silence between the groups as a loud hiss began to emanate from the train.  The train slowed quickly as it approached the station. Liz looked out the window over the mountainous terrain as the train came to a complete stop.

A muffled sound crackled from the speakers tucked in the corners of the carriage.

“Attention all passengers,” came 5’s voice. “We have reached our destination. If you would please exit the train in an orderly fashion and we will begin the third stage of your test.”

With a final crackle the speakers fell silent. Alex stood up from his seat stretching his arms behind his head.

“Well let’s get a move on then,” he said looking down to see Liz, still downtrodden.

Alex reached out his hand towards Liz gaining her attention. Liz looked up at him.

“Come on let’s go make you a mage,” said Alex.

Liz smiled up at Alex grabbing his hand as she stood up out of her seat. The group made their way through the crowd of test takers towards their nearest exit. The mechanism of the door began to squeak and hiss as the door creaked open. Light began to stream into the carriage as the test takers stepped out into the next stage of their exam.

________________________________________________________________ Thank you for reading chapter 10 of mage. Sorry this chapter wasn't up yesterday, still trying to get in the swing of this new upload scheduled. If you like what you see consider checking out my AO3 at this link https://archiveofourown.org/users/50Funny to see all new chapter 3 days early. If you feel so inclined please consider following my tumblr for all updates and other tid bits. Until next week, have a good day.

The Escape

The assault of Gilneas City was one of the darker chapters in Giddy and Lily’s lives, and for obvious reasons. 

It started like any other morning - Lily peddling her trinkets in the market square, Gidean snatching the coin purses from rude customers. Standard fare, really. 

But then people began screaming. A body was found torn to shreds a few streets down by a wild animal. At least, that’s what they thought until swarms of feral wolf-men with fangs like daggers and tempers to match clambered down from the rooftops. It turned into a massacre in minutes.

The two managed to slip into a back alley and away from the feeding frenzy, but neither could agree where to go from there. Lily needed to get back to her father incase the beasts were assaulting the outlying towns, too. As much as Gidean didn’t want her going alone, he couldn’t follow her and warn his own family...

It was a tense moment, but they both new they couldn’t hold the other back from taking care of family first. After all, it’s what they would do in the others shoes. They promised to meet at the city gates once they were in the clear and embraced each other with all the strength they could muster, refusing to say goodbye out loud.  

Gidean watched her run home before turning back towards the market. It was quieter now, which was probably good. He climbed quickly and quietly down to the cellar of an old speakeasy, pulling aside a keg to reveal a long, narrow passage. A few minutes of trudging through cobwebs and the corridor made way to an underground metropolis. 

All was not well in the Gilnean undercity, though. Word spread like wildfire of the chaos up above, and the sounds of hundreds of panicked people clamouring to make their escape echoed through the vaulting chambers. A mass evacuation was already underway.

Gidean aptly wove his way through the crowded walkways to his family's little shack. His little sisters were cramming knicknacks and dolls, anything they could grab, into sacks as fast as they could manage. His mother bobbed in and out of the doorway, barking orders loud enough to hear over an explosion. She spotted him and motioned for her son to join them, planting a kiss on either side of his face and nearly squeezing the air out of his lungs.

He helped them pack away the rest of their essentials without saying much, there wasn’t much to be said. They hustled out as best they could amidst the sea of bodies, and filed into lines like cattle down the exits. They shuffled through muck and mumbled words of encouragement to their companions, hoping to keep some semblance of calm.

The traffic through the tunnel came to a halt. Gidean assured his mother he’d be right back, he was just going to see what was going on. He grabbed a torch and shouldered his way to the front of the precession. 

As he approached the front of the crowd, it became clear what had halted their progression. The first group to have left the tunnels had not made it out in one piece. The water was dark and choked with blood. Bodies littered the sewer floor, most torn apart or barely recognizable. He suppressed a gag. It was pure carnage. 

One of the escapees still had some life left in him though. He sat against the wall, coughing up red mist as he struggled to breathe. His vest was in tatters, and the huge gash in his chest suggested he didn’t have much time left, if any. Gidean rushed to his side, tearing off a strip of fabric from his sash and hastily wrapping it around the open wound, hoping to stop the bleeding long enough to get him to safety.

The man placed a hand on his shoulder, pushing him away. He looked him in the eyes and shook his head. 

“It’s too late... please. You need... to get away. Before it takes me, too.” He rasped.

“Don’t be absurd. I’m not letting you die. Not like this. Let me help you, we can still get you out of here.” 

Gidean reached for the makeshift bandage again, but the wounded man was insistent. 

“No. You don’t get it. You... you all need to go! Before I hurt you!”

“Hurt us? You can barely move, sir. You’re in no condition to do much of anything, let alone hurt anyone. Now, if you could just sit still I can-”

“Arghh!”

The man doubled over, clutching his chest.

“Leave me.”  he growled out between clenched teeth.

“But-”

His grip on Gidean’s shoulder tightened, his nails digging into skin.

“LEAVE!” He screamed, spittle flying.

His eyes blazed red as he met Gidean’s, his face contorted in agony. The raw panic and anger in his voice caught Gidean off guard. He backed away, hands up.

“Alright, alright. Have it your way. I’ll go. But don’t say I didn’t try.”

The fire died from the man’s face and he slumped back against the brick wall. He looked almost relieved. 

Sad and more than a little confused, Gidean turned his attention to the onlooking refugees. He began ushering them back the way they came, assuring them that they could always find another access point. The city had plenty of manholes, even if it took longer, this wasn’t the only way out. 

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

Once more above ground and well out of the city limits, the caravan of Gilneas’ finest outcasts huddled around campfires and whispered among themselves. Gidean stared forlornly into his stew, stirring chunks of potatoes around the bowl absent mindedly. 

“Giddy?”

His youngest sister’s voice broke him from his trance.

“Huh?” 

“You really shouldn’t play with your food, ya know. Mama’s gonna be pissed if you let her good cookin go to waste.”

He chuckled half-heartedly.

“Yeah. I guess I’m just not that hungry.”

“You okay, Gid?” she sounded genuinely concerned.

“I’ll be fine.”

Her tiny brows furrowed. 

“You don’t sound fine.” she said, scooting closer. 

He sighed. Melody might be young, but she wasn’t dumb. She could usually see right through him, whether he liked it or not.

“It’s that fellow... the one from the tunnel.” 

He chewed his thoughts over, not sure how much he should tell her about it. She waited patiently, watching his expressions as he worked over what to say.

“Something about that whole mess just... it’s not sitting right with me.” 

He rubbed the scratch on his shoulder, remembering the panicked look on the dying man’s face. He winced. It had started bruising about an hour ago, and damn if it didn’t sting something fierce.

”It just don’t make sense.” He lifted a spoonful of stew a few inches from the bowl and tipped it, watching the liquid drip back down. “And Lily... she never showed up. I waited. She just.. wasn’t there.” He sighed. “I don’t know what to make of all this, Mel. It doesn’t feel real.”

She didn’t know what to say, but she did know that he shouldn’t be alone. Melody leaned into his side, sitting in silence with him as he stared into the fire.  

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

The last few months were a blur. 

He remembered the fevers. Waking up, covered in sweat, screaming.

Blacking out for days at a time. Nightmares of red, burning eyes staring at him from the dark.

Healing salves crusted on his shoulder, and the infection that turned into a festering wound. The throbbing, pulsing pain.

Harvest witches in their long brown robes standing over his bedside, murmuring in hushed tones and flitting in and out of his tent.

He could remember a little girl crying, but he couldn’t remember why. And men, screaming and yelling in a circle around him.

All of that was fuzzy, and it hurt his head to think too hard about it. The easier memories were of running. Of the forest, and food, and the dirt giving way under his claws. That much was far clearer, and didn't make his head swim.

But now, he had no idea where he was, besides the fact that he was in a cage.

He glowered at the thick steel bars and paced back and forth impatiently. The floor lurched under him for the hundredth time, knocking him off balance and interrupting his sulking. Whatever this place was, he wasn’t a fan.

A few hours passed before the rough wooden door to his prison flew open, and a burly man that looked more bear than human trudged through it. He made his way down the steps of the cellar, his heavy footsteps making the boards under him groan in protest. A carnosine lamp swung in his hands, its flame illuminating the small room around him.

There wasn’t much to see. A few barrels here, a crate or two there. He hung the lamp on the wall and brushed the seawater from his hair before turning his attention to the main attraction. He plopped his weight down on a surprisingly sturdy stool in front of the cage and looked in on his captive, a massive grin spreading across his face as he did.

“Well, would ya look at who’s awake finally!” He said, slapping a hand on his thigh and leaning in for a better look. “Sure did take ya long enough.”

Gidean growled at his captor and backed into the corner, shying away from this loud spectacle of a man. He already didn’t like him.

“Oh come now! Don’t be like that! I brought you food!” 

The bear-man reached into the pouch on his side and pulled out a slab of meat, waving it back and forth in front of the bars. Gidean heard his stomach rumbling, louder than his own growls. 

“That’s it... been a while, huh?”

He tossed the scrap into the cage. The jet black worgen begrudgingly stepped into the light, just long enough to snatch the meat off the ground and retreat with it.

“Look at you! Still just as pretty as the day we caught you!”

He whistled softly. Gidean flattened his ears and hunkered down, but continued gnawing on his pound of flesh.

“You’ve got quite the timing. Need you up and strong for when we pull into port ya know.” He pulled out another slab, tossing it in as he mused more to himself than to Gidean. “Doesn’t do us much good to try n sell a man eater that won’t give us a good show first! Well, then again, if you aren't up for the fighting sort, yer worth plenty just for your hide. Either way, it’s money back in my pocket!”

He let out a booming laugh. The worgen snarled around his mouthful of food, the glow of his eyes flashing like lightning. Their gazes met, and his captor’s smile faltered, if only for a moment. He cleared his throat and regained his composure.

“Don’t spose you understand any of what I’m saying anywho though, do ya?” 

The man gave the top of the enclosure and pat and stood, cracking his back as he did. He grunted. “That’s fine. You eat up, do what you beasts do best. Enjoy yourself. We’ll see if you live up to the stories soon enough, eh?”

underrole 2-4

undyne walking for home was thinking:" uff now i have to talk with those two and...asgore right......and sans to ....arghh is going to be a mess" -undyne hear the duo talk inside the home, flowey is  shouting- undyne sigh " why i was missing them." undyne enter the house. flowey: What happen!!! why i'm in this ** situation! wave was smiling , flowey on wave shoulder was pulling his cheeks: you stupid thing !!! you let me die!! and see  what happen!!! wave  smiling: but we are live. flowey:...... BECAUSE THE RESET YOU STUPID FACE !!! stop smiling !!! you are making me nervous . wave: so you miss me ? -he say smiling more- flowey: YOU HAVEN'T HEAR ME!!!!!!  -flowey was using  his leaf for pulling wave cheeks-  STOP SMILE!!!  IN WHAT TIMELINE I HAVE TO GO FOR SEE YOU SERIOUS !! wave: so you want to change timeline only for find me again?  flowey was so  overpowered from so much......wave than he give up releasing his cheeks: ...i give up. undyne knock on the door: sooo i have to leave this couple ? flowey: oh perfect the f -wave hug  undyne sprinting so fast than flowey haven't time to finish talk - -wave make undyne fall on the ground for the hug- undyne: off, yeah i miss you to ! and the talking teà. in some way i think flowey: bla bla  you miss him and ....HEY!!! undyne laugh for some second: ahahahahahaah -undyne  grab flowey-  now we have to talk ! flowey: gulp. undyne: wave sit  -undyne say releasing flowey- wave sit and remove his duster, he start knit something inside. undyne: " i won't know what he is doing"  so flower explain what happen. flowey with a confuse face:  i have to explain???  i have to explain what?  i die before all end ! what happen!??!? undyne sit : oh  i forgot that details in this months.  “ not like i care, he die ? “ . explain about reset and timeline flowey face become creepy: ohhh  -undyne throw  water on him-  HEYYY WHAT ARE YOU DOING! undyne much angry:  don't make . ... that....face or i'll drink you. flowey:.......... . .. .. ... . ok. in short this is a timeline -wave was knitting  in his world ignoring the other- and  someone reset -undyne remember something-   i don't know what happen after i die but i know one thing.  THAT IS CHARA POWER and i ..can't... belive... she betray me after all i do to her! -flowey start be agitated-  all the time i wait her ! all that time !!!!!   all i do!!! all i try for nothing!!! i !!  I !!!   -wave pet him- .....-flowey hiss- i'm not a dog!!!   -wave laugh and flowey shout- undyne almost laugh: you two seem old friend -flowey watch undyne with a face like: don't say that pls-   ok ok. reset -undyne summon her part of the reset bottom- wave press it flowey: wave??? -flowey grab again wave cheeks- you say to haven't done it!!!! how have you do it!!! ??? wave: ohhh i press something flowey: I HATE YOU ! tell me the true!! wave: ... i forgot flowey:..... -flowey shake his face-   I HATE YOU SO MUCH !!!!!!! wave laugh happy. flowey stop shake him: WHY YOU LAUGH!!!   joking with me is so fun?? wave:  yes flowey: YOU ARE LUCKY I CAN'T KILL YOU!!! undyne was watching almost cracking for don't laugh. wave: but remind i'm your best friend. flowey: .... .. .  you  when i .... i never... DON'T USE MY WORDS AGAINST ME !!! -flowey keep shake wave face, but stop after some time, he got tired and release wave- wave boop flowey face. flowey: ....-flowey want kill him so much in that moment-....gg.gggggg..ggg.gg...sigh... nothing i say can change your face right? wave: nope! undyne stop them: ok stop you two is important  -wave restart knit- so you die and some second after wave.-flowey watch wave- she strike him  after he try to shield me and -undyne start remove the shirt- flowey: what are......-flowey become speechless after see  undyne soul  planted in her chest and those line on her body- undyne: seem this  surprise you eheheh . i won't put to much details after you die and wave die on me .... i think  to have absorb his soul, gelly....thing..i don’t really know what was. flowey: wait you absorb is soul!! but he isn't human !!! undyne move for show where those line go: there and there is his “soul” thing,  i don't know what happen but i become like this. flowey: wait this don't make sense ! after a reset all return like before but this time all change ! what happen ? undyne: if you let me finish. i was fighting that thing and  i think to have kill her very much time. i lose the count. so many time....-undyne shake her head-  at the end i find myself in a big black room and there all happen -flowey was listen, wave keep knit on his duster-  wave appear from a light blocking that thing and press the reset... now i think, why have you press it? -wave don't answer back- .....-undyne  snap the finger in front of wave-  wave! why you press reset? wave: ... because she want to press the other  - he say like that was the most simple thing to explain on the earth- undyne take a breath: why i expect something different.  ..  i remind something more. flowey: ???? talk !! undyne: that creature soul......i....let me remind... i think to have break it ? i don’t remind much ,  i take her to ? maybe. flowey: oh so you.....YOU ABSORB HER TO WHAT MONSTER YOU ARE !!! wait wave???? how??? why?? and what??!?!  how this is possible! flowey watch wave and wave answer: finish !!!! flowey: we was talking about something serious ! !!! wave show his duster: i make this pocket hide in the duster so you can sleep -wave was much proud- flowey: .... undyne: is better you give up with him. flowey:....-wave was smiling- ........-wave keep smile-......... let me try it -flowey enter in the pocket- ohh is much comfy wave was happy. flowey... i mean is ok. undyne: ok  time to sleep -undyne remove her eyepatch revealing her orange eye- flowey: wait,  you have another eye? wave stare a that eye. undyne: is back after i took wave soul ...don't stare at it like that! flowey notice the other red eye:  wait you ! that eye-flowey exit from the pocket climbing wave and watching him in the face then undyne- same eyes ....this maybe explain more that soul thing but is weird wave after some second in silence: cool!!!! flowey: wait she ......yes is cool undyne almost blush: ok ok strange duo sleep now! -that night- undyne wasn't sleeping watching wave sleeping on a cover on the floor ready to jump on the flowey but both was sleeping  in a deep sleep-  " i can't know what that flowey pass this month and wave....alphys what is this mess ?

Osomatsu-san PS Vita game translation - Osomatsu 01 – Allowance

Osomatsu: You guys understand, right? I won’t forgive any screw ups. Choromatsu: Of course, Osomatsu-niisan. Karamatsu: Right, because today is a day which will never come again. I will shine again in a different way tomorrow too. Ichimatsu: Shut up, Shittymatsu. Todomatsu: Forgot about that, let’s hurry up and go! Karamatsu: Really!? Jyushimatsu: Alright, play ball! Hit and run!!

Osomatsu: Good morning, mother! Karamatsu: Oh, beautiful. You’re shining even more than I am, Mummy. Matsuyo: ... ... ... ... Ichimatsu: ... ... Are your shoulders stiff? Jyushimatsu: Nice batting! Hustle hustle!! Matsuyo: ... ... ... ... Choromatsu: Come now, Mum, forgot about this noisy bunch. Todomatsu: Right, right. Hey, you know what today is, right? You understand? For your cute sons. Matsuyo: ... ... ... ... Osomatsu: Hey Mum, your silence is scary. Matsuyo: Sighhhhhhhh. Sighhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Choromatsu: So long! Her sighs are so long! And she sighed twice!! Matsuyo: That’s because you made me want to sigh. You boys understand that right? Osomatsu: Of course! Today is wonderful allowance day! Choromatsu: I’ve been helping with clearing up after dinner since yesterday. Osomatsu: Ah, what are you doing trying to get ahead! If you get more than me, I’ll knock you down! Todomatsu: Yeah, if that’s the case, then I helped out with errands. And I returned the leftover change properly. Osomatsu: Ehh? When did you do that? Why don’t you tell me these things? Matsuyo: Sighhhhhhhhhhh. Choromatsu: She sighed deeply again! Matsuyo: Well, fine. Your mother has given up already. Right, here’s your allowance for this month. Ichimatsu: ...Oh, it’s in an envelope. Jyushimatsu: Lots of money! Splash the cash with bills! Osomatsu: Seriously? ...Wait, huh? What’s this, Mum? My envelope only had 500 yen in it. Karamatsu: Mine too, brother. Todomatsu: Mine too... Osomatsu: Hey wait Mum, this joke is too mean. You’ll get it if you think about it a bit. We’re adults already, right? What can we do with 500 yen? Even fast food costs a bit more that that these days. And pachinko is generally a minimum of 1000 yen. And you don’t know if you’re going to win even with 10,000 yen, let alone 1000. Anyway! Give me a proper allowance right away. Hurry up, hurry up! Choromatsu: Typical Osomatsu-niisan... The one thing you excel at is making demands without any awareness of your own position.

Matsuyo: ... ... ... I see. Osomatsu: That’s great of you, Mum! From this month onwards I’d like to get around 30,000. Matsuyo: Ok, I’m confiscating all of this. Osomatsu: Ehh? No no, I’ll take it for what it is. If I can take Karamatsu’s allowance, I’ll have 1000 Yen and be able to play pachinko. Karamatsu: Hey, brother!? Matsuyo: No. I won’t give it back. You see, your mother is tired of going through this. So I’m only going to say this one more time. You are adults, so get jobs for yourselves! Osomatsu and Karamatsu: !? Matsuyo: You see, even 500 yen is wasted on a NEET, so I’m confiscating it. Naturally, there will be no more allowance form next month onwards. Osomatsu: No way! Then how are we supposed to live? Matsuyo: Get a job. Osomatsu: That’s impossible. Todomatsu: Have some consideration for cute little me, ok? Karamatsu: I’m begging you too, Mummy. We still need some time to run along the ground before we can take flight... Matsuyo: Sighhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. I see. From now on allowances will be awarded on a points based system. If you help out with things around the house, then I will give you points. At the end of the month, the person with the highest number of points will get all of you NEETs’ allowance. Ok? I will combine all of your allowance and give it to the person who helps around the house the most. Osomatsu: Ehhhhhh... That’s such a pain...

Osomatsu: So this is the points chart. Todomatsu: Show me show me. What’s this...? Shoulder rub: One point. Shopping: Two points. Clean the hallway: Two points. Clean the yard: Three points. Clean the Toilet: Five points Ichimatsu: ...Sounds like effort. Jyushimatsu: One point, two points, three points, four points, game changing home run smash! Osomatsu: Sigh... I’m gonna pass. If you guys want to do it, then go ahead and do what you want. Todomatsu: Yeah, I’m not bothered either. I could just work part time normally anyway. Karamatsu: I would lose time I could spend composing poems to my Girls. Osomatsu: Well then, I’m going out for a bit.

Osomatsu: ... Not really. There’s a new pachinko machine coming out next week that I really want to try so I need some extra battle funds. I’m going to clean the toilet before they realise. Osomatsu: And with this, I get five points. That was a pain, but at least it’s better than working.

Matsuyo: My, my, have you really finished cleaning the toilet? Osomatsu: Even I can do things if I try. So give me my allowance. Matsuyo: Yeah, yeah... hey, what’s this? Osomatsu: ... ...? !? Matsuyo: It’s incredibly dirty! Why have you made it dirtier like you’re playing some kind of prank? Ah, I despair, why can’t you tell the difference between number two and number one even though you’re an adult now! Osomatsu: No, this isn’t what it looks like! I did it properly!! Matsuyo: Yeah, yeah. Call me when you’ve cleaned it up. Or rather, until you clean the toilet properly, I won’t give you any more points.

Osomatsu: Shit! Those jerks...! Osomatsu: Ok, ok! Matsunos assemble! If you don’t get here soon I’ll kill you!

Choromatsu: You’re being too noisy in this little house, Osomatsu-niisan. Osomatsu: One of you is the culprit. I am going to punish the culprit. Karamatsu: You’re making too much of a fuss about this, brother. Jyushimatsu: Thump thump! Thump with a bat!

Osomatsu: That’s right, I’m going to lock the culprit in a room with Jyushimatsu and a bat for a week. Jyushimatsu: Nice batting! Come at me!

Todomatsu: That’ll kill anyone other than Ichimatsu-niisan.  Choromatsu: Well, why are you making a fuss about who’s culprit for something? Osomatsu: Somebody messed up the toilet real bad. If you come forward now, I’ll let you off with only 100 Jyushimatsus. Choromatsu: What kind of unit of counting is that? Todomatsu: And anyway, what happened exactly? Are you saying someone tried to get ahead by cleaning the toilet and getting some points? Osomatsu: You’re out, Todomatsu. Do it, Jyushimatsu. Jyushimatsu: Aye, sir! Camel clutch! Todomatsu: Ah, That huuuuuuuurts! I give up! I give up! Ichimatsu: ...You’re being too heavy handed. Even if it’s because you can’t tell the difference between a number one and a number two. Osomatsu: You’re out too, Ichimatsu! Jyushimatsu: Aye, sir! Ichimatsu: Whaaaaa! Osomatsu: How do you two know I cleaned the toilet and about the number one and number two thing. Even though I haven’t said one word about that. Choromatsu: Ah...shit. Karamatsu: W, wait, brother! We were just watching...! Choromatsu: Tha, that’s right! We’re innocent! Because, hey, aren’t we your irreplaceable brothers? Osomatsu: Do it. Jyushimatsu: Aye, sir! Choromatsu: Whaaaaaaa! Karamatsu: Arghhhhhh! Osomatsu: That was a pointless battle... Still, if we continue to pull each other down like this, then there’s no way us getting jobs is ever going to go well. I better at least report what happened to that person. Hello... yeah, it’s me. My brothers have been causing some problems for me.

Option One: Try being considerate of each other Osomatsu: Hah? After all this time? Even after what they’ve done to me? ... ... ... ... Well, I guess it’s true. And I am the oldest after all. ...Damn, I don’t really have any other choice. Oi, you guys. How much longer are you going to lie there for. I’m tired already, let’s go to bed early.

Osomatsu: (........... hmm......... Huh, I woke up even though it’s still night. Well, whatever. I’ll go back to sleep. ......... ......... What? Why do I have a bad feeling about this... ...!? What was that sound just now? Is there someone else awake? Karamatsu and Ichimatsu!? What is that! I’m scared! Choromatsu and Jyushimatsu as well!? W, wait, could it be… are they angry about what happened earlier and are planning to attack me while I’m asleep. Shit... I’ll take them out first! They shouldn’t take there big brother so lightly! ...Wait, Huh?! Nothing’s happened, or rather, everyone left the room and hasn’t come back. That’s it...! They went to get their weapons ready! Well I’m not going to let them! Where did those guys go... There they are! ...Wait, huh? What are they doing in the toilet?)

Todomatsu: Arghh, why are we cleaning the toilet in the middle of the night... Seriously, you went too far Jyushimatsu. Jyushimatsu: I always pitch at full power! Nice curve! Ichimatsu: ...Whatever, someone rinse this cloth and bring it back. Choromatsu: Uwah, the toilet stinks! Karamatsu stinks! Karamatsu: Brother!? I smell like the toilet!? Osomatsu: (Those guys... could it be they’re even trying to get points in the middle night!? That’s not on!) Todomatsu: But I bet Osomatsu-niisan’s going to be pretty surprised. Choromatsu: That’s right. He’ll suddenly have more points. Osomatsu: (Eh...?) Ichimatsu: But are you guys sure this is ok? There must be things that you wanted to buy. Karamatsu: Heh, that’s a silly question, brother. We are sextuplets. If we are going to grasp happiness, then it must be together. Todomatsu: Well, when he gets the points and receives the money, we’ll have to have Osomatsu-niisan increase it at pachinko and give it back to us. Choromatsu: That’s right. Whatever we do with it, it’s not very much. You couldn’t buy much more than a CD with it. Osomatsu: (Those guys... Big brother is going to do his best! I’ll line up from the morning and get a seat at pachinko for sure! ... But, well, that doesn’t quite feel like enough. Maybe I should secretly clear up the yard a bit...)

Osomatsu: Wha, what is that!? There’s a huge poo in the backyard!? Jyushimatsu: But everyone was in the toilet and I couldn’t use it. Aha! Ahah ahaha! Osomatsu: This is no laughing matter!

Matsuyo: That’s right... This isn’t a laughing matter. And more importantly, you lot are being too noisy in the middle of the night! No allowance for the time being! Osomatsu: Ehhhhhhhhhhhh!? Option Two: Try to get your mother to believe you.

Osomatsu: It is true that things would have been different if Mum had believed me more. Well, I think believing a shitty NEET would be less likely than not believing them though. Yeah... ...Alright, I got it! This is for the sake of money! I have to. Osomatsu: Mum, do you have a moment? Matsuyo: What is it, Osomatsu? Did you finish cleaning the toilet already? Osomatsu: Please! Right now! Give me an allowance!!

Matsuyo: Ehh!? You’re down on your knees all of a sudden!?

Osomatsu: I’ve taken everything for granted up until now! This lifestyle consisting of nothing more than not working, eating, sleeping and going to pachinko! But I want to put a stop to it all! I want to be reborn!

Matsuyo: Osomatsu...

Osomatsu: But... In order to do so, I’m going to need some funding... I need to buy resume sheets to fill in, get some photographs taken, buy some job information magazines... and there’s travel costs too. So right now! Please give me and allowance!

???: Wait a minute!

Choromatsu: Mum! Don’t let yourself be tricked by him!

Karamatsu: It’s true, mother. My brother’s eyes are lying eyes. I can tell.

Osomatsu: Are you guys trying to stop me again!

Choromatsu: And look, getting on your knees to beg so easily, don’t you have any pride?

Osomatsu: I don’t!

Karamatsu: That was fast!

Osomatsu: She’s not going to give even one yen to you!

Choromatsu: ...Damn... I’m sorrrrry!

Karamatsu: Eh!? You’re on your knees too!?

Choromatsu: But... But I have to buy a lot of Nyaa-chan CDs. Handshake tickets and autograph tickets and photo tickets... No matter how much money I have, it’s never enough! If you think of it like that, then what does it matter if you have to grovel on your knees once or twice!!

Karamatsu: Geh... I, I...I’m sorry too! I want to buy this ultra-thrilling hot jacket that just came out...! So give me some too! Give me some allowance!!

Osomatsu: No, I’m the one who needs that allowance the most! Mum! No, Goddess!

Choromatsu: Ah, hey, stop it with that flattery! I, I... If I get reincarnated, I’d like to go out with you Mum!

Osomatsu: Eh... that would put anyone off.

Karamatsu: You can join my Karamatsu Girls, my pretty Mummy.

Osomatsu: No, Mum! Don’t fall for such an obvious lie... Huh? Where is she?

Choromatsu: She’s gone...

Karamatsu: Hmm, she left some kind of note.

Note: Go out and work, NEETs.

Osomatsu: ............ Muuuum! Please give me allowaaaaance!

Option Three: How about considering getting a job after all?

Osomatsu: Sigh... I guess there’s no other way. Although I did know really. That earning money properly would be hard. But hey... that means I’m not the only one who needs to work hard. Or rather, I just need to make everyone other than me work hard. That’s right, that’s the best way. So let’s give that guy a call. Ah, hello, Iyami? It’s me. No, this isn’t a scam, it’s Osomatsu. Are you short of a few workers at all over there? Cos I’ve got a couple of hard working guys to spare. That’s right. The one thing NEETs do have is a lot of time and energy to spare. Yeah, I’ll send them to you later. And put the finder’s fee into my account, that’s right. 90% of their wages. Right. All that’s left is to send them off to Iyami’s place. Why didn’t I think of something so simple before? I’ll be able to have their allowances all to myself. And they’ll be able to work and that’ll make Mum happy. It won’t be killing two birds with one stone, but three or four! Well, my brain just got a workout, I think I’ll take a little nap.

Choromatsu: Did you hear that just now?

Ichimatsu:... I heard it.

Jyushimatsu: It’s a new record!

Choromatsu: This means...

Ichimatsu: We have to get him before he gets us.

Jyushimatsu: Game opening home run! Wasshoi! Wasshoi!

Osomatsu: Eh... huh... where am I...? I feel kind of out it.

Dekapan: Hmm hmm. Quite a lively specimen here.

Dayon: He’s a NEET so he has an untarnished body, dayon!

Osomatsu: I can’t... move...!? And why is the only thing I’m wearing a towel!?

Dekapan: Mwafafa...

Osomatsu: Eh? Hey, hey? What are you doing? What are you going to do?

Dekapan: Hoe hoe hoe hoe.

Dayon: Dayon dayon dayon.

Osomatsu: C, could it be... Have I been sold...!?

Dekapan: Hoe hoe hoe hoe.

Dayon: Dayon dayon dayon.

Osomatsu: S, stop... stop that...! I want to go to my wedding with a pure body...!

Swaddling- When to start weaning from it?

Your Precious little one is ready to give up the swaddle, isn’t that great? I know you must be having a thousand questions in your mind. For starters, is he/she even ready for it? If yes, how do I do this? What happened to the startle reflex? Arghh and the list is endless.

The best part is: babies send you amazing clues to let you know that they are ready for weaning out of a swaddle. On average, babies swaddle for around 3-4 months, and then the weaning process can start.

Related Topic:

10 ways to deal with whining behaviour

There is no strict “one-time” policy when it comes to weaning from swaddling. Many babies voluntarily wean off by 3-5 months, but for some, they want to stick around and take those swaddles during their daytime naps.

Also Read:

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How do I know that my baby is ready to wean out from swaddling?

If they have started rolling over.

They come out of their swaddling blankets frequently, and you have to keep swaddling them again and again.

While you are swaddling them, they fight the process, at least more than usual.

When you start having the feeling that they are not quite settling down quickly even when swaddled.

Once you have got the idea that your child needs to be weaned out from swaddling, the next big question is how?

Also Read:

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As you must have already read about, try swaddling with one hand out; this is the most common method of weaning. You can try Love To Dream Swaddle UP Transition Bag (You can buy it from Amazon) and once the child starts settling for this, you can do it with both hands out. If you feel that child needs a little calming from your side, you can always keep your hand on the child.

In case you feel that your baby is not ready, do not push it. Try again after a week with the same approach.

You Cana even try by unswaddling the legs first. It has been observed that people sometimes follow this way and get success.

Try weaning during the night first and let the daytime naps be taken care of later.

There are so many options available these days in the market that you can use for transitioning from swaddling. You can try SleepingBaby Zipadee-Zip Swaddle Transition Baby Swaddle Blanket with Zipper(Available on Amazon ) or you can try Baby Merlin’s Magic Sleepsuit – Swaddle Transition (Available on Amazon).