CHER

A hand landing on your shoulder makes you jump, yet as you turn to face him you relax into the touch.

He looks like he's getting more sleep—definitely more than you. His dark eyes lock directly onto yours. His lashes are so long and pretty. You forget your words again. "Ah, um—I—Yes!" He laughs, and despite the fear curling in your gut, butterflies resurface. "I was saying I can stay over tonight. Let me sleep on the couch; I'm the lightest sleeper ever. I'll keep watch for you; won't let anything happen. You need to get some sleep… you look like shit."

A frown bullies your lips. "You think I look like shit?" He laughs again, brazenly, as if none of this unease fazes him. "No, no." His hands are waving in the air. "I mean, your—well, you look great! It's just the bags under your eyes and the fact you look like a zombie that I'm worried about. It's obvious you just need a little rest. Your jaw drops. "You think I look like a zombie?! Jack, this is not the way to get invited over." He smiles, and his hand comes to your face. He tucks a loose strand of hair behind your ear and rests his thumb against your cheek. It rubs soothing circles into your skin. You let your eyes fall shut, leaning into his hand. He's about to say something, but the sound of footsteps causes him to freeze up, hand flying to his side.

You both scramble to look normal as Jane walks in. She stops in the doorway. "Hey, if you guys want to act fuckin' awkward together, that's fine, but we're all closed up. Everyone else is gone, and I wanna leave too. Go act prepubescent in the parking lot." You and Jack both look to her, then back to each other. Your cheeks burn. "Yeah, sorry, Jane... We'll get going," you mumble it quietly, but she seems to hear what you say. She makes a 'shooing' gesture with her hands, and the two of you hurriedly drop the aprons and grab your bags.

As you step out into the parking lot the cool spring air washes against you. It's not too cold, in fact it's been nice and sunny this week. However, the wind carries a slight chill making the weather feel at least five degrees lower. Leaves are starting to grow on the trees and the grass is looking more lush and green every day. The gravel crunches beneath your feet and you breathe deeply.

You walk Jack to his car. "Can you... Y'know, come over tonight?" he stops, hand resting on his car door. The way he gives you his full attention gets to you. You continue softly, "You're right... I haven't been sleeping. I would really appreciate it. I'll buy you takeout?" He grins at you softly as he unlocks his car. "Yes, I can. You don't need to buy me takeout, though; I have leftovers. I'll be over around seven. "

You're sad he won't eat with you, but you nod eagerly. He takes your hands in his, occupying the space between you. "It's going to be ok." He gives you a reassuring little squeeze. You sigh tiredly, realizing how much you've been letting fear control your life this past week. You wave him goodbye and head to the car, deflating once you're in the front seat.

───────────────

When Jack arrives, it's to a clean apartment. You don't know much about his spirituality, but you don't want to freak him out with all the witchy stuff. You tuck most of it away into corners and cupboards, leaving out only the few books on your shelves. He arrives with a few short raps on your door, and the thump of his shoes against your welcome mat as he takes them off.

Baggy sweatpants and a form fitting T-shirt. Hallelujah. The spirits must be rewarding you for all the stress you've been dealing with.

You welcome him in sweetly, taking his sweater and bag. "So, how were leftovers?" He gives you one of his reserved little smiles. "Delicious, thanks. Sorry I couldn't join you for takeout. It's the kind of stuff I don't like to let go to waste." You give him an inquisitive look. "It's a very rare kind of meat. Expensive… I only treat myself once in awhile. " You nod, pretending to understand. He must be eating Wagyu or something. You wouldn't let that go to waste either. You usher him into the living room.

"Umm, so I set out some blankets for you. Are you sure you wanna..." Your voice drops to a hush. "You don't like… have to sleep on the couch… you could—"

He cuts you off obliviously. "What?"

You shake your head, dismissing the blush on your cheeks along with the idea. "Ah, nothing, nothing. Do you need anything? Water? More pillows?" You look over to find him thumbing through the books on your shelves, fingers glossing over the titles. You follow, hands fidgeting behind your back. "Oh, sorry. No, I don't need anything."

You cringe as you notice the witchy titles still on the shelf, but he glosses past them. "You're quite well read, aren't you?" A smile sheepishly crosses your face at his praise. He pulls out a book by Dostoyevsky, looking through your annotations and notes scrawled on the pages. He pulls out another one... one all too familiar from that night. Quirking an eyebrow at you, he cards through the book. "Demonology?" You laugh awkwardly. "Yup! I like reading about all sorts of spiritualities and topics. It's all very… interesting." You flatten your lips together, mentally face-palming for leaving this book out. Thankfully, he drops it.

Walking back over to the couch, he fluffs the pillow you set for him before falling into the pallet.

He smiles at you. "I'll be just fine here. You go get some rest; we both know you need it."

You reach for the words, attempting to flirt or say something clever, but the exhaustion humming in your skin has rendered you speechless. All you can do is nod as you trail off to your bedroom. He gives you a little wave and a confident smile as you shut the door. What the hell.

As soon as the door is clicked shut, you press your side against the wood and release a breath you didn't know was sitting in your chest. A hand comes up to push the hair out of your face. You sigh. "Stupid, stupid, stupid." You mutter curses as you get cozy and slip into your covers, but your eyelids are already drooping shut.

You don't have the energy to chide yourself right now. It starts to rain outside. You can hear the spring shower tapping against your window and pattering on your roof. The neighbors' wind chime dances in the wind, clinking and sparkling. Your body is weightless and floaty. The last thing you remember as you drift to sleep is Kitty hopping up onto the bed and curling into you, purring and trilling as you both fall into a well-earned rest.

─────────────── 

When you wake up, the house is eerily quiet. Kitty is nowhere to be found, but you smell something delicious wafting from through the cracks of the door. Sitting up on the edge of the bed, you stretch, relishing the feeling of a well-rested body.

You trod out of your room, gently rubbing at your eyes, to see Jack in one of your witchy aprons swaying around the kitchen. He hums softly, totally unaware of your presence. You sneak up behind him, enjoying the atmosphere before tapping his shoulder. You'd think he would jump, but instead he spins around smoothly. He takes you off guard, using his free hand to wrap around your waist as he continues making breakfast with the other. "Yeah, you look so much better when you've slept. You should do it more often." You chuckle, relaxed for the first time in what feels like forever. "Well, good morning to you too."

Kitty pops out from behind a corner, wrapping around Jack's leg and chirping. "You seem to be a crowd favorite. " He lets you go, stooping over to scratch Kitty between her ears. "I think your cat has good taste." Your eyes wander down his firm arms and hands, large and worn from working in the garden. "Maybe we both do…" He doesn't say anything, but his ears turn bright red. "Jack, would you stay? Just until they catch this… thing… I've been so on edge and you jus—" Jack silences you accidentally as he flips the pancakes, and they sizzle.

You don't finish the thought; you know he understands. "Yeah, I can stay as long as you need. Whatever you need, just let me know."

You breathe a sigh of relief and excitement. The high school giddiness that comes with a crush bubbles up inside of you. "I... um..."

He eyes you mischeviously, quirking an eyebrow. "Yes? Your ears are red now; you can tell. Wow, is it hot in here? Your face is hot. You chuckle nervously as you evade his gaze. "Nothing... just... I'm glad that we met. You cringe at your words. You can tell he's naturally nonchalant. Not in the performative man sort of way, but in the way that he doesn't talk about his feelings often. Was that weird for you to say? You drag your eyes from the floor, daring to look back at him. His smile is soft and warm. "Me too."

 —

"He said he'd stay with you as long as you need?" You smile stupidly at the flowers you are arranging. "His exact words Nina." She makes a noise caught between approval and reluctance, drawing your attention from the flowers to her sour face. "I mean don't get me wrong I'm all for the you and Jack pipeline, but isn't this a little fast? I mean this is adjacent to moving in together and we've known this guy what?! A month or two???"

You feel a defensive twinge somewhere inside. "I mean yeah, but under the circumstances… I think it's justified?" Nina's eyes narrow. Ouch. You can tell she's biting her tongue. "Ok, whatever, you guys are cute I guess." You both go back to the boquets as a tight silence falls between you. It doens't last. Tim and Brian slice it open, tramping inside as the bell above the door chimes. Their boots track dirt on the floor and they bring with them the smell of earth.

They slough off their gloves and gear, completely unaware of what they've walked into. You can feel their eyes scanning—trying to figure out the lack of conversation. Brian pipes up, "Do you two have any fresh coffee in here? Shit in the greenhouse is like three days old." You smile nervously. Nina sighs in disappointment. She fiddles with the clips in her hair as she chides them. "Of course we have fresh coffee. That's what happens when you don't stay loyal to us... you get weird shit from Toby. You chuckle despite yourself. Nina is funny... and she's right. Whatever the fuck Toby's concocting in there probably isn't coffee. You guys are safer with us anyways." You snicker.

 You lead the men to the back room, laughing as you reach for the mugs. Tim mumbles something about betrayal, and Brian bellows a laugh. You pour their coffee black, the way they like it, watching your reflection in the liquid as you talk. "How's work out there today?" Tim shrugs and scratches the back of his head. "Nothing special, but Janey is on one today. She's been running around barking orders all day. Maybe those fuckin' cemicals in the makeup are getting to her." Nina swats him playfully. "Don't be mean," You laugh.

"How about you two? Anything interesting in the floral department? Nina's eyes lock with yours, and you decide to forget about the weird conversation. You smile at her. She takes it as an invitation and wraps an arm around you, rubbing your shoulder as she laughs at the guys. "Nope. Just boring flower stuff for us." All you can do is nod. The bell chimes from the front, and you can tell by the clack of heels that it's Jane. Tim and Brian flinch, whispering to cover for them while they sneak around back.

"Jane! Uh... What can I do for you?

Her bat-like, lacy sleeves flutter as she looks through the order sheet. She looks up from her clipboard, locking eyes with you. "How are the flowers for this funeral? It's coming up in two days. I need to know you guys are on top of it." A shiver runs down your spine. "Oh, yeah, we're working on them right now, act-actually." You point dumbly at the bouquets you and Nina had been distracted from. She checks something off on her list and then scans the store one more time. When she finds nothing else to worry about, she nods, making her way to the door.

Just before she's about to leave, she falters, mumbling something. She seems... worried? "Yes?" Her hand falters on the door handle. You notice an unfamiliar look flash over her face. She recomposes herself.

"Nothing. Nevermind."

With that, she's gone.

A few moments later Nina erupts from the back, face flushed and eyes sparkling. "Good job covering for us; She didn't even notice they were here." You thumb at a stray petal on the counter as she goes on about Tim and Brian. "Hey, have you talked to Jane today?" Nina stops mid-ramble, thoughtfully tapping her cheek. "No, I haven't. Why?" You resume your work on the boquet as you ponder. "Oh, no reason... she just seems kind of off today? Like she's extra stressed. We don't have any big orders right now, so... It's just odd." She smiles sympathetically at you as she also returns to her bouquet.

"I know everything seems tense right now... with what's happening around town, but we're not the only department she manages. Maybe there's some big landscaping ordeal... or a problem with the truck or the greenhouse! You never know. I'm sure she's just stressed in the way managers are supposed to be."

You sigh. "Yeah, you're probably right."

 ───────────────

Nina was not right. The next week is the most stressful seven days you've ever worked as a florist. No, there were not any massive orders, nor was there any issue with stock. There was, however, an angel of death nitpicking your every movement. Jane went from her usual haughty no-nonsense attitude to a flurry of misery, anxiety, and deadlines.

She hovered over every task you performed, watching like a hawk and asking questions about every move you made. Everything you had to do doubled in time and effort—purely because she was unbearable. This resulted in you and Nina scrambling to meet deadlines and working overnight to finish orders for events that could not be pushed back. There was hardly any point in Jack coming over to help you sleep because you weren't sleeping. You were working on orders, and those fuckass eyebags had returned.

All this schpeel to say that she is currently getting on your last nerve and if—"Jane, so help me gods, if you do not take a step back and let me do what I need to do!" "You will NOT have a florist!" Nina grimaces, and you can tell she's thinking the same thing. Your manager huffs. "As if you would actually quit." You can feel yourself losing your last nerve. It's several hours after close. The darkness outside battles the flickering, fluorescent lights that have your eyes burning. You set down your tools and clench your fists, trying to contain your frustration.

"No, ordinarily I would not. But this week has been hell, and if you don't snap out of whatever psycho mode you've gone into, I will be gone. Gone with the wind. Fucking gone. I did not become a florist to be stressed all the time!"

Jane stutters, and her usually impeccable makeup seems to crack. Her eyes dart to the floor as she crosses her arms. The quiet rings through the room for a moment. "Nina, it's late. Clock out and go home."

Fuck, you're in for it now.

You coyly resume your work, hoping it will be enough to appease her wrath. For all the talk you do, you actually like this job. The silence as Nina grabs her things and punches out is deafening. Every move she makes echoes through the dimly lit shop. When she finally closes the door, your chest becomes tight.

"You're right."

You look up. "Hmm?" Jane's eyes are glassy. She walks towards the bathroom, leaving you alone. For a second you're worried you made her cry and now your fucked. When she comes back you can see her eyes. They're a beautiful blue, but you have grown so accustomed to the massive black sclera lenses that it almost looks more unnatural for her to have regular eyes. "Sorry, I had to take those out. But you're right, I have been acting a bit.. much." Your jaw drops as you make a sound of disbelief. "You think?" She winces and you instantly feel guilty… ( but not that guilty ).

"It's just.. I don't know how to say this…. I think-" She inhales shakily. "I think that thing.. whatever it is- it's after me."

You know exactly what she's referencing.

"What do you mean it's after you? How can it be after you? No one's ever seen it." She bites her lip, teeth bright against her dark lipstick. "I think I have." You drop your tools again, turning to her. "What the hell, Jane? Go on, obviously." She's shaking. "So, last week something broke in through one of my windows. I—Well, I called the police, but they said it was just a large animal like... a coyote or some shit. I know it wasn't. Now I've been seeing th-th-this thing."

She talks so fast she has to pause to catch her breath.

"I've been seeing it! And it's fleshy and gross. It's like a human, but... oh, its arms and legs... they're long and disgusting. I hear its claws on my windows and my roof. I know it's there, but I haven't, like, fully seen it. The police don't believe me." There are tears streaming down her face now. They're muddy with white makeup and black eyeliner. You haven't seen her this way before. It scares you.

You know that despite your nerves this could be the best time to take action. If you can convince the authorities it's real... if you can get it off the streets, everyone will be able to sleep well again. Nina, Jane, your neighbors… You take Jane's hand in yours. "I believe you... I'm sorry you've been going through this alone. Jane, are you sure this thing is what's been taking kidneys?"

She is sobbing now. "I don't know? Does it matter? What else could it be?! All I know is I tried to sleep after that first night and I saw it.. I heard it. I've been sleeping at a hotel the least few nights but.. ev-every time I go home to get something I feel it. It's watching me! The only way I can distract myself is to put everything into work!" Her nails dig into her shoulders as sobs wrack her body. "I know you all think I'm cruel, ok, but every second I spend not thinking about work.. I'm thinking about that- that monster!¹ It wants me! I know it does!"

Poor thing must've been so afraid this whole time. You had no idea. You need to take action, but right now she needs to rest. Ackwardly, you try to hug her. You hush her cries and tell her it's going to be ok. "Hey, hey.. listen. Jack's been staying at my place because I've been scared of this thing too, ok? Why don't you come stay for awhile? You'll feel safer with more people."

—

It doesn't take much to convince her. That night she comes home with you. You help her pack up what she has in the hotel and bring it back to your place. When she's fast asleep on the couch in a T-shirt and bonnet, you hardly recognize her. Sure she's pale, but nothing like how she is at work. Underneath every goth there's flesh. I guess.

Jack stands beside you, rubbing your lower back as he sighs. "No wonder shit's been crazy this week." His voice is raspy with sleep. "Yeah, no wonder..." you echo. You rest your head on his shoulder as you think. "You think she saw it? " He leads you back to your bedroom as he mulls over the question. "No. I think maybe she saw something else. What she described… How would something like that have the delicacy to stitch someone up? "You scoff. "You're suggesting a more terrifying second thing we have to worry about? Seriously, what is going on with this place? What's next, a grotesque tooth fairy?"

He chuckles, but you both know the concern is real. Despite it all, hearing him chuckle makes you swoon. He moves to get up, but your hand shoots out to stop him. "Wait."

"Hmm, what's up?"

"Where are you planning to sleep?" He smiles. "Aw, I was just going to take the floor in the living room. You frown pointedly. "What? No, you're not? What kind of host do you think I am?" The grin on his face softens. He does something unexpected. He leans over, breath tickling your face.

His smell, that earthy cologne, fills your senses. A kiss is planted on your forehead. It's soft and tender, accompanied by a hand holding your face. When he leans back, there's something sad in his expression. "I think you're the kind of host who needs to rest. I am the kind of guest who's going to sleep on the floor. Goodnight. "You wish you could protest, but he takes your words with him as he walks out of your room. You almost forget about the horrors this city is accumulating.

—

The morning greets you with rain again. You wake up well past your alarm to find out that your manager has given everyone the day off. You discover this as you walk into the living room to see her out of drag, sitting cross legged on your couch, eating Hot Cheetos and watching a rom-com. Suppose the girl deserves to relax. You drag yourself to the kitchen to find Jack cooking it up (as he does).

Your favorite sight is his muscles flexing as he makes you breakfast. He flips an omelet, and his back ripples. "You know, you don't have to cook for me every day. I'm grown," you say. Please never stop cooking for me; you're so sexy. "Take me right now" is what you're thinking. He slides the omlet onto a plate, garnishing it. "I enjoy it." The plate slides over towards you, and a fork sneaks into your hand. "Well, if you insist." You sit eating and kicking your legs at the bar. It's a nice morning.

Sunlight streams into your window despite the rain. Your hanging plants are lush and green. Late spring has graced your kitchen. It's almost summer, though, and you're ready to have the windows open all season. It's funny that you can even think of normalcy with everything happening.

Dishes clink as Jack rinses them in the sink. You pipe up: "Hey, it's weird, you know? This second monster isn't even scary because everything seems so surreal." He sighs at you. "Yeah, I think that's a normal human thing. Bad on top of worse becomes fine. "You snort. "Whatever that means... Breakfast is delicious, by the way. You can hear the smile in his voice. "Good." Jane walks in. "Didn't you say you've got a cat? Where's she at? You raise an eyebrow. Why?" Her lips purse. The stereotypes are correct; I'm a sucker for cats.

Laughing to yourself, you stand up from your seat. "Here, kitty. Tch, tch, tch." You walk around the apartment calling her name. "Here, kitty, kitty, kitty." No response? You check under your bed. Crouched in the back of all your junk is Kitty. Her eyes glow in the darkness. Your boss stands there idly, but all you can do is shrug at her. "She doesn't always like new people. Not sure when she'll come out," she pouts. You smile. Serves her right for what she put you through this week.

Jack suddenly draws the curtains. "I have to go—I forgot. Have to take care of somethin'" Is all he says as he walks out the door. "Okkk, weird day for all of us. Well, Jane, I hope staying here puts your mind at ease. You're welcome to stay until they catch this thing. " She nods, and you almost regret offering. You don't wanna live with your manager. " Will you go back to my house with me to get some stuff? Even in the daylight it... gives me the creeps.

No the hell you will not. There are fuckin monsters an—" "Sure! Let's go." You snatch your keys off their hook, and before you know it, you're on your way. Awesome.

Jane's house gives you the creeps… And it's not just because she hobbies in taxidermy. When she unlocks the door, the whole house groans. It's even worse the second you step inside.

She asks you to stand watch by her bedroom door while she packs. You're afraid to even be in the hallway alone. Perhaps it's a placebo, but you can feel something, some energy watching you. It gives you the chills. You're definitely taking a cleansing bath tonight and making sure your protections are up to par.

You can hear her rummaging around in her room. Drawers open and shut. Something is dragged across the hardwood floor. You sigh, leaning back on your heels.

"This is all your fault-"

"Excuse me?" The words make you bristle. Jane comes into view dragging a suitcase out of her room. "All of this. You didn't have to invite me to stay. I'm your boss; I know it's weird. But… thanks."

You relax at her admission. "Aside from this week, you've been good to me, and anyone would be afraid in your position. I'm glad that I can help." She hoists her luggage up, carrying it toward the car. Once it's all loaded up, she claps her hands together. "Alright, just one more thing. Follow me." You grimace when she leads you back into the creepy house.

With every step you take the scent of unease grows stronger. She leads you down a hallway you haven't seen yet. You swallow hard as the fear grows. She stops at the last door; the hallway isn't lit here, and the shadows seem to circle you menacingly. Gripping the knob, she bangs the door twice before pushing inside. "Rusty old thing. " You look behind you towards the light. You can see the front door from here, the safety of daylight. You turn to face her. "Haha, yeah…" She smiles sympathetically.

You look around at the slim hallway you've walked into. There's a washer, a dryer, and a few cabinets. There's another door directly in front of you. It looks like the garage door. She sighs. "Listen, when it was really bad last week, this is where I heard the scratching. I keep some important documents in a cabinet in the garage. It's never been a problem during the daytime, but can you just watch while I run in there and grab them? I'd feel safer." The words 'all your fault'echo in your mind. "Yeah, of course."

Her fingers curl around the doorknob, and you hear her take a shaky breath. As she opens the door, she beckons you to the entrance. "Just wait here." She slips into the darkness, and you think you've lost sight, but the motion light is quick to turn on. It flickers, dimly illuminating the grey space creeping in on Jane. You watch her pad carefully across the cold floor. When she reaches the cabinet at the back of the garage, you silently cheer. The rustling of the papers echoes throughout the room, and it makes you cringe.

You jump as something else rustles, but when nothing happens, you assume it was just boxes shifting. "Jane! Hurry up!" She shoots you a look and whispers across the room. "Shut up! I'm still your boss." Just as she pulls out the papers she needs with a fist pump, something snaps. A box falls; something moves. Her eyes go wide and she stands for all of a second before bolting for the door.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!" She chants as she runs desperately. You see a shadow in the corner, something way too big for you to have missed it. Jane rips inside the doorframe, screaming at you to "Shut the fucking door!" You slam it and watch as she locks it and piles shit against it. Something slams against it from the garage. Nails screech as it scrapes the thin barrier keeping you safe. "Help me move this!" She's on her knees pushing the washer out from its spot against the wall.

You rush over and pull with all your weight until the washer is snug against the door. The scratching gets faster, more furious—you freeze for a moment, drawing a blank on what to do next. All your fault.

A grotesque paw breaks through the door and in the dim light you can see an eye glittering. It's locked onto you. The creature seems delighted by its progress and begins to chip at the half of the door that's not blocked by the washer.

A harsh hand around your wrist yanks you from the hallway and back towards the light of the front door. "Snap out of it!" Hands frisk you, finding your keys and manhandling you into the car. You hear her start the car and feel her floor it as she swerves out of the driveway. It's all your fault. The two of you are well down the road within a minute, but you could swear that in the rearview mirror you make out something. A person that's too tall and too long. Fingers snap in front of your face, and you blink hard. Before you know it, she's slapping you. "I'm here! I'm here! Gods, sorry. I—I wasn't ready. I didn't think—" Jane snorts. "Yeah, the minute that thing started chasing me, you stopped thinking," She's breathing heavily and obviously rattled, but even so, your manager chides you. You sigh guiltily. "Jane, I'm sorry, I—" She cuts you off abruptly. "It's fine. It was terrifying for both of us. But I really didn't think you'd be the kind of person to freeze up like that." You sink into the passenger seat, rubbing your arms.

Every time you blink, you see the silhouette of that thing in your mind. "Yeah, me neither."

 ───────────────

"Ok. So, it's definitely real." Jack raises an eyebrow at you. "You didn't believe her?" You scoff as you try to explain. "Well, I thought it was some perverted freak running around playing doctor. I didn't expect it to be an actual fucking monster." He sighs, leaning on his elbow and tracing circles into your skin.

This is the closest you've gotten him to sleeping in your bed, and you're sure that once you go to bed, he'll slip right out. The closeness is reassuring; you think he knows that. "I've never told anyone this, but the reason I skipped town and moved out here is because I saw something like that. "You inhale softly. "What happened?" He sits up straight, and you lean into the crook of his arm as he gathers his thoughts.

"Well, I was in college, believe it or not. I was seeing this girl. I mean, we weren't dating, but I really liked her. She and her friends liked to hang out by this cave, but one night there was this freak storm. It was genuinely the worst storm I've ever experienced. I woke up, and I just knew somehow… that she was in the cave. I had to warn her."

You feel a twinge at the mention of another girl, but you nestle closer. You can tell this is a painful memory.

"So, I ran through the woods to this fuckass cave. I show up and I can see, even from a distance, that something isn't right. All of her friends are there, and they're all in robes. They were chanting a name, summoning something. I see them grab this kid. They start doing awful stuff to him. I watched them rip out his eyes and pour shit into them. Then I saw it. Whatever they did, whatever sacrifice they made. They summoned a demon. He was horrible. I couldn't stay in that place afterwards, not knowing that he was there. Not after everything I saw. So, I left."

You look at him as he finishes his story. His face is beautiful, but for the first time you notice how hollow it is. You see a fear, or sadness, in his eyes that you hadn't noticed before. It's permanent, barely noticeable, and always there. You lock fingers with him, squeezing his hand. "I'm sorry that happened, and you had to watch that. You act so strong all the time; I would've never known." He smiles halfheartedly. "Yeah, well, I guess monsters are everywhere, huh? Can't keep running; every new place has its demons. Besides... I found somethin' worth staying for." He kisses the top of your head. You groan as he stretches and starts to get out of bed. "Jack. Stay tonight."

He pulls you into bed and tucks the sheets around you. "Not yet." He leaves the room, shutting the door with a soft click. Crickets hum through your window, and windchimes play as you stare at the ceiling. All your fault. Jack has seen this before, and it was when someone was trying to summon a demon. All your fault. You turn hotly, burrowing your head into the pillows to try and quiet your mind. It's all your fucking fault.

—

The next day at work isn't great. Ok, the monster's at Jane's house. Nobody else knows about it, and no one else will know, because you don't need to stress them out. Great. But you do know. You are stressed out. You have an order due tomorrow, and you are super behind because the shop was closed yesterday and Jane's anxious nagging set everyone back. Additionally, Nina cannot seem to arrange in peace. She has something to say. Peachy.

So you're still living with him? You aren't scared? Has he done anything weird or like... I don't know what vibe you are getting. "You cut the stems off the flower, sharply exhaling as you peel your eyes away from your work. Nina, I—" She sighs before you can even get a word out. "Hey, you can't blame me! I understand you don't care, but he's a complete stranger; he could be a creep. " You can't help the feeling of unease that creeps into your voice as you respond. "Yeah, but I'd rather take my chances with him than whatever is out there cutting into people." All your fault .

Nina sighs, pushing her bouquet away and facing you. "Sweetheart, I say this in all honesty, not to fearmonger… For all we know, he could be the thing cutting people up. I just think you should be careful." Your hand slips on the stem that you're cutting the thorns off of, and you feel the sting pricking your skin. All your fault. You falter, an unexplainable anger surfacing in your gut. "Ok, I know he's maybe a bit socially awkward, but you don't know him like I do. You can't just judge someone because they don't have the same constant upbeat attitude as you. Jack would never—he—"

Nina has her hands out as if trying to calm a skittish animal. She inches toward you as you grow increasingly bewildered. "I'm not saying anything! I just think it's weird that all this started right after he moved here. We don't know who we can trust right now. I'm the one who's been cut up; I think I have a reason to be skeptical. "You chuff at her baseless accusations. "And you really think who or whatever this is… is just out in society living a normal life? It's probably camped out in the woods or something. With that logic... for all I know, you could be the psychopath cutting people up." All your fault. You point an accusatory finger at Nina, and she flinches. "Girl, it's obviously not—" You round the counter, gripping the marble for stability. No. What evidence do you even have to accuse Jack of that?! You're just making things up because you can't stand to see me happy." Nina tries to respond, but you storm into the back, dropping your apron and whipping your bag off the hook. "Can it, Nina. I can't handle this right now. Tell everyone I went home sick." She makes sounds of disbelief as you storm towards the door. "Wait—" slam!

You press your back against the door as you breathe heavily. Your fingers scrape into the wood, chipping at the paint as you ground yourself. Gods… Why does this hurt so bad? It's like every word she says against Jack is pointed towards you. You know she's not being crazy… It's a reasonable concern.

Pressing off the door, you take a clarifying breath as you stand up straight. You can hear muffled voices. You hear Tim's boots as he stomps in and the consoling tone he takes with Nina. You also hear the disbelief in her voice as she relays a sob story you can't quite make out. Well, Jane's going to find out about this one way or another, so you may as well go home. Fuck the order.

All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault. All your fault.

It replays in your head as you drive. You know why you're upset. You know, but you don't want to admit it. You've known since Nina was in the hospital. It's been lingering in the back of your mind. Then, when that thing tried to hurt Jane.... You could feel the energy seeping off of it. It was familiar. You knew what it was and where it came from.

All your fault. All your fault. All your fault.All your fault.All your fault All yourfaultAllyourfault.

Finally, with Jack's story- you realized the reason everyone is in danger is you. It's your fault. You summoned it. You brought this into the mortal realm. You've been trying to hide from it, to play civilian. You turned a blind eye. You couldn't sleep at night - not because you were scared it was after you, but because your subconscious couldn't handle the guilt. You wanted to give up on witchcraft, to believe the ritual didn't work. You brought this here. It's your fault that Nina's kidney was stolen and that Jane can't sleep at night. It's your demon. It's your responsibility to get rid of it.

Notes: yayaya If you made it to the end of ch 2! Taglist is still open! Comment to be added :)

So, you get home and walk through the door without a single word. All he says as he sets his things down is “ten minutes”. You run. You doll yourself up, put on something nice. Anything to appease him, because you know if he stays mad you’re not finishing tonight. You put on the prettiest, laciest lingerie you can find, and spritz perfume all over- the one that makes him feral. You sit on the bed silently, awaiting your reckoning. You hear the click of his dress shoes, watch his shadow underneath the door. You can feel the heated breath he takes before he turns the doorknob, and holy shit your pussy is soaked.

He walks in and still doesn’t even fucking look at you. It makes you restless and desperate. He sits on the bed silently and beckons with two fingers. You know what he wants. You position yourself on his lap. A shiver runs across your skin as his hands ghost over your thighs. He runs his hands over your bare ass, breathing hard, trying to steady himself.

“What do you think you deserve… for that little stunt tonight, hmm?”

You whimper as he cups your pussy for just a second before moving to the small of your back. You reach down, finding a voice somewhere inside you dripping with faux apology, anything to get him to touch you. You know what he wants.

“As many as you think I deserve sir” your voice hitches as he squeezes you harshly.

He inhales and you tense in anticipation.

“You think it’s cute? To act like that in front of the fire force? Do I not satisfy you enough, coming home to this greedy cunt every night?” He clicks his teeth “Tch, tch… couldn’t even handle acting proper for one night… had to rub yourself all over me like a bitch in heat- in front of all those men. You think they didn’t notice? Or maybe you wanted them to. Nasty little slut.”

crack!

His hand comes down across your ass. You feel the sting and the indent it leaves. It’s sharp and painful. Tears prick your eyes, but you can’t help the moan that follows.

“N-no sir! S’ only for you!”

You can’t see him, but you feel the smirk that passes over his face. One word: “Count.”

You sputter in protest, but another harsh squeeze has you crying.

“One!”

His hand comes down again, sharp against the plush skin. Another moan follows as your panties start to fucking drip.

“Tw-two!”

He licks his lips audibly as his hand comes down across a third time. This one is on the other side. You can feel the heat blooming where his fingers made contact with the skin. You know his hand is imprinted in your ass cheek, red and angry. It turns you both on.. his hand prints visible on your skin.

“Three!”

You count seven more, tears streaming down your face, thighs clenching together. You’re desperate. His head comes down to your ear and he whispers. “Now get on your fucking knees.” You slide off of his lap, legs weak. Falling to your knees you wipe at your tears, but he grabs you by the chin and wipes them away with his thumb.

His voice drips with a condescending sympathy as he bends down, bringing his face near to yours.

“Aw, poor thing. Are you ready to apologize? Ready to be a good girl and listen?” He pushes his glasses up on his face and you swallow thickly. Fat tears continue to fall down your cheeks as you hiccup slightly.

“Yes sir, I’m ver-very sorry sir.”

He sneers at you, unbuckling his belt and shoving down his pants. He palms himself through his boxers before letting his dick spring free. The tip is a frustrated red, leaking with pre. He strokes himself a few times before drawing you closer with the hand on your jaw. He squeezes your cute little cheeks together, puckering your lips.

“Why don’t you put that bratty mouth to good use then?”

You whine, nodding with big eyes as you shimmy forward, wrapping your hand around the base of his cock. Your other arm braces, gripping his muscular thigh. You give the tip a few kitten licks, tasting the salty precum, before you bring the whole thing into your mouth. You bob up and down slowly at first. Your tongue flattens against his veiny length. Your tears and snot run down your face, it's fucking nasty but you know it turns him on - how pathetic you must look right now. His hand bury themselves in your hair. He moans and you loose your shit at how deep and raspy his voice has become. He palms your hair and grunts as you begin to move faster, hollowing your cheeks.

“Good fucking girl. Keep your eyes on me baby, wanna see them. Wanna see those pretty tears baby, fuck-“

You blink up at him through wet lashes as you moan around him. You can feel the shiver that runs through his body at the vibrations of your voice. He grabs at your hair harder, practically fucking your face at this point. You gag as he hits the back of your throat, and your other hand creeps down to rub your clit through your sopping panties. He grunts and moans, spurring you on. Fuck, he’s so sexy when he’s vocal. He’s about to cum, you can tell.. but he must notice the hand between your thighs because he drags you off of his cock. He pulls your face towards his. He’s breathing heavily, expression as fucked out as yours. However he grins and drags you up on to the bed.

“You wanna cum so bad? Fuckin’ slut… You’re gonna have to work for it.”

He lays back, and you take it as an invitation to climb on top of him. You hold his cock in your hands, stroking him against your folds a few times and sighing at the feeling, before sliding onto him. Rolling your hips, you enjoy the friction this position gives you against your clit. His hands rest behind his head as he watches you with that fuckass evil smirk that’s been in his face all night. You can tell he has no intention of helping you.

"Come on? Is that all you can do? I thought you wanted it?"

Gritting your teeth, you start to bounce, up and down on his length - but you’re already tired. Dinner was long, and after the spanking and face fucking you just want him to breed you into oblivion. You're moving slowly, head lolling at the slight relief, but it just isn't enough. You hardly have the strength to lift yourself off of him, every time you come back down you nearly give up. You whine, pawing at his chest in desperation. All he does is coo at you.

“What baby? What? Can’t do it?”

His brows furrow and he pouts at you, hand coming up to brush a piece of hair behind your ear. He looks into your eyes. He hasn't even started to sweat, his glasses still sit snug on his face. It's insult to injury.

“I’m letting you finish tonight, all I’m asking is that you to do it yourself… you can do that for me right baby? You can be a good girl and cum for me?”

You bite your lip in frustration as your vision goes hazy. You grip his shoulders, rolling your hips on his dick because you can’t do much else. The friction is still delicious but it’s not enough. You need him pounding inside of you, hitting that spot. You can’t get it this way.

“Please Hina-“ you choke the words out.

His hands come to rest on your hips and you get excited, but they just stay there. He presses so hard that he leaves marks on your skin, but he doesn’t help. He just watches, nodding in disappointment.

“Should’ve thought of that before you decided to be a slut tonight. Actions have consequences baby. Now if you wanna cum your gonna have to do it yourself.”

(unedited little drabble) (I lied, I do write the rules?)(give me this man immediately???)

“It has to be how wide?? I don’t know if I have enough pig’s blood for this.” Your familiar, a little gray and white cat, rubs against your ankle reassuringly. 

You pull your lip between your teeth as you let fingers glide over the scrawling on the paper. The book is light between your hands. The leather it is bound in radiates energy from its previous rituals. You set the open book on the coffee table, hands dipping towards the mahogany bowl. A pentagram, five points. You spread the blood carefully, making sure the points connect to the circle you’ve already laid out. The metallic smell of the blood stings your nose making your eyes water, a tear or two fall into the circle.. But a little taglock never hurt a spell. You dip your fingers into the bowl, using your nails to perfect the edges of the design laid across your (now empty) living room floor. 

Couches and plants are pushed to the side of your small apartment in preparation for the ‘visitor’ you’re inviting to your home. Ritual bowls of salts, pig’s blood, oil, bay leaves, and sage sit in a semi-circle around you. You have several books open, your spells are often a hybrid of the things that other witches have done which resonate with you. The more personal it is, the stronger the connection. Your personal Grimoire is covered in messy scrawl, only legible to its author. Diagrams show exactly what needs to go where and how, tastefully sketched. 

You take a deep breath in. Bay leaves, sage and salt mix together in your palms as you hum a chant of protection over them. Once charged you cast them over the circle, thanking the forces for keeping you from harm (in advance, you hope). You light six candles. One for each point of the pentagram and one for the center. Beside the center candle you place a silver dish and a ceremonial dagger, both cool to the touch. The inscription on the side of the blade makes you shiver in anticipation, but you still yourself. You can feel the adrenaline in your body as you take your place.

You squeeze your eyes shut, summoning all the passion and command you can muster. Confidence is supposedly key. Your hands stretch towards the earth, palms spread wide and fingers tense. You push all of the energy that you can muster into your hands, feeling the atmosphere change. Finding a deep voice inside of you, you and draw the words out of your throat.

“Te nomine vero soloque evoco… ​​Zcerneboch!” 

Your eyes fly open as your pad to the center of the circle. You reach for the dagger, kneeling over the silver bowl. Your shaking hand hovers above the dish, the reflection dancing across your vision as you try to steady yourself. You press the dagger to your palm, mentally counting down from three. The blade makes you want to jump out of your skin but you need this, you need physical evidence of your work. It’s too late now. At one you slice the blade quickly, feeling numbness at first, and then a sharp sting as blood pricks at the wound. A gasp flies past your lips. You return the dagger, opposite hand coming to wrap around your wrist and squeezing gently. The blood drips into the dish.

plink, plink, plink

The offering of purity. The blood of a Virgin. 

Once it is done you raise your hands upwards, towards the sky this time. You reach inwards and find the voice again.

“Fiat sic! So mote it be!”

Your eyes flutter shut again in anticipation. You wait. The house creaks. Your cat meows. The world is absolutely silent. You furrow your brow, expecting some large display of smoke and power. The wind picks up suddenly, throwing your window open and pulling at your hair and clothes with a gust. You let the wave wash over you, and when it dies down your eyes open. As they open you see scattered herbs and blood blown into droplets across your floor. Your bowls are overturned, the sacred silver dish spinning like a top. The offering of purity mixes with pig’s blood and you scowl. Maybe it is farce.. you don’t know, you're angry. The perfect ritual. Weeks of preparation, your hand literally sliced open. Now it’s just a bloody mess in your living room. You kick at one of the wooden bowls in dismay as you grumble about cleaning up this mess.. Your cat meows again.  

The utter silence lingers still. You look around, scanning the room for any sign of success before you finally come to terms with failure. You trudge to the bathroom, rubbing your eyes. Whatever the outcome of the ritual it had exhausted you. You felt more drained than you ever had after a spell. You flick on the lights. The bathroom shines clean and white in contrast to the bloody apartment. You sigh at your reflection. Blood is spattered across your face and clothes, your hair is wild from the sudden wind, and your hand looks worse than it feels. Turning on the shower you let the steam fill the bathroom. Relaxing into the heat, you slip off your clothes. A candle or two is lit before you step into the shower. The patter of water across your back calms you, and you envision the dark grime and negativity of the failure washing off of you. Your eyes droop as you gently wash the blood off of your stained skin. Your limbs move, slow and tired, through the motions of your shower routine. You think you might just go to bed and clean up tomorrow…

───────────────

When you become conscious of the morning light shining through your eyelids you also become aware of the pounding soreness in between your eyes. The headaches that sit at the front of your head are always the worst. You sit up with a groan. 

Pillows and blankets are strewn across your bed and floor haphazardly, and you feel anything but well-rested. You  must have been tossing and turning all night. You slide out of bed. Walking out of your room you are greeted by neatly stacked bowls, organized grimoires and books, and your ceremonial dagger sitting neatly atop the silver dish. You raise your eyebrows at the scene, looking towards the kitty batting at a forgotten bay leaf. You were pretty delirious with exhaustion last night, maybe you cleaned it up before heading to bed and had simply forgotten. You thank your past self as you gather the bowls up in your arms, whisking them back to the kitchen. Kitty follows at your heels, meowing and trilling as she wraps around your ankles. At least someone is in a good mood. 

You slide open the checkered curtains in front of your sink, allowing fresh sunlight to seep into the room. You start the coffee pot before coming back to the sink to give each bowl a cursory wash as you put them away. The clinking of dishes and humming of the coffee pot does make you feel slightly better. Once the washing is done you take a painkiller or two with your coffee.. You look down at the cat, crouching to stroke her back.

“Ayayay.. All of that wasted supplies for what.” Kitty looks at you innocently. 

“Meow!” 

 “And this…”

You hold up the hand, a fresh bandage plastered across the wound. Kitty takes it as an invitation to brush her cheek across your fingers. At least she seems to have enjoyed the ritual. You scoop her up into your arms like a baby. 

“Well, your mother has to get ready for work so let’s get moving little lady.” You tap the tip of her nose with your finger as you carry her back through the apartment. You pick out your outfit for the day. Typically, you try to dress flowery and flowy as a florist. You think it gives the customers a better impression. You say a little glamour chant as you get ready out of habit. Tote bag in arm, you grab your keys and wallet as you say goodbye to your cat.  

The nursery and garden center you work at is only a short drive from the building, which sits at the edge of the city, and you find the sunlight rejuvenating as you drive into the countryside. You like this job specifically because even though you only work in the floral department, any dying herbs, flowers, and plants are often up for grabs. You like to dry them and store them for spell work. Additionally, working with nature is just up your ally. As you step into the little shop the bell chimes, and your coworker welcomes you in. “Good morning!”

You smile at the girl already bustling about the front counter, actively drawing flowers on the little chalkboard sign that reads the daily discounts and deals. “Morning’ Nina.”

You slip into the back room, setting your bag on a hook and tying an apron around your waist. The dark green contrasts nicely against your outfit. You tie it snugly, finishing it with a bow as you yawn. Nina skips in, high pony tail bobbing. You think a scene queen working at a flower shop is such a contrast, but you love her style. She always has great chats with the customers and the flowers seem to like her.  “Rough night?”

“Yeah.. you could say that.”

Nina reaches for your wrist, pulling your hand into her own and gasping.  “Girl, what happened to your hand?!” You grimace, trying to come up with an excuse quickly. If anyone was gonna pry it was her. “Ooooh um. I tripped over Kitty while I was chopping vegetables. I'm really ok though. You think it’s gonna be busy today?”

Nina returns your hand begrudgingly, walking to the front counter as you follow. She chips at her nail polish and sighs. “About as busy as it always is..”

You chuckle, flipping on the lights in one of the flower displays. A little knock on the front door and another bell chime draws your attention. Brian, one of the gardeners, steps in. He clicks his work boots together on the entrance mat before he walks into the store, careful not to track dirt. 

“Morning.”

It’s gruff and short and you roll your eyes. Nina pops out from behind the counter, waving excitedly.  “Morninggg! We’ve got the coffee on in the back if you want some!” 

He nods in approval as he trudges to the back of the store. 

You continue humming to yourself as you arrange the flowers in the display, making note of which ones are starting to wilt so you can mark them half off later.  You think Brian is a nice guy. Taller, blonde, and scrappy. He’s easy enough to get on with. Most of the people working here had been here awhile, so the group is pretty tight knit. Brian is no exception. He’s serious at work, but every so often he’ll bring in donuts— and when you all go out to drink he’s fun. 

“By the way, Toby said to come see him when you get a chance. Kid has some herbs for you.”

You jump a little bit, not hearing Brian come back out as you were lost in thought. You can tell he’s chuckling at your surprise. He sips his coffee out of a green mug that reads ‘plantaholic’. You swat at his shoulder gently, giving him a half hearted glare. “We’re going to have to put a bell on you.”

He gives you a grin and you notice the second cup of coffee in his hand. He offers it to you and you hesitate, debating if you really need two coffees today, before caving and taking it. 

“Thanks. I’ll go see Toby later. Where’s thing two?” He grunts, gloved hand coming up to scratch at the stubble on his face. “Tim? Haven’t seen him yet but ya’know.. He’ll be around eventually.” You shoot him a glance. “Something wrong? You two are usually attached at the hip.” Brian nods his head. “Nah, we got a shipment early this morning.”

Tim, the landscaper, was also responsible for unloading trucks and moving plants around. Your gaze softened as you realized that both men had probably been here early, Tim unloading and Brian making room for new plants and checking their health. You notice the dark circles under his eyes. He keeps blinking and you can tell he’s trying to chase the sleep away with coffee. Tim must be exhausted too.

“In that case I’ll go find Toby and bring Tim a cup of coffee while I’m at it.”

“K, js’ be mindful.. Could be one of those days.”

Tim is a nice guy and an excellent landscaper, but he has his moods. You assume it has something to do with the pills. No one here faults him for it. It doesn’t happen often but you all just try to avoid him and let him do his work when it does. You nod thoughtfully, shooting Brian a smile as you sip out of your mug. “I will be, thanks for the coffee Bri.”

You pour a bit more coffee into a to-go cup, popping the lid on and telling Nina you’ll be right back. When you step out the back door into the garden you are instantly washed with fresh air. The main stepping stones that wind through the garden lead towards the greenhouse, where you know you’ll find Toby, but there are several little paths that shoot off spiraling around patches of flowers, wheelbarrows, trees, saplings, and garden decorations. Trellises littered in vines cover the main path and you hear the water fountains babbling off in the distance. Tim could be anywhere in the garden or greenhouse, so you take your time down the path, admiring some of the new decorations that have come in. Out of the corner of your eye you catch movement, and you stop to look over. “Tim?”

You stalk over to the spot where you notice the rustling, not wanting to bother him in case he’s having one of those days. Messy brown hair comes into view, but it’s not Tim’s. It isn’t Toby’s either. 

You clear your throat, not knowing exactly what to say. “Hello?” You step pass the foliage and the mystery man comes into full view. He turns, and his dark eyes meet yours. He’s pretty - almost too pretty.

The man sitting in the dirt is completely foreign to you. His brown hair waves and twists perfectly around his face. His skin is pale with a grayish-olive undertone that sounds odd in theory, but makes him look like a Greek statue in practice. His dewy eyes are black and soulful. You can’t help the little gasp that leaves your lips when he turns to look at you. He’s on his knees in the dirt, apron riding up around his jeans. The tight, white T-shirt he has on does little to hide his built torso, and his shoulders ripple as he digs into the soft dirt. 

He nods at you in acknowledgment, brushing the dirt off of his apron as he moves to stand. A large hand with painted black nails is extended to you, you look down at the coffees in both of your hands, mourning the loss of shaking this beautiful man’s hand. You hold them out awkwardly. “I- uhh. Hands are.. A little full.” He chuckles and you nearly swoon. Who is this man?

His hands fly clumsily to his pockets and he rocks on his heels. “Oh, my bad. Yeah, I see that. I’m Jack.. Jack Nyras. I just started here as a gardener.” That’s funny, Jane has been worried about the need to let someone go due to your profits.. Why would she hire another gardener? But then again, the workings of your gothic manager are mysterious and ever-changing. You shrug it off. Telling Jack your name, you beam about how lovely of a place the Nursery is and how he’s going to fit right in. “Do you live in town then?”

Jack nods and a hand comes to scratch the back of his head. “Something like that, I just moved here. Still getting used to everything.” You nod at everything he says dumbly. “Well, if you need anyone to show you around just let me know!” He assures you he will before he starts talking about how he should get back to work or something. You don’t know. You wave giddily at him as you leave. Walking down the path lost in thought about Jack, you nearly run head first into Tim. 

“Oh, hey! Sorry. I’m a bit lost in thought today, but I brought you coffee! Heard you guys had a truck early this morning.” Tim is not amused. He quirks an eyebrow at you, taking the coffee before you can spill it. “Thanks.. What exactly has you lost in thought?” You blush and look towards the floor, not wanting to admit you were schoolgirl-crushing on the new guy. You're honestly embarrassed, you never act this way over men. You shake your head vigorously, dispelling the sudden infatuation. “Nothing. Just a lot going on. Anyways, truck good?” Tim allows a tired smile to pull at his lips. He brings a hand to his neck, rolling his head in a circle. The stretch looks like it does little to relieve him. “Yeah, it’s all taken care of. Been here since four in the morning, just wish Jane would let me leave early. Thanks for the coffee kid.” You give him a sympathetic look. He swats at the air, gesturing for you to quit pitying him. “I’m a grown man, an early morning never hurts anyone. By the way, Toby’s looking for you.” You nod, sipping out of your mug. “Yeah, I'm on my way to see him now. If I see Jane I’ll put in a good word for you.” He’s already walking away. “Yeah, yeah. Whatever.” His own special way of saying thank you. You know he’s a big softie. 

You continue down the path until you come to the greenhouse, one of your favorite places on earth. You wish you were working the greenhouse checkout instead of Toby. It is massive. As you walk in you are met with wooden structures above your head, lined with hanging flowers and plants. Raised wooden boxes stretch on for what seems like forever, full of different plants, herbs, flowers, and vegetables. The quiet buzz of nature makes you smile as you walk down the path towards the back. 

You find Toby bent down, scrounging about underneath the counter for something. When you say his name, he audibly bumps his head. He stands up to greet you, rubbing at the sore spot where he hit himself. Toby looks like a teenage boy, and he’s not much older than one. He has that boyish charm. His hair is messy and brown and freckles bloom around his cheeks and nose. He wears a patch on the side of his mouth, says it covers up a birth defect he never got fixed. He’s a nice guy. Has a few screws loose, but nice nonetheless. He catches your eye and gestures you over. You slip behind the counter with him and see that he is holding a few drawstring bags. He shoves them into your arms before you have time to ask any questions. 

“Dried these js’ for yo-you. I know, I know. You don’t *snap* have to thank me.” You open one of the bags, sniffing the contents. Dried rose petals. Another one contains lavender, and a third basil. “Dried herbs for little ol’ me? You shouldn’t have.” Toby curses involuntarily, a symptom of his tourettes. “I did. You’re welcome.” You roll your eyes at his smugness, pushing him playfully as you mumble something about not leaving Nina alone in the shop. You call out to him as you leave “Hey! If you see Jane, tell her me and Tim want to talk to her!” Toby cups his hands around his mouth. “What???” You sigh. “IF YOU SEE JANE, TELL-”

───────────────

When you finally return to the flower shop to do your actual job you can’t wait to talk to Nina about the new guy. The sudden infatuation that came over you seems to have faded, but you are still full of questions. First and foremost, why did he make you feel like a hormonal highschooler? It's like the moment you saw him there was a pull — or a connection. It almost seemed unnatural, but it was probably just the fact you hadn't been with a guy, well… ever, and Jack looked like a model. Second and second most, why on earth would Jane hire another gardener? You bustle into the shop, slipping behind the counter and instantly busying your hands with the batch of wedding table bouquets Nina is working on. It’s silent for a few minutes.

“Hey.. have you met the new guy?” 

Nina gives you an inquisitive look without slowing her work. “New guy?” 

You hum in response, gently spreading the petals of a flower a bit further apart. “Jack, I think it was. New gardener. I thought Jane wasn’t hiring anyone else?” Nina nods, angling her body towards you. “No, she shouldn’t be. Not the way she’s always complaining. 'Who is he? Is he hot?”

Your cheeks flush and your eyes fix on your work. “I mean yeah… The first minute of talking to him I felt hormonal and sweaty. He’s really the definition of a pretty boy.” Nina sighs. “Not as pretty as that truck driver.” You visibly recoil. “Ew, Jeff? Not this again.” Nina has been crushing on the company truck driver that supplies your neck of the woods since she started working here. You suddenly remember your difference in types. “Nina, I love you, but that man is not hot. He also doesn’t know who you are.” Nina groans and plants her head on the counter. “I got here early to help with the truck just so I could see him.” 

You purse your lips, stifling a giggle. “How noble. Did you actually help, or did you just hang off of him the whole time?” Nina starts to fake cry. “Jane made me actually helpppp.” You pat her back in a comforting gesture. “There, there. You always have next time. Maybe you can actually ask him for his number next time and he’ll give it to you.” Nina rolls so she’s half laying on the counter, facing the ceiling idly. “You don’t understand! There’s a strategy! I’m playing the long game.” 

“Right, that’s why you're having me stalk him on Instagram for you so he doesn’t see you viewing his stories.” She stands up abruptly, going back to her work like nothing happened. 

She changes the topic curtly, “Anyways, the new guy.” You smile at her antics. “Yeah, new guy. Why was he hired? I need you to see him so I can confirm if he’s actually hot or if I’m just delusional.” She picks a red flower from your pile, incorporating it into the pinks and whites of her bouquet. “Well we both already know the answer to that. You're delusional as they come.” You raise your eyebrows and her eyes widen. Before she can stop you, you take a deep breath, summoning a loud voice. “NINA LOVES JEFFERY WOODS.” No one can really hear you, but she scrambles to cover your mouth, shushing you in panic. You giggle as she wrestles you into silence. “I am not the delusional one.” She concedes with a sigh and you both return to your flowers once more. The store bell jingles. You both look up. 

“Ladies.” Jack stands in the doorway and you feel that wave of Disney knees and butterflies wash over you. Nina chuckles and you elbow her under the counter. “I was told that you two supply the coffee.” Nina nods and gestures to the back. “That’s correct! We have our own little coffee machine and a mini fridge with some different creamers and stuff. Help yourself!” Jack smiles blindingly and makes his way to the back of the counter. It takes everything in you not to whisper ‘I told you so’ to the girl next to you. Jack hums as he starts the machine, the low timbre of his voice resonates in your chest and you sigh.

Nina looks at you knowingly, and whispers. “But someone from work, really?” You frown. “But you’re obsessed with Jeff, you can’t talk.” She just returns to her work and continues the conversation without eye contact. “It’s just for fun, a little crush. Nothing’s going to actually happen. I know you, you aren’t satisfied with little crushes.” You roll your eyes and look away as Jack walks out of the back with a steaming cup of coffee and a pleased look on his face. 

Jack approaches Nina, holding out his hand. “Ah, I don’t think we’ve had the pleasure of meeting…” She shakes it, responding: “Nina.” He grins, giving her a firm shake. “I’m Jack, the new gardener. I’m sure I’ll be seeing a lot of you two as long as you supply caffeine.” Nina giggles and you can tell his charm isn’t lost on her. When he leaves you nag her about how handsome he is and she’s inclined to agree. You can’t help but think that she’s right though, you should leave it at a little work place crush. 

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The next few days pass on pleasantly. You hardly remember that stupid failed ritual, and despite the disappointment- it doesn’t stop you from practicing your craft. Glamour spells when doing makeup, protection stirred into your coffee. You had to use all of your self discipline to keep yourself from making a spell jar for Jack. 

The Garden Nursery seemed more pleasant these days, sunnier. Tim hadn’t had a bad day in ages and even Jane was lightening up on the gothic reckoning of being a manager. Then there was Jack. 

It started with your little crush. Your eyes would linger on him as he passed, hands brushing purposefully as you would bring him and the twins (as you call them) coffee every morning. You couldn’t help but notice the way his muscles rippled as he pushed a wheelbarrow across the soil. Could not stop yourself from getting lost in thought watching the sun hit his pretty face. It was manageable though, a true workplace crush. For the purpose of making work more fun, and for that purpose alone. That is, until you swore he was doing the same to you.

At first you were imagining it for the sake of your own delusion. He made eye contact with you today! He smiled at you! He may as well be confessing his love. It felt like having a senior crush in high school that you would mourn when they graduated…. or a celebrity you would rave about on twitter. Nothing serious and nothing reciprocated. Then, as time went on you begin to notice the feeling of being watched. Often you will turn around to see Jack staring a hole into you. His hands begin to linger. He begins to lose his words as he speaks to you. You start to think maybe taking it past a workplace crush wouldn’t be so bad. How much could it really hurt to date a hot gardener? Nina chides you when you voice this aloud. 

"We've just met the guy. He's kind of suspicious, where did he even come from? He never goes out drinking with us, and doesn't shows up to the group meetings. I don't even think he's in the work group chat." You make a mental note to add him to that. Jane could be forgetful. Nina continues on her rant. "Then, what happens if you break up? Things are going to be weird, too weird. This place is perfect, we all have good chemistry. We're like family. Dating him would be like friend group incest." You frown at the term she coins. You make her stop talking about friend group incest by dismissively agreeing with her. As you get home your still thinking about it. Despite your admission that it would be weird, you can't get the possibility off of your mind. 

You stop when you realize that you should at least give it more time. Nina is right about one thing, your imagining that you are in love with a man you don't even know. You're obsessed with the idea of him. Relationships hadn't always worked out for you, in your high school years you'd dated some real freaks. Every time you got close to a guy you'd feel trapped and scared, like you were afraid to put a label on things and then endure whatever it was you signed up for. Daddy issues or something. On top of that, you had used your own blood for the sacrifice of purity. You obviously hadn't gotten very far relationship wise. You aren't sure if you really like Jack, but you like the concept — the personality you imagine that he has. If you are going to entertain this you at least need to get to know him better. Problem is, he's always acting like a loner. As you slide into bed for the night you resolve to make an effort to pull him into the friend group. You start by adding him to the group chat before you shut your phone off for the night.

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The morning is bright and sunny after a night of rain. Dew rests on the plants and flowers, and birds chirp pleasantly. The whole world is hazy and soft. The truck is here late which means you and Nina get to help. The two of you zip around the flower shop, making enough coffee for yourself and the boys. You slip them into carriers, eight total, before sliding out the back door and into the garden. As you walk with Nina you laugh about Jeff being late. “I’m sure Jane put him in his place, she always does.” She sighs in agreement. “If I’m not the one who gets Jeff it’ll be her. They have an enemies to lovers thing going on.” You give her a sympathetic look and elbow her gently, careful not to unbalance the coffee. “I’m sure if you would literally just make any sort of move you would get him. You are genuinely so hot and sexy, and in the nicest way possible, he is a rat. Plus I think Jane is a lesbian.” She giggles as she skips down the path ahead of you. “I don’t know about the rat part, but maybe you’re right.” 

As the gate comes into view you can see bodies moving boxes and plants through the wire. Nina opens the gate for you and you slip through, hands full of coffee. You hear a grating voice. “Bought’ damn time!” You mentally groan. You saunter up to the driver's seat of the truck, the window is rolled down and Jeffery Woods hangs his arm out the side of it. His messy hair is all across his face, dark black in contrast to the white hoodie he insists on sporting. You give him a fake smile. “Jeffery. Nice to see you as always.” He grins. You’ve always found his unnaturally wide smile creepy. “Come on doll, pass a man some coffee, I’ve been driving all night.” You’re about to give the man coffee against your better judgment, but a sharp voice stops you in your tracks. 

“Do not give him coffee until he gets out of that damn truck and helps.” You spin around to see your goth manager in all her glory. Her dark hair falls around her face in a style that reminds you of black and white movies. Her white makeup and dark lips stand out against each other, and the contacts she wears to make her pupils big and black make you think of something otherworldly. You like to brag about your boss. You brag about Nina too. You like when stores hire alternative people. 

Jeff groans loudly. “Come on Janey, I’ve been driving all night for youuuu!” Jeff pleads, and you know the pet name is only going to fuel her wrath. She has a box against her hip and is obviously not taking his shit today. “You were five hours late. We have customers this time of day. The absolute least you can do is get off your ass and help.” Her tone is stern and he hangs his head in despair. You chuckle at his expense. “Come on Jefferey, you can have coffee as soon as you get out of the truck.” Picking a coffee cup out of the carrier you wave it in front of is face. He begrudgingly opens the door and hops out, snatching the coffee from you as he rounds the truck. You sigh.

You distribute the coffees to everyone else working… Tim, Brian, Toby and Jane. Nina circles back to get one from you after helping with a few boxes, and you take one for yourself too, so that leaves… Jack. “Have you seen Jack around?” Nina starts to laugh and chokes on her coffee a bit. “I think he’s in the shed making space for new boxes. Go give coffee to your man girl.” You slap her playfully as you roll your eyes. 

When you approach the shed it’s silent, not a single sign of life. Suddenly there is a loud crash and a groan of pain. You rush inside to see Jack on the floor, pinned down by two boxes. Several more boxes surround him. You set the coffee down, pulling the boxes off of him and helping him up. “Are you ok?” He smiles, clearly embarrassed to be caught like this. Rubbing at his arm where a box had fallen on him he responds hoarsely: “Yeah, yup. Just a little caught off guard.” His voice sounds odd and as you step back you notice the state he’s in. Dark circles paint themselves across his eyes, and his skin has taken on a grayish complexion. His hair is slightly stringy, and he looks all together sick. Before you can stop yourself you reach to press the back of your hand against his forehead, he stands there in surprise. “Jack, you’re absolutely freezing. Are you sick? I know Jane can be scary, but if you talk to her she’ll give you the day off.” He just sits there for a moment, not knowing what to say. You hum the question again, and he waves his hands in defense, pulling your wrist down from his forehead and holding it between his fingers. You blush. “Thank you for your concern, but I really am fine. It’s just allergies. Spring always gets to me.” You eye him warily. Something is wrong with him. His body feels lifelessly cold. You know illnesses can make temperatures drop but you aren’t sure what to make of this.

“Alright, but at least take some coffee. I was actually trying to find you to give you one. Everyone else already got some.” He takes it gratefully, thanking you for your help as you turn to leave. He shoots you a little wave and it makes your stomach flip. God, that fine ass man. Somehow he's even hot when he looks like the walking dead.

You return to the truck, informing the group that you think Jack might be under the weather and that you all should use extra hand sanitizer just in case. Jeff makes a joke wishing the Garden employees good luck with that problem before he eventually speeds off. You lean over to Nina to whisper to her as you walk back towards the gate. "Did you get his number this time?" Nina rolls her eyes. "Strategy, patience."

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The next day Nina is exhausted. She walks in looking the same kind of sick that Jack did. It makes your heart drop. You really hope that whatever is going around won’t get you, especially since you had foolishly been all over Jack yesterday. Every time you had seen him you’d doted on him, checking his temperature, telling him to go talk to Jane and go home. You’d even made him some tea and thrown some salt and a simple healing spell over it. Now Nina looks the same way, if not worse.

“Nina, you look like hell. What happened, are you ok?” She hobbles past the counter and grabs an apron. “I don’t know. I was fine last night, but woke up today feeling like bloody murder.” She slips the apron over her head, wincing as she ties it around her waist. “My side is especially sore, it must be bruised or something. Maybe I hit myself when I was helping with the boxes yesterday.” You feel her forehead, it's warm but not feverish. “You know if you’re feeling sick you can ask Jane about going home. I can handle the shop for a day.” She sighs. “No, no, no.. I’m fine. Just sore. Not like it’s gonna stop me from playing with flowers.” 

She says it lightly, making fun of the situation. However, when she comes in the following day she looks even worse. You have her sit in a chair by the cash register all day, only allowing her to take orders, while you handle everything else around the shop. She looks like a frail old lady. Her high pony tail droops and she's exchanged the wild scene outfits for something simpler and cozier. You don't think you've ever seen Nina out of alternative stuff. The sickness must be really affecting her. The bell rings, Jack walks in. You expect him to look worse than Nina at the rate she’s progressing, but he’s practically glowing. His skin is vibrant with color, his eyes wide and awake. If anything he looks better than he did before.

 You wave him over to the counter. “Hey stranger. You’re looking better.” He nods and explains that it was just allergies and he’d gotten on some medication. “Well, allergies or not - whatever you have, you gave it to Nina.” He looks over to the girl curled up in blankets, sitting Indian style in the foldable chair you brought for her. A grimace frays at his face. “I’m not sure allergies work like that, but if I gave something to her I feel awful. I’ll bring her some tea and goodies tomorrow.” You smile gently - imagining what your parents might say.. ‘Such a thoughtful young man’. 

“That’s sweet of you. I’m glad you're at least feeling better.” He toys with a pen on the counter. "Yeah, maybe I recovered so quick because of all your fussing yesterday." You roll your eyes. "Yeah and I'm mothering her too. You all whine but you can thank me when the sickness is gone." Nina drags herself out of her chair and over to your side. “What are the two of you talking about?” You steady her as she stands. “Oh, nothing. Go back to your chair.” She huffs in defiance, mumbling about feeling left out. Jack gives her a look of sympathy. “I’m sorry you’re feeling sick Nina. Hope you feel better soon.” She sighs in exasperation. “It’s not even sickness, it's just so much soreness and my stomach’s funny. Feels like my gut’s been rearranged.” You both frown at her. Jack pipes up, "Maybe you sprained something? You could try seeing a physical therapist? Have you seen a regular doctor yet?" Giving him a dry look she shakes her head. "It's going to pass on it's own, I can tell. No use taking off of work or wasting money." She turns to go back to her chair and hisses at the slight movement. “I mean seriously, is there a massive bruise here or what?” She lifts up the shirt around her waist and you gasp.

“What is that?” You blurt. Nina looks down. “What’s what?” She twists in circles, trying to see what you’re seeing. When she finally catches sight of it she has to grip the counter for stability. Along her tummy runs a freshly stitched wound. It snakes around her side and down towards the middle of her stomach. The stitches are red and angry, no wonder she’s been feeling like shit. “Did you have surgery recently?” Nina looks up at you, her eyes are wide and panicked. She whispers it, barely audible. “No.” Your stomach drops. “What do you mean ‘no’? You have stitches, what happened?” She can’t stop staring at them and honestly you can’t either. “I mean that I didn’t even know this was here… someone did this to me without me knowing. I don’t… I can’t-” She looks like she’s going to hurl. 

You instantly call Jane. Explaining the situation over the phone… none of it sounds believable. The proof is there, in front of your eyes, as real as it can possibly be. “Ok, hold on. I’m on my way. I’ll take her to the ER and get her checked on, I need you to stay and run the shop.” You don’t want to leave Nina alone, but you know Jane has it under control. She pulls her car round back and you help Nina through the door until Jane takes over. She hooks her arm under Nina’s, steadying her as they walk towards Jane’s truck. You call after them. “Call me if anything happens!” All you receive from your manager is a nod. You trudge back inside as you hear the truck roar to life and crunch over the gravel. Jack is gone. You sit in the chair you brought for Nina pondering what just happened. How did she not notice the scar? How would someone have operated on her without her knowing? Could she have hurt herself and someone patched her up? Why would she forget that though? The thoughts spin around your head, making you dizzy. 

You carry out your job in a daze. Around two you get a call from Jane and you nearly jump out of your skin. The customer you are with notices your urgency and offers to wait while you take it. As you scramble to the back you pull the phone to your ear. “Hey. Any news?” Jane sounds tense over the phone. “Yeah, the doctors have seen her. She’s fine, but it looks like someone operated on her. Removed her kidney.” A chill runs down your back. “What the fuck? It wasn’t like a surgery? How did it happen?” She fumbles over her words as she talks. “Nina doesn’t have any memory of it and there are no records of it happening at a hospital. We called around. The doctors say it was done well, that whoever did it knows what they were doing.” You can’t hide your disbelief. “So what, some psychopath just crept in, stole her kidney, and sewed her back together?” You can hear the lurch in her throat. It’s unnerving to the both of you. “We don’t know, the police are on their way to talk to her. Whatever the case, a surgery like this requires days of bed rest. She’s going to have at least the next week off.” You nod to no one in particular, taking in the information. You and Jane wrap up the call, but if anything your mind is fuzzier than it was before. You struggle helping the customers as your thoughts race.

Who could have possibly done this? Is it someone you know? Could it be someone here, at the garden? Is there a man on the loose in your city, preforming freak operations on people? You have to sit down for a minute and mentally coach yourself to handle the rest of the day. Right now, Nina is safe. That is what matters. You need to push this out of your mind and focus on doing your job.

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The next week passes in a blur. Police are crawling around the place. Each of you is questioned. They search her house. There’s nothing. No unusual fingerprints, no trace of the operation left behind, absolutely nothing. Jack starts to help in the flower shop. You think he can tell that you're spiraling. The Nursery didn’t really need that many gardeners anyways, so Jane didn’t mind. He's kind, helping you when you forget forget your words and trying to keep you hydrated. You’re thankful for the extra help. 

To your disadvantage things are just going plain wrong. A lingering suspicion in your gut ties it back to you. Everything has you on edge. Your monthly full moon ritual is intense and you banish as much negative energy as possible. You sprinkle sale around the edges of your house and draw sigils on the doors and windows. The possibility of a person sneaking into your house and digging around in your guts without your awareness felt so invasive. You almost begin to fear it more than death. It's terrifying. You visit Nina a few times and Jack comes too. He delivers on that promised tea and goodie bag. She's doing better and promises that no one should be worried. No matter how hard you try to push it out of your mind, you can't shake the fear that whatever happened to Nina might happen to you next. 

Luckily, Nina makes a full recovery. Things don't go back to normal, but they get better. She returns to work where the whole group dotes on her like a baby. Toby pops in with snacks, drinks, and little trinkets he finds here and there. Brian doesn't say much, but his hands are always there, hovering as she walks up the steps or moves around to recklessly. The best way you can describe him is as a safety net, there just in case. Tim makes a daily round to the flower shop, checking in on her while pretending not to care. Even Jane is softer towards her. Additionally, Jack is becoming a bigger part of your little family every day. He starts to come out on weekend nights, hitting bars with the group. He never stays long, but his presence is nice. 

On one such night you and Nina close up shop early. It's a typical weeknight and business is been sparce. You bustle through closing activities in anticipation for the Hibachi meal Jane had promised on the condition of raised sales. It was a condition she didn't actually think would be met. The group didn't think it would be met either- it had happened purely by accident. Hibachi is hibachi though, and a tasty meal would be perfect to distract from the lingering horror of Nina's misfortune. As you run out the door you catch sight of Jack walking to his car. You tug on Nina's sleeve and the two of you skip up to him, cheeks flushed. "Hey! Are you coming tonight?" Jack smiles at you both and gives you an inquisitive look. "Coming to what, exactly?" You mentally face palm, remembering that Jack hadn't been here when Jane made the exasperated promise. Nina cuts in before you can explain. "Months ago, before you started working, Jane said if we raised sales she'd treat us all to a hibachi dinner. Apparently we accidentally did it. Toby figured it out and now she's actually following through! You should totally come!" Jack's smile wavers and he rubs awkwardly at the back of his head. "I don't know, I'm pretty busy… I-" You cut him off. "Busy with what? Come onnn you never hang out for long. Just one night! It's free food!" You lock eyes with him, pouting ever so slightly. The blush that tints his cheeks doesn't go unnoticed. "Ah- fine. I'll go. Text me the address?" You jump excitedly as you pull it up and text him. Nina grins. "We'll see you there!" 

As you leave him she shoots you a look. You bite your lip and raise your eyebrows, a silent plea to 'wait till we get in the car'. You had picked Nina up before work that morning so the two of you could drive together. As you tumble into the front seat she's giggling. "Oh my god, what happened to workplace crush????" You thumb at the steering wheel as you start the car, turning on the heater to clear the condensation on the windshield. "Nothing! I haven't done anything! That's all him." She elbows you as you back out of the parking-lot and you yelp. "I know I was opposed… but if you actually get together I want to be the first to know." You roll your eyes at her as you speed down the country roads back towards the city. "Trust, it's not like I'm going to be gossiping to Brian about it." 

The hibachi grill is warm and inviting. The orange lights strung across the ceiling make the air feel comfortable, and as your group shuffles in you smile. When everyone is sitting around the table laughing and joking you feel at home. Somehow Jeff had conveniently timed his truck run to overlap and had coerced Jane into letting him come (he'd just shown up after hearing about it from Toby). So now Jane and Jeff are playfully bickering as Nina laughs at Jeff's awful comebacks. Tim, Brian, and Toby are talking garden stuff and you can't help but just enjoy the surrounding conversation. This is your family. Jack is yet to show up and you worry that you might've been too pushy when inviting him. Whatever the case these are your people, wasting time thinking about him won't do you any good. 

"What do you think?" You're snapped out of thought by Toby's question. You look up to see the three men looking at you expectantly. "Sorry, what was the question? I spaced out." Brian chuckles and you give him a look. Toby repeats himself. "Is it easier to work the greenhouse or the at the florist?" You furrow your brows in thought. "Well I mean, you lift heavy stuff but we've got tons of orders. We supply weddings, party's, tons of custom stuff. We literally have to sort out every flower and make sure it looks perfect. I say florist." Toby laughs incredulously. "Not true I have just as many orders as you. I handle the orders for plants and hardware, tools, decorations.. et cetera. You even know how much shit farmers buy?" You use your hand to mimic his talking, earning a chuckle from Brian. Tim cuts in with his own opinion. "You lot have it easy. Me and Brian are the real workers. We're in the dirt every day. I'm get hired to haul ass and take care of yards all over town and Brian is the one keeping your gardens nice. We're the ones doing actual manual labor." You and Toby both respond in protest and Brian just laughs, neither confirming nor denying his stance. 

"Yeah! Me, Brian, and Jack doing alllll the work around here. Keeping it looking nice and pretty so customers actually want to buy your leaves." A voice behind you all joins in. "Sorry, we're doing what?" The four of you spin around to see Jack standing there clueless behind you. Brian starts laughing harder. He's in a good mood tonight you suppose. "Jack!" Tim exclaims. "I was just explaining to these kids how we're indispensable and carry the Nursery." You retort quickly. "Yeah well even if you grow all the plants in the world you need us to sell the stuff. Your not exactly all there in the social skills department." Toby shouts in approval of your comeback. You divert your attention to Jack. Sitting on one side of you is Nina, but there's an open seat on your right. "Hey. Glad you could make it, saved you a seat." You pat the high top chair awkwardly, and he grins as he shuffles in. You've only seen Jack outside of work a few times, but you never get over how handsome he is in everyday clothes. It's nothing crazy, a ribbed black turtle neck, jeans that sit low on his hips with a smart belt, dress shoes. He looks the way you imagine dark academia men do. It suits him. The conversation dims around you as he takes the seat. His arm brushes against yours and your breath hitches. Heat blooms across your face and butterflies swarm against your skin. 

"Weren't sure you'd make it." It's quiet, spoken under your breath. You're not even sure he's heard it. He turns towards you making direct eye contact. His eyes are consuming, you feel like he might swallow you whole the minute they're on you. It makes you squirm. "Wouldn't miss it." There's something under his voice - an invitation. No, you must be crazy. You turn back towards the boys, pulling Jack with you into the group conversation. The night continues on. The chef puts on a good show, attempting to shoot vegetables into Toby's mouth - who takes it so seriously that he sabotages himself. Brian catches one and the table cheers. Jane catches one between her teeth and Nina calls her mother. Jeff tries to do the same and chokes on the chunk of food. Nina still whispers 'daddy' under her breath and your caught between gagging and laughter. Jack's hand rubs against yours every so often and you'll turn to make eye contact, only to look away with a blush on your face. It's quiet, comfortable, homey. As the food comes in rounds you all eat your fill. Toby is the first to make a joke about unbuttoning his jeans and everyone follows suit, laughing about the fullness that follows the impressive show. 

At a certain point in the night Jack leans over to whisper to you. "Thank you for inviting me. I'm glad I came, but I do have to go soon. Not that I don't want to be here (with you), but I really am busy." You look into his eyes searchingly and you can tell he's not lying. You notice his skin isn't as warm as it once was and the circles under his eyes have returned. Is it just those allergies again or sleepless nights? You wonder what he's busy with, but you don't pry. "If you have to leave… Can I walk you back to your car?" The ghost of a smile pulls at his face, he looks like a little kid hiding a grin, He remains composed. "I'd like that." You both stand. Jack gives some half-hearted excuse for why he has to go. He ears several groans and 'drive safe's. You smile and offer to the bustling table that you will be right back. You don't miss the knowing looks a few of them shoot you. Jane winks. *Lesbians*. You roll your eyes at the few who are catching on and run after Jack to catch up. It's not cold outside, but you shove your hands into your sweater pockets as if it is.

You leave the store, stepping into the night air and breathing deeply. "It's just over this way. Not far." You nod giddily. "So, did you have fun? I know we can be pretty tight knit, but I think the group's warming up to you." Jake smiles honestly, without any attempt to hide it. He ruffles your hair, a gesture that takes you by surprise. He stops in the middle of the sidewalk, turning to you. "Why are you trying so hard to involve me?" You blush and look towards your shoes. Thumbs fidget against your sweater as you attempt to cook up a response. "I… I know how hard it is to find an in sometimes. I always had a hard time making friends, but this group is really great. You work here now, your one of us. I guess I just want you to feel like your apart of the family." Jack nods, listening intently. "That's the only reason?" You begin walking again, nearing his car. Your voice drops in volume. Your afraid to be bold with him. "I suppose there could be one other.. thing." His car lights up as he unlocks it. He stops once more. "Mhm, and what could that be?" He's got a smug look on his face, but it's gentle. He knows what he's asking, yet he's not mean about it. You can tell he feels something too. "I could want you around for my own reasons." 

Jack is standing right in front of you now, his closeness is paralyzing. He smells of earth, pine trees, and a hint of vanilla. His head dips down and yours tips up. You can feel his breath against your face as you stare at each other. "I suppose I could be showing up for my own reasons as well…" He says it low and breathy. Your breath freezes and your face grows hot. He leans in. The air you're breathing is recycled. The second it leaves your lips it's his. His mouth ghosts over yours. The sweater you have on is too hot, yet you're so, so cold. You're shivering where you stand. One of his hands wraps around your waist, the other comes to the side of your face. Your own hands grasp his shoulders out of instinct. You feel lost to the sea, it's as if he is the only thing that can keep you afloat. You grip tighter. "Jack.." He breathes your name back to you. He leans in further, you close your eyes in anticipation. Nothing ever comes. He pulls away — gently, not all at once. His hands leave your body and come to rest on your fingers which grip the shoulders of his coat. "We-" He stops himself. "I shouldn't. it's not.. We shouldn't-" You cut him off with a sad smile. "I know. You're right. It could mess everything up. The reason I keep inviting you is because I want you to feel like you have a home with us too. I won't jeopardize that." He looks like he has more to say, but only nods in response. You remove your hands from his shoulders and take a step back. "Get home safe Jack." He looks towards the pavement underneath his dress shoes. "You too. Goodnight." 

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You stay at the grill with your coworkers awhile longer, but the melancholy of your interaction with Jack weighs you down. Nina notices something and asks what's up, but you brush it off with a smile and a laugh that you must've eaten something that disagrees with you. You decide to stick to that excuse and gather your things, asking Nina if she's ok to get a ride with Jane. She nods enthusiastically and walks you to your car. You keep the smile plastered onto your face until your in the car and at least a mile down the road before you let the overthinking consume you. When you pull into the apartment parking you sit there, hands patting against your head in frustration. "Stupid, stupid, stupid…" You need a bath to clear your mind. You step out of the car and a cold wind that shouldn't be there hits you. It nips at your still warm cheeks and pulls at your bag, almost pushing you up the stairs. You stumble, gripping your purse as you envision what herbs you might add into your bath tonight. Should you focus on clearing your mind or banishing the negative energy of the experience? What Is going to make you forget how awkward that was? A flashing light in the parking lot you just came from catches your attention. What are the police doing here? Sirens ring, the wind blows harder, the world feels off. A shiver of anticipation runs up your spine. The reason is unclear.

You creep further up the stairs, wanting to be out of sight and in your room if the cops going to be all over the place. As you fumble with your keys Kitty meows from the other side of the door. "I know, I know baby. Hold on." You can't seem to find the right key and the wind is blowing you even harder, pushing hair into your face and making it hard to say the key ring. The meow sounds again, but it's not coming from inside your apartment. You look behind you to see the neighbor cat, Lucy. What's she doing out here? She howls desperately, clearly lost and afraid of the wind. A groaning, creaking sound draws your vision. You look over to the sound, wondering if you've made it up. You're neighbors door is wide open. That's odd. "Come here Lucy baby, let's find your mamma."

You shove the keys in your pocket and scoop the cat up, inching towards the open door. The police you were hoping to avoid are milling about inside. Your next door neighbor is a middle aged woman, divorced - single. She keeps to herself and doesn't bother you much. you know she sees her kid every so often, shared custody. Aside from that she's as much of a cat mom as you. Lucy wouldn't be out here if she were ok. You slip into the apartment quietly. A woman in uniform notices you, nodding to you and gesturing to stay there. You plant your feet awkwardly, stroking the cat in what you hope is a calming reassurance. After a few moments the woman approaches you. "Ma'am I'm officer Cortez, what is your relationship to Diana Birch?" You frown at the mention of your neighbors full name. So something had happened to her. "Nothing really, I'm just her neighbor. I found her cat outside my door. Can I ask what happened?" The officer looks at her notepad, then back up to you warily. "I suppose we're going to be asking you some questions anyways.. Tonight someone broke in and operated on Ms. Birch in her sleep. One of her kidney's was harvested and taken. She has no recollection of the event." Your heart drops and your throat becomes tight. A sense of dread washes over you. "Do you know anything about this?"

Notes: Yayayay if you made it to the end! Tag list is open, comment to be added!

Maybe you even want him to hear. You want him to know how desperate you are. For him to walk through the door right now. You want him to see you with your hands between your thighs, to call you a dirty little slut, and finish the job that your own pathetic fingers can't.

With growing unease throughout the kingdom and an assassin on the loose, it's only natural that security should be heightened. The king had declared that every member of the royal family should have a guard stationed outside their door. However, it's been over a month, and you have... needs. It doesn't help that the knight posted at your door was so fucking fine. You've been repressing yourself for far too long, and out of pure desperation, you don't care anymore.

Oh, but he cares.

He hears every moan and whimper, every shift of your body across the sheets, and he curses under his breath at the thought that it's your hands between your thighs and not his. He envisions you dragging your fingers across your puffy folds, the slick that spreads between them as you furiously rub your clit in a desperate search for release. His breath is heavy in his chest, and his armor is far, far too tight. You have created hell on earth for him, and you don't even know it. The poor, sweet princess with her fingers shoved in her pussy.. whining in frustration. He could do it so much better for you.

This routine goes on three nights in a row. Each night, Satoru bears the aching heat of hearing you. Come morning, he is released from his position, and the very second he is back in his quarters, he peels his armor off. He paws at the fabric of his tunic, hand gripped around his cock, thinking of all the delicious sounds you'd made all night. If only, IF ONLY it were him. He cums every time with the breath of your name on his lips.

Tonight, something is different. He's barely had any sleep, and the other members of the guard can be so incompetent. He can tell you feel it too as you stride towards your room with a furrow in your brow and your eyes towards the ground. You storm into the room, and he hears you through the door, tossing clothes around and brushing your hair with agitated vigor. The night progresses, and once again he begins to hear your sounds, but he can tell you're still frustrated. Your whines and whimpers turn into pitifully angry groans. They stir and abate as if you can't seem to get yourself all the way there. So close, yet he can tell you're trying again and again to no avail. After the long day and the lack of sleep- maybe he's delusional, but he holds his breath as he knocks on your door.

You nearly jump as you pull your night dress down and gather the sheets around you, sitting up in bed.

"May I help you?" You croak.

He chuckles to himself at the question. He should be the one asking that. He begins to have second thoughts but your voice is treacherously soft and he knows he's already to far gone.

"May I come in, princess?"

You swallow in anticipation and embarrassment as heat floods your cheeks. It was mortifying.. yes. However, you've been so very, very pent up. You've given up trying to keep yourself quiet. Perhaps you do want Satoru to hear. You couldn't help but notice him as he sparred with the younger knights on the castle grounds. Broad shoulders, large hands, and that hint of feminine charm that makes men unreasonably attractive. You bite your lip.

"Yes. You may."

The door opens with a soft *click* and Satoru steps in. You hold eye contact for almost a minute before he sighs and removes his sword from his belt, placing it against the door.

"Sir Gojo."

"Look, princess. I know what you do these nights." He taps on the wall. "These are paper-thin."

You look towards the ground, unable to hold his gaze as he moves toward the bed, stepping out of his armor until he's in a tunic and the loose pants that he wears underneath. Your eyes drift towards the noticeable problem he faces between his legs, now visible through the thin fabric, and you feel your mouth water.

"I can make you feel so good. Take care of you, give you what you need. I know you think about it. I think you want me to hear you. Want me thinking about that pussy. 'Bought how good you taste... How well you could take me."

Your eyes lift to meet his again, and he is inches away from you, standing at the foot of your bed with one knee on the mattress, the other still planted on the floor, as if he's waiting.

"Would you like that, princess? Would you like me to help you? Reach all those spots that you can't get?"

You nod shyly, drawing the sheets further around you.

"Fraid' I can't give you what you want until I hear you say it M'lady."

"Yes, Sir Go-"

"Saturo," He whispers.

Yes, Saturo.. please help me"

It comes out as a breath, barely a whisper. But that's all he needs. He's on the bed in an instant, hands coming to cup your face as his lips crash against yours. You allow the weight of the kiss to push you back into the pillows as he cages you with his body. He's so fucking big... I mean, he's a knight for a reason. His body completely covers yours, making you feel so fucking small. He takes hold of your wrists as he moves to place open-mouth kisses down your neck. He pauses to smile against your skin as he pins your wrists above your head with one hand and slides the other along your neck. He chuckles, and you feel puffs of breath against the wet skin, making you shiver.

"Feeling protected yet? You know what the king would do to me if he found me here?"

He moves to look directly at you and puts a finger to his lips.

"You're going to need to stay quiet for me princess. Quieter then you've been these past few nights."

You nod, rubbing your thighs together and wiggling in his grasp.

"I will, I promise.. just please.."

Tears prick your eyes with the desperation that weighs in your voice. Nights of unsuccessful attempts at taking care of yourself have you willing to do anything.

"Impatient, aren't we?"

He sits up, pulling his tunic over his head to reveal rippling muscles and a toned torso. His hands pull away the sheets you've gathered around yourself to see the disheveled state you're in, and he leans back to take it in. Lacy pink panties hang loose around your ankles. Your night gown is bunched up around your thighs, and he catches a glimpse of your pussy from beneath it. Your cheeks are flushed, your hair is tousled, and tears prick your eyes. To think he'd ever see the princess in such a state.

"Aw, poor baby. You've been trying to get off all night, haven't ya? I'm sorry I left you waiting so long, sweet thing."

Fingers creep up your thighs, moving to take your nightgown off.

"I'm here now. Let me make it better.."

He savors each inch of skin that is revealed. Once you are bare in front of him, his hands trace your curves, rubbing circles into your skin with his thumbs. He rubs your thighs, nails digging into the plush skin as he moves your legs to sit around his waist. Leaning in, he whispers

"You have no idea how long I've been waiting for this."

Calloused fingers cup your breasts as open-mouth kisses trail across your collarbone. You arch into his touch instinctively. His mouth draws its attention to your nipples, taking one into his mouth and swirling his tongue around it as he looks up at you through hooded eyes. He sucks and laves at the bud, coaxing soft noises out past your lips. Your hand goes to his hair, carding through the white strands and pulling his head back ever so slightly to get a better look at his face.

"Toru..." You whine.

Satoru mumbles something, squeezing your breasts together and taking both nipples between his teeth. Heat pools in your tummy as he works. You're growing impatient. You push his forehead away, and he groans in protest.

"Satoru. I've been trying for hours... I need it."

His lips tug into a smirk as he pulls away, trailing his fingers down your waist.

"Patience, your highness. I ought to go back out to that hallway and resume my post. But I'm here.. let me take my time on you."

His hands come back to cup your tits. "So soft."

You squirm against him, bucking your hips against the fabric of his pants, trying to find some sort of friction. He abandons your chest and moves his hands down to squeeze at the plush of your inner thighs. He trails his finger closer and closer, finding the inner crease of your thigh and stopping there. His eyes dart back to yours, unwavering.

"Can I taste you?"

You hesitantly nod. He moves back to lie on his chest, pulling your legs over his shoulders and finding a snug position between your thighs. His fingers press into your waist as his breath fans across your pussy lips. His eyes look up to yours again, searching for any sign of hesitation or discomfort, before gluing themselves back to your dripping cunt. His tongue darts out to lick his lips, and you clench at nothing. Your body burns under his gaze. You screw your eyes shut in anticipation.

His tongue flattens itself against your pussy, licking a fat stripe up from your aching hole to your buzzing clit. You shudder at the unfamiliar sensation. One of his hands leaves your waist to intertwine his fingers with yours and clutch at your hand. He returns to your puffy, sad clit- sore from attempt after attempt to get yourself off, yet so deliciously sensitive. You can't seem to stop the moan that slips past your lips. Satoru mumbles something about being quiet into your cunt, but the vibrations only serve to draw more cries. His lips latch onto your clit as his free hand comes down to test your entrance. They circle once, twice... before one finds its way in.

He begins pumping his fingers inside you, curving them in a way that hits justttt righttt. Butterflies explode in your stomach, the long-awaited pleasure taking your breath away. His lips release your clit with a wet pop, and he grins.

"Feel good, baby? I fucking bet it does..."

His fingers hit a particular spot, and you have to cover your mouth to muffle the sound that leaves your body.

"Need you to cum for me. Can you do that?"

You hardly register the words, but you manage to repeat:

"Yesyesyesyes."

You chant the word over and over again like a mantra.

Your eyes squeeze shut once more as you anticipate the sensation pooling in your core.

"So close Toru' I need it!"

Satoru smiles against your cunt as he lowers his face to suckle at your clit again, the added stimulation pushing you towards the edge.

"I can't... fuckkkk! toru' I'm-"

Hands bury themselves in his hair as you reach your climax, thighs trapping him exactly where he wants to be. He removes his fingers, tongue lapping up your release and easing you down from your high. Your body trembles and you fall limp into the pillows, blissfully dazed.

He chuckles as he crawls up your body to plant a kiss on your lips, and you taste yourself on his tongue.

"You did so good for me, pretty girl."

Toru drags his face away from yours to slide down the fabric still left on his body. When his dick comes into view, you choke a bit.

"Ready for it?"

Your jaw hangs open ever so slightly, eyes wide.

"Toru, that's not going to fit in me."

He chuckles. The comment goes straight to his ego, despite how often he hears something similar. Every fair maiden wants to fuck a rugged knight. He knows it will fit. It always does.

"Yes it will pretty. Shhh, don't worry 'bout it. I promise I'll go slow for you. Gon' make you feel good."

His hands come up to caress your face before traveling down between your bodies. One hand rubs distracting circles against your clit as the other lines his leaky tip up with your twitching entrance. He kisses you on the cheek before directing you to keep your eyes on his. Those piercing blue eyes bore into you, clouding your mind. You muster all of your courage not to look down, but you can tell just from the tip tapping on your pussy that it's going to be a fucking stretch.

He nudges the tip inside, and you sound something ungodly as a cry is wretched from your throat. You burrow your face into his neck, holding him close as he continues to push inside of you bit by bit. He stops about midway.

"Fuck- *hah* You.. you ok baby? How you doin'? You wan me to stop here for a m-inute?"

His voice is breathy, and his chest is heaving. The stretch burns the slightest bit but it's overwhelmed by the pleasure spreading up inside of you. The thumb on your clit doesn't stop, and the idea of having him fully inside of you is becoming a necessity.

"No.. no please Satoru. Keep- keep going please."

"Need you to relax for me." *shit* He pants as he continues to push on. "It's ok baby, it's just me. It's just me."

You force yourself to relax as he pushes further towards your core. He finally bottoms out and just rests there with you for a moment, peppering kisses against your face as he adjusts your leg to allow a better angle.

"Is it ok for me to move?"

Your words die in your throat, and all you can offer is a desperate little nod. Lucky he's as desperate as you are, or he might've forced the words out of you, but he just sighs with a smirk and offers you an:

"All right then."

His hips pull out slowly, and you whine at the loss. He takes you in for a minute before thrusting back in - still slow. He continues like that, allowing you to adjust to his length before he picks up the pace. Gradually at first, until he's pushing your legs towards your shoulders, leaning in to grasp your hand as he hits a spot that makes you sob. Tears of relief streak down your face. Tears of finally getting fucked exactly the way you need. He coos at you as his hips slam against yours and laps the tears off of your cheeks, kissing you so you can taste the salt on his lips. The noise of skin against skin is wet and lewd, and Satoru's pace has become unrelenting. Through dizzying pleasure, worries of being caught prick the back of your mind. The thoughts are gone before they even surfaces as you submit yourself to the absolute force of nature that is Saturo Gojo.

"You're doing so good for me, baby. So fucking good. Yes, you are *fuck!* yes you are.”

His hand brushes your hair out of your face as he babbles praise into your ear. His hand returns again to your clit as he coerces you towards the edge once more.

“Ta-aking me so- so fucking good. Such a good fucking girl."

Your breathing quickens and your body tenses as you feel it brewing in your stomach. Your hands grip Satoru's back. Clawing their way across his skin. They hardly make a dent in the broad knight's skin. You mewl and whine as the tip hits a spongey spot inside of you that you didn't know existed. His thumb rubs furious figure eights into your cunt, and your eyes fly open, drawn to his.

"Toru' I'm close. I'm so c-close." you sob "wanna- wanna cum with you."

He grunts as he angles his hips.

"Oh, really?" He intends it to come out smug, but you can tell he's as far gone as you are.

"You wanna cum with me?"

He hits that spot again, and you choke out a whiney "Yes, Saturo, I need it- need it p-please ", his thumb on your clit, making your head fuzzy.

"F- fucking do it then. Don't run from i-it. Cum for me, pretty."

Your head tips back, and your lips part in a silent scream as you reach the brink. He leans down to roughly kiss you as the wave of release crashes over you. He moans into your mouth as he feels liquid pooling beneath you and running down the base of his dick, dripping down his balls.

"Holy shit, princess."

The sight of you squirting on him sends him over the edge, and his hips stutter as he pulls you into his body. He hums into the crook of your neck and his grip tightens. Thick ropes of cum fill your cunt, leaving a frothy ring around the base of his dick as he shallowly thrusts a few more times to ride out his high. He stays inside of you like that for a minute, panting. His eyes search your own as the aftershocks of both your realeases wash over you. Your face is molded into a hazy, fucked-out smile. Satoru grins, gently poking at your forehead.

"Should've been doing this since night one..."

He huffs as he pulls out, and you shiver at the loss. Your pussy drips with your mixed releases. He lies next to you on his side, propping his head up on one arm. You sigh and turn to face him. He sits studying your face for what seems forever as you regain your senses. Finally, after some time he teases:

"Were my... *services* as a knight well suited to your needs, your highness?"

You turn your face into the pillows to hide, the realization that you'd just allowed a knight to fuck you in your quarters rushing through your head.

"Satoru, this absolutely cannot get out." Your voice comes muffled through the pillows.

The knight chuckles.

"Don't worry, princess, I'm not the one who has a problem keeping their mouth shut."

You huff and throw a pillow in his general direction without looking. You hear a thud, and Satoru's laughing falters, so you assume success. He smiles softly at your buried face. He's already contemplating the next few nights at his station. If there really was an assassin loose, wouldn't the best way to protect you be staying as close as possible anyway?

"Return to your post, Sir Gojo. Before someone notices you're gone."

You hear Satoru shift, and a hand against the side of your cheek lifts your face from the pillows. Your flushed face burns against the cool air, and his expression grows smug as he recognizes the effect he has on you.

"As you wish, princess."

--

Sir Saturo Gojo's list of duties spans on. He trains the younger knights, holds a post at the palace gates, escorts royal officials on their comings and goings, and guards the princess's door by night. His favorite duty on this list, however, comes to be keeping her royal highness' pussy stuffed full in the following nights. Slipping into her room as soon as he knows he won't be bothered. Letting their bodies collide as he urges her to keep quiet. This is the best way to protect the princess after all. How much closer can he be to her?

If anyone asks, he's defending her from a presumed ruthless assassin and definitely not from a rumor he made up in hopes of getting closer to her majesty.

(reblogs are greatly appreciated <3)

(Reblogs w tags we might be making out rn 😽😽)

When he does finally get you alone he’s cruel. He has you on top of him, meaty hands gripping your hips and leaving red indents in the plush skin. He slides you up and down his cock, chuckling as you whine.

“S’ too much Eiji. Can’t- can’t-“

“Can’t what sweet thing? Can’t get enough of my dick?”

You're on your nth orgasm of the night and holding on for dear life. At first you were eager to ride him, but when your fucked out little body couldn’t take it anymore Eijiro took it into his own hands. He flips you over onto your back and you nearly fall asleep, exhausted. However her lines himself up with your entrance and thrusts into you, wrapping his thick fingers around your neck to wake you up.

“Practically begging for it, wearing that slutty little skirt out. *hah* fucking animals couldn’t keep their eyes of-f you”

You whine in response as you feel him hitting all the right places inside you. His hands move to push your legs back and he hits even deeper, leaning down to mumble in your ear.

“I know what you wan’- fuckin pretty slut, jus begging to be filled up.” *hah, fuck!* he grunts. “Tell me who this pussy belongs to.”

His breath is hot on your neck and when one hand slips down to draw circles around your clit you mewl. You know what he wants to hear but it’s so much. His cock bullying your hole at a brutal pace, his fingers on your clit, his breath on your neck. He’s all around you and inside you, it’s all Eijiro. He fills your senses. You’re stuffed full of him. You feel your high approaching and you whine. The question is long forgotten. He kisses your cervix with each stroke and his fingers rub deliciously sloppy circles against your clit. You feel yourself arching off the bed, nails clawing down his back. You moan languidly.

“Eiji I-“

Just like that it all stops. He pulls out, pulls away, just entirely separates himself from you.

“Let’s try that one more time.”

Your whining at the loss and your eyes slip to the floor. He grabs your chin forcing your gaze to meet his.

“Who's this cunt belong too?”

“You Eiji! S’ all for you!”

You can’t help but sob.

“See, that’s what I thought. Wasn’t so hard was it baby?”

He’s kissing away your tears and cooing at you as he pushes his way inside you again. His voice is soft in stark contrast to the way he manhandles you like a doll. His mouth attaches itself to your collarbone, and he groans into your skin.

“This pussy's all mine. Need you t' take this dick like a good fucking girl. I know you can. Know you can do it f'me.”

You sob as you once again approach your release.

"I can! I c-an! Wanna take it for you! Need you to fill me up pleasepleasepleaseEijipleaseohmygodddd."

Eijiro chuckles at just how fucked out you are. He holds your cock-drunk little face in his hands and he can see the stars dancing behind your eyes as you approach your high. He reaches down to again press circles into your bud and you grip him like your soul is leaving your body. He groans in your ear.

"I'm almost there baby. Gon' give it all to you. Fill m-y girl up.. put a fucking b-baby n you. You want that?"

Your chanting his name like a prayer, can't even register what he's saying.

"Cum with me baby."

Your body goes rigid and you arch your back, trembling, as the waves of your release wash through you. Eijiro's hips stutter once, then twice as he cums inside of you, cradling your body and burying his face in your neck. He rides it out with a few more gentle strokes, rubbing your clit a few more times to push you through your orgasm, before he comes to a stop. He rests there comfortably inside of you for a minute. You sigh exhaustedly and go limp into his touch, letting him cradle you as you both catch your breath. A smirk graces his lips as his eyes travel down your body, landing on your sopping cunny.

"Oh no sweet thing you made such a big mess. Looks like I need to clean you up..."

He slips down to settle his face between your thighs, and grins at you sweetly, before hoisting your legs over his shoulders and settling his hands on your waist. He pulls your dripping pussy towards his mouth. You pant heavily as your hands find purchase in his hair. He laps up the mixture of cum and squirt dripping out of you and tongue fucks it back into you as you squirm at the soreness.

"Such a mess.." He moans into your folds, sending delicious shivers through your spine. Your pussy flutters. Your fingers card through his hair as you moan his name.

"Eiji *hah* you're gonna drive me crazy I can'tttt"

He continues to tongue your cunt, lidded, glassy eyes holding contact with yours.

"I don't really care baby m' gonna make you"

Eijiro Kirishima is all smiles and sunshine until he has you to himself.