#venable x reader

In the past few days, I've tried multiple times to pleasure myself, but the moment I'd hear any sound or no sounds at all, I would chicken out. I even thought about asking Ms. Venable if it's allowed to pleasure yourself, but I haven't worked up the courage to actually do it.

Currently, there's a gathering in the music room, in which Ms. Venable informs us about the development of our situation, which is non-existent. At the end of the meeting, I'm basically a puddle, because I've observed everything Ms. Venable did in the past thirty minutes intensely. I doubt that I can stand up straight right now, the sexual frustration too much for me to handle.

A while after everyone left, I slowly make my way towards Ms. Venable's office, knocking gently, once I'm there. I enter after hearing a stern 'come in'. Opening the door, I see her sitting in her chair, looking up from an opened file. I swallow and gather all of my courage. "I-I only have a quick questi-"

"Close the door and sit! We are civilized here," she interrupts me, and I do as told, my thoughts running wild, already planning the quickest escape route in my head. "Now what is your question?" Ms. Venable asks and looks at me expectantly. I swallow the lump in my throat and lower my eyes. "I-It's nothing important…I-I should go," I say and make a move to get up, but she is faster, standing behind me and pushing me back down into the armchair.

"Now, you already wasted my time, so you might as well ask what you came here to ask," Ms. Venable almost purrs into my ear, causing me to whimper quietly, clenching my thighs. Her gloved left hand rests on my neck, and my breathing quickens as goosebumps erupt on my skin. "Ask your question, Ms. l/n!" Ms. Venable orders strictly, digging her fingers into the skin of my neck.

"Is masturbation against your rules?" I blurt out.

After realizing what I just said, I place my hand in front of my mouth and panic, ready to run. But Ms. Venable pushes me back into the seat. "Yes, it is indeed. Why, have you already broken this rule?" she questions, her voice laced with both honey and venom as she walks in front of me, towering over me.

"N-no, of course not...but I wanted to," I mumble the last part.

"And why would you like to pleasure yourself, hmm? What makes you so desperate to touch yourself, Ms. l/n?"

I shake my head and try to get away again, but Ms. Venable places her left hand in the middle of my chest and keeps me in place. "Answer me!" she demands, but I shake my head again. "I said ANSWER ME!" Ms. Venable says and grips my chin with her left hand.

"YOU!" My eyes widen in horror as soon as the word left my mouth.

"I beg your pardon?" Ms. Venable says, narrowing her eyes and coming dangerously close to my face. I close my eyes, readying myself for any sort of punishment, but instead she walks behind me again and whispers into my ear. "Say it again."

I moan quietly and rub my thighs together.

"You," I whisper.

"Elaborate on that, Ms. l/n." I gasp as her fingers start to dance over my neck. "Come on, Ms. l/n. Don't be shy now," she says.

"I-I can't get you out of m-my head. Y-your presence in a room is so captivating, and every little thing you do excites me. I-I can't help it."

"Hmm...you have my authorization," she whispers into my ear.

"What?" I ask confused.

"You may pleasure yourself," she purrs against my neck and I shudder. I move to get up, but she keeps me in place. "Here and now, Ms. l/n. And only in my presence so I can supervise," she says, her voice dropping an octave at the last word.

My eyes widen as she leans against her desk, looking at me with her piercing brown eyes. I hesitate but decide that I'm way too desperate to deny myself an orgasm, even if it has to happen in front of her. I lift my skirt and slip my hand into my underwear, moaning softly at the wetness it encounters there. I run my middle finger gently over my clit, twitching slightly.

Then I look at Ms. Venable, staring into her eyes as I circle my clit faster, moaning louder. Sliding a finger inside myself, I close my eyes and imagine the woman who's standing in front of me doing these things to me. I add another finger and start to massage my breast over my dress. In a matter of a few minutes, I'm a moaning mess, pulling my fingers out of me to rub my sensitive clit in fast, tight circles. It doesn't take much longer for me to tumble over the edge, moaning Ms. Venable's name during my climax.

I open my eyes and see Ms. Venable staring at me with flushed cheeks. She clears her throat as she notices that I've opened my eyes. "Leave now," the older woman says hoarsely, and I rush towards the door, exiting the room and basically running to my own room. Once there, I smile lightly as I remember the events from just a few minutes ago.

Tonight at dinner, I can't help but notice that Ms. Venable is looking into my direction more often now than before, making me blush whenever she catches me staring at her. At the end of dinner, my underwear is completely soaked again, after watching Ms. Venable play with the handle of her cane more than usual. I get up and rush to my room, taking a quick cold shower and lying down on top my bed completely naked.

Suddenly, the door opens, and I quickly pull the covers over my body, looking startled at Ms. Venable, who's standing at the entrance of my room, her eyes wide as she takes in my appearance. She then locks the door and walks towards me, her cane clacking against the floor, which makes me shiver.

Ms. Venable comes closer and towers over me. "I want you to touch yourself again, Ms. l/n," she says, and my eyes widen.

"W-why do you w-"

"Don't question me, just do as I say!" Ms. Venable demands, sitting down on the chair next to my bed. I comply and slide my hand under the covers and between my legs, being surprised at how aroused I already am. "Let me see you," Ms. Venable says hoarsely, and I hesitantly push the covers off my body, exposing my naked body to her eyes. Goosebumps erupt on my skin as her eyes roam my body. "Go on," she says as her eyes meet mine again, and I obey.

This becomes a habit throughout the next few weeks. Ms. Venable would visit me after dinner or call me to her office, and I would pleasure myself in front of her. Today, she insisted that I come to her office. I knock and enter after I'm given the permission to do so. Ms. Venable is sitting in one of the armchairs, which are close to the fireplace, and gestures for me to take a seat in the armchair across from her and I do so. She tells me to undress, and I comply without hesitation, because I've already become accustomed to the way this goes once I'm with her.

Once I'm completely bare, I spread my legs to give her a good view and start touching myself, moans and her name rolling off my tongue in no time. After a few minutes, I speed up my movements as I feel myself getting closer to release, but then Ms. Venable says something unexpected. "Stop." I whimper but do as told while looking into her dark eyes.

"Come here," she says in a calm but demanding tone. I hesitantly get up and walk over to her, watching as she leans her cane against the side of the armchair. Once I'm in her reach, she pulls me on top of her and grins at my shocked expression. Ms. Venable takes in my body and grabs my hips with her gloved hands, the coldness of the black fingerless leather gloves and the warmth of her fingertips send shivers down my spine, and I can't help but moan quietly.

She smirks as her hands move upwards and cup my breasts gently.

"Oh God, Ms. Venable," I groan as she plays with my nipples.

"Hmm...do you like that, y/n?" she asks, the smirk still plastered on her face.

"Y-yes," I stutter.

"Yes, what?" she asks, pinching one nipple lightly.

"Y-yes, Ms. Venable," I reply, trying to keep my hips from moving against her, but I fail as she tugs lightly on my hard buds, and I buck my hips slightly against her.

Ms. Venable stops and pulls me down, connecting our lips in a hungry kiss. She pulls me closer, pressing my body tightly against hers, and bites my bottom lip, causing me to moan into her mouth. Then she slides her right hand down my body and slips it between my thighs. "Hmm...so wet for me," she purrs into my ear, and I shiver. Her finger grazes my clit, and I almost jerk in her lap. She chuckles darkly before entering me with two fingers. I moan and grip the backrest of the armchair to stabilize myself as she thrusts into me. Once she starts to rub my sensitive clit with her thumb, I'm a goner. I groan her name and come all over her fingers, panting heavily as I try to come down from my high.

Ms. Venable smirks as she lifts her hand and sucks her digits clean, moaning quietly in the process. After I’ve calmed down a little, I look into Ms. Venable's piercing eyes and chew on my bottom lip. "What are you thinking about, y/n?" Ms. Venable asks, and I debate with myself whether I should ask her or not. But I decide to take my chance and just go for it.

"M-may I pleasure you too, Ms. Venable?" I whisper.

Ms. Venable raises her eyebrow, thinking about my request. "Kneel," she says eventually, and I obey immediately, getting off her lap and lowering myself to the floor. I look up at Ms. Venable as she lifts her skirt and spreads her legs. My eyes focus on her bare, glistening core, and I have to suppress a moan at this sight. "Go on then," she demands, and I move closer to her center, kissing her thighs, which tense under my lips, before I spread her legs a little further and explore her with my tongue.

Her hands grab my hair, pulling me closer against her center. I take the hint and run my tongue through her slit before focusing on her clit. She pulls my hair lightly as I suck the sensitive bud into my mouth, causing me to moan against her. Ms. Venable moans quietly and shifts her hips a little, giving me better access.

After a few minutes, I have her moaning my name as I enter her with two fingers, curling them just right to hit all the right spots within Ms. Venable, while still basically making out with her clit. It doesn't take much longer for her to tumble over the edge, practically growling my name and digging her fingers into my scalp. I lap up all of her juices and only stop when she pulls me up by my hair. Ms. Venable looks into my eyes, her dark brown eyes filled with lust and perhaps something else. She leans in and kisses me hungrily, grabbing my butt to pull me as close as possible.

The next few weeks, Ms. Venable and I have sex so many times that I lose count. But she never takes off her dress, only lifts it up to give me room to work. And I'm curious as to why she doesn't want me to see her upper half. So I decide to ask one time, which is a bad idea, because she shuts me out completely for a couple of days. I apologize every day, until Ms. Venable loses it. She breaks down right in front of me, and yells at me to stop apologizing. "It's not you, it's me! I'm a hideous, ugly, worthless monster, y/n!" she sobs, and I rush to her side, wrapping my arms around her. "You're not! You are the most wonderful, beautiful, and smart woman I have ever seen. You're not worthless, you are the most unique person, and you're worth more than all the treasures of the whole world." Tears gather in her eyes, and she shakes her head, so I pull her even closer and stroke her cheeks gently.

"I'm in love with you, Ms. Venable. And I'm the unworthy one here. You're so far out of my league that I'm surprised you even waste your time on me," I whisper. Ms. Venable's eyes widen at my statement.

"How can you be in love with someone like me?" she asks, her voice barely audible.

"You're special, and your personality just pulls me in. I can't really explain it," I tell her, and to my surprise, she hugs me and whispers words into my ear that I never thought I would hear her say.

"I think, I may be in love with you too."

Fandoms I Will Write For:

Bridgerton

Disney, Pixar, Descendants, Zombies

Stranger Things

Unicorn Academy

American Horror Story (AHS)

Resident Evil

My Little Pony

Marvel

Wednesday

Harry Potter

Nine Perfect Strangers

Big Little Lies

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (CAOS)

RuPaul's Drag Race

Smosh

Good Mythical Morning/Mythical Kitchen

Dropout

What We Do in the Shadows

Abbott Elementary

Me and my girlfriend are cuddling in our bed while watching a really boring movie so I'm getting super sleepy and Wilhemina realizes it.

"Don't sleep, babe." She playfully says and kisses my cheek.

I laugh in response and adjust myself into her arms to get even more comfortable. She kisses my head and after a few moments of it I black out.

Opening my eyes, I realize the movie was long ago over but we're still laid in the same position. Turning to Wilhemina to face her, I can see she also slept, what makes me giggle lowly to not wake her up. Her hair is messy and her glasses are a little bent on her beautiful face, she's the prettiest like that.

Ceasing my impulses to caress her hair, I just keep laying there observing every little detail of the woman I love. It doesn't take long for her to start making little movements, signing she's about to wake up.

"I thought you told me not to sleep." I playfully giggle and tap the point of her nose.

Wilhemina sighs and softly smiles without opening her eyes yet and I tight our embrace even more.

"If I moved you'd have woken up." She adjusts her glasses before opening her beautiful brown eyes and facing me.

"Yeaah, I'm pretty sure that's the reason." I giggle again and she smiles while rolling her eyes.

"Silly girl." She holds me tight and out of nowhere spreads a big amount of kisses around my face, making me smile like an idiot. "I love you." She says with her face really close to mine, looking straight into my eyes.

"I love you too, my love." I know how much difficult it is for Wilhemina to express her feelings so these words mean even more than what they sound.

Since it's Sunday, it's not really necessary to break our beautiful moment and get out from bed. Wilhemina turns herself so her back is facing the mattress and I rest my head on her chest while one of my hands reaches hers. We intertwine our fingers and she keeps caressing my hand and my head until we both fall asleep again.

.

More by me:

-Flashback-

''Are you serious right now after all we have been through?'' you try hard not to scream but it feels like your body is on fire, your lungs are burning, heart racing and your eyes watering. You cannot believe you are having this conversation with your girlfriend Wilhemina right now. After a whole year of knowing each other and eventually giving the relationship a go she is talking about moving on.

'It's for the best'' is all she said in return and then she walked out, cane in her hand hitting the floor hard and not once did she look back, she ignored your cries, you begging her to stay and please turn back around. You keep repeating this is a nightmare and you are gonna wake up any minute to her holding you in her arms. But it was no nightmare and she did walk out of your shared apartment and ever since that day you have tried to move on. But no matter what you did working, moving out of the apartment, meeting friends, getting to know new people it didn't work, Wilhemina was always on your mind, when you are asleep she would visit in your dreams, when you are driving or outside and a song plays, she is there in your memory as if she never left in the first place.

-End of Flashback-

Even right now as you are walking through the streets on your lunch break, coffee in your hand and earphones in your ears listening to music she is here again.

''I never needed you like I do right now....I never hated you like I do right now'' as you hear those lyrics your heart skips a beat and it feels like it is breaking all over again. You tried everything you could think of, start a new job in a new field, you moved to a new city but nothing seems to be able to take your mind off the redhead, clouding your mind, her touch still so present lingering on your skin, her voice still ringing through your ears and the smell of lavender following you wherever you go.

Currently, you are working for a company in California, in the social media department and to promote the brand and their work. It's mostly boring but you do enjoy social media and advertisement so you gladly took the job considering it comes with a higher paycheck and a brand new apartment. There was nothing left in your old city, no friends anymore because you drove them all away as they always talked badly about your ex-girlfriend and the feelings you still have for her. No family because you were kind of always on your own and after quitting your job there, there was nothing holding you back. The woman with red-orange hair and a purple obsession is currently on your mind again and no matter what you do she is stuck in your head, like a catchy record and it hurts. As you think about her a wave of flashbacks hit you, with no way of putting a stop to it and keeping the storm at bay.

''Wilhemina Venable, nice to meet you'' was the first few words that you ever heard her say and for a moment you were so struck that you couldn't even say anything. ''Cat got your tongue hmm?'' was what she said afterward and what got you to snap out of it, introduce yourself, and shake her hand. And when you touched her for the first time you knew you would never ever get tired of feeling her soft hands.

You would also never grow tired of looking into her beautiful brown eyes or the soft smile she would give you whenever she would see you. Back then you just finished college and you took your first job and she was your co-worker. Starting a relationship with a co-worker is sometimes frowned upon and there probably are good reasons for that but you didn't listen, not to your friends telling you not to do it and not to the other co-workers after they noticed the glances you and Wilhemina exchanged at work. But you both never let that stop you and you fell for her and you fell hard.

Although you had some crushes before, mostly on teachers in college or celebrities, you never had been in a relationship before. Every morning before work you would get up so early and make sure to put your best clothes on, you would improve your makeup skills and try different hairstyles to impress Wilhemina and you did. She would notice how often you would come around to her desk and ask her silly questions you both knew the answers to but you pretend you didn't. And eventually, she took all of her confidence and asked you out and that night was the most magical night of your life.

You went to an expensive restaurant and after she took you home and she gave you something that night that was precious and you held onto it till today. Patience. She was your first love and she made sure to not rush, to not hurt you, to be there for you and hold you whenever you needed her. After your first date, you went on some more magical nights together, before you were ready to allow her to love you and to love her in return and she made you feel things you never felt before. She would make your whole body feel beautiful and worthy, all your insecurities left whenever you were around the woman who had many insecurities herself due to her back. And that's probably what you admire most about her, the way she made you feel whenever you were with her.

Thinking about all this, you think back to the many dates you both went on, to restaurants, shopping, the movies, car dates, attending work parties together, going to get drunk together. Life felt so easy with Wilhemina around, although she was a few years older than you she was pure, she was funny, soft, kind, precious and she was innocent. She would always treat people with respect and offer help and you loved her beautiful and kind personality. You never thought that one night after being with each other for almost a year she would randomly walk out of your life and not once turn back around or try and talk about it.

Hearing the lyrics repeat, you sigh and shake your head because it is true, one part of you needed Wilhemina back in your life because no matter what you do you can not get her out of your head or heart for that matter. Part of you does hate her for leaving and walking out, you never cried harder in your life than the night she left and you couldn't function for days. All you did was cry, toss and turn in the bed or curl up on the floor in a little ball until you couldn't cry anymore but the pain never stopped. It took days and in the end, your friends who picked you up again, taught you how to take care of yourself again by eating, showering, getting dressed, and going to work and you hoped that moving and changing jobs would change something.

As you are sitting in a park, only a few blocks away from your new workplace, watching people having picnics, playing with their kids, walking their dogs, or doing exercise you realize that all this wasn't worth it. Moving away, leaving your job, apartment and friends did nothing, you still miss her and she still haunts you. You miss her gentle side, the soft Mina as you used to call her, who would hold you in her arms, who would say soothing words until you would fall asleep, and who would make you feel better after a hard day at work, hold you after a nightmare or would let you ramble about another one of the co-workers annoying you. You miss telling her about your days and how you feel because you could be free with her and be who you are and you haven't been that way in a very long time.

Checking your phone you notice your lunch break is over in five minutes so you toss your empty coffee cup in a nearby trash can and walk back to your office. Today has been particularly boring because all you have to do is answer people's dm's and requests on social media because currently there is no campaign going on. As you walk back to your desk you put your coat and bag away and start logging onto your laptop. That's when you hear your boss on his way to your desk and you can't help but internally roll your eyes. He isn't a bad guy or anything, he is in his fifties, grey hair, always wearing a suit and he treats you with respect and you appreciate him but whenever he would approach you it means a problem, like an advertisement going wrong or a complaint or a new major client and that means longer hours and staying in the office till midnight. Not that you mind considering there is nothing or no one to come back home to.

''Y/N'' he says as he finally reaches your desk. Looking up from your desk, you force a smile and reply ''Yes Mr. Odell what can I do for you?''. By his posture, you can tell he is in some kind of distress.

''Listen we have a potential new client and I want you to come to our first meeting with them'' he says excitedly and you question why he can't just bring his assistant. ''I can't bring Janet she is sick so I need you to get your things'' he explains and you log off your computer, take your coat and bag and follow him outside the building. It is quite chilly, so you are glad that you put a jacket over your blazer.

As the familiar buildings and streets fade into the distance, you try not to zone out like you usually would but these days your mind would often be preoccupied with daydreams or memories as if someone else was entirely in control of your thoughts.

''I have a meeting with a Mr. Pfister and Mr. Nutter'' he says absent-mindedly while looking into his calendar and talking about the company you are headed to. Snapping out of your thoughts, you nod and mumble ''Of course Mr. Odell'' before averting your gaze back to the window looking at the hectic city and people going on about their days. Your thoughts wander back to work and you try to think of a few possibilities to advertise their products, as that might not be as easy as you originally thought when agreeing on accompanying your boss.

The first thing you see as you walk into a large unfamiliar building, following your boss's steps,  is a front desk with some employees sitting there, it seems that this building is home to a few companies and different departments as they guide people into different parts of the building. You watch as your boss approaches the front desk,  ''Hello may I help you?'' a woman with blonde hair asks politely.

''Yes I have a meeting with Kineros Robotics'' he says and she looks at you, then him again, and points towards a sign. ''It's to your right just follow the signs'' she says and you notice how her facial expression changed from nice and friendly to cold and possibly scared? after your boss mentioned the company name. Reading people's expressions and understanding their underlying feelings, has always been something you are good at but you quickly shake the thought away and follow your boss.

As you walk down the corridor you see a young woman with long brown curled hair wearing a blouse with flower prints and a skirt run down the hall with a box in her hand, her heels echoing through the building. ''I'm sorry'' she mumbles hectic and nervous as she zooms past you and you give Mr. Odell a questioning expression before reaching the department.

''I'm so sorry there was a bad accident on the 101'' you hear the woman say and then you hear a sound that sounds both so familiar and unfamiliar at the same time. The cane tapping. For a moment you freeze, knowing this isn't just any cane tap as you are so used to a certain redhead woman expressing her emotions partly through the very device that helps her keep her balance. Despite not having heard the sound in over a year, you know exactly who must be on the other end of the hallway.

Temporarily you freeze, thinking maybe her leaving you and breaking things off with you, has ultimately clouded your senses and affected your brain and maybe you are imagining everything. After all the rational part of yourself, is trying to remind you that there is no explanation right now as to why she would be here of all places.

However, the next thing you hear is a clear confirmation that your brain is not tricking you, it's not your mind so clouded by her absence, she is here, the only thing keeping you from seeing each other is a wall and a few steps apart. As you hear a familiar voice your heart stops beating and your throat goes dry.

''Not as bad as the accident that brought you into the world'' that is all you heard and although her voice sounds more cold, harsh and raspy you are fully aware that Wilhemina is sitting at the end of that corridor. For a moment your body goes into a state of shock, your ears ringing, vision blurring, and your heart beating out of your chest.

Shortly after the girl what you assume now to be an assistant comes running back towards the corridor with tears in her eyes and her heels making the same clicking sound. She zooms past you and Mr. Odell again and all he says is ''Damn she seems feisty'' and you know it's aimed at Wilhemina and for a moment you debate whether to just turn around and pretend to be sick or needing to answer a phone call but you know you can't back out now, after all, you have missed seeing her for too long now.

All you wanna do is see her adorable orange hair, that you used to run your fingers through and untangle some knots after she had a long day, the dorky glasses that you sometimes made fun of, and beautiful pastel purple probably everywhere if this truly was her workplace after all. ''Come on'' your boss says, pulling you out of your thoughts yet again and you walk into the large room.

Eyes instantly wander to the source of purple in the room and the source of darkness in your heart and emptiness ever since she left but not only does your heart stop for a moment as you take a look at her, you blink a few times, now actually sure whether this is real or some kind of nightmare.

Wilhemina's hair is a much darker shape of red now and styled into a tall sharp quiff, no sign of her usual high ponytails anymore or the lighter and orange shape it used to be. You notice she doesn't wear glasses anymore and you are convinced her eyes look an even darker shape than before too. She is wearing a dress and it's also a very dark shade of purple with matching earrings. Even her makeup is darker, and as you see her sitting by her desk you can't deny how intimidating she seems, looking at some files, her cane resting on the desk right beside her. Even the cane is different now, it has a snake shape at the top and it's not the old plain one she used to have.

For a moment you believe you just walked right into your own personal nightmare, the funny, sometimes sassy, and beautiful girl you used to love now seems like a completely different and somewhat evil person. The Wilhemina you once loved and still have feelings for, as they never truly changed, seems gone and it seems like she was replaced by a new one, a colder version.

She would have never spoken to anyone like that or treated someone the way she just treated that girl that seems to be her assistant, by the looks of it. All the staring and observing Wilhemina happened in a matter of seconds although it feels like an eternity, everything is silent for a moment, all that is to be heard is your own heartbeat and the typing on Wilhemina's keyboard.

You watch as your boss approaches her and you follow him and finally, Wilhemina looks up noticing the presence of someone else in the room and her gaze is focused on him, so she hasn't seen you yet. He tries to shake her hand and says ''My name is Mr. Odell I have an appointment with Mr. Nutter and Mr. Pfister'' and she just looks at him and his hand with a slightly disgusted expression but she doesn't bother shaking his hand.

''Very well'' she says and takes a glance at you for a split second, noticing a second person in the room and her eyes wander back to her laptop thinking you are just some assistant but when she realizes who you are she immediately looks back over to you and she doesn't avert her gaze at first.

Wilhemina takes in your features for a moment, the sense of fashion, dressing smartly and formally but at the same time stunning as she always said, your hair, the improved makeup skills, and still the same details she always loved about you. She doesn't look into your eyes yet and you are interrupted when two men walk over.

One of them has brown hair and the other blonde hair and you try hard not to chuckle when you see them because they look hideous. ''Mr. Odell, nice to meet you'' they say and shake hands. ''This is Y/L/N maybe someone could show her around while we finalize the details?'' your boss suggests, taking you by surprise, and one of the two turns to Wilhemina and says ''Miss Venable would you give this beautiful lady a tour please''.

For a split second, you are convinced, she is about to kill him but you aren't sure if it's about the tour or compliment. ''Of course'' she mumbles and your boss and the two men leave and you are left there with your ex-girlfriend and awkward silence filling the room. You haven't looked up or into her eyes yet and it terrifies you, she terrifies you.

Wilhemina has no idea what to do or how to react after not seeing you for two years and the last time she did she walked out of your life and your relationship. The redhead looks at you and without looking into your eyes yet she knows the pain, she can see it and she can tell this is killing you inside, the last thing she ever wanted was to cause you pain.

You take a deep breath with your eyes closed and turn to Wilhemina and your eyes instantly lock and you look into her dark brown eyes and not leave her gaze for one moment. She takes a few slow steps towards you, her cane hitting the floor, and with every tap and echo in the room, it feels like your heart is ripped into more pieces and your past is here confronting you right at this moment.

''Mina'' is everything you can say but it comes out as a whisper while your voice cracks. Your ex-girlfriend's eyes close right away because she has missed hearing you call her that for the past two years but as she opens her eyes she reminds herself internally, who she is and that she is currently at her workplace.

''Follow me'' she instructs and you follow her while she walks down a corridor and into a room with big machines. While you follow her you can't understand what would have happened to her to turn into this cold-hearted person. She used to be the sweetest and kindest person you knew but clearly, something has changed. You cannot take your eyes off her and as she walks you into the room with machines, she explains about the work they do here and how they do it and as much as you try to focus and look at the things she shows you, you can't and Wilhemina notices.

''Do I bore you?'' she suddenly snaps in that cold voice again, her nostrils flaring and your heart feels like a knife was just thrown right into it. ''I'm sorr- sorry I-'' but you can't even think of a good enough excuse so you just look at the floor and try hard to keep your emotions at bay.

''Anyways, these are the machines and devices we use, whenever someone places a custom order we make sure to fulfill that order as efficient and quick as possible'' Wilhemina explains her voice still stern, sounding like she has given this tour so many times, she has memorized every single word.

However, you do notice her looking at you the entire time she explains and it seems like she wants you to say something but there are too many things that you want and wanted to say to her for years but you never imagined one day you would run into her like this. For several minutes the two of you stand in the rooms with machines, Wilhemina explaining and you trying hard to focus on her words intently.

''Y/N'' you hear the voice of your boss coming from the door, the two strange-looking men behind him, and you look at him, noticing the satisfied looks on their faces, indicating the deal worked well, and he says ''I'm finished, thank you, Miss, for giving her the tour'' he adds now focused on Wilhemina. ''Let's go'' he says and you walk in his direction without looking back at her and just as you are about to walk out of the door you look at her and say ''Thank you'' and then you walk out.

As you walk out of the large office building, back through the same long corridor, and past the front desk, you can't hear anything your boss is trying to say and the entire car ride back to the office you try and wrap your head around what just happened, abandoning every single word Mr. Odell is saying.

 Ever since you were a kid you managed to get yourself into the strangest situations, and they always seemed to outdo each other. About now you were starting to think you reached the peak of life experiences, after the apocalypse what else was there for you to see?

When the end came you weren’t too phased. You just watched things happen to you and accepted them, not that there was anything else you could do. But you didn’t panic. You didn’t cry for your lost life. There wasn’t much to lose either way. 

You met Timothy eventually. You had time to think about all of these questions he kept asking you, but you didn’t really. For the most part you were numb. You knew he was trying to get to know you, given that you were in this situation together for a reason, and sure, you talked to him, you cracked a few jokes to ease the tension. You told him a bit about your life in the past year or so, and listened to his and to his plans for the future studying at UCLA. 

After some time you came to understand that you two were supposed to be some sort of modern Adam and Eve, the new beginning to humanity. The both of you were told about your perfect DNA, and that just magnified the voice inside you saying that this was a big mistake. You didn’t say anything about it because this was the only reason you were alive, but deep down you knew this was wrong. You were sitting in someone else’s spot. 

Sometimes you would look at Timothy and feel like there was a rock sitting in your stomach. He was good looking, sure, for a guy. But that was just the problem. You never had any actual relationships, you always distanced yourself from people. You did feel attractions, you did feel love, but not for men. You didn’t hate kids, but also didn’t want to have any. Especially not now with this guy you were stuck to. You also didn’t hate him. None of this was his fault, so you pushed the thought aside for the most part.

Two weeks later you were sent to Outpost 3, and soon enough you met the person in charge. Wilhemina Venable and her perfect everything. She showed you to your rooms and explained the purple-gray hierarchy, and at that you heard that voice again, telling you this was wrong, surviving And also being part of “the elite”?

Timothy asked a few questions, and you almost shivered at the tone in her voice. Very determined and void of emotions. You understood the sureness of everything she said and it didn’t leave any space for you to answer or question. You didn’t have anything to say really. You weren’t that interested in the logistics of this whole thing. If you started thinking about it you knew it would be hard to stop.

“The house rules are simple. You will refer to me only as Ms. Venable.” she said, looking straight into your eyes. She also said something about not leaving the building, not that you were planning on running away any time soon. The ice in her demeanour was impressive, you wondered for a second if her makeup and hair had looked this perfect when the bombs fell. If her outfit looked as crisp and if the grip on her cane was as strong, or if she was holding the cane at all. You could have assumed it was just an accessory, it didn’t look out of place on the hand of someone as elegant as her, but something told you otherwise.

You must have looked spaced out because Timothy was staring at you. She raised her voice just a bit, adding  “No unauthorised copulation of any kind, under any circumstances.” And at that you felt that rock get a bit less heavy, relieved you wouldn’t be forced into it at least for now.

“The two grays you saw on the way in should work as a reminder” 

Sure you were happy with the rule, but not everyone would, and it made you a bit uneasy to think about the tension that would form after a while. Killing people for it felt unnecessary and if there were other purples you knew there would be complaining to be heard. Just something else to look forward to!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On the first week there you mostly listened to the other purples blabber on about their lives, and all the things they didn’t get to do and all the money they didn’t get to spend on all these useless things. There was arguing all the time, no one seemed to agree on anything except all of what they lost, and pitying themselves for the situation they were in. You appreciated Dinah’s attempts at motivating everyone and keeping a positive mindset, but all of those empty words fell flat. 

One day (or night? Or afternoon? You weren’t sure) everyone was sitting in the music room, purples in the couches, Mallory sitting on the floor next to Coco, some grays standing around and Venable at the farthest table seat from you, reading a book. You could sense the silence wouldn’t last long. It was only a matter of time until Mr. Gallant started complaining about the song playing on repeat, but before he could, you tried something.

“Let’s say we had a cat at the outpost”

Everyone looked at you curiously, a cat? Why would there be a cat?

“What would you guys name it?”

Coco looked at you as if you had just offended her family name “I don’t know why or how you plan to get a cat in here. Have you lost your mind Y/N?”

You chuckled at that “I don’t want a cat, it’s just a question, to get our heads away from the whole apocalypse thing”

She made a face at the stupidity of your question “I don’t know, probably Oscar or Felix or something”

“Ugh Coco don’t be basic. You know, I would name it Rip Taylor, or Larry Kramer. Or any of the great gay radicals of the 70’s and 80’s” Gallant said gettig more exited about the question.

Andre said “Judas, or Alejandro. Cats are traitors”

Gallant smirked “I see what you did there” 

Evie leaned forward, cup swaying in her hand “I don’t know about cats but I quite like poodles. Maybe even a greyhound. I would name him Mr. Chandon. After the champagne of course”

“My grandma had a cat, she was called Pumpkin.” said Timothy.

Coco scoffed “Let me guess, was she orange? How original”

“Actually she was white” he answered with a malicious smile.

Coco tried to change the attention from that interaction “Alright, Y/N you asked the question and you haven’t answered it yet. What would you name it?” 

You gathered everything in you to make a serious face. You waited for a bit until everyone had their eyes on you and answered “Fish.”

At that the room erupted with laughter, after a minute or so you wiped your eyes so that your makeup wouldn’t get ruined, your cheeks already hurting. You managed to straighten up a bit and looked across the room to Venable. You’d imagine she would call you all dumb and set a new rule that kept everyone from laughing, but instead she just looked at you with her eyes slighly narrowed, the rest of her face covered by the book.

“How about puppy?” Mallory said. Everyone laughed even harder.

Your voice was now high pitched, you struggled to get the words out all at once "You see… that's a great one, but i think Bark is even better" 

"Come here Bark" said Andre, laughing harder still and slapping his knee.

You knew this would make you look stupid, because it was. But still you welcomed a laugh after all this time, and only something this dumb would work. 

After that you took it upon yourself to keep people entertained. You wouldn't let your fears show in front of all these fancy people, especially not Venable. It would be much better if they thought you were funny and light hearted than to find out about the monsters you kept sitting in your room.

You knew she could crush you with a finger anytime, and you found yourself thinking about her way more than you should. Was it her looks? Was it the attitude? You had always been one to look in wonder at the strong confident women you met throughout your life. But you also convinced yourself you didn't need anyone. 

The things you had lived through were more than enough to confirm it. You always managed to figure things out on your own.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

By the third week you understood Mr. Gallant’s annoyance at the song constantly playing, even though you only had to assemble in the music room for the “Cocktails” once a day. Everyone was thankful about how oddly soundproof that room was, you couldn’t hear a thing down the corridor, and for that reason it would be mostly empty for the rest of the day. 

Despite that annoyance about the song, you still spent quite some time there. Ever since you stepped into the room for the first time, the shelves completely lined with books called out to you. For a while, the free time you didn’t spend reading, you spent hovering about the shelves, registering the titles and reading the synopsis for the ones you didn’t recognise.

The other thing about the room that called out to you was the piano, just sitting abandoned. It would probably get very dusty if not for the greys who had to keep the outpost spotless. You were surprised no one had played anything yet, after all, you were stuck with a bunch of rich people, and in your head every rich person had piano classes when they were little. At least that was the type of rich person you always wanted to be.

You had been anything but rich before the apocalypse, but you did know some music theory. You were a band kid and played classical guitar since you were little, and you found yourself thinking about how lucky you were that your mom put you in those classes. Music did become a very important aspect of your life very fast, always the thing you could use to escape, to soothe whatever mood you found yourself in. The end of the world, of course, couldn’t come without irony, and the one thing that used to keep you sane was starting to have the opposite effect.

Piano was most definitely not your instrument. You loved to listen to it, but to play anything you needed a lot of practise. Still, by now you wanted anything to drown out the voice calling the occupants of interplanetary craft, so every now and then you would try to go by ear on the chords for a pop song you remembered, and mess around with it until some other purple entered the room.

One evening during the Cocktail hour Coco asked you to play something. “We all know you can play, just please, I’m so sick of this song” She said looking at the radio with a disgusted look on her face.

“Ehrm, I don’t actually know any piece all the way through. Piano isn’t really my instrument so most of the music I remember would also not sound right.”

“You don’t know it all the way through, but that means you know at least a little something. Go on darling don't be shy” Evie said, and you couldn’t help but feel uneasy playing in front of these fancy people. 

You sat down on it’s large bench, you wanted to at least try something classical, to try and show them that you weren’t absolutely uncultured. Choosing Moonlight Sonata might have been predictable, but at least it wasn’t Fur Elise. The first movement was all you could remember, but it was the piece you knew the best. In the end you were met with applause, to your surprise.

“Ah splendid! I had no idea poor people even knew about Beethoven!” Evie was certainly one for theatrics, the way she overreacted made you giggle, almost letting you forget the shakiness in your hands.

“Play something you can sing to, I heard you sing before, you have a lovely voice” Timothy said with a big smile, and you realised just then how that sounded. When did he even hear you sing? By the way Coco and Gallant looked at eachother you could tell they had gossiped about you before, and the thought that the whole outpost might be thinking about it too made you want to puke. 

To hide your discomfort you started playing the first song you could think of, and while you played the only thought on your mind was Ms. Venable. What if she thought you and Timothy had a thing? Would she kill you both without even hearing you out? Somehow that wasn’t the part that disturbed you the most, though you couldn’t quite understand what was. She didn’t hang around the music room much during the day, and when she did she would either hide behind a book or have an argument with someone and leave. Right now you hoped she wasn’t even looking at you and didn’t hear the tone of what he said.

You missed Mina. You knew that your family and friends were superstitious and thought it would be bad luck for the two of you to see each other today, but you were just so nervous for the wedding, and you were sure she was too. You each always knew how to make the other feel better.

It wasn’t that you had cold feet- no, you knew that Mina was the person you wanted to spend the rest of your life with- but still, the whole idea of getting married was something neither of you thought you wanted until you had been dating a while. You didn’t even think much about it until Mina proposed. You knew you would probably live together for years anyway, and you thought that was enough. But when she looked you in the eyes and asked you to make it official, to marry her, you just couldn’t possibly say no.

You fondly remembered your past with the woman, and remembered that when you met, you weren’t too fond of her at all. Okay, you were, but you would have never admitted it. And for a good reason, too.

Three years ago you'd been working at Kineros Robotics under one flaming red headed purple dragon of a woman, Ms. Venable. To say it was hell would be putting it mildly. The woman was awful to work under. Constant verbal debasing whenever you did something even slightly wrong, threats of being fired if you don't do something fast enough, or even if you did it too fast. You couldn't win with this woman. She ruled, well, ran the place with an iron fist, and absolutely nothing went unnoticed by her. 

"(Y/n)? Tell me why I haven't received any packages at all today? Have you been thieving them, hm? I just knew you were nothing but some low-life, good for nothing employee." Your jaw tensed and you looked at her with fire burning in your eyes.

You tried as best as you could to look her in the eyes as you, very calmly, told the woman: “as I have told you several times, Ms. Venable, I have no control over when packages get here, since I’m sadly here with you.” Ms. Venable looked at you, and, although she clearly knew you were right, leaned in, incredibly close, and said:

“You keep talking to me like that, Miss (y/l/n), and you won’t be here much longer.”

You tried not to take a step back, not to let her win, but her proximity to you was too intense- too intoxicating- so you took a half-step back, your cheeks flushing with what you're going to say is embarrassment instead of arousal. She always knew what to say to keep the upper-hand, to make you cave. You averted your gaze, her eyes too intense as they bored into your own. 

"Ye- yes, Ms. Venable. It- I-" you stumble out.

“Oh for christ sake, now you have an inability to speak coherent sentences? Really, what do I even keep you around for? Because it's certainly not for conversation or good work practices." She hisses out while rhythmically tapping her cane, each tap sending a shiver down your spine. "Fuck- fuck you" you breathe out quietly

Looking back, you knew you were in love with her even then, despite her coldness towards you (and everyone else). But how could you not be? Knowing the things about her that you know now, it would be hard not to love her. Wearing a fluffy white wedding dress with little purple flowers, waiting to see her again and promise to be with her forever. And she would promise you the same thing.

You had to admit it, Ms. Venable was incredibly attractive. There was something so appealing about that harsh, cold demeanor of hers. And the idea that you could see what was under that. Or... if there really was anything under it. No! This is wrong. She’s your boss! And she’s awful to you! I mean, come on, what did you do to her to make her this much of a bitch? Okay, right, she’s not nice to anyone, but even Jeff and Mutt told you how she targets you, picks apart everything you do. 

“So I’m not just crazy?” 

“Yeah, she’s like obsessed with you. Sometimes on slower days she’ll watch you if there’s nothing else to do. I can’t even tell sometimes if she’s looking for a reason to rip you a new one or if she’s just... checking you out or something.”

You couldn't help but laugh, a mixture between amusement and shock 

"Obsessed? With... with me?" you continued laughing before stopping when you saw that they were serious. 

"What's so goddamn special about me anyway? Why would she- why would she spend so much of her supposedly 'precious' time -obsessing- over me?"

“Who knows. She’s... kind of a strange person, if you hadn’t noticed,” added Jeff. “We’ve known each other forever so I guess it doesn’t seem as weird to me.”

Your mind was racing, the Wilhemina fucking Venable was obsessed with you and it made you feel alive. Maybe she was attracted to you too? No! No, she- she wouldn't be. She's too professional to do that. But...why else would she be so damn focused on you? But For the next few days, you kept on the lookout for her, constantly on edge. Things have been kind of slow lately and it turns out that Jeff was right, Mina does take any excuse she can to just watch you. She didn’t even seem menacing, or angry. She was just staring at you with an expression on her face that seemed almost... sad?

You didn’t understand. Why would she look at you like that.

“(Y/n)! Why haven’t you- um...”

“What are you doing, Ms. Venable?”

“I was- I-”

“Hey. It’s okay, you know. I’m not upset with you..”

“Good. You have no reason to be upset, (y/n). Whatever you thought you saw, you’re wrong.”

“Ms. Venable I- I know what I saw. And I like it.”

“You have no idea what you’re talking about, (y/n).”

and Ms. Venable walked away, her cane tapping on the ground quickly.

Your bridesmaids took you to the venue, where your and Mina’s guests and family were waiting for you to get there for the ceremony. 

The venue was decorated just the way that you and Mina planned, with shiny white tablecloths and filled with violets and hydrangeas. The setup was beautiful and reminded you of her. The cold and cruel version of her from work, the softer version of her that you know now, any side of Mina just makes you so happy. 

You had trouble talking to Mina. She pretended not to hear you whenever you tried to talk to her. You wanted to tell her how you feel, ask to see her after work, but you didn’t know how she’d react. Mina has been an absolute nightmare to every other intern, too, while she ignored you. It got to the point where you became so short-staffed from one intern getting fired and three more quitting that Ms. Venable had no choice but to talk to you.

“You need to pick up some more work due to people quitting. It’s not ideal but it must be done until I can find someone to hire who is not an absolute imbecile and-”

you just- kissed her on the cheek.

Mina looked you up and down. “That was... incredibly inappropriate. You are lucky we cannot afford to lose anyone right now.”

“I’m sorry, Ms. Venable. I wanted to know how you would react because I- I thought you would like it and- but if I made you uncomfortable, I’m so sorry, really...”

“How dare you, (y/n)? I am not some kind of- some kind of experiment- you do not get to just... do things to see how I will react just for your entertainment! Am I nothing but a fucking joke to you?”

“No! Ms. Venable that’s not-”

But she already left, and you had to chase her. Luckily for you, she walked with a cane.

“Ms. Venable, you have to listen to me, that isn’t what I meant at all I- I like you! I think-”

“I don’t believe you, now get out of my sight before I make you.”

“Why- why-”

She grabbed you and tried to shove you out the door. 

“Just talk to me! I really mean it!”

“No one has ever just wanted to talk. I’ve never been anything but some kind of... thing for people to poke and prod for their entertainment.”

“Ms. Venable, that’s horrible. I’m so sorry. But that’s not me. I want- I want to know you. The real you.”

“This is impossible, (y/n),” said Ms. Venable, tears starting to well up in her eyes.

“Why would it be impossible?”

It had taken a while to really get Mina to truly trust you. You started going to work together and she took you to her coffee spot and drove you to work. She waited, expecting the jig to be up every day, dreading the day you leave, laughing at her for being stupid enough to really believe you could love her.

But a whole year passed, and the day never came.

She was here! You saw Mina and her family, caught the slightest glimpse of them. She looked stunning in her tailored purple suit, her hair down and pinned out of her face. She looked right into your eyes and smiled softly, and you smiled back.

“Hey! Stop! it’s bad luck, remember?” your sister told you.

“There’s no such thing as bad luck today.”

“Mina!” your voice rang through the halls of Kineros Robotics.

“Guess what! I got the job!”

“So you’re leaving?”

“Well yeah, that was always the plan but we’ll- we’ll still be a couple, you know.”

“You mean it?”

“Yes. I know, you barely have time for life outside of work. And since I’m going to be making more money now and I can afford a nicer place I was thinking.... maybe you and I could move in together?”

“That sounds perfect, (y/n).”

The two of you got an extremely nice one-bedroom apartment together. You both had busy lives but were able to make time for one another. One day, Mina came home from work late an clearly a mess.

“I cannot fucking work for those two braindead goddamn assholes any longer. The way they treat me- the way everyone there treats me- like I’m some kind of robot that exists to fucking serve them- like I don’t have a life of my own-”

“You can quit, you know. I’d support you. And you’re incredibly smart and efficient, I’m sure you could find another job easily. Anyone would treat you better that Mutt and Jeff do and they would be beyond lucky to have you.”

“You remember how I was?”

“Yes, you were mean, but now that I know the full picture I can’t say I blame you. And you were efficient, and you knew how to keep the place running.”

“Okay. I’ll submit my letter of resignation tomorrow.”

Mina insisted on looking for more job opportunities, but you tried to get her to take a break. You spent so much more time together. You went on dates every week, and one night Mina decided to take you to a fancy restaurant

“I am so lucky to have you, (y/n). I never thought my life could be this happy. This... peaceful. I want it to stay like this forever.”

“I do too, Mina.”

Then she got down on one knee and you finally realized what was happening.

“This is real. And I love you. I’ve accepted it, and I’m sorry it took me so long. You are the only one for me,” she took out the ring- “So, (y/n), will you marry me?”

“Yes. I love you, Mina. I’m so ready.”

It was finally time. You went to meet Mina down the aisle and it took everything you had not to break out into a sprint right then and there into her arms.

Then it was time to say your vows, and you had both written your own. You started.

“Mina Venable, you are the most amazing person I have ever known. I commit to be your partner in life, forever. I vow to love you forever, unconditionally. You push me to be a better person every single day. I know that you have fears, and a sensitive side to you that no one but me gets to see, and I will make sure that you will always have me to count on through thick and thin. I love you, and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.”

“(Y/f/n), I cannot tell you how long I have been dreaming of this day. My entire life, I didn’t believe I was capable of loving, or of being loved. Everyone always saw me as some kind of freak. Everyone except for you. When I met you, I just fell so much in love. That day you kissed me on the cheek I was heartbroken, because I thought you were just playing with me. But you meant it. This is all real. (Y/n), you are the sweetest, best person I know and you have changed my life forever. I am a better person because of you. It’s scary to really be known by someone, because they could still not like you. But you were so worth the risk. I finally know how I want to spend the rest of my life. I love you, (y/n).”

And then you kissed, exchanged rings, and kissed again, longer this time, as Mina wrapped her free arm around your waist. 

You sat down for dinner and your sister and Mina’s father gave speeches. Mina’s father talked all about how strong Mina was to overcome so many challenges that most people will never know. How you and Mina were two very special people who are just so right for each other. And you had to agree. Your girlfriend- er, wife was absolutely perfect for you. Once Mina took the risk of getting to know you, of trusting you, you were able to bring out the absolute best in each other.

Mina was a bit averse to a first dance because of her cane, but you were able to talk her into it. You gave her back some extra support as your song played.

“This is all so hard to believe. You promise you really want to stay with me forever, (y/n)?”

Wilhemina Venable was a strict, no nonsense woman. Her entire life, she had gone about it like that. Not letting anyone close was the best way to protect herself from getting hurt, after all. No exceptions. But there were those times, when she’d let the tiniest bit of her walls crumble, collapse just a little. It didn’t happen often, and not for just anyone, but when it did it was a pleasant experience, at least for the other person.

Venable also, though she would not readily admit it, did quite enjoy getting out of the house. It could be suffocating, staying inside all of the time, between her home and her job, there were times when the woman really just needed to get out and get some fresh air. This was one of those times. Months ago, Venable had found a bookstore, a humble little thing, not extravagant in any way. And that was what had attracted her to go inside one day, check it out, see if there was anything interesting.

It didn’t take long for her to come to quite enjoy visiting said bookstore. They carried quite a few titles that Venable enjoyed, authors she’d before seen and liked. So it was a routine by now; every other week, the woman would come in, buy a few books, and leave. Nothing changed, the workers were accommodating, never rude even when Venable could get a bit snippy. Again, that was her normal tone; it was what she used to keep herself safe. 2

But today...oh, today was different. It had been a rather stressful day at Kineros, Venable’s two employers being particularly frustrating, that she was admittedly very excited to enter the quiet, calming atmosphere of the tiny shop. She did so, going about her normal activities, acquiring a few books, and heading to the counter to check them out. But today, there was someone new. Someone the woman did not recognize. She was used to getting the same two or three employees, always greeted by a warm smile and greeting, asking if she’d found what she’d come for, and leaving satisfied.

However, Venable was not faced with a familiar face. No, this girl was new, must be. She was friendly, just as the others, and greeted her with a cheerful “Hello, ma’am! How are you doing on this fine afternoon?” Venable’s eyebrows pulled together slightly, her eye narrowing critically as she eyed you. After a moment of silence she hummed and mumbled “Fine. Who are you?” You smiled a bit wider and chuckled as you replied “Oh, I’m new here. Y/n l/n, I’m a family friend of the owner. Between jobs, though this would be a nice break from all that stress, you know?”

Venable nodded briskly and watched as your hands swiftly checked her items out, movements fluid and efficient. “And how long have you been working here?” “A week. I saw you before, your last visit. I just wasn’t at the register that day, I was stocking shelves. It’s nice to meet you, Miss...?” Venable sniffed quietly and tightened her grip on her cane as she said “Venable.” Your smile remained, placing her books in a small bag and handing it to her carefully, making sure her long fingers were wrapped around the handle securely before pulling away. Curiously, your head cocked to the side a bit as you questioned “French? How exotic.”

Venable refused to acknowledge the gentle heat that pricked at her neck at your words. Instead she nodded once again, clearing her throat and muttering “Well then. I’ll let you get back to work Miss l/n.” You nodded and hummed, waving a bit as she walked away and calling out “Have a good day, Ms Venable! Enjoy your books!” Venable didn’t acknowledge you.

--

Another thing Venable wouldn’t acknowledge was the fact that you had strangely been the subject of her thoughts quite a bit. And what she didn’t know was that after your first encounter, you had been going through the same troubles. Both of you seemed to stay on each other’s minds for an unusually long time. Venable’s only idea to fix it was to not go to the store any longer, but she refused to let some random girl stop her from doing one of the very few things she enjoyed doing.

And so, she continued to go to the bookstore. And almost every single time she was in, she saw you. Sometimes you were checking her out (her books not her body calm down), sometimes stocking shelves, sometimes just walking past her at the perfect time. And the two of you never failed to make eye contact for prolonged seconds, which felt like much longer than they actually were. You eventually got an idea of why you seemed to get butterflies the more you interacted with the woman in purple, and as much as you wanted to deny it, you didn’t really know how.

Venable, however, absolutely refused to even think about those possibilities. Because they weren’t possible, it was just her stupid head playing some sort of cruel joke on her. There was nothing to be felt, at all. Even though the more she saw you the longer you stayed on her mind, the more you talked to her the more often your voice would float through her head at work, the more you accidentally brushed your fingers over hers when you handed over her books the more shivers were sent up her spine. No, Venable would not allow this to continue.

And so she pushed these feelings down, as far away as she could, and every time they should surface she pushed harder, doing practically everything in her power to keep you out of her thoughts. She;d even gone so far as to be particularly rude to you, her snappy remarks and wry comments becoming a usual part of her short conversations with you. But nothing seemed to deter you, you just kept giving her that same smile, those same cheerful words or laid back chuckle. Everything she tried didn’t work, and so she tried to force it more. Though she did everything except not coming to the store. Because something inside of her kept her coming back, every other week, like always. Nothing stopped her from somehow ending back up at that same place, with those same books, and that same girl. You.

--

Finally you had had enough. It was clear what was going on between you and Venable, and if she wouldn’t acknowledge it, then you would. As much as your anxiety wanted to get the best of you, force you to stay quiet and ignore what you now knew was real, you somehow managed to push through. So one day, when Venable came in as she always did, performed her typical routine, came up to the counter, you slid her books across the scanner, allowing the quiet beeps to fill the tense silence between the two of you.

But before you handed her the bag, you said “So um, can I ask you a question?” One of Venable’s eyebrows raised in question, and so you continued; “Can I take you out for some coffee, or something? I’d like to...get to know you a bit better.” The woman’s expression hardened significantly, and her eyes narrowed again, posture stiffening and hands tightening around her cane. She was very reluctant to say yes; she did not know you, nor did she particularly care to know you. But something forced her to agree, and she mumbled “Very well.”

It was quiet, but it was all the confirmation you needed, and the wide smile that spread across your lips was almost worth the uncomfortable feeling that had settled over Venable’s body. “Great! What works best for you? I’m free over the weekend, basically anytime you want.” Eventually the two of you agreed on a time and place, and Venable left with a roll of her shoulders, books in hand and lips in a tight line. Part of her was curious, perhaps a bit interested in this ‘date’, the other still wary and hesitant. She didn’t want to get close to you, because she knew she would only end up getting hurt. It always happened, she let people in and it always resulted in heartbreak.

--

The date went well. Excepetionally well. So well, in fact, that the two of you agreed to do this again. Venable found herself surprisingly enjoying herself,and you were a nice person to talk to. You were smart, witty, knew when to say what, not to mention polite. Never once pushing her to tell you anything, manners wonderful at all times, and Venable quite liked that. And the woman even realized that she was almost eager to see you again, to have another one of your little chats, that had extended much longer than either of you had expected.

Some days passed, you came to knew her first name, and were actually allowed to call her by it, instead of always using her last name, which had gotten a bit annoying after a bit. You could tell that the woman was not a very friendly person, not one to open herself up to just anyone, so being able to call her by her proper name felt like a pretty big privilege. And Wilhemina (which you’d complimented her greatly on, definitely not making her blush) gradually stopped denying herself the enjoyment of your company.

She stopped pushing down her slowly growing feelings for you, stopped refusing to acknowledge the fact that she was steadily falling more and more for your comforting presence and gentle personality. She began to recognize the little details about you, how your eyes crinkled in the corners when you laughed, or how bright your grin was whenever she said something that amused you. The way you sometimes would bite your lip and glance away from her face when you complimented her, your shy attitude making Wilhemina feel things she hadn’t felt in a very, very long time.

These dates went on for multiple weeks, the two of you had met at the same coffee shop at least five times by now, and on the sixth, you finally said “Would you....like to maybe come over to mine sometimes?” When Wilhemina didn’t respond, swallowing roughly and not meeting your gaze, you quickly stuttered out “I-I mean if you’re not comfortable with it that’s fine, I was just--” “That would be nice.” The woman across from you cut you off and you quickly closed your mouth, blinking a few times as you processed what she’d said. After a moment you finally muttered “Sounds nice...” before your lips pulled into a smile and you continued with “Alright! Don’t worry, my apartment is on the first floor, so you won’t have to worry about going up any stairs or anything,” before writing down the address of your apartment complex on a small piece of paper, handing it to her soon after.

Wilhemina gave you the smallest, the tiniest little smile, the first you’d seen from the woman, and your eyes widened a bit as your own smile grew and you laughed in surprise. Before you knew what you were doing you said “You have a very pretty smile. You should do it more often.” Both of you froze, and the words lingered in the air between you, Wilhemina‘s lips parting a fraction, your own snapping shut quickly and pulling into a tight line. After a second you said “I’m sorry, I was thinking aloud. I apologize if I made you uncomfortable,” quietly, trying to be as polite as possible. You hadn’t meant to say that out loud, but you had, and now you had that hanging over your own head. You’d never forgive yourself if you’d made the woman upset.

However the worry was diminished rather quickly when she murmured “Thank you,” head dipping a bit as she stared down at the table in an unusually shy manner. But your smile returned and you mumbled “Of course.” The two of you talked for a few more minutes before promising to see each other again, setting up a time as usual, this time planning to meet at your place. The idea of having Wilhemina in your living space made you excited, bouncing on your heels subconsciously, an action which the woman noticed and almost smirked at, evidence of your eagerness showing easily in your behavior.

--

As Wilhemina drove to your apartment complex, she went over your previous meetings. Dates, if you will. They’d gotten more and more comfortable, both of you opening up to each other easily, trusting each other with the other’s thoughts and secrets, if you could call them that. Wilhemina had yet to tell you about her back, though she was sure you had some sort of an idea because of her cane. You were a smart girl, after all, so there was no doubt you’d at least gotten some sort suspicion. But the woman wasn’t quite ready to let you see that part of her yet. Maybe someday, but...not right now.

It wasn’t long before she arrived at her destination, putting her car in park and exiting it carefully, retrieving her cane before walking towards the door, entering the building easily and heading to your apartment, where she knocked on the door three times before moving a step back. She waited a few moments for you to answer, and when you finally did she swallowed harshly, eyes sweeping down your body involuntarily. You wore a knee length black dress that was tight to your waist, off the shoulder sleeves, and casuals flats to match. You giggled at her expression but moved to the side, gesturing for her to enter, which she did.

Once she was inside, Wilhemina glanced around, noticing how neat and organized your space was, everything in a certain spot and nothing out of place. It was quite impressive, in her opinion, and it took a lot to impress Wilhemina Venable. But you quickly motioned her forward, and into what looked to be a kitchen area as you called out “I made lunch. I hope you’re okay with pasta?” Wilhemina hummed and replied “That sounds wonderful,” as she followed you. When you pulled out a chair for her she sniffed indignantly, but still gave you another of her small smiles, which made you grin and giggle happily.

But before she could say anything you were gone, off to get the food, which you brought to the table swiftly, placing it down carefully. Wilhemina then noticed how you’d already gotten plates and silverware out, completely prepared and ready for her to come over, which made her hum contently. “I hope it’s to your liking,” you mumbled once both of you had grabbed some pasta, mixed with what looked to be tomato sauce with some sort of meat. Wilhemina nodded and replied “It’s wonderful. You didn’t have to do all of this...” she trailed off, but you shook your head dismissively and said “Of course I did. I know how much work it takes to impress you, so I wanted to do something nice.”

Wilhemina hummed and nodded, taking another bite of the food, smiling again as the flavor his her tongue. It really was very good. The two of you made friendly conversation, as you always did, and you both felt much more comfortable in this private environment, no risk of people overhearing your conversation/ Which meant that Wilhemina felt much more comfortable to be open and easy with you, actually producing quite a few smiles, and even a few quiet chuckles and some remarks you made. Those were your favorite, and you made sure to actually let her know that. “You really should smile more, Wilhemina. You’re very pretty when you do. Not that you’re not always pretty, but I mean it just looks nice when--you know what I’m gonna stop before I embarrass myself.”

Again Wilhemina chuckled and shook her head at your antics and rambling, thanking you quietly for the compliments and saying that she might try. Eventually you finished eating, and swiftly stood to take her plate, but she batted you away and muttered something about doing the dishes because you prepared the food. But you, being stubborn, whined “But you’re my guest, you shouldn’t have to--” “Shush.” You were silenced by the woman’s finger on your lips for a moment, brushing past you and grasping your plate in her hands, leaving you speechless and frozen. You;d never really made all that much contact with the woman, just fleeting touches when transferring books, or brushes of shoulders.

Quickly, you snapped yourself out of it and rushed into the kitchen again and huffed when you saw that Wilhemina was already halfway done, so you resorted to putting away the leftover food, since you apparently had made more than you thought. It didn’t take you long, so by the time you were finished so was Wilhemina, and you turned to her with a lazy smile as you said “Would you like to sit down for a while?” Wilhemina seemed to contemplate for a moment, but it didn’t take her long to nod and follow you back out and into your living space. You settled a few feet away from her on the couch, fiddling a bit with your fingers and biting your lip as you struggled to find the right words to say what you needed to say.

Eventually you muttered “Can I...tell you something?” And Wilhemina hummed in the affirmative, so you, quite nervously and not looking at her directly, though your body was turned towards hers, mumbled “I think....” again you cleared your throat, nerves getting extraordinarily high. “I-I think that I like you. Very much.” Your voice was quiet, barely above a whisper, and you still refused to look at the woman in front of you, too scared about what you’d see if you did. And the silence that extended felt like an eternity, and you were about to correct yourself and apologize, desiring nothing more than to move past your statement and pretend you’d never even uttered it in the first place.

But before you could, you heard a shuffling and suddenly felt fingers on your chin, tilting it up carefully to face the owner of said fingers. Wilhemina looked at you with a strangely soft look in her eyes, face soft and lacking any of it’s typical sternness. You bit your lip, waiting for her ultimate rejection, but instead of pushing you away or at least letting you down softly, you felt something press against your lips, which you quickly realized were none other than Wilhemina’s own lips. You froze, tensing up significantly. A moment passed, probably only a split second in real time, but it felt like an absolute lifetime where you stayed frozen, not moving at all.

Finally though, you responded, eyes fluttering closed and body involuntarily moving closer to Wilhemina’s until you could place your hands on her shoulders, pressing back into her lips, which were moving against yours smoothly and fluidly, the kiss slow and gentle, not rushed at all. It was amazing and new and wonderful and perfect and so many other feelings that you couldn’t even describe. But it didn’t matter, because in that moment everything else faded into the background, the only thing mattering being Wilhemina. Nothing else.

When the two of you finally parted, you stayed close to each other, your hands still on her shoulders and one of hers on your own shoulder, the other your leg. Wilhemina was the first to speak; “I think I like you too, very much.” And you giggled, keeping your eyes closed, partially for fear that if you opened them it would all be a dream and you’d wake up in your bed alone, but also because you just wanted to stay like this, the warmth of the other woman against you and her presence overtaking your senses.

And you did stay like that, even though you eventually found yourself on Wilhemina’s lap, arms curled around her neck with her hands gripping your hips in an almost possessive manner, which made butterflies erupt in your chest. You weren’t sure how much time passed, because it didn’t matter, but Wilhemina did need to get home, so you reluctantly got off of her and allowed her to stand, placing one last gentle kiss to your lips before letting you walk her out, waving goodbye and watching her form retreating until you could no longer see it. And when you did finally close your door, you pressed your back up against it, grinning and brushing your fingers over your lips, still feeling the warmth of hers against them, and you knew it would be alright.