Multifandom One-shots

10. Running Free - x female reader (The Maze Runner)

I love running, I love the feeling of the cold air coming into contact with my warm skin. I love the rush of the adrenaline that rushes through my body. When I'm running, I'm alive. I just wish the boys also could see it as well. Every time I bring up something with the runners, they always walk away from me, or they ignore it. And why, you may wonder? It's because I'm the only shucking chick in this damn place.

Almost every boy believes that if they push me a little, I will break. Almost every boy thinks I am incapable of doing even the smallest of things, just because I'm a girl. It feels like I'm just for show, and I'm tired of it. But I don't know what to do.

So, before everyone else wakes up, I get dressed as quickly as I can so that I can run before I have to start working in the gardens. And right now, I'm doing just that. My hair flows behind me as I leap over everything in my path, except trees, of course. But while the wind blows, I can't help but close my eyes. It's like my own personal therapy session. When I run, it's almost as if my brain is at peace—as if I'm at peace. I just wish the boys could grasp that, that I can protect myself, and that I can do everything the boys can, even if I'm a girl. Just understand that it is what my heart desires.

As I continue my morning run, the rhythmic sound of my footsteps on the earth beneath me becomes a soothing song. The cool breeze fuels my spirit, and I revel in the freedom that running provides. The world around me is still asleep, and being by myself allows me to escape the judgmental gazes and condescending attitudes that often accompany my passion.

As I navigate the familiar paths, I can't help but feel alive. With each stride, I am defying the stereotypes that try to limit me. The rhythmic pounding of my feet seems to drown out the narrow-minded opinions that have sought to hold me back. I push myself harder, not only for the physical thrill but also to challenge the myths that have tormented me since I started running in this small maze-covered place.

The rising sun casts a golden hue across the landscape, and for a brief moment, everything feels perfect. The world belongs to me, and I belong to it. Yet, deep down, there's a yearning for acceptance, a desire for those boys to see beyond their pre-existing perspective.

But while I ran, I lost track of time. That is, until my best friend, Newt, called me. I came to a halt, my chest rising and falling as my breath began to slow. I turn to the source, where I find him with my two other best friends, which are two runners named Minho and Gabe. When Newt sees that I'm looking at him, he motions with his hands for me to approach closer. So, I run as fast as I can until I start to get closer, at which point I start jogging. As I got closer, my vision of them improved, and I couldn't help but admire them.

Newt, a prominent figure in the glade, possesses a distinct and captivating presence that sets him apart. His sandy blond hair, slightly tousled, seems to defy the chaos surrounding him, creating an image of calm assurance. Despite a thin build that doesn't overtly project strength, Newt's blue eyes hold a quiet resilience, demanding respect.

Within the Glade, Newt functions as a stabilizing force, and his very presence emits a calm demeanor that acts as a balm in the often tense atmosphere. It's as if his calmness has the power to soothe the frayed nerves of those around him. In critical moments requiring decision-making, Newt's leadership style shines through, revealing a fair and compassionate nature. He emerges as a leader who seeks harmony and unity among the diverse group of individuals navigating the challenges of the maze.

Minho, a formidable presence within the maze runner community, stands in stark contrast to Newt's tranquility. His muscular frame and short black hair convey not only a sense of raw strength but also an undeniable athleticism. In the interplay of light, the intensity in his dark eyes reflects the boldness that defines his personality. Minho emerges as the embodiment of fearlessness, the individual who fearlessly charges headfirst into the dangers that lurk within the maze.

Every facet of Minho's physicality, from his muscular build to the swift cadence of his every step, exudes an unwavering confidence. His role as the lead Runner is not merely a title but a reflection of his natural and daring leadership style, evident in the fearless way he takes charge on the front lines. In the face of uncertainty and danger, Minho stands resolute, a beacon of strength and boldness that instills confidence in those who follow him.

Gabe is kind of both of them. With tousled chestnut hair and an unassuming demeanor, Gabe embodies sweetness and quiet strength. His calm presence radiates comforting warmth, drawing others in with an approachable aura. Not overtly muscular, Gabe's unassuming physique reveals a quiet resilience, especially in challenging situations where his strength shines.

Piercing green eyes convey calm wisdom, and a shy sincerity is evident in his gaze. Gabe's leadership style, a delicate fusion of Newt's composed assurance and Minho's bold decisiveness, emerges as a gentle guiding hand rather than a dominant force. In moments of tension, he becomes a stabilizing force, offering comfort and reassurance.

Gabe's attire mirrors his personality—practical, simple, with earthy tones. His deliberate yet fluid movements showcase a natural physical prowess. When needed, he seamlessly transitions from a sweet, shy friend to a bold force, driven by a protective instinct for his friends.

When I got there, Newt started talking. "Look who's up early again." He grinned, while I chuckled. "Of course. Gotta knock some sense into you stupid bunch." My comment earned a playful glare from all three, which only made it more fun for me.

Newt rolled his eyes, pretending to be offended. "You know, we don't appreciate being called a stupid bunch, especially not at this ungodly hour." I shot him a teasing grin. "Well, you guys need all the sense you can get, and someone has to deliver it." Minho laughed, nudging Gabe. "She's got a point, you know."

Gabe raised an eyebrow. "And here, I thought we were the sensible ones." I playfully punched his shoulder. "Sensible in your dreams, maybe."

"Okay, let's stop this before Minho or Gabe begin to cry." Newt said, making me laugh. "Yeah right. Like I would ever cry because something Y/N would do." Minho commented, trying to act all intimidated.

I let out a gasp, joining in on the fun again. "Oh please. I bet I haunt your dreams, making you piss your pants." My comment earned a laugh from both Gabe and Newt.

Minho raised an eyebrow at me, feigning disbelief. "Haunt my dreams? More like invade them with your endless lectures on sensibility." I shot him a playful glare. "Hey, someone has to keep your lot in check. It's a tough job, but I do it out of love."

Newt smirked, crossing his arms. "Love, or just the desire to boss us around?" I shrugged with a mischievous grin. "A bit of both, perhaps. But mostly because you guys would be lost without me."

Gabe pretended to wipe away a fake tear. "I'm just touched by your commitment to our well-being. It brings a tear to my eye." I nudged him with a smirk. "Keep it up, and I'll give you something to really cry about."

Our banter finished with us all laughing our asses off. I shook my head, gazing at the three people who had been the most understanding about my desire to run.

Newt, Minho, and Gabe may not fully grasp the therapeutic nature of my morning runs, but they respected my passion. The running track became a place where stereotypes faded and true connections formed. As we continued to exchange playful jabs and laughter, I realized that breaking stereotypes wasn't just about proving a point; it was about building bridges and finding common ground.

Maybe, in their own way, these boys were starting to see beyond societal expectations and recognize me as a fellow runner, an equal. As we prepared to continue our day, I felt a sense of gratitude for the unexpected friendships that had blossomed between us after being stuck here.