February Happenings

Valentine's Day and Scully's birthday all in the same month? How will they celebrate this year?

Oh, I have missed this little family. Every time I drop back into their lives, I feel so happy and fluffy. I hope you do too. 💓

(Story 53 in the Family Series)

February 2023

Card stock in shades of pink, red, white, and a beautiful teal, lay on the kitchen table along with paint and paintbrushes, a tray full of glue, glitter, sequins, googly eyes, letter beads, and a cup full of edger scissors.

Scully looked at everything as she took off her coat and laid it on the back of a chair. Mulder was creating a space for Faith to begin their activity and Scully smiled as she watched him.

“Did you buy whatever she pointed at once again, Mulder?” she teased and he grinned, not stopping in his task. “You know, a box of valentines cards cost about three dollars, tops.”

“Premade, unimaginative, mass produced valentines cards you mean,” he said, shaking his head. “Something with candy added that is probably from last year because it wasn’t sold and was stored away for next year. No thank you.” He shook his head again as he laid Faith’s painting smock on her chair. “These valentines are going to kick so much ass.”

“You are too adorable. I love that you get so excited about everything with her,” she said, stepping closer and looking up at him with a smile. He smiled back as he set the pack of stickers he was holding onto the table.

“I love that she’s so excited about everything now. I mean she has been in the past, but with school and her growing up, she’s excited on a different level.”

“Mmhmm,” she hummed as she continued to smile. Grabbing the front of his shirt, she pulled him closer and kissed him. “Adorable. And so sexy all at the same time.”

“It’s a fine line, but I’m happy to walk it,” he said, kissing her again as she laughed softly against his lips.

“Okay, Daddy!” Faith said, coming out of the bathroom. “I’m ready to make valentine's cards. Mommy, me and daddy are going to make beautiful cards for all my friends at school and the teachers and also for Unco, Raycho, and the twins.”

Scully looked down at her as she stepped back from Mulder. Smiling at Faith, she placed her hand on her head and stroked her hair.

“They will be the most beautiful valentines ever, I’m sure. You have lots of supplies.”

“Uh huh,” Faith said with a nod. “Daddy said I could get whatever I wanted to make them.”

Mulder cleared his throat and Scully tilted her head as she looked at him.

“Did he?” she asked with a knowing smile.

“Yup!” Faith said, clapping her hands together. “So we got a lot of stuff. I like the sparkly glitter the best.”

“I’m sure you do, my love,” Scully said, shaking her head as her smile grew.

“Well, how about we get started?” Mulder said, looking at Faith with a smile and avoiding Scully’s gaze.

“Yeah! I’m ready!” she said, getting into her chair and sitting down.

“Sucker,” Scully whispered and she saw his eyes cut to hers with a smile as he helped Faith with her smock.

“Will you be joining us, Mommy?” he asked and she nodded happily. “Well, then please wash your hands first. Thank you.”

She chuckled softly as she picked up her coat and hung it on the new coat rack by the door. Faith’s pink coat and her small purple scarf also hung there along with Mulder’s new black peacoat. Letting out a deep breath, she left her coat and her worries about the day at the hospital behind, before walking to the bathroom to wash her hands.

Soap still clung to the sides of the sink and a large blob was stuck to the adorable fawn soap dispenser Skinner and Rachel had given Faith for Christmas. She had only relented to it being used for its actual purpose two weeks ago as she had insisted on sleeping with it at first, the pump portion left on a shelf downstairs.

Washing her hands, Scully wiped off the fawn, dried her hands, and walked back to the table and sat down.

She watched them, without helping at first, and she smiled. Faith was laughing at something Mulder said, his face contorted into a comical expression. Her eyes sparkled when she looked at him and he winked at her quickly as he reached for the cup of scissors.

The best of friends, Scully thought as she picked out a piece of paper and folded it in half.

“Daddy,” Faith said, still laughing slightly. “Can you help me make a heart? Will you show me again?”

“Absolutely, my love. Like this.”

He drew a heart on a piece of paper and pushed it toward her for her to see.

“I don’t know if I can do it like that,” she said with a frown and he smiled as he held her hand and traced the heart with her own marker.

“See? Like this. Or I can do this too,” he said, beginning to make dash lines to create a heart. “Do you remember when we did this last year? Mommy made them and then you drew over them?”

“I don’t know,” Faith said, frowning in concentration as she followed the dash marks. “I did it! I made a heart!” She smiled at him and then at Scully, who smiled back.

“Good job, love,” she said and Faith nodded as she looked back at the heart.

They began to discuss the day, Faith telling them about school and Mulder asking after one of her current favorite friends. Scully nodded as she listened, but her mind was elsewhere as she stared at Faith, wishing she could stay at this perfectly wonderful age.

Four years old now, she had grown up so much since she started school. She loved every bit of it, coming home with artwork and stories of her day.

The first month had been great and then something had changed and she cried every time, not wanting to go.

“It’s common that this would happen,” Scully had assured Mulder when he had called her at the hospital, where she had been attending meetings before her upcoming first day, to tell her of Faith’s tears. “She was excited at first but now the newness has worn off a bit and she’s feeling different about it. Once she’s there, I know that she’s fine. It’s just the initial shock of it. She’ll get past it.”

“As a man with a degree in psychology, I know this, but as her dad… I don’t,” he had said with a deep sigh and she had smiled.

“I know you do.”

And she had been right, of course. It had been only a couple of weeks of tears, and then Faith had been happy and excited to go to school again.

She had made friends quickly and talked of her favorites every day, saying what they had done that she liked most.

“Sadie can run really fast,” she had said at dinner. “Liam is so funny. He makes me laugh so much.”

As a result, they had met the parents of Sadie and Liam, along with those of Tawny and Micah, all of them stating that they had heard Faith’s name spoken often in their house.

“Who would ever have guessed that a child of yours, with your antisocial behavior, would be so popular?” Scully had teased Mulder and he had laughed.

“Who wouldn’t love her?” he had stated. “She’s amazing.”

They had celebrated her birthday at school, giving out small goodie bags to her classmates, which had been assembled by all of them one evening.

Mulder had readied the multicolored bags, writing each child’s name on it before handing it to Faith to fill with stickers, animal shaped erasers, pencils, and a box of crayons. She had then passed it to Scully to tie with a rainbow ribbon and place in a cardboard box.

Faith had come home singing songs, asking them to play school with her while she acted as the teacher, and sharing everything she had learned.

The twins, one year old and her very favorite playmates, had benefited from her schooling as she “read” to them every chance she had, explaining the pictures in the book as she pointed them out. She had told them about the life cycle of bugs, how seeds grew, and what made a rainbow.

“It makes sense that she would be smarter than the average toddler, having the two of you as parents,” Skinner had said, shaking his head when he heard Faith discussing reflected light and water droplets, the twins staring at her and listening intently. Mulder had grinned and nodded, pride shining in his eyes.

Over Christmas, they had all gone to a large cabin in the mountains. Scully had been happy to get some time off from the hospital. She loved being back at work, but some days were harder than others, and she felt it keenly in a way she had not before having a small child she came home to every night.

They had gone sledding, skiing, and built snowmen, women, and children. It had been fun and relaxing with Santa coming and bringing minimal gifts that kept all the children happy and playing together.

January had then trudged through as only January can do, feeling as though it stretches on through eternity.

“Waiting till February feels like the drive to Unco and Raycho’s house,” Faith had said one night, the excitement of the celebration of Valentine’s Day front in her mind after Mulder had told her about it. “It takes a looooong time.”

She had flopped dramatically onto the beanbag chair they had bought for her art corner, sighing loudly. Bella had hurried over, whining softly as she laid her head on Faith’s stomach. Her tail had wagged gently as Faith pet her and sighed again.

Once the calendar hit February, she had been in full Valentine mode, discussing and planning for the trip to the craft store. Now with all the necessary items purchased, she was ready to create her many visions for those she loved.

“So, hon,” Mulder said and Scully hummed as she looked down at the blank paper in front of her. She picked up a pencil and began to draw a heart. “Have you thought more about what I asked you last night?”

“What did you ask me?” Scully asked him, looking up with a slight frown.

“About your upcoming birthday,” he said, raising his eyebrows. “What you wanted to do that day.”

“Oh, that,” she said, waving a hand dismissively. “I don’t need anything. Dinner. Maybe a little cake. Nothing special.”

“Nothing special?” he asked, scoffing at her words. “Are you hearing this, Faithy? Mommy said she doesn’t want to do anything special for her birthday.”

“But it’s your birthday, Mommy. It’s your own special day,” Faith said, frowning at her, the paintbrush in her hand full of blue paint. “You have to do something special.”

“What would you suggest I choose, my sweet girl?” Scully asked with a smile.

“Maybe… the trampoline place?” Faith suggested, her expression hopeful.

Mulder and Scully both laughed and she shook her head, stroking Faith’s cheek and booping her on the nose.

“I don't know about that, but I’ll keep thinking, okay?”

“Okay, Mama,” Faith said, smiling as she returned to her painting.

Scully watched her for a moment and then looked at Mulder. He grinned and winked at her and she smiled.

“Not the trampoline place,” she said firmly and he put his hands up in silent agreement.

____________

Scully stretched with a moan, cuddling into the bed, the blankets warm. She sighed as she opened her eyes and then closed them again. Stretching once more, she looked over her shoulder.

No Mulder.

That meant Faith was up already though it seemed early, judging by the light filling the room.

Pushing the blankets back, she sat on the edge of the bed and yawned. Standing up, she retrieved her slippers and shuffled into the bathroom. Coming out a few minutes later, tying her bathrobe’s belt around her, she walked to the door and turned the handle.

Many things happened at once and she stepped back in surprise as they did.

An assortment of colored balloons, previously held in place by the strips of rainbow crepe paper taped zigzaggedly across the door frame, fell at her feet, bouncing and collecting around her. Loud pops sounded as paper confetti flew through the air, and landed beside the balloons. Faith squealed and then laughed as Bella barked in surprise. Mulder laughed and then called down to Bella that everything was okay.

“Surprise, Mommy! Surprise!” Faith yelled, jumping up and down excitedly. “Do you like your birthday surprise?”

“Well,” Scully chuckled, her hand on her chest, where her heart was beating rapidly. “You surprised me very much. My goodness… I think you either added years or took some off.”

“Off an immortal?” Mulder teased. “I doubt it.” He grinned at her and she shook her head.

“Me and Daddy made the surprise for you, Mommy. We had a plan. It was a secret plan,” Faith said, looking at Mulder who nodded.

“It was indeed,” Mulder said. “It was actually Faith’s idea. She wanted you to have a special birthday surprise.”

“And you succeeded brilliantly,” Scully said, beginning to take down the crepe paper so she could leave the bedroom.

“You loved it?” Faith asked and Scully grinned.

“I did love it. Very much.”

“And the fetti canyon? That too?” Faith asked, jumping up and down.

“The confetti cannon? Yes, I loved it. And it definitely surprised me.”

“Yay!” Faith shouted, spinning around with her arms above her head.

Scully smiled at Mulder as she walked through the doorway and he smiled back.

“We chose pink for the confetti cannon because it’s your favorite color,” he informed her.

“Is it?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yup. For today it is. Happy birthday, love.”

“Thank you,” she said, placing a hand on his chest and rising on tiptoes to kiss him. “I love you.”

“Hmm. I love you too,” he said, kissing her again. “Okay! We can take care of this mess later because we have so much more planned for today, don’t we, Faithy?”

“Yeah! We made you breakfast, Mommy. Special pancakes, but it’s waffles instead,” Faith said, picking up two balloons and waving them around.

“Oh,” Scully laughed softly. “So waffles then?”

“Yes. Daddy let me lick the spatch… the spatch…”

“Spatula?” Scully asked, bending down to scoop Faith up in a tight hug.

“Yeah. The black one with the brown handle.”

“Was it good?”

“Yes.”

“Good. I’m starving. Let’s go eat.”

But breakfast had to wait… for a few minutes at least.

All the balloons were tossed down the stairs, floating gently into Faith’s waiting arms as she giggled and yelled let ‘em rip! much to Scully and Mulder’s amusement. Bella barked again, the amount of balloons seeming to make her feel anxious. Grey, running in from a morning romp, froze when she saw them, her fur rising as she hissed.

“Maybe we put the balloons in your room, sweetie,” Mulder suggested, as Bella whined and laid down on her bed, watching Faith with sad eyes. “I don’t think Grey and Bella like the balloons as much as you do.”

“It’s okay, Belly Bells. We’ll put them away now, okay?” Faith asked as she hurried over to pet Bella, leaning down to put their heads together. “Maybe if I have only two, it would be okay? I won’t scare you with them, I promise.” Bella licked her nose and Faith giggled, kissing her head before standing up.

The balloons were gathered and brought upstairs to Faith’s bedroom, the floor covered with them, except for the two left downstairs.

As they sat down to eat their breakfast of waffles with whipped cream, strawberries, and syrup along with eggs and bacon, Mulder and Faith informed her of the plans for the rest of the day.

“We have appointments for manicures and pedicures at ten-”

“Wait… all of us?”

“Yup. All of us,” he stated with a nod and she smiled. “Then lunch at that place you like by the water-”

“Zinnia’s?” she interrupted again, looking at him in surprise and he nodded. “Hmm, that sounds nice.”

“It will be,” he said, winking at her. “Then we’re going to Skinner and Rachel’s for a barbecue and some cake. Then, Miss Faith is going to stay the night and Uncle Walter will take her to school in the morning.”

“So we’ll have-”

“The night to ourselves… yes,” he said, staring at her with the look that made her stomach quiver, even after all these years.

“Imagine that,” she said, lowering her voice and watching the way it affected him, smiling when he shook his head at her.

“I’m going to sleep the night at Raycho and Unco’s?” Faith asked and Mulder’s attention turned to her.

“You are. Does that sound like fun? Was it a good surprise?”

“Yes!” Faith shouted, raising her fork in the air and Scully laughed. “I will sleep in the big bed. Can I bring my light night with me?”

“Of course you can bring your night light and whatever else you want, within reason.”

“Yay! Can I pack my backpack now?”

“Sure, if you’d like to, but we aren’t leaving for a bit yet.”

“Thank you, Daddy. I’m all finished with my breakfast.” She wiped her mouth and hurried from the table, nearly knocking over her glass of milk.

“Be careful!” Mulder called after her as he caught the glass. “Sheesh.”

“Impulsive. Quick to jump into a situation. Now where have I seen that behavior before?” Scully teased, taking a sip of her coffee and looking at him.

“Impulsive we may be, yes. But also detail oriented. And hyper focused,” he said, holding her gaze.

“Oh, I’m well aware of that quality,” she replied over the rim of her coffee cup. “But I never mind being reminded.”

“Hmm,” he hummed with a nod. “And I never tire of reminding you.”

“Daddy! Can you help me?” Faith called from upstairs and Scully grinned at him.

“You’re being summoned.”

“I noticed,” he said, continuing to sit and stare at her.

“You should go and see what she wants.”

“Hmm,” he hummed with an agreeing nod.

“Daddy!”

“Yes, Faithy. I’ll be right there.”

“Oh, bring the broom up with you,” Scully said, setting her coffee cup down and spearing a strawberry with her fork. “Or the vacuum, for that confetti mess on the floor, because I won’t be cleaning it up later. And unless you would rather do that than join me in the bedroom-”

“I’ll get the broom and the vacuum,” he said, jumping up and hurrying to grab them.

She laughed as she ate the strawberry, catching his eye as he started towards the stairs.

“Hey,” she said, jerking her head at him.

He nodded and came back to the table. She looked up and smiled as he bent closer to her. He kissed her softly, but she opened her mouth, not wanting a gentle kiss. Her tongue grazed his and the broom hit the floor with a loud clatter.

“Scully,” he said, pulling back and letting out a harsh breath as he shook his head.

He picked up the broom and stared at her as he walked to the stairs. She arched an eyebrow at him and he shook his head again.

“Make sure you get every piece of that confetti,” she told him.

“I won’t miss one,” he assured her, starting up the stairs as a purple balloon bounced softly down. They looked at each other and she laughed as he tried and failed to catch it.

“I’ll get it, you go help Faith pack,” she said as she stood up and picked up the balloon. “Oh and, Mulder?”

“Yes?” he asked, turning around to look at her.

“Thank you for making today special.”

“You’re welcome, hon.” He winked at her and turned to continue up the stairs.

She watched him, holding the balloon by its small neck, and hitting it against her hand.

“Can I help you clean up the fetti, Daddy? Can I use the broom?” Faith said and Scully waited to hear Mulder’s response.

“You can. We need to make sure we get them all off the floor.”

“Or Mommy might be mad?”

“No. She won’t be mad one bit. She just doesn’t want us to have to clean it up later tonight.”

“Because I will be at Unco’s and I won’t be here to help you?”

“Something like that, yeah,” Mulder said quietly.

Scully laughed as she went to clear the table, already thinking ahead to the evening and wondering if she should hunt up the pink and black thing that Mulder loved so much or if it would even be necessary.

Yeah, she thought with a nod, knowing how sexy it made her feel. Tonight definitely calls for the pink and black thing.

Well everyone, I’ve taken a drastic step. Throughout my British comedy journey, I have dug through many layers of internet to find video and/or audio recordings of the shows I want. I have found most of these for free, while saying I’d be willing to pay for them if I had some easy way to do that while knowing most of my money would go to the people who made the show. Occasionally I’ve had an opportunity to do that, like when I bought Nish Kumar’s stand-up album off iTunes and downloaded Mark Watson’s stand-up special off Vimeo. I’ve bought several audiobooks by various British comedians (and by “bought” I mean “did that thing where you make a new Audible account to get one book for free”, but that still counts as a sale and the author still gets whatever money they get per purchase of their book).

Sometimes, I haven’t been able to find a digital copy of something I want for free, and I haven’t found an easy way to pay for such a thing, so I’ve resorted to ordering physical items that get mailed to my house. This has almost entirely come in the form of books – Lee Mack and David Mitchell’s autobiographies that ordered after I finished watching WILTY, two Jo Brand books, Jon Richardson’s book, James Acaster’s Classic Scrapes and Stephen Fry’s Moab Is My Washpot and Katherine Ryan’s autobiography were given to me as gifts so I didn’t actually buy them but I do own physical copies of them.

There is of course another Britcom-related physical item I’ve ordered on the internet, and it’s currently on the back of my computer:

I ordered the first Nish Kumar stick last summer, when I decided I really liked the way he’d adorned his laptop for season four of The Mash Report (when he worked from home due to, that whole thing):

Then for Christmas my girlfriend’s gift to me happened to include a Taskmaster seal sticker and a sticker that depicts Nish Kumar with a coconut on his head and a tie made of money for that one season 5 task, so I decided my laptop will just become a proper home for Nish Kumar stickers. I am pleased with this.

Up until today, that is as far as I’d gone with acquiring actual physical objects related to Britcom - I can normally just find digital copies of things, and I prefer it that way. But the other day, I took an unprecedented step. There was one thing that I could not find anywhere on the internet, for free or to pay for it. While searching, I kept seeing it on Amazon, getting excited for a split second because I thought that meant Amazon would let me pay to download it, and then remembering that I’ve clicked that link before and it’s not a download link, it’s a listing of the actual DVD. And obviously that’s not helpful because DVDs do not exist anymore.

Well guess what? After much time spent scouring the internet and becoming convinced that it is absolutely nowhere to be found, I realized... you know, Amazon probably couldn’t list that if DVDs literally no longer existed. And I do have an external disc drive that I got ages ago to help my parents turn their CDs of home videos into digital copies. So technically, this could be a solution.

It got here today and I’m unreasonably exited about it. Until it actually got delivered, to be honest I didn’t 100% expect it to work. I sort of expected to get a message that says “I see you’ve tried to order a Digital Video Disc, there’s been a mistake as it isn’t 2008 anymore.” But there was no mistake. And it might not be 2008, but I do have something that was recorded in that year, and everything about its packaging reminds me aggressively of that fact.

Here’s a little booklet that was included inside the DVD case:

Absolutely perfect. Everything about this is perfect. I am so excited to watch it. I have family stuff to do this afternoon, which is just as well because I’m housesitting at the moment, and obviously I didn’t bring my external disc drive with me, because why would I have done that? So I have to make a special trip back to my own house to get that, which I will work into my afternoon outing, and then can sit down and watch this, and I am so excited to do that.

Christmas Gram 

▸ Jaemin x reader ▸ 1,876k words ▸ Fluff only ▸ No warnings, but this is inspired by his mini drama and his character is close to Han Daegang hehehe ▸ Requested and part of B’s giving back event,  Ho Ho Ho?!  See anon request message at the end of this drabble. 

"Christmas Gram

Wherein your secret Santa will give you gifts depending on what’s demanded during the week. For our first week, you are required to give the person you got something fragile, the second week will be a stress reliever may it be a stress ball or whatever comes to your mind, and lastly something that will last forever.

Please leave the gifts on top of the desk of the person you got. Secretly. I repeat, secretly. Don’t ruin the fun."

Everyone acknowledged what your homeroom teacher just explained. Besides Valentine gram, everyone always looks forward to Christmas gram. The gifts given during Christmas gram are very special, but that depends on who got you. If you’re lucky you can get something even better than a tissue paper when the Christmas gram demands something soft. If that person who got you really cares for you, the gifts will be unique. But in your case, you never had a unique gift. It’s your senior year and you’re not keeping your hopes up.

Week 1: Something fragile

“Hey Y/n, are you excited for this year’s Christmas gram?” Yeji smirks while fixing her bag.

You rolled your eyes at her because she knew you got her for this year’s Christmas gram. “There’s no thrill with getting your best friend for Christmas Gram, I give you gifts since we were little” you whine and hand her your gift with a smile.

Usually, you get your gifts in the morning but this time, the day is almost ending and you haven’t had yours. Everyone else is either happy or whining about what they received for week one. Maybe you got really unlucky this year. “What did you get for something fragile?” You asked your seatmate, Jaemin, the school’s number one snob. But you can’t relate to that because you’re the only person who can talk to him.

“A saucer,” he says, pointing at the saucer on his table. “I can give it to my mom” he added.

The fact that he thought about his mom made you smile, but you feel bad for him for getting a freaking saucer for the first week of Christmas Gram. Even bad boys deserve a meaningful gift during Christmas gram. You weren’t that close, but he was nice to you. One time, when you were having a hard time editing something he came out of nowhere and helped you out, and you think he has the sweetest smile in this school, it was something you’ve never seen before and you wish he smiles more often.

“How about you?”

“I think he or she forgot to leave the gift. It’s alright though, Christmas Gram is about giving, and Yeji is happy with my gift to her” He nods and puts on his usual poker face again.

Four days after the start of week one, s parcel is sitting on your table with a note that says, ‘Sorry. The delivery took a while. Here’s something fragile for you, I hope you keep it beside your bed so you can look into something nice before you close your eyes every night’

Your secret someone didn’t even bother wrapping it nicely but the note is sweet. 'fragile' it says on the sticker. You made sure to open it with care and carefully remove it from the box. The moment the glitters hit the natural sunlight, it illuminates around the room and the fragile thing that you’re holding is illuminating beautifully which made you smile from ear to ear. You shake and shake the snow globe and watch the glitters float around inside. Fragile indeed, you thought. Definitely for safekeeping.

Week 2: Stress reliever

You were looking at Jaemin’s long eyelashes while he was fidgeting with his expensive camera. Completely spaced out and your mind is just thinking how the other students hate him for being who he is. If only others could set aside Jamin’s bad boy image, they will see how handsome this boy is-

“I can hear your thoughts. You think I’m handsome” he blurted out and brought you back to reality. He was just teasing you though and gave you a small candy cane. “Put it in your hot chocolate tonight if you’re into that,” he says then goes back to fidgeting with his camera.

For the second week, your gift got delayed again. This time you didn’t feel bad even just for a second, maybe your secret Sant will give it to you tomorrow. Who knows? The first gift was awesome.

Three days after the start of week two, you haven’t received any gift yet. And you know it’s not right to get sad about it, but you can't help it. Not to mention your studies and a lot of school activities are kicking your butt lately. You really needed that stress reliever.

“I had a stress ball for week two. You didn’t ask me what I got so I figured I tell you, what did you get?” Jaemin’s face looks unbothered. If you don’t know him well enough you will think that he doesn’t care but he does.

“I got nothing, and I’m done waiting,” you said a bit annoyed.

“Are you free after school then?” It was a bold move you thought. For starters, you’re not actually friends you’re just nice to each other. But maybe it’s time to change that, so you said ‘yes’ you’re free. He brought you to an animal cafe near your school where you can play with the dogs while having coffee, tea, or cakes. It was all smiles because of the cute puppies the whole afternoon and seeing Jaemin smile the whole time is such a sight to see. He doesn’t look like the Jaemin you see at school, this Jaemin is different. Which made you think, ‘what am I doing here with Jaemin?’

“Do you want to have a puppy?” He asked while giving the dog on his lap a tummy rub.

“Of course but my family doesn’t have time to go adopt or buy one so....”

“Ohh. Okay just asking”

The day ended with an awkward goodbye hug with Jaemin but it's the least you can do after he took out your stress and worries. You wore the smile that Jaemin gave you until you sleep oh so soundly that night.

The next day, you woke up happily on a beautiful weekend with no school works but a whole day of family Christmas decorating. When you went downstairs, you saw your family gathered in the living room gushing over something. “I think your boyfriend gave you a gift” your mom teased you.

“What boyfriend?” Then you saw a cute puppy on a box that your mom is carrying carefully with a smile. She was heading towards you to give it to you and there’s only one person you could think of right now. Jaemin. Your heart was so happy as you stretch your arms and reach for the puppy. It was an unexplainable feeling that you just screeching out of happiness, and express with a good amount of OMGs over and over again.

“He left it this morning, stayed outside the house until someone is awake. I think he didn’t want to leave the door on the doorstep”

Week 3: Something that will last forever

The week before Christmas break is finally here, and every student is excited to get their last gift and finally meet their ‘secret santa’. Rules are they have to hand you their final gift however they want, which makes everything even more nerve-wracking. And for your secret santa? You have a strong feeling that its Jaemin, you just don’t want to burst his bubble.  

“Hey” you smiled from ear to ear as you greet Jaemin before the first period starts. You saw a green box inside his backpack just peeking while he gets his books then you pretend you didn’t see anything. “the puppy last weekend uhm-“

“You were stressed and besides I didn’t want to go to the cafe alone” he smiles innocently like he didn’t just gave you something that will change your life, “I hope you take care of it though and I hope that the puppy will relieve all your stress until you go to college” and just like that, after that short conversation he’s back to being quiet again.

The day went on and you watch your schoolmates receive different kinds of gifts from unexpected people, which made you smile all throughout the day. But you… you expected Jaemin to give you the gift before the day ends but he still hasn't. Until classes are done and everyone is bidding goodbye and carrying their gifts except you. Maybe Jaemin got shy? So you did what you do best, just shrug it off and wait.

While you were waiting for your mom to finish cooking dinner, you were scanning through places that you want to go over the Christmas break. There's ice skating, a carnival downtown, and- “You have a visitor” your mom knocks at your door and told you that someone is waiting for you outside. “He won't get in unless he meets you outside. Invite him for dinner” your mom added.

“He?” you murmured. You put on your jacket and head towards the door and you see Jaemin wearing a sweater with his hands inside his pockets. No gift, you thought. “Hey what are you doing here?”

“Hi uhm,” he scratched the back of his nape before he continues.

“I know you got me for Christmas Gram. And if you’re here because you don’t know what to give me, it’s totally okay Jaemin. You’re a great guy and the puppy is enough, don’t worry” you smiled sweetly and tried to comfort him.

“What no- I got Jeno. I just wanted to give you gifts because you said it’s the season of giving, and uhm… I don’t want to waste this opportunity. I see you get disappointed with your secret Santa, so I gave you the gifts. It's just my way of entering into your life” he smiled awkwardly and chuckled.

You giggled and feel the butterflies in your stomach, “that’s cheating” you said with a smile and came closer to him like you’re inviting him to come closer to you too.

“Yeah but you’re worth it,” he said, looking at your lips then to your eyes. “Did they make you happy?”

“Mhmm” Inch by inch your bodies come close and the next thing you know Jaemin is holding you by the waist, “what’s your last gift then?”

“Me” It was a quiet moment but you get what he’s telling you, “if we do this right then we can last forever. But if not, then at least we tried, right?”

“Yes, I totally agree. But right now, you’re about to meet my whole family because my mom invited you to dinner” you teased him and you watch him froze, “you’ll be fine. Everyone likes you because you gave us a puppy” you offer your hand which he happily grabbed and you welcomed him to your home. And that night is the start of a sweet love story between you and Jaemin.

↩︎ prev next ▶︎

Dear Anon, thank you so much for requesting this! I’m not much of a fluff writer but I hope this gives justice to your request. Also, I made it almost Christmas day hihi. 

story time: During our Christmas party (2018) my friends surprised me with a puppy and I was so happy that I kept on saying “oh my gosh” almost thirty times hahahah The dog that was given to me became a stress reliever not just for me but for my mom also. My mother loved her so much that she brings the dog to her work and carry her with pride. hahahah 

The Freedom of Expression - Ep 36 The banning of snacks and sweet drinks displays from next to cash registers.

K: Hi, this is Dir en grey's Kaoru with this week's episode of The Freedom of Expression. Joe san, Tasai san, welcome. Ok, today lets get straight on with it. Joe  could you please...

J: Yes, lets have a look at this news. Snack and sweet drinks displays next to cash registers banned in Berkeley, California, USA. In the university city of Berkeley, northern California, a law has been passed this week banning the sale of junk food next to cash registers in supermarkets. According to local media, this is the first of its kind in America. The law, unanimously voted for by Berkeley City council, targets cheap, unhealthy products next to cash registers which 'encourage impulse buying, and burden parents of children who want them', with the aim of promoting  healthy lifestyles. Products with over 5g of added sugar or 250mg of added sodium, and drinks containg a lot of sugar or artificial sweetners have been banned from sale next to cash registers. The ban will come into effect from next March. In the city of 120,000 people it will be imposed in 25 large scale supermarkets. The progressive city Berkeley, on the outskirts of San Francisco has been taking health initiatives before now. In 2014 they imposed a tax on soft drinks, and according to a survey from last year, consumption of soft drinks had halved by 2017.

K: Its true though, the cash registers over there have so many snacks near them.

J: They do, don't they?! They are really colourful. But banning it by law is really stepping in, isn't it?

T: Yeah.

J: The supermarkets aren't stopping it through self-restraint, its been forbidden by law, so if they do it will they be penalised?

T: Yeah, wow.

J: I think this is a warning that in America this kind of health damage caused by excessive additives and sugar in food is becoming a serious problem.

K: Yeah, people just end up picking it up.

J: When im waiting in line at the supermarket, its the same in Japan...in the convenience store in Japan, I wait till the last moment and always end up picking up those little Tirol chocolate squares.

K: Oh yeh, they have those out, don't they?

J: They do! Don't those chocolates just call out  to you at the last minute? I always end up buying a few.

T: I  buy 'Bikkuriman'. For the sticker.

J: Oh yeh. Still?

T: I just sometimes get the feeling like I want to open it. I reminds me off old times, haha. I throw it away straight away though.

J: Kaoru, what about you?

K: I don't buy that stuff.

J: Oh, you don't?

K: No, I just buy what I was intending to buy before I went. If Im walking around the store and I see an interesting new product or something, I might buy it, but the stuff near the cash register seems more like left over produce to me.

J: Ah, close to expiring?

K: Yeh, it looks like they really want you to buy it, so they put it there. I don't really feel like picking it up.

T: Ah, I see.

K: But in supermarkets they have gum and stuff near the registers, don't they?

J: Yeah.

K: I do buy gum.

J: Ahh, yeh...Kami? What do you think?

Kami: I pick all of it up.

T: Nice, Kami.

Kami: I get tonnes. 1000yen worth.

T: Haha

Kami: Maybe 500yen, not 1000.

K: Do you like sweets, Kami?

Kami: Yeh, i do. I pick them up straight away. Um, there's often drinks on display too, right?

J: Yeah.

Kami: If there's cola or fanta, I will buy both.

T: Haha

Kami: If I go to buy tea, I will buy all that.

K: You like sweet stuff, right?

J: Yeah.

Kami: No, its not that. Its just that it all looks delicious. It makes you forget *1

T: I see, yeh.

J: In that sense, its part of the store's strategy.

T: Yeh, Kami seems like he would hate that kind of strategy, but he still falls for it.

J: Yeh, he seems like he would be opposed to it, but he still buys tonnes, right Kami?

Kami: Yeh, I really jump on the bandwagon.

K: This stuff must sell a lot.

J: Yeh, I think so. This kind of food looks visually fun, right? Colourful and stuff. Kids get pulled in by it. Like, 'I wanna eat this!'. Its pretty amazing to pass a law in this. That would be impossible in Japan, right?

T: I feel like Japan has more freedom. I had the image since I was small that America is the country of freedom, but recently if you look at America, there is ban after ban...it seems like life there is getting more restricted. And in Japan, even with covid we can still go outside, or go to restaurants and stuff. It made me think Japan is quite free. Its a weird feeling.

J: Ahh, the rules in America are stricter?

K: Overseas, they were quite strict about indoors. Japan is only just getting like that recently, right?

J: Yeh, America was a lot quicker to regulate indoor smoking.

T: Its like that with alcohol too. When one of my best friends was in America during his student days, he once wore a Budweiser tshirt and he was told, 'Its illegal', and he had to change it. I thought that was pretty strict when I heard.

K: You can't carry it around with you either, can you?

J: Yeah, you have to put it in a bag.

K: I stepped outside a venue without knowing this while I was holding a beer can once, and I was told that isn't allowed.

J: Yeh, yeh, yeh. Well, it does depend on how you look at it. Its often said that in Japan, rather than having rules...well, in America there is a kind of society that is governed by rules, but in Japan its more about community, so rather than having rules, peer presure is very strong. People worry about what others think. Its very Japanese, 'other people are saying this, so...', or 'other people are doing this, so...'. People adapt themselves to that first of all.

T: I wonder which style is better?

J: Yeah. They are both different.

T: Its not nice being told by the government to stop something, is it? I understand the reasons though.

K: Well, people do protest that kind of thing.

Kami: But I think this law is good.

J: It is good.

Kami: I think its really good, because you can finish up without buying stuff.

K: Well, it is good.

Kami: Its really good. I thoroughly agree with it.

K: Kids won't pine for sweets either.

J: Yeh.

Kami: I do think its good to buy sweets for kids though.

J: Oh really?

K: Yeh, but just not there, right?

Kami: I wanted sweets when I was a kid.

K: Me too.

T: Yeh, me too.

Kami: I really wanted all those sweets by the register when I was a kid, but I never got them.

K: There are those socks full of snacks at Christmas, right? I wanted one of those.

T: Yeh, me too.

J: If you think about what made you excited as a kid, basically its the sweet shop, right?

K: Yeh, I used to go there.

J: Whenever I ate sour plums and stuff from the sweet shop, my tongue went bright red *2

K: They were crunchy, right?

J: Yeh! I would drink up all the syrup.

K: Haha.

J: I bet that would be no good under that tax in Berkeley.

T: Yeah.

K: Ahh, sweet shops...

T:???

J:???*3

K: I still feel like eating those kind of sweets sometimes.

J: Yeah. There aren't many sweet shops around these days, in the Tokyo area.

T: Yeah, there aren't.

K: But there are sections in other shops that sell those kinds of sweets.

T: A long time ago there was an izakaya in Sangenjaya that only served sweets as beer snacks.

K: Oh, there was, wasn't there?!

T: Yeh. I went a couple of times, cause its unusual, but sweets...

K: You can't withstand it?

J: After you become an adult, right? At first you are like, 'Woah, so nostalgic', but ..

T: Yeh, it gets boring.

J: You start to think halfway, 'this needs to be more tasteful!' Uh, in the precincts of Kishibojin there is apparently Japan's oldest sweet shop or something still there. Its a famous old man, or old woman who runs it.

K: I recently went to Kawagoe.

T: Oh, Little Edo!

K: Yeh, there is a sweet shop street there. The people there were amazing. Well, I mean they were all wearing yukatas and stuff, and eating.

T: Its made me want to go to a sweet shop!

J: Ah, there is a tonne of good places to eat there, isn't there?

K: Oh, is there? In Kawagoe?

J: Yeh.

K: As for sweet shops, the ones that have a downtown feeling are the best. 

J: Yeah.

K: Its nostalgic, going to the sweet shop in the evening, and getting those colourful squeezy things to drink...

J: Yeh!

K: And eating sweets at the same time.

J: Which was your favourite sweet, Kaoru? From the sweet shop?

K: From the sweet shop? I liked Curry rice-crackers, and 5yen chocolate, and those gummy type things in a box, that you pick up with a little stick.

J: Oh yeh.

K: I used to eat that kinda stuff.

T: What about you, Joe?

J: I liked plum jam, I sandwiched it between those kinda soft rice-crackers. And I liked the  Castella.

T: Oh yeh, they had those small ones.

J: Yeh, they were on a skewer. I used to eat them a lot.

K: Tasai?

T: I used to get those squeezy things too. And wasn't there always like a 10yen game outside sweet shops? I would win more sweets with that.

K: You won?? More sweets came out of the game?

T: It was like a 30yen ticket, right?

J, K: Ehh?

J: I never saw that.

T: Didn't you? Like, where you try to get the ball in the hole for ten yen? And if you win, you get a ticket?

K: Ah, I remember something like that where you can win, but I don't remember tickets coming out. It was little freebies. Ah, its nostalgic. Should we try going to a sweet shop on this show?

J: A sweet shop?? Should we??

K: Yeh.

T: Thats a good idea. With 100yen in change.

K: Actually, that place in Kawagoe was closed.

J: Haha, really?

K: I went all the way there, but..

J: Just for that?

K: Yeh.

J: Really?

K: Well, lets go to one on this show.

J: Yeh, lets do it! Film on location!

K: Ok, lets plan something. Lets fill ourselves with unhealthy snacks.

J: Ah, but it won't be that much.

K: Well, yeh.

J: It'll be limited to what you can get at the sweet shop.

T: Sounds good.

K: Is this ok? Us ending up talking about this?

T: Its ok, it feels good to talk about it.

J: It does, haha.

K: Ok, well, we'll finish here. Please subscribe. Thank you very much.

*1, 2 Difficult to hear, but i think its this.

*3 Couldn't catch.

Flower | 22

; Hoseok x Reader

; Genre: Fluff, smut

; Word Count: 6.4k

; Warnings: Brief mention of antidepressant side effects, oral sex (f receiving), fingering, sex toy use, insinuated sex

; Synopsis: You finally decide to take a dip into the world of online dating and find the Flower dating app. One of the top matches for you proves to be a guy who looks to be your complete opposite; tattooed, pierced, a metalhead and oh…incredibly handsome. What happens when you throw caution to the wind and reach out to him?

; A/N: I’ve half proofread this but I hate reading through smut again so...I hope you enjoy it all :) please reblog if you did and leave me feedback in the form of comments, reviews or other asks! I’m always happy to read your thoughts on the Flower couple and their evolving relationship <3

; Flower Masterpost

-

“Okay so...I know it probably doesn’t look like I’ve got you all that much,” You give him a disbelieving stare before eyeing the small pile of books and games he’d already gifted you. “But I got you one more. And I had to hide this because it’s very heavy and I didn’t want you accidentally kicking it and opening it up or anything.”

Watching as he stands up, his cheerfully festive Christmas Simpsons sweats looking very out of place on his tattooed body, he darts off to your bedroom. Frowning, you lean back to try and see what he’s doing, wondering how’d he’d managed to hide something from you in your own room.

He was completely lying because he’d gotten you everything you wanted and more. The new Final Fantasy game, the new Villainous expansion, some of the books you’d been wanting for a while and a few Eeveelution plushies to finish off your set. So what on earth would he have gotten?

It’s even more confusing when he comes back and you see the size of the box in his hands, elegantly wrapped in silver wrapping paper. There’s a pretty fabric bow on top with a tag on it and your brow rises when you see how hard he’s struggling with it.

That brow goes even higher when he sits down with a grunt, the box dropping onto the floor with a heavy thunk. Eyes widening, you stare at it before looking at him in amusement.

“Holy shit Hoseok, what did you do? Kill someone?” He gives you a smirk before cuddling up to you on the floor, gesturing to the wrapped gift with more than a little excitement. You welcome his warmth and idly poke his thigh as you eye the present.

“Nope. You’ll love it though, I promise.” Giving him a suspicious look, you look at the tag first and read it. Much to his amusement. Apparently he wasn’t one of those people who particularly cared about reading the tags, which had horrified you when you found out. Not that you’d written him any sweet notes or anything, but still.

Unsurprisingly, the tag doesn’t have some love filled sonnet on it, just your name and ‘love, Hoseok’. But he’d obviously shown his love through the careful presents he’d bought you, each one something that you loved and adored. 

Smiling, you carefully began to peel away the wrapping paper where it has been folded, tugging at the tape until it came away gently. You feel Hoseok’s laugh vibrate through his body before actually hearing it, causing you to look at him in confusion.

“God, you open presents so neatly. It’s like watching my sister all over again,” His smile stays warm, growing even more affectionate. “She used to open presents like you do, as if afraid that you’ll ruin the wrapping paper or something. I don’t have the patience.”

“Gee...I hadn’t noticed.” Turning your head to stare firmly at the bag of torn wrapping paper next to you both, the remnants of what had remained of what you’d painstakingly wrapped. 

He snorts before poking your side and nodding with his head towards the present that you’d only begun opening. “Okay Miss Sarcastic, please proceed with the present opening before you cut yourself on your wit instead of the paper.”

You do as asked, or instructed rather, and carefully peel back the paper. As soon as you have a glimpse of the box cover though, all care is gone as you gasp loudly and quickly tear the rest off. Staring down at the colourful box, you take in the words ‘Gloomhaven’ along the top before squealing with excitement and bouncing in place.

“Oh my god! Hoseok! Oh my god! What the fuck? This game is so expensive!” You’re beyond happy to get it though, as if your reaction wasn’t obvious and the amusement in Hoseok’s face is more than apparent. But you still feel a little guilty at the fact he’s bought you this alongside everything else so far. The two of you haven’t even been dating a year and you’re already feeling spoilt.

He wraps his arms around your waist before kissing your cheek sweetly, watching as you pull the rest of the paper from beneath the box and toss it to the side. It’s only when you go to lift the box that you let out a deep groan of surprise and effort, turning to look at him with wide eyes.

“Holy shit.”

“Yeah, holy shit. This thing was 10 fucking kilograms. I feel like I almost died bringing it here. And that’s with the freaking elevator. Open it up, I wanna see what’s in this damn thing.” Laughing, you let him turn the box upside down and use the scissors that had been brought over earlier to slice through the clear stickers that were keeping the lid attached. 

Kasumi was currently playing with a ball of scrunched wrapping paper that Hoseok had thrown to her earlier. She had, obviously, been thoroughly enthralled with it and completely ignored the toys she’d been bought by Hoseok and you for her Christmas presents. He’d been thoroughly amused by that but you’d just shrugged and said this was what cats did.

Between the two of you, you manage to get the lid off the box that feels like it’s been vacuum packed in and sit back to admire the interior contents. Carefully, you lift the map board out and open it up, scanning over the intricate map with interest while Hoseok lets out a low whistle.

“Fuck, there’s a lot of shit in this box.” He pulls out a wirebound book along with a rule book, placing them on his lap before flicking through them with interest. Holding up the wire book, he looks at you with wide eyes. “Dude, this is the scenario book...it has 96 scenarios in it.”

Grinning at him, you peer over his shoulder and take them in before carefully taking the book from his hands and placing it on top of the now folded map.

“Yep. It may be expensive but you get your money’s worth at least, right? And you can’t look at it, it’ll spoil the game for you. It’s like an RPG game for a PC or console. You’re only supposed to find out what’s happening as you’re playing, so don’t go spoiling it. And apparently we can only only look at a certain number of characters and stuff. We unlock those through the scenarios.” Reaching in, you pull out one tiny box with what reminds you of a singularity on the top, opening it carefully and pulling out the tiny figure inside.

“This is one of the starter ones, a spellweaver. I want to be this one.” Hoseok takes it from you and looks over it equally as carefully before shrugging, his expression giving away that he was no idea what you’re on about. Giggling, you kiss his cheek and place it back into the box.

“You have no idea what I’m talking about, do you?” He glares at you as you begin to place everything carefully inside. It impresses you how well everything fits in, and you already feel some dread at the prospect of trying to fit everything inside after a few scenarios.

“I’ll have you know that I played and loved all the Dark Souls games.” Biting your lip, you try to contain your amusement as you slide the lid back on and simply admire the game with reverence. 

“Oh yeah? Is that because it’s all gothic and hardcore. Did you git gud?” Your teasing of him instantly gets a repercussion as he begins to tickle you furiously, your laughs loud in the apartment and causing Kasumi to pause with her own wide eyes. 

“Yeah, yeah I did git gud. Actually, I got so gud that I finished all of them multiple times. What was it you told me once? That you don’t like those games because they’re too hard for you? So...who’s the one who needs to git gud now?” He says, pausing his fingers from his relentless assault and giving you a smug look. Breathing heavily, you let out a quiet laugh before tracing along one of the tattoos on his arms.

“Me, apparently.” Pausing, you take him in before smiling with happiness, your stomach bubbling with joy. “Thank you. For buying me that, it’s really expensive and I can’t believe you bought me it! I’ve been contemplating it for ages.”

“I know. I’ve seen you look at it online often enough. Got me a little stressed when you almost bought it the other week. But I like playing games with you, I’ve decided. So...I got this one so that we can play it together. It can be our game.” Sitting back up, he reaches out and pulls you up with him as you stare at him with wide eyes.

Logically, you’d known that he’d probably have to play it with you as there was no way that Chungha or Soyeon would be interested in something as in depth and long lasting as Gloomhaven. But hearing him say that he’s spent well over $100 on a board game just to play it with you was something else entirely.

It makes your stomach go funny, just like he always made it, and you feel the fluttering of almost anxiety in your throat, making it a tiny bit harder to breathe. Not because you were upset or anything, but you just didn’t really know how to process the love you’d been blessed with from one Jung Hoseok. It was hard for your head to really comprehend that he genuinely meant every word he said.

“Are you sure? It’s supposed to be intense. And long.” Hoseok smirks at you, moving closer until you’re almost nose to nose. His warm breath, smelling faintly of the mint ice cream he’d eaten for dessert at his parents after Christmas dinner, fanning your face. You should be disgusted, but you’re not.

“I know something that can be intense and long tonight. And I wouldn’t have bought it otherwise.” Rolling your eyes at his obvious innuendo, you try hard to stop the smile that wants to break free at hearing him obviously trying to initiate sex. The two of you had agreed to spend the mornings at your respective parents' houses before meeting up here, opening the presents you’d bought each other and spending Christmas evening together for the first time.

Looking over his elegant features, you can’t help but smile as happiness fills you at the sight of him. He’s not paying attention to you anymore, instead having reached over to take one of the books you’d gifted him earlier. 

Hoseok had begun to read biography and memoir style books lately, enjoying a wide array of topics. As such, you’d gotten him the entire back catalogue of Mick Wall biographies, which meant he had a whole stack of metal and rock n roll band biographies to go through.

At the moment, he was scanning over the back of the Metallica book with his tongue poking out of his mouth in concentration. The other pile included Lemmy, Guns n Roses and more. You’d be lying if you said that you knew half of the bands or whatever that were in the books but you knew that he’d love them all anyway.

And he had, his face lighting up with excitement when he’d unwrapped each one. It had been a worry that he’d find them boring or something, but instead you’d been given many kisses of thanks. Which had been rather delightful, you would admit.

You’d found it particularly stressful buying him presents for Christmas; panicking that he wouldn’t like whatever you bought or having anxiety that he would already have it. He’d given you a few hints to make it easier for you but you’d struggled over it still. As much as you loved him, and as much time as you spent with him, it was hard to figure out what he’d like.

Hoseok loved his music, but he already had everything he wanted in regards to that. There were no concerts coming up that he didn’t already have tickets to, he bought whatever books he wanted to read and he bought whatever films he wanted. Given he spent so much time at yours, you couldn’t even consider something bigger as he wouldn’t get any use out of it as he spent so much time with you and there wasn’t space in your apartment.

Why was buying presents for men always so much harder? And on top of that, you’d had to dissuade him from buying anything that you’d already bought him. Because he was like a cat whose eyes went wide when he saw something he wanted. That had been the case with the James Bond Blu-Ray collection you’d gotten him as well.

It was limited edition, and he’d spotted it online a week after you’d bought it. It had taken some careful persuasion to make sure he didn’t buy it, along with a lot of internal eye rolling.

“Did you like everything?” You don’t realise that there’s a touch of insecurity in your voice, a hint of uncertainty that you hadn’t done it right. This was the first time you’d ever had a boyfriend over the Christmas period, so you weren’t sure if you’d done it right. 

Looking up at you with wide eyes, he makes a small noise of question before looking back at his pile of gifts. It now looks smaller than yours and you get warm with embarrassment but he gives you such a bright smile. 

“Yes, thank you! Got everything I wanted and stuff I didn’t know I wanted until now.” He leans back against the couch, giving you another smile before reaching out to you and pulling you into him. Besides the books and the Bond collection, the only other thing he’d gotten was a bottle of his cologne, which wasn’t cheap. 

So his pile might not look like much, but it was actually a big chunk of money. It made you feel a little ashamed that your gifts were obviously more expensive, but you reasoned it away to yourself. Hoseok earnt more than you, a lot more than you. You had worked within your means for him while also buying for your friends and family.

“Are you happy with what you’ve got?” Hoseok asks, tilting his head to look at you with expectant brows. You give him a sweet smile of your own before nodding and hugging him even tighter.

There’s a moment of pause before you move your head to kiss him, lips gentle against his for a few seconds. He doesn’t hesitate any further though, moving his hand to cup your cheek and you relax into the kiss, almost sighing into his mouth contentedly. 

You’d shyly admitted to him the other week that you really liked kissing him. He’d thought it was amusing that you’d told him that so sweetly, but you’d been particularly awkward about it because you’d never had makeout sessions as a teenager. And it hadn’t been fantastic in college, but you got the urge to just kiss Hoseok for hours on end like an excitable teenager.

It was pretty easy to guess that Hoseok found it endearing, and you’d found he’d been indulging you more often with kisses and just taking the time to let you feel like a loved up teenager once more. You were positive it was no great hardship on his behalf, but you were surprised that he controlled himself well enough that it rarely resulted in sex. 

He was indulging you right now and you hummed contentedly, enjoying the casual and lazy way he was kissing you. The smell of the Christmas cookie candle you’d started earlier and the gentle twinkling of the lights on the tree you’d decorated with Hoseok at the start of December make it all feel more...homey. Which you don’t want to think about too much right now; you’re too concerned with enjoying your Christmas kisses to care too much.

Finally though, he pulls away slowly and the tiny whine you let out has him laughing against you. “Calm down, you can have plenty more later.” 

Shifting away from him slightly, you push out your lower lip in a pout before giving him big puppy eyes. A year ago, the very idea of acting like this around him, or anyone, would have been beyond humiliating. But you felt comfortable with him, and you felt that this was fast becoming part of the language of your relationship with Hoseok.

He did the same to you when he wanted something. And it worked just as well on you as it did on him.

Hoseok smiles, giving you another quick kiss before gently rubbing his nose against yours. The look in his eyes is no longer sweet and soft, but instead a little more intense. Irises darkening ever so slightly while his pupils widen and you narrow your own at him, recognising that look now.

“Someone’s horny.” You mutter, causing him to smirk. He disentangles himself from you and stands, gesturing to you to stay there before disappearing off into the bedroom. Frowning, you try to see around the couch to get an idea of what he’s getting but when he comes back, whatever it is is hidden firmly behind his back.

“What are you doing?” 

“Well, we bought this and never got round to using it. So...I figure that we can see if it’s worth the money. A little...Christmas orgasm? Ever had one of those?” He smirks at you, brows wiggling as he shows you the glass dildo and bottle of lube.

Almost instantly, you go all hot with embarrassment at the sight of him just waving that around so casually. He’d been disappointed a few weeks back to discover you had no sex toys, apparently they were fun for couples too, and so he’d sat with you and ordered some. You say he ordered some, but it seemed most of them were for you.

Which had confused you as to why he was so determined to use them all on you instead of getting something for himself. But he’d just waved off your questions, telling you that he got pleasure out of seeing you pleasured and there was plenty of time to explore stuff for him in the future.

You also got the idea that he still wasn’t entirely happy with the fact that the successful orgasm ratio was leaning very heavily in his favour. He’d given you plenty through oral and with his fingers, eventually figuring out what made you tick while having sex until he could successfully bring you to the brink if you were in the mood.

And then you’d started the antidepressants, and your sexual libido had plummeted. Not only had you shown no interest in intiating sex, though you were fine if he wanted it, it had become almost impossible to orgasm. Even by yourself you’d struggled, unable to fall over that precipice into the pit of pleasure to the point that you’d cried in frustration over it.

As such, he hadn’t pushed the issue too hard because he knew it was a sore point, but you’d slowly discovered that it was possible to orgasm still. It just required...a lot of work. When you’d shyly discussed this with Hoseok, he’d taken it almost as a challenge. Hence the sex toys.

The dildo he’d set on the table was made of clear glass, a pretty centre of pink and blue that swirled around each other and a flared base that allowed it to stand on its own. You eyed it carefully as he sat next to you, a smirk on his face. It was one that you hadn’t used yet and you found yourself squirming with the knowledge he was going to use that on you.

A thin shaft met a bulbous head, the tip reminding you of a closed flower bud. Reaching out, you ran your fingers down the glass slowly, noting how smooth and firm it felt. Along with being a lot cooler than you’d anticipated.

“You up for it? I figure...I can try this on you, see if I can get you to orgasm.” Lips twisting, you take the bottle of lube from him and place it on the table as well, carefully pushing the gifts away to make space. You were positive he’d noticed this too, but you didn’t want to vocalise it.

“What about you?” Hoseok snorted in amusement, giving you a quick kiss before running his hands down your waist.

“Okay, first of all. I love doing things with you sexually. So if that’s all that happened then I’ll just get acquainted with my hand in the shower later. Otherwise...well...it is Christmas so...” Shifting, you bite your lip before looking down at your hands and then reaching for his.

“I think we can work something out.” Despite how bold the words are, they sound a lot shyer with your soft tone. Especially the way you avoid his eyes and he just laughs, kissing your temple affectionately before playfully tugging at your leggings.

You resist for just a moment before relenting, shifting awkwardly and laughing as you both struggle to peel the tight fabric from your legs. There’s a particular moment where Hoseok accidentally bumps his forehead against yours when he leans forward, trying to tug them from underneath the rounds of your ass. 

“Ow.” He mumbles and you coo to him, trying not to laugh as you gently rub at his forehead. Hoseok finally pulls them off you, taking your socks with him before moving groaning at the fact he hadn’t managed to get your underwear off too.

Now you can’t help but laugh at the way his lips automatically pout, leaning forward to peck at them before wiggling your underwear off yourself. Almost instantly he’s distracted, eyes focused between your legs and you bite your lip in amusement at how easy it is to get his attention when it involves sex or you naked.

You’d never thought you’d be someone who drew that kind of distraction in men and it makes you feel simultaneously powerful and shy. But you don’t get a chance to think any further about it when Hoseok lightly tugs on your shirt, raising his brows in silent question. The two of you have been having sex for months now, but he’s still respectful about your lingering insecurities.

Nodding, he pulls off your shirt in one quick movement before kissing you deeply once your head is free, causing you to hum in delight as his hand roams your naked skin. You no longer feel fear or panic at the touch of him against your waist and stomach. Instead, it feels reassuring.

A gasp leaves you when his hands move to cup your breasts, Hoseok smiling into the kiss as he runs his thumb along your soft skin before playing with your nipples. You’d gotten changed as soon as you’d come home from your parents and Hoseok had long gotten used to you going braless. Much to his appreciation.

But he doesn’t waste too long, leaving your lips to kiss down your jaw and suck rosettes of desire into your neck and chest. He deviates from what you presume to be his route momentarily to lavish attention onto your nipples, playing with them for a moment with his tongue and ever so gently his teeth and being careful to give both equal attention.

While he loved your chest, he wasn’t a boob man. No, he was firmly an ass man, which was evident by the way his hands had slipped down your body and were now squeezing and massaging the rounds of your ass in an almost reverent way. It amused you and you lip at your lips, tasting him once more and whining at him.

As much as you enjoyed the foreplay he was willing to give, you preferred it when he spent his time down below. Given your feelings towards your body, you weren’t particularly a fan of foreplay involving the area he was currently enjoying. And he knows this, which is why he presses a kiss to the centre of your chest before shifting backwards.

“Okay, are you okay to lay back? The rug should be okay and I’m gonna put one of these cushions under you.” He grabs the nearest cushion and you almost make a scandalised noise as you realise it’s your Pusheen unicorn cushion, but you don’t get chance to say anything as he’s already trying to move you.

So you relent, letting your back relax onto the soft rug and lifting your hips to let him place the cushion beneath them, lifting your lower body up to a place that was more comfortable for him to reach. Stretching slightly, you let out a slow breath before looking at your boyfriend.

And that breath turns into a low whine when you see the way he���s looking at you hungrily, desire almost a living force in his eyes. Given how ridiculously gorgeous he is, it’s an expression that makes your thighs clench in anticipation and your inner muscles convulse in an ache for him. You’ll never not be surprised that you’re the one to inspire that look in his eyes.

“Fuck,” He whispers, running a hand over his face. “Have I told you today that you’re beautiful? And I love you?” 

You look away from him then, shyness flooding you and you go to hide yourself from his roaming gaze. He loves to make you go shy with his compliments, knowing that you love them despite the way you protest meekly. And he’s not afraid to lavish his words on you, no matter how cheesy they are.

“Anyway, enough of that.” Hoseok mutters and you’re about to query him, but by the time you look back over at him you’re moaning out in pleasure, eyes squeezing shut while your head presses back against the floor. He darted down while you were distracted and all you can feel right now is the heavenly touch of his hot, wet tongue against your pussy.

“Ah fuck.” You gasp, one hand grasping the rug tightly while your other inevitably moves to grasp Hoseok’s hair tightly, the black strands soft between your fingers. The quiet grunt he gives at the pressure of the pull vibrates against your clit as he sucks on it lazily, causing your breath to quiver.

If there was something you’d discovered about yourself during sex with Hoseok, it was that you weren’t a dirty talker. In fact, you weren’t even much of a talker. Instead, you were a babbler. You just mumbled and moaned and whined whatever came to your mind at the time, utterly unaware of the noises you were making.

Hoseok had commented before that he thought it was hot, that the knowledge you couldn’t control your mouth was a turn on. He on the other hand, tended to be either pretty quiet until the end or he’d run his mouth. You’d never thought you’d like dirty talk until you’d heard him whispering utter filth into your ear, his voice strained and hoarse from the effort.

It was surprising, and also not unwanted. 

Now though, he spent the next few minutes with his mouth fully occupied. The tongue piercing that you had grown completely fond of pressed against your clit perfectly when lapped at you slowly, letting every centimetre of his tongue press against as much of you as possible before undulating it against your clit, letting the pressure and friction of the ball rile you up.

Whining, you tug at his hair desperately, feeling the familiar ball of tightened pleasure that is building. And yet it feels just out of reach, as before. Limbs tightening, you begged him to let you orgasm, to bring you over the edge that was so close and yet so far away.

But he doesn’t. Instead, he sits up and licks his lips contentedly, the slickness on them from you and not his own mouth. It’s an attractive sight and you whimper, pussy tightening on nothing at the sight of it. He doesn’t notice though, using his hand to wipe away the rest before looking over to the coffee table and grabbing the lube.

“I’m gonna use this still. You’re pretty wet but I read that you should use plenty, particularly with glass. And I don’t want to hurt you.” You’re almost bemused by the casual way he’s talking now, like he hadn’t just had his tongue buried into your pussy for the last five minutes. In fact, he’s even reading the damn label.

Frustrated, you reach and grasp his hand to attract his attention. “Just fucking put it in me.”

That gets a close lipped smile from him, the expression looking distinctly like he’s trying to stop himself from laughing and you scowl. Yes, you were being abrupt with him. But god dammit, you were lying naked in front of him, desperately horny and needy after being given excellent oral for given minutes and you just wanted to orgasm with your boyfriend once again and not just your own hand.

“Yes ma’am.” Uncapping the bottle, he tilts it up and you jolt slightly at the cool, thick liquid as it hits your swollen clit. He lets a good amount drip onto you before placing it back onto the table, his free hand moving to push the lubrication inside your entrance. For such an intimate motion, Hoseok is showing almost zero interest in having his fingers inside you as his attention is on the glass dildo.

But you moan in relief, tightening around him. He only has the one in you, but your moan attracts his attention back and he grins before adding a second, fingers curling in you and moving easily with the added lube. An almost grateful sigh escapes you and he laughs before pulling his fingers out and grabbing the dildo, wiping the excess onto the head before carefully adding even more.

The head of this dildo is bigger than Hoseok’s dick, and you’re a little nervous as he runs it along your pussy slowly. It’s incredibly cold and firm against you, the temperature causing you to shiver as it presses against the heated bundle of nerves at your centre.

“I’ll go slow, okay? You have to talk to me this time, let me know if it’s hurting or uncomfortable.” Nodding at him, you give him a small smile before your eyes widen as he pushes the tip inside you. It stretches you far more than you’d anticipated and you gasp, fingers grasping the rug tightly as he moves it.

Once it’s past your entrance, the slide is much easier given the shaft’s thinner girth but all you can focus on is how thick the head feels. There’s a brief moment of pause as Hoseok evaluates you before you nod at him and he slowly pulls it out. You grimace as it leaves you, deciding instantly that you do not like the feel of it entering and exiting.

“Don’t pull it out entirely. It...kinda hurts. Like not too bad but, I don’t like it.” You admit, causing him to frown before he nods in acknowledgement. The next few thrusts from him are much gentler as you both experiment with it and you comment on how it feels to him.

The glass is far firmer than anything you’ve had inside you before and you tell him to be careful, knowing that if he moved too hard or rough then it would probably really hurt given the lack of give in it. But you can’t deny that the overly large head is beyond pleasurable as it presses against the squishy patch of nerves on your inner wall, each movement sending sparks of overwhelming feeling through you.

“Move it like...a little down. No, not that way, so the head of it is coming up. Yeah, yeah like tha-ooh my god.” You moan, eyes falling closed as Hoseok does exactly as you suggest. The movement you’ve instructed him to do has the head pressing firmly against those nerves, the pressure intense and you convulse slightly when he moves it again.

“Oh god yes, there. There.” You pant to Hoseok, one hand moving instinctively for something and only stopping when Hoseok grasps it with his free hand, linking your fingers together and giving you something to squeeze. Like the good boyfriend he is, he keeps the dildo in that position as he moves it and you start to beg him to move it faster.

Moaning, you writhe on the floor as pleasure floods through you from the constant pressure and you half recognise the fact that you’re babbling to him to let you cum. But he knows as well as you do that you can’t orgasm from penetration alone, although given how good this feels you’re not entirely sure on that front.

Still, he understands and you almost jump off the floor when you feel the heated pressure of Hoseok’s wet tongue against your clit. A ragged moan leaves you, your free hand grasping his hair once more and tugging tightly as he licks and sucks at your clit almost playfully, enjoying your reactions for him.

You’d curse him out but you can’t quite focus, your entire body and mind centering on your pussy and the tight ball that has once more built up inside you. A small thought wonders whether you’ll not be able to reach it once more but it’s swept away quickly by the feeling of Hoseok’s piercing pressing against your engorged bud, the movement perfected over the months when he could bring you to orgasm.

And then it all combines together and your entire body tightens, loud and ragged moans being ripped from your throat as you shudder almost violently. Your hips move so powerfully that Hoseok can’t even keep movement with you, his mouth leaving you while he still moves the dildo within.

It just adds to the pleasure and you’re struck by the odd sensation of not being able to hear properly for a few seconds, the orgasm so strong that it literally knocks your senses offline. Once the wave has reached its crescendo and begins to soften again, you let out a soft whimper as Hoseok continues to move the dildo, only much slower this time.

It feels good, but almost too good and you push at his hand, telling him silently to stop. You don’t see the look of complete awe on his face when he pulls the dildo out, how he admires the visible signs of your pleasure on the transparent glass as white streaks of your own making coat it.

Instead, you’re just staring at the ceiling as your chest heaves, silent tears slipping from your eyes from just how...overwhelming everything was. The quiet clink lets you know he’s put the dildo on the table and you sniff, feeling particularly pathetic for getting so emotional over an orgasm.

“You came!” Hoseok coos, leaning over and gently resting some of his weight on you. He’s on his elbows, but your raised hips mean that you have the full weight of his own hips against you. Including the very hard erection pressed against you now. “Oh baby, don’t cry. It’s okay.”

“I’m not upset or anything, it’s okay. I just...I don’t know,” Muttering, you wipe at the tears in an almost annoyed fashion and Hoseok smiles. “I’m just feeling emotional. Which is silly. It was just an orgasm but…”

Looking at him, your heart swells with emotion for him and even more tears fall, causing him to smile softly before he wipes them away himself and kisses you. You don’t push him away, instead wrapping your arms around his neck and holding him to you so tightly, fingers pressing into his shoulders.

“It’s okay, you’ve been stressed about it for a while now. Cry if you want, I don’t mind,” He pauses, kissing your nose quickly before smiling. “I said it earlier, but I love you.”

Wiping at your eyes again, you sniff and give him a return smile that’s more than a little shaky. Letting go of him, you watch as he sits up onto his knees, looking down at you while he bites his lip. The tent in his pants is now emphasised by the wet patch that’s been caused by the combination of lube and your own excitement and you feel bad, knowing he’s put off his own pleasure.

Sitting up, you push the cushion away before taking a deep breath. You feel a little sluggish from the strength of the orgasm, but you’ll be damned if you leave him high and dry. And on Christmas no less!

“So...how about some sex for you now?” Hoseok grins immediately at your words and you can’t help but laugh at his eagerness.

“Are you sure? Are you okay? Will you be up for it?” Despite his excitement, you appreciate his words of concern and squeeze his hand in response. Giving him a quick kiss, you take a deep breath to give yourself strength before letting go of him and turning around. There’s a pause, before you get on your hands and knees and look back at him.

This was his favourite position and any playfulness has left his face as he stares at the slick mess between your legs. Licking your lips, you push away the shyness before smiling at him.

“I’ll even let you cum on my back.” His jaw drops immediately. You’d discovered Hoseok liked orgasming onto you. He proclaimed he had no real reason for enjoying it but you thought he got turned on at the physical act of ‘marking’ you in a possessive way. At least...that’s why you enjoyed it anyway.

But you don’t offer it often, so it’s not something he gets to indulge in too much.

“Happy fucking Christmas to me.” He mutters under his breath and you can’t help but laugh as he pulls his clothes off at record speed. Happy Christmas to him indeed.

Let’s Make Christmas Cookies Together (Day 1)

Masterlist AO3

Part of the 2020 Winter Drabble Prompts by @obeywho-meduh Pairing: Solomon x gn!MC Note: Trying to get my writing skills back so it might be a little rough right now. Also my first attempt with a gn!MC. I also have no idea how to format in tumblr. Please note: the stickers they use are in accordance to the stickers in the game. Summary: 

"Let's make Christmas cookies together!"

Is what they'd said so excitedly to Solomon a few days ago that they'd completely forgotten one very crucial fact.

Solomon has no skills in the kitchen.

"Let's make Christmas cookies together!"

Is what they'd said so excitedly to Solomon a few days ago that they'd completely forgotten one very crucial fact.

Solomon has no skills in the kitchen. 

Unless you of course counted his ability to turn anything he makes inedible to the point that even Beelzebub, the avatar of gluttony, couldn't keep it down a skill. 

But they'd already agreed to have Solomon come over to the House of Lamentation tomorrow to bake some cookies together (Luke had texted in their group chat with the angels to please, please not bake in the kitchen in Purgatory Hall when he overheard their conversation while Simeon contributed a scared and shaking sticker in response) and they couldn't exactly back out then. Solomon seemed to think there was nothing wrong with his creations and they didn't want to make the sorcerer feel bad by suddenly cancelling.

With that all said and done, MC had no other choice but to prepare the House for Solomon's arrival to try and mitigate some of the damage they're expecting to come as a result of Solomon's... concoctions.

The first thing they do is head to Lucifer's office, all the while practicing their apology in hopes the eldest brother doesn't get too angry with them. But no matter how much they'd practice their speech, the resounding 'Enter' that they receive after knocking completely causes them to blank out.

"Er, hey Luci," MC greets awkwardly as they shuffle inside, hands fiddling with the hem of their uniform nervously. "Are you busy right now?"

Lucifer simply raises a perfectly arched brow at the human, taking note of the way they fidgeted under his gaze and sighs, setting down the papers he'd been examining. Clasping his fingers together on top of his desk and resting his chin upon them, he asks, "What is it, MC?"

Sheepishly, MC rubs the back of their neck and directs their gaze anywhere, but the demon in front of them as the words tumble out of their lips. "So you know how Christmas is coming in the human world, right?"

Lucifer blinks, but nods in return. For once, he's unsure exactly what about the jolly holiday caused the human so much grief, but he lets them continue speaking.

They take a deep breath and—"ImayhaveinvitedSolomonovertobakeChristmascookieswithmepleasedon'tgetmad."

It takes him a second to parse through the jumble of words, but the moment he does he could feel his wings burst out of his back as his demon form took over before it's gone, tucked again in his human form underneath a very thin layer of patience only brought forth by the human's scared 'Eep!'.

Lucifer pinches the bridge of his nose and lets out an exasperated sigh. Of all troubling things he’s had to deal with recently, not even Mammon had brought him this much grief.

"Pray tell, why?"

"I completely forgot that Solomon's a menace in the kitchen," MC explains, fiddling once more with their sleeves, "I was just so excited to celebrate the holidays with someone who would understand."

Lucifer purses his lips.

Of course, their human would begin to feel homesick. They've been here for a majority of the year, but it still doesn't erase the homesickness they must've felt since the beginning. And this Christmas holiday was usually celebrated with close family, friends, or a significant other so it made sense that those feelings would hit hardest during this time of year.

With a heavy sigh and plans to schedule a time for someone to come in and fix their kitchen afterwards, Lucifer reluctantly agrees to let them use the kitchen. "Just... Make sure you warn the others not to step foot in the kitchen that day. Please. I don't want to have to cart all of them to the hospital afterwards."

The bright, thankful smile MC sends their way is almost enough to make up for the fact that he's willingly letting chaos step foot into their kitchen. Almost.

He waves MC off with a reminder to let the others know as well and returns back to his work.

Suddenly, the weight on his shoulders felt a lot heavier than before MC came in. Though, the heaviness in his heart has lightened up considerably.

~°~°~°~

House of Lamentation (New) (8)

MC: *smiling sticker*

MC: Hey, everyone!

Mammon: *question mark sticker*

Asmodeus: *question mark sticker*

Leviathan: *question mark sticker*

Beelzebub: What's up, MC?

Satan: Did something happen?

MC: Ah, well...

MC: You could say that...

Belphegor: Spit it out.

MC: So, you know the Christmas holiday I was telling you all about a few days ago?

Mammon: The one where you get lots of gifts?

Asmodeus: The one for couples right? 

Asmodeus: *hearts sticker*

Beelzebub: The one where you get to eat lots of good food

Beelzebub: *eating sticker*

Belphegor: Beel, you're drooling.

Leviathan: Speaking of, I should get my list of merch to buy when things go on sale after

Leviathan: Thanks for the reminder!

Satan: Yes, MC

Satan: What about it?

MC: You know how I mentioned I liked to bake cookies to give out to friends and family as gifts?

Beelzebub: Are you making some for us?

Mammon: I mean, of course they are. Why wouldn't they?

Asmodeus: A gifted cookie from MC? 

Asmodeus: Filled with their hard work and love???

Asmodeus: I look forward to receiving some ;)

Belphegor: Hm.

Belphegor: There's a catch isn't there

MC: Ha... 

MC: How did you know, Belphie?

MC: Anyway, yes. I'll be baking some cookies tomorrow afternoon

Beelzebub: *awed sticker*

Mammon: A cookie from MC!

Asmodeus: *hearts sticker*

Mammon: Not that I want one of anything. I'd just feel bad since you’ll probably cry if I don’t eat it, that's all.

MC: The catch is Solomon is helping me

Beelzebub: *scared sticker*

Asmodeus: *scared sticker*

Mammon: *scared sticker*

Leviathan: *scared sticker*

Satan: *scared sticker*

Belphegor: It can't be that bad, can it?

Leviathan: Trust me.. it's that bad.

Satan: Beel won't even eat it

Beelzebub: It makes my stomach hurt

Belphegor: Okay. That's pretty bad

MC: Yeah, so

MC: Do you guys mind staying out of the kitchen while we're in there?

MC: I don't want you guys to get roped in as taste-testers

Asmodeus: Does Lucifer know?

MC: Mhm, yeah. He's the first to find out

MC: I think he was muttering about getting someone to come in afterwards and fix anything Solomon breaks when I left his office

MC: So we should still have our kitchen once we're done with it

MC: And I'll try to make a few good batches to share with you guys, don't worry

Beelzebub: *thank you sticker*

Asmodeus: *thank you sticker*

Satan: Thanks MC :)

Leviathan: Yeah, thanks!

Mammon: *smile sticker*

Belphegor: Good luck tomorrow

--- end --- 

MC tucks their phone back into their pocket and eyes the clock wearily. 

"I guess I should check and make sure we have everything we'll need for tomorrow. Then," they pause and take out their phone, smiling at the text they just received. "We wait."

~°~°~°~

Solomon

Solomon: Looking forward to tomorrow 

Solomon: *Whoo! Sticker*

MC: *dance sticker*

 --- end ----

 ~°~°~°~

The House of Lamentation is quiet. Quiet enough that the eerie creaks some of the doors made rang through the silent house. 

Anyone stepping foot inside would think that the house must be empty aside from their host.

But it's not.

No, in fact, MC was 99.9% sure they know exactly where each demon brother had locked themselves up in. 

Asmo is no doubt having a long soak in his bathroom, music turned low, candles lit, and flower petals floating in his bathwater. Levi on the other hand is probably having a quiet marathon of one of his shows—he often got loud when he gamed and catching Solomon's attention was just not it for him today.

Lucifer is likely in his study, getting some more work done (though MC has an inkling the eldest is also having a few glasses of demonus to try and deal with the whole 'Solomon is in my kitchen' issue) while Satan has his head buried in a new series in his bedroom. 

The twins are likely in the attic; Belphie having a good nap while Beel tries to pace himself with the snacks he and Belphie had brought up with them to tide over his hunger while Solomon was around.

Mammon, MC knows, is out doing a modelling gig as recommended by Lucifer. In the eldest's words: "No matter what, Mammon has no idea how to be quiet so it's best if he leaves the House while Solomon is here" which had been followed by Mammon's offended "Oi! Quit talking about me like I'm not here!"

In conclusion, the House is definitely not empty, but its inhabitants are playing 'away' to try and avoid becoming taste-testers.

It is, after all, finally time for MC and Solomon to bake some holiday cookies. 

MC passes Solomon a black apron while they grab their own purple one and tug it on. Reaching behind them, they begin to gather the strings when Solomon's fingers gently brush theirs aside.

"Here, let me," he whispers into their ear as his fingers deftly begin tying the strings into a pretty bow. "There. All finished," he murmurs into their ear once more, causing MC to bite back a shiver at the caress of warm air. 

Solomon steps back as MC turns and begins to busy themselves with organizing the ingredients in front of them.

"Thanks," they end up murmuring, bowing their head down in hopes of hiding the flush of their cheeks from their companion.

Solomon simply smiles and doesn't comment on it as he tugs on his own apron. Once done, he turns to them and tilts his head curiously. "You're measuring the ingredients?"

MC's hands freeze mid-pour into the bowl on the scale and their brows furrow in confusion. "Wait, hold on. Why does that sound like a question."

"Because it is?"

Blinking, MC rights the bag of flour and turns to Solomon with a frown. "Do you measure your ingredients?"

"There's no need to. I trust my potions skills."

"But you're not making potions??" To their credit, MC only sounds half-hysterical when all they really want is to grab the man by his shoulders and shake him to try and get some sense into his brain. "You're literally baking. Having measured amounts of stuff is what makes sure it'll turn out good."

"But potion-making and cooking are practically the same. You add ingredients into a heated surface and then you get something out of it." 

Nevermind. That half is slowly climbing into full-blown hysterical.

"That's—Okay, that's fair, but you should still measure stuff."

"Whatever I make always ends up fine to eat, but if you say so then I guess we can measure things out based on the recipe." Solomon eyes the recipe for chocolate chip cookies and hums. "I'll go ahead and measure the sugar while you finish with the flour."

MC barely manages to stifle their cry. "But they don't turn out fine. That's the point." 

"Did you say something, MC?” 

They let out an exasperated sigh, close their eyes, and pinch the bridge of their nose.

'Please, God. Grant me the patience I'll need to deal with this man.'

When they feel their skin warm slowly and a feeling of peace settle within them, MC knows that, had they not just received that blessing, they would be freaking out. After all, the fact God granted their prayer immediately meant even he knew there was nothing else that could be done concerning Solomon’s abilities in the kitchen.

"No, let's just get this done," MC mutters in defeat.

Solomon grins. "We'll make the best cookies, yet."

"Really, I'm just hoping they'll be edible."

 "Did you say something again?"

"No, nothing."

"Hm, weird. I must still be feeling the side-effects from one of my spells."

MC simply shakes their head and readies themselves for a long afternoon.

~°~°~°~

When the cookies are taken out of the oven, MC could barely stop themselves from tearing up.

Somehow, someway, the cookies look fine. No, not just fine, they look perfect!

"Let's let them cool and then we can start packing them into bags," MC suggests once the final baking sheet is out of the oven. 

"Should we try some first? They look really good and they smell really good," Solomon says as he scans the dozens of cookies. "I wouldn't mind having one right now, actually."

"It might be too hot so be careful," MC warns as Solomon reaches to pick one up. They watch him blow on it to cool it before holding it out to them with a smile. 

"Why don't you take the first bite?" Solomon asks. "You did do most of the work, after all."

Hesitantly, MC leans over and takes a bite of the cookie. Eyes widening, they beam happily at Solomon as they chew.

Swallowing, they gesture for Solomon to take a bite excitedly. "It tastes amazing! Have a bite!"

"Don't mind if I do," he responds and, with a sly smile, bites right where MC had bitten, causing red to bloom on their cheeks. He chews thoughtfully, staring up at the ceiling before redirecting his gaze to MC as he swallows.

"Yes, I have to agree with you," MC swallows at the heat in Solomon's eyes as he murmurs, "That particular bite was deliciously sweet that I can't help but want more.” 

"Um, go ahead then. Have some more," they gesture at the cookies shyly.

Solomon's lips form a sly smirk as he takes a step closer. "Are you certain you want to say that? I’m not exactly referring to the cookies." The hand holding the cookie falls, treat forgotten as Solomon takes another step, and another until they're so close to each other that they can feel the light puffs of air as Solomon speaks. "Well?"

This wasn't about the cookie anymore. Maybe it hadn't been since the start. Maybe this was a way for them to get to know Solomon even more and find out just what's in that brilliant brain of his. They didn't know, but while they may not know the answer to that question, they certainly knew the answer to this one.

"Kiss me," they whisper.

"With pleasure."

And when their lips meet oh so gently, MC lets out a pleased sigh. They can taste the chocolate on his lips, just as addicting as the rest of him. When he nips at their bottom lip teasingly, MC lets out a quiet sound of pleasure.

They don't know how long the kiss took, but when Solomon pulls away, all they could think of was that it hadn't been long enough.

"Let's put these away and then we can get back to what we really want to do. What do you say?"

And really, with an offer as enticing as that is it any wonder that all they can say is—"Yes."

~°~°~°~

Bonus 1 

"Have some cookies!" MC grinned as they passed around bags of the treats they'd made earlier with Solomon.

When all they received were apprehensive looks in return, they rolled their eyes. 

"I swear to my soul and to Diavolo that those cookies won't harm you. I've tried them myself and they taste delicious."

The brothers exchanged looks before Lucifer let out a sigh and opened the bag. Immediately, the delicious smell of cookies filled the air, causing Beelzebub's mouth to water.

Taking out a cookie, Lucifer studied it carefully before finally taking a bite. MC and the brothers held their breath as the eldest chewed and swallowed. Then,

"It tastes good. Almost as good as one Barbatos made.” 

"That's good enough proof for me," says Beelzebub as he opens the bag and shoves a cookie into his mouth without care. The rest of the brothers take a second of stunned silence before they began to hesitantly open their own bags.

As they snack on the gifted treats, a chorus of thank-yous leaves their giddy lips. Even Belphegor who'd been sleepily clutching his pillow earlier is wide awake, munching quietly on a cookie. 

"I'm glad you guys liked it," MC says as they shuffle to sit beside Lucifer. Leaning in, their eyes glitter with mischief as they share a secret. "Honestly, I didn't think they would end up tasting good since Solomon was helping, but he really surprised me today."

Lucifer carefully seals the bag again, planning to save the rest of the cookies for later before turning to face them. "Oh? How so?" 

"Mhm, well, for starters he doesn't measure his ingredients, which is probably why his cooking always turns bad. Another thing that he surprised me today was his ability to actually end up producing something that wasn't just edible, but good too." 

They hesitate to say their next words long enough that Lucifer picks up on it and, raising a brow, asks, "What's the last thing?"

"He's quite charming," MC says with a light blush.

"Charming," Lucifer repeats, his eye twitching subtly in annoyance. "In what way?"

"Well, in a way that ended up with us kissing for a while afte—Luci, where are you going?" MC quickly pushes themselves off the couch to follow Lucifer as he heads out of the room, a menacing aura following him.

"I need to pay Purgatory Hall a visit. There's a certain pest I need to deal with."

"W-wait, no, Luci—!"

 ~°~°~°~

Bonus 2

"I don't understand," MC raises their hands in the air in confusion. "You followed the recipe right to the gram. I watched you measure and put things in. How did it end up like this?"

The thing the two humans in Devildom were staring in silence at is a block of gray matter inside the pot that would bubble ominously at times, releasing a gas that smells like fish every time a bubble broke the surface.

"I literally watched you the entire time. What happened?" MC bemoans. 

Solomon sighs and covers the pot with its lid, his nose wrinkling when another bubble breaks the surface. "I don't have an answer for that. It seems that the cookies were merely a fluke. Perhaps a once in a lifetime kind of miracle."

MC covers their face in bewilderment. "I don't understand."

Patting their shoulder, Solomon shakes his head quietly. "Some things just aren't meant to be understood."

“MC! What are you cookin—" 

The two glance up and spot a frozen Luke at the doorway. The younger boy's face slowly goes from curious to horrified before he's sprinting out of the room.

"Simeon! Simeon! Solomon's in the kitchen again!!"

Solomon and MC hear the clatter of something falling and a yelp before the thudding footsteps resume.

Blinking and simultaneously deciding to ignore what had just happened, they turn back to the pot in concern.

"What should we do about the thing?" MC asks.

Solomon shakes his head. "We have to get rid of it."

"Even the pot?"

"Especially the pot."

(pt.1) ahahaha aww! :’> that’s so great to hear and no worries about when you get back to me ahaha we all got lots of other things on our hands i’m sure of! ^^ and AHHH!! a very happy birthday to him! ^^ I hope he and you and your family all had a great time celebrating together! :’) and I absolutely agree! All the joy and love going around is always a pleasure to be around ^^ And aw having a lot of your family owning farms sounds really lovely!

HIIIIIIIIIIII💖

(pt.2) There’s a lot of farms around where I live and seeing them whenever I’m commuting is really like, there’s something about them that makes my heart really warm if that makes sense! :’DAND AHH did I shadow write this bc 👀👀👀 THAT’S A BIG MOOD AHAHA I’m a big introvert myself as well and in a way I’m a bit thankful to have so much time away from things to kind of mentally recharge I suppose? LIKE HAHA don’t get me wrong I absolutely love my friends but I’m also a bit of a homebody as well

(pt.3) and in a way I’m a bit thankful to have so much time away from things to kind of mentally recharge I suppose? LIKE HAHA don’t get me wrong I absolutely love my friends but I’m also a bit of a homebody as well >< and!!!!! I’M AN INFP AND A SCORPIO AS WELL AHHhHhh??? what a coinky dink! I also just did a couple things to find out my life path number and it’s 4! (from what I’ve read about so far I can’t say it’s 100% accurate to myself though! ahaha maybe 50/50 😂I’ll definitely look into

(pt4) it a bit more though!)AHH ME TOO they’re kinda dangerous for me 👀 but I can definitely say that more about stationary stores! 😂😂😂 atm I’m not working on anything specific in particular but I’m an art student and so you can definitely say that craft stores are kind of a second home to me LOL but I was mainly just checking out different kinds of mediums I can add to my paint! ^^ I’m definitely a big window shopper so I didn’t make any purchases this time haha :’D And AHH I feel that!

(pt5) That’s definitely a hard decision! >< I remember being curious about when they were dropping their season’s greetings this year and they had literally dropped them later that day and i was like!!!!  👀 I stayed strong and held off for this year since I was saving up to buy both versions of pt.2 (which pleasantly arrived today woohoo!!) But OOF if they had released an nct 2020 season’s greetings...... consider my bank account empty LMAO And yes I love playing games! Ooh I’d say ac is

(pt6) definitely a favourite since I’ve been playing the series since I was a kid but hMM at the top of my head, I also really like botw, undertale, earthbound, maplestory and osu! ^^ hbu do you like any other games?  (and ooh if you ever get ac, feel more than welcome to add me! ^^ I’ll gift you some cute stuff on there hehe ^^) AND OOOOOH HORROR!!! horror’s a lot of fun! do you have any favourite horror movies? I can’t say I’ve watched a whole lot of horror recently (I actually watched Eli

(pt7) around Halloween and it was alright! Definitely worth a watch with the slow unravelling of everything! ^^) but my favourites would probably the two It movies! I’d also definitely recommend anything from A24! I haven’t watched a whole ton of horror from them other than Hereditary but they do have a pretty solid selection and from what I’ve seen from some of their non-horror titles, their film quality is just 👌👌 (I also watch this really great horror movie based youtube channel and they do

(pt8) mainly film summaries/reviews and they’re a lot of fun to watch since they do a lot of lesser known films too ^^) I’ve also been meaning to watch the original Suspiria movie! The cinematography in it is super beautiful 🥺 I’m also a big chill/r&b/lofi fan as well! 🥺 perhaps to go with your gift, I’ll also throw in a playlist of recs for you! ^^ and I’d absolutely love to hear some of your favourites! Ahh absolutely! Cooking for others is always such a sweet gesture :’D also here’s a

(pt9) recipe for you! Unfortunately tumblr won’t let me send links but! if you google betty crocker cake mix crinkle cookies, it should be the first result! It’s my go to recipe for everything whether it’s someone’s birthday, there’s an event going on at school or if I just feel like making something easy and sweet! There’s also only 4 ingredients (plus vanilla if you want but it’s not necessary) and you can use any flavor of cake mix or even add additional chocolate chips/fillings if you want! ^^

(pt10) I’ve tried it with red velvet cake mix and white chocolate as well as with vanilla cake mix and crushed oreos and they always come out super great! ^^ And aw that’s okay! :’))) What song drew you to them? Oof personally I feel like an nct granny LOOOL I remember the day smrookies dropped jeno’s teaser photo and I thought he looked SO YOUNG (jokes on me tho bc I’m only about 6 months older than him HAHAHA) and yeah for sure!!! it’s so wholesome to see! ^-^ AND!!! absolutely xiaojun this era

(pt11) just.. let’s say he reALLY rode up my bias list in the shortest amount of time AHAHA and yesss 90s love was super cute! (my inner Canadian is thriving at the whole hockey concept LOOL) and AHH when everyone else joined in and theY ALL SANG FROM HOME TOGETHER I JUST- a single tear definitely escaped HAHA AND AHH OF COURSE Faded in my last song definitely takes the cake too and I’d say the same with Music, Dance and Deja Vu too!! Honestly their whole album is such a great time ahh :’) AND!!!

(pt12) AW I think you’re super fun too!!!!!! (AND SUPER SWEET??? I’M- I don’t know hOw many times I’ve had to stop myself from accidentally liking a post of yours (your gifs are lovely!) or following you BUT!!! expect a lot of that when I reveal myself LMAO) :’>>>> fjghdkjhfg Talky squad! ^^ And that’s great to hear!!!! My heart stOPPED when I sent each one bc tumblr didn’t give me the mssg that they sent and I FREAKED OUT AHAHAHA and that’s great to hear! and aw that’s really sweet that you guys

(pt13) got to chat! And thank you! My day is going quite okay thanks! a little downside is that my work contacted me this morning and said there were a couple positive cases at one of my job sites when I worked a couple weeks ago so at the moment I’m chilling in my room for the next few days just in case. I’ve been feeling just fine so I’m hoping all will be well soon! On the positive side, my albums arrived today and I pulled a Xiaojun pc and died aHAHA and I’m really loving all the freebies

(pt14) that came with it! Stickers are always a delight to get :’)) (even tho I’m usually too scared to use them! xD) I also got a chance to talk to some kind people at work and that’s always nice! ^^ and aw that’s so great :’000 i’m really happy you guys had a great time and got to eat yummy food!!!!! Here’s also a burning question for you! Do you possibly have a favourite hyuck era? Asking for research purposes ofc hehe 👀👀👀

(pt15) hope your day is going swell so far! p.s. will try my best to keep these a bit shorter bc i can only send 5 asks per hr :’o + also you're an infinite fan aaa!!!!! i used to be a big fan back in the day hehe - ss☃️🎄

Thank you!!! we did have a great time :>

Farms are fun, I just love spending time away from the city sometimes hahaha KJFNDVKJDNK yes, I honestly am ok with being at home for long periods of time (huge homebody here), but it’s been a year already and I just want to go out and sit under the sun for a few minutes HAHAHAH (for a few minutes only bc I usually can’t stand being directly under the sun OTL) 

OOOOHHH INFP Scorpio twins eheheh, when’s your birthday??? must have been recently so I’m wishing you a late happy birthday💕 and yes, I need to look a bit more into numerology as well because I have no idea what my number means fdkjndfk. 

OMG!!! an art student!!! That’s so cool :< I hope I get to see some of your art after the event! eheheh. What’s your favorite medium? Favorite thing to draw/paint? :) 

I was so curious too!!! I loved NCT Dream’s Season’s Greetings concept last year! and I don’t have any NCT merchandise so I just jumped in for it this year kjdfnkdvfk I liked both concepts but I decided to get 127′s! BOTH VERSIONS OF PT.2!!! EXCITING! Whic PCs did you get??? (Also who is (are) your bias(es)??? omg dkfjnfvkjd) !!!!!!! I absolutely love botw too!! and I play osu as well :D but lately I’ve just been playing Genshin Impact and Overwatch! (OMGGG  I’ll definitely let you know if I do!!!) 

I know Hereditary!!! I haven’t watched it yet! but I have watched The Witch from A24 and it was really interesting! (which youtube channel? o: I love watching movie analysis videos!!) LKFDNKFDMFL and yes, please, I love getting songs recs, discovering new music is so fun! I’ll share here some songs that I’ve been listening to a lot lately!:

Nlve x Sam Kim — Like a Fool

DPR LIVE — Jam & Butterfly

SOLE — haPPiness

eaJ x Seori — It just is

eaJ x keshi — Pillows

Woosung — Face

OMG I just watched a video that showed similar looking cookies!!! they look so yummy! I’ll save this recipe and maybe I’ll try to bake some for Christmas eheheh thank you!!!!

I knew of NCT since their debut but AHAHAHA you see, I felt a bit funny because I’m older than many members JKFNDJK so I avoided them until around Superhuman/Boom when some friends exposed me to their music during a trip we made for a Got7 concert, a week with them was enough for me to go back home straight to search more about NCT, and here I am now : D 

AND YESSSS when they all joined to sing From Home on the stage :((( I’m also about to cry each time I watch the  MV for the rearranged version KJNVFNKD (omg!! I’ve always wanted to go to Canada! I can imagine the hockey concept was exciting ahahah) but yeah! I absolutely agree, love love LOVE the album!

Awww :< <3 that’s SO relatable LMAO I was just saying to my friends the other day “don’t you sometimes get the urge to like your own anon on you event person’s blog????” AHAHAH thank you for thinking my gifs are lovely;; I just started giffing this year and it’s been really fun so far :D 

Oh god :(( I hope you’re okay! that sounds a bit scary;; please take care :< but I’m glad that your albums got there and that you got to talk to nice at work! (stickers are always great!!! yes!! though I tend to save them and never use them as well ahahah)

FAVORITE ERA? god that’s a difficult question KJFNDVKJ well, my favorite Dream song is MFAL but I have no idea if it’s my favorite era...... I also really really really liked Superhuman (his silver hair????? gorgeous) so maybe those two would be the answer kjndfkdk and yes!!! I’ve been an Infinite fan since their debut! and Sunggyu was my bias until Haechan happened hahahah (I’ve been a kpop fan since around 2008 :        D hbu???) I think I asked here earlier but who’s your NCT bias/es?? o: are there any other kpop groups that you really like? :)

BIG EDIT: RIDIN’ ERA HAECHAN IS A BIG FAVORITE TOO his hair was at a beautiful length and that eyebrow piercing.............*cries*

Big edit 2: .......ridin’ is the favorite era, I stil like MFAL as a song more, but Ridin’ era haechan is......deadly

Prompt: For Dean's birthday, Cas Googles "presents for loved ones" and inadvertently follows recommendations for romantic gifts.

Shit. Okay. Hi anon, i forgot how to see inbox notifs and have no clue if u sent this during my drunk promt ask or sober prompt ask but will fill now.

Alright nvm ^^^ that didn’t happen.

 I lost this prompt for days after I got drunk and I couldn’t find it in my drafts and alas, finally. Anyways, this was written fully sober, lmao.

Just a Little Bit of Your Heart, 2.2k, 

fluff, light angst, post s14. (ao3 link if u want)

It’s January 20th, 4 days out from Dean’s 40th birthday and he still has yet to decide on a gift. It’s his first time, really, buying Dean a birthday gift. Sure, there had been the pack of funny socks he had snagged in passing from the check out at a Gas-N-Sip, but there hadn’t been any thought behind that, no planning, nothing that Castiel thought constituted the socks as a gift. Not really. 

Not only that, but there had never really been occasion to purchase a gift for Dean until now. Sam and Castiel had decided that, with the world coming to an end and all, Dean finally deserved a proper birthday party. In years past, he had either insisted on drowning out his birthday’s with booze or insisted on ‘no gifts.’ 

Castiel isn’t sure why, maybe because the eldest Winchester brother would only feel more indebted to the others around him, or perhaps because he simply didn’t like gifts. Either way, that’s why it became his mission to get the perfect gift for Dean. Something that isn’t a curse, but a comfort. 

The time after Mary and Jack had passed away and Chuck opened the gates of hell had been rough for Dean and him. Sam had kept a protective arm’s length between Castiel and Dean, insisting Dean needed time. It hurt to feel their bond being stretched thin as he’d watch Dean across the bunker from the corner of his eye, careful not to step into his space. Castiel had decided to stay in the bunker despite the tension though, Sam insisting they needed all hands on deck as they began on the long road to killing God.

Still, despite their close proximity, and the time they’ve had to heal, he can’t help but feel further from Dean. 

Cas remembers when Sam told a story of the time he gave Dean a chocolate bar and some motor oil for Christmas. Apparently, Dean had lit up at the sentiment, but Castiel can’t handle settling for something like that. 

Dean deserves something special. 

Castiel begins his search on Google using the simplest, most “Dean” search terms he can think of. 

Men’s flannels

Not special enough

Classic records

Maybe some time, but still, not good enough.

A new pair of boots

Shoes are always too risky. 

Cowboy costume

Halloween maybe, but not for this. 

Guns

Dean already has one he trusts. 

It’s been nearly two hours browsing Google and Amazon before Castiel has to take a break and let his head loll back with a sigh. 

After stretching a bit and standing up to pace the length of the bunker, he finally settles on a Google search that he’s sure will bear fruit. 

Gifts to show you care for someone. 

Castiel takes his time clicking through the links and scrolling through many of the lists. He nearly gives up when finally, an article entitled, “Gifts to Connect You to the Person You Care About”  catches his eye.

Cas smiles at the headline and clicks through the list, cataloging the possibilities away in his mind.

However, all those possible gifts dissipate from his mind as soon as he sees it. It’s perfect, and they have some in stock at the Bed Bath & Beyond an hour and a half away in Nebraska. With that, Cas calls a “Be back later!” into the seemingly empty bunker and heads out to fetch Dean’s gift. 

When he finally arrives at the store, he makes his way inside and heads to the sleep section, his eyes lighting up when he sees what he’s looking for on the shelf below a big “As Seen On TV” sticker. 

Next to the sticker it reads: “Bed Beats” 

Bed Beats are a pair of wristbands and compact speakers that are connected via wifi anywhere in the world. Just slip the wristband on, place the disc speaker underneath your pillow and send a request to your partner through the app. When they slip on their own wristband, the device will relay their heartbeat to your speaker and vice versa. Never feel disconnected again.

Castiel grins, giddy, and picks up the first box on the shelf. It’s exactly what he and Dean need. It’s the perfect way for Cas to watch over Dean without invading his space. It’s anatomical communication without speech. Cas will know when Dean needs help as his heartbeat speeds up, he’ll know when he’s at peace, he’ll know he’s alive. 

He also blinks at the bursting yellow sticker that sits on the top left corner of the box that exclaims, “Great for Long Distance Couples!” 

They may not be a couple, but with the way that their souls and relationship has grown distant, Castiel decides that’s enough to classify them as ‘long distance.’ 

As he waits in the line to check out, Cas also grabs a simple card and a tube of discounted, red wrapping paper left over from the holiday season. 

When he gets back to his car, he decides it’s best to get everything in order before presenting the gift to Dean. When he finally gets into the heavily taped box, he pulls out one set of the wristband/speaker combos and sets it aside for himself. 

Before shrouding the other set in the metallic, red of post-Christmas, 99¢ wrapping paper, he syncs the devices and downloads the app to avoid the hassle of setting it up later. 

Then, he writes, with his thigh as a sort of table, in the card with an old pen he found in the console of his truck. 

I’m including the instruction booklet in this card (please don’t read until after you open the gift!)

Dean, 

I know I’ve made so many mistakes lately, and that perhaps we do not see eye to eye on everything any longer, but this is a chance to connect without having to agree. Just to sleep and not be so alone. 

Happy Birthday. I hope you like it. 

Yours, Castiel

However, he scribbles out the ‘yours’ as it feels out of place in this letter. With that, he seals the card, and the instructions, into a white envelope with Dean’s name in angelic script printed on the front.

The drive home is pleasant and he can’t help but feel butterflies for the moment he gets to present it to his charge. 

The next days pass silently, Castiel with his gift for Dean hidden in his own closet and nearly forgotten amid all the preparations for the party. 

Sam was in charge of inviting people and Dean had insisted on being in charge of food and drinks. On the day of the party, Castiel sits off to the side as many of the guests enter, most are hunters he’s never met before, and he can’t help but feel like an outsider as the day of barbequing and reminiscing devolves into pie and drunkenness by nightfall. 

He’s glad to see Jody and Claire, but even then, their conversations are stilted, both of them want to speak primarily to Dean, the ‘birthday boy’, while Cas isn’t allowed that luxury. 

He sits away from Dean all night, only making contact to say “Happy Birthday, Dean” after he blows out the ‘4’ and ‘0’ candles that someone stuck straight through the latticework on a sweet, cherry pie. Cas smiles as Claire goes up and whispers something to Dean that makes him throw his head back in laughter and begin a lively conversation with her. 

That’s when he realizes he’s on the outside looking in. 

From where he stands, nursing a finger of whiskey, he can see Alex and Garth discussing the medical anomalies of Lycanthropes, Sam, apocalypse-world-Bobby, Donna and Jody playing some sort of cards-and-drinking game, a few people he doesn’t know attempting beer pong in the war room and even a pair of local hunters musing over the library’s expansive collection. 

He’s an outsider like he’s always been with the Winchesters. When he’s not of use, he feels unwelcome. He knows there’s never any ill intent, but even now, when he doesn’t even need his angel mojo, he still doesn’t quite fit. He doesn’t understand half of the banter thrown around the room, he can’t get drunk unless he drinks the entirety of the Men of Letters scotch collection, and he can’t interact with the guests without Dean coming up. 

At this, loneliness overtaking him, he decides to retreat to his room to wait the party out. 

He sends a nod and a tip of his glass to Sam before motioning that he’s leaving, Sam acknowledges him with a grin, drunk on whiskey and the excitement of the party, and Cas slips out of sight. 

Before letting himself rest, he sneaks into Dean’s room to place the card and the gift on his bed. 

He decides it’s best that way.

–

Castiel keeps his personal speaker and wristband close to him, beside his phone on his nightstand, hoping that some night it will be of use. He feels the uncertainty drift in and out as each night passes without so much as an acknowledgment of the gift. 

A week passes before anything happens. It’s 3 am when Castiel’s ears pick up on the small ‘ding’ that pops out of his phone speakers. 

He rolls over and grabs his phone. On the screen sits a notification. 

Bed Beats

Dean would like to share his heartbeat. Accept?

Castiel grins into the dark and arranges the speaker underneath his pillow before securing the soft band around his wrist at his pulse point. 

With a tentative thumb, he swipes to accept and lays his right ear down onto his pillow to hear Dean. He can hear his heart beating quickly, possibly a nightmare, Cas thinks, and wills his own jittery heart to slow. He has to be the grounding one for Dean, has to be a comfort. 

His own heart beats deep like a drum, and soon he can hear Dean’s heart rate slowing to match his own. Soon, they’re in perfect sync with one another. He feels closer to Dean than he has in months and hopes Dean feels the same. 

He listens as his charge’s heart rate begins to slow even more, to around 75 beats per minute, he notes, and assumes he’s slipping into sleep. 

Castiel, usually one for wandering the bunker after the brothers are asleep, doesn’t dare lift his head from his pillow until Dean ends the connection come morning light. 

It continues like this for many weeks, Dean requesting Castiel’s heartbeat in the wee morning hours, disconnecting at sunrise, and going about the days as if nothing has changed. 

Nothing’s really changed during the day. They continue to keep their distance. Dean thanks him for making the coffee one Sunday morning and Sam tells Cas, “See, space is all you needed,” his eyes sincere, “It’s healing.” But Sam doesn’t know the reason the healing process has begun to speed up. Cas can tell Dean hasn’t told his brother of the gift, and he prefers it that way. It’s the first thing between them that Sam isn’t clued into since before Mary’s passing. That alone brings him peace.

It’s a Tuesday in early March when everything shifts. Cas is lying on his back in his bed, nerves nearly taking him. Dean almost always pings by 3 am, and now it’s 45 minutes past and he’s trying to keep calm. 

A sound makes Castiel’s ears prick up, but this time it’s not a sharp ‘ding,’ it’s the soft sound of knuckles rapping on his door. 

Cas, beneath the covers in his most comfortable shirt, one Dean loaned him for the brief period he was human, props himself up on one elbow and quirks his head as the door opens softly, revealing Dean in his doorway. 

He’s in a Led Zeppelin t-shirt with holes around the seams, and a pair of black briefs, and the “Send Noods” socks Castiel bought him. 

“Dean?” 

“Hey, Cas” Dean whispers into the darkness as he steps into the room, shutting the door behind him with care. 

Words die on Castiel’s lips and his breath hitches as Dean pads, soft and calm, to his bedside. 

He lifts the corner of Castiel’s blankets ever so slightly and looks down into the glint of Castiel’s blue eyes as if asking permission. Castiel gives him a slight nod and holds his breath as Dean lifts the covers further and slips in under them. He positions himself with his head resting on the left side of Castiel’s chest, ear right above his heart and arm draped across him, hand gently thumbing at the soft fabric on Castiel’s right shoulder. 

Castiel can feel his own heart rate pick up, it’s swift and uncontrollable and it’s filling his vessel up to the brim with hard thumps. He’s beginning to wonder if he’ll ever breathe again when a low thud overcomes his near panic. 

As bright as a bell in a void, he hears it, Dean’s heartbeat, drumming from the deep. This time it’s his charge’s heart that’s strong and steadfast and convinces Castiel’s own to join it in slow synchronization. 

Castiel takes in a breath and slows his own heart rate. He sees Dean’s eyelids flutter shut and he lets his chin rest in the soft of Dean’s hair, his left hand rubbing slow circles into his back. 

“I missed you.” 

Dean doesn’t speak, but Castiel can feel the whisper of a smile move on his chest. 

As he lets himself drift into peace, thoughts blink in his mind at the pace of his heart. 

I fit here. Dean fits here. This is my family. This is who I love. This is home.

____

(Gift based on this!!!)

Survey #270

“please remain calm; the end has arrived. we cannot save you; enjoy the ride.”

Do you own pastel-colored pants? No. What type of lotion do you use? I don't really use it. Nothing seems to help how dry my skin is. What were your favorite clothing stores in high school? Hot Topic. If you could have a car in any color you wanted, which color? Pastel pink, but realistically (given a pink car would probably have a paint job I'd have to pay for, I assume?), I like burnt orange cars. Not too brown-ish, though. What is your favorite color, do you look good in it, & do you wear it a lot? Pink, probably not, and no. Name someone you know who hates pink. Idk. What is your favorite Avril Lavigne song? "Nobody's Home." Do you kill bugs? Sometimes. Depends. If they're in my house, most likely. Have you ever had a bedroom that had wallpaper on the walls? No. Do you own any rompers? No. What’s one thing you’ve done to celebrate Earth Day? I made a birdhouse out of a milk carton once. Animal Planet taught me lol. Do you use window clings (aka window stickers)? No. What color is your stapler? Black. Do you have a desk that you sit at in your room? Ugh, no, but that's one reason I want to move to somewhere I have a bigger room for a desk so I don't do everything in my damn bed. What do you miss about college? Feeling like I was worth something and on a "proper" path. Was your middle school crush the same as your high school crush? No. What is/was your dream school? I never had a "dream" school. Do you wish you could talk to someone about your past? If so, who? Idk, probably someone. What motivates you? Music and/or videos on whatever subject I could use motivation in, like self-care on my bad days. Have you ever completed a weight loss program? No. Tried, though. When was the last time you did something for the first time? I went through a doctor appointment entirely without Mom just a few days ago; she had to stay in the car due to chemo, so I filled stuff out, checked in/out alone, answered questions on my own, that business. I'm entirely aware it's sad as hell that a 24 y/o did that for the first time, but if you knew just how dependent I am on my mom, you'd get it. Which do you prefer: Valentine’s Day or Easter? Valentine's when I actually have someone to celebrate with, but I love Easter as an aunt with how excited the kids are about candy and all. Easter sorta rubs me the wrong way though since, y'know, Christianity essentially stole and rebuilt it. Do you wait until the last minute to decorate, or do you decorate early? I myself don't even decorate. Mom only does for Christmas, and it's very last minute. What’s your favorite Starbucks drink? I don't drink Starbucks. What were you wearing in the last good selfie you took? *checks phone* uh the one where I'm wearing a red tank top is okay. That's all you can see cuz FUCK taking full-body pics of me. What’s on your wish list right now? Ha, I actually have a list in my phone of things I really want/need to buy when I can. A few include a bigger terrarium to Venus, a treadmill, an Unus Annus shirt before the channel and thus merch expire, glasses for driving... What do you use to sweeten your tea? I don't drink tea. Have you ever owned an expensive eyeshadow palette? No, I don't wear enough colors or makeup in general to warrant buying one. When was the last time you stepped outside of your comfort zone? The aforementioned doctor visit. How would you rate your self-esteem? Low, healthy, or high? Low as like, the deepest oceanic trench probs. Do you own a tripod for your camera? Yeah. Were you a bigger fan of Lindsay Lohan or Hilary Duff? Hilary. Do you make Halloween costumes out of clothes from your closet? Only ever to just be a goth to live out my inner fantasy of regularly flaunting that aesthetic. Do you enjoy putting outfits together? Not particularly. Would you rather it rain or snow? Snow! What does your umbrella look like? Don't have one. What’s one thing you’ve had a toxic reaction to? Do you mean like, emotionally/mentally toxic? I'm guessing probably yes. Even though parts of it were entirely realistic, understandable reactions/behaviors, I most definitely had some toxicity in me regarding the breakup, too. Which do you prefer: cropped tops or tunic tops? Uggghhhh, both are so cute. On me, I'd only ever wear tunic tops, but on others, I tend to find cropped tops cuter. What’s a style or trend that you think is ridiculous? I don't pay enough attention to this to really know... hm. Yeah, idk. Which YouTuber do you want to be more like? I could only dream of being as motivated and smart and determined and "I can do this shit" as Markiplier jfc I Love One Man Only. Do you like stuffed animals? EEEEEEEEK yes!!!! What was your favorite class in high school? Art. Have you ever gotten straight A’s in a class? If so, which classes? Yes; not to brag whatsoever, but too many for me to remember. I remember I got my very first B in 5th grade in I think math, and I was so bummed out. Were there any subjects that you got a perfect SAT score in? If so, what? I don't think so. Are you happy today? If so, what made you happy today? I'm content-ish, not happy, but also not unhappy. Is your bed right by a window? There's one to my upper right and middle left, but my bed's not exactly against either. Do you spend more time in your bedroom or your living room? I barely leave my bedroom. Which holiday is your favorite to decorate for? Halloween, if I actually did decorate. Do you name stuffed animals still? Very rarely. Depends on what it is, the importance, etc. What titles did you win in the senior class polls? I FUCKIN READ THIS AS "TITTIES" AND WAS JUST LIKE... Anyway, none. Were you popular in school? No. If you’re from the US, what states have you lived in? Only NC. Who was your best roommate? Well, Jason, if he even counted as a "roommate." Was your first roommate your best roommate? See above, considering idk if he fits the term; if he does, then yes. What’s the best family vacation you’ve ever been on? Disney World. Have you ever wanted to be a model? No. What years did you attend prom? Sophomore (bf was a senior and he took me) and senior. What do you want to be for Halloween? I was recently listening to a metal version of Oogie Boogie's song from TNBC and it hit me: MISS Oogie Boogie. A fat bitch could pull that shit off, watch me ho. Which member of your family are you closest to? My mom. If you have any regrets, what is the biggest one? If not, why do you have no regrets? Letting a boy become absolutely all that mattered and more to me. Would you ever apply to be on reality TV? Why? Ew, no. I don't need any more people judging me and my life. What is the best thing that has ever happened to you? The partial hospitalization program that saved my life, literally. Do you have a hard time letting things go? It depends on what it is, but generally, yes. I recently realized one of my greatest flaws: I respond very, very poorly to loss, in any way. Looking back on people (especially people), events, other things... a negative, chronic reaction to loss is present throughout. What have you accomplished in life that has made you the most happy? Emotionally healed, a lot. I don't think some things will ever fully scar over, but nevertheless, I don't mentally have fuckin gashes in me. Have you ever struggled with your weight? Ever since the breakup, yes. I thought I was slightly fat before then, but looking at pictures now, I just think "damn hunny u look gud" and realize I was perfectly healthy. But anyway, I was put on a medication called Abilify (full-on name droppin', fuck this med), and it MURDERED my metabolism. I could eat a fuckin carrot and gain five pounds, probably. Emotional eating probably contributed too, but here's the thing: my current doctor took me off of it, knowing the moment I mentioned it that it was not only bad for me and my conditions but also responsible for the extreme weight gain? Pounds dropped like a ton of bricks, and this started before my emotional eating began to die off and regulate. I lost around 80 pounds just from dropping a goddamn pill. Cue college essay-long rant here about how my body image was slaughtered, how much I loathe the fucking doc that kept me on the med and blamed everything on me, and now how I've been stuck weight-wise for two years despite a vast plethora of methods to continue shedding a;sdlkfajkwlelawe GUYS I could rant til my hypothetical great-grandchildren die. When you are out with your friends are you loud and outgoing or shy and reserved? It depends on who the friend is, where we are, etc., but generally, I'm just awkward, trying to be outgoing when in fact I'm questioning every single thing I say and do al;wekjrkawde this survey has taken a TURN. Do you like to stay in your pajamas all day long? I don't leave my pj's unless I have to leave the house and go inside somewhere besides like, a gas station or something that's just "whatever." In high school did you have a lot of friends? Do you still keep in touch? I wouldn't say a *lot*, no, but not a tiny amount, either. The only one I ever still see is Girt, but I keep up with many on Facebook via the like button and shit, ha. Do you really care about such issues as abortion, religion, and global warming? Fuck yes I do. Who is the biggest womanizer you know? Juan sure was, but I haven't been in contact with him for years. Would you ever have a threesome? No. Who is the most attractive person you know? Of those I personally know-know, my answer will probably always be Alon like jc she's beautiful. When did you last feel the most free? ZOINKS we can't ask that question in America rn. Is there anyone who likes (or liked) you and had a really hard time getting over you? I don't know. Did you ever love someone and feel like it was wrong? Love? No. Well, before I realized I was bi, maybe Mini counts, as then I was anti-LGBT and couldn't even imagine myself as anything but straight. What’s your favorite bug? Butterflies. What’s the longest amount of time you liked/loved somebody for? Yeesh... I still can't say with absolute confidence I no longer love Jason at all, whom I started dating in 2012 and went head over heels for. What song makes you cry? There's a few that are capable of it sometimes, but do fucking not play "Stairway To Heaven" if I'm within 10 miles of you. "Another Life" by MiW usually makes me tear up towards the end, but it normally doesn't get that far anymore. Do you like rock or rap music better? Rock, as I'm not a rap fan. If you could watch someone change, would you? Yes let me live my life a;lsdkfjaws Ever known someone with an eating disorder? I don't know. I think maybe? Have you ever had a white Christmas? I think? The best snow we ever got was late Christmas night though, and the next morning was a total whiteout. What’s something you want to do but aren’t sure of yet? Hm. Idk. I'm pretty sure of most things I want to do. Biggest lie you ever told? I'm not entirely sure and I'd rather not search for one. Do you have a religion? I don't fit perfectly into any. I relate most with Neo-Paganism, but even that I deviate from some. Believe that there is a point to churches? I mean sure, people have the right to believe in/worship what they want to, and some people get a lot of joy and reassurance out of going. How do eat Oreos? "I split them in half and lick the cream before eating the cookie." <<<< Converse or Vans? Idc. Eh, maybe Converse, but idk. Dancing or watching others dance? I love watching others dance, it's why I enjoyed dance recitals and competitions. Favorite thing to touch/feel? My cat! <3 Rather be in a tornado or a large earthquake? Both would be horrifying, but I guess earthquake. I've had an outrageous fear of tornadoes since I was very little. Would you rather Santa or the Easter Bunny actually exist? Santa, duh. Would you rather spread gossip or start a fight? Start a fight, I guess. Trying to sully someone's name with false information would haunt me way more than starting an understandable fight. What has been the best New Year's for you so far & why? I don't know. What is the weirdest fear you’ve ever heard of someone having? Do you have any weird fears, and if so, what are they? Uhhh I think maybe butterflies? Idk, even that's not too weird considering it's an insect, and that's common. I'm personally absolutely terrified of pregnancy and also whale sharks scare me quite a bit. ig that's weird. How did you find Tumblr? lol how could you not know at some point as a teen on the Internet. What of the 8 wonders of the world do you find the most fascinating, if any? I had to look them up lmao. I guess the Great Pyramid of Giza. I in general find Egyptian culture and art to be very cool. Do you have a webcam? If you do, do you ever use it and what for? I mean, it's built into the laptop. I never use it. What is something that you think is really underrated? The band Otep, for one. I mean they're not small, but I don't think most people interested in the metal genre know them. OH and then there are A LOT of YouTube artists that MADLY deserve to be signed. I have a large chunk of metal musicians I listen to, and those especially like Jonathan Young blow my fucking mind they haven't technically "made it," even if they have a large subscriber base. Have you ever had a dream where you died? Did anything weird happen to your body after it? Yes, a few. Now hang with me, okay? One of my worst nightmares as a kid involved the wicked witch from TWoO turning me into one of those fucking party things that you blow into it and the paper unfurls and her using it killed me. Yo idk. I was really scared of that witch as a kid. What’s the scariest dream you’ve ever had? How about the most realistic? It involved my dad and that's all that needs to be said. Realistic? Hm. This was SO long ago that I barely remember *just* how real it felt, but I remember it felt real as fuck. I was very little when this happened. I dreamed that I went outside to our porch because there was a weird light and when I stepped outside, a swan and a goose flew down from the light onto the porch to become my late grandpa and my deeply beloved cat Midnight, who died from sickness. I'm sure it was just a dream now, but back then, I was VERY convinced it was like a vision from God or something, telling me they were okay and with us. Do you have a favorite fashion trend? What is it? Is there a fashion trend right now that you think is completely ridiculous, and if so, what? What do you think was the worst fashion trend of all time? I don't care about fashion enough to go in depth about all this. I'll tell you right now though that mullets were the worst mistake known to mankind. Do you tend to like original horror movies or re-makes better? What’s your favorite horror movie? Is it an original or a remake? If you're remaking an old one, I'll probably like it more since they're generally not nearly as cheesy. Modern horror movies, I don't have much of a preference. My fave is The Blair Witch Project, and it's an original. What is one characteristic in a person that you cannot stand? What characteristics do you like best in a person? Do you possess any of these characteristics? Those that act violent when they're angry, for one. Those scare me. Some traits that I really like are compassion, patience, genuineness, empathy, kindness just for the sake of being so, stuff like that. I'd like to think I've got some of those. It's notable that in my nightmares, I'm way more violent than I actually am, though. What kind of jeans do you like best? When I actually wore jeans, they were like solely skinny jeans. What has been the most traumatic experience of your life? Does it still bother you? A very abrupt and poorly-executed breakup after a long-term relationship and falling way, way too hard to be healthy. Does it still bother me? PTSD is stapled on my fucking forehead if you know the slightest about it. I've healed a whole lot, but I'm pretty sure it's a scar that's never going to even fully seal.

A list of things I’ve been feeling

I need to text my friends

Start getting gifts organized for Christmas

Wedding guest stress shouldn’t be a thing but for me it is

Fingers on hips, an arm wrapped around my body, head on my shoulder

My PDE teacher is really nice. Everyday, multiple times during the lesson she will explain exactly what we went over in the past five minutes again and ask “is everyone okay” and if she sees the slightest bit of discomfort she will try to make her explanation different. I think she cut her hair this past weekend and sometime into the lesson, she went to her bag to get a hair tie to put it back. And put her hair back while still explaining stuff. And I wanted to laugh because when she returned to to board, I looked at her wrists and saw there was already a hair tie there.

It made me remember that the only crush or somewhat crush I had on a teacher was for my pre cal teacher. Never told anyone that

Missing you months have become missing you days have become missing you moments have become quick distract myself and not think about it

Shaved my head the right way the way I needed it to be last Sunday. That contributes to wg stress

Hurtling towards the big break leaves me feeling apprehensive. Scared. Excited. Nervous. Twitchy. H m m

Tired of wanting to be a pretty girl, ready to be a feral squirrel

I SWEAR my hair is just dying on my body wtffff

Not being sorry that I detached from the people/situation where I felt myself performing

Jealous of your stickers

My neck hurts. Still

I really couldn’t answer questions about your not-yet/not-quite boyfriend that night. Y’all just needed to talk and all I could do was listen. I love you but my feedback is shit

That stupid stupid stage. I hope the parents revolt.

When Carly said I wish we could be holding hands

The fact that I love the look of this black sports bra I have and how it looks like a binder. Another big h m

Maybe I won’t call my bank to fix that thing? I don’t want to deal with and and the longer I wait maybe the weirder it gets

Okay back on bras I love them. I never say it (who?? Would I say it to) and I know they’re just glorified pieces of fabric but. Girls. In lace. Pretty.

Call me before you FaceTime me gdi and don’t add me to a call you were already on when I was only ready to have a conversation with you. Dark Snapchat streaks are so gen z. Ugh I want to stay in this friendship but I’m upset more often than not. Let’s talk about it but our families and acquaintances are too intertwined huh and you always breach some privacy boundaries.

Fics where they’re just making out after lots mutual pining and an awkward confession and first kiss ffff I’ll eat that for breakfast please

Opening fruit snacks in the quiet study areas is the worst part of my day

I legitimately haven’t hung out with a group of people my age since September. And one of the members of the group was a cat, he counts

Wearing my old glasses and seeing better

Watching all of the Lotr movies while I do math on sundays is a very good choice

Me and my sisters Walmart runs are making me more inclined to eat junk

Writing that one thing but I hit a block. I want it done by this Sunday

Denying myself of buying a new charger bc I want to go in the morning when no ones at the store but I can’t get myself to drive there

Denying myself of buying new glasses

Needing to go to the dentist cause its time that I make those appointments myself

My dog got a haircut and he’s so cute but it’ll only last for a couple more days then he’s back to scruffy leech mode

O. kay that’s it

Not really a list anymore. More of a mantra. This has been cathartic thanks for tuning in. This took an hour of my break, time to go to class.

Laser Losers

BTS au one-shot

Jungkook x Reader Y/N

Fluff, romance

Word Count: 1,739

Neon lights flash across your vision as sounds of lasers and loud music assault your ears. A light sheen of sweat coats your skin, beads dripping down your face. Your calf muscles burn but your attention stays focused on the arrows that rise rapidly on the screen in front of you. Your feet move to the rhythm of the song blasting from the speakers, hitting the correct square as the accompanying arrow hits the line at the top of the screen. With one last jump, you land on the tile on either side of you as the song ends. The word “WINNER” flashes across your side of the screen.

“How do you keep beating me?” comes a whine from beside you and you turn to flash a victorious grin at your boyfriend. “I’m the one that does this for a living.”

“Exactly,” you say and use the sleeve of your hoodie to wipe sweat from your temple. “You’re ridiculously good at everything. I don’t get to do this very often. Let me have my moment!”

Jungkook dips his head, his bangs hanging in strings plastered to his forehead and he juts his bottom lip out in a pout. “Fine,” he says, “But I’m not going easy on your anymore.”

“Deal,” you reply, both of you knowing full well that he wasn’t going easy on you this time around. The fact that you just happened to get lucky and win has to be some sort of glitch in the matrix. Either way, his ego is now officially bruised. Time for a distraction.

You grab his hand and pull him toward you, his own hands automatically coming up to hold your waist. “Slushies?” you ask and his pout immediately morphs into a bright, bunny smile.

With drinks in hand, the two of you wander through the arcade, stopping behind any game that catches either of your eyes. As you make your way down the last aisle, Jungkook’s eyes rove over the rows of first person shooter and racing games before zeroing in on something behind your head. You watch as his mouth forms a perfect O.

With a gasp, he juts his finger out over your shoulder. “Laser tag!” he yells and starts bouncing up and down excitedly. “Play laser tag with me!”

You can’t help but laugh at his childlike excitement and turn around to look at the large banner over a door outfitted to look like the entrance to a spaceship. A smaller sign sits on a stand next to the door and you squint at the words on it.

“We need at least four more players,” you say and see the spark leave his eyes.

But a second later, it returns again. “Hyungs.”

Ten minutes later, you and Jungkook have managed to tear the other members away from their games with the promise that he would buy pizza afterward. Of course, once they’re all in their gear with the guns in their hands, they’re much more excited to be playing.

As you adjust your chest plate, Jungkook sulks up to you, eying the yellow stickers on yours and the blue on his. “Why are we on opposite teams?” he asks peering at you out of the tops of his eyes.

“I figure this is a good way for you to get me back for beating you at Just Dance,” you reply with a wink. “I would say ‘do your worst’ but I figure you already plan to.”

Jungkook leans in to press his lips to yours in  sweet kiss. “You know me so well,” he says then raises his gun in the air. “Prepare to lose.”

You have no intention of actually letting Jungkook win. Jimin, RM and Jin are on your team while Taehyung, Hoseok and Yoongi are on Jungkook’s. The blue team, being made up of the more methodical members of BTS, all huddle together at the entrance while you and your three teammates take off in different directions the moment the buzzer goes off, signaling the beginning of the round.

The thick air immediately fills with sounds of laser gunfire and techno music as you make your way through the black lit maze of neon colored barriers, stopping to hide behind one after a little while so you can catch your breath. You hear someone let out a loud victory yell as someone else roars in defeat and you can only hope that the latter is on your team.

You’ve never been the competitive sort, at least not before meeting Jungkook. Something about the boy, about the way he can go from bunny to brat in half a second drives you insane, though you can’t help but love it. You love his playful side, his mischievous side. You love to see him become so passionate about winning. Seeing the drive, the determination. It’s one of the things you’ve admired about him from the start.

It’s hard to see through the thick haze of fog clinging to the air and the black lights bouncing off of it just make it that much worse. You have your gun up, pointed directly out in front of you as you creep through the room, jumping out from behind each barrier with your finger on the trigger, ready to pull it at a moment’s notice.

“Aha!”

You let out a scream as you whirl around to find Taehyung, his chest plate lit up like a Christmas tree and he drops his head in defeat. “Man,” he whines and turns around to find RM behind him beaming with pride.

“Got you,” the leader says to the maknae before giving you a salute and running off in the opposite direction in pursuit of any remaining foe.

“Tae, have you seen Jungkook?” you ask him before he has a chance to slump away.

Taehyung juts his chin down a hallway to your right. “I think he’s down that way,” he says gloomily.

With a nod, you adjust the shoulder strap that’s biting into your neck and head in that direction. Throwing a quick thanks back over your shoulder, you slink down the hall, keeping your back pressed to the wall and your gun up and ready to shoot. You don’t care about where the others are. You don’t even care if your team wins, all you care about is taking out Jungkook. Maybe you weren’t competitive before dating him but you most definitely are now.

“I’ve got you cornered.”

You turn around to find Jungkook standing in the doorway to the room you’ve just entered, blocking your only way of escape, his gun trained on you. “There’s nowhere to run, Y/N,” he says and even in the strange lighting, you can see a glint in his eyes.

“Who says I wanted to run?” you ask, giving him a flirtatious smirk as you saunter toward him. You stop only when the tip of his gun is pressed against your chest plate. His mouth is inches from yours and you can see his Adam’s apple bob as he swallows nervously. “Are you gonna shoot me?” you whisper.

Jungkook stares at you, his smile gone but his lips still slightly parted. His eyes squint to slits as he seems to be weighing his options. Slowly, so as to not let him on to your plan, you begin to raise your gun at your side, your finger on the trigger, poised to shoot him. You watch as Jungkook’s eyes dart to the side, catching your movement. Then with one swift swing of his arm, he grabs the wrist of your gun wielding hand while at the same time using his own gun to push you backwards until your back hits the wall. Your gun is now pinned down at your side, useless. His mouth spreads into a malicious grin, the black lights making his teeth glow. He leans in, touching his cheek to yours.

“You think you’re so clever,” he says.

Suddenly, you hear a loud zing and Jungkook’s chest piece erupts in a flash of red lights. He jerks around in astonishment and you peer around him to find Jimin standing in the doorway to the room, his gun pointed at Jungkook and an amused smile on his face.

“Seriously?” Jungkook yells and Jimin lets out a laugh. “I’m going to kill you!”

“Can’t!” Jimin yells back. “You’re dead!” Then he gives you a wink before bounding off down the hall.

Jungkook turns around again and drops his head onto your shoulder, letting out a low whine. You reach out and lift his chin until his pouting eyes meet yours.

“Hey,” you say and he lets out a huff that stirs his bangs. Then he watches confused as you lift your own gun, point it at yourself and pull the trigger. There’s another jumble of sounds and then your chest piece glows red with his.

“What did you do that for?” Jungkook asks and you smile.

“Now we’re both losers,” you say with a shrug.

The smile returns to your boyfriend’s face and he brings a  hand up to cup your cheek. “Kiss me, loser,” he says and you lift onto your toes so you can touch your lips to his.

Suddenly, there’s a loud cacophony of noise before the lights turn off, plunging the room you’re in into darkness. A few seconds pass as you and Jungkook wait in confused silence, then the room floods with harsh white light and you jump apart, squinting at the sudden brightness.

“Game over,” a robotic voice says over a loudspeaker as Jungkook bends down and snatches his gun off the floor. “All players please return to the entrance.”

You take his hand and start tugging him along. “I wonder who won.”

A Card for Mr. Gold

Mr. Gold/Belle, G

Summary: Mr. Gold receives a card on Christmas Eve.

Notes: Sorry this got a bit angsty in the middle there. Unbeta’d so I’m sure it’s typo’d to death. For the first prompt word - card.

Welcome to the first installment of my 2018 31 Days of Fandomas! Last year I did all fic, but in deference to my significant change in schedule and time this year, I'm letting myself do any fandom content. Still trying to do all 31 days though! You can find everything for this year on AO3, and read last year’s stuff as well!

[AO3]

Mr. Gold stared at the bright red envelope on his desk.

Christmas Eve and still the bills and credit card offers and pointless advertisements arrived in his mailbox. He’d even passed a delivery truck on his way home, dropping off last minute purchases. It wasn’t technically the holiday yet, though many people would be celebrating already, and the world did need to go on in spite of the lights and presents and merriment.

Not that he was paying it any mind. There was no reason to anymore. He hadn’t bothered with a tree or any other decorations for several years, and when he woke up in the morning, it would look like any other day. He might try calling his son if he could get up the courage, otherwise it was just him, his big Victorian house, and a glass of scotch. He preferred it that way, going on as if nothing special were happening, as if the world hadn’t so thoroughly rejected him that someone somewhere might care how he spent his holiday.

The envelope however, had disrupted this.

It was large and square and entirely out of place with the rest of the long, slender pieces of mail he’d carried inside. It didn’t have a formal address on it, just his name - well, the name everyone in Storybrooke knew him by anyway - Mr. Gold. It was written in a calligraphy style with a broad edge, the letters reminding him of the style of old manuscripts from the Middle Ages. Something seemed oddly familiar about it though and he frowned as he flipped it over. On the back was a shiny gold sticker holding the flap on the envelope shut, lightly embossed like a faux wax seal, and he ran his finger around it before lifting it open.

The sticker popped free, pulling a small piece of the red paper with it. Inside was a Christmas card, and he stopped. It had been ages since anyone had given him a card for any reason. No one paid Mr. Gold any mind unless they needed to make a deal or owed him rent.

Well, no one except Belle French, the librarian, but she was sweet to everyone. Waving to him every morning as he opened his shop, and making an effort to speak more than two words to him when they ran into each other at Granny’s hardly meant anything. She was friendly and warm to one and all, and if in his loneliest moments he entertained ideas of her sparkling blue eyes and fair skin, that was his business.

Gold shook his head and slid the card out slowly. It was a heavy ivory paper with shiny gold filling in the lettering and a snowflake pattern that didn’t feel as ostentatious as some of the cards in the seasonal aisle in Dark Star pharmacy over the past few weeks. He smirked thinking about how he’d encouraged Henry Mills to buy the ridiculous singing card for his mother, the mayor, complete with a flashing red nose on Rudolph’s face that blinked in time with the song. Regina would love it, and want to murder it at the same time.

But now he was faced with the reality that someone had sent him a card, and he didn’t know how to feel about that. Could Regina have found out and attempted to get him back by putting itching powder or something equally nasty in a card? Was it a joke designed to make him feel even worse than he was likely to feel already as he spent another holiday alone?

Bracing himself, he opened the card, scanning the page. His lips pressed together and his throat tightened as he closed it and set it down on the desk next to the envelope. He leaned forward and sucked in a shaky breath before opening the card again. Part of him expected the words to change, but they hadn’t, and his fist clenched as he resisted the urge to shove the entire contents of his desk to the floor, the card included.

The sentiment on the inside of the card was as simple as the outside, with a scrolling Merry Christmas in the same gold letters and a larger snowflake beneath it. But the extra words that had been written stabbed cruelly at his heart.

Rumford.

How had she found out his first name? Oh, the library computer. He’d registered for a card ages ago and of course had to show his driver’s license. Something about her writing his first name made the rest of it hurt more.

No one should spend Christmas alone.

No, he supposed, no one should, except those who wanted to. He’d always tried to count himself in that category, but deep down he knew it for the lie that it was. His heart and mind were always numb with alcohol by the time he went to bed on every holiday that it felt like it didn’t matter. Then he could wake up the next day and go back to his life, scowling at late renters and taunting the mayor, forgetting all about the ache in his chest.

Yet here it was, in Belle French’s handwriting, a mix of loopy cursive and a slightly sloppy printing that he’d seen more than a few times as she signed her receipts at the diner. Her name at the bottom, a simple Belle, without the need for her last name or any sense of formality, made the sting worse. It was the sort of card one might write a lovely note in to a friend or loved one, but instead she’d reminded him of his pathetic existence.

He picked up the envelope and card, and dropped them in the trash bin next to his desk, then he pushed the pile of unwanted mail into the bin as well, covering the offending card from view. Later he might toss the whole lot of it in the fireplace to burn while he drank himself into oblivion.

Just then the doorbell rang out, sharp and loud in the midst of his angry solitude.

Gold made his way to the door, stalking towards it and leaning more heavily on his cane than usual. His face was a hard scowl as he yanked open the door, rattling the old stained glass window.

“What?” he barked, leaning into the space.

Belle French stared back at him, her eyes wide and her mouth open.

“H-hello,” she said after a moment. Her eyebrows lifted and her lips pressed together.

Gold straightened and blinked in confusion. She was the last person he’d expected to see on his doorstep on Christmas Eve.

“Did you get my card?” she asked, hesitantly.

It was then he noticed her arms full of something, a container wrapped in foil with a paper plate displaying a few cookies sitting on top and covered with cling wrap.

“I - “ he paused and swallowed, watching the little puffs coming from her nose as she breathed in the cold air. “Yes?”

Her head tilted. “You did or you didn’t?”

He was confused, but nodded. “I did, yes. But what -”

She smiled then, and shrugged. “Are you going to invite me in?”

“Um, yes, of course.” He frowned a bit and then stepped back, holding the door open for her.

“Thanks,” she said, shivering as the warmth of the house hit her, dispelling the winter chill. “I was hoping you’d see it before I came over.”

She moved to set the items in her arms down on the side table inside the door, and then started unbuttoning her wool coat. It looked like she was planning to stay and Gold though perhaps he’d allowed his general grumpiness to cloud the true meaning of her card.

“I always get the mail before I come home,” he said, absently taking her coat from her as she unwrapped a brightly striped scarf from her neck. He hung both of them up, and then turned around to see Belle French in a red dress, standing in his foyer. “So...um…”

Belle’s face fell. “I’m sorry I - I just invited myself over and -” She moved passed him to reach for her coat. “I’ll go and - ”

“No,” he said quickly, putting his hand on her arm. She hadn't moved after a few seconds, and he realized his hand had probably been touching her too long, so he pulled it away. “No, it’s - it’s fine. I'm sorry I just thought -”

“Don’t be sorry,” she interrupted, turning to face him. “I know you’re - alone - and with my father in the hospital, I’m alone this year too, so I thought maybe -”

She shrugged, and he started to smile. The card had been intended as an invitation, and of course he’d assumed the worst, both of himself and her, even when she was the best person in the whole damn town. She’d been trying to reach out to him, probably the whole time he’d known her, with all her small gestures and kind smiles. He’d been too blinded by his own misery to realize it.

“I brought a pan of Granny’s lasagna and some cookies. Not very Christmas-y, I know, but -” Then she stopped and bit at her lip. “If you’d rather I go, I can -”

“No,” he replied softly, blinking back the sting in the corners of his eyes. “No, I’d like it very much if you stayed.” She beamed at him and he swore his heart had never felt so large and full. “Please take the food through there into the kitchen, I just - I need to, uh, clean up something before I join you.”

Belle lifted up on her toes, and for a startling moment he thought she might kiss him, but she dropped back on heels, bouncing with what could only be joy and excitement. “Great! I’ll start the oven.”

He watched her walk down his hallway, pushing open the swinging door to his kitchen with her hip, making her dress swish about her legs. As soon as she was out of sight, he hurried back into his study, and picked up the trash bin by his desk. He riffled through the papers and mail to retrieve her card, pleased to find it unwrinkled and with no indications of its hasty discarding. He opened it and read her words again, smiling widely.

Something tickled his cheek and then a spot appeared on the page. He reached up to find his face wet, and closed his eyes against the rest of the tears threatening to fall. There was no need for that now, even if she was here just for tonight, though he doubted this would be the only time she would visit him after this. Belle had shown herself to be quite persistent and stubborn in her efforts to get funding for the library. He got the impression that if she intended to be his friend, then she was damn well going to be, and sod his grumpy, antisocial tendencies.

Smiling and wiping at his eyes one last time, he set the card upright on his desk where it was now the lone holiday decoration in his house, and left to join Belle in the kitchen.

love story, shake it off, speak now, never grow up

love story: how would you define love? 

there are so many types of love but i’m gonna take a stab at defining romantic love. for me, it’s a feeling of peace. a feeling of home. my fiance’ fills me with so much light (because he’s made of it and it pours out of him) and happiness and excitement, but also the deepest sense of calm. that’s what remains when you strip away all the bells and whistles of love... calm, quiet peace and the person that you share it with.

shake it off: tell us about an experience that made you stronger. 

most recently, my experience with spinal surgery & recovering from it. choosing to get the surgery in the first place required a lot of strength and now that i’m 3 months post op, it’s taking a lot of strength to keep pushing forward. i’ve been going to the gym bc it’s necessary to build up the muscles in my core and legs to protect the hardware in my back and it’s been a challenge. the first time i ever went to a gym years ago i feel like i started at a 0 and now when i go i feel like i’m at a -10. i’m hanging in there though :)

speak now: say something you wish you could tell someone.

taylor, you’ve been my best friend since i was 12 and i’m so happy that you’re happy. i can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next. please take my weak spine into consideration the next time you drag the collective fandom

never grow up: what’s your favorite childhood memory?

not to sound materialistic, but this is the first thing to pop into my head. my family was v poor when i was young and my sister and i knew better than to expect a whole lot from holidays, which was fine with us. one year we got a toys-r-us (rip) ad in the mail around christmas time and it came with stickers for kids to mark what they want. i’ll never understand how they pulled it off and i’ve never asked, but somehow my parents were able to buy us everything we put a sticker on and i’m still in awe of it to this day.

questions | ask me

I went to seoul comic world this past saturday and had the lovely experience of being surrounded by people who were excited to be getting merch of their faves and meeting creators they love! it was one of those “I am amongst my people” moments that reminds me why I love fandom.

highlights of my visit included:

little girl expressing disappointment to her dad: “there’s no inuyasha these days!”

that one girl in front of me at a booth asking for every single kenma item available, which meant she kept saying “and the christmas kenma. and the suit kenma, please. oh and the idol kenma.” (you go get those kenmas, girl. I’d do the same for my faves.)

group of teenage boys urgently discussing “I can’t afford to keep buying all these but she’s my fave”/”dude, yolo”

a fan and artist who seem to be online acquaintances saying hello and plying each other with gifts while squeeing over each other 

a person who was way too tall to be cosplaying sans undertale rocking the cosplay anyway

it’s been a while since I’ve been a member of a major anime fandom and holy shit, there was. so much amazing merch. it was so good for me and so bad for my wallet. here’s an overview of my entire haul from one afternoon:

that is 3 posters, 2 fanbooks, 3 sticker sheets, 1 glasses cleaner, 15 laminated cards, and 51 postcards. yeah, I know. but they’re so fucking PRETTY. 

to show you how pretty they are, I’m providing closer looks at all the goods and also links to all of the artists I bought them from under the cut :) most of them are haikyuu but there’s a sprinkling of bnha, gintama, I don’t want this kind of hero, and assassination classroom!

okay here’s an overview of the merch and posters from a different angle

the posters are each roughly the size of my torso, so they’re fairly big! I never buy posters but...these were SO GOOD. they were displayed like a set and I’m compelled to buy full sets whenever possible...so I got all three of them (and I don’t regret it at all!). I’m kinda glad the rest of the team wasn’t there, because if I’d bought that many posters...

the artist of the posters is Tien (@tienal_ent)!

okay so I bought two gintama fanbooks despite not having kept up with the series in a few years, but okikagu is a timeless pairing so I bought them both anyway! they’re funny and cute and the art style is super clean! the artist, Kwonrugger (@kwonrugger), also had a double-sided postcard I loved (seen above) and drew the four haikyuu cards above as well! the two assassination classroom cards on the right were from Reui (@reui_)

okay so I got myself a new glasses cleaner because I love kageyama...and also that idol postcard set literally kicked me so hard in the gut I spat out my money instantly. the artist is Salty (@myoch_jr)!!

okay aren’t these ADORABLE. the cat stickers are from 용고양이 (@Yongcat_)! I bought the pokemon haikyuu postcards from the same booth, but I’m not sure if it’s by the same artist or if two people were splitting the booth ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

okay so we all know I’m weak to chess imagery and this haikyuu chess card set was designed to kill me. IT’S SO SPARKLY, GUYS. the artist is 사구호 (@fortynine49ho)!!

there was SO MUCH bnha merch at the con but I restrained myself to just buying these! the amazing set on the left is from Loble (@Lobleble), and the lovely cards on the right are from Lukapang (@K_LUKA_45). it’s a set of five with the girls but I also purchased the midoriya postcard because LOOK AT HIM. HE’S PERFECT.

so most of these postcards are for I don’t want this kind of hero, which is still one of my favorite webtoons of all time, and the fact that it still has a healthy amount of merch at cons despite being ending over a year ago makes me so very happy. and there’s that tsukishima in the corner, proving my tsukki bias precedes all things. the artist for this batch is Pica (@gmlwls2612).

both sets of these incredible team postcards are from MMMA (@ummm_mmma), and they had such an amazing selection of merch that it was mindblowing. 

okay so like...this reaper set suckerpunched me so bad that I automatically yanked my cash out before I consciously decided to. isn’t this set AMAZING. everybody looks SO FANTASTIC (but especially BOKUTO, holy FUCK). tsukishima isn’t part of the set and was part of a different one, but I wanted him so bad that I got him separately. this artist has just. THE BEST STUFF. if I see them at the con next time I might raid their whole booth. you can find them as Bari (@bari_dal)!

this postcard set ties with the previous reaper set as my two favorite sets from this haul, though this one just might rank a little higher because tsukki is officially part of it (and I really love the pop of the colors). I have a deep and abiding love for the 3rd gym group so I’m glad to see such a gorgeous set of them!! the artist is Soko (@nijiaka_soko)!

and lastly, the only ship-related merch from the whole haul not counting the fanbook are these two kagetsuki postcards from the wonderful HJ (@197_369). I am always in need of more content with these two. or just...any tsukki pairing really...

so that’s the end of me showing off the goods! I’m overall incredibly happy with the outcome of this shopping spree, and I’m now gonna puzzle over where...I’m putting all of these. 

Christmas At The Bunker

(Sam Winchester/Female Reader)

Characters:

·       Dean

·       Sam

·       Castiel

·       Jack

·       Female Reader

“Guys, let’s decorate the bunker!” You suggest happily to the other less festive hunters.

Dean grumbles at the thought of what he thinks is a “pointless holiday.”

“Oh, come on Dean, you have to let me decorate, please?” You whine to the oldest Winchester.

“Oh no you don’t, don’t look at me with Sam’s puppy dog eyes,” Dean said.

You mentally thanked Chuck that you hung around Sam a lot and were able to master his puppy dog eyes. Granted, you followed Sam around so much because of your embarrassing crush on him that you would never tell anyone about, but you were glad that he seemed to like having you around.

“Sam!” Dean yelled to his younger brother, who soon appeared in the room you and Dean were in.

“What’s up, Dean?” He asked with a concerned look on his face before a smile found its way on his lips as he looked at you.

“Did you teach (Y/N) your puppy dog look?” Dean asked.

“Hey, don’t blame me if she learned the way to get you to do anything,” Sam said, winking at you and Dean groaned in frustration.

“Fine, we can do Christmas as long as it doesn’t interfere with our hunts, okay?” Dean breaks and gives in to decorating.

“Yay! You cheer and run off to find Jack to tell him the good news.

“Jack, Jack, we did it, he said yes!” You tell the newest member of the Winchester clan.

“Oh (Y/N) that’s wonderful!” Jack said, just as excited as you about the good news.

You hug quickly before you begin to plan out all the decorations you needed to buy.

Jack was curious about this holiday, especially since all you seemed to talk about was Christmas. The lights, the tree, the presents, all sounded so exciting to Jack that he was easily persuaded into the festivities.

Very quietly, you steal the keys of the Impala that were on the counter in the Bunker and race outside. When you get closer to Baby, you stop abruptly when you notice Sam leaning against the driver side door.

“Where do you two think you’re going?” He asks, not impressed by your plans.

“We…were going Christmas shopping.” You admitted.

“And you decided to take the Impala, why?” Sam continued to press you for more information.

“Because Dean never lets me drive her.” You say.

“Like hell I do,” Dean says, announcing himself near the vehicle.

All he had to do was look at you and you knew exactly what he wanted of you; the keys. You gave in, reluctantly, and matched Jack’s frown on his face with your own.

“No one drives Baby but me. Is that clear?” Dean said, looking to you and Jack, making sure you both understood his rule.

You nod in unison before Dean added, “I’ll drive you two to where ever you need to go.”

You could tell it was bothering him like crazy but smiled as he lightened up, somewhat. Soon, Castiel joined you all as he said he heard all the commotion from inside the Bunker and he wanted to know more.

“Fine, fine, alright, everyone get in,” Dean grumbled once again and you, Jack, and Cas all pile in the backseat and Sam and Dean took the driver and passenger seats.

Baby roars to life and Dean throws her into drive, speeding away from the Bunker as fast as she could. The sound of classic rock playing from the stereo as the sight of the city nearing closer and closer.

Dean finds a parking spot right outside a small boutique that was lined with lights and Christmas music playing outside on the street. Everyone piled out of the car and into the small store. Your face lit up in excitement as you took in all the Christmas decorations that were for sale. Grabbing a shopping cart, you were to load everything up, piling the cart high didn’t take too long. You grabbed a tree, lights, garland, ornaments, stockings, more lights, candy, stickers, and of course, more lights.

“Okay, I think we got everything.” You say as you unload everything on the counter to check out.

“Oh my God (Y/N)! I didn’t know you were going to get this much crap!” Dean said as he took in the sight in front of him on the counter.

You look up at Dean with a sheepish grin, shrug your shoulders, and watch in anticipation as the cashier rings everything up.

“Two fifty-five, forty-two.” The cashier said.

“Whoa, no way in hell am I paying for this!” Dean protested.

“Relax Dean, you’re not paying for this at all. In fact, (Y/N), Jack and Cas chipped in some money. Since you were the only one opposed to the idea of decorating the Bunker, we didn’t ask you.” Sam explained.

By the look on Dean’s face, he was trying to process everything but, in the end, he had no say as everyone else paid the bill. Grabbing all the bags and Christmas tree box, you loaded the now empty trunk of Baby and tied the box on the roof. Dean drove everyone back to the Bunker and upon arrival, you and Jack ran inside with as many of the bags you could carry and began throwing decorations all over the Bunker.

A few hours had passed and according to Dean, it looked like a “freaking Christmas movie threw up in here.” Christmas music was playing from the old record player Sam found a while back and had set up for everyone to use. He said records sounded better than any modern CD or streaming service ever could try to make.

“Would anyone like some eggnog?” Cas asked, coming from the kitchen with glasses of the off-white substance.

“Ooo, yes!” You cheer, standing up from the bottom of the tree you were decorating.

“What is eggnog?” Jack asked.

“The best thing you’ll ever drink!” You yell in enthusiasm, handing a glass to Jack. He stared at the drink for a minute before taking a sip and you could instantly see his delight; he liked it.

You all continued to decorate the Bunker; even Dean helped out. Looking over to Sam, you smiled to yourself as his tongue slightly peaked its way out as he concentrated on wrapping tinsel around the tree.

“Need help?” You ask, walking over to him.

He stops and looks up to you from his crouched position. “Yeah actually, I could use your opinion. How does this look?” He asks.

“It looks fine to me, except.” You straighten out the tinsel and laid it around perfectly. “There.”

“Wow (Y/N) that looks great. You’re good at this.” Sam complimented you to which your cheeks heated up.

“Thank you, Sam. I’ve been decorating since I was a little girl with my family so it comes naturally.” You explain.

Sam just looked at you as you spoke, focusing on the way your lips moved.

“Sam?” You ask, bringing back to your conversation.

“What?” He asked.

“I said, are you ready to move on to the lights outside?”

“Oh yeah, sure.” He grabbed the boxes of lights and walked outside, with you and a ladder following his lead. Walking outside, you set the ladder up handing Sam the lights as he asked for them. Your attention fell to his midsection where his shirt would sneak up and reveal his tummy.

“(Y/N)!” He yelled at you.

“Huh?” You snap out of your trance to look up at him.

“I said, I need more lights. Can you hand me a new strand?”

“Oh, y-yeah.” You bend down and grab some new lights for him and look up to see him staring at you intensely.

“What’s that Cas?” You pretend to hear him call you so you could quickly leave. “I have to go.” And with that, you darted off in the Bunker.

“Huh, I was right. You do have a thing for Sammy.” Dean said, your eyes darted open to see him.

Wha-what? Psshhht, no, I, what? No, I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about.” You stutter, clearly denying any and all feelings for Sam.

“I saw the way you were checking him out, out there as he was putting up those lights. And he was staring at your ass when you bent down to hand him more lights. It’s pretty obvious you two like each other, however, Sammy can be clueless to this kind of thing.” Dean explained.

“So, what do I do?” You ask.

“You leave it to me. I’ll have a talk with Sam, just go about your business and I’ll handle everything. You two would be cute together.” Dean said.

You smiled and hugged him quickly before he went outside to talk to Sam. You watched as he approached his younger brother and as Sam climbed down the ladder.  Taking a deep breath, you met up with Cas and Jack who were finishing the tree.

“Looking really good guys.” You said.

“Would you like some cookies (Y/N)?” Cas asked.

“I would love some.” You say and follow him in the kitchen.

You, Cas and Jack were hard at work making all different kinds of Christmas cookies, that you didn’t even hear Sam and Dean come back in the Bunker.

“Hey (Y/N) can I talk to you a minute?” Sam asked you as you were washing raw cookie dough off your hands.

“Sure, Sam.” You answer him and follow him into the library. This seemed to be Sam’s choice of place to get some thinking done.

“What’s up Sammy?” You ask.

“I like you (Y/N) and I mean way more than a friend. I’ve always liked you, ever since you came to hunt with us a year ago but I kept it to myself because Dean said it wasn’t good for hunters to be in relationships. Something about our judgment being off or…..I don’t know but I don’t care at this point. I just want to be with you. I want to be the one you fight side by side with, the one you call when you can’t sleep, to hold you when you’re sad, to hold your hair when you get sick, to cuddle with and watch movies with, be everything you need me to be. I just…..I can’t keep ignoring my feelings.” He finishes with a big sigh.

You keep quiet, not too sure what to do, so Sam did the next best thing he knew to do. He walked to you, grabbed your face with both his large hands and brought your lips to his. You bend your back since he’s so tall and he’s hunched over to reach you; neither one seemed to mind the discomfort. That is until he brought his arms down to your legs and he hoisted you up so you were the same height as him, allowing the easiest of access. Your legs were wrapped around his waist and in the heat of the moment, you didn’t hear Cas walk in.

“Oh, s-sorry. I-I’ll just l-leave….” He stumbled on his words and quickly left the room, allowing you and Sam to just laugh.

“So, do we do this?” He asked you, looking down at you again.

“A relationship?” You ask.

“Yes, exclusively too. The hand-holding, public displays of affection, very protective of one another, chick flick moments.” He lists.

“So pretty much anything to annoy Dean?” You say.

He laughs and says, “exactly. I’m all in. Are you?” He asks.

You respond by leaning on your tip-toes and place your lips to his once more.

“Yes, a thousand time yes. I love you, Sam Winchester.” You say.

“And I love you (Y/F/N) (Y/L/N). Merry Christmas.”

Secret Santa ( Warren Worthington III x Reader)

A/N: Hello! I know I’m a little late because we’re already the 10th of December. I’m really inspired for Christmas imagines but I don’t really have the time to write because of school. So, I hope you’ll like this one :)

It was the season to be jolly. LALALALALALALALALA!

Precisely, 15 days left before Christmas and everyone was bathing in the seasonal mood. The mansion was full of ornaments, from the smallest christmassy sticker on a window to to the giant christmas trees, one in the living room and another in the lobby which was accomodating every person that entered the mansion with the strong and wonderful odor of christmas.

Cookies were made everyday to fullfill everyone's need  and new bags of chocolates, marshmallows and candy canes had to be bought every three days.

And among the joy and food, the thought that was on almost everyone's head was the presents. The most organized ones had already bought the presents they wanted to offer but some others didn't even have a hint of an idea.

That was your case and the case of your group of friends.

Between the ones without any ideas, the ones who didn't know who they wanted to offer something to and couldn't get something to everyone because of budget problems, and some knew what and who they wanted to offer something to but were too shy  and scared to be rejected by the person to act about it.  I guess, even Christmas come with its pack of problems.

The next day , Jubilee arrived in the living room with a bright smile on her face and a baseball cap in her hand.

" Guys, I have the perfect idea to save our christmas!" she exclaimed waving the cap above her head, earning herself the attention of her friends.

" With a cap?" Scott asked skeptic

She rolled her eyes.

" We're going to do the " Secret Santa" thing. Get me papers and I'll write all of our names on it. And each of us will pick one and will have to get a present to the person whose name's written on the paper."  she explained

You and your friends looked at each others.

" Sounds like fun" you shyly said.

Everyone agreed and Jubilee got off the couch and jumped up and down in joy before taking a pen from the coffee table and starting to write all the names on pieces of paper.

When she was done she put all the pieces in the cap and presented it to each one of you.

When it was your turn you hesitated, looking at all the small folded pieces of paper and not knowing which one to pick.

" Let your hand guide you, Y/N" Jubilee said

You slowly nodded and picked a paper.

She offered you a smile and moved on to the next person.

You unfolded the piece and your eyes widened.

Warren

Looking up, you searched for the angel and when your eyes landed on him, you smiled. Despite not being the friendliest person, you were pleased to be the one to get the occasion to make him happy.

Your eyes were fixed on his face, and you were sure that your arbored a goofy expression. The next second his blue eyes were on yours. You blinked and there he was, staring right back at you with a smirk playing on his pink lips. You felt your cheeks set on fire; he caught you staring at him and also got a perfect view of your stupid face expression when you were looking at a cute guy.

You instantly looked away and got up from your chair, quickly walking out of the room. Unfortunately you didn't see Warren returning your smile and also didn't know how is heart was fluttering like yours.

 On Warren's side...

As you left the room in a hustle, Warren smiled looking at how flustered you were. His eyes left the doorway you just passed to the paper in his hand.

Y/N

Lucky him. If he was honest with himself he wouldn't have wanted to pick someone else than you. You and him weren't exactly  friends, you didn't talk enough for your relationship to earn that title,. You occasionely asked him to pet his wings and he would agree with a shrug, some other times the two of you had small conversation.But he still thought about you as a friend, since you were hanging with each other through the others.

He was more than glad to have pick you, he couldn't wait to see you blushing and smiling when you would open his present.

Warren knew exactly what he was going to get you.

He didn't have the reputation of being romantic but he was the kind to ne discreet, despite his giant ass wings. He didn't really liked to get attention from others, because of his past, and no one was really paying attentio nto him. Only your group of friends welcomed him. And being discreet gave him the opportunity to listen to everything.

He perfectly remembered how it happened, when he found the idea of what to get you for christmas.

He was laying on his back, wings spreaded on the grass and sucking on every sun rays. His eyes were closed but he was all ears. You and Jean were sitting a few feet away from him, in deep conversation about christmas, even if it was at least 3 months away. Warren couldn't remember what Jean precisely said, but she was blabbering about how she wished Scoot would get her something or whatever....

That's when you mentionned it, the perfect gift you could receive.

" I won't ask for much this christmas. All I want is a blanket as soft as Warren's wings"

This sentence was automatically pin into his mind since then.

Now, he needed help and someone to go with him to make sure he wouldn't buy something ugly.

That's how he found himself at the mall with Jean. She said that she knew where he could find something that you'll absolutely love. So she dragued him in a store for the home, they arrived in a section full of blankets.

They were some with bright colors on it, some only were in one color, some with drawings , and there also was a christmas section.

" Come on, go touch them" Jean said pushing him toward the blankets.

" What?" he exclaimed

" If you want to find THE one, you have to touch them"

The angel reluctantly walked to one and rubbed his palm against the fabric. It felt really good and Warren lost it , he started touching every blanket, and he looked like a crazy person, earning himself judgemental looks from the people passing by and laughs from Jean, who was watching him from afar.

When he stopped in front of the christmas blankets, he touches one and almost felt like he was touching his own feathers. He even brought it to his cheek and started rubbing it against his skin, with a idiotic smile.

The blanket was light gray with whites christmassy patterns, like snowflakes and reindeers.

" It's this one!" he said excitedly, a childish smile illuminating his face.

" Perfect" Jean said

Warren grabbed the blanket and the two of them walked toward the cash registers.

It was really rare to see Waren's soft side. the guy who usually wore rock band tees, combat boots and a leather jacket, full on the tough guy attitude; with a  smile on his face and a rather girly blanket in hands; and it was beautiful to watch.

On the reader's side...

When you finally escpaped Warren's gaze and exited the room , you took some time to let the heat fall down from your cheeks.

" I picked Warren" you thought

You really wanted to make Warren happy out of everyone; he always seemed to be so lonely, angry and sad. The problem is that even with good intentions you didn't know what he could like as a present; you had to ask the boys.

You managed to assemble all the boys in your room, except Warren of course. Scott, Peter and Kurt were now sitting on your bed, curious about what you wanted from them.

" I need your help. I picked Warren and I have an idea for his present but it would be better if you come with me to be sure I'll pick the right thing".

" Cool! Shopping" Peter screamed and the next second he was standing next to you, his hand on his hip.

" Come, on guys, are we going or what?" he urged them.

The four of you found a sort of punk rock shop where you could buy clothes, accessories, records and everything related to this universe.

After entering the shop you directly tugged the boy in the shirts section.

" You want to buy him clothes?" Scott asked

" I know every shirts of his are alaways ripped because of his wings and he can only wear them once. So I'm going to buy him new ones and make some modifications so he wont rip them again."

They nodded and you reported your attention on the shirts in front of you.

" Now,which one do you think  he will like because I don't know which band he's into"

The guys went to work and picked many shirts representing bands like Def Leppard, Metallica, ACDC, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Guns N' Roses and many others. At the end you had at least twenty shirts in your arms, you decided to take them all.

You made a quick stop to the drugstore on your way back to the mansion to pick some leather and snaps for your modifications.

You worked really hard on the shirts. You had cut two holes in the back and sewed pieces of leather all around them so Warren's wings wouldn't cut the fabric. Then you had cut strikes from the hem of the shirts to the holes and sewed snaps all the way up so it wouldn't be too hard to pass his wings in the holes. You were really proud of your work and hope that the angel would like it. Then you wrapped them all in a white gift paper and added a giant red bow on top.

Now you just had to wait for christmas morning.

Christmas was finally here and you were woken up by Jean, who bursted your bedroom door open before jumping on your bed like a children on christmas morning, in this instant we could forget that she was a young woman.

" Wake up Y/N, it's christmas!!We have to open our presents!" she screamed

She then tugged on your arms to try and force you to get up.

" Calm down, I'm coming!" you said, rolling out of bed,still half asleep.

You put on your slippers before following the excited red haired girl to the living room where the mighty presents were.

All your friends were already gathered around the tree and looking at the presents like lions waiting to be fed.

" Hurry, we're waiting for you!" Peter said, throwing you an accusating look

" All right, I'm here"

They all jumped on the presents, screaming names every time they read a tag  on a present.

You looked around the room and spotted Warren , sitting on the couch with the same neutral expression as always, looking at your savage friends.

" Y/N!" your heard someone scream

You turned your head and saw Jubilee, holding a present.

" It's yours" she said, with the smile, handing it to you.

You took it. It was quite big . You walked to the couch and sat at the opposite end of Warren. You were looking at the present, turning it in your hands and mentally asking yourself what it could be.

" Warren!" your heard screaming

You looked up as well as the angel and you saw Jubilee again, holding the present you got him. She put it on his lap and he looked at it, his eyebrows furrowed as he observed the thing, wondering what could be inside and who bought him a present.

You'd never been as nervous as you were right now.

Everyone has their gifts and it was time to unwrap.

You kept an eye on Warren while opening your present but decided to focus on the package in your hands when he tore the paper, too scared of his reaction.

You slowly opened your present, only to discover something fluffy. You completely unwrap it and found a blanket. A really cute blanket with christmassy patterns on it. You caressed it with your hand and it was super fluffy! You then brought the blanket to your face and rubbed it on your cheek, letting out a sigh of content.

Then, you looked back at Warren , he was holding one of the shirt in front of him, and had the smallest smile youve ever seen on his lips.

If you managed to make him happy, even if it was not really noticeable you were more than satisfied.

You were taken out of your thoughts by Ororo, sayng that it was time to reveal who was whom secret santa.

Hugs and issed were exchanged everywhere as people had found out who offered them their present.

" So, who's Y/N's secret santa?" Jean asked, smirking at you.

You heard a cough from beside you.

" That might be me..." Warren mumbled

You smiled and got closer to him, wrapping your arms around him.

" Thank you so much! I love it" you said before lightly kissing his cheek.

When you pulled away you could see the pink shade that decorated his cheeks.

" How did you know about the blanket?" you asked him

" Hum... " His cheeks became more red as he was searching for an answer.

" I...I overheard you talking with Jean and...yeah..."

" Well, you couldn't find better. Thanks again" you said, finally releasing him

His cheeks were bright red and he discreetly tried to fan himself with his hand to make the red tint disappear.

" Now, who's Warren secret santa?" Jean asked

Your turned back to Warren

" I hope you like it. I brought this with the boys since I didn't know what kind of band you liked. "

" Don't worry, I love them. You even thought about the holes for my wings" he said this time the smile more perceptible on his face.

" No problem" you offered him a small smile. " If it doesn't fit, just tell me"

He leaned in and pressed a kiss to your cheek.

It was your turn to blush and you let out an awkward giggle.

" Let's see if they fit then" he said grabbing the shirt again, placing it on his lap.

He took off his leather jacket, then his shirt, that he almost ripped in half because of his wings.

The sigh was so good that it was impossible not to drool. His toned chest was full on display, you were sure that there wasn't any gram of fat in that body.Every one of his movements were making his arms flex and show off his muscles.  And as he finally took his shirt completely off his hair were ruffled, some golden curls falling over his eyes. He put them back in place by running his hand through it.

He took the new shirt and passed it over his head, covering his wonderful body from your eyes. You could see that he had trouble to close the snaps.

" Here, let me help you"

You gently pushed him forward so you could access to his back and closed the snaps, patting him on the lower back when it was done.

He turned to you, showing off the shirt and how it perfectly fit his perfect body.

" What do you think?" he asked

You nodded your head

" Looks good"

He put his jacket back on and leaned against the back of the couch , the small smile still playing on his lips, his eyes fixed on the shirt pile.

You did the same, and put your brand new blanket over your legs.Warren gave you a side glance and passed his arm around you to pull you into him before wrapping his wing around you.

You settled comfortably against him with your head on his chest, putting  the blanket over his lap too. A dummy smile lingered on your face as the angel leaning his head down to press a kiss to your forehead and rested his cheek on the top of your head.

-" Merry Christmas, Y/N"

-" Merry Christmas, angel"