I love them they're so wholesome what the hell. I'm in love
pairing. dealer college student! ellie williams x f! reader
PART ONE. PART TWO. MASTERLIST. synopsis. ellie tries her hardest not to mix business with pleasure. or, ellie gets a new customer and unfortunately falls in love with her.
warnings. 18+. blank & ageless blogs will be blocked. clichè comments on sorority girls (sorry), sexually explicit descriptions of female receiving cunnilingus, fondling, fingering, and dry humping. not betaâd.
an. well here ya go! thank u to all those who were so patient and lovely with me<3 to those who werenât and were mean to meâŚiâm giving you the nastiest dirty look rn. pls comment and reblog!!!! love u.Â
Afficher davantage
Beautiful
Soft as Clouds
Neteyam x F!Reader
Summary: You weren't well known in the clan, and when you become friends with Tuk, no one believes her.
Warning: Straight up Flufff
When you were growing up, you found yourself wanting to linger in the background more than insert yourself into the everyday activities of those your age. Like now, you were currently lounging in a tree, eyes facing up at the clouds as they moved by at their own pace.
You were a gatherer for the clan, not that anyone knew. You would rise before the sun to go out and gather the sweetest, most bountiful food your clan had ever tasted, leaving it in the baskets by the main fire circle. The fruits were always plump and juicy, herbs and spices nicely placed in pouches for easy access.
You wanted to begin early to end early, opting to stay out of sight of others. Now, some knew of you, the elders for example always took a small notice on how you were much more reserved than others your age. Your parents of course knew you, but you were a failure of a child in their eyes. At your age you should've been chosen for a mate, or made a mark on the clan in some positive way, but you didn't, so they turned their attention to your more 'promising' younger siblings.
You never cared, preferring your more modest lifestyle of peaceful serenity.
"Whoa! What are you doing up there?"
But Great Mother had other plans for you.
You gazed over the side of the branch you were currently laying on, brushing your hair that had fallen into your eyes away, spotting a young girl in the forest floor below you.
This was not just any girl, oh no, this was Tuktirey, Toruk Maktos youngest child.
You let a small smile slip on your face as you slowly began a decent, swift and agile, like that of a cat.
You knelt infront of her, your eyes meeting hers that were still so full of child like wonder, "what are you doing here small one?" Tuk giggled, looking side to side as if looking for something, or someone.
"I was following my brothers, but I guess I got lost," Extending a hand to Tuk, "Well, let us get you home then," her small fingers wrapped around yours and you both began your walk, going back down the path you had made from the times you ventured out here.
Tuk couldn't help but wonder why she had never seen you before, yet she thought you were very beautiful. The aura that surrounded you was so soft and peaceful, it made her feel instantly safe.
"Why do you come out here, it's very far from home? Are you a hunter or a gatherer? Your hair is very pretty, can you do mine like that? Wait! What's your name?" Tuk rambled out, skipping beside you. A chuckle escaped your lips, you liked Tuk, she was very silly.
You stopped and knelt down beside her, her yellow eyes stared into your soft green eyes and she couldn't help but think you held the forest in your eyes, "My name is (Y/n), I much prefer to gather, and I think your hair is fine just the way it is, simply because it's yours,"
You couldn't help but boop her nose, her nose scrunched as she let out a laugh. You smiled, "now, what is your name?" Tuk felt like you already knew, but she puffed out her chest proud, "My name is Tuktirey, but you can call me Tuk!"
"Such a pretty name," you gasped, standing up and resuming your walk to the village. Tuk swung your intertwined hands back and forth, both of you finding comfort in eachother.
When you had finally happened upon the village, you could hear everyone in a state of panic. Tuk groaned, her ears pinned back, "I think they realized I was gone," you knelt beside her, both of you hidden just out of sight with the plants, "then maybe you should appear,"
Tuk hugged you, you wrapped your arms around her to return the embrace. "Will I see you again?" She asked, pulling away enough to see your face.
"Of course, I quite like you," you smiled, slowly giving her a nudge to the panicked clan members.
When Tuk had emerged out of the brush, the panicked cries turned into one's of relief and joy. Many ran over to embrace her, but by this point you had already vanished without a trace.
"Tuk! Where were you, we were worried sick!" Jake exclaimed, sweeping his youngest into his arms and giving her a extra tight hug. "I tried to follow Neteyam and Lo'ak but I got lost, but it's okay!" Tuk laughed, "I found (Y/n) and she helped me get home!"
Jake and Neytiri exchanged a look, as did some of the other clan members. Your name was no familiar, almost positive there was no one in the village who has that name.
"Tuk, what are you talking about?" Neytiri wondered, taking her child from her mate and settling her on the ground in front of her, "There is no one named (Y/n) in the village," Neytiri began to examine Tuk for a head injury, but Tuk pulled her head away in annoyance, "I know what happened, (Y/n) helped me, she's right,"
But when Tuk turned around to where you had been, you were gone, "she was right here," Tuk cried, but her parents chalked it up to fatigue from being lost all day.
"Come, you must eat and rest," Neytiri pulled Tuk along by the hand, which Tuk did almost sulkly, glancing back one more time to see you emerge and give her a wink before disappearing behind everyone's backs. Tuk grinned, now happily walking with her Mom.
~.~
Weeks had passed and Tuk now snuck off any chance she had to find you, sometimes waking up early to join you on your gathering. You were like another big sister to her, you were so soft and gentle with her, it almost reminded her of her own mother. You would show her the best places to gather fruit and herbs, show her how to move silently through the forest so not to disturb it.
In return, Tuk gave you simple companionship. You always thought it was fun being alone, but Tuk gave you a shining light of what having someone around could be like.
When Tuk would return from wherever you two had disappeared to, she would tell her family all about it, now causing Jake and Neytiri to worry that she was making up stories to make herself feel important like her siblings.
"Ma Jake, I'm beginning to worry about Tuk," Neytiri spoke one day when she watched her youngest venture off into the brush before she could stop her, "it is not safe out there but yet she continues to go, we must stop her," Jake could only hum in agreement.
"What's the name of the person she speaks of? (Y/n)? Are we sure she's not a person in the clan?" Jake questioned, Neytiri feeling her shoulders sag in exhaustion cause she had asked any gatherer, hunter or healer she could think of and no one knew about you.
"Maybe we should send Neteyam with her one day? Make sure she's really safe? See what he can find out?" Neytiri fired off question after question, Jake taking her hands into his as he calmed her down, "That's sounds like a great idea, if there's anyone who can find out it's him, come, let's find him,"
They both set off to find their eldest, who they were sure was going to throw a fit hearing about their plan.
~.~
Tuk panted, running up to a clearing where she saw you relaxing by a small pond, toes and feet floating in the clear water. "I'm here! What are we going to do today?" Tuk skipped over, taking a seat next to you as your turned your gaze to her, a smile coating your face.
"What would you like to do?" You asked, Tuks face scrunched up in thought before asking you, "Could we go for a swim next to the waterfall?" You thought about it, before nodding. It was very close to the village, but you were looking forward to spending time with Tuk.
"Awesome!" She cheered, pulling you up off the ground and began the walk, with you giggling behind her.
The water had been very liberating of any stress or thoughts that plagued you. You sighed in bliss, leaning back to float in the water as your eyes gazed up at the clouds, the soft white making you forget everything.
Tuk had jumped in, splashing you and causing a laugh to erupt from your stomach as you flipped over, watching the young girl giggle and continue to splash you with water.
You began a water assault back, both of you not even paying attention to how loud you were being which caught the attention of Neteyam nearby who had been searching for Tuk under the instructions of their parents.
"Tuk!" He called, walking into the rocky terrain that held the waterfall where he saw Tuk soaked and wading waist deep in the water, her breath heavy as though she ran for miles, yet a smile plastered her lips.
You were no where to be seen, ducking under the water to find a rock that had caught your eye.
"Tuk, it's time to come home, let's go," he helped her out of the water, not noticing you surface up to your shoulders in the shade of a tree that grew on the nearby bank.
Your hair had rested on your face a little and your shoulders, the shade making your eyes almost glow as you analyzed Neteyam. He was your age, currently training to be the next clan leader and yet here he was, fetching his sister.
Tuk through a glance over her shoulder to see you in the shade, throwing up a quick wave goodbye and taking off in front of her brother.
Neteyam had caught her look and couldn't help but turn back, catching a quick sight of you.
A beautiful, young woman who was lounging in the water covered by shade. Your eyes are what caught his attention the most, but just as quick as he'd seen you, the next second he blinked in shock before opening them to find you gone, the water only rippling from where he saw you, well, where he thought he saw you.
Neteyam was now becoming a quick believer of Tuk's stories.
~.~
Now that Neteyam had caught a glimpse of you, he started to see you everywhere. Although, it was out of the corner of his eyes, because when he would turn to see you, your figure was gone, the place he had seen you now empty or void of anyone or anything.
He had told his parents that he didn't see anyone with Tuk, but that was only because he feared how crazy he would sound. Seeing someone who wasn't entirely there and then them being gone the next second. They'd send him straight to the Sky People for evaluation.
Neteyam had followed Tuk out of the hut one late afternoon, Tuk turning to him confused since he has never followed her before, "What are you doing?" Neteyam just smiled, playing an act to follow his parents instructions, "Well, I've missed hanging out with my favorite littlest sister," he roughed up Tuks hair, causing her to hiss and push his hand away, "so I figured we could spend the rest of the day together,"
Tuk glanced sideways towards the path, a bit unsure about how you'd reac to Neteyam coming along, "I don't know, you probably wouldn't be up for it," Neteyam raised an eyebrow, his thoughts consumed on what a child would be doing that he himself couldn't or wouldn't wanna do, especially so late in the afternoon.
"Well, if you're sure," Tuk grinned, taking off down the path faster than Neteyam had expected, "Tuk! Wait for me!"
~.~
You had been lounging in a tree again, this time basking in the setting sun's glow. You felt so warm, the lights rays bringing a sense of belonging to your being.
"(Y/n)!" Tuk exclaimed, running into sight as you glanced down at her, your lips showing your usual soft smile that you saved for her.
"Neteyam is following me, come on let's hurry!" Tuk tried to rush you, but you only laughed, "Why are we hiding from your brother?" Tuk felt her cheeks puff up in annoyance, "Come on (Y/n)! I don't want him to find you!" It wasn't often Tuk would throw a childish fit with you, so you knew this must be important to her.
You quickly climbed down, taking her hand and pulling her out of sight just in time for Neteyam to come around the corner. He stopped and took a quick look around, running a hand through his braids aggravated. "Come on Tuk! Mom and Dad don't want you out here by yourself,"
Neteyam continued on through, running right past where you two hid in a flower bush before emerging a minute after he disappeared.
Tuk laughed but quickly stopped when she saw your disappointed face, "I'm sorry," she mumbled, kicking the dirt with her ears pinned down.
"Let's walk and talk," you took her by the shoulder softly, "Is there a reason you keep running away from your family? I understand you want to be friends, but surely I'm not worth worrying your family over?"
You led her down a path as Eclipse began to set in, the forest coming to life with lights and sounds. "Well, I thought you might want to be kept alone, like how you were before we became friends," Tuk answered, but you knew better, "but?" You pushed, Tuk groaning before replying.
"Well, Neteyam has his hunting parties and future clan leader responsibilities, Kiri has healing and grandma, Lo'ak and Spuder go on treks through the forest, I just wanted something that was mine for a while," while a bit childish, you could see what she meant. It was nice to have something all your own, even if it wasn't necessarily yours to keep or own.
Tuk kept her eyes trained on the ground in front of her, hands rubbing together embarrassed. Tuk thought that you would be upset with her, but she was shocked when she felt your hand rub soothing circles on her back as you continued to walk together.
"Do not feel bad, sometimes we wish for things that cannot always be, but if it makes you feel better, you will always be my first and best friend," Tuk felt giddy knowing that you felt the same as she did. You truly were a big sister to her.
"I think it's time we returned for the night," you told her, Tuk nodded, feeling a little tired. "Come," you picked her up, her arms wrapped around your neck and head rested on her shoulder.
You smelled of flowers and mist, a calming scent that soon had Tuk drift off to sleep. Which means she couldn't return to her parents on her own, meaning you had to face the leaders of the clan.
Entering the village, you took notice that many had already gone to dinner, leaving a clear path straight to the leaders tent, where you could hear inside Jake Sully, the Olo'eyktan and Neytri, his mate and Tuks mother frantically asking Neteyam where Tuk was.
You held Tuk up with one arm, softly clearing your throat to make your presence known as you lift the drape, all three coming to a freeze as they saw you, a stranger, with Tuk fast asleep in your arms.
You dipped your head in greeting, eyes over looking the two males and straight to the female who quickly walked to you with fear and concern for her baby. "She is alright, just sleeping," you whispered, not wanting to wake up Tuk as Neytiri gently slipped her from you.
Neytiri nodded a head in thanks, though her eyes held confusion. Your eyes slipped over Jake Sullys form, a small gesture of hello from another head nod before you allowed your eyes to stay trained on Neteyams shocked yellow.
'She is real,' is all Neteyam could think as you both played a stare game, you breaking it off with a soft smile before disappearing. He found the sudden ability to move, dashing to the drape only to pull it back and find you gone, like a phantom.
"I think, that's (Y/n)" Jake mumbled, his mind wracking to find any sense of familiarity of you, but found none. Neytiri felt a small rumble from Tuk, glancing down at the small girl to find her awake and giggling softly, "Told you she was real,"
~.~
Neteyam couldn't get you out of his head, now actively looking for you, but you weren't anywhere to be found. Tuk had told him all about you, and this time he listened, but she wouldn't tell him where you go.
"(Y/n) doesn't like to be sought after, you can only find her when she wants you to find her," Tuk laughed like it was the most simplest thing in the world, but it just made Neteyam frustrated.
He knew so little about you but felt a strange need to be near you, hear your soft voice again and find out more. Call it a crush, infatuation or even obsession, he just wanted to see you again, even if for a last time.
It was only when he took a stroll through the brush on a warm afternoon, that he found you. Only you were laying patch off soft moss, eye shut as you looked at piece with the world.
The world itself seemed to be happening around you, each breath you took was like a breeze from Eywa herself. Insects and small animals passed you by, as if you were just one with them.
Neteyam had approached you slowly, footsteps light as he observed your face. It was beautiful in his eyes, your soft lashes caressing your cheeks, lips parted ever so slightly with each breath you took in. Your hair seemed to flow around you in the vast green foliage.
He was too lost in his thoughts that he didn't notice you open your eyes and look back at him. Your green eyes traced his features as well, taking in the rough yet handsome face he was gifted with. He truly was his mother's child.
When he saw your green eyes staring back at him, he fell back from his squat in shock. You softly hummed, a smile so small but just for him.
"What are you looking at?" He coughed, his face feeling warm from your stare.
You sat up slowly, his eyes glancing at how your body was bending, hair falling over your cheeks to frame your face.
Eywa help his sinful thoughts.
"Oh you know," you drawled, "The clouds,"
~.~
For your Valentineâs Day Event what about a mini-blurb about spending your first V-Day as Eddieâs partner
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the image of your first v-day with eddie and both of you being such nervous messes is so endearing to me i love him your honor. i need to be a nervous wreck with him please.
wc: 2k+
When the day had first started, you were determined that it had to be perfect.Â
You thought that your outfit needed to be faultless, and destroyed your room in the process of rummaging your closet for a specific shirt you just had to wear. You thought your makeup had to be flawless, and youâd redone it nearly three times, leaving your skin raw and irritated after the third removal of eyeliner. You were convinced your plans for the night had to be exemplary, and you and Eddie had changed your minds too many times to count in the weeks leading up to the day.Â
Nerves. And stress. And picking at the beds of your nails until youâd made one bleed and took it as the Universeâs sign to cut it out.Â
The day of love had morphed into something twisted, a terrible buzzing beneath your skin that was less than comfortable rather than the warmth in your chest that you had come to associate with adoration.Â
âYou should have seen his face, sweetheart,â Eddie cackles as he continues to recount a story from the latest Hellfire session, one hand clinging to yours as they swung between your walking bodies and the other holding up a cone of ice cream to match your own, âI told him to leave that damn NPC alone, and he just wouldnât listen.âÂ
âServes him right,â you mumble, feeling miles away and hating it.Â
Normally, youâd be entirely enthralled by Eddieâs stories. Latching onto every last word, waiting with bated breath for every turn of his tales. And yet, right now, all you could focus on were your nerves.Â
Is he having a good time? Is he enjoying himself? Is the night perfect for him, at least? Is he sorely disappointed about me, and realizing that this is all a mistake? Not just this date night, but everything-
âHey, are you feelinâ alright?âÂ
Eddie stops in the middle of the sidewalk suddenly, and you only notice by the tug of his hand halting you in the process as well.Â
âHm?â you hum, trying to drag yourself back down to Earth. Trying to quiet all the voices in your head panicking at full volume. âMe? Oh, yeah, Iâm fi-â
âDonât say youâre fine,â he rushes to interrupt, quirking a brow, âYouâve hardly said shit the last hour. Did I... Is something wrong?âÂ
This is the part where he lets me down gently. This is the part where he admits heâs having the worst time of his life, and that we should break up.Â
You force out a laugh, giving his palm a pathetic squeeze, âI am fine, Eddie. Just⌠justâŚâ
This is the part where he realizes what a terrible partner I am, because I canât even make Valentineâs Day fun.Â
Except, he doesnât.Â
His entire face softens, and he takes a step closer before his voice drops to just shy of a whisper, âJust in your head?âÂ
Your stomach sinks. He had noticed â he had noticed, and probably stopped having any fun because of it.Â
On instinct, you start to shake your head, but he only gives you a knowing look.Â
âLook, I know Iâm kind of a dumb ass half the time, and I know I can be a little oblivious, butâŚâ he motions vaguely at you with the hand holding a melting scoop of rocky road, âI can tell whatâs something up. With you, at least. So⌠whatâs up?â
You want to correct him. Either tell him how even on his worst days, the days where heâs been the most annoying pain in your ass, youâd take him over someone else on their best days â or make a joke about how heâs definitely a dumb ass more than half the time. Jest how itâs okay, because youâre a full-blooded idiot almost all of the time with him. You want to reassure him, staring at you with puppy dog eyes, how it has nothing to do with him and everything to do with you.Â
Itâs only been one month. A measly month of dating Eddie, adoring Eddie, getting to know the endless labyrinth that is him inside and out.Â
Itâs only been a month, and youâre still sort of waiting for the other shoe to drop. Insecurity is a bitch to kick.Â
âItâs not you, itâs m-â you begin before realizing your mistake in an instant. His face breaks so solemnly, and heartbreak is painted across the heights of his cheeks and dark brown pupils clear as day. He thinks youâre breaking up with him. âWait! No, okay, no, I- That sounds like Iâm breaking up with you. I am not breaking up with you.â
He sighs out in relief, a breath you hadnât noticed him holding, as his shoulders relax, âJesus H. Christ, you scared the shit out of me-â
âIâm scared youâre going to break up with me,â you blurt out before he can simmer too long in the relief. âIâm just- Iâm terrified that this date night is going to shit, and Iâm so fucking nervous, and I⌠I donât know,â your voice trails off, dropping in volume with each word before you slowly blink up at him, bracing yourself for impact, âIâm scared that Iâm fucking up our first Valentineâs day together.â
You wait for him to confirm all your fears, or to make fun of you, or to burst with relief at finally being able to agree that you were ruining the night.Â
No such thing when it comes to Eddie Munson.Â
âWhat?â he laughs a little breathlessly, dulcet eyes locked in on you, âIâm sorry, you think youâre ruining the night with your nerves?âÂ
All you can do is nod.Â
Because itâs true. Itâs why he hadnât kissed you the entire night, scared you might jump at the press of his lips surely. Itâs why you had to be the one to grab his hand initially, probably so jumpy that he was convinced youâd run like a scared animal if he moved too close.Â
âBaby,â heâs smiling ear to ear now, smooth like honey as he sighs out in more relief. The pet name sounds nice on his lips; if you werenât so in your head, you might go dumb in the head at the way it tumbles off his tongue, âOh my God. Are we both idiots?âÂ
What?Â
âI never said you were-âÂ
âIâve been rambling for the past hour, non-stop,â he cuts you off, taking a step closer to you, âI spent nearly three hours getting ready when Iâd usually take an hour tops, freaking out over what youâd think about my goddamn t-shirt. Wayne nearly kicked me out of the trailer when I started pacing about whether I got you the right kind of flowers,â as the confessions spill out into the air between you, you notice some of the buzz beneath your skull dulling. The voices in your head turning down the volume, notch by notch, âI havenât even kissed you yet tonight because Iâm so fucking nervous â you had to grab my hand first, for fucks sake. If anyone is fucking up this date by being a mess, itâs me.âÂ
Little, by little, by little. The voices go silent. The buzz leaves, and the warmth tickles at the back of your throat.Â
He was just as nervous as you were.Â
All you can do is laugh.
It starts small, the teeniest of bubbles bursting from your chest, but it quickly descends into something borderline concerning. Giggles overflowing from you, making you bend at the waist just a bit from the force of them, eyes tearing up at the ridiculousness of it all.Â
âI-â you gasp out, and Eddie just beams at you. Heart eyes and all as he watches you finally unravel from all your stress thatâs strangled you the entire night, âOh my God-â another little hiccup of a laugh, and he joins in a bit, âWeâre soâŚ. SoâŚ. dumb.â
Thereâs not a better word for it. Only the plain ones, simple ones.
Dumb, stupid. Idiots. The two of you were such idiots.Â
âWanna know a secret?â youâre finally able to hoarsely whisper once you get control of yourself once more, Eddie leaning in eagerly, vibrant eyes locked on yours, âI thought you werenât kissing me because Iâve been all jumpy, so nervous and shit. I⌠I thought it was because of me.âÂ
Something melts. Slowly, warmly. Frigid and icy nerves between the two of you run away in rivers as he looks at you, so soft and so enamored, half his lips twitching up in a barely-there grin.Â
âWellâŚ. We canât have that, can we?âÂ
Each movement is intentional. A little sure, but you can still taste the hesitancy when his lips first meet yours so feather light. Just a taste, a quick test of the waters.Â
And immediately, whatever hesitancy lived within both your bones, leaves along with the nerves.Â
He starts to pull away from the peck, but youâre quick to drop your ice cream cone of cookies and cream just to bring both hands up to the nape of his neck properly, racing to press him back into your space. A sharp chuckle falls from him at first, trying to get a look at your discarded cone, but you wonât let him get too far â you need his lips back on yours, and you need to just⌠laugh.Â
Laugh about how stupid you two had been. Laugh because neither of you ever had any reason to be nervous.Â
âYour cone!â he gasps into the kiss, and teeth clash a bit as you smile widely and shake your head.
âForget the cone. We can get new ones.âÂ
He drops his cone as well, right on queue, as he pulls you hard into him. Lets your chest meet his, your hips melting against his. One cold and sticky hand, one warm and sweaty palm, and a whole lot of skin heâs been restraining himself from exploring the entire night.Â
Eddie Munson kisses you in the middle of the sidewalk until your knees are about ready to give out. Until your lungs have shrunk a few sizes with all the air heâs stolen from you. Until you canât even remember why you had been so nervous to begin with.Â
This? This is nice. This is what youâd expected of your first Valentineâs day with the fool kissing you like his life depends upon it.Â
âHey, Eddie?â you finally break the ongoing kiss a bit, his forehead chasing yours to stay pressed up against you.Â
His arms circle around your lower back to hold you tightly as he hums in response, eyes still shut and a goofy grin overtaking his aching cheeks.Â
âWanna just⌠have a redo of our first Valentineâs day?â you offer, making his eyes flutter wide open, âNo nerves fucking things up this time?âÂ
Is a month long enough to fall in love with someone?Â
It sure feels like it as you trace over the dimples, all the creases beside his eyes. It feels a lot like love, when youâre being honest with yourself.Â
âThought youâd never ask,â he teases so gently, thumb tracing arcs against your spine, âWhere do we start, sweetheart?âÂ
âWell, I think we need to get some ice creamâŚâ
You trail off and look to the ground where broken cones are scattered amongst melting sweet treats.Â
One might argue that thatâs the true mess of the night, but you hardly care. Itâll clear away with the rain due next week according to the weather forecast.Â
Whatever is happening between you and Eddie, though? Thatâs going to take a bit more than one stormy night inside both your heads.Â
âAbsolutely,â he quickly presses a chaste kiss to the tip of your nose, and you let out a snort â something that a few moments ago, might have embarrassed you straight to your grave. Not now, though. âSay⌠I know this killer ice cream shop that weâve just got to try. One youâve totally never been to before.âÂ
âReally?â you play along, leaning further back against his arms. He still refuses to let you go as he nods so assuredly, âAnd Iâve never been there before? Not even in the, letâs say, last thirty minutes?âÂ
He bites his lip to stop his smile from growing any larger, but itâs a hopeless effort, âDefinitely not. Trust me, sweetheart. Best rocky road and cookies ân cream in town. Swear it.â
Maybe perfect looks a little different than youâd imagined in your head, and maybe thatâs alright.Â
âLead the way, Munson.â
Hi, can you write about yandere ethan who thinks he is in a relationship with the reader, and he is very affectionate with her, and always calls her by "honey, baby, love", the reader allows it because they are childhood friends and she knows that his family ignore and neglect him, so she always tries to give him affection, but eventually it becomes unbearable when she wants to meet more people and ethan doesn't let her because he is extremely jealous and possessive with her.
Yan!Ethan Landry x Fem!Reader
Masterlist if you want to read my others things.
TW/CW: love bombing (I think?), manipulation, lies, reader curses a lot(she's just going crazy guys), mention of sex
Don't know what to think of this. I came back for Halloween month isn't that crazy (it's not). I probably lost like 70% of you guys but yeah I'm alive. Still writing things that end up WAY too long. And I'm sorry but I'm working on all of your asks I'm just really slow but each of you are genius, so far I had crazy stories ideas.
Idk if that's what you wanted with your prompt but that's what I thought so I still hope you like it.
07/10/2024 (7254 words)
The door of your room creaks slowly, the dark atmosphere creating such a heavy tension in the air you could cut it with a knife. You hold your breath, keeping your eyes closed, praying. Footsteps are resonating on the wood flooring when they come to a sudden stop at the opposite of the bed. Slowly, the blanket is raised and a weight is pressed down on the mattress.
The warm of his body is both comforting and infuriating.
"I love to sleep with you." Whisper Ethan a smile in the voice.
You did not answer because you were pretending to be asleep. There was no way you were going to help him nourish his delusion.
You never understood why Ethan never changed with time. Because, well, most of the time, when a girl and a boy are childhood friends, there's this awkward transition thanks to puberty. It's the moment you realize that he's a man, and you're not. And he realizes it as well.
And normally from then, you have trouble sleeping in the same bed, being stuck together all day, eating each other's food. As people are always looking your way, asking since when are you two together and telling you how cute you are and shit.
But Ethan, it seems, never realized that growing up meant putting boundaries between you.
"You're warm." he says, lodging his face in the crook of your neck. Embracing your body with one arm on your waist and pulling your back against his torso. You're still pretending to be sound asleep.
You thought about asking him. Asking him if he didn't have difficulties to find a partner, since people always assume you are a couple. But you never asked. Because Ethan tells you everything, and you mean everything. So if he had trouble looking for love, you would have known first day.
But you're not even sure Ethan knows what love is to begin with.
His family, well, his family... His family had a favorite child, and it wasn't him. Richie, may he rest in peace, was the perfect golden child. Ethan always has been put aside along with his sister. His father never really tried to know his other kids.
But then Richie died. You're not sure how exactly because it's a taboo subject for him and his family, and you understand them. But from what you've heard, it was a sort of accident. A few friends of him didn't like his passion for Halloween so they tricked him, or something. You ignore all the details.
That's all you know, though. Richie and you weren't even close. He liked drama, for sure. But your friend was Ethan, not his brother. Plus, Ethan was giving you the stinky eye and acting jealous if you even tried to look at Richie. At the time, you found it normal. Richie was the favorite, Ethan didn't get attention as any of it went to his brother. You were his friend, his only friend, who wanted to talk to him and not his brother. Of course he would act jealous if he stole a little bit of you; you were the only support he had in life.
All of this to say, Ethan never received any real love. His sister loved him, you think. They were both neglected. But she loved her father more. And Ethan was conflicted as well. He admired and hated his father. So yeah, love in this family was complicated.
But now, as you're both grown up, sleeping in your bed together, you think you should've say something sooner.
"You're asleep baby ?" he whispers, chuckling in your ear.
Baby.
You don't remember when he first started calling you that. It was so... Smooth. You think he was joking at first, just like you. Calling you pet names just to annoy you. You were doing the same. But he started to slip these baby, love a little bit everywhere. So much that you become accustomed to it ! And you stopped paying attention. To you, his pet names just became another way to say bro, man, girl. There wasn't anything weird behind it. But you were naive.
"You really are sleeping ?"
Ethan is still a complicated man to understand. He seems to have such intense feelings inside him. He's supposed to tell you everything but you're not sure he really does. Like Richie's death.
He often cries the death of his brother, doing violent nightmares as well. Ethan never told you the real reason of his death. But it doesn't change anything, Ethan always ended up calling you in the middle of the night breaking down and asking for your support.
So it's no surprise that you ended up being his roommate.
Because you know him better than anyone else.
"Already ?" he whispers, skeptical.
And he knows you better than anyone else.
"Or are you ignoring me, hm ?"
Privacy with him was non existent. When you moved in, you were so excited to live a new life with your best friend. You even go to the same school ! You thought, naively, that it'd be so much fun ! Discovering your adult life with him and all.
Oh how you hate yourself, today.
Doors ? Always open. Clothes ? You're sharing them. Bed ? You bought two for nothing. He's constantly in yours. Fuck, where are you ? In jail ? You don't need to share everything !
But these days, Ethan acts different. Like, really different. He made friends. Alone. By himself. Friends that are not you. Which is new and a fricking good new. Because that means he'll finally start to live his own life without trying to glue you in it.
"Are you mad at me ?" the tip of his fingers draw invisible pattern on your arm. "I'm sorry."
His sister even is in this group. But she doesn't want you to join. Well, you think she doesn't, at least. Each time you smile at her, she sends you a death glare. Even Ethan choose not to introduce you to them. You're not even sure their new friends know they are related. The Kirsch family liked to stay private about their life. Or Landry, like Ethan wants you to call him now. Whatever makes him happy.
His friends are nice, though. You talked to them something like three times in the year but they're nice people. Their names are not quite in your head yet, but you do remember a few of them.
And Tara's really cute ! You thought that Ethan and her had a thing going on but when you asked him, he got all offended and denied everything in one block. So you don't know.
Well, you're lying. You do know, unfortunately. Ethan's in love with you. It's as obvious as the sun in the sky. You can't even be surprised, you saw it coming. He never talk to girls, you're probably the only one he ever talked to, or even looked in the eyes for that matter.
Since your childhood you've been here for him, supporting him when his family didn't. Loving him when he needed it the most. Of course, at the end, he would fall in love with you. But it wasn't the goal, you swear it wasn't your intention. Ethan is your friend.
Even if he's starting to get really clingy. A little too much. And even if he's trying to establish a routine too domestic for you.
"I don't have a thing for Tara, you know.
There he goes again. He's trying to reassure you. But damn, you don't need any reassurance. You're good. He's acting like you're the one getting jealous over nothing.
That's why he got offended when you asked him about her. Ethan is scared you'll think he's 'cheating' on you. Or do you think. Ethan never elaborated on what your relationship had become. Probably because he was afraid of your reaction, of your rejection.
-It's quite the opposite.
You retain yourself from asking him what he means by that, utterly confused. The opposite ? He doesn't like her, then ? But why is he hanging out with her so much ? Ethan is usually not the hypocrite type. Yes he's shy with people he doesn't know and is scared to give his opinion but when he doesn't like someone, he simply stops seeing them.
And once again, Tara's really nice. What did she do to make Ethan don't like her ?
-But you'll understand.
You stopped trying to understand him, a long time ago already. He just changed so much in the course of a few days. It's like he has too much on his mind. Sometimes, he just disappear from your apartment and come back hours later with a big smile on the face, all disheveled.
Of course, you thought he was seeing someone. Hell, his bag is always so bloated ! It's like he has spare clothes in it ! But it still wasn't the case. What the hell was going on with him ?
-So please, don't be mad at me.
-I'm tired, Ethan. You whisper, lips pursued thanks to your cheek planted on your pillow. He already knew you were awake anyway. Your sentence is enough to tell him you want to sleep and end this conversation.
-Of course, sorry baby."
And that was it. You knew he was smiling behind you but you didn't care. He left you alone, that's what matter. You were already trying to push him away for a long time but now you feel like time is missing. You need to make him understand that you do not like him and quick. It'll break his heart, but you're tired of pretending everything's alright, exhausted from constantly being the one to compromise.
You don't want to sound like a jerk but damn, Ethan is suffocating you. He's ruining both of your lives. The last time you had a partner have to be something like years ago ! You literally have to hide from him when you leave to see someone.
"Goodnight." He adds, ten minutes later. Probably scared that you forget about him so quickly.
How could you possibly change things ? Ethan is susceptible. It doesn't matter what your words or intentions are, he only hear what he wants to.
"Love you." he whispers so lowly you thought you imagined it.
You do not even try to answer.
The next day, in class, Ethan kept pestering you about the new movie he absolutely had to show you. Something along the line of a serial killer in a mine chasing people with a pickaxe, being in love with his ex-girlfriend and sabotaging her couple. Tonight would probably be centered around that film, just like every time you two have any free time. If that idea would have appealed you years prior, you today feel as if this is too much. Yesterday night laid a weird weight on your shoulders, a sort of unease that you can't quite shake off.
"Aren't you tired of always watching movies ? You grumble, annoyed, in hope of giving him the ick.
-No, he smiles, but we can do something else. No big deal. What did you have in mind ?"
You sigh, not even giving him enough attention to answer him. He'll probably still put the movie tonight, whether you like it or not. For sure to avoid another argument between you both. As you're constantly fighting, talking about a movie is the only way Ethan found to prevent an umpteenth dispute. Quite smart actually, if you forget the fact that you now know his strategy.
The hubbub slowly surrounding you alerts you of your soon to be lateness in class. With a nod in his direction, you start turning away from Ethan only for him to hastily grab your hand. Sighing, you raise a brow at him.
"We're walking home together, don't forget.
-Ethan we've been walking home together for years now. Clearly I won't forget." He smiles. His hands grab both of your cheeks and as his face approaches yours, panic settles thinking he would kiss you on the lips but he instead lay a chaste kiss on your forehead.
"See you later." Ethan's too happy voice says. You frown, holding his wrists to take them away from you in what could be similar to disgust. "Yeah, later." You say before finally leaving him for the next few classes, wiping his kiss on the way.
You won't see him for the afternoon as you both already ate together at home, and started class at 2PM (14h), to end the day at 8PM (20h).
These lonesome classes are both a benediction and a curse as you try as best as you can to befriend people but they always seem wary. It's probably too late for you to make friend now, the whole year is almost done. People already made friends earlier in the year and don't need any new ally.
And at the same time, Ethan is not here to harass you. That's why you still cherish this morning. Until you don't; your next class is with him and if you remember correctly the teacher talked about a group project last time. Great. Way to ruin a day.
But when you sit down, no one is there to bother you. Ethan is absent, probably late. A rare occurrence but a lovely one nonetheless.
Ten minutes later and he finally show up along with all of his new friends. Immediately, you lay down on the desk to avoid his gaze. But to your stupor, Ethan does not sit next to you and you hear the whispers of his group, conscious of having interrupted the lesson. Ethan ignored you.
Honestly, you can't pinpoint the main emotion this procured you. Relief at first but also confusion, fear of the harassment and countless excuses that'll come next. Happiness but wariness. The fact he's not next to you doesn't mean he's not watching and that's somehow ten times worse. You can't see him: you have no idea what he's doing.
Anyway, he's finally starting to replace you. Still, isn't that a bit toxic how your days are filled with fear to spend a mere minute in his presence while he acknowledges you only when wants to ? Well, everything about him is toxic. At this point, it doesn't change anything really.
You risk one look behind you to observe his usual shenanigans but he's busy, not even glancing your way. Now that you look at him, he doesn't seem really happy to talk to them, nor does Quinn. What is going on with them ? Ethan just look empty. He's staring into nothing, not even blinking. Just deep in thoughts. Though, as soon as Chad or one of the group talks to him, he gains back his merry behaviour. Weird. But hey, it's none of your business !
And that's the same spirit you sport when leaving for class, alone and not waiting for Ethan. It's good that the teacher reported the group project to tomorrow, you got to enjoy your day. You still hear him and his friends laugh in the background, but he's talking this time. Maybe he just wasn't in a good mood earlier and actually likes his friends, who know ?
And after all, if it's like that, you can go home alone. Not that you complain. You'll just say you didn't want to disturb him with his friends. After all, he's the one who doesn't want you to know them. You won't force him !
And hopefully, you'll finally enjoy some time to yourself. At peace, at home.
You push the heavy door of the building, leaving the place for the day. It's cold outside, too much for you own liking but you're alone and it's priceless. You can look at people in the street and you only realize how bad your situation really is. You do not even allow partners to treat you like this, but somehow you allow Ethan to? It's time to wake up. You can't live like this anymore. Ethan trapped you in a toxic relationship for fuck sake. If you can't change him, you'll change yourself. But he can't find out.
But when you thought you were finally free, rushed footsteps hitting the ground can be heard in your back. Goosebumps raises your body hair as you fear already knowing who's coming.
"You promised!" He shouts and your steps stop abruptly, turning to look at him. You allow him to run the distance left between you before he stops in front of you. "And you left without me. He is out of breath, having ran all the way here.
-You were busy.
-I'm never busy when you're here. Ethan tells you with a playful grin, almost flirting with you, passing his fingers in his curls to tame them. You can come fetch me if you're scared I forget about you.
He's joking, you think, he's just friendly and joking. Nothing's weird and â shit, who are you lying to ? Of course he's not but what the hell can you do ?
-How was you day ? He asks, changing subject. He saw your unease, like always, and try to take your attention on something else. Math sucked today, we worked on... but he suddenly interrupts himself, eyes going wide. I forgot to give my essay to the English teacher.
You already gave yours this morning. But it's weird that Ethan did not. He's usually the perfect little student. Always giving his homework the next day he was asked to do it. There really is something weird, he's a little bit too much in his own head. And it's starting to show.
-I still have my draft, you can just copy mine and give it tomorrow, it's no big deal. You shrug, looking at both sides of the road before crossing. You're always the first to hand homework, I'm sure he won't mind if you give it a little bit later.
"Really ? He smiles brightly when you nod. "Thank you! You know, I have no idea what I'd do without you baby.
Your body tenses. You feel like the discussion is going in a direction you don't want it to go. It's obvious he's not only talking about the homework you let him copy.
-It's nothing, you start, but it's already too late.
-You know, I don't think you realize all the things you've done for me. Not just the homework, like, in all our life.
You hate how he said 'our life', like you share one.
-For real Ethan, you add but much more coldly than before, it's nothing. Are you done ? Can we let it go, now ?"
Yes, being mean maybe wasn't the best solution. But you ran out of ideas. And Ethan never look like he's hurt by your harsh tone. It's like he doesn't even listen to you most of the time you're starting to get angry at him. He just nods and smiles like an idiot.
The rest of the way home, Ethan ranted about everything and anything he did at school and asked you questions which you did not bother to answer to, to what he filled the answers himself.
On the last steps to your apartment, you realize you have to act today for your future.
Ethan opens the door and allows you to enter before him. Turning the light on, you're pleased to see your sweet comfort.
"Happy to be home, you grunt, letting your bag fall on the ground.
-Happy I caught up to you.
Is he being passive aggressive ? What are you even supposed to say to that ? You give him a tight lip smile and walk to the kitchen, getting you a cup of water.
-What we doing now ? He asks, leaning on the counter.
Well, you for sure don't know about 'we' but you are going to sleep. You need to set up boundaries, or at least introduce them to him.
-It's getting late. I think I'll go to sleep.
-Already ? Okay, well, I'm coming in a few seconds.
-About that... Ethan stops in his track. You tub your temples. Here you go again. You're sleeping in your room tonight, you state. Not open for any negotiation.
Ethan stares at you as if you had grow another head.
-You don't want to sleep with me ?
-I had a really tiring day, I just want to sleep alone for tonight. But if you have another nightmare come knock, I'll see what I can do.
Naively, you thought that making him pity you would work, that he'd understand, tell you goodnight and everything would be done for the day. But it's Ethan. And you haven't been separated from Ethan since you guys were kids.
The boy stares at you with doe eyes, trying to coax you into giving him what he wants, before frowning, articulating words that won't come out.
He's trying to gently manipulate you, again. And you repeat yourself that it's not his fault, he's a victim of his shitty family. He doesn't have any social awareness, he's not doing it on purpose. Well, you think he's doing it on purpose but without really acknowledging it. As you told him multiple times his behaviour could be obsessive and he's aware of it. But it's as if he can't help it.
You're confused. But at the same time, you don't really know much about the interactions he had with his father along his childhood. Maybe he's copying this mechanism because he saw his progenitor doing it ? His father could be manipulative after all. Your parents always found him weird but with the death of his first son, he just completely lost it.
-You... You don't want to sleep with me. Mumbles Ethan more to himself.
-Exactly Ethan, I don't want to.
It's like you see the gear turning in his head.
-Why ? he asks which caused a sigh to escape you.
-I wanted to talk to you about it for a while now. It's complicated." You sit on the back of the cushion and scratch at you arm to help you think. "I like you a lot Ethan, you know right ?
His lips turns up to display a bright smile, his face seem to shine at your words and he nods multiple times. You think you see his eyes stare at your lips.
-I love you too. I hope you know that.
Now, 'love' wasn't actually the word you used but you're going to have to ignore that.
-The thing is, Ethan, that we do not have to be stuck together every minutes of the day, you hear me ? Sometimes I want to sleep alone. And I'm sure you want to be alone too, right ? Ethan frowns and laugh nervously.
-I actually don't, I... Why would I want to be alone ? I sleep really well with you. Don't you ? Why do you suddenly hate being with me ?
-Wow okay I did not say that. You are interpreting my words in a way I don't like. I don't hate to be with you I just...
-What do you need to do that requires me to be out of your bedroom ?
Lot of things. But there is some you can't say out loud.
-What ? Tell me then ? What are you-. Ethan says, cheeks turning red. Oh, yeah, you can sleep alone for tonight I guess, he clears his throat. He avoids eye contact, trying to act tough.
Is he thinking about what you think ?
-Ethan, I won't do any weird stuff tonight. I just want to be alone. I like to sleep in a star like position or just being able to move in my sleep you know ? That's all.
-But you can do that with me.
Maybe you should've stick with whatever dirty thought he had. You should have told him you were going to invite someone over or.. Or fucking masturbate if that's what you need to get him out. Because Ethan steps towards you, an empty expression he doesn't give you often on the face.
-You're lying to me. That's not why you want to sleep alone. I really hate you lying to me.
-I am not lying to you Ethan, I'm exhausted.
He scoffs, crossing his arms over his chest and getting defensive. How come you ruined everything ? Nothing is ever right with him, he always find a way to change your words or just get offended over anything.
-You'll be talking all night with him, won't you?
That right now is one of the many reasons as to why you never tried to bring the topic of personal space to a man like him.
-Ethan for the love of god, I want to sleep! I won't talk to anyone, damn.
You don't even know who is that 'him' ! It's not like you have the opportunity to talk to a lot of people, Ethan always ruin everything. And in any case he doesn't, everyone just assume that you two are together already.
-You're lying. You'll chat with him. Give me your phone. I... I can't let you do that. I'll be all alone and you'll laugh with him while I'll be with my broken heart.
The light of the living room was starting to hurt your tired eyes, you couldn't retain many yawns from escaping. Turning on your phone, you learn you've been fighting for ten minutes. You needed to sleep but Ethan wasn't on the same page. It was late, too late for bullshit like this.
-Who are you even talking about ?
He suddenly tries to grab your phone by force, pulling it towards him. Our of pure bewilderment you tighten your hold on the device, grasping it so hard the screen might have broke. You slap him in the face with your free hand, utterly in disbelief. Ethan stands still, shock on his face while he let go of your device to touch his cheek.
-What is wrong with you ? You whisper with disgust. It's the first time Ethan acted physical with you. And probably the last time as the numerous searches for accommodations on your phone testify.
-Why can't I see your damn phone?
-And why do you fucking want to see it ?
Silence. He stands still, frowning. Probably considering if he'll either go for manipulation or violence. But his next words are so out of pocket that you need a minute to compose yourself.
-Are you prostituting yourself or what ? With the number of men you see.
Honestly, it simply is sad to see what you two had became. As children, you were attached to the hip, fusional. You could both end each other sentence. Today, it seems only Ethan is able to do that as he knows you more and more when you know him less and less.
-I think we're done for the night Ethan." You walk to your room, using his stillness to take your time before slamming the door shut in his face, locking it for the night. You hear Ethan knocking his palm against the wood separating you both but you chose to ignore it.
-Open the door please, let's talk." He never stops knocking on the door, probably thinking you'd open it at one point, annoyed at him. But not tonight.
You open your drawers and start changing, frowning at the sight of his boxers laying in your clothes. He's still rambling in the background but you pay him no mind, doing your own life on your side.
-What you're doing is really childish. We're both adults and we should act as such. Open the fucking door, please. You smile.
There he goes. The real Ethan. The meanie. The man after the death of his brother: Ethan Landry. A completely different man.
-Are you listening to me ? Open that fucking door, we are not done talking because I know you're not ignoring me after being the one who left me alone on campus.
Of course he would use that against you but you don't even care. Yeah you left him alone, so what ? He's a big man, isn't he ? Surely he's not scared of walking alone.
-See how you are ? All big and proud before me but then when we really need to talk you hide." He mutters something you don't hear, but then you catch his footsteps moving away.
You're confused but decide it's a good thing he gave up and fall on the bed, it's the first time in probably months where you're allowed to lay like a star fish in your own bed. You relish in the newfound comfort you missed how so much. You plunge your face in your pillow and hug it firmly.
At one point, it falls on you that Ethan never give up that quickly and realize that upon hearing no reaction from you, he must've changed plan as his footsteps are back, along with an unknown sound of something falling right in front of your door. To no one surprise, he now starts apologizing.
"I'm stupid, okay ? Forgive me. I'm sorry. Open please. His voice is muffled through the door, and you ignore it. I'm just worried about you. I know you're not seeing anyone.
Great, he's back.
-And I'm sorry for getting angry at you. I was frustrated.
He's not and you know it. When Ethan has something in mind, he'll go to incredible length to accomplish it. Sometimes, you ask yourself if he's acting this way because of you. If you once told him something, did something that could have impacted him.
-I just really like you, I know I can be a lot sometimes but you forgive me, right ? You always do." You think about definitely moving out of here, once and for all, far from him when you fall asleep.
When sunlight woke you up the next day and you decided to head to the kitchen, you were surprised to see Ethan, sleeping tightly on his mattress on the ground at your feet, right before the door. You completely forgot about him. There's no way he really slept on the ground all night. It's not normal, you're worried about him. Maybe you need to take him to a psychiatrist.
You stay stunned a few minutes, seriously worrying over the state of your friend for him to be doing literally anything. You were going to wake him up, but then you remembered how weird he was being with you recently and decided to let him be.
Ignoring him, you step over his body and start to prepare your breakfast. Of course, Ethan quickly woke up upon hearing you rummaging the drawers.
"Hi baby..." He whispers, tired from his sleepless night, eyes still partially closed. "Slept well ?
-Yes actually. The best night of sleep I've had in a long time. There was a bounce in your steps that couldn't be ignored.
-Well I had nightmares." It's hard to discern the truth in all of his lies. Maybe he really had nightmares, maybe he just wants you to feel guilty.
There was a tension in the apartment this morning that even Ethan couldn't hide this time. He stayed silent for the most part of the walk to class. Something in your relationship changed and the unknown scares you. What will happen now ?
Your first lesson is with Ethan, but he leaves your side to go straight to his friends. Chuckling, you know he's still angry at you and is trying to make you mad.
As soon as you sit, the teacher announces the instructions of the group project everyone will have to do in these two hours and then finish at home. Name by name, she lists duets and the class start to move around, going to their partner. When your name is coupled with another, you see a guy walks towards you with a smile. He stops in front of your table.
"You're the one I'm doing the project with, right ?
You smile to him and nod, giving him your name. He repeated your action, introducing himself. He was cute. He sits by your side, you chat a little, getting to know each other. You hope he usually has good grade, you really don't want to repeat your year.
The man now sat on the chair next to you start planning the organization of the project. Dividing the task to be much more efficient. That's what you do, telling him you can do the second part while he does the first. Everything was going well until you realized that it's been a long time since you saw the Kirsch boy, and of course, he had to change that.
The curly man heads your way, smiling upon seeing you make eye contact with him. He stares one second at the man by your side, immediately displaying a smile who you knew announced no good.
"Hi, I'm Ethan. I asked the teacher to change groups. So you're not with her anymore, you're actually with Amber over there" he turns his back to you and point to a girl further away. "The one in blue." He looks back at you two, using his shy demeanor and lanky posture to appear as the nerd you know damn well he isn't. He knows that by acting this way, he is laughed at but never yelled at. He looks innocent.
-What ? Why ? Why would you ask the teacher that ? You ask.
-Because we're friends so we'll work better together." He was giving you that shy smile you learnt to hate. He thought you'd forgive him quicker this way; he was right. You did forgive him quicker in the past, but not anymore. It's quite the opposite now, each time he was trying to manipulate you like this, you were getting angrier.
"And I know how much you're insecure about yourself and all so, it's for you !"
What the actual fuck is he talking about!
All the while telling you this, Ethan never looked in your new friend's way. His attention was solely on you. He's humiliating you, and on purpose. Confused, embarrassed and sorry, you search the other man's eyes. He was just like you. He raises a brow then shrugs. He packs his things, you apologize and he smiles, telling you that it's okay. You felt like shit.
He's heading towards the girl Ethan forced him to work with.
"Why would you do that ?
He's embarrassing ! You look like two losers who only have each others as friends and don't want to talk to anyone else. It's seriously tiring. You've been each other sole friend for years ! You can't even name someone you've been friend with for more than a month !
-We're friends, remember ? he raises his brow, as if telling you the obvious.
-And that's a reason to push everyone else away ? To humiliate me ? What the fuck are you on about me being insecure ? I get that you're angry at me but fuck it Ethan.
-He's an asshole. I saw him around. You really shouldn't hang around him." He does not elucidate on the other part of your sentences. But you know what he would have said already; it's a test to see if he'd stayed, and he didn't so he's not your friend.
You don't even want to argue with him at this point. It was useless, he was never listening to you. It's impossible for you to count the times in which Ethan drove everyone away. You had literally zero friends here but Ethan.
Once, a girl came talk to you in finance but Ethan arrived and jokingly told her you had AIDS. What the fuck ? Who say that first thing when meeting someone ? Even her didn't understand. She just thought you two were weird and never talked to you ever again. It's like he loves to embarrass you in front of everyone. And when you got angry at him, he just said it was a joke but he was just so awkward with people and- Fuck. He pretended to be the victim, again.
You always try to help him. You know he had a difficult childhood, never received love, never had friends, you know. That's why you always overlooked his flaws. But today and this night was just too much.
That night, you locked yourself in the toilet to chat with the owner who could potentially save your life. She asked you about your studies and your work to know more about your profile.
"I'm in New York right now but I'm almost finished with my degree so that's why I plan to move out." You send her.
The owner shares with you her excitement towards you living in New York, saying how she's doesn't understand why would someone leave a big city to a place as desolated as where she is. You answer briefly, something along the lines of family problems.
You really hope she'll accept your profile. Her house is beautiful and perfectly located. Far enough from the city, but close enough that you can go there for a future work. Rent is high but it's necessary or Ethan definitely will end you.
"Did you die in here ?" Ethan knocks on the door. Yeah, you really need to get out of here. Flushing and washing your hand, to make it look credible, you adjust your clothes before opening the door. Ethan is in front of you, staring at you from head to toe.
"Where are we going ?
You heard about a party going on and decided to join on a whim, tired of being locked up here all the time.
-You're personally not going anywhere, you hide your device in your pocket, fearing he might discover your project of leaving town. But I'm leaving for a party. He frowns.
-Who will there be? Who you're going out with ? Why am I not allowed ?
-You don't know them." You say without looking at him, too busy in closing your jacket. You considered lying to him in saying it's a girls only party. But thought otherwise.
"Then don't go."
You sigh, exasperated, and close your eyelids tightly to try to keep your cool. He's doing it again. Grabbing your purse, you search for your bus card while walking to the door.
"Well I want to, Ethan.
-But I don't."
His sentence stopped you in your tracks. The beating of your heart resonate in your head, giving you a headache. You know if he continues in this direction, you will explode. Frustration and rage were mixing in your mind. He has to stop, right now.
Controlling your breathing turns out to be much more difficult in those conditions. Slowly, your body turns towards him. You tilt your head to the side and chuckle dryly, speechless by his audacity. Staring at Ethan with frown accompanying a fake smile, one too happy for your predicament, you realize he doesn't seem uncomfortable at all after saying such stupids things to your face.
"And since when do you decide of what I do ?" you plainly laugh, not even trying to hide it, both sarcastically and in bewilderment.
"Why are you always trying to go and cheat ?
-Excuse me ?
-I'm literally here." he frowns, staring at you like you're the guilty one. "I'm... What the hell do you fucking need ? We can just spend the night on the couch and watch a movie, why're you always leaving me ?" Ethan is shaking his head angrily, showing you his emotions are true by using his body, making his curls bounce in the process.
Him and his stupid movies !
-You can't decide for me. Where does that come from Ethan ? I'm going where I want, when I want with who I want.
-No you're not.
That was the final straw.
-And who the fuck are you ? Who the fuck do you think you are ? You walk up to him, face dangerously close to his.
-Yeah, who am I ? Who am I to you ? What am I ? What are we ? He pushes himself towards you, making you backtrack. I thought we were bonded forever, why the sudden change ?
-I don't care about your teenage crisis for fuck sake ! Everything is always about you, you and you ! I want to leave, so you're going to let me fucking leave !
-You're in love with Chad, right ?
You frown your brow and open your mouth to answer but the shock and utter confusion prevents any words, sounds, from coming out. What is he even talking about ? What is wrong with him ? Where is the fucking link between Chad and you ? You never even pronounced his name in front of him !
-What the fuck, Ethan ! I don't even know him !
-That's what you're saying, now. But what if you're lying to me ? He looked hurt and you couldn't understand it. He was literally creating problem in his head and then getting mad over it.
-How do you even come to this conclusion ! I- You know what ? I don't want to argue. You need some fucking therapy, Ethan.
-That's why you want to leave tonight. You plan on having sex with Chad.
-What the fuck is wrong with you, Ethan. For real. It's not even funny it's just... It's just worrying. What the hell is wrong with you ?
-I'm perfectly fine, what is wrong with you ?
-Don't you dare play this on me.
-Nothing is fucking wrong with me, you always say that but I'm perfectly fine. I told you I just don't want you to have sex with Chad. Sorry for loving my girlfriend I guess !
-Your what now ? Because I don't recall agreeing to-
-That's not the point, you're gonna fuck that fucking idiot !
-Stop saying that ! Fuck, Ethan ! You're weird !
Ethan was a virgin, for sure. But does it excuse the fact that he was being an absolute creep right now ? No. Clearly not. Why was he so invested in your sex life ? And did he have to make it a whole conversation ?
-Ethan, you hold your face in despair, you really need some fucking help because I can't stand it anymore. You're destroying my life. Your lip wobble, you feel like crying but don't know why. Is it anger or sadness, maybe even exhaust. I am tired. So I'm begging you to please consult a therapist.
Out of shock, Ethan stays silent. Watching as your eyes water. He raises a hand towards your face, slowly. But you push it away and leave the place, slamming the door. In the stairs, you jump over a few steps and almost fall multiple times but you don't think about it. You need to leave. If you can find somewhere to sleep at it would be perfect, but you don't push your luck.
Fortunately, you didn't tell Ethan where you were headed. Once at the party, you would have fun and enjoy the moment without thinking about Ethan. That's the plan.
Only, his plan did not concord with yours as an armed masked man came for a surprise visit.
I do have in mind a part two for this if enough ppl like it. Enjoy for now~
Naga AU! Highly inspired by the world building of the bakudeku fic in the eye of the storm it stopped updating back in 2019 tho:((((
(Warnings: Naga au, monsters, imprisonment, non con touching)Â
(Naga AU! Izuku Midoriya, Bakugou Katsuki, Shouto Todoroki, Eijirou Kirishima x human!reader, poly)
Four weeks ago, if someone had told you nagas existed, you would have laughed.Â
But now, four weeks later, still a castaway, still seeing remnants of the boat you were once on floating in the sea, you donât have the luxury to laugh, not anymore.Â
You still donât remember what it was. The boat looked fine during the storm, but there was a crack, a blast.Â
Next thing you know, you were waking up ashore, with someone inhuman hovering over you.Â
Afficher davantage
(click here for part two!)
synopsis: afraid for your life you promise a kiss to a devil. cw: aged up characters, blood, kissing, fluff, cussing wc: 2.7k
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Honestly, what were you thinking? Denji is a single minded person. If there is a goal in his head he will do just about anything to get to that goal. That goal being various things to do with girls. You knew better than to ask him for anything, let alone promise him something. That something being a kiss.
Just a kiss.
Something spoken in the heat of the moment. Your back against the wall, death knocking on your doorstep. It was stupid really. A devil got the better of you. Most days you were quite proficient in a fight. But after a late night of drinking with friends, woken early and thrown into a fight you didnât exactly have the best chances. Blame it on the throbbing hangover or just your survival instinct kicking in but you made the stupid decision to promise that if Denji got you out of this devil infested cave you would kiss him. Youâre not even sure why that promise left your lips and honestly it was embarrassing, even more embarrassing that Denji practically tripped over himself to do just as you said. It was like watching a man be possessed. He tore those devils to shreds and when he was finished walked over to you all full of himself, offering his hand to help you off the floor. The cave was stained in blood. Denji was covered in it. It looked like that scene from the horror movie you watched with Aki a few months ago. The one with the girl in the pink dress winning homecoming queen only to be doused in pigs blood. You slapped his hand away, slipping and sliding on your way to your feet.Â
âDisgusting.â You commented, wiping blood off your hands.
âHey!â Denji called after you as you headed back towards the entrance of the cave, feeling your way along the walls. You could hear him sliding on the blood as he followed you out. âWhat about my kiss?â He asked. Honestly youâd forgotten what you said a few moments ago and his words were like a slap to the face. You and Denji joined the Public Safety Division around the same time, he was a few months older than you but acted like a twelve year old boy. Obsessed with things that made your blood boil. You tended to stay as far as possible from him.Â
âIt was a joke.â You said, slipping and almost falling but Denji grabs you and hoists you back to your feet.Â
âA joke?â He asks as you push his hands from you and huff, straightening.Â
âYes, a joke.â You scoff, seeing the cave entrance in the distance.Â
âJokes are supposed to be funny. You owe me a kiss!â
âI donât owe you anything!â You growled over your shoulder.Â
âSo promises mean nothing to you?â He calls back after you. You donât answer him, just hurry out of the cramped cave into the sunlight, breathing in the fresh air. Your clothes and skin were covered in devil blood, your hair matted with it. You practically gagged, reaching for your cell phone. âY/nnnnn?â Denji says in a sing-songy type voice.Â
âWhat?â You snap.
âI will bug you day and night for that kiss, you know that right?â He jests as you turn to look at him. Just like you he was covered in blood.Â
âDenji,â You start through clenched teeth. âI thought I was going to die in there.â
âUh huh.â He hums, attention like a dog.Â
âI said something stupid, just forget it.â
âIt wasnât stupid.â
âIt was very stupid.â You growl, turning away from him as you message for a ride.
âIt wasnât!â Denji aruges. âYou promised a kiss. I am looking forward to it.â
âItâs just a kiss. Any girl can give you that.â You sigh.
âI donât want a kiss from any girl. I want one from you.â He clarified, you turn to look at him.
âMe specifically?â You ask and Denji nods his head. âWhy?â It was no secret you couldnât stand Denji, you argued with him all the time and criticized him. Denji scrunched his face as though you said something outrageously stupid.
âWhy? Youâre hot that's why! Like one of the prettiest girls on earth.â He stresses. You furrow your brows, amusement on your features.
âOh really?â
âReally!â He asserted. You shook your head.Â
âDenji, I was scared. I thought I was going to die.â You stressed, running a hand through your hair. âI wouldâve said anything to have you save me.âÂ
âAnd I wouldâve done anything to save you. Which I did. By the way.â Denji says, taking a step towards you. You step back, shaking your head.
âIâm not kissing you.â
âJust one kiss.â He interrupts. âJust one quick kiss, it doesnât have to be long.â You stare at him for a moment. He really wanted a kiss badly, it was written all over his face.Â
âYouâre crazy.â You shook your head.
âYouâre beautiful. Now can you kiss me.â He takes another step forwards. You roll your eyes.
âI am covered almost head to toe in Devil blood.â
âSo?â
âSo?â You echo. âItâs disgusting. And you're covered too.â
âSo we go home, clean off and kiss after.â
âI. Am. Not. Kissing. You!â You stressed, heaving a sigh as you pointedly turned away from him. It was quiet finally and you knew Denji would be pouting behind you but you didnât care. You werenât kissing some devil. Especially since it would be your very first kiss. It wasnât going to happen!Â
Your guysâ ride finally showed as you and Denji loaded in. It was silent between you two the whole ride and youâd say it was awkward but it wasnât like you guys were friendly before this moment. Something in you felt sort of guilty. Denji looked like a kicked puppy as he stared out the window. Like he was a kid with candy and you smacked it out of his hand or something. It was just a stupid kiss, someone else will come along one day and kiss him and heâll forget about it. Or even would probably forget about it in the next hour.
But Denji didnât forget. He wasnât mean to you, just quiet. It was weird. He was quiet getting out of the car and walking into the house. Didnât sing at all in the shower like he usually did and was quiet at dinner, which Aki noticed and was very concerned over. He gave you a look and you just rolled your eyes with a shrug. After cleaning up the table, Aki went off to bed as you and Denji did the dishes. He didnât say a word for the first fifteen minutes and honestly it was driving you insane. Sometimes his incessant talking was annoying but right now you missed it. You passed him a clean dish and sighed.Â
âAre you seriously still upset?â You asked quietly, not wanting to disturb Aki. Denji dried off the dish and put it away, grabbing the next one.Â
âI was looking forward to it.â
âThe kiss? Seriously?â You asked as he looked at you.
âWhy is that so hard to believe?â
âBecause itâs me you're talking about kissing.â You say, amused. He fully turns to you, cocking his head.
âAre you unaware that you're one of the prettiest girls in existence? Seriously? Of course I want to kiss you, Iâm not that stupid.â
âKeep your voice down.â You hiss.
âWhy? Scared i'll wake up your crush?â He whispers teasingly, you give him a sharp look but the blush that creeps on your cheeks is answer enough for him. He starts belly laughing, a loud laugh that has you yanking your hands out from the water and slapping it over his mouth. Your other hand grabbing him by the front of his shirt and yanking him forwards.Â
âYou are fucking annoying.â You hiss angrily, he laughs beneath your hand as you pull back, turning away from him.Â
âI didnât think youâd be so scared to kiss me.â He whispers as you turn, eyes slicing to him.
âScared? You think Iâm scared.â
âThatâs what this is right?â He asks, his mouth tilting up in a smirk. âYouâre scared youâll fall in love with me.â Your brows shoot up and a scoff of a laugh escapes your lips.
âNo, that is definitely not it.â You shake your head.
âSure, keep telling yourself that.â He jests.Â
âSeriously, itâs not, devil.â You hiss as he shrugs his shoulders. Annoyance floods your system as you reach and turn off the water, grabbing a towel. He watches you closely as you toss the towel at his chest, he grabs it, drying off his own hands. âIâll prove it to you.â You say stubbornly, his brows shoot up as he realizes exactly what you were going to prove. He turns to face you. âThen you can stop walking around like a wounded puppy, now come here.â You direct and he does just as told, taking a step closer to you. You inhale, blowing your breath out sharply. Youâd never kissed anyone before but youâd seen people kiss in movies and on the street so you also took a step closer and definitely ignored the way your heart skipped a beat when your eyes met his this close. Your hands shook so you flexed your fingers, hiding your nerves well enough. You hesitantly reached both your hands up and placed them on either side of Denjiâs face, his cheeks burned beneath your touch, his eyes darting from your own to your lips. This was so stupid. Just hours ago youâd rather die than relinquish your first kiss and now here you were about to give it to Denji of all people. You swallowed nervously, sucking in a quiet breath. Both of Denjiâs hands, which were at his sides, now moved to your hips, causing you to jump. âWhatâre you doing?â You ask, he looks at you apologetically.Â
âI donât know, it just felt right.â He says and although your moments from smacking his hands away something about it did feel right. And not wanting to investigate that idiotic feeling anymore you just pushed it out of your head and swallowed down your nerves.Â
âWhatever, okay,â You breathe out. âIâm gonna kiss you now.â You say and his fingers on your hips tighten slightly, pulling you just the smallest bit closer as he nods his head, eagerly. Your heart does a funny flip in your chest because now you two are mere centimeters apart. It's a stupid thing really, itâs not like you harbored some deep feelings for Denji⌠Right? You shook your head externally and huffed, yanking his lips to yours in a final effort to get this moment over with. Denji gasped slightly as your lips met his. His eyes shooting open in surprise. If he was being honest with himself he didnât think youâd actually go through with it. Heâd known you for months now and you were well above being teased usually. Sure he was very very bummed when he thought you wouldnât kiss him but since he thought it would never happen this was a total surprise. Like hitting the lottery. A one in a million thing. And he would not take this for granted. You pulled back a second later, his eyes still open as yours opened to meet his. For a second you two just stared at each other, blushed red. You cleared your throat, your voice a bit high as you spoke. âThere, now you can leave me alo-â His arms slipped around your back, his eyes falling closed as he leaned down closer to you, your lips slotting together in harmony. Your breath hitched in your throat as Denji pulled back, taking you with him as he practically lifted you off the floor into his arms, your legs kicking out behind you. Almost as though the little space between you was too much and needed to be eradicated. It was just supposed to be a quick peck but you couldnât pull back. You felt something shocking like electricity as the kiss deepened, as he set you on the ground and you buried your fingers in his hair, his hands grabbing your hips as you two walked back, his back practically slammed into the fridge.
âOh uh-â Akiâs voice gasped from the hall. You yanked back away from Denji, red faced and embarrassed. Aki looked amused, like he was holding back a laugh. You covered your face, turning back to the dishes. âI didnât mean to interrupt.â He says, grabbing a drink from the fridge.
âYou didnât.â
âYou did.â Denji says at the same time as you. Aki heads back without another word but you could hear him snickering down the hall. You turn the water back up, getting back to the dishes. You feel Denji slide next to you as you give him a clean dish to dry.
âCan we do that again?â He whispers, your stomach dropping as well as the dish in your hand.Â
âLetâs just pretend that didnât happen.â You say, embarrassed and flushed with emotions that you never thought were even remotely possible. Denji knew this is where things were headed but it didnât stop the pain he felt when you reinforced that.
âThank you.â Denji says quietly, you swallow, biting your lip. âYouâre a good kisser.â
âOkay.â You snap slightly, just wanting the thick tension and jarring want to subside. All the quiet did was reinforce the tension and awkwardness. You two finished up the dishes and headed back towards your rooms that were right across the hall from one another. Denji turned to you before you could slip away and grabbed your arm softly. You turned, hoping the nerves werenât showing on your face.
âAre you-,â He scratched the back of his head, he seemed like the nervous one. âAre you mad at me?â He asks as you furrow your brows, shaking your head.Â
âNo.âÂ
âOh good,â He breathes out. âBecause itâs killing me not to kiss you again.â
âDenji,â You said in surprise, eyes glancing at Aki's door. You didnât like Aki the way everyone thought you did, he was more like the cool cousin you wanted to impress. Denji catches the look and swallows.Â
âOh, I see.â He says almost dejectedly.Â
âItâs- itâs not like that.â You say with a sigh.Â
âYou donât have to lie, I get it.â He says with a sort of forced kind smile.Â
âIâm not lying.â You snap quietly, running a hand through your hair. âItâs not like that.â You stressed as he pursed his lips and nodded his head. He didnât believe you obviously and the jealousy on his face was apparent. âIâll prove it.â You say as Denji just watches you. You yank him by the shirt back against your lips and that familiar buzz in your stomach flutters again. Kissing Denji felt like tumbling off the side of a cliff. Freefalling towards something certain to kill you. That was until his arms tense around you and that freefalling slows to a gentle stop. There was nothing gentle about Denji until he kissed you. He seemed like a different person entirely in this moment and you needed space before you did something stupid so you pulled back, his eyes are still closed and thatâs the first time you think Denji looks beautiful. It freaks you out.Â
âGood night.â You say hoarsely, slipping out of his hold into your room, pressing the door closed. Your heart is thudding in your ears as you step back until the backs of your knees hit your bed and you fall on it. You stare at the door, willing your heart to stop beating so erratically, flexing your shaking hands. You kissed Denji three times and each time was better than the last. As unbelievable as that was.Â
Denji watched your door slam in his face as he staggered back, blushing and dizzy. He couldnât contain the smile that plastered to his lips as he balled his fists, pumping them in excitement. Denji only had eyes for you, he thought you were so cool and calm and collected. Always level headed and smart. He thought the world of you but never really thought youâd feel anything but annoyance towards him. But clearly, he was wrong, and heâd do anything to keep it that way.                     Â
compilation of texts my mom has sent me when my cat is wailing outside my room and i havenât opened the door for her yet
Hellođ¤â¤ď¸
I hope you are wellđš
Can you help me get my voice heard
and share my family's story?đđť
Can you Reblog my pinned post from my blog or donate 10$?
By helping to reblog my story, you could
save a family from death and war.đš
Thank you very muchđ¸
đď¸â¤ď¸đšđđť
Shitty Headcannon for SDJ, this dude would be the fuckin best person to do Halloween with. Just throw a sheet on him (assuming he is similar in physical properties to a ghost/it being implied he can control his forms somewhat).
Bro even better yet, just give him a cat to carry. Mf can just be a floating cat for Halloween!
Eddie x bookworm!Reader angst-to-fluff, where Eddie is always picking on Reader because he has a crush on her, but she thinks heâs just being mean. Like heâll say âread anything good lately, bookworm?â because he genuinely wants to talk to her about what sheâs reading, but she assumes heâs teasing her like everyone else. And then a fluffy ending where he actually has a real conversation and admits that he likes her? Love you, bb! @munson-blurbs đ
Eddie would love bookish girls like us, Bug! Weâd be his favorites and everyone else would be jealous hehehe. I loved this request and I hope you enjoy!
Words: 2k
The library is supposed to be your sanctuary. Itâs supposed to be where you can go and be with the books, spending time picking out the perfect one before settling down in a chair to see what new adventure awaits you within the pages. But heâs here again. The metal head who thinks itâs fun to pick on you. Itâs no secret that people at school are constantly calling him a freak, so he obviously knows what itâs like to be teased and picked on. So why does he do it to you?
The paperback in your hands is pretty small, but that doesnât stop you from trying to hide your face behind it, hoping Eddie doesnât notice you. But you know it didnât work when you hear the chair on the opposite side of the table from you being pulled back and someone drops down into it.
âHey, bookworm.â
Taking a moment to close your eyes and take a deep breath behind the cover of the book, you lower it and give Eddie the most unfriendly smile you can manage.
âEdward.â
âDonât call me that,â he says, wrinkling up his nose.
âDonât call me bookworm,â you retort.
âItâs not a bad thing,â Eddie says.
You ignore him and go back to reading. Well, pretending to read anyway, but really waiting for him to get up and leave.
âWhatcha reading?â
Slowly, you lower the book down enough where you can peer over the side of it where it clearly shows the title.
âLittle Women,â you answer anyway.
âSo, like, girls?â
âSure.â
âWhatâs it about?â
âEddie,â you say with a sigh. You lower the book down and slide your bookmark into the page you left off on. âWhat do you want?â
He leans back in his seat and frowns at you as he laces his fingers behind his head.
âTo know what your book is about,â he says, like itâs the most obvious thing in the world.
âNo,â you say with a shake of your head. âWhat do you really want?â
The bell rings and you donât give him time to answer your question before your things are back in your backpack and youâre out the door.
Luckily, you donât see Eddie the rest of the day. The next day, youâre not as lucky. As you're getting the books you need out of your locker, you see Eddie coming down the hall out of the corner of your eye. Hurrying so he doesnât have the chance to come and tease you, you swap out your things and clutch what you need to your chest. You hardly make sure your locker is properly closed before youâre turning away and walking quickly down the hallway, hoping he wonât spot you.
When you step into your French class, you finally release the breath youâve been holding in your chest. Head down so no one else will notice you, you open your French notebook and turn it to a clean page for the start of class.
Someone drops down in the seat next to you, but you donât look their way until you feel them leaning into your personal space. Youâre shocked when Billy Hargrove is there, so close to you, an easy smile on his lips.
âHey, smart girl.â
Youâd bet good money heâs calling you that because he doesnât know your real name.
âUm, hi,â you say. Thereâs a group of girls on the other side of the classroom who are whispering to each other as they watch the two of you.
Billyâs tongue pokes out against his top lip as he looks at you through his thick eyelashes. Itâs a look youâve seen him give dozens of girls around school. He wants something. And you know itâs not you, so that leaves only one other option.
âYouâre really good at this French stuff, yeah? Well, to tell you the truth, Iâm struggling a little bit. Do you think thereâs any way you could help me out with that? Iâd really appreciate it.â Itâs a good thing youâre sitting because his smile is enough to make your knees give out.
âIâm not really a tutor,â you tell him, shrugging your shoulders. Itâs the truth, but youâre also pretty sure he wouldnât be able to understand your French because heâd make you a stuttering mess just by looking at you.
âAnything I can do to change your mind?â Billy asks, tilting his head. His voice is so sultry it should be illegal.
âI-I donât think so.â
Billy tsks and shakes his head.
âWell, damn. Let me know if you change your mind, sweetheart.â He knocks his fist against your desk before going back to his own seat.
The teacher walks in and everyone takes their seats, one of the girls who was whispering about you taking her seat right behind you.
âYouâre not as smart as everyone says you are,â she leans forward to whisper in your ear.
Mrs. Shay has her back to the class so you take the opportunity to turn around to face the girl.
âWhat?â
âFor a nerd, youâre pretty dumb. Billy Hargrove was willing to spend time with you and you said no. Tell me, how many guys actually want to be around you? Let alone ones that look like Billy.â
You quickly spin back around so she canât see the tears forming in your eyes. Sheâll only be meaner if she sees she gets a reaction out of you. Itâs hard to concentrate for the rest of the class, both interactions replaying in your head the whole period.
Lunch is next and you canât bring yourself to go into the cafeteria full of students. Itâs a nice day out so you decide to go sit outside and eat your sandwich in peace. Youâre looking forward to picking up your spot in Little Women as you settle on the grass, back resting against the brick building, but come up empty after looking in your bag.
âNo,â you whine to yourself as you double check for the book. Still not there. You mustâve left it in your locker. Alone with just your thoughts and your sandwich, the lunch period seems to go on forever. You get up a few moments before itâs over and go to your locker to grab your novel in case you get a chance to read it in any of your afternoon classes. But itâs not there either. You slam your locker door closed and knock your forehead against it. Where the hell did your book go?
âHey! Bookworm!â
You donât need to look up to know whoâs calling for you. There have been many times in the past youâve been grateful your locker is right next to the girlâs room, and this is another one, as you slip in, acting like you didnât hear Eddie.
Once the bell rings, you wait a minute for the halls to fill with students before joining the sea of teenagers. A quick glance around and thereâs no sign of Eddie. You donât press your luck though and make a beeline straight for your biology class.
The end of the school day canât come fast enough. Heading to the library after the final bell is like being a salmon swimming upstream as everyone makes for the exits. A sigh leaves your lips once youâre safely inside and find a table in the corner to hide yourself at. Unfortunately, youâre only allowed a few peaceful moments.
âThere you are, bookworm.â
It feels like the last straw. You groan and drop your head down to the table, but Eddie still pulls out the seat across from you and plops down in it.
âIâve been trying to give this back you.â Thereâs a slide across the table and you pick your head up to see your tattered paperback of Little Women. âYou dropped it in the hallway this morning. I tried calling for you but I guess you didnât hear me.â
âOh,â you say, stomach sinking with guilt. âThank you.â Youâd just come to expect the worst from people, so Eddieâs act of kindness comes as a surprise.
âNo problem,â Eddie says. He leans forward on his forearms and smiles at you. Itâs such an open and kind smile that it makes your head feel a little fuzzy. Youâd never noticed how pretty Eddie is before. His dark eyes watch you and your cheeks heat up under his gaze.
âYou know,â Eddie says. âI donât think I couldâve forgiven Amy.â
âWhat?â you ask, face scrunching in confusion.
Eddie nods his head towards the book on the table between the two of you.
âAmy. She burnt Joâs manuscript. Thatâs pretty shitty. And Iâm pretty sure Laurie is in love with Jo.â
âOh.â You look down at the cover of Little Women, your fingers coming up to ghost over the edges. âYouâve read it?â
âI started to,â Eddie says with a shrug. âJust donât tell OâDonnell I was reading that in class today instead of listening to her drone on and on.â
âYou were reading it today?â you ask.
âYeah,â Eddie says. He looks down at the table in front of him and knocks his shiny silver rings a few times on the wood. âYou didnât tell me what it was about yesterday, so I decided to find out.â
Thinking back to Eddie finding you in the library yesterday, you remember him asking about what you were reading. Youâd assumed it was some ploy to make fun of you, but it seems he was genuinely curious. The guilt tightens your stomach even further. Youâre not sure how to apologize without admitting to him youâd assumed he was being an asshole.
âUm, do you want to finish the book? See how it ends?â You extend it to him and Eddieâs head snaps up to look at you.
âReally?â he asks, sounding more excited than youâd expect.
âSure,â you say. âIâve read it three times already so Iâm in no hurry to finish it. Go ahead.â
Eddieâs face lights up in a grin and you mentally shake yourself for never noticing how absolutely adorable he is before.
âThanks,â he says. He takes it from you and holds it in his hands like itâs precious and made of glass, not a book that looks like itâs weathered many storms. âMaybe when Iâm done we could talk about it?â
Now itâs your turn to be surprised.
âWait, really?â
âYeah,â he says, avoiding your eyes. âMaybe we could get coffee or something? Or, pizza if you donât like coffee.â
You stare at him for a moment before responding.
âYou want to hang out with me? Voluntarily?â
His face pinches into a frown as he meets your eyes again.
âWhy do you sound so surprised?â he asks.
âI justâŚâ You sigh. âYouâre always calling me a bookworm. I figured you were picking on me like everyone else does.â
âOh.â His face falls and he quickly shakes his head. âShit, Iâm so sorry. I didnât know that bothered you so much.â He sets the book down and rubs his hands over his face. âI guess I was just teasing. Iâm not good with emotions and feelings.â He shrugs his shoulders.
âWhat do you mean?â you ask.
âUgh,â he groans, but thereâs a shy smile on his face. âYou know how in, like, third grade, how boys will sometimes pick on girls they like?â
âYeah,â you say with a nod, clearly missing the hidden message in the question.
He huffs a laugh and gestures to himself.
âGuess Iâm about as mature as a third grader.â
Your eyes widen and Eddie canât help but chuckle in amusement at the look.
âYouâre saying you like me? IsâŚis that what youâre saying?â
âYouâre supposed to be the clever one here,â Eddie says with a smirk.
âAnd youâreâŚyouâre serious?â
He frowns at this and leans in closer towards you.
âI would never joke like that. I know what itâs like to be picked on. It fucking sucks. Iâm not about to inflict that on someone else. Especially someone as cute as you.â
Heat blooms on your face, so warm youâre sure you must look like a tomato. Eddie sits up, straightening in pride that he had that effect on you.
âUm, okay,â you say quietly. âWell, finish that book and weâll go talk about it over pizza.â
âLikeâŚa date?â Eddie asks in a hopeful voice.
âYeah, a date.â You canât help the giddy smile that comes to your face.
âShit, I better get started then.â Eddie opens the book and leans back in his seat. You giggle, thinking heâs joking, but you see his eyes start to actually scan the pages as he reads. Taking advantage of his distraction, you let yourself look over him. His frizzy hair hangs at his shoulders, bangs pushed to the left side of his forehead. His long body reclines in the chair as he reads, his tongue poking out of his pretty lips. Heâs beautiful.
You canât wait until heâs finished with the book. Then heâll understand what you mean when you say youâd love to be the Jo March to his Friedrich Bhaer.