𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐫'𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭

depollute me, pretty baby—eijirou kirishima.

concept: eijirou comforts his significant others in their moment of insecurity [based on leith ross’ we’ll never have sex demo].

pairing: pro-hero!eijirou kirishima x afab!black!reader.

word count: 1.2k

warning: body image issues, insecurity, suggestive?, [non-sexual] body worship, praise, caressing, NO SMUT.

clo said—honestly, i’m having less than satisfactory thoughts about myself and wrote about my feelings and what i need. this isn’t meant to glorify any kind of negative body image or eating disorder, i truly just wrote about something i could relate to. i understand that this could be extremely triggering so don’t feel pressured to read this. i hope none of you have gone through this and if you have, i hope you know that i’m here for you. happy reading.

depollute me, pretty baby

suck the rot right out of my bloodstream

y/n sat on the floor of their bathroom as they stared at their body in the mirror, a few stray tears escaping their eyes. it was a bad habit of theirs to check their body and make mental notes on the areas that they could lose weight in. they sometimes even went as far as to plan how they would lose said weight, only for them to forget within the span of three days. they only did this when they knew eijirou would be gone for a while, fearing what he would say if he saw them like this. he was big on positivity and it’d kill him if he saw his significant other sitting on the floor, having less than positive thoughts about themselves.

‘another twelve pounds. what happened to wanting to lose weight, y/n?’ they thought to themselves.

y/n was so caught up in their thoughts that they didn’t hear the front door open and they didn’t hear when he called out for them twice. that’s how kirishima found them staring off into the mirror with a wet face and frown, quickly putting two and two together. he stepped behind y/n, snapping them out of their thoughts when they saw his figure in the mirror. they grabbed his their discarded shirt and quickly pulled it on before turning to look at him.

“i thought you’d be home late,” y/n said, embarrassed as they stood up and walked to the sink, hoping to wash their tear stricken face. before they could reach the porcelain appliance, eijirou pulled them towards him.

“i’m glad i came home early. otherwise, you would’ve been left completely alone with your thoughts. i’m sorry i wasn’t here,” kirishima mumbled, disappointed in himself for not noticing how you felt.

“it’s not your fault, eiji. i didn’t want you to worry,” they mumbled into the crook of his neck as they felt fresh tears pool in their eyes. this is exactly what they didn’t want. kirishima had his own bad habit of blaming himself for things that he couldn’t control. y/n didn’t want to add additional stress on top of his hero duties and figured that this was something that they could handle on their own. this isn’t how they wanted him to find out if he ever did.

“are you hungry? i bought us dinner on my way home from the agency. i noticed that you didn’t write anything on the calendar about dinner for today and figured i could bring something home,” he asked as he pulled back enough to see his lover’s face. he noticed the new tears and brushed them away only for more to come. “it’s alright, love. let it out. i’m here for you.”

“i’m so sorry,” y/n sniffled as they cried harder. kirishima rubbed their back as he led them back into the bedroom.

oh, you kissed me

just to kiss me

not to take me home

he carefully laid them down on the bed before laying next to them, wrapping his arms around their frame as they faced each other. he held them tightly and let a few of his own tears fall at the sight of his distressed lover. his brightness was so dim as he held them in his arms.

“talk to me, doll. i’d like to help you if you’d let me,” he whispered. y/n looked at his face before letting a few more tears fall.

“i just… i don’t feel beautiful, eiji. i know that you call me beautiful or gorgeous, but i can’t bring myself to feel that way. i feel like i embarrass you when we’re seen in public. i’m not slim like those pro-heroines and i’m definitely not as beautiful. i gained twelve pounds whilst on a diet. i love my complexion, but the beauty standards here insult it. i try so hard… just to not receive good results. i just want to feel pretty, eiji. i want to feel pretty so bad,” y/n sobbed as they confessed their worries to him.

eijirou was lost for words. he never imagined that his usually upbeat significant other felt like this. he never would’ve suspected them being insecure or body conscious because he knew they were beautiful. his friends and co-workers even recognized y/n as gorgeous externally, so their doubts were surprising.

“can you look at me, darling?” he asked softly. he didn’t want to force them to do anything. he was elated when y/n met his gaze. “you’re absolutely beautiful. inside and out. i didn’t know you felt like this because in my eyes, and many others, you’re stunning. i know my words aren’t enough to soothe your worries, but i meant it when i said you are the most attractive person i’ve ever laid my eyes on. ‘m not just saying that because i’m your man, but because it’s true. there aren't enough words to express how beautiful you are.”

there was a short silence between the two before kirishima leaned in and kissed y/n’s lips. “please let me show you how beautiful you are,” he requested, planting soft but meaningful kisses on their face.

if i said you could never touch me

you’d come over and say i looked lovely.

“i don’t wanna have sex tonight,” y/n said, hesitating in case they disappointed him.

“sex isn’t on my mind tonight. i just want to worship you like you deserve. if you don’t want me to, i won’t and i’ll just hold you,” he tightened his hold to show y/n that it was truly up to them and that they were in control.

“go ahead. i’d like it if you helped me.”

at their approval, kirishima re-situated himself between their legs before pushing their shirt up above their chest. he looked up y/n to receive their consent once more before placing a few kisses on their collarbone. he moved slowly, traveling to their sternum and down further to the pudge on their stomach. y/n hummed at the feeling of his hands running over their body.

“i wish you knew how beautiful you are. if you need my help in any way, please come to me. you can always lean on me, love. it hurt to see you closed off in the bathroom, judging your gorgeous body,” as he whispered, he left longer kisses on a more intimate place of their body. he hoped that through his actions, he would be able to convey his feelings.

he ran his hands over their plush thighs, massaging them slightly as he looked down at the beautiful human being under him. his motions soothed their body and some of their insecurities, showing them how beautiful they truly were. washing their sorrows away when he left those lingering kisses.

he ceased his motions when he reached their face once more. he maintained eye contact until y/n closed their eyes with a small smile. he pressed barely there kisses along their cheek bones and on their forehead. he took their face between his large hands and kisses their soft lips with enough emotion to bring them to tears.

“thank you, eiji,” y/n said, wrapping their arms around him, cuddling deeper into him.

“of course, doll.”

it was simple

you are sweetness

let’s just sit a while.

© all rights reserved to yuzuhablvd. do not repost, plagiarized, or falsely claim my work. likes, comments, and reblogs are welcome!

𝟑:𝟑𝟑 𝐀𝐌 — 𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐈 𝐊𝐄𝐈𝐉𝐈

“psst,” akaashi whispers, lightly shaking your sleeping body. when you show no signs of movement, he repeats his actions. “pssssst!”

you groan, eyes still shut as you moan out, “whaaat?” you shake your body to get his hands off of you. “keijiii, ‘m tired.”

he knows you’re tired and he knows that you’ve been having the worst week of your life, but he can’t sleep— he can’t sleep knowing you’ve been dealing with all the bad things by yourself.

he’s not sure why you didn’t tell him you were hurting, but it was evident on your face. when you walked into your shared apartment, tears threatening to fall from your eyes, you smiled at him. teeth and everything, but the smile never reached your eyes. he knew.

how couldn’t he know, though? this is akaashi keiji, the man who spent so much time learning everything about you. he knows your favorite foods and your favorite movie and everything down to your favorite pair of lucky socks. it’s only natural that he’d know exactly how crappy your day was.

he scoots closer to you, enveloping you into his arms, holding you tightly. he presses his lip to your ear. “i know that you don’t wanna talk about it… but i want you to know something,” he murmurs.

your heart stills, suddenly feeling wide awake. “keiji…”

“i love you,” he says. “so much. it gets hard and i understand that, but… you are so much more amazing than you think.”

you feel your face get warm, a new profound sense of worth filling you up. a sense of great love. at 3 in the morning.

“you’re smart and so, so gorgeous. anyone would be lucky to have someone like you,” he praises, making you smile. “remember when we first met at that coffee shop and i tripped and spilled my drink all over your homework?”

you giggle, breathily, finally letting yourself speak, “and you i offered to buy me a new one?” you smile, eyes watering at the memory that felt like ages ago. “feels just like yesterday…”

he chuckles, nodding his head, “and then you just laughed at me, which was the best thing i’d ever heard in my life, by the way,” he sighed, reminiscing on the fond memory. “you know i’ve loved you since then? and… i’ll love you forever. everything about you. you don’t have to be afraid to tell me when you’ve had a bad day or to cry on my shoulder… that’s what i’m here for.”

you feel a single tear fall down your face as your heart swells in your chest, his soft spoken words continuing to pull at its strings.

“you’re so cheesy,” you joke, sniffling before letting out a breathy chuckle. “but… thank you, keiji. for being my rock and for making my life brighter. i love you so much.”

he scoffs, ignoring the way his stomach flutters and the apples of his cheeks burn, “look who’s being cheesy now,”

“okay, way to ruin the moment, keiji. i’m going back to bed.”

he laughs, “no, wait, i love you, too, let’s tal—“

“we can talk in the morning.” you groan, shrugging him off and curling back into a tiny ball.

“but—“

“goodnight, keiji.”

© all works belong to @planetrin 2021, please do not repost, modify, or translate any of my works on any platform

🏷 taglist (open): @darling-imobsessed @v-lleitie @spoofybun

— when you first call him by his nickname

characters; kuroo, yaku, bokuto, ushijima, and hinata

genre; fluff

notes; send in requests please!! also, reblogs appreciated <3

— kuroo tetsurou

he was shocked at first, but he really liked this new nickname

damn, he was in love with you, and the nickname you gave him

you said it so casually too, like you called him this often

“hey tetsu, can you get me a glass of water please?”

but he absolutely loves the nickname ???? he finds it so adorable !

he forbids you from calling him ‘tetsurou’ anymore.

if you don’t call him tetsu, or by a pet name, he isn’t responding

— yaku morisuke

he was in total shock at first

did you just call him by a new nickname???

his heart skipped seven beats, you’re def gonna be the death of him

but like you said it so nonchalantly?! like you’ve been calling him this forever

“hey mori, can you hand me that bowl please?”

he loves it tho, obsessed almost

tho he would never admit how much he loves it

— bokuto koutarou

he almost cried tears of joy

it was like the cutest thing ever !! and they way you said it ? ugh is he in love even more

his heart grew three times bigger, didn’t even know his heart could get any bigger

“hey kou, can you toss me that pillow?”

he fell in love with the nickname instantly

especially from you ?? addicted

like, you can’t call him anything but pet names and the new nickname

— ushijima wakatoshi

he didn’t really think much of it at first, you were always calling silly nicknames

but secretly, it made his heart flutter

a new nickname ?? specially for him !?? yes please

“hey toshi, have you seen my mug?”

the nickname was so cute,

it’s simple but adorable, def is favorite one yet

pls he wants you to call him that all the time

— hinata shoyo

his heart started doing flips

the new nickname was the cutest thing ever

and you made it sound so natural?? omg omg his heart

“hey sho, can you pass me the remote?”

his heart can’t take this cuteness

he absolutely is in love with the new nickname ??? his new fav thing

taglist (fill out this form to be added): @tetsusbbygrl @escapenightmare @bngtnparkjm @maipxilia @itsbrittneybsh @arashi-onannoko @kenmaslov3r

zhongli ▪︎ beloved

pairing: zhongli x traveler!(f)reader (in 2nd PoV - "you") or Lumine if you wish

genre/theme(s): angst with happy ending + jealousy, fluffy as fuck, midst-of-a-slow-burn-romance type, mutual pinning, misunderstanding

word count: 5.9k+ (omg sorry didn't really plan for this fic to be THIS LONG)

summary: rex lapis has plenty of time on his hand ever since he stepped down from his former seat as the geo archon. currently as zhongli the mortal, it is not so rare for him to accompany her on her commissions now and then. over the time spent together, the feelings she harbored for the man were no longer as simple as one would hold for a good friend — it took one interesting commission for her to realize that. if only she knew she was not alone in this. — | m.list

a/n: I'm finally back after LONG hiatus. i'm very thankful for this break; my inspiration was as dry as the desert. picking up where I left off, i've decided to release this long overdued fic rotting in my drive. i needed the warm-up hence here is that fic. I decided to give writing in 2nd PoV (You) a try, and I have to say I enjoyed writing this fic in that way! You could pretend the reader to be you (the traveller) or simply Lumine (i mean, Lumine IS the traveler which is YOU - if you play female MC ofc.)

enjoyyyy. i look forward to reading feedback <3 please do me a favor and reblog this too! :)

Canopied by the overhanging trees, golden eyes squinted against the sunlight shining down at them through the leaves, then lowered their gaze.

Back to the soft breathing by his right shoulder where his lips met the crown of your head with an accidental brush at the turn of his head — one that he made no move to pull away from.

The edges of his lips lifted as incoherent words were murmured against him in your slumber.

A surge of wind tugged his eyes up and onto the glistening ocean beyond the green, grassy hill they sat on.

Liyue Harbor was right across, bustling and busy as ever.

Even from the hill across the city, he could hear the hollers of the dock crews and see the locals milling along the wharf. Ships were departing and docking, in and out.

Strong and prospering on its own feet, Liyue Harbor ran like clockwork.

There was nothing more he could do for the city he had built.

His archon days were long over.

Morax, Rex Lapis — he had abandoned these names and every meaning behind them.

No longer the Geo Archon, he was simply Zhongli the mortal now, and truly enjoyed everything about this mundane life.

Strolling leisurely while taking in the sights around the city, listening to stories told at Third-Round Knockout with tea to accompany him, and watching businesses unfold between merchants and their customers in the lively market.

These were the many things he grew fond of as Zhongli, but what he found himself looking forward to the most...was your company.

Whether it was just a mere chat over tea or out on adventures in the wilderness every now and then, your presence seemed to brighten his mortal days even more.

As a gust of wind blew at the hilltop, Zhongli raised a hand, his eyes focused on the lock of your hair blown into your face by the wind.

Only to pause as you stirred.

Fingers on your face dropped back onto his lap as he watched you open your eyes, with a small frown between his brows.

"Sorry, did I wake you?"

You met his apologetic gaze drowsily. "No..." A yawn escaped your mouth.

Your head shifted against his chest. Since when were tree trunks this comfortable to lean on?

You moved your gaze away from his with groggy blinks—

Then jolted upright with a sharp gasp, flinching away from him like you were scalded.

Flustered blush colored your cheeks. How did you end up sleeping on Zhongli?

Your eyes sprang wide.

—oh no!

What if you snored? Or worse, drooled?

Your hand flew to your lips to check, horrified at the absurdity of that thought; it was ghastly to even think about salivating all over a former archon.

Thankfully there was none, you dropped your hand back to your lap as relief left you.

"My apologies," Zhongli's voice turned your head. "I didn't think you would be uncomfortable being this close to me."

There was a strange expression on his face, "I just thought you would sleep better against me than this tree." — a faint smile that made him look somewhat...disappointed.

You broke into a smile, laughing. "No no, I was just surprised," Another yawn was stifled, "Thank you, Zhongli, I had a really good nap."

Your eyes darted to the trees behind theirs, in time to see distant figures among them, moving in their direction.

"...Looks like they're here." You turned your head to watch Zhongli climb to his feet. "It still puzzles me why they made such a request; I'm afterall just an ordinary funeral parlor consultant."

You stood as well, brows raised in incredulity at his words but said nothing.

Ordinary? Nothing about him was ordinary.

Even as a mortal, he makes heads turn.

Almost every single woman they met on your commissions seemed to be enamored with him. It was hard to tell whether he was ignoring their obvious advances or was simply oblivious to the attention he got.

You couldn't blame them though.

Zhongli was a gentleman known for his vast knowledge and talents. His speech and mannerism were sophisticated enough to charm anyone on the streets albeit not intentional, or at least you thought so. Even as a close friend, you weren't immune.

He was like...a natural ladies' man, so much so that you often felt like a third wheel whenever they traveled the lands with female clients.

And from these experiences, it had not been pleasant being on the receiving ends of suspicious glares and calculated stares despite being introduced by the man himself as a mere good friend.

A sigh left you as you stepped forward with Zhongli, silently hoping for none of those this time.

Grass and dirt crunched under its wooden wheels as the horse carriage rolled towards them.

There were intricate signs of wealth all over the vehicle.

The roof of the carriage had an edge rimmed with gold and carved dragons in the polished wood. Guarded by the back of the horseman, the carriage hid its occupant away from the world behind its sturdy wooden doors.

The horseman himself wore a short robe of black and blue, armed with a metal plate across his chest and a sword on his back.

Unmistakably, this whole picture was a telltale sign of their client — a daughter of a rich man; whoever this Lady Wen was.

Even the stallions pulling it wore expensive cloths marked with a symbol around their necks.

In an anticipating silence, they watched as the carriage finally slowed to a stop.

The man at the front hopped off the carriage with ease, robes fluttering with his movements as the grassy ground met his feet with a rustle.

You two watched him begin to move, fully expecting him to pull open the door for his passenger to step out.

But instead, he started walking towards you two, almost eagerly, with his hand raised and extended before him. When he came closer, you noticed he was a young man with dark hair long enough to be tied loosely in a semi-ponytail and a face decent enough for ladies to take interest in.

Zhongli was the first to mirror his gesture with legs moving forward and a hand raised to meet the man's, but for it only to fall back to his side when he realized that the man was fixated on something else.

Not on him.

His brows rose.

…but on you.

"You must be her," with admiration on his face, and hand around yours. "...that woman."

Did he mistake me for Zhongli…? He does know that Zhongli is a man right —

Shock elicited a surprised gasp out from you when he suddenly brought his lips down to the back of your hand in a greeting kiss.

You could only stare back at the stranger with wide, blinking eyes, unsure what to do.

Next to you, Zhongli’s golden eyes narrowed as a feigned cough ensued from his throat.

You jolted at the same time with the man. "Oh right! How can I forget my manners?" he released your hand, eyes darting briefly over to Zhongli.

"Forgot your manners, indeed." You thought you heard Zhongli mutter under his breath,

"I'm Young Master Wen." the man introduced, “You may call me Jun instead.” as he returned his attention, hopeful gaze back to you under Zhongli’s furrowed scrutiny, just as you were bringing your offended hand behind your back, afraid he would kiss it again.

You wiped your hand hastily against your clothing as subtly as you could, not expecting his next line. "...I've heard of what you've done for both Mondstadt and Liyue — definitely a woman of power and beauty!"

—you coughed, spluttering on choked saliva in your surprise.

You were aware of the many praises about you.

Strong, yes. Cute, yes. Pretty, maybe.

But a woman of beauty? Never.

You could only manage an awkward thank you as Jun finally turned to Zhongli. Thank god, the overly passionate gaze on you was getting a bit too much.

"And you must be Mr. Zhongli!"

"Ah yes, Young Master Wen." Zhongli merely said, shaking his hand.

You looked over at Zhongli in mild surprise.

There was something different about how he greeted the man — almost grudgingly if you were to squint. His usual cordial enthusiasm was lacking.

You swore you saw a dagger-like glint flash across his golden eyes, just as the man turned his head back to you, about to step towards you with the same fascinated look on his face.

Zhongli moved fast so you didn’t realize until you suddenly found yourself blocked by a broad back and peering over Zhongli’s shoulders at Jun instead.

“Enough, Young Master Wen, I’m sure she understands quite clearly that you admire her.” Zhongli intervened, feeling the coil of frustration in his chest tightened. “—now, where’s this Lady Wen who seeks me? Your sister, I assume, going by your title?”

You felt the tension in your shoulders leave with your silent sigh when Jun finally pulled his gaze off you. Weirdo.

“Oh, my sister—”

“It's been a long time since we met, Zhongli."

All eyes swiveled to the carriage to watch a lady emerge from its confine.

So this was Lady Wen, your eyes widened.

So she was the one who asked for Zhongli in the commission letter Katheryne passed to you?

Though siblings, the Lady Wen standing in person before you was not what you had expected. Apart from her wealth, her face also sets her apart from other women; for she bore a face men would compare to a goddess.

Mesmerized by the flowery grace and gentle sweet smile of the approaching woman, you knew you were right to doubt the compliment the man sang of you.

You? A woman of beauty? No way.

It was Lady Wen.

So what did this beautiful lady want with Zhongli? You wondered glancing between the man standing before you and the woman.

Then you caught the quiet admiring gaze on Zhongli, and a faint sign of recognition on the said man’s face. “—Wen Rong.” You heard him utter.

“It's been a long time since we met, Zhongli." Her greetings echoed back in your memory, then it clicked.

Ah, you understood now.

Night fell over like a curtain of darkness, just as the carriage arrived at a distance five hours away from your destination.

Shadows lurked in every corner of the campfires, behind the trees and the bushes.

The fire crinkled and sizzled in the soft breeze, dancing lightly on the firewood stacked atop of each other. Over the warm light it emitted, you could hear their laughter.

Hers and his.

Despite not seeing each other in years, their friendship rekindled almost instantly.

You sneaked a glance at them, to where you previously sat before you realized you were too dumb to understand what they were saying.

You weren’t sure what they were chatting about, but you knew they were subjects Zhongli loved to share with you when you two hung out. Most of the time, you would either end up nodding and feigning understanding, change the subject or just zone out completely.

Things were definitely different from the other commissions you two have taken on. You weren't on the receiving end of suspicious glares and calculated stares this time round.

There was no one vying for Zhongli's attention; it wasn't necessary when the female client was his friend and someone like Lady Wen.

Lady Wen was not only the definition of beauty; she was grace and wisdom too, with a soft, friendly personality like a cherry on top.

Every aspect of her seemed to compliment the former archon so well.

This was one of the few rare times you had seen Zhongli so immersed in conversations with someone on a commission. But of course, it was because they met before.

And perhaps, the only commission Zhongli had barely spoken a word to you, or you to him — you didn't see why you should interrupt them.

A bitter sense of helplessness and frustration curled like a tight knot in your chest as you hugged your knees closer to your chest, nails digging into your palms.

...but why does this bother you so much? Zhongli and you were just good friends after all.

As a good friend, shouldn't you be happy for Zhongli if he found someone he could spend his mortal life with?

You were afterall a mere child to him…or at least that was what you felt sitting with these two.

Enough.

You fought, begged the strange twinge inside your heart to stop.

The Wen Mansion was just five more hours away from here, and you will be done with this commission. Why should you care? It was so silly.

For whatever reasons Lady Wen's father wanted to meet Zhongli, it was not your business to care. It was Zhongli’s.

Staring at the fire, your jaw clenched as their laughter reached your ears once more.

Maybe you should go help Jun out?

For a young master, he was pretty adapted to the outdoors. He reminded you of a puppy — a nice, weird puppy that was a little overboard with his admiration for you.

He was a bit strange and a little too enthusiastic for you to handle but c’mon, you practically fought both humans and monsters for a living. What was so scary about this man anyway? Besides, you needed fresh air to clear your head.

You rose to your feet and stepped over the log you sat on. The voices of the two grew faint as you entered the vegetation around the camp, in the direction you knew Jun headed for.

Jun insisted he should be the one carrying back your share to their camp despite occupied arms, but you walked ahead before he could grab the ones in your grasp.

Following you into the camp like a shadow, you saw him walk away in a different direction, to the fire closer to where Lady Wen and Zhongli sat from the corner of your eyes as soon as you two broke into the edge of the camp.

You shrugged, returning to the one further away. The one you left behind to find Jun.

The bundle of sticks and branches gathered in your arms was placed by the fire as you kneeled down to the dirt ground. The warmth of the flame instantly engulfed you; you felt a sheen of chill on your skin vaporize in its heat as you drew near to feed it more wood.

Nights in Liyue, especially in areas dense with trees, were often dewy and cold and this night was one of them. You could feel the cold penetrating your usual traveling cloak and nipping at the skin your dress underneath failed to cover.

The fire crackled and jumped as you fed it the last stick from your finding. Just as you leaned away and settled on the log behind you, you felt a presence hovering beside you.

“It wasn’t wise to go off into the woods alone with him.” His voice answered your question before you could turn to find out who.

There was a tinge of disapproval on his face when you looked up to find Zhongli gazing down on you.

A small ball of anger curled inside you at that face. “I don’t see why not.”

Your eyes flitted behind him, wandering to where Lady Wen was, and found her glancing over while saying something to Jun.

Shuffling feet and the shift of the log beneath you moved your gaze to your side in time to watch Zhongli settling down beside you.

There was a frown on his face.

“Didn’t you see how he looked at you this afternoon?” His gaze seemed to cut into you from the way his piercing eyes dug into yours. “You made me worried sick just now when I looked over and you were not there.”

You looked away; his eyes on you always set your heart pounding. Staring into the fire, you threw out a careless laugh. “Jun isn’t so bad. He’s just a little excited about me, but he is actually pretty nice.”

“A little excited?”

You couldn’t see Zhongli’s face but you could hear the incredulity and exasperation in his voice.

“Anything could have happened among those trees. I’ve lived long enough to know what perverted minds would do and I can see right through him.”

Your breath hitched when you felt the tip of his leather glove graze your hand, but you snatched it away before he could hold it. “Please, could you stay away from him?”

Quite often when you two talked side by side like this, you would always find your hand in his, fiddled absentmindedly as his voice coated the air, but you weren’t up for it this time.

“I’ve fought long enough to be able to handle them.” You hated the way he lectured you like you were a child.

Maybe you were indeed one to him, and this possible fact in your head brought up the memories of Zhongli and Lady Wen’s laughter, the silent look of adoration on Lady Wen’s face, and how clueless you felt sitting around them.

You stood up. “Stop treating me like a child, I don’t need your concerns, Zhongli.” Your voice was icily calm. “Your priority should be Lady Wen, not me.”

You saw something flash across Zhongli’s face but you had too much inside to care and ran for the woods.

Morning came, and this meant it was time to hit the road once more.

You avoided him as much as you could until the carriage was loaded and ready to go. You could feel his eyes on you the entire time you helped to prepare the carriage. You spared no glance at him through it all, but you could sense it off him; his desire to speak to you.

And even more so when you settled yourself beside Jun at the front of the carriage instead of inside.

Jun appeared oblivious, happy you chose your place beside him, not noticing the tension between you two, while Lady Wen glanced between you two but said nothing before politely beckoning Zhongli into the carriage with her.

Zhongli seemed to have resigned himself to your silence and stopped glancing over. The troubled crease between his brows softened as he helped Lady Wen onto the vehicle with a steady hand around hers like the gentleman he is.

Once everyone was settled, Jun beside you turned his head back to the front.

At a flick of his wrists, the horses began to move. The wooden wheels beneath clattered out of their campsite and onto the main path.

You squinted against the filtered sunlight as you cast a glance up at the forest’s canopy, and back down to find a clearing ahead.

The dirt path grew bumpy near the mouth of the forest; you had to resist shooting your hand out to hold Jun who was indifferent to the jerks under them. The path along the forested area eventually led the carriage out into a vast field, instantly greeted by the warmth of the morning sky.

You breathed a sigh of relief as you fell back against the wooden wall behind you the moment the bumpy path ended, connected to a man-made road paved through a small village.

As you were about to straighten away from the wall behind, you caught laughter. Familiar laughs from last night coming from the confines of the carriage behind you.

Zhongli was sure laughing a lot — you couldn’t help noticing as your heart sank with sadness — even he doesn’t laugh this much around you.

Then you grew curious.

“Young Master Wen,” You tried to block out the muffled voices behind you as you turned to Jun, “I hope you wouldn’t mind me prying...but may I know what did your father want to meet Zhongli for?”

You hesitated. “I mean, you know Zhongli is a funeral parlor consultant right? Sorry if I’m being too insensitive, but does anyone require that kind of service in your home?”

Jun didn’t look offended at all, in fact, he burst out laughing at your question, his eyes amused as he flickered a glance over at you.

“I’m not supposed to reveal this yet, but…” His voice dropped even lower, so soft you almost had to lean over to capture his next line. “Mr. Zhongli is being invited over for marriage.”

Your eyes flew wide while your heart dropped. What? Marriage?

“You mean as a guest to witness a wedding?”A sudden fear hammered in your chest. Why were you so scared? It could just be a harmless wedding invitation?

Jun shook his head. “No, as my sister’s husband.”

You blinked in shock at him. Husband ??!

A burst of laughter barked from Jun once more at your reaction. “My sister had loved Mr. Zhongli ever since their encounter. Wen Rong’s birthday is coming up and my father wanted this marriage to be a surprise gift to her.”

Jun turned his eyes back onto the galloping horses before them. “She doesn’t know about this herself; she only thought it was for business, so could you help me keep this a secret?” He threw a grin over and winked.

“Hahaha, sure.” You forced a smile back at him.

Marriage, huh.

This came out of nowhere, but it somehow made sense to you. You’ve seen the chemistry between those two. When they chatted, it was like there was no one else in this world.

You were forgotten by Zhongli the moment this commission started.

Lady Wen Rong and Zhongli.

They were a match made in heaven or what Teyvat has as heaven. Celestia? Whatever.

Perhaps…

You watched as the carriage climbed a gentle hill towards a compound of prestigious-looking houses. Their roofs colored dull green could be seen from where you sat.

…this was where all it ends with Zhongli. He had found a better place, a better person to spend his mortal life with. And you should stop holding him back.

The Wen residence was exactly how you had imagined it to be when you saw it from the hill. The carriage itself was a reflection of all that would greet you.

The corridors stretched far and wide across the large courtyard, around manicured gardens, and connected to the many houses owned by the family.

Perched on the railing dividing the corridor and the trimmed grass beneath your dangling legs, your eyes were once again drawn to the closed doors a small distance away.

—to where Zhongli was enthusiastically escorted into by the Head of the Wen family himself, with Lady Wen treading on their heels.

It happened the moment they stepped through the main gate. Quick gratitude from Lord Wen was all you were given with a generous bag of Mora before he swept the former archon in with his daughter in tow.

Jun had offered you tea and food but you politely rejected them. Your appetite had vanished the moment you heard the news from him on the carriage.

Now, you were caught between wanting to leave and wanting to listen in about their marriage. But the latter quickly won, and you found yourself sneaking over with the stealth you learned from your travels.

Lightly pressing your head to the wooden door, muffled voices penetrated but you had to listen hard to understand them.

Golden eyes pondered over the steaming cup of tea on the table before him, as the memory of the sadness on your face flashed by in his head once again.

It was subtle and he only managed to catch a glimpse of you over his shoulders while he was being whisked away by Lord Wen — but he had watched and memorized you long enough to read you.

It never sat right with him whenever he saw sadness in your eyes. This time, it was unbearable because he was aware he was the cause of it.

But why? Was it wrong of him for wanting you to be safe?

He wanted to apologize, but he knew he shouldn’t until he understood what he was doing it for. It wasn’t because he was prideful; he simply believed an apology should be sincere and not for the sake of it.

Zhongli dropped his shoulders quietly with a soft sigh at the thought of you, eyes flickering over to the doors as he raised his gaze to Lord Wen who had finished giving his servant orders.

Beside her father, Lady Wen was quiet and gazing at her own cup, occasionally stealing glances at him.

“Thank you for coming all the way here, Mr. Zhongli.” The lord finally turned his attention to them, his fingers locking together on the table between them.

Zhongli simply nodded. “Thank you for your invitation, Lord Wen.”

His eyes strayed to the doors for a quick second, along with a silent question about your whereabouts. It felt weird not having you around, especially since this was your commission.

“Right,” He was quick to catch himself from drifting away and cleared his throat, “As much as it’s an honor to be invited here, may I know the purpose of this invitation?”

Zhongli found himself itching to stand and leave this room to search for you, but he could only eye the father-daughter pair with calculated patience.

Lord Wen let out a hearty chuckle, stroking his long beard. “Before we get to the point, what do you think of my daughter?”

At his question, Zhongli glanced over at Lady Wen for a quick second to find her sharing a similar puzzlement on her face.

“She is a wonderful friend.”

A cough ensued from the lord. “No no, what do you think of my daughter as a woman ?”

Lady Wen’s face went red at that question but her reaction went unnoticed.

“Ah, as a woman.” Zhongli’s hand paused in the midst of a sip. The cup was set down as he blinked in bemusement and thought carefully. “...Wen Rong is a woman of wisdom and many talents. Also, with beauty comparable to a glazed lily.”

He didn’t quite expect Lord Wen to burst out laughing as if he was told a joke. “Wen Rong? First-name basis already eh?”

Zhongli looked at him strangely. “I’m not particular about formalities between friends.”

“Nonsense!” Lord Wen waved his hand dismissively at his reply with a wide grin, “Alright, let’s cut the chase. What do you think about marrying our Ah Rong?”

“Father!” Lady Wen looked horrified and extremely embarrassed, glancing over at Zhongli with silent hope among her bashfulness.

But Zhongli did not notice, caught off guard by the sudden marriage proposal.

No wonder. Understanding dawned on his face. He should have realized where all that odd, rather awkward questions were leading to.

Zhongli found himself ready with a clear response to the proposal; he knew his answer right away. His mind went straight to you the moment this question was sprung on him; it has been clear to him for a long time.

Cup to his lips, Zhongli tilted his head back in one sip. He could feel their anticipation on him.

Golden eyes glinted decisively as the cup, now empty, was set down on the table in a quiet, yet firm manner.

“Thank you for your offer in marriage.”

He mirrored Lord Wen, gloved fingers locking together on the table.

“I’m very flattered to be presented with such a priceless offer, given that Wen Rong is a dream to, I’m sure, many men in this world.”

He watched Lord Wen’s face brighten. “But I—”

A muffled shuffle of footsteps outside the room snatched his gaze away from the father and daughter; their eyes followed his.

Zhongli caught a flicker of silhouette behind the paper screens of the windowed doors. Could it be…?

Alarmed, he quickly climbed to his feet and threw open the doors, much to Lord Wen’s protests. His head turned in the direction of where he saw the movement and—

And his heart sank.

…No.

Then Zhongli broke into a run.

“Thank you for your offer in marriage.”

Zhongli...He was going to accept it, huh.

“I’m very flattered to be presented with such a priceless offer, given that Wen Rong is a dream to, I’m sure, many men in this world.”

You rose from the crouch you were in. Tears were flooding your eyes and you were frustrated.

Frustrated at yourself for feeling sad instead of happy for your friend. Frustrated that you could not compete with Lady Wen for Zhongli. Frustrated that you accidentally gave yourself away with that loud shuffling of your feet. Frustrated at the tears for nearly blinding you as you hurried away.

Hurry to where?

You didn’t know. All you wanted was to get as far away as you can. Somewhere you could disappear to, so that you could just make sense of yourself and all these crazy emotions inside you.

But, you heard the doors you left slam open before you could get any further.

Shit.

Your heart hammered in your chest and your mouth went dry. You did not need to turn around to know who burst through those doors.

—and he was the very person you wanted to get as far away from.

So you ran.

Your legs were carrying you down the hallways the fastest they could to outrun the longer pair behind you. You didn’t want to be a drama queen, but you just couldn’t stop.

Where was the main gate again?

You did not know where the hell you were running to. You just ran blindly, turning into any corner the winding vendettas led you.

There was a chance you could end up in a dead-end but screw it, you will find a way out of this maze-like compound even if it meant climbing over the walls fencing around it.

You could hear him calling out your name in a voice you’d never thought you would hear from Zhongli.

There was desperation leaking through the cracks in his voice— why was he even desperate? Desperate to tell you he was sorry that he was going to leave you?

You skidded around a bend and—

well, SHIT.

— your hands palmed against the wall curled into fists. Just your luck to really meet a dead end. You glanced up, hoping that it was a fence wall, but only to find no opening.

You needed another escape route.

You spun around and gasped instantly to find that Zhongli had blocked off your only way out. Unlike the voice you heard him speak in, he did not look desperate at all.

The tension in his shoulders and the unreadable look in his golden eyes made him look…almost menacing as he approached. Step by step.

He did not look like the Zhongli, the funeral parlor consultant you hung out with — your breath shook with your heart as the sight before you intimidated you with a creeping fear.

—from the way his golden eyes blazed amber at you, he looked like the Rex Lapis he was instead. The Geo Archon of this land.

Spending so much time with Zhongli has made you forget that he was an archon, he was a god everyone in Liyue worshipped.

And this made you realize how much more inferior you were—

You didn’t have the beauty, comparable enough to a goddess like Lady Wen or the wisdom to keep up with him.

What were you? You’re just a traveller who only knows how to survive in the wilderness, all just to take back your missing brother from some unknown god.

What did you have to offer?

…foolish of you to think that you could stand beside him when you didn’t even belong in Teyvat. You were unworthy.

Tears were starting to well up in your eyes once again at these thoughts.

Shit.

You could not bear to meet his eyes, knowing the tears in them were obvious. Your eyes dropped away from his, looking for an opening, anything so you could just…just...

A resigned sigh left you, your shoulders falling slack as you felt energy leave you.

“—let me go.” your voice was thick with falling tears as you finally spoke. You brought your eyes back to his. “I’m leaving, and you’ve got a wedding to plan for.” You wiped your tears away.

Your gaze lingered on his in the brief silence.”...I’ll wait for your invitation.”

Then you moved forward, trying to sidestep him.

But before you could make it past him—

Your eyes widened. ...!!!

—he met your lips forcefully, slanting his lips over yours dominatingly.

You felt the air knocked out of you and your heart missed a beat as Zhongli backed you up onto the dead-end wall behind, with a hand caressing the back of your head and your mouths connected by the onslaught of his lips.

Over your head, his left arm propped against the wall behind you as his mighty figure bent over your smaller one, with a sound similar to a growl coming from the back of his throat.

Quickly losing foot against his demanding lips, you found yourself unable to resist as you melted at the feel of his lips pressed over yours. You were weak for him; you always were.

The aggressive force behind his lips grew faint the moment he felt you relax into him. His kiss was now tender, almost a delicate dance of twisting and turning over yours, and eventually inside after he coaxed you to open.

As if you were the dearest thing to him, treating you like you could break if he was any rougher like he did seconds ago.

Short, heavy breaths accompanied your locking lips as he hoped the affections behind his kiss were enough to tell you what you needed to know.

After a few lingering seconds, his lips on yours slowed as Zhongli made a move to end the kiss, reluctantly pulling his lips away. 

Disbelief crashed like a wave upon you the instant your lips lost the warmth of his. Things still seemed surreal to you.

Why did Zhongli…?

How could he…?

Hand raised, its warm, bare palm cupping against your cheek cut off the doubtful thoughts in your head before it could drown you.

Your eyes hesitantly turned to his as he tilted your face up to his — then your breath was caught in your throat at the softest look you’d ever seen in his eyes.

In the sea of gold and amber, there was worry in the midst of his affection that was beaming down at you just like the sun.

“Wen Rong is just a friend to me,” His voice was firm but gentle, “so I will not be accepting her father’s offer.”

A frown creased between your brows.

“But…” Doubt clouded your heart.

Despite sensing his love from the kiss, stubborn doubts still continued to whisper about yourself. It was no longer about Lady Wen and him.

“Are you sure?” … about me? You wanted to voice that, but your fear held your tongue.

There was a pause of silence before Zhongli chuckled. “Not that I mind, but are you trying to get me to kiss you again?

You flinched with bashful blinks, not expecting his reply.

Zhongli suddenly regarded you seriously, the amusement in his eyes gone.

“...Or perhaps I should just marry you.”

His hand released your chin and went to his own as he stepped back with a thoughtful face.

“What? Tha-That’s too sudden!”

You two haven’t even officially dated!

There was another pause of silence from Zhongli before he cleared his throat, hiding his laughter behind a cough at how red you got.

“But would you want to?” He was serious again.“I meant, get married to me.” Zhongli added as if he wasn’t clear enough.

Silence.

“...yes, of course, eventually.”

Zhongli smiled. “Good.”

You felt your heart flutter in your chest at that smile; he was truly happy about your answer.

Your eyes caught movement below and flickered down to watch his hand envelope yours. “Come,”

With that said, Zhongli gently tugged you to walk with him, his hand releasing yours as soon as you fell in step beside him.

You have always suspected Zhongli was a romantic, being a gentleman and all he was.

But knowing and being the receiving end of his affection was worlds apart, so you found yourself surprised again when he pressed a chaste kiss to your temples.

“...Let’s reject their offer properly together.”

.

.

.

—published on 28.01.2022

all rights reserved ©justgenshin

the tyrant (i)

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: sukuna ryomen x reader

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬: 4,089

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭: arrange marriage, slow-burn yandere, polygamous marriage (cuz this is set in the old time, so yeah), mention of infertility, power imbalance, will get dark and unhinged in the next chap., etc.

𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: "you were the apple of Sukuna's eyes, the one who brought him solace and everything. The only thing you were incapable of was giving him a child, an heir he wished to spoil like he did to you."

𝐚/𝐧: always new and unfinished content I be spewing out in my WIP drafts. It's endless. I really am one of those writers that would go away and just come back to drop something then go away again 🙃. Some of things I type out, I did some research on it and the rest are not. Almost forgot that I got inspired by a show I watched so some parts got me rapidly writing it.

𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐

"What do you mean she's not able to conceive?" Sukuna asks, his trained eyes sharpening on the doctor, who notices his reaction and yelp in fear as they immediately bow forward with their forehead and hands touching the floor.

"P-Please pardon my incompetent!" They spoke out, voices shaking. "I have diagnosed Lady (Name) and found out that her pulse is too weak, her body temperature is low, and her estrogen level is also low..." The doctor wanted to say more, but their lips was sealed shut and Sukuna, whose unwavering gaze lingered on them, waited for them to continue with an irritated expression.

Sukuna: "Why aren't you continuing?"

The doctor once again jolted in their spot, "I fear this will affect her fertility rate!"

Sukuna: "You should've said so."

"My Lord?" They picked up their head and thought that Sukuna couldn't get anymore scarier than before, but they were wrong. The expression Sukuna wore was far more than dangerous; his eyes suddenly glazed over in vehement anger and burning rage. The doctor knew it wasn't directed toward them, but still, they couldn't help but feel a pit in their stomach.

Sukuna then used a hand to shoo them away, "Find a solution. Fast. I'll call you for progress." The doctor didn't need Sukuna to tell him if he failed; he knew what it meant if he could not live up to the expectation. His life. The doctor bid a farewell greeting and flew out of the Lord's room faster than any bird.

Outside the door, the doctor bumped into Lady Eisha, holding a tea tray. She gives the doctor a polite smile before entering the room, "Husband?" Sukuna, rubbing his face, opened his strawberry eyes and saw his principal wife. Eisha is a doll with porcelain skin and demure features; she was cladded in the finest and most expensive silks and jewelry that could feed a whole village for a year. Even though she wasn't initially Sukuna's first choice to be the principal wife, it was *you*; his mother insisted that Eisha should be the one since she was from a notable family. But so were you. Sukuna wanted clarification from his mother regarding her great dislike towards you being the primary wife, but all it did was ignite her wrath. Therefore, his mother never answers him, and it displeases him greatly. To take you as his second wife and, in ranking too. He isn't going to give you anything less; he knows how to piss off his mother; Sukuna could follow her wish, doesn't mean he isn't going to fulfill it.

"Is there anything that distresses you?" Sukuna didn't answer her. Instead, he was still in his damper mood and mauling over what he had just heard today. Eisha focused on her husband and the tea she had set on the ground. She delicately pours Sukuna a cup, then inches closer to present him with the tea with a soft smile. Sukuna accepts the cup without as much as looking at Eisha. Sukuna brought the cup to his lips, testing the temperature and smelling the scented aroma of matcha.

Eisha could feel her smile drop a little. Sukuna never looked her way despite being married for five years; the only time he would look at her was when they were to consummate and fulfill their duty as husband and wife to produce an heir. So far, Eisha has given him a daughter only, and all the other five concubines have given him a child each or two along the way. While one or two of them were on their second or third pregnancy, there was you, who remained childless all these years. Despite being the second wife after Eisha, you were still the secret mockery within the harem. With no child, you were to remain powerless against the rest of the harem and Eisha. However, you shouldn't be underestimated from her point of view; Eisha couldn't help but feel the vying affection she had wanted for so long from Sukuna, only to be delivered towards you. With you holding the heart of Sukuna, everyone was to remain careful about how they spoke of you. If one lousy word slipped from someone's mouth and reached Sukuna's ear, they would incur his deadly animosity.

She doesn't know what Sukuna could see in you; you were a harlot vixen who never once appreciated an ounce of Sukuna's admiration whenever it was presented. All you did was throw it back at his face; your cold disposition and indifference were a crime in her mind.

"Mistress?" Your maid, Yumi, calls out to you in worry, her voice in a hushed whisper as she looks out at the door warily to see any obscuring shadows of people lurking outside. "How do you think the Lord would take about your news?"

While you remain calm, you settle down your needlework onto your lap and look ahead of you with an annoyed expression. "It's not my problem; no child means no ties to that man." You were so nonchalant about your situation that Yumi put her hands on your forearm and gripped it, but not strong enough to hurt you. "Still..." Yumi starts; she knows how much you dislike Sukuna but wouldn't speak it out loud for your safety. You set your embroidery aside and re-situated yourself in your seating position. Patting her hands with your free hand, you try to reassure Yumi for her sake. "Yumi, you worry too much about me that you haven't been sitting still for the last hour." Disarming her with a smile, you decided to switch topics with a pacifist voice, "So, how is the situation with Lord Itadori?"

At the mention of Yuji, you see how her expression change from worry to realization. Yumi's hands fly off your forearm immediately, and she plucks out a letter from her inner attire and hands it to you with two hands. You take the letter from her and unfold the content, eyes reading the words.

Yuji was Sukuna's younger half-brother, who was fifteen years old, compared to Sukuna, who was twenty-seven. When you put them together or side by side, there wasn't much of a difference in their appearances; if you could point out, Yuji would be the replica of Sukuna, but he is someone who has softer features and heart, unlike his sharper and cold-hearted older brother. You would have referred to Yuji's last name as Sukuna, but before the former Lord passed away, Yuji wished to keep his mother's maiden name since she was the only family member left of hers. He is such a filial son; if only he were the same age as his older brother, you would've married him instead in a heartbeat. But in the end, it didn't matter, you treated the young boy as a little brother and sent him a bi-weekly care package, and Yuji treated you as an older sister he never had despite having so many.

"What does the letter say, Mistress?" Yumi asked, peering at the letters that looked like nothing but indescribable chicken scratches.

"What do you think it says?" You retort the question right back at her, and she sheepishly smiles at you while scratching the back of her head. "I've taught you how to read and write, and the alphabet never stuck to you, did it?" To confirm your suspicion, Yumi made it more evident by messing with the hem of her attire. You want to eye roll at your adorable servant but hold it off with a sigh before giving her a brief explanation. "Yuji said he's doing well at the Gojo's compound; he's also having a nice time and has made friends with the Fushiguro's son and Nobara's daughter. While learning has been difficult for him since I'm not around to help him, Gojo-sensi was nice enough to dumb it down for him." You click your tongue and eye Yumi, "What's with you and Yuji not retaining anything?" Continuing to summarize the letter, you can't help but huff out a little laugh at what you read; Yuji tried to spell something but couldn't as it was retried and crossed out multiple times then he said something different. "He missed eating with me and mentioned that his Sensi wanted to meet me since it's rare for a (Surname) clan girl to be married off. The rest is him rambling about a pretty girl, and that's it."

"I also missed the young master's presence; if he were here, Lord Sukuna wouldn't be hounding you every chance he gets." Yumi mention, and you chuckle. Sukuna hates Yuji, and how you prefer his younger brother. Sukuna had made it known to make off and backhanded comments at Yuji in your being, even with Yuji's naivety to a certain extent; he was sensible enough to understand that his older half-brother didn't like him much. This made you defend the young boy, and in defense, you use the same manner Sukuna did to Yuji in calculated and halcyon quips. You miss the satisfaction of making the man bite his lips in frustration, a part of you wants to relive it again.

If you were someone else, he would've had your head skewered at the front of the gate of the Sukuna's estate as a warning for everyone to watch what they say to him.

Folding the letter and putting it back inside the envelope, you check the sun's position, and you see it is nearly noon. "Yumi, prepare my tea for me."

"Is that so?" An older woman raises a brow; she listens intently to what is being told in front of her ears. Eisha, sitting in front of her, telling her the dreading news of you not being able to conceive children from where she overheard the doctor from Sukuna's quarter in the hallway. Sukuna's mother, Hanami, plays it off, "Even if she failed to fulfill her duty as one of his wives, there are still the other concubines here that are avail." Hanami tried to pass it off as it was the will of fate you weren't granted, children.

"Mother, you're right, although I can't help but worry that this might affect his Lordship's health." Eisha expresses, and Hanami hum at her to go on, "He has been waiting for so long to sire a child with her and is filled with news that she couldn't. Thus I wonder if you could help?"

Hanami paused, giving her a look, "Help? Do you want me to help her? Even if I can, I'm unsure how effective I could be." Hanami worded herself to be a saint and fair in front of Eisha, but when it comes to you, she refuses to be in any part of your life. Anything else, it's disgust and hatred she had for you. If you were born from a different clan and not the one associated with your Aunt Iori Setsuko, formally known as (Surname) Setsuko, she would've helped you.

Eisha, who asked the question, wasn't sure what answer she was given, but she still felt a sense of elation; the fact that you were disregarded as useless stroked her ego. Even if she doesn't have Sukuna's affection yet, she has her mother-in-law, her backer, and support.

"By the way, how are you and my son faring? Another child from you would hold the line stable." Hanami didn't notice how Eisha's face turned wry for a second, and within a blink, it disappeared as she presented her mother-in-law with a smile. Eisha didn't need a reminder from Hanami that she needed a boy to hold the line of succession going.

"Ryomen and I are trying for another, but it's not easy as it seems as it was during the first time," Eisha told Hanami, who gasped as a hand flew to her lips worriedly.

Hanami reached across and held Eisha's hands and squeezed them, "We cannot have that; I have some remedies that could help you." Hanami went over to her drawer and pulled out a few bottles. She hands them over to Eisha, who pretends to look astonished, "This is Unkei-to; take a pill daily to help with your blood flow and circulation." Hanami then sat across from Eisha again, "It's to help regulate your body heat and menstruation cycle, also increasing your ovulation too."

After going on a tangent of talking, Eisha excuses herself and lets out a triumphant grin.

Hanami drops the facade of a loving and caring mother; she puts two fingers against her temple and rubs it in pain; she could feel a headache forming. Knowing the news that you weren't able to bear children does strike her heart cords in happiness, but your presence was still a little reminder of why you're here. For as long as Hanami has known Setsuko, your Aunt was a thorn in her side at the starting days of their youth as young teenagers. Hanami was hailed as the fair maiden of Japan until your Aunt Setsuko appeared and took her title and everything. Every woman from the (Surname) Clan was always regarded as having a prestigious and noble birth, a goddess. Rarely were they ever seen or shown to the public; anyone who was to be wedded or engage with the women was married to their family instead of the husband, per upon agreement. The same goes with the men; the (Surname) is very picky on who they union their children with.

The reason why their feud has ensued for so long was because of Sukuna Tsugahara, Hanami's now-late husband. At first, Hanami and Tsugahara were lovers, and until he met Setsuko that he was smitten and was willing to break off the engagement with her. Blinded by anger and resentment every day for it, Setsuko and Tsugahara got closer and closer until it was then they were set to be engaged that Hanami had pulled the rug beneath their feet. Both parties were stunned since Hanami was willing to pull every dirty stunt in her book until she got Tsugahara back into her arms, and she successfully did. She called him back because a night of trysts pretending to be Setsuko and Sukuna Ryomen resulted from it.

To say Setsuko was betrayed, Hanami wished for Setsuko to feel everything she felt.

Hanami had to give that woman a round of applause, though she knew that Setsuko's bitterness would never end and it would burn forever; sending you was uncalled for and a friendly reminder of 'you robbed me, I will do it right back.'

You were almost an uncanny image of your Aunt that Hanami thought she had seen the devil for a second. Even Tsugahara thought you were Setsuko, and he mistakenly called you her name. You have to correct him. More alarming was her only son, Sukuna Ryomen, whose pupils were blown wide from your beauty and disposition that she thought she was reliving her horrible days again. First, it was her husband who was smitten by Setsuko, now her son towards you.

Even if she successfully dissuades her son from taking you as the head wife, it doesn't stop you from being pampered day and night by both men. Tsugahara cherished you as if you were his daughter since he couldn't be with the one he loves, and Sukuna wouldn't leave you alone to breathe; even speaking ill of you is forbidden, which is an unwritten rule anyone should and have to know.

Hanami was disturbed by their behavior relating to you; you were their favorite. Everything you do is perfect in their eyes, and you would be excused and given leniency. She won't know if she should be thankful that you didn't take advantage of her husband and son's adoration, but she's, nevertheless, pissed that you have them wrapped around your fingers!

You seem to adore your father-in-law Tsugahara more than your husband.

"Now, what should I do?" Hanami asks no one in particular but herself. She didn't want to indulge in the past anymore; she didn't care about Eisha; Hanami needed Eisha to give birth to a legitimate son to secure and solidify her position as the wife. After all, she didn't give her those pills for anything; she needs you out of the picture, even if it'll take time.

You thought peace was always an option without Sukuna hovering over you for the last few days, but not today. The feeling of disdain shoots you; the doctor and Sukuna are in your chamber. Yumi was nervously seated behind you, observing the scene, trying not to be as alarmed as possible. She fears Sukuna, but her caring and worried nature for you outweighs what she feels for your husband. Meanwhile, Sukuna was puffing a tobacco pipe by the window, his face resting against his knuckles. He was side-eying the situation. Your bodily functions matter to him that he took mere time off to hear what the doctor had to say.

The doctor diagnosing you took the thin cloth from your wrist after retaking your pulse. Sukuna had insisted that you were not to be touched by anyone but himself since he's your husband, and you were not to be grouped with common filth either. His other women in the harem.

"Well?" Sukuna lingers his gaze on the male, who clears his throat in apprehension.

The doctor shifted a bit in his spot; he had found a new habit since being under the scrutiny eyes of Sukuna. "As the results from before, Lady (Name) has low body heat and chances of conceiving a child. I had brought back a drug that will help improve her vitality over time to help her chance of conceiving." The male went to his medical box and searched for the miracle medicine. After a few seconds, he pulls out a small purple sash. The doctor unties the strings before carefully dumping a small ball of leaves onto their palm the size of a mini rosebud. You could smell the scent of ginger in it, along with many others. "This was specially made for Lady (Name); it's infused and compressed with..." They went on a tangent confabulation in which herbs were gathered from the mountains, and while what was brought from abroad, together, he went with the effects of it.

"Instead of telling me, get started." Sukuna cuts them off with impatient, and the doctor changes course and requests a pot of boiled water. You instructed Yumi to go to the kitchen with a slight nod. You will play along with whatever plan Sukuna has for you.

Yumi returns a quarter later, tray in both hands. She sat and kneeled on the ground, pouring a bowl of hot water into the ceramic. The doctor then proceeded to drop the ball of leaves into the cup as it unraveled openly. The water slowly changes its color until a dark golden hue is presented.

"It's ready," the doctor announces, plucking the leaves out and gesturing for you to pick up the bowl. You took the cup with the slow motion of a lady and brought it up to your nose. Sukuna watches your action; he sees how you peer into the bowl before taking a small sip, there was a slight twitch you showed, and he guessed it was probably bitter. You down the medicine in one go as you tilt it upwards until nothing was left beside a few residues of leaf particles. There was a strong bitterness in your mouth when you set the bowl back on the small table.

Sukuna dumps the rest of the tobacco out the window by tapping it before setting the pipe aside. He gives the doctor and Yumi a look, indicating that they should leave the room. The doctor didn't need to be told twice before he left the room in a rush, and Yumi hastily picks the bowl and put it on the tray before walking out of the room, not before casting you a glance of anxiety.

"Now," Sukuna rose from his seat, and you do the same, trying to cut him off from meeting you halfway. You blatantly wish to be anywhere else but here with him. It was because of orders from Sukuna to have you confined for a few days to find out what happened to you that it disrupted your daily activities to go out in public to help out the misfortunes and events you voluntarily volunteered yourself to escape his clutches. "Are you that eager to get away, love?" You didn't get very far, as it took a few strides to catch up. Sukuna uses a hand to grasp your wrist and pull you to his hard chest while one arm loops itself to your waist, his fingers lovingly playing with the outline of your hip, drumming and tapping. The man lays his chin on your shoulder while the smell of tobacco clings onto him, drafting towards your nose; Sukuna softly inhales your scent, lulling his mind into tranquility as he closes his eyes blissfully.

This made you turn your head subtly to the side to avoid him, but this made Sukuna think this was an invitation to dig his nose more profoundly into the crevice of your neck. A soft rumble could be heard from his throat. "I may confine you to stay within the castle, but that doesn't mean you have to stay in here." Here. What Sukuna had meant what that being on 'house arrest' doesn't mean you make it a habit to stay in your room.

"You didn't specify where to be confined, so I ought to stay somewhere, and here isn't bad at all." Retort with calmness but a subtle jab, Sukuna's hold tightens a bit more, not much to your liking. But it loosens as it comes to, "Your presence is greatly missed in the mess hall." You wanted to snark back that it's highly doubted; with you gone from the dining table, everyone would tell tales full of travesty of you in high and low, not in front of him, but when he's not around. The only person who would miss you was Sukuna himself.

Grabbing Sukuna's wrist, you untangle yourself from his grasp and put space between you. It's getting unbearable; you could only tolerate being in so much of his existence and him touching you. "Lift my temporary ban; then I'll join." You negotiate, and even with your back still turning against him, Sukuna can't help but grant you your wish. "That I can do, and I'm happy to see your face once more among the common ones." Sukuna moves in front of you; he grabs a lock of your hair and kisses it. He drops it before brushing his thick fingers against your tresses and trying to slide them behind your ear. You smack Sukuna's palm away with a tap, not enough to offend him, but enough to turn him away.

Your action amuses him; Sukuna wasn't sure how long you would resist him. Despite being his favorite for five years when he first laid eyes on you during the selection, even if you don't want him now, he will make sure you'll be him for the rest of eternity. He's a very patient man with many crafts underneath his sleeve. "Make sure to be there on time."

"How can I forget you're a punctual man," maintaining the underlying impasse, Sukuna chuckles when you look up to meet his eyes.

Sukuna turned around and exited your chamber; it wasn't until he was out of sight and mind that you inhaled deeply before exhaling that Yumi cane back into the room like a blur. She fretted over you like a mother hen that your social energy was draining fast already. Putting up with Sukuna always makes you mentally tired; keeping the farce up day and night from all angles isn't what you want.

You were only here per request and out of respect to your Aunt Setsuko, who had raised you because of the early passing of your parents. Marrying into the Sukuna family does have its benefits, although it's not what you had initially had in mind. You held back your thoughts when agreeing to be shipped off into an arranged marriage with Sukuna, the only son your Aunt Setsuko was deadset on having you marry before you were even born.

Maybe you should've asked for the reason before agreeing; now it's an endless headache you're dealing with.

ASKING THEM TO BAIL YOU OUT OF JAIL.

MASTERLIST | G!N READER

summary : "hey, this is y/n's friend. uhh, y/n's in jail and they need your help with bailing em out."

characters : venti, diluc, kaeya, zhongli, childe

first kiss hcs w/ the veterans

» feat. Erwin, Levi, & Hange +Jean

» warnings for suggestive content(!)

» can be read as gender-neutral

ERWIN SMITH

––––––––––––– first kiss:

He would 100% ask permission first - not a doubt in my mind. The epitome of a proper gentleman, this one. I don’t see him as being very nervous at all beyond a few flutters bc after all, Erwin wouldn’t dare to make a move before he’s certain you’ll reciprocate (ever the strategist..)

A coy smile peeks at his cheeks. “Would you mind if I kissed you?”

What a man - very likely to take over leading you the first time, gently guiding your lips in a sensual, slow kiss that leaves your head fuzzy and your stomach spinning out of control. Perhaps Erwin is even so daring as to swipe his tongue across your puffy bottom lip right as he pulls away 😵‍💫

where they like to be kissed:

More than anything?? On his lips, sweet and simple. No matter if it’s the traditional way to kiss someone, a peck on the lips makes Erwin’s heart warm :(( It means that you’re dedicated to each other, that you two are more closely tied than anyone - Erwin more than anything needs a partner who understands him and a deep, sensual kiss is a big reassurance that you do.

Also, his chest - specifically right over his heart 😽 Not only is that where he carries his pride, but he has a thick, hulking chest and sensitive nipples. I said what I said.

Pepper kisses up and down his strong jawline too, his strong nose, and this magnificent smile will crease at his lips.

where they like to kiss you:

Your chest - for many of the same reasons. Erwin keeps his large palm graced over your heart and will press wet, open-mouthed kisses straight down the center, paying special attention to the pretty peaks of your nipples. He loves tracing the arc of your shoulderblades with his lips too, right where the bones resemble wings.

As a more traditional man, he feels a glowing feeling unfurl in his chest to mold your lips with his. Not to mention! gently taking your hand and kissing it like he’s cradling a butterfly wing :(( He’ll do such a smooth, gentlemanly move in the middle of a public street, in the privacy of his office, right after he dicks you down,,, no exceptions.

JEAN KIERSTEIN

–––––––––––––––

first kiss:

Jean talks a lot of big game and he puts on the facade of a total lady’s man - but, this is the same man whose train of thought will totally jam that first heart-stopping moment when you lean in to kiss him; barely has the mind to reciprocate with the slightest tilt of his head, his palm landing on the small of your back as he practically launches you back with just how eager he is.

He wanted to respect your space and was too chickenshit to just ask - even though he’s been craving a kiss forever now, to the point where he makes more eye contact with your lips more than, well, your eyes.

So passionate, a little hesitant until your noses are bumping in hasty desire to deepen the kiss. He’s got the faintest of a blush dusting his cheeks once one of you thinks to finally pull away.

where they like to be kissed:

The palm of his big hand :( especially when he's cradling the apple of your cheek. And his sharp jawline where his stubble tickles your lips.

The nape of his neck! Brush his sandy-colored hair out of the way and he’ll shiver under the press of your silky lips ok. He adores it… and his neck in general. He gets such a warm, fuzzy feeling when you approach from behind and (him being a whopping 6’2 / 190cm) reach up on the tips of your toes to buryyour face in his neck. perhaps your arms sling around his waist?? he gets a kick out of it.

where they like to kiss you:

Jean strikes me as such a man willing to please … but he has a teasing streak. He likes smack soft, wet kisses over both of your hipbones right before his heavy tongue lands between your legs yk..

If we’re talking more SFW?? He loves peppering your collar with kisses, tracing the ridges with his tongue. Anything for the thrill of your reaction, which means the spot just behind your ear when he’s coming up from behind …

and these soft, fragile forehead kisses so he has an excuse to watch your lashes flutter and get a look at the features he admires so much up close.

LEVI ACKERMAN

–––––––––––––––

first kiss:

Very little chance of him initiating - infinitesimal actually, almost 0%. He needs your palm to drift over his cheek and guide him towards you, close enough for your lashes to kiss each other’s skin even.

“What… are you doing?”

Levi would be quiet, frozen stiff - but only because his mind is going haywire and there’s at least a million butterflies fluttering around his stomach. The blush on this man’s face so warm and sweet that you may be close enough to feel the heat radiating off his skin :((

Levi has these full, baby-pink lips too.. so soft and plush bc there’s no way he’d neglect personal hygiene in any way. He goes all out :((

And then when he first feels that brush of your lips against his? His eyelids flutter and he may not even react. He needs a moment to collect himself because you, wanting to kiss him? God he’s so nervous.

It’s easy to interpret his clamming up as disgust or lack of desire - but Levi will gently catch the nape of your neck and tug you back in.

Your first kiss is so light, barely a peck; he needs to test the waters, and his mind is so jammed by all these fuzzy flutters that he can do nothing but take it slow. So sweet :(

“Hey—why'd you stop?"

where they like to be kissed:

Levi pretends to loathe sweet little pecks and loving passes between your lips but in reality?? Kiss him just about anywhere and he’ll be flustered and fuzzy and warm :((

Smooth his bangs off his forehead (bc Levi loves his hair being touched) and press a dainty kiss on his forehead, or that spot just below his ear while sparing sweet words to him… Take his hand and kiss his fingers too :(( he will melt.

His inner thighs!!! Over his navel! That little junction between his jaw and the slope of his neck - all these sensitive, fiery spots Levi has never ever experienced such tender love. A warm blush will stretch across his cheeks, and he’ll go totally bashful, mind empty.

where they like to kiss you:

Where he likes to give you kisses is almost… innocent in a way, tho he’s the furthest thing from that. But Levi needs time to warm up to physical affection yk? Let alone initiating it.

He’ll kiss your cheek when you’re just waking up with hopes you won’t notice :(( Truthfully he’s super shy... he likes a small, reassuring kiss to your shoulder where the hem’s slipped down + right over your heart in your more passionate moments (similar to Erwin).

He could spend a whole hour just idly playing with your fingers, kissing your knuckles, putting a peck on your fingertips. Very sweet :(

HANGE ZÖE

–––––––––––

first kiss:

Hange gets so excited okay - a little absent-minded too. Maybe you’re doing the smallest, kindest favor for them, like handing over a beaker when they’re in a jam and on the verge of a breakthrough. They don’t particularly think about it when they launch up from where they’re stooped over their things by the heels of their hands, giggling excitedly, “That’s it! You’re perfect, my dear,” and plants a hasty kiss on your lips.

Not that kissing you doesn’t send them into cardiac arrest, but it feels so natural around you ! Everything has always came so easily, and they feel so unabashedly like themself that it doesn’t really cross their mind that you’ve never kissed until it happens??

Both your eyes would go wide like saucers, but yours are wider. “Hange!?”

“Oh.” They can’t help but smile despite themself. “Oops..! Wasn’t thinking.”

where they like to be kissed:

The nape of their neck. It isn’t just because of their fixation on Titans, either - it's such an intimate place to kiss someone, especially if you’re spooning them from behind. At once, little shivers tickle up and down their spine; they feel so safe in your arms. Don’t even get me started on mouthing over that special spot when you have them ass-up in bed 😵‍💫

where they like to kiss you:

In the most unconventional of places?? For some reason? Hange just wants to catalogue every part of you to memory, and all your reactions to things—a little giggle, your muscles locking up in a shiver, a raised brow… They would literally kiss every inch of you if they knew they could get away with it <3

Between the wings of your shoulderblades ! The shell of your ear (where a smile prodded at Hange’s lips at the goosebumps that rose up on your skin) ! Launching onto the bed and smacking kisses on both of your Achilles’ heels. Hange loves to leave kisses in places most people normally wouldn’t think of.

multi. masterlist | main masterlist

˚◞♡ ⃗ RUNNING INTO HIS CHILDHOOD CRUSH

note: none characters: ran. chifuyu. baji. sanzu.

ran haitani

“ i hate the cold. “ you mutter, rubbing your arms up and down to chafe heat onto your skin. the weather newscast happened to say that the city would be warm but it seems to be otherwise as you stand to wait for the light to go green.

the man beside you shrugs, content in his ratherly warm coat, “ don’t know — i kind of like it. “ 

you crane your neck in order to glare at the stranger but your eyes land on ran haitani instead, a past best friend of yours growing up. your lips part in shock and he reaches over to lift your chin, closing your mouth with amusement all over his features, “ am i that jaw dropping? “

you shove his hand away and beaming brightly at the man, “ you’re so grown, look at you — new haircut and everything. how unfortunate though, i loved your long hair. “

Keep reading

WAKING UP TO THEIR EMBRACE !

synopis: waking up to their embrace after staying at their place last night.

characters: childe, diluc, itto, kaeya, kazuha, xiao, zhongli

content warnings: suggestive + gn!reader

childe: when you wake up with sleepy eyes after coming home, to childe’s apartment you feel a loose arm around your waist. already noticing that the dull eyes have been staring at you before you had awaken. you cannot help but get flustered, as he presses a kiss to your head.

diluc: your back would be to his chest while he holds you by your waist, sleeping and nuzzled deep into your hair. he loved your aroma and scent and adored it so much. waking up to him is nice and cozy because he hardly snores and he usually wakes up after you do to say good morning.

itto: waking up to him is basically like being held by a huge teddy bear. he does snore a bit in the morning but perhaps it’s a sound you can get accustomed too. though if you wake up before him, he’ll just encourage you to go back to sleep.

kaeya: waking up to him feels like a short blessing, because he is so warm and hearing him praise and flirt with you at dawn is like the cherry on top. though a majority of the time his flirty comments makes you nervous so you end up burying your head into his shoulder.

kazuha: he always holds you upon his chest carefully, stroking the strands of your hair and saying good morning once your eyes meet the sun peaking through the windows. he’ll ask simple questions and always asking if you wanted to catch breakfast with him.

xiao: he generally likes to watch you fall asleep but the temptation and the urge to hold you, is way too strong which is why you awake in the morning to him pressing your head upon his chest while he tells you to go back to bed and kisses your forehead.

zhongli: oh archons, he is so gentle. he holds you very carefully and softly, making sure that you are safe in his warmth and embrace. he either has your head placed on his chest or shoulder to guarantee you comfort.

Things they do when they're madly in love

a/n; there might be a part 2 later on~

! genre; fluffy heart melting fluff

! characters; Childe, Kaeya, Diluc, Ayato, Venti, Zhongli, Thoma, Kazuha x gn!reader

Reblogs are highly appreciated!! ^-^

CHILDE- likes hugging you from behind, mostly times when you're not paying attention to him. He lives off to see the surprised face your make every time he does it. >.<

KAEYA- gives you the most comforting cuddles in Teyvat. When you're having a bad day, he doesn't hesitate to have you wrapped around his arms. It works every single time like magic. poof! you're back to your usual self

AYATO- loves teasing you, anytime anywhere! He makes you laugh a lot too! The sound of your laugh lights up his day instantly, the picture of your smile makes him smile like an idiot madly in love.

rest utc!

DILUC- sure is a busy man, but he will never forget to make time for his dearest. Having his chin plopped right on your head while he does paperwork, resisting the urge to grab your chin and aggressively make out with you ///-///

VENTI- gives you headpats everytime you guys meet up, ruffling your hair and messing it up is included. He also chuckles when you smack his arm playfully. Hopefully you're not too mad at him :T

ZHONGLI- is a gentleman, he opens doors for you to enter first. And he lets you do his daily hair! Braid it or whatever he doesn't care, as long as it's made by you...he loves it.

THOMA- cooks breakfast in bed for you, he knows all your favorite dishes. If you ever overworked yourself, he'd scold you like a mom does. Don't worry, he's not angry just a little worried, he loves you too much to be mad at you. <33

KAZUHA- is cheesy as hell, he kisses the back of your hands. Showers you with sweet compliments too. By the end of your day together, you'll be as red as a thomato (haha get it?)

MASTERLIST

Thanks for reading! <3