90% Of Story Lines Are Made Up When I Binge Write

90% of story lines are made up when I binge write

"Can't wait to see where you take this story" well I can't wait to see where this story takes me either

literally my favorite writer has returned, everyone go give love😌❤️

In Another Life Part 1

𝖲𝗎𝗆𝗆𝖺𝗋𝗒: 𝖨𝗇 𝖺𝗇𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗅𝗂𝖿𝖾, 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖯𝗂𝖾𝗍𝗋𝗈 𝗐𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝗁𝖺𝗏𝖾 𝗁𝖺𝗉𝗉𝗂𝗅𝗒 𝗌𝗉𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗒𝖾𝖺𝗋𝗌 𝗍𝗈𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋. 𝖨𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗅𝗂𝖿𝖾, 𝗁𝖾 𝖽𝗂𝖾𝖽 𝗋𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍 𝗂𝗇 𝖿𝗋𝗈𝗇𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗒𝗈𝗎. 𝖠𝖽𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗈 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗇𝖾𝗐 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗅𝖽 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗆𝗈𝗎𝗋𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗅𝗈𝗌𝗌 𝗐𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽𝗇’𝗍 𝖻𝖾 𝗌𝗈 𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖽 𝗂𝖿 𝗂𝗍 𝗐𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗇’𝗍 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖩𝖺𝗆𝖾𝗌 𝖯𝗈𝗍𝗍𝖾𝗋; 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗎𝗇𝗇𝗒, 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀, 𝖼𝖺𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀, 𝖺𝗇𝗇𝗈𝗒𝗂𝗇𝗀𝗅𝗒 𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗌𝗂𝗌𝗍𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗆𝖺𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗅𝗈𝗈𝗄𝗌 𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝗅𝗂𝗄𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗅𝗈𝗌𝗍.

A/N: James actually doesn’t make an appearance until the next part but I still used his tags bc this is his series pls don’t come for me 😭 WC: 3.4k

“It was good!” You insist with a laugh.

“It was shit.” Pietro argues with a frown, causing you to laugh harder. “It was all sugar.”

“Oh really?” You ask sarcastically. “It never occurred to me that hot chocolate would contain sugar.”

“Lásko.” Pietro sighs. Love. “Of course the chocolate has sugar. That isn’t my issue.”

“Oh?” You hum, swinging your clasped hands back and forth as you roam the streets of Edinburgh. “Then what is your issue?”

When Pietro doesn’t answer, you look over your shoulder to see what stole his attention. Your smile fades when you see him staring at the window display of a bridal shop across the street. Two mannequins stand side by side, one in a black suit, the other in a sleek, floor length white gown.

“Miláček?” You call, squeezing his hand to grab his attention. Darling?

Pietro pulls his gaze from the display and gives you an unconvincing smile, shaking his head at himself.

“The issue, lásko, is that it’s too sweet.” He continues his earlier rant, casting one final glance at the display before you turn a corner, leaving the bridal shop behind. “It’s not good for you.”

“That’s your argument?” You raise a brow.

“It’ll rot your teeth.” Pietro insists, nodding matter-of-factly.

“Mm, I don’t know about that,” You hum, playfully knocking your shoulder against his. “You’re the sweetest of all and I’m perfectly healthy.”

“Shut up.” Pietro laughs, rolling his eyes while his cheeks turn a brilliant shade of red.

“You didn’t see that coming?” You tease, bringing a hand up to pinch his cheek. “Cukroušek.” My little sugar.

Pietro groans, pulling his head back, out of your reach making you laugh yet again.

“Miláček?” Pietro calls softly after you’ve been walking for a few minutes. Darling?

“We can’t, miláčku.” You sigh, knowing where this is going. Sweetheart.

“Do you still not see a future with me?” Pietro asks, getting straight to the point, “Even after all this time?”

“Lásko, of course I do! What kind of a question is that?” You ask, horrified that after all this time, after all you’ve been through, Pietro still isn’t sure where you stand. “Jsem do tebe blázen. Přinesl bych modré z nebe.”

I’m crazy for you. I would bring you the blue from the sky.

“Then why?” He asks with a sigh.

“It’s too risky. If we go to the courthouse, or a church, if we so much as think of giving out our names they can find us. If they find us, we lose us.” You stress, gesturing between the two of you. “And I- I can’t lose you, Pietro. I can’t.”

“Then we won’t.” Pietro shrugs simply. “We won’t go to a courthouse or a church.”

“But if it’s not registered in the courts, in the church, anywhere- what’s the difference?” You ask, letting out an exasperated laugh. “I mean, would it even be real? What does it matter?”

You immediately regret your anxious rambling when you see the hurt flicker across Pietro’s face.

“It would be real to me.” He mumbles. “It would matter to me.”

“Lásko, I didn’t mean-“

“I love you, Y/N. I want to be yours properly. Indefinitely. The courthouse, the church, none of that matters. I would marry you right now; no ceremony, no venue, no party. Just you and me on this quiet street proclaiming our love to each other.”

“What about Wanda?” You ask softly.

“What about her?” He asks, brows furrowing in confusion.

“She’s your sister.” You remind him with a chuckle. “Could you really get married without her?”

“I could.” He nods. He doesn’t even have to think it over.

“You don’t mean that, miláčku.” You sigh, shaking your head the tiniest bit. Honey.

“I do.” He affirms stubbornly. “She made her choice. I made mine.”

“But Pietro, it’s Wanda.” You insist, squeezing his hand. “And what about Steve? And Clint. And of course we can’t forget Scott…”

“Doesn’t matter.” Pietro argues. “At the end of the day I’m not marrying them. I’m marrying you…right? I am marrying you?”

“Yes,” You nod. “Of course you are. But-“

“Nope.” He interrupts, pressing a quick kiss to your lips. “No buts. I don’t need them. Any of them. I just need you.”

“And rings.” You comment offhandedly. “We need rings…I think. I mean, technically.”

“I don’t.” Pietro argues. “I don’t like how they feel. It’s too restricting.” He complains, inspecting his hands with a frown. You huff in amusement.

“Well I need something to show the world that I’m yours.” You inform him. “Especially if we don’t be making it the event of the year.”

“What? Is my arm wrapped around you not enough?” Pietro teases with a smirk.

“Lásko!” You whine with a laugh, immediately bringing a smile to his face.

He thinks it over for only a moment before nodding his head. After two years on the run, he’s gotten used to packing light and not splurging but there is one item dear to him.

“Close your eyes.” He orders softly.

“What? Why?” You ask, pouting in confusion.

“Miláček, please,” Pietro begs. Darling. “Just for a moment.”

You let out an exasperated sigh before nodding your head at him, closing your eyes with a smile. After all, you trust him completely.

You feel something cool on your collarbone and shudder at the sensation. You immediately let out a shocked yelp when it tightens around your neck.

“What are you doing?!” You shriek, reaching a hand back to smack his arm.

“Sorry, my love.” Pietro laughs, knowing very well that he shouldn’t. “I almost got it.”

“Got what?” You wheeze.

“Okay, done.” Pietro states proudly, turning you around so he can admire his work.

Confused, you look down only to see that his necklace now rests on your collarbone. The thin gold chain holds two charms. One is a gold coin pendant; the only thing Pietro brought with him from Sokovia. The other is your birthstone. He bought that one himself when you started dating. You thought he was out of his mind.

“Why is it crazy?” He had asked you. “It’s a reminder of home. This” He said, holding up the coin, “represents my past. And this,” he continued, holding up your birthstone, “This represents my future.”

He thought it was a fool proof way to let everyone know that he was off the market. Well, that and the very obvious heart eyes he always had whenever you were around.

You gasp when you see the necklace sitting on your collarbone. In all the years you’ve known him, in all the years you’ve been together, he’s never taken it off. Not even to sleep or to shower. The weight of what this means makes it hard for you to breathe.

“Pietro, no.” You argue, immediately trying to take it off.

“You didn’t see that coming?” He asks with a smile.

“Lásko, stop. This isn’t funny.” You scold. “This is important. This is home.” You chastise, knowing how important the coin pendant is to him. It’s the only reminder of Sokovia that he has left.

“You’re home, miláček.” Pietro corrects with a soft smile and eyes full of love. Darling. “I want you to have it.”

Your hands shake as you try to undo the clasp. Letting out a soft sigh Pietro grabs your hands and brings them away from where you’re still struggling to find the fastener. He gives your hands a reassuring squeeze and nods his head with a smile.

“It’s okay.” He assures you. Pietro’s always been a joker, but the sincerity in his eyes shows you just how serious he is about this, about you. Your eyes start to fill with tears.

“What about you?” You ask softly with a sniffle.

“What about me?” Pietro asks in return, confusion evident on his features.

“What…what will you wear?” You ask with a frown. “I don’t- I don’t have anything to give you.” You clarify sadly.

You’d never been one to wear jewelry of any kind. No rings, or bracelets. Hell, you don’t even have your ears pierced. Even now, wearing Pietro’s necklace feels foreign.

“You have your love, yes?” Pietro asks.

Confused, you can only nod. Pietro smiles.

“Then continue to give me that and we’ll call it even.”

“Zbožňuju tě.” You profess. I adore you.

“Zbožňuji tě, můj malý poklad.” Pietro repeats, pressing a loving kiss to your forehead before grabbing your hand and starting your walk again. I adore you, my little treasure.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

You pass by an electronics store when one of the televisions on display catches your attention.

“Wait, lásko,” You call, bringing Pietro to a stop. “I think something’s happened.”

“What?”

You watch on the screen as a weird, round spaceship of some sort cruises down the streets of New York.

“Oh my god, Tony’s missing.” You gasp, taking in the words on the bottom of the screen.

“Did he disappear after trying to take that on?” Pietro asks, nodding towards the ship on the screen.

“I…I don’t know.” You shake your head. “Knowing him, maybe.”

You and Pietro share an uneasy look before eventually nodding in agreement. You have to go back. No matter what happened with the Sokovia Accords or what happened after. At one point in time, you were all on the same side, on the same team. You were a family. You can’t turn your back on them.

“How are the go bags?” Pietro asks, looking over at you.

“Ready.” You assure. “Money, food, clothes; it’s all there.”

“Good.” Pietro nods. “We leave tonight. Let’s check when the next-“ Pietro lets out a pained groan as a large blade pierces him from behind, exiting through his chest.

You let out a terrified shriek as he’s lifted off the ground with the blade still in him before being tossed to the floor. The man responsible, if you can even call him that, turns to glower at you and that’s when you finally realize that whatever he is, he isn’t human.

His skin is an off putting gray, with carvings all over his face and hideous orange eyes. You don’t know what to make of his clothing, but you do know that it’s not from earth. The man points his double sided blade at you and takes a step towards you before Pietro calls out to him from where he lies on the ground.

“Hey! Don’t you fucking touch her!” He shouts, groaning as he tries to pull himself up.

“Pietro!” You cry, watching the blood seep out of the cavity on his chest.

He turns his head to look at you, and with blood falling from his lips, he smiles.

“It’s okay, lásko.” He reassures you, still struggling to get to his feet. “It’s okay. I’m okay.”

You’re not like Pietro. Or Steve or Tony. You weren’t made in a lab. You don’t have any powers. Your skills are weapons, which you currently don’t have; and martial arts, which doesn’t stand a chance in this situation, but you have to try.

The man readjusts his grip on his blade and you bring your hands up, prepared to either throw a punch or try to block his attack. Unfortunately, you don’t even make it that far as someone creeps up behind you and throws you across the road. You feel the wind get knocked out of you as you crash into a building then slide down to the ground. You hear Pietro call out your name, and as much as you’d like to stay laying down, you pull yourself up, if only to show him that you're not hurt.

Pietro seems to have had the same idea, as he stumbles to your side, placing his hands on your shoulders.

“Pietro?” You ask softly, scared of what’s to come. Just a few minutes earlier you were planning your future together. Are you already meeting your end?

Pietro wheezes. You hear the gurgling in his lungs and your heart begins to race as you realize that’s blood that you’re hearing. Swaying, Pietro quickly pats you down, haphazardly checking you for any injuries. He cups your face, and forces you to look at him, pulling your eyes away from the gaping hole in his chest.

“You’re okay?” He asks softly, words coming out broken and hushed as he wipes away your tears, his hands cold and clumsy.

You nod your head shakily and Pietro lets out the breath he had been holding, leaning his forehead against yours affectionately. Picking his head back up, Pietro tries to take a step back, only to lose his balance and crash into you. You let out a soft “oomph” as you catch him, wrapping your arms around him as he does the same, enveloping you in his embrace.

“Baby?” You ask, voice shaking as your hands start to feel wet. You know what it is. You know it’s his blood. Still, you feel the need to see if for yourself. You start to pull your arms away when Pietro stops you, keeping your arms wrapped around him.

“Don’t let go.” He asks.

Mustering up what little strength he has left, Pietro tucks you into his side and speeds away, making it to a train station a few blocks over before you both tumble to the ground. You both groan as you try to get your bearings.

“Lásko.” Pietro calls weakly. “Lásko, where are you?”

“I’m okay.” You reply, knowing that’s what he was really asking. “I’m fine.”

Groaning, you pull yourself to your feet and scan the room, looking for Pietro. You see him leaning against a post, trying to catch his breath. You only take a few steps towards him when those same beings from earlier appear.

Your heart fills with dread as you see them approach you menacingly. Fearing this is the end for you, you prepare to put up a fight, no matter how short. You run to Pietro and stand before him protectively, much to his dismay.

“Miláček, what are you doing?” He wheezes, struggling to keep his eyes open as blood continues to pool around him.

You look over your shoulder at Pietro and smile, ignoring the tear running down your face.

“I’m standing by my husband.”

Pietro’s own eyes fill with tears as he watches you.

“Go.” He begs

“No.” You say simply.

“Můj krásný malý blázne.” He huffs. My beautiful, little fool.

“Můj cukroušek.” You smile at him. My little sugar.

You turn back around, ready to face your death. Behind you a train passes by, but it’s something else entirely that catches your enemies attention. A part of you think it’s a trick, but still, you turn to see what they’re looking at.

Once the train has passed, you see a dark figure standing in the shadows. One of the beings throws a blade at him, but he manages to dodge it, catching the blade with one hand. He steps out of the darkness and your shoulders drop in relief when you see that it’s Steve.

You haven’t seen him since he broke you guys out of The Raft two years ago. His hair is longer. And he’s grown out his beard; but there’s no way you wouldn’t recognize him. You’d jump out of sheer joy if you weren’t so exhausted.

If that wasn’t enough, Sam comes soaring in a moment later, kicking one of the beings, hard, sending them flying through a glass window. When you see Natasha swoop in you finally allow yourself to breathe. Knowing they have the fight under control, you turn to Pietro with a smile and rush to him, falling to your knees beside him.

You ignore the chaos happening behind you as you push Pietro’s hair back. His eyes snap open and he looks around, panicked. Only when he sees Steve and the others does he allow himself to relax.

“Hey baby,” You greet him. “Scared me for a minute.”

Pietro brings a hand up to cup your cheek affectionately. You smile and raise a hand, placing it over his.

“Drahý.” Pietro sighs. Dear. His eyes roam over your features, desperate to take them all in. He knows very well this will be his last chance. “You’re so beautiful… So, so beautiful.”

“Pietro, we’re okay.” You smile encouragingly at him. “We’re gonna be okay.”

“Go.” He wheezes. He blinks and his eyes stay closed for several long seconds before he has the strength to open them again.

“What?” You ask with a confused chuckle.

“Steve will keep you safe but you have to go. Now.”

“No.” You refuse with a frown. “No, I’m not leaving you.”

“Princezna, please.” He begs. Princess. “Before they come back.”

“No! Why are you being like this?” You cry. You shove him out of frustration. He shows no indication that it hurts. Or that he even felt it.

“Y/N-“ Sam starts, but you completely ignore him.

“No! Pietro, it’s okay. We’re okay.” You try to convince him.

“Miluju tě.” Pietro wheezes. I love you. “The best part of my life has been loving you.”

You shake your head as tears begin to pool in your eyes.

“Why are you doing this?” You ask. “Just come with us. You can come with us. You just have to get up. Right, Steve?”

You look over your shoulder at him, and the look on his face, on all their faces, causes a pit to form in your stomach.

“Zlato.” Pietro sighs. Baby.

“No, it’s okay.” You reassure him with a smile. “It’s okay. It’s fine. We’re fine. You can come with us. We’ll get you all fixed up. And- and you’ll be good as new.”

“Y/N-“

“Just in time for the wedding.”

Pietro smiles at that, just the faintest twitch of his lips, and you find yourself smiling along with him.

“Y/N, listen to me. Please. Just this once. I want you to go with Steve-“

You shake your head.

“Go with Steve.” He urges, begs. “You’ll be safe with him.”

“What about you?” You ask as tears begin to fall.

“I’ll always be with you.” He promises.

“Nemůžu bez tebe žít.” You tell him through hiccups. I can’t live without you.

“You can.” He nods.

“I can’t.” You argue. “I don’t want to.”

“I know zlato. I know.” He stretches his hand forward to grasp yours and squeezes, letting out a shuddering breath as he does.

“I love you.” You cry, squeezing his hand back.

“Pietro?” You call, when he doesn’t say anything in return.

You look up and immediately start sobbing when you see the vacant look in his blue eyes. Pietro Maximoff, the love of your life, died with a smile on his face, gazing at and holding the hand of the one he loved most. You.

“Y/N.” Steve says softly, coming to a stop behind you. “I’m sorry but we have to go.”

“No.” You cry. “Please…”

“Y/N-“

“No!”

Steve grabs your arm and tries to pull you away. You wretch your arm out of his grasp and try to make your way back to Pietro.

“No! Pietro!” You wail. “Get up!”

“God dammit, Y/N!”

“Easy.” Natasha warns, giving Steve a bewildered look.

“Cap-“ Sam starts to say as well.

“Y/N, he’s gone.” Steve says matter-of-factly, causing you to sob harder. “I’m sorry. But we can’t lose anyone else. We have to go. Now.”

Natasha and Sam come to a stop on either side of you and gently help you up as you continue to cry.

As detached as he appears about the situation, Steve’s own eyes are rimmed red. He sniffs and wipes his nose before placing his hands on his hips.

“Let’s hurry back to the jet.” He orders. “They could come back any minute. The government’s most likely on their way here, too.”

“Wait, what?” You ask, looking between Natasha and Sam as they practically drag you out of there, leaving Pietro’s body behind.

“We’re not leaving him. Right? Please.” You beg through tears. “Please tell me we’re not leaving him. Not here. Please.”

“I’m sorry.” Natasha says genuinely, refusing to meet your gaze. “There’s no time.”

“But-“

“I know it doesn’t feel like it, but it’s for the best.” Sam tells you grimly. “They’ll give him a proper burial. Something we can’t.”

With tears streaming down your face you look over your shoulder and glance at Pietro for the last time before boarding the jet, leaving him, and any chance at happiness behind.

The Tragedy of What Was Masterlist

part I ♟️

part II (coming soon)

our*

Coriolanus Snow's time in District 12 in a nutshell

Coriolanus [observes a rebel boy] : God look at that idiot, he's surely gonna get killed lol

realises it's Sejanus

Coriolanus: Oh shit that's my idiot.

THIS. even if it is one person, I WILL WRITE YOU A WHOLE NOVEL BABY

people who let me wake up to this get a special place in heaven. firefly_fox how does it feel to hold my life in ur hands....

As If Destiny (part eleven)🌹

Part Ten🌹

the games are not only played by the tributes.

warnings: hunger games.

any and all interaction appreciated!!

⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆

The air was clear. The sun was shining. The smell was beautiful and oddly familiar.

Coriolanus looked around and noticed he was surrounded by glistening white roses. The field was endless with them, a never-ending sea of floral beauty. But among them all lay Coriolanus Snow's greatest desire. Dressed in a pearl white gown, there you stood, capturing the essence of beauty.

Even surrounded by similar shades, you stood out, colored in with an unexplainable emotion. The scene looked as though he was staring straight at a magnificent painting. Coryo began taking slow and cautious steps toward you. You faced the blonde boy, but your eyes weren't focused. Your gaze went through Coriolanus instead of on him. 

"Y/N?"

The confused young man stretched his hand out to you, beckoning you over to him. You stood frozen in place, not a single hint of emotion on your face. Coriolanus analyzed your appearance in a frenzy and noticed the growing red beneath the lace of your dress. He took the movement upon himself and, as he took one step, panic began setting in. The sound emerging from his feet was not the sound of grass but rather the crunching of rubble. The scenery was no longer the picturesque floral field but rather dark woods; dark woods that were only lit up by wicked flames licking up the bark of the surrounding trees. Coriolanus's eyes frantically locked back to yours and were met with what he could only describe as otherworldly horror. 

"Y/N! COME HERE, PLEASE!" 

Your body was cemented in place; your being completely oblivious to the danger fuming around you. When Coryo took his eyes off of you to analyze the rapidly shifting surroundings, you shifted with the trees. In those few seconds, your face hollowed, and the dress was no longer the billowing white gown. The growing red patches had overtaken the fabric, painting the entirety a crimson red. Your once pristine skin was beginning to show black and blue bruises along your arms and neck. Coriolanus snapped out of his frozen horror and began sprinting full force toward your sickly being, a being that was suddenly hidden by the vast amounts of crashing and burning trees that now blocked the determined young man's path. The burning fire intensified, and the smoke began burning his eyes, granting even more obstacles to Coriolanus. 

"Y/N! I'm coming! Please, say something!"

The only sounds that grimaced in his ears were the cackling of the burning wood. Wait. 

A low, solemn hiss was nearly muted by the chaos surrounding it, but it was there. Slithering through the small cracks between the fallen tree trunks appeared a black and orange snake. It came from the direction of your position, a direction he was certain of when he heard your blood-curdling scream.

Just like your mother.

Coriolanus felt the sweat sliding past his brows, and it wasn't from the fire's heat. The heir of House Snow didn't care that the tree trunks were on fire. He didn't care that with each step he took, more and more snakes appeared. He didn't care that as he grabbed the top tree to jump over, his flesh began melting and boiling.

The second his knees crashed onto the ground, the alluring blue eyes that you loved so much were frantic to find you. In a mix of relief and hysteria, Coriolanus flung himself to your fallen body. Surrounded by a field of glass, skin charred, and dress now transformed into an ink-black color—a color caused by your seeping blood. Coriolanus realized this as he put his hands on your shoulders in panic and began moving upwards to your bruised and pale neck to check for a pulse. Your eyes were open, and once you saw the face of Coriolanus Snow, all the fear of the situation came alive in your gaze.

"Y/N! Please, please stay with me, okay?!" 

Your response only consisted of heavily rapid breaths and a cascade of tears. You weren't like how you were when you got stabbed with the bottle. You were frantic and desperate, a desperation matched by the boy who now tried to lift you up. A futile attempt as your body was now tied down by a colony of snakes. 

Coriolanus now had a matching face filled with tears and terror as he grabbed a flaming branch and began fighting off the slithering reptiles. A fight he was losing as only more appeared and began making their way to your neck to cut off airflow. You hazily realized this, and you began wailing with your few moments left. 

"Coryo! Please, Coryo!!" 

Coriolanus, not seeing straight from emotion, threw his full force at the snakes with the flaming wood. A hit that didn't land on the serpent but rather your midnight gown, setting it aflame.

"CORYO!" 

No. No. No. 

Coriolanus patted the dress down in an attempt to stop the flames, but it kept burning; burning right through the fabric and onto your flesh. The frantic boy threw himself on you, trying so desperately for the flames to connect to him instead, but they were unwilling. Not a single flame touched the blonde's skin or clothes while your hair was now starting to burn as the embers traveled upwards. 

Your hands were somehow freed by the snakes as you placed them on Coriolanus's lower arms. They were so severely burnt that several layers of skin were melted through and charred.

The sight made Coriolanus want to vomit, but every moving atom froze at your pained eyes and scratched voice.

"You made a promise. You made a promise, Coryo. Why didn't you keep it?" 

"Why didn't you save me?"

Coriolanus began choking on emotion as he watched your eyes flutter back. "Open your eyes. Open your eyes."

"Y/N? Love, please, open your eyes." 

A suffocating silence overtook the woods. No longer did it burn. All the snakes retreated. The light from the burning trees now replaced by the silver shimmer of the moon. 

The man in the moon glowed down on the scene of heartbreak in front of him. Coriolanus became hysterical and overcome with emotion he didn't know how to translate. 

"WAKE UP! I beg of you! I'm on my knees, love, PLEASE!" 

Coriolanus shook your corpse so violently, it was cruel, but he was in a dire need for any sign of life. The sobs of his were crushing and deep as he was, for what was truly the first time in his life, helpless. His intelligence and cunning could not help. Did not help him. Every skill he perfected failed him in saving the love of his life. 

That was when the rage trickled in. Coriolanus could not be stopped as he smashed the glass around you over and over again. Even as the shards scraped his face and cuts were so deep, they reached the bone, he was unstoppable in his destruction. 

Why couldn't he save you? Why couldn't he be in your place? Hands gushing with crimson blood, he put his hands out in prayer. 

"ME! LET IT BE ME! I BEG, LET ME TAKE HER PLACE!" 

It was irrational, a word never synonymous with Coriolanus Snow, though there he was, the heir of House Snow Begging for death. 

"Why didn't you save me?" 

The echo of your last words surrounded Coriolanus. They rang through his ears and rattled his bones.

 "Why didn't you save me?" 

"WHY DIDN'T YOU SAVE ME?"

 "WHY DIDN'T YOU SAVE ME, CORIOLANUS?"

 "CORIOLANUS!"

 "CORIOLANUS!" 

"CORIOLA-" 

Your chants were no longer filled with ire. They were softer. Concerned even. Coriolanus took a look around the woods and realized the moon had abandoned him, plunging him into consuming darkness. There was no difference between his eyes open or closed, so the boy chose the latter and laid back on the bloody and broken glass. Next to your corpse and fully took your haunting chant of his name. He laid there until a shake rattled his body. He opened his eyes in surprise but was not met with the dark environment. To his utmost confusion and relief, his eyes opened to your beautiful face staring back at him.

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The two of you were in the Capitol hospital again, but roles reversed. Coriolanus now lay in the very same bed that you had only slightly more than twelve hours ago. Your face and hands had a few minor cuts from the bombing, but you were in far better shape than many of your peers. Not only tributes to the dead but classmates. Peers. Familiar faces you will never see again. 

If the rebels wanted the Capitol to feel like the districts, they did a wonderful job.

Your concern, however, was fully taken by the sobbing blonde in front of you. 

"Coryo?"

The mention of his nickname only seemed to fuel the misery tears. Coryo wrapped his arms around you and pulled you fully into him, ignoring the pulsing pain from his back and legs. He could handle any burns or cuts as long as you were in one piece and in his arms. 

You were shocked but had no hesitation as you cradled his neck and began rubbing soothingly. You had just been finally allowed to see Coriolanus when you entered the room and saw him sobbing and struggling. The initial fear of yours was that his burns had somehow gotten worse, but his writhing wasn't one of physical pain. It dawned upon you that Coriolanus was deep in a nightmare, one you couldn't seem to wake him up from. After countless moments of calling out to him and even beginning to shake him, he finally woke up. 

Coriolanus's eyes were a deep red and sore, while his whole body shook, hanging onto you for dear life. You were more than worried but it would be of no help to push him.

Time passed as slowly as Coryo's breathing became when he finally pulled away from you. His eyes were glossed over and lips chapped, but you still thought he was the most beautiful thing you've ever seen. A soft smile was sent his way in an attempt to comfort him into talking. You snuck your pinky beneath the skinny one on Cory's right hand. The small gesture brought waves of solace to the shaken man.

"Are you okay?"

Your shock caused you to struggle to hold a giggle that inevitably was let free. 

"Coryo, you do know you are the one in the hospital right? With burns?"

His blonde curls swayed back and forth as he shook his head in disregard of his well-being. The pale fingers of his softly brought themselves up to the sides of your face, pulling you closer. 

"But are you okay, love?"

Oh, you were certain his ice-cold hands could feel the firestorm beneath your cheeks at the use of the name and concern. You wished to avert your gaze, but his captivating eyes locked you in. With all the power within your being, you forced an answer out of your numbing lips.

"I am totally fine, I promise. Just a few cuts. What I'm not fine with is not knowing why you are so worried."

His face was fully etched in disbelief as you snuck your own hands to mimic his position. Your voice was soft, like the pretty smile on your lips.

"Hey, I am fine. You are fine, right? We are fine, okay, love?"

Coryo visibly calmed beneath your palms. Whether from your touch, words, voice, or just presence, you don't know. His heart rate slowed while yours rapidly picked up as you noticed his eyes flicker down to your lips. The small beeping of the machine surrounding you became white noise as you watched Coriolanus's blue hues disappear as he shut his eyes. The hands cupping your face became firmer in their hold as he leaned forward. 

The panic from the hallway only mere days ago came rushing back. You really didn't have to do anything more than tilt upwards to catch his lips, but you were paralyzed and could only watch as the man of your dreams was only a mere inch away from you. Why you could not make the same effort, you were answerless. Yet another unanswerable question along with when will you two actually be able to have your moment in peace as the door of the hospital room was swung open and two perky voices entered. 

"Coryo, you're awake!"

Tigris quickly rushed over and enveloped her cousin into her arms as she mulled over his well-being. You slowly, and hopefully subtly, moved further away from the injured boy. Your feet touched the shiny floor of the hospital when your hand was grabbed and you were silently urged to stay by the pale boy, who was now being caught up on the latest events by Sejanus. 

The death of the Rings twins, Felix being hospitalized and in critical care, the dead tributes, Lucy Gray saving Coriolanus, and most painful for Sejanus, Marcus. You both hoped he was able to run far, far away, but the probability begged to differ.

You met Tigris's eyes for a split second and couldn't miss the smirk on her pink lips.

Coriolanus really needs to pick better places to make his move. 

Your eyes drifted to the small TV across from the hospital bed and saw it was now Jessup's turn to perform an interview. Jessup was far dirtier and in dire condition due to the rapid effect of the infected bite. Any questions and urging by Lucky Flickerman were unheard by the struggling teenager. 

After countless silent or aggressive interviews, Flickerman was over it and let out an exasperated breath while asking if there was anything Jessup wanted to say. 

You expected Jessup to continue with his stoic behavior and for the interview to end, but to the surprise of all, the boy stood. His deep chocolate eyes were glazed over in a daze, but they focused in on the camera as he lifted his hand proud into the air. Three of his cracked fingers stood straight as if to test any judgment while his pinky and thumb connected over the palm. 

The three of the Capitol-born youth of your group turned towards Sejanus in confusion. He nodded his head firmly toward the boy and grumbled, never taking his eyes off him.

"Must be a sign of resistance from his district."

"They will kill him for that!"

Tigris panicked as her heart went out for the sick and now stumbling boy as he was dragged off by peacekeepers. 

"Can't kill him if he already beat them to it."

The three heads of your friends turned towards yours, completely in the dark of your meaning. Any further inquiry was quelled as the now well-known brunette singer appeared on stage. She looked beautiful, slightly shaken with nerves, but radiant, nevertheless. 

"Good evening, Capitol. Districts. I wrote this song about a boy back in 12, and I hope he hears it."

When I was a babe I fell down in the holler

When I was a girl I fell into your arms

At the lyrics, you couldn't help yourself but turn to look at the very boy who held your hand and secretly, your heart. When your eyes met his, you swore you could see them shine and glisten.

We fell on hard times and we lost our bright color

You went to the dogs and I lived by my charms

It’s sooner than later that I’m six feet under

Your palm was squeezed, and you could feel the sweat appearing on Coriolanus's hand in fear. 

It’s sooner than later that you’ll be alone

You squeeze back in reassurance but one look at his paled face tells you it isn't having an effect.

So who will you turn to

Tomorrow, I wonder

For when the bell rings Lover, you’re on your own.

Oh, Lucy Gray. As her song continued, you had a battle occurring in your brain. One part of you was reasonably panicked and torn up that a girl of her age had to suffer her fate. Though, there was that small promise between you and Jessup that kept hope alive. You knew the chances of him keeping that promise, unintentionally, were slim. But you were more than determined to keep the promise for the both of them, and the hard stare of Coriolanus told he was willing to do more than his share of effort.

Shortly after the performance ended, familiar nurses cleared Coriolanus to go back home. Tigris thanked them immensely while Sejanus waited on the side for you. After the harsh fight between you and your father, you decided you would stay with Sejanus and the Plinths. Ma Plinth was more than happy to welcome you, but there was a part of you that wished to go back home. Back to the Snows.

You tried to help Coriolanus out of the hospital, but he refused all but your arm intertwined in his. You shuddered down a giggle as the memory of the late-night walk from the library came back. Side by side in the late of night. In sickness and health.

"Where are you going to stay?"

Coryo was straight to the point, even though he assumed where with the curly brown-haired boy who was waiting patiently.

"The Plinths for now, until I can secure some sort of paid position. I might try to sneak back into the old apartment to get some of my stuff to sell."

As soon as the words escaped, you instantly felt regret settle just as much as the clear stress settled on Coryo.

"Hey! No, no! I can deal with this myself. You don't need another responsibility, m'kay?"

Your hands cupped the rosy cheeks of his once more as you emphasized your ability and sufficiency. Coriolanus, whether he intended to or not, always tried to take on the role of savior. A hero. For better or worse, it was the position he saw himself fit for.

You saw Tigris return after finishing up some paperwork and took that as your sign to cut the conversation before Coryo could refuse you. Your slightly chilled lips gave a swift peck on Coryo's cheek and flashed a smile to Tigris in invitation to sweep away her younger cousin.

You tried to think of something witty to reassure the overthinking eighteen-year-old, but there wasn't much light on the last night for more than a dozen kids. You wondered what was worse, having a sudden death like the academy mentors or waiting around to die like their tributes.

Your feet led you to Sejanus. His position against the wall, and you both began your trek to the Plinth penthouse.

Strabo had a car ready to escort you both home, though, as always, Sejanus preferred to walk. As he would say: "It's one of the few similarities the Capitol shares with the districts. We can walk around and safely! Of course, he would try to take that away."

The sudden thought that the car could be used to transport the limping Coriolanus was quite belated, and as you turned around to call out to the blonde, he was already gone. The feeling of disappointment and regret was clear as day to Sejanus, and the little shoulder bump he gave you was needed to regain your attention back to reality.

"Already did it."

Sejanus didn't need the moon or streetlights to go home; your smile shone enough for the both of you.

"I knew there was a reason I kept you around, Sej."

You've missed seeing Sejanus's smile. The boy has been walking around with a cloud over his head the past few weeks, understandably so. You knew the smile wouldn't last long, but you relished it as much as you could. Even in the safety of being outside of the arena, he was going to suffer just as much as his district-born counterparts.

"Yeah, well, for your information, your boyfriend is my friend too."

And the blinding smile of yours was swiftly replaced with a scoff and dramatic eye roll. Sejanus knew exactly where this path would lead, and he was definitely not going to let you refuse what he (and everyone with eyes) knew was only a matter of time.

"Oh, and by the way,"

"Hmm?"

"You missed his lips, went too far to the cheek."

The harsh slap to his arm earned you a very satisfactory yelp from the teasing boy. Teasing that followed you all the way through the Capitol streets on your journey. Some of the very streets taken less than an hour later by one injured, yet ever scheming, Coriolanus Snow.

Lucy Gray will not lose. You will not lose. Coriolanus will not lose. House Snow will not lose ever again.

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The golden designs of the ceilings were drawn over by your eyes endlessly as you bided your time. All mentors were required at the academy in half an hour, and you were still not ready. You had more than your share of excuses not to attend. You were still suffering from your injuries. And more grimly, you had already lost. Jessup would likely be gone by sunset.

The thought brought more than enough weight to weigh you down in the plush bed for eternity, but what good would it do to mourn? You must remind yourself that this was his act of resistance. He saved Lucy Gray on the train; now it's your turn.

Cleaning your face up and dressing in the infamous scarlet uniform, you left the safety of your temporary bedroom. Your senses were instantly hyper-aware.

Your nostrils were filled with the smell of freshly baked bread, ears rang with sobs, and eyes bore witness to Ma Plinth sniveling and cradling her son as if he was the one to be sent to the death arena.

Your eyes met his warm ones, now hardened with the upcoming reality. You sent him a sympathetic smile and walked over to give a slightly awkward side hug due to her position, to Mrs. Plinth.

“Morning.”

Your gentle greeting was left to mingle with the sullen silence as Sejanus untangled himself from his mother's embrace to ready himself to depart. Now fully available to you, you enveloped her in a comforting hug. You felt guilty for slightly using her as a substitute mother, but she never minded. She always wanted a daughter and gave her heart no small amount of joy to know that she was cared for by someone else besides her son and husband. If Sejanus had a small circle of friends, Ma Plinth was merely a dot in the populace of the Capitol.

You anxiously checked the time and realized that you really needed to get going if you didn't wish to start off with a bad impression. It may not have mattered to Sejanus, but you still wished to have a successful career and life with the powers of the Capitol. A final teary-eyed hug to the Plinth matriarch, and you two were on your hasty way.

The academy was always an impressive institution in its rigor and size, but today, it looked more intimidating than usual. Walking up the grand stairs felt like walking up the top of a mountain. A challenge added to by the heavy stares of the numerous attendees. The adults stared as the still somewhat prominent injuries lacing your neck, and fellow students gawked at your companion.

As you entered the hall that would be your home for as long as Jessup could survive, you and Sejanus split off. He found his designated chair first then spotted the ever-fimilar head of blonde curls. You wished to meet up with them before this whole thing started, but your attention was taken by a now-friendly (at least to you) Arachne.

“The big day, huh?”

“Please don't refer to this like a wedding.”

The girl huffed a bit but didn't add any further insults. You both stood at the farthest edge of the circular platform where the mentors with live feed of the tributes were stationed. Your eyes analyzed your fellow competitors and inhaled shakily. Arachne followed your eyes and your apprehension.

“I just want this to be over already.”

Your head whipped back to hers in surprise. Even with her slight softening, you expected Arachne to wish the tributes to suffer as long as possible. The Games were seen as a punishment and in her eyes, they deserved to pay for the deaths of the bombing victims. The fact that their fellow tributes were also of those dead didn't seem to matter to most of the Capitol anyways. Arachne took note of your confusion and elaborated in a matter-of-fact tone.

“The Games were a mess. I don't even know who got hurt the most, us or them.”

Lucky Flickerman sauntered in and began ordering everyone into their places in preparation to go live.

“I guess we will see now, won't we?”

You nod to Arachne as she takes the hint to locate a seat in the audience section. The seating was organized by the tribute district, so unfortunately, Sejanus was a far distance from you. Though you were given a bit of hope for the rest of the day as you sat next to Coryo. No conversation or words of affirmation were allowed to sprout between you two as the dramatic host droned on at a paid pace about rules and expectations. Your eyes stayed glued to the screen even as Lucky made his introduction to the now watching audiences.

“Good morning, I’m Lucretius “Lucky” Flickerman. A man who needs no introduction. Weatherman, amateur magician, and today, I’m honored to say… first-ever host of the Hunger Games.”

His enthusiasm was met with thunderous applause, yet no movement was made by your hands nor Coriolanus. The two mentors of District Twelve were earnestly watching the screen for the glimpse of their respective tributes. The dirt, grime, and fear present on all of the young faces was predictable. But there was a tribute that stood out from the rest, most notably because he was not with the rest.

Tied up and left for dead, Marcus hung limply. The sight of the boy's beaten body caused you to tear your eyes away and towards Sejanus. Your gaze was quickly followed by the rest of the live audience as the fuming anger with the boy became too much as he flung his desk and turned his anger towards the gawking Capitol elite.

“You’re monsters! All of you!”

Sejanus left briskly, and an offended, gossiping crowd followed him with their eyes. You watched his departure and half-heartedly ran after your friend to comfort him, but your eyes met Coryo’s, and the slightest head shake cemented you in your seat, bracing yourself for the carnage.

You easily spotted Lucy Gray, but you were just as frantic in her search for Jessup, who you could not see anywhere. Surely, he isn't dead, right? If he was, they would have told you. Right?

As the haunting bells chime, your heart drops. So many children are murdered instantaneously, and in the bloodbath, the rainbow girl flurries to find her friend. Come on Jessup. Give her a sign. Keep the deal.

As you internally begged for your tribute to keep his half of the promise, Coryo was quietly urging him to keep hers. Nearly skidding around death more than should be possible within such a short amount of time, Lucy Gray finally spotted Jessup.

The poor boy was so dazed and disoriented that he was on all fours and had no semblance of reality. As you watch Lucy Gray pull the, as much as it hurt to say, useless Jessup down the tunnel system, you felt a presence behind you.

“I wouldn’t get too comfortable. You will reunite with your friend shortly, Miss Vaun.”

The ever-arrogant Casca Highbottom leered at you, and you could do nothing but keep silent and watch the screens as they shifted from tribute to tribute. You may have already lost, but Coriolanus hasn't, and you know that his victory would be Highbottom's greatest dread. Even more reason to aid in any way possible.

Lucy Gray finally brings herself and Jessup to safety, and you can feel your heart bursting. The loyalty of this girl. She is going home, no matter what you must do.

The rest of the day continues with little more violent action. Since the bell ringing, your mentor pool has sized down a good amount. As the night comes closer, you knew most would likely go home to rest, and by sunset, much of the live audience has returned back to their lavish apartments. You had been examining the now scarce audience section and noticed Arachne was still in attendance. In attendance and alert, unlike many of the slightly dozing crowd. Her brown eyes followed the actionless screen, clearly awaiting something. Not like how the mentors were waiting for a fight, but a patience for an expectation. You were unsure of what the expectation was but if it was the appearance of Lamina, she was spot on.

The District Seven girl slowly approached the hanging body of Marcus. In her hand was a hatchet, and her face was adorned with such guilt she was unworthy of. The tired audience began perking back up at the movement. She was slow and clearly unsure. But the soft cries and pleas of the suffering boy set the action straight for Lamina. You wondered if Sejanus witnessed the death of his former classmate. A death of mercy in the merciless arena. You took a deep breath of solemn realization.

These are the characters of the districts. Loyal, merciful, and honest. Why is it that they had to die while shallow and hollow beings were thriving? If only you had the courage like Sejanus to call out the Capitol in its ways. But then again, you were secretly sitting in safety and luxury. Would you really give that up for a land of authenticity and unfamiliarity?

The night dragged on, and sleep began to call your name. You settled as comfortably as you could into the chair and felt the world slip away. Coriolanus had taken his eyes off the screen every once in a while, to check in on you, and when he had done his round again, you were fast asleep. He got up for the first time in hours and placed his uniform jacket on top of your sleeping form, which you naturally snuggled into.

His heart ached at the thought of, yet another night spent in a place that you couldn't call yours. If he wins, when he wins, he vows to never let you be in this situation again. That you never have to wake with aches and rats crawling at your feet like him. That you never have to rely on anyone else again.

“A damsel in distress.”

The ever-unwanted voice of Dean Highbottom found its way to Coriolanus’s ears, unfortunately. The words sparked concern, and his blue orbs zoomed to the screen, which was still darkened and still. Huffing in annoyance to whatever game Highbottom seems to be playing, Coriolanus sharply replied.

“Lucy Gray is clever; she will figure out whatever comes her way.”

“Who said I was talking about her?”

Slightly reluctantly, Coriolanus moved his body to face the resentful man. On instinct, his eyes flickered back to your still slumbering being. Was Dean Highbottom threatening you?

“What do you want from Lucy Gray?”

“Nothing. I want her to live.”

“And the Plinth Prize would be a happy coincidence, I suppose.”

“I believe I’d be entitled to it.”

“Of course you do. Of course you do.”

The displeasure was so obvious in his tone it made Coriolanus wonder why Highbottom bothered to talk to him if it angered him so.

“Do you believe you are also entitled to the girl?”

Confusion laced Coriolanus’s features as he figured out which girl Highbottom was referring to. He replied with what he considered, the safer choice.

“Why would I be entitled to Lucy Gray? She deserves to live the rest of her life with her family in her district.”

The click of his yellowing tongue, the shorter man clearly displayed his obvious disapproval.

“You and I both know that is not the girl you desire.”

“If you win, I assume you will spend the riches on fixing your peasant and broken family up to your facade, no? But with the rest of the money, I wonder. Surely, you will have enough to protect young Miss Vaun.”

Coriolanus sat up straighter in his chair, apprehensive at the Dean’s next words. What exactly was he trying to imply?

“You would be entitled to her, no? Protect her from the lowest point in her life. You were there when she was vulnerable after her mother, after that oh so tragic attack, and single-handedly saved her from what is, essentially, absolute poverty and abandonment.”

The offense and surprise on the heir of House Snow’s face brought despicable levels of satisfaction to the older man.

“Swoop in to be the savior of the girl. Naturally, she is yours. The ever-charming Snow wins again.”

When will jabs at Crassus Snow and his offspring ever get old to Casca Highbottom? An incalculable question in truth. No matter how often they occur, they will always cause a stir inside of Corio and even more so when you are brought into the fray. However, any rash action was prevented by the appearance of an arguably, to some, a more dislikable presence.

“Am I interrupting something?”

The overly sweetened tone of Arachne Crane was a warning enough to cause, with slight hesitation, the departure of Dean Highbottom, likely to take another gulp of Morphling. Watching him storm off to intoxicate himself, Arachne turns back to her peer.

“Guy has problems.”

She moved to lean on the table holding the boxy computer, oddly relaxed. Then again, when did Arachne Crane ever have a normal reaction in any given scenario?

“Why did you do that?”

With a shrug, she met his analyzing eyes. The red head began inspecting and picking her nails while absent-mindedly answering.

“Your veins looked like they were gonna burst. Besides, I heard the things he said.”

Horror began to implement itself on Coriolanus's handsome face as he realized the revelation told by Highbottom's remarks. He wasn't sure how long Arachne had been listening in for, but if it was enough, it could ruin everything he had worked so long for when he was so close.

“Don’t worry, whether you believe me or not, I won’t say anything. Not because of you though. I know y/n would hate me if I did.”

She mumbled the last part as her yearning eyes focused on your peaceful figure. Ah, so that's why she interrupted.

Taking in a deep inhale, Arachne pushes herself off of the table and gets ready to leave when she pauses.

“You better win this, Coryo.”

And she continues on her way, leaving yet another thing for Coriolanus to ponder over. At least he has until morning light to get some semblance of peace of mind. Or so he thought.

Thanks, Sejanus.

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a/n: i know i take a long while between my posts now and i am so sorry, but i want to be real for a quick second. i am a junior in high school who is in a lot of hard classes and i have pretty bad anxiety and a big reason why i started this was as an escape from everything in my life. but lately, it has been a source of the stress, so i started putting it off. i am trying to work on myself and hopefully, this will translate to my work, but i felt i owed that to you guys. thank you for reading and supporting :)

@emma-andrea1 🌹@notyourwildestdream 🌹@darktrashsoulbear🌹@fantasylovestoryme 🌹@nekee-lilac02 🌹@a-avengerparker 🌹 @queenofshinigamis 🌹@darlingisntit 🌹 @scarletstarrs 🌹