Chapter 6. Vegas

Ancient Princess | The Witcher

Chapter 1. The Awakening

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Sulking along the path, Jaskier stumbles something he thought he'd never find.

Jaskier had been travelling alone for the past few months, he was unaware how far Oxenfurt actually was from Caingorn yet he was all to happy to leave it behind.

'If life could give me one blessing'

The memory still stung Jaskier, and he tried to cope the only way a bard knows how. At first his writing was sad, full of self pity and loneliness, until one day it shifted. Soon Jaksier's writing turned angry as it he realised; nothing was his fault. Geralt was the one who made the fucking wish to the Djinn, he was the one who thought the law of surprise was a good fucking idea. Who was he to blame Jaskier for his own stupid ideas.

He tried to put Geralt behind him but like an itch, the more he tried to ignore, the stronger the thoughts and memories returned. Somehow that emotionally constipated 'White Wolf' has burrowed his way deep into Jaskier's heart, not that he'd ever know.

So, as he spent his days repeating this vicious cycle of anger and misery he blindly followed the path, having lost his map days before. He didn't recognise where he was and the never ending forest didn't help his already poor sense of direction. He knew he was near the coast, the smell of sea salt lingered in the air around him. If he was by the coast, Jaskier thought, Then surely he was near at least a small fishing village. Maybe the locals will be welcoming enough. He walked for the next few hours hoping for any sign of civilisation and yet; the forest never ended. By the third hour Jaskier was half convinced he was walking in circles and ready to simply accept his fate of dying in the woods either from starvation or of whatever creatures lurked just as hungry as he was. However, Just as he was ready to give up his eyes caught something in the near distance.

A grand white marble arch, it stood tall over the path Jaskier was following, as he approached he noticed how it was covered from the top to the bottom in vines and leaves with bright coloured flowers growing in between. The path continued beyond this arch, leading towards a larger arch this time connected between two equally towering walls slightly hidden behind the bushes and trees of the forest. As Jaskier walked closer towards the second arch he was able to see what was beyond it; a city.

The city was larger, perhaps even larger than some of the continents major cities like Cintra. Furthermore, despite being at least a few centuries old this abandoned city showed no sign of damage to any of its marble buildings or sculptures. In fact the only indication of a long passage of time was the vast amount of vines and shrubbery that grown to cover majority of this city. Flowers had begun to grow between the cracks of the paths, creating a ethereal atmosphere to the entire city. Jaskier wandered around the city in awe, based on his previous studies he could deduce that this place was likely an ancient elven kingdom, but this confused him. Surely if this was in fact an elven kingdom especially of this size, the humans would have long since taken claim during their conquest of the continent. He was even further confused by the signs he saw, although he knew elder speech there were words inscribed that seemed completely alien to him. Perhaps this city predated even the elves.

As the sun began to set Jaskier had eventually made his way to the centre of the city, in which at the top of a tall staircase a grand castle stood tall above the entirety of the city. It was the most beautiful castle he had ever laid his eyes on. Similar the other structures of the city, the castle was made of pure white marble yet it had also been decorated with gold decals and several striking stain glass windows that displayed stunning landscapes and creatures unknown to Jaskier. Once he stepped inside he no less in awe, the marble floor was covered in beautiful dark blue rug that throughout every hallway of the castle. Artwork and Statues lined these hallways both also ingrained with small golden decals, Jaskier noticed several portraits which he presumed displayed the royal family and other aristocrats of the kingdom. Their ears in every painting were clearly elven, confirming Jaskier's theory of the cities origin.

The most breath-taking rooms, however were definitely the Entrance hall and Throne room.

The entrance hall had tall ceilings embellished with a stain glass dome as the roof supported by several engraved marble arches. There were two elegant marble staircases engraved with different depictions of animals and flowers. Like outside the vines had grown inside the castle as well and was wrapped around the bannister and draped down from the balconies on the higher floor.

Climbing the stairs towards the throne room, Jaskier continued to gaze in awe at paintings and tapestries that hung along the wall depicting ancient battles and scenes that were likely lost to history. He wondered if the library and the books within also remained intact, what lost knowledge was likely contained within those pages. Perhaps he could retell the stories one day through song.

The throne room was located in the centre of the castle and was a large expansive hall that echoed even the smallest of sound. Golden suits of armour lined the walls between the engraved marble columns that stretched from floor to ceiling. Banners that matched the dark blue rugs hung from arches and displayed a golden crest that appeared to be a stag with flowers hanging from its antlers. In the centre of the back wall, the throne was placed on a small platform that allowed whomever sat there to tower over those below them. It was made of pure gold and was cushioned with blue fabric. The golden frame had carvings of flowers and vines and several depictions of various woodland animals. Above the seat, on the throne's headboard was a detailed engraving of a stag's head with a stone in the centre of it forehead that reflected light and appeared to change colours.

There was a moment where Jaskier had a small temptation to take a seat on the throne, however he quickly removed the thought from his mind. If it was an elven city its final day could not have been a pretty sight and the people didn't need another human forced themselves on their throne.

Instead Jaskier made his way down from the throne room towards the servants quarters, he figured there would be a suitable bed he could spend at least spend the night on.

The servants quarters were also in impossibly well preserved condition, no rats scurried along the floor and there was of the cold chill that most servant quarters had. The kitchen was as beautiful as the rest of the castle, the counters made from the same white marble with flecks of gold mixed throughout the hard surface. Dried herbs and flowers hung across the ceilings ready to added whatever would be cooked. With increased curiosity, Jaskier opened a cupboard door to find a whole storage room filled with breads and vegetables in perfect condition. The preservation was still remarkable to Jaskier even after searching the entirety of this kingdom.

Soon Jaskier made his way out of the kitchen to find a long corridor aligned with several different doors that each led to a different room. Yet instead he chose to make his way further down the corridor where he spotted an ornate silver door, standing out amount the other plain wooden doors. It took around five minutes for Jaskier to reach the mysterious door at the end of the corridor, at which point he was able to fully appreciate its details. Engravings of flowers surrounding a single stag echoed that of the throne's own engraving. Gently, he pushed on the door and discovered it to be unlocked as it slowly creaked open. He made his way through the now open door to discover that behind it was some kind of mausoleum.

Unlike the rest of the elven kingdom this hidden mausoleum showed signs of erosion and aging. The once porcelain white marble had become a dull grey, and along the eastern wall the detailed etchings had become blurred and whatever image was once there could no longer be clearly seen.

In the centre of the room was a glass case, it was incredibly ornate with gold lining the edges of the box. The glass was almost crystal clear which allowed Jaskier to see exactly what was inside the case, shocking him greatly. Lying softly on a plush green cushion was a young elven girl. She was dressed in a simple white gown that draped against her figure, her brow hair had been carefully brushed free of any knots and imperfections and was braided in parts to delicately frame her soft features, and finally placed atop her head was small and delicate golden crown. Additionally across her most of her body except her face, were several white tattoos which appeared to join together as whole. Jaskier had never seen designs like this before and presumed it must have cultural significance for the ancient elves.

Despite this, what shocked Jaskier most all was, as he approached the case he noticed that her chest was rising and falling. Meaning she was still breathing; she was alive.

Jaskier continued to slowly approaches the glass case containing the mysterious young elf. As he reached closer and closer he felt compelled to reach his hand forward and touch the glass casing. When he placed his hand on the case he noticed his hand began feeling a rapid warmth that spread from his palm to throughout his body. When he look down he noticed that his hands had begun to glow, he tried to pull his hand away but found he couldn't.

Suddenly the glass case shattered around him, and after a moment the young elf's eyes opened.

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When Snow Falls | Masterlist

Valeria Snow is the 'Princess of the Capitol', as the oldest granddaughter of the infamous President Snow she's lived her entire life trying to make a reputation of her own. After she's assigned as the newest escort for District 4, she finds her life shifting completely off course especially after she becomes closer to the famous Finnick Odair.

Act I. Spring || Playlist I. The Opening Ball

Rami Malek in his pharaoh costume from Night at the Museum.

Reblog if you agree.

When Snow Falls | Masterlist

Valeria Snow is the 'Princess of the Capitol', as the oldest granddaughter of the infamous President Snow she's lived her entire life trying to make a reputation of her own. After she's assigned as the newest escort for District 4, she finds her life shifting completely off course especially after she becomes closer to the famous Finnick Odair.

Playlist || Concept Board

Chapter 1. Opening Ball

Chapter 2. Unwanted Attention

Also read on: AO3 or Wattpad

Sunrise | Masterlist

The Tanaka sisters have lived in Forks their whole lives, it's a quiet town where nothing interesting happens. That is until the night of Mitsuko's graduation. Now both Mitsuko and Hoshiko Tanaka find themselves entangled in the world of the supernatural. As the pair learn more, one mystery still remains. Why is Mitsuko immune to the bite?

Chapter List

I. The Tanakas II. Jasper III. Deadly Party Crasher IV. A Sisterly Agreement V. Minor Complications

Can also read on: AO3 and Wattpad

Sunrise | Twilight J.H

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VI. Midnight Circles

By four o’clock in the morning the two sisters had created what they thought was a solid plan in how to break the news to their mom. The most important part of the plan was that they should definitely wait until morning, rather than waking her up at nearly four in the morning.

“Could you sleep with me tonight?” Mitsuko asked as she slipped into bed, unwilling for Hoshiko to leave her side just yet. She didn’t want her to disappear again.

“I can’t…” Hoshiko replied, her face suddenly distressed. “I mean, I can’t sleep.”

“At all?”

She nodded before elaborating further, “I tried to, yesterday, but… nothing.”

“Could you…” Mitsuko hesitated for a moment. “Lie with me anyway?”

The younger sister simply smiled at her sister softly before stepping forward and sinking into the empty space next to Mitsuko. The eldest pulled the cover over them before reaching across and pulling the younger sister close.

However, as soon as Hoshiko was pulled close to Mitsuko’s throat, she tensed suddenly in her sister’s arms. Concerned, she pulled away to look at her sister in concern, only to be met by dark black eyes.

“Hoshi, is everything okay?” She asked her sister, who still hadn’t moved.

“You smell so…” Suddenly Hosiko interrupted herself by nearly flinging herself across the room, hitting the wall behind, causing the house to shake.

Mitsuko stood to follow her sister but was stopped by a deep growl coming from the younger girl, “Stay back!”

“I don’t under—“ This time Mitsuko was cut off by a furious pounding on their front door.

The two sisters were still for a moment, staring at each other as they listened to banging on the door. As they simply stood there, the distinct sound of their mom's door opening echoed through the house, followed quickly by her footsteps.

“Mom!” Mitsuko called out, moving to her door and stepping out from her room, her sister cautiously following behind her, still keeping a sizeable distance.

By the time the sisters had moved from her room and downstairs, their mom was already at the door and opened it.

“Doctor Cullen?” Their mom said as she opened the door, “It’s the middle of the night!”

“I am aware, Mrs Tanaka; apologies for disturbing you,” Carlisle said with a neutral expression. “I need to speak to your daughters.”

“I’m Carlisle, but only Mitsuko is here; Hoshi is—“

“Right here!” Hoshiko spoke up, stepping forward with her eyes now narrowed at the people at the door. Carlisle wasn’t alone; next to him on either side stood Emmett and Jasper.

Not noticing the sudden tension, Chiyo quickly turned her head to look at her youngest daughter. “Hoshiko… Where have you been? I’ve been worried sick!”

Yet before she could approach her daughter, Carlisle grabbed her arm and pulled her closer to him. “Mrs Tanaka, please stay where you are.”

As Carlisle pulled Chiyo behind him, Jasper stepped forward, eyes focused on Mitsuko as she stood in front of her sister. “Mitsuko, please come here.”

“No.” She refused, “She’s not going to hurt me!”

“Suki…” She turned to face her younger sister, who was looking at her with a deeply pained expression. “You should go stand with them.”

Mitsuko took a moment to look at her sister, really look at her. Alongside the pained expression on her face, Mitsuko realised that Hoshiko was gripping the bannister of the stairs so strongly that she was nearly snapping the wood in half.

Suddenly she found her body becoming stiff and beginning to move without her trying, turning around and walking towards where Jasper and Emmett were standing. As she got closer to them, she felt a cold hand softly wrap around her wrist before pulling her the rest of the way. Now she found herself hidden behind Jasper, who was standing protectively between her and her little sister.

“Will someone tell me what is happening?” Chiyo exclaimed as she looked rapidly between her two daughters in concern.

"I'm afraid we can't tell you…" Carlisle responded cryptically, "But it's imperative your daughters come with us right now."

Instead, she forcefully pointed at the doctor, something she usually only did to her daughters when they were in trouble. “No, they’re not going anywhere until you tell me what is going on.”

“I’m a vampire now, aren’t I?” Hoshiko suddenly questioned, causing everyone’s attention to shift towards her again. “I’ve read Dracula before; I’m not stupid.”

Mitsuko noticed her mom become quiet at Hoshiko’s question, her body stock still at the mention of vampires. Yet before she could ask her, she was interrupted when Carlisle spoke up again, “Mrs Tanaka I really must insist that your daughters come with us right now.”

“But it’s four in the morning!” She spoke again, gesturing to herself as a way to emphasise that she was currently only in a nightgown.

“Listen, we need to get her out of here before a certain group finds Hoshiko here.” Jasper spoke with authority, speaking to them all as if they were officers in the army. “So get dressed if you have to, but we need to leave now.”

This was how Mitsuko found herself sitting in the back of Carlisle Cullen’s car, Jasper next to her as a way to separate the two sisters, something she still didn’t understand was necessary.

Within ten minutes they were already pulling up in front of the Cullens’ woodland house. Outside stood the rest of the Cullen family; they were in a uniformed line and clearly on guard.

When Mitsuko stepped out, she was quickly accosted by Alice and Emilie, who pulled her between them and held her firmly in place. Jasper followed, now standing behind her, creating a protective triangle.

“Why’d you bring her? She’s just a stupid human.” Rosalie had muttered quietly, yet despite being on the other side of the semicircle, Mitsuko heard her crystal clear and bristled slightly.

“Hey!” She couldn’t help but yell at the blonde, whose eyes widened slightly in surprise, “There’s no need to be rude!”

“How did you—“ “Rosalie.” Carlisle interrupted before she could finish her question, “Not now; we have something more important to discuss.”

At that moment, Hoshiko finally stepped out of the car but stayed stock still in front of it. Her eyes flittered between each person with a cold, calculated look in a way Mitsuko had seen her do countless times, usually when she felt trapped.

“We’re not here to hurt you,” Edward spoke up, seemingly reading her distress. “We just want to know what happened.”

Yet before Hoshiko could even begin to explain, Edward’s face changed, and he spoke again, “She found the army.”

“In Seattle?”

“Someone turned her, but she didn’t see who; the only person in her memories I recognise is Riley Biers.”

“What do you mean by her memories?” Mitsuko spoke up again, “Matter of fact, nothing you’re saying is making any sense. Can someone please explain?”

“Hoshiko is right,” Carlisle began to explain. “She has been turned into a vampire, just like my family and I.”

Pause.

“You’re saying my sister is a vampire now?” She asked, “Like from Buffy?”

“We’re way cooler than that.” Emmett spoke with a grin, earning a small slap on the back of his head from Rosalie.

“Right… But wait,” she continued, giving Emmett a small smile before continuing, “Was I attacked by a vampire that night?”

She tried to ignore how Jasper stiffened behind her at the mention of that night and moved to take his hand into hers, providing a comfort she instinctively wanted to give.

“You saw Riley that night, didn’t you?” Edward asked her, but it was clear he already knew the answer.

“Yeah, he seemed… different, angrier. I don’t think he even fully recognised me.”

“He's a newborn, still within his first year,” Carlisle began to explain. “He wouldn’t have been in full control of himself.”

Her face furrowed in thought as she tried to remember that night; in all the fury and violence, there was one thing that was clear: Riley’s teeth sinking into her neck. So she asked the question, “Does everyone that gets bitten turn into a vampire?”

“To my knowledge, yes.”

That made Mitsuko pause in thought, nervously wetting her lips before speaking, Then why didn’t I?”

At her question, she noticed how Carlisle glanced from her to Jasper with an indecipherable expression before looking back to her, answering honestly, “We don’t know yet.”

Turning around, she narrowed her eyes in suspicion as she analysed the expression on Jasper’s face, which seemed to be intentionally as neutral as possible. They weren’t telling her something.

So after letting out a small huff, she pulled her hand away from his own and began to walk away back towards her sister. She only made it one step before a strong pair of arms reached out and pulled her backwards into his solid form.

“That’s a bad idea, darling,” Jasper's voice drawled in her right ear, “You’re going to be good and stay right by me.”

She tried not to let his words affect her; after all, this was neither the time nor the place. She didn’t try hard enough.

“I was just…” Mitsuko trailed off awkwardly as she made eye contact with Emmett, who began waggling his eyebrows suggestively.

Now embarrassed, she tried to pull away again, to which Jasper tightened his grip. It wasn’t enough to hurt her, but it was enough for Mitsuko to fully understand just how strong he was.

So strong. She wondered what else he could do with those hands.

Despite her best efforts, all her mind could think about now was possibilities, like how possible would it be for Jasper to use those hands the right way if Mitsuko begged sweetly enough? Maybe she could get him to put his hands on her-

On the other side of the group, Edward began to choke on thin air. Mitusko thought it almost sounded like he was gagging. The others simply ignored the boy's struggling.

"Is he okay?" She asked which was simply answered with a collective laugh from the family.

As the laughter died down, Carlisle explained once more, "Edward can read minds."

"Oh…" If her cheeks could get any redder, she looked severely sunburnt.

“Unfortunately”, Edward spoke up from where he had finished fake gagging.

“He’s just being dramatic,” Alice spoke up, trying to comfort Mitsuko. “I’m sure what you were thinking wasn’t that bad.”

Edward started gagging again.

“Will you stop that, Edward?” Rosalie yelled at her adoptive brother, “God, you are always so fucking annoying.”

“Hello, teenage vampire going through a crisis here.” Hoshiko waved to the group, causing them to quieten down. “Could we please get back on topic?”

Mitsuko blinked to rewire her brain. “Sorry, you’re right.” She spoke, turning to Carlisle once more, “What exactly is the plan here?”

Before he spoke this time, Carlisle turned to Esme, waiting for her to nod and then stepping forward, “We’re willing to offer you a place in our family. You’d stay with us and learn to control your lust for blood, but we would expect you to follow our diet.”

She tilted her head in confusion, “What’s that?”

“We don’t drink human blood and hunt animals instead.” He clarified.

“I’m okay with that,” She agreed immediately, a haunted look appearing on her face. “The things I saw when I first woke up… well, I’d rather not talk about it.”

“We’ve all been in similar situations, Hoshiko; we understand,” Esme spoke, stepping forward, only turning back to reassure Carlisle, who had instinctually reached out to pull her back. Walking forwards until she was in front of Hoshiko, “In time, if you like, we can talk about it together.”

If she could cry, the younger Tanaka would have tears brimming in her eyes, “That would be nice.”

Ever the maternal figure, Esme didn’t hesitate before pulling Hoshiko into her arms and hugging her with nearly all her strength. The fledgling vampire could have sworn her now-diamond skin creaked from how hard she was hugging her, yet she could not help but lean in further into the embrace.

Still standing in Jasper’s arms, Mitsuko couldn’t help as the tears flowed; they were both her own and on behalf of her sister. She felt a jumble of emotions in that moment: sadness, confusion, relief and happiness. Yet as seconds went by, she felt an overwhelming sense of calm through her, and clarity hit her. Turning around one more time, she looked intently into Jasper’s golden eyes.

“It’s been you the whole time, hasn’t it?”

Jasper seemed hesitant to explain, “I can control people’s emotions, but I’ve only ever used it on you as a way to calm you.”

“I’m not mad.” She responded instantly, leaning further into him, “But could you ask me for permission next time?”

“Oh,” he said, surprised by her response, “Of course, if that’s what you want me to do.”

Mitsuko nodded before turning back to look at her sister as her small smile drooped into a frown. Jasper stepped around and looked at her from the side. “What’s wrong?”

“Will I ever be able to be near my sister again?” She whispered to him in hopes he would be the only one to hear.

Yet it seemed since she was in the know about vampires, the Cullens had decided to drop all pretences. From the complete other side of the large circle the group had formed, Edward decided to speak up, “It might be for the best.”

“What kind of suggestion is that?” She yelled out once more, stepping forward; this time Jasper decided to let her go. “She’s my sister; you can’t just expect me to abandon her!”

“She’s a newborn,” Edward hissed at her as he stepped forward. “She’s at the strongest but most uncontrollable she will be as a vampire.”

Yet, Mitsuko wasn’t one to be pushed around, so she stepped closer. “We’re sisters; we’d never hurt each other.”

“It would take much; it wouldn’t even have to be on purpose.” Edward pushed closer, now fully encroaching on her space. “I mean, it wouldn’t even take me a second to kill you. Think what a newborn at full strength could do.”

Within a millisecond, Jasper was at Mitsuko's side, pulling her behind him as he growled furiously at Edward, “Who do you think you’re threatening?”

At the same time, Hoshiko yelled out, “Back away from my sister, arsehole!”

He stood his ground for a moment longer before the rapidly darkening look on Jasper’s face made him back away, but not before speaking again. “She needs to understand how dangerous this is.”

“I think she’s already well aware of that.” The blonde spoke in a dangerously measured tone, “Or are you forgetting what she’s already been through?”

Feeling overshadowed in the conversation, Mitsuko leaned around Jasper slightly to emphasise, “Not that it’ll work anyway.” Before she was gently pushed back again.

Edward continued to stare at Jasper for a moment longer, his eyes flicking to Mitsuko behind him, to which she decided to flip him off. By this point it was clear that the tension would not be diffused by any three of them, so Carlisle stepped forward.

“That’s enough,” he spoke firmly, but his face remained soft. “We have larger issues at hand; I see no reason for Hoshiko and Mitsuko to spend time together so long as one of us supervises.”

“Carlisle”. Edward pushed back at his creator.

“We welcomed Bella with open arms into this family.” He responded instead, “ I expect you to do the same for Mitsuko.”

“You can just call me Suki!” She called out from behind Jasper again, earning a bewildered smile from Carlisle before he spoke again.

“I expect you to do the same for Suki.” The girl in question smiled widely at his correction.

It was a moment before Edward finally conceded with a forced, “Fine.” Before he turned around and ran deep into the woods.

“Where the hell is he going?” Hoshiko asked with a confused tone.

“Probably to visit Bella,” Esme explained, “He stays with her most nights.”

Once Jasper deemed Edward far enough away, he turned around and lifted Mitsuko’s chin up so she was looking at him. “Are you okay there, darling?”

She was awestruck by his touch; his presence was so overwhelming to her, but all she wanted to do was step closer and breathe him in. Instead, her body shook from the cold, and she let out a small yawn. After sighing slightly at the fact she ruined a potential moment, she spoke, her voice quiet and clearly drained, “Tired.”

Jasper smiled again. She’d liked it when he smiled, especially when he smiled at her. God, she was tired.

“Yeah, I think we should get you home.” He spoke, reaching forward to place his hand against her forehead, and Mitsuko leaned forward into his freezing touch instantly.

“You’re so cold,” she shivered, yet before he pulled away, she reached forward and grabbed his hand. “No, no, no, it’s nice... you feel so nice."

Before she could run her mouth anymore, Jasper wrapped his arms around her before hoisting her up and carrying her back towards the silver car. "Right, let's get you in the car."

"M'kay," she said as she burrowed further into his chest and closed her eyes, sleep quickly taking over.

Carefully, Jasper opened the door to the car and was able to settle her in the front passenger seat. After making sure she was buckled in and draping his jacket over her sleeping form, he took his place in the driver's seat.

Before he could pull away, though, a knock on the window caused him to turn and come face to face with Hoshiko’s suspicious glare. With a neutral expression, Jasper rolled down the window and simply stared.

“I need you to promise me something,” she said firmly, before her face softened, “Take care of my sister.”

He answered without hesitation, “Always.”

Sunrise | Twilight

Return to Masterlist | Next Chapter Chapter 1. The Tanakas

In all the time since the Cullens had moved to Forks, Mitsuko Tanaka had probably spoken to them once. Even when Bella Swan had moved into town and had somehow quickly become entangled with them, Mitsuko still only ever saw them in passing.

If it wasn’t for a friend’s severe mental state, she probably wouldn’t have noticed when the Cullens left a few months ago. She’d tried to be there for Bella, often appearing at her house with various baked goods, but her friend remained unresponsive. Instead, she began to help Charlie around the house since Bella was unable to help in her condition.

This continued for nearly half the school year, Mitsuko’s worry never lessening even after Bella rejoined the group’s table. Then suddenly one day she’d arrived at school to discover that the Cullens had suddenly reappeared, their table occupied once more.

She’d asked Bella what had happened, but her friend simply excused that The Cullens had simply missed their friends too much. ‘What friends?’ She remembers thinking. The only people the Cullens interacted with was Bella, and that was mainly because she was dating Edward.

Yet, despite the mysterious disappearance and reappearance of the Cullens, the strangest thing Mitsuko experienced was that Edward would now follow Bella to their group's table at lunch. Mitsuko had never even had a single conversation with this guy, and now he was suddenly sitting with them at lunch. Additionally, even then he never really spoke to her; he simply held Bella’s hand and would listen to the rest of the group interact.

She tried to ignore her overthinking and focus on her studies; graduation was coming up, and she wanted to be prepared for college and enjoy her time with her friends before some moved away.

Mitsuko had grabbed her lunch bag from her locker before going to the cafeteria and sitting down at her usual table. She uttered a ‘Hi’ to Bella and her boyfriend, who was already sitting down, before joining in with the lively conversation.

"Jess, are you still worried about your speech?” She’d asked her friend, and she scribbled away on a notepad.

“I just don’t want it to be a stereotypical graduation speech, ya know?”

“You’re getting too stressed about it, here." Mike spoke before stealing the notepad from the girl, “My fellow students. Cool. Right? We are the future. Anything is possible, if you just believe.”

Both Mitsuko and Angela laughed at his antics, with Angela adding a sarcastic “Nice” between her laughter. Ignoring the two, he continued, “Blah, blah, blah, and you got yourself a speech.”

He passed the notepad back to Jess, who ripped the bag out before speaking, “No, this will be my speech. When I want everyone to throw diplomas at my head. So, thank you.” As she spoke, she crumpled the piece of paper and threw it back at Mike’s face.

He ignored the paper and smiled smugly before replying, “Ya gotta embrace the cliches, Jess.”

“They have the bread and butter of all valedictorians,” Eric chimed in from next to Angela, causing her to also chime into the conversation. “And that is why you are not valedictorian.”

“Give the guy a break, Ang,” her boyfriend Ben spoke up, his arms wrapping around her shoulder.

“And Jess doesn't need clichés. Speech is gonna be epic.” Bella spoke up, smirking at the boys, earning a proud smile from Jess.

“Epic? It'll change lives.” She stated confidently.

“I’m sure it’ll change mine." She nudged Jessica as she spoke, earning an appreciative side hug. The group was interrupted from continuing when three other Cullens approached the table and sat down.

Alice and Emilie would occasionally join their group during lunch, mainly so Alice could spend time with Bella. However, Mitsuko found herself getting along with the pixie’s gorgeous girlfriend the more they spoke. Today, Alice had somehow managed to drag Jasper to the table as well, pushing him down into the seat next to Mitsuko.

“I’ve decided to throw a party.” Alice announced brightly as she took her seat.

“After all, how many times are we gonna graduate high school?” Emilie smirked as she spoke, and Mitsuko heard Edward stifle a laugh. Weird.

“A party? At your place?” Angela asked, confused by the sudden invite.

Jessica had immediately perked up at the invitation, “I’ve never seen your house.”

“No one's ever seen their house.” Eric leaned in, replying to Jessica.

“I’ve heard it’s in the woods or something…” Lauren spoke up in mock disgust, but Mitsuko knew she was just as excited as Jessica.

“Another party, Alice?” Edward uttered, seemingly annoyed with his sister, to which Alice insisted, “It'll be fun.”

“Yeah. That's what you said last time.” Bella spoke, agreeing with her boyfriend’s hesitation.

“I think it’ll be fun…” She began to encourage when she noticed Alice start to zone out, probably upset at the less than enthusiastic reaction, but trailed off when she noticed Jasper stiffen next to her. “Hey, you okay?”

Surprised at the sudden question, the blonde turned towards her.  "Apologies, just had a sudden thought.”

“Oh yeah, I get those too; don’t worry.” Mitsuko comforted, unconsciously patting his arm in comfort. He stiffed again, and she was going to apologise until a feeling of dread washed over her. “Hey Angie, could you pass me my clear bag?”

Her friend furrowed her brows in confusion but still pushed the clear bag towards her. Mitsuko quickly unzipped it to pull out a strip of tablets. Before she could take her tablet though, a loud pained scream blared into her head, causing her to jump slightly and cover her ears.

"Suki, are you okay?” Katie whispered to her gently to avoid too much attention, “Did you miss your dosage this morning?”

Her close friends were the only ones aware that she took medicine due to her auditory hallucinations. She’d had from the age of fifteen, just before the Cullens had moved to Forks. Her mother had consulted with several doctors who had all come to the conclusion that while it wasn’t schizophrenia, they didn’t have any other diagnosis; she’d been on a prescription ever since.

The scream was continuous and getting louder, joined by various other screams making Mitsuko press her hands into her ears harder. Her head was pounding from the noise, and she was completely unaware of what was happening around; expect for a single comforting hand on her back rubbing her in circles. She tried to focus on the motion of the hand, forcing the screaming to quieten, allowing her to remove her hands and lift her head back up to face a table of concerned faces.

“I’m sorry guys, I don’t know what happened." She said quietly, still recovering from her small episode.

“It’s okay, we’re just worried about you, is all. Maybe you should go home and have some rest?” Angela suggested gently.

Mitsuko nodded in agreement and gathered her things, and as she stood, the hand finally moved from her back, and she realised who it belonged to. Jasper Hale had been the one gently rubbing her back; he was the hand that had grounded her. ‘Don’t overthink it; he’s just being nice,’ she chastised herself mentally before her mind could reel.

As she was walking through the cafeteria, she spotted her younger sister, Hoshiko, sitting with her own group of friends. She figured she should tell her sister rather than letting her worry, plus she was her ride home. “Hoshi!” She called to her sister, getting her attention.

“Suki, are you okay?” She asked as Mitsuko got closer. Hoshiko was aware of her older sister’s mental health and hallucination issues, but Mitsuko had made sure it didn’t affect her life too much. As the older sister, she felt her sister should always come first and had also instructed her mom as such, even when they were only a year and two months apart.

Mitsuko waved her sister off before reassuring her, “I’m okay, but I am going home early today, so could Rory give you a ride today?”

"Yeah, that’s fine." Hoshiko nodded in understanding, “Just message when you get home, okay?”

“Of course.” She then placed a soft kiss on her sister's head before heading to the nurse office. After she got the okay from the nurse, not that she really needed one, Mitsuko left the building and began walking to her car. It was a little white Mini Cooper; she was lucky enough to find one she could afford that was still in pretty good condition. She opened the doors and tossed her pink shoulder bag onto the pink leathered back seats, which she had done over the summer.

She tried to ignore the leftover feeling of dread from her episode and listened to the music on her custom CD on the way home. It was luckily a very relaxing car journey. Lucky because as she pulled in to her house, she noticed a police car waiting outside.

Concerned, Mitsuko scrambled to grab her and things and got out of the car. As she stepped into the house, she was greeted by Charlie and her mom sitting down in the living room, pausing in their conversation when the door audibly latched.

“I um had an episode today,” she said meekly, explaining her early arrival home. “What’s going on?”

“What don’t you sit down?” The police chief offered as her mom shuffled on the couch to give her daughter room to sit. Cautiously, she walked to the couch and gently sat down, preparing herself for the obviously bad news. “It’s Riley Biers; he’s gone missing.”

As Charlie spoke, Mitsuko felt the felling of dread return. She let out a small gasp in disbelief. “He’s studying at UW; he should be in Seattle.”

“Nobody’s seen him since last November,” he replied grimly. “Have you heard from him at all?”

“We haven’t really talked since he moved; he said that he’d been too busy with his friends.” She answered, rubbing her lips together while trying to stop the tears. “Why are you only telling us now?”

“His parents were mainly talking to the Seattle police, but they’ve just closed the case." He explained, his voice measured and calm, “So they’ve contacted me, and Forks PD are going to take the case.”

Mitsuko nodded in understanding, but her mind began to buzz, overwhelmed with her emotions. Her mom pulled into a hug, and she finally broke down as a sob escaped her lips. They stayed there for a few minutes, Charlie wanting to let her calm down before he left.

“I’m sorry, kid; let me know if you need anything.” He said to her a final time before heading out the door. Still buried in her mom’s tight embrace, she barely lifted her head to nod before burying her face again when she heard the click of the lock.

“I’m so sorry, Mitsuko.” Her mother whispered softly to her, pulling away. She allowed her mom to gently wipe her tears away. “How about to get some rest and make you some tea, okay?”

She nodded as much as she could with her face cupped in mom’s hands. Her mom stood and made her way to the kitchen to get everything ready. Mitsuko made the decision to get off the couch and make her way upstairs to her room; she pulled back her covers before lying down. Under the comfort of her bed, she felt her eyes grow heavy; the day had clearly taken its toll on her. 

So tired, she fell into a deep sleep, only awoken when she felt some pull back the covers again and crawl into the bed next to her. She opened her eyes to come face to face with her younger sister’s concerned face. “I guess mom told you what happened?”

“Yeah…” Hoshiko whispered back, “I just can’t believe it.”

She nodded before reaching out and pulling her sister into a tight hug. The sisters had always been close to Riley, having been his neighbours since they moved to forks at the ages of ten and nine, respectively. While Riley had drifted from them as he grew up, he still contacted them every now and then, always making the same joke about how they were only a year away from being twins. Neither of them would get that message again.

Yet as they held each other close, their pain washed away. While the world was harsh, the Tanaka sisters would always have each other.

Doing Time | Criminal Minds S.R

Chapter 5. Drunk-Dazed

Back to Masterlist

A night-out leads to unexpected but pleasurable results Chapter Title: Drunk-Dazed by Enhypen

It was just past nine at night when Hana arrived in front of the club the team had agreed to, stepping out the Uber as she double checked that she had all her things.

"You're sure they won't mind me crashing the BAU night-out?" Sasha chimed in as she also stepped out the Uber.

"Of course not, you're my roommate who's been stuck dealing with an asshole all week." Hana replied hooking arms with the blonde. "You deserve a night to let loose and forget him."

"Amen to that."

"Then let's get fucked." They both giggled as they made their way inside the club.

They showed their IDs to the bouncer at the door before making their way into the main bar area.

"Where are they?" Sasha asked as Hana stretched her head above the crowds and spotted the group at one of the booths that lined the walls.

"Found them!" She said before grabbing Sasha's hand and carefully guided her through the sea of bodies. Eventually they made it to the table. "Hey guys you look great!"

"Speak for yourself," JJ spoke up sipping the suspiciously purple cocktail in front of her. "You girls are looking hot tonight."

She was right each girl had dressed in their best outfits for a night in the city. Hana had opted for her traditional little red dress but had paired it with a pair of black leather thigh high boots and an equally black leather clutch swung over her shoulder. Her makeup consisted of her signature red lip and a dark smoky eye, she'd also chosen to keep her hair down and straight, letting it flow freely.

Sasha as always was the polar opposite, and had opted for a short baby pink corset dress and had chosen a pair of silver heels with straps that wrapped around her shins and calfs, she however hadn't brought a bag but Hana's had already offered to keep her stuff safe in the black clutch for her.

"JJ is right!" Penelope yelled clearly already intoxicated "I mean I'm unfortunately not into girls but if I was you two would be at the top of the list, like the very top."

"Thanks guys," Hana smiled brightly before winking at Penelope. "Oh and don't worry Penelope you'd be at the top of mine." Her eyes began to wander the club looking for the rest of the team.

"The boys are at the bar getting some drinks." JJ answered, peering at Hana with a twinkle in her eye. "Though you might wanna catch them so they get your orders."

Hana nodded before turning to her friend, “Sasha are you cool staying here while I get us some drinks.”

“Sure, you good getting four drinks by yourself?” Her friend asked as she slid into the booth.

“Yeah it’ll be fine I’m sure.”

With that she moved towards the bar where she spotted a mess of curly hair poking out through the crowd. Already a little buzzed from the three shots she had before going out she tapped his shoulder smiling widely as he turned to face her.

“You made it!” She shouted over the music, and she leaned in to hug him which he returned although clearly not expecting it. She was a hugger when tipsy.

“Hey! Yeah I figured I’d come since you invited me.” He explained before gently guiding her closer to the bar with his hand on her back.

“How long have you been here?”

“Long enough to finish my first drink.”

“You sure you’re okay being here I know you said you don’t really drink…” she trailed of as she leaned in close enough so he could hear her.

“Yeah don’t worry, I just don’t drink or go out very often but I can tonight.” He explained before gesturing to the bartender he was ready to order. She couldn’t hear what he ordered but he suddenly turned to her “What are you getting?”

“Oh I’m probably just gonna get a gin and tonic but I’ve also got to get Sasha two Pornstars.” She explained before seeing Spencer widen his eyes slightly, “Martinis I mean! Not the other type of… you know.”

He laughed at her panicked explanation before turning back to the bartender to finish his order and pay. Hana suddenly realised what he’d done and poked him in his side. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“Do what?” He replied feigning ignorance.

“You know what, I could have bought them myself.”

“I know.” He stated simply, Hana became aware that he hadn’t move his hand from her back. She also realised how good he look in the shirt and tie he was wearing, he’d only ditch the suit jacket from the outfit he was wearing earlier today.

The bartender placed the four drinks on the counter and Spencer casually reached out and took both his and Hana’s drinks, leaving her too easily carrying just the two for Sasha. She then followed him back through the crowd and back to the table, where the rest of the team were already back.

“Hey Guys!” She greeted, as she stepped into the booth with Spencer sliding in just after her. “I’m glad you could all make it.”

“Jack’s aunt is still watching him so I could spare a least a hour for a drink.” Hotch stated as his sipped his whiskey, he seemed to be sharing a bottle between him, Rossi and Morgan.

“Well you certainly dressed up Babushka” Morgan teased, “Planning to get lucky tonight?”

She laughed before replying, “Not really I just really like this dress but a bonus is, it helps me get free drinks.” She tried to hide how she glanced at Spencer slightly when she said, who seemed to be smirking before he lifting his drink up to sip.

“I’m just glad for a night off.” Tara chimed in to the conversation, “I just wish unsubs could do the same thing.”

“Amen to that.” Rossi lifted his glass to cheers, to which all the Team and Sasha joined in.

They continued to converse together as Hana sipped her drink through the straw, feeling her buzz getting stronger. She hadn’t even realised she’d started to lean on Spencer slightly. She continue to sip until her drink was empty, and turned towards Spencer who was blocking her exit of the booth.

“I’m gonna get another drink, do you want another?” She’d asked noticing his drink was pretty much empty.

“I’ll come with and we can order together.” He offered as he slid out from the booth before stepping back to let her out.

“Sure!” She smiled, and slid out to make her way through the crowd. Spencer made sure to keep his hand on her back to guide her through. As they approached the bartender saw them and went up to them.

“Hey you guys forgot your shots”

“Our what?” She’d asked confused.

“The martinis you ordered come with a free shot of Prosecco and since you ordered two you get two free shots.” He explained as he pour liquid into two shot glasses before placing on the bar in front of the pair. “But other than that what can I get you?”

They ordered their drinks and the bartender left to grab all the stuff to make it.

“So…” she trailed off, “You want a shot?“

He laughed at first before replying, “Well usually I’d say no but, might as well not waste a free gift.”

At that, Hana lifted both shot glasses and handed one to Spencer. “What should we toast to?”

The pair thought for a moment before, the young doctor turned towards her, grasping his glass.

“I know,” He started before lifting the glass towards her, “To a successful first case.”

She smiled and clinked her glass against his, “To a successful first case.” She tapped the bottom of her glass against the bar before she downed the glass and watched as Spencer did the same. The Prosecco wasn’t as strong as the shots vodka she’d taken before, but it still left her with a nice kick. Afterwards they made their way back to the group once again, carrying their second round of drinks.

The night continued as normal with the team exchanging stories and discussing future plans. After Hotch and Rossi left the night change from a group of friends having a few drinks, into a true night of letting loose and having fun. Truthfully, it all started when a tray of shots were delivered to the table.

“It’s from the owner,” the waiter had said as he delivered them, “She also told me to say and it quote, you need to get Sasha on the dance floor so she can meet a cute guy and forget about Paul.”

“His name is Peter.” Sasha yelled over the music slightly slurred, already on her fifth martini.

“She said you’d say so she tole me say that she doesn’t care.” With that he left the tray on the table and walk back to the bar. Leaving the table in stunned silence as they stared at the completely full tray; there was easily at least 30 shots there.

“Well I am definitely coming here again.” Garcia broke the silence, clapping her hands before grabbing two shots. Soon the whole table followed suit, each grabbing their own shots. They cheers together before downing each shot on the tray.

“I guess we gotta go dance now.” Sasha said as she jumped up grabbing Hana and Garcia’s hands to grabbed them to the dance floor, the others following close behind.

Hana doesn’t remember much from what happened in the dance floor, she remembers dancing with JJ after a guy had started getting too close to the blonde. She’d then said bye to her and Tara after she’d announce will was there to pick the two up. Once she went back to dancing she’d felt a presence behind her, Turning to find herself face to chest with Dr Spencer Reid. She looked up to look at his face and found him staring intensely at her.

“You okay?” He’d asked, moving his hand around her waist to steady her as she started swaying slightly.

“Yeah I’m okay,” she answered buzzed, “You’re eyes are really dark in this light.”

She reached her hands out to cup his cheeks and pulled him closer so she could admire her eyes up close.

“What are you doing?” He asked, his voice seemed huskier than normal.

“I don’t know.”

“Are you going to stop?”

“Maybe” She shrugged, “Do you want me to?”

“I don’t know.” His hand around her waist was gripping her tighter now, and he placed his other hand on Hana’s cheek.

Nervous, Hana bit her lower lip between her teeth but was stopped when Spencer place his thumb on her lower lip and pulled in out from between her teeth.

“You shouldn’t do that, the human teeth are strong enough to withstand 30,000 pounds, so it could definitely go through your lip.”

“Really?” She scrunched her nose as she giggled to herself, leaning close enough to feel his breath.

“Yeah” It came more like a breath, but Hana didn’t have much time to register it as she leaned into him. Placing her lips against his.

Kissing Spencer was like the rush of air you feel when resurface from under water, it felt like she was breathing for the first time. He tasted like a mix of the whiskey he’d been drinking and the sweetness of the various shorts he’d been coerced into drinking; it made her pull him closer. Hana felt as Spencer responded. He deepened the kiss by moving his hand on her cheek to her back of her neck and tightened slightly, causing her to gasp into the passionate kiss.

The gasped seemed to send a shock through the doctor’s system as he pulled away quickly from her lips. Not thinking clearly, Hana attempted to lean back towards him but was stopped as he pressed firmly into her with the hand still on her waist. He caught his breath before he could speak.

“I think we both too drunk right now and should probably call it a night.”

“You’re um…” She hesitated looking down, “You’re probably right.”

The pair finally separated so they could shepherd the rest of the group out the bar and into individual taxis or Uber’s making sure to all get home safe. Eventually, Hana and Sasha’s Uber had arrived. After helping her roommate into the car, she turned back to Spencer who was following Morgan into a separate Uber.

“I had a good night!” She yelled to him, causing him to look back over to her.

“Me too!” He called back over before stepping into the car. Hana finally stepped into her uber and as the driver started to driver home, she scream quietly into her hands.

They’d have to talk about the kiss eventually, just not now.

Prev Chapter // Next Chapter

Masquerade | Lyutsifer Safin x Fem!Reader (Smut)

Masterlist | Part 2 to "Cherry" 6 months after the events in vegas, Y/N has a unexpected reunion with the mysterious figure who had both saved and endangered her life. (WC: 3484)

Warnings: smut, vaginal fingering, slight praise kink, AFAB! reader.

----------------------------------------------------

After the incident in Vegas, Y/N had been put on leave for four months. M had told her it wasn’t a punishment but to give her time to recuperate from the effects of the drugs. It had been the longest four months of her life.

Even after her leave ended, she was then given exclusively domestic assignments. Hence why Y/N currently finds herself in the middle of a ballroom wearing a rabbit-shaped mask and an elegant glittering white dress.

She’d been assigned as one of the bodyguards for a foreign princess, attending an exclusive masquerade ball. Thankfully, because the princess was young, she left before nine, and Y/N was permitted to stay and enjoy the ball as an attendee.

“It’s a pleasant surprise to see you again, 'Cherry,” a familiar voice whispered closely in her ear, causing Y/N to turn her and gaze into the piercing blue eyes hidden behind a black wolf mask.

“How did you get in here?” She asked her voice a whisper so as not to gain too much attention.

“I was invited.” Safin had answered, smirking. “I must say I prefer this to what you were wearing the last we met.”

She couldn’t help the blush that rose to her cheeks as he spoke. The silence she experienced during her four-month leave allowed her time to think. As she tried to think back to that night and her next plan of action, she always found herself thinking of him.

“Why are you speaking to me?” Y/N whispered harshly, still staring into his eyes.

"Does a man need a reason to talk to a beautiful woman?" He asked, his voice still low, seductive. Y/N shivered as she felt his eyes on her, moving them downwards as he admired the exposed skin of her chest.

“A man like you does.” She answered, looking away to watch the couples dance in hopes of distracting herself.

"And what kind of man do you think I am, Miss Y/L/N?" Safin took a step closer, closing the distance between them. He lifted his hand, placing it on her waist, pulling her slightly closer to him.

Y/N couldn’t help but gasp at the sudden contact, “A man who definitely has ulterior motives.”

"And what ulterior motives would that be?" He leaned in even closer, his lips nearly brushing against her ear.

She subconsciously leaned backwards into him for a moment before quickly pulling away from him. “I want no part in your plans.”

With that, she shook herself and grabbed the first man she saw to pull her onto the dance floor to get away from him. It was not until the stranger put her hands on her waist roughly did she come to regret the decision. He was a tall blonde, but the smug smirk on his masked face showed her he was an egotistical rich kid.

"Well, you sure are forward." He drawled out as they began to waltz.

“Believe me, this isn’t what I intended to do tonight.”

“Don’t worry,” he spun her, suddenly making her head spin. “I have that effect on women.”

God Y/N just wanted this to end. Instead, the song still had a few minutes left, so she sighed and resigned herself to being stuck with this unfortunate dance partner. The man tried to make conversation, but it was all hallow bragging about how rich he was, or more accurately, his parents.

As the music neared its end, Y/N stiffened as she spotted Safin approaching from behind the blonde and tapping him on the shoulder, interrupting the dance.

“May I cut in?” His voice was cold; it came out as a command rather than a question.

The blonde was about to protest, but a sharp look from Safin made him lose his nerves, and he stepped away. Allowing for Safin to place his arm around Y/N’s waist and pull her close as the next song began.

As they began to dance, Y/N was silent for a moment before she looked up at him and asked, “Aren’t you worried about drawing attention to yourself?”

"I've dealt with unwanted attention before." He replied, his voice low. "And I assure you, no one in this room will dare question me."

He took a step forward, moving her closer to him, their bodies nearly pressed against each other. He could feel the heat radiating off of her, the subtle scent of her perfume filling his senses.

"Oh, I’m aware of your power, Lyutsifer Safin.” Y/N spoke, revealing her knowledge of his identity. After the incident those months ago, she’d secretly researched heavily into the mysterious man who’d broken her cover so easily yet had let her go.

"You have done your research, it seems." He chuckled, amused.

As they continued to dance, Lyutsifer’s grip on her waist tightened, pulling her even closer to him, their bodies now almost flush. He looked down at her, a hint of condescension in his eyes.

"And what do you make of me, Miss Y/L/N?"

She hesitated for a moment before she answered, “To be frank, not much; over these last few years you’ve been a ghost, just a whisper. But one name stands out next to yours. Spectre.”

Lyutsifer’s face hardened at the mention of Spectre, a flicker of anger and pain crossing his features. His hand on her waist tightened to the point of being painful. He could feel the pulse of anger thrumming just beneath the surface.

"You know about Spectre?" He asked, his voice dangerously low.

She scoffed lowly, “Of course I know about Spectre; I helped bring most of the lower circle in.”

"You helped bring them in?" He repeated, his voice laced with interest. "You were a part of that operation?

“Well, I won’t take full credit." Y/N replied modestly, “Double O Seven did the most work.”

He took a step forward, pulling her closer, their bodies almost touching now. He leaned in, his breath teasing her ear. "How did you end up involved with them anyway?"

Y/N inhaled sharply at his breath before answering calmly, “I was an orphan; MI6 recruited me because I had nothing to lose and nobody to miss me.”

His grip on her waist relaxed slightly, but he didn't pull away. Instead, he looked at her closely, studying her face, trying to gauge her expression.

"I've made my peace with it," she replied truthfully, looking intently at his face with an expression of acceptance.

He gently tilted her chin up with his other hand, holding her gaze.

"You've made peace with a lonely existence, yet here you stood tonight wearing a beautiful dress, dancing the night away." He mused, his voice low and contemplative.

She wasn’t sure what to say in response to his words; instead, she remained silent and focused on the music. Lyutisfer watched her carefully, keeping his hand on her waist as he guided her around the dance floor.

They danced in silence for a while, only broken at her question. Her voice was almost a whisper and showed her vulnerability. “I don’t understand, why me?”

Lyutsifer looked down at her, his eyes holding hers in a steely gaze. He held her close, his grip tight, almost possessive.

"Why you, Miss Y/L/N?" He murmured.

“Just tell me." Her voice was strained, tense from the tension she was feeling between the two of them.

Lyutsifer leaned closer and whispered in her ear, “Perhaps this should be taken somewhere more private?”

She knew deep down that going anywhere private with him was dangerous; it was asking for trouble. His suggestion was both thrilling and terrifying, and she knew it was too late to protest. She found herself hesitantly nodding.

He smiled, pleased with her agreement, no matter how hesitant she was. As the music approached its close, Lyutsifer took her hand and quickly led her from the dance floor and out of the ballroom. The hallways were completely empty save for a few guards, but they ignored the pair as Lyutsifer escorted her far away from the ball and into an empty parlour room.

As they stepped inside, the air grew thick with the sudden tension of being alone. Y/N realised that anything could happen here and no one would ever know. She heard the door click as Lyutsifer closed it behind them. He approached her, keeping his eyes focused on hers as he reached out to graze his fingers on the side of her neck.

A shiver spread through her body, and her gasp filled the silent air. “This is too dangerous.”

He stepped closer and pushed her backwards into the wall. “Then why did you come with me so readily?”

“I’m not sure.”

Lyutsifer chuckled, a low, seductive sound that sent a shiver through her body. He had her trapped against the wall, his body pressed against hers, the heat between them intensifying.

He leaned in, his breath hot against her ear. "You could have left; you could have called for help." His lips brushed her neck, and his voice whispered with seduction. "But you didn't, did you?"

“I should have." It was harder for her to say, “I think there’s something wrong with me.”

"No, darling, there's nothing wrong with you," he murmured, his fingers tracing a line down her neck, caressing the sensitive skin. He leaned in closer, his lips brushing her collarbone, planting a soft, lingering kiss there.

Her back arched as he kissed her collarbone, letting out a small moan in pleasure. Unable to stop herself, she gripped the back of his neck to pull him closer. He continued to trail kisses down her collarbone and neck until he suddenly pulled away. They looked each other in the eye with an unreadable expression before Lyutsifer grabbed her cheeks and pulled her into a heated kiss.

She closed her eyes as she responded to the kiss eagerly. As His scarred lips pushed against hers, desire continued to pool in Y/N’s stomach. Lyutsifer pushed forward, placing his left leg in between her own; in response, Y/N began to gently grind herself on his thigh.

Lyutsifer responded with matching desire, deepening the kiss and gripping her cheeks with a firm, possessive grip. His left hand slipped to her hip, holding her tightly against him.

With a hand against his chest, Y/N pushed against his chest and reached up to hold the mask covering his face. “May I?”

Lyutsifer pulled back slightly, a hint of surprise in his eyes at her question. He looked at her, his gaze intense and unreadable.

"You want to see my face." He stated it as a fact, his voice almost nonchalant. "Why?" His grip on her cheek tightened slightly.

“It’s too impersonal to kiss you behind a mask,” she replied, forgetting she was still wearing a mask of her own. “Besides, I have seen it before.”

He studied her, his expression contemplative, before his fingers moved to her own mask, pulling it off and stroking his hand against her cheek.

"You're right. Too impersonal." He admitted, his voice quieter. "But are you sure you want to see it? It's not exactly pretty."

“But it’s your face; I want to see it.” She replied, already reaching underneath it to pull it up and off his face.

As his mask was removed, Lyutisfer watched her eyes widen as she took in the sight of his face. He knew it was a shock—the scars, the disfigurement—but he didn't look away, holding her gaze in an unflinching stare.

"You're not, repulsed?"

“It’s like lightning, beautiful.”

"Beautiful," he echoed, the word a whisper. "You see beauty in this disfigurement?"

She smiled slightly at him, far more comfortable than she knew she should be. “They may not be as big, but I also have my fair share of scars.”

He looked her over, taking in the way the soft light played across her skin and the way the dress clung to her body. His eyes zeroed in on the hint of scars peeking out from the edges of her dress, and his heart lurched. Scars that mirrored his own, scars that held a silent history.

"Show me." He murmured, his hand coming up to cup her face, tilting her chin up towards him. "Let me see them."

At his words, her confidence faulted slightly. While she’d never been insecure about her scars, she was suddenly aware of how vulnerable she had made herself in this moment. Nevertheless, she carefully turned around and allowed him to unzip the back of her dress.

Her breath caught in her throat as she felt his hand reach out and slowly pull the zip down, revealing her scarred back to him. Across her back were several long, jagged lines of scarring; the lighter colour made them stand out against her skin in the low light.

“I got caught during an undercover; their favourite method of torture was whipping.” She explained quietly as she felt his hands softly trace across her back.

“Beautiful,” Lyutsifer muttered before leaning forward and placing a small kiss in the centre of her spine, causing her to let out a soft, breathy moan. Wrapping his arm around her, he pulled her closer, and he continued to trail kisses upwards to her neck.

“Please.” She breathed out, but she had no idea what she was asking for, having to place a hand on the wall in front of her to steady herself.

He chuckled against her skin, "Please what, Dragotsennyy?" He asked in a whisper. "Use your words."

“I don’t know.” Her mind was racing, but all she could focus on was the feelings of him kissing and breathing on her back.

"You're thinking too much, darling." He murmured against her skin, his lips moving up to her ear, his tone commanding.

Y/N pulled away and slowly turned to face him, her back now pressed against the wall. “It’s hard not to.”

"You have a habit of overthinking, don't you?" he commented, a hint of humour in his voice.

He smirked as he moved his hand from her waist and slid through the slit in her dress, gently massaging her inner thigh. Y/N gasped at his sudden action, arching her back slightly and pressing her chest against his.

After shaking herself slightly, she replied, “Someone has to.”

"You're too independent," he murmured, his hand continuing to knead her thigh. "Too focused on control. You need to let go, sometimes."

Before she could respond, Lyutsifer moved his hand from her thigh and simply grazed Y/N’s core through her underwear. She responded with a loud moan, “Fuck, Lyutisifer.”

He leaned in closer, his lips brushing against her ear. "Language, dragotsennyy." He whispered, his fingers still rubbing against her.

All the young agent could do was whimper in response, her eyes closed as she began to gently grind against his fingers. He chuckled again, feeling her writhe and grind against his fingers, her whimper echoing in the air. Her reaction was exactly what he wanted—a beautiful, desperate need for more.

He brought his other hand to her face, tilting it, forcing her to look up at him. His gaze captured her, intense and unwavering.

"Open your eyes, Dragotsennyy," he commanded. "Look me in the eye."

She opened her eyes and gazed into his crystal eyes before almost squeezing them shut when Lyutsifer took the opportunity to slide her underwear aside and immediately circle her clit.

He leaned in closer, his lips practically touching her ear as he whispered, "Don't close your eyes; look at me." His fingers continued their slow, deliberate movements against her.

As his stroking continued, Y/N obediently kept her eyes connected with his stare. Only fluttering slightly as she whined and moaned from his touch.

A small, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of his lips as she kept her eyes on his. He loved watching her in this state, completely at his mercy, completely under his control.

His fingers continued their slow, deliberate rhythm, drawing out her moans and whines, his eyes never leaving her face. He wanted to see every reaction, every expression, and every moment that flitted across her face.

"Look at you," he murmured. "So responsive, so beautiful."

After he spoke, Lyutsifer gently pushed his index finger forward and into her soaking entrance. Unable to control her body, a sudden electric sensation spread through and caused her to arch her back, eyes rolling back slightly, eyes fluttering shut.

“No, no, Dragotsennyy," he chided softly, his fingers continuing their slow, deliberate rhythm. "Eyes on me. Open them." His tone was firm, commanding control.

“I can’t,” she choked out, hands moving to grip his neck. “It’s too much.”

He smirked, loving the way she gripped his neck, needing something to hold onto. He could see the pleasure written all over her face and could hear it in her voice. She was on the edge, about to fall.

"Yes, you can." He countered, his tone firm. His fingers continued to move, but he slowed just slightly, wanting to prolong the moment, the edge of sweet release just out of reach.

"Look at me." He repeated, his voice low, commanding.

Her eyes flew open at his command, ever the obedient. She pulled his face closer so their foreheads touched, still looking deep into his eyes and moaning loudly as she reached her peak,  almost shrieking in ecstasy.

Her scream of ecstasy echoed through the room, her body trembling with the intensity of her climax. He held her close, their foreheads touching, his fingers still moving but far more slowly, bringing her back down gently.

He watched her, captivated by the sight of her, by the raw, unguarded pleasure on her face, by the way her eyes stayed on his, even as she rode out the wave of her release.

He pulled her close as her body finally relaxed, whispering against her cheek, "Beautiful. You're so beautiful like this."

Still coming down from her high, she didn’t speak. Instead, she lent forward and gently kissed him before resting her head on his shoulder as she caught her breath.

She was breathless, her breaths still coming in gasps as she leaned against him, her head resting on his shoulder. He gently held her, his hand rubbing small circles on her back, feeling the slight tremors still running through her body.

"You did so well, Dragotsennyy," he murmured against her ear. "You were so good, so responsive."

As he spoke, his hand trailed down her back before carefully zipping her dress back up, causing shivers to spread through Y/N’s body again. She leant further against him in exhaustion.

“We shouldn’t have done that.” She said, her voice hoarse, and nothing more than a whisper.

He laughed softly, her words a weak, weary protest against what they had just done. He had seen the way she responded to his touch, the way she lost herself in ecstasy, the way her body trembled in pleasure.

"You enjoyed it," he responded. "Don't pretend otherwise."

“That’s the problem,” the young agent answered as she pulled herself upwards in an attempt to move away. “It can’t happen again if anyone finds out...”

Before she could finish, Lyutsifer grabbed her cheek, making her face him. “Then I could claim you as my own; no one would get in my way.”

It was a firm declaration, a possessive gesture that spoke volumes. He was claiming her in more ways than one. His eyes locked onto hers, unflinching, as he continued to hold her gaze.

Suddenly the door opened to the room they had hidden away in, and a mysterious man in a suit appeared. He didn’t seem surprised by what he found and instead looked directly at Lyutsifer and said, "Dr. Safin sir, we have a problem.”

"A problem?" he enquired, his expression turning serious at the man's words. He released his grip on Y/N, turning fully to face the newcomer. "What kind of problem?"

The newcomer glanced at Y/N in slight caution before turning back to his boss, “I think it’d be best to discuss in private.”

“It’s fine I was just leaving.” She spoke up as she pulled herself away and moved towards the door.

"Wait," he said, his tone firm. He watched as she hesitated, her hand on the door handle, then turned back to him, "We're not quite done here."

“I’m sorry, but I think we are.” With that, she turned the handle and swiftly left the room.

Footsteps echoed as she excited the room and quickly walked down the corridor to the main entrance, afraid she was being followed. When she left the building, she quickly found a taxi to take her home.

It was almost cruel how similar this was to that night all those months ago. She allowed him to get to close again, and she had run. And yet, despite how much danger she had already put herself in, all she wanted to do was run back inside.