Nora

Well, you don’t know what was going on behind closed doors so you can’t be the one at blame. But that’s why you were so oblivious to everything. From how passive aggressive they’ve been for the last few days and how avoidant they became over the topic of dating. 

As much as you’d like to say it’s an exaggeration of some sort for dramatic effect, it really isn’t.

Somehow you don’t notice how much they try to get closer to you— physically or mentally. You also don’t notice how fast they respond to your every beck and call. You slowly start noticing because it feels off. Something just didn’t feel right.

But, on the bright side, you really did like him… in a way at least. 

He was nice, attractive and financially well-off. He practically ticked all of your boxes.

The realisation hadn’t hit you on the fact that maybe you admired him a little bit more than just friends. You hadn’t noticed how you started staring at him for longer than usual, thinking about him more and then the thought clicked in your mind that maybe you started to like him.

It’s safe to say they did not like him. To them, he was nothing but an obstacle— a hindrance— but you thought he was everything. They saw the way your pupils dilate when he walks into the room. They notice how you get quiet and just watch him in awe for a solid second before snapping back to reality.

So they knew. They knew before the first time you mentioned this crush, which was at lunch when you were eating with the other first years.

There were hustles and bustles of people shifting around the cafeteria, people going over to sit down or throw away their trash. It was as lively as usual so you thought it would be a good time. 

Key word: thought.

“Y’know, I think Atlas is pretty cute,” you suddenly mention.

They all go quiet, multiple pairs of skeptical gazes on you. Their moods almost seem to deflate right in front of you, if you were to actually notice it.

“What? I’m serious,” you emphasise. “He’s totally cute,”

“Atlas? What? Like the guy from Octavinelle?” Deuce clarifies, raising a brow, green eyes darting to you in confusion.

He knows he’s dumb and he sometimes can’t tell if you’re joking but he can’t be this dumb, right?

Oh, how he wishes you were joking. 

“Yeah, and I was thinking if you guys could help me,” you add on, biting your lip as you fiddled with your food.

If you were able to read minds, you would know how much they are fighting to say ‘fuck no’ straight to your face.

“How?” Jack asked, ears perking up.

“I don’t know. Maybe you guys could talk to him, invite him to the table or whatnot and maybe I can get to know him better,” you respond, crossing your arms on the wooden table.

“Wouldn’t that be a little awkward?” Ace mentions, as if he even cares that much. 

“Not if you don’t make it awkward,” you reply with a little too much sass than you intended originally. “And I think it’ll be beneficial to start joining the dating game since we’re all technically adults.”

“Sure, I guess,” Epel murmurs.

“I think that sounds amazing [name]!” Ortho’s the only one who seems excited by your announcement. And he’s also the only one that’s willing to stay with you for longer than 5 minutes.

You were on the grassy field with him, disappointedly eating your apple with such roughness that your teeth threatened to fall off. The frustration had started to colonise your mind. You didn’t know everything would just go so horribly so quickly, and furthermore, you didn’t even know why.

They avoided you as if you were the plague, like a disease that nobody wanted to touch. But you’re not. If you were, you would know and at least understand but you’re not.

Venting to Ortho helped a lot with the pain. He was so sweet and caring. Maybe because he can’t necessarily experience jealousy.

“I-I just don’t know; it’s like I did something that upset everyone,” you say, sighing to yourself as you picked at the core of the apple. “Why do men have to be so confusing? It’s like everyday there’s something new and I don’t know what’s going on— I never do.”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll come around soon!” He’s so cheerful when he says it that it makes you pause.

…Does he know? He sounds sure. Too sure.

“What do you mean by that?” you tilt your head and give him a perplexed expression, almost accusing him of something.

He panics. 

“Uh, I meant— they’re going to get out of this phase! Yeah! That’s what I meant!” His tone is shaky and you can see the fear rushing through his robotic wires. He floats backwards and says, “I’ll get going now! I think Idia is calling me!”

His robotic frame gets smaller the more he walks away before ultimately disappearing from your line of vision.

You sit uncomfortably on the grass, feeling the sharp prickles of the blades stab at your thigh. Well, that wasn’t weird at all…

—

The next day feels the same. No one stops for you. No one speaks to you.

At lunch, you end up eating alone. The room isn’t quiet but it feels like it is, save for the hushed murmurs and the occasional glance your way. You pretend not to notice, like it isn’t making you go crazy.

At this point, everyone knows that something is up, whether it’s from just observing you or from gossip that’s spread like wildfire.

You’re not even sure who the leak is and why they could possibly want to out you like this, but somehow, a huge chunk of the student body knows about your silly little crush. So it didn’t take long for your actual crush to know.

It makes you uneasy. However, no one’s mentioned it directly to your face… not until you receive a message.

It’s the housewarden of Savanaclaw that decides to dip himself into the waters to test it. 

[Leona]: so, how’s it going with that guy? [You]: It’s been going fine. I really do think it might work out. [Leona]: …do you? [You]: Of course I do. Why wouldn’t I? [Leona]: Hm. [You]: What’s that supposed to mean? [Leona]: Nothing. Just doesn’t sound very convincing. [You]: And you’d know? [Leona]: I’ve heard people in arranged marriages sound more convincing than you. You should learn from them. [You]: I didn’t ask for your opinion. [Leona]: didn’t say you did, but you’re still trying to prove it to me anyway. That one sends you over the edge. [You]: I know what I feel. And what I feel is love. [Leona]: …sure, keep telling yourself that, herbivore.

The attitude was so palpable, even through the damn screen you felt it. You don’t know what’s gotten with everyone but you don’t like it. From the way they start to divert their gazes to being seemingly more impatient.

When you used to ask Ace to hang out, he’d always be there for you but all of a sudden he’s always busy, despite not caring for academics. It’s the same with almost everyone from the first years, second years and even the third years.

Even Kalim, the epitome of sunshine, seems a bit destroyed. The ones you thought would’ve at least been there like Lilia, Trey and Malleus were all gone. Actually, some still didn’t mind spending time with you, but it was awkward— tenser than the usual, effortless conversations that used to flow naturally.

Then, you come across Atlas in the hallways and he stops you.

“[Name], I heard…” he trails. “And I was just thinking that maybe we can have a date on the weekends?”

The request blows your mind. What do you even say to that? Do you kneel and beg for marriage? Or do you just stand there?

Nonetheless, you keep your composure and act like this isn’t totally life changing. “Yes, absolutely, just text me the place and time.” You smile politely.

“I need your phone number then,” he pulls out his phone and you two exchange numbers swiftly to prevent blocking the hallway for too long. 

You try not to break out in happy tears as you hug your device to your chest, because you feel that maybe there is some ounce of hope for you in the future of your love life.

—

Taking a sharp inhale, your knuckle taps on Vil’s door.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

Then, with a soft click opens the door, you see him in all his glory.

“Vil, can you please help me pick a dress for my date?” you interlock your hands together to beg, puppy eyes gracing your face.

He’s reluctant, but he says yes anyway since he can’t reject you. 

The process was strenuous. It was no, after no, after no, after no. Almost every dress felt like it wasn’t approved by both parties.

You came out with what felt like the millionth dress, which was for some reason, latex. It was tight but hugged your curves enough to flaunt it. Regardless of the fact that Atlas might like it, you definitely didn’t— it just way too tight and felt suffocating.

“What about this one?” You look at yourself in the mirror.

“That’s… no,” he replies, trying to cover the blush on his face. He gets closer to you, adjusting the hem and neckline, fingers lightly hovering over your skin.

Then you tried a few more on and found the perfect one. It was comfortable enough for long wear and proper enough.

“I think this is the best option,” you say.

“Probably, do you want me to do your make up as well?” he offers, opening his make up bag full of expensive brands that would normally cost you an arm & leg. For him, it’s probably just pocket change though.

You were all dolled up— wearing the dress you’ve spent a boatload of money on and the makeup that was applied using Vil’s expertise and expensive tools. 

There’s a deep, gnawing pit in the blonde boy’s stomach as he tries his best to not crash out. He knows the feeling of jealousy but this was something different. Envy? Anger? 

He clenches his jaw while the blank expression in his optics blur. His mind trails into dreamland where you’re not skipping off happily into another man’s arms, but into his. He’s the one that hugs you and touches you and kisses you, not some loser from Octavinelle.

But it’s not. He wakes up to the same reality he dreads everyday where you’re not his.

—

The date goes smoothly, with you finally having your first kiss with him and learning more about each other. Apparently, he enjoys practically everything you do— a match made in heaven. He watches the same shows, listens to the same music, and has the same taste in food.

Leaves crunch under your heels, skies dark, humming to yourself in satisfactory success, you accidentally trip over a sleeping body, leading you to fall forward and land on top of the perpetrator.

“I-I’m so sorry!” You were quick to get up, hardly noticing who you’ve bumped into.

“What the— don’t worry about it herbivore,” he changes his tone as soon as he realises who you were. 

“Leona?” You look at him. 

“Herbivore?” there’s a smirk on his face. “How was your date with that… guy?”

He cringes. 

“It went great and I think it might actually be… official?” you answer, a twinge of excitement intertwined.

The rolls of his eyes don't go unmissed. “Are you really sure this is what you want, herbivore?” Leona asks, unconvinced. 

“Yes!”

He grumbles. 

“Leona! I— are you jealous?” You snort, the word comes out acidic but unavoidable.

He grunts. “So what if I am?” he spits back, voice a little harsher than before.

This makes you tilt your head. Fuck. That’s when everything clicked for you. You’re so stupid.

“Leona, I-I’m sorry…” you step back. 

“Huh, you’re starting to get it now,” he clicks his tongue, watching as the realization seeps into your pores.

“B-but why?” You query.

“You can figure that out,” he leaves the room, allowing you to sit in your own thoughts.

It takes your slow brain a while to comprehend everything.

That’s when you decided to confront each dorm. Even though you technically don’t know who’s at fault. But logically, it’s not fair if they’re so upset by something like this. They don’t have to be your everything.

First was Heartslabyul, where Ace & Deuce usually were at this ime. 

hour but it was Riddle who opened the door for you. You hate the disappointed look in his eyes but you’ve gotta stand your ground too.

“Riddle, can we talk?” you plead.

He stares you up and down, his soft features beaming under the light. It makes you realise how gorgeous he actually was. But you snap out of it. 

It’s not the time.

“Sure, come in,” he answers, opening the door wider for you.

You let yourself in, spotting Ace & Deuce playing poker together, Cater scrolling on magicam, and Trey baking something of some sorts— the wafts of baked goods coming in soft waves. 

Turning around, you grab Riddle’s hand and squeeze it tightly. “I just wanted to say I’m sorry.”

His ears perk up. “For?”

“Y’knoww…” you bite your lip. “Forr dating Atlas since I know you don’t approve of him.”

That’s the moment before everything goes south. The conversation started to falter when more parties started to get involved. 

“If you were really sorry, you wouldn’t have gone on a date with him!” Ace debates.

“But I didn’t know and it’s my life, I deserve to live it how I want,” you argue. 

“Yes but you’re our friend, [name].” He says. “I-I don’t want to lose you,”

“Ace, I’m not dying! I’m just going on a few dates with this guy and—” you start raising your voice higher in hopes that he’s going to understand.

He cuts you off. “But you’ve been ditching us so much lately,”

“Because you’re avoiding me?” you question.

“We have not. We try to talk to you but you’re stuck thinking about him in your own thoughts,” Deuce adds.

You dislike how they’re pinning the blame on you despite the fact that they’ve been doing exactly what they accuse you of doing. The hypocrisy makes you reel. 

“I know you’re jealous but seriously, I want to live my own life outside of you guys… I’m sorry,” you shake your head in disbelief. 

“Ace, that’s enough,” Trey scolds. 

“Aww, it was just getting good!” Cater whines, finally looking up from the screen. 

“Cater,” Riddle calls him out, causing him to immediately shut up. 

“I-I just came here to tell you guys that I’m thinking about making it official with him and—” you explain, only to be cut off by an annoyed Ace.

“There you go again!” his brows furrow, jaw tightening. He soon storms off and slams the door behind him, sending all the furniture shaking. “It’s like you don’t even listen!” his yells can still be heard.

“You guys can’t be this jealous,” you shake your head, plopping down onto the cushions of the couch. 

“[Name], I really do think you should reconsider,” Riddle’s voice is stern when he talks.

“Hey, it’s her life,” Trey supports you.

They all look at him in betrayal. They swore he was not on your side. 

“Thank you!” You say, gratefulness eminent in your words.

“But I really do think you should rethink this,” Trey opposes his previous statement. “There’s better out there,”

His tone is warm, loving even. He truly does care about you and doesn’t want to just let you make choices that you’ll regret.  

“Yeah, I can’t imagine you betraying me for someone else,” Cater hugs you, the heat of proximity radiating from his body onto yours.

Maybe they’re right. It might not be the best time to start dating and the pool is vast. There’s so much more to life than this and if dating this guy means sacrificing your entire friends list, maybe it’s not worth it.

You’re conflicted.

The walk to Savanaclaw was stressful. Mind racing like formula cars in the last lap, switching between your relationship or your friends. This only leads your trepidation to increase. Adrenaline rushed through your veins as there’s no telling what the future may hold.

“Hey [name]! How’s your relationship going?” The hyena boy’s voice is cheery as he greets you. “Are ya’ here to see Jack?”

“No, I, kinda?” you stutter, not able to make coherent sentences. “Listen, I’m just asking for some input before my relationship with you-know-who escalates.”

Your approach is different.

“My input?” disbelief washes over his face.

“Yeah,” you confirm.

He thinks with a hand on his chin as if he’s in a cartoon. “I don’t really think you should date at all y’know. Maybe you should wait until like graduation or something.” His hands go outwards into a shrug. “But it’s all up to you! After all, it’s not just my business. Hope this guy’s really worth the time though,”

He flees the scene, light footsteps as he disappears into the dark.

The last part of his speech lingers in the back of your mind. Nonetheless, meeting Ruggie was so much more refreshing than you thought. It was nice to meet someone who had a more positive outlook on life despite totally rejecting your relationship in its entirety.

Jack’s eyes dart from you onto the ground. He pretends as if he doesn’t see you, only worsening the growing guilt inside you. 

“Jack, it’s been a while,” you start the conversation. “How are you?”

He breathes. “Good, what do you need?”

The shift in his words are a tell-tale sign. The ‘good’ seems forced, as if it’s far from what he’s showing.

“I just wanted to ask you if you approve of my relationship with Atlas, since not many of you do apparently…” explained by you.

He puts down the book he was reading, or at least looking at. “I think it’s fine,” 

“What?”

“Yeah but I don’t know what he’s like so I can’t tell you if I approve or not,” he pauses. “But if he does anything, please tell me,”

It makes your heart melt. 

“Thanks Jack

It’s like they all have the same script (like that stupid AI study tool ads by college students). You would’ve spoken to Leona, but he was nowhere to be seen so you just decided to leave it and continue onto the next dorm.

He would’ve said something like: “do whatever you want, but don’t come crying if something goes wrong,” and you don’t really feel like dealing with the guilt trip.

Octavinelle, alone, was one of the worst experiences mainly because of Floyd.

He’d been so obviously rampaging everywhere and anywhere, seeing you only made it worse. At this point, the 

“Ehh Shrimpy, what’re you doing here?” he moans with an absolute look of despair. “Don’t you have a date to get to?”

“Not anymore, but I do want to ask you about it,” you answer calmly, hoping it’ll be reflected onto him or something. 

“Yer’ literally ditching us for lower class octavinelle guy, he’s ooo boooorringg like there’s better in this dorm ya’ know?” he holds his neck with that terrifying glare that drills holes into you.

You opened your mouth to speak.

Then, Azul appears with Jade from the dark. “Hmm… what is this about?” he is beaming, hands behind his back like he’s some sort of master from a martial arts movie.

“I was just gonna ask your guys’ opinion on Atlas… before I date him officially or something,” you mumble. 

That seems to be enough to calm Floyd down. 

“Well, why didn’t ya’ say so Shrimpy?!” he cheers, going over to give you a tight squeeze… that knocks all the oxygen out of your lungs.

Luckily, it’s only brief so you’re dropped very soon, left to choke on air. 

“That’s good to hear,” the corner of Jade’s lips tug. “I do hope he’s suitable for you if you do choose him.”

“Yes, but I don’t think that’s happening if a majority of everyone disagrees,” you state.

The blue-haired boy fights back the smirk. “Very well, then I don’t think you need our input.”

“Well, I might need more than just a simple yes or no,” you add.

Jade and Azul exchanged a brief glance, but it’s Floyd who speaks first.

“I just don’t wanna share you, Shrimpy~” Floyd reasons, hands wrapped around your waist to give you a back hug and his head resting atop yours.

You facepalm, sighing. “That can’t be your reason, Floyd.”

“Well it is,” he giggles, nuzzling his nose into your neck.

“If this individual brings you benefits then I see no issue,” Azul claims. “But I do wonder what he has that makes him so special.”

You sigh for the umpteenth time. “He’s nice, shares the same interests with me and pretty well-off so…”

“How interesting, I didn’t know that was your type but I do hope he is worthy of your attention,” Jade forces a grin.

“But he’s soo boring. Just dump him,” Floyd groans, feeling a bit upset that his twin and boss aren’t convincing you to ditch him.

“Well, thanks guys, I’ll get going now…” you pry off the eel’s arms and dash out the door.

They stared as you ran off, murmuring amongst themselves that you have no idea if you want to hear or not.

Now you’re off to Scarabia. The first thing you saw as soon as you stepped past the threshold was Jamil cooking in the kitchen, seemingly pretty occupied by something.

“Jamil?” you peep past the wall.

He turns his head. “[Name]...”

“May I come in?” you ask.

“Yeah, but Kalim’s been pretty upset recently so I’m not sure if he can—” he starts talking again, only for you to interrupt.

“That’s exactly why I’m here. I don’t think everyone exactly agrees with me and I just wanted to know what everyone thought about it.” You answer.

“Do you even know him that well? How do you know he’s not lying?” Jamil asks, expertly cutting the vegetables on the board. “Why are you even asking me this?”

The question comes out passive-aggressive. You don’t know if he actually meant it that way or what but frankly, you feel offended that he would ask such a thing.

“Jamil, I hold you very dear to me and I can’t just let something like this get between us,” you get closer to him.

He takes a deep breath. “It’s none of my business and it’s your life,”

You hate how he avoids your gaze— how he refuses to just spare you a glance. So, out of pure frustration and anger, you grab his wrists and force him to look you in your eyes. 

“Jamil, you’re precious to me. What don’t you understand about it? I love you,”

His heart thumps louder. “Of course I’m upset.” He finally admits. “I don’t like seeing you with him. 

Well, that’s out of the way. That’s 12 votes against you and Atlas. Only 9 more to go! At this point you probably should’ve given up on hoping for at least 1 person to agree with you. Not just saying that it’s your life, but also on the whole relationship itself.

You offered Jamil to deliver Kalim’s food since it seemed appropriate at the time and you owed the vice-housewarden some grace.

Kalim’s defeated. Stumped. Dejected. 

There’s barely enough words to describe how he barely has enough energy to move and his eyes are blood-shot red. 

“Why are you ditching us for him? I miss you a lot, [name].” Kalim says in between his sobs and sniffles.

“We can still hang out,” you say empathetically. “Hey, I’ll stop talking to him if it bothers you so much,”

“Really? I-I thought it was gonna be okay but I don’t like you with him,” you can hear the pain in his throat as he spoke.

“Very well then,” was the last thing you said before departing to Pomefiore.

Rook hid in the trees, waiting for you, knowing that you were coming. He immediately jumped out from seemingly nowhere and greeted you, making you jump. 

“Bonjour trickster! What brings you here today?” The blonde asks. 

“GAH— ROOK! You can’t just come outta nowhere and scare me like that!” You scold him, pinching your nose bridge in disappointment. “But, I was here to ask if you would support me dating Atlas?”

“Absolutely! Love is a magnificent force… yet I do wonder, does he truly see your beauty in all its glory?” He twists the sentence to bring your hopes up to break it all down in an instant.

“He does, thank you very much,” you say sarcastically. 

“Will you be staying here for long? I do not mind sharing a bed with you!” He excitedly says.

“No, I’m sorry but I’m only here to check up on everyone,” you respond, before saying your goodbyes and rushing to Epel’s room.

There’s a soft whisper of “to think someone stands in where I wish to be…” from him as soon as you’re out of earshot.

Epel’s probably one of the more furious ones— you can see it in his soft features but he tries his best not to.

“So… what do you think?” you ask. 

“You could do way better than him y’know,” Epel says. “He’s not the only one that can make ya’ happy,”

“I know, I know.” You repeat. “Do you know where Vil is… since I need to talk to him about this as well,”

“He’s out doing some shoot,” Epel replies, short and firm. 

“Oh…” you blink. “Alright, I’ll get going then.”

Idia’s the one you’re most neutral about. He’s frightened and annoyed all in one emotion. He’s made peace with the fact that you’re not his to claim but annoyed with you for not noticing… or for him not trying.

He opens the door only by a bit— enough to see tiny parts of you and for the sound to come through. 

“[N-name], what are you here for?” He speaks in a terrified tone.

“Idia, can we talk?” Your voice comes from the other side.

He swore the hairs on the back of his neck stood up, and his blue hair flared dramatically.

“A-about what?” His sentences are executed in short stutters.

“Let me in then I’ll tell you,” something in your tone is sharp and condescending that scares Idia even more, but it works…

He opens the door wider with reluctance. 

“W-what do you want to talk about?” He asks, retreating back to his gaming chair, watching you carefully.

“I wanted to talk about my relationship with Atlas,” you explain yourself.

“Oh, right. Your boyfriend. Good for you,” he mutters.

“Not yet my boyfriend,” you correct him.

“Cool,” he replies, only building the awkwardness more.

“Do you approve? Cus it seems to me like you don’t,” you state.

He feels the pressure you’re exerting onto him. “Uh— I mean… it’s not like I care about who you hang out with or—”

Your patience wears thin. “Cut the crap Idia. Just tell me if you’re upset or not,” 

“Y-yeah, I am… I guess,” his words are soft and almost missed but you heard it.

With every dorm, it felt like your whole world shattered and collapsed onto you. So far, only Rook seemed to be the only one that might’ve accepted it, while the rest were more… in disbelief.

Lastly, Diasomnia seemed to be the most daunting one to overcome. Despite your fear of Malleus being relatively low, you’re kinda risking Atlas’s life. 

Jealousy does not suit them, but there’s still a nagging question in your mind that wonders if they’re actually looking out for you or trying to keep you for themselves.

The first one you spotted was Sebek, training casually in the yard, sweating buckets as he continuously struck the mannequin with his sword. 

“Hey,” you walked from behind, startling him.

“HUMAN!” He jumps back, spinning on his heel and ready to attack, but he’s quick to halt as soon as he notices it’s you. “WHAT DO YOU NEED, HUMAN?”

“You can stop screaming Sebek,” you glare at him with uninterested eyes. “Anyways, I really need to ask you something.”

“What is it?” He calms down.

“Do you think me and Atlas make a cute couple?” You ask.

“That human is untrustworthy!” He whisper-screams. “Do not be with him!”

“Oh geez, okay…” you hadn’t expected him to be so straight-forward but it’s Sebek so you should’ve known better.

“I think you can do better!” He states as a matter of fact.

“Like…?” You raise a brow.

He blushes. “LIKE— LIKE— MALLEUS!” He yells.

“Woah,” your mouth is left agape.

“I-I MEAN YOUR STANDARDS SHOULD BE MALLEUS!” Panic rises in his voice.

“Yep, I got it the first time,” you say. “I’m gonna go find Silver now,”

“OKAY,”

Honestly, you forgot how overstimulatingly loud Malleus’s biggest simp can be.

Silver was the next person you wanted to interview, despite the fact that he’s probably sound asleep somewhere.

He was, true to your word, asleep peacefully on the ground. Your footsteps are light as you tried to prevent him waking up, but he catches it anyway and starts to wake up.

“[Name]...” he groans.

“Silver?” You turn around, quick to rush over to him and kneel to his level. “Are you okay?”

“Y-yeah, but what are you doing here?” he blinks awake.

“I wanted to ask what you think of me dating this guy… his name is Atlas and,” you pause.

“I know, and if it makes you happy, then I approve.” Silver says.

“Thanks Silver,” you pat him before walking away. 

He seemed… disingenuous? It plagued your mind for a good few seconds until the mischievous black-pink haired man decided to jumpscare you.

“LILIA!” you screamed.

“Hahaha! What’s up, [name]? Boy, do I miss your adorable, surprised face,” he’s smiling ear to ear. 

“I-I’m glad you missed me… especially since you’ve been avoiding me,” you whisper the last part.

“I haven’t, or maybe I have. Anyways, what are you here for?” He shoots the same question that everybody’s asked.

You explain. Again.

“Does he make you happy?” A more mature side of him comes out, showing the centuries of experience he has.

“He does,” your response does not warrant the most positive reaction from him.

“Be careful with who you hang out with, not everyone is worth your time,” he grins, pretending he didn’t say the most puzzling sentence in history.

Malleus wasn’t far away

“You seem happy with him,” hornton replies.

You press your lips into a thin line. “I am, but I won’t be if everyone objects,”

“I cannot lie that I wasn’t hoping it would be different,” Malleus states.

“What do you mean?” You tilt your head.

“I would’ve preferred if you chose someone else, child of man.” He elucidates.

Walking out of the final dorm, you let out an exhausted breath of air, not realising how suffocating the day had gone. Amongst the crunches of the leaves beneath you lies the sound of a notification from your phone.

[Atlas]: hey, i’m sorry but i think this is not gonna work out…

he’s got you on your back, your wrists pinned above your head with one hand, and he’s been teasing you for what feels like hours. his fingers are inside you, two of them, curling against that spot that makes your vision blur. you’re close—so close—and he knows it. he always knows.

"t-toru, please," you beg, your voice cracking. "i need—i need to cum—"

"yeah?" he murmurs, his thumb brushing your clit in the lightest, most maddening touch. "you need it? is my pretty girl all worked up?"

you nod frantically, your hips rolling, trying to chase the sensation. he pulls his hand away entirely. you sob. "no, n-no, please—"

"aw, baby," he coos, his voice dripping with false sympathy. "you're so pathetic. it’s cute." he brings his fingers to his mouth, licking them clean while you watch, helpless. "you taste good when you’re begging."

he starts again, his fingers sliding back inside you, his pace agonizingly slow. you’re panting, your thighs shaking, your mind going fuzzy at the edges. "toru! i can’t—i can’t take it—"

"yes, you can," he says, his voice calm, almost gentle. "you'll take whatever i give you. you wanna be good, don't you?" he curls his fingers, pressing hard, and you nearly scream. "that’s it. feel that? that’s mine. your pleasure is mine. i decide when you get it."

you’re crying now, tears leaking from the corners of your eyes, your body trembling. he leans down, his lips brushing your ear. "you’re so pretty when you’re dumb like this. can’t even think, can you? just a pretty little toy for me." he adds a third finger, stretching you open, and you wail. "that’s okay, baby. you don’t need to think. i’ll do it for you. all you have to do is take it. you can do that, can't you?"

he brings you to the edge again, and again, and again. each time, he pulls back just before you can fall. your mind is gone, your body is on fire, and all you can do is sob his name like it’s the only word you know.

"satoru, p-please!!" you whimper, your voice hoarse. "i’ll do anything. please lemme cum, i-it hurts!"

he smiles, that sharp, wicked smile that means he’s nowhere near done with you. "it hurts?" he asks, his fingers still moving, still torturing you. you nod desperately. "poor baby," he mocks. "we can't have my sweetheart in pain, now can we?"

he presses his thumb to your clit and curls his fingers one last time, and you shatter. your orgasm crashes over you so hard you can’t breathe, your vision going white, your body convulsing. he doesn’t stop. he keeps his fingers moving, dragging it out, forcing you through it until you’re shaking and sobbing and begging him to stop.

"too muchh!!" you gasp. "s'toruu! it’s too much—"

"shh, hush now," he says, his voice low and dark. "you can take it, you're doing so well."

he shifts, his cock replacing his fingers, and you barely have time to process before he’s pushing inside you, filling you completely. you’re so sensitive, so overstimulated, that the stretch is almost painful. you cry out, your hands fisting the sheets.

"thaaat’s it," he groans, his hips snapping forward. "take my cock. take it like the good girl you are. you’re so—shit— so fucking tight after you cum, baby. feels so good." he fucks you hard, his pace relentless, his hand sliding between you to rub your clit again. "you still with me?"

you’re babbling now, your words slurring together, your mind completely gone. "satoru—fuck—i can’t—i can’t!!—"

you cum again, your walls clamping down on him so hard he groans, his rhythm faltering. he fucks you through it, his hand still working your clit, and you’re sobbing, your body shaking, your mind nothing but static and pleasure and him.

"that’s it," he praises, his voice rough. "good girl. such a good girl for me. look at you, so stupid. can’t even speak, can you?"

he cums with a groan, his hips stuttering, his cock pulsing inside you. you feel the heat of it, the way he fills you, and it sends you over the edge one more time, your third orgasm ripping through you like lightning. you’re crying, your body trembling, your mind completely blank.

he collapses on top of you, his weight pressing you into the mattress, his breath hot against your neck. for a long moment, neither of you moves. then he rolls off you, pulling you into his arms, his hand stroking your hair.

"you okay?" he asks, his voice soft now, gentle. you nod, your face buried in his chest.

"you’re mean," you mumble.

he laughs, pressing a kiss to the top of your head. "yeah. but you love me."

you don’t answer. you just press closer, your body still humming, your mind still fuzzy. and yeah. you do.

--

babygirl : @sadisticslut666