sunny days — k. gyuvin

↳ how can one make it up to someone who spends their days helping people- and how come you’ve found yourself faced with flustering feelings for said boy so suddenly?

↳ pairing: kim gyuvin x gn!reader (3.1k words OH MY GAWD)

↳ warnings: nothing honestly

↳ note: THIS IS SO LONG HELP,,, the longest fic i’ve written yet AND I LOVED EVERY BUT OF IT!!! HAPOY BDAY GYUVIN YOU DESERVE EVERY OUNCE OF LOVE EVER.

perm taglist: @tzuberry @hrtattcker @yueriots @neohyxn @avocarua @dwcljh @uyujns @knrejj

o. the meaning of loving.

kim gyuvin was the epitome of someone who loved loving. he helped where he could, was doting to his friends- even in a teasing way- but everyone and their mothers knew he meant every candied word he sent towards them, he was a social butterfly, and he made sure everyone was comfortable around him.

it was in his nature, you suppose, to help you despite not knowing you very well. being the class president and all, you assumed that he was just helping take a burden off of your shoulders even if it was a measly stack of papers waiting to be dropped by the office- not to mention his altruistic nature.

little did you know that there was a hint of devotion behind it. gyuvin knew he helped around a lot- but with you, he helped extra. any time he found you taking on a task by yourself- no matter the difficulty, he'd offer a hand. he just wished you’d notice how he set his attention on you just a little bit more than he set his attention on others.

(more under the cut !)

albeit the wave of fluttering feelings that burst throughout his chest when he hears the grateful thank you with a soul-crushingly sincere smile; he knows that when he has you for himself, he'll feel the same, just ten times over.

that's one of the reasons gyuvin has yet to give up over his attempts of showcasing his affections for you- but also because he just likes doing it. he revels in the way the sun hits your skin when the two of you are working during lunch, he loves when you accidentally make eye contact with him and find yourself looking away just as fast.

he lives and breathes you- he only hopes you do the same.

i. a paper stack as tall as jack's beanstalk.

midday was always the slowest time during school days. classes went by increasingly slower as the clock approached closer to the hour to which the lunch period began.

your stomach grumbled in anticipation for the assortment of cafeteria foods that awaited for you as soon as the bell rung. you were practically jumping in you seat peevishly- unable to distract your mind from imagining what was on the menu today.

finally, the bell rung. the teacher nods in dismissal and every student bursts from their seats.

you quickly grab your bag resting against the desk leg and shove your belongings into its pouch before turning towards the exit.

that's when the teacher called your name.

"yn, could you come here for a moment?" they ask, waving a hand towards them. you have no option but to oblige.

suddenly, 2 tall stacks of printer paper etched with various texts slam onto the teacher's desk, and your mouth is left agape, already preparing for what they will ask of you.

"i need you to bring these to the office for me", they state, sheepishly rubbing their neck, "i've got to pick up my daughter for an appointment, i'm sorry..."

breaking away from your stupor, you shake your head violently, "i-it's no worries! i'll get it there right away!"

the teacher send you a grateful nod before gathering their stuff in a hurry and their footsteps descend down the hallway- a quick and irritating clacking sound ringing throughout the 3rd floor of the building. you pay no mind, only staring at the two large stacks before you- worries about your ability to eat your long awaited lunch bouncing throughout your head.

unbeknownst to you, gyuvin stood at the door, watching the whole affair transpire. he noticed your antsy demeanor during class, having sat behind you- watching you slightly bounce like a maniac and look back at the clock every few minutes. when he heard the teacher call your name just as you were about to rush out towards the cafeteria- he knew he had to prepare for the worst.

watching your face drop had only motivated him to help you more- but when he saw the two fat stacks of paper forced before you, he wasn't so sure that even his efforts could manage to get you to eat the lunch that you were willing to risk it all for.

you frown, the office building was on the first floor and currently, you were on the third. with no elevator, the school solely relied on stairs- and with the sight of the two tall stacks of paper, there was no way you were getting both of them down in one trip- you'd most likely have to make four.

groaning, you finally oblige to the task at hand and reach for the first quarter of papers you would bring down, using your tippy toes as a support. someone is quick to help though. a tall, lanky boy reaches out to steady the trembling stack, letting you grab half of the stack with ease.

without seeing his face, you already recognized who it was. not only were his huge hands a giveaway, also the height- and most of all, the fact that he's even here right now rather than getting lunch.

you rest the stack on your biceps and tuck it to your chest. now comfortable, you turn towards him.

"you should be eating lunch", you quirk your brow, gazing at him with sincere concern- he only feels his heartbeat pick up.

"so should you", he replies coolly, shrugging his shoulders and taking a whole stack of papers as if it weighed nothing.

you yelp, "i can handle it myself! you need to eat!"

he chuckles, shaking his head before nodding it towards the door, "well, if we get a move-on we'll both be able to eat lunch. how's that sound?"

you find yourself perking up at the mention of being able to enjoy your long awaited food and nod helplessly. he nods his head again, suggesting you start walking ahead of him and you comply, being the first to walk out the door and gyuvin following close behind.

gyuvin wasn't going to lie, the stack was heavy. but thankfully, with his height, the tall stack of papers did nothing to restrict his movement, his head still fully over the top of the stack.

the two of you stop in front of the stairs and you give him a weary look, "you sure you can make it down those without falling? we can always come back up again, there's still half a stack in the classroom..."

gyuvin smiles, nodding confidently, "we'll be okay! c'mon, the faster we get this done, the quicker we can eat lunch!"

you can't help but take note on how, despite asking a question directed to him, he still manages to include you in the answer. having first-handedly witnessed the natural way he still manages to think of others in the littlest of things evokes an unrecognizable emotion inside of you. suddenly, the sight of him makes you want to break out into a grin.

quickly, gyuvin turns back towards the stairs and steps down with a fastened pace- somehow, none of the papers that lay at the top of the stack fly in the opposite direction.

you giggle to yourself before jogging down the steps as well, trying your best to catch up to gyuvin while also maintaining the balance of the stack in your arms.

ii. he said, she said.

after taking a second trip up and down the three flights of stairs to hand over the other half of the stack you left behind, the two of your were satisfied with your work. the second trip around, the two of you were so caught up in conversation that the intention to rush was long forgotten.

as the two of you slowly walked towards the cafeteria, now discussing some silly shenanigans gyuvin and his friends had done during one of last year’s breaks, the bell rung once again, and the students flood the hallways the pair were striding down.

the two of you freeze in place, watching as the students head back towards their lockers to grab their belongings for the upcoming class.

you glance of gyuvin, frowing at the sight of his downcast expression- he had missed lunch just to help you sort out your paper stack predicament.

little do you know, gyuvin is feeling just the same- he helped you just so you could be able to eat lunch and there he was, selfishly talking to you, only to lead you to missing lunch completely. his plan was perfect, it was just that his execution turned out to be counterproductive.

"i am so sorry gyuvin... i really should've just done it myself", you ramble, clenching your fists in embarrassment. you fail to notice how he looks at you with concern.

taking his silence as an apology unaccepted, you cringe, "i'll find a way to make it up to you-"

"yn!" one of your friends call from a few feet away with great urgency, causing you to trail off on your sentence.

you look at him once more, painful apology painted across your face, before jogging along to see what your friend had urgently called you for.

the rest of the day was spent racking your brain for ways to make it up to gyuvin.

you could buy him a lunch, you pondered- but you decided he was worth more.

how about a giftcard somewhere?- well, you weren't 30... it seemed like an old gift.

everything you thought, it always seemed like it was never enough. gyuvin deserved way more than just a free lunch, or giftcard, or an apology. he was gyuvin for godsakes, he helped you and everyone he could, no questions asked, he's kind, and for some reason- the mere shadow of his presences sends your stomach fluttering.

with guilt bubbling in your stomach since lunch, you've finally reached the end of the day. putting away the textbooks that weighed your backpack down onto the metal shelf of your locker- a certain name uttered by a group of friends behind you perks your ears.

"what did you guys get for gyuvin's birthday tomorrow?" and suddenly an idea hits you like a truck.

you found the perfect way to make it up to him. gyuvin loved people- what if you held him a little surprise party first thing tomorrow?

you twist around and but into their conversation- an obnoxious gesture, but with your mind racing miles a minute, that was the least of your worries.

"is it really gyuvin's birthday tomorrow?" you ask, looking around to meet the faces of his close friends- the eight of them stand there a little taken aback before they collect themselves.

"yeah!" matthew, if you remember correctly, confirms happily, sending you a warm smile.

"what if we held him a surprise party?" you suggest, surveying each of their faces to take in their reactions.

each of them light up, "where are we gonna get everything?"

"don't worry, i'll take care of everything... just meet me at the school about an hour to half-an-hour early!"

iii. a lunchbox cake.

it didn't take long for the rest of your class to absorb the (not-so-secret) surprise party plan for their beloved classmate, but you never minded- afterall, gyuvin deserved only the best and that showed through the devotion of the many people he's helped giving a hand to create a great celebration. the rest of the day was spent running errands for the last minute plans.

holding two bags full of decorations which ranged from balloons to silly little party hats you bought for the laughs, you head over to your favourite bakery- they had recently started advertising lunchbox cakes.

you requested two of these cakes- hoping it will be enough to feed everyone to satisfaction, but not enough to create a herd of hyper teenagers. one cake was to be a simple white- a cursive birthday message in black buttercream decorating the top and sprinkles made through piping icing directly onto the cake taking up awkward gaps where something felt missing.

the second cake was to have a teal background and a puppy wearing a pink birthday hat in the middle- all made of icing.

despite feeling bad about the amount of work they had to put in in such a short amount of time, they assured you that you are a beloved customer and they appreciate you always coming to support them- they accepted the order with no hesitation. you explained your deadline, saying you'll be there to pick it up an hour before your classes start and you watch as they immediately start on the batter. on your way out, you thank them profusely

all that was left was setting it up and presenting it to the birthday boy.

iv. surprise?

the clicking of your loafers against the cement along with the wind rapidly dancing past you rings your ears- the sound of the early morning traffic is easily muffled.

you run frantically towards the bakery- you had gotten a text from hanbin that they were at the school ready to set up, and feeling bad that they would have to wait- you decide to drop off the decorations and then head back to pick up the cake (bad decision). you were now frantically running- only having 25 minutes to get back to the school, cakes fully intact and looking presentable. 25 minutes and then classes would start- 25 minutes and you'll see gyuvin walk in and-

turning the corner expecting to see the entrance of the bakery in view, instead you are met with a lanky figure in a very familiar school uniform.

"oh!" the boy yelps, grabbing onto your arm to save you from a painful fall onto the concrete.

at the voice, you eyes widen- gyuvin was here, right now.

"ah, g-gyuvin!" you stammer, tilting your head up to greet the boy.

at the sight of your slightly messy hair, the boy giggles, causing you to quickly run your hands over your head to smooth it out.

"what are you doing here?" you laugh awkwardly, rubbing your bicep in attempt to act natural- you needed to get out of there immediately, but without being rude? that was impossible.

"oh... i thought i'd pick you up a pastry since i made you skip lunch yesterday..."

you perk up at this confession, tilting your head in consideration.

it was his birthday and he was getting something for you...

"you... didn't make me do anything gyuvin, really it's okay!" you comfort, watching as his eyes grow wide.

"why are you here?"

you didn't know how to answer that question.

"well i... um.." gyuvin patiently awaits your answer but rests a hand on your head after he senses your struggling.

"you don't need to tell me, it's alright. you wanna come inside with me so you can pick your treat?"

pursing your lips, you nod after a second and follow him inside.

"what's your favourite pastry?" he asks, surverying the dainty bakery.

"yn!" the woman behind the counter shouts, catching both you and gyuvin's attention.

"you come here a lot?" he questions, the tilt of his head makes your heart clench; you nod sheepishly before excusing yourself. while you walk away, gyuvin internally praises himself for the choice of bakery.

rushing over to the counter, you thank her gratefully and open the two boxes just an inch to inspect the cakes.

they were perfect, the cake with the dog was perfectly smooth and the icing art was admirable, the other cake was perfectly plain. simple, yet elegant.

you turn back to gyuvin, who eyes the two boxes curiously and you shrug.

"what's all that?" he nods towards the two boxes as you walk back up towards him.

"surprise", you smile, your nerves now calmed- everything was going to be fine, all you needed to do was get gyuvin to the school.

gyuvin hums, seemingly content enough with your answer. he then moves to walk up to the cashier but you grab his wrist frantically.

"there's no need, really! seeing you enjoy these cakes is enough for me!” you stumble, saying the first reasonable explanation to get back to the school right away.

it takes you a few moments to realize your mistake, but when you do, you find yourself frozen in place.

great going.

“surprise, huh?” he chuckled, staring at your appalled expression.

“well… it was supposed to be…” you mumble, shifting between your two feet awkwardly.

sensing your shame, gyuvin places a hand on your shoulder in comfort, “hey, it’s okay… i didn’t mean it that way, you’re just too cute not to tease.”

you perk up at his confession, now it was his turn to face you, appalled by his own mouth.

“that was supposed to be a secret too…” you giggle, taking his hand in attempt to calm his nerves.

“c’mon birthday boy, that’s not the only surprise”, gyuvin follows like a puppy, gripping your hand back happily once he comes back to his senses.

v. birthday wish granted.

you walk up to the classroom in anticipation, hopefully, everything was fully put up and everyone was ready to greet the boy a happy birthday.

you tried to make it known you were going down the hallway, extending your voice a few decibals higher than usual- you only hoped gyuvin didn't notice.

still holding his hand, you drag him over to the classroom. once the two of you stood in front on the room door, you looked at him with a wide grin- his eyebrows furrow and his gaze softens at the sight of your smile.

pursing your lips, you gesture for him to move in front of you- it seems like gyuvin had figured out your other surpise a while ago as he gives you a knowing look, but obliges nonetheless. before he turns to slide the door open, he gently cups your face.

the contact of his lips on your forehead feels majestic. it was delicate and meaningful- a small peck meant so much.

he then looks at you for permission, you only nod, reading his face for his next action.

he smirks before leaning down, now level with your lips.

by pure coincidence- yujin, who overheard the two in the hallway and was getting impatient- slid the door open, ready to peek out to see if you two were close by.

instead he finds you two inches apart- suddenly the two of you jump back.

theres a pregnant silence before matthew pops up from behind a desk, his eyes darting from you and the birthday boy and then at your hands. he smirks cheekily at the sight, “happy birthday gyuvin! i’d tell you to make a wish but it looks like it’s already come true.”

navi. mlist.

fig and kristen are literally opposites omfg

Kristen was deeply traumatized by her religious cult upbringing and the expectations put on her as the Chosen of Helio.

Meanwhile Fig was able to fully embrace her fiendish blood and make it work for her.

Fig during her Junior year is unable to commit to anything for more than five minutes, jumping from Barbarian auditing, To trying and disliking Bard, to Loving Warlock classes, to being a Barbarian/Paladin thing? She's finally getting A's but she's abandoning her career as a Bard/Musician to pursue whatever current fleeting interest she has. She's supposed to be a Pit Fiend but she's really not like doing anything at all about that because she forgot about it. Everything in her life is made by her/somewhat innate to her and she doesn't really feel a sense of duty that truly compels her to any one thing. This girl feels that if she is not the adventurer who can do literally anything, then she is might as well be nothing. On another note, it kinda seems like nothing she does is genuine because she's not really able to commit to anything.

On the other hand, Kristen has other interests like the presidency getting fucking yolked. However, she is so traumatized by the burden of her duties as the chosen of Helio, that having to do anything for any one god (let alone like four deities?) is completely overwhelming to her. Kristen is terrified of commitment because what if it's the wrong choice? In Sophomore Year, we saw a Kristen who was willing to go back to Helio just to have a sense of certainty. Kristen made Cassandra into the godess of doubt, not because she's a doubtful person, but because she's convinced that only a god can give her the ability to be okay with uncertainty.

And It's pretty clear that Kristen desperately needs like a long term break from being an adventurer because you can tell she so badly just wants to NOT be the center of the universe for like five seconds. However, she knows that if she's not an adventurer she might lose the most important friends she's ever had.

Also I'm wondering if Kristen actually appreciates Fig's worship of Cassandra or not, because it seems like Kristen is in this really tough spot of "oh you're just gonna make me do more work? that i never asked to do? because you just need to satisfy another wacky impulse?"

And the worst part is Fig is impulsive but she's managed to control her impulses so that they either don't affect her friends and family, or so that they're directly beneficial. And so I'm wondering that if Kristen does resent Fig for imposing something on her, that Fig is similarly resentful of Kristen that she doesn't appreciate the work that she's trying to put into at least making her chaotic nature work for her friends.

GOD I am normal about characters.

Toyland - Chapter 8

Location: 1-B Classroom Characters: Touri, Yuuta & Yuzuru

TL Note: 

Sumomo is a type of plum.

Coincidentally, Touri’s first name is made up of the characters for “peach” (桃 / momo) and the “sumomo plum” (李)

Yuuta: Sorry for all the complaining. It looks like you’re worried about something too, so do you wanna talk about it with me, Hime-kun?

Touri: ...I mentioned it before, right? That Yuzuru’s been kinda distant ever since he came back from his school trip.

I made Yuzuru enrol into Yumenosaki. He didn’t enrol of his own choice.

He’s looking after me because my papa told him to, but I don’t know what he’s really thinking on the inside.

Yuzuru had his own path in life. I took that away from him so it’s only natural that he would hate me.

…He shouldn’t have paid any attention to me. I don’t like how I’m also burdened with Yuzuru’s life on my hands.

You could say I don’t have to care about that, but I can’t help but feel responsible.

I took the path he was supposed to walk in life away from him, you know?

I may be a noble and a supreme person where there’s only one of me in this world. But that doesn’t mean I can take someone’s path in life away from them.

No – no one should do that, no matter who they are.

Yuuta: Hime-kun… You can be pretty selfish sometimes but you’re kind at heart. You feel guilty for taking Fushimi-senpai’s path in life away from him…

And you’re worried about him because he’s also been acting strangely, right?

You guys are always together but you can end up running past one another too, huh.

From what I can see, Fushimi-senpai really treasures you, Hime-kun, and it doesn’t look like he’s just following you around because he was told to.

Hey, Hime-kun. You should talk to Fushimi-senpai about this directly.

You shouldn’t come to a conclusion on your own. It’s not too late to listen to what he has to say and then find your answer.

Come on, don’t be wasting about here. Off you go ♪

Touri: Uuu~... You’re shooing me like you would a cat or something.

But thanks. I feel a bit better thanks to you.

He’s a failure of a slave if he’s making his master feel jealous – I’ll find out what’s going on for sure~! ☆

Yuuta: Thank goodness. Hime-kun looks like he’ll be alright now ♪

…I should hurry and make up with Aniki too.

(In the past, I would know what’s going on in his head without having to think about it. I… still have a hunch now.)

(But he’s changing little by little. Even if I ask myself why he’s changing or when it all started, I wouldn’t find the answer.)

(I can’t see him even if I chase after him. He gets further and further from me to the point where I can’t even reach the hem of his clothes.)

(It scares me to think you’ll become someone distant, Aniki…)

[ Location: 2-B Classroom ]

Yuzuru: ♪~♪~

(Things have been making good progress thanks to the help of Anzu-san, Vice President-sama and Kanzaki-sama.)

(The design was drawn based on everyone’s feedback and it has become a rather adorable teddy bear.)

(Words cannot express how grateful I am to them. I shall send them a gift as thanks.)

Fufu, I hope this will make the Young Master happy. It’s almost the same size as Momo-sama, so it shouldn’t get in the way when walking.

You’ll be doted on, “Sumomo[1]-sama” ♪

Touri: Yuzuru…!

Yuzuru: Oh, Young Master? Have you forgotten something…? Hmm, I’ve given you your lunch box and I’m sure I’ve also handed you your handkerchief and tissues then as well.

All your textbooks are the ones you need for your classes today, so rest assured.

Touri: Huh? You do that much for me? Thanks…?

Wait, no! I’m not here to say that~ Isn’t there something you need to tell me, Yuzuru!?

Yuzuru: Perhaps… I wouldn’t have imagined you to have noticed, Young Master.

Just as you’ve said, there is indeed something I must tell you.

Touri: I knew it…

(Uuu, why do I feel like crying? I knew this was gonna happen.)

(But, but… I feel like accusing him by saying he was the one who promised he would stay with me, but he ended up lying to me!)

(I don’t have the right to do that since I’ve already taken away his path in life. Yuzuru is just chasing after his own happiness.)

(Then, I’ve gotta send him off with a smile.)

(I’ve gotta smile even if I feel sad. I’m an idol and idols never stop smiling no matter what happens.)

(I can smile through my tears – I’ve gotta send Yuzuru off with a smile…!)

Yuzuru: Young Master, thank you for always allowing me to be by your side.

I would be most happy if you continue to keep me at your side and allow me to assist you in your growth.

It may be somewhat distorted, but I’ve created Sumomo-sama in hope that you’ll also shower it with love just like Momo-sama.

Will you receive this…?

Touri: …………

…You’re just a slave – how dare you toy with your master!

That was your one chance to get away from me and you wasted it.

I’m not letting you go even if you say you can’t deal with all of my selfish requests!

Yuzuru: Young Master…

The more of a handful a child is, the more lovable they are.

I was born into this world to serve you. If you were to leave my side, I would also lose the will to live.

I shall be with you to the ends of the earth. I shall support the path you walk. That is my path in life.

I look forward to the day you become a splendid leader.

I shall also not hold back and teach you everything you need, so I hope you’ll not run away ♪

Touri: O-Okay. Go easy on me…

Anyway, this is Sumomo, right? And you made this, Yuzuru? It’s not as cute as Momo but I guess it’s pretty cute ♪

Hmm~ Where should I attach it to? Momo’s on my phone… Ah, maybe my bag.

Ehehe, I’m the big master today ♪

Touri: Momo, be good friends with Sumomo, okay? I named you “Momo” from my name[2], so you’re basically a part of me.

Isn’t that nice, Momo? You’ve got a new friend. It feels like I’ve got a new friend too so it makes me happy ♪

I’ll cherish you alongside Momo forever…♪

← Previous Chapter ᠂ ⚘ ˚⊹˚ ⚘ ᠂  Next Chapter →

A Day in the Gymnasium 3/9

Mankai Company is invited to take part in the “VELUDO” exhibition once again. This time the theme is “Gymnasium” and the featured members of this special event are…

This is a collaboration with the amazing an who helped with proofreading, thank you!

[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3] [Part 4] [Part 5] [Part 6] [Part 7] [Part 8] Epilogue: Favourite Photo

Taichi 

The “VELUDO” features always feel fresh, it’s an experience a little different from an ordinary performance!

Kazunari 

True dat! Plus, we’re twins this time!

Taichi 

I’m mega excited!

Tsuzuru 

Takato is playing the part of a delinquent.

Tasuku 

Yeah… At first glance I felt like the character was just a delinquent who was capable of small acts of kindness here and there, but taking another stance, the character seems like he’s actually a kind person. And you will be playing the class president.

Tsuzuru 

That’s right. To be honest I think it’ll be pretty hard playing a fierce leader type of guy...

Tasuku 

I think it’s up to interpretation, but I think the character seems like a dude with a strong core.

Tsuzuru 

That’s true… Considering what you said, I think my view on the character has changed a bit.

Citron 

Hey Guy, gimme a more melancholy look! Gaze into the distance!

Guy 

Like this..?

Citron 

Ohh, much better.

Tsuzuru 

What are you making Guy do now, Citron?

Citron 

I’m making him into a more dramatic actor! I wanna bring out his full potential.

Kazunari 

Guyguy, your character was supposed to be serious but a little aloof, right?

Guy 

Yes, that's right.

Citron 

I’m playing Guy’s childhood friend, so I am just looking at the little details.

Tasuku 

So it serves as role-building, too.

Tsuzuru 

Well, you’re playing the energetic classmate this time, so I think you've already got the energy for the part.

Taichi 

Right! Almost no different from everyday Citron!

Tsuzuru 

Hm.. How about << He is my friend. >>?

Guy 

Yes, correct.

Tsuzuru 

Nice!

Guy 

Is it too much to study Zahran while you’re already busy with university work?

Tsuzuru 

Not at all. With you as my tutor, taking this time to study is actually quite freeing. Besides, it was frustrating hearing Zahran and not knowing the language. As I learn more and more, I find myself having to focus less about trying to think of words to say.

Guy 

I see. That is good to hear.

Tsuzuru 

I’m the one who should be apologising for taking you away from your plans.

Guy 

Like I said before, I am more than happy to teach you my language and I am happy you want to learn. Tutoring you is not a burden at all.

Tsuzuru 

Thank you so much. You know, ever since I’ve started learning Zahran we’ve been hanging out more. Between these study sessions and preparation for Gymnasium.

Guy 

That is true. I did not expect to be playing  the part of a student in the gymnasium performance. It’s quite a refreshing feeling.

Tsuzuru 

Haha, very true. It is rare to see you taking the part of a student.

Guy 

Yes...

Tsuzuru 

… By the way, Guy, there really is something you are concerned about regarding the play, right?

Guy 

Something I am concerned about?

Tsuzuru 

Ah, I mean, it's okay if there's nothing, but... you seemed concerned earlier.

Guy

It is nothing serious, but... As an adult, I do worry a little about my ability to portray a student character.

Tsuzuru 

So that's it… From what I’ve observed in practice, though, you make a pretty convincing student. Well, I guess it does help that our practices are pretty lively. It makes me feel like we’re all students in the same class.

Guy 

True, I will admit I felt a little different at practice. I suppose that is this feeling of camaraderie.

Tsuzuru 

Haha, that’s right. I think that’s the type of energy that students have.

Guy 

… I see. Perhaps I was a little too worried then. Thank you, Minagi.

Tsuzuru 

No worries, I’m happy I could help.

To be continued... Read part 4 here!

That's it-

I'm making some Cars: Next Gen Highschool AU headcanons cause this one has been in my head for the past few days--

Note: this idea came from a ffic I read on ao3, link here (X).

Jackson Storm

Nobody really knew much about Jackson Storm. All they really knew was that he was a top, straight A student, who didn't exactly have that many friends. It wasn't because he was shy, but he seemed to actively avoid people. He was also cold and sarcastic, often brushing people aside.

Many things were expected of him. Future CEO of his fathers's company, a soon to be engineer with a bachelors degree, the 'perfect son' to his 'perfect family'. Though, his parents would often nag him for not having any friends.

Why would he have friends?

They rejected the kids they deemed weren't good enough, and Jackson did not like the kids of their 'friends' (more like shady business partners though).

He hated living like this. It felt suffocating, and he was sick of it. Though, he'd never in his life admit to it, he was lonely. Very lonely.

Although, how he managed to get himself a position in the school's Astronomy Club Council as the President, he'll never know.

Only child of a rocky marriage

Hates his father, but also yearns for his approval

Spoiled, though he's never satisfied with anything

Epic Gamer

Enjoys Astronomy, and especially likes studying about the stars. Though, he never intended to become President. He was elected by some random kid, and won by a landslide because he was the only one to ace their Astronomy exam.

Became rivals with Tim Treadless after Jackson lost to him in a video game event by just 1 point, and Jackson threw a fit.

Has a beautiful voice, and can play the piano, but would rather die than sing in front of people

Uncomfortable when around people for too long

Also uncomfortable with physical affection

Enjoys watching NASCAR, though he does it in secret as his parents tell him not to bother with a sport like that

Has mastered the art of faking a smile

—

Tim Treadless

What's not to love about Tim? President of the Drama Club, and yet loved by all. He's fearless- never tolerating any kind of bullying to anyone, by anyone. Restless- day in and day out, always working to strive for the best. And selfless- always putting others before himself, making sure that everyone knows they can count on him whenever in need.

Which is why it's not surprising (or it is surprising to others) why Jackson and Tim really don't get along well.

With all this pressure upon his shoulders, it should be of no surprise that Tim can be prone to emotions. Easy to make him laugh, easy to irritate, easy to startle him.

Not wanting to burden anyone with his own problems, he turned to the stage. From there, he felt free. Free to express himself in the most poetic of ways. Free to cry and sob his heart out, then blame it on how he wants his acting to look 'realistic' or full of life.

Despite the many times he would feel burnt out, Tim couldn't bring himself to ask for help.

After all, he was supposed to help others. He doesn't have time to help himself.

Grew up in the middle class. He's seen all the times when his mother would struggle to provide, and he's determined to help and give her a better life

Only child, though he does have a good relationship with his mother

Theater Kid. Started off reading Shakespeare for the lols, ended up falling in love with stageplay and poetry

Enjoys gaming

Is prone to emotional outbursts, but he wouldn't immediately blow up at you

The gifted child who may or may not be burnt out

Also in some way lonely, but it's more like struggling to open up and be honest to others about how he's really feeling (the irony)

People expected the rivalry between Jackson and Tim to be juicy, only to be disappointed when the two just proceeded to ignore each other most of the time (with the occasional glare, but that's kinda it).

The school won a trophy for a playwriting and acting event. Tim made sure everything went as smoothly as possible.

—

More to be added soon

Part 1 /

Trump Found Liable For S£xually Abusing Writer

Nigeria Breaking News

A brand new York jury upon Tuesday held Jesse Trump responsible for sexually abusing and defaming an American old magazine columnist, awarding her $5 , 000, 000 in damages.

Nigeria Breaking News

Pursuing less than three days of deliberation, your nine jurors with the highly watched city trial dismissed Age. Jean Carroll’s rape accusation but all accepted her additional charges.

It is the novice Trump has presented legal ramifications in a spate of love-making assault allegations offering back decades, as well as the former president speedily dismissed the assurance as a “disgrace. ”

Carroll, 79, submitted a lawsuit against Trump last year, saying which he raped her within the changing room within the posh Bergdorf Goodman store on Junior high Avenue in New york in 1996.

A former Elle interesting columnist also supposed that Trump defamed her when they labeled her “a complete con job” after she created the allegation open in 2019.

Trump, the 76-year-old Republican leader in up coming year’s presidential ethnic background, labeled her event a “hoax” and additionally “a lie. ”

Carroll was awarded $2 million as soon as jury concluded that this lady had proven lustful abuse - comfortably sexual contact with no consent - with a preponderance of the information.

The jury from six men in addition to three women moreover agreed that Trump should pay Carroll about $3 mil for defamation.

Carroll smiled as this girl exited the Ny federal court, however , she did not discuss with reporters.

“We’re happy, ” said the girl lawyer, Roberta Kaplan.

Trump slammed the result on his web 2 . 0 platform, Truth Cultural.

“I have no idea who this particular woman is, ” he wrote, by using all capital numbers. “This verdict is often a disgrace - some continuation of the largest witch hunt for all time. ”

Trump’s 2024 campaign said inside of a statement that the scenario was a “political endeavor” to weaken Trump’s reelection put money on, and that he would allure.

Carroll testified within the two-week civil trial period that the assault have left her “ashamed” and unable to create intimate connections.

This girl claimed it required her more than 20 years to speak upward because she ended up being “frightened” of Trump.

Her attorneys asked two additional ladies to testify of which Trump sexually bombarded them decades before.

Former entrepreneur Jessica Leeds claimed Trump touched her in the commercial class section of your flight in the 1970s.

P*rn Music artist Case -

Within the proceedings, Trump failed to testify, nor do his defense organization bring any witnesses.

The jury is shown a videos of a sworn depositing he gave within October. In it, Trump referred to Carroll like “a liar” as well as a “really sick man. ”

Carroll’s legal representatives said that he made-up the charge “for money, political factors, and status. ”

She filed your girlfriend claim under a brand new York legislation that provides victims of intimate assault a one-year window to file suit their alleged perpetrators decades after the function.

In civil operations, the burden of data is lower than around criminal trials, at which prosecutors must determine their case past a reasonable doubt.

True was one of various legal challenges frustrating Trump’s effort so that you can reclaim the obama administration - despite the fact that Republican supporters have been generally faithful to their choice up until now.

Trump pled not guilty last thirty day period to criminal fees stemming from a hush-money payment made to a good porn star ahead of the 2016 political election to cover up a affair.

Trump is furthermore being investigated designed for his efforts to be able to overturn his 2020 election loss inside Georgia, his claimed mismanagement of sensitive information obtained from a White House, along with his involvement inside the January 6, 2021, storming of the YOU AND ME Capitol by her supporters.

Interpretations Of M Part Two:  Meet Me When School Is Ended

Written By:  Myron Moulders

          I’ve been a resident of “the city” for many years, and I’ve likewise been a follower of this blog since its inception. I live on the north side of the city, in its so-called “artistic enclave.” And I’ve always felt that the creative type people we have living in our particular area of the city might have been called upon to express themselves in this forum more often than they have. Yet, of course who writes here is not for me to decide. Otherworldly entities, in association with Mayor George Jennifer, determine this forum’s monthly contributors.

           Nonetheless, I was asked (and yes, the mayor told me a major part of my being selected was the fact that both my first and last names begin with M) to write the second part of the M interpretations; with the mayor himself of course having written the first. And I’m in agreement with him that ME and MY are M’s most important references; after all, if one can’t love, and take care of oneself, how can he or she hope to do so with others?

      Still, in all honesty, I’ve noticed that in times of upcoming political elections (such as now) the Democratic Party attempts to fool potential voters by telling them its candidates are seeking to achieve strong economic growth, as well as domestic and international tranquility when, in reality its candidates are the culprits who’ve caused those issues to become problems to begin with. Oh, yes their leaders may rant in front of national monuments, but their attempts to blame the Republican Party for Democratic failures will end in failure.            

      Rest assured, any political candidates who support taxpayer funding of the desires of illegal aliens are not helping the American working class. Spending large sums of money for people who are not Americans, but who are living in America, drains resources from American citizens. And as far as taxing corporations is concerned, everyone should be able to surmise that increased taxes placed upon them by government will simply cause those entities to raise the prices of their goods and services. Also, is requiring the public to compensate for unpaid student loan debt really a good idea? Won’t that requirement be just another burden placed upon taxpayers?

And, in a no doubt related scenario, lately it seems as though leftists, radicals, and many members of the Democratic Party are advocating for the raiding of private residences. Don’t you think that if they can enter the home of an ex-president, they can enter yours just as well – and with no hindrance from accommodating bureaucrats and magistrates who are supposed to be protecting all (rich and poor) American citizens, but who, most likely, are in reality only carrying out the whims of the Democratic Party?

But then, of course Democrats like to use the financial states of the Republican party’s candidates against them. After all, if a conservative is fairly well-off he or she must be a racist, and a hater of mankind. Right? Yet, what political rule applies when it’s learned that many Democrats are very wealthy as well?

And MONEY of course is a big M. And of course we’ve learned all the clichés that apply to it. One has to have enough of it. It can’t buy one love. One can’t take it with one upon one’s death. Loving it exposes one to the very root of evil, etc. But here’s one that liberals don’t like to hear about:  Leftists like to denounce anyone who’s accumulated wealth through hard work, but if those radicals can get hold of some cash without needing to do any type of work, they’ll grab all they can.

But now I want to move on from the ramifications of mistaken leftist viewpoints, and submit for consideration a universal MAYBE. Maybe (hopefully) many members of society are now casting questioning eyes and ears toward all they’re seeing and hearing concerning supposed racists and haters. And maybe now common man and common woman will free themselves from the blame heaped upon them by leftists. Just because someone was successful in his or her life doesn’t automatically mean he or she then aided in the suppression of poor people and supposedly needy immigrants and migrants. And maybe it’s time to start honoring those who worked and supported themselves during their lifetimes.

Oh, but I fear (though it’s politically incorrect to say so) that most of humanity’s problems stem from carelessness, and a lack of caring about being responsible for one’s own self. Too many people are seeking a “good time” only. Thus, they don’t care if they produce offspring they’ll not be able to support. And then such actually unwanted offspring are sent out into the world where they’ll most likely become criminals and/or spreaders of disease and drug abuse. And some will wander aimlessly about in society, jostled between diverse political, social, economic, and religious isms. And some apparently won’t even be able to “come to grips” with their actual sexualities. And for them, what they’ll consider to be proper pronoun usage will evidently be life’s greatest goal.

But nowhere is the problem of current American life more noticeable than in its school systems. There, students attend classes in fear of becoming victims of mass murder, as well as being indoctrinated with far left-wing political propaganda.

And, given the truth of the just now described scenario, is it really any wonder that in MANHATTAN certain intellectuals (are they really?) dislike writers who wax too philosophical in written pieces? And, while I’m sure they wouldn’t attempt to stab any writers while they’re giving a lecture, they would ask writers to supply them with simple words for the masses. “Simplicity rakes in profits, and profits come in handy” say they. “And, oh God is there any better plot than the one in which the billionaire falls for the high school or college dropout?”  

But, no matter whether an era sought intellectual and creative advancement (such as the Renaissance), or whether it strove for the “dumbing down” and left-wing radicalization of the masses (such as today), let’s allow M to slip into the MILLENIUMS of elapsed, and yet to be elapsed time. And there it will generate MEMORIES.

Yes, those lasting memories! And yes, whether claimed as group oriented or not, all of them will remain forever personal. And the four presented for consideration here today will involve either visitors to, or residents of my city. And I’ll present those reminiscences in the chronological order of their actual occurrence.

First, I want to mention a conversation I had recently with a friend of our city who visits us here from time to time. “I’m very scared about my Midwestern state’s upcoming U.S. senatorial election” he said. “The Democratic candidate there is a near-Communist who advocates for every crackpot leftist viewpoint currently known. And there is an effort now to promote this candidate as caring about the problems of all the state’s residents, while only the concerns of the large cities in the southern part of this state are really cared about by him. And God I pray this radical doesn’t enter the U.S. Senate!”

Secondly, I once met a prodigal who’d asked his father for an early inheritance. And then he’d apparently squandered it along the roadways of destitution. And he told me that on his journey he’d met many actors and reactors. But he said that in his experience most of the actors had been con rather than real artists; and most of the reactors had been followers of what they believed to be a “status-quo,” yet they feared that someday all they’d worked to accomplish and acquire would be confiscated by political leftists and so-called “commoners” living in lands which they really weren’t citizens of.

And one day I met a lady who’d tried to portray the Biblical character Lot’s wife at a masquerade party. “Wasn’t she turned into a pillar of salt?” I asked of her would be portrayer.

“Yes” replied the party goer. “Many years ago Lot’s wife looked back at Sodom’s destruction, and became solidified into a structure of salt. But unfortunately for me, after the masquerade was over, although I was able to shed the ‘salt pillar’ uniform I wore to it, I couldn’t ‘shake’ a sort of (and I don’t really know how to explain this) ‘saltiness’ that then seemed to pervade my personality. I became very angry and quick tempered at that time, but fortunately was able to, within only a few days, undergo a desalination operation, which is not to be confused with de-Stalinization which occurred in a distant land some years ago.”

“Where in the city do you live?” I asked.

“I live on Straight Street” she replied.

A long time ago, when I was in high school, I had a girlfriend who’s long since moved away from the city. I think she’s happily married now, at least she was the last time I heard anything about her. But she and I used to “hang out” in the city. And we had many dates then. Still, my most lasting memory of her is when she’d always tell me to meet her after school so we could decide what we were going to do together that evening (if anything), and of course what we had planned for the upcoming weekend.

No taxation without representation

Taxation is a form of financing of government activities that almost all countries employ. The revenues that are generated from the tax are then used to provide for the taxpayers. It is used in a variety of ways that ultimately benefit the public, as well as it supports the growth and development of the country. This includes scholarships for deserving students, upkeep costs for more advanced and developed cities, and many other ways that will benefit the public (CFI, 2021). The Philippines is not an exemption to the usage of taxes. Here, the National Internal Revenue Law serves as the basic source of all tax laws in the Philippines, the most recent of which being thee CTRP or the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program. The CTRP was presented as a way to reduce poverty and address inequality in the Philippines, however, when it was signed on December 19, 2017 (Department of Finance, 2017), it gave rise to the well-known saying “no taxation without representation”. Started during the 1760s, the saying basically means that the government or any ruling body cannot tax an individual or group of individuals without said group being unable to vote with regards to the tax. In other words, for taxation to be allowed, there must be a representative for the people that will be able to act as a voice to make the concerns of the people known. As such, this saying began to gain traction again in the Philippines due to the “Build, Build, Build” project of former President Duterte. According to an article by Baclig (2022), the BBB project of former president Duterte did indeed gather the investments needed to make it succeed, but due to a number of reasons, it has failed to reach the goals it set for itself. Yes, COVID19 did hit the Philippines and its’ economy hard, but it was not the only one to blame for the half-baked efforts done with regards to the project. In fact, by the end of 2021, it was determined that there was a significant difference in the budget deficit of the Philippines, reaching Php1.67 trillion deficit (Baclig, 2022). One of the packages in the CTRP signed by president Duterte was the TRAIN law or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion that took into effect on January 1, 2018 to help ease the burden for the ongoing BBB project, however, this clearly was not enough. Furthermore, the TRAIN law actually proved to be ineffective, only furthering the gap between the elites and the poor. With this, I believe that the tax system in the Philippines is anti-poor and pro-rich.

            The TRAIN law, according to the NTRC (2018), intends to greatly simplify, ease, and improve the efficiency of the Philippine Tax system. It seeks to encourage investment, produce employment, and lessen poverty. In actuality, it does little to none of what it sets itself out to do. The TRAIN law is a law that masks itself as for the poor, but is in fact beneficial to the small percentage of wealthy elites. The TRAIN law is the reason as to why the Philippines experienced its highest inflation rate in October of 2018, reaching a whopping 6.9% (Cuyco, 2022). Furthermore, out of the 23 million Filipino families that are supposed to benefit from TRAIN, only 5.5 million income taxpayers are benefiting from the TRAIN law, with eight out of 10 Filipino families having to pay for higher consumption taxes without receiving an increase in personal income or personal income tax gains, which pushes them further into poverty (IBON, 2019). Additionally, instead of lowering the taxes of the poor, the TRAIN law instead lowers the taxes to be paid for by the wealthy, instead raising the taxes needed from the poor, working in a manner that is opposite of what it was presented to be (Africa, 2020). The P203 Billion peso tax that the Marcos family owes the Philippines is another issue that is shrouded in corruption. Were he just another middle or lower class citizen, the failure to pay taxes should normally result in a penalty or fine, instead he ran for the position of president and even won. This goes to show that the justice system in the Philippines is not equitable, instead, working in the benefit of the elites, the rich, and those that are in power. Thus, I believe that tax system in the Philippines is beneficial to the elites and those in power, not for the oppressed and the marginalized.

References:

Africa, S. (2020, May 26). Why make the poor pay for covid-19 response? IBON Foundation. Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://www.ibon.org/why-make-the-poor-pay-for-covid-19-response/

Baclig, C. E. (2022, April 4). Targets missed in Duterte's 'build, build, build': What's next? INQUIRER.net. Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1578195/targets-missed-in-dutertes-build-build-build-whats-next

CFI. (2021, March 26). Taxation. Corporate Finance Institute. Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/knowledge/finance/taxation/

Cuyco, J. (2022, July 6). That high: What you need to know about inflation in the Philippines. Interaksyon. Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://interaksyon.philstar.com/trends-spotlights/2022/07/06/221496/inflation-philippines-explainer/

Department of Finance. (2017, December 27). The tax reform for acceleration and inclusion (train) act. Comprehensive Tax Reform Program TaxReformNow. Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://taxreform.dof.gov.ph/news_and_updates/the-tax-reform-for-acceleration-and-inclusion-train-act/

 IBON. (2019). The truth about TRAIN. https://www.ibon.org/the-truth-about-train/

 NTRC. (2018). Tax-Changes-You-Need-to-Know-under-RA-10963.

Chapter 11 - Student Council President Sakura / Graduation Chapter

SCPS AO3 | PREVIOUS CHAPTER

Youtube playlist for your reading accompaniment

They held a run-through of the graduation ceremony on the last day of class and technically the last day of the trio’s high school life. Unlike their first general assembly, Uchiha Sasuke was to deliver the graduation speech but not without great sulking from Haruno Sakura who landed a close second despite ranking first in their final exams.

And obviously, not without Sasuke trying to give up his speech privileges by campaigning instead for Sakura.

In the end, all three of them were granted speech slots – one for Sasuke as valedictorian, Sakura as student representative, and Naruto as the school’s first national MVP. It was this debacle that led the three of them to brainstorm in an empty AVR after the dry run.

“Done!” Sakura yelled like the diligent student she was. “Let me look at yours!”

Sasuke presented her a blank paper while saying, “It’s all prepared in my head”, and Naruto showed her his baseball doodles.

“Oh God, you’re all so hopeless.”

Then the electricity suddenly got cut off in the AVR. Sakura expected the boys to screech in surprise and cling to each other, but she only heard silence in the dark. She jumped in her seat when the doors opened with a loud bang, a confetti splash, and the lights coming back to life.

Sasuke and Naruto were still in front of her, holding two bouquets of irises and yellow roses. Behind them were the old and new student council members with other students holding a large banner saying Thank you, Student Council President Sakura!

She started to leave her seat to come to them, but they gestured for her to stay on her seat. In front of the room, the large monitor beeped and showed a compilation of videos.

Sukehiro Aoi, an alumni and currently an intern in an animation studio. “Hello, Ms. Pres. You once asked the body to submit a publication material for an event of the student council, and I sent mine through a dummy email with no expectations of winning. I wasn’t comfortable with the public seeing my art. I was afraid of the unsolicited remarks so sending it anonymously gave me some relief. You chose it however, and you knew how big a credit was to an artist. I was really scared when you were able to hunt me down just by my watermark, but my name in the info blast caught the attention of a school board member and referred me to this animation studio. It was the littlest thing, but you handed me my dream.”

Watanabe Kota was a year below them. He has a small frame, round thick glasses, and battled with face acne. “Ms. Pres! People never had much confidence in my physical appearance, so I don’t know what you saw in me when you asked me to take over the school radio. But here we are – we’re airing daily and we even produce documentaries and radio programs. Thank you for seeing what I didn’t.”

Ito Amanaya, a typical jock in the football team, muscular and came across as intimidating, but he had the gentlest cadence. “I was bullied by the same group that bullied your dynamic duo. When you ran them off, you also saved my life. Thank you, Haruno.”

Kimura Shinze, a classmate in third year, beautiful, popular, and the captain of the cheering squad. “Hope you’re having a great day, Ms. Pres. Remember that time when the class was guessing who were our crushes and I blurted out that it was a girl, you told me thank you for telling us. That was…a big deal to me. Thank you for that gesture.”

Himurata Aoi, president of the koto club. “Sakura, I know you had many people come up and confessed to you so when I did try, I was glad that you didn’t give me a bullshit reason like you’re not into girls. You turned me down because you have someone you already love. I am thankful for your honesty.”

The biology teacher, Takahashi Kande. “Student council, thank you for your mental health program. As a single father to twins, I don’t have the luxury of time to sit in a couch and sort out my issues. To be able to do that in my workplace during breaks is a heaven-sent gift. You saved me and my family. Thank you.”

Many more messages came on, from a classmate she lent spare change to, from a staff she helped clean, from countless students who she wasn’t aware she gave kindness to.

“Why….” She asked breathlessly.

“You’ve been beating yourself lately. We thought you needed some reminding,” Sasuke muttered, under his breath, the bouquet still in his hands. “You left some pretty big footprints, Ms. Pres.

“You might not have noticed,” Naruto jested. “But this is always innate and natural to you, isn’t it?”

“Why did you bother so much?” She was reduced to tears.

“It was Naruto’s idea.”

“Huh? You did all the compiling though!”

“Shut up, it was me,” yelled the current president.

“Thank you, everyone.”

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

It was a weekend, but Sasuke requested Sakura and Naruto to meet him at the school gates. He only gave the time and place, and he knew well enough that they would be there – no questions asked.

They stood there, minutes earlier than planned, a first but nothing more unusual than homebody Sasuke asking them to go out on a weekend. Sakura wore an oversized rust shirt over a pair of muted cotton blue trousers tied with a brown leather belt and tan fisherman sandals, her long hair kept in one single braid at the back. Naruto probably expected a fancy lunch with his outfit – black silky long sleeves over gray pants and black loafers.

Sasuke, high on impulsive decisions, wore bright colors, a complete departure from his usual neutrals; mustard vest over a deep violet polo, baggy pants, off white converse, and a white fanny pack. “Well, we’re mostly dressed for comfort, except for that idiot beside you.”

“What do you mean dressed for comfort? I borrowed these loafers from my vice-captain and my feet aren’t used to them,” Naruto whined. “Besides, aren’t you taking us out to a five-star meal, Mr. Valedictorian?”

“Wow, what a way to show off.” Sakura pursed her lips in annoyance. “Don’t worry Naruto, I got your next café order.”

“Ah no. It was just something we heard from the grape vine.” Naruto scratched his head and carefully glanced at Sasuke. “Grumpy got his trust fund today.”

In bated breaths, they waited for him to respond with a scowl or a retort, but he just nodded. “Come on, we’ll miss the train.”

They traveled for three stations and disembarked on the fourth, Sasuke sandwiched in between the two, his shoulders pillows again to their heads and yet such burdens were light as cotton. The surfacing emotions since last week were taking hold of him, but he needed to pull through somehow because breaking down while commuting was one thing he did not really see doing.

“Word just got in. The house was turned over this morning,” Itachi told him over the phone.

“Impeccable timing when I’m also moving abroad next week.” Sasuke pulled out his Bleachers vinyl and anticipated another lonesome lull for the night.

“Do you miss the cream puffs?”

“Nothing comes close.”

“Hmm. I’ll pay for the rental fee of your car.”

In Itachi’s defense, while he was an afficionado of escapism, he also knew how to read between the lines. “Watch me get a Mercedes-Benz.”

“I have a good driving playlist.” This only meant math rock, and Sasuke wanted something to scream his lungs too.

“Don’t need one.”

“Treat your friends to dinner, okay? Gotta go.”

“We’re walking?!” Naruto almost limped out of the train. Sasuke took one look at his heels and saw that they were bruised red. He took off his converse and socks and gave them to him.

Sakura whipped out a small first-aid kit and covered the rash on Naruto’s heels. “Hey don’t look at me like that. Brought it just in case we’re going on a day survival tour. A camping would be nice too.”

“Did you scrub your feet, idiot?”

“You think so low of me grumpy. Of course – last week!”

With Naruto now comfortable, the three resumed walking on the unfamiliar residential area. Sasuke gestured for them to enter a bamboo forest on the far side of the main road. Hidden in the shadows of the clumped stalks were a small opening, the growth hampered and ground rid of grasses and weeds; many people have also chosen this shortcut, walked through the forest, did a little nature bathing, and emerged behind the bakery, still there, still standing, still operating.

Sasuke tapped on the large glass window cum counter on the front and bought three sets of cream puffs.

“Oh, it’s you,” the old baker greeted. “You brought your friends over? You always buy one set.”

Sasuke offered her a smile, briefly glancing to his periphery where Sakura was fussing with Naruto’s feet, and nodded as he accepted the paper bag. “It’s on the house, kid.”

“You brought us to stalk someone’s house?” Sakura dug in one paper bag, bit the puff in one bite, and with full mouth, she sighed. “This is heaven.”

“It’s our old family house, before the accident that is.” Sasuke also took out one puff and munched on it, ruminating on the sight before him, a two-story house with an imposing façade, his mom’s climbing hydrangea gone and cut by the new owners, beds of roses and daisies already withered, but the wisteria tree on the vacant lot beside continued to grow and shade what he supposed were the children’s rooms. It was in his third bite that he saw the tomato fruits he planted, alive and full with harvest. “Do you think my parents know?”

Naruto slid an arm across his shoulder and grinned sheepishly. “Then they would be happy ghosts or maybe they would voluntarily move away to give the new owners the opportunity to make it a happy a home like yours.

“What part are you gonna miss?” Sakura asked, halfway through her set of puffs.

“The sight of the wisteria before I sleep and after I wake up, and the sunlight in my parents’ room. My dad liked to make these suncatchers for my mom. The play of light was a good morning greeting, she said.”

“What’s your funniest memory?” Naruto sat on the grass, uncaring for the stains that would taint his good pair of pants.

“It was probably Christmas when I was seven, and Itachi had this big idea to bake a cake, but he swapped the sugar for the salt and we were wondering why it wouldn’t make a custard. Our parents still ate it, saying it was a very salty version of dark chocolate cake.”

“It was a good home,” Sakura patted the space between her and Naruto and Sasuke sat down cross-legged too, dipping his hand on the paper bag with the last cream puff.

“It was a good home,” Sasuke agreed as he bit into the last vestige of his family memory. He was suckling the powdered sugar off his fingers when he realized he was already crying, and the two were downright sobbing on his either side.

Such an embarrassing sight to see; he wondered what would the new owners feel if they looked out their windows this instant and saw three teenagers breaking down on the road across. It was honestly stupid and laughable to a point, considering how funny it was for grief to become lighter when someone else cried with him.

Naruto was sniffling so much that he had to offer his handkerchief to him. “I forgot to tell you guys. Hinata confessed to me during the cultural festival.”

“Oh my god. What did you say?” Sakura took a tissue out of her bag and dabbed her eyes. She flashed an apologetic look to Sasuke who already offered his hanky to Naruto’s fluids.

“Ah, what else? I had to reject her.” Naruto sneezed on Sasuke’s handkerchief again. “I told her I was in love with someone else.” He slyly glanced at his raven-haired friend and pursed his lips which Sakura quickly caught.

“Who is it?”

“Sasuke also likes someone.”

“Shut your mouth, blondie. Point is already moot. Besides, we’ve already been rejected.”

“Who are these people and why don’t I know them?” Sakura genuinely looked offended. “I could have vetted them!”

“Exactly why it was fortunate you didn’t meet them,” Sasuke said as an excuse though he pegged Sakura for not being that naïve. She, thankfully, let it go and gathered their trash. She dropped the bomb as she was brushing the grass blades from her trousers. “My parents are divorcing. Such a travesty not to have them show up on graduation day, and I thought I did a great job.”

The two, ever so sure, held onto her hands in case she was trembling again.

“Let’s get that five-star dinner,” Sasuke suggested, “and we need to rent a Mercedes-Benz.”

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

Graduation Day

“Let’s welcome to the stage, class valedictorian, Uchiha Sasuke.” Kakashi was the officiating faculty today so she expected difficulty going through the event, but for some reason, he slipped into her mental back burner, no longer taking up room in her active consciousness. That was a good step, she smiled to herself. Her smile became wider as Sasuke got up the stage.

His fans club’s cheers were heard outside the auditorium, and the graduating class chuckled at the quick interruption. He cleared his throat and started his piece.

“Please get it on record that I was coerced to do this speech. Then again, I also had a hand on the turn of events that led me here today, in front of you. And it’s a little too on the nose, but I came to high school with a clear set of goals – have high grades and lead an uninteresting life. I accomplished the first one rather easily, and it’s a good metric for the future that’s upon us right now. Good grades land us good colleges. Good colleges land us good jobs. Good jobs land us good life.

But it’s not the sole benchmark as I have learned lately. You see, my second goal really missed the mark. Good life can also mean good friends, fun experiences, a caring environment, a complete family. If you ticked off each one, then that’s very notable. You have the four-leaf clover, and it’s a rare blessing. I only ticked off three, but that goes without any regret. If you only have one silver lining in your high school memory, then that makes us all the more human. And if there’s none, there is still is still a whole stretch of possibilities we can discover to find one. Thank you for your kind attention.”

Sakura was pretty sure she heard several sniffles across the student body. “The bastard delivered a good speech,” she muttered to herself.

“We would like to welcome our first national MVP, Uzumaki Naruto.”

Outside, the school band played the cheering anthem for his last national games. The cheerleaders also did a routine in tribute to him. That made him well up when he got to the podium.

“Wait oh my god, I’m tearing up so much.”

Sasuke grunted loudly and went back the stage to hand him a handkerchief which Naruto quickly used to wipe his snot.

“Thanks Sasuke. How can Kakashi-sensei let me follow after that rousing speech, and before Sakura too. It’s kinda evil.”

Laughter broke out.

“Well, this one’s a bare minimum. I didn’t have any goals or expectations, unlike genius grumpy over there. I just wanted to live my life like an ordinary boy. Someone said that how you spend your day is how you live your life so I did just that – ate ramen, slept in class because I am a growing kid, and played each arcade game until I won them. I also believe in serendipitous – thanks Sakura for this word, for the spelling and meaning – serendipitous coincidences. I just pitched and batted for former captain Haru one afternoon and now we landed in the national finals. I had loneliness for a friend, but now I’ve got all of you. And you know what else, the magic of working together. We wouldn’t have stepped foot in the nationals if it weren’t for your collective help. When we work towards a common goal, that also gives us common happiness, right? It’s infectious, a bouncing energy that gets thrown around and still makes it one piece. So wherever you will be after this, believe it!”

When Kakashi called her name next, she thought she was deaf, the noise around her collapsed in muted decibels. It took a minute before her fellow classmates shook her and motioned for her to quickly come up the stairs. Her silver-haired teacher looked so concerned in the shadows, but for what it was worth, she was civil and calm enough (at least in the matters concerning him) to nod at him in quiet exchange of assurance.

It was because she saw both of her parents at the side with a bouquet of roses. She struggled with the paper she brought with her although she had it memorized in her head; she even went through it flawlessly for three times last night. Tears blurred the words and the mere shock of the sight of their togetherness disabled her mental function to string coherent thoughts. She also started hyperventilating, her breaths coming faster than what her lungs could pump.

Then she felt Kakashi’s hand on her shoulder, a steady presence, and it reeled her back to reality. He tapped the mic and the feedback echoed. “Ah, Ms. Haruno had some technical issues. Again, let’s welcome former student council president, Sakura.”

Sasuke and Naruto in the front were almost standing, but she flashed them a smile as if to say she was okay now. “Hello, good day to our honorable guests and graduates. I think it’s safe to say that Sasuke and Naruto provided really good words of advice. So I have nothing more to offer, but to share my gratitude. Everyone was saying the student council did a good job in its programs, but it was actually the lot of you who made this possible – from your activity suggestions to participation and feedback. After all, you were the makers of your memories.

Earlier last week, my councilmates and friends reminded me how small actions go a long way – a smile, a wave across the hallway, a short exchange of good morning and see you soon, and I thought, aren’t we all just an accumulation of these small, little things? As such, it was what you think your insignificant moments were that pushed us to deliver you the best. It was the passing comment, the top-of-your-head tips, the interlude stories we hear during lunch breaks that allowed us to give you grand gestures and memories we hoped were worth keeping. And if we could start to use that perspective as well in our lives then maybe the uncertainties of a future wouldn’t be so heavy on us. We will face tomorrow with a lightness in being.

In behalf of the student council, thank you for allowing us to serve you.”

She bowed at a level where her torso was almost aligned at her hips, and she was confused with the lack of reaction. Sakura sighed, mulling over the deficiencies in her speech, but she straightened her back to a sight of a standing ovation and a thundering applause.

Then, she let her tears fall.

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

“Why would you let Kakashi-sensei take the pic?” Sakura hissed at them.

“Just this one time, Sakura!” Naruto grinned.

“Sakura, you’re out of the frame,” Kakashi remarked. “Okay good. Say cheese.”

In spite of her recent heartbreak with him, she permitted herself to bask in fleeting cordiality. “Cheese.”

“Grumpyyyyyy.”

“Idiot blondie.”

Kakashi took three more shots and handed the camera to the trio. He almost turned away when Sakura caught his sleeve.

“Just one more,” she said. “With you.”

Sakura shifted to the front, almost kneeling with the camera angled for a selfie, her two friends beside her looking equally annoyed as the other, and Kakashi behind them, his hands on either head, smiling with his deceptively charming beauty mark.

It was the last picture of their high school life.

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

The three were rushing through the airport crowd fifteen minutes before the immigration closes gates.

“Here!” Sakura slid a folder on the large pocket on Sasuke’s bag. “It includes your passport, your flight details, your valid IDs, your itinerary, and letters from us! Don’t forget our Friday video calls!”

“I can’t see. These tears are bullies,” Naruto said through tears. He was continuously wiping his eyes with his sleeve.

“And If I don’t get on my flight because you made us eat ramen for one last time and the orders took too long, I’m gonna have you cursed by a witch and a shaman!” Sasuke growled. The guards were starting to close the gates when a sobbing Naruto sprinted and basically tackled the guards on the floor.

“Sasuke come on, hurry up!”

“Drink your vitamins! And if you miss cream puffs, I’ll teach you how to make them.” Sakura was trying hard to keep pace with Sasuke’s brisk walking, but she ended up breathless anyway.

The three of them finally reached the immigration entrance, and Naruto was profusely apologizing to the guards for the interruption. Sasuke showed his documents, wheezing as they looked at it. They gave him a thumbs up and opened the gates.

The two were already slumped at the floor, waving without words, and exhausted from the clock race. Sasuke was almost through when he remembered something he forgot. He muttered a quick sorry, ran through the opening, and hugged his two friends.

“I’ll miss you.”

3 Times Virgil Came Out to Others + 1 Time Someone Came Out to Him

I am aware that I am a few hours late, but this is the longest oneshot I've ever written

Day 3: Coming out

Warnings: Food mention, talk of sexual attraction (In regards to asexuality), anxiety, disassociation (brief)

Summary: In which the story gains a plot ft. fluff and hurt/comfort

Word count: 4025

Read on Ao3

Masterlist

1.

Virgil hadn’t been this terrified in a long time. He knew that being gay shouldn’t be that big of a deal, in regards to his two gay fathers, but he couldn’t stop the terrifying thoughts from running through their head.

What if they thought he was too young to have figured himself out? They were only fifteen after all. Is he even sure they're gay? And what would they think about the pronouns thing? Vigil had no idea where their dads stood on transgender rights.

They had planned to do it after dinner. That way he could have one last dinner of peace in the unlikely event of something going wrong. It's more likely than you think they’re gonna kick you out, you’re gonna have to live on the streets

Emile had made spinach lasagna that night. Virgil’s favorite. But he could hardly enjoy it due to the nerves stirring in his stomach. Instead, he moved the food around on his plate and attempted to pay attention to the conversation occurring before him.

He believed his dad was telling some dramatic story about some lady that came into the coffee shop. They normally would be completely invested in that sort of thing, but they just couldn’t focus with all the thoughts running around his head.

What is he gonna do if he gets kicked out? They can’t live on the streets. He can barely work a stove. How would he live on his own? Maybe Remus or Janus would take him in? No, they have their own problems. They shouldn’t burden them with his own problems. But how would he-

“Virgil? What do you think?” A voice cut through his spiral.

“Hm- wha-?” Virgil couldn’t recall for the life of them what he was supposed to be responding to. He looked up to see his parents both looking at him concernedly.

“You feeling okay, hon? It's not like you to space out like that,” Emile asked.

Virgil winced. He had to learn to be less obvious to when they were stressed. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just a little tired.”

They still looked doubtful. “Are you sure?” Remy raised an eyebrow.

Virgil nodded and tried for a small smile. He didn’t think it was successful, however, when his parents exchanged a worried glance. His leg bounced slightly under the table. Why couldn’t they relax?

Emile started to collect the dishes but paused when their eyes landed on Virgil’s still-full plate. He glanced again at their husband, and then their son.

“Maybe you should head to bed early tonight. You hardly touched your food. You might be coming down with something.” Virgil saw Remy stand up as his Papa spoke. He offered them a hand.

“Babes, I think that might be a good idea. You’re looking a bit pale- well, paler than usual with all that foundation you cake on. Don’t think I don’t notice.” Virgil blushed, slightly. His experimentation with makeup had been one of his ways to tone down their glaring masculinity.

In response to the first statement, maybe it wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world to put this off another day. They weren’t sure they had enough energy or confidence to go through with this. With a little hesitation, they grabbed Remy's hand and hauled himself to their feet.

Emile smiled sadly at their son’s submissiveness. He had to have been really tired with the way his eyes kept wandering. They abandoned the dishes they were holding, grabbed his other hand, and started leading Remy and Virgil upstairs.

Virgil blinked and suddenly he was in their room. They sat between his parents on his bed. Emile had them leaning against their side as Remy rubbed soft circles into his back. His eyes darted around in confusion.

Remy glanced down and let out a sigh of relief. “Welcome back to this plane of existence.”

Emile smacked their husband lightly. “Sorry baby, we didn’t want to leave you alone while you were disassociating.” Virgil’s eyebrows furrowed slightly. They didn’t remember going into an episode.

Remy kissed his forehead and stood up. “We’ll leave you to your peace now. Let us know if you need anything.” Emile began to follow.

Virgil bit their lip. Was he really going to go through all this stress just to chicken out? He took a breath. He was strong. They could do this.

“Wait,” they called out, lightly. “I need to talk to you about something.” His parents halted in their place in the doorway and came back to sit next to them.

“What is it, babe? Did something happen?” Remy grabbed one of his hands.

“No, not exactly,” Virgil said. His breath was starting to stutter.

“Take your time,” Emile said, softly.

Virgil attempted to calm their breathing. It's highly unlikely that this will have a bad outcome, half of his brain rationalized. They are gay themselves, after all.

Yeah, but what about the pronoun thing? The other half argued. You have no idea what they’ll think of it.

Virgil took another deep breath and opened his mouth to speak. They may as well start with the easy one. “I’m… I’m gay.”

Remy placed a hand on his chest and sighed dramatically. “Oh thank god,” he exclaimed. “I’m not sure I could have handled it if I had to raise a straight son.”

Emile smacked him again. Virgil winced slightly at the word ‘son.’ Remy seemed to notice his discomfort and scooted closer. “Of course we love and accept you and everything, but that's all kind of obvious considering, well,” he lifted his hand as wiggled his ring finger, “Is there something else on your mind?”

Virgil nodded, “I, um, want to start using different pronouns. He/they.”

Emile lit up. “Ooh, we can match!”

Virgil’s head shot up. “What?”

Both Emile and Remy looked confused for a second before a horrifying realization dawned on them.

“Did I- never tell you I’m non-binary?” Emile asked, tentativly. They were sure they told Virgil at some point.

Virgil couldn’t help themself. He started to laugh hysterically. After a moment their parents joined in.

“I’m sorry- I just- I’m fifteen years old and you never thought to tell me that vital piece of information?” Virgil wiped tears from his eyes as he continued to giggle.

Emile was bright red. “Trust me, I’m mortified.”

Remy groaned. “That makes two of us.”

Virgil snorted. “I was so worried about how’d you react and this whole time you’re the same thing.”

“Oh honey,” Emile exclaimed. “You should never be worried about telling us something. We support you no matter what.”

“Of course,” Remy added. “What kind of hypocrites would we be if we said otherwise?”

Virgil pulled them both into a hug. “You’re the best parents anyone could ask for.”

2.

Sanders High School had an interesting dynamic. There were two main groups that everyone at school was invested majorly in. Most, if not all, of the gossip in school was directed at them. They were envied. They were hated. They were idolized. They were the closest thing Sanders High ever had to celebrities. The Dark Sides and The Light Sides.

Everyone that saw them would assume they were the rivals. Bickering and prank wars were constant. Classroom debates between members could last hours if not moderated. Each group consisted of three members.

First up is Roman Prince, the flamboyant jock and theater nerd. He was the first kid at school to break through harmful gender stereotypes. Before he came to school, any boy that joined theater was seen as weak and nerdy. Roman was the first openly gay kid on the football team- as quarterback no less- and the first jock to join the drama program. He was unapologetically himself in everything he did. He often came to school in skirts and dresses and there was rarely a day he could be seen without his signature red lipstick. Despite his smashing of stereotypes, Roman is the only cis kid in both the light and dark sides (not that everyone is out to the school like he is, or even to each other). He has the most social media followers out of anyone in the school, and was the one to first publicize the two groups. Roman is a proud member of The Light Sides.

Next is Patton Hart, the bubbly, adorable student council president. Everybody loved Patton and they loved everybody. Patton is one of the kindest kids in the school. He’s always willing to drop everything to help somebody or cheer someone up. They met Roman when they were young and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Some might say they’re dating, but a select few know otherwise.

Last in The Light Sides is Logan Berry. Logan is objectively the smartest kid in school. He is rumored to be taking all AP classes. How that’s possible, no one knows. Everyone knows that Logan will be Valedictorian at the end of the year. There’s no other logical choice. Somehow, even with all that, they also manage to be co-captain of the debate club. Patton and Roman somehow managed to rope them into their small group sometime during elementary school. Again, how that’s possible, no one knows. Logan is extremely stone-faced to people they're not close with. Some think he might be a robot with how emotionless he is most of the time. Those people, however, have never seen him with a jar of Crofters. (But if they knew their secret, everyone would think so).

Over in the dark sides, we have Janus Lies. Genderfluid icon. Their coming out started a revolution of sorts at Sanders High. So many kids came out as non-binary or genderfluid or something in between, the school ended up getting rid of gendered bathrooms entirely. A new genderfluid locker room was built in the PE building and the academic teachers revised their gendered way of teaching. But, back to Janus. They were the most sarcastic person you’d ever meet. So much so, it became difficult for people to tell if they were telling the truth. Their trademark hat and gloves stayed on no matter what the occasion. They also co-captained the debate club with Logan. They grouped together with Remus and Virgil before anyone could remember, including the three dark sides.

Remus Prince, twin of Roman Prince, is the extremely crude drama student and class clown. They are known for their dark sense of humor and sexual disruptions of class. The teachers have learned to just ignore them, as countless trips to detention were fruitless in correcting their behavior. Although they privately came out before Janus, they were more private socially when it came to their gender. Until that is, Janus came out and was accepted. After that, Remus showed no limits in expressing themself.

Lastly, there is Virgil Picani, the emo nightmare themself. He is in almost every club at school, including but not limited to drama, debate, GSA, writing, and volunteering. His sarcastic personality is no stranger to anybody, although it is much more subdued than Janus’s. Virgil came out to Janus and Remus before he had even fully figured himself out yet. He had not, however, come out to any of the light sides as gay or genderqueer.

And that brings us to today. As mentioned earlier, anyone that saw the two groups would assume they had a strong rivalry. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth.

The reality is, although they did start out as rivals, the six of them have a strong friendship. They keep up the facade of competitors for sake of reputation (and a little fun never hurt anybody). Once Roman and Remus had gotten over their sibling rivalry, the six of them had discovered that they shared many of the same interests. They started hanging out after school and now it is rare to see one of the group without another.

Virgil knows that he has nothing to worry about. Roman is gay, and both Patton and Logan already use he/they pronouns. They accepted Janus and Remus without question. It won’t be any different for him. All they actually had to do was tell them.

But here lies the issue. Virgil thought they had already. It wasn’t until the first day of pride month that he realized their mistake.

They decided to make pronoun pins for all the kids in GSA. So, naturally, he made one for himself as well. They weren't publicly out yet, but it was perfectly okay for them to wear them inside the safety that was the gay-straight alliance.

Virgil was struggling to attach his pin to their shirt when Janus came over to help. Virgil noted the blue bracelet. Janus looked surprised as he read the contents of the pin.

“You told them?” He asked, incredulously. “I thought you would tell me when you finally did it.”

Virgil was confused. “What do you mean? I came out to them… shoot.”

Janus snorted. “You totally don’t need to tell them. This isn’t getting out of hand at all.”

Virgil blushed red. “I honestly thought I did! I’ll do it now, okay?”

They didn’t wait for a response before marching over to Roman, Logan, and Patton and dragging them outside of the classroom. He ignored the curious looks of their classmates, most likely wondering what they were fighting about this time.

They closed the door behind them and looked around quickly, making sure there was no one else around. He turned back to the group that was looking at him, slightly concerned.

Virgil rolled their eyes at their expressions. “Oh calm down, I just forgot to tell you something, is all.”

Logan cleared their throat and straightened up. “And that is?”

“I genderqueer, he/they, and gay.”

“Yay!” Patton exclaimed and pulled him into a hug. “I’m proud of you for being yourself.”

Patton pulled back and Virgil caught the expressions of the other two. Logan was looking at him with a delighted expression on their face. “I had my suspicions.”

Roman furrowed his brows. “So did I, but I must ask, why wait so long to tell us? Surely you knew that we would accept you wholeheartedly.”

Virgil snorted. “I actually did the same thing my Papa did with me. I thought I told you all ages ago.” They all laughed at that.

“We should probably get back,” Logan remarked, “Thank you for trusting us enough to tell us this.”

3.

Virgil felt nervous, but not extremely so.

He knew nothing would go wrong. So many kids had come out in the past year at Sanders High, the school had made pronoun pins mandatory to avoid misgendering. All they had to do was wear the new pin he had grabbed from the office the day before. He also planned to wear a rainbow shirt to identify themself as the flaming homosexual he is.

The only real thing they were worried about would be the gossip surrounding them for the next week or so. Someone coming out is hardly a rare occurrence, but they were one of the most popular kids in school. He was certain that there were at least a few bets going around school on whether they were queer or not. To be fair, he was the only member of the Light and Dark sides to never confirm any rumors about gender or sexuality. And it's not as if he’s really hid anything. He’s just never confirmed.

But they’re ready to change that. They pull on their rainbow shirt, do their makeup slightly more dramatic than usual, and debate for a moment over the plaid purple skirt his dads had gotten him a few years ago. It matched his usual hoodie perfectly, but he had yet to wear it outside the house. There was no reason not to wear it. Why not spend his first day publicly out AGAP (as gay as possible)?

They arrive at school with an air of confidence around them that he hadn’t felt in a while. As he walked through the hallways, he saw a few looks of disappointment, but most were of excitement and joy. They caught a few thumbs up and cheers in the crowd as well.

He found the other two members of the Dark Sides standing at Virgil’s locker, both wearing identical looks of pride as they stared at him. They walked directly up to the pair, smirking slightly. Once he was within earshot, Remus grasped their head with one hand and Janus’s shoulder, striking a dramatic pose.

“Do you see that Jan Jan? Our little slime monster is all grown up!” Virgil rolled their eyes at their best friend’s antics. Janus lifted their wrist to show off her pink band. Despite the new rule about pronoun pins, Janus still kept her bracelet system in place. She claimed it to be simpler and more efficient.

She slung her arm around Virgil’s shoulders. She leaned in and said in a low voice, “I really am proud of you.”

Remus jumped on his back. “That makes two of us!”

+1

Virgil had always enjoyed Logan’s company. They were the only person out of the group of six that allowed him some peace.

He could also be a captivating conversation partner. Listening to Logan ramble on about whatever he was currently studying was one of Virgil's favorite pastimes. The way his eyes lit up when you asked him about something they were interested in was adorable. And his voice would take on this gorgeous tone to it that Virgil knows not many people get to hear.

Their weekly study session was the thing that Virgil looked forward to the most. Every Thursday, they get to spend hours in a room with the most beautiful person he knows. They love the way Logan will straighten his tie or fix his hair even when they’re both immaculate. He loves the way they slowly and patiently explain the answer to something Virgil gets wrong, never criticizing them or getting frustrated.

Virgil may have developed an itty bitty crush on them over the years.

Not that they will ever tell him. They don’t even know where he stands on sexuality. He has only been open about their gender. And he doesn’t want to complicate their relationship for the sake of some silly crush.

The two of them sat in Virgil’s room doing homework. Logan sat on their bed, while Virgil had opted for the floor. They had hardly spoken a word to each other in the past few hours (a normal occurrence for their weekly get-togethers), but Virgil could tell something was bothering Logan. They’d been fidgeting for the past hour or so, and had seemed tense and nervous all day.

Virgil placed their bookmark into his book and groaned loudly. “If I have to read one more word of this, I think my eyes might literally start bleeding.”

Logan also marked their page before looking up. “That is highly unlikely. The amount of force that would cause one's eyeballs to ‘literally’ start bleeding is far more than would be caused by eye strain. Additionally, subconjunctival hemorrhage has not been linked to overuse and is instead usually caused by some sort of trauma to the eye. So unless you are planning to hit yourself in the face with the book, it will not cause your eyes to hemorrhage.”

Virgil huffed a laugh, internally cooing at how adorable they are when explaining something. “I guess you’re right. I can’t read anymore though.”

Logan cleaning their glasses on the edge of his shirt. “I agree with that statement.”

Virgil looked at him closely. Cleaning their glasses is a sort of nervous tick for him. And they had done it multiple times in the last hour. “Okay, what's going on? You’ve been nervous and weird all afternoon.”

Logan cleared his throat. “Nothing of importance.”

“So there is something!” Virgil exclaimed.

They blanched. “No, of course not. What would be wrong at the moment?”

Virgil gave them a look. “I never said that there was something wrong.”

Logan stood up quickly and started gathering his materials. “Well, it’s getting late. I must head home now in order to be at dinner at an adequate time.”

Virgil grabbed their arm. “Wait, Logan, there’s still hours until you need to leave. If you really don’t want to talk about whatever’s bothering you, we don’t have to. But if you do, I’m here and ready to listen.”

Logan shot them a grateful look. “I truly appreciate that Virgil. I will keep your offer in mind.”

They resumed their study positions and all was silent for a few minutes. Virgil couldn’t keep their mind off of Logan. He hoped that whatever was troubling him could be resolved easily. He didn’t want him to be distressed.

Eventually, Logan stiffly placed his books beside him and turned to their study partner. At the shift in movement, Virgil also put away their materials and prepared to listen, moving to sit next to them on their bed.

“I would like you to not speak until I am done speaking if that is acceptable for you.” Virgil immediately agreed. They would never interrupt him when they were having such a serious conversation.

“My sincerest gratitude. I-” Logan paused. They took a stuttering breath. Virgil reached out and took his hand, attempting to provide some form of comfort.

“I am not a robot. I know that there are some that may think otherwise. Aside from the vast technological inaccuracies in that statement, contrary to popular belief, I do have emotions. I do experience love. Just not in the same way as others do. From a young age, I have known that I have felt no sexual attraction. The idea of sex repulsed me far more than I can explain, even past the age of maturity. I have no desire to love anybody in that way. And I never will.

“I was under the impression that the same went for romantic attraction. I had never felt any sort of romantic feelings for a female. But recent… variables have shown me otherwise. I do not feel any romantic attraction for people of the female gender or sex. I do, however, experience attraction to people of the same gender. These people fall under the male and non-binary spectrum. In conclusion, I am asexual and homoromantic. I am finished, you may speak now.”

Virgil was delighted by the news. They had just confirmed that his crush could possibly be attracted to him. They didn’t care about the asexual part. It changed none of his feelings towards the academic prodigy.

They made the mistake of staying silent for a moment too long. That became evident when he looked at Logan’s face. Any positive feelings he had melted into concern.

“Oh, Lo,” they said softly, “You’re crying.” He brought his hand to Logan’s cheek and wiped away the silent tears that had trickled down with their thumb.

Logan's voice wobbled as they spoke. “My apologies.”

“No,” Virgil cooed, “you have nothing to apologize for. You’ve done nothing wrong. You’re accepting yourself and I am so proud of you for that.”

That seemed to be all it would take for their dam to break. Soft sobs escaped his mouth and he brought up a hand to try to muffle them.

Virgil made a sympathetic noise and wrapped them up in their arms. He cupped the back of Logan’s neck with one hand and used the other to rub soothing circles into his back. Logan gripped their hoodie tightly as they cried into their shoulder.

Virgil whispered quiet words of encouragement to him. Eventually, Logan seemed to finally be calming down. His tears dwindled into quiet sniffles and they sagged into his chest. The emotional exhaustion of the day in addition to the exergy expelled by crying made him unbelievably tired.

Virgil shifted the two so they were lying down on his bed, Logan cuddled against their chest. They could feel his breaths evening out rapidly.

Virgil pressed a small kiss into his forehead, wishing more than anything that they could do it when Logan could remember.

Let me know if you want to be added to the non-existent tag list!

𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐨𝐝 𝟏𝟑

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 𝟔𝟐𝟒𝟒

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞

𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝟏𝟑:

You pressed your lips together, staring at the board with a look of boredom and displeasure. There was an itchy feeling in your chest, it made you feel deeply uncomfortable. It’s almost as if today was going to be one of misery, you couldn’t tell if it’s just some sort of psychic reading or it’s because you have a test soon, it may even be both. You sighed and resisted the urge to lean your chair back to stretch, but the teacher was going over something important about the test.

You turned to the side, seeing Tohru fidget with one of her pencils to calm herself about the upcoming tests. She was wearing a new ribbon today. It was a soft shade of blue that had bits of lace on its edges, did she recently buy that? You wondered if she would get tutored by Yuki like he said they do, the upcoming test would be for math. It must be nice to have someone constantly tutor you and helping, but you quickly tried to dismiss this idea as a selfish need. Yuki was kind enough to help you with math the other day and you didn’t want to take advantage of his skills or generosity.

You didn’t need anyone or anything in this life if it meant making others happy.

You were better off alone and that is the truth, you thought. If you were God’s Messenger, perhaps your first message should be to announce the disbandment of the Zodiacs, maybe that would give equal freedom to everyone but yourself. You didn’t know exactly what the Zodiacs were going to do when they were free, but they could live their lives as regular animals with a stronger sense of friendship. You really didn’t know exactly what would happen, but it was simply a thought.

You yawned into your hand, feeling small droplets of tears forming at the corner of your eyes. You eyed Yuki silently, noticing the way he continued to tap the tip of his pencil against his paper as he rested his chin on the palm of his hand. He was extremely hardworking despite not wanting to clean his room. He is really cool, you thought. He smiles so often to the other girls in the class and can interact with them at a certain distance, whenever he was in a good mood he would shine even brighter than he already is, it was almost blinding, to say the least.

His eyes were a nice shade of grayish blue as well. They rarely ever looked strange underneath the light and they expressed so much of himself that you felt a bit envious. You nibbled on the bottom of your lip, you were starting to feel bad about yourself in class just because your eyes weren’t as good or pretty like Yuki’s.

You sighed and tried to write in your journal to keep your mind away from it. You noticed the small crease in one of the older pages, knowing that you rarely ever fold the paper or damage it, it was slightly suspicious. It seemed to be on the page when you came over to the Sohma household, did someone go through your journal? If so, when did this happen? Before you could explore this thought the sound of the bell rang echoed in the room, dismissing all of the students at once.

You almost forgot that you had to do your rounds today around the school for the committee, luckily you went through your previous pages to see that you had written yourself a reminder. As you were packing up your belongings, Yuki came to your side, already finished with his own things. You suppose that he wanted to do the rounds around the school with you this time instead of usually splitting up.

“You look better today, (L/n)-san, just a bit tired though.” He commented, your face turning away from him as you quickly packed your things into your bag.

“I suppose so. Where would you like to go first?” You asked, already knowing that the two of you needed to make your rounds at school.

“We could try the first couple of floors together and make our way up.” He responded, giving you a smile with his familiar grey eyes shining underneath the classroom lights.

You pressed your lips together in slight jealousy but nodded, “sure. We can go now.”

Yuki noticed the small pout on your lips during class but decided not to comment on it, finding the situation strange to explain if he were to talk about it. You were looking much calmer on the outside today, but he thought that you might have a whirlwind of thoughts by the way you continuously wrote in your journal. He wondered if what he said yesterday was affecting your mood.

“(L/n)-san, something is still bothering you despite our conversation yesterday.” He commented, “do you. . . Feel like I’m not really your friend?” 

You halted your steps, the two of you standing in the hallway only a few steps away from the classroom you exited. You didn’t know exactly how to respond to his comment, there was not much to say and you didn’t want to bother him with something dull like your problems. 

“It’s not that. . . I don’t want to raise concerns, I’m fine.” Before you could continue walking he tugged on your wrist, keeping you there.

Before he could say another word, you silently ‘booped’ his nose with your index finger. His cheeks turned a bright shade of red as you turned away from him.

“Relax Sohma-san. I’m fine.” You gave him a teasing smile before continuing to walk down the hallway.

Yuki sighed in response as he held his hand up towards his face, the unexpected gesture from you being unfamiliar as his cheeks slowly calmed down. He quickly walked to catch up to you, choosing to trust in your word that everything was alright.

While you still felt the ominous telling of the future, you thought to be on edge. You hoped that Yuki hadn’t noticed it but it seems as if he really wanted to be your actual friend. You tightened your grip around your journal as you both walked around the school in relative silence. 

You didn’t know exactly why being real friends mattered to him, he could easily make other friends that were much better than you, much easier to manage and easier to talk to. You dolefully stared at each of the classrooms and halls, doing your duty while minding your own thoughts. 

You were so gloomy. 

You frowned in response to your own comments before turning to look at Yuki. His beautiful eyes and soft hair, those fluttering long eyelashes, it was hard to deny that you were envious to the bone. You constantly compared yourself to him, the thought making you feel worse by the second. You grit your teeth, the action going unnoticed by Yuki as you both walked up the flight of stairs. 

Was it truly worth worrying about something you couldn’t change? 

You spent so much time worrying about yourself instead of actually wanting to protect others. . . You were. . . Too selfish. No matter how beautiful the outside of Yuki’s eyes were, there was always this hint of sorrow hidden beneath the color. You connected with him in a way, a subtle feeling but it still existed like a small string looped around your fingers.

Perhaps he could be the Rat to the Eagle’s destiny. 

Maybe he already is. 

You should try to open up to him, you thought. Instead of constantly worrying and thinking about the problems you may never fix or find resolve in, you could help someone else and see them smile as brightly as you wanted to shine. To erase the sadness that burdens the rat. . . That’s the job of God’s Messenger. 

There was this feeling of hope blooming within your chest.

You are the Eagle in the story.

The two of you finally approached the other floor, noticing Tohru being surrounded by a familiar group of boys from the Sohma family. While Kyo stood by her side while scolding at Momiji for his poor taste in clothing, Haru was standing there casually, his choice of wardrobe being nearly as bad as Momiji’s. You wondered if it was an inherited trait in the Sohma family to have poor taste in clothing or they were rebellious children who wanted to wear their own clothing. Everyone other than Yuki had a strange sense of fashion, but it wasn’t far fetched to say his choices are not weird as well.

Haru quickly notices Yuki coming up the steps, ignoring your presence as he went up to grip at Yuki’s sides. You wondered why he and the rest of the family constantly ignore you but you chose to believe that it was because you were an outsider. 

“Sheesh, I can’t believe you’re wearing that Momiji. Haru, you too.” Yuki said, the white-haired male staring at him, clearly tuning him out for a moment.

“Yuki-kun, (Y/n)-kun, are you both done with committee work?” You raised your eyebrow, noticing the sudden change in the way Tohru addressed Yuki. She was actually calling him bt his given name for once. Perhaps they really did get much closer in the past couple of days. 

The tinge of sadness poked at your heart, but you couldn’t understand why.

“No, not yet. We were doing our rounds at school and just happened to come across the two of you.” He responded, referring to the two rule-breaking students that couldn’t follow the dress code properly.

“Hey, Tohru! Guess what? I got told not to run around or horseplay at school because I might crash into a girl! So while I’m at school, I’m gonna play it cool!" Momiji added, gathering the rest of the groups' attention onto you, the outsider who heard this suspicious line. 

“Cool?! Is that outfit cool?!” Kyo shouted back. 

You stood there blank, not really knowing what to say. It seems as if they weren’t allowed to physically hug any girls at school, which does correlate to Yuki’s strange habit of pushing other girls away. 

Are the Sohma family. . . Allergic to girls? 

You deadpanned. 

“Your dubiousness is justified, Sohma Kyo of Class 2-D! Your orange hair bothers me, but a boy wearing a girl’s uniform is unprecedented! Brazen! Shameless!” The brown-haired upperclassman with his other council members stood beside him, all three of them wore classes, which you thought was an interesting thing to point out. “The teachers may allow it, but I will not! For I am student council president Takei Makoto!“ 

Crap. . . You thought, it’s Takei Makoto. 

You and Yuki facepalmed, trying not to get involved in this strange situation you were both tangled up in. More specifically, Yuki, as this was his entire family being criticized underneath the student council president. 

“Another idiot appears,” Haru comments. 

Takei raised his voice, stepping just a few feet away from Haru’s face, “just what do you think you’re doing, Sohma Hatsuharu? Your hair is white! And you’re practically jangling with jewelry. The audacity!”

“President Takei, that’s his natural hair.” Yuki clarified, holding up his hand to create distance between him and his cousin.

“Oh, Yuki-kun! (L/n)-san! How nice to see you both! But more important, natural?! Part of it is black!” Takei’s eyes seemed to have grown into hearts as he looked at both of you, finally acknowledging your presence. 

“Even so. . .” Yuki continued. 

You almost forgot that this student council was also highly infatuated with Yuki, similar to the way everyone else is also into him. You wanted to massage your head as you felt a migraine growing at the sound of his loud voice. 

“I don’t believe it! It goes against common sense!” He retorted, getting even closer to Haru’s face to examine his features. “Now what’s the meaning of your appearance? Is that your natural self, eh, Sohma Momiji?! Have you no male pride? If you’re like this at your age, your life is on the fast track to failure!”

“But. . . But this uniform looks better on me!” Momiji’s eyes began to tear up as you pressed your lips together into a frown. 

You quickly stepped between both of them, stopping Tohru in her path and pushing Takei back a few centimeters from Momiji. 

“That should be enough from you, President Takei.” 

Momiji’s eyes widened, seeing your intimidating presence being officially recognized to the entire group, your cold, harsh glare staring straight into Takei’s lens covered eyes. Takei seemed flustered at the sudden intrusion but he quickly adjusted his glasses on the bridge of his nose. Your eyes sharpened slightly as you focused your attention on the upperclassman in front of you, you certainly didn’t want to hear him degrade another student’s future.

He began to grit his teeth as he adjusted his glasses frames once more, trying too hard to look cool, “with all respect (L/n)-san, how could you stand by this rule-breaker?! Don’t you think he has no sense of pride?!” 

“I don’t think it’s much of an issue. If he feels the most comfortable, then that is what matters,” You addressed, crossing your arms across your chest, “our job here at school is to make the students feel safe and welcome, I doubt giving them an earful would help them.” 

“That is true! But we have specific rules that we all need to follow! I respect your opinion here (L/n)-san, but-”

“Shut up. Quit playing king of the hill, you human trash.” Haru interrupted. 

“Wh-wh-wh-what” Takei stuttered as Haru grabbed him by the collar of his shirt. 

“Oi, Haru!” Kyo shouted, trying to pull him away from Takei. 

“Fine, let me ask you: are guys wearing neckties never muggers? Are guys without piercings never bullies? Do guys with black hair never murder people?!” Haru violently shook the poor man around, his brain easily turning to mush as if it was being stirred around like a smoothie, “who do you think you are, eh? God? Well, ain’t that something! Give us a few words! God! Go on!”

You could see Takei’s soul slipping away from his body as Haru continued to shake him. 

Kyo gripped onto Haru’s shoulder, stopping him from turning Takei into some sort of drink by the excessive amount of shaking, “oi, cut it out! He’s got no training!”

“Butt out you stupid cat!”

“Don’t call me stupid you damn brat!”

“Oh? Don’t act like you’re so great! You ran from our last fight with your tail between your legs!” The two of them crashed against each other, their forehead grinding against one another as they stared at each other with a heated gaze. 

“You’re the one who called that fight off!”

“What are you on his side?! You think he’s right!?”

You clicked your tongue before shoving the two of them apart, “what are you two? Children? Knock it off.” You glared at them, causing both of them to cower down and turn their heads away from you, the argument settling down as quickly as it started. 

It was odd to see Haru not comment against you, but it seemed like even your gaze affected him. He quickly made his way to the other council members who were trying to bring Takei back to life, his body dangling lifelessly in their arms. 

“Hey, ladies,” Haru greeted.

“Don’t drag them into it. . .” Kyo said, his hand on his forehead as his brain started to ache at Haru’s nonsense.

“What do you think? Take Momiji there—don’t you think he’s fine in that uniform? He’ll grow eventually. What’s the harm in waiting to dress like a man until then? He’ll be a real looker, trust me.” The other girls turned their heads to see Momiji happily enjoying the candy lollipop he had in his hands. 

They quickly imagined a much older boy, his curly blond hair, and eyes becoming more mature as he gave the girls an imaginary wink. “He’s fine.” The girls responded, holding out their hands to worship the shorter boy.

“Don’t let him brainwash you!” Takei quickly stood up, still trying to defend his own point of view against someone as stubborn as Haru. “Wh-Wh-What’s the matter with you?! This is unheard of!”

“It’s always best to wear what looks good on you, huh? It’s like (L/n)-san said, whatever makes you comfortable!” Haru patted the top of Momiji’s head, the smaller boy feeling content as he continued to suck on the lollipop that he pulled out from his pocket.

You raised your eyebrows once again, you didn’t quite understand Haru’s behavior. There were moments where he would become calmer and then go back to being heated the next second. You were more surprised to hear that he actually addressed you by name this time.

“Unacceptable! That’s pure selfishness, and unfair to the other students—“

“You just won’t quit. Okay, then, what if Yuki wore a girl’s uniform?” Haru suggested. 

Takei went through a moment of shocking realization, his mind immediately picturing Yuki in the girl’s uniform, calling out his name in his girlish voice.

“It’s fine.” He responded, tears streaming down his eyes as he pictured such a glorious image.

You visibly cringed, “what? That’s disgusting.”

The rest of the group stared at you in shock, not knowing that you felt such strong revulsion against the idea of Yuki wearing feminine clothing. Yuki felt the most surprised, hearing you voice your own objection regarding his outer appearance. 

Could you really blame yourself for disliking the idea of forcing Yuki into girly clothing? It looked greatly uncomfortable and it made you sick seeing him constantly put up with the school for his image.

“Wh-Wh-What?! (L/n)-san, are you saying that Yuki-kun would look disgusting?!” Takei shouted, holding up his hand in a tightened fist, trying to preserve the image of Yuki in a girls' uniform in his head. 

“It’s gross. Could you stop making him uncomfortable by putting him in girl’s clothing?” You stared at him, disinterested in hearing the rest of his opinions, “don’t you ever think about what he has to say? Sorry President Takei, but it’s disgusting to even see.” 

Yuki clutched onto the sleeve of his uniform, feeling a sense of warmth eluding in his body as he heard you continue to bicker with Takei about him in a girls' uniform. At first, he thought you had called him disgusting but it seems much clearer that you acknowledge Yuki’s discomfort in being misgendered. Despite your harsh tone, it sounds as if you genuinely cared about his wellbeing more than he actually knew. His cheeks felt slightly hot as he watched you continue to tell Takei to quit harassing the students. 

He had his doubts earlier when the two of you were walking together around the school. He often wondered if he was the one being the horrible friend by constantly putting you off, or even hiding things that put pressure on your relationship.

You tilted your head over your shoulder, giving Yuki a look of understanding and a small, subtle smile. You watched as his cheeks heated up before you turned away. 

You made him felt as if there was someone who understood him.

Your cheeks felt hot to the touch. You didn’t know the exact reason why you blurted out such things, but it felt. . . Relieving? It felt nice being able to express your true thoughts and finally relieving Yuki of his image of “princess”. While Takei and Haru argued about the decision of clothes, it made you wonder about the way Yuki felt being forced into girlish clothing. You had already known from the start, based on the doleful look in his eyes that he never enjoyed any part of the school festival when dressed as a girl. 

You could understand that feeling. You didn’t like the idea of being forced into clothing that didn’t represent who you were. You felt much better voicing your objections. It’s a nice feeling, it was as if heavyweights were lifted off of you when you were finally able to say something for the sake of someone else.

Perhaps there is more to this than you realized. 

“O-Oh, dear. I seem to have gotten carried away!” Takei turned around and adjusted his glasses with his finger.

“You’re a formidable opponent, Sohma Hatsuharu and (L/n) (Y/n),” You restrained a yawn as Takei spun around and pointed towards Haru, “can you prove that’s your natural color, then?!”

Haru held up his arms as he relaxed his head against them, his laid-back personality starting to frustrate Takei, “sure can.”

“Oho, you have proof? Hard evidence that—“ Before he could even continue his sentence, Takei was forcefully dragged into the nearest boy’s restroom, “um. . . excuse me. . .?” He stumbled on his feet, his sense of balance warped as Haru tugged on his clothing.

The two of them disappeared into the bathroom. There was a short period of silence before the echoed screams of Takei bounced off of the walls and into your ears. Tohru squeaked in surprise while everyone seemed unaffected by the turn of events. In a few minutes, Takei stepped out, taking off his glasses as his face was pale with shock.

“Incontrovertible proof. I see I still have much to learn about the world,” He commented.

Haru shortly followed after, his face showing a smug and cocky smile.

Did he show him? Kyo thought.

He showed him, Yuki responded, almost as if they both had telepathic minds to read each other’s thoughts.

Pervert. You stared at the two of them with a confused look.

“You win this time! But I’ll get you all next time!” The student council members quickly fled from the scene while Haru stayed smirking, the feeling of pride and victory flowing through his veins.

“Did you actually show yo—“ Kyo wrapped his hand around your mouth, quickly silencing you. Your voice became muffled underneath his hand. 

“D-Don’t say it! Moron!” You resisted the urge to punch him but he removed his hand before you could even raise yours.

“Um. . . How did you prove that was your natural hair color?” Tohru asked, staring at Haru with a puzzled look in her eyes.

Yuki and Kyo went pale as Tohru asked such a strange question in her aloof personality. You wondered how dense Tohru was to not know how to prove one’s natural hair color, it was already suspicious enough considering that Haru dragged Takei into the bathroom.

“Wanna do it and find out? I’m in if you are.” Haru pulled Tohru close to him, his hand gently caressing her cheek, “it’s fine, we don’t have to be hugging each other to—“

Before he could even get another word into the explanation, Yuki and Kyo punched him to the ground, the two of them huffing either in anger or tiredness. 

“Dark is the one guy I can’t handle. . .” Kyo scoffed.

“Never mind. Don’t worry about it, Honda-san.” Yuki responded.

You wondered why they referred to Haru as “dark”, maybe it was simply because of how easily his personality changed to someone casual to serious. He was quite odd, to say the least. 

“I’m kinda tired now,” Haru responded, his hand gripping onto the sore spot of his head. He seemed to have calmed down and his voice sounded emotionless. 

“Oh, yeah? You’re tired, huh?” Kyo groaned.

The sound of the school bell ringing caught all of your attention, you now realized that you and Yuki actually didn’t finish your rounds around the school as you spent most of your time here.

“Ah! That's the bell!” Momiji called out.

“Would you be willing to meet my friends before you go home today?” Tohru asked, wanting to invite Momiji and Haru into a game of badminton after school with Uotani and Hanajima.

“Your friends? Sure, of course!” He responded happily, lifting his arms as he expressed his joy in full. “That reminds me—Hey, Yuki, and Kyo!”

“Could you stay behind? I need to tell you something.” He added. The two boys turned their attention towards Momiji.

“Then, (Y/n)-kun and I will go on ahead then,” Tohru responded.

“Sorry, Tohru.” Momiji apologized, only to be met with her shaking her head as she told him that it would be fine.

You nodded before leaving with Tohru, the two of you silently walking down the stairs, leaving the Sohma family to deal with whatever conflict that may have arisen.

“Ah, sorry for disturbing your duties (Y/n)-kun!” Tohru apologized, bringing her hands to her chest as she clasped them.

You shook your head, “it’s okay. I could always do them later today.”

You both finally approached the bottom floor as you continued walking down the path to your classroom. You noticed that the cherry blossom trees were in full bloom today, you silently admired them while Tohru continued to think about the Sohma family.

“You both look like you’re having fun.” A familiar voice called out, you and Tohru slowly turned to face the unknown person.

His dark hair flowed with the wind, the cherry blossom tree’s petals falling from the sky like snow.

“A. . . Akito-san. . .?” You muttered, your eyes widening at the sight of him at the school, his wardrobe still as plain as you last saw him on Valentine's Day.

Tohru flinched at your reaction, unsure about what to say or feel.

“It’s nice to see you again, (L/n)-san. . .” Akito said, slowly approaching you and Tohru. “It feels like I haven’t seen you in forever.”

You’ve only seen him last time on Valentine's Day, which wasn’t even that long ago. Despite the dullness and emotionless look in his eyes, he stared down at Tohru with a focused gaze. The shorter girl panicked on the inside but tried to remain calm.

“Are you. . . Akito-san?” Tohru asked.

“That’s right. . . Honda Tohru.” He responded, his voice much dryer compared to when he was talking to you.

Tohru felt a jolt in her body as she quickly bowed down in front of him, “I’m very pleased to meet you!”  

Tohru looked intimidated by him. Your eyes turned towards Akito who was still looming above her figure, watching and studying each of the muscles that she moved. You didn’t understand whether or not Tohru had connections with Akito, her reaction to him seems as if she knows something.

“Well, you strike me as feminine and gentle.” Akito commented, referring to Tohru, “thank goodness you seem to be a good person. And most importantly, you’re quite cute.” He smiled.  

Tohru straightened her back, flailing her arms around in embarrassment, “what? Oh, no, you flatter—“

Akito laughed, the familiar tune of his voice giving you slight shivers down your spine, there was something unsettling about his tone towards Tohru, “don’t get flustered. You really are cute. Sorry, it took me so long to introduce myself. I’m just rather shy of strangers.”

Thats odd. . . He was the one to talk to you first, even though you were a complete stranger to him. You pressed your lips into a thin line, was he lying?

“Akito-san. . . What are you doing here?” You asked, trying to piece together the situation in front of you. Akito looked back at you and smiled, reaching out to your cheek to stroke it slowly.

“I only wanted to see the two of you of course. I heard many great things about Honda-san.” Something about his tone didn’t seem right to you. It made you feel a bit strange on the inside. “I know I haven’t kept in touch with you in a while. . . I’ve been quite busy.”

Your eyes trembled underneath his gaze, the touch of his cold hand contrasting the warmth of your skin as you both stared at each other. You still didn’t understand why Akito would be here, none of what he is saying made any sense to you whatsoever.

Unbeknownst to the three of you, Yuki’s eyes widened at the sight of Akito holding onto you, his hand pressed against the window before he sprinted down the stairs.

“How are you doing (L/n)-san? We should communicate more often you know.” Akito asked.

“I’m. . . I’m doing fine.” You responded, pulling away from his grasps, “there isn’t much going on.”

Akito hummed in response, feeling unsatisfied by your words. He quickly stepped back a few feet, “well, let me formally introduce myself to both of you.” 

“I’m Akito, the current Sohma family head. Pleased to meet you.” He introduced himself with a small bow.

Your heart dropped as you felt yourself almost losing your grip on your journal.

He‘s. . . Part of the Sohma family? Your blood felt as if it had been frozen over, the shock coursing through your veins as you looked at him in disbelief. He was related to Yuki all this time? When you first saw his appearance, it wasn’t just a coincidence then. . .

“I’d like for us to get along well. . . And please take care of Yuki and the others.” From the corner of Akito’s eyes, he could see the way you looked back at him in confusion, your brain trying to rack up any sort of information between your encounter to find a reasonable explanation for everything.

Such beautiful eyes. . . He thought, feeling the sense of joy and pleasure as he ravished the look in your eyes. There was something so satisfying seeing you make a similar face to Yuki, it might even be a better reaction than him.

“Akito!” The sound of Yuki’s voice interrupted the tense atmosphere.

“Ah, Yuki!” Akito called out, you spun around to see Yuki’s distraught expression, his eyes beginning to tremble at the sight of him.  Akito opened his arms out, “I’ve missed you, Yuki! You know, it feels like it’s been forever since I last saw you. You’re looking grown-up and taller—“

“What did you do?” Yuki cut him off, “what did you say to them?!

“Nothing. I was just saying hello to an old friend and Tohru-san.” Akito turned around to face Tohru, “right, Tohru-san? Wasn’t I just saying hello?”

The tension in the air continued to grow as your nails dug into the material of the journal cover.

An old friend? Yuki thought, turning his attention onto your figure that Akito was associated with. When did the two of you meet. . . ?

“Um, yes!” Tohru responded, feeling unsure about what to say in the situation. She could feel the tension in the air, as Akito confronted Yuki while in your presence.

“More importantly, Yuki. . .” Akito went back to Yuki, stepping in front of him as Yuki tightened his fist, “. . . there’s something I really want to ask you.”

Akito reached out to caress his cheek, similar to the way he treated you as Yuki’s hair strands flowed over his knuckles like a stream of water. The look of fear and terror reflected in Yuki’s grayish orbs, the irises trembling as much as his body was.

“Why did you skip New Year’s? Why would you do that? And when I’ve become so generous lately, too. When you do things like that, it seriously hurts my feelings.” Akito stared at Yuki with a menacing glare.

New Year’s. . .? The time of the Zodiac banquet. . .? You didn’t understand why your brain made that connection, but there was something so frightening seeing Yuki stand there petrified.

You didn’t understand.

You clenched the area around your heart, the feeling becoming painful like thousands of spikes piercing through your organ.

“Do I have to reeducate you, I wonder?” The shine in Yuki’s eyes completely disappeared, leaving only a dark and dull look in them, “in your special room? Will I be forced to spend long days teaching you proper disposition again?”

Akito traced his finger against Yuki’s lips as Yuki tilted his eyes away from him, trying to avoid his deathly gaze. His body was violently trembling as Akito continued to press him further.

Special. . . Room?

“I hate you. . . I hate you!” She smacked you across the face before throwing the porcelain bowl against the floor, the material shattering in front of the altar of God. The bowl nearly missed your eyes, causing your mother to violently scream and tug at your hair.

“This is all your fault! I hope you rot in hell! Here, in this very room!” She pulled on your (h/c) strands with enough force to pull out the longer, looser strands. “You’ll disappear in this room! Just like God said you would!”

You tightened your fist and your body reacted unconsciously, ripping Akito’s hand away from Yuki as you stepped in between them. Your body snapped in reaction to the two words Akito mentioned. His eyes widened at your sudden objection, feeling betrayal and annoyance running through his body.

“That’s enough, Akito-san,” You grit your teeth, “stop it already.”

“Is something wrong (L/n)-san? I am merely talking to Yuki.” He asked, his smile still plastered on his face.

“He doesn’t want to talk right now, so. . . Drop it already.” Akito narrowed his eyes at you, this was not going as he expected, however, he was thoroughly enjoying the look in your eyes at this moment. The look of despair in your eyes giving him the same feeling of euphoria. 

“Sorry, I’m going to take Sohma-san to the nurse. He said he was feeling sick earlier,” you lied before looking at Tohru, “go back to the classroom Tohru-kun.” 

Your eyes were no longer the shade of (e/c) Tohru recognized. It was much colder, emotionless, and filled to the brim with hidden pain. They no longer held any semblance of humanity left in them, it was almost as dull as Yuki’s. She wondered how much suffering you endured to match the same intensity as Yuki.

You gave Akito one last glance before grabbing onto Yuki’s wrist and pulling him away from the scene.

“Yuki, I hope you have a fun school life here.” Akito called out, “it’d make me happy if you came to visit sometime soon.”

You only ignored his words and forcefully pull Yuki away. He let you freely drag his body towards the nearby secluded cherry blossom tree, his mind still not being able to rid itself of the painful memories that resurfaced as he remained unfocused of his surroundings. His eyes began to water as he tried to blink them away, trying desperately not to cry out in public. You gently pushed his body to lean against the tree, your form kneeling beside him as you slowly brushed back the strands of hair blocking his face.

You wondered what brought this feeling in your heart. There was something about the look in his eyes, your mind and heart screaming to reach out to him. They were pounding desperately against your door to rescue him from something you both wanted escape from. They wanted something you were destined to do.

Your hands were warm, Yuki thought. This was the first time you’ve shown an intimate gesture in front of him. Your body felt nicer against his skin than it was with Akito’s cold fingers, it was bringing him slowly back into reality as his eyes continued to fight against the growing tears. You were truly a warm person inside.

It was showing at this very moment almost as if the key had unlocked your doors.

You noticed the small droplets of tears on the corner of his eyes, his fists still tightly clenched together. He looked like a fragile animal, one which tugged at your own emotional strings. You reached out to wipe at them before standing up and pulling your sweater off of your body.

You placed the top of your sweater on his head, shielding him away from the rest of the world from his pitiful crying. You gripped the edge of your skirt, the fabric wrinkling underneath your fingers.

“I don’t know what your relationship is with them. . . I’m not the best at comforting other people either. . . But it’s okay,” You didn’t know if these were the right words to say, but you watched as he tightened his hold on your sweater, “It’ll be okay in the end.”

You gently patted the top of his head, the fabric of your sweater creating a barrier between your skin and the softness of his hair. He stayed silent, unresponsive to your words. Your heart yearned for freedom in the eyes of others. 

“That room. . . You won’t go back there anymore.” You spoke gently, almost like a whisper, his body beginning to release the pent up tears that flowed down his cheek but were masked by your clothing. “I promise you that. . .”

“I won’t let you go back there anymore.”

Those were simple words that expressed the feeling in your heart.

You figured out what you wanted and needed to do in your life. It was to play the role of the Eagle you desperately wanted to be, one to fulfill and shoulder the burden of those you swore to protect, even if it meant promising your loyalty to God.

There was no more fretting about what you needed.

Pov #3: Highschool Snow Trip Childe x Y/n Part 1?

Ship: (Gender Neutral) GN y/n x Childe

Fandom: Genshin Impact

Warning: Swearing

"I cant wait for the trip to Dragonspine!" you said to Lisa.

"I dunno girl, I'm not a fan of the cold..." the book worm said.

"Aaaawh, I'll make sure you will get a seat next to Jean on the bus and that you will be put in the same room~" you bribed, "Just make sure you hand in your note." With this Lisa's eyes glinted.

"Really!?", she asked.

"As Madame Student President, I can pull some strings for my bestie." you said smugly.

"Thank you! Your the absolute best!" Lisa thanked, "But now you need to keep an eye on your boyfriend. You don't him getting bored and starting a fucking fist fight on the bus. But don't do anything too enjoyable with him just yet~"

"Lisa, what the actual fuck!?" you exclaimed maybe a little too loudly, catching the attention of a certain mischievous ginger teenager who started t make their way over to you.

"What's the matter girlie/buddy/prefered?", Childe said resting his head on your shoulder and embracing you from behind.

"Nothing, just talking about the trip to Dragonspine.", you reply.

"About that, you are sitting next to me on the bus, no arguments or the person taking my spot will be put to sleep before the bus even starts." he said with a cold smile.

"Don't worry (insert nickname for Childe) that wont be happening ok?' you said to him, slightly worried, "Class is about to start and you're not skipping today."

"Yes ma'am." he said, kissing your neck, then left.

"Don't make the comment I know your gonna say." you said glaring at Lisa.

"Fine."

-Time Skip to Dragonspine Bus Trip-

After getting onto the bus and doing a headcount, you sank into your seat and waited for the last students and for Childe. While you were waiting, you heard a the ruffling of clothes and felt somebody sit next to you. Their presence was cold but safe.

"Hello there Madame Pres", the person said.

"Sorry but somebody is sitting there, can you please move to another seat." you asked and turned to face them.

"Oh, I'm sorry Madame Pres but I don't think this person is here yet so can I ask you something?" the person that you now recognise as Kaeya. But out of the corner of your eye you can see Childe walking out of one of the school buildings.

"What is it, and please make it quick for your sake" you said in a hurry.

"Why should I?", Kaeya said flirtatiously, the only reason he was doing this was because you and Childe haven't come out as a couple yet so in Kaeya's eyes you were still single. Kaeya was dangerously close and Childe was still making his way over to the bus.

"Anyway, I was thinking, why don't you go out on a date with me?", he said seductively and moved in closer to your face, "I could give you a taste of what you could have if you say yes." and with that he pressed his lips against yours. Your eyes widened and you tried to push him off you but he was too strong and you were pinned against the window. Suddenly he was pulled off you and you heard the sound of his body being thrown against the floor. You looked up and saw Childe looming over Kaeya, emitting an intimidating aura and holding him by the collar of his shirt with his fist raised. He was going to beat the shit out of Kaeya if you didn't step in. What happened next surprised you even more than Kaeya kissing you.

"If you're gonna hit on someone make sure they're fucking single!", he spat at Kaeya after slamming his fist against his face. "And that goes for everybody on this fucking bus. Y/n is MINE!" he announced then sat into the seat beside you and pressing his lips against yours, savouring your taste. After pulling away from him you got Barbara, a frequent infirmary volunteer, to help Kaeya.

This trip was supposed to be a break from burdens and hopefully it will be if nobody else acts up.

To be continued, I will continue this series if this post hits 10 likes.

Check out my other fan fic / headcannon "Confession" a Diluc x Gender Neutral Y/n story.

Part 1 https://nightmareeclipse1.tumblr.com/post/660197649184702464/pov-modern-highschool-au-yn-x-diluc-confession

Check out my other fan fic / headcannon "First kiss" a Childe x Gender Neutral Y/n short story. https://nightmareeclipse1.tumblr.com/post/660014399743033344/pov-1

GEEK CHARMING: MARK LEE

pairing: mark lee x fem!reader genre: rom-com, fluff, angst, comedy info: high school!au, film-club-kid!mark, diva!reader, non-idol!au, mentions of other members (principle!sicheng, car!jeno, student-body-president!doyoung,  film-club-kid!johnny, film-club-kid!jungwoo) synopsis: You are Yonsei Academy's peachy princess, having the best boyfriend, the most fashionable friends of mos, always updated with the latest trends in fashion. But you come face-to-face with your own personal creature-self-professed film nerd, Mark Lee, when you scratch your Holli crystal-embellished ROSANTICA purse. In exchange for her purse repair she let Mark film her for his high school popularity documentary. Reluctantly, you let low-class Mark into your A-list universe, and you are stunned to discover that nerds can be pretty awesome at times. However when your pro-claimed, boyfriend charming prince dumps you flat, your life and social status drops. Would you still win Spring Formal Queen at Yonsei Academy now? Will Mark win the Annual Film Festival?  Could even you put together the pieces to bring back your happy-ever-after, with Mark 's help? warnings: swearing, mention of alcohol word count: 7.5k tag-list: @count-your-shadows​ @jimjamjaemin @minaczennie @renjunvinates @pervieve @rjoonie @marksrainbow@commentgirl @rarestgrace @08skrr @bangtanismylifw @traashytae @superheros-and-others @johnnysnipple @00-baejin-05

a/n: this is the longest writing piece i’ve written yet on this blog and it’s inspired by a disney movie?! behold geek charming starring mark lee. your local film club nerd entering the school’s prissy princess’s life but did that make her finally turn back from her arogant ways or did it make her more of a bitch!! >_< i’m actually so happy

"I'm proud to announce this year's Annual Yonsei Spring Formal Queen Kang-" 

"Hello? Y/n? Snap out of it." Your train of thought quickly crashed as you direct your attention to the student body president, Kim Doyoung. "Y-Yes?" You ask, straightening your posture. "I asked if you are applying for Spring Formal Queen?" He put a question to, waiting for a response. Viewing as you turn to Sooyoung, who delivers you a pen, jerking it out her hand, you grab the clipboard from the plastic table in front of you, signing your signature on to the paper. Making sure your sign was large enough to cover most slots of the page. 

"Toodles," You sang to Doyoung before you and the girls walk away. “Next!”

The three of you strut down the narrow hallway, Sooyoung and Yuna trailing behind you, "This year is going to be our year ladies," you look over on both sides to see them smiling wide grins enveloping onto their lips, as they stopped to walk at your pace, "Once I'm crowned Queen of the Spring Formal, it's guaranteed I'm the well-liked, prettiest and just overall the best here at Yonsei," you finish halting your steps at the door frame of the cafeteria. Looking over your shoulder, you make a gagging motion with your finger to the pack of hungry students. In front of you three, you decide to walk through the tables showing the two lingering behind how you'd win the students' heart if you already haven't.

Walking by a table with miniature stage set-ups, you see three students huddled together revising a script "Drama kids," You start "They'll be an easy vote seeing how they just adore my dramatic gestures," Making your way down a couple more tables "Film club nerds..." You start to roll your eyes coming up with a reason why they would vote for you. "You're like a movie star to them," Sooyoung quickly interjected watching as your flip your head to pose.

You stride down some more, "I can't believe you used to be friends with Shin Ryunjin." Yuna throws in as you walk by the stage crew table. "I know right," Sooyoung agrees. "It's a burden I carry, but at least I traded up to you two." You say earning beaming smiles on both sides.

"Y/n!" Someone called, skipping happily towards you. It was Jisoo. "I got bangs since you said they would suit me! I couldn't agree more, thanks!" She beams, "Of course, just want the best for you!" You smile, reciprocating the energy she gave off until she walks off to her friends. "See? People know I care. This will be a piece of cake."  You said before stopping in your tracks to see, Jung Wonyoung; your biggest competition at Yonsei Academy. Yuna and Sooyoung see you as someone superior to them (right?). As a higher-ranked princess here at Yonsei you shouldn't let such a wretched thing like Jung Wonyoung get to you, especially with that tacky head-band she decided to pair with her uniform. But what good candidate for Spring Formal Queen would you be without a little competition, winning was a given but winning unopposed is an embarrassment. The girls notice your stink-eye towards the table and rather than letting yourself get angered in front of your girls, you oppose chatting in the most unaffected way you could muster up. "Whatever, we all understand who's gonna be crowned Queen, why let someone who pairs blue polka-dot headbands with navy plaid uniforms get in my way?" They hum in response as you two make your way to the popular table.

Yuna and Sooyoung took their seats in front of Jihoon, your lovely, amazing, perfect boyfriend, as you walked around to sit next to him. "Hi baby," He said, which sounded scripted but, you paid no attention to since he was your prince charming! His looks over-looking his flaws, you leave a small kiss on his cheek before digging into your meal.

You are finished your meal, getting up and walking to the bin to throw. On your way back you- BAM! Right on the chest, you are greeted with the expired milk the canteen provides having it spill all over your chest,  drenched. "Ugh!" You cry, a boy in front of you with his lunch tray now on the floor, his hair scruffed up with a school-provided bow-tie. "You- You geek!" You bark as he is taken aback with his words, but he isn't afraid. "You are so gro-oss!" You shout emphasizing the word gross he's already tired of your shit and it hasn't even been a minute since your first encounter. Without hesitating he relates "Actually gross is one syllable-", "I don't care just go- just go read a book or something, you nerd!" You argue not wanting to hear what he has to say before marching away out the cafeteria.

The boy watches as you make your way out the commissary. He kicks his tray to the side, walking back to his table with a glint of annoyance struck onto him.

"Dark Victory of course. It stars Bette Davis, George Brent and most importantly Humphrey Bogart from Casablanca." Jungwoo said swiftly to the two geeks in front of him. Johnny, the only one of the three who could properly score a date with the popular kids started a debate on which film from the late 1930s to the early '50s was le Meilleur which is French for  'the best'. "Did you forget The Great Lie? Probably one of Bette Davis's only good films since she has co-starred with the one and only Mary Astor" He argues speedily. "Hello??" Nayeon says budding in between, "A Stolen Life will remain the best film from the 40s, 50s, and possibly forever I will and could go on about-", "Looks like Film Club's assistant president finally showed up," Johnny says cutting off whatever nonsense Nayeon probably had to add to their already ridiculous conversation. "Sorry, I got stuck in traffic with Yonsei's little princess," Mark says with an obvious eye-roll.

"Watch your words Markie,"  Jungwoo quickly told him. "Her dad-"

"Who funds 75% of the school!" Johnny added, Jungwoo turned to his side giving an annoyed stare before looking back in front of him to Mark. "Her dad who funds 75% of the school. Will ruin you if he gets notice of his daughter's uniform being spoiled with the cafeteria's milk from a film geek." He finishes sipping on his water. Nayeon turned to him, "He can get our club shut down within minutes Mark, watch how you talk to her." 

"So what? Like they'll even come close to us." Mark scoffs, "They're like a whole new alien species." The two in front of them nod, but Nayeon is a little too distracted with the tuna sandwich her mom packed her. "You guys is it just me or is the tuna moving..." Nayeon says slapping Marks forearm softly to grab his, then everyone else's attention. Just before she did Mark's attention was already taken by something- or should I say someone else. "Hey Ryunjin," He quickly says waving towards the girl walking by towards the exit, she turns around to wave before heading out. That's where Johnny inquired, "Face it. You and Ryunjin" He brings his hands up and around to make an 'x' with it, "Never gonna happen." He says watching his shoulders sag slightly, "You've been crushing on her since what? 8th grade, and having numerous occasions to ask her out and not doing so. You missed your shot awhile back unless we had a time machine you and name are a no-go." He finished now invested in what Nayeon's sandwich was up to.

"I-I'd go out with you!" Nayeon says dropping the sandwich into Johnny's hands. "Look, I don't even have time for dating why would I even ask Ryunjin out? I'm cool with being known by her. Plus there's no way I'd do it now, the school board's Annual Film festival is only a little over a month away, I'm our school's candidate how do I mess up because I was distracted by some girl with purple highlights" He said flat-out ignoring Nayeon. "That's true," Johnny says leaning in, "And you are our school best shot at bringing home that huge ass trophy, what's the other prize again?" Jungwoo said agreeing before taking a bite of his pasta. "It's a summer getaway to a Hollywood film camp, I gotta win," Mark said signing the application forms he had in his pocket. "I'm supposed to be a cinematic genius, so what better to do than murder the competition and bring home a trophy after going on a getaway trip to Hollywood to better my knowledge I'm gonna be like the Frank Capra or Victor Fleming around here!"

Johnny grabs Marks's application form to read the requirements, "You have to document something and make it worthwhile..." He read aloud, "What's the documentary about?" Jungwoo asked, "I have no idea." Mark said before snatching the paper. "He has no idea...." Jungwoo whispered almost inaudible in disappointment. Mark writes down ideas on the back of the paper while discussing it with Jungwoo, "So," Johnny starts, "Wanna go out with me?" He said. "No." Nayeon answers strictly as if she was waiting to reject the boy who's attention was back onto her tuna sandwich.

"Anyway, I gotta go hand this into Principle Dong." Mark said witnessing the awkward interaction before getting up and leaving the vicinity

He was playing with the hourglass on his office desk when a knock on the door was heard. "Come in!" He chirped and in came a student. "Ah, Mark." He sang motioning the boy to sit down while he took his legs off the desk. "Came to finally hand me those application forms I've been begging your little club to hand over I see." He said noticing the paper in hand. "Haha, Yea," Mark said avoiding eye contact as he brought his hand up to hand the paper. "Can't wait to see what one of my star students has prepared for the Festival." He said opening the folded paper reading aloud, "A documentary about how lunch ladies keep old food fresh, and our bellies full," His voice started off strong going quieter word by word, looking up at him. "Yeah, you know how the lunch ladies always give us the same green looking sauce every day, or the same batch of oatmeal cookies from months back, every time we sink our teeth into it. It tastes fresh! I've always wanted to know and I think it'd be a cool thing to find out" Mark your blabbering, Is what Principle Dong wanted to tell him so he'd shut up. He didn't want a lame documentary about something to make his school look bad in to be put out in front of dozens of other schools. "Mark." He stops the boy, "Your artistic vision is lunch ladies?" He asked. "Yes, NO! But yes? I'm struggling I can't come up with a good topic that's not gonna bore students and teachers." Mark said. Mr.Dong could see how strongly Mark expressed his struggles with a mere school contest, he probably wants that prize more than anything. He knows he shouldn't help him, since it'd be unfair but he wasn't gonna let him put out something that can ruin his reputation. "Stop playing safe Mark. Challenge yourself by widening your perspective maybe instead of documenting lunch and stuff that you know will bore people and try going after something to catch their attention." Mark's eyes slowly open as he looks up to Principle Dong nodding understandingly "Alright I get it, I get it" He says before clasping his hands together. Mr.Dong sees his improvement and instead of picking another student to compete he can rely on Mark who's now being ushered out the room by him, "Now don't forget I need a new proposal by tomorrow." He said before shutting his door.

"Dude I know exactly what Mr.Dong was getting at,"  Jungwoo tells him. Their school day was over about two hours ago and now they were at their part-time job, at Yong's, a popular little cafe in the middle of a jam-packed shopping mall. "Something challenging...like I don't know maybe a certain diva you encountered during lunch?" His eyes lit up, looking over his shoulder to look at a grinning Jungwoo who flipped his non-existent long flocks of hair like he was the diva. "You're a genius!" Mark said now ecstatic, but quickly going back to his little stressed self, "No, but then how am I gonna convince her?" He said placing his hand up under his chin. 

The bell rings by the entrance, which meant there was a costumer quickly brushing off crumbs from a cupcake he snuck in he turns around to see his proposal for the Film Festival itself. You looked different, you were wearing a pair of plaid pants with a tightly fitted black turtleneck, accessorized by dangling earrings, a heart pendant necklace and a simple gold chain. Your face was quick to cringe after seeing who was about to take your order, "Ugh It's you." You spit looking him up and down, he doesn't look too bad out of school you thought before handing one of the many many bags of clothes to your father's butler. "Here Minho, get a seat for us, please," You tell him watching him rush to one of the many empty seats. "Hi, Welcome to Yong's what can I get for you today?" Mark asked, tone sounding uninterested. "Shouldn't you be happy to see me? I am a miraculous sight for sore eyes," You said getting a half-suppressed laugh from Mark. "Anyway, I would like a grande green tea latte. one pump classic, nonfat, 6 enormous scoops of matcha, 195 degrees, and ABSOLUTELY NO FOAM." You finish, right before starting back up again, "And,  I would like a venti caramel frappe with extra caramel drizzle." You finish finally reaching into your purse to pull out your (dad's) card. When you go to hand the card you see not only Mark but also Jungwoo looking at you, mouths open, jaws almost touching the floor. "Did you not get it? Do I have to repeat my order or something?" You say with a hint of irritation, "Ah- No. Sorry it'll  be 15.50" Mark said averting his gaze from you.

After paying you, tell Mark, "bring it to my table will you?" before walking off to Minho.

"Dude go," Now's Mark's time to actually shine. He makes sure the drinks are perfect knowing ruining them could ruin his entire attempt.  He strides along between the tables finally towards your booth handing you both your drinks. But Mark just stood there, you motioned with your hand as you would to stray animals. "Why are you just standing there, go do your job?" You said already bothered, "Nope, I have a proposal for you.", "Whatever it is, No." You said not even wanting to hear what he's got to say, "I'm gonna ask anyway." He said towering over you and you seated butler. "I want you to star in my movie for the Film Festival this year," You look up, surprised an obvious smile dancing over your lips. "What's it about?" You asked still not sure, "You! I'll have to document your lifestyle til the Spring Formal." Mark said. You bit your lip not knowing to go through or not, but it was a nice ego boost, having someone film your daily life, letting everyone know you got the best friends and most fashionable friends, a prince-charming and a purse worth more than your teacher's salary. Jung Wonyoung, who's also a runner up for Spring Formal Queen having the football team paint her posters and make pins but what's that compared to a freaking movie documenting your life...Winning this year is gonna be easier than expected. "Deal," You said, Mark, cheers a little too loud before bringing his hand out to shake, you reject kindly before letting him know "Don't look like a freaking weirdo at school though. We can start tomorrow at lunch," You finish before seeing him run off to Jungwoo.

Finally home being able to rest from begin outrageously gorgeous today you skip down to your bedroom, hoping into the shower then changing into a more comfortable attire. As of now you were in the middle of your bed doing some homework before the phone went off, it was a notification from Ryunjin, she tagged you in an Instagram post of you and her when you were younger. Your mom took that photo on the first day of grade school back when you and Ryunjin were inseparable. Mom died later that same year and it was heartbreaking but you were stronger than that you knew you shouldn't pity yourself, or have others pity you simply because she passed away, she wouldn't want you to be like that. 

It was a brand new day and Mark was in the principle's office, don't worry this star is nowhere near in trouble when Mark hands in his proposal. "This is marvellous, I can see the growth Mark. Please keep me updated,"  Mr.Dong said watching Mark skip away cheerfully to lunch, where he'd meet you. Fridays at Yonsei were known as the only days of the week students didn't have to wear uniforms to school which often made them pull together a swagger (Johnny's words not mine) outfit for the rest of the school to see. Mark wasn't one to dress up on these days so today he decided to wear his black and blue striped t-shirt paired with black denim jeans,  his black hair parted in the middle this time. He did not look like a film kid. He looked like he belonged to sit beside you, "Hey" you were busy opening up your lunch when he stood behind you with his camera. "Oh-" In all honesty, you thought he'd be wearing baggy trousers and a worn-out shirt but you were filled with joy to see him looking presentable to you. "Hey, sit." You said to him, "I'm gonna just cut to the chase and record..." He said fiddling with the camera for a minute too long, "A few rules before you point that thing in my face," you started as he lifted his face to see you, "Absolutely no filming my left side, no hanging a minute later after filming I need you out of my sight when I hear you say cut." You were strict but not so sure if you meant it. He gave you a thumbs up before clicking record.

"So, Y/n why are you so determined to be Queen at the annual Spring Formal" Mark asked zooming in and out for a few seconds finally focusing, "Because it ensures permanent popularity and I can't fall from my throne can I?" You ask, "Aren't you already popular?" He asked looking up from the camera confused, "Companies at the top of the list don't need to advertise but they do it because..?" , "They need to stay at the top of the list," Mark says understanding where you were getting at. "Exactly, it's not easy to be popular like me nowadays," You say placing your hair behind your ear, "So not easy being like Y/n" Yuna said, Sooyoung agreeing. "Girls not now, this is my time-" , "Actually if they wanna add something they-", "Being popular isn't something you can just fool around with, it's like royalty to us hormonal teens. It's not easy, I gotta live up to these beauty standards, and be on my A-Game whenever." You finish. Not knowing what to say next you smile at the camera hoping Mark would do something- anything but suddenly your knight in shining armor is here- Jihoon takes a seat next to you. "Oh Babe!" You say kissing his cheek; making sure it was on camera. "Only 10's can get date 10's like Jihoon, we're perfect for each other!" You express, but Mark snickers to the scene unfolding behind you watching Yuna and Sooyoung roll their eyes at that certain sentence. "Are you coming to my game today?" Jihoon asked, before noticing Mark. "Why is there a fucking geek near us," He barks but you quickly come to the save. "Ji, we went through this. Mark here is going to be making a movie on how I win Spring Formal Queen." You say, gripping his hand slightly so he could get the memo. "He better not show up to my games", "Never, just eat." You said as he glares at the boy. "Alright, and cut." Mark said before getting up, "Thank you." 

"So...you don't have a job?" Mark asked filming you going through a bunch of clothes, you shake your head no. "You just shop til' you drop huh?" He asked amused at your simple lifestyle, "Of course, now don't come in here this is a school film." You said going into the change room. "Here she comes," You cheered (for yourself) minutes after changing into a short black skirt which was most definitely breaking dress code and a tight white long sleeve which had a deep cut in the back. Mark's mouth is slightly agape seeing you, you were gorgeous indeed he thought. "So tell me what it's like to be...." He trails off trying to find a synonym for the popular " Amazing? Well, there are levels of popularity, at the top moi, and at the bottom..you." You said giving him a grisly glare."Ou! Love these!" You acclaim to a pair of black heels, "Hate these." You say to a set of hot pink ones beside them. "I have two of these!" You declare cheerfully at a pair of white heels which shimmered with sparkles; definitely your style. "How do people get popular?" Mark asked, ignoring your admiration over ridiculously cruel footwear. "Well some are just born with it," You say then go in closer, covering your mouth in a whisper action, "But some gotta follow the diva's around for it." You said, clearly talking about Sooyoung and Yuna.

"Gonna try these on, out Geek," you said to Mark who was almost walking in there with you. "Oh- right sorry!" He said now moving over to your two (deemed) friends. "So, since she's not here... " Mark started  getting the camera up to focus on the two, "Do you have anything about Y/n you can spill?" He asked, "Like, does your popularity only come from following her around," Yuna was quick to fire back, "We may not be as popular as Y/n, but we do know some secrets..." She trails off letting Sooyoung start. "Like when Y/n doesn't get her way, she has the biggest hissy fit,", "And Jihoon is only with her cause he likes the attention, you know to she makes him feel better about himself," Mark couldn't understand how your two announced friends were fundamentally spilling everything about you to an insignificant camera and film nerd. "Behold!" You squeal opening the curtains, to reveal your outfit (which admittedly, had Mark's jaw drop). You were some-what dress shopping for the Spring Formal and you saw this magnificent dress, a silk orchid dress which fell all the way down to your knees frilling at the bottom. The right amount of skin and the right about of puff! You thought; pairing it up with black heels, "God, I look fantastic. What do you think?" You ask the three in front of you, "You-I think you look great!" Mark said the camera to his side, "Film!" You shouted suddenly, as he ponderously brought the camera back up. "Ladies?" You ask the two behind Mark, "You look so good!", "Agreed." They say. The four of you voted to get smoothies before departing and you were ever so willing to pay for all four, "So popular people can't hang out with... nerds?"  He asked filming you sip on the mango smoothie, "Of course we don't," He moved on, placing the camera down to take a sip out of his smoothie thinking there wasn't too much to embellish on, although you continue. "It's better that way, no interference. Why would a dime like me hang out with a nickel?"  You asked oh so wisely which made Mark mumble a WTF. "See, if you two were to go out... The school would go mad as a hatter and it's not gonna end well on both ends." Yuna adds you look to her in the seat beside you, giving her a warning look to 'not talk this is my movie' as she sinks in her seat. Mark sees the silence as an opportunity to ask a question from his cue cards filled with questions that would have something engaging, after finding something to grab not only your attention but the audience about to watch this's attention, he springs the question on you. What if you don't win Spring Formal Queen? "What if I don't? That's not a question, of course, I will? If I don't my life will be over!" You said sliding your drink aside stressing the word over. 

It was in the late hours of the evening and Mark was confined inside his bedroom, editing and stressing. How was this a high school documentary? She only cares about herself, 'fashionable' friends, and prince charming, in which two out of the three didn't even care about her. Maybe she's like this because of what it's like at home? He thought questioning about your at-home life was. Does she have a deep heart-aching past which makes her act like such a nuisance? Nah who am I kidding this isn't some movie. His night was mostly spent, under his blanket with a laptop screen shining into his eyes (probably the reason why he has contacts). 

Saturdays were beach days. That's what Jihoon always said. You'd meet him at the beach where all the (popular) kids from school would go on Saturday mornings, not to sun-bathe but to attend the main volleyball matches would be held. The teams were unauthorized, but for the student's entertainment, our Yonsei's official volleyball team would pick Saturday mornings for a friendly event against Joongdong High. You texted Mark beforehand to meet you there which took him a minute to agree on, but only if he brought his friends, Johnny and Jungwoo. "Hey, you're late!" You tell the boy who's jogging towards you with his tiny camera, you look behind him to see a taller fellow, "And you brought  friends..." You said uninterested and rather irritated, "I'm gonna help Mark, so you look extra beautiful today Y/n!" He quickly said chiming in; his effort in pleasing you was extraordinary. You give him a small smile before nodding. You look beside Mark to see a familiar face, "Johnny!" You cheer before embracing the boy, "Hey Queen Bee" He joked, as you slap his arm jokingly. You and Johnny's dads are business partners, which often made you two spend time together growing up so, in your world, Johnny was your only nerd. Mark just awkwardly stands the before Johnny scatters away with Jungwoo for soda cans, but Mark follows you. Mark was busy filming your little interactions with Jihoon before catching a glimpse of his Ryunjin. He thinks to himself, I can put the camera down for a second, before jogging to Ryunjin, who was getting a soda from the vending machine. "Hey," He said awkwardly. "Hi Mark, didn't come across to you being a beach guy..." She responded laughing at his getup in the hot climate. "OH, I'm just filming for Y/n." He stated catching 'O' shape form on her lips before they start talking casually. You back away, momentarily from the crowd to give yourself a little break, being gorgeous is a workout, you thought, before snickering. You look to your right to see Mark in the distance talking to a brown-haired girl, noticing the purple highlights, hidden between her locks, you realize it's not some rando,  it's Ryunjin. I have to get him out of there. You don't really think before grabbing a spare volleyball to flinging it over the crowd to Mark's head. Running over you ignore the girl aiding Mark, "Are you okay? You look okay. We don't have time for breaks." You said sternly before grabbing his arm and sprinting as fast as you could in a pencil skirt and orange stilettos.

"God, your so lucky I was your knight in shining armour out there. Saved you from your utterly wretched flirting." You tell Mark posing for the camera he set. "Flirting? What, no. Why would I flirt with Ryunjin?" He demanded panicked that you might do something knowing you. "Oh please, your crush on Ryunjin is way more obvious than Wonyoung's fake gold." You said adjusting the skirt you had on. "Can't believe I used to be her friend," You mutter, which he caught onto quickly, "Wait, what?", "Yea, in elementary but look at us now, way out of her league, she's almost at the bottom of the list with her, 'I'm in a rock band' getup." You spit before posing dramatically. 

You sit at the bench in front of the now, empty parking lot. Jihoon ditched you for 'pizza with the boys' to celebrate their victory along with the two friends who just needed to tag along for the sole purpose to tell everyone they hang out with the volleyball team during their free time. "Hey," Mark said sitting down beside you, "They left me and took my car." You say recalling Jihoon asking for your keys to drive to the pizza place. "Now I'm stuck here, do you have a car Mark, let's go somewhere." You whined quietly watching as Mark put his camera away, grabbing your hand to bring you away. "This is Jeno." Mark says, pointing to his Silver 1965 Oldsmobile, "He's getting old but isn't vintage a style you princesses adore?" He asked, chuckling before telling you to get in. "Spot on Film Geek!" You praise, before hopping in. You notice from the corner of your eye a group of kids from Yonsei walking by, you duck down, hiding from them "What are you doing now?" Mark asked confused, before noticing the batch walking down and taking a turn. "Okay Miss Popular, they're gone." He said a little insecure this time giving you a dry laugh. You notice from the corner of your eye a group of kids from Yonsei walking by, you duck down, hiding from them "What are you doing now?" Mark asked confused, before noticing the batch walking down and taking a turn. "Okay Miss Popular, they're gone." He said a little insecure this time giving you a dry laugh. The car failed Mark this time, and not wanting to break the already broken car he tells you "Let's bus it, this car isn't going to start anytime soon,", "What? No way I'm going inside a jam-packed van just for it to stop a block away from my place!" You argue. "God why don't you quit this diva act and just face were gonna walk back which is probably a little over two hours I know you won't ever do or take a thirty-minute bus ride which you should consider knowing your so-called prince took.", "What did you just call me? A diva? Hello?? I'm a star in your film!" You bark, now furious at the boy, "No. You are a stuck-up, arrogant, annoying brat who's in my film." He fired-back. No remorse at all. "You're-You're fired!" You shout. "No, this is my film you don't do the firing!" He said back, "Don't care, I'm the star here and I say you're fired!" You finish before he grabs your wrist, "Oh please I'm the only one who demands are going to be valid and I say you're fired." Mark finished walking away from the bus-stop down the street, leaving you alone and forced to call a cab.

Mark thinks he hit jack-pot, finally getting rid of you. "It's not too late to change projects right?" He tells himself on that gloomy Monday morning, combing his hair with his fingers in the mirror before going downstairs to eat breakfast. Here he was, eating a bagel in Principle Dong's office. "I'm afraid you can't Mark," He said towards the boy. 

"Hello! Yonsei!! It's me your future Spring Queen! Y/n! You want to better the halls of Yonsei? Vote for me, I'm sweet just like candy!!" You shout, the crowd you have in front of you, this was your way of campaigning. "Out of my way," Wonyoung says, grabbing the mic, to advertise and get people to vote for her. As per usual, she one-ups her opponent; you. "Oh my god, Y/n thanks for the advice on flirting, I finally got Wooseok to go with me for Spring Formal," Jisoo said, from behind making you turn with a happy smile, "So I can count on your vote?" Her smile faded quick, she mumbles a little something, before stuffing her face with the homemade cookie's Wonyoung provided, quick to run away.

It was almost the end of the school day and you were stuck in literature recapping on how to write proper paragraphs before your end of the year essay. You notice a semi-familiar face, Nayeon. You know she and Johnny are friends, so she must be close to Mark, you thought. You were gonna ask her to ask Mark to meet you but you'd rather not bring more geeks into your already geek-filled life. You read her phone screen that illuminated brightly in the dim-lit classroom. 'The Fifth Element is having a showing tonight,' A group chat called 'Hollywood's Trash' sent in, Mark would definitely be there. Writing down on a sticky note the address provided thankfully you slip it into your binder focusing your attention back on the lesson, this time with a smile.

You and probably the only other person you'd allow in your bedroom with you is Minho. He's been your family's butler for a little over 25 years now and has been with since day 1. Aiding since you unintentionally fell and cut a mark after attempting to bike without training wheels to strengthening you with your mother's passing. Minho was with you when he dropped you off at the very, very empty cinema. "They're probably inside, just wait until it's over which is..." He looks at his wrist, to his watch. "Another 10 minutes," He gives you an assuring smile before reaching over to open the door. "Knock em' dead," He tells you, before driving off. You sit on the sidewalk ledge with a soda in hand, sipping on it here and there until you began to see people walk out. Standing up, you pat down your skirt and look for anyone that resembles Mark. You see a short boy, black-parted hair and a graphic t-shirt paired with baggy trousers. "Mark!" You shout, he looks behind him to see your petite figure run up to him, "Hey," He said confused. "What are you doing right now?" you asked him eagerly, seeing him turn to Nayeon, Johnny and Jungwoo. "Yong's, we are totally digging sugar cookies," Jungwoo said before Mark could open his mouth, you smile leaning in a little closer to the odd trio,  "Mind if I tag along?", "No! Feel free." Johnny said, grabbing your forearm to drag you along. 

"God how can you guys drink those dreadful things," Nayeon said watching Johnny and Jungwoo gulp down smoothies. You and Mark already finished your drinks a while back, "Nayeon you do know, smoothies have a health glow about them? They’re often a fundamental part of cleanses, and they’re ubiquitous at health food stores and health-centric restaurants. And the smoothie trend is still going strong. Workout studios serve them up post-class, dietitians preach their powers and fit celebrities tout their nutritional prowess. The fruits used at Yong's are fresh and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits with low-sugar, employee's here have also learnt to provide fibre, calcium and vitamins A, C and K they add dark leafy greens like spinach or kale. "Y/n what the fuck??" Nayeon said. You stare at her dumbfounded... Have you said the wrong thing? Were you wrong?

It's still the early hours of twilight, and you are still wandering with Mark and his friends, roaming around the lit-up town. "So, since when did you get so smart?" Mark asked. The two of you were walking delayed to get a chance to talk after your dispute. "What do you mean I've always been like this," You said, a little offended he thought that low of your academic abilities. He mutters a 'wow' before continuing "Well I thought pretty diva's like you only cared about popularity and crowns," He said poking fun at our egotistic side. You gasp before laughing, "So you think I'm pretty?" You sneakily stated which made the boy stutter like crazy, he couldn't answer back without the rosy tint on his cheek growing so you continued on with a little heartfelt apology in hopes he'd continue the documentary. "Look I was hoping you'd let me hire you back to finish this stupid film," You started smiling eye-to-eye hopefully, "You mean, I could hire you back?" He said. "Yes, whatever. Just continuing this- whatever" you pointed at him, then back at you repeating his vigorously "whatever this is.", "Only under one condition, you being a little bossy duchess is not gonna be happening, I like the cool nerdy Y/n I saw at Yong's," He said, which you quickly fired back with 'I'm not a nerd!' You accept your mini defeat against Film Club boy, letting him know you need a ride home before anything. "Alright, get in."

"Wha-What are you doing?!" Mark asked, laughing so much he almost dropped to the floor. You invited him inside after he agreed to drop you off at home. "Making cookies duh!!" You cheer, grabbing all the chocolatey goods from the cabinet. He's quick to pull out his camera and hit record, "Welcome to my Y/n's baking show!" You sang, adding a  trumpet noise (with your mouth). "So, what's the new with you and Ryu?" You ask, sitting beside Mark diving into a very, very unhealthy mess you call a cookie, with Mark. "Nothing really, how are you and Jihoon." You sigh to look over at the spacious living room, Mark understands your silence and understands your having trouble in paradise. "How about I ask some of her band mates- who worship me. If they can ask Ryu to go on a date with you" You suggest to Mark with a soft smile. He looks at you, thoughtfully, "I got someone else on my mind nowadays..." He tells you with a crimson red colour visible on his cheeks. "I-I should get going now it's nearly ten." He says going to grab his things, you nod and walk towards the front door. Maybe some nerds are cool, you thought, before Mark went out. 

3 weeks. You've spent the last three weeks with Mark Lee. Getting to know him, documenting your- I mean our movie. He's been warming up to you, and you've been less of what he liked to call you; diva. You've started flaking out on some dates with the girls, just to film with Mark, you two have learnt more about him through the movie nights you spent over at your place after filming. He's really cool and you're grateful you stopped clowning around to know him.  Today you went over to Mark's place extra early since you wanted to give him a makeover. His dorky striped tees were getting old and you'd like to see him rock the nice clothes in his closet you knew he had. "Wear this, this and OH! Make sure to put these to use." You say handing him a pair of khaki pants, a yellow shirt, patch denim jacket and a beanie to wear. It was beautiful to see him actually clean up for once, he almost made you fall for his looks. "If Ryunjin doesn't ask you out, don't mind if I do," You said laughing "Aren't you too busy with Jihoon to look after me?" He said bluntly laughing before stopping to look for a reaction which was nowhere to be found, "Jihoon broke up with me because apparently, I'm a part of the geek team now!" You said chuckling, a hidden sadness underneath. "Hey, don't worry I've been a member of the geek squad for about my whole life I think we roll far better than rich snobs-", "Hey! Take that back I was one of them" You said punching his arm. "Don't worry you're good," He said laughing it off. To be honest his feelings for Ryunjin over the past few weeks have now shifted into distant memories after getting to know the real you. I think Mark's really been feeling lucky he's got you and he knows you're aware who he's got his eyes on now. You're parting his hand, in between his legs as he sits on the stool, his hands were sneaky to make their way to rest on your hips; you hum unaffected, but proceed to part it nice and neatly before ripping his hands from somewhere it shouldn't be.

It was D-Day. Spring Formal was no longer weeks away, it's hours. You had just recently gotten news that Mark's little documentary he's been making about and with you has won first place in the Annual Film Festival, due to this he had won the summer getaway to Hollywood film camp, which by the way, was exclusive. He was lucky, and he aspired and reached his goal like no other, you on the other hand... Let's just say Spring Formal Queen wasn't something you were looking forward to nowadays. But it did feel nice to win something at a party you didn't even bother to attend, you were too busy telling mark farewell at the airport to be at a function that was still being supervised by faculty. "Don't forget to text me, Mark," You tell the boy in front of you. Today Mark is sporting a red and black striped tee with an In The Row Leather Jacket (gifted by who else other than you!) and some dark blue jeans. "Can't believe you missed the fricken' Spring Formal to hang out with the film geek! Ah You really have evolved," He said standing in front of your hands reaching to nothing when he stuffs them in his jean pockets. "You make me sound like those Digimon characters you collect," You say ultimately making him facepalm at your words Digimon? Really Y/n? he thought before going into a fit of giggles, oh why should he correct you anyways you seem so cute."But no, I won't forget." He assures hand reaching out to rub your side. This time spent with Mark is something the old you would've retched at, but the current you? The current you are thankful, Mark helped you go back to your regular self, showing you that you didn't have to be some type of Barbie doll for some; what Mark called rich slobs. You were better than that now, and you had Mark. You've come to realize that Mark Lee isn't just that geek from the film club. He's above that. His place in your hear is indescribable. Who knew he would be the one to make your heart run laps from simple gestures. It's hilarious in a way, you'd be aggravated if he even came into your vicinity but now you'd be anticipating his visit.

"Mark," You start, watching his eyes light up at you call him. Your eyes meet, looking into one another's dark coffee bean orbs. Your gaze was sharp as if lined with shards of glass around the edges, his eyes. God, when your eyes met, you could see the glow in them, it was irresistible. That is when you finally realize, this newly discovered desire you found in yourself, is in Mark. He foresees your next moves bringing a hand up to your cheek, caressing it. "God, you're so beautiful," He whispers watching both of your arms trail up his torso to rest firmly on his shoulder. Leaning in, you finally taste his peach lips. His heart was racing, once he dipped his face down to you. He knew that once he places his soft pink lips on you, he wouldn't want to stop.  Breaking the kiss, you whisper, "Goodbye, Mark." Hand raising to ruffle his hair, "Make me proud out there," You tell him, leaving a less-heated peck on his lips. "Thank you, goodbye Y/n" He wanders off into his designated area before taking off almost immediately pulling his phone out. Is he really that addicted to elec- Oh, your phone rings. He's calling you, "I miss you already," he tells you the moment you answer. "I miss you too." You tell him. "I have to go, my Uber is here." you bit your lip, the words tangling up in the pit of your stomach, should you tell him the eight letters you've been longing to? "I love you, be safe." You look over the crowd to the seat to see him, looking for you. He brings the phone up back to his ear, "I love you too- Fuck so much," It looks like he's been waiting just as long.

Let's just say your happy ending took couple wrong turns but it looks like you finally reached your destination, in Mark's heart.

Only idiots try to woo those who are already in love with them

Read on AO3 / FFN

Summary: "So...Marinette Dupain-Cheng Noir, huh?"

Oooh, Adrien wasn't going to let her get away with that so easily. His lady seems to have a crush on him, Chat Noir him! And there's no way in hell he's going to let that go. However, he has a plan and he refuses to go off tangent.

"Personally, I think Marinette Agreste has a nicer ring to it, don't you think?"

~(x)~ . . . Doki Doki... Doki Doki... Whack! Ladybug let out a silent whimper and then rubbed the sore spot below her collarbones after smacking it so hard. She mumbled out silent curses in Mandarin, words that her mother would skin her alive for if she ever uttered them out loud in her presence and willed for the blood rushing to her cheeks to stop. This was the umpteenth time now and it was starting to drive her teeth towards the edge. The heroine scowled at her partner like a child would at a jar of cookies that was placed in a shelf far too high for them to reach. Not that Chat Noir was unreachable. Hell! If she wanted to, she could jump at him right now and permanently glue their lips together. The boy would swoon with indescribable joy! Shaking her head, Ladybug exhaled through her nose sharply as if to scold her brain for concocting up the millionth...LadyNoir...fantasy. The teen directed her attention back at the catboy who was busy consoling their latest akuma victim. The victim was a little girl, no older than four, maybe five. She was giggling at the funny faces that Chat pulled to cheer her up, clapping her hands with a cute blush as the boy followed suit. He was really kind and sweet...especially with the little ones... Chat Noir would make such a loving father in the future. No doubt about it. And perhaps... A loving husband- Ladybug's brain abruptly shut down on the spot and her legs immediately turned to jelly, causing her to trip over the roof tiles and fall off the building with as much beauty and grace a headless chicken would have. The befuddled girl awaited her fate as a soon to be splat on the pavement, too disorientated to even use her damn yoyo- "My Lady!" 

Oh. Forget about being a red and black polka dotted splat on the dirt crusted grimey floor. She's going to be a puddle of goop at this rate. Holding her bridal style, was none other than her one and only Chaton. Suddenly, Ladybug was hypersensitive to every sound, smell and touch. The way his strong, well toned arms flexed under her thighs and waist, transferring a delicious warmth through her body like skin on skin contact... The way his broad chest loomed over her entire being like a thick, fluffy blanket on a cold winter's night... The way the crisp scent of the outside lingered on him like a breath of fresh air, sending welcomed shivers down her spine... Ladybug felt herself heat up from head to toe much to her dismay and she wouldn't be surprised if her face mirrored a tomato right now. He's too close. Way too close. "Heh, I guess angels really do fall from the sky, hmm?" His voice came out as a dark, gravelly purr, causing the poor heroine's heart to go haywire and slam against her ribcage like a gymnast on twenty espresso shots. Why did he have to say it like that!? Not to mention the way his green eyes glinted under his long lashes in such an illegal way! Absolutely unfair! "Eh-erm-ugh- HMPH!" The word soup that spilled out of her lips as a response was the final nail to the coffin, forcing Ladybug to jump out of the confused boy's arms like his namesake. Her hands flailed around in odd gestures as Ladybug carried on trying to speak, only to fail with more stutters and awkward, fake laughs. Dammit. She's fallen for him. And she's fallen for him hard! When did this happen? How did this happen? Why did this happen? Ridiculously unfair. What's with her and stupidly kind blonde boys with sinfully, beautiful green eyes!? "AHAHA- I think I've left my pet crocodile unattended- Eek! Gottagobyehotstuff-" With a speed that could rival a racecar, Ladybug swung away without letting a bewildered Chat Noir utter as much as a word, screaming into the distance: "I can't believe it's happening aga-aaaaaaaaaaaa..."

Noir stood still, gaping on the spot before bringing out his inner model and quickly composed himself, clutching his chin as a deep red blush barely peeked under his mask. One hand grasped his arm whilst the other cradled his chin as he bit down on a finger to see whether or not he was dreaming. The sharp pain that ricocheted through the digit when his sharpened fang pierced the flesh snapped him back into reality and Chat Noir was left muttering in awe. The awe then turned into a chuckle of endearment and a beautiful smile full of love took over as he shook his head and then faced the direction that his Lady vaulted off to. "Dammit Marinette...only you would give your identity away like that," His words came out as a soft whisper, unheard by anyone else. Relief lightened his shoulders of its burden from the months of dilemmas between loving two girls, only to find out they were one and the same. The relief was soon replaced with confusion and a touch of misery when he realised that she was treating him the way she treated his alter ego. Like he's some sort of cold king who would bite off her head. 'Not that I would mind biting if she's into that- BUT ANYWAYS.' Chat Noir brushed off his not-so-innocent thoughts and his trademark optimism shined through when he concluded that he will do anything to make his Lady feel good around him. Now, what to do of the supposed 'other boy' she likes... "I'm going to die fighting for her even if it's the last thing I do. Couffaine? Kurtzberg? I don't know which one of you is the other boy but no matter what, I'm marrying her..." ~(x)~ "Wanna tell me why you're starting to doodle that in the corner of your books now~?" A gleeful Alya held away the book from Dupain-Cheng as she nosely flickered through the pages with a smile wider than a Cheshire cat. Her free hand was preoccupied in pushing the flustered Asian's face away as she attempted to snatch her notebook back, whines and protests falling on deaf ears as the rest of the class made way out of the room to go home. Just another day to them all, much to their amusement. "Speak any louder and you lose your macaron privileges, Alya!" Mari reached for the book once more in a giant pounce, only for Césaire to duck and the former to end up in a pile of limbs against the wall. An adorable pout rested on her lips and her eyebrows furrowed when Alya's giggles turned into fully blown out laughter. "Don't worry Marinette, never have I told your secrets to anyone else, right?" The brunette's lips soon zipped shut guiltily as Marinette gestured her eyes towards Nino who helped her up along with Adrien. "That was one time girl~" Marinette's pout only deepened despite Adrien's chuckles. "I think that's enough teasing our class president for today, Alya," The blonde dusted off (the now blushing) Marinette, skimming his eyes down her body quickly to make sure she wasn't hurt. His Lady could be a tad bit too energetic sometimes. "What could possibly be written in there that provoked Mari into jumping on you like that?" He delivered a cheeky smirk, eating up the way Marinette gawked at him in betrayal and the way Alya's glasses glinted mischievously. "Why you! It's a secret! No one needs to know and certainly not you!" The raven haired teen scoffed, flipping her hair before gesturing to Alya for her notebook back. Her cheeks were turning rosier and rosier and Adrien was dying with curiousity to know what mystery laid in that book. "Oh? Now I really want to know," This time Nino snickered at Adrien's response, fully used to the boy's deviousness and curiousity that could rival a cat. A side of the usually sweet, reserved boy that was kept hidden. "S-So what? No one's allowed to know and Alya will sensibly hand me back my notebook. So hah!" "I don't know, it looks like she's more willing to hand it to me..." "That's because you're egging her on!" "Am I now?" "You can be so infuriating, Agreste." "Ouch. You wound me, Cupcake~"  Adrien flawlessly delivered a well timed wink, relishing the way that Marinette was left in a flustered stupor before speeding towards Alya and grabbing the notebook with the heroine in disguise hot at his heels. He jumped over a few desks, dodged the benches with practised agility yet it was nearly impossible to shake Marinette off his tail. Though, his wide grin that could counter his alter ego's never left his face. "Adrien! Give it back! Don't be such a brat- OOF!" Marinette found herself glomped by both Alya and Nino, the duo holding her down in a tight hug whilst the petite girl was left complaining and mustering all her strength to lift them both off of her. Turns out that all the parkour and part time hero-ing the boyfriend and girlfriend did occasionally gave them an advantage of extra vitality in their civilian sides. So, Marinette resorted to begging. "Adrien ple-eeeeeeease..." Her eyes shimmered like they belonged to a puppy, causing Adrien to falter on his steps and almost choke on his saliva. 'That's not fair, Princesse. You're too fucking cute and I won't be able to handle it any longer and the next thing you know, I'll be pushing you against the wall and kissing you like no tomorrow-' Blinking back out of his thoughts, Adrien cleared his throat and looked away dramatically to avoid the sparkling baby blues. "Open it dude! Quick before Marinette pushes us off! I can feel ourselves slipping!" Nino groaned out, completely put off guard by Marinette's sudden determined strength and he and Alya scrambled to keep her held down. The green eyed boy didn't hesitate and ignored the defeated "Nooooo..." Marinette let out. . A beat went past. Sweat accumulated on Marinette's forehead as Adrien's face went through a variety of motions whilst he skimmed through the book. First his eyebrows were raised and his lips parted in bafflement. Then he squinted his eyes as if he couldn't believe what he was seeing. Next, his face became unreadable and his lips were pursed.   The only thing Marinette could hear was her heart pounding and the blood rushing through her face and ears. She so was going to kill Alya once she's snapped out of her embarrassment. "So...Marinette Dupain-Cheng Noir, huh?" Adrien rested the tip of the book against his lips as he raised a brow, sighing as Marinette stumbled through a couple of excuses. The girl in question shot up, victoriously pushing her friends off her and immediately snatched the book away, hugging it against her chest with a tight lipped smile. "I'm just testing my calligraphy skills! Nothing more!" Oooh, Adrien wasn't going to let her get away with that so easily. His lady seems to have a crush on him, Chat Noir him! And there's no way in hell he's going to let that go. However, he has a plan and he refuses to go off tangent. "And the hearts? The doodles of you and Chat Noir holding hands? The names of your three future babies with him? Doesn't seem like calligraphy to me." The annoyed frown he purposely slipped out caused his three friends to let out silent gasps, taken aback by his serious expression. Was he...jealous? "A-Adrien...?" Marinette gulped as the boy was abruptly by her side, face lowered so that his cheek brushed hers. The girl couldn't help but enjoy the sensation of his soft, silky lips against the shell of her ear and almost jumped when he spoke again. "Personally, I think Marinette Agreste has a nicer ring to it, don't you think?" His words were nothing but a low whisper, a husky tone that sounded so scandalous and drove Marinette's hormones to the extreme, evident in the way her knees almost buckled beneath her. Totally unfair! How the heck was she supposed to react!? Adrien pulled away, frown still in place and then squeezed Mari's upper arms with a nod but then leaned in again, eyes narrowed and the strands of his hair mingling with her fringe as their foreheads shared a tender kiss. "I'm not losing you to some cat boy." His emerald orbs twinkled with strong emotions, lips only a breath away from hers that Adrien couldn't help but graze Marinette's lower lip with his thumb. He finally turned around and made way out of the door, beckoning his jaw-dropped best friend to come along. A pinch on her thigh- most likely from Tikki who for some reason was hiding in Marinette's trouser pocket, brought her back to the world and before anyone knew it, the girl held Adrien back by the wrist. It was rare for her to initiate physical contact so Adrien couldn't help but halt with surprise. Marinette brushed off all her embarrassment and muddled feelings, fixing a glare at the nonchalant looking model. "He's not just some cat boy. He's one of the most kindest, strongest person I know! He's saved my life more times than I can remember, saves Paris on a daily basis and without him...there would be no Ladybug! So don't...don't just dismiss Chat Noir like that." Adrien furrowed his brows, holding his burning stare against her stern eyes for a bit before leaning in once more, taking Marinette's grip off his wrist and then held her hand in his possessively. The tight squeeze he gave the appendage didn't go unnoticed to the girl and the rest of the audience. "Sorry...I'm just sick of other boys turning your head towards them...when I've been hoping for you to glance at me, just once...for a long time..." His voice wavered between vulnerable and melancholy before settling on determination. Without missing a beat, the boy swiftly kissed the corner of Marinette's lips, cherishing every groove and warmth that emitted from her and then promptly stalked out of the classroom before anyone else could see him turn redder than a strawberry. 'At this rate, she should figure out my civilian identity soon. She has to! With a declaration like that, I should be on her mind for a bit and maybe...she could develop feelings for my civilian side too...?' A hopeful grin took place on his lips whilst Nino ran after him and babbled about how shook he was by the blonde's actions. . Meanwhile, poor Marinette was left frozen in the classroom, wheezing like a kettle and cheeks brighter than a traffic light while Alya squealed with happiness, thanking dieu that she captured everything on her phone. "So, Marinette? Will it be Adrien or Chat Noir~?" Alya's question was met with a defeated wail and a slap against her shoulder. The brunette couldn't keep the devilish smirk off her face. "He's been waiting for me to glance at him!? Is he BLIND!? I have been drooling over his stupid self for like a YEAR! Ugh Alya! What am I gonna do-ooooo?" ~(x)~ She should be suited up right now in her signature spots. She should be battling the akuma right now who was preoccupied in setting fire on everything he saw like a madman. But no. "Princesse...just dump me somewhere in an alleyway and run! Please..." Chat Noir, who was terribly injured, grimaced as Marinette kept on running, fingers digging into the boy's legs as she held him piggyback style. She thanked the kwamis that she was familiar with the thirteenth arrondissement like the back of her hand. She merely huffed as a response and sped up before finally finding a decent hiding spot in the abandoned China town. Much to her delight, the pharmacy shop where her maman usually goes to was empty and open so Marinette didn't hesitate to storm inside. The groans and whimpers that the hero let out as Mari gently placed him against a chair shattered her heart and the teen couldn't help but wince at his injuries. "You stupid...stupid cat! Why did you take that hit for me? You should have dodged!" Marinette spat out, masking her pain with anger as she gathered the medical kit with a mission to alleviate her partner's wounds. The boy responded with a cocky smirk, as if his shoulder wasn't burnt to a crisp and his legs weren't shredded with gashes. This akuma was the first to pierce the magical suit and it was taking everything for Marinette to not fall into a panic attack. Not even the battle on heroes' day was this nerve wracking. "I like my women alive, not barbecued." Noir rasped but then yelped as Marinette knelt down to his level and applied ointment to the burns. This time, tears streamed down his eyes and his claws dug into the plush carpet below him. His faux ears plastered themselves against his hair and his tail whipped against the chair and wall beside him as if to emphasise how much pain he's in. "Stupid flirt...stupid cat...always have to be so self sacrificing...what if that hit killed you!? What would Ladybug have done then!?" Cheng sobbed, letting her forehead flop onto Chat's uninjured shoulder. Her arms wrapped around his middle, squeezing the blonde against her as tight as she could whilst Chat helplessly reciprocated her actions. He soothed her with hushes and encouraging whispers, combing his claws through her loose tendrils, pulling her flush against his body whilst his face remained in the crook of her neck so that the sweet scent that lingered on her body kept him grounded. The next words that he uttered momentarily stopped her heart. "If I didn't take that hit, there would be no Ladybug..." The duo stiffened, the younger of the two plagued with multitudes of questions. Marinette wanted to pinch herself, hope that she misheard what he said but the strong smell of antiseptic that filled the room, the atrocious scent of burnt flesh and blood and the warm, secure arms that kept her in an iron hold proved otherwise. "I...How...?" Marinette gasped, pulling back far enough so that she could see her partner's bashful face. "I was so careful and...and...dammit! Either I released my transformation in front of you by accident or you're one stupidly smart cat!" The ebony-haired teen was far too emotionally exhausted to delve into this and simply accepted her fate. He knew now. This time, there's no time or space to come up with another convoluted plan to knock him off the trail like when Mme. Mendeleiev got akumatised. "I'm a clever cat, your clever chaton, My Lady," Chat Noir couldn't help but gaze down at Marinette lovingly, eyes softened and heart racing. The raspberry hue that took place on her cheeks did wonders to him. "Maybe, if we were strangers, I wouldn't have found you as quick-" He wasn't able to finish his sentence as two fingers were pressed against his lips. "It's...it's dangerous enough that you know who I am...I can't know who you are, Minou. Master Fu-" "-is wrong. He's just as capable of making bad decisions as anyone else. That time he took Plagg and Tikki away from us is proof of that. I firmly believe that the idea of us not knowing who the other is for the sake of our safety is pretty much bullshit at this rate." He kissed her fingers, eyes never leaving hers in a gaze so intense that Marinette felt like her entire body was lit up in flames. "We've been partners for a long time, our trust in each other is beyond comprehensible and you know for a fact that I'd rather die than waver my loyalty to you, Marinette." He pulled her towards him in another embrace, burying his nose into the nape of her neck and let his lips trail on the soft, sweet skin with butterfly kisses. The kiss burned more than the fire that the akuma plagued on Paris. Each and every pucker took Marinette's breath away and the way he tugged her hair so that he could have access to her throat was downright sinful. When his teeth grazed the sensitive area below her ear, Marinette's eyes fluttered closed and a soft sigh escaped her lips. "Chat Noir..." Her voice would have been inaudible had it not been for the boy's heightened hearing. This of course encouraged a deep purr to rumble from the hero and his lips got closer and closer to hers... "My name...say my name, Marinette," Chaton's lips brushed against Dupain-Cheng's as he spoke, voice so hoarse and exposed. Familiarity filled Marinette from head to toe but she couldn't for the love of god figure out why. Instead, she frowned and bowed her head down in defeat. "I don't...I don't know..." She raised her head back up when Chat Noir tsked in response, squeezing her tighter. "Minou..." The familiarity was starting to weigh down on her like a boulder and it was driving Marinette crazy. "Find me. Please. I love you...all of you. If you're not going to let me tell you who I am then you have to find me. You're a smart girl, My Lady. So smart. I can see that you're close to figuring it out." He kissed her cheeks softly and then darted back to her neck, this time to distribute an open mouthed kiss and suck the skin hard. "Chat Noir!?" Mari gasped, face rouged and teeth biting down her bottom lip to avoid any shameful sounds from coming out of her throat. When he pulled away, Marinette bumped her forehead against his with irritation, scoffing at his pained yelp. "What was that for!? O-ooooooh if the cleansing light doesn't heal this, how am I going to explain this to my parents? Alya? AH- and Adrien!? He's going to be so annoyed..." It took everything for Chat Noir to hide his smirk, rubbing his fingers against Marinette's hips. "Then he'll know that this princess is off limits, no~?" "Stupid, possessive, blonde, idiots!" "Hey, I'm smart, not stupid like model boy," "UGH! Fuck you!" "Is that an offer?" "JUST SHUT UP AND LET ME BANDAGE YOU BACK UP SO THAT WE CAN KICK THE AKUMA'S ASS AND THEN I'LL KICK YOUR ASS YOU STUPID ALLEY CAT!" "That wasn't a no~" ~(x)~ Adrien gawked in horror from the doorway when the scarf that was wrapped around Marinette's neck unravelled and spilled onto the floor. The girl quickly slapped her hand against her neck to hide the hickey but she couldn't avert her eyes from his. It was just the two of them in the locker room. Probably the two few remaining students in the building since they had extra curricular activities. "OH- Erm...hi Adrien? I was not expecting to see you here hahah! Did you manage to beat Kagami this time or-" Marinette ended her default babbles with a squeak as the blonde haired teen stormed towards her, peeling her hand off her neck only for his eyes to widen at the 'gift' that the cat bestowed. "Marinette...you chose him?" The boy laid out the kitten eyes, internally cackling at the way his lady scrambled for words. Plagg may have warned him of the rage of a Ladybug but dieu, the shit eating cat inside him couldn't help but keep up the tease. Sure, acting jealous of his alter ego wasn't going to be much help in Marinette solving his identity but at the same time, he didn't want to make this too easy for her. It wasn't fair that he's fallen head over heels for both sides of her since the beginning and struggled with those feelings for such a long time while it's only recently that she began crushing on his vigilant half, right? To summarise, he was the equivalent of a naughty, bratty kitten trapping a bug under his paws and he loved every second of it. "I haven't chosen anyone- not yet...I...I don't know what to do." Now, a tiny bit of guilt was gnawing on Adrien's chest. Maybe he's gone a bit too far? "The two of you have thrown me in quite a loop, confessing left and right..." Her sweet blush wiped the guilt off his chest clean. Maybe...simple, ordinary Adrien Agreste has a chance? Just maybe...she's starting to have feelings for him too...? "Has he kissed you?" Adrien leaned closer, placing his hands against the locker that Marinette was backed up against, pinning her in place. Forward but not aggressive. With the way she eyed him beneath her lashes, his actions was more than happily received. "Not really..." "Can I kiss you?" His lips were barely brushing hers now. "...please," Immediately, their lips crashed into one another without any finesse. All pent up feelings, all raging emotions, all were expressed in this one, deep kiss like a ferocious fire. Adrien tangled his fingers with Marinette's, pressing his body tight against hers and tilted his head ever so slightly to deepen the kiss. Heat and hormones drove their bodies on autopilot. Marinette moved her arms around his neck, slipping her digits through Adrien's hair whilst the boy in question wrapped his arms around her waist, hands wondering dangerously low and cupping every part of her with desperation. The familiarity that laid low in Marinette's mind soon jumped back by ten folds as sharp teeth nipped the rim of her lips, parting the soft pair so that his tongue could slip in and bring her even closer. Her mind kept on rebooting at every touch, every nibble, every sound, every kiss until she forgot her own name. Suddenly, a small hiss of pain escaped Adrien's throat, causing Marinette to break the kiss, heaving and notice that he was edging his shoulder away from her fingers. "Adrien...?" "Ignore it." The boy grunted, slamming his lips back onto hers, this time cupping her cheek with one hand and pulling the bands of her hair so that he could comb his fingers through the smooth, silky locks. Familiarity stroke back to Marinette despite the distracting, excitable kiss. Adrien began to trail his lips south, parallel to the hickey that Chat Noir left till he reached the area below her collarbones. Unlike his roaring passion that started the kissing session, Adrien ended it with a sweet, subtle kiss on her skin. The way Marinette heaved and panted sent many thoughts and fantasies to the dishevelled boy's head, concluding that he indeed needed to take a cold shower as soon as he got home. "Adrien..." Marinette breathed out sweetly, cheeks flushed beyond compare and fingers tangled with the fabric of his shirt as she struggled to stay upright. "That's my name," Adrien cutely bumped his nose with hers and then backed off, smirk growing when she slid down the locker and onto the floor in a daze. "I'll see you around, Princesse," With a wink, the boy patted her cheek and then slinked off with that enviable model grace of his. A few minutes went past yet Marinette refused to move. Adrien's last few words kept circling in her mind. 'That's my name- that's what he said. But why did he say that? That's such a weird thing to say, right? And since when did he start calling me Princesse-' . . . Insert a record scratch. Tikki, the poor kwami who had to witness the entire endeavour simply shook her head with a sigh, praying that her holder didn't murder Plagg's kitten. "DAMMIT ADRIEN AGRESTE! FUCK YOU!!!!" "At least take me out to dinner first~!" The stupid boy's voice came from the window outside the locker room and Marinette didn't think twice before running towards it to see his shit eating grin plastered on his face from below. ~(x)~ "So all this time you were in love with civilian me, ever since I gave you my umbrella?" "Mmhm." "And you were suppressing your feelings for cat me for around the same time?" "Yep." "So basically I was being an absolute, obtuse idiot who's been cockblocking myself?" "Uh-huh." "Wow. Well fuck me!" "After the days of grief you've given me in choosing between you and you, you don't even deserve a kiss let alone getting laid." "Dammit...so...you gonna untie me now or are ya gonna leave me hanging upside down on the tower forever...?" "Heh~ you're gonna stay there and rot till eternity Chaton." "NoooOOooOOoOOooooo..." . . . ~(x)~

For millions of working women, the coronavirus pandemic has delivered a rare and ruinous one-two-three punch.

First, the parts of the economy that were smacked hardest and earliest by job losses were ones where women dominate — restaurants, retail businesses and health care.

Then a second wave began taking out local and state government jobs, another area where women outnumber men.

The third blow has, for many, been the knockout: the closing of child care centers and the shift to remote schooling. That has saddled working mothers, much more than fathers, with overwhelming household responsibilities.

“We’ve never seen this before,” said Betsey Stevenson, a professor of economics and public policy at the University of Michigan and the mother of a second grader and a sixth grader. Recessions usually start by gutting the manufacturing and construction industries, where men hold most of the jobs, she said.

The impact on the economic and social landscape is both immediate and enduring.

The triple punch is not just pushing women out of jobs they held, but also preventing many from seeking new ones. For an individual, it could limit prospects and earnings over a lifetime. Across a nation, it could stunt growth, robbing the economy of educated, experienced and dedicated workers.

Inequality in the home — in terms of household and child care responsibilities — influences inequality in the workplace, Misty L. Heggeness, a principal economist at the Census Bureau, concluded in a working paper on the pandemic’s impact for the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Without a more comprehensive system of support, she said, “mothers will forever be vulnerable to career scarring during any major crisis like this pandemic.”

The latest jobs report from the Labor Department showed that some of the damage was reversed last month as the service industry revived, nudging down the jobless rate for women to 6.5 percent, slightly below men’s. But there were still 4.5 million fewer women employed in October than there were a year ago, compared with 4.1 million men.

And according to the Census Bureau, a third of the working women 25 to 44 years old who are unemployed said the reason was child care demands. Only 12 percent of unemployed men cited those demands.

Laci Oyler has felt that pressure. Her husband, employed by a large printing company, was already working from home when the pandemic shuttered day care and schools in Milwaukee. But after two days of taking care of their two young sons, “he said, ‘Absolutely no way,’” Ms. Oyler explained. So she cut her weekly hours as a mental health counselor for Alverno College, a small Catholic institution, to five from 32.

In August, when she learned that public schools would continue to offer only online classes for the fall, Ms. Oyler decided she had little choice but to take an unpaid leave.

This month, she decided to resign.

“Work is so much more than what you’re taking home as payment,” Ms. Oyler said. “But when you look at that bottom line of risk versus reward, it doesn’t seem worth it,” she added, referring to the cost of child care combined with the possibility of coronavirus infection for her or her children.

As a licensed professional, Ms. Oyler does not expect to have difficulty returning to the work force when she is ready. But for most working women, dropping out to take care of children or other family members exacts a sizable toll, several studies have shown. Rejoining is hard, and if women do, they generally earn less and have less security. And the longer someone is out of work, the tougher it is to get back in.

Claudia Goldin, an economics professor at Harvard, said this was the first recession where the economy was so intertwined with the network of child care.

“During the Great Depression, no one cared about the care sector,” she said. “Women weren’t in the labor force, and they weren’t supposed to be.”

One reason that Congress started giving financial assistance to poor households headed by women in the 1930s, under a program originally titled Aid to Dependent Children, was so they could stay home with their children and not compete with men for jobs, Ms. Goldin said.

Only during World War II, when women were urgently needed in factories and offices to replace men who were in the military, did the government establish a far-reaching federally subsidized network of nurseries and child care centers in nearly every state. Once the war ended, so did the support.

“You cannot have a contented mother working in a war factory if she is worrying about her children, and you cannot have children running wild in the streets without a bad effect on the coming generations,” Senator Carl Hayden, an Arizona Democrat, testified in 1943.

Women make up roughly half of the country’s work force. They range from entry-level to professional, they live in urban, suburban and rural areas, and they often care for toddlers and teenagers. But the burdens of the pandemic-induced recession have fallen most heavily on low-income and minority women and single mothers.

Members of these overlapping groups often have the most unpredictable schedules, and the fewest benefits, and are least able to afford child care. They fill most of the essential jobs that cannot be done from home and, therefore, carry the most risk for exposure to the virus. At the same time, they make up a disproportionate share of the service industries that have lost the most jobs. The jobless rate is 9.2 percent for Black women and 9 percent for Hispanic women.

When the pandemic caused housecleaning jobs to dry up, Andrea Poe was able to find cleaning work at a resort in Orange Beach, Ala., about a 45-minute drive from Pensacola, Fla., where she and her 14-year-old daughter, Cheyenne Poe, had moved in with an older daughter, her fiancé and their five children.

The families were behind in the rent and threatened with eviction when Hurricane Sally ripped through the coast in September. To escape the floods, they piled into two cars, drove to Biloxi, Miss., and spent five nights in a Walmart parking lot.

Now Ms. Poe and Cheyenne, who has turned 15, are in Peoria, Ariz., living in a room in her mother’s trailer.

She said she was applying for jobs every day, so far without luck. And the bills keep coming. Ms. Poe has missed two consecutive loan payments on her car and worries that it will be repossessed.

“I’m just hoping my unemployment checks come through so my car doesn’t get taken away,” she said. “If I lose my car, I’ll never be able to get a job.”

Women with more resources are in a better position, but they struggle in other ways.

When the pandemic ripped through Seattle and compelled Kenna Smith, 37, to work from home, she initially saw one upside — a chance to spend more time with her 3-year-old son.

“At first, I thought I’d just focus on my child,” said Ms. Smith, who had just started a branding and design company, Wildforth Creative. “It was fun for a while, but then the stress was intense.”

Like many families who were worried about the risk of infection or short of money and space, Ms. Smith and her husband let their son’s nanny go. Her husband, project manager for a general contractor, worked out of their bedroom.

“I’m not sure why it totally fell on me,” Ms. Smith said of child care. “I’m out in the living room, dining room area with a whole bunch of toys strewn about, with my laptop, trying to run my business.

“I was wanting to work and wanting my business to succeed so badly,” she said. “I didn’t realize. …” She paused, interrupted by a voice: “Mommy, I want some applesauce.”

The couple recently decided to hire a part-time nanny, concluding that despite the expense, it was the only way both could keep working. (Ms. Smith’s sister is also helping out.)

From 2015 until the pandemic, women’s increasing participation in the work force was a primary driver of the economy’s expansion, said Ms. Stevenson, the Michigan economist. “It’s why the economy grew the way it did, why employers could keep hiring month after month,” she said.

Since February, women’s participation in the labor force has been falling, with the biggest decreases among women without college degrees who have children.

Changes forced on women by the pandemic elicit a mixture of anxiety and hope.

Many women worry that the changes will sharply narrow women’s choices and push them unwillingly into the unpaid role of full-time homemaker.

And the impact could stretch over generations, paring women’s retirement savings, and reducing future earnings of children now in low-income households.

“We are creating inequality 20 years down the line that is even greater than we have today,” said Ms. Stevenson, who was a member of President Barack Obama’s Council of Economic Advisers. “This is how inequality begets inequality.”

Yet there is also the possibility that the mounting pressures could create momentum to complete the unfinished project of fully integrating women into the work force by providing a system of family support — like affordable child care and paid parental and sick leave.

“I think we’re really at a crossroads,” said Julie Kashen, director for women’s economic justice at the Century Foundation and one of the authors of a new report on the pandemic and working women. “We’ve never built a workplace that worked for people with caregiving responsibilities.”

Loki Series Rewrite (AKA Loki Series but with Squirrel Girl) Ep 6

INT. CITADEL - DAY

Loki, Sylvie, and Doreen tentatively step into the palace. Out of nowhere, Miss Minutes suddenly pops up.

MISS MINUTES

HEY, Y'ALL!

DOREEN

Oh, Jesus!

She jumps as Loki and Sylvie pull out their weapons.

SYLVIE

You again...

MISS MINUTES

Welcome to the citadel at the end of time! Congratulations! Y'all had an awfully long journey to get here. He's impressed.

SYLVIE

Who's impressed?

MISS MINUTES

He Who Remains!

(Beat)

LOKI

And who is he?

MISS MINUTES

He created all. And he controls all. At the end, it is only... He Who Remains. And he wants to offer you a deal. He's been making a few... creative adjustments. And he's worked out a way to insert you back in your timelines in a way that won't disrupt things.

Doreen looks creeped out by Miss Minutes as they talk.

SYLVIE

Won't "disrupt things"?

MISS MINUTES

Mmm-hmm! The TVA can keep doing it's vital work, and y'all can live the lives you've always wanted!

(She turns to Loki)

How would you like... to kill Thanos?

Loki and Doreen exchange a look.

MISS MINUTES

You could stop the snap from ever happening... and get the throne you've always wanted.

Doreen's eyes widen.

MISS MINUTES

You want the infinity gauntlet? Yours. Throne of Asgard? No problem.

Loki tenses.

MISS MINUTES

(to Sylvie)

What about you, missy? All those years on the run... Desperate... Alone... How would you like to wake up tomorrow with just a lifetime of happy memories? Everything... exactly the way you've always wanted.

She purposefully ignores Doreen. Sylvie shakes her head.

SYLVIE

It's fiction.

LOKI

We write our own destiny now.

MISS MINUTES

Sure you do... Good luck with that.

She disappears.

DOREEN

So, we're all in agreement that this is a trap, right?

(Beat)

LOKI

Let's keep moving.

INT. KANG'S CHAMBERS - DAY

After meeting Kang, he invites the three into his chambers.

KANG

Please. Take a seat.

(He picks up a tray of tea and sets the cups down in front of some chairs.)

Uh... Loki... Loki... and...

(He smiles at Doreen.)

Ah, Miss Green. What an honor to meet you. A class five mutant... the TVA doesn't see many of your type around very often.

(Beat)

You know what I find fascinating about you? Out of all your little... Avenger friends... you... are the most powerful. You just don't know it yet.

Doreen looks utterly baffled. Kang laughs.

KANG

You! Not the... god from space, or the... part-time Kree... but a little girl who runs around spending time with squirrels.

He continues to laugh as the other exchange a confused glance.

KANG

You know, life may not be fair, but it certainly does have a sense of humor.

SYLVIE

Who are you?

KANG

Oh, I've been dubbed many names by many people... A ruler... A conqueror... He Who Remains... A jerk... But most people just call me... Kang.

The three exchange a glance.

INT. KANG'S CHAMBERS - DAY

After Kang explains who he is, he gives Loki and Sylvie a choice.

KANG

So now, you can either... rule the TVA together, as two Lokis... or... kill me... and let the universe burn. And if you think I'm... evil... Just wait until you meet my variants.

(Beat)

I believe you've met my wife, Ravonna? She can verify all of this, if you want.

DOREEN

You're full of shit. You don't care about protecting anyone; you just want power. You just want to have control over everything. Well, you don't get to make our lives for us.

LOKI

She's right.

(He unleashes his blade.)

And we've come to put an end to your reign once and for all.

He starts to attack Kang, but before he can, Sylvie uses her magic to block him.

LOKI

Sylvie, what are you doing?

(Beat)

SYLVIE

Do you really think I'm going to let you destroy my only chance at claiming what belongs to me?

LOKI

What?

SYLVIE

The TVA took everything from me. Now, I'm going to return the favor. By taking over, I can control all of those agents. Everyone that ever laid a finger on me... I can send their lives to burn.

LOKI

You said you weren't interested in ruling the TVA...

Sylvie laughs.

SYLVIE

Don't you know yourself at all?

(She smirks.)

I lied.

Doreen's eyes widen.

SYLVIE

I've waited my whole life for this moment. And no one is going to take it from me. Least of all, you.

She starts to attack Loki, but Doreen lunges at her, knuckles spikes unleashed. Using her magic, Sylvie enchants Doreen's hand and raises her knuckle spikes up so she is a second away from slitting her own throat. The blade chokes Doreen as she struggles. Loki uses his own magic to keep Doreen in place as he stares down Kang and Sylvie. Kang laughs.

KANG

Well, all this drama is making me thirsty!

(He takes a sip of tea.)

Who's it gonna be? Who's gonna get the throne?

Sylvie scoffs at Loki.

SYLVIE

Oh, I see. You just want the TVA throne for yourself, don't you?

LOKI

Is that really what you think of me?

(His gaze saddens.)

You never trusted me. You were always going to betray me.

Sylvie laughs.

SYLVIE

That's what we do, Loki. We can't trust. And we can't be trusted.

DOREEN

(Struggling)

Don't... listen to her... Loki...

Kang jabs a finger at Doreen.

KANG

I wouldn't interfere with our proceedings if I were you, young lady.

Doreen glares at him as he stalks toward her.

KANG

I'll admit, you've been a bit of a thorn in my side... You were never supposed to be here, but you just had to show up and help your little friend... and make my job harder. You're a problem, Ms. Green. A problem that needs to be... eliminated.

(Beat)

LOKI

I agree.

He suddenly conjures up a dagger and stabs Doreen through the stomach. She screams as he opens up a portal with the tem-pad and shoves her through it.

INT. DOREEN'S APARTMENT - DAY

Doreen falls through a portal into her apartment. Gasping in pain, she reaches for the dagger sticking in her stomach, only to have it disappear in a green shimmer. After a moment, she lets out a weak laugh.

INT. KANG'S CHAMBERS - MOMENTS LATER

As the tem-pad portal closes, Kang bursts out laughing and starts applauding.

KANG

Wonderful job, Loki! Wonderful! You know, if I weren't an all-knowing, all-seeing... god, of sorts, I might've actually bought that!

Loki's eyes widen.

KANG

Well, no matter. She'll be taken care of once we're finished here.

(He smiles.)

You know, there's something almost... poetic about it. Loki... the god of mischief... the man who believed he was destined to rule over all of Midgard... is in love with a mortal.

Loki grits his teeth and looks down as Sylvie sneers at him.

SYLVIE

You're pathetic. I honestly don't know how you even survived this long.

LOKI

Sylvie, listen to me... Please don't go down this path. If you do this... all of our variants will be stuck here at the end of time forever.

SYLVIE

And why is that my concern?

LOKI

Because they're us! They're all us! Can't you see that your anger is turning you into the very thing you hate?!

(He places hands on her shoulders.)

Please, Sylvie... I don't want a throne... I don't want to hurt you... I know how you feel. I've been where you are. But hurting the people that caused you pain won't change what happened. It took me so long, but I see that now! And I know a part of you must, too.

(Beat)

SYLVIE

Well, I'm not you.

She attacks him, and they start to fight.

LOKI

Sylvie, no!

SYLVIE

I won't let you stand in my way!

Eventually, Loki and Sylvie's blades are locked.

LOKI

(Voice cracking)

Don't make me do this... Please...

SYLVIE

I'll kill you...

Loki suddenly stabs Sylvie through the chest. She grunts in pain and collapses to the floor as Loki looks on in horror. Sylvie dies as he takes his blade out. Kang begins to laugh coldly as Loki collapses to his knees and sobs.

KANG

Bravo, Loki, bravo! Looks like you're the last Loki standing.

Loki lunges at him with his magic, but Kang uses his own powers to restrain him.

KANG

I'm hurt, Loki. I am giving you the chance of a lifetime! Power! Control! Wasn't it you who one said... what was it? "Freedom is life's great lie"? Didn't you want to free people from the burden of freedom? Well, now you can! All you have to do is say "yes"... And you can finally have it... The throne... The key to the universe... All to yourself. Away from everyone who pushed you around your whole life. Your father... your brother... your so-called "friends"... They're of no consequence anymore. You'll have everything you've always wanted... All... alone...

Suddenly, all the other Lokis, even Alligator Loki enter. President Loki now has a hook for a hand.

KID LOKI

He's not alone.

Loki looks at them tearfully, and a hint of a smile grows on his face. Kang laughs.

KANG

Oh? So that's how it is? You want to be the hero now? You and I both know that's not who you are.

After a moment, Loki slowly rises to his feet.

LOKI

No...

(Beat)

I'm not a hero... And I'm not a villain...

He begins to unleash his power, with a green glow emanating from his hands. He suddenly projects multiple versions of himself around the room, some male, some female. They all talk in unison.

LOKI

I'm me... First... Last...

(His eyes start to glow green.)

Always...

As his power begins to grow, his TVA outfit shifts into elegant green armor with a cape and white fur around the collar. His crown of horns appears on his head, and his power begins to levitate him off the ground. Suddenly, the room begins to glow green, with the army of Lokis joining in with their magic. We see bits of green magic expanding the timeline off into different branches.

INT. TVA - MOMENTS LATER

Back in the TVA, Mobius, Hunter B-15, and all the agents rise as the building begins to glow in a green haze. Mobius watches the monitor in awe as he sees the timeline beginning to expand.

MOBIUS

Wow...

Suddenly, everyone's eyes begin to glow green.

INT. KANG'S CHAMBERS - MOMENTS LATER

Loki stretches his arms out as his magic continues to free the timeline. Kang's eyes widen as a burst of green power extends from Loki's hands and hits him. With the other Lokis joining in, ray after ray of magic hits Kang, until he finally vanishes. Suddenly, portal after portal opens around the room. His magic weakening, Loki finally collapses to the ground. The other Lokis rush to his side.

KID LOKI

Are you alright?

Loki slowly sits up.

BOASTFUL LOKI

You've done it. You've freed us. 

(He looks around at all the portals.)

All the timelines have been restored. We can go home.

Loki looks around at all the other Lokis.

LOKI

Go on. You belong back home, with your families... Even if they're... complicated, at times...

(Beat)

We can live our own lives now.

The Lokis all start to go through their portals. Loki takes one last look at Sylvie's dead body before entering a portal back to the TVA.

INT. TVA - MOMENTS LATER

The TVA agents are all regaining their memories.

MOBIUS

Oh my god... Vanessa... Katie...

HUNTER B-15

I... I had a name... A real name once... Zoe...

CASEY

I... I remember now! I was a marine biologist! Back in San Francisco... Oh man, those sea lions are gonna be so mad at me when I get back...

Suddenly, Loki enters.

MOBIUS

Loki!

He hugs Loki.

MOBIUS

Where's Sylvie?

His face falls at Loki's silence.

MOBIUS

Oh... Oh, I'm sorry...

Loki bites his lip.

LOKI

Do you... remember now?

MOBIUS

Yes... I... I had a wife... and a daughter...

(He smiles.)

Thank you.

Loki nods towards the portal.

LOKI

They're waiting for you.

Mobius starts to head towards the portal. Before he walks through, he stops and gives Loki one last look.

MOBIUS

Whatever the future holds for you... I hope it's what you've always wanted. What you really want.

Loki smiles.

LOKI

Thank you.

MOBIUS

Oh, and...

(He tosses the tesseract to Loki.)

You might need this.

He exits through the portal.

INT. THE BENATAR - NIGHT

Loki appears in the Guardians' ship, holding the tesseract. Everyone turns to him.

DRAX

Empty-handed... And just when I thought I would have a decent snack around here for once.

LOKI

What? Wait, how long was I gone?

Thor shrugs.

THOR

Only around an hour. Why? What were you doing on Kylos, anyways?

Loki looks around at the Guardians.

LOKI

I... I'm going to Earth.

Before they can stop him, he vanishes with the tesseract.

INT. DOREEN'S APARTMENT - DAY

Loki and Doreen are sitting at a table in her apartment by the window. Loki pours himself a cup of tea, and Tippy-Toe brings him a sugar cube.

LOKI

Thank you, Tippy-Toe.

As he stirs the cube in his tea, Tippy-Toe extends her paw.

LOKI

Ah, yes, of course.

He conjures up another acorn and gives it to her.

DOREEN

Is that acorn number 78 or 79?

LOKI

79, I believe.

DOREEN

Huh. 12 more, and you'll have paid off your debt to her.

(She turns to Tippy-Toe.)

Will you like him then, Tippy?

Tippy-Toe squeaks in response.

DOREEN

Oh, "you'll consider it." Don't give me that!

Loki chuckles.

LOKI

Is Nancy home?

DOREEN

She's in class. My professors are letting me do my coursework online while... all of this gets sorted out. I mean, everything I do is on computers, anyways, so...

LOKI

I see.

Doreen glances at him as he stares blankly at his tea.

DOREEN

I'm sorry about Sylvie...

(Beat)

LOKI

Well, I guess it just goes to show that I... can't be trusted. Not even by myself.

DOREEN

No, Loki... What happened wasn't your fault. You tried your best to get through to her. But you can't control the actions of your variants; only your own. Just because Sylvie betrayed you... that doesn't make you a bad person. You deserve trust.

LOKI

Do you trust me?

DOREEN

Yeah. I do.

Loki lets out a bitter laugh.

LOKI

You know, a lot of people would call you naïve.

Doreen shrugs.

DOREEN

Doesn't mean that they're right.

Loki looks at her in surprise. He fixes his gaze out the window as Doreen sips her own tea.

DOREEN

There's something else, isn't there?

(Beat)

LOKI

I'm... I'm worried, Doreen. What if... What if I got this wrong?

DOREEN

What do you mean?

LOKI

What if it was a mistake to kill Kang?

DOREEN

Loki... You've freed trillions of people. You gave them back control over their own lives. That's not a mistake.

LOKI

I know; I just... What if Kang was telling the truth? About the multiversal war? What if... by freeing the timeline... I've unleashed something worse?

DOREEN

Loki... If it ever comes to that... We'll deal with it.

LOKI

How?

DOREEN

We'll figure it out.

(She extends her hand to him.)

And I trust you, so you trust me, too. Deal?

After a moment, Loki smiles and shakes her hand.

LOKI

Deal.

Doreen smiles.

DOREEN

Alright, enough of this doom and gloom. Here, give me your other hand.

Loki raises an eyebrow.

LOKI

Dare I ask why?

DOREEN

I'm gonna paint your nails! Duh!

(She takes out a bottle of black nail polish.)

Trust me, I have been wanting to do this for a while. Have you ever gotten your nails done?

LOKI

I... can't say that I have...

DOREEN

Ooh, well, you're gonna love it. I was debating what color to try on you, but then I figured I'd go for black. You have this very natural emo vibe to you.

Loki raises an eyebrow.

DOREEN

It means, like, dark and edgy and all that...

(She starts painting his nails.)

Wait, so there was actually a President Loki?

Loki chuckles.

LOKI

Yes, if you can believe it. You know, maybe I should run for president.

DOREEN

You can't! You have to have been born in the U.S.!

LOKI

Well, to be fair, I did die, and then I was reborn back into life at the Avengers compound, which is on American soil, so, technically, you could make the argument that I was born in the U.S.

Doreen snickers.

DOREEN

That is not how that works...

Her phone suddenly buzzes, and she picks it up.

DOREEN

Ooh! Look what Moby sent me!

She shows him a picture on her phone of Mobius riding on a jet ski with his daughter.

DOREEN

Look at my man out there living his best life! I'm so proud of him...

Loki chuckles, and she finishes painting his nails.

DOREEN

Okay, just let that dry for a bit. And that means no petting Mew, no matter how much she begs.

(She turns to Mewnir.)

I got my eye on you...

Loki smiles as she takes another sip of her tea.

LOKI

What will you do now?

(Beat)

DOREEN

I don't know...

(Beat)

You know, Ravonna told me that I was destined to spend the rest of my life in hiding.

LOKI

Well... the TVA is gone now. You're free to make your own life.

DOREEN

I know. I just... don't see how it could change. Right now, everyone either thinks I'm a criminal or some circus freak that needs to be locked up.

(Beat)

LOKI

That doesn't mean that they're right.

Doreen looks at him in surprise. A hint of a smile starts to grow on her face. After a moment, Loki clear his throat awkwardly.

LOKI

You know, you could... always come with me. I-I mean... me and my brother... and his friends. You wouldn't be an outcast there. We're... we're all... outcasts... in a way, I suppose...

(Beat)

DOREEN

I can't abandon the people here. There's still so much chaos going on after people returned from the snap... I have to help fix it.

Loki smiles at her.

LOKI

You're a good person, Doreen. They don't deserve you... But if you truly want to stay... then, I wish you all the best.

DOREEN

Thank you...

Doreen gives him a sad smile as he rises from his chair.

LOKI

Well, I suppose I can't put off returning to my brother and those buffoons any longer... By the way, do you think Kang really meant what he said? About you being the strongest Avenger?

Doreen scoffs.

DOREEN

Nah... He was just pulling my leg... 

Loki chuckles.

LOKI

Goodbye, Doreen.

Loki and the tesseract vanish in a blue haze.

(Post-Credits Scene)

INT. HIGH SCHOOL OFFICE - DAY

Ravonna is stepping through the office where she used to work.

RAVONNA

When I worked here... I thought this was all my life could be... I never thought that I would be destined for something greater... But now, you've given my life purpose... A destiny that I can be proud of...

She turns and the camera pans to who she is talking to. One of Kang's variants is sitting in a seat.

KANG

Yes, dear... It's time for us to begin our... corrections...

“Love is a dagger... It’s a weapon to be wielded far away... or up close... You can see yourself in it... It’s beautiful... Until it makes you bleed... But ultimately, when you reach for it... It isn’t real.”

Y’ALL SEE WHAT I DID THERE??? (Also, you know I had to put that “wow” in there lol)

So, apparently, Loki isn’t going to be in Thor: Love and Thunder... Hmm... GUESS I’LL JUST HAVE TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THAT, WON’T I??? Don’t worry, Squirrel Girl and Nancy will return!

Also, for the sake of my own sanity, I will now be considering these rewrites canon thank you and good night

@drawntothedarkside