with fortunately convenient timing, the unnanounced narrative game company founded by former pb employees now has a name! candlelight games, led by none other andrew shvarts aka mr. blades himself (along with his brother daniel), megan schwarz (lead of tna, ame, ds, weh) and royal mcgraw (who headed the original hollywood u and then choices until 2021).
their first project is a fantasy story, so if the series ai acquisition and, most recently, the blades iii ai cover reveal upsets and disappoints you (which it should! fuck ai fr), i'd recommend taking a following to them as i have. i'm looking forward to what's to come!
âVIP should be only about unlimited keyes and bonus diamonds, the early release feature helped kill the fandom and nothingâs gonna change my opinion on this, sadlyâ
POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MODâS PERSONAL OPINIONS!
if it helps, the vip-exclusive books are not that great. bb origins is basically just the lore of the main vampires. stuff we already knew, just fleshed out into full chapters. and the dalton affair is literally tna from samâs perspective (itâs boring). i am genuinely only vip for the extra diamonds and unlimited keys, cus i be replaying books. early access is nice, but it would be better if the books coming out were different genres
I saw some people on reddit bring up the theory that MC probably wasnât constantly asleep the entire year and they did have memories of being experimented on but Valax made them forget. And honestly this would be such a good idea I canât get over it.
Like MC has been so busy so far and they havenât really had time to think about what happened or really reflect, but that could also partly be due to an unconscious coping mechanism from their mind too. It could be one of those things where MCâs mind could be purposely trying to block it out because it was painful/traumatic.
What if in the future chapters, the memories start coming back to MC and they start remembering everything?
Honestly Iâm not confident at all that this is really what the writers are doing, and I also think it would probably be darker than they want for this book. Thereâs also the fact that I think theyâre going to make Valax a LI by the end of the book and they canât really give her a redemption if they say she was doing more painful stuff to MC. But maybe if they do it, they could make it give more backstory to Valax in a flashback scene and show that she was being forced to it by her mother or something like that.
Iâm sorry I keep bringing it up, and I know itâs still VERY early in the book, but if Blades 2 ends up flopping, Iâm not going to be mad, disappointed, etc. Iâm just going to be sad. Actually legitimately sad. Because book one was such an amazing book all around and weâve waited so long for book two.
Part of the issue I have with it right now is, as I mentioned, the pacing. It reminds me a lot of The Royal Heir book one, and I know the two are so different that comparing them is a little silly, but bear with me.
The Royal Heirâs first book, as many, many, many of us remember (đ), had us stuck at the Walker Ranch for nine chapters, eight of which were pure filler, plain and simple. One chapter = one week, so we had eight weeks of filler. And thatâs not even counting the filler we had prior to the Walker Ranch.
After the MC discovered she was pregnant in TRH, the story moved faster. So fast, in fact, that the MCâs pregnancy, the focal point of the story, was almost entirely shown through time-skips.
Blades 2 did not need to wait until chapter five for us to officially begin our journey, especially considering (as mentioned in my previous post) book one of Blades had us already knee-deep in combat with enemies on the high seas in chapter five.
I greatly fear for the book as the pacing already displayed is not great, and after finding out that Andrew was no longer the lead writer, wellâŠthat didnât help.
At this point Iâm hoping they donât TRH the book because I donât know if I can handle seeing yet another mighty series fall.
Not to trigger my Endless Summer ptsd, but the Watcher today saying his strength is waning with his age, and then saying he needs MCâs help to fix the rifts makes me wonderâŠ
Are we going to have to become the next Watcher and live between the realms for the next few millennia, leaving all our friends and loved ones behind?
hereâs the closeted furries âhey man⊠can u bum me a cigâ and âthe one uncle nobody invites to the family reunion but SOMEONE keeps telling him where it is anywaysâ
if you want an idea of what john is like, imagine hau from pokemon sumo
ALSO the ppl who kept asking me for trans thomas art, HERE heâs trans in this au (;Â
âI want the Untameable series to be connected to Crimes of Passion and High School Story. Someone from Crimes of Passion and High School Story needs to make a cameo in Unbridled: An Untameable Storyâ
POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MODâS PERSONAL OPINIONS!
âwhy are you crying?â + âwho cares what they think?â for michael x m!mc â€ïžâ€ïž
Pairing: Michael x M!MC
Prompt: âWhy are you crying?â + âWho cares what they think?â
Word Count: 2100+
Summary: Running late from a play rehearsal, Michael finds Axel crying alone in the auditorium. The boys have to figure out what comes next for themselves and their relationship with each other.
A/N: Requests are open if youâre interested, find my prompts and rules here!!
Michael leans against his locker, his solid form pressed against the cool metal of the locker as he glances at his phone expecting a text from Axel. Typically when running late from cheer or drama Axel is instantly sending out a text on their post school night dates, heâs never forgotten to send a text before now. He frowns, seeing no indication of a message, he glances around the hallways that once bustle with life now decorated with loneliness. He breathes out heavily, shoving his phone into his pocket to go check the auditorium for his boyfriend.
He thinks they might still be rehearsing and lost track of time, he wonders if heâll see Axel wearing another stupid looking costume that only he could make work. He chuckles to himself remembering the George Washington style white wig and outfit in complete disarray that he found Axel wearing trying to rub an intense amount of powder off his face. He pulls open the auditorium doors calling out for Axel getting no response.
His footsteps are loud as he crosses the auditorium stage, nearly echoing with each movement. He scans around for any sign of Axel in the soft darkness with most of the stage lights being out itâs hard to see clearly. He knows Axel should be here, he was meant to be rehearsing a few scenes with Rory and their other co-lead. He frowns to himself again, starting to worry about what mightâve happened to Axel.
As he pulls out his phone to call Axel, he hears a soft sniffling sound from around the corner at the back of the stage. Michael raises an eyebrow as he edges closer to the noise hoping not to startle whoeverâs there and invade their privacy, he might be arrogant but heâs not an asshole. Normally, Michael wouldnât care about some random dude crying in an auditorium. This would be more of Axelâs scope of knowledge, but on the off chance it was Axel, he didnât want to regret walking away leaving his boyfriend to cry by himself.
Coming around the corner he finds Axel with his knees pulled to his chest, tears leaking down his cheeks, trying his hardest not to sniffle loudly. His face angled in a way to try and hide the fact he was crying. Michaelâs heart shatters in his chest, not missing a single beat as he rushes forward pressing a hand to Axelâs back to comfort him. His movements deliberately as comforting as possible.
âSunshine, itâs okay. Iâm here.â His voice soothing as he runs his hand up and down his red and white Berry High Senior Year t-shirt that Axel wore. The fabric is soft to the touch;the two of them have matching shirts thanks to Mr LaHart, Axelâs dad, who bought them the t-shirts. Michael always thought Axel wore it better. Both boys now in their senior year of high school, their entire future staring down at them. âShhh. Youâre okay.â
Michaelâs other arm wraps around Axelâs body, who clings to his arm as though it would save him from being drowned. Michael chuckles to himself, thinking about Axel being the cutest man alive even when absolutely gutted. He canât help himself from whispering sweet nothing to Axel, trying to do anything with his limited knowledge of comforting others to comfort his one true love.
He wonders what went wrong, surely it must be about the play? He didnât realize that the plays meant so much to Axel, he thought he cared more about his cheer team. Cheer co-captain with Sydney now that Mia graduated, he should be ecstatic especially with college scouts seeing his prowess on the field and in the classroom. Heâs had different schools approach him and Sydney to ask about their future and their history practicing the sport of cheerleading. Michael canât deny how much he loves seeing Axel perform especially in their uniform.
Michael places warm kisses to the side of Axelâs face that isnât buried into the fabric of Michaelâs green sweater that he gave him. âGave to himâ being a stretch considering that Michael lent it to him once and now Axel refuses to give it back to him, whether or not he drowned in the fabric or not, Axel didnât care. He always claimed it smelled like Michael and it helps him relax when heâs overstimulated or overwhelmed with life. He can just breathe and remember that he has Michael and it brings him peace.
Michael adores being able to be there for Axel like that, he often found himself incredibly worried he wasnât good enough for Axel; disappointing people still happened to be his biggest fear all this time later. Axel never lets him think that though, any doubt that crosses Michaelâs mind is quickly whisked away by Axelâs comforting and loving words to remind him how much he loves him. Michael knows itâs his turn to return the favor.
âWhy are you crying?â Michael whispers against Axelâs skins, his warm lips kissing away the tears that burned his lover's handsomely gentle features. He draws Axel deeper into his arms, watching as the cheerleader sobs louder clinging tightly onto Michaelâs dark gray t-shirt, his face burying itself into the warm crook of Michaelâs neck. âItâs okay, youâre okay, shhh.â
Michaelâs heart aches in his chest. He wants to take away all the pain Axel has ever felt or ever will feel, he wants to protect him from the world and then some. If anyone makes him cry, Michael will ruin their entire life and give them a black eye, he doesnât care who. Seeing Axel cry this hard made him want to die.
Minutes pass by with Axel sobbing into Michaelâs arms still, before he finally starts to relax. His throat raw and hoarse from crying, as he hides himself away from the world still buried in Michaelâs comforting embrace. Michaelâs hands soothingly rub his boyfriendâs back, coaxing Axel into relaxing and to not cry himself into pure exhaustion. A shaky breath leaves his lips as he turns to look at Michaelâs face, cupping his cheeks. Gray eyes stare intently at Axel, full of love and admiration for the cheerleader.
âYouâre not going to break up with me right?â Axel whimpers, sniffling loudly.
âWhat?â Michael gasps, nearly angry trying to stop himself from making a face. âWho the fuck told you that? Iâd never consider it. Ever. Seriously.â
Michael pulls Axel protectively into his lap, his hands resting Axelâs waist tightening his hold on the cheerleader who grips Michaelâs shoulders with his own hands holding him fiercely.
âI know, I know,â Axel whines, âIâm sorry. Iâm overthinking. I just feel really lost lately, my love.â
âI already told you, long distance or not, weâre not breaking up Axel. Youâre my entire world and then some.â Michael comforts him, the hands on his waist move comfortingly up and down his lower to mid back. âYouâre my sunshine forever.â
Axel giggles sweetly between his sniffles. âGod, I just- ugh. Itâs something Rory said about Skye and Esme during rehearsal. She didnât know if theyâd survive graduating high school like you and I are. And then Danielle, ugh sheâs driving me insane.â
âWho cares what they think?â Michael murmurs softly.
âI donât, I really donât.â Axel reassures quickly, he draws in a long breath wiping the back of his hand against his nose. He brushes away the remaining tears on his face, breathing out a relaxing breath before talking again. âSkye and Bailey are perfect for each other, you know? They remind me of us in a way. And then hearing Rory say that and then Danielle having to add her two cents into everything like weâre supposed to care.â
Michael laughs at the annoyed sigh that leaves Axelâs lips. âSorry,â he instantly adds after seeing the death glare that Axel shot at him, the corner of his lips struggling to stop himself from laughing at his boyfriendâs adorable display.
âUgh,â Axel feigns annoyance, âAnyways, remember how I told you I applied at University of Cedar Cove,â Axel asks, continuing once Michael nods in response, âthey accepted me. Which, itâs fine. Whatever. I wanted to go there so weâd still be together not because they were that great. But Cornell accepted me, they want me on their athletics team full scholarship Michael.â
âThatâs fucking amazing, Axel.â Michael grins, pulling back to look him in the eyes, his hand moving to cup Axelâs cheeks still wet with tears that poured out of them moments ago. âIâm so proud of you.â
Michael peppers Axelâs face in sweet kisses, from his nose, his lips, his cheeks, even his eyelids. Axel giggles loudly pushing on Michaelâs chest in a mock display to get him to stop. Michael doesnât, tightening his grip around Axelâs waist holding him close to his body kissing him instantly on the lips.
âThank you.â He murmurs as Michael stops, Axelâs hands still tightly holding the fabric of Michaelâs t-shirt. He sniffles again, letting his head fall to the side looking into Michaelâs warm and comforting gray eyes, trying to hide the sad smile. âBut itâs⊠itâs really far away.â
âSo?â Michael shrugs taking in Axelâs dreamy features, he too hides his own sad smile. The thought of being so far away kills Michael inside, but he wants more than anything for Axel to follow his dreams, âit was one of your dream schools. Youâre going. Youâll learn and youâre going to put on that cheer uniform, do some wild looking dances and look hot as fuck.â
âShut up,â Axel laughs sweetly his thumbs stroking Michaelâs features, âitâs in New York. Thatâs like 3000 miles away, Mr. Harrison. I canât handle being away from you⊠let alone my dad.â
âOh.â Michael whispers.
Axel nods, unable to fight back his sad smile. Michael tries to ignore it, his brain in mental turmoil, this wasnât their first time talking about the future but then it felt so far away. Even the beginning of the year it felt like it was years away, now one month away from graduation they canât deny how quickly and overwhelming it felt.
âSo what?â Michael shrugs despite his mental, âYouâll come home for breaks and I can come visit you. Weâll figure it out. Same for your dad.â
âI know we will,â Axel sighs, âI want to tell them no.â
âNo.â Michael quickly interjects. âYouâre not allowed to tell them no.â
âSince when do you-â
âSince now.â Michael laughs, âYouâre not telling them no. Your dad and I will manage without you, and heâd beat himself up if you gave up your dreams for him.â
âBut-â
âNo.â
âMichael.â
âAxel.â
Axel shakes his head despite himself, heâs laughing as he pushes himself up out of Michaelâs lap reaching out for Michaelâs hands. Michael takes them instantly letting himself be pulled to his feet. Axel leads Michael to the middle of the stage, Michaelâs eyes looking around the stage and sets with new found wonder. He arches his eyebrow, turning back to Axel.
âDo you really think weâll be together forever?â Axel asks softly.
âFuck yeah.â Michael laughs, earning himself a laugh from Axel as well whose face flushes red. He ducks his head down to hide his smile. âI mean it.â
âYou promise? Forever and even then some?â
âI promise.â Michael answers, he reaches into his pocket to retrieve a small green band with a silver outline. âLook.â
âItâs pretty.â Axel smiles, turning it over in his fingers. âI didnât know you wore rings.â
âI donât,â Michael laughs, âthatâs for you. A promise ring. I got it out of a stupid ass gashapon at Morganâs job.â
âBig spender.â Axel teases as he slides the plastic ring onto his finger. He twists it around his ring finger, unable to suppress the smile on his face, which in turn makes Michael smile. âPretty good for 50 cents. And your signature color, green.â
â75 actually.â Michael corrects him. âGreen matches my eyes.â He says with a silly dramatic flair grinning at the laugh that leaves Axelâs lips.
âOooh, even bigger spender.â
Michael crosses the stage taking Axelâs into his arms, his hand finding Axelâs own to twist the ring around his finger with a grin. He brings Axelâs hands to his lips, kissing his inner wrist. Michaelâs lips trace from Axelâs wrist to his palm, down to the tips of Axelâs fingers. Axelâs features blushing red as he bites his lower lip.
Michael draws Axel into a hug, his arms securely around his torso, breathing in the scent of his cologne.
âYou know, earlier I imagine thatâs how Taylor Swift felt when she wrote that line you like so much. The âI pictured you with other girls in love, then threw up on the streetâ.â
Michael laughs loudly, âYouâre ridiculous. I donât like Taylor Swift.â
âI love you Michael Harrison.â Axel whispers sweetly biting back a smile at his antics, his hands around Michaelâs neck as he sways them back and forth slowly.
He presses his lips against Axelâs own, capturing him in a passionate kiss. His lips heavy against Axelâs own, as their tongues meet with a satisfying hum. Michael memorizes the taste of Axelâs lips and the warmth of his breath so even when theyâre far away he can always remember the pleasure of kissing him.
âi canât think of a life that doesnât have you in it.â + âdarling, your heart is too pure for me.â for kieran x m!mc â€ïž
Pairing: Kieran x M!MC (Suggestive)
Prompt: âI canât think of a life that doesnât have you in it.â + âDarling, your heart is too pure for me.â
Word Count: 2500+
Summary: Luke takes it upon himself to share a handful of silly human traditions that he thinks would be fun for the pair to do together. Kieran, however, struggles to find the amusement in them.
A/N: Requests are open, find the rules and prompts here! This request is suggestive, alludes to Luke and Kieran doing the deed in the garden.
Fingers lace together as the sun shines upon them, lighting their way down the path and letting everyone who happens upon them know they are together by the simplest acts of love. Jet black wavy hair cascades down the older oneâs shoulders, framing his face handsomely in the glow of the warming sun. Despite his moon attunement, he still found comfort in the warmth of the sun, reminding him of the man he loves and the warmth he feels in his chest just upon seeing his stunning features. He draws his lover to a stop, turning to look him in the eyes. Ravens caw happily to one another above them, circling them with interest watching their every movement and the ways in which they react to one another.
Today would mark the sixth month since Luke cursed his lover and lifted the curse all in the same day, finding both men in a celebratory mood. His eyes glance upwards at the piercing gaze from the fairy holding him at arms length now, his fingers tight against Lukeâs skin - comforting despite the firmness of his grasp. Though his eyes are piercing, his smile contrasts it with warmth, a nearly inviting energy - a look solely saved for Luke.
Kieran couldnât stop his feelings, the way he loved Luke was pure and real. He loved his voice, the curves of his body, his perky bottom, his laugh, the way he tells the worse jokes the moon fairy has ever heard, quite frankly he could go on for hours alone about his admiration for Lukeâs kind eyes that shined brightly just for him and him alone. He wanted to spend the rest of eternity with Luke in his arms and by his side, loving him from the moment the moon sets to the warmth of the midday sun.
âIâve been thinking,â Kieran hums, âI just find myself grateful for you.â
Luke bats his eyelashes sweetly, a blush spreading over his cheeks. âAnd I for you, Kieran. Youâve shown me a world I never wouldâve been apart of had it not been for you.â
Luke pulls on Kieranâs arms towards the water fountain in the garden, it glistens with perfect crystal clear water. The sun reflects from the fountain, nearly blinding, lighting up the gold and marble material of the fountainâs foundations. Luke sits down on the edge, beckoning Kieran to join him with a sweet smile. His fingers dragging over the smooth marble with wonderment listening to the water trickling down from the faucet with a soft pitter patter of relaxation.
Kieran takes the seat beside him rather swiftly, his fingertips instantly dipping into the water swishing the cold liquid around with content. They sit in silence enjoying one anotherâs company, lulled into the comfort from the sound of running water and the occasional squawk from one of the crows that watch the pair with keen interest all this time later. Lukeâs fingers brush Kieranâs in the water, the pair meeting eyes comfortably.
The cold water is comforting against his cool skin, his former nightself would often find himself dipping into the fountain to sip down some water when he found himself exhausted from flying. It nearly brought him to his old self from the beast he was. But truthfully only one thing ever has and ever will be capable of breaking his curse, his darling.
His eyes turn to his darling who fishes around his pocket looking for something, his head tilting to the side to consider what Luke could possibly need at a time like this. Not a second later, Luke pulls a coin from his pocket, the gold nugget heavy in his palm as he reaches for Kieranâs free hand, dropping the gold in his loverâs palm. Kieran gives him a quizzical look, his interest piqued.
âAnd whatever should I do with this?â Kieran inquires.
Luke grins, âItâs used to make a wish.â
âA wish? Is this a human tradition Iâm not too familiar with?â
âEssentially,â Luke smiles. âYou make a wish and toss it into the fountain and itâs said that your dreams will come true. So indulge me and make a wish, please? For me?â
Lukeâs pouty eyes struck a chord within Kieranâs heart, the corner of his lips quirking into a smile. He canât deny how much he adores when Luke pouts or begs him to do something, it sends a blaze through his chest and makes him think of long nights theyâve spent together in person or in the dream world when both of them were away from one another unable to be together. He flicks the coin around in his hand, he knew it would matter to Luke if he didnât partake in this human tradition and frankly he found it less brash than other activities the human tried to convince him to partake in.
Kieran nods in agreement, his eyes looking up to the sky with interest. He wonders what more he could wish for when what he wanted most in the world is sitting beside him at the fountain. When his eyes meet Lukeâs, theyâre adoring, shining with what could only be described as love, he knows what he must wish for. He wishes to spend the rest of their days loving one another, together alone in the house or with company as long as they could sneak off together and be alone. He would love to spend every afternoon staring in wonderment at the fountain with Lukeâs hands in his, knees brushing against one another, delighting in the warmth of Lukeâs skin against his cold hands.
He flicks the coin up into the air, the pair watching as the coin sails high into the sky before falling back down with a plop into the water letting a few droplets of water splash against the men sitting there. He considers the way the coin slowly sinks to the bottom, surely he knew there would be no instant gratification but it puzzled him slightly what enjoyment anyone could get out of a silly little wish.
âWhat did you wish for, my love?â Luke whispers.
âI thought human superstition said wishes could not come true if spoken aloud?â Kieran hums.
Luke pushes his arm gently, âBut youâre not human. Maybe itâs different.â
âI highly doubt it to be.â Kieran challenges.
Luke rolls his eyes, despite the gesture heâs smiling still. He lingers in Kieranâs touch a few moments before pushing himself up from the fountain, letting his eyes wander to a bush blooming with flowers. He walks over to the bushes nearby plucking a flower from one of them that glistens in the warmth of the sun, examining the violet hues with keen interest. He returns to his lover sitting beside him so their thighs touch once more. He nuzzles his head against Kieranâs showing off the flower to him wondering if the fae played silly games like this as a kid with their crushes. Mayhaps they were more formal, their traditions vast and hearty its quite possible they had more elaborate ways to partake in he loves me, he loves me.
âWould you like to partake in another human custom?â
âI would,â Kieran purrs, only because itâs you however, he thinks to himself but doesnât speak the words out loud.
âPerfect.â
He brings the violet bluebell to Kieranâs face, letting the petals brush softly against his nose before turning the flower away from his lover. His fingers dance around the petals, theyâre soft against his fingertips, they both could smell the sweet aroma dancing off the freshly plucked flower. This in turn made them relax further into one anotherâs hold, Kieran sighing with content at the solidness of Lukeâs body against his own. Kieran nuzzles Lukeâs neck, nipping and placing sweet kisses against his sensitive skin already placated with the whims of his love. A smile pulling at the corner of his lips as Luke giggles under his touch, squirming around in his loving embrace.
His fingers snatch one of the petals off the flower in his hand turning to the water watching as it drifts down to the waterâs surface, Kieranâs face tucked into the warmth of Lukeâs neck watching as the petal floats with the soft breeze.
âHe loves me,â Luke smiles.
âMe?â Kieran brows furrowed in puzzlement.
âMmhmm,â Luke nods, âHe loves me not.â
Another flower petal floats down to the water fountain.
âI so do love you, my darling. How could you even question such a thing?!â He growls, reaching to snatch the flower away from Lukeâs hands, who quickly maneuvers it above his head, holding it outside of Kieranâs reach. He raises an eyebrow at Kieran as their faces are mere centimeters apart. âThis tradition is silly, a waste of time.â
âItâs just for fun,â Luke breathes against his lips. âIf we are truly meant to be, the flower will have enough petals to end with he loves me.â
Kieran huffs, âProsterious. How can a simple little flower predict all of that?â
âHe loves me,â Luke replies purposely ignoring his questions, dropping another petal into the fountain, his pink lips ghosting Kieranâs pulling him deeper into him. He lets out an annoyed breath, his teeth flaring with annoyance at the game theyâre playing. âHe loves me.â
The petal floats down to the water.
âHe loves me not.â
âI love you.â Kieran purrs against Luke, letting his lips briefly find Lukeâs. He sucks with urgency, claiming Lukeâs lips as his own, his teeth find purchase on his lower lip drawing a moan and a gasp from the human. Luke pulls away flushed, he looks away with embarrassment.
âLook at me when I talk to you.â
Luke reluctantly returns his gaze, plucking another petal off the flower. âHe loves me.â
âMust we keep playing?â
âItâs just a fun little game.â
âI donât like it, he loves you so why bother with this.â
Despite Kieranâs protests, Luke pushes his luck, plucking another petal off the flower. It lands gracefully in the water, the sun illuminating the flow of water with hues of violet that look breathtaking to Luke. Luke draws a single finger down Kieranâs chest watching his angry gaze glaze over into surprise before Luke surprises him by plucking another petal watching as it falls between them into the water. He plucks another petal. And another. Until itâs the final one.
âHe loves me.â
âHe does.â Kieranâs eyes blaze with admiration. âHe loves you so much.â
âHeâd better.â Luke grins. âI canât think of a life that doesnât have you in it.â
âYour heart is too pure for me.â Kieran whispers, âI still canât fathom you falling for me and continuing to feel that way even with my heart no longer inside you.â
âTo me,â Luke begins, âYour heart piece will always be inside me. You are the moon in the sky that guides me home, our love burns brighter than even the sun when Radiance turned the world into an eternal day. You are my forever and always, my love.â
Though heâd never admit, he swoons at the way Luke speaks of him so lovingly. Pink lips meet his own drawing him into a soft sweetness heâs come to adore. Before he could never find himself enjoying the gentleness of being loved by a man like Luke, now he canât picture his own life without Luke. Their sentiments mirror each other, another indication that Luke would be his soulmate until their dying breath. He wouldnât dare live another moment more without Luke by his side. His love is more powerful than anyone heâs ever loved before.
âYou are quite poetic when you try, my darling,â Kieran jeers sweetly. âI would pluck the moon from the sky if you asked me to, Luke. I hope you know that. You are the warmth to my chill of the night. You make me a better man. And lover.â
Kieran watches with interest as Luke boldly closes more of the space between them, his hand moving to touch Kieranâs thigh with interest and he can smell the mint on Kieranâs lips. He exhales shakily letting his eyes fall open to meet Kieranâs gaze. Kieranâs hand moves to Lukeâs encasing it with his own, letting his fingertips brush back and forth against his skin. He moves his head in to lead the kiss, their lips meeting in a heated frenzy.
Neither can pull away as Kieran pulls Luke into his lap, his hand sliding into his hair to find purchase holding him against him. Luke whines under Kieranâs mercy, his body reacting and his lungs losing air. He moans loudly as teeth connect with his lip, biting down hard enough to draw blood, watching helplessly as Kieran soothes the wound with his tongue watching it heal under his touch as he enjoys the taste of Lukeâs metallic blood.
He pulls away resting his forehead against Lukeâs, both breathing heavily against one another. Lukeâs hands connect with Kieranâs chest, using him to keep himself up as he continues to pant against his mouth.
âSorry, I got carried away.â Kieran grins deviously.
âOh, is that so?â Luke laughs, âoops.â
With one swift motion a wave of water comes crashing over Kieran, Lukeâs hand lost in the sea of the fountain. Kieran sits stunned momentarily as petals and water cover him before a sly smile begins to cross his features.
âLuke.â
Before he can say anything further Luke dashes out of Kieranâs lap laughing loudly as he runs around the fountain. Kieran now dips his hand into the water sending out a wave back at his lover, it splashes over him with effort.
âCold ...cold..cold..â Luke cries, his body shivering under the cold temperature of the fountain. âTruce! Truce! I surrender Prince Kieran!â
âAbsolutely not,â Kieran loudly contests, before splashing another wave in Lukeâs direction who nearly avoids most of the splash zone. âCome back here!â
âNO!â
Luke reaches into the fountain letting the water splash over Kieran again who gasps at the freezing water against his cool skin. The pair chase each other around the fountain as birds squawk above them keen on watching the match unfold before them. Kieran comes out victorious pinning Luke in his arms as they both drip with water grinning at one another.
âI love you Prince Kieran.â
âAnd I love you Luke.â
âNow how about I get you out of these wet clothes and dry you off myself, hm?â Luke offers with a mischievous grin, his eyes burning with lust meeting Kieranâs gaze whoâs hands clasp Lukeâs body against his own. âHere, Iâll start now.â
He grins as his hands move against the buttons of Kieranâs shirt, Kieran watching in amazement at the boldness, he almost considers pinning Luke against the fountain and having his way with him in that instant. The way his hands are nimble and warm against his bare skin letting him remove his shirt, shooting warmth through his body which only his darling can elicit from him. He groans as fingertips massage into cold wet skin before Luke leans in close, kissing him on the collarbone. His tongue drags against the bone lapping up the droplets of water that remain on his skin.
Kieranâs hands are heavy in Lukeâs hair, letting his head fall back in pleasure as his darling continues to lick up water droplets off his skin. His tongue roaming every inch of his chest and abs, a satisfied smirk spreading against Kieranâs lips. He leads Lukeâs head lower and lower until the pair find themselves submerged in each otherâs bodies. Not a single hesitation from either of them to be in the garden where any wandering eyes could catch them in their acts. Kieran lays Luke against the grassy ground flowers gleaming around him nearly as picturesque as Luke is, both men lost in love, lust, and admiration for one another.
âafter everything weâve been through, you still donât think that i love you?â for andy x mc â€ïž
Pairing: Andy x M!MC
Prompt: âAfter everything weâve been through, you still donât think that I love you?!â
Word Count: 1800+
Summary: The night of Andy and Kendallâs first college homecoming together rolls around. What should be fun, partying, and dancing soon turns south when the pair sneak out for a moment alone together.
A/N: please enjoy đ„ș Iâll be opening requests if anyone is interested. Rules and Prompts.
College students shuffle about an auditorium as music pounds loudly in the air, the schoolâs homecoming in full swing. Sweat and vintage cologne and perfume fills the air with an intoxicatingly disgusting aroma as bodies collide dancing in tune to the music that threatens to deafen them. The 70s theme brings most of the party goers decked out in fun high fashion, long skirts and dresses, a plethora of denim jackets, and paisley patterns used in an almost nauseating display of colors, styles, and fits.
Andy and Kendall find themselves wrapped up in one anotherâs arms, completely oblivious to the rest of the world. Their friends have separated as well, dancing with their own dates or each other for those who went stag. Kendallâs hand tightens around Andyâs as he spins them about the dance floor before pulling them in close, kissing him on the back of his ear.
âAre you having fun?â Andy asks sweetly into his ear.
Andy grins, holding him close in his arms. They sway to the music just enjoying each otherâs company feeling like the only two people alive. Kendall realizes how lucky he was to somehow end up picking the same college that offered Andy a full ride scholarship with his athleticism, a college pro-league basketball player. Granted, heâs a year above Andy, heâs glad to be able to enjoy the next three years together and even more grateful he doesnât have to wait for them both to be in town to hangout and make out. Neither wanted long distance, but they wouldâve made it work for each other.
His fingers tighten around Kendallâs shoulder, his arms taunt and strong around Kendallâs smaller frame. He felt safe in Andyâs arms, enjoying the feeling of swaying together to the tender loving ballad filling the warm air around them. The smell of Andyâs cologne tantalizing and delicious in his nostrils, he wants to capture this moment and remember it forever. Solid shoulders and the sweet masculine aroma radiating off his gorgeous and perfect boyfriend, what more could a man ask for?
âThough,â Kendall chimes in, twisting in Andyâs arms to face him with a grin. His hands moving to the lapels of Andyâs suit, his touch light as a feather as his fingers drag along the velvety fabric with little friction. âWhat if we just⊠I donât know⊠disappeared for a while. Together. Alone. Just me and you.â
Andy smiles cooly at him, âI would love that more than anything. Or whatever.â Clearing his throat with a blush spreading warmth across his cheeks.
Kendall pushes him on the chest with a teasing scuff before leading him out of the auditorium to something more secluded. Unlucky for them, a handful of other couples have the same idea, they walk around corners of the campus auditorium building finding more and more couples who have broken off to make out in secrecy. They giggle to themselves as they make a rush to go outside for that alone time, the cold autumn night chill nipping at their fingers and face. They jostle about between one another, hand in hand with exuberant laughter the pair finding themselves in a world of their own creation.
Andyâs hands are warm and comforting as the pair find themselves now having wandered into the courtyard sitting on a freezing cold bench. Thigh to thigh, Andy brings Kendallâs hands to his mouth breathing warm air against the freezing cold skin to keep him warm. Kendall blushes in the cold night air watching as his boyfriend warms him up in the night breeze. He sighs in relief getting a quirk of an eyebrow from Andy in response.
âHmm?â
âNothing.â Kendall reassures, âitâs a relieved sigh. Iâm just⊠I donât know, I guess I just feel so happy.â
âIs that so?â Andy inquiries as he moves on the bench to turn and face Kendall, their knees brushing together. Cold hands tucked between Andyâs warm ones. âAll because of your sexy badass boyfriend?â
Kendall nods with a laugh, âOnly because of my sexy badass boyfriend. But really though, I know itâs stupid, but I didnât come to homecoming last year. I wasâŠ. Scared I suppose. So itâs nice that we have had an entire homecoming together with no monster attacks.â
âYet,â Andy teases with a grin. Kendall rolls his eyes. âIâm teasing you.â
âI know.â Kendall nods thoughtfully trying to force a smile to his features, âI just want to have a sincere moment with you. No goofy, no laughs, just us.â
âJeez,â Andy clears his throat, âIâm sorry. I didnât realize it meant so much to you.â
âItâs okay.â
Silence falls over the pair as they stare out at the stars above them, hands that once found themselves intertwined now pulled away and resting in their respective laps. The wind whisks against the pair, the cool night air that was once refreshing moments ago now feels bitter with a kiss of frostbite at the awkwardness created between the pair.
Kendall only feels safe with Andy anymore, having barely survived the night with Noah, Jane, and Mr Redfield he couldnât force himself to relax or calm down unless Andy was with him. Especially in large groups, it's Andyâs comforting presence that calms him down and makes him feel grounded in such unusual experiences. He knows full well he shouldnât have taken the tone he did with Andy, but he couldnât help himself, his brain doesnât work the way it should sometimes. He just wants to share a special moment and feel the love that he feels for Andy back.
Andy sighs, he hated this. Lately theyâve been arguing more and he could never quite figure out why, everything seemed so perfect to them from his eyes. He wanted to crawl inside of Kendallâs head poking around until he learned what plagues his wonderful boyfriendâs mind. He scoots closer on the bench before pulling Kendall into his embrace, his hands running up and down on Kendallâs own. He wants to take the pain away from Kendall, he knows Kendall never fully opened up about what happened in those ruins with Jane and Noah, he knows how it affects the way Kendall acts and he wishes he could fix that pain every second of every day.
He nuzzles into his neck, peppering soft kisses against the smooth skin he finds. His arms tightening around Kendallâs body, soothing hands running up and down his arms to help soothe the ache in his bones and mental fatigue.
âTell me whatâs wrong, babe.â Andy whispers sweetly, his lips moving from the warmth of his boyfriendâs cheek.
âWhy havenât you said it yet?â
Andy faces scrunches with confusion. âSaid what?â
âThat you love me.â His voice cracks, shattering both of their hearts in a way that makes Andyâs heart stop beating.
âWhat?â Andy scoffs and laughs all at the same time. âAfter everything weâve been through, you still donât think I love you?!â
Kendall sniffles, âIâm sorry. Iâm sorry. Iâm being crazy - I justâŠâ he groans loudly, a mixture of wanting to scream until he feels normal or less pent up in chest. He knows deep down Andy loves him, but with the reunion thoughts of Noah heâs unable to think clearly, the trauma coming in treacherous waves. He couldnât stop himself from feeling suffocated; he could still feel the searing burn of Redfieldâs claws. âYou havenât said it yet. I just - Iâm overthinking I guess. Weâve been exclusively dating for a year. You asked me out at the year reunion of what happened and I waited and WAITED and waited for you to finally say it back and you havenât. I just wish I could feel normal and think normal, but everything feels so intense and suffocating.â
âKendall,â he says sweetly, âI love you.â
âYouâre just saying that.â
âIâm not.â Andy reassures, hands finding resolve on Kendallâs warm cheeks, the contact instantly melting the both of them. His fingers brush against the smooth skin of his face, his thumb dancing dangerously against his lower lip with a cheeky grin. âI seriously canât believe you didnât think I loved you, after everything weâve been through. Youâre my rock. My world. I guess I never thought to say it because I thought you knew.â
âItâs just nice to hear.â Kendall sniffles, his face nuzzling against Andyâs fingers that have continued to warm against his skin.
Fingers brush tears away, âI promise you, I love you more than Iâve ever loved another person in my entire life. You are my entire world, Kendall. And then some.â
Kendall laughs sweetly, the tears that roll down his cheeks constantly getting brushed away as Andy leans in to kiss him sweetly where the tears fall. The lingering taste of salt under his kisses remind him heâs real and this moment is real. His heart surges with love for his adoring boyfriend.
âYouâre my world too, you know.â Kendall whispers against his hands, his lips drawing a sweet kiss to the inside of Andyâs wrist. âIâm sorry. Iâve been feeling weird lately, I guess with the two year reunion I havenât felt like myself. Like Iâm constantly worrying about making sure youâre okay and that if something happens youâll be okay and-â
âYouâre perfect.â Andy whispers, âdonât apologize. I love you. I love you. I love you.â
âI love you more.â Kendall whispers sweetly. His fingers enclosing Andyâs hand bringing it to his lips, kissing each fingertip softly. Before letting Andyâs hand cup his cheek once more letting himself enjoy the warmth he craves.
âI love you most.â
âI love-â
âShut up, Iâm gonna win this because my love for you is more than your love for me.â Andy grins, the pair staring at one another for a long silent second before blushing fiercely with a sweet laugh from the both of them. Adoring eyes continue to gaze into one another with intensity. A force that draws them together pulling at the both of them.
One of the hands on Kendallâs cheeks moved to the nape of his neck drawing him into Andyâs warm waiting mouth. Kendall laughs earnestly, letting Andyâs lips capture him in a head spinning kiss, the warmth of their faces against one another and the heat from Andyâs breath making him shudder involuntary from the cold around them.
âNot possible.â
âVery possible, now shut up and kiss me again.â
Andy pulls Kendall into a long kiss, heat passion and so much love behind each one. His fingers danced along the smooth skin of Kendallâs face down to his shoulders meeting the fabric of the suit he wore. He draws Kendall in closer, their bodies flush against one another feeling the warmth of each otherâs bodies radiating off one another.
Andyâs lips are insistent and hungry, his cold hands warm against Kendallâs warm skin drawing every ounce of warmth he can. Tongues clash innocently before Kendallâs head inclined to the left, deepening their kiss. That needy feeling suffocating in his chest at feeling all of the love and passion in every moment theyâve spent together and every moment they will spend together.
Gasps leave Kendallâs mouth as he nuzzles his forehead against Andyâs trying to calm himself down, his heartbeat racing with frenzy. His mind hazy and disorienting, the only thought swirling around his head. I love you. I love you. I love you.
âI love you Andy Kang.â
Andy grins stealing one final kiss, âI love you more Kendall Devâon. Almost as much as I love kissing you.â
âyouâve been drinking tonight, havenât you?â + âwhat did you expect?â for trystan x m!mc â€ïž
Pairing: Trystan x M!MC
Prompt: âYouâve been drinking tonight, havenât you?â + âWhat did you expect?â
Word Count: 2200+
Summary: Charlie finds himself drunk and alone at the Drunk Tank after the colossal disappoint of Trystan taking the throne. Drowning his sorrows, heâs found himself face to face with the problemâ no his loverâ no the reason for all of his problems. But Detective Rose always did have a soft spot under all his thorns.
Thank you for reading! I hope you liked it! đ„șđ«¶đ»
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Shadows trickle over the Drunk Tank as early morning bar patrons drift from one bar to another in their attempts to recapture their lives, enjoy a night out with friends, or sulk in the pain of their alcoholism. Charlie Rose finds himself once more seven shots in, the soft rhythm of country music playing from the speakers making him almost frustrated by the optimism about love, life, and happiness. Bitterness eating away at the edges of his mental, he wanted peace from the thoughts that weighed down his soul.
So what? So what if Trystan picked the throne that betrayed him over him. So what if Trystan felt it was the right decision, he shouldâve seen this coming a mile away. A pretty face and nice body is all Trystan was good for anyways. His detective work needed help, he was helpless, he weighed him down and made his life worse Charlie tried to reason with himself.
He breathes out heavily glancing at his phone that chimes insistently.
Ruby: Hi Charlie, I know youâre not okay. If you need anything please reach out. I feel like we're good friends now so I can say this and it is not weird. I care about you deeply. Luke and I will be here when or if youâre ready.
Marguerite: Charlie please come back to Drakovia. I canât stand to see the way this is tearing you and my brother apart. You BELONG together. Please just let me know if you need help getting back into the country.
He laughs bitterly. Belongs together, my ass, he reads bitterly. He tosses his phone over his shoulder not wanting to waste his mental capacity reading mind numbing text he wonât reply to. He appreciates their concern, but heâs a lone wolf at the end of the day, he works, lives, and breathes on his own - he doesnât need other people ruining his flow for no good reason. He doesnât need a repeat of Trystan. He throws back a shot reaching for another bottle of whiskey, his current one having now been long downed.
He couldnât care about the consequences or the stern talking to Tommy will give him in the morning. Tommy would understand, he rationalizes to himself, true or not. His chest felt like liquid fire, a burning sensation coating every muscle and fiber inside him. He downs the shot he just poured trying to rationalize in his head everything that happened tonight. A grimace passes his features, sucking down another shot. He couldnât figure out how many he had at this point, one? Ten? Fifteen?
As he slams the shot glass against the table top he hears the creak of the door, instantly jumping to his feet pulling the taser from his waist hoisting it to aim at the shadow looking at him.
âCharlie?â
He softens for a split second hearing the tone of the shadowâs voice, his shoulders relaxing with comfort. He lowers the taser, his resolution toughening, squaring his shoulders. He clears his throat, setting the taser on the table, feeling nearly defiant or threatening towards one of the few men heâs ever truly loved. Love. He laughs to himself with a sigh shaking his head to himself. He falls into his chair ignoring Trystanâs presence, pouring himself another shot. He fills one of his empty shot glasses with a shot for his lover, the word once felt fulfilling and tantalizing now makes his chest feel devoid of emotion.
âShot?â His voice was heavy with drunkenness.
âSure,â He swallows heavily, his eyes traveling over Charlieâs form. He takes a moment to fall into the seat across from Charlie, drinking in the sight of his lover. His heart sinking deep into his chest, he feels it could fall out of his body as they speak. He forces a smile, the one that used to make Charlie melt and agree to whatever nonsense Trystan was about to rope him into. âYou still look hot, jet lagged and all.â
âHa.â Charlie replies sarcastically, âYou look terrible.â
âCharlieâŠâ
âStop. Now.â Charlie brings his shot glass to his lips, his eyes intently staring at Trystanâs before swallowing down the drink with resentment. He coughs deep from within his chest, breathing out a deep breath before dropping the shot glass carelessly onto the table without much thought. He lets his head fall back with exhaustion, dragging in a deep breath before exhaling trying to calm himself down. âWhat are you doing here Trystan?â
âYouâve been drinking tonight, havenât you?â Trystan asks with care.
Charlie laughs. And laughs. And laughs. âWhat did you expect?â
âI donât know.â He answers honestly, âYou to stay in Drakovia with me.â
He snorts. âGive up my career for you to play king in a country that hates you, with family that betrays you and treats you like shit and not to mention tried to frame you for murder twice, for a crown you donât even fucking want to wear. And that tried to poison me. Hard pass.â
âYou donât understand everything about me and my family, you of all people should know family is⊠difficult.â Trystan replies, he sighs resting his hand against his forehead. âI have an obligation to myself and to my country.â
âAs if thatâs ever stopped you before.â Charlie replies, âYou ever stopped to care about your country the four years you ran away from home to prance around the world being an entitled dickwad?â
âIt wasnât like that and you know it, Charlie.â Trystan sighs, âI didnât come here to fight with you.â
âYou came here to beg me to come to Drakovia, itâs a wonderful country. Youâll love it. You can be a king with me. We can live happily ever after. Grow the fuck up Trystan. Happily ever after doesnât fucking exist and you know it. You wasted your time coming here. Call Margurite, get your private jet ready, and go the fuck home.â
Trystan tries to hide the hurt that ripples across his features, his caring smile now a thin line of regret. He wanted to conclude that he shouldnât have come. He knew Charlie wouldnât give up the life he lives and he knew Charlie would be brutal; despite it all itâs one of the things he loves most about Charlie. He still canât force himself to truly, fully regret coming. He wants more than anything to take away the hurt and pain in Charlieâs chest knowing he caused it and there would be no easy way to fix it between them.
He reaches out his hand taking Charlieâs, seeing a flash of pain and love crossing Charlieâs handsome features, making his heartache fiercely in his chest. His finger soothes back and forth against smooth skin, trying to lull him into calming down. Charlie fights to hold back tears, his body on the verge of shaking with sobs he refuses to let out of his bloodshot misty eyes watching Trystan cautiously.
Charlie fights himself to pull away from the comforting warmth of Trystanâs touch. He has flashbacks to the night he left, watching Trystan pull away and detach himself from him. The curves of his body and his firm abs under his fingers as he longingly tries to capture the feeling of heat rushing through his body. His heart burns in his chest, the ache that felt as horrendous earlier felt even worse now with the love of his life holding him. He wants to kiss his stupid face, hold him in his arms, deck him, cry, anything really. Anything to let out the feelings corrupting his brain, burying his heart in a pit of darkness.
âIâm sorry.â
âDonât apologize.â Trystan whispers, letting himself move closer to Charlie, remaining a safe distance away to not overwhelm his lover. His fingers tighten around Charlieâs hand to help him steady himself, watching the way his chest rises and falls. âIâm sorry too.â
âI just donât understand why.â Charlie whispers. âWeâre partners. We have a crew. A home. Our home. Our lives.â
Trystanâs heart shudders in his chest, thinking of his apartment building decked out memories of their time together. Their love and life. He moves to sit beside Charlie, reaching out with his free hand to cup his loverâs cheek with a sad smile. His fingers are warm against his skin, he wants to remember this feeling until he dies. The warmth that radiates off skin and the way that despite himself, Charlie still nuzzles against his hand like he always has.
âI love you, you know that. Itâs not easy for me to let go of everything we made.â
âLove isnât enough. I canât move with you.â Charlie sighs. âI have Tommy. The team. A life here. A life that you promised to be in forever. Itâs not fair of you to ask me to give up everything..and itâs even less fair of me to ask you to do the same.â
âWe can move the crew to Drakovia, start it up here. And Tommy would love it here, we can get him a pub, decorate it the way he wants.â Trystan grins, his mind booming with ideas of a handful of Americanâs in a sea of Drakovia citizens. âIt would be life changing for all of us.â
âNo.â Charlie sighs shaking his head, âThis building means something. You canât just take the Drunk Tank to Drakovia for the fun of it. And our team has roots here, Mafalda has a family. Luke has family. Ruby does. Itâs not that simple.â
Trystan shakes his head standing in front of Charlie, his hands cupping the detectiveâs cheeks forcing him to look him in the eyes. His finger dragging along Charlieâs lower lip, toying with his lips trying to force them upwards into a smile. Charlie canât help the melting of his anger, his heart yearning to drop everything for Trystan knowing it's unfeasible. He casts his eyes downwards forcing himself to look away from the intensity of Trystanâs gaze.
âItâs that simple for us.â Trystan whispers, letting his face come closer to Charlieâs, feeling one anotherâs breath on each otherâs cool skin in the air conditioned bar fighting off the New York heat. âPicking us is always easy. Come with me. Run away from this. Enjoy the finer things of life. We can make memories, have a family, and find ourselves. And have so much sex.â
They both laugh sadly at his words.
âI canât leave my dad behind Trystan.â
âYouâre not leaving him.â Trystan quickly replies, âWe can solve it from Drakovia. And you can visit New York whenever you want. We have jets, money, and our entire lives to figure everything out.â
âIâm sorry.â He shakes his head no. His hands tightening around Trystanâs, the princeâs grip tightening back as tears fill his eyes. He knew deep down Charlie would say no, but everything inside him screamed that maybe he wouldnât, that heâd give them a chance. He brings his lips to Charlieâs, taking his breath away as they both meld into one another. Hands moving to grip onto each other tighter, Trystanâs arms strongly bracing the both of them against the table.
Gasping for breath, Charlie breaks their heated kisses. He doesnât want to stop. He wants to feel Trystanâs body against his fingertips and his lips until he dies. He wants the last thing he ever tastes to be the princeâs lips, the last smell he ever smells to be Trystanâs colonge. He draws his fingers down Trystanâs chest, his fingers brushing under the fabric of his signature black button up shirt, the buttons popping open with each movement. He moves his lips to Trystanâs chin, kissing and sucking the sensitive skin. Delighting in each moan that Trystan lets out.
His teeth nip sweetly at the princeâs pulse point, soothing over the skin with his tongue. His saliva warms against Trystanâs cool skin, his teeth prod and poke at the flesh, Trystanâs moans filling the bar with country music dancing in their ears.
âSo this is it then?â Charlie whispers against his skin, almost too silent for the both of them to hear. His lips find purchase against Trystanâs collarbone making him moan out loudly, his hands tightening in Charlieâs hair. âWeâre done then?â
âI guess so.â Trystan replies, breathing out heavily as the detective continues to pepper kisses against his skin. He wants to say more, his mind heavy with lust blinded by his desire and the hurt in his chest unable to fully form into words. He breathes out heavily as Charlie pulls away from him looking at him. Eyes that once burned with hatred, now overflow with love as they both hesitate to say anything to officially end it.
âI love you Trystan Throne.â He whispers softly. Charlie kisses him sweetly one last time on the lips, short and sweet. The feeling went away all too soon. âIâm sorry, but this is my home. And I canât leave until I figure out what happened to my dad.â
âI understand. You canât run away like I did.â He nods understandingly, âI love you Charlie Rose.â
He sighs heavily.
âGoodbye Trystan Throne.â
âGoodbye Charlie Rose.â
Trystan takes one last glance at his lover before turning to leave the bar. His heart heavy in his chest, burning to soothe the ache. Leave his family and throne behind for the one man who ever loved him, saw him for who he was, believed in him, made him his partner. His whole world is sitting in this bar about to drink himself to death. He pushes open the door looking back to see Charlie one last time before accepting their fate. He hesitates⊠his hand holding the door finding Charlieâs eyes in the darkness, the both unable to move knowing they were each otherâs forever.
Could they really let each other go?
Could he live with himself after walking out on another lover?
Could he find true happiness with a crown atop his head and his family breathing down his neck pulling him in every direction?
His hesitation grows. Looking at the door handle and Charlie. His lover or his obligations.
âBooks focused around minors in high school and and playing as an underage character that is 14-17 years old, ie: HSS, HSS: CA, etc. give me the ick đâ
POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MODâS PERSONAL OPINIONS!
i have to say, i heavily disagree with this one. as someone who was a hss prime player from the ages of 11 to probably 14, maybe iâm just biased. i began playing choices when i was 13 (2016). hss book 1 released right around when i started high school, so naturally it resonated with me. seeing people my age who were going through the same struggles as me was a comfort. i think the best thing for me with the series was that romance wasnât even the main point of it. it was just... being a teenager.Â
i think one of the main reasons someone would be put off by this series is if they play as themselves in choices books, which is completely valid. i have never played as myself in choices, because it is one of the ways i escape reality. i think for that reason, i will never be put off by books with younger mcâs.
âi miss the old choices. i have been a long-time fan (i joined in 2016, right when es1 started releasing), but recently i have been using every new book as a diamond mine. the only current book that's worth it to me is cop2. i love the concept of kindred, but imo it is poorly written (te was way better). pixelberry needs to bring back horror and adventure!â
POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MODâS PERSONAL OPINIONS!
I'm gonna be like 80 years old, and there's still gonna be someone waxing nostalgia for the old choices. Like valid, but if everyone in the world was to remind you that water is wet every time they start up a conversation with you, it would get annoying after a while.
With PBâs adult romance book covers continuing to step further into the bodice ripper cover aesthetic, I think itâs worth questioning who it is thatâs appearing on these kinds of covers and why that is.
Heterosexual couples. Theyâre all heterosexual couples.
The first inkling of this post came when the Alpha cover was leaked, showcasing a truly breathtaking unwillingness to do almost anything to distinguish itself from Choicesâ other werewolf romance, Wolf Bride.
My first thought on seeing the Alpha cover was, why? Why would you use a practically identical composition as your other omegaverse book? Why wouldnât you want to give this book its own identity? Does it have its own identity? Are the two books connected narratively? Because as far as we know, no, theyâre not.
And then I truly thought about what an obvious missed opportunity this was. Why didnât they make the obvious decision to distinguish this book by making it a gay cover? Alpha is confirmed to be a gender of choice book, and making it a gay cover would kind nod to the fact that a truly significant portion of the omegaverse sub-genre of fiction is dedicated to male x male pairings.
Later, I was thinking about how Iâd really want to see one of these bodice ripper style covers with an m/m pairing, and I remembered that Choices only has a single gay cover with Foreign Affairs, and it is the picture of chaste. At that point it hit meâprobably not for the first timeâthat none of these adult romance covers have been queer.
PB giving pittance to the mlm audience is honestly expected at this point, but it is genuinely weird that we havenât gotten a lesbian cover in what, years? And thatâs not even just for these adult romance covers. But if weâre talking adult covers; while only some of them have been GoC and so had the feasible option for a gay cover, all of them had the ability to play as a female MC, and all of them had a female love interest optional. They have had every opportunity to do at least one. Why have none of the bodice ripper style covers been queer?
How come the straight covers get to be this:
But the queer covers have only ever been this?
The obvious counter-argument to this is to say that the majority of Choices players are straight women and so theyâre going to market their books with the straight female audience in mind.
And to that I say, I do not care. I truly, unequivocally do not care. Words cannot express how little I care about this argument, especially because thereâs this, straight from PB via the Choices Insiders email in March this year:
So actually though, why no queer covers for their adult romance books? All I can say is that I do think it is in part influenced by the homophobic standard in media that queer desire isnât marketable, and that image isnât something they necessarily want to market themselves with. Not because PB themselves are homophobic, but perhaps because they donât want the perception of a cover like that to potentially turn away their largely straight female audience. And that if true, to put it simply, is cowardice.
So, conclusions: With the growing number of Choicesâ adult romance book covers using the bodice ripper aesthetic, the lack of any queer covers in this styleâdespite all opportunities to do soâleaves one with the impression that PB, intentionally or not; are both being informed by and feeding into the homophobic standard that queer desire is not something to be showcased or celebrated on the same level as heterosexual desire.
Basically, not only do PB need to start doing more queer covers; but they also need to start showing them being horny on their covers too.
I was about to say that Open Heart is very popular so PB are using it to grab the fans attention, but ever since we stopped them from killing Raf Iâve had the distinct impression they threw a hissy fit and didnât want to write it anymore đ€
IMO they shouldâve let it go gently into that good night after book 3 and what they tried to pull with Raf.
If ANY book would be a best fit to be revived on StoryLoom imo it would be Hero and no this is not just a pet of my pro-Hero agenda