✨ NEW STORY ANNOUNCEMENT! ✨

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🎀 nsfw X links 🎀

♡ Caleb nsfw links ! install X so u can view the links ! ♡

🍎 • he finally have you and he will show his love for you

🍎 • he's such a good boyfriend, making and feeding u your favorite meals! surely you'll let him have his fill aswell, eating you like a starved man

🍎 • "it won't fit Caleb!" just lay there and take him like a good girl and he will show u how deep you can take!

🍎 • everybody just keep getting on his nerves today! and what's better stress relief fucking his favorite girl~!

🍎 • netflix and chill is always the best!

🍎 • he loves kissing you! sweet forehead kiss, cheeky cheek kisses, love lip kisses and of course cute cunny kisses

🍎 • Caleb is possesive and will claim every part of you ♡ even your other little hole

🍎 • you're just so loud that Caleb has to gag and tied you! you don't want grandma to see you having sex with him right?

🍎 • ripping up your cute panties like it's a gift wrap

🍎 • you better grip the headboard tightly while Colonel Caleb is pounding you without mercy

🍎 • your so beautiful swollen with his child and nothing is sweeter than your breastmilk

🍎 • swear your back is about to snap with how in every position he wanna kiss you! but he will just massage it after!

Chapter 22 [Draft]

Sung Jinwoo/Trial Player!Reader

CW:

Inspired by @circeyoru ‘s “Future Power Couple”

[Masterlist🦋✨️]

“I’ll go ahead, Jinwoo,” you said softly, giving a brief nod to Adam White, the agent from the American Hunter Bureau. The man returned the gesture politely, professionalism etched into his features. You turned on your heels, already scanning the area for a secluded spot where you could teleport safely without attracting undue attention.

Before you could take more than a few steps, a hand gently but firmly grasped your left wrist. The contact stopped you mid-step, and you turned halfway, raising a brow in question.

“Jinwoo—” you started, but his expression stopped you before his words.

“Can you stay?” Jinwoo asked, his voice low, almost hesitant. His tone lacked its usual authority, replaced instead by something softer, almost… vulnerable. And so was his expression, the intensity in his grey eyes as they bore into yours, a quiet plea that he seemed unsure how you would respond to. It wasn’t an order or a casual suggestion—it was a genuine request. “Please.”

You blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the request coupled by the earnestness. His hand remained steady on your arm, his grip, while not forceful, neither was it loose.

Jinwoo was not someone who typically asked for anything, let alone in such a way.

You studied his face, weighing your options. Between the uncharacteristic pleading in his eyes, the whisper-soft quality of his voice, and his hold, it was clear he wouldn’t let go as easily as you would’ve liked. And you doubted it would be worth the trouble to try to convince him otherwise.

Still, seriously, of all the days I decide not to wear my mask, you internally lamented on your decision to forgo the subtle charm that helped mask your presence this time for the memorial service.

Despite your internal grumbling, you conceded with a sigh and allowed a small smile to grace your lips as you nodded.

“Alright.” you murmured, voice light.

At your response, Jinwoo’s neutral expression shifted ever so slightly—his features brightened in a way that was barely noticeable unless one was familiar with him. And unfortunately for you, you were.

Adam, meanwhile, shifted awkwardly on the sidelines. You glanced at him at the corner of your eye, suddenly remembering his presence, and felt a pang of sympathy for the agent. He must have felt incredibly out of place in this strange, silent exchange.

Adam cleared his throat, attempting to regain the momentum of the conversation. “Hunter Sung—”

Before he could finish, Jinwoo pulled you closer with a suddenness that caused you to stumble to his side. Your eyes widened slightly as his grip on your wrist slid to intertwine his fingers with yours.

“Whatever it is you want to tell me,” Jinwoo said calmly, his tone now laced with that quiet authority, “you can tell her.”

You stared at him, lips parting as if to speak but no words came.

The words were simple enough, it wasn’t so much what he said that caught you off guard—it was how he said it. The conviction in his voice was startling, as if his trust in you was absolute, and his words left no room for argument.

You didn’t even have time to recover when Jinwoo glanced down at you, his lips curving into a faint, warm and confident smile.

“She’s someone I can count on,” he added, as if that explained everything.

Adam blinked, visibly thrown off by Jinwoo’s rather blunt declaration. His gaze flickered between the two of you. “Ah, my apologies,” Adam spoke carefully. “Are you two perhaps…?”

Your head snapped toward Adam so quickly that under normal circumstances, you’d have felt a pang of vertigo.

“No!” you blurted out, voice sharper than intended as heat crept up your neck. Quickly regaining your composure, you cleared your throat before continuing more evenly, “You’ve got it wrong, Mr. White. What my friend here meant is that I’m privy to his… rather unique capabilities as a Hunter, and that I know how to keep my mouth shut.”

You managed to keep your tone as steady as possible, ignoring the subtle tightening sensation on your hand somewhere along your choice of words.

Bless Adam White, because he didn’t push further. Instead, he nodded politely, accepting your explanation without comment. “Understood. And please, call me Adam, Miss…?”

Adam stretched out his hand and you accepted it with a smile.

“(Name). Just (Name).”

---

After the conversation wrapped up, Adam escorted both of you to the car waiting nearby. As he excused himself to make a quick call—likely to inform his superiors about the additional “guest” accompanying Hunter Sung—you climbed into the back seat alongside Jinwoo.

It wasn’t until the car began moving that you realized: Jinwoo’s hand was still holding yours.

You glanced down at your entwined fingers, then up at him. Nudging his hand discreetly, hoping he’d take the hint.

He didn’t respond, his face calm and composed as if your silent protests didn’t exist.

You tried again, nudging him a little more insistently. “Jinwoo,” you whispered, “Let go.”

Still, nothing. He remained as nonchalant as ever, his focus seemingly on the passing scenery outside the car window.

Eventually, you gave up, resigned to the situation as you leaned back against the seat. If Jinwoo noticed your surrender, he didn’t show it, though the faint curve of his lips suggested he was aware.

Still, you couldn’t help but feel self-conscious under other’s occasional glances.

From his spot in the front seat, Adam’s eyes flicked toward the rearview mirror. His gaze lingered for a moment before quickly darting away. It was impossible not to, especially after he saw the way the S-ranker’s eyes glowed earlier when you’d referred to him as a “friend.”

Strangely, there was no intel about you, not any that Adam had received anyway. It was as if you went off the radar completely. But how was that possible, if you were this close to Hunter Sung Jinwoo?

The agent glanced between the two of you once or twice and wisely chose to remain silent.

The quiet hum of the engine filled the silence as Jinwoo sat beside you, his usual demeanor in place as if this casual intimacy was the most natural thing in the world. You, on the other hand, couldn’t help but feel acutely aware of his presence.

The coolness of his hand, how calloused it was.

When his thumb brushed against your skin briefly—a motion so fleeting you almost convinced yourself it didn’t happen.

As the vehicle continue to move nearing your destination, you silently wondered why, despite of it all, you couldn’t bring yourself to pull away.

---

Tis as you said, Mother.

Red’s voice echoed faintly in your mind, amusement dancing at the edges of her words.

She really does have them wrapped around her fingers!

You heard Trick’s giggles next, and the others joined in soon after. A cascade of light chimes in your head, each of them speaking in turn as they observed the woman named Norma Selner through your eyes. Their presence in your thoughts was both comforting and mildly distracting.

Norma, for her part, glanced in your direction briefly, likely sensing your gaze. You offered her a soft, unassuming smile and a polite nod. She returned the gesture before focusing her attention back on Jinwoo.

You mentally praised yourself, your children, and the system for the careful layering of enchantments that blanketed your nature so thoroughly. To fool someone like Norma Selner at first glance—someone with her unique gift—was no small feat.

Speaking of the system…

Are you going to intervene? The tone you used in your mind calm but probing. You know what she’s capable of, don’t you?

The response was silence. Not a sound, not a whisper. Nothing.

You sighed inwardly. Really, the empty reply didn’t surprise you. If the system had no objection, it meant the matter was left to you to handle. Typical.

---

Norma Selner was trapped in darkness.

It stretched infinitely in every direction, the pitch-black void with no sign of life. Nothing but an overwhelming emptiness. An endless abyss, where no light penetrated and no sound carried. The air was cold, almost biting, yet it felt weightless and suffocating all at once.

She turned frantically, searching for something—anything—that could anchor her in this oppressive nothingness.

Her breathing quickened as she tried to move, but the weight of the void pressed against her limbs, making her movements sluggish. Frantic, searching for something—anything—that could anchor her in this nothingness.

When her eyes drifted upward, she saw it.

A presence loomed above her, formless yet all-encompassing. Its gaze piercing and ancient, and it was staring back at her, dissecting her, peeling away every layer of her being.

It filled her with an indescribable, primal fear.

A scream clawed at her throat, but before she could release it, a faint glow fluttered at the edge of her vision.

A butterfly.

Delicate and luminous as it danced in the void. A tiny beacon, a stark contrast to the surrounding darkness.

“Come with us!” chimed a chorus of soft, bell-like voices.

Her trembling legs moved on instinct, her body scrambling to follow the glittery trail left behind without a second thought.

The abyss seemed to shift as she ran, the oppressive darkness trailing after her, neither rushing nor retreating. Instead, it moved as though it were tethered to the guiding light.

The void began to change.

The darkness beneath her feet gave way to splashes of crimson, blooming into vivid red spider lilies, their petals stark against the blackness. With every step she took, the flowers spread further, their roots twisting into the emptiness and replacing it with something tangible.

Bare feet splashed into shallow water, the sound oddly grounding, sending ripples across its surface. She looked down, startled, to see the night sky reflected perfectly in the liquid mirror beneath her. Above her, stars shimmered like diamonds scattered across the vastness of space.

She came to a stop, breathless, her heart pounding in her chest. The butterfly of light had vanished, leaving her alone amidst the endless field of red flowers that seemed to sway with an unseen breeze. Gone with them the fear that had gripped her prior.

And then she felt it.

Warmth.

It radiated through her body and soul, soothing every nerve and easing every ounce of tension she carried, melting away like frost under the morning sun. She barely noticed as a pair of hands cradled her face gently, tilting it upward.

Norma found herself staring at a figure clad in flowing white. Under the veil, molten gold eyes met her own. They were luminous yet distant, like sunlight filtered through a mist. She couldn’t look away.

The figure exuded an aura of pure, untainted comfort. Norma felt her knees weaken under the weight of their presence, not from fear, but from an overwhelming sense of belonging.

“Wake up,” the figure mouthed, tender yet commanding.

Norma’s lips parted as if to respond, but she couldn’t form the words. Their warmth was intoxicating and she felt herself sinking into the divine embrace, wanting nothing more than to remain there. Forever.

But the words came again, firmer this time, like a gentle pull back to reality.

“Wake up.”

---

Norma Selner jolted awake, gasping for breath.

The fluorescent lights of the meeting room above her felt harsh against her eyes. It was also loud with commotion, voices overlapping as figures moved in her periphery, while she could barely process her surroundings. Everything felt distant and distorted.

“I apologize, Mr. Sung, Miss (Name),” came a calm yet firm voice. It was Michael Conner, the deputy director. His tone carried a measured mix of authority and unease. “Our agents stepped out of line.”

Words were exchanged, but Norma couldn’t register them. Her trembling hands clutched her head, tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, though whether from fear or something else entirely, she couldn’t tell

The deputy director’s voice broke through again, this time directed at her.

“Mrs. Selner? What’s wrong?”

She blinked rapidly through her blurred vision, chest still heaving heavily.

“You’re sweating profusely,” Michael said, filled with concern. “Are you feeling ill?”

Norma tried to respond, but her throat felt dry, and her thoughts remained scattered.

“It seems Mrs. Selner isn’t feeling well today,” Michael added, his tone returned to professional and polite as he spoke to Jinwoo. “Can we contact you another time?”

“Wait.”

Somehow, Norma could single out that soft, melodic voice through the haze.

“I’m a healer. I can at least stabilize her condition, if you’ll allow me.”

Michael looked uncertain, but after a quick glance at Norma’s state, he nodded reluctantly. “Please, if you’re able to help her.”

You moved closer to the trembling woman, careful not to overwhelm her with sudden movements. Kneeling beside her, you gently placed your hands on either side of her face. She flinched at the contact, but the moment your magic flowed through her, she stilled.

Like sunlight breaking through clouds, warmth enveloped her once again, though it was softer, less overwhelming than—

Her breathing slowed, and the trembling in her limbs subsided.

Norma finally looked up, meeting your gaze.

“Y-you…” she croaked, her voice hoarse and weak.

“Shh,” you interrupted softly, your tone soothing. “Mrs. Selner, please focus on calming yourself first, alright? Everything else can wait.”

Though your voice was kind, there was a gentle finality to your words. Despite the comfort you exuded, Norma couldn’t shake the weight of something absolute—an unspoken order she had no choice but to obey.

Her lips pressed together in silent compliance as she nodded faintly, allowing herself to bask in the warmth of your touch a moment longer.

---

"My..."

It was faint, distant yet heavy, reverberating with its own brand resonance, an echo from the depths of the pitch-black void.

"My...Lord..."

There it was again—the voice that whispered the moment you connected your space with Norma Selner’s consciousness, delving into the depths of her mind and subsequently brushing against something far older, far darker.

The first time, you stiffened at the sound, not out of fear but from recognition. There was something achingly familiar in the tone, something that resonated deep within you.

"Is…that...you…?"

As you stood at the border, the voice echoed again, closer this time, yet wavering, tinged with denial and something akin to long-lost longing.

"Impos...sible..."

You didn’t move to retreat as shadowy wisps emerged from the abyss, curling outward like hands reaching for you. They stopped mere inches from your form, and it was hard to make out through the ever-changing smoke, but you had a feeling that they were trembling, as if afraid their touch would break the illusion. Or was it unsure of their welcome?

There was a battle in your mind, with two opposing sides.

You should have been alarmed; the situation was rife with danger, uncertainty, and countless unknowns. Yet, you didn’t fully understand why, but you felt no fear. Something in you—a quiet yet inexplicable confidence—assured you that whatever dwelled in this darkness would not harm you.

And so, following the feeling you couldn’t name and ignoring the flicker of logic warning you against it, you raised your hands.

Your palms pressed gently against the shadowy wisps. The tendrils were both intangible and tangible; past the ephemeral smoke, ethereal to the touch, was cold as metal. They quivered at your gesture but didn’t pull away as you slowly guided them to your face, resting their hard edges against your cheeks.

The icy touch reminded you of a certain raven-haired protagonist. You closed your eyes, welcoming their hesitant presence with calm serenity.

"You...are...not..."

The voice grew clearer, imbued with an unplaceable mix of awe and turmoil.

"How...?"

You opened your eyes then, gazing into the abyss with a tenderness that seemed to soften even the restless darkness starting to embrace you whole in accordance to the crumbling space behind you.

You asked, your voice calm, serene.

“Are you upset?”

There was a pause, the silence stretching, until the shadowy thumb brushed against your cheek. Its sharp edges moving with the utmost care, as though they feared leaving a mark on your skin.

"No."

The answer came at last, heavy with an emotion you couldn’t quite identify.

"I...do…not...know..."

“Then,” you began, your voice unwavering as you continue to cradle his hands in yours.

“Will you let me see you again soon?”

---

After stabilizing Norma Selner’s condition and ensuring she was in no immediate danger, you and Jinwoo were escorted to his car.

As Adam’s car disappeared down the street, Jinwoo was the first to speak.

“Is it really okay?” his tone measured, though his gaze was sharp as he watched you. “Showing your powers to her like that.”

Your eyes remained on the direction the agent’s vehicle had gone, a butterfly trailed discreetly behind it. Jinwoo spotted the second one you had planted on Norma Selner earlier, fluttering innocuously on her shoulder.

“She only saw a glimpse,” you answered smoothly. “Besides, there’s no point in hiding from someone like her. She’ll find out sooner than later, and I’d rather she learn under my terms.”

Jinwoo’s eyes narrowed. “You know what she’s truly capable of?”

You finally turned to him; your expression as unreadable as they were distant. “Yes.”

“So, I’m guessing it’s a fail?”

You gave him a flat look before answering. “Your powers have no limits, Jinwoo. Her abilities won’t work on you.”

Jinwoo absorbed that information in silence, then added, “Or on you.”

You didn’t confirm or deny it, only staring back at him with an inscrutable gaze.

Between the two of you, this was familiar by now, an indication that this was as far as you could tell him, as far as the system would let you anyway. There was no need for words, and Jinwoo could proudly say that he could take it with a stride now.

He gestured to his car.

“Let me drive you home,” Before you could decline, he added, “I want to talk to you.”

---

The car ride was quiet, the hum of the engine the only sound filling the space between you. You sat in the front passenger seat, your gaze wandering on the passing scenery outside the window, where other vehicles blur by.

“So,” you began, breaking the quiet, “what is it?”

Jinwoo tightened his grip on the steering wheel, his eyes fixed on the road ahead.

“It’s overdue, I owe you an apology,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with hesitation. “For back then—at my rank re-evaluation.”

He heard a soft sigh and Jinwoo snuck a quick glance as you shifted in your seat. You were looking straight ahead now, expression still hard to read.

“I should’ve been more careful,” he continued, the words spilling out faster now, tinged with regret. “You told me before, that you wanted to stay hidden, and I should’ve respected that. I admit I got…distracted. Too caught up in wanting to show you how far I’d come. But that’s no excuse for crossing your boundaries like that.”

He took a deep breath before adding, “I’m sorry.”

“Jinwoo…” Your voice was too quiet. He wondered if he somehow messed up again.

“I’m sorry too.”

That was the last thing Jinwoo expected to hear. His grip on the steering wheel momentarily loosening as he caught himself. He shot you a quick glance a second time before returning his eyes to the road.

 “Why are you apologizing? You didn’t—”

“I was high-strung that day,” you cut him off gently, probably already anticipating his protest. “I shouldn’t have taken it out on you. I forgive you. Just…” You paused, turning to look at him. “Just tell me in advance next time you’re planning to pull something like that. Clearly.” You emphasized, though your gaze softened.

“Like when you wanted me to accompany you in meeting the U.S. Hunter Bureau just now.”

The road was mercifully empty as Jinwoo risked another glance at you, and the sight of your expression made his chest tighten unexpectedly.

“Thank you for that.”

The setting sun illuminated your face as you said it sincerely. The way your eyes shine with unmistakable fondness, expression warm and tender. The shy smile tugging at your lips, carrying an undeniable gentleness. Your unwavering attention. All of it—at this moment—directed solely at him.

How utterly lovely.

Jinwoo’s throat felt dry, and he quickly looked back at the road.

“R-right. You’re welcome. I mean—” He stumbled over his words, the tips of his ears burned. “I forgive you too…”

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw your shoulders shaking slightly as you covered your mouth. Failing to prevent a few giggle that managed to slip by.

Jinwoo felt heated up—the warmth a similar kind to when you held hands or when you were in pretty close proximity—and he had half a mind to crank up the AC.

Still, he couldn’t help the giddiness. Because in that moment, he didn’t mind embarrassing himself if it meant hearing your sweet laughter again.

End Note:

Unfinished Draft of [28/11/2024] -

I want to ask for your opinions this time 🙏

Calm and Serenity

Series Masterlist

Sylus x Non!MC

summary: you didn't know what sylus saw in you. he said you were calm, quiet and serene and that's what he needs. you believed it. he showed it. not until little miss hunter came. she's everything you're not. news that she's in danger can make the ever so calm sylus to run and leave everything behind. it made you think, would he do that for you as well?

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Masterlist

Just a warning, everything is probably out of order + my first masterlist so PLEASE be patient with me

also my asks are open and appreciated !!

Bug Like Angel

neglectful batfam x spider!reader + spiderverse

P1 P2 P3 P4 P4.5 P4.5 P4.5 P4.5 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9 P10

Show☆Time

neglectful batfam x emu!reader + pjsk

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6

the fridge drawings (FANART!!)

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

anons:

🦦, meow meow, 🍰, 🫴🧠, 🪽,🦋, 🍧, yeet

tokyo revengers masterlist !! pt. 2

pt. 1 !! pt. 3

tachibana hinata:

big sister w/ mikey <3

lil bro hcs

tachibana naoto:

big sister w/ mikey <3

lil bro hcs

apple of his eyes <3

kawata nahoya:

s/o who's scared of the rain <3

romantic s/o <3

princess s/o <3

cottagecore gf <3

burning the world for her <3

perfect middle

kawata souya:

s/o who loves classics <3

s/o who's scared of the rain <3

actor/musician s/o <3

she's my princess <3

cottagecore gf <3

shy, but loving <3

perfect middle

ran haitani:

little sister w sanzu <3

little sister w mikey <3

gen z little sister

volleyball player sister

little sister dating?!??

runaway cat sister

little sis gets sick

little sister w mitsuya <3

car racer lil sibling

drunk uncle hcs

nothing to fear <3

slaying left and right <3

give me your love! you already have it <3

rindou haitani:

little sister w sanzu <3

little sister w mikey <3

gen z little sister

volleyball player sister

little sister dating?!??

runaway cat sister

little sis gets sick

little sister w mitsuya <3

car racer lil sibling

drunk uncle hcs

more to love <3

manliest muse ever <3

slaying left and right <3

oh darling girl <3

wakasa imaushi:

little sister hc

a snow leopard's savior <3

runaway baby <3

hakkai shiba:

little sister hc

crushing on yuzuha

sunshine sister hcs

ballet dancer sister hcs

undercover romantic w/ ran <3

baby bro hcs

disney princess type thing

panicking according to protocol

nah, girl he's mine

darling, you're perfect <3

yuzuha shiba:

yuzuha's twin w kokonoi <3

little sister hc

crushing on yuzuha

sunshine sister hcs

ballet dancer sister hcs

undercover romantic w/ ran <3

baby bro hcs

panicking according to protocol

nah, girl he's mine

taiju shiba:

little sister hc

sunshine sister hcs

ballet dancer sister hcs

twin sister hcs

undercover romantic w/ ran <3

baby bro hcs

panicking according to protocol

kisaki tetta:

lil bro w/ naoto <3

hanma shuji:

little sister hc

little sister hc (one year age gap!)

sukeban s/o <3

artist s/o <3

lil brother w/ kisaki <3

sorry, busy trolling rn <3

hit the streets, hit the books

speedster hits the road <3

kakucho hitto:

adopted by shinichiro

izana's sister dating hcs <3

little sister hcs

darling girl cat <3

red is the memories <3

wakasa imaushi:

y/n v.s. bugs

i do it better <3

runaway baby <3

sanzu haruchiyo:

rivals to lovers?! <3

abused s/o <3

seeing him in 3D <3

bonten:

dad hcs

mikey's twin hcs

Claiming Something That's Not Yours

NotMC_F!reader x Zayne

May be OOC. Reader is isekai'd into L&Ds, following her heart, she studies medicine to get closer to Zayne. Suggestive. MDNI. 18+ just in case.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

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

Part 1

You glance towards the side where he sits, still in disbelief after finding yourself in an otoge for the past 10 years. You sigh and he glances up from his tablet at you.

Zayne. A love interest in Love and Deepspace. Who's live in the flesh in front of you right now. The two of you were sitting on a couch in your apartment.

"Having trouble with something?" Zayne asks you in his regular monotone.

You had worked up the courage 7 years into being isekai'd to talk to Zayne. The person you possessed looked like you from your world and your family was pretty much also an exact copy. So, with renewed determination, you had decided to pursue your dream of becoming a psychiatrist. All for the chance to meet Zayne. Stupid, you know. But to you, it was worth it. And now, you've been dating Zayne for 2 years.

You remembered when you first approached him. You were shy and nervous of course. But you hid it behind a request to study together since you both attended the same med school and happened to both be taking neurology as an elective. You half expected him to refuse, knowing he only focused on school and did not seem to welcome any romantic advances from any of the students. But surprisingly, he agreed. You assumed it was because he happened to be very good at all the subjects and you had mentioned you were struggling. The professor had even recommended you ask Zayne for help, which was in your favour, making your request more credible and less like an attempt to flirt.

You guys became friends after that. Chatting about things you found interesting in your respective fields and finding parallels. A year passed and you found yourself nonchalantly asking him out. And again, surprisingly, he'd agreed. You assumed it's because you guys had good rapport as friends and you guys were at an age where most people would've had a date already and parents were starting to nag you about getting married.

The two of you were not particularly intimate, your affections towards each other not straying from the odd kisses and hugs, cuddling on a movie night, and sometimes sleeping in the same bed. Your first kiss (on the lips) with Zayne had your heart palpitating non-stop you thought you might have a heart attack. But one look at Zayne's face had you knowing he wasn't affected at all. Of course, this had disappointed you, but you were on a one-way track that leads to a break up, so even if he did not feel attracted to you sexually or anything, you cherished all the memories you made with him. Because you love him.

You shake your head and smile, "No. The hospital has already been hiring some more psychiatrists, so I've been feeling a bit more free as of late."

Zayne nods, "I've heard."

You lie your head down on his lap as he continues to review his documents on this tablet. He is used to you doing this by now, only occasionally glancing down at you and giving you a small smile. You smile back in response, content to just lie there and admire him. Again, he did not seem flustered to have you staring at him, though you had gradually built up to this, so maybe he got used to it too.

"Zayne," you whispered.

"Hmm?" He absentmindedly hummed.

"Would you go on a date with me this Saturday?" You asked.

He looks at you now, raising an eyebrow at your formality. Normally, you would just say you'd like to go on a date, not ask with such a formal tone. "Okay, where would you like to go?"

"I don't know..." You pretend to think, "Let's have lunch. Maybe stop by somewhere for dessert before going to see a movie, grab dinner, and finally a walk along the beach?" You smile at him.

"Sounds like you already have the whole day planned," He chuckles. "Alright, let's do that."

"What do you feel like eating?" You ask.

He thinks for a moment, "I'm fine with whatever you want to eat." He gives you a small smile again and you feel a blush rise on your face.

"Come on, pick something." You can't help the smile that crawls onto your face.

"Then... How about bibimbap and japchae? You enjoyed eating that last time." He suggests.

You nod, "Alright. That's for lunch then because I want pasta for dinner."

"No objections." He agrees.

"Then it's decided. The dessert place near the pasta restaurant I want to try is the one that sells carrot cake by the way."

He wrinkles his nose. "Just don't order it."

You giggle at his reaction. You've always found his aversion to carrots funny. It wasn't your favourite vegetable, but it tasted good to you. A lot of soups you made tended to have carrots in them and Zayne would end up piling all his into your bowl. At least he would still drink the soups even though it had been 'contaminated by those dreadful roots' as he so likes to word it.

You pulled up the place on your phone and showed him the menu. "Everything besides the carrot cake should suit your tastes." You also scrolled through the places that sold bibimbap and japchae as well as the pasta restaurant you were looking to try for him to check out the menus.

He glances through the menus quickly and nods in approval, "Looks good."

"Then I'll make the reservation." You sit up and head to your home office to make the call. Mainly, a reservation would be needed for the pasta restaurant. It would be fine to just walk in for the other places.

After making the reservation, you return to the living room and Zayne was nowhere to be found. You glance at the clock, finally realizing how late it was. He wouldn't have left without letting you know so he's probably taking a shower and getting ready for bed. Sure enough, you hear the sound of the water as you walk past the bathroom. You head to your room to grab your own pajamas and wait for Zayne to come out so you can shower.

He comes out after 30 minutes in a bathrobe, his chiseled pecs peaking out of the open robe.

Your eyes widen when you see him step out in the bathrobe. "Are you sleeping over?" You can't stop your eyes from dropping down to look at his chest.

He subtly smirks at your reaction. "Yes, where did you put my pajamas?"

"I-I'll grab them for you." You stand up in a hurry and rush past him to the bedroom again but he pulls you to him. The force sends you flying into him and you end up bracing your hands on the very chest you were just admiring. Your hands tense in shock and you freeze. "Z-Zayne?" You stutter, looking up at him.

His eyes roamed your face, studying your reaction. His face was serious, searching for something. You tilt your head in confusion.

"Nevermind, I'll try to find them myself. Go ahead and take a shower." He lets you go and heads toward your room.

You frown but grab your clothes and head into the bathroom anyway. When you finish showering, you find him sitting in your room with the pajamas you bought him on.

He smiles at you and pats the spot beside him on your bed. You shake your head and climb in beside him. You look at him with a smile, "Goodnight." He's staring at you again. You smile falters due to your nervousness. "You're staring..."

His hand lightly caresses the side of your face and then his fingers pinch your chin, gently tilting your head up. Then his lips were on yours in a slow, sensual kiss. One that the two of you had never shared before. It was a bit clumsy, since both of you were not experienced sexually.

He pulls back, leaving you winded and desperately trying to get air back into your lungs. You were sure your eyes had darkened and once again, Zayne seemed to be studying how you react. You felt the twinge of annoyance from how unaffected he was, not even a sign he was out of breath except the slightly quicker rise and fall of his chest. He leaned in again for another kiss and this time, it was more confident, the feeling of his lips pressed on yours and the slight tonguing against your lips brought a moan out of you, giving him access to your mouth. Your arms had wrapped around his neck and he was pressing you against him. You weren't sure what had brought this sudden bout of kisses on, but you felt it filling up a part of the hole in your heart.

However, you knew you would not go further than this. You are both virgins, and to you, that was a sacred thing. As much as you had fought with yourself in your own world about this as many seemed to prefer experienced sexual partners, your view was that it was a precious first time to be shared with the one you love (even if they were not the end all be all). That's why you knew you would not take that moment from Zayne and MC, if they were to get together. Rationally, you knew there are 4 other love interests in the game. Who's to say MC will definitely end up with Zayne or share her first time with him? But you couldn't bring yourself to do it. You already took his first kiss. His other firsts should be saved for the one he loves.

When he dropped his head to plant kisses on your neck, you pulled away. He pauses and his eyes search yours. You finally understood, he was searching for permission, for you to give in to that physical attraction that he could probably see you had for him. You shake your head and he understands that you don't wish to continue. He nods and pulls you in for a hug instead.

"I understand if you're not ready to take this further..." His deep voice comes out as a whisper. He cuddles you and turns both of you on your sides, making sure you're comfortable.

Turned away from him, you feel a familiar yet foreign prick in your eyes. Tears slowly swelled up, but you did not let them fall. You didn't deserve to cry. This wasn't even supposed to be your moment. As you hear his breathing even out behind you, you turn to face him. Gently your hand caresses his face.

"I'm sorry," You mouthed, scared to wake him up. Then you turn back onto your other side, your back once again facing him.

Saturday rolls around and you stare at your closet, trying to pick out the perfect outfit. Not that there could ever be a perfect outfit to break up with someone, you darkly chuckled. Yes, this date will be your final one with Zayne. You intended to break up with him once the night was over. It was approaching the date when he'll reunite with MC and you didn't want to be a thorn in his side when that happens. With your relationship with each other, perhaps you could still be friends. Your laugh is humourless as the thought passes your mind. Your feelings have probably grown too strong for you to continue being friends with Zayne. So, as a contingency, you had already applied for a transfer to Skyhaven. This way, you'll be far from Zayne and the MC. Unfortunately though, the transfer only takes effect in 3 months so you'll still have 3 months time to be witness to their love story. Though you already know what will happen.

You finally pick out a simple carnation pink dress that reaches your knees which you pair with a navy blue cardigan and sneakers.

Right on time, meaning 5 minutes before your scheduled meet up time, the doorbell rings. You smile and brush away the sad thoughts as you answer the door.

"Ready to go?" Zayne's eyes scan over your outfit.

You nod as you loop your arm through your off shoulder bag, "Let's go."

He steps aside to give you room to step out of your apartment. You turn back to lock the door before taking the hand he offers you and walk together towards the elevator. The two of you take his car to the restaurant you picked for lunch, enjoying each other's company along with good food. After lunch, you guys head to the dessert shop, picking out several desserts (skipping over the carrot cake) to enjoy before the movie.

You laugh and point to the corner of your mouth, "You've got some cream here."

Zayne picks up his napkin and wipes at his mouth, "Did I get it?"

You shake your head and hold out your hand. He passes his napkin to you and leans forward. You lightly dab at the corner of his mouth where the cream is.

"There, all gone." You hand him back his napkin to find him staring at you with a small smile. You flush under his stare.

"Thank you."

You avoid his gaze, "No problem."

Then it was time for the movie. The two of you scanned the options before opting for this romance movie that takes place in a hospital. You weren't a medical drama person, but romance in the hospital seemed quite rare. As you kind of expected, the movie ended on a bitter note, almost pulling tears out of you once again. Zayne took notice and gave your hand a squeeze. You gave him a reassuring smile in return.

After the movie, the two of you decided to take a stroll because the two of you weren't quite hungry yet and there was still time until the reservation.

"Zayne, what do you think you'll be doing 10 years from now?" You suddenly ask.

He furrows his brow in thought, indulging your rare quirky questions as always, "Well, still doing my job, maybe with a couple kids to take care of," He sways his arm, swinging yours in the process since he was holding your hand, "married, probably." Your breath hitches as he glances at you as he says that, his hand warm as it squeezes yours.

You just smile softly, "That sounds like you." You glance away off into the distance. "I think that's probably the same for me as well."

You continue walking in silence until it was time for your reservation. You heart was starting to feel heavy and you felt like you couldn't enjoy the food as much as you wanted to. The weight of what you're about to do stabbing at you. Because before you'd even realized it, Zayne was already committed to you. Perhaps he felt responsible, seeing how strong your feelings are for him, but you couldn't allow that. This was the man who fell in love with sweets because a little girl promised him a popsicle. The man who'd been entrusted with taking care of that girl. Of course, that didn't have to mean romantically, but as you thought of the game, of the way Zayne acted around MC, of the way he looks at MC... He didn't look at you like that. You knew you had to step aside for them.

After dinner, the two of you walk along the shore, feeling the refreshing sea breeze and taking in the view of the vast ocean at night. Once you reach a fairly deserted spot on the beach, you pause. Zayne stops with you and turns to face you as you turn to face him.

His eyes are searching yours again, as if he had found something in your gaze and needed to reconfirm it.

"Whatever you're about to do, don't do it." He says with conviction.

You feel the tears well up, "You... Nothing gets past you does it?"

He looks at you with furrowed brows. "Of course things do. I still haven't figured out why you're doing this. I don't understand at all."

You take a deep breath, "I just don't have feelings for you anymore. At some point, I just felt like we didn't have a spark." Your eyes are blurred with tears.

"You're lying," Zayne says softly, bringing a hand up to your cheek.

You shake your head, moving your head away from his touch, "I'm not. It's been hard for me to keep up this façade when I know we don't have romantic feelings towards each other."

Zayne shakes his head, "That's not true. I—"

You cut him off, "Don't." You smile at him through your tears, "Let's break up, Zayne."

"No, I refuse." Zayne grabs your hand. "You can't tell me you felt nothing. That there's no spark. I felt the way your lips moved against mine, the way your body reacted to my kiss that night. You can't deny that." He moves in for a kiss just like that night. You let him, but you remain unresponsive to him. He frowns, pressing you closer. You tremble from the strain of holding back. You push at his chest, and he lets you push him away. He stares at you again with narrowed eyes.

"What can I do to change your mind?" He finally sighs, keeping his gaze locked on yours.

"You can't. I've already made up my mind." You step back.

"Fine. Let's call it a break. For one month. Let's stop seeing each other for a month. If your decision is still the same after that, I'll let you go." Zayne's eyes had a strange glint in them. You'd never seen him look like that.

You nod, "Fine, deal."

His expression had returned to his usual stoicism. "I'll take you home." He walks ahead in front of you.

You slowly follow after him. It was an uncomfortable silence back home.

"Thank you for the ride." You mumbled as you stepped out. But he got out after you. "You don't have to walk me up."

His steps stagnate, "Right. Then I'll see you at work on Monday."

"Yes, have a good night." You bow and take off in a flurry, wanting to escape the suffocating air.

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

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

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XAVIER. ꒱‎

lazy humping. ⋆ grinding yourself on him. ⋆ missionary w your legs closed. ⋆ freakydeaky. ⋆ thigh fucking. ⋆ kissing & eaing you out. ⋆ to your satisfaction. ⋆ backshots. ⋆ exhibitionism.

SYLUS. ꒱‎

taking it w no complaints. ⋆ handsy when handling you. ⋆ size kink. ⋆ using your throat to his liking. ⋆ backshots. ⋆ cute girl treatment. ⋆ chained & ruined. ⋆ had to add this in.

ZAYNE. ꒱‎

riding him in the bathtub. ⋆ tease me, baby. ⋆ clit rubs. ⋆ lingerie fucking. ⋆ late night heat. ⋆ in the shower. ⋆ undressing & stripping you down. ⋆ blowjob in cute bunny ears.

RAFAYEL. ꒱‎

stay still. ⋆ kitchen counter. ⋆ backshots & the plushies witnessing. ⋆ fucking you into the mattress. ⋆ fingering selection. ⋆ stretching your holes out for fun. ⋆ a wins a win.

the first time he met you, your evols resonated so well with each other — it leveled an entire building to the ground and three others. the clean up was a mess but at that time his lips quirked up in a slanted smile. “I guess you’re mine now.”

———————————————————————

you do not agree with his territorial claims. in fact, if anything, a part of you is busy rolling your eyes at the audacity of men to not give you a say. but it was nice, to unleash that much power, and to know you hold it. that here is someone able to make you feel good about your abilities and someone who gives a clear guide as to where you stand in their life: an asset, valuable. secretly, you’ve always loved the rush of feeling powerful and here is a man who hands it to you. 

a part of your mind labels him as worth sticking around for.

———————————————————————

you strike an unlikely friendship with him. he tells you about his search for his reincarnated soulmate. you listen even if it sounds like a fantasy to you — to be around someone who is pretty much proof that reincarnation and past lives exist is difficult to grasp but you also have an open mind — and it’s nice, you think, to watch him reminisce even if you can read the melancholy in his eyes. you don’t push him for answers, content with what he’s willing to share and recognize it when he wants to pull back. it’s nice to know he has a weakness; it’s nice to know he’s the type of person to relentlessly go after what he wants. 

it’s another mark on your book to keep sticking around him. you like people that inspire you to do more in your life. you hope he meets her soon. 

when he asks you jokingly if you’ve met your soulmate, you tell him blankly you have no idea. shouldn’t it be evident enough from the way you stick around him instead? 

it’s the first time you hear him laugh.

———————————————————————

so you help out when he tells you he has an inkling he’s found her. a hunter with a protocore for a heart based in linkon. 

you object at his stupid and idiotic behavior of stalking her. this is why he’s single all these years, you think. no tact whatsoever and is the poster child for terrifying your crush instead of being normal around them. you tell him as much. he looks so offended you can’t help but laugh and feel bad enough you give him pointers instead.

like, let you do the scouting and snooping to get to know her. secretly you also want to know who she is — you’re a bit nosy like that when it comes to the lives of the people around you. you want to know if she’s worth his attention and weigh the change in dynamic between you and him if she’s in the picture. 

did he let you? yes. you get to know her absolutely terrible skills at kitty cards and her refusal to admit defeat. it’s fine, you get it, pride is all one tend to have and you also are a sore loser sometimes; you just mask it well. weekly, you’ll meet up to play them in the card cafe if both of your schedules align.

did he ignore your advice? yes. because men, you learn, sometimes love loopholes. so off he goes making the mechanical crow he names mephisto to which you point out what a terrible name it was: it’s too clunky, you say to justify yourself.

he stares at you unimpressed. “it means not lovi—“ 

“—ng light,” you continue, “i know. had to google it and everything.”

“so?” as if it proves his point of being a skilled namer of things.

you shrug, “sounds like you’re trying too hard.” you refrain from saying it doesn’t sound like him at all even if the meaning does sound like him.

“you’re such a hater,” he grouses.

“i’m not,” you insist, extending a finger to… mephie. that’s cuter in your head. “you’re hurting his feelings for naming him something awful.” 

“he’s a robot.”

“a robot doesn’t need a custom stand perch in every room in this house.” mephie shuffles towards you and nudges your hand with his head. “don’t listen to him sweetheart. you’re the sweetest,” you coo to the crow. you’ve always liked animals most would associate with omens: crows, snakes, black cats. 

you give him the stink eye when he sends mephie to stalk his beloved. an absolute spoilsport. 

———————————————————————

when she stayed at the manor and your lives collide, you keep out of their way and stay in your assigned wing in the base. both of you have agreed you’ll tell her about you knowing him at a different time — maybe an orchestrated visit by him to your weekly kitty card cafe game and then she’ll ask of how you are acquainted. luke and kieran have been giggling nonstop and you send them your thoughts and prayers for their next prank. it’s a reunion you don’t wish to intrude upon and you’ve told him off when you hear how he treated her at first sight. you hope he’s making it up to her as mephie nudged your fingers for more pets. 

a robot, my ass, you think. the clinginess is worth studying even as you indulge its every whim. animals have never harmed you; it’s why you find it easy for them to love. once, a palm reader in linkon stationed at the card cafe stop you and tell you you’ve saved animals in your past life. you take it in stride, knowing what you know about reincarnation from sylus. you are impressed and starting to consider maybe there’s really truth in past lives as the first dream you had growing up was a field you get to roam in. it was also where you administer first aid to beasts and gazelles injured in the wild, like a field doctor, no matter how improbable that is logistically. 

you await the gossip session come sunrise, or the weekend or whenever their honeymoon ends.

———————————————————————

“she doesn’t remember.”

he tells you this in his office without prompt. miss hunter has left the premises two days prior and you were happy to not pry. if he wanted to tell you, he would. 

you recalibrate your response. sorry is too trite and you personally don’t get heartaches and the melodrama of a heartbreak. to act otherwise would be insulting and not maintain your integrity and yet even you know it’s callous.

sylus sends a wry smile your way, “no tears for me?” 

“you don’t need it,” you say, then, choose your words carefully because you do consider him as a friend. “all i know about love is people leave even when you don’t want them to. so i find it hard to imagine being sad that they don’t stay.” 

he frowns. “you don’t believe that.” a statement. he knows you a bit too well for your liking sometimes.

“no,” you agree, “it’s what i learned.”

a silence passes between you, too heavy for your liking, so you wave it away, “what i’m trying to say is i can’t promise she’ll remember one day or that she’ll be who she is in your memory, but anyone worthwhile would appreciate the effort you’ve put into finding her.”

“so long as you don’t terrorize her,” you add as levity.

he snorts. “i’ll try not to.” 

“i’m serious,” you start. “you can be…” 

he raises an eyebrow.

charming, sincere, lovable 

“…passable: not terrible to be around.”

“passable,” he repeats.

“i mean i haven’t killed you,” you say. “yet.” 

“a stellar review.”

you roll your eyes. “it is. you should be grateful about that.”

he huffs a laugh.

“i’m also giving you full permission to mope for five business days.”

“only five?”

“you won’t stop moping after five days. i’m just giving you a heads up as to when i will stop pretending not seeing you cry and be obnoxious about it.”

“duly noted. shall we sign an agreement for that as well?”

“i don’t know. is your memory deteriorating that quick?”

“are you calling me old?”

“you did. i never said that,” you stand up and head towards the door, considering your job done when you spot the amusement in his eyes. “now i’m going to go see what luke and kieran want for lunch. you want anything?”

“the usual’s fine.”

you give him a thumbs up in acknowledgement, leaving him to brood.

———————————————————————

life goes on. you let him wallow by distracting him with offers to spar so you can brush up on your self defense skills. unlike miss hunter, you have abysmal fighting skills. a sword feels too heavy on you, a gun feels too detached, and you never like the idea of hurting anything. you’re interested in self defense even before meeting sylus so that’s the one concession you are willing to learn in an effort to arm yourself. it’s why sylus never sends you out for missions often, which suits you just fine. you like your limbs in tact, thanks. you’re content to being brought out only when he needs backup to resonate with you or information you can gather posing as a civilian. 

in return you learn how to heal, how to suture, keep compression on wounds. in a twisted way, you fulfill your mother’s lifelong dream of seeing you be a doctor, though it’s not like she knows what you really do far away from home.

not that sylus gets injured often, you’ve seen his skin knit itself back together. you’re not too worried though it does make you wonder if your treatment is even needed and why sylus would indulge you. he indulges luke and kieran’s pranks so if you’re bad at your medical skills, it’s probably his version of indulging you. nothing to get so worked up about, you decide. sometimes you think despite a tough life that turns many to cruelty, he’s still kind. maybe that’s just how some people are: inherently good with compulsions to do good. you wish you had that kind of integrity. maybe you’ll be more successful then. fulfill your potential the way people expected you to instead of playing house even if you’re content with where you are.

———————————————————————

on a fine day, miss hunter takes you out for shopping. gifts! she cheerfully announces as christmas looms around the corner. you follow her around the mall after your weekly kitty card game. it’s been three weeks since the last one; she was stationed for a mission out of town and you’re glad she’s returned back just fine. 

you see her picking up gifts for her coworkers, the childhood friend turned doctor, an artist she complains about often, even sylus is on the list along with luke and kieran. what a full life, you think, to shop for so many people. 

the crow household — as you like to name it in your head — occasionally does celebrate in their own way, but crime doesn’t wait for anybody and since you’ve been with them, there was only one instance where the four of you shared dinner together on christmas night. gifts are not a tradition solely on christmas in the household so there was never any import on holiday shopping sprees. maybe things will change with miss hunter after all.

she tugs you to a craft store and a red pattern catches your eye, calling out to you. 

“it looks like the flower you like to doodle,” miss hunter says from behind you. 

you hum, filing the fact she’s observant enough and has good enough memory to remember the one time you doodle on a notebook waiting for her even when you quickly snap it shut once she makes herself known. truthfully, you doodle the flowers without thought — the same way someone would doodle clouds or spirals or hearts absentmindedly. you didn’t think the flower you doodle about would be based on a real one. you figure it was just your brain’s way being creative to draw the kind of basic flower outline everyone learns to draw as kids and you trying to change the petals to something much sharper like shards. maybe you’ll look up what flower it is later at home.

you grab the wrapping paper as an impulse buy. 

———————————————————————

in the end you give a diffuser set to miss hunter at the end of your shopping trip. you get sylus a pair of onyx cufflinks and matching hoodies monogramed with their names for kieran and luke to replace the ones that got busted during their latest mission. 

you place the gifts in their respective rooms when they’re out of the mansion and go to bed.

when you wake up and head to the breakfast bar, the twins are lounging and lazing about with unrestrained glee in their countenance. it’s nice to see them not wearing the masks; kieran’s scar treatment is going well. you elect to maintain your peace and ignore their eyes trained on you. it’s probably another harmless prank.

 “we love the hoodie,” luke says, all delight conspiracy lacing his voice. 

you hum in acknowledgment as you pour hot water for your morning tea. “i’m glad you like them.” you’re feeling chrysanthemum. now where did it go? you rummage through the cupboard and ask if they know where the flowers are, not paying attention enough to puzzle out kieran’s cryptic whisper to his twin, “i told you so.”  

there’s the sound of someone slapping someone’s arm — probably the boys play fighting again — and luke calling out, “chrysanthemum is on the left. bottom drawer.” 

“thanks, luke!” they’re sweet to you and occasionally, they’ll rope you in on their schemes so there’s never a dull moment around. when sylus first welcomes you, one of the twins will always keep you company. probably as a surveillance measure from sylus.

 “boss is away,” kieran, the more sensible one says though the mischief in his voice is still very much present. 

“he should be back soon,” luke adds.

you give a sound of acknowledgment. they like to tell you where the boss is all the time and you’ve always taken it in stride as their habit to inform you even if it’s obvious when sylus is not present sometimes. it’s an indulgence you make for them — to not dismiss their announcement outright especially when you’re aware of said fact and pretend each time that they’re delivering some grand news you don’t know. you suspect it’s now more of a tradition than anything else, knowing how sharp they are. you watch the flowers bloom under hot water and blow on the cup, impatient for a sip even if it’s still a weak brew. 

“in about 2 minutes, i reckon,” kieran says, which is new. they don’t normally give you sylus’ eta. you eye them warily.

“no, a minute and 47 seconds. i tracked his bike.” 

“that’s cheating.” 

“only cuz you didn’t think of it first.” 

kieran throws his hands up and grumbles about not wanting to pay up for the bet.

further down the hall, the front door swings open. 

“well, none of us win then,” kieran says. 

“i’m still closer so i win.” 

“no,” kieran explains, patiently, and hauls his twin up. “we never said it should be accurate on the dot.”

“oh look at the time,” luke feigns ignorance to his twin and starts making his way towards the exit. “it’s our cue to leave. bye miss!” 

“have fun!” kieran tells you as he chases his twin with arguments as to why he owes him nothing and the bet is a bust.

you raise your hand in a wave to empty air, wondering what that is all about before chucking it to their typical shenanigans. it’s a crisp winter morning so you decide to spend a bit of time leaning on the kitchen island with your tea and a sudoku puzzle on your phone. heavy footsteps alert you to sylus heading your way and when you feel his presence in the room, you greet him without looking up, counting the number of 4s on the board. “welcome back.” 

you pen a 7 on the upper right hand box and put down the phone when there’s no response. maybe he wants to talk? he’s not moving nor did he acknowledge your greeting. it’s then when you see the cufflinks on his sleeves. “oh, you found the cufflinks! did you like it?”

there’s a perplexing look on his face as he approaches you— one you’re not familiar with. you wonder if maybe he doesn’t like it and is coming up with a way to ask if you have the receipt still to do a full return. you know he doesn’t wear long sleeves often or he does but the sleeves are usually rolled up, but you have seen him with the full get up with a suit and everything once in a while when meetings are set up and events where formal wear is required. you didn’t expect him to wear it so soon… maybe there’s a defect you didn’t spot? you decide to save him the trouble, “if you don’t like it, it’s fine! i can return them if you want.” 

“no,” his voice like gravel. “it’s a great gift.”

“oh,” you reply stupidly because now you’re not sure why he looks so… solemn? sad? it doesn’t fit him at all. “well, i’m glad you like it.” 

“i do.” 

“okay.” 

his eyes search yours. never had he look at you this way, this… reverent wistfulness you’re not sure you’re meant to see, like he’s memorizing the features on your face. “sylus,” you say, softly, afraid to break this moment you’re not sure is yours to keep, yet is still fragile all the same. “what’s wrong?”

he smiles something awful, all rueful and wrong. “nothing,” he says and it’s starting to worry you — this odd behavior of his. lying so awfully, no comeback to distort the truth somehow. you wonder what happened when he was out. a new threat? 

“you’re not going to die are you?”

he chokes out a laugh, “no, no i’m not.” 

“okay. then, can i help with this ‘nothing’?”

he looks subdued again, all forlorn with regret. slowly, he raises his hand and tuck a stray hair behind your ear. you hold your breath at the sudden touch, all gentle and careful and again, confusion freezing you in place because yes, friends can touch and tidy your hair, but shouldn’t this only be reserved for miss hunter? it’s also the first time he has ever touched you this gently. you know it’s wrong. he belongs to someone you consider a friend. you’ll berate him tomorrow and come clean to miss hunter tomorrow too. you should stop it, but he looks like he needs it. “don’t worry about it,” he says, and whether he read your mind or he’s refusing your help, you choose to believe him as you always do, savoring the warmth of his hand and a touch not tainted with cruelty.

———————————————————————

end notes:

alexa play: but if you hold me without hurting me, you'll be the first who ever did.

in case it wasn't clear: reader is not mc in the current timeline, but reader is the myth mc, just with no memory of it. sylus mistakes game mc as his counterpart. and so the present timeline of sylus meeting game mc exists just the same here.

part 2 | part 3

✈ — weightless paradise

transmigrated non-mc!reader x caleb

series masterlist. | ao3

01 — "first" meet

02 — experiment

03 — regeneration

04 — helplessness

05 — countdown

06 — name

07 — dream

08 — fear

09 — distance

010 — playtime

011 — moving

012 — onward

013 — destroyer

014 — gravity

015 — stay

016 — walk

017 — home

018 — necklace

019 — departure

020 — life

021 — sightlines

022 — lecture

023 — vacation

024 — ???

025 — ???

026 — ???

027 — ???

028 — ???

029 — ???

030 — ???