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fleckcmscott · 5 years ago

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Bewitching Hour

Summary: October has been a blissfully busy month. With Halloween around the corner, Arthur and Y/N have some planning to do.

Warnings: Swearing

Words: 4,665

A/N: Special thanks to @hhandley80 for this request! You've been so supportive and sweet. I truly appreciate you and hope you enjoy it!

On a side note, my oneshots will be more sporadic. I'm still writing but life has been life. Also, I've finished the first draft of another multi-chapter featuring Arthur and Y/N. It's going to take time to rewrite the subsequent drafts and edit, edit, edit. The chapters will go up once the story is ready. Thanks for your patience and support! 🙂 I heart you all!

If you have any thoughts or questions, please comment, feel free to message me, or send me an ask!

Arthur's suggestion that they make plans to celebrate Halloween should not have been a surprise. He loved starting traditions with Y/N, and she prized adopting them with him. "It's been awhile," he'd said as they'd walked arm-in-arm to the laundromat. "I think it'd be nice."

Holidays had been a source of merriment most of her life. The beauty of red and green decorations at Christmas. Turkey and mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving. An egg hunt and chocolate rabbit at Easter. The togetherness of family during them all.

Halloween, though, wasn't a favorite.

As a child, she'd had fun trick-or-treating, riding her bike from house to far-flung house. And she hadn't minded escorting her little sister as a teenager. Y/N's homemade witch costume had been passed down. She could still recall the sleekness of the ribbon between her fingers as she'd secured the pointed hat under Mabel's chin.

But the magic had fallen away. When married to Jeff, she'd had to attend his boss's annual party. After receiving an apologetic shrug and kiss, she'd be relegated to hanging out with the other wives. They'd included her in their recipe swaps, in their exchanges of mild gossip. Her natural friendliness made chit-chat easy, far easier than having a good time. Those evenings had been spent nursing a glass of wine and willing the clock to go faster.

During the period she'd cared for her father, she'd tried to hand out candy. She liked being a good neighbor and imparting kindness in the form of bite-sized sweets. As his health had declined, the porch light had gone dark. Random rings of the doorbell would result in shouting and swearing. Repeated attempts to explain the door's lock wasn't broken. Festivity would transform into drudgery. It hadn't been worth the trouble. Instead, she'd watched terrible TV specials while her thoughts wandered to a future far from Boonville. A future she'd doubted would ever be.

"I don't know if it's your thing," Arthur had continued, bringing her back to the present. "But you might enjoy it with me." The response he longed for was evident in the worrying of his pocket, outlines of his knuckles visible through the tan cloth.

Everything they'd experienced together had soothed the sting of those wasted years. The hesitancy lurking in her was silly. Unwelcome. Less than either of them deserved. She'd met his keen eyes and half-smile. The sudden mental image of him dressed as a cowboy or pirate, eyepatch and all, prompted a laugh. Convinced her as she dug out her dry-cleaning stub. "It isn't my thing," she'd said. "But you are."

Relief had relaxed his wrinkles, save for his crows feet, which had deepened as he'd returned her happy expression. A slender arm wrapped around her waist, drew her against his solid frame. Once the clerk disappeared through the swinging doors to retrieve their clothes, Arthur grasped her chin and kissed her. The tender explorations were soon sloppy, and she'd giggled, his enthusiasm becoming her own. Their noses had met, his lashes resting on his wide cheekbones. "I think you're the sweetest treat, Mrs. Fleck."

Currently, Donahue's Department Store, Gotham's number one retail emporium (if the ads were to be believed), was bustling with last-minute shoppers. Weary mothers escorted their babbling children through the aisles. Clerks swapped out displays for the changing blue light specials. Lines went for yards. Patricia and Y/N sought refuge at a corner table in the café on the top floor. The warm glow from the pendant lamps provided a relaxed ambience, one that matched the hot cider and pumpkin spice cake they were savoring.

"I've got my grandson on Sunday," Patricia said between bites. "My daughter's going to a party with a medical records tech from Gotham General. Met him when she missed the bus. They split a cab and hit it off." Chuckling, she lifted her mug. "Speaking of, how's married life been so far?"

Memories of the past week quickened Y/N's heart, until she thought it might stop. How Arthur had gripped her replacement Social Security card, just to read her new name. The way he'd grab her for a twirl whenever they were in the kitchen. The reverence in his gaze when they'd lay together after sex, a look that both thrilled and made her blush. "The bills for his medication and appointments will no longer make us cringe," she deadpanned. She lowered her fork. "When we met, I was kind of blindsided - I'm not the type to fall in love quickly." The corners of her lips tugged up. "Being married to Arthur feels like a habit. A habit I should have learned twenty years ago."

"I'm glad you found each other." Patricia reached across the light brown table and covered Y/N's hand, gave it a squeeze. Then she wiped frosting from her mouth and nodded in the direction of the escalator. "Now let's find a costume that'll drive him nuts."

Beyond the colorful cosmetics and pungent perfume counters, they sorted through racks of vinyl smocks and plastic masks. Pop culture icons and princesses. Vampires and spooks. Knockoffs of classic movie monsters. Most were poorly made and decidedly uninteresting. Y/N pawed through accessories in a nearby basket, a cigar here, a patched hat there. "How about a hobo? I could steal Arthur's tie."

"This was his idea. Give him something a little exciting." After a roll of Y/N's eyes, Patricia held out a plastic display bag. "Found it."

The white font on its blue label declared she should "Create a unique look!" A woman in a leopard-print leotard and bow-tie wore black cat ears and a tail, the only two items included in the set. Y/N's nose wrinkled. "I don't think so, Patricia." She rummaged through another bin and examined a hockey mask. "I don't show a lot of skin."

"You show Arthur." Patricia ignored Y/N's glare, continuing to shove it at her. "Every man loves a woman dressed as a cat. Our next lunch is on me if I'm wrong."

Patricia could be relentless, but Y/N had to admit she was usually right. She arched a brow as she eyed the costume. Maybe she could find a solid body suit instead of animal print. The kit was only $2.98. And her friend had made it a challenge. "You're on. But I'm not wearing a bow-tie." She crossed her arms across her chest and tapped her mouth. "Your turn. Would Robert like you as a French maid or a go-go dancer?"

~~~~~

It was a busy season for performers. Arthur remembered HaHa's talent agency being booked solid for October by the end of August. Myriad functions at nursing homes, parties, and children's organizations took place throughout the city. Amusement Mile had a series of special events, allowing Arthur to work extra hours before the slowness of winter dragged in. Once the holiday was over, he'd buy make-up and props on clearance.

He'd always assumed he would like Halloween - if he'd had the chance to celebrate it properly. It was about connection, something he'd never managed. The customs gave him a pretense, a template to meet people, rather than leaving him wondering how to go about it. Provided a hiding place for his seeming inability to act normal.

Recollections of the day were few but vivid. When he'd been around eight, there'd been a party at school. The teacher had made brownies and given the students a half-hour respite from lessons. (A welcome relief, since he wasn't very good at most of them.) But he hadn't had a costume. Hadn't known how to reply when the other kids asked where it was. Not wanting to be left out, he'd pocketed a watercolor pallet and sneaked to the bathroom.

The teacher (he wished he could remember her name) had walked in as he'd smeared green and blue on his face, a pathetic attempt at a turtle. Fear of punishment had caused his laughter. But her kindness as she knelt, wiped away tears and pigment with a scratchy, brown paper towel, had calmed him. "Wait here," she'd instructed. It had taken all his courage not to run home.

After some minutes, she'd returned, an old white sheet in one hand, black marker and pair of scissors in the other. "The nurse won't miss this." She'd traced eyeholes, helped him cut them out. She'd asked questions. About his mother and what it was like at home. Questions he was at a loss for how to answer. Finally, she'd draped the cloth over his head. "There," she'd declared. "Gotham Elementary has its own ghost."

Even as he'd gotten taller and the sheet no longer went beyond his knees, that costume had remained his go-to. He'd venture out to the rest of his building, knocking on paint-chipped doors and pushing broken buzzers. Having learned to stay away from doors that yelling or funny smells emanated from, he hadn't gotten a lot of candy. What he had collected he'd shared with Penny. The wax lips became a free toy. He wasn't sure his memory of startling his mother and being tickled until he couldn't breathe was real or imagined.

At twelve, he was told he was too old to go trick-or-treating. He'd starting scrounging for change to buy hard candies at Helm's Pharmacy. They weren't particularly appetizing, but they'd been what he could afford. Only a few kids rang, a number that dwindled further every year. Most neighbors kept their distance, likely aware he was troubled. Cinnamon discs and butterscotch drops had loitered around the apartment for months. He'd sucked on them in an attempt to cut down on his smoking, just to save money. It hadn't worked.

Y/N hadn't spoken about the holiday, not the way she had other special occasions. At first, he'd thought it had slipped her mind. Work, planning their honeymoon, completing the red tape required to meld all aspects of their lives had taken up much of their time. But, given her reluctance to talk in detail about her past heartache, he'd come to assume her Halloweens had been unpleasant. He was certain he could change that.

Sitting on the dingy, dark green plastic seat of the train car, he giggled to himself, chest puffing up as he straightened. They'd been man and wife for eight whole days. Movies and songs said love was supposed to be somewhere between serendipitous and fated. A happy accident that was meant to be. Lying awake at night, he would find himself wondering where they were on that scale. If the emotions swirling through him - the excitement of belonging, the fear of fucking up - were what every newlywed felt. Then Y/N would snuggle closer in her sleep, murmur nonsense into his skin, and for a few minutes he'd be at peace.

Years had been spent trying to figure out who he was. Trying to find an identity, his role within the world. While he was still searching, it had been far easier to become accustomed to the role of "husband" than he'd dreamed.

Teaching his wife about events across the city had been a delight. Gotham Village's Annual Costume Extravaganza was a parade that went all the way to Gotham Square. He'd participated a couple of times, never formally registering but slipping into the clown section. It had been exhilarating. Had allowed him to pretend, for a little while, that he was being seen. That the crowds lining the sidewalks were cheering for him. Signs for extravagant balls were plastered on billboards and lampposts throughout the streets; he'd have gladly attended and shown her off. A haunted house was being held in a building in his old neighborhood, a fundraiser for the orphanage. He hadn't brought that up.

In the end, once he'd explained trick-or-treaters went from apartment to apartment, they'd decided on a cozy evening at home. The details had been left to her. Whatever she'd plan, he'd love it. He wondered what she'd disguise herself as. Would she be a sexy devil or nurse, like he'd seen on a sit-com? The notion sparked a fire in his cheeks.

Given how busy he'd be, he'd stay dressed as plain, old Carnival. Part of him regretted accepting two gigs, especially on a Sunday. He would have preferred her company. But he wanted to put the money towards the wedding band he'd put on layaway. (Even though they had one account, he wasn't going to let her chip in for it.) He should already be wearing it for all of Gotham to see.

The lurch of the subway prompted him to rise and grasp the pole grip. His stance widened as it came to a halt, knees bending with the instinct of a man who'd ridden public transportation since he was a boy. As soon as the graffiti-covered doors parted, he stepped out onto the platform and ascended the stairs, eager to share his new insurance information with Dr. Ludlow.

~~~~~

Scratchy violins and the hum of a theremin. Shrill shrieks and cracks of thunder. A cackle resounded, then a pipe organ, playing a melody in a minor key.

There was no doubt about it. Halloween spirit had saturated 4A.

NCB's Movie Marathon Mayhem had begun at 10:00 AM. Y/N had had it on since getting out of the shower, hoping to catch a horror classic while she decorated the apartment and prepared Bloody Mary mix. As she hung cotton batting between the television's rabbit ears, creating a long, narrow spider-web, she realized they were only playing cheesy B-movies. Giant insects threatening buildings. Science experiments gone wrong. Alien invasions. Oh well. At least she wouldn't have to pay much attention to get the gist of the plots.

The orange plastic platter, black bats along its edges, had been an impulse buy. She thought its array of sugary skeletons, candy bracelets, and Jolly Jack chocolate bars would be well received. But having seen only one or two kids in the lobby, she had no idea how many children lived in their building. She hoped she'd bought enough.

The cardstock window decorations she'd found were festive and matched Arthur's sweet nature. One portrayed a warted, green witch flying on a broom past a full moon. On the other, a ghost and mouse shared a pillowcase of candy and wished a "Happy Halloween." She held the tape dispenser between her teeth as she stuck them to their white front door.

Just then, the elevator dinged. Glancing to her left, she saw Arthur stroll down the cheerfully lit hallway. Buoyant expression on him, despite his white, blue, and red make-up being streaked from sweat. Striped prop bag on his shoulder and carved pumpkin cradled in his arms. "The store owner was going to throw it out," he explained with a half hug. "But he let me have it as a tip."

Classic, triangular eyes evoked the annual carving contest her parents had taken part of back home. Her father had been well-known in the community, being the town's only doctor. Entering the competition had been expected. They'd never won but enjoyed it all the same. Y/N had picked out the patterns and scooped out the squash's slimy innards. Her mother had baked the seeds. Peals of their laughter echoed in her ears, and a lump formed in her throat.

She swallowed hard against it. Dammit, Y/N. Get it together. This was supposed to be a special night for Arthur and her. She needed to distract herself. One of his curls peeked out from under his bald-cap and green wig. She twirled a strand around her finger. "With that toothy grin, it just might be your twin," she said. He pecked her temple, the kiss sticky from greasepaint. She lit the half-melted candles using his red lighter and put the jack-o-lantern just outside their door.

While he freshened his paint in the bedroom, she slinked into the bathroom to change. Arthur's and her routines were closely aligned; keeping her costume hidden had not been easy. The headband holding the furry cat ears was quite stiff, its teeth a tad sharp on her scalp. Once it was in place, she hid it under her hair. The lint on her form-fitting stretch top and leggings reminded her why she rarely wore all black. She retrieved her brown eyeliner from the nearby shelf and started in on her whiskers.

Arthur's footsteps neared, heavy due to his clown shoes, and Y/N turned to lean back on the sink. His thin lips parted as he scanned her body, forehead furrowed in pleasant surprise. His reaction planted a seed of bliss in her belly, one that bloomed every second they regarded each other. The lunch she'd have to spring for was well worth the pink shells of his ears. Eventually, she held out the fluffy, wired tail and a safety pin. "Would you pin this just below my waistband?"

Fingers grazing hers, he took it and sat on the toilet lid. He cupped her hips and pulled her closer, positioned her until the dampness of his breath hit a bare sliver of her back. "Hold still," he murmured, his voice sending a tingle through her. At his gentle ministrations, the spandex of her leggings felt snugger. "Did you- Did you read my journal?"

A faint click of metal as the pin closed. "No." She colored the tip of her nose, frowned at how lackluster the shade was. "I'd never do that. Even if I'm dying for a preview of your material. Why?"

"No reason." A soft huff, his shy smile clear in his answer. "I have an idea." He handed her a washcloth and hurried out of the room. She was patting her face dry when he returned, a fine tipped brush and pot of black greasepaint in his hand. "This'll look better."

Her brow arched. She'd only had her make-up done once; Patricia had invited her when they'd first met. Such an outing was not her preference, but Y/N had accepted, being new in town and wanting to learn about her colleague. There'd been champagne at the counter, which she'd sipped until she'd spent too much on eyeshadow and apricot scrub. The next morning, she'd put the products and a note on Patricia's desk: "I'll never forgive you. Thanks!"

The heat radiating from Arthur prompted her to close the gap between them. She craned her neck towards him, slid her palms to his yellow vest until she held him just below his ribs. His forefinger curled under her chin, lifted it slightly and angled it to the right. The cool, wet brush met her fevered skin. The dusty smell of the greasepaint blended with a whiff of stale cigarette smoke and traces of his sweat. She licked her lips.

The vibration of his chuckle was felt before heard. "I really like your costume," he said lowly. Two more ticklish caresses of the bristles on the apple of her cheek. "If you're not careful, I might werewolf and go wild."

She stretched closer to him, the fervor in his tone going straight to her center. Though he'd been growing bolder, his cocky side wasn't often revealed. She wanted it, thirsted to see more of the wild horse kicking inside him. Her touch ran over his chest, until she dipped under his black suspenders and pulled. "Are you going to gobble me up?"

Teasing strokes on her nose. "Maybe." Then his thumb whispered along her jaw and guided her face upwards. His kiss was supple, slow, a drag of his mouth as his tongue sought entry. She yielded, the simmer of anticipation bringing her to her toes. He groaned deeply and palmed her thigh, then fondled the curve of her rear-

The ding-dong of the doorbell halted them. He lifted his head and laughed, gaze sparkling. "I got paint on you."

She twisted in his arms and looked in the mirror. The whiskers caught her eye, embellished at the ends with dainty curlicues - his skill never ceased to impress her. Red brightened her lips and streaks of white were on her cheek. "It's all right. They'll just know I've been necking with a clown."

~~~~~

The sound of the bell continued. Over and over and over. More than it ever had in Otisburg. There were mummies, ghosts, a couple of skeletons. A superhero proudly displayed his red cape and blue tights, and a kid in her karate robe went on about her yellow belt. A tiny clown, too young to walk, was brought by her sister. As Arthur made funny faces, the baby cooed and tried to take his red, foam nose. Arthur parted with it gladly.

Only one member of the Wayne family appeared, slicked back hair and pompous pout making the disguise complete. The man accompanying the boy introduced himself as their upstairs neighbor and shook their hands. After one look at Y/N, he nudged Arthur's bicep. "So, she's the one keeping half the building up at night. Good on you, pal." Arthur blinked in confusion as she ushered the guy away, red-faced and muttering about his nerve.

Arthur was overly generous, giving out fistfuls of sweets while taking a few extra seconds to gather his nerves and compliment the costumes he liked best. It felt good to interact with strangers without constantly second guessing himself. Y/N would rub his arm or kiss his shoulder and tell him what a great job he was doing. "Kids are easy," he said, refilling the candy dish. But he reveled in her praises, anyway. And the knowledge that meeting the neighbors was going well.

Clean-up required little effort. The jack-o-lantern sat on their kitchen table, flames flickering as the wicks burned away. The door decor was packed safely for use next year. His plaid blazer was slung over the back of a dining chair and his wig was off. Y/N's decision to leave her whiskers on pleased him - she made a damn sexy cat. He pocketed the last few pieces of candy to snack on during the remainder of the evening.

The Sunday Night Special Presentation she'd picked out, a made-for-TV horror movie, began at 9:00 PM on GBC. Most of its airtime was punctuated by her tipsy snickers and legal wisecracks, which was typical when they watched something stupid. Yet, as the show went on, she grew quieter, barely speaking between sips of her third cocktail. As they sat on the sofa, her posture stiffened. Forearms crossed over her breasts. Her nails dug into her upper arm.

The change started two-thirds of the way into the show, when the plot about a doll running amok twisted into a story about a professional woman trying to assert herself against the demands of her mother. Against the expectations of availability. To fight for the simplicity of having dinner and peace and quiet. It resonated with him, which felt weird. Especially when the film cut to black, the implication being the mother would meet a violent end at the hands of her possessed daughter.

A cheerful jingle came on. Puerto Rico was a direct flight from Gotham Airport, it advertised, a flight that lasted "two hours and fifteen tropical minutes." They should get out while the weather was still good. The juxtaposition of mood broke him out of his ponderings. He flicked off the blaring television with the remote. Then he heard Y/N sniffling.

She set her glass on the coffee table, a slight tremble in her hand. "I need some air," she whispered as she rose, then went out onto the fire escape.

Arthur rubbed his thigh and pressed his lips together. He wasn't used to seeing her cry. Not from sadness. Should he follow her? Give her time? Both had worked previously, depending on the situation. But he wasn't sure what had upset her, what situation they were in now.

Exhaling sharply, he grabbed her glass and dumped the rest of the drink down the kitchen sink. Rinsed their dinner plates and put the slow cooker in the fridge. When he'd finished making decaf coffee ten minutes later, she still hadn't returned. He ambled towards the ajar glass door and stepped out.

Moonlight outlined her shapely figure and reflected off her hair, the silver a contrast to the orange glow of the streetlamps illuminating her face. Her stare seemed fixated on the street below. He followed it to see a group of ghouls and goblins spraying shaving cream on a shop window. A couple, one he'd see occasionally when out for a cigarette, walked down the sidewalk. A woman was half-carrying a drunk man towards a bus stop.

Upon clearing her throat, Y/N spoke. "I may not look like it, but I had a great time with you tonight. The movie just got to me." Relieved, Arthur sidled next to her, wrapped his arm about her back. Her head fell to his shoulder and she smoothed her hand over his stomach. "I don't mean to hide from you. Someday you'll know the details of my earlier life." She scoffed. "When I'm ready to think about them." He entwined their fingers and kissed her hairline, avoiding the wired tips of her cat ears.

Shivering, she took a shaky breath. "There are no skeletons in my closet. Only disappointments." Her voice cracked as she beamed at him, cupped his cheek, and pressed her face to his. "Knowing I'd get to have you would have made those years so much easier."

He held her tightly, massaging between her shoulders. She'd been speaking about herself, but he couldn't help thinking it was about him, too. His years with Penny. His stints in Arkham. The loneliness, the isolation, the endless anger and yearning to be more than a speck of dirt no one cared for. His journal was full of questions about where the hell his one and only was. If he'd known she'd be real, tangible instead of a figment, would existence have hurt less?

Wincing, he tried to push through those thoughts. To focus on her instead of himself. What mattered was that Y/N needed him. Perhaps a joke would cheer her. "I was thinking the other night of how easy it is to smile around you," he said. "You tickle my funny bone." Amusement bubbled in her throat, music to his ears. She released a contented sigh and nuzzled the crook of his neck.

Peaceful stillness ensued as the minutes passed. Though the breeze was chill, goosebumps forming on his pale skin, her affection kept his heart warm. His fingertips rubbed circles into her lower back, and she offered a pleasured hum. Across the way, footsteps pounded. He glanced to see a kid darting up the street, plastic pumpkin pail in tow. The boy's scream was filled with boundless energy: "Happy Halloween, Gotham!"

Snorting, Y/N took Arthur's hand and led him inside. The cheap tail she wore bounced with every exaggerated swivel of her hips. "I've behaved all evening, which your werewolf comment made extraordinarily difficult." She looped her arms around him and flashed a come-hither stare. "May I have a goodie?"

The scrape of her nails on his scalp coiled a knot in his abdomen. "Aren't you supposed to say 'trick-or-treat?'" he asked huskily.

"Your pussycat needs a petting or two." She closed the bedroom door behind them. "Maybe even a mauling."

His brows shot up on a hitched giggle. Then he palmed her hip while she started in on his buttons. Before she got too far, he traced a whisker with the pad of his thumb. Let their foreheads meet and pecked her eyelids. "Only if you give me something good to eat." He pressed into her, his enjoyment relentless, not waiting for her reply before devouring her mouth.

~~~~~

Tag list (Let me know if you want to be added!): @harmonioussolve, @howdylilflower, @sweet-nothings04, @stephieraptorr, @rommies, @fallenstarsabyss, @gruffle1, @octopus-plasma, @tsukiakarinobara, @arthur-flecks-lovely-smile, @another-day-in-chuckletown, @hhandley80, @jokerownsmysoul, @mrscarnival

#arthur fleck #arthur fleck fanfic #arthur fleck x reader #arthur fleck x ofc #arthur fleck x female reader #joker 2019 #watchwhathappens

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aurora-the-kunoichi · 5 years ago

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For the Love of Shell- Chapter 38

Here is chapter 38 of my Oc story!

Full Story here

With winter come and gone, spring and summer came rushing in. The dreary slush and ice melting away to flowers and flowers gave way to hot summer nights. It was hard to believe the year was already half way over with.

They continued to keep the purple dragons check with the police, their mutant presence known within its ranks. They had yet to meet the brains behind the operation, Hun, but it was only a matter of time before he would make himself known and deal with them himself. They looked forward to that meeting maybe that could end this foolishness with his downfall.

The battle nexus championship was a just a week away, and everyone was beside themselves with excitement. Leo looked forward to seeing his friend Usagi again, along with showing what he and his brothers could do in the tournament. He was determined to have at least one of them win the championship, they had been training hard and hoped they deserved to at least make it to the finals.

Master Splinter was going to accompany them to the Battle Nexus but was not going to participate in the tournament, but he was looking forward to seeing his old friend the Daimyo. Leo sat on his bed sharpening his katana when he looked to the side of his bed and rested his eyes on the special bonsai tree that sat proudly on his night stand. Well maintained, green and lush, he took pride keeping the tree alive and well. It had been almost a year since they had seen Aurora last; her last painting had sold in Egypt for a substantial sum. Most of the proceeds were given to a local charity which didn’t surprise him in the slightest.

He hoped she was well and happy. Maybe she had a boyfriend? Maybe she was married? The thought suddenly made his heart drop into his stomach, rolling over on itself at the mere thought of her in someone else’s arms.

Shaking the unpleasant image from his mine he didn’t need to think about that. Besides he was the one to let Aurora go so foolishly, so he needed to stop thinking about her and learn to deal with the consequences. He allowed the tree to remain by his bed side as a reminder of the love they shared, that he had, had a glimpse of happiness for at a moment in time. He never wanted to forget the smell of her, the taste of her lips, the sound of her voice. Each of those precious memories were slowly slipping away as time went by. Vanishing from his senses like dust in a storm. It hurt to lose them like he was losing a part of himself as they faded from his mind. Selfishly he hoped she would attend the Battle Nexus championship, so he could see her once more, maybe refresh the happy memories of her sound and smell but knew she most likely wouldn’t. He imagined she had moved on making a new life for herself and wouldn’t trouble herself with a championship of mutants and aliens.

Leo imagined her lying on a beach in Egypt curled up on someone’s arms nuzzled into their armpit like she once did with him, kissing his lips. Shaking his head of the unpleasant thoughts again he finished sharpening his katana and made his way to the kitchen were Mikey had just finished preparing dinner for the family.

The entire family sat down at the kitchen table as Mikey set the large casserole dish filling with something delicious smelling on the makeshift trivet in the middle of the too small for four mutant turtles kitchen table.

Splinter leaned forward taking a low pull of the pleasant aroma his eyes closing in delight. “My son, your cooking skills have much improved over the past year. What is this dish called?”

“Shrimp and White Bean Cassoulet sensei.” Mikey smiled sitting down next to Raph who was already dishing up a sizable helping for their father.

The old rat took a spoon full of the helping he was given and took a tentative bite. Mikey watched his father chew the food he made and waited with baited breath to see if he liked it or not. After what seemed like forever his father’s swallowed what was on his mouth and a giant smile broke over his face and took another bit bite. “You have outdone yourself Michelangelo. It is very good.”

After the approval of their father the rest of family eagerly dug in filling their bellies with Mikey’s new talent.

Raphael leaned back rubbing his now fully belly and gave his little brother a thumbs up. He could get used to the home cooked meals; he was beginning to get tired of pizza nearly every night. His eyes wandered over to his eldest brother, their leader. He seemed a little distracted as he played with his fork from across the table.

He was still angry with him but after time passed he begin to understand why he did what he did. Aurora deserved to be happy and if it was without them then he was ok with it. But damn did he miss her. “Penny for your thoughts fearless?” he finally asked tossing his napkin at the distracted turtle.

Raph smiled when his older brother caught the flying projectile without even looking up, his senses had definitely gotten better over the past year. Leo had been training pretty much nonstop most likely to keep his mind off of the forbidden subject in the lair. Aurora’s name had barely been mentioned since last Christmas. Leo took care of that bonsai tree like it was his child, tending to it every day without fail. He would admit he had spent a few times sitting on Leo’s bed staring at the tree imagining Aurora near death laying beside the small fragile sapling fighting with her body to stay awake, to stay alive. He would give the tree a mist of water before running his fingers over the green foliage before returning to his day. He knew Mikey and Donnie did the same, he had caught them both staring at the tree several times as well.

Finally Leo looked up from his fork and locked eyes with his hothead brother.

“Just thinking about the Battle Nexus Championship, trying to mentally prepare for it I guess. Looking forward to seeing Usagi as well, it’s been a year since we’ve seen him.”

“What about little bunny foo foo?” Mikey playfully cooed running his fingers up his older brothers arm. “I’m sure she’s gonna be happy to see you bro!” His eye ridges waged suggestively.

“Yeah she’s gonna be happy to find out your single.” Donnie chimed in taking another bite of casserole directly from the dish still sitting on the table.

Leo grunted in frustration at the nickname Aurora gave Asuna and shook his head letting his fork drop with a clang onto his plate. “Not interested, she’s the one who put doubt in my mind when we were there last.”

“What?” Raph suddenly got irritated eyeing his brother. “What did that fucking rabbit say about Aurora?”

“She asked me how long it would take for Aurora to realize that I couldn’t give her a normal life. I can’t marry her, can’t give her children. I can only offer seclusion and a sewer.”

“That bitch.” Both Raphael and Mikey growled.

“What makes you think you can’t give her a child?” Donnie cut in questioningly.

“Um..I’m a mutant turtle and she’s human.”

Donnie leaned back in his chair and hummed his disappointment in his brother, “In theory there is no reason we can’t have children with humans. You forget we ourselves are half human with human DNA. I’ve analyzed my semen and found it nearly identical to humans. There’s no guarantee but it’s not impossible.”

“Donnie my boy, I don’t wanna know how you got your hands on human sperm to compare to your own.” Mikey laughed gathering up the remains of dinner before shuffling it off to the sink to soak the dishes.

“Sperm banks Mikey.”

“Ewwww!” the orange banded turtle grunted in disgust from the sink.

Donnie shook his head pushing himself away from the table and began helping Mikey with putting away dinner. Gently nudging his younger brothers from the sink he took over the duty of washing the dishes.

Leo ignored his brothers, his thoughts lost to the pleasant thought of Aurora’s belly swollen with child…. their child. Lying in his arms her back resting against his plastron as his hands rubbed lightly across the taught flesh of her extended belly feeling their unborn child shift beneath his fingers. A genuine smile tugged at his lips as his fingers splayed across the table rubbing the formica top.

“Leo?” a deep voice broke him from his thoughts.

“Hmm?” Leo looked up to see Raph eyeing him cautiously.

“After we digest all this shrimp you wanna train?”

“Sure Raph.”

~~~~~~~~~

The four brothers sat in the poorly lit alleyway and watched their father draw the mystic symbols across the old bricks of the vacant building with white chalk. Each swipe of the chalk was smooth and calculated as his furry fingers drew the symbols from memory. Finally finished Master Splinter handed the chalk to Donnie who quickly placed it into his duffle bag. Taking a deep breath the old rat pressed his palms together in a praying pose and began to recite the incantation.

Slowly the water that lay in the alleyway rushed towards the symbols rolling up over the chalk outline merging and swirling into what looked like a water door. After a few moments the water congealed into a watery doorway and began to glow with a light blue hue. Splinter wasted no time and passed through the liquid passageway followed shortly by his four sons.

As the white light of the portal faded they found themselves in the bustling city of the Daimyo’s kingdom. The streets were teaming with anthropomorphic animals buying and selling wares seeming unfazed by the sudden appearance of five bodies through a portal.

Hoisting their bags over their shoulders they made their way through the market towards the Daimyo’s palace. They were invited by the Daimyo himself to stay in his home as they attended the battle nexus championship.

As they passed by the carts of goods eyes began to follow them, fingers pointing in their direction followed by excited mumbles. Young females of all species lined up on the street to stare at them eyes bright with enthusiasm.

“What was that about?” Mikey whispered to his older brothers eyeing the eager gazes in the crowd. The young turtle could feel the adrenaline start to race through his veins. This was exciting; it looked like they had been expecting them and thrilled to meet them, his baby blue eyes sparkled with anticipation.

Reaching the gates the large doors opened allowing the passage into the court yard. The main door slide open revealing the large ruler his arms outstretched in welcome as they approached.

“It is good to see you old friend.” The large man rumbled with laughter as his eyes beamed with happiness.

“My old friend it has been too long and for that I apologize, the past few years have been….busy. And I am sorry it wasn’t me that introduced you to my sons last year. How have you been? How is your son?” Master Splinter grinned up at Daimyo his hips tiling as he bowed out of respect.

“Nonsense Splinter, there is no need for apologize our meeting a year ago was destiny I am sure of it. Ue-Sama is good, healthy and eager to learn. His skill advances everyday and looks forward to his time as Daimyo. Sometimes I think he’s a little too eager to take over. But that is here nor there. Now I’m sure you’d like to see where you’ll be staying for the tournament? I hope you don’t mind sharing a room, it is big enough to accommodate all five of you and has been set up with five beds but rooms this week are scarce in the palace as you might have guessed.” The Daimyo smiled ushering them into the large door of the large palace.

Leo stepped next to his father and spoke up, “We are grateful for your hospitality Daimyo and will take whatever is available to us. We are used to sleeping in the same room so it is no trouble.”

The Daimyo slowed and looked down on the blue leader while he led them through the great hall. His aged eyes flashed with something but quickly returned to his joyful demeanor before answering him. His large came down resting on the top of his carapace, “Leonardo I look forward to seeing you and your brothers competing in the tournament this afternoon. There have been stories of you four and your skill and bravery from last year’s battle. You four have become rather popular with the ladies.” A deep rumbling laugh escaped the ruler’s throat opening a door to what looked like their quarters for their stay.

“Yes we noticed the stares as we passed through the market. We were wondering what that was about.” Donnie said setting his duffle bag on one the farthest bed from the door.

“Yes don’t be surprised if you become very popular very fast. Now if you will excuse me I need to make final preparations for the tournament this afternoon. Please make yourself at home and don’t hesitate to ask Gyoji if you require anything. Please present yourself to the battle arena for registration at 2pm your time. You all must take part in the qualifying round before you enter the tournament. But I have no doubt each of you will succeed. I’ll see you all on the arena. Good luck turtles.” And with that the Daimyo exited their room disappearing down the hallway.

Leo sat down on the bed he chose and set his bag down next to him. His eyes moved to his brothers as they settled in. “Does anyone want to join me in the market? I’d like to wander around for a bit before we register. I’m hoping we can run into Usagi, would be nice to see him before we go.”

All three of his brothers were happy to go but Sensei wanted to stay behind to attend to a small matter, but promised to meet them at the arena at the given time of registration.

The street loud with conversation they looked over the wears and food for sale. Every once in a while they were stopped and gushed over, random hands brushing up against their shells and fingers lingering on their arms. Most of the admirers were female but they did get a few males come up to them shaking their hands thanking them for their help last year.

Mikey and Raph soon broke off from the other two wanting to find something warm to eat and Donnie got distracted by some old artifacts.

“I’m gonna be a bit, go ahead and keep going I’ll meet you back at our room in an hour.” Donnie waved his eldest brother on turning an ancient metal tool over in his fingers.

Further down the street Leo was buying a sharpening stone when his name rang out behind him. Turning around after completing his purchase his eyes narrowed in on a familiar female rabbit.

“Asuna.” Leo forced a smile waving to the cheery rabbit as she jogged towards him her arms outstretched for an apparent hug. Bracing himself he let the rabbit practically knock him on his shell wrapping her arms around his carapace.

“It’s so good to see you Leonardo. It has been too long! Are you and your brothers here for the tournament?” She smiled sweetly up at him her chin placed on the top of his plastron her eyes sparkling with adoration.

Returning the hug awkwardly he gently pushed her from his body. “It’s good to see you too Asuna. Yes my brothers and I are here to participate. Hey have you seen Usagi? I was hoping to chat with him before everything starts.”

Her fingers remaining touching his forearms and nodded quickly pulling at his arms. “Yes he’s down by the stables talking to Gen. Here I’ll take you to him. He will be very pleased to see you. He has also expressed his excitement in seeing you today.”

Being led by his arm Leo had no choice but to follow the eager rabbit doing his best at keeping the young female from brushing up against him as they weaved through busy streets. He was finding it very difficult to keep her from touching him, her hips brushing up against his, her grasp pulling a little too hard so his arm would brush across her breasts. She was incorrigible.

After a few silent moments being dragged by his arm she finally slowed giving his arm reprieve. Her white furry fingers began dancing across his pebbled skin of his bicep and he could tell she wanted to ask him something. He didn’t have to wait long.

“So is Aurora here? I figured she’d be by your side.” She asked almost in a whisper her eyes training on his looking for any emotional reaction.

Letting out deep sigh he shook his head. “I have no idea, I broke it off with her a year ago and we haven’t seen her since. And that’s all I’ll say about it so I would appreciate the topic not being brought up again.”

Her head turned no doubt keeping the happy grin to herself at the news he was no longer with Aurora. He really didn’t want to see her nor spend any time with the meddlesome rabbit. She was conniving and calculating her mind scheming, she was nice enough but he didn’t trust her. True it was still his fault his relationship with Aurora ended due to his poor judgment but she had planted the poisonous seed of doubt that grew into a snarling demon in his mind. The sooner they got to Usagi the sooner he’d been free of little bunny foo foo.

As they rounded the corner Asuna’s body tensed and pushed him back around the corner pressing him carapace back against the brick building. Her eyes darted to him and back to the looming corner they had just been.

“What? What’s going on?” He asked feeling annoyed at the close proximity to the female rabbit.

A smile spread across her face and she struck with a quickness he couldn’t prepare for. Her furry hands cupped his cheeks and leaned forward her lips slanting over his. Her tongue pressed into his mouth catching him off guard he couldn’t even make his mind move fast enough to push her away. Her warm body pressed firmly to his her breasts compressing against his plastron.

His mind began to process what was going on and his hands rested on her shoulders ready to push the conniving rabbit from his body when he saw why the rabbit was kissing him.

In what seemed like slow motion Aurora in all her glory rounded the corner nearly running smack dab into them. His mind still in a confused fog he was unable to react fast enough as her purple eyes focused quickly in on his.

Not quite registering what she was seeing she smiled awkwardly at the kissing duo but realization struck her like a runaway bull hitting her in the stomach. Her eyes widened in shock then pain watching helplessly as the rabbit’s mouth assaulted his. Leo noticed her body go rigid her hands clenching into fists at her side as her breath hitched in her throat. The sorrow that played over her startled features soon was replaced by anger as her purple eyes flashed for a second with their brilliant light.

It all seemed to happen slowly dragging on before his very eyes as he tried to get his body to respond with his minds commands but in all reality it all happened in a matter of a few seconds. Getting his hands to move Leo finally pushed Asuna from his body their mouths popping as their lips parted.

“Aurora.” Leo gasped for breath wiping their mingling saliva from his mouth with the back of his hand. But time began to run at normal speed again and as quick as she was there she disappeared back around the corner leaving his eyesight.

“Asuna, what the shell were you thinking?” Leo growled trying to go after the retreating Aurora but was slammed back against the wall by Asuna who pressed back into him her eye hooded with excitement no doubt pleased with her display.

“Let her go Leonardo. She’s human, your animal, you should be with an animal, you should be with me. I’ll treat you right, I’ll love you, I’ll obey you.” She cooed trying to run her fingers down his cheek but was abruptly stopped by Leonardo crushing grip. A yelp of pain pushed past her lips as her smile faded from her face.

“I can’t believe you did this, your advances are unwarranted. I told you before I was not interested in you Asuna but you still pulled this inappropriate display to blatantly hurt Aurora. Please leave me and my family alone.” Not giving her a chance to object Leo pushed Asuna with force nearly sending her into a cart behind her.

He wiped around the corner fully intent to find Aurora as she retreated but found her gone. As fast his legs would carry him he darted down the street searching the busy crowd for her. How difficult would it to be to find a human in a street filled with animals. Very, apparently, he had no luck locating her doubling back twice to make sure he didn’t miss her.

True to her nature she had vanished into the shadows like the skilled kunoichi she was. At least he knew she was there, no doubt getting ready to take part in the battle nexus championship.

@imthegreenfairy88 @bluesakurablossom @alonia143 @ravn-87

#tmnt #tmnt leonardo #tmnt raphael #tmnt donatello #tmnt michelangelo #tmnt fandom #tmnt fanfiction #tmnt fic #TMNT TMNT fanfiction #Fortheloveofshell #chapter 38

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alitheamateur · 6 years ago

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The Grind- Chapter 14

Several days after my return to the city, and routine normalcy, I was required to attend a conference for Colton’s next match. I had no excuses for absence this time, nor did I want them. I thought sure I may upchuck the chicken salad I chose for lunch earlier, but I didn’t want to run away this time. Proudly showing him that life indeed did keep rolling despite him cowardly bowing out. This recent feeing of courage lifted me mentally, & I very much intended to set him ablaze with regret, and torture, and longing all the same. The cliché “look what you lost, imbecile.” Moreover, I wanted to prove that despite the hot mess I had been not so long ago, I was going to find myself again. I was going to manage drinking a cup at The Grind without wanting to burst into a screaming tantrum, and I wouldn’t have to take an alternate route commuting to work every morning just to avoid the drive by Mac’s. I knew I couldn’t erase him, for obvious reasons, but I found hopeful comfort in knowing he would fade in time.

I reached the location making decent drive time despite the expected sea of traffic in attendance. Shoulders haughtily held high, dressed to the nine in a relaxed, yet very flattering olive-green jumpsuit I had ordered online weeks ago. Thin straps, a waistline cinched with a loosely tied built in belt, the hem grazing the lower region of my calves just as intended to display strappy nude 3 inch summer wedge. This special location much more glamourous and upbeat than the typical local boy fights in Pittsburgh, which meant more media, more cameras. Colton’s title match against Mendez may have been etched as a loss on his record, but not to be considered the same for his career. His execution, ferocity, as well as sheer God given talent landed all industry eyes on him, resulting in quite the busy schedule for Ritter and his team.

I slipped carefully in a row towards the back of the room, before turning myself directly round into the aisle to march toward the rows nearer the stage. I wasn’t there to lurk in the shadows, I wanted my presence to be fully known to him once he arrived. Colton holding the winning favor for the match, his opponent made an entrance first. Jon Ryker, a middleweight contender from the coast of North Carolina held the size of an undeniably future champ, but the record of just another mediocre kid with a tendency for rage. He took a seat quietly, the public highly aware he was the type to fly under the radar despite the frequent snippets from his sessions he posted to an Instagram account. As a matter of fact, he was much like Colton in the aspect of a hatred for the spotlight.

Next, it seemed a wind of his attendance brushed over me in the seat, causing goosebumps to raise over my exposed sun-kissed skin. At first, I subconsciously dropped my head to glance down at my feet, avoiding the initial moment of eye contact with him in over a year. But, it was bound to happen, might as well be sooner than later. I raised my face, not letting my eyes go straight towards him, but the general direction of the side entryway first. Then, inevitably, my stare found him, seeing him not looking at all as homely and unappealing as I had hoped on the drive over. A fight of this magnitude leaning more over the proper side of the fence, which meant the attire was more professional & buttoned up than I knew Colton cared for. Which meant he was going to be himself as usual, and go boldly against the grain in typical Colton Ritter fashion. He wore a motorcycle manufacturer screen tee, indigo washed jeans that sat low on his hips, and that leather riding jacket he placed over the back of his seat, making it clear he’d likely rode the bike. The image of him speeding carefree through the streets under city lights, and starry summer skies made me shamefully weak even then.

Miraculously, I was able to remain apparently unnoticed for several minutes after the questions commenced. Everyone had went about their business with the asking and answering while I waited in the wings. I prayed maybe I’d be incognito altogether until I stood for my question, but the events didn’t play out by that hand exactly. The fifth row, directly in front of me, a gentleman two seats down was called upon by Colton to proceed with his inquiry. When he finished his thought and sat to his seat, the Pretty Boy Punisher, which now seemed to be a household name, kudos Liv, you savvy girl, you, huffed out in thought on how to proceed with his response, all the while sliding his eyes around the room erratically.

That is until he saw something familiar. Someone familiar. The fuzzy hairs on the nape of my neck stood at attention, recognizing the feverish look tossed upon me. I watched the color drain entirely from his usual rosy cheeks, his Adam’s apple bobbed up and down with his thick swallow of utter disbelief. His teeth scathed over the bottom of his lip, and his smoky eyes widened a bit. He appeared to have seen a ghost, much like the ones that frequented the halls of my apartment. Only now, there were no ghosts. This was reality. The first time we’d beheld the other in the flesh since the collapse. Through my darkly dilatated pupils, I could see the very real agony in his expression now that the shock had dwindled away. The arm he had randomly settled on the tabletop now raised upward, his large hand stroked over the lines of his mouth in a worrisome manner.

The regret and yearn that I so longed to see in him, assuming it would bring a swell of much needed, childish satisfaction, didn’t do so in the least. Rather it drew up from the well of my own personal sadness buried deep in my gut. My face felt dazed, and afar off in a land of psychedelic sorts. I saw reds, and static black in my peripherals, like my recent grief was coming to life and engulfing me. Fearing the entire room was observing the exchange, I looked away swiftly, seeing as he didn’t have the heart to do so first. Embarrassment in the public eye wasn’t something he needed right now, and I wasn’t about to let myself be the butt of the gossip column speculation either. Although a tabloid photo in this outfit wouldn’t have been the absolute worst thing…. After he was able to scramble some form of sentence together for the previously speaking reporter, I figured since the cat, the painfully awkward, very large cat, was out of the bag, I might as well take my turn and get it done. I slipped up a requesting hand, and he pointed nonverbally to me.

“Um, Mr. Ritter, I just wanted to know, with a win under your belt from only a few months back, do you feel like you’re coming into this matchup with some extra momentum?” He cleared his throat, nervously locking, and unlocking his fingers together. I waited, and waited, then waited some more patiently through his worrying ponder for an answer. I imagined his blood heating, and every vein under his skin erupting with hot pressure.

“Uhm… Thanks for the question, Liv. Thank…. Thanks for coming. It’s good to see you.”

Shit, Colt. Way to spotlight the elephant in the room

“I uh, I feel good about that last win, yeah. I definitely needed the morale boost after all the shit I had going on……. After the um, after the loss against Mendez, I mean. With the continued support of my team, and a loaded effort, I feel like maybe we can come away with this one too. But, I’ve come to realize that getting every win isn’t what’s important.”

Are you trying to tell me something Ritter? You needed a morale boost after Mendez, sure. But that hesitation, and the shifty eyes you gave said otherwise, right?

Off I went down the rabbit hole of my thoughts again, analyzing subliminal messages that were nonexistent, I’m sure. It’s true what they say about the first time you see an ex post breakup, especially if one still is still pining with every cell over the other. Pining against my better judgement, but pining in every way.

When everything had come to a close for the evening, following the fists raised, nose-to-nose photo op of the fighters, I was ready for nothing else but the quiet solace of my apartment to recover from the forced overdose of emotion I endured. Colton nearly plowed through anything in his path, including Mac who had given me a knowing, and sympathetic nodded hello, to retreat back into his cave. My original thinking always leading me to believe he may well have meant those crude words he’d jeered at me the night at Mac’s. But after witnessing his demeanor with me, it seemed maybe he hadn’t originally aimed to say them out loud in such a callous manner.

…….

Colton snagged the victory the following night, and the post-conference was heavy with the same stomach churning, weighty, discomfort for both my ex and I. Only this time, a bystander had detected our lingering looks, and the quivering of words when we spoke only about his win.

Enter Tia.

I was snaking my way through the scattered crowd toward the nearest exit, when a petite, yet very firm hand clasped around my wrist rattling the tightness of my watch.

“Running from something? You jumped up out of your seat like the room was on fire,” the female stranger spoke. “I’m Tia, by the way. Liv Elliott, right?”

She was absolutely stunning in the most unlikely way. A frame standing of about 5 foot, which is probably a generous estimate, creamy caramel skin. Her raven black, silky hair braided into tight rows atop her head, and the lightest, most electric shade of baby blue eyes I had ever seen.

“Uh, yeah? I’m Liv Elliott. Have we met?” She’d turned loose of my arm to reach forth in a hand shake.

“Oh no, no. I’m just familiar with your work. I’m actually a fighter here in town! Clearly I haven’t quite made a name for myself yet.” She giggled, and curled her shoulders up around her neck as if to sink her head into a turtle shell.

“Don’t be silly! It’s just, if your matches aren’t really advertised or spoke about, I don’t usually know about them, ya’ know? It’s very nice to meet you, Tia.”

The woman seemed to relax a bit at my reassurance. When I stepped away from the conversation, she was abruptly on my heels.

“Would you want to have a drink, Liv? In all honesty, woman to woman, it kind of seems like you could use one.”

I’d had worse offers in the last year, and she seemed nice enough. Especially to a hermit like myself who had yet to form anything closely resembling an actual friendship in this city.

“You know what, Tia? I think I would like a drink. You know a place close by?” “Next door, there’s a decent lounge in the hotel lobby.”

She led the way to the ground floor of the contemporary, blue lighted bar at the neighboring hotel of the fight venue. On the way I complimented her shoes, and she suggested I try the Long Island Ice Tea. We opted for a two seater booth rather than the bar top since the fit and length of my skirt would indeed show more than desired if I hiked up onto a stool.

“So, Tia. How long have you been competing in the ring?” I sipped the excellently recommended Long Island.

“That’s a really long story, “ she chuckled. “But, to sum it up, pretty much my entire life. I started Brazilian Jui Jitsu when I was about 6 years old, and it all sorta stemmed from there. My dad was an instructor growing up, so it was something I came to instinctively love the way he did, I guess. What about you, hm? How did you get into the media side of the cage?”

This girl was oozing a contained edginess, and I had already decided she was cool as hell 3 sips in.

“Not to sound redundant, but that’s kind of long story as well. Only mine probably isn’t as enjoyable as yours if we’re being truthful.”

“Ah, I see. That story wouldn’t happen to contain a character by the name of Colton Ritter by any chance, would it?”

Busted. But in reality, how could Colton and I not honestly expect people to pick up on the oh so clear connection between us? Especially considering the circus of exchanges the last two days. “That obvious, huh?” I scrunched my nose in humiliation, letting my back relax onto the white, padded booth.

“ ‘Fraid so, Liv. You two were absolutely locked in on each other in there. Not to mention the way the poor sap looks at you. Anything you wanna talk about?”

Tia and I chatted in the hotel bar that night till the hour closely approaching 2 a.m.. I’d given her the high points of what played out between Colt & I, leaving out many of the juicy particulars for another time. No one would every hinder the thick as thieves, near 16-year bond that I had with Sara, by any means. However, Tia seemed to be proving herself someone I could have to fill her shoes when I needed a friend closer to home. I duly noted all the positives having a friend like her would entail. She was fiercely self-assured, bold, an exceptional listening ear, and most importantly, she had brilliant taste in shoes. She would become all the things this lonely, imitating city girl was missing here in Pittsburgh.

The upcoming months drew us tightly knitted together; you could say inseparable. Her loft apartment was only a measly 8 miles from mine, and the café where she waited tables in the evening was a short walk from my office. Tia Larkin would make my apparently sad life much more amusing from that night on.

Dating was teetering nonexistent, if you even consider one set up, courtesy of my oh so pushy, new friend, actually dating to begin with. She painted a very accurate description of him as part of her strenuous efforts to convince me to “get my fine, successful ass back out there.” His name was Luke, he was 23, and a personal trainer at the gym she frequented in.

“He’ll fit right in with your weird fetish for chiseled, rugged Abercrombie models with trust issues, Liv.” She’d teased.

Apparently, I had a type now? The reluctancy nearly caused severe outbreaks of wheezing panic the night I was dressing to meet him. In all honestly, it wasn’t fair that the poor guy had to follow in the very existent, very large shadow of Colton. I mean, I wouldn’t want to be the one attempting to fill those shoes. Appearance, wit, talent in the ring, or the bedroom for that matter… I felt as I was just setting him up to fail miserably. But, in hopes to raise my still somewhat broken spirit, and get Tia the hell off my back, I was going to give it an A+ effort.

He’d sent a text, (strike one) sending directions to the bar downtown, (strike two) whereby he wanted to me. There wasn’t at all any problems with the bar itself, but I had just enough small town in me to consider a bar very tasteless in the matter of first dates. Reason one, being the environment is entirely and distastefully too loud for any form of decent conversation, let alone two people who don’t know the first thing about each other. Secondly, I just felt it was a lazy copout. No sincere thought went into planning a date in a local bar. There was no romance. No allure. I fancy a dirty planked wooden floor, and a sloppy game of pool as much as the next gal, don’t get me wrong. But as far as first impressions go, it was just a no for me. Or, was this just my subconscious picking this Luke guy apart like a starving vulture only because he wasn’t the specific fellow I wanted to be spending a rowdy evening at the pub with….

It was a sticky summer evening, and clearly a casual date, so I cast little consideration on an outfit. Ripped denim shorts, and a quarter sleeved, v-neck top, beach waved hair. I closed the locked door of my car turning towards the bar entrance when I spotted someone jogging across the busy street in my direction. There was no denying he was blessed in the looks department, but in a more boyish way than Colton. He had very subtle features, and large almond-shaped eyes. There was no whiskered shadow to his face, or visible scars, and his build was missing that broad, muscular shoulder set I had grown a liking to in regard to the male body. He fit the bill of personal trainer though, with toned, yet modestly sized arms. When he reached my car, he immediately swallowed me into a hug after leaving a formal kiss to my cheek.

“Liv, I’m guessing?” he raised in question.

“How incredibly embarrassed would you be if I said no?” I half grinned to appear joking, and was afraid he almost didn’t catch the humor when his own smile wilted a bit.

“Oh, not at all. See, I make a habit of kissing random, beautiful women in the middle of the street.”

Okay, kid. Touché on the playful banter. “Noted. But yes, I’m Liv. Liv Elliott. It’s very nice to meet you Luke,” I introduced.

“And you as well, Liv. You wanna head inside, or we can wait for the next girl in the street I’m going to kiss to show up?”

TAGS: @torialeysha @eap1935

#Tom Hardy #tom hardy fanfiction #tomhardy #tomhardyfanfic #tommy conlon #elizabeth olsen #tomhardyfanfiction #thegrind

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brightbeautifulthings · 7 years ago

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A - C | D - H | I - L | M - O | P - R | S - Z | Recent

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Forman, Gayle - I Have Lost My Way

Fowler, Karen Joy - The Jane Austen Book Club

Fraction, Matt - Hawkeye, Volume 1: My Life as a Weapon - Hawkeye, Volume 2: Little Hits - Hawkeye, Volume 3: L.A. Woman

French, Tana - Broken Harbor - Faithful Place - In The Woods - The Likeness - The Secret Place - The Trespasser - The Witch Elm

Frydman, Lindsey - To Whatever End

Gaiman, Neil - Good Omens - The Graveyard Book - The Ocean at the End of the Lane

Garber, Stephanie - Caraval - Finale - Legendary - Spectacular

García Márquez, Gabriel - One Hundred Years of Solitude

Gardner, Troy H. - Tunnelville - Wakefield

Geiger, A.V. - Scared Little Rabbits

Gerdes, Eckhard - How to Read

Gevedon, Garten - Dorothy in the Land of Monsters

Gladstone, Max - This Is How You Lose the Time War

Goldman, William - The Princess Bride

Goldsmith, Amy - Those We Drown

Gonzales, Sophie - If This Gets Out - Never Ever Getting Back Together - Nobody in Particular - Only Mostly Devastated - Perfect on Paper

Gould, Courtney - The Dead and the Dark - What the Woods Took - Where Echoes Die

Grant, Kester - The Court of Miracles

Grant, Mira - Alien: Echo - Blackout - Deadline - Feed - Feedback - Final Girls - In the Shadow of Spindrift House - Into The Drowning Deep - Kingdom of Needle & Bone - Rise - Rolling in the Deep

Gratton, Tessa - Strange Grace

Green, John - Let it Snow - Turtles All The Way Down - Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Guest, Judith - Ordinary People

Hamilton, Laurell K. - Affliction - Blood Noir - Bloody Bones - Blue Moon - Bullet - Burnt Offerings - A Caress of Twilight - Cerulean Sins - Circus of the Damned - Crimson Death - Danse Macabre - Dead Ice - Divine Misdemeanors - The First Death - Flirt - Guilty Pleasures - The Harlequin - Hit List - Incubus Dreams - Jason - The Killing Dance - Kiss the Dead - A Kiss of Shadows - The Laughing Corpse - A Lick of Frost - The Lunatic Cafe - Micah - Mistral’s Kiss - Narcissus in Chains - Obsidian Butterfly - Rafael - Seduced by Moonlight - Serpentine - A Shiver of Light - Skin Trade - Smolder - A Stroke of Midnight - Sucker Punch - Swallowing Darkness

Han, Jenny - Always & Forever, Lara Jean - It’s Not Summer Without You - P.S. I Still Love You - The Summer I Turned Pretty - To All The Boys I've Loved Before - We’ll Always Have Summer

Hancock, Barbara J. - After Always

Handler, Daniel - The Basic Eight - Why We Broke Up

Hannah, Andrea - Where Darkness Blooms

Hanover, Rebecca - The Similars

Harmon, Amy - From Sand & Ash

Harris, Mark H. - The Black Guy Dies First: Black Horror Cinema from Fodder to Oscar

Harris, Thomas - Red Dragon - The Silence of the Lambs

Harrison, Kim - PERfunctory AfFECTION

Hawkins, Paula - The Girl on the Train

Hendrix, Grady - The Final Girl Support Group - Horrorstör - My Best Friend’s Exorcism - The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires - We Sold Our Souls

Heng, Rachel - Suicide Club

Henry, April - Two Truths and a Lie

Henry, Christina - Alice - Looking Glass - Lost Boy: The True Story of Captain Hook - Red Queen

Hill, A.W. - The Switch

Hill, Joe - NOS4A2

Hill, Nathanael - The Switch

Hodge, Rosamund - Crimson Bound - Cruel Beauty

Hoffman, Alice - Practical Magic

Hogarth, Ainslie - The Boy Meets Girl Massacre

Hoover, Colleen - It Ends with Us

Hornby, Nick - High Fidelity

Howard, A.G. - Ensnared - Seasons of Flesh and Flame - Shades of Rust and Ruin - Splintered - Unhinged - Untamed

Howe, James - Bunnicula

Hugo, Victor - Les Misérables

Hunt, Laird - In the House in the Dark of the Woods

Hunter, C.C. - One Foot in the Grave

Hurwitz, Gregg - Hellbent - The Nowhere Man - Orphan X

Hutson, Thommy - Jinxed

Huxley, Aldous - Brave New World

#review index #d - h

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existentialstatesofmind · 8 years ago

Text

Special Night

“Good.” Clare stated. She doubted Drew would have asked her to marry him if he thought she was but still. Like most girls, one of Clare’s biggest fears happened to be turning into her mother. Even though Clare loved Helen and her mother had improved a lot over the years. She still didn’t want to raise her kids the way she’d been raised. “Yay! By then I’m sure I’ll be able to decide on a breed.” Clare said with a chuckle. She didn’t mind waiting to get what she wanted. She had a lot to learn about pets anyway and Drew was much better prepared to point her in the right direction for their first dog. She’d only picked turtles because they were small and she mistakenly thought the only hassle would be if their kids put in them in the bathtub or sink, which even Clare knew not to do especially if it was a land turtle. She listened as Drew detailed what a pain they were. The whole thing was actually kind of fascinating. She had no idea he knew that much about taking care of turtles. Or that they were so complicated! “Okay so we’ll just take the kids to see the huge sea turtles at the aquarium and call it a day.” Clare said with a chuckle. That’s what her parents had done every time she or Darcy said they wanted a pet. Planned a trip to the zoo or aquarium instead. “No but seriously, I don’t want a turtle. Or a rabbit despite the cuteness factor. I know they probably require even more work than turtles. Bids are probably hard to take care of too. Hamsters, guinea pigs and the like are out too. I hate rodents.” She shuddered. “Our kids will be in school and we both have careers that keep us busy so it’s fish or nothing. Except for our dogs, of course.” Clare decided. She grinned at Drew. “Me too.” She said softly. “Mmmhmm. That’s a relief. I don’t know if I could go through with this marriage if you hated Reese’s.” She teased. “Wait, what. Andrew, you little sneak. I love you.” Clare pecked his lips. Clare rocked her hips down harder, moaning as loud as she dared when he picked up the pace. “Andrew.” His name was the only word on her lips. She planted hard kisses along his neck and collarbone until Drew started to move around. Clare raised her head and her legs tightened around his waist. She hoped her heels didn’t dig into his thighs as he sat up. This position was better though. “Probably not. I’ve got a new diamond ring to distract my boss with.” Clare said breathily.

Thinking about animals for the kids, Drew looked at Clare and pushed his lips into a line when he thought for a moment. “Hopefully you’ll decide on a breed.” he smirked and looked at her when she talked about the zoo. “If anyone gets a pet besides a fish or a turtle it’s going to be me. I want a min pin for protection, but as a pet to play with and cuddle, you’ve probably be unfamiliar with the animal, but I want a sugar glider. It’ll be mainly in our room, I want it to know me as the owner and you as the second owner. As for our kids, they won’t be able to touch it until they’re older because unlike a puppy or a dog where they run when they get hurt or bounce back, a sugar glider will probably bite you and need medical attention. They’re not recommended for children to have though they are cute I think it would be easy to injure them since they only get to five or six inches and I don’t want to find out especially since if you put them in an aquarium for over a week they can break their hip. If it gets out when we’re home or if our kids are older and let it out, I want it to come straight to one of us. I also want a baby to start with that way, like children, we can learn what it likes most.” he smiled at her. A soft chuckle fell from Drew’s lips when she mentioned the Reese’s. “Don’t worry.” he smiled. “I love you too.” he whispered against her lips. Once she started to moan louder he started to thrust harder. Hearing her mention that her boss will be distracted by her ring caused him to smile more as he started to leave small hickeys on her neck. “Fuck babe.” he breathed and let out a few whimpers. “I’m getting closer.” he muttered and kept playing with her breast with one hand while his free hand moved to her clit.

#sn

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aurora-the-kunoichi · 5 years ago

Text

For The Love of Shell

It’s time for the battle nexus championship!

Read it in its entirety here

Chapter 39

After a few inquiries, Leonardo managed to locate Usagi who was talking to a man who resembled a rhinoceros. The man was big and burly, muscled yet lean and Leo noticed quickly it looked like the male’s horns had been cut off. He could only imagine that was the Gen, Asuna had been talking about. Before Leo could approach Usagi looked up to see the blue banded turtle making his way over.

“Leonardo son!” Usagi yelled hurriedly making his way over to his turtle friend. Their hands shot out clasping each other’s forearms in a firm steady handshake. “My friend I’m glad to see you. I hope all is well with you and your family.”

Leonardo smiled back at his rabbit friend watching as the rhino man made his way up behind Usagi his deep onyx eyes fixed on him.

Usagi heard his heavy friend come up behind him huffing through his nostrils. Turning slightly Usagi ushered to the man wearing a white kimono with red paw prints on each breast. “Leonardo son this is my friend Murakami Gennosuke, he will also be joining us in the tournament.”

Leo waited for a curt or rude comment from the intimating Rhino but the thin line of his lips parted revealing a bright smile. His hand shot forth gasping Leo’s in a firm handshake. “Please.” Gen started. “Any friend of Usagi is a friend of mine and my friends call me Gen. Usagi has told me much about you and brothers and everything you’ve done for the Daimyo over the past year. It is an honor to meet you Leonardo. I will say I am a little worried to face you in the arena, I don’t want to put you off when I beat you in combat. By the way would you like to make a small wager on the tournament? It’s a good deal.”

Leo studied Gen and gauged his facial expressions finding them genuine and light hearted. The rhino was cocky but actually friendly. “I appreciate the offer Gennosuke….err sorry Gen, but I’m not a gambler but I look forward to facing you in the arena. We’ll see who beats who and please, Leo will do.”

A large belly laugh came from Gen who patted the back of his carapace shaking his hand once again. “I like you turtle, you have spirit.”

“Leonardo son please tell me how things are with you and your family? How are your brothers and how is Aurora? Where is she? I thought she’d be traveling with you.”

Leonardo took his time telling his friend what had transpired in the past year in their lives including Asuna’s inappropriate advance that had just happened 20 minutes earlier. He watched as Usagi’s happy demeanor soured as Leo explained the scene, his fists clenching in anger.

“I am sorry my friend, what she did was horrendous, I am ashamed for her. I will talk with her and urge Asuna apologize.”

“There is no need Usagi son, her actions do not project onto you and it is not your place to make her apologize. I just wish to keep her away from my family for now. I have no idea how much damage she’s done and I have not have seen Aurora in a year so I am unsure how to approach her now. I just want her to know I wasn’t a will participant.”

“Women are nothing but trouble my friend!” Gen laughed wrapping his arms around both Usagi and Leo’s shoulder pointing them towards the arena in the distance. “Delightfully soft and delicious trouble! Now my friends no more talk of such distractions, let us get something to drink before we battle!”

Being stubborn, Gen wouldn’t take no for an answer and drug the two to a nearby tavern filling their glasses with cool amber liquid that burned. They spent an hour sharing stories and a few laughs but Leonardo and Usagi refused any further mead wanting a clear head for the tournament.

Usagi and Gen followed Leo back to their room to gather his brothers. It was time to register for the tournament and get ready for the qualifying round. Opening the door to their shared suite they found his brothers sitting on their beds going through their purchases. Mikey and Raph were examining each other’s new blades when the door swung open. Donnie’s head shot up seeing his brother walk in with Usagi and a massive Rhino.

All three of his brothers made their way over to the door greeting Usagi and meeting Gen. Raph and Gen hit it off rather quickly flexing as they clasped hands and soon began talking about their work out regiments. As the two brutes chattered on Donnie could see something was up with Leo; he wasn’t making eye contact with any of them as he ushered them out of their room and towards the arena. His eyes were searching the crowds frantically for someone.

“Leo, who are you looking for? Master Splinter said he’d meet us at the arena?”

“She’s here.” He said softly his eyes never leaving the swarm of contestants.

“WHAT?!” all three of his brothers yelped closing in on their leader grabbing his arms to stop him.

“You saw her?! When? Did she say anything to you?” Raph’s hands pulled him to face him, his large hands hooking around his carapace almost bringing him into a hug.

“Yeah I did, but the reunion wasn’t a happy one due to the compromising position Asuna had me in.”

“What are you talking about Bro?” Mikey chimed in.

“Asuna found me in the market and was going to bring me to Usagi since she knew where he was but on our way there she started acting funny. She pushed me back against a building and kissed me and of course just as she did Aurora came around the corner and saw it. There’s no doubt in my mind Asuna saw Aurora coming and did what she did to make Aurora jealous or angry. She was successful in her pursuit. There was a mixture of surprise, hurt then anger. Either way by the time I pushed her from me, Aurora was gone. But at least we know she’s here to compete. I need to find her and tell her I wasn’t willingly kissing that manipulative rabbit.” He could feel the anger rising within him again, “I can’t even imagine what’s running through her mind right now.”

“I am sorry my friends.” Usagi sighed. “She has talked about you quite a bit over the last year. But I didn’t think she would be capable of such a callous act let alone the assault to you Leonardo son.”

Raphael growled low in his throat as they started walking again. “You need to keep that bitch on a leash or I’ll do it for you. She’s messing with my family.”

Usagi didn’t respond moving alongside the four turtles and Gen to registration.

Leo could feel the tension from his brothers pulsate around him; it was almost to the point of excitement. They could possible see her or maybe fight against her in the tournament. That itself was a sobering thought. That was not the first way they wanted to see her after a year, but it was at least better then how he first saw her with Asuna pressed into him……. Lost in thought Leo almost ran into the line to register but Donatello’s hand came out to stop his momentum.

True to his word Master Splinter met them at the arena, watching proudly as his four sons registered for the tournament. After completing their enrollment Leonardo told his father of his quick and unpleasant interaction with Asuna and Aurora. He could tell by the darkened expression his sensei was also upset at Asuna’s behavior.

“We will deal with his turn of events after, now is the time to prepare my sons. Concentrate on your goals and your strategies. See your opponent and anticipate his or her next move but most of all have fun. Enjoy this glorious one of a kind experience. You honor your father by continuing this tradition.”

A large gong was rung indicating the beginning of the tournament and all contestants poured into the large arena waiting patiently for the Daimyo to make his appearance. The four turtles began searching the mass of contestants looking for that one face they longed to see. Leo’s gaze drifted and unfortunately found Asuna, who was several feet from them, trying her best to gain his attention but Leo ignored the troublesome female.

There were so many different species and aliens, large and small from the vast universe that had come to attend this battle of skill. It was a bit mind blowing seeing what was out there past the stars. So many colors and shapes it boggled the mind.

“Dudes! Do you see the big triceratops man over there?” Mikey squealed in enthusiasm pointing to the behemoth that oozed danger several few to their left. Just like most of the contestants he stood on two feet carrying an oversized ax that rested on his broad shoulder. He was adorned in some sort of uniform no doubt part of some kind of military. They hoped they didn’t need to defeat that monster, well maybe Raph wanted to test his skills on the warrior.

“There she is!” Donnie called pointing to the opposite side of the arena they were standing. Their eyes moved through the bodies and finally saw her. She was in black pants with a band around her upper right thigh with an assortment of Kunai. Her top was covered in dark plum, long sleeves pushed up to her elbows and a neckline that plunged down her sternum ending just at her breasts.

Her hair length seemed to be the same length but what drew their attention was the purple streak of color in her hair running down the left side of her face. Eyes moving to her side they saw both of her mystical katanas hung securely at her hip by a leather strap, their four colors still interweaved into the hilts of the ancient blades. She looked healthy but foreboding with an ominous scowl displayed on her full lips. She was ready and waiting to prove herself to the Daimyo and the rest of the warriors.

Another gong rung bringing their attention to the top of the arena, where the Daimyo, Ue-Sama, and surprisingly Master Splinter had appeared looking down at the eager crowd of contestants. Somehow sensei had gotten a front row seat to the tournament; it was good to be friends with the Daimyo.

The war staff clutched in his hand the Daimyo raised both hands high in the air gaining a thunderous cheer from the crowd. Leo noticed Ue-Sama’s gaze trained in on someone in the crowd. Following his sight line down to the arena, Leo found the Daimyo’s son practically drooling as he looked down upon Aurora who was currently unaware of the lustful stare. The leader hands clenched at the flaring anger, digging the tips of his nails into the palms of his hands.

As the crowd quieted down it gave the Daimyo the chance to speak. “Great warriors from near and far, we welcome you to this year’s Battle Nexus Championship! We welcome the new and the returning contestants; you honor us with your presence and your skill that you put to the test today. Each of you will battle each other until there is only one left. The lone winner will become this year’s Battle Nexus Champion. This is a non lethal combat so before the final stoke can be delivered the loosing combatant will disappear from the arena and be brought to the medical wing of the palace to be checked over by our healers. Now the first fight will be a qualifying round and you will be paired by random. If you pass this round you will move to the first round of the tournament. If you fail, you are done until the next championship. All victors please wait in your partition patiently until all matches are finished. You will be presented to the rest of the victors before the next round commences. Now everyone let the tournament begin!”

As the final gong bellowed indicating the start of the tournament Leo looked back to where Aurora was standing and locked eyes with her violet iris’ making him suck in a mouth full of air in surprise. She was staring at him and he could see the hurt and anger behind her eyes and it tore at him but the walls of the tournament rose ripping her from him once again.

Aurora could see them from across the arena, all four of them standing there watching the Daimyo hype up the contestants before this whole thing started. Besides witnessing that painful scene of Leo and that damn rabbit pressed together earlier today this was the first time seeing the four brothers in a year. They looked good, healthy and from what she could tell, happy. It took every drop of willpower she had not to run over to them and wrap her arms around each and every one of them….well maybe not everyone.

Leonardo had obviously come back to the nexus for little bunny foo foo. Maybe that was the real reason he ended it between them, to come back here for Asuna? To be with someone like him? From what she could see earlier today they seemed rather content to be in one and others arms. But to be fair she didn’t stay long to analyze the situation, the moment she saw her lips on Leo’s she saw red and left before she could do anything stupid. Leo wasn’t hers anymore and no longer could get mad when that little bitch touched him. Now wasn’t the time to think about such things, the tournament was about to start and she needed to focus. She just hoped that she would end up in a match with Asuna so she could blow off some steam. One final glance and she would be done with it. Returning her sites back to the four brothers Leo’s gaze met hers. Those deep blue pools almost looked sad as they held her gaze. She swallowed the sob that rose in her throat; she wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. Why was there so much longing after all this time, she didn’t want to hurt anymore? As his lips parted and hands rose the walls shot up engulfing them in the white light of the war staff, it was time.

It felt like a dry liquid as she was rushed up into a small partition of the arena ready to test her skill against the best in the universe. She didn’t expect to win but it would be fun to see how far she could get. There was a lot of intimidating competition from what she could see, even weird looking aliens.

As her competition rose from the liquid a wicked smile spread across her face, karma was sweet this day.

Asuna was ready to win this fight as she rose into the competition, her sword already pulled from its sheath ready to strike but her confidence fell like a lead balloon as she saw her opponent. Aurora stood triumphant a few feet away, her one hand already gripping the hilt of one of her twin katana. If looks could kill she would no doubt be dust on the ground with only her sword as evidence she was there. She had to think fast, needed to mess with the superior opponents mind, throw her off her game. Leo’s brilliant blue eyes flashed across her vision and the taste of his lips flooded her mind. She would use the heartbreak of loosing Leonardo to her advantage and get inside her head. All was no lost….yet.

“Little bunny foo foo….. I am so glad to see you.” Aurora cooed almost seductively slowly pulling one of her katana from its black sheath. The sing of her metal as it slipped free of its confines echoed in the chamber. “I was hoping we’d meet in here. I have so much anger to unleash and to dole it out to one of the very sources of it would be so appropriate and gratifying.”

Asuna stepped tentatively forward as she began to circle Aurora, her eyes never leaving the human. Think, make her angry. “You mean about me finally getting Leonardo and his delicious lips. You know his tongue is so soft and nimble, it tastes like peppermint.” If the woman was affected by her taunting she wasn’t showing it. She needed to hit harder, deeper. Time for the big guns. “Do you know who planted the seed to the inevitable end to your doomed romance with Leonardo?” Oh that peaked her interest. “I did, I told him you would grow tired of being in the shadows and want a normal life with a normal human man. That you would yearn for marriage and children of your own and he could never give you those things.”

Her vision suddenly became very clear zeroed in on the female rabbit with the very smug look on her face. “It was you?” Aurora hissed between clenched teeth pulling the other katana free from its confines. She could feel every muscle in her body coil ready to strike, the heat of her power beginning to stir within her, the power she had rarely used in almost a year. She was the spark that grew into the flame that burnt her life to the ground taking everything that she loved from her?

Asuna swallowed the sudden rising lump in her throat as Aurora’s eyes swirled with a purple light of her rising powers. She had forgotten about those. She had definitely awoken the beast within but in for a penny in for a pound. No turning back now. “Now he and I can be together, I can make him feel normal because he’s with his own kind. I can give him what he needs. Leo doesn’t need to hide below the surface in your dimension anymore. He and his brothers can walk in the sunlight and buy wares like normal people here. ”

Red, all she could see was red. Asuna was the cause of her pain, the loneliness she endured for a year, banned from returning to the lair from seeing the turtles, kept Leonardo from her. All because little bunny foo foo had a lady boner for Leo. So she could take her place and hop right into his awaiting lap? “Breath” she whispered to herself. She was trying to get under her skin; the rabbit was just trying to throw her off her game, so she could gain the upper hand. Well not today bitch!

Spinning her extremely sharp weapons in her hands Aurora was tired of this game and screamed lunging forward bringing her weapons down on the overly confident rabbit knocking her to the ground.

Somehow Asuna managed to block her attack as she stumbled back the once smug look on her face was replaced by sheer panic. With all the finesse of her training Aurora kicked off the wall and spun kicking Asuna in the gut as she got to her feet making her tumble to the floor once again.

“Get up!” Aurora growled advancing on the rabbit both katana gripped in her fingers, her knuckles white from the force. “You were the catalyst that took everything from me! I had finally found my family, someplace to belong and you played on Leo’s insecurities and took them from me! Just so you could get a chance with him! You hate me so much then prove it! Fight me! GET UP!”

Asuna grappled to her feet once again readying her blade hearing the agony in the Aurora’s voice. She had struck a nerve with the woman but she didn’t falter or show any signs of losing control. She was just angry, very very angry and looked extremely terrifying. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea? But Asuna wasn’t ready to give up this fight, she wanted to compete, and she wanted Leonardo. “He’s mine now! You lost him, now move on!” The white female rabbit attacked with vengeance defending herself, but her skill level was nowhere near Aurora’s. Before she knew it, she was struggling to keep up with her, stumbling as Aurora moved with precision each blow she brought down hitting its mark. Asuna could see just how sharp those blades were and was suddenly very thankful this was a non lethal competition.

The hilt of Aurora’s blade connected with Asuna’s abdomen adding to the growing aches across her body. She arched back at the force of the hit and leaned back just as the long blade came up across her right side catching the tail of her harness slicing a section free.

Somehow Asuna managed to keep the scream that threatened to burst free at bay and brought her katana up meeting another swing of Aurora’s weapon. The woman moved quickly dropping down swinging her leg out bringing Asuna to the ground.

Asuna rolled backwards away from the seething female and got to her feet defending herself once again.

A few short moments later Aurora stopped, the anger and venom had drained from her face, all that remained was emptiness and grief. She sheathed one of her weapons and adjusted her top resting the dull side of her remaining katana on her shoulder, “I-I can’t keep holding on to this. You’re not worth my energy anymore. This is taking away from my peace and I don’t want you to hold that much power over me.”

Aurora shifted on her feet and flipped over the rabbit and brought her katana down and before the blade came in contact with her skull Asuna vanished in a defiant scream in a swish of blue light.

Landing where Asuna once stood, Aurora dropped to one knee, trembling from the adrenaline coursing through her. How could Leo have let her influence him, he had let her get into his head doubting what she felt for him, that she needed nothing else but him. She would have died for any of them, hell she still would, a sobering thought that made her heart beat faster than it already was.

The walls started to lower signaling the qualifying round was over, she had made it and was onto the first round. Standing back up she looked around the arena and found each of the turtles still inside the arena but now in different places far from each other. She noticed Donnie was only a few feet from her his eyes trained in on her, his leg muscles tense ready to close the distance between them but he remained in his place when the Daimyo began to speak.

“Congratulations to those who made it passed the qualifying round, you have now made it to the first round of the tournament. Good luck to you all!”

Donnie reached out as the walls came back up, “Auro…” and he was gone again, and the liquid feeling returned bringing her back to herself, away from her feelings. Deep breaths let her regain her composure just in time for her to reappear in a new partition staring up at a giant squid thing with nine tentacles and purple slimy flesh. Its four eyes narrowed in on her rumbling an unmistakable bout of laughter and shot four of its nine long appendages towards her ready to ensnarl her limbs.

“Fuck.”

Raphael roared launching himself towards the female alien that had just nearly handed him his shell on a silver platter. She was quick and nimble moving faster than his eyes could follow. Somehow, he was managing to sidestep each of the thrusts of her unique circle blades. He could hear her displacing the air as she moved around him and he decided to try the trick Aurora taught them back at the cabin in the woods. Gripping his sai in each hand he closed his eyes and listened letting everything else fall away. To his left he heard her moving just enough to evade her blow. She was getting louder easier to pin point. Behind him she was coming and fast, whirling around he brought his sai out and heard her gasp. He opened his eyes just in time to see her floating in the air millimeters from the business end of his sia. She mumbled something in her native tongue and smiled before disintegrating into blue dust. He had won; with a deep bellow he lifted his hands into the air in triumph.

Having won his match Leo re-sheathed his katana and waited patiently for the wall to retract hopefully revealing his equally successful brothers and Aurora. After about 20 minutes on waiting the wall disappeared and he searched the dwindling mass for his brothers. Quickly he found them all with victorious smiles on their faces, his heart swelled with pride. Then his eyes landed on Aurora and nearly burst out laughing from the sight, she was slicked up with some sort of slim covering her from head to toe. The look of utter annoyance painted her face as she returned her katana to their sheaths and tried to wipe off as much of the substance from her arms as she could.

“You have passed the first round warriors!” The Daimyo voice broke over the arena pulling their gazes back to the large ruler. Leo could see his father sitting on the edge of the ridge looking down on them, his eyes filled with pride. A small commotion next to their sensei made them look to the Daimyo and Ue-Sama who was pointing down to the slippery Aurora below. The Daimyo chuckled and nodded waving the war staff above his head.

Turning to Aurora they watched her yelp in surprise as she was lifted off the ground and suspended in a red light. After a few moments she reappeared and seemed to be bone dry, no trace of the slippery substance anywhere. Her gaze went to the old man high above and waved a quick thank you before checking to see if her blades were clean as well. Finding all her gear was clean and dry she readied herself but didn’t give the turtles another glance.

The wall rose again engulfing each contestant in the liquid sensation. As Donnie was lifted into his partition a familiar low laugh made him turn on his heal. There stood Raphael ,his sai out ready with a shit eating grin on his lips.

“Welcome to the thunder dome Donnie boy.” The large red banded turtle rumbled again lunging forward towards his brainiac brother.

“Bring it Raphie!”

The electric staff swung out catching the hurdling red missile in his gut stopping his momentum instantly. Raph grunted as the wind was knocked from him and toppled forward from the force of the blow. When did Don learn to hit like that?

Donnie flipped backward when Raph’s arms swung out trying to tackle him as he fell forwards.

Raph got to his knees looking at his tall brother, “Looks like someone has been working out. That blow had some power behind it Don but in the end, it won’t help you!” Flexing his colossal calf muscles the red turtle lunged forward again grappling for Donatello but came up empty yet again.

Donnie was slimmer more agile then his older brother, not to mention he had a quick mind. Being a genius was always a benefit when it came to ninjutsu. While his hothead brother relied on his brute strength for his strategy Donnie relied on his big brain. Always thinking about how he could outsmart his enemy using what he had available to him to meet his goal. Raph would no doubt try to bum rush him stabbing wildly with his sai but Donnie knew how to win against Raphael. It wasn’t the nicest approach, but it would definitely work. The rage that constantly bubbled from within the large turtle was his ultimate downfall, a few well-placed verbal jabs and the colossal turtle would be swinging blindly with fury. He wouldn’t be thinking about sneaky Donnie and his bag of tricks when he was seeing red. Narrowing his eyes, Donnie bounced lightly with his knees as Raph began circling him, his sai swinging in and out of his palms as if it were a nervous twitch.

“Here goes nothing.” Donnie smirked readying his sharp tongue.

Aurora put away her katana and knelt with her palms out preparing for her next battle. Taking a deep breath she centered herself. This alien she had just beaten was a bit perplexing and terrifying. It was about half her size, small, fluffy and adorable. That was until it screamed for glory and sprung for her throat with its once tiny smiling mouth, it opened wide nearly engulfing half its face with jagged blue teeth dripping with yellow saliva. Several chains shot forth from its claws wrapping around her limps pulling her towards the large snapping mouth. If Aurora wasn’t in compete shock by the horrifying transformation from cute to terrifying she would have screamed at the top of her lungs. To say it was fast was an understatement but luckily for her wasn’t that strong. Thankfully Aurora already had her katana in hand and was able to bring the metal down on each chain that held her arm and break them with ease. As reflexes took over she ducked, dodging the mouth full of teeth and rolled forward away from the furry creature. Getting to her feet Aurora dodged another flying attack catching the back of its body with a handful of fur. Hoisting it into the air she flung the small thing high into the sky and it howled with anger sending its chain rushed towards her again. This time she was prepared and dove away just as the chain bit into the hard floor of the arena.

Aurora’s hand shot forth and grabbed the chain and began swinging it around in a circle above her head like a cowboys lasso. The furry being screamed as it was flung around getting angrier and angrier the faster Aurora went. Finally finished Aurora pulled down hurtling the thing to the ground and swung her blade just before it hit making the alien disappear. Jesus that was weird.

Just then the walls began to lower and as the last of the contestants were revealed a loud bellowing yell came from the palace.

“DONNIE!” There was no mistaking it was Raphael.

Looking over to the genius he was leaning against his bo staff with a sly smirk on his face and Raphael nowhere in sight. He had beaten Raph in the nexus championship and by the sounds of the hotheads scream he was not happy about it. Good for Donnie though, he deserves to be seen not as a genius but an excellent fighter.

Making sure not to catch his eye she stood from her kneeling position and faced the castle waiting for the next match. The contestants were dwindling and Donnie, Mikey and Leo remained of the turtles. There was no way she wasn’t going to be matched with at least one of them before this thing was over with. She just hoped it wasn’t Leonardo. She didn’t think she could handle that, at least not after what she saw in the street a few hours ago.

The Daimyo stood along with Ue-Sama who looked down at her from above with a large smile on his face. She knew that look; she had seen it the last time they were here. It was the look she couldn’t reciprocate with the Daimyo’s son but she gave him a warm smile back nodding in acknowledgment. After this was done she would head back home, the more time she spent with the man the more uneasy she became. There was something not right about him, like he was scheming something behind his father’s back. It made her skin crawl and she hoped she was wrong.

Again the Daimyo raised his war staff and the walls began to rise engulfing the remaining warriors in its power. Aurora closed her eyes taking quick solace in the feeling of being weightless even if it was for only a few seconds. As she rose into the next battle she let out a small sigh before opening her eyes. Pulling her katana from her sheathes she heard a shaky breath just a few feet from her. Without a second thought she opened her eyes and her blood turned cold as her body froze in place.

“Leo.”

@bluesakurablossom @alonia143 @imthegreenfairy88 @ravn-87 @blossom-skies

#tmnt #tmnt leonardo #tmnt donatello #tmnt michelangelo #tmnt raphael #tmnt fandom #tmnt fanfiction #tmnt fic #TMNT TMNT fanfiction #Fortheloveofshell #chapter 39 #the battle nexus #aurora

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