#the necklace debacle
Text
Some thoughts about the necklace
There was a post I saw last week on Instagram - I didn't want to read it because I knew it would light the rage inside me - but some friends did and we ended up talking about it anyway.
In this post, the op states that there's no proof that Clotho gave Gwyn the necklace after Azriel left the library. I hate this take, because what reason would Clotho have to choose not to give it to her. But there doesn't seem to be a mention of a delicate golden chain and glass pendant in the rest of ACOSF.
So lets just say, for the sake of argument, that Gwyn did not receive the necklace. Does that change anything?
Does that change that something in Azriel settled after speaking with Gwyn in the training ring on Solstice night?
Does that change that Azriel smiled when he thought about how Gwyn's eyes would light up when she saw the gift?
Does that change that he tucked that image away, in his chest (close to his heart, one might say), and considered it a "thing of secret, lovely beauty"?
Does that change that he felt a spark in his chest when thinking about her receiving the gift?
The answer is... NO. It doesn't change anything. Regardless of whether or not Gwyn actually received the jewelry in question, Azriel's reactions and thoughts remain the same.
Thank you for coming to to my TedTalk.
#gwynriel#gwynriel supremacy#antie/riel#anti e/riel#antielr*el#antielriel#anti elr*el#pro gwynriel#gwyneth berdara#azriel shadowsinger#acotar#gwyn x azriel#azriel x gwyn#acosf#acosf bonus chapter#clotho#a thing of secret lovely beauty#the necklace debacle#Seriously give me one good reason Clotho wouldn't give the necklace to Gwyn if that's what Azriel asked her to do#sarah j maas#sjm
114 notes
·
View notes
Text
this whole goncharov thing is going to be paired next to the stanford prison experiment for its brainwashing, gaslighting and reality manipulating nature
#nothing in this website has ever had its own userbase debating whether if its fake or not#like the toe necklace thing? sure#my family owns slaves in india which is fine? yeah thats true#people exhumating dead people? ah just another day in this hellsite!#but this is a whole new debacle in on itself
0 notes
Text
Hummingbird Has Landed, ch 9
Marcus Pike x female reader
Co-written with @absurdthirst
After the debacle of his failed engagement and relocating to Washington to take charge of his task force, newly minted Special Agent Marcus Pike is ready to get back out into the dating pool once more. A slew of bad dates has him feeling a little down, and he takes an old friend up on an invitation to get away and get his head on straight. Imagine his surprise when he finds not only fresh air, but his soulmate as well - hiding in plain sight but in the unlikeliest of places.
Rating: E for Explicit! 18+
Word Count: 17.8k
Warnings: *Blanket warnings for this series: occasional mention of American politics, pregnant character, food/alcohol consumption, mentions of clothing/regulated dressing for occasions, mentions of therapy because we believe in self care here, reader is in a previous relationship, love triangle, reader is mentioned as turning 30 during the course of the story, dom/sub dynamics* Surprises, vomiting, anxiety, spectacularly bad decision making, talking of children/pregnancy. Morning sex, oral sex (f receiving), vaginal sex, unprotected sex, consensual choking, light dom/sub play, rough sex.
Summary: Your 30th birthday is not at all what you expected. Not at at all.
Notes: Beloved darlings, please forgive any errors I might have missed. Ya girl has had another busy week, but at least the sickness has lifted!
Ch1 ~ Ch 2 ~ Ch 3 ~ Ch 4 ~ Ch 5 ~ Ch 6 ~ Ch 7 ~ Ch 8
It’s been a perfect, magical day in Marcus’s opinion. Waking up with you and spending the entire day together hasn’t tamed the desire to be with you, it’s only fanned that desire. Now he gets to watch you get ready for the party, stopping by his apartment to pick up a suit, you had both decided that he would change here at the inn with you.
“So, is this place actually a pub or did my mother book something swanky and just lie through her teeth?” You ask, eyes gliding down his frame as you slip into your least worn little black dress for the party. It’s the one you always think is just a little too festive or too vintage, and it always gets swapped out for something more reasonable. Marcus had insisted you wear it when he heard you say ‘too’ anything.
He smirks slightly and debates on whether or not to tell you. “You have to be surprised, but yes.” He chuckles. “I think Round Robin counts as a pub.”
“It is not Round Robin.” It gets a laugh out of you, though, making you snort inelegantly as you struggle to zip your dress. “Their food doesn’t meet Dad’s approval. He’d never okay it.”
“Then it’s a good thing that we are actually going to Statesman.” He admits with a grin, moving over to zip up the back of your dress for you and kissing your shoulder when he’s done.
“Statesman…” In the second it takes you to search your memory for why that name sounds familiar, you light up. “Like The Statesman Club? I’ve always wanted to try that place!”
“Good.” He grins at you and picks up your necklace to help you put it on. “We will try all the fancy whiskeys we want.”
“Well now I just feel positively spoiled.” Partially from the choice of location, but also Marcus being such a gentleman.
“It is your birthday.” He reminds you, sliding the chain around your neck. “You should be spoiled.”
“And when it’s your birthday, you’ll be spoiled too,” you promise him, grinning at his reflection in the mirror.
“We can cross that bridge later.” His hands rest on your shoulders gently. “Tonight is about you.”
"Are you still okay with me telling everyone?" If he's not then you'll keep your soulmate status to yourself tonight, or for however long he wants to keep that particular fact private.
“Of course I am.” He stares at you in the mirror, unable to believe what a lucky bastard he is. “You never need to worry about that.”
"I just thought I should check." You beam at him, turning around in his arms to wrap your own around his neck and kiss him. "Seemed polite to me."
“Shout it from the rooftop and splash it in the Post.” He urges you. “I will happily agree and brag to everyone who asks.”
Grinning from ear to ear, you seriously consider doing just that but figure somebody at The Post will have a field day writing their own little editorial about it when it becomes public knowledge. "I love you, too."
“I love you.” He promises and bites his lip. “Do you want your birthday present now? Or at the party?”
"You didn't have to get me anything." There's no chance he would have listened to you if you had protested beforehand, but you still do. Just having him is gift enough.
He scoffs and lifts a brow, waiting for your real answer.
The burn in your cheeks is enough, and you grin again, unrepentantly. "Is there enough time to do it now?"
“Of course there is.” He promises and pulls out the gift he had put in his jacket pocket. It might be too much too soon, but he couldn’t resist.
The small jewelry box all tied up in ribbon in his hand is unmistakable, but you tilt your head slightly and look up at him curiously. "Really?" A book maybe, or flowers, or even something a little nerdy and sweet – all of those things you would have accepted easily. But jewelry is a very big gesture for a relationship that is so new.
“You said you also jump in quickly and I— well, it’s what I’m thinking.” Marcus hopes you don’t hate it.
You take the little box from him carefully and untie the carefully done ivory ribbon. The hinge of the box is tight, like it's barely been used, and when it snaps open in your fingers you gasp softly at the shining, shimmering ring inside. An eternity ring of sparkling heart-shaped stones set in white gold reflects the light in your room beautifully. "Marcus?"
“It’s a promise ring.” It seems like a childish thing at first, but he wanted you to know how serious he is. “The prelude for what is to come.”
And just like that, your heart swells for him all over again, and the surety that you made the right choice is ingrained in you. "I'll never take it off."
“If it fits.” He jokes, taking the box from you and plucking the ring out of its velvety crevice. “This is my promise to you, my soulmate.” He whispers as he takes your hand. “One day I will marry you. We will build a life together of mutual respect and love. We will be happy and I will always cherish you.”
"Am I allowed to promise you the same thing?" You watch in awe as the band slips easily onto your finger and you flex your fingers to see if it will shake free. When it doesn't, you beam at him all over again. "To promise to love and cherish you and be your partner while we build this relationship?"
“Absolutely.” He smiles softly and leans in to press his lips to yours gently. “Happy birthday, hummingbird.”
"We should go." Even whispering against his lips, you feel giddy and giggly in the moment. "Before I drag you back into bed and make you even more promises."
“Promises, promises.” He teases. “That is for tonight when we are both a little tipsy, very handsy, and more than a little in love with the idea of being together.”
The drive out to The Statesman Club goes easily and quickly, with Agent Bailey following behind you all the way. From the amount of cars in the parking lot it's obvious that your mother had Marcus bring you to the party after everyone had arrived – or if not then there are a huge amount of people coming tonight. "Seems like an awful lot of fuss," you hum, slipping your hand into Marcus's when he opens your door.
“You’re worth the fuss.” He reminds you, helping you out of the car and he can’t help but admire you. “I forgot to tell you that you look stunning.”
"That's just because I'm happy," you insist, tugging him toward the front of the building. "And because you look absolutely stunning yourself, so I'm just reflecting it back at you."
He chuckles, knowing that he could argue that but it’s your birthday and he can’t argue with the birthday girl. “Remember, you can’t butter me up anymore.” He jokes. “My bag is already at your place; I’m going home with you.”
"What if I'm just telling the truth?" It's like walking on Cloud 9 as you go hand-in-hand with him up to the front door. There's a desk inside with a woman in all black, and she smiles to see you coming – clearly expecting you but too professional to do more than smile.
Marcus gives his name as if he were the one setting the reservation, but they know where to guide you. “Good evening.” She moves from behind the desk to come out beside you. “My name is Ginger and I will be escorting you inside.”
"Thank you, Ginger." It's all very dramatic, you think, but you still follow the woman around a corner and past the main dining room, up a flight of stairs that is dimly lit to put focus on decades and decades of Statesman ads that ends in a set of double doors. This must be their private function room, because the moment she pushes open the doors, all hell breaks loose.
“HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!” Is screamed at you in various pitches and volumes, making you jump slightly even if you had been anticipating it. Marcus laughs, drawing you into the circus of a room as your friends and family press close.
“This is what not overdoing it looks like, huh Mom?” You’re laughing, though, and hug her first out of everybody in the room. You know how impossible it is for her to get to do anything personal already so it’s doubly amazing that she not only put this together but managed to attend.
“Of course it is.” She hugs you fiercely and tears up slightly as she remembers the day you slipped into the world. “It’s small compared to the inauguration party.”
“Which inauguration party?” There were three official ones and then plenty of other unofficial, and you smirk at her even when you pull back. “I can’t believe this place let you book in. It must be crawling with Secret Service.”
“Just a few.” She snorts and shrugs. “I’m the President. It’s time I stop letting the office run my life.”
“Well, thank you.” That resolve won’t last because it can’t, but you’re glad that it is here for tonight.
Your father is next to swoop in for a hug, cooing over his baby being all grown up, and you groan playfully because he gets like this every single time one of you has a birthday. You, Alex, and June all get fussed over equally and it’s actually kind of sweet. Tonight, though, you reach back and take your soulmate’s hand. “You guys remember Marcus?” Of course they do, but you’re still going to be polite about it.
“Sir. Ma’am.” Marcus would offer his hand, but you are currently holding it. “Nice to see you again.”
"Very nice to see you again, Marcus." Having dispensed with Agent Pike except for formalities, the president smiles. "And very punctual. I like that."
“Timing was important tonight.” He agrees, squeezing your hand gently. “The birthday girl needed to be here for the party to really begin.”
"Then let's get this party started." The phrase sounds just as odd and stilted coming out of her mouth as she thought it would, but that doesn't matter. "Make sure you say hi to everyone, Birdie. And try whatever you want to drink. But I think you'll like both cocktails."
Marcus smiles and nods toward the private bar for the party, a fit cowboy with a mustache behind the counter with a toothy smile and a name tag with ‘Jack’ on it. “Shall we go get a drink before you mingle?”
"Absolutely." Whatever your parents have picked out is always good, and you want nothing more than to get the night started.
“What do you want to have?” Marcus asks as he reads the small, personalized cocktail menu that is being served exclusively tonight in addition to the regular drinks.
"The Sour Red sounds good." Cranberry and cherry in a whiskey sour sounds like a great way to start the night.
"It sounds great." A voice from beside you huffs, and you squeal with delight to see your best friend appear out of nowhere next to you. Sydney grins and envelops you into a gigantic hug, as Marcus smirks proudly behind you.
“You look amazing!” The soft, flowing maternity dress is the first of its kind you’ve seen her wear and it looks gorgeous on her, making her look like a work of art. “I’m so glad you’re here.”
“I wouldn’t be anywhere else.” She insists, shaking her head at you. “Juan said he’s going to treat you to lunch when he comes back, and he’s so sorry.”
“Absolute sap of a man,” you huff, laughing affectionately. Juan really does treat you like a little sister sometimes and it’s very sweet. “He doesn’t have to do that. But…if he really wants to…” you glance back at Marcus with a giddy smile. “Why don’t we plan a double date?”
“That sounds good.” Marcus nods. “What do you think, Sydney?” He’s willing to do whatever you want and having a night with the other couple would be nice.
“Oh, one hundred percent.” She’s already nodding, clutching her ginger ale in one hand and grinning to see the two of you together like this. “That will be awesome.”
“I’ll order the drinks so you ladies can talk?” Marcus orders, squeezing your hand when you nod and moving up to the bartender.
"I don't know if I said it enough, but you did the amazingly last night. The wedding was perfect." You hug her again, always mindful of your growing goddaughter between you. "I owe you."
“It was all thanks to you.” She reminds you with a soft hug. “Looks like you had a good evening after the wedding party left.”
"Maybe." The meager protest has your cheeks on fire immediately, and you bury your face in your hands. "He's...god, Syd, he's absolutely incredible."
“Really?” She lights up, happy that you are so enthralled with your soulmate. “So you had a really good night?”
"I need you to promise me that you're going to react in the most normal way you've ever reacted to anything in your life," you murmur, intentionally lowering your voice and glancing around furtively. "Most boring reaction ever. Promise?"
“Boring – absolutely.” She nods eagerly, aware you’re about to bust unless you spill whatever secret has you positively glowing. “He’s the best you’ve ever had? Hung like a horse?” She guesses playfully.
"Haven't actually had sex yet, but yes to the second." The smirk that breaks over your face is unapologetic, but you clear your throat, and intentionally reach out to hold your best friend's hand with the ring Marcus gifted you a mere hour ago glinting in the club's lighting. "Most normal and boring you've ever been," you remind her quietly.
Her frown when she feels something makes her look down and then her eyes bug out wide, making her look like a cartoon character for a brief moment. The smallest squeak comes out before she buttons up her lip and her entire body seems to vibrate in energy as her gaze darts back up to you.
"It's a promise ring." As quietly as you can when Sydney is practically buzzing out of control, you're still grinning from ear to ear. "I told you he's incredible."
“I can’t believe— okay, I can.” She huffs quietly and as discreetly as she can, she’s looking at the ring. “Honey, it’s beautiful.” She whispers softly, melting and giving Marcus Pike all the brownie points for romance.
"I don't know when he had time to get it," you admit, trying not to bring too much attention to the piece of jewelry and end up having to explain it to a whole room full of people. "We were together all day."
“He must have bought it the day he went golfing with Michael.” Sydney guessed with small, dreamy sigh. “They were talking about Michael’s buying a wedding day gift for Joyce. He was planning on jewelry.”
“That must have been it.” It’s even dreamier, then, in your mind. Because that truly was the very beginning of things.
“He’s got good taste.” She hums in approval. “This is the real deal.”
"It's the first time in my life that I've really felt like I'm on the same page as my partner," you gush to her, right before Marcus comes over with your drinks.
“One Sour Red for you.” Marcus hands you the drink. “And I ordered the Sweet Delight for me so we can also try it.” He has no problem sharing drinks with you.
The second cocktail on the specialties list was something like a cross between a sweet tea and a mint julep, and since you had fully intended on trying both, he seems to have read your mind. "Perfect." Him, the whole day, tonight, all of it.
“Great.” He holds up the Sweet Delight in a toast. “Happy birthday, hummingbird.” He smiles. “May your thirties be the beginning of the greatest adventures of your life.”
"I have a feeling they will be." You hold up your Sour Red and Sydney adds her ginger ale to the coast, making the three of you a very happy trio.
“Now, I don’t want to monopolize your night.” Marcus insists after taking a drink. “I can hold your purse, but you need to talk to people and if you want me to keep Sydney company, I’m good with that.”
"I'm going to use having to find you as an excuse to get out of saying hello when I start to burn out." It looks like your mother has assembled a few dozen people here tonight and you know you're going to need to take a break from all the chit chat at least a couple of times. "Thank you, love."
“Absolutely.” He smiles at you in reassurance. “Just lift your glass and I’ll come rescue you.”
“Okay.” Leaning up, you leave a kiss on the corner of his mouth and whisper an “I love you” before you scoot away.
Marcus watches you walk away with the look of a man completely besotted with his soulmate. “I love you too.” He murmurs after you.
“That didn’t take long at all.” Sydney grins, sipping her soda like she’s won the lottery.
“Too quick?” He glances back at your best friend and wonders if she worries about you jumping in too fast with him despite being your soulmate.
“Not for her.” She chuckles quietly. “Hell, even Juan and I knew within about two days that he was going to come back East with me after we met. It’s just…it’s nice to see someone moving her speed with her. Supporting her at light speed, ya know?”
“I’m not going to hurt her.” He promises Syd with a solemn vow.
“Oh, I know you’re not.” Her smile turns determined and icy. “Because if you do? Juan knows exactly how to make sure no one ever finds your body. And I think you value life too much to risk the wrath of her best friend and her siblings. Don’t underestimate little Junie.”
Marcus doesn’t scoff, nor does he chuckle and brush it off. He takes a sip of his drink and looks at your best friend squarely. “I won’t, and I never piss off the people who cook food.” He tells her. “They have ingenious ways for disposing of a body.”
“She’s been through a lot of shitty relationships.” Sydney confides. She’s glad to see Marcus taking this talk seriously. Sam had laughed and waved her off. “Listen to her, treat her well, and buy her flowers. That girl loves getting flowers.”
“What are her favorites?” He asks, wanting to make sure you have everything you want out of this relationship.
“Camellias, roses, gerber daisies…” Sydney grins. “I’ll text you a list.”
“Please do.” Marcus can do roses anytime, but he wants to give flowers that let you know that he’s just thinking about you. Ones that put a smile on your face. “And her favorite bath soaps and scents.”
“I’ll have a list of favorites and least favorites ready for you tomorrow,” she promises. “But I have a big one for you, first.”
“What’s that?” He knows Sydney likes him, thinks that he will be good for you, so it’s best that he stay on her good side.
"I've never seen her prouder to be out with a partner than she was with you at that State dinner," Sydney tells him honestly. "She gets skittish about the spotlight, but she collected every single paper that had a picture of the two of you. It's..." she smiles, actually, and her eyes find you in the crowd of family and friends around the room. "It's a kind of confidence that is new for her, but I think it's great."
Marcus follows her gaze and his own face softens and he takes on a slightly sappy smile. “I only want to support her and prop her up.” He promises your best friend earnestly. “Whatever she wants to do.”
"She has the career she wants. And now the right partner." Syd flashes a beaming grin. "Next up is the wedding and kids, Pike. I hope you're ready for a deluge of family fun."
“I’ve always wanted kids.” He admits quietly, pushing one hand into a pocket. Taking another sip and his eyes follow you around the room. “Don’t mind a wedding, but I’m more concerned about the life we build rather than the wedding we have.”
"She says she doesn't care about a wedding. That it's the marriage that counts. And she does mean it." More than anything, Sydney needs Marcus to know that this isn't any shallowness on your part, it's something she's observed. "But I see the way she moons over every single bride that comes through the inn. She wants someone to make a fuss over her without her having to ask for it. It's why she's been sighing over this birthday party like it's unnecessary but has been talking about it nonstop. Because she deserves to feel special, but she feels guilty asking for it."
“I want her to have exactly what she wants.” Marcus smiles at the idea. “The fairytale. The happily ever after.”
Nudging Marcus with her elbow, Sydney's cup of happiness is positively overflowing for you in this moment. "I have a good feeling about this."
“I hope so. Because I’m taking her to meet my folks in a few weeks.” He tells her with a grin.
Syd’s jaw drops on a disbelieving laugh. “You got her to take time off work?”
“Is that some kind of minor miracle?” He asks with a slightly proud smirk if it is. “I asked if she wanted to come and she agreed.”
“There’s nothing minor about it.” She cackles with absolute glee, knowing Juan will be just as thrilled as she is. “She hasn’t taken a vacation day in seven years. Not even for campaign events. You’ve just advised sainthood.”
“Jesus.” He whistles quietly and has a renewed admiration for your drive. “Then I’ll make sure that she relaxes and soaks up the sun while we are gone.” He grins. “Texas is the perfect place for it.”
“Perfect.” Syd grins, and holds up her glass to toast him. “Take care of our girl, Marcus. I know you will.”
“Of course I will.” Marcus watches as you discreetly lift your empty glass. “Op,” he grins back at her and lifts his own glass. “Duty calls.”
It's just a little later, while Marcus is deep into conversation with your father about something or other that you didn't quite catch, you're slowly sipping your second drink when the nearby door opens to admit a new arrival.
Sam Chase walks into the pub, straightening his jacket and smiling a bright smile at anyone who turns his way. Looking over the crowd and finding you as he scans and lifting a hand in a wave before moving towards you.
It's a surprise to see him, even if you did say that you wanted to stay friends, but you walk toward him with square shoulders and sure steps. More than ever, you know you made the right decision, and you're mature enough not to say a thing about it and just let things move forward. "Sam." When he moves forward to hug you, you let him just like you would let any other friend. "What a surprise. Are you feeling better?"
"I am." He wouldn't miss tonight for the world, not when he realized what he needed to do. He accepts the hug and squeezes you gently to him, admiring your perfume. He's missed that smell. "Happy birthday, Birdie." He uses your nickname so rarely, preferring your name, but tonight is about showing growth.
"Thank you." You're glad to not see a gift in his hands. It's almost a reprieve because you had feared he might do something overly intimate as a gesture if he did actually come. "There's some fun cocktails but the bar is open, and lots of food being passed around. I think cake is happening in just a little bit."
"That's good." He pulls back and smiles at you. "It's good to see you, I've missed talking to you."
"It's good to see you, too." Unfortunately you can't say you've missed him as much as he seems to have missed you, but the last few weeks have been so important for you. "I'm glad you came." At least that is true.
"I know you are making the rounds, so I will get a drink." Sam knows that he has to show that he is more accepting of your way of doing things and he takes your hand and squeezes it gently. "I will get a drink and then talk to you later?"
"That sounds like a good plan," you nod, motioning toward the bar. "I know you're not a whiskey guy, but they do have some nice wines stocked tonight. And champagne. Mom insisted."
"I'll see you soon." He promises, sure that the champagne is meant for the toasting of your birthday after the cake. You will be thrilled to drink it because of another celebration as well.
Alex and David are nearby and you gravitate toward them naturally, glad for some supportive faces in the sea of comfortable and uncomfortable acquaintances. Your mother had really gone all-out with the guest list.
Despite his own conversation, Marcus has kept an eye on you, frowning slightly when he sees Sam arrive. He’s not jealous, but he knows that it would be uncomfortable to you since you had broken up.
"Well that looked fun," your brother grumbles, putting an arm around your shoulders lazily when you pace over to him and his boyfriend. "Mm," you roll your eyes discreetly. "So fun. It's my own fault for saying I wanted to stay friends. I just thought...it's a very adult thing to do. And he didn't do anything wrong, really."
“He did everything wrong.” Alex snorts, rolling his eyes at you. “You just were so busy making it work you couldn’t see that.”
"You guys could have said something earlier, ya know." Still, you shrug and take a sip of your drink. "Not that it matters now."
“You were happy…ish.” Alex arches a brow at you. “Tell me you would have listened.” He challenges, knowing how stubborn you are.
"Listen to you?" Rolling your eyes dramatically for show, you wave a hand dismissively. "Of course not. Maybe David, but not you."
Both men laugh and David winks at you. “That’s my girl.” He teases.
"Everything will be fine." You're definitely reassuring yourself, not them, but that's okay. "Eat. Drink. Be merry. That's the name of the game tonight."
“Of course it is.” Alex leans in and presses his lips to your cheek. “Happy birthday sis.” He hums. “You look happy with your soulmate.”
“As happy as you are with yours.” For everything that Alex and David have gone through together, you know the light at the end of their tunnel is going to be so incredibly bright and wonderful. There isn’t a second of doubt in your mind. “He, um…he’s taking me to Texas in a couple of weeks. To meet his family.”
“Really?” Alex is surprised but he’s quickly grinning as he looks around to find Marcus watching you for a moment. Checking in on you from across the room. “Well slap my ass and call me a cowboy.”
"I'll leave that to David," you reply, snorting at the image. "But yes. Really. And I'm excited, so don't ruin it."
“You better wear a cowboy hat when you ride him.” Alex chuckles quietly and winks at you. “They say everything’s bigger in Texas.”
"I swear to god." Groaning with the ire that only a sister can truly feel, you stick your tongue out at your brother and make a face. "I'm walking away now, but you're ridiculous."
“You know I love you!” He cups one hand around his mouth to call out after you, laughing while his soulmate rolls his eyes and mutters under his breath about sibling relationships.
"Sweetheart," your mother grabs you in passing, seeing that you're headed for Marcus and not wanting to delay you too long. "Cake soon?"
"Sure, Mom." Pausing long enough to squeeze her hand, you nod to indicate you're willing to just go with the flow. The night will last however long it lasts and you're grateful for every second you get to spend with your friends. Thankfully, it seems like cake cutting won't be the very end of the night.
“How is my pretty party girl?” Marcus asks as you draw closer, pulling you to his side and swapping his full drink with your empty one. “You should try this Statesman Blackberry Reserve.” He urges you. “It’s probably the smoothest whiskey I’ve ever had in my life.”
"You trying to get me drunk, Pike?" You tease, accepting the glass and trying a sip – which earns a happy moan from you. "You're already coming home with me. You have stuff at my place."
“But you’re cute when you’re relaxed.” He jokes, smirking slightly considering that you’ve already had a conversation about drunk sex and somnophilia so you are both on the same page about what’s acceptable.
"You're always cute." Relaxed is a good word. You aren't drunk at all. Not even tipsy. But you are definitely relaxed. "Mom's going to have the cake brought out soon. Brace yourself for a deeply embarrassing speech of some kind."
Laughing quietly, he nods. “Of course. Would it not be a family birthday party if there wasn’t an embarrassing speech?”
"In this family?" You snort, barely managing to smother the sound as your mother's voice comes over a microphone so that the whole room can hear her. "Never. But that's my cue."
“Go knock them dead, hummingbird.” He whispers in encouragement and takes your drink from your hand so you can walk up beside her. It’s your night, your time to shine.
As Sydney has pointed out, the spotlight is not necessarily where you thrive. You do step up next to your mother, though, and wave awkwardly with a dopey smile on your face as she talks. The predicted speech is just as embarrassing as you thought it would be, but it’s easier to smile knowing Marcus is out there watching just a few feet away.
Now is the time. Sam watches as you demure to the crowd and duck your head in embarrassment as your mother finishes up your happy birthday speech. He straightens his tie and reaches into his pocket to pull out your gift before he edges towards the front of the room where you and your mother are standing.
Honestly if you had noticed, you might have said something. Or you might have at least looked at him questioningly. But you’re too busy avoiding meeting anyone’s eyes while people applaud a speech about you to realize that Sam has walked right up to where you and your mother are standing.
His entire relationship with you, he had watched you secretly moon over ‘grand gestures’. Sniffling during Hallmark moves or rom coms, smiling like a crazy woman when a proposal happens at your inn. This will be perfect. Your mother arches a brow when he asks for the microphone, but she hands it over anyway. “Good evening everyone, Birdie…” he begins, having carefully written out and rehearsed this speech several times. Preparing for it just as studiously as he would have a political debate.
“Sam…?” Anxiety rises like bile in the back of your throat, almost making you choke on the confusion. What in the hell?
Marcus frowns at the way that Sam turns and kneels in front of you. A collective gasp coming from the crowd pierces his heart and it’s compounded by the way you cover your mouth. Looking just like a scene from a romantic film. His gut churns and confusion and doubt makes the blood start pounding in his ears.
“Get up!” As soon as you can gather your own thoughts to get beyond shock and utter horror, you lurch forward to grab Sam and yank him up off his one stupid knee. “What the hell are you doing?” You hiss, well aware that all eyes are on you but having rocketed past giving a shit out of pure anger.
“I’m making up for my lack of spontaneity, giving you the grand gesture.” Sam smiles proudly and opens the box to show you the elaborate diamond ring that he had bought for you. “I love you, and I want to show you that I am here. You are more important than anything else.”
“Don’t do this.” Even if your voice is low, the shaking of your head is universal, and the few gasps over the opening of the jewelry box are minimally muffled when you reach out and snap the little box closed again immediately. “We broke up. Walk away and return the ring.” The urge to cry and flee is almost overwhelming but you have to make him stop.
“We had a fight, a foolish one.” Sam tells you beseechingly. “One I take complete blame for. But we are so good together. Don’t throw it away because I was too blinded by my pride.”
“You’re embarrassing yourself,” you tell him flatly, although you do feel bad that you clearly didn’t articulate well enough that the relationship is over and has been for two weeks now. “Please just walk away? I’m not taking you back. Tonight or ever, do you understand?” Even with your heart in your stomach, lurching there like a stone in acid, you can’t bring yourself to be cruel. You’re just desperate to be clear and get it through his head.
Sam frowns and looks around at the people who have started to go from excited to embarrassed for him. “Why?” He asks quietly. “This is what we talked about. What you wanted to plan for? Now you say no?”
“Plans changed. Maybe I changed, I don’t know.” You didn’t. And you know you didn’t. But it seems kinder to say that than to point out that your eyes are opened to how imbalanced your relationship was. “I found my person, Sam. I’m sorry that it isn’t you, but please don’t make this worse than it already is.”
“You’re really going to say no?” Sam looks at you like you’ve lost your mind. “In front of all these people?” The microphone has been forgotten at his side, the conversation just between the two of you and he glances over to see Marcus Pike walking away in the crowd.
“I don’t even understand why you thought it was okay to ask.” It’s completely ruined the night rather than just being embarrassing, but one thing is obvious: Sam has turned out to be one of those men who won’t back down at the very worst of times. “No. Absolutely not. I’m with someone else and I love him. End of story.” Like the punctuation that ends a sentence, you hold up your hand to show him the ring Marcus put there just hours ago. “You should leave, Sam.”
He feels like he’s going to be sick. Unable to breathe in that second where a ring is produced and he knows if he doesn’t escape, find air, he might have a heart attack or something. It’s happening again. This time it’s even worse than before because it’s his soulmate. Marcus turns and pushes through the crowd. Hauling ass for the nearest exit as discreetly as he can while everyone else watches the romantic gesture ahead of them. Unable to hear anything but the tattoo of his heart beating out of his chest as he disappears out of the bar.
He doesn’t hear the next round of gasps inside as your birthday has turned into a farce. He doesn’t see Sam rage or crumble. He doesn’t stand and bear witness to you declaring your love for your soulmate in front of dozens of people. All he knows is that he has to get away, but he’s barely at the bottom of the stairs when you go barreling after him. “Marcus!” Thank god June saw him moving blindly through the crowd, she had pointed you in the right direction. “Marcus!”
It’s still crisp and cool when the sun goes down, hitting the doors and gasping like a drowning man when the frosty air hits him and after two gulps, he’s lurching for the bushes. He’s not so drunk he’s puking, he’s so emotional he can’t keep down the drinks and appetizers curdling on his stomach.
“Marcus, wait!” You have no idea what set of doors this is, but you saw him go through it, so you go too, almost twisting your ankle in the heels you’re wearing in the process. “Oh my god.” The second you see him, you’re moving again, reaching for his bent frame and trying to soothe him somehow. The best you can think of is cooing his name and rubbing your hand over his broad back gently.
Agent Bailey is hot on your heels, bursting through the door seconds later and on high alert. “I’m fine—” Marcus grunts, twisting away from you as he continues to empty his stomach. “’m fine.” He coughs and retches one more time before he can catch his breath. “Go back— I—I—” he pants out.
“You’re not fine.” In the three seconds you can think straight, you turn around to find Agent Bailey a few feet away. “Can you find us some water?” You ask her, not sure what’s caused Marcus to be so sick but sure that he’s going to feel worse if he can’t rinse his mouth.
It’s obvious that she’s uncomfortable leaving you, but after a second, she’s nodding and stepping away while speaking into her earpiece.
“It’s okay, baby…” Whether or not that’s true is yet to be determined, but Marcus is obviously in distress and you’re just trying to soothe him as best you can. “Was it something you drank? Or—or ate?” Or was it my ex-boyfriend ruining the entire fucking night for literally everyone?
Marcus closes his eyes, swallowing down another wave of bile and shakes his head. “No— I—” he can’t even articulate the rambling thoughts in his head right now. He feels like he’s lost again and yet you are standing in front of him. Are you here to give him the ring back?
“It’s okay, don’t talk until you’re ready.” While you still have one hand moving on his back, you just try to keep calm and hopefully help him calm down in the process. “Agent Bailey’s finding you some water and we can sit out here for as long as you need, okay?”
“Why—” he swallows and closes his eyes. “Why are you out here?” His voice is steadier, gaining control over his emotions again. “Your party is inside.”
"You are out here." The question makes no sense to you and you're probably looking at him like he has three heads, but at least that's an honest reaction. "Fuck the party. You're more important."
“No, I’m not.” Marcus opens his eyes, looking up at the stars and he has to know. “Did you say yes?”
A single beat of confusion bleeds away to absolutely seething disbelief and your hand stops moving on his back even though you don't step away. "How can you even think I—" And all at once it melts away as recognition dawns and the despair on his face becomes clear. Teresa. Teresa is why he's asking. Why he's afraid and why he's so anxious that he's throwing up in the bushes behind the building. "Marcus, no. Of course not. I didn't even let him ask the damn question. He's a self-centered moron who didn't take being broken up with well, and more importantly there is the fact that I love you."
“You were with him for a year.” Marcus reminds you, wanting so badly to believe you and yet it’s still just beyond his grasp.
"Lots of people are in relationships for longer than they should be," you reason, trying to keep his eyes even with the heartbreak that is obvious in them. "I love you, Marcus Pike. You're my soulmate, and I would trade every single second that I spent with Sam in a heartbeat if it meant getting to change all those memories to ones that include you."
“I’m sorry.” The apology is automatic, closing his eyes again and biting his lip. “This is— I shouldn’t have come out here. I shouldn’t have left your party.”
"You needed air, and you needed to clear your head." If you turn things around and put yourself in his shoes? You'd be losing it in the bushes, too. Thankfully, that is when Agent Bailey appears with a sealed bottle of water and she hands it off to you silently. "I'm sorry I ever said I wanted to stay friends with that man. Hopefully the fact that Secret Service escorted him off the grounds will get it through his head." Gently, though, you tip your head at Marcus and offer him a smile. "If not, I'm pretty sure that showing him your promise ring and loudly declaring how much I love you to about sixty people has probably done it."
“You did?” Marcus frowns slightly, confused as to when you managed to do that before rushing after him.
"I did." You nod slightly, one hand seeking his cheek to try to offer some kind of comforting touch. "And then I realized you weren't standing next to Sydney anymore, and I bolted after you."
“I—" he leans into the touch more than he realizes. “I can’t believe you did that.” He huffs softly.
"You said I could shout it from the rooftops." The reminder comes with a soft smile, as you see Marcus finally start to calm down a little and grapple with reality. "So I did."
“You have to be pretty pissed off at me.” He rationalizes. “All that talk and I’m puking my guts out when someone proposes to you on your birthday. In front of all your friends and family.”
"Baby, if one of your exes had shown up to your party and proposed, I assure you I also would have lost my shit. If not my dinner." Holding up the water bottle, you don't step away from him for a second. "We can stay out here as long as you need to, we can go back in, or we can go home. Whatever you need."
“You need to go back in.” Marcus tells you quietly. “You can’t just leave. All of those people are here for you.”
"I'm not leaving you." In the long run or the short, that sentence is the same.
“I’m not saying you leave me.” He looks at you again and reaches for the hand that isn’t on his back. “Let’s go back inside.”
"We'll sit and sip some water, and if your stomach is still turning we don't have to eat anything else." There is a more than minor chance that people will come up to you both for the rest of the night to want to talk about your soulmate status, but that can't be avoided.
He sighs softly. “You know why I was throwing up.” He challenges softly. “I was having a moment of extreme anxiety.”
"That doesn't mean you'll want to eat anything else, or that your stomach isn't still unsettled." Thankfully he wasn't panicked enough to drop your clutch, so he still has it in one hand and you take it from him carefully. "Here. I have mints and Tums stashed in here. Do you want one, the other, or both?"
He frowns slightly, unused to being fussed over unless it was his mother. “Both.” He decides. “I think.”
"We can do that." Mint Tums and Altoids are produced from your purse without further ceremony, and you wait until he steadies himself and chews his mints before you open your arms to offer him a hug.
He stares at you for a moment before he accepts the hug and pulls you close. “Are you okay, hummingbird?”
"I'm pissed at that idiot for upsetting you, but I'm okay." If he had said you should just go home, you would have gone with him in a heartbeat. Going back into that party sounds daunting at the very least. "What a fucking idiot. I'm just grateful I managed to catch you before you got too far."
“I just needed some air.” Marcus doesn’t know if he would have left, he hadn’t really been thinking— just reacting.
"If you get overwhelmed or anxious again, do you promise to tell me?" He takes your hand and a step or two toward the door at your side, but that doesn't mean he's totally ready to go in.
“I just—” he knows he owes you an explanation. “It felt like history was repeating itself. This time I was getting a front row seat.” He frowns slightly and looks down at the ring on your finger. “And the only thing that I could think of was how much worse it was because it was my soulmate.”
"You're absolutely entitled to have an anxious reaction to what just happened." With his hand in yours, you give it a squeeze and soothe your other hand over his arm. "Is there something I can do to reassure you? Or is this something that's just going to take time to work through?"
“It was just a flash in the pan thing.” Marcus assures you. “But I’ll talk to my therapist about it. So it doesn’t work into something between us.”
"Okay." He's working on himself, and honestly that might be one of the sexiest things about him. For now, though, you squeeze his hand again and head back into the building. "But if there is something I can do, or if I do something that I don't realize makes you anxious, will you tell me? I never want to make our time together stressful or triggering."
“I promise I will let you know.” He is thankful you understand why he freaked out, instead of just assuming he didn’t trust you. “I’m sorry that your birthday was…interrupted.”
"That is absolutely not your fault." It isn't. At all. And you would hate for him to feel that any of the blame is on his shoulders when it lies squarely with Sam. "Just...people are going to have questions. I did flash the ring, so we're going to have a lot of curiosity."
“I’m assuming this wasn’t the way you wanted to announce your soulmate status?” He asks wryly. “Why did Sam think he could win you over by proposing?”
"I think he thought that if he went for the grand gesture, I would just crumble." You sigh as you walk together, climbing the stairs slowly. "If not for you, I might have. I might have settled, instead of realizing that real love is something much more spectacular. Something worth holding out for."
“I’m glad you didn’t settle.” Marcus admits, looking over at you. “That wouldn’t be fair to you. Forget about me, it wouldn’t be fair to you.”
“I’m afraid I can’t do that.” At the top of the stairs you kiss his cheek and hold his hand a little tighter. “Now that I’ve met you, I could never forget about you.”
It’s a little surreal to be a priority, making Marcus flush a little more than he probably would, given that he had just doubted you and been proven spectacularly wrong. He’ll definitely call his therapist on Monday.
“Are you ready?” The doors are right in front of you, but you still check in with him first. “If you’re not, it’s okay. I’ll say good night and we’ll go home. Not questions asked.”
“No, I’m not going to ruin the rest of your night.” He shakes his head. “Let’s get a fresh drink.”
Marcus's stubbornness isn't something you want to start an argument about, but after tonight you're definitely going to take tomorrow very easy. "It's not the night any of us had planned, that's for damn sure."
“I would hope not.” He snorts and his hand squeezes yours again, now feeling guilty about leaving you while you dealt with Sam. “I’m sorry for not being there for you.”
"You don't need to be, but I appreciate that. He took all of us off guard." With a confirming nod from Marcus, you push the door to the event hall open and come face to face with a room full of guests who are all a flutter. Your mother still has the microphone in her hand but it seems to be off, and she makes her way toward you immediately with a deep frown etched in her features.
“Birdie.” She is almost sighing in relief when she spots you again. “You ran off, almost losing your detail.” She scolds quietly before she softens. “Are you okay, sweetheart?”
"I needed some air." The gentle lie covers the fact that you actually went running after Marcus, but no one can blame you for having a big reaction to what happened. "That was insane."
The president gives a very unpresidential snort. “You think?” She huffs. “I cannot believe that man thought proposing after you broke up was a good idea. I mean, I know he had mentioned something when you were still together, but-“ Realizing who she is saying this in front of, she snaps her jaw closed and sends Marcus a polite smile. “Thank you for being with her.”
"It's not exactly how I was going to tell you about the promise ring," you admit, leaning in to Marcus's side when he offers your mother an agreeing nod. As though to say 'of course' without letting her know that it was actually you who was there for him.
“You seem overjoyed to wear it.” She observes, smiling slightly at the way you are leaning into the man beside you. Drawing comfort and offering it at the same time.
"I am." Without hesitation, and with great pride, in fact. "And I apologize in advance, but I'm going to miss a family dinner in a few weeks. Marcus is bringing me to Texas to meet his family."
“Really?” Her eyes widen slightly and shift over to Marcus as she reappraises him through a new lens. This has just change from potential to reality. “Well.” She smiles. “I am sure that they will love you.”
“We’ll make sure all the plans are approved by Agent Bailey, but…” Glancing up at Marcus beside you, your stomach flips and your hearts pounds. As off kilter as tonight has gone, he’s still standing here beside you. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
“Perhaps you shouldn’t take your detail out to Texas.” Your mother considers, looking at Marcus to see what he thinks. “After all, you will be traveling with a federal agent.” She taps the microphone. “Would be bring your weapon and credential when you fly?” She asks him. Marcus nods immediately. “I always bring them.” He explains. “In case I get called out for a case. I don’t have to fly back to D.C.”
“We’ll be near the Dallas field office anyway,” you offer, having cruised around Marcus’s hometown on Google maps with him over a phone call when he was in London and noting the office as you went.
Your mother glances over at Agent Bailey and within seconds, the agent is joining the three of you. “What do you think, Agent Bailey?” She asks, wanting her professional opinion before she makes her decision.
“I would feel more comfortable if it was me, Ma’am.” Agent Bailey shifts in place, as if apologizing to you with her body language. “I’ll station at the field office and be on call. It’s a middle ground, if you will.”
“Birdie?” Your mother glances over at you to see what you think. “How does that sound?”
“That’s fine with me as long as long as it’s okay with Marcus.” You nod, appreciating your agent’s candor. “I trust Agent Bailey more than some strangers.”
“Whatever is needed for Birdie’s safety.” Marcus agrees. “Although, there’s plenty of room for you at the compound.” He tells Agent Bailey. “There’s no need for you to stay in Dallas. Please. Come stay with us.”
“We’ll coordinate with the Dallas office and make arrangements official.” Agent Bailey assures your small group. “Now…I believe there is a cake to be cut, ma’am?”
“Oh shit.” Marcus’s eyes widen when he realizes that you haven’t even had your cake. “Yeah, sweetheart, you need to have your birthday cake.”
“We got a little distracted from the point of the night, I think.” Still placing the blame for that squarely on one person’s shoulders, you offer your mother a smile anyway. “What do you say we get this party back on track?”
“Are you sure?” She glances back and forth between you and Marcus. “There will be a lot of questions.”
“I know there will be.” And you swallow, wondering if it will overwhelm Marcus and make him second guess choosing you. “But I would rather get ahead of the rumor mill.”
“Then perhaps you should announce your soulmate status.” She offers quietly. “People heard you talk about finding happiness, but they don’t know why you’ve moved on so quickly.”
“It shouldn’t matter,” you remind her, just as quietly but feeling a bit childish. That’s what freedom of affection is about. Your choice. “But I will anyway. Because I’m proud of him.”
“What you decide to do is up to you.” She agrees. “I should have had security stop Congressman Chase at the door.”
“Hindsight, Mom.” The best you can do is shrug. “I shouldn’t have said I wanted to stay friends. It’s done now.”
“Yes…” she huffs slightly, knowing that her opinion of the congressman just dropped considerably after his display tonight.
“Why don’t you give me that,” you motion to the microphone in her hand. “And I’ll talk…and you get the cake?”
“That is your decision, Birdie.” She hands you the microphone and Marcus frowns. “Sweetheart, you don’t have to do anything.”
“I have to say something.” Taking the microphone from her, you offer Marcus a lopsided smile before you click on the power button. “Are you ready for this?”
“Whenever you are.” It’s still a theory in his mind, not tangible. You don’t have to declare this—him— it’s enough that you want to be with him.
“I love you.” It’s just a soft hum, but you squeeze his hand before you click the microphone on and raise it to your mouth. “I hope everyone enjoyed the floor show,” you joke, bringing people’s attention back to the front of the room.
Marcus would have let go of your hand, to give you the spotlight alone, but you don’t let go. Making him give a soft smile as everyone looks at you and consequentially, him.
"I didn't think it was going to be necessary to make an announcement out of this, but clearly the fact didn't get through some people's heads." Still trying for the joke, you take a look around the room. Family, friends, co-workers and family friends all surround you with attentive expressions. "It's been a little over a month now, since I met Marcus Pike." Squeezing his hand gently, you smile at the man beside you and exhale nervously. Stage fright be damned. He is more important than nerves. "And it gave me a lot to think about. How happy I was with the current state of my life and my relationship, or how I imaged my future. It became fairly clear to me that I didn't want to envision any future for myself that didn't have Marcus playing a starring role. Which makes sense..." Breathe. You can do it. Just breathe. "Considering he's my soulmate."
Marcus gives a small wave and a somewhat lopsided grin that he is completely unaware of how charming it is. Listening to the murmurs and gasps of surprise as he knows that he’s under increased scrutiny.
"I know I've always been outspoken about freedom of affection." There are more murmurs – agreement from your loved ones. "And this is what I'm choosing. I am choosing to love my soulmate, and to start building a future with him. Apparently that was a difficult reality for my ex-boyfriend to swallow, but I hope you'll all join me in having a slice of birthday cake and celebrating love and happiness until they kick us out of this place."
Marcus could not have said it better himself, so he doesn’t speak. He just lifts your joined hands and kisses the back of yours gently.
Clicking off the microphone again, you hand it off to one of the uniformed wait staff and turn around to find a rolling table with a sizeable two-tier cake on it. Your father is there with a smile on his face and the knife ready for you to pick up. One ceremonial cut into the cake gets a cheer from the crowd and then it's Alex's voice that starts everyone singing Happy Birthday just as loudly as possible.
Marcus is happy that the celebration has turned back towards you and not the proposal. Singing along with the chorus of the song, he grins when you duck your head slightly in embarrassment.
"Thank god that's over," you huff with a laugh, as the waiter rolls the cake away to slice it properly and people start to mill about again instead of just staring at you. Or worse, singing at you. There's a dab of frosting on your finger and you suck it into your mouth with curiosity before perking up immediately. "Mm, cream cheese frosting!"
“Cream cheese frosting is your favorite?” He asks curiously, smiling at your obvious delight.
"Cake is my favorite." The grin on your face doesn't even have a hint of irony to it. "But if you made me choose? Red velvet with cream cheese frosting is pretty much the top of the list."
“As it should be.” Marcus snorts and shoots you a grin. “But, have you ever had a chilled, key lime cake with cream cheese frosting on a hot Texas day?”
"Please tell me that's something your family does," you groan happily. "Because that sounds amazing."
“My aunt makes one every time I come home.” He promises. “I’ve already gotten the text from her asking if I would want her to make one. I always say yes, but she still asks.”
"Your aunt is now at the very top of my favorite people list." The grin on your face comes with burning cheeks, and you lean into Marcus's side with a sigh. "After you, of course."
“Until you taste my mom’s strawberry daiquiri pie.” He teases, leaning in and kissing your nose.
"Are we going to eat our way through this visit? Because I am completely ready for that." The small reprieve you've been given from the curiosity of your friends and family has apparently ended, and the first waiter with a tray of plates of cake comes out and Malachi saunters up to grab a slice right after you.
“You’ll work it off.” He promises with a grin at the concierge as he smirks with the cake in his hand. “Malachi, how are you this evening?” He asks with a slight chuckle. “A little drama filled, right?”
“More than a little.” Malachi deftly balances a small dessert plan with a glass of champagne in one hand, but his other reaches out to Marcus. “I guess we’ll be seeing you more around the inn?”
Marcus shakes the man’s hand, sensing that despite his aloof mannerisms, he cares deeply about you and the inn. “I hope that’s alright?”
"If she's happy, I'm happy." The younger man chuckles fondly. "Everybody wants their boss in a good mood, right?"
“Absolutely.” Marcus agrees with a grin. “I will try to stay out of your way and keep her in a good mood, what do you say?”
"Sounds like a very good plan." Malachi's eyes spell mischief, just like always, but he cares about you far too much to pretend he isn't genuinely over the moon for you to have finally found the right person to be with.
You huff playfully and Marcus turns his grin towards you. “I have to promise not to distract you from work too much.” He reminds you. “You have an inn to run.”
"Mal says he's happy now," you tease." But he's going to have to run the place for me while we're in Texas. That'll teach him."
“A lover’s getaway already?” His brow shoots up and his lips curl in the same direction. “And here I was thinking that you were taking this slow.”
"Family visit." Though it's technically a correction, it's only a small one. If anything, meeting your soulmate's family is even more important than just a little getaway. "We'll go over everything and I know you'll be just fine. But...yes. A getaway."
“Good.” Malachi sniffs. “You deserve to go somewhere other than Maryland.”
There are other people milling around, wanting to give their best wishes or simply curious to get a closer look at Marcus, and Malachi slips back off into the crowd with a wink and a smile. If this is the rest of the party, you reflect with a glance up at Marcus as you fork up a first bite of cake, that won't be so bad at all.
There are so many people who care about you. Some are just curious and he’s sure that there will be gossip reported on the night, but most everyone who comes up to you genuinely cares. He smiles and shakes hands. Listening to how they know you and saves the information for the next time he sees them. Never leaving your side until he needs to refresh your drink.
By the time the end of the night arrives, you're so grateful to slip away. The fact that you and Marcus have planned a lazy day for tomorrow is deeply necessary. Switching to nonalcoholic drinks after the toast with your cake means neither of you is drunk but you're definitely still tangled around each other after loading the trunk of Marcus's car with various boxes and bags (even though you insisted on no gifts). Good nights are said and Agent Bailey climbs into her car to follow you back to the inn as you and Marcus sigh at finally being alone again in his car.
“I don’t know if that’s the best possible outcome for your birthday, or the worst.” Marcus chuckles, reaching for your hand once he buckled his seatbelt. “Opinions, comments, concerns?”
"Aside from the bit in the middle that I would prefer to never think about again?" You glance up at him beside you and offer him a smile. "Everything else was perfect."
“He was desperate.” Marcus squeezes your hand. “I know why. You are amazing and he’s lost you.” He wonders what he would have done if you had chosen him, if it had been him in Sam’s shoes. He’s let everyone else go, but it’s different now. You are his soulmate.
“Nobody ever treated me like I was ‘amazing’ ,” you tell him honestly, sitting back in your seat when he starts his car up. “Or maybe that’s part of what being a soulmate is. A shared definition of how to treat someone well.”
He doesn’t like the idea that no one has treated you like you deserve, frowning slightly. “Well, the moment I don’t, you just correct me.”
“Same goes for you, you know.” Your hand works its way into his over the gear shift to stay tangled in him even while he drives.
“I don’t think you will be a problem, sweetheart.” He smiles as he glances over at you and then back at the road to the rearview mirror. “Agent Bailey staying again? Or is someone else taking over?”
"Agent Sisson should be at the inn when we get there." His grace and understanding in regards to your security detail is deeply appreciated. You really can't say how much. "It was nice of you to offer for her to stay on the compound when we go see your parents."
“There’s always people coming and going, family and friends. It will make her feel better and maybe she will enjoy herself too.” Marcus rationalizes. “There’s plenty of room. No need for a boring hotel.”
"It will be a nice change," you agree. The darkened streets of Washington DC are lit to blazing with artificial light but it's still fairly quiet for a Saturday night. "I feel bad that there aren't more places for her to hang out at my apartment."
“I would offer my apartment, the second bedroom is my office and across the entire living room from my bedroom.” Marcus chuckles.
"We'll have to split the difference sometimes. Use both places." Tilting your head, you flash him a cheeky grin as he drives. "Until we start building, of course."
“Honestly, whatever is easier for you.” Marcus isn’t about to sleep without you if he can manage it. “I do not mind your apartment at all.”
"We'll see what works best for us. I'm sure there will be days when it will be easier for you to be closer to the office or days when I need to be close to the inn just in case." His flexibility is such a boon, and you squeeze his hand gently. "As long as I get to sleep next to you, we'll make it work."
“That was my thoughts exactly.” Marcus chuckles quietly, amazed at how the two of you just fit together. He had always heard of it, been envious of it on a subconscious level, but now he’s basking in this newfound joy.
"I hope you already told your parents you're bringing me," you laugh softly. "Because I told a lot of people tonight."
“I’m sure there will be something about in a gossip column tomorrow.” He has accepted that, has no issue with it as long as he gets to have you. It’s a requirement of it, to be public. He’s got nothing to hide anyway. He’s used to it from his own childhood. “I’ve told them.” He promises.
“I don’t think you’ve ever told me what your Dad does.” It’s an open question but a good one, especially where it keeps your mind from idling on the fact that at this time last night, Marcus was fingering you in your bathtub and promising to do more tonight.
His brow shoots up and he almost laughs, but you are asking the question seriously. “Oh, he’s retired now.” Marcus promises, grinning slightly.
“Oh?” That’s surprising, though you’re not sure why. Maybe just because you hadn’t been expecting it. “Is he much older than your mother? Or…I don’t know…military? They retire early sometimes, don’t they?”
He does chuckle now and he stops at the red light. “Birdie, my dad is Matthew Pike.” He wonders if you might not have heard of him during his active years in the MLB. “Nicknamed Stryker for the number of strikeouts he would average throwing a game.”
The silence in the car is deafening for the few seconds it takes your mind to catch up with what he’s saying and for your jaw to come up off the floor, but when you can finally think again the first thing out of your mouth is: “No fucking way!”
Marcus belly laughs this time, squeezing your hand and glancing over at you before the light changes and he starts to drive again. “Fucking way.” He promises.
“Wait…” Rolling back through all of the assorted baseball facts in your mind, you somehow manage to come up with just a few Matthew Pike tidbits and get excited all over again. “So you’re not originally from Texas then!” You exclaim, fully shifting into fan girl mode. “He was playing for the Cardinals when you were born, wasn’t he?”
“Cardinals and then he was with Montreal, the Yankees, then Texas.” Marcus nods, grinning at the sheer happiness in your voice.
“I always thought it would have been so cool to live all over like that when I was a kid.” At the time it had never occurred to you that things like having Sydney come with you would have been impossible, it just sounded neat. “That’s the absolute coolest bomb you ever could have dropped on me and I’m so jealous.”
Marcus laughs. “Well, after dad retired, he bought the land out in Texas – no, he already started buying it during his time with Texas – and we made it the ‘Pike compound’.” He snorts. “Kind of like the Kennedy Compound, but not on Cape Cod.”
“There is no room for a family compound in Philly.” The very idea of it makes you laugh, and you grin at him. “Well now I extra can’t wait to meet your parents.”
“Oh….its tradition, by the way.” Marcus tosses you a smirk. “We play at least one game of baseball when we are home.”
“No fucking way.” This time there is awe in your voice and your eyes are wide with giddy excitement. “You have the absolute coolest family, you know that, right?”
“You say that now.” He snorts, rolling his eyes. “You’ve never heard the trash talking the Pike family doles out when playing sports.”
“Don’t care,” you tell him with confidence. “It’s still awesome. Your family is awesome.”
“I think so.” He agrees, happy that his family tradition doesn’t seem weird or lame to you. It had started as a way for the cousins and brothers and sisters to play baseball with the famous MLB star and turned into a tradition that everyone could enjoy, even if they were watching from the seats.
“It’s going to be a blast.” The absolute confidence in your voice won’t hear of anything different. Texas is going to be a fantastic trip.
“They are going to love you.” He promises with a small laugh. “Expect a million questions though.”
“I’m fine with that,” you promise him steadily. “As long as your dad doesn’t mind me fangirling just a tiny bit.”
He smirks. “There’s been a change in his retirement, by the way.” He tells you. “He’s been signed to be the pitching coach for the Rangers. So you can pick his brain.”
“Ok, so fangirling a lot.” Both of you laugh, enjoying the easiness and eagerness of it.
“At least you know you won’t be roped into awkward conversations. You just mention something about baseball and it will become a family topic quick.” Marcus warns.
“Got it.” You hum. He takes the exit for Alexandria and you look over at his profile. “Speaking of which? You’re now invited to family dinners.”
“I am?” Marcus lifts a brow in surprise. “When did that happen?”
“Right before we left the party.” A bit of your lip comes with hoping he doesn’t feel intimidated by where those dinners are. “Mom said there’s no pressure, but you’re welcome.”
“I would be honored to attended….when I can.” Even though it’s an extreme honor, he still had commitments to his job that sometimes cannot be shifted. “I will promise that I’ll come to as many as I can.”
“Work always comes first.” Everyone in your family can understand and agree to that, which is something that helps you breathe more deeply. “David has a standing invitation, too. But his boss has him working Friday nights right now.”
“That’s not fun.” Marcus sends you a small smile. “I better brush up on my small talk.”
“Brush up on American history.” That’s your best advice, but you’re ecstatic he even wants to think about it. “The more obscure the better. When we run out of things to talk about, Mom starts quizzing us on the weird stuff.”
“Play online Jeopardy trivia.” Marcus snorts. “Got it.”
“You’ll knock ‘em dead, baby,” you hum with a laugh.
“You laugh, but mom love Jeopardy.” He huffs playfully. “She wanted to go on the celebrity edition when dad was invited. She was pissed that he turned it down.”
“Our mothers will have at least one thing to bond over, then.” The idea is sweet, actually, and you grin. “If we ever lose them, we’ll find them yelling answers at Jeopardy together.”
“I will be very intrigued to find out how they like each other.” Marcus admits as he turns into the driveway for the inn. “I think we will be in trouble.”
“Maybe.” It makes you smile, though, and you breathe a sigh of relief to be home again. “But I think it will be a good kind of trouble.”
The plans for the super special birthday sex had been unanimously voted against once you were back at the inn. Marcus wouldn’t have said a word, but you were the one to broach the subject and admitted that you just wanted to fall asleep in his arms, emotionally drained from the tumultuous events of the evening. He feels guilty, he really does, but he had also been relieved, although stirring now with you still asleep is a moment he can treasure.
Yesterday you had been the one to watch him fondly, tracing the sunlight on his features and letting you savor the sight of him beside you. The morning after your birthday is the opposite. Marcus watches you dream as the sun rises higher overhead. If you knew, you might be slightly embarrassed about the spot of drool on your pillow, but as it is you’re having dreams far too wonderful to care.
You sleep with your mouth open and it’s cute. Marcus smiles as he brushes his fingers over your skin gently, listening to soft sigh that comes from you as you curl further into him.
In your dreams, he’s already curled around you. Which probably accounts for the soft moan you breathe deep inside your sleep.
“Sweetheart?” Marcus nuzzles his nose against your cheek and smiles when your brow furrows gently.
The sound of his voice in the waking world pulls you out of it, and even though you hum softly in protest of waking up, you shift to snuggle closer to him in bed.
He hums softly, running his hand up and down your back. “You can still sleep, I just want to know if I can touch you.”
“Mmmmm.” Stretching like a contented kitten, you manage to crack one eye open and smile at him sleepily. “I wanna be awake for that, though.”
“You could always wake up to it.” He chuckles and leans in to steal a kiss.
The warm blanket of his affection is far more powerful than the comforter covering both of you, and you’re simultaneously annoyed that he’ll have to strip you out of your nightgown and lazily eager to see if he just doesn’t bother. Moaning softly against his lips, you shift ever closer. “I’m yours.”
You are his. His heart stutters and he hums against your lips. Moving the kiss down your jaw, he shuffles his hips down to start sliding down under the sheets.
There’s a surreal quality to it, like you’re still dreaming even when you know you aren’t. But the morning glow settling over everything is so much better than your dreams had been. It’s like you’re floating on a cloud, and the only thing anchoring you to the ground or any kind of reality is just Marcus.
Your nightgown is between you, but he doesn’t view it as hinderance. Too busy nuzzling you through it as he kisses down your chest and pulls down the collar of the gown over one breast.
The bowing arch of your back into his touch is so natural that you barely notice that you’re chasing his mouth rather than his hands. It’s just your body singing insistently for more when he’s barely getting started.
You respond so easily to him, your warm skin heating up even more as he mouths and kisses the skin around your breast until he finally latches on to your nipple lazily, grabbing against your sweet smelling skin. Your breathy sigh is pitched up, and the leisurely curl of your arms around his shoulders holds him in close to you to encourage him to explore any and all parts of you. Sensitive nipples have always been a boon as far as arousal goes, but Marcus’s magic tongue is nothing to discount.
Listening to your sweet sighs is something he can do forever. Licking and sucking gently, combined with the a sometimes sharp nip of his teeth, builds a tension that vibrates beneath the surface of your body.
Your fingers comb through his hair as you drift on a cloud that keeps you somewhere between sleep and wakefulness. Every atom in your body is fully aware and aroused but the sweet dream of this morning makes it still feel like a dream. Holding him close to your chest as he explores to his heart’s content has you squeezing your thighs together already, the buzzing arousal feeling thick and sticky at the apex of your thighs.
"So sweet, perfect." Marcus praises softly between suckles. His hands sliding under your gown to stroke your hip. "You taste perfect, my love."
The happy buzz vibrating right under your skin makes you giggle at that as you squirm underneath him. “And you haven’t even tasted the best part yet.”
“Hmmmm, I’m going to get there.” Marcus promises. “This isn’t a race. I could spend alllll day discovering your body with my tongue and hands before I even use my cock.”
A moan of agreement parts your lips and you end up grinning as he mouths at your skin, nipping and licking everywhere he pleases. “The flea market will still be there next weekend.”
“Maybe we should get out of bed then.” He pauses, head under the sheet and waits for you to squirm. “Right? We can’t miss the flea market.”
“Are you serious?” He’s probably not, but you still lift the sheet to look him in the eyes. If he actually wants to stop, then of course you will. But you have a feel he’s just being a tease again.
He smirks, and looks up at you innocently while sticking his tongue out to trace around your areola. "What do you think?" He hums.
“I’m not going to pressuring you into anything,” you qualify, although he basically has you whining. “But I am gonna have to take care of myself in the shower if you want to stop.”
"That would be a horrible precedent to set in our first weekend together." Marcus flicks his tongue over your aching nipple and then hums when you gasp out as his teeth scrap over it. "Don't you think? We've already postponed this too many times."
It’s almost too much to bear, the way he teases with words and touches and kisses all at once, but you manage to huff at him. “If I drown you when you get down there, it’s only because I’ve been thinking about this every waking second for weeks.”
“Worth it.” He promises with a grin. “It had been so hard not to jerk off thinking about you while I was in London. Especially knowing you were all soft, wet and sweet smelling from your baths with me.”
“Do you know how many times I almost got myself off in those damn baths?” Your soft groan is almost agonized. “I should have. Just moaned into the phone and let you know how badly I want you.”
“Fuck.” His cock twitches against the bed, trapped there as he continues to work his way down. “I wouldn’t have minded.” He admits. “Listening to your orgasm and imagining how you look.” He bites his lip. “You look gorgeous.”
“Would’ve been worth it.” He kisses further down your torso and you hum in approval. “Can’t wait to see how wrecked you look when you cum in me.”
“I had a screening while I was in London.” Marcus admits quietly. “After Vanessa broke up with me. I always do after a relationship ends. Just in case.”
“I do too.” A little bit of a sheepish laugh follows. “Turns out it’s really easy to get good healthcare when your Mom is President.”
Marcus chuckles against your belly button before kissing it. “I bet.” He hums. “No one needs a leaked doctor office visit where the First Princess has an STI.”
“I only like that nickname because it came from the night with you,” you confess, fingers running through his short fair fondly. “I hope you know that.”
“So how about I just call you Princess?” Marcus’s voice drops about two octaves and he smirks at you wickedly.
“As long as I’m your princess.” Although, your sigh immediately gives away what that tone in his voice fires to you.
“Is there any other kind of Princess you would be?” He sends you a wink as he trails his tongue over your hip.
“Not anymore.” Your head falls back on your pillow in relief at that fact, and you fling off the sheet to get to watch him. “Not now that I have you.”
Pleasure races down his spine and he shuffles slightly lower. “I am yours.”
“Glad we—” The moan that cuts off your thought when you feel Marcus’s breath at the apex of your open thighs is deep and curls up from your toes. “Agree.”
He chuckles and doesn’t hesitate to use his fingers to spread your lips apart and he coos as he gets the first good look at your weeping sex. “So pretty.” He praises before he decides the best way to taste you is to slowly drag his tongue along your soaked slit.
“Oh fuck.” Even when you were expecting it, the delicate touch has your eyelids fluttering shut and your chest heaving. Your curse sounds like the most beautiful praise to his ears, moaning at that and the silky, tangy taste of your cunt. Letting his tongue slowly flick along your folds and go where the natural curves of your lips take him. “Never going out again,” you vow, letting a breathy whine vibrate on your tongue.
Marcus chuckles into your folds, keeping pressure on the most sensitive parts of you as he explores. He’s meticulous. Once he’s set himself to the task of learning you, absolutely nothing can or will possibly drag him away. The more you squirm, the firmer his hold becomes. But the more you pant and moan and coo his name into the morning light? Marcus is eager.
The sheet being pulled away allows him to watch you. Enjoying the way you writhe and squirm under his touch. Humming against your skin as you whimper his name prettily.
There's no possible explanation beyond Marcus having a three-foot-long tongue, because the way he feels like he's everywhere at once is the most beautiful kind of overwhelming. There's a solid chance he's just been licking into you and sucking at your clit for hours from how boneless you are, but the first tightening of the knotted arousal at the bottom of your spine heralding the first orgasm of the day reminds you just how quickly he's actually gotten here. You only feel like you've been on this cloud of ecstasy for forever.
Marcus feels your thighs starts to tense around his head. Tightening his grip of your hips as he continues to overwhelm you gently.
“Baby—” Breathless gasps begin to take over as your whole body seems to tighten in response to the mounting pleasure. “I’m so—fuck, I’m so close—”
He doesn’t dare pull away, not wanting to give you a seconds break from the flick of his tongue. Groaning into you and coaxing you to cum for him.
Marcus’s name is a chant on your lips as you fall apart, tipping off the peak of the mountain of pleasure and swan diving down into the swimming ecstasy that Marcus is drawing out of you with lips and teeth and hands.
Your breathless cry of his name is followed by the most gorgeous sight he’s ever seen. Your back arches, eyes closed, one hand tangled into his hair and the other gripping the sheets. It’s beautiful and erotic, a pure work of live art that is priceless to him.
For a few seconds after it’s like you’ve forgotten how to breathe, and then you sink back into the mattress with a sigh. You still have one hand in his hair and it rubs gently, begging him to climb up your body so you can kiss him.
It takes a few minutes, Marcus liking to be thorough when he is working a woman down from her high. Kissing the swollen skin gently before his mouth starts a slow journey back up to yours. By the time he gets up to your lips you’re practically whining for that kiss, happily letting him sink down on top of you when he gets there. His body covers yours perfect, fitting into every grove like he was made for you – because he was. His lips molding to yours in a soft yet sensuous kiss that consumes both of you in the growing morning light.
The valley between your thighs is the perfect place for him to rest, and you cradle him against your body as easily as if you were welcoming him home. What they say about intimacy between soulmates seems to be abundantly clear to you in this moment — it really is the deepest feeling of connection you’ve ever had.
Marcus revels in the feel, sliding his tongue against yours and he pushes his arms under yours to hold you close. It’s almost lazy, the way you sink against each other, but Marcus’s cock trapped between your bodies isn’t going to let either of you get distracted from the wonderful the track that you’re on.
His knuckles brush your cheek and when he finally pulls away, he’s grinning at you. “Good morning.”
"Cheeky," you hum at him, although you're grinning too. "Making me cum that hard and then acting all cute and innocent."
“That was hard?” He tilts his head and smirks slightly, teasing you. “I thought that was a good place to start.”
"Marcus Reid Pike." Eyeing him with a skeptical huff, you ruffle his hair again and end up laughing. "I'm all for that. Just give me a second to recover."
He laughs, coming back down to smother you in affectionate kisses to hear you squeal. “No recovery time!” He commands playfully.
"Such a demanding lover!" You faux-scold, laughing and clinging to him as you squeal and squirm in his arms. Marcus laughs like an evil villain and rocks his hips, grinding his cock against your mound.
"Fuck." It earns him a whimper from your lips, your whole body lighting up all over again at the contact.The playfulness ebbs away and is replaced by a moment of silent desire passing through both of you. Leaning in again, his lips press against yours once more. When you shift this time, your feet are flat on the bed and your knees end up bracketing his hips, encouraging him closer and letting him rest in the cradle of your thighs.
“Ready for more?” He hums, ducking his head to kiss your pulse. “I thought my little Hummingbird needed to recover?”
"I have reconsidered," you inform him, with the air of someone making a very serious and important political decision. "And instead insist on more."
“Ahhhh.” He pops his head up and makes a very loft expression appear on his own face as his hips tilt back and the head of his cock catches on your slick entrance. “A wise choice.” He rasps out, pushing forward to start breaking you open. “Princess.”
Your own noise is best described as a whine, somewhere in between a sharp gasp and a plaintive begging for as much as he's willing to give you. Your legs find their way up higher on his hips to invite him to bury himself in your heat, and even though you were just kissing him seconds ago, you swear he's managed to find a way to loom over you with the perfect expression of desire on his face.
You are exquisite, perfect. Marcus can’t even find enough words to describe how the moment he slides into you wraps around his heart and imprints into his soul. The same soul that is fused with yours. He’s always heard that you feel so much deeper with your soulmate and he’s happy to learn that it’s true.
For a few long seconds, the two of you are content to adjust to each other. No sharp, awkward movements. No wiggling or shifting. The angle is already perfect and Marcus is fully seated inside your body without a single moment of hesitation or difficulty. There’s just a feeling of coming home that you’re basking in until he starts to move.
Starting slow is the only way to do this. Not because he’s afraid of hurting you, but because he doesn’t want to leave you. Feeling like he just stay buried inside your honeyed walls and be perfectly content. The first time he draws his hips back, a low groan falls from his lips. Your real name following that.
There are octaves of difference in your responses. Where Marcus’s groan comes from somewhere deep in his soul, your high whine of pleasure is its own ethereal sound. Once those sounds break free, it seems like a release cord has been pulled — and every pleasurable sound, pure of encouragement, and moan of praise is sure to come tumbling out after it.
It’s never been like this. Never reached into his body and tugged at his soul like this. He should feel guilty but he can’t. Not when every slow thrust is met with an eagerness that shows your own enthusiasm.
Each thrust from Marcus comes with a lift or a roll of your hips, meeting him at the center of the movement to create an exquisite rhythm between the two of you. It's the ebb and flow of the ocean between your bodies as the pace increases and the warmth of the sun heats your skin even further.
It’s beautiful, but he can tell that it’s not enough. Your fingernails dig into his skin, only to release a second later as if you are afraid of marking him. Your body asking for more than the gentle lovemaking. “Let me-“ Marcus kisses you again. “Do you want to try a different position?”
With his cock buried to the hilt inside you like it is, he could probably suggest murder and you'd agree with breathless enthusiasm. "Anything," you nod emphatically and soothe the light fingernail marks you accidentally left on his shoulder.
“Let me know if you don’t like something, Princess.” Marcus murmurs seriously. “This is about both of us.”
"I promise." Right now all you care about is that he doesn't leave the heat of your little cocoon for too long, but you're willing to try just about anything once.
Marcus pulls back and he tries to shift without pulling out of you. Almost succeeding, but smirking slightly when you whimper as his cock falls out. Pushing his legs under your hips, he lifts your left leg onto his shoulder and shimmy’s closer.
There's no thrusting in this position, but as Marcus slides inside you again he leans back the intensity of just grinding against each other makes you moan out and reach to grip Marcus's ankle by your head. He loves how deep he feels, how your walls simply flutter around him. “So good baby.” Marcus groans. “How does it feel?”
"So good baby." Echoing him with a whimper, the hand of yours that isn't clinging to him is somewhere between fisting the sheets and exploring your own body while his hips grind into yours. "You like watching me writhe, gorgeous?"
“Yes.” The word falls like a prayer from his lips, breathless as he watches you. His heart galloping like he’s running a marathon and he can only hope that it’s half as good for you.
"You wanna see me touch myself?" The angle is perfect for it. For him to watch you on your back as he rolls his hips against yours and makes both of you shudder in response. Your free hand squeezes mercilessly at one of your tits, pawing it and twisting the nipple with enough force to make you moan sharply.
“Show me what you like.” Marcus growls out the order, his cock pulsing violently inside your walls as his body responds to the idea.
Anchoring yourself to him was like clinging to life when he first slid inside you in this position, but now you can take your hand away and put it to much better use rubbing decisive, tight circles around your clit to give Marcus a gorgeous show of you indulging in your own body at the same time he fucks you.
His eyes keep roaming. Taking in your hand squeezing and manipulating your breast, the tight circles you rub around your clit. All finding it to be the sexiest thing he’s ever seen as his cock grinds into you. The end of the shaft the only part of it he can see.
Watching Marcus practically salivate over the sight of you is worth not being able to kiss him in this position. Every time he lifts his hips his cock scrubs against your g-spot and your back arches just a little bit more, rocketing you straight toward the second orgasm of the morning.
“That how you like it baby?” Marcus groans when you clench down around him, providing the perfect pressure. “What else do you like? Tell me. Want to give it to you.”
“Want you to — oh fuck — fucking wreck me.” What started out as beautiful, slow, sensual lovemaking has quickly picked up speed and intensity. Like something inside the two of you just released out of nowhere. “Claim me.”
“Fuck” Marcus growls from the very pit of his stomach and he manages to push to his knees by folding them under and looming over you. “You want it rough?”
Simply knowing the man is broad doesn’t do justice to the way he looms over you now. There is power in his strength and yet a deep confidence that he would never, never hurt you. You know Marcus can be gentle and sensual — but you also want to see what it’s like when he’s rough. “Absolutely.”
Your leg is up on his shoulder so when he lunges forward, it’s pressed back to your body. Trapped between the two of you and pinning your hand so you can’t move it from your clit. His hand slaps the side of your thigh sharply and he replaces the hand on your tit with his own, the next thrust more of a sharp snap of his hips.
Permission seems to be all he needed, having no issue taking charge or throwing some power into his thrusts. It pushes you up the bed and has you moaning out all over again. If you had neighbors, they would definitely be complaining. Instead, you just make a mental note to get an extra treat for your agents in apology for how much of this they’re going to start hearing.
“Tell me what else you want.” He demands through gritted teeth and he slides one hand up to rest on the hollow of your throat. He doesn’t squeeze. “This?”
The whimper he earns from you with that suggestion is almost pitiable, but having one of your favorite things to watch in porn that you've never tried before just offered to you – it makes you impossibly wetter and that impending orgasm come even closer. "I – fuck – please?" You beg, knowing you sound pitiful but not caring in the least.
“Hold onto my hand Princess.” Marcus orders roughly. “Squeeze twice quickly if you need me to stop.” He knows that it’s hard to talk sometimes and he wants you to be safe. If this is the kind of experience you want sometimes, you will need to discuss safe words and other safety precautions. Later.
It's possibly the most obedient you've ever been in your life and you put your hand over his wrist and squeeze it twice quickly to show him that you understand. "Like that. I love you, baby."
“I love you too.” He grunts, snapping his hips forward as he squeezes your windpipe for the first time. It’s not hard, but it’s firm enough to cut your air intake in half.
If he was worried even for a second that this might be going out on a limb or that you agreed to it just because you thought it would please him, that worry slides away instantly. As soon as he squeezes, your eyes rolls back in pleasure and your cunt squeezes his cock tight, flooding him with another rush of arousal.
“Holy shit, holy shit. You like that?” He groans, squeezing a little harder. “Yeah you do.” He hisses. “Open your mouth for me, Princess.”
You really fucking do like it, and the instinct for obedience it seems to ingrain in you has you opening your mouth immediately.
It’s a testament to his core training that he can take his other hand off the bed. Holding himself up as he presses his thumb to your tongue and hooks your jaw open even more as he continues to pound into you. “Suck.” He growls.
It might be the single sexiest thing you've ever seen. The way he practically blocks out the sun with the bulk of him and narrows down your entire world to only him feels incredible. Just swirling your tongue around his thumb and sucking it deeper into your mouth has you all the way to the edge of pleasure; but it's when Marcus growls again that you completely lose control, cumming so hard you feel like the world has gone white at the edges.
His blood pressure shoots through the roof and he’s pretty sure that you’ve just soaked the bed underneath you in the most intense orgasm he’s ever witnessed. Panting out your name as he continues to rock into you at an unhinged pace to intensify the pleasure.
If you could you’d beg him to join you. Moan praise and encouragements and tell him with complete honesty how incredibly well he’s fucking you. But being at his mercy like this means your best option is putting all your focus into lavishing the digit in your mouth in attention and bearing down on his cock in earnest any time he’s inside you.
“Fuck baby, fuck baby.” Marcus can’t keep up the growling when he feels like shouting at how hard you are squeezing him. “Gonna cum, gonna – fuck, fill up that little pussy.” He hisses, his hips stutter for a few thrusts before he is burying himself deep.
You practically have to catch him when he falls over the edge after you, just making sure that he doesn’t collapse in such a way that your heads knock together or he accidentally puts too much weight toward the one side of the bed you’ve ended up closer to. You let go of his wrist when his grip on your throat loosens, letting him slump into your body and wrapping that arm around his shoulders to hold him close as he rides out his orgasm.
It’s the most intense feeling Marcus has ever felt in his life. Bigger than any rush of adrenaline or dose of serotonin. For one heart stopping moment, he’s almost afraid that he’s had a heart attack. Body shaking with pleasure as he pours himself into you completely. It’s as if your bodies, as well as your souls, merge.
You dust soft kisses on his cheeks and along his jaw, reveling in the feeling of being completely full of him while he catches his breath.
“How are you feeling?” When he can think, Marcus pulls back to start checking in with you. His hand softening in its touch and he caresses your throat gently. He hadn’t been too rough, but he likes to make a fuss, especially when sex takes a turn like it did this morning.
“Fantastic.” You admit with only a hint of sheepishness in the way you smile at him and your hands caress his back and shoulders. “You?”
“Amazing.” He assures you softly. “Anything you didn’t quite like? Wanted more of?”
“I didn’t want to stop in the middle and ask how you felt about biting or scratching,” you admit. It feels silly to say since he paused to check in with you about getting rough, but you’re being honest. “And…I think we should talk about safe words?”
“We should.” Marcus agrees. “Expectations and needs are important to address as well.”
“I didn’t anticipate rough morning sex the first time,” you giggle, brushing sweat-matted hair from his forehead. “My mistake.”
“That was okay, right?” His soft brown eyes turned worried as he wonders if he overstepped for the first time you were together.
“Baby.” The worry on his face has you reaching for his immediately and pressing kisses to his lips. “It was amazing. I don’t think I’ve ever cum that hard in my life.”
“Okay.” He sighs in relief. “I just didn’t want to overstep our first time.”
“Not at all.” A kiss on the bridge of his nose punctuates the promise. “As long as you enjoyed it, too. Sex should be about both of our pleasure.”
“I enjoyed myself.” Marcus admits with an embarrassed grin. “I enjoy getting a little rougher or darker depending on how my partner feels about it.”
“It’s not an every time thing,” you agree, enjoying the way Marcus almost blushes over admitting his pleasure, “but when you’re in the mood it’s so much fun.”
“I can completely agree.” He hums as he shifts to move off of you.
“Do you still want to go to the flea market today?” You’re up for anything. As long as you get to spend the day with him, everything is golden.
“What do you want?” He asks softly, cupping your cheek. “Your birthday was emotional and I just want to give you a day to enjoy.”
"I just want you. As cheesy as that sounds." Reaching up to peck a kiss on his lips, you shift off the bed along with him despite still-wobbly legs. "Let's take a shower and head to the flea market just like we planned. If something else strikes our fancy then we'll switch gears when we think of it?"
“That sounds like a perfect day to me.” Marcus quickly follows you, holding onto your waist as you go into the bathroom. “Shower together?”
"Absolutely." Naked Marcus is rapidly becoming one of your favorite versions of him, and you fully plan on pampering him in the shower in thanks for fucking you senseless. Seems like a fair trade in your mind.
He hums in approval and moves towards the shower stall to turn on the water while you take care of your after sex business. “Do I need to leave for you to use the bathroom?” He asks, aware that it might not be something you like to do— peeing in front of a partner.
"Not on my account." While some girls might be squeamish about that, you're not one of them. "If you can be inside me, you can stand to be in the room while I pee. That's my feeling, anyway."
“Sound logic to me.” He can’t argue with it. “Especially since one day I’ll be in a delivery room as you give birth to our children.”
"And you need to be okay with bodily functions way before that day comes." Hearing him be on the same page as you is both an enormous relief and absolutely thrilling at the same time and you flash him a grin. "Can I...tell you about the dream I had last night? Without you thinking I'm an absolute crazy person?"
“You can tell me anything, always.” He promises, returning your grin easily and reaching for the towels that are neatly folded on a shelf. “I want us to share anything and everything. For us to be more than just soulmates. Friends too.”
"To be fair, we were friends for a whole month before anything happened," you remind him. The shower is already starting to steam the bathroom mirror but you instinctively wash your hands after you finish on the toilet. "We were f-w-y. Friends with yearning."
“Lots of yearning.” Marcus can agree and he opens the door to let you step into the shower. “Tell me about your dream, Princess.”
"It was about us." Stepping under the hot water with him right behind you, you sigh and lean back under the hot spray. "We had..." A small laugh escapes you and you shake your head. "We had four kids, a big, beautiful Golden Retriever, and we were living in a beautiful little house that looked like a converted barn. It was the most beautiful little domestic vision and I almost didn't want to wake up, except I knew that you were there for real right next to me."
“Four kids, huh?” He grins as he wraps his arms around you and slides his hands up to cup your breasts. “These will be off limits for a long time then.”
"Your fault for telling me twins run in your family," you huff at him, though you arch into his touch immediately. "It got in my subconscious."
“I kind of like the idea of four.” He admits, whispering into your ear. “Two for each of us to corral.” He jokes. “We’ll need a big bed for Sunday morning snuggles when they are young.”
"California king and great big blankets for them to cuddle under." The image is a sweet one, and it conjures up lazy morning and plenty of giggling kiddos in your mind. "And the dog, to cap it all off. Because you know the dog will corral them and be their favourite playmate."
“Absolutely.” Marcus agrees, chuckling himself. “And shedding everywhere, getting muddy with them. Shrieking when he flings water all over them after a bath.”
You both laugh as you start to wash up, reaching for soap and for washcloths and maneuvering around each other in the shower that was definitely not built for two. "So thank you for a beautiful dream and a beautiful wake up."
“It was absolutely my pleasure.” Marcus puffs proudly. “Every single second of it.”
______
Master Tags: @pixiedurango @chattychell @winter-fox-queen @lady-himbo @artsymaddie @princess76179 @paintballkid711 @missminkylove @pedrosbrat @ew-erin @sarahjkl82-blog @sharkbait77 @justanotherblonde23 @lv7867 @recklesswit @mylittlesenaar @f0rever15elf @gallowsjoker @steeevienicks @athalien @sherala007 @skvatnavle @thatpinkshirt @jaime1110 @girlimjusttryingtoreadfanfics @goodgriefitsawildworld @greeneyedblondie44 @littlemousedroid @harriedandharassed @churchill356 @ajathegreats-blog @haylzcyon @beardsanddetectives @kirsteng42 @ladykatakuri @adancedivasmom @madiebear @tanzthompson @emilianamason @bigsdinger @xocalliexo @pedr0swh0r3 @avaleineandafryingpan @charlyrmv @avidreader73 @iceclaw101 @loveslide @elegantduckturtle @becsworld @julesonrecord @its-nebuleuse @itsrubberbisquit @mikeyswifie @guelyury @lizzie-cakes @for-a-longlongtime @vabeachazn @purplerain04 @weho2kcmo @madnessofadaydreamer
HHL: @haileymorelikestupid @anoverwhelmingdin @storiesofthefandomlovers @missladym1981 @babeincolor @angelofsmalldeath-codeine
My Masterlist!
#Pedro Pascal#Pedro Pascal character fanfiction#Pedro Pascal fanfic#Marcus Pike#Marcus Pike x you#Marcus Pike x reader#Marcus Pike x female reader#Marcus Pike x f!reader#The Mentalist#soulmate au#First Daughter reader#Juan Badillo#Graceland#Juan Badillo x f!OC#Juan Badillo x OC#love triangle
103 notes
·
View notes
Text
Top 15 Helaegon scenes (that we will probably never see)
Note that these are my opinions and preferences and if you don’t agree with them, just ignore it and scroll away
As much as I love these two and team green in general, it is obvious that the writers of hotd clearly have a bias towards team black. ( That especially sucks when you consider the fact that the team green castings are utter perfection ) But with what they have done in s1, I highly doubt s2 is going to give the greens anything and instead just make them comically evil and rush their plot lines and what not
So this is basically a list of scenes I would have loved to see for Helaegon in both seasons (I may do the other characters as well)
The list is organised from most likely to happen/ to have happened (it won’t/wouldn’t have but I need a system) i.e. 15 and least likely to happen / to have happened i.e. 1
15.a scene after blood & cheese
🕯️him approaching her after/during the funeral
🕯️them trying to not cry in front of the other but all in vain
🕯️them seeking comfort with each other (even if doesn’t last long)
14.hurt/comfort conversation/ argument about Aegon’s drinking and whoring
🕯️could tie into no.13
🕯️them arguing at the top of their lungs
🕯️or having a conversation through tears
13.a heartfelt conversation about how they are handling being king and queen
🕯️them talking about the pressure
🕯️how they are not ready for it/cut out for it
🕯️them promising each other that they’ll look out for the other and keep their family safe
12.them at the green counsel together
🕯️just to watch them glance at each other when a counsel member says something stupid/questionable/ about their kids or them
🕯️them holding hands when tough news is presented
🕯️them listening intently whenever the other speaks
11.dragon riding
🕯️(flashback) Aegon asking her if she would like to go dragon riding with him as she has just claimed dreamfyre
🕯️them flying around king’s landing with their kids saddled in on their dragons
10.family dinner
🕯️just the greens having dinner together to welcome daeron and/or gwayne
🕯️them keeping a close eye on their kids but slowly letting their guard down when they see how comfortable they are with their uncle
🕯️them being the older sibling menaces they are and teasing the hells out of Aemond and Daeron
🕯️Helaena having to leave early as the kids want only her to get them to bed and Aegon bringing desert to her in their room
09.their younger versions interacting with Rhaenyra
🕯️either separately or together
🕯️Helaena being closed off at firsts but then they start discussing all sorts of things from bugs to jewellery to how both of them loved to hear stories from Alicent
🕯️Aegon and Rhaenyra initially wanting to keep away from each other but they have a small talk before his wedding about Helaena, their dragons and their father before they are rudely interrupted by either daemon or Otto or both.
08.scenes with their kids
🕯️Helaena comforting Jaehaerys after someone made a comment about his fingers
🕯️Aegon having some self reflection after Jaehaera says they threatened to rape her (obviously in the show, would not have included the rapist thing if I was writing it but if they wanted to “redeem” him, this is the best solution imo)
🕯️them trying to decide what to name maelor along with the twins
07.Helaena’s pregnancy
🕯️either with maelor or a 4th child (according to some leaks)
🕯️Criston whispering to Aegon during a counsel that it’s a boy/girl
🕯️him looking around the arguing members and quietly slipping out of the room before rushing to his wife
06.dance/ballroom scene
🕯️after the jace debacle, his insecurities skyrocket
🕯️just him getting fully intoxicated by his wife as they dance
🕯️them laughing as they spin around
🕯️them getting applause and cheers as they make their way to the floor
05.them gifting each other stuff
🕯️necklaces, brooches for not being around as often
🕯️chalices with various dragon imagery for his nameday
🕯️her stitching his favourite flower onto his nightshirt
🕯️them getting their kids to help when they want to surprise the other with something
04.(flashback) where they get into trouble and collectively decide to blame Aemond
🕯️Alicent interrogating the shit out of them
🕯️one look and they were at the library reading mythology about the Seven and the last person they saw at the crime scene was Aemond
🕯️Alicent gives a disappointed sigh and they are both dismissed and as they walk away- a casual “WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!?” from the other side of the door
03.wedding flashback
🕯️Both are initially against it, they think of it as a punishment
🕯️but a talk with their mother or half-sister makes them understand that this is for the betterment of the family
🕯️they dance together, they talk shit about what the lords and ladies are wearing, they soften up at their mother’s wide smile
🕯️Perhaps their father is smiling too. They can’t tell. But right now it doesn’t matter, they don’t care.
🕯️Aegon wearing white with gold details and a gold cloak with his hair tied up
🕯️Helaena wearing white with silver details and blue jewels on her dress and her crown
02.bathtub scene
🕯️domestic helaegon all day EVERYDAY
🕯️her cleaning him up with his burns
🕯️he starts crying but they work through it together until it’s over
🕯️him cleaning her during her pregnancy
🕯️them giggling like their kids
🕯️them helping each other get dressed afterwards (like just imagine them in what seems to be a hug while he laces up her dress and she pins in his cloak)
01. A sex scene
🕯️enough said really.
Alright I hope you liked it
Since the writers for hotd won’t, send me the number and I’ll write a drabble
#house of the dragon#helaena x aegon ii#helaegon#helaena targaryen#aegon ii targaryen#maelor targaryen#jaehaera targaryen#jahaerys targaryen#rewrites#top 15#team green#helaegon hcs
147 notes
·
View notes
Text
No but why hasn't anyone realised that when and IF the necklace debacle is brought up as a thing in acotar 5, it's not going to be Gwyn that goes berserk at Az's ass it's going to be Nesta!....
Like, he's her close male friend, they share similar trauma and have a mutual understanding. She is going to be soooooo pissed with him and I genuinely think her disappointment with him will lead to a conversation that will trigger a lot for Az and his feelings and how he makes a decision on what he's going to do about it all.
I can't wait! But yeah, Nesta is going to make a beeline for him for sure when and if she learns about this that's for sure.
#pro nesta archeron#gwynriel#pro gwynriel#pro gwyneth berdara#gwynriel supremacy#gwyneth berdara#gwyneth x azriel#azriel berdara#azriel x gwyn#gwyn berdara#acosf#nesta archeron#pro nesta#nesta acosf
76 notes
·
View notes
Text
If Azriel doesn't beg and apologize on his knees to Gwyn for the necklace debacle in their book
#nesta and me getting him six feet under#I want to see tears and snot from him#if he is even mean to Gwyn he goes straight to jail#there his brothers already are#sjm critical#acotar critical#acotar#pro gwynriel#pro gwyneth berdara#acotar thoughts#gwynriel#acotar memes
20 notes
·
View notes
Text
Episode 4
Royal wedding montage. No, Samantha Cohen didn’t tell you some weird Rainbow Fish story. That did not happen.
Voices of journalists talking about how amazing she is and how she is going to change the family for the better. I guess the royal coverage is good…as long as they say nice things.
“I don’t know how I was so calm.” Drugs, Meghan. It was drugs.
Wedding crowds montage. Same song as Four Weddings and a Funeral because these two think they are living a rom com. Celebrities attending the wedding. International coverage. Amal and George and the Beckhams. Will and Harry. No one mentions that it was Wallis Simpson’s car. She didn’t talk about the “real” wedding three days before.
There was no expectation, Harry. You were supposed to get married in Craithie Kirk because you were a man of the people. That was the first story that came out.
CWK talks about the dress. Doesn’t mention the Commonwealth flowers in the veil. No mention of the tiara drama or the egg debacle either.
Bold choice going with the vampire bride shot. Yes, KC was important to you Meg. He single-handedly saved your train wreck wedding. Lots of discussion about the Kingdom Choir and no one mentions that they perform at all the Commonwealth events.
They sold their wedding pics, just like Peter. They are soooooo tacky. They laugh about cutting the cake with the sword. That wedding cake was truly symbolic, a priceless collection of gold pedestals propping up a mediocre confection. Her mom ditched her for the celebs. That is hilarious. Of course she did.
Interesting that Meghan hasn’t looked happy once during this whole documentary, but she sounds truly joyful when talking about the wedding. That was the highlight of her life.
Kate’s face in the wedding pictures is everything. Says it all. I wonder if Meghan sold a Kate pic. I haven’t seen one yet. Never mind, I just rewound and, sure enough, she did.
Interesting how they are appropriating narratives—she’s a hugger, writing in a new character, modernizing—that were created by the tabloids. Every single word this Archewell guy is saying was written by Camilla Tominey, Andrew Morton, or Valentine Low. He is parroting the royal experts Harry was mocking last episode.
Train trip with the Queen. Why does she wear a necklace in some shots, but not in others? They are splicing different interviews and using filters to make it look line one interview. This section was edited into incomprehensibility after the death of the Queen.
Grenfell. LOL, she makes it sound like she was in the UK when the tragedy happened. Wild. I like the Grenfell ladies but why are they spending time on this and not covering her current charities?
Bitching about Nott Cott, which actually looks super cute. “I don’t know who lived here before.” Your brother, the heir, lived there before, Harry. You know that.
That’s how she decorated it? Pottery Barn circa 2001? No wonder her domestic goddess career never took off. All of this just to upgrade from 2000s Pottery Barn to 2014 Restoration Hardware? But….they weren’t living in Nott Cott. They rented a Cotswolds farmhouse before the wedding and lived there until moving to Frog Cott. That’s why all these pics are of them getting dressed. They were just using Nott Cott to prep for London events.
Wait, did they just bitch about their multi-million cottage in Kensington Palace being too small right after the Grenfell segment? Yes, they did. Wow.
Pregnancy. She sold her sonogram pictures. Australia. You weren’t showing already, Megs. There was no bump. Cue shots with no bump. This is epic gaslight. We can clearly see she’s not showing, but they flat out say she was.
Lol, she wasn’t that popular. Her polls peaked at 41% net approval after the wedding and dropped like rocks. And Australia wasn’t the turning point, Lucy. It was her dad talking to the media all summer long. Isn’t Lucy Harper a pr person? Shouldn’t she be able to interpret polling data? Headlines about how popular she was…including the 2018 Time’s Most Influential List, which is hilarious because they were sandwiched between Donald Trump and Saudi Arabia’s MSB. Yeah, the royals were really jealous of that. OMG, they show Meghan’s covers and its…Woman’s Day and Hello! Canada. One of the headlines is “Freddy Mercury’s Secret Wife.”
Wait, now he’s happy because the media put Meghan on the front pages? They have a very strange relationship with the media. Hold on, he thinks Meghan outshone The Queen? Seriously?????? He thinks the frumpy brocade dress outshone The Queen? I remember calling that a hater cover because Meghan looked so terrible in it. No one thought she overshadowed The Queen. Literally, no one.
Archewell guy speaking again. He seems to think that the royals, who were desperately trying to cover up the epic disaster of the Australian tour—which included insulting the Australian government house, exaggerating an incident with a faulty heater, assaulting an embassy employee, walking out of a United Nations event, making a staffer cry in front of a reporter, wearing jewelry gifted by an allegedly murderous despot, and trolling her father by saying he hadn’t paid for her college—were jealous of how “well” she did in Australia. This is delusional.
Lol, now they are bitching about avocados. It wasn’t the avocados. It was her dad. They just jumped from blaming the royals for the bad press to blaming racism. First The Queen was jealous, then the staff were scared, then the media was racist and giving Kate better press…I’m getting whiplash. Pick a villain, guys! I can’t follow this argument at all. The Queen was upset because Meghan stole her Woman’s Day cover with Freddie Mercury’s secret wife so she leaked stories about Meghan’s favorite perishable fruit and the evil tabloids turned that into the racialized avocados of death? Whaaaaaat????? I love how Harry throws up his hands and says “well, if you can’t see it, I can’t do anything for you.” See what? None of this makes any sense.
BTW, they used the “Hurricane Meghan” headlines even though Meghan told Oprah she hadn’t heard about that. The Oprah interview also implied she never knew about the bump-holding headlines and they used those in the documentary too. Oprah read them to her and Meghan acted as if it was the first time she was hearing about it. The only headlines Meghan, according to their statements during the Oprah interview, was supposedly aware of were the “made Kate cry story” and the avocado story, and she laughed at the avocado story.
Walkabout in Liverpool. A member of the public scolded her about her dad. See? The problem was her dad. Harry and Meghan, however, blame family lies and the tabloids. Her dad was giving interviews right and left, and people were watching him in real time, complaining about how he was treated. No one in the palace was leaking this. No one was lying about it. He was out there, giving interviews to anyone with a couple of bucks because he wanted to explain that he did actually pay for her school. Her sister was doing the same thing.
And here’s the Diana 2.0 stuff. Wait, she was going to kill herself…over the racialized avocados of death? I paused to re-read the transcript of the Oprah interview because I remembered the suicidal ideation story as being a lot more sympathetic than “the Kate story and the avocados made me want to end it all.” In that interview, they start with the tabloid stories, but then Oprah asks her whether she felt lonely and she talks about Harry working all the time and being all alone. She talks about not being able to leave the house and see her friends and also about the tours being exhausting and having to smile through it all. She also claims there were talks about Archie not being a prince and not getting security and how that was stressing her out. Then she talks about people being concerned about Archie’s skin color and then she talks about her suicidal ideation. That kind of emotional build-up is what Oprah brings to the table. That’s why she gets the big bucks. Here, they just jump from “our Australian tour was super successful” to “mean tabloid stories about Kate and avocados” to “I just didn’t want to live anymore,” and it’s not as powerful, particularly since the behind-the-scenes pictures they keep showing us are all happy pictures.
Also, we skipped over the big show of support at Sandringham. And Doria can also do the “one tear, left eye” trick. It must be genetic.
She wasn’t allowed to get help? Girl, they knew you were nuttier than a fruitcake. They would have sent you to a shrink in a hot minute. And they weren’t afraid about how it would make the institution look. Harry admitted to going to therapy and it went fantastic. James Middleton went to therapy too. They put up pics of Megs looking sad…and they are all from events that happened afterwards.
The households separated because of leaks? Bullying isn’t even going to get mentioned? No, it isn’t, and neither is the big social media campaign KP did to support Meghan.
I’m blown away by the fact that all this drama is about a story about bridesmaids’ dresses. The Oprah Winfrey interview was motivated by this one story about making Kate cry. The Archetypes podcast was about the story about making Kate cry. They made a six-hour Netflix documentary about a story about making Kate cry. There is now an entire subgenre of royal coverage based on Princess Charlotte’s bridesmaid attire. This one story has been living rent-free in Harry and Meghan’s heads since Fall 2018.
Harry keeps talking about trading stories and not playing the game. He totally planted the Rose Hanbury affair story as revenge for the “made Kate cry” story. Absolutely,
Happy Nott Cott Christmas. She wasn’t allowed to text photos? Lol, you weren’t texting photos bc you were saving them for Netflix.
People Magazine article. I guess these were the friends working with the magazines. Wasn’t their privacy super important? Weren’t they in danger if their identities were revealed? That was the argument that was presented under oath to the court. Now it turns out she was just saving the reveal for the Netflix special. Baby shower. OMG, Amal Clooney making floral arrangements, wtf? Backlash because of course.
They are gifted Frogmore Cottage. Archie’s birth. Vintage footage about royal births. She had a long-standing relationship with her UK doctor? How? Seriously, how? They couldn’t do the photocell at Portland Hospital? Didn’t Fergie do it at Portland? Twice?
Birth announcement drama. The problem wasn’t that you broke protocol, Meghan. The problem was that CBS got the exclusive and you lied to the press about the birth. They bring in academics to say it was about racism because of course.
Archie. They took a picture of the nanny with the baby in a mud cloth carrier, lol.
South Africa with Archie. They couldn’t do a hospital photocall with the baby, but now they are taking him on tour. Doria just said “it’s not the institution’s baby, it’s her baby,” but they are taking him on an official tour. They can’t be expected to serve their child on a silver platter for literally two minutes, but they can take him on a week-long tour. I had to double-back and check the dates because I felt this wasn’t nearly as jarring and contradictory when it happened, and it wasn’t. The tour was several months after the birth and they had already taken the baby (who was supposedly too young to fly to Balmoral for the summer) to Ibiza. They way they presented it in the documentary, however, sounded ridiculous.
BTW, no coverage of the Vogue magazine, Smartworks capsule collection, the summer vacations at Elton’s house, the private planes, etc…. All of these were roundly criticized (well, not the Smartworks capsule) and yet the only story that matters is the Kate story.
Lol, the Archewell guy just admitted the royals were afraid Meghan would cause an international row during this tour. Not afraid that she would embarrass the royal family with her activism, noooooo. Afraid she would cause an international row.
Tutu. Wasn’t this footage intrusive two episodes ago? Make up your minds, guys! Tom Bradby. Is she trying to spin the interview as an oopsie due to exhaustion? Is she saying Tom tricked her? She really thinks people are stupid. Also, she takes no responsibility for anything, not even the Uber-narcissistic “I trusted too much.” She’s not even capable of that.
{Edited: Apparently Harry is doing another interview with Bradby. Guess he didn’t really trick them then.]
Astroturfed supportive hashtag. Guess her huge investment in Twitter bots paid off. LOL, my kid squints at the screen and says “all the tweets have the same timestamp.” Yes, they do.
Oh, the Diana footage is a bad idea. You can tell she was trying to act like Diana during the Africa interview (so much eyeliner). They really do think she’s Diana though, and they planned their tours (Australia, Africa, big meeting with African leader, big tour with baby) to bolster that impression. It’s interesting that worthy projects (Smartworks capsule collection, Vogue, Morocco girls’ meetings Ireland tour, dog shelter) that would make Meghan look good, but don’t support the Diana narrative are simply not mentioned. The India hygiene project is not featured in the documentary, but the Diana-like pictures in traditional dress are.
You Don’t Own Me for closing credits. Hahaha. Harley Quinn music. So appropriate. The music in the last three documentaries is better than the music in the first three.
Husband and group chat both discuss the Diana 2.0 stuff. She really thinks she is Diana and the documentary is trying to present her as Diana. Everyone agrees that she is no Diana. The psychologist thinks she should have worn more eyeliner. The lawyer tells her that eyeliner wasn’t the problem. There isn’t enough eyeliner in the world to turn her into Diana. Everyone thinks the music is good. Much texting about how much the tiny cottage cost. Someone looks it up on Zillow and it’s an insane number. Many “but my palace was sooooo small” jokes. Many comments about a KP cottage, no matter how small, being much classier than a California McMansion. Many comments about the Archewell guy sounding slimy.
On to the next episode.
207 notes
·
View notes
Text
Operation "Kiss the Girl" | Chapter 1: The First Date
Summary: With the help of Jade and Floyd, Ace and Deuce put the first step of their "Kiss the Girl" plan into motion. What better way to woo your true love than sharing a private candlelit dinner in the Mostro Lounge together?
Genre: Fem!Reader. Lots of pining. Fluff.
Notes: This is a long one at 2,891 words! I plan on writing at least two more parts after this, so stay tuned for them 💜
“Shrimpy’s in love with Azul?!”
The tweels stared slack-jawed at Ace and Deuce, wondering if this was some sort of prank they had the audacity to try to pull on them. Were they still angry about almost getting squeezed to death by Floyd during that whole contract debacle? Tsk, humans get so offended by everything.
"She is!" Deuce exclaimed. "And the only way to turn her back to a human is to have Azul, her true love, kiss her within three days!"
"Hmm…" Jade tapped a finger against his chin. "Ace, Deuce, for your sakes, I hope you're telling us the complete truth. Otherwise, I'll have to use Shock the Heart on you."
"We swear, Jade-senpai!" Ace cried, slamming his hands on the table. "We didn't come all the way here to mess with you!"
"Please believe us. [Name] is in a dangerous situation right now because of our stupidity. We can't just leave her to stay a mermaid forever. We need your help."
In one last attempt to persuade the twins for help, Ace and Deuce got up from the booth and prostrated themselves on the floor of the Mostro Lounge. With their faces to the floor, both of them yelled simultaneously, "Please!"
The twins shared a look, debating if getting involved in such frivolous human affairs was worth their time. After several painstakingly long moments, they finally reached a consensus.
"All right, we believe you, and we'll help you."
"Really?!"
"On one condition."
"Oh no," Ace groaned, earning a swift smack on the head from Deuce.
"There's no room for complaining! We promised to help [Name], so we have to see this through."
"Fine,” Ace sighed. “What's the condition?"
"That you'll help us help Azul confess his feelings to her."
"Sure! No problem! That will be easy—wait, confess his feelings?!"
"You haven't seen how Azul gives her those sickly sweet goo goo eyes?" Floyd sighed, rolling his eyes at the thought. "He's like a sea sponge that soaks up any kind of attention he gets from her."
"Wait a minute. So you're saying that their feelings are mutual?"
"It would seem so," Jade replied. "Ah, I do love a good story about sea-crossed lovers."
"Isn't it star-crossed...nevermind. Yes, we'll help you come up with a plan for him to confess to her!"
"Excellent. Go prepare [Name] for a romantic candlelit dinner tonight. We'll make sure Azul is dressed to impress."
"He's also gonna need some time to calm those nerves of his. He already turns into a tomato-faced mess when [Name] is mentioned~"
"Are you sure that you'll be able to convince him to have dinner with her?"
"Oh, don't worry," Jade answered, flashing a smile that showed off his sharp teeth. "We have our ways.”
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆
Earlier That Day
“Professor, what’s that?”
“It's a seashell necklace imbued with the voices of shapeshifting sirens,” Crewel answered Ace, leaning down beside the bathtub you were soaking in and clasping the jewelry around your neck. “It will allow her to return to her human form for a short while.”
“Professor, you’re amazing!”
“Don’t start flattering me yet, puppies,” Crewel replied sharply, shooting the duo another one of his infamous terrifying glares. “It can only hold its power for a limited amount of time. You’ll know it’s running low when scales begin to resurface on her skin. When that happens, come find me. I’ll restore its magical properties with a vial of a siren’s song.”
“Yes, sir!”
“And don’t think your idiocy will go unpunished. I’ll go easier on you for being so willing to help out your friend, but once she’s back to normal, I’m going to whip you both into shape.”
“Y-Yes, sir!”
“Now, I’ll be taking my leave. I’ll leave her care in your hands. Do not make me regret it.”
“We won’t let anything happen to [Name]!” Deuce promised.
“You can count on us!” Ace added.
“Good. Then I’ll be on my way.”
The three of you watched as Crewel gathered his things and wordlessly strolled out of Ramshackle Dorm. The atmosphere turned heavy as the realization of the impossible mission you all needed to accomplish finally dawned on you. But not one for reveling in misery, Ace was there to lighten the mood.
“Well, it’s time to work on getting [Name] her little smooch with Azul!”
“Y-You don’t have to put it like that, Ace!” you cried, hiding your flushed face in your hands.
“Aw, is someone embarrassed? Are you going to turn as red as the Little Mermaid’s hair when he puckers his lips for you?”
“Keep up your shenanigans and I’ll let Jade and Floyd make a seafood meal out of you.”
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆
“Okay, I can do this. It’s no problem. I just have to act like myself. Don’t try too hard. Don’t fiddle with your tie. Don’t give yourself reasons to be nervous. This is perfectly fine. This is fine. I’m fine…NO, I’M NOT FINE AT ALL!!!”
Floyd cackled as Azul hid his face in his hands, the candlelight illuminating his flushed skin. “Aw, poor Azul’s heart isn’t prepared for his first date!”
“They grow up so fast,” Jade added, dabbing at his dry eyes with a handkerchief.
“Both of you, knock it off!” Azul cried, waving his hands in frustration. “You just dumped this on me out of nowhere! Who makes “date” plans for someone else, much less when it doesn’t even involve you?”
“If we left it to you, it would never happen.”
“You…You don’t know that!”
Jade and Floyd exchanged a look.
“I think our boss here is in denial, Jade~”
“AM NOT!”
“You’re not helping your case, you know.”
“Ugh, just…leave me alone for a minute,” Azul pleaded, rubbing circles into his temples. “I need to compose myself before she gets here.”
And just as he finished speaking, a voice came echoing from the entrance of Mostro Lounge.
“Jade-senpai, Floyd-senpai! [Name]’s here!”
“Well, that’s our cue,” Jade said, shooting a playful smile at an absolutely mortified Azul. “Floyd, let’s get some menus and lead [Name] to her seat.”
“Sure thing! Azul, you better be composed now~!”
The twins set off before he even had time to respond.
“Oh, Sevens,” Azul sighed, holding his head. “This isn’t going to go smoothly at all.” Why in Twisted Wonderland did he let the twins persuade him into doing this “date” nonsense in the first place? “It’ll be a great stress reliever.” “You deserve a break.” Yeah, right. Those two were planning something far more nefarious, and it frustrated Azul that he couldn’t figure out exactly what it was.
But all of his anger dissipated the moment his gaze fell on you.
His breath caught in his throat at the sight before him: you wore a beautiful light blue evening gown that draped over your shoulders, cascading onto the floor like ocean waves. Your hair was pinned up in an intricate hairstyle fixed in place with pearl-studded hair clips, and your makeup perfectly complemented your outfit’s ocean theme with varying shades of blue eyeshadow and coral-colored lipstick. And to tie the look together, your neck was adorned with a dazzling gold seashell necklace.
“Wow,” he breathed, too caught up in your beauty to hold back his awe.
You flushed at his sincere reaction. “Is this too much? Vil and Rook insisted on doing my makeup for the occasion. They said it would be ‘good practice.’”
“It’s perfect,” Azul replied, offering you his hand. Though he was still feeling like a flustered mess on the inside, he would never allow himself to forget to treat you like a gentleman should. “Shall we?”
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆
To Azul’s surprise, the night was flying by, and his nervousness had completely vanished as if he'd never had it in the first place. Conversation with you was light and comfortable, but if he was being honest, he would have been perfectly content with just letting you talk the rest of the night away. He found your voice so soothing to listen to, and a part of him wondered if you’d managed to put him under some sort of a love spell. But he knew that you, of course, were a magicless human, and yet that only made Azul all the more entranced by you.
“Thank you for having dinner with me, Azul,” you finally said, giving him a small smile.
“Of course,” Azul replied, wearing a smile of his own. “I should be thanking you as well. I would have asked you properly, but Jade and Floyd like to take matters into their own hands.”
“Just like Ace and Deuce. They seem to always make plans without asking for approval first.” You shook your head, laughing at the thought. “That’s what gets them into trouble all the time.”
“Yet here we are, enabling their behavior,” Azul sighed. “Still, I could never pass up an opportunity to be in your company. If I’m being honest…” A pink hue began to bloom on his porcelain cheeks, “you’re one of the few humans I feel like I can truly connect with. You know that I’m a reserved person, so trying to form friendships proves to be quite difficult for me. I’m out of my element when I’m not in the sea, which makes my attempts at fitting in even worse off. But with you…I forget about all of my shortcomings. I just enjoy being in your presence. So thank you, for all that you’ve done for me.”
Silence hung in the air for a few long moments before Azul’s face turned from a soft pink to a bright burning red. “I’m so sorry! I just started rambling and made everything awkward…Sevens, I don’t know what I’m even doing here—”
“Azul.”
Upon feeling the touch of your hand on his, he lifted his gaze to your face, and his heart skipped a beat at the sight of you wearing a warm smile. “I enjoy being in your company, too. I’ll always be here for you, whether you want to talk or get something off your chest. All you need to do is call my name and I’ll be there.”
“Oh,” he breathed, taken aback by your sincerity. “I mean, yes, thank you. You’re also welcome to come talk with me any time.”
“Good.”
The two of you finished up your dinner before your plates were taken away by Jade and Floyd (who wore suspicious grins on their faces, you noted). They returned with dessert for the last course, which you and Azul finished in a comfortable silence.
“Could I ask you something?” you asked after a while, fiddling with your hands in your lap. You’d been having so much fun on your “date” that you’d nearly forgotten you needed to win his affection.
“Of course.”
“What do you think of the love story between the Little Mermaid and her prince?”
Azul’s eyes widened a fraction. “Hmm…I’ve never really thought about it. Why do you ask?”
“Just curious. I watched the movie again recently with Ace and Deuce, but both of them thought it was overrated. “Too much romance, not enough action.” Honestly, there’s a reason those two don’t get girls.” Sorry, Ace and Deuce. This is just a little bit of revenge for what you’ve gotten me into.
“Hah, those two are too scatter-brained to get it. The movie is a classic! Who watches it and doesn’t like the romance?”
“Are you perhaps…a hopeless romantic, Azul?”
The tips of Azul’s ears turned a deep shade of red as he quickly shook his head. “N-No, I just don’t like seeing fools criticize good films!” He sighed, straightening his tie (something he seemed to do when he was nervous, you realized). “But if you’re asking for my opinion, I think the love story between the Little Mermaid and the Prince is beautiful. It’s endearing to watch the mermaid try to express her feelings through fleeting touches, gentle gazes, and bright smiles. And watching the Prince slowly begin to fall in love with her is so heart-warming. You can tell he loves her for who she is. His heart is matched perfectly with hers, and his affection for her is unconditional. He helped save her life, after all, just like she saved his.”
“They really are so sweet, aren’t they?” you replied with a dreamy sigh. You held your head in your hand, gazing up fondly at Azul as he rambled on again. The way his eyes lit up when he recounted the mermaid and prince’s romance was unmistakable. It was almost like he craved for the same thing in his own life, like he’d spent endless nights wondering what it might feel like if someone loved him like that.
Just who was he imagining in those scenarios, though, you wondered. No. You shook your head. Don’t get cold feet now. You’re looking too far into this. He’s just talking about the movie, is all. But still, part of you couldn’t help but question if there was a hint of truth in what you thought.
“And the film shows the importance of an equal give and take in relationships. This ensures fairness and a win-win situation for both parties, no matter what obstacles await them in the future.” He’s talking about contractual obligations again, isn’t he? You laughed to yourself. He never changes.
“But I do admire the Little Mermaid’s devotion to the one she loves. To give up her whole life as a mermaid means letting go of a lot, but she sees a brighter future with her prince. I think everyone deserves to find that special person, just as my mother found my step-father.” A small smile appeared on his face, no doubt recalling happy memories. “To be with someone who wants nothing more than to remain at your side…what more could you possibly ask for?”
It was then that he realized he’d begun to ramble on again. “Oh, I really don’t know when to quit, do I?’
Well, now’s the time to test the waters.
Carefully, you placed your hand on top of Azul’s, noting how his cheeks flushed at the action. “You deserve that happiness. I hope you find it.”
Instead of crawling back into his shell, Azul surprised you by smiling in return, gazing at you fondly. He mirrored your gesture by placing his other hand on top of yours and sincerely answering, “I hope you find it, too.”
Now it was your turn to blush.
But further conversation with him would have to wait. The shell’s power had begun to dwindle, causing your bright mermaid scales to reappear on your skin.
Shoot. I need to come up with an excuse to leave, and fast.
And as if they could read your mind, Jade and Floyd quickly came to your rescue.
“Azul, don’t you think it’s time to wrap things up for the night? I’m sure [Name] is quite tired, and there’s a mountain of paperwork waiting for you in your office.”
“Oh! You’re right. It’s late, isn’t it?” Azul glanced down at his watch. “I’m sorry for keeping you so long.”
“It’s no problem,” you replied. “I had a great time. Thank you for having me.”
“You will always be welcome here. Come by whenever you’d like. Your food and drinks will be completely free of charge.”
The statement was so out of character that it left yours, Jade’s, and Floyd’s mouths agape. Azul never offered anything for free, not without some sort of catch. But it seemed that he was being genuine with his words. At least, that’s what you thought.
“Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind.”
Within moments, Ace and Deuce returned to your side, thanking the trio before leading you back to Ramshackle Dorm.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆
Even long after you’d left the lounge, Azul was staring off into the distance in a daze. He couldn’t hide the happiness that enveloped him like ocean waves. He was caught in your current, a single man enraptured by the siren that was destined to take him down with her. But he would willingly go wherever you wanted him to, even if it meant risking everything just for your love.
Floyd broke into laughter at the lovestruck look on his boss’ face. “If you like Shrimpy that much, why don’tcha tell her? She’s been giving you goo goo eyes all night long, too!”
“Ah, young love. It’s a beautiful thing,” Jade chimed in, smirking when Azul’s face turned a lobster red.
“You both are insufferable,” he huffed, stomping off to his room. He’d had enough of the tweels for one night. But even if he escaped their teasing within the confines of his four walls, that didn’t mean he’d managed to calm himself down at all.
Falling asleep proved difficult when all he could think about was you.
And across the college grounds, the same could be said for you, too.
You had the most wonderful night spent at Azul’s side, but time was already running out. You’d nearly forgotten the purpose of going there in the first place. You didn’t need to fall even more in love with him. He needed to fall in love with you.
But you still had time to make this all work. That’s what you reminded yourself before your eyes finally slid shut, your dreams filled with memories of your romantic night.
One day had passed. You only had two more remaining.
76 notes
·
View notes
Note
curious after doing much thinking (as im wont to do) and also rereading coming forth by day like 5 times (its really good) im curious on how you think things went for ishizu in the short term after the . leaving of the tombs. like im assuming if theres extended tombkeeper family she probably got taken in by one of the surface dwellers but do you think it was....awkward? or what that shuffle into mainstream society would have been like both in terms of like, interacting with the host family and also things like figuring out how to legally exist
(thank you very much!! it is fun to write!!!)
I do not think there's any reason to believe there's extended tombkeeper family aboveground I think all god knows how many of them lived down there. We simply do not know how many. We know there are more and those caverns are fucking huge. I feel like it could be anywhere from 30-300. But some of them must have gone up sometimes, if only to get supplies, and sort of knew the deal (Ishizu showed familiarity with stuff like TV and how the market worked when she went up with Marik). By that same token they probably had some amount of money (and there's always selling off a few ancient heirlooms if they really need rent). I think between all that and the necklace help Ishizu would've been able to muddle through and get set up aboveground without too much trouble.
I think the necklace really is a boon here and she'd have a way easier time adjusting than Marik or Rishid did. She has perfect clarity and a sense of control on tap. Doing your first job interview shortly after being introduced to the concept is probably much less nerve-wracking when it's been magically pre-scripted for you. I'm honestly more worried about her life after she loses it!
As for being legal people I feel very confident that A) Marik and Rishid forged their papers via criminal contacts and B) Ishizu went the long way around and got actual papers by claiming to be an unregistered birth (not a lie!), possibly by forging the corroborating evidence and using government contacts.
Anyway I think the rest of the tombkeepers after this debacle ended and this whole thing dissolved probably spread out over Egypt to do their own thing. Maybe some really weird/dedicated/agoraphobic ones stayed or went back underground. They're celebrating weird ancient egyptian holidays and helping each other get jobs. They're sending Ishizu auntie gifs on whatsapp. Cousin Amir runs a used car dealership in Giza. etc.
#like if you were born in a country but never issued a birth certificate you CAN go get one. that happens. it's just sort of pain in the ass#not included in this ask: the already stated/implied bit in CFBD about how many of them are Not Very Fond Of Marik
26 notes
·
View notes
Text
FUTURE PROJECTS for AO3.
these are all future fanfics i will be publishing on AO3. however, i do need opinions on which ships you would like me to post before the others; which will be deemed more popular, etc. feel free to also add possible ships in the comments below, and i’ll decide if i’ll also add them on. my account is sinssvirtuess, where i will update all stories there.
Kiri x Roxto ⎯⎯ Him
The angered bout replayed in the young teen’s mind, over and over again. What is he to you? Jealous tone from a curled headed metkayina apparent and raw. Felt misplaced and weird — Kiri didn’t even know why she indulged in such affairs of immaturity and rashness. Scene of puffed chests and venomous jabs still clear and surfaced. Had she read their friendships wrong? Did - Did Roxto yearn for more? She couldn’t fathom anything becoming of them. Eyes stared at an open palm, clenching it into a fist. Reminiscing a certain teal hand clasping around it; genuine and loving.
Lo’ak x Ao’nung ⎯⎯ Shared and Halved
Demon-blood. Half-breed. Freak. Despite all the insults thrown in their poison, repeated and recycled, Ao’nung still felt driven to shovel more. Make that four-fingered freak bleed in self-loathing, Yet, after the debacle of the boy’s near-death, and getting the courage to cover for him, reef boy couldn’t find it to continue his onslaught. Instead, he sought to make amends. And as he stood there, hands wrung and eyes downcast, the younger’s presence did not fail to entice something more. Hot breath fanned his face, sneer evident. “I took the fall for you. It’s time for you to pay what you owe, fishlips.”
Kiri x Ao’nung ⎯⎯ Eywa’s Fortune
A breath hitched in her throat, hands clutching the necklace inherited by her mother. Wide, yellow eyes frantically looked around the forest, aware she was not inside her family’s marui. Forest. Trees. Warm body beside her, sleeping soundly. With lowered ears, the girl dared to peek over her shoulder at the teal body — deep in his slumber. Curls splayed across the floor. She remembered. Few weeks after bottled grief, she’d ran here to cry and scream; unaware someone followed behind her. In the midst of her emotion, they’d made a mistake. A grave, grave mistake. Eywa help her.
Tsireya x Kiri ⎯⎯ Under Pretense and Secrecy
She knew it was wrong. Her brother pined after the olo’eyktan and tsahìk’s daughter relentlessly, close to courting. But the young girl was just so kind and warm and smart. Tsireya never judged Kiri for her appearance — welcomed it, even. Complimented her on her beauty which Kiri often failed to see. Tsireya was the one who was beautiful. She was perfect. And although it was just practice in the middle of night, with the promise of girl talk and giggles, their lips still locked in a kiss. A lie of them preparing for their future mates with the excuse to meet again. And, damn, was Tsireya a good kisser.
Roxto x Ao’nung ⎯⎯ Heartache
The heir had enough of this. Roxto had been bitching, moaning, and being a complete dick for no reason. It’s happened ever since the introduction to Ao’nung’s potential betrothed. He’s been dismissal. Downright disrespectful — to the point Tonowari noticed their disarray and commented on it. Time came to confront his friend about it. When he did, Ao’nung never anticipated what happened next. How this truly affected Roxto.
Neteyam x Roxto ⎯⎯ Miracle Boy
“You’re okay. I’m here. I’m here,” a deep, sultry voice comforted. Warm hands cupped a tear-streaked face, eyes full of panic and fear. The nightmare — no, the memory engraved within his mind. Torturing him. Reminding him. Wound in Neteyam’s chest burned and pained, further resulting in tears to spill and his mouth to hang agape, desperate to catch a breath. Once again, the teen before him coddled and cooed, slowly walking him out of his misery and into reality. The present. “Neteyam, just listen to my voice. Empty your mind. Feel your heart,” Roxto whispered in the dark, his tanhí a beautiful constellation.
Lo’ak x Roxto ⎯⎯ Chasing Infinite
They’d been drunk. It hadn’t meant anything. What they did was under the influence. Nothing more — no feelings involved. Images flashed: hands scraping his skin, a hot tongue swiping against his own, desperate pants leaving and affiliating the sparked air between them. A cry of his name. Lo’ak. Lo’ak. Lo’ak. “Lo’ak!”
#aonunete#neteyam x aonung#aonung x neteyam#atwow neteyam#neteyam#aonung#atwow fanfiction#atwow#roxto avatar#roxto x kiri#ao3 writer#kiri sully#kiri avatar#kiri#kiri x rotxo#kiri x aonung#aonung x kiri#atwow kiri#atwow loak#atwow rotxo#atwow tsireya#kiri x tsireya#tsireya x kiri#roxto x loak#loak x roxto#roxto x aonung#aonung x roxto#aonung x loak#loak x aonung#neteyam x roxto
85 notes
·
View notes
Text
Happy Day 3 of @sjmromanceweek!!!
Pairings mentioned: Nessian, Gwynlain, Rowaelin
I’m going to leave all the “Dear Suriel” parts a mystery to the readers hehe. You can read the regular text below the cut!
Dearest reader, if you did not have the pleasure of attending Nesta Archeron and Cassian’s mating ceremony last week, I feel sorry for you. But Suriel, I thought you were dead? Rest assured that death is merely the gateway from one realm to the next.
Under the flower-bedecked temple by the flowing Sidra, Nesta and Cassian exchanged tender vows and offered each other sweet cake. Cynical readers may question the purpose of such extravagance. Is such formality necessary when two people already love each other, when they have already accepted their mating bond? This author posits a different question: why live, if we cannot find causes for celebration?
But sending well wishes to the happy couple was not my sole reason for attending the mating ceremony. As we all know, there is nothing this author loves more than a scandal. It has become common knowledge that a singular stained glass necklace was offered to Elain Archeron, and then Gwyneth (Gwyn) Berdara last Winter Solstice by an errant Azriel Shadowsinger. I can only hope Mr. Shadowsinger’s future partner does not have the love language of gift-giving!
Society, like a snarling, salivating hound, has hungered for an explosive resolution to this whole debacle. With both ladies attending the ceremony, has the other shoe finally dropped?
Not in the way you may presume. For the gentle Kingslayer and the cheerful Valkyrie were spotted giving each other shy glances while walking down the aisle. After the luncheon, Gwyn sidled up to Elain with an innocent request to dance. As the rest of the party grew raucous over copious cups of wine, Elain gave Gwyn a tour of the peaceful River House garden, demurely clasping the priestess’s hand midway.
Surprised, reader, by this budding romance? Not I. Miss Archeron spoke true of not wanting a male, and perhaps Miss Berdara will find solace in feminine intimacy as she ventures out of the library.
Thanks to the revocation of Cassian’s Summer Court ban, the happy couple is currently soaking up the sun in a stunning overwater bungalow. Let us pray that the Illyrian general does not destroy yet another Summer Court dwelling with his…honeymoon activities.
One can only assume that Nesta and Cassian had their hands full, as they did not pay a visit to the Adriata’s annual Turtle Days Festival. A shame! This author is particularly fond of turtles, for they are some of the longest lived creatures in the sea. Wise, yes, but also prone to chit chat like me. After all, life can get incredibly dull without gossip…
There is nothing like the warm sun and ocean breeze to put one in the mood for love. Summer Court’s most eligible bachelor, Tarquin, was spotted with a pretty female at his side the entire time!
As schoolgirls tearfully take down the posters of their handsome High Lord, several of them wrestle with the silver lining: perhaps one day, they may have a shot with him. For it appears he does not limit himself to the court ladies when it comes to relationships! Tarquin guided his companion down the art gallery, listened attentively to her input while judging the seafood bisque contest, and tore up the dance floor with quadrille after quadrille. The two looked positively over the moon as they stole away to a secluded beach for an evening swim in the warm summer sea.
Enjoy the honeymoon phase, young lovers! This mystery lady is certainly a lucky one, for the high lord of summer is working hard to ensure all fae are elevated to equal status in his court. For workaholics everywhere, this is a sign: perhaps finding love is the quickest way to make you all take a break.
Across the worlds, Her Majesty Aelin Ashryver Whitethorn Galathynius (a mouthful of a name!) and Prince Rowan Whitethorn have retreated to the royal summer estate on a much-delayed honeymoon.
While much of the estate has fallen into disrepair over the years, the remaining locals did their best to fend off looters and even buried the late prince and princess in the estate gardens.
Queen Aelin is renowned for her love of luxury, but one can imagine that peace and quiet are of higher priority on her honeymoon. The opportunity to retreat from the hubbub of court should not be taken for granted, and I fully expect the couple to make the most of their privacy.
Perhaps revisiting this once-beloved home and forging new memories is the final piece of healing needed for the young queen. This author does affirm Prince Rhoe and Princess Evalin were contentedly watching over the newlyweds from their garden bench. That is, before that pesky dog Fleetfoot decided to charge at me, snapping at my robes! All right, all right. This author will leave the happy family be.
Dear Suriel, I am thinking of proposing to my girlfriend. Marriages, engagements, most of all love…these are foreign to us Ironteeth witches. So I have been doing my research: I’ll need to procure a diamond ring, take her to an upscale dining establishment, plan a fun sedentary activity for afterwards, say a sappy speech, and get down on one knee. But I am worried she will decline because this may be a long-distance marriage (we have duties to our respective queendoms). Respectfully, Abraxos’s Mom.
Dear Abraxos’s Mom, I am honored you consider me the expert in marriage proposals. I commend your commitment to researching an unknown area, but I am sure your darling would find more meaning in a personalized proposal over an expensive (and sometimes gaudy) one. I suggest finding a ring that will, most importantly, fit. I also recommend focusing on her favorite dishes, rather than expensive fine-dining. Speeches are not a must before the fateful words “will you marry me,” but if the moment calls for it, opt for genuine words over spouting poetry. Wishing you luck!
Win a free honeymoon trip to Terrasen National Forest! A three-night stay at the Peregrine Resort, complete with deer park, Kingsflame meadows, Staghorn mountains aerial tramway, spa, and fine dining vouchers for two!
Erilea residents only. Submit your wedding invitation and the story of how you met your partner to Terrasen Parks Service before Beltane Eve.
65 notes
·
View notes
Note
Are the overblot boys the descendants of the great 7 in your fanfic? It seems to have some mention with Malleus being the great grandson of the thorn fairy and the twins theorize that Azul is the descendant of the sea witch because of his necklace.
If that is case, Jamil could be the descendant of Jafar. If Jafar is the djin, then I wonder how he feels about Jamil right now.
They are linked in some way but it doesn't play an important role in this story. If you want a fic where this does play an important part (mostly in the most recent chapters) then I'll suggest you check out @luluthorn's great fic : Threads of Fate. Them and their co-writers are the ones that made me go back into writing fanfics so you can thank them for Fixing it before it broke's existence! In the meantime let me clarify the links between the OB squad and the Great 7. Spoilers ahead!
Malleus : Great grandson of the Thorn Fairy. No one knows exactly what happened to her after the debacle against Prince Philip as she left her daughter in charge while she left on a quest to conquer some mystical kingdom where hearts takes refuge. Malleus isn't quite sure if his grandmother is actually serious about that last part. Lilia is convinced she's joking. She isn't. (Yes this fic is hiding more crossover than you know).
Leona : latest successor of the roar (though the lion guard isn't a thing anymore. He doesn't know he has the roar, yet. I'll make a post later explaining how the different lion king movies and shows plays into Fixing it before it broke).
Azul : Descendant of the Sea Witch. Is absolutely unaware of it but would be elated if he'd knew. It would also made him an indirect descendant of the royal family.
Idia : Descendant of King of the underworld (Half blood family). Is aware of it and despise the fact. Not that he has anything agains his ancestor but it comes with some serious downside. He and Percy Jackson would agree on this, you don't want to be an half blood.
Jamil : No blood relation with the Sorcerer of the Sand whatsoever. However they have similar ҉s҉҉o҉҉u҉҉l҉҉s҉.
Vil : While not blood related, Vil's family estate happened to be near a forest reputed haunted after a witch died crushed by a boulder that fell off the nearby mountain there. Vil once got lost in said forest and had strange nightmares about it for a while.
Riddle : Indirect descendant of the Queen of Hearts. One of his ancestors on his mother side was said to have married a very kind, if a little odd, woman 155 years ago. Said woman had apparently been chased away by her headstrong sister and she might have been nobility but Riddle highly doubt that a noble would have married in a title less merchant family.
There are not the only ones that have special ancestors but that's enough spoilers for now!
9 notes
·
View notes
Text
Damage Control - Chapter 2
11:03 pm, Yesterday
Pathetic.
Not only was she pitifully on time to the party, but it was also painfully obvious just how much attention she had paid to her appearance. The last time she had spent this much time getting ready was for the giant annual SHIELD fundraiser last year.
She stopped just short of the entrance to Tony’s house, letting out a breath and smoothing down the front of her gown — a satin slip dress, rich navy shimmer. Low dip at the neck, tight around her hips before cascading down her legs with a luxurious sheen. Sparkly diamond earrings and necklace to match. Shiny black heels. The whole ensemble had cost her a fortune and a half.
To top it all off, she had managed to create an elaborate updo, spending hours trying to perfect it down to the last curl. Brushing a few strands out of her face, she peered up at the familiar yet still intimidating doors of Tony’s mansion. It stared back down at her with all its grandiosity, polished glass and gleaming gold daring her to enter.
Her staring contest with the door didn’t last long however, as she heard a line of cheerful guests chatting their way to the entrance of the party, sounds of shrill laughter and fancy shoes clicking against the marble pavement ringing through the driveway.
She bit her lip, determined to keep her worries at bay. She was nervous for more reasons than one, but decided not to dwell on them as she trailed behind the loud guests through the heavy glass doors.
As soon as she stepped inside, she was immediately greeted by a gust of live music and expensive perfume. Pepper Potts was quick to spot her at the door, greeting her enthusiastically and looking way too relaxed for her usual self at a Tony Stark party; she normally spent her time making sure that Tony didn’t blow half the house down to entertain the guests. Judging by the way she swayed back and forth, perhaps the champagne in her hand had helped.
“Hi, Pepper, how are you?” She greeted cheerfully as Pepper went in for a tight hug.
“Oh, just fantastic. What about you? I can imagine the recent debacle on Time Square’s been keeping you busy.”
She rolled her eyes, letting out a sigh. “I know. You’d think they’d be able to go one week without causing a ruckus” They both stared resentfully at the group of superheroes crowded around a bar in the far corner, watching Thor attempt to make an overzealous toast before clumsily knocking over a vase and three bottles of wine in the process.
Pepper shook her head and downed the remainder of the champagne in her glass, wincing. “Mm, when that day comes, I am taking a long holiday and never coming back.”
“You and me both Pepper.”
They made eye contact and shared a loud laugh. She remembered the first time she was introduced to Pepper, back when she was promoted to working as Tony’s assistant. Upon minutes of watching her work, she immediately grew to appreciate her tenacity, which was strong enough to handle even the great Tony Stark.
Soon enough, Piper was steering her toward the bar to “introduce her to the rest of the team,” an arm around her shoulders as they made small talk.
“How’s Anne doing? I heard about the tenure award.”
“She’s great, and yeah, the whole office got together for…”
As they approached the rowdy group of superheroes, she eyed them slowly: some sitting, some standing behind the bar. As soon as Tony spotted Pepper, he extended an arm toward her before stumbling tipsily, only to have Pepper lunge forward to catch him.
“Woah, ok, Tony. You might want to slow down on the scotch.” Pepper gave a nervous laugh, patting the front of Tony’s suit down in a familiarly threatening gesture.
Tony was too drunk to notice, however, as he waved her off with a mumbled “no, it’s fine, I’m fine.”
As Tony turned around, she was greeted with a loud “Manhattan!” The rest of the group’s attention fell on her, and she shrunk under their intense gaze.
She recognized everyone gathered there, even though she didn’t know any of them personally: Clint Barton, Natasha Romanoff, Thor Odinson, Bruce Banner, and, most unfamiliar to her, James Buchanan Barnes. The nervous ball in her chest dissipated a bit after spotting Maria Hill sat in the corner, whom she had gotten to know during tedious meetings at HQ.
Tony spent a painfully long time introducing her to each Avenger, giving her information that was basically included in her job title to know top to bottom. It felt strange to meet these people in person, people whose messes she was so used to cleaning up after.
“… and that’s Seargent Barnes, a ruthless Soviet assassin now turned ruthless assassin for us.”
As her eyes trailed down involuntarily to the agent’s metal hand, peeking underneath the tight black shirt he was sporting, Tony bent down to her ear, whispering loud enough for the rest of the group to hear.
“Oh, and try not to bring up the giant shiny metal arm, he gets a lil’ sensitive about it.” He gave her a playful wink, which got an eye roll and a barely-detectable-but-still-there smile from the ‘Winter Soldier’, so she figured it was appropriate for her to smile and give him a small nod. To her surprise, he nodded back.
Tony peered around, frowning. “Where’s Rogers and Wilson?”
“I think you mean Wilson and Rogers.”
A familiar voice sounded from behind her and Tony, making her stomach jump. She whipped around with a wide smile, any remaining tension in her dissolving at the wide grin on the man’s face.
“Sam!” She didn’t know what had compelled her to do it, but she jumped up to give him a hug. Sam, who took a second to recover from shock, hugged her back even tighter.
Aside from the immediate joy of seeing a familiar face, perhaps she was so excited because Sam was a welcome change to everyone else she had met that night. While Tony and Pepper were amazingly welcoming people, and the Avengers seemed friendly enough, they all intimated her one way or another, be it the overbearing wealth, intelligence, or notoriety.
But with Sam, she felt nothing but ease and trust. They had met when she spent the summer of her freshman year of college volunteering at the VA. Over the months, she had become well-acquainted with his warm and playful nature, helping him arrange support group meetings for veterans. She was somewhat disappointed to hear that he had joined the Avengers as Falcon a few years later.
Pulling back from the hug, she got a whiff of his warm spicy perfume, nostalgic notes of cinnamon and sandalwood, and was reminded of much simpler times: picking up extra shifts in barely air-conditioned cubicles in the heat of July, made worth it by late-afternoon strolls around the reflecting pool, as she and Sam munched on half-smokes from Ben’s — ‘best in D.C.’, he had claimed through a mouthful of sausage.
The would partake in heated debates over hotdogs or sandwiches until the summer sun disappeared languidly beneath the horizon, sky bleeding a brilliant shade of orange. At one point, she had even thought that they would have made a good couple, if their friendship had been any less strong.
Now, as she stood in front of him, she couldn’t hide her surprise at how much he had changed since they had last seen each other. Cheekbones more chiseled, biceps twice as big, and shoulders wider, more confident. Plus a brand new fucking beard. The invigorating light in his eyes hadn’t faded, though, and when he smiled, that same endearing gap between his front teeth reminded her that at least a part of him hadn’t changed.
“Wow, how long has it been?” He exclaimed, gesturing toward her as he looked her up and down, incredulous.
“10 years?” She speculated.
Chuckling in disbelief, he shook his head and let out a low whistle. “Crazy.”
Another tight hug that neither of them could help.
“You look good.” He grinned, pulling back, with which she responded with a warm smile and a playful pat on the arm.
“You too, Wil”
“I see you’ve somehow already met Birdman.” Tony stepped between them, scratching his head in confusion.
“Yeah,” she nodded, still in awe at reuniting with the man in front of her, “We worked at the VA together.”
“Fascinating,” Tony responded insipidly, to which she just smiled and rolled her eyes.
Sam gasped, suddenly rushing forward.
“Oh man, my fault, I totally forgot!” He gestured toward the man who had been standing them all along.
A showy wave of his hand, and a small bow for extra dramatic effect. “This is the Steve Rogers”
“Sam.” The man next to him muttered and nudged Sam in his side, embarrassed.
As her attention shifted to him, her breath halted at the gaze that met hers. Soft eyebrows and even kinder eyes that crinkled at the corner, pink lips forming a gentle smile as he reached forward and extended a hand. At the gesture, the thin material of his shirt rippled, stretching against his bulging biceps and dear god, those shoulders.
She’s read plenty of material on America’s hero, but never seen him in person. Now she believed her coworkers when they said he’s more godly than Thor Odinson himself.
“Captain Rogers, it’s a pleasure.” She replied, nodding.
“Please, just Steve.” A deep timber ringing deep in his chest as his warm palm made contact with hers. “And the pleasures all mine.”
She couldn’t believe that this was the first time they were being introduced to each other, considering how much she already knew about him. Now, seeing him in what people in her line of work called ‘civilian attire,’ a tight blue dress shirt and fitted black slacks, she couldn’t help but be intrigued about what kind of man stood behind the red-white-and-blue shield.
Her thoughts were interrupted abruptly by Tony, who made a point in rolling his eyes and snoring noisily next to them.
“God, is this a party or a press conference? Come on! Capsicle -” A tipsy finger pointed at the blonde hero “- I challenge you and Wilson here for a game of…” A pause for dramatic effect, an all-too-familiar mischievous grin on his face.
“…Beer Pong.”
A mixture of groans and bets erupted around the group as Tony shuffled everyone over to the ping pong table.
But as she was pulled aside by her ex-boss to discuss ‘battle strategy,’ she didn’t fail to catch the way Captain America’s eyes lingered on her, meeting her gaze for a brief moment before quickly faltering.
And when he thought she wasn’t looking, those same eyes trailed across her features and down the curves of her dress, in a matter she’s never seen Captain America do before.
12:37 am
Two rounds of beer pong (both of which she and Tony lost), followed by a bonus redemption round that Tony demanded on the account that both of their opponents had “unfair physical advantages.” Since then, Tony had ushered out the rest of his guests (not without introducing her to Brad Pitt first, of course), and organized a ‘SHIELD agents only’ afterparty of sorts.
They sat around in a circle in Tony’s giant living room — her, Maria, and the Avengers — with Thor’s hammer as the center of everyone’s attention.
“Whatever man, it’s a trick!"
“Well please, be my guest.” Thor gestured smugly to his hammer, sitting on the coffee table (which was most definitely not worthy).
Clint Barton rolled his eyes, twirling a stray drumstick in the air as he stood up, being the 1st out of many people that night to try and fail at lifting the mighty Mjolnir.
Next came Tony, who, despite the usage of his fancy mechanic gloves, couldn’t even get the hammer to budge.
“Damn, I really needed that win” He plopped down next to her on the couch with a defeated sigh. After spotting her, he smirked, crossing his leg and throwing an arm around the back of the couch.
“Havin’ fun?”
“Hmm? Oh, yeah.” Her hand slipped away from where it was resting under her chin, and she she sat up straighter, giving him a small smile.
“Manhattan…” Tony frowned, lifting his back off the couch, before he was interrupted by a roar of laughter from the rest of the group — Bruce Banner had almost fell backwards in his futile efforts to lift the hammer.
She bit her lip, glancing down at her dress and fidgeting with the fabric over her knee.
“I just…” She sighed, voice only audible to Tony.
“What am I doing here, Tony?”
He stayed silent, uncharacteristically so, and they both knew why.
“These people, your friends…” She trailed off quietly, though she doubted anyone else was paying attention, busy cheering on the next challenger in their test of worthiness.
Tony let out her name quietly, resting a gentle hand on her shoulder.
“Hating them isn’t gonna change what happened, you know that.”
At that, she visibly flinched, blood turning cold. Deep down she knew he was right, like always — he was never afraid to be straight with her. Nonetheless, she couldn’t help but straighten up, standing abruptly, letting out a small ‘excuse me’ as she squeezed past the couch and Maria Hill, seated on the floor.
As she made her way over in the vague direction of the bathroom, the clicks of her heels and the beating of her heart pounding in her ears, she could faintly catch the distant exchange between Maria and Tony, drowned out by another roar of laugher from the rowdy group of heroes.
“She okay?”
“Yeah, yeah she’s fine…”
The water shut off with a quiet trickle as she stepped back from the marble sink, glancing up at the mirror. Running a wet hand through her hair, she took a deep breath, letting the air fill her lungs until the corners of her chest hurt. She was here at her own will, so she might as well try and enjoy the rest of her night. Plus, Tony was right — blaming any of the people out there wasn’t going to change anything. Maybe she’ll go back out there, apologize to Tony with another glass of whiskey, and play along to polite conversation the rest of the night.
But, there was one thing she needed to do first.
She made her way out of the bathroom and toward the balcony, making sure to take the detour route so as to avoid crossing the living room.
As soon as she reached the glass doors on the northern side of Tony’s house, reaching a small opening on the top floor, she was reminded of why this was her favorite spot in the whole tower, and why she had moved to New York in the first place.
Tony had the best view in the whole city, no doubt. Overlooking midtown Manhattan, she could spot Empire State from here, the Chrysler building, and just feel the busy bustle of city life that shined through during this time of night: flickering lights and honking cars, loud sirens, distant sounds of laughter and bar fights. The cold night air cleared her head as she let it fill her lungs, chasing the loud thoughts away.
“Mind if I join you?”
She perked up, turning around to see who had entered, before shaking her head, letting her eyes return to the city horizon.
“No, go ahead.”
Steve Rogers gently slid the door closed behind him, and stepped out into the balcony, joining her at the edge. She wondered briefly how he knew she’d be here, but figured it made no difference. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw him rest his forearms against the glass railing, bottle of beer casually hanging from one hand hand.
He was the first one to break the silence, voice resounding deep in his chest.
“You and Tony… you guys were great back there.” He said, jerking his head in the direction of the rest of the group.
A moment of confusion, before she realized that he was talking about beer pong. She let out a small smile, the lines of her lips too tight to feel genuine.
“Thanks.”
“Have you two known each other long?”
A pause as her eyes flickered over the Chrysler building, so close she could almost touch the glowing yellow triangles adorning the sides.
“Yeah, I… used to work as his assistant.”
“Ah, that explains the teamwork.”
She gave him an inquisitive look, and he added, “During beer pong? Sam and I barely beat you two.”
Eyebrows furrowed, she snorted, shaking her head. “You call 3-0 barely?”
“Well...” He glanced down, shifting the beer in his hand and straightening up a little.
“...you still put up a good fight.”
A small smirk in her direction as he takes a small swig.
She halted, head turning toward him with a raised eyebrow, genuine amusement tugging on the corner of her mouth.
“Did we now?”
A playful but shy glint in his eyes as he cocks his head, shrugging his shoulders, biceps flexing under his shirt. And the night air feels just a tad warmer.
Eyes narrowing with renewed interest, she slowly turns toward him, one hand on the railing, the other resting on her hip.
“And where did Captain America learn to play beer pong?”
He chuckles, cocking his head “Working with Tony you uh… you pick up a few things. Though I guess you don’t need me to tell you that.”
Her eyes trailed down the front of his dress shirt, blue as the lights on the Empire State tonight.
“Damage Control, right?”
She nodded, eyes flitting back up to meet his. Same color as his shirt, except for a hint of green — specks of cool, deep jade amidst all the pensive blue.
“Times Square must’ve been a real hassle. Thought I’d come out here and apologize.”
Ah, was that why he was here? A small smile as she glanced down at the glass of Don Perignon in her hand, tiny bubbles clinging to the sides before fizzing their way to the top.
“It’s alright, I already chewed Tony’s ass off about it.”
“Still, if there’s anything I can do to make up for it, let me know.”
Her fingers halted over the glass of champagne, eyes snapping up to meet his.
Was he really…?
Tinted cheeks and a shy smile, crinkling the corners of eyes that glanced away and fixed their gaze forward.
Yes, he was.
And so she decided to play along, to whatever this was. Whatever game they’re thinking they can handle. Hoping they can handle.
She straightened up, the lights of New York dancing in her eyes as an infinite kaleidoscope of color peered into green-blue.
“Well, I guess I can think of a few things.”
6:01 am, Today
Her feet burn against the hot driveway as she drags herself out of the wretched compound, face still burning with humiliation. Squeezing her eyes shut, she's desperate to punch the nearest wall after the conversation she just had with Steve.
He cleared his throat, scratching the back of his head.
“U-hm, I just wanted to ask if you wanted to join me for breakfast. I know this place just a few blocks away and-”
Her loud wince cut him off, as she squeezed her eyes and took a step back, closer to the direction of the stairs.
She hadn’t mean to reject him with such cruelty, but now that the ice-cold flame was out in the open, all the warmth had dissipated from the air between them.
“I…I don’t understand.” A soft furrow of his eyebrows and even gentler tone.
“Captain Rogers, we were drunk last night.”
She knew it wasn’t a great excuse — she was barely tipsy from that second glass of champagne, and him? Well, Thor’s Asgardian mead might’ve helped, but she remembered reading something somewhere about a super-soldier serum and a ridiculously high metabolism.
“I can’t really get drunk.” He responds instinctively, taking a step toward her in an almost desperate gesture.
She only sighs, because she knows the details of the account aren’t what matter, and pinches the bridge of her nose.
“Captain Rogers, I-"
It was his turn to wince this time, shoulders visibly shrinking into his giant frame.
“Steve, please.”
“Steve, It’s just that I…” Her gaze rises beyond him and scans the rest of the compound. She sighs, incredulous at the circumstance she’s brought upon herself.
“… I just can’t believe I did this.” She said under her breath, more to herself than anything, but that never stopped anyone with super-hearing abilities, did it?
A flash of hurt that flickers across his features, before it dissipates just as quickly, his face molding into the stoic professionalism she was most accustomed to.
“Right. I’ll call you a cab. Do you have everything that you need?”
Fucking unbelievable. Even in a situation like this he’s incapable of abandoning his superhero bravado.
“No, thank you. I’ll call an Uber.”
And that left her here, now, waiting impatiently on some random sidewalk, still barefoot, waiting for a black Toyota to arrive by the name of ‘Jim.’
If it weren’t for her entanglement in this whole thing, she would have laughed into next week at the irony of it all.
Tony was so wrong. About Steve. About all of it. 100-year-old virgin her ass.
As her mind wanders back to the events of last night, she’s reminded of the most minute of details. Goosebumps erupt down her spine at the thought of his lips, his hands, his mouth…
And yet when she spots the black car round the corner and come to a hault, she feels the wave of sickening disappointment move back in her stomach, settling down for good. Out of all of the men she could have slept with in the world, it had to be him. How could she have let this happen? The reckless irresponsibility of it all made her gut churn.
23rd and 5th, please.
As the car drives off, she tries desperately to stifle the remaining spark of guilt flickering in her chest.
But even with her eyes closed, the last impression of his face burns through the back of her mind.
Damage Control Masterlist
#mcufic#mcufandom#mcu fanfiction#steve rogers#steve x reader#captain america#enemies to friends to lovers#enemies to lovers#smut#hurt/comfort#angst#eventual fluff#eventual romance#fanfiction#romantic fanfiction
34 notes
·
View notes
Text
Bad News :(
tl;dr: due to supplier issues I cannot make any more of any of the necklaces and what's in the shop is probably it for those exact designs forever and I am really upset about this and trying to find a magical supply of identical beads somewhere else but it's extremely unlikely. Wooden and Plastic bead fidgets are not effected!
the company that made some of the beads I use for the necklaces has gone out of business.
This effects the necklaces. I am looking for replacements but so far I am not having much luck at finding things that will work for the designs I already make. That means that there's a good chance I will not be able to make the Concentric Circle Necklace, Planet Necklace, Double Circle Necklace, Rolling Bead Necklace, or Heart Necklaces.
I will keep looking, in part because I am dependent on my Concentric Circle Necklace, so I am upset about this for everyone else and you can trust I am scrambling to find a way to keep any of the designs as a viable continuing thing cuz I get it when something is right and it helps.
Most likely though I will have to come up with new designs based on what beads I can find that may do similar, or even just new, things. Which is supposed to be fun and exciting, but I hate change. bad bad evil *tries not to melt down*
The Wooden and Plastic bead fidgets are not effected. (actually there may be new color options for the wooden ones? I...am distracted by the necklace debacle but maybe?)
so that's that. it sucks. I hate it.
7 notes
·
View notes
Text
Highlights from the UTB shows
Cardiff
We (myself and Sarah, @suchasinistergame) waited around outside the venue for absolutely hours before the boys arrived quite late for soundcheck on a bus all together around 5.30pm. Andy warned us we shouldn’t stop them as they were behind schedule, but Gary came off the bus first and came up to us all for a hug and chat so that went out the window haha. Peter came off the bus next, and he was looking very dapper in his suit and carrying a cane. He was rushing so I just handed him the gift I had for him – an old cigarette tin with a few dozen old cigarette cards in it which I had legitimately spent the entire pandemic slowly collecting. He called it a ‘dream gift’ and leaned in for a hug. I gave him a side hug because I didn’t want to get my red lipstick on his shirt, as he’d kind of collected me into his middle, which, honestly, I was just dying to squish into. He’s so soffffft. John came off the bus next and stopped for a quick chat, and he was more chatty than usual, before Carl appeared in his sunglasses looking quite cool. He fussed about whether he should have removed them for the photos we took with him as if it was a little pretentious to have them on haha, but I assured him he looked really cool. I handed him some gifts we had for him, including the pfennig necklace from the Netflix series Dark (which he’d said he enjoyed so much when he was on that livestream the boys did during lockdown) and an old shipwreck coin from a wreck that had gone down near Margate. He didn’t immediately recognise the pfennig from the show (he told Sarah last night he felt really bad about that and loved it when he worked it out, what a fucking sweetheart to worry about something so inconsequential – but he had remembered it by the time I next saw him in Edinburgh anyway). He also joked that he had doubts about coins that came with authenticity certificates, which the shipwreck coin did. It’s very much the real deal thanksverymuch, I have a few of my own so I assured him it was legit. I also said that we wanted to find him a cool coin after the ‘coin debacle’ (see Sarah’s posts about that – he gave her crap no less than four times because she had given Peter the same antique Good Old Days gambling token that she gave Carl, and he was annoyed Peter had one too when he tried to show it off to him - but trust me it’s been the funniest saga and she’s not offended haha). Carl was deeply entertained over my reference to the coin drama, he did one of his hard to describe dramatic reactions along with a very sweet chuckle. We took some pics with everyone then headed into the show, which was excellent albeit fairly rough – a lot of shoving and a fight broke out. They played really well and P+C appeared to be getting on excellently – lots of smiles and eyeball communication. After the show, we caught Carl again and he introduced us to his two cousins who were with him. Peter appeared too and schooled me on which cigarette cards I had given him that he liked and which were reproductions – he said he’d been ‘caught out himself’ before. He literally held up cards he liked to explain which I had done well on, it was so fucking funny, the entitlement (what is it with those boys, they’re like submitting something to Antiques Roadshow haha!) He was also surprised when we said the crowd had been quite rough. We mentioned that we wanted to go to his solo show in Tynemouth in a few days but had missed out on tickets, and he said ‘you want tickets? Andy!’ he called out, pointing at him, and sent us over to talk to Andy, who called us over to the doorway of the bus. He headed off onto the bus after that. Andy was there with the other road crew having a red wine, and quickly organised for us to go along to the show, which we were so immensely grateful for. While we were talking to Peter, I had left my tour shirt that I had bought laying down nearby and someone nicked it. I went off to look for it when Andy caught wind of what had happened. He said don’t worry we will get you another shirt (he never did get around to it but I was perfectly happy to buy another and it was an incredibly sweet offer – everyone in and around this band is the best fucking human). We stood chatting to Andy for a while. Gary came wandering out of the bus while we were standing there chatting and showed us a magazine he had been contributing to, and he had a chat to us about how important the sense of community is around the band, and he very sweetly complimented us on having that energy on our Instagram account. Suddenly a very drunk Carl appeared on the steps of the bus, smiling madly. I have zero memory of why this was brought up but Carl started talking about watching The OA, a show Sarah and I happen to LOVE. He broke into the interpretive dance that is critical to the plot, which was so amusing. I think that marks the third time I’ve had Carl break into an impromptu dance in front of me for… reasons. He then told us that he and Peter had been comparing the monetary value of the gifts we gave them to work out who got more, which was, oh my god we cannot stop laughing about this, it’s just the pettiest possible level of competitiveness, so fucking cute. At some stage I showed Carl my tattoos of his lyrics, and had showed Peter some earlier too, and he read out the one on my arm that said ‘at the palace gates’ in a lovely soft voice. I can’t remember why I was flashing them haha, it’s actually something I find quite embarrassing but I’d had a few drinks. I cannot for the life of me remember what else was said, but Carl gave us both a hug and we headed off after that on a total high.
Tynemouth
We were kind of starstruck getting to see Peter at such a small venue. Well I certainly was, it was just surreal. We stood right in front of him and he was literally inches away belting out songs to maybe 60 people max in this tiny little café in this strange little town by the seaside. It was a dream and so wonderful. We were we glad that we sucked up our pride and asked for tickets, because this was once in a lifetime stuff. For me especially, I couldn’t believe my luck that this was announced right before I came. At first when we missed out on tickets we sort of said oh well, it’s an extra several hours drive and we can miss it, but the closer it got the more I thought this may well be the one time in my life that I ever get to see Peter do a solo acoustic at such a small venue. We figured we would ask Peter directly and he literally just pointed and called out ‘Andy!’ and sent us over to sort it out. It was so cool, honestly, I can’t get over it. He was insane live, his voice is so gorgeous just on its own, just that voice and a guitar, and you could see he absolutely relished playing to such a small crowd, and I think that was more evident to me than ever, how much he just loves to do those sorts of tiny shows. He was immensely passionate and every song was delivered so beautifully. We said no more than a quick hello because he was rushed in and literally sped out in a van just minutes after he finished the gig by Andy, so they could get back to Edinburgh on time. Massive kudos to Andy, that man runs a tight and infallible ship. I was keen to share video but most of the time I just had the phone down, I just wanted to live it so badly and more than anything to be present. One of the coolest things that has ever happened to me hands down.
Edinburgh
We arrived a few hours early hoping to catch the band, but the problem fan was there waiting too, so we were told that none of us can come near the band because ‘that stalker is here’. It was a really stressful situation for them I think – they put the band behind barriers over near the back entrance, and the other band members came off the bus and waved to us but Carl was literally hidden behind a screen, since he’s the target of this person’s obsession. There were a lot of fans waiting who we got talking to, and it was so disappointing for them that they didn’t get to talk to the boys because of this person. We were really sad for everyone and for Carl too having to deal with this all the time. The show was amazing – P+C were really cuddly and playing so well, some of the best versions we have heard of certain songs like Plan A (we told Carl how good that was later and he seemed pleased to hear it). Carl stunned us all by planting a kiss on Peter’s lips and Sarah and I, predictably, had a meltdown haha. It was so fucking adorable and I could not be more delighted to have seen that in person. We sadly didn’t get any footage and it happened so fast, but another fan did and she kindly let us share it, which was such a relief, we wanted y’all to see it so bad! After the show Peter and Gary got onto the bus without coming over to us all, but John came by for a chat (about Bingley and the canal Sarah tells me as I cannot recall!) They were placed behind a fence so no one could hassle them. Carl came out quite late and did come through the gate and talked to everyone waiting. He said he had waited as long as possible to come out so he was sure the problem fan had left. We chatted to him once more about various nerdy things such as my theory about the OA being about OCD. Carl didn’t agree (“jury’s out on that one!” he said in a very comical fashion) but he said he also does those rituals people do to stop bad things from happening. He said he had “saved us all so many times” that way, which we found really touching and candid. Sarah tells me he did the dance from the show AGAIN but I had forgotten that haha. We also got talking about manifestation, and he said he is a huge believer in it. ‘It’s a science!’ Carl stated with extreme seriousness. ‘Erm, I don’t think it is?’ I replied. ‘It is, it’s a SCIENCE’ he said again. Seriously Sarah and I have not stopped losing it over that statement and his deep conviction regarding it, and since we are huge nerds for manifestation we super enjoyed learning that he’s also prone to various forms of magical thinking. He called himself a massive nerd at some point too, which he has lately really been into saying about himself haha. He said he has watched so many Netflix shows that he can’t remember what he’s already seen - relatable. Carl also spoke about a new medication he was trying for his mental health but admitted he’s not great at staying on medication, and I said I could recommend some haha. I asked him if he could write out his favourite lyric he’d ever written so I could tattoo it, and he said I already had one of his favourites (“sew it up kid have some clout”) and he took my arm to look at it quite affectionately while running his thumb across the lettering, which was lovely and I had BIG EMOTIONS over. I said I was glad he actually wrote that one as I wasn’t sure, and he reacted with extremely dramatic mock horror. “Well it’s a band! It’s a democracy!” I insisted, and he agreed haha. He struggled over it a while trying to think what to write, then wrote out “you’ll find me somewhere over the railings” on my forearm. He gave me and Sarah both a hug and a kiss at the same time, which was so sweet. It was a super fun chat, I wish I could remember more of what we all said but Carl was on fire, he was being so fucking funny and animated.
Margate
Oh boy. Oh boy. This was madness. We had booked to stay at the Albion Rooms on the 17th of August months and months before that show was announced. When we spoke to Carl in Edinburgh and said we were heading for the Albion Rooms, he told us to DM him and that he’d do something special for our visit, honestly what he meant was kind of unclear. Then we got a tip that said BE THERE ON THE 17TH and something special was happening. We were literally already booked to stay that day! It was NUTS. We didn’t dare to dream that it would be a show, but low key we both desperately hoped it was. It seemed too big to hope for, but we kept our eyes peeled every day for an announcement – and then one was made. We bought tickets immediately in the middle of the street and were just, literally screaming haha. By then my boy BFF was with us as well having flown in from LA so it was just so perfect for him, too, since we had never seen the Libs together and he has never met any of them. On the day we waited out front hoping to run into the band arriving. Gary turned up and chatted to us for a long while, about his holiday to France with his family, and showed us the various books that he had bought in Margate for his sons. Andy turned up too and had us googling gluten free food in Margate for him to eat haha which we found very amusing. The problem fan was there again, which was just exhausting, so Carl snuck in the back way. Peter came in the front later, wearing shorts and a shirt with Katia in tow. My boy BFF was coming down the stairs as Peter was coming in and literally collided with him – and that was his first time meeting his hero haha. The band hid in the studio for some time together doing a rehearsal. We waited for them to leave the hotel but were warned that they weren’t coming out till everyone left, likely to again avoid that certain fan, so we headed to the bandstand and then they just came barreling down the stairs and played that blessed show. It was a really small show ultimately, the bandstand was barely full and we were able to just stand on the steps of the bandstand to watch. It was short and sharp, just the hits, but searing fun and widely covered – NME, Channel Four and others were there including a documentary crew so imagine there will be lots of material. P+C seemed fantastic again, lots of mic shares and sweet looks. They ran back to the Albion Rooms after the gig and went back into the studio, with fans herded off to leave them be. We waited around outside and a surprisingly helpful security guard told us ‘if you’re waiting for what I think you are, head to the bar now’. We ran for it, and arrived right when Peter and Carl walked in. My boy BFF took centre stage here – Sarah took photos while I filmed, we really wanted him to have a moment with his hero and he did, he told Peter how much he meant to him, then Peter eyed his beer and asked for a sip haha. I took over chatting to Peter then about the cigarette cards, and asked if he liked any of them since I didn’t recall which ones he had shown me in Cardiff. I must have looked sad because he gave me THE most sympathetic look that I felt bad for making him feel bad! He listed off the war medals and hats as his favourites, and said to be ‘wary’ of the ones that are too brightly coloured or clean cos they are reprints but again said it was a dream gift. He is so fucking funny with the reprints (in fact the first time I gave him a stack of cigarette cards, in 2019, he asked immediately if they were reprints - they were not and he was thrilled with them, hence me collecting more for him). My boy BFF also got to speak to Carl and said he was ageing like Dorian Gray - he said Carl was very pleased with the comment hahaha. P+C then headed to the stage with John and Gary and played three songs real quick – it was absolutely mental. There was maybe 100 people crammed in that room, and P+C were absolutely smushed up against each other on the mic and just, god – in a few weeks of dream experiences this one took the cake. Seeing them play in a tiny room, let alone in the Albion Rooms, was beyond special. Sarah and I were just turning to each other like WHAT IS HAPPENING and I love those moments, they are weirdly what I always remember most: When someone you are at a concert with turns to you with those glazed, excited eyes, it’s a look like nothing else, and you just know you are looking back at them the same way. Once they were done with their songs the band all climbed out the window – a cool little reference – as it was easier than going through the crowd again, and it was such a brilliant moment. We went out front to catch them jumping on the tour bus and Carl gave us a hug and Sarah said to him, ‘Manifestation works!’ since this show had happened. ‘I manifested it for you!’ Carl said, and he was bundled off onto the bus with everyone else. And that was that, just the most insane few weeks of my life. I don’t think I will ever top it.
42 notes
·
View notes
Last Seen Blogs
peace-love-and-french-toast
Thoughts and Jots 🍉
ruthion
twitter: Ruthion30
cassidy-mcgraw
Repeat After Me
thaboah
🦌 - Artemis
bayoudigitalcreation
BayouDigitalCreation