#Tour of Duty (Threads)

[green-army-soldier]

" Kid.....I don't know what I am anymore. I was a wartime general....a wartime president....now....I'm nothing."

(* pushes MCU Ross at MCU Benny!*)

Benny sat in silence for a bit, taking in just how broken the former president now was. He finally spoke up, his voice quieter than Ross had been. "With all due respect, Sir, neither do I. I was a recruit and now I'm here. All cause I tried to defend my bootcamp from a monster. And then they called me a monster... I didn't used to believe in monsters... just bad folks trying to hurt other folks. But now, well, I ain't so sure."

[gotta-winwin]

(🪽) ... to the stars

⭐ starring: jeonghan

🪽preview: “I love you, angel.” He whispered, pressing a light kiss against your lips when you finally found the courage to let him go. He hesitated, face inches from yours, as if he was debating whether or not to go in for a second kiss. He retracted in the end, standing up straight and grabbing his various bags. He knew that if he kissed you a second time, he’d lose all self control and you’d end up in bed with your clothes off, and him, very late. 

“I’ll be back soon!” He called as he entered the car, a smiling Seungcheol waving to you as he helped Jeonghan bring his bags in. “Don’t die because you miss me too much!” 

The last thing you see before they drive off is Jeonghan’s dazzling smile, his shining eyes and his clean cut hair.

tw/cw: talk of the "e" word, oral f!receiving, manhandling, surprise sex, jeonghan gets buff after training, mention of female + male parts, jeonghan goes kinda feral, overstim!

🪽rating: 18+ | word count: 2.1k

☁️ masterlist & a/n: i really can't believe it's only been two months since jeonghan enlisted it feels like FOREVER and WAY TOO LONG. also - first try at full on smut so...was giggling while writing this i had way too much fun. let me know how ya'll feel! smut starts in ch 4

MINORS DNI

if you don't like it, don't interact!

(🪽)

The dreaded “e-word” has haunted both you and Jeonghan since the start of your relationship. The stupid prospect of enlistment gnawed at both your insides, like an impending doomsday clock - ticking, ticking away at your time together. 

Maybe you were being dramatic - but if tour was painful for the two of you, enlistment would surely kill. 

“At least one good thing came out of me injuring my shoulder.” Jeonghan quipped, stretching lazily over your legs as you laid in bed. “I’ll be on duty, but I get to go home every night.” He stared up at you with playful eyes. “It’ll basically be a nine to five, after my basic training is complete.” 

Returning the playful look, you scrunched your nose, relishing the last few days with him next to you. “I guess.” You hummed, reaching a hand to run your fingers through his long hair. You’d be seeing his precious locks go tomorrow, and the loss felt like losing a baby. You had basically raised his perfect, luscious hair yourself - a handful of his hair products being yours. You’d miss picking out his monthly hair colors as well. (Red hair Jeonghan was by far still your greatest achievement).

“Don’t be sad, angel.” He closed his eyes as you massaged his hair, eyelashes fluttering against his cheek. “It’s not like I’m leaving forever.” 

“You’re not very upset about it.” You pouted, feeling slighted by the way he seemed so unbothered. “You must think you’re not going to miss me very much, Hannie.” Your tone was teasing and light, although the insecurity was very much real. 

“I am going to miss you.” He admitted, squinting open an eye to look at you. “Don’t twist my words.” 

Jeonghan fell silent when you didn’t reply, hands still absentmindedly threading themselves through his hair. He watched you with careful eyes, knowing your nerves were frayed from enlistment stress. More like the absence of Jeonghan stress, he thought bitterly. He hated leaving you as much as you hated him leaving. 

“You should just move in.” 

Your next words caught him off guard as he looked up at you, blinking. It was rare to catch Jeonghan speechless. Usually equipped with witty comebacks, Jeonghan’s silence worried you as you sat up straight, moving him off your lap. “It’s just an idea.” Your voice shrank, knowing it was a big move. You hadn’t been dating for very long - two years - but still, not long enough to guarantee a move in. 

Having been nudged off your legs, Jeonghan sat up. “You think I should?” He asked, grabbing your hand and enveloping it in his.

You nodded.

“I guess it makes sense.” He had a coy smile on his face as he inwardly cooed at your shyness. “Then I’ll get to see your pretty face everyday instead of Seungkwan.”

“A much better upgrade.” You quipped at the younger boy’s expense, nodding along, big question jitters disappearing. “And half of your stuff is already here anyways.” 

“I love you.” He suddenly blurted out, although it sounded so beautifully normal and welcomed. His ears turned red, having not expected himself to say what he was thinking out loud. 

“I love you too, Hannie.”

(🪽🪽)

“If you mess up my hair I’m leaving you.” 

Frowning extra hard at his words, you steadied yourself, clippers at the ready as you analyzed his black locks. “If you don’t trust me you should’ve gone to your stylist.” You chided, pushing back a mop of his hair - rather roughly in retaliation. 

Whining, he glared at you through the mirror. “Brute.” He mumbled under his breath, a little apprehensive about agitating you further. You were the one with the clippers, after all. 

“Stop glaring at me or I’ll render you bald.” You threatened, eyeing him in challenge, the clippers in your hand coming to life as you began. “Hold still.” 

There was something strangely emotional about the whole process, as you watched tufts of Jeonghan’s hair fall to the ground around you. At least he didn’t have to get it super short - you really might have cried then - although the ceremonious feeling of it all still brought unwanted tears to your eyes. 

“It’ll grow back.” His quiet voice reminded you, pouting when he saw your glistening eyes and the way you were staring at his hair. “It’s not permanent.” 

“I know.” You mumbled, running your hands through his now short hair, more tears threatening to spill over when it just didn’t feel the same as before. “Let me mourn.” 

He laughed, although you saw him staring at himself in the mirror, his own eyes melancholic and equally wet. “Sometimes I think you’re only dating me for my hair.”

Pursuing your lips, you bit back a smile. “It’s definitely a plus.”

(🪽🪽🪽)

You had always hated long goodbyes.

They seemed too fruitless, so unnecessary and awkward to execute. You had always been a strong believer of a quick wave, a brief hug, or perhaps a quick exchange of pleasantries. 

However, once it was time to say goodbye to Jeonghan as he stood, packed and ready for his mandatory training camp, you wished goodbyes could last forever. 

“You’re going to have to let me go someday.” Jeonghan’s voice was muffled as he spoke through your hair. 

Your hold around him only tightened at his words, arms looping firmly around his neck. You inhaled, breathing him in - the light scent of pomegranates and the ocean tide. “Please don’t go.” It sounded pathetic, the way your voice broke near the end, but a part of you felt like maybe he wasn’t going to come back. Stupid. You chided yourself. Of course he’ll come back. 

“You’re going to make me cry.” Jeonghan mumbled, pulling you into him tighter - although it was nearly impossible, with the way you were already pressed up against him. He bit the insides of his cheek, holding back the tears because he knew someone had to keep it together during this goodbye - and it wasn’t going to be you. Burrowing his face deeper into your nape, he wished selfishly there was a way for him not to leave. Holding you tighter, he knew that if there was a way to crawl inside you and live there - he would. “I’ll write to you.” He promised.

It was a silly idea with the existence of technology, but Jeonghan was adamant to hand write his letters while serving - something about it being more personable. It’ll give you something to look forward to, he explained, although you told him that him coming home was enough. The letters were just as sweet though. 

“I love you, angel.” He whispered, pressing a light kiss against your lips when you finally found the courage to let him go. He hesitated, face inches from yours, as if he was debating whether or not to go in for a second kiss. He retracted in the end, standing up straight and grabbing his various bags. He knew that if he kissed you a second time, he’d lose all self control and you’d end up in bed with your clothes off, and him, very late. 

“I’ll be back soon!” He called as he entered the car, a smiling Seungcheol waving to you as he helped Jeonghan bring his bags in. “Don’t die because you miss me too much!” 

The last thing you see before they drive off is Jeonghan’s dazzling smile, his shining eyes and his clean cut hair. 

(🪽🪽🪽🪽)

You would have compared him to a feral animal - the way he pounced on you upon his arrival home. 

“I missed you so fucking much, angel.” He groaned, arms pulling you against him without warning, giving you no time to register his appearance. 

“Hannie.” His name came out as more of a moan as his fingers dipped, drifting towards the band of your sweats and delving under. “When- when did you get home?” 

“Got to leave earlier than expected.” He mumbled against your neck, thoroughly distracted by the way you were softening under his grasp. He had forgotten how beautiful you looked, falling apart at his fingertips. “Been waiting.” He gasped out, pulling your hair so his lips could meet yours. “No idea how much I missed you.” 

“Hannie.” His name was all you could say, all you could even think about. His every being enveloped your senses as you felt your back press up against the hallway wall. “Hannie.”

“Yes, angel?” He dipped to his knees, gazing up at you with the coy smile you had missed so much. “Tell me what you want.”

“You, Hannie.” You whined, and you knew it was embarrassing how fast you were complying. “Want - need you.” 

He let out a breathy chuckle, holding you by your thighs and pulling your sweats and underwear off in one fluid motion. You didn’t miss the tiny whimper that fell quietly from his lips - finally face to face with the sweet pussy he had dreamed of each night after training. It had tortured him, not being able to feel you, to hold you, to see you. Military training had taught him a lot of things - although the greatest lesson he took away was how much of a privilege you were. Losing access to both you and the pussy that always took him so well had been maddening. 

He paused, smirking when you bucked into his hand, impatient. 

“Hurry up, Hannie.” You scolded, half annoyed but mostly pleading. “Hannie.” 

As if the repeat of his name had woken him up from the daze he had found himself under - some spell, Jeonghan glanced up at you with hooded eyes before diving in, tongue working against your folds. It was obscene, the wet sounds coming from you, mixed with his pants and muffled groans. He all but buried himself into your heat - fulfilling his wish of crawling inside of you - in the most perverted yet terribly arousing way. 

The sounds of both satisfaction and pleasure coming from you only spurred him on, eating you out with one goal in mind: to make you finish, to finally drown himself in your scent after two long weeks without you next to him.

“Fuck- Hannie.” The only coherent words falling from your lips was a long string of curses, followed by a loud whine of his name. “I’m gonna - fuck.” 

You felt the mess before you saw it, as you gripped his hair for leverage, legs shaking as you steadied yourself against the wall. A gush of release spurted from you, coating his face as he lapped, unbothered by the slick. 

“Hannie -” Legs shaking, threatening to collapse, you pushed at his head. “Too much-” 

It was like he was trying to devour you whole. 

“Hannie-” You cried out, cumming again - a visceral reaction from the amount of attention his tongue was giving to your cunt and the constant stimulations from his nose bumping against your clit. 

He finally looked up as he drank the last drops of juice from your pussy, eyes shining in satisfaction as he smirked up at you. “Did you miss me?” 

You were glad his cockiness had not escaped him during his military training. Tugging harshly at his hair, you all but collapsed into his arms, pressing a feathery light kiss against the side of his neck. “You beast.” You mumbled, earning a loud laugh from him as he moved you both to the living room, wiping his face with a cloth before coming to clean you. 

It was then that you finally got to get a good look at him. You laid on the couch, eyes following his every movement as he wiped in between your legs with his usual gentle and care. 

He was built. Stronger, somehow broader and more defined then you remembered him being. His shoulders and arms flexed as he worked, and you caught a sight of his carved thighs and the damp tent in his pants as he stood up, leaving to throw the now sullied cloth away. 

“Hannie?” You called after him, feeling your desire return just by the glimpses of his new physique. 

“Yes, angel?” His head poked out from the doorway, returning next to you as he lay down, once again situating himself in between your legs. His nose bumped against yours as he looked at you with gentle, loving eyes - a straight contrast to the callouses, rough hands that were now roaming your chest.

“What did mandatory training do to you?” You asked, running a hand down his arm and squeezing his bicep. “Did they like- make you pull cars or something?” 

His hands went self-consciously to grab his own biceps, a large hand covering yours as he blushed. “No, it was just a lot of working out.” He smiled, raising his eyebrows suggestively. “What? You like what you see?”

“Very, very much.” You admitted, liking how he basked under the praise. “Not that I didn’t like your body before- but this is…” You paused, trying to find the right word to describe the delectable human being sitting in front of you that you knew could ruin you on a whole nother level. “Different.” 

Jeonghan smirked. “If you think this is different, you should see what’s under my clothes, angel.” 

masterlist

[green-army-soldier]

Benny did his best to suck up his anxious feelings, though it still showed as he sighed. "Yeah, it ain't easy. Gets hard to think straight when you're ornery and being told you gotta fight for your coubtry, your life and your family..." He paused. "I think I need that... new chance and all that." The name of the area struck him funny suddenly. He chuckled. "Ain't much green around here seems like. Assides some of us folks." He gestured towards several of the other hulks present.

💚 - Hulk (for green-army-soldier)

@green-army-soldier

He could sense gamma out here and this time, it wasn’t coming from his family.

Time had passed for them all, it had been months since enemies became allies and even longer since the days of sharing the body with the many personalities of Banner as well as being on the run from the army. New hulks had been appearing for years so it had become easy to forget old ones. To forget old faces.

Except now certain faces had seemingly made an appearance again. Hulk had been following the sense of the radiation for about an hour now, trying to keep track of it and not realising that he had wandered far enough from the base that it would take some time for anyone to reach him. But that wasn’t really on Hulk’s mind at the moment, he was more concerned with whoever may have been out in the desert all alone and what might have turned them into a gamma mutate. Were they completely alone? Did tbeh have people waiting and scared for them? He needed to find out, so he could prevent any pain (and maybe Hulk had fully accepted the fact that he was a bleeding heart).

And so far? He hadn’t found them. Whoever this new gamma mutant was, they knew how to cover their tracks. Hm…

“You know,” Hulk sighed loudly, hoping that the mystery gamma mutate could possibly hear him and maybe not be so afraid to hide. “I can’t exactly help you if you stay hidden!” And he thought Rick was bad with the disappearing act…

[amyzworldds]

hii amy! i love love lovee your shattered roads fic. i was wondering (if ur comfortable) if u could write an alt ending? maybe if y/n actually does die in the crash sorry if this is a sensitive topic. (feel free to delete and ignore this if it is) thanks x

Titile: Shattered Roads (Alternative ending)

Masterlist | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

Y/N’s solo debut prep silences Seventeen’s dorm, the boys clinging to her cardboard cutout—until a devastating car accident lands her in a coma. Torn between tour duties and despair, they rally for her recovery. Pairing: Seventeen x 14th member Genre: Heavy Angst (MENTION OF DEATH) an: hi, this is very short, so read it if you want this ending for the Shattered Roads. I won’t put it on my masterlist, though. I just wrote this in case some of you want it, but for me, I’ll stick to the first ending where she surprises the boys, hehe.

The ambulance tore through Seoul’s streets, siren screaming, a desperate race against time. Inside, Manager Kim clutched Y/N’s limp hand, her skin cold and clammy beneath his trembling fingers. Blood soaked her clothes, pooling on the stretcher—too much, too fast. Paramedics hovered over her, one pressing rhythmically on her chest, CPR a grim drumbeat, while another monitored her pulse, faint and fading. Her face was ghostly under the harsh light, bruises blooming, head lolling with every jolt.

Kim’s voice shook, barely audible over the chaos. “Why isn’t she waking up? She’s got a pulse—why won’t she move?!”

The paramedic didn’t look up, hands steady but voice tight. “She’s lost too much blood—pulse is there, but it’s slow, too slow. We’re doing everything… but you need to be ready. Anything can happen.”

Kim’s blood ran cold, his grip tightening on her hand as if he could anchor her to life. “Ready?! Ready for what—don’t say that!” His breath hitched, prayers tumbling silently—Please, kid, hold on… you’re tougher than this… Sweat beaded on his forehead, the ambulance walls closing in. Her chest rose faintly under the medic’s hands, a fragile thread he clung to.

They screeched into the hospital bay, paramedics yanking the stretcher out, shouting, “Trauma, female, massive blood loss—move, move!” Y/N vanished behind ER doors, a blur of red and white, leaving Kim staggering after them. He paced the sterile hall, hands raking through his hair, muttering, “She’s strong—she’ll make it… she has to…” Each step echoed, a countdown he couldn’t stop.

Minutes stretched—five, ten—then the ER doors swung open. A doctor stepped out, face carved with regret, eyes avoiding Kim’s. “We did everything—transfusions, CPR… the trauma was too severe. She lost too much blood, her heart couldn’t hold. I’m sorry… she’s gone.”

Kim froze, the words a sledgehammer. “Gone? No—no, you’re wrong! She had a pulse—she was alive in there!” His voice cracked, desperate, but the doctor’s silence was a wall. His knees buckled, and he sank against the wall, hands shaking, the world blurring through tears. Just like that… she’s gone… How could he face the boys? How could he tell them their sunshine was snuffed out?

His phone buzzed—Seungcheol. Hands trembling so hard he nearly dropped it, he answered, voice a ghost. “Cheol…”

“Hyung, what’s happening?! Is she okay?!” Seungcheol’s voice was raw, panic bleeding through.

Kim choked, tears spilling. “I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…”

A beat of silence—then a sharp intake of breath. “Sorry? Hyung, what do you mean—where’s Y/N?!”

“She didn’t make it…” Kim’s voice broke, barely a whisper. “She’s gone… the crash… too much blood…”

The line went dead quiet, a void swallowing them both. On the other end, Seungcheol’s phone slipped, clattering to the dorm floor. Thirteen pairs of eyes locked on him, aprons still on, the kitchen a frozen mess behind them. His face crumpled, a sob tearing free, “No… no, she can’t—”

DK lunged forward, “What’s he saying, hyung?! Tell us!”

Seungcheol sank to his knees, hands clutching his hair, “She’s gone… Y/N’s gone…”

The room shattered—DK’s wail, “No—she can’t be!” Seungkwan’s scream, “You’re lying—she was laughing!” Hoshi punched the wall, “She was supposed to wake up!” Mingyu collapsed, sobbing, “Not her—not our maknae!” Wonwoo’s glasses fogged, “This isn’t real…” Jun stared, “She promised me a prank…” Minghao whispered, “She’s our pulse…”

Jeonghan grabbed the phone, shaking, “Hyung, tell me it’s a mistake!”—but Kim’s broken “I wish it was…” sealed it. They crumpled together, a heap of tears and aprons, the echo of her last laugh drowned by the silence she’d left behind.

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

The day of Y/N’s funeral dawned gray and heavy, a cruel mirror to the weight crushing Seventeen. The venue was quiet, a private hall draped in white flowers—her favorite lilies—her casket at the center, closed, hiding the vibrant chaos she’d once been. Photos of her lined the walls: laughing with the boys, mid-dance, her pink MV dress sparkling. Carats sent wreaths, their messages a sea of love, but the boys stood apart, hollow shells in black suits, eyes red and swollen.

Seungcheol lingered by her casket, hands clenched, tears carving silent tracks down his face. He’d failed her—his maknae, his responsibility. “I should’ve picked you up… I should’ve kept you safe…” he whispered, voice breaking as guilt gnawed him raw. He pressed a trembling hand to the wood, willing her to yell back, “Cheol oppa, stop moping!”—but only silence answered.

DK sat in the front row, hunched, sobbing into his hands. Her sunshine was gone, and the world felt dim. Memories flashed—her dragging him for tiktok, her off-key duets—and each one stabbed deeper. “You were supposed to sing with me tomorrow…” he choked, tears soaking his sleeves, a wail trapped in his throat.

Seungkwan knelt beside him, tears streaming, clutching a crumpled photo of them bickering over kimbap. His sass queen, his sparring partner—she’d left him mid-fight, and he’d never forgive her for it. “Who’s gonna call me dramatic now?!” he sobbed, voice raw, shaking with the unfairness of it all.

Hoshi hovered near the back, fists balled, eyes bloodshot. Her chaos twin, her tiger—he couldn’t roar without her. He’d punched walls until his knuckles bled, but it didn’t bring her back. “You promised we’d jump together again…” he muttered, tears spilling, the stage’s emptiness echoing in his chest.

Mingyu towered over her photos, broad shoulders slumped, crying like a lost child. Her nagging—“Mingyu oppa, your dishes!”—was a melody he’d kill to hear again. He pressed a hand to a picture, “I’ll never clean them… just come back…”—his voice a broken plea, tears dripping onto the frame.

Wonwoo stood apart, glasses fogged, staring at her casket. His quiet partner, the one who’d sit with him and read—they’d never finish that book. “You didn’t even say goodbye…” he whispered, tears slipping free, the weight of unsaid words crushing him.

Jun leaned against a wall, arms crossed, tears silent but relentless. Her prank promises, her laughter—they haunted him. “You owe me one… you can’t just leave…” he murmured, voice cracking, the stillness suffocating where her chaos once reigned.

Minghao traced a lily petal, eyes glistening, his calm facade shattered. Their dance battle, her wild spins—he’d never see them again. “You were supposed to win…” he breathed, tears falling, the rhythm of her absence deafening.

Woozi sat rigid, fists clenched, tears streaking his face. Her songs—their songs—were unfinished, her voice silenced. “I wrote them for you… what now?” he rasped, the music in him dying with her.

Jeonghan lingered by her parents, eyes red, holding their hands as his own tears fell. Her mischief, her light—he’d failed to protect it. “She was our spark…” he whispered, voice trembling, guilt and love tangling in his chest.

Joshua knelt, praying through sobs, faith shaken. Her warmth, her hugs—she’d taken them with her. “You’re supposed to be here… not there…” he choked, tears soaking the floor.

Vernon stood frozen, replaying her last laugh—then that scream. His footage of her chaos was all he had left. “It wasn’t supposed to end…” he mumbled, tears blurring her image in his mind.

Dino gripped her standee photo, sobbing, his maknae twin gone. “We were a duo… you can’t leave me solo…” he cried, tears dripping onto the frame, the hole she left gaping.

Her parents stood by the casket, her mom clutching a pink scarf Y/N loved, her dad staring blankly, both wrecked. The boys drifted closer, a broken circle around her, tears falling in unison—13 hearts splintered by one loss. No words could fill the void; they just cried, her absence louder than any song they’d ever sung.

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

an: okay, I'm crying here. When I saw this request, I was like, 'OMAYGHAD.' At first, I wanted to ignore it because, to be honest, it’s a bit uncomfy for me. But okay, I love challenges, so here you go. I hope you like it, even though it’s short and doesn’t have much reaction or pov from the boys. Also, guys, I’ve received a request where Dino and Y/N would be in a car accident, but I really don’t want to write something like that when the members are involved or something bad happens to the boys. I mean, if it’s just Y/N, it’s okay for me to write it—I can do that—but I just can’t imagine it with the boys, HAHAHAHA. I don’t know, am I overreacting or what??? HAHAHAHHAHA

[airconditionertm]

Aemond Targaryen x stark fem reader

Summary: y/n has been sent to kings landing she is to meet the prince Aemond before the arrangements of their marriage are finalized

Word count: 1606

An: I’m sorry for any spelling errors I’m dyslexic this is my first time posting a fic on tumblr.

He never really thought about marriage, he had always presumed he would marry whoever his mother brought him. A simple political marriage that would provide both benefits and heirs. His mother told him that y/n Stark would be visiting Kings Landing, he never quite understood why the Starks were so important they weren’t royals they didn’t have dragons all they were known for was keeping oaths. Aemond had never even been to the north. Though from what he heard northern women could be difficult, to say the least unwaveringly stubborn and prideful to say a little more. She was said to arrive in the following days and Aemond was expected to wo her so she might convince her brother to accept the marriage proposal on her behalf. Cregan Stark was ever honorable and cited concerns about Aemonds' character as his main reason to hesitate.

“Your Highness the Lady Stark has arrived the queen has requested you greet her “a servant interrupted his thought. He didn’t respond simply walked off.

The carriage she arrived in was simple it could be mistaken as the one of a commoner though the clear craftsmanship set it apart. Aemond stood a few meters away from the carriage as he waited for her to exit.

She stepped out of the carriage cautiously onto the cobble below. She wore a light silver blue gown that wasn’t as opulent as the regular court dress but still looked expensive. Some delicate silver thread decorated the neckline. She finally looked up at him waiting for him to introduce herself.

“Welcome to Kingslanding Lady Stark I’m Prince Aemond Targaryen “he spoke coldly.

“Well it’s an honor to be here your grace , “ she said curtly. Aemond noted that she didn’t bow as would have been proper.

“The maids will take your things…” and knew it was expected but he was in no mood to however he had a duty ” Would you like a tour of the grounds Lady Stark, “he asked begrudgingly.

“I’m quite tired from the journey, though I would like to at least know where the most important rooms are mainly the dining hall and the throne room oh and the library if you have more important things to attend to as I’m sure you do certainly someone else might show me “ she spoke quite quickly he was only glad she didn’t speak in a northern dialect one of his nurses when he was a child was this old northern lady and he quite frankly could never understand a word she was saying.

“I do not have other matters to attend to I prefer to do all my work in the mornings so that I might use the rest of the day as I wish, I shall show you the most important rooms before you rest “ he explained.

“Thank you-“to maids carried a wooden cage containing a white-grey dire wolf “Wait can you let her out of the cage I’ll take her with me so she can get used to her new surroundings “the two maids looked scared of the wolf but carefully opened the cage which the wolf immediately leaped out of charging at layana for a moment aemond was worried until the wolf started jumping up and wagging its tail. “Mhm you’re excited right good girl now don’t bite anyone and stay with me, “she said lovingly kneeling to pet the wolf, she turned back around to aemond. “This is my dire wolf Lilly I couldn’t stand to go without her don’t worry she’s trained she just might be a little skittish since she’s somewhere completely new, “she says almost apologetically. “Let us go on our tour “he turns around and begins walking.

———————————————————————

At the end of the tour he takes her to the library “This is the library “ he says. He is shocked to see a look of utter awe on her face.” this, it’s truly gargantuan I’m allowed to be in here right it isn’t restricted “she asked

“No it isn’t anyone can visit it though not many do, most of the books are however not allowed to be taken outside the library to prevent damage “ he replied.“That’s reasonable, don’t mistake my awe for thinking there aren’t any books in Winterfell it is just that we cannot keep many the moisture in the air tends to damage them “ she explains.

“ I see, do you enjoy reading Lady Stark, “ he asked. “Yes well it is more that I like acquiring knowledge rather than the act of reading itself, though I fear many of the most interesting texts here may be in high valerian “she states.“That may be true though there are many books in the common tongue to “ he says. “I must admit I’m tempted to try and learn the language just so I can read more books “she says excitedly .“It’s a difficult language “ he says curtly. “I can certainly imagine that “she replies.“If you truly wish to learn there are some guides to the language here too “he was sceptical she truly wished to learn the language many people tried to flatter the Targaryens by praising their mother tongue. Hells he wouldn’t be surprised if she was informed of his own love of reading so that she might wo him.

“The hour is drawing late I’ll call a maid to bring you to your chambers so you can rest and ready yourself for dinner “he turns to the exit.“It is getting late indeed, can I ask you one last question “ She was certainly chatty aemond thought.“Yes what is it” he replied .“What will dinner be like is it a lot of people will it be formal i don’t know what to expect”she asked.“We don’t often eat dinner together however my mother will probably make everyone ,but my father of course, come to dinner tonight to celebrate your arrival so it won’t be many people, it is formal yes but nothing too opulent “

“ I see thank you “A maid walked up to her and showed her to her chambers he didn’t expect that she would be taken into the same wing he and his family stayed in he hoped for her own sake that her chambers may not be too close to Aegons.

———————————————————————

She walked into the dining room on time she wore a more expensive gown than before though it was a similar color. However, it was velvet and tailored to fit more snugly the decoration was also far more elaborate. Her black curly hair was put in a neat updo with silver ornaments adorning it. Aemond had to admit she was beautiful not in the way southern women where it was more intense not so demure and soft. Aemond and his mother were the only ones already there “Everyone else seems to be late my dear why don’t you sit with Aemond“Queen Alicent greeted y/n .” right of course “She shuffled around for a moment before she sat next to him. He could tell she was nervous facing the queen for the first time.” There is no need to be shy my dear you are here in hopes that we may be family soon, so tell me how where you’re travels” Alicent asked sipping from a goblet. “My travels were pleasant for the most part though quite lonely with only my brothers men though I had my dire wolf Lilly to keep me company “Aegon stumbles in clearly drunk “You spent your whole journey only with tall strapping northern men, brother it seems like she’s already ruined “ Aemond of course knew what he meant with ruined, glaring at his brother. “I don’t quite understand, “y/n asked. “Well you know you probably fucked one of them or maybe all of them “he slurred laughing at his own joke. Alicent tried to give Aegon a warning look but it didn’t seem to work.” that is enough brother I will not let you insult her like this “aemond slammed his hands on the table.

“No need to overact brother I was simply joking, you understand that right Lady Stark” he sat down next to his mother.” I’m afraid I don’t understand how that is a Joke, “ she said sternly.” Bo I thought northern women were supposed to be more fun there’s no need to pretend to be all lady like “. She stood up “I am going to be insulted like this at dinner, enjoy your dinner queen Alicent “ and walked away. “Aegon must you destroy everything we need for this alliance with the north “Alicent rested her head in her hands. “Aemond go after her try to salvage this “. Aemond turned around and followed y/n.

“Lady Stark,” he asked cautiously, he had found her on the balcony looking out on King's landing. “Your grace “ she continued to look out her back facing him.

“ I must apologize for my brother, he’s a drunk and a fool “ he goes to stand beside her. “It’s my first night here and I’ve already been humiliated, “ she says quietly. “ it is not you who should feel ashamed it is my brother, to treat a guest like that to question your virtues and be so crude about it it’s deplorable,”he said firmly. She looks over at him “ I want you to know that I still have my virtue “she says. “ I never questioned it, my lady,” he says. “ I just wanted to be sure, “ she says. “Are you enjoying the view my lady? “ he asks. “ yes it’s quite beautiful and I do believe this high up the stench is less apparent “she says.

[daydreamingatnight209]

I’m not sure on how I feel about this one, but I’m posting it anways 😅🤞

Feedback is welcome - Hate is not ✨💕

“My Best Friend, My Girlfriend, My Everything”

Colson Baker x Female Reader

Warnings - Slight angst, fluffy ending 💕

Prompts used: Credit goes to all original owners -

1. "How drunk are you?" "V...Very." "Drunk enough not to remember tonight? "Hmm." "Good. I love you. And I'm tired of being just your best friend."

2. "He will never know that I like him." "Why?" "Because I'm just one of the million stars, and he's the moon.

3. I can’t believe it took me all these years to realise how I truly feel about you.

4. "Wow those bloodstained clothes really bring out your eyes... Of course I'm being sarcastic! Get over here and let me stitch you up!"

—————————————————————————

Most would think that traveling with an international superstar who also happened to be your lifelong best friend, would mean hitting the jackpot in life. But realistically after a month stuck surrounded by testosterone in such close quarters with a bunch of men who often act like overgrown toddlers , you can’t help but begin to feel like a glorified babysitter. You suppose it doesn’t help that you also happen to be ridiculously in love with said best friend.

After one particular show, you found yourself back on the tour bus while the others went out to celebrate another successful show.

Just because you were Colson’s friend, didn’t mean that you didn’t have your part to play. You liked to feel useful so you took up a part time role, sharing managerial duties with Ashley. This time you found yourself working with Sam to provide visual content for the fans and ensure that Colson’s schedule was running smoothly.

When the quietness you’d been experiencing over the last couple of hours suddenly ends, You couldn’t help but internally roll your eyes. climbing out of your bunk you go to see what all the commotion was about.

You enter the main sitting space and your mouth swings open in shock. In front of you Colson’s face was caked in blood and his clothes were stained with the same substance Rook was laughing hysterically at him and Slim had a smirk on his face, which he attempts to cover when he sees the look on your face.

“What in the actual hell happened here?!” You exclaim.

“Y/N helloooooo”

Colson rushes over to try and embrace you but you hold him at arms length, not wanting to get covered in his blood.

“Look at this, how cool does this look!” He says giddily, jumping around like an overgrown puppy, trying to show the jagged cut that seems to run down his forehead.

“Oh yeah really cool, those bloodstained clothes really bring out your eyes.”

Colson looks at you with glassy eyes and a slightly confused expression on his face and a pout on this face.

“Are you being sarcastic?”

“Yes, of course I am being sarcastic! Get in there and let me stitch you up!” You shout out in frustration and worry. You leave him alone for one night and this happens!

Grabbing his hand you force yourself and his tall frame into the tiny bathroom cubicle, with the first aid kit under the sink.

Colson collapses down onto the toilet seat as you begin to clean his face.

He winces softly as you clean around the wound and begin to apply the temporary stitches.

“How did this even happen anyways?” You ask him as he fiddles with the loose threads on your jumper.

“Rook said I couldn’t do parkour over a car, so obviously I had to prove him wrong” he mumbles, the amounts of alcohol he had consumed during the night finally catching up with him.

You couldn’t help but sport a small smile on your face, because of course it was something just so stupid.

Once you were satisfied with your work, you pack away the first aid kit and attempt to pull him up but Colson just pulls you down easily onto his lap and wraps his long arms around your frame.

“You are that best person I know Y/N. I’m so lucky to have you as my friend”

How drunk are you?" You whisper as you lean against his chest.

“V...Very."

"Drunk enough not to remember tonight?” You asked curious.

Normally Colson’s memory no matter what he drinks is top tier.

"Hmm yeah, probably” he answers, resting his head on your shoulder.

At that response and the fact that you didn’t want him falling asleep in the tiniest toilet possible you stand up and grab is hand once more. He doesn’t protest when you lead him to the back of the bus to where his bedroom is.

He throws his weight into the bed and watch him crawl under the covers.

“Night Kells” you whisper and go to exit the room to head back to your own bunk.

Before you can make it through the sliding door, your best friend speaks up, his voice raspy and slightly needy.

“Stay with me?”

You hesitate at first, not really knowing If you could handle being that close to him for the entire night. Your heart was already beating twice as fast as it should, but you aren’t really great at denying Colson. You never was. So when a cracked, “please” leaves his mouth, you cave and climb under the covers with him.

It doesn’t take long for sleep to claim him but the same doesn’t happen for you. You’ve lost count of how many times you and Colson have shared a bed over the years but where he sees friendship, recently you’ve been struggling to stop the lines from blurring.

Colson wraps you up in his arms subconsciously, like he’s done so many times before, yet this time you find yourself frozen as you stare softy at his peaceful sleeping face.

“I love you Colson Baker. I love you and I'm tired of being just your best friend."

A tear escapes your eye, letting it fall, you wait for what feels forever for sleep to fall over you.

———————————————————

The next morning you are up and out of Colson’s room before he awakens and do your best to avoid him and any awkward conversations that the day might entail. You weren’t exactly to ready to find out if he remembered his night.

No one really picks up on your behaviour and you think you made it through the day perfectly, before Ashley corners you backstage at soundcheck.

“You like him don’t you? In fact it’s more than that … you are in love with him”

Knowing that you can’t hide the truth from your friend, you look her in the eye and give her a sad smile.

“He can never know that I like him."

"Why?" Ash questions you.

"Because I'm just one of million stars, and he's the moon, he deserves so much better that me”

You slightly cruse the tears that begin falling once more and do your best to wipe them without ruining your make up.

Ash gives you a soft smile and shakes her head.

“I’ve seen the say that boy looks at you. You may think he’s the moon but he looks at you like you’re the one holding his entire world. Last night should have been enough evidence! It was you he wanted to patch him up, it was you he wanted attention from and it you he wanted to hold. It’s always you. It’s not about what you can give him or what he can give you, it’s simply about the love that you share and the happiness you provide each other. He doesn’t want to be Mr international superstar with you. He just wants to be Colson, your Colson.”

After her little speech, Ashley leaves you alone as you try and process her words. But you weren’t alone for long as a voice behind you startles you.

“She’s right you know.”

You gasp and turn to fave the voice you knew all too well.

“Colson! What the hell?!”

“She’s right” he repeats.

“Right about what exactly?”

“You might think I’m the moon, but you are my whole world. You are more than just a star, so, so much more.”

“Colson…” you close your eyes, unsure on if you want to have this conversation, but realistically you knew there was no escape.

Colson stalks forward, invading your personal space and holds your chin in his fingers so that you are holding direct eye contact with each other.

“I heard you last night… your confession. I wasn’t really asleep and frankly I’m surprised I remembered this morning. In all honesty i was going to pretend until you felt ready to have the conversation but after hearing what you said to Ashley, well I couldn’t pretend anymore. I can’t believe it took me all these years to realise how I truly feel about you. I can’t believe it took stupid dare inflicted injury and a single moment in a tour bus bathroom for everything to fall into place”

With shaky hands, your fingers touched the small wound on his head and caressed it lightly.

Not trusting your voice, you whisper out a quick response, “I’m so happy it did”.

Colson takes that as cue to plant a kiss on you, a moment you felt as if you could live in forever, before he pulls away to look at you.

“I’ll love, protect and cherish you, forever. My best friend, my girlfriend, my everything.”

[green-army-soldier]

Benny laughed again before his demeanor grew more serious as they approached the crypt. He too could feel the the invisible pulse... gamma, there was no mistaking it. It had been what he felt in the days after the bomb that had been dropped near his unit.

"Uh-huh. There's some kinda gamma... ain't sure what it is, but that's what's in there. Didn't think ancient folks knew how to harness that..." He paused, thinking about what possible approach they might use. "Thinking we go slow? Maybe if it's too much you can absorb some of that gamma if there's some kinda radioactive artifact. Like those old plates my mama had. The bright green ones... though I think I read they ain't nearly as dangerous." He focused ahead, realizing he'd need to transform soon. "I'll follow your lead, Sir."

@green-army-soldier

" Heh, maybe. But half the things I've seen since I got turned makes whatever Hollywood thinks up look like shit."

The mission had started out with a finding in Europe at the Strait of Messina. What looked like an ancient crypt was found deep beneath the waves....a crypt wrapped in chains with ancient Greek carved unto the stone.

Energy signatures that read too much like gamma radiation to be just a byproduct of volcanic activity in the region.

The crypt was brought into the US, but things didn't seem right. The reports from the base holding the artifact made it seem like the whole thing was....alive.

Red had a lot of experience with this kind of stuff, so he volunteered to go with Flux to investigate this thing. Two hulks were better odds than one.

Still....even he felt something wasn't right. He held out a hand to stop Flux, motioning forward with his head.

" Up ahead. Can you feel it?"

It was a pulse....an extremely powerful gamma pulse. He could taste it thanks to his absorption ability and it was like feeling Hulk's gamma.

But.....it was coming from inside a huge stone crypt.

[xoxorealitygalore]

Hopelessly Devoted V

Roman Reigns x Multiracial OC

Part five: Balancing Hearts & Duty

Summary: A year ago, Joe met Princess Pensri on Fook Island, and they quickly fell in love. Unbeknownst to her, Joe paid her bride price, planning to marry her. Now, he returns with his family to fulfill his promise, ready to begin their life together.

Part four: Crowned by Love

Pensri walked through the quiet, sun-dappled garden of her family’s palace on Fook Island, the fragrance of tropical flowers drifting through the air. Her heart was full of anticipation, as today she had invited Trinity, Joe’s cousin’s wife over for lunch. There were many questions that Pensri had, ones that had been growing steadily in her mind since Joe’s return to Fook Island.

As she prepared for lunch with Trinity, her mind wandered back to all the thoughts and feelings that had been consuming her since their whirlwind romance began a year ago.

Being a princess has always come with its share of responsibilities and expectations. She was the daughter of Fook Island’s monarch, which meant her every move was scrutinized by the public. Her royal duties were extensive, ranging from representing the royal family on overseas tours to working closely with the Royal Foundation.

The Foundation supported charitable causes focused on early childhood care, wildlife conservation, and art. Pensri was the patron of several charitable and military organizations, which often required her to travel, attend events, and oversee projects that aimed to make the world a better place.

But the prospect of marriage to Joe especially given the complexities of his life was something Pensri had to approach with great thoughtfulness. Joe had five children from a previous relationship, and while he was still involved in wrestling, he was trying to navigate the balance between his career, his children, and his new life with her. Pensri knew that her life on Fook Island would always come first, but she also knew that it was important to make her relationship with Joe work. They had promised each other they would be together, and she wanted to find a way to honor both their lives, his as a father and wrestler, and hers as a princess.

That was where Trinity came in. Trinity had been in her shoes, in a way, she had become a stepmother to Jon’s two children from a previous relationship. Trinity embraced this role fully, and Pensri admired her for it. She was active in the children’s lives, balancing her career in wrestling with her family duties. Pensri could see the way Trinity and Jon’s family worked together, and how they made the balance of family time, career, and personal life look so seamless. Pensri didn’t want to make any assumptions about how her life with Joe would unfold. She wanted real advice, someone who had been there, someone who could give her guidance.

The soft clink of silverware interrupted her reverie. She stood in the entranceway to the dining room, where Trinity was already seated, her bright smile a contrast to the more subdued atmosphere Pensri often felt in her palace. The warmth between the two women was immediate both of them knew that, while their paths had been different, they were tied by a common thread: the men they loved and the family they were part of.

“Thank you for coming, Trinity,” Pensri said, gesturing to the beautifully set table. “I’m so grateful you could make it today.”

“It’s my pleasure, Pensri,” Trinity replied, taking a seat. “I know this transition must be exciting but also overwhelming. I’m happy to help in any way I can.”

Pensri nodded, feeling the weight of the situation. She had been thinking about her marriage to Joe, the responsibilities that came with it, and what it would take to blend her life with his. She had already spoken to Joe about her hopes, but she knew it was important to have a conversation with someone who understood both sides, someone who knew what it was like to balance marriage, family, and career, and who could provide her with a more grounded perspective.

“I have so many questions, Trinity,” Pensri admitted, placing her hands in her lap. “I’m still figuring out how to manage everything. Joe and I are so happy, but his life is complicated. He has five children, and I have my duties here. I want to be a good wife to him, but I also want to continue with my work. How do I make it all work?”

Trinity took a slow sip of her water, her eyes thoughtful. She’d heard a lot about Pensri and Joe’s relationship from Jon, but she knew there was more to it. She had questions of her own, too. “I understand where you’re coming from,” Trinity said, her voice warm and reassuring. “Jon and I have had to navigate a similar path. Jon has two children from his previous marriage, and while they’re older now, there was a time when it felt like there was so much to balance. Wrestling is our career, but family comes first.”

Pensri listened intently, hanging on every word.

“The key is balance, Pensri,” Trinity continued. “You and Joe have to find a way to make time for each other and your marriage while still honoring his role as a father. That’s the most important part. It’s not just about managing his children, but about managing your time together. And that means you’ll need to carve out space for each other and make family time a priority.”

Pensri nodded slowly, absorbing the wisdom. It was clear to her that Joe and his children had to come first, but she wasn’t sure how to create the space for herself. “But how do I balance that with my commitments? My royal duties? My charity work?”

“I know it’s tough,” Trinity said, offering a sympathetic smile. “But you’ll have to learn how to say no to some things and prioritize your relationship. Joe is a part of your life now, and that means adjusting to his needs too. But it’s also important that you don’t lose yourself in the process. You can’t forget who you are, your passions, your work, your responsibilities. But family time is something you’ll both have to prioritize.”

Pensri paused for a moment, contemplating Trinity’s words. She had always put her royal duties first, feeling a deep sense of responsibility to her country and its people. But the thought of sacrificing her dreams and her sense of self in the name of love was a daunting one. Still, she was determined to make it work with Joe. She loved him, and she wanted to be a supportive wife, even if it meant adjusting her priorities.

“So, you think it’s possible to live part-time in both the US and Fook Island?” Pensri asked, voicing one of the biggest questions that had been swirling in her mind. “Joe has his wrestling career, and he’ll need to be in the US often. But I can’t just leave Fook Island. How do we make that work?”

Trinity’s face softened, and she nodded. “I believe you and Joe can live part-time in both places. You’re both driven people with strong commitments to your respective careers and families. I think the key is finding that middle ground where you can balance both. And when you’re together, make sure it’s quality time, really focus on each other and what you need as a couple.”

Pensri felt a sense of relief wash over her as she listened. Perhaps this could work, after all. It wouldn’t be easy, but it was possible.

“And as for Joe’s children…” Pensri trailed off, unsure how to approach the subject. “I know I’m not their mother, but I want to be involved in their lives. How do I approach that without overstepping?”

“Respect their mother,” Trinity said firmly. “Be a presence in their lives, but never try to replace their mother. The key is being both active and respectful. You’re the third parent, yes, but their mother is still the primary parent. And you need to honor that dynamic.”

Pensri nodded slowly, her mind taking it all in. She knew this would take time, but she was willing to put in the effort. Joe’s children were a part of his life, and they would be a part of hers too, whether she was ready for it or not.

Trinity smiled, her tone gentle but direct. “You’re going to do great, Pensri. Just remember, family is everything. You can make this work. But always keep the communication open with Joe. Make sure you’re both on the same page, especially when it comes to his children and your duties.”

Pensri sighed, a mix of relief and uncertainty in her heart. She wasn’t sure what the future would hold, but one thing was clear: she loved Joe, and she was willing to do whatever it took to make their relationship work.

“Do you want children of your own?” Trinity asked, her voice full of curiosity.

Pensri paused, considering the question. “I can see myself having two,” she said slowly. “I’m not in a rush, but I want children. I want to build a family with Joe.”

“That’s good,” Trinity said with a smile. “Children change everything, but they also bring so much joy. You’ll be an amazing mom, Pensri. I just know it.”

Pensri smiled softly, feeling a warmth in her chest at the thought. She had so much to look forward to in her future with Joe. Yes, there would be challenges ahead, but with love, patience, and effort, they could overcome anything together.

Later that afternoon, as the lunch wound down and the conversation turned to lighter topics, Pensri felt a renewed sense of clarity. She was leaving with Joe and his family to attend a WWE show, something that had long intrigued her. It would give her a glimpse into Joe’s world, one she hadn’t yet fully experienced. And when the time came, she would return to Fook Island with a clearer sense of how to balance the demands of marriage, family, and career.

But for now, as she sat across from Trinity, she felt grateful. She had a long road ahead of her, but with the right guidance and the love of the man she had chosen, Pensri believed she could navigate whatever came her way. She was ready to embark on this new chapter with confidence, love, and the unwavering support of those who understood what it meant to balance family, love, and the pursuit of personal dreams.

Masterlist | Part six: Above the Clouds

[rageprufrock]

pls do a director’s cut commentary on Something Borrowed or Lost in Translation. i’m nuts for your iwaoi characterization. oikawa is a horrible little goblin and nobody does it like you!!

I think someone on Twitter once said that nobody writes Oikawa as batshit as I do, and I take that as a compliment and carry it with pride. The minute that shitty little weirdo showed up in Haikyuu I was immediately smitten because I, too, am a complete psycho and every single one of his deranged behaviors and decisions made perfect mathematical sense to me. I think the thing I most love about writing Oikawa as a balls out lunatic is how at once liberating and vulnerable it is to put all of your crazy on display like that: there is not a single fucking person who has ever met this guy who thinks he is normal-passing for longer than 3 business minutes. He has the hyperfocus of a military sniper, the emotional stability of a 13 year old girl who's about to pass her first menstrual blood clot, the self-control of a toddler and he probably has a 26 step skin care routine that costs more than everything on my bathroom counter. I am literally obsessed with this man. And--in my interpretation at least--that level of tits out insanity also translates into how he would manage his romantic relationships, which is to be a complete fucking psycho at Iwaizumi, a person who comes off as completely normal, but who--over time--you realize is just as bad as Oikawa in a completely different but equally troubling way. Like you do not sign up to a lifetime tour of duty with batshit crazy unless you, yourself, are batshit crazy.

This is a thread that shows up in both Something Borrowed and Lost in Translation, although obviously the universes in which they manifest are uh, extremely different.

Also, fun fact, I started to write the sequel to Something Borrowed, called Something New, where Oikawa gets knocked up and because he can't play volleyball until he evicts his parasite he decides to make Kageyama his pregnancy project and everybody is like "lol RIP to Kageyama, couldn't be me," because all of Kageyama's friends are assholes. Will this ever be finished? Who fucking knows. At the current moment, the file is like 10 pages long and currently on a scene where I gave Kageyama food poisoning from eating airport sushi in Qatar.

[drabbles-mc]

What do you tell your friends? (2/4)

Sydney Adamu x Richie Jerimovich

Written for the 2024 Five Figure Fanwork Exchange

Chapter Index

Warnings: 18+, language, implied smut, light angst/arguing, smoking, pining

Word Count: 4.4k

A/N: actually unwell about the two of them. not normal at all.

Sydney hated that she noticed the lack of communication from Richie when he went to stage at Ever. It was impossible not to notice that he was missing when she was at the restaurant. With Carmy still MIA more often than not, and Natalie in and out of the place trying to get things in order and also just exist as a human being with where she was at with her pregnancy, Sydney felt like she was an island unto herself. She got glimpses of Marcus and Fak, but mostly she felt like she was doing a lot of things on her own. She knew that it was only going to be a week but it already felt like so much more than that.

More times than she would ever admit, she opened up their text thread and typed out a message. She always ended up deleting it all and shoving her phone back into her pocket instead of sending it, though. He was busy enough as it was. And so was she. It was just easier to bear it all when they were busy together, or at least busy near each other even if they were busy with different things. She was at least glad that she hadn’t gotten a distress call from him, or a bail call from the police station.

Richie was playing the conversation with Tiff on repeat in his head for the rest of the day once he went back into the restaurant. With every piece of silverware that he shined and stacked, he heard her voice. The engagement. The “I love you.” The breaks in her voice as she said it all. It ran back to back to back in a way that felt like a record player with a faulty needle.

He almost texted Tiff when he got back to his apartment that night. When he talked himself out of doing that, he thought about calling Sydney. He made it all the way to his recent calls list before he managed to be honest enough with himself to know that it would’ve been a stupid idea. He just had to make it through the rest of the week, and he could worry about it once he was done with his current tour of duty.

Even if he couldn’t see it at the time, his week at Ever ended up being a well-timed thing. As one day ticked into the next, he felt himself clawing his way back up from the rock bottom the news from Tiff had left him at. By the time he was done staging, he didn’t even know how much he wanted to go back to The Bear, back to dealing with Carmy and all the other shit. But there wasn’t any other option now. He also had to admit it to himself, that for as conflicted as he felt about it all when he walked out of Ever that day, when he walked into The Bear the following afternoon in his suit, he knew that he was as ready for it all as he’d ever been. If it didn’t work now, if he didn’t work now…he didn’t even want to think about it.

When he saw the look on Sydney’s face, he realized that he hadn’t talked to her at all since he went to stage. A week in their time felt more like a month on most other people’s time tables. An apology wasn’t necessary, but part of Richie still felt like he should be giving her one. He tried to think less about that, and more about the surprised but impressed look on her face as she continued to stare at him. Her smile was soft, small, but it still reached her eyes.

Sydney could feel the difference in the air from the last time that she’d seen him. There were a handful of things that she wanted to say to him, but all that came out was, “Your suit is—is nice.” She immediately wanted to kick herself but there was no point.

Richie took it in stride the way that he always did. “Oh, thanks.” He made a small gesture with his hands. “I wear suits now.”

Sydney nodded approvingly, her smile growing a little wider at the simple statement. It looked good on him. Whatever had happened in his week away had been something that he needed. She wanted to say something to that effect but instead the next words that came out of her mouth were, “You smell good.”

He did a double-take at that. Confusion showed through on his face for a moment the same way that embarrassment came through on hers. He could’ve easily made it awkward for the sake of it all, but he was doing better things now. If anybody deserved that from him it was her, so he said, “Thanks, yeah, apparently no one around here appreciated my sprucey, woodland scent so I had to switch it up.”

She laughed quietly. “Onto bigger and better things.”

He nodded before reaching out and gently cupping her arm with his hand. “Let’s get it, Chef.”

Sydney’s plan had been to wait for Richie to reach out to her, especially after seeing the evident shift in him. But after she spent another late night at the restaurant alone, down on her hands and knees scrubbing the floor, she knew she was going to lose the last of her shit if she didn’t reach out. She was adjusting the bag on her shoulder while also trying to unlock her phone as she went from the kitchen out into the dining area of the restaurant to leave. She was looking down when she heard the door open, and sure enough when she looked up, Richie was standing there. Still in his suit.

He motioned up towards the ceiling. “Lights were still on.”

She nodded, trying to nonchalantly put her phone away. “Yeah, uh, I was, um, I was just doing some cleaning.”

“Right.”

She cleared her throat, suddenly feeling awkward standing in front of him in a way that she hadn’t felt in a very long time. “You good?”

“Are you?”

She laughed sarcastically. “Not fair—I asked first.” She paused and waited for him to look her in the eyes. “Are you good, Richie? I, I know you’re wearing suits now but are you good…underneath that?”

He shrugged and nodded, but the nod slowly turned into a shake of his head instead. “I’m tryin’, Syd. I’m fuckin’ trying.”

She nodded. “I know you are.” Crossing her arms over her chest, she asked, “What’s going on? Something I can, you know, anything I can do?”

Richie rested his hand on the back of his neck. “Tiff’s, uh, Tiff’s engaged.”

Sydney’s eyes went wide. “Fuck.”

He laughed, and he almost meant it too. “Yeah. Fuck.”

“When, uh, when did that…?”

He shrugged. “Called me when I was staging at Carmy’s old fuckin’ stomping grounds over there.”

The explanation didn’t soothe the surprised look on her face at all. It did, though, explain part of the reason that he had been radio silent with her since he left. “Right. Got it.” Clearing her throat, she tried to box up all the different conflicting and extremely messy feelings that were rattling around in her chest. “And you’re feeling…what…about that?”

Richie looked at her, chuckling at her phrasing. “We don’t gotta talk about it.” He motioned towards her. “Your turn. The fuck’s going on with you?” The aggressive question had no malice to it anymore, not the way that it used to when he would talk to her.

She shook her head, now feeling like it wasn’t the time or the place to bring any of it up. “We don’t have to talk about it.” There was a pause that lasted a little too long for either of their liking before Sydney finally said, “I was actually going to call you. Or text.” She chuckled awkwardly. “Whatever.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

Richie watched her for a few seconds longer, waiting to see if she was going to expand on that at all. When she didn’t, he simply nodded and moved back towards the door again. “Alright,” he said as he held the door open for her. “Ladies first, then.”

Syd chuckled as she walked through the door. “Thanks.”

He shut and locked it behind them. “Don’t mention it.”

They didn’t make it back to his apartment. Richie felt like he was a goddamn teenager again hooking up with someone in his car in the darkness of a parking lot the way that they were, but that feeling wasn’t enough to stop him. It was cramped and clumsy but there was something to be said about the feeling of Syd’s vice-grip wrinkling his nicely ironed dress shirt. It made the escapade feel slightly more grown-up since he was doing it in a suit, not that he said it out loud.

They were getting themselves resituated as best they could when they were done, Sydney back in the passenger seat the way that she usually was. The windows were still completely coated in fog when Richie finally got around to turning his car on. They both agreed that in the car, out in the parking lot after hours, did not qualify as hooking up at work. No one else had to know.

While he waited to be able to see out of his windshield again, Richie asked, “So are we—do you want—where, uh, where am I taking you?”

Sydney’s eyes widened, not having thought that far ahead. It was one thing when she didn’t leave his apartment after they’d hooked up. Besides, they were almost always heading to the same place the next day anyway so it didn’t make too much of a difference. This was different, though. Asking to go back to his place still would either sound like she was teeing up for a second round, which didn’t sound like the worst thing in the world anyway, but it also sounded more attached and serious than whatever they were supposed to be doing. The mess between them was minimal so far—she wanted to keep it that way.

“Um, you can just bring me back to my place, I think.”

Richie nodded, not even feeling the fact that his lips turned downward into a frown as he did. “Right.”

Syd saw the look on his face and part of her wanted to say something, try to explain away her decision. But it wasn’t really going to matter, and she knew that. Whatever damage it’d caused was already done. She was going to try and say something anyway, but before she could he put the car in drive and started to roll off the lot. All she could do was slump back in the passenger seat, holding her bag in her lap as she looked out the window that was slowly but surely clearing back up.

When he rolled to a stop outside the apartment building where her and her dad were living, it felt like the first time Richie had looked at her since he’d started driving. Sydney wished that at any point during the drive she had come up with something to say to him, but her mind was far too muddled with everything that was going on.

She slipped her arms into the sleeves of her jacket, unable to make eye contact with him as she said, “If you need, I mean I don’t know what exactly I can do, but if you need me to do—”

“Thanks, Syd,” Richie put her out of her misery, his voice quiet in a strange, distant kind of way.

She nodded, unsure of what else to do or say. “You’re welcome, I guess.” She cleared her throat. “Thanks, you know, for the ride home.”

He shrugged. “It’s fine.”

Her fingers were wrapped around the handle of the door, ready to grant her the freedom from the car that felt stuffier now than it had before when they were having sex. But rather than open the door, tuck and roll her way out of the discomfort, she brought her hand back to her lap.

“Are we good?” she asked.

“What?”

The crushing weight of embarrassment came back ten-fold. It was almost like trying to force a “What are we?” conversation only worse because at least if that had been the conversation she would know the answer to the question.

“No, nothing, I mean,” she fumbled her way through the sentence, “you’ve just been quiet and I didn’t know if I—”

“It’s not like my car is a great place for pillow-talk,” he said, a bit of an edge to his voice that hadn’t been there before, “not that we really do that shit anyway.”

Her face twisted up in confusion. “Is that, I’m sorry is that something that you feel is missing with this or…?”

He sighed, head dropping back against the rest behind him. “No, I don’t, that’s not what I fuckin’ said.”

“I just asked if we’re good!”

“We’re fine!” He took a breath, making a concentrated effort to get his voice under control. “Business as usual, right?”

She couldn’t hide the frown on her face. “Right.”

He resituated his hands on the steering wheel. “We’re fine. We’re good. I’ll, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

She didn’t know how much she believed it, but she wasn’t in the mood to try and drag out an argument about it. “Yeah, right. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

His car was down the block and rounding the corner before the door to the apartment building swung shut behind Sydney. All she could do was take a deep breath before heading up the stairs to try and get into her shared apartment as quietly as possible. The last thing she needed was her dad seeing her looking the way that she did and then asking what was going on. She didn’t have it in her to come up with a lie off the cuff and she had absolutely no interest in telling him the truth. She took her shoes off before unlocking the door just to be sure she was as quiet as possible.

When she got to the restaurant the next day, she had seen Richie’s car out in the parking lot. Up until now everything at work had been fine with them. The rest of the restaurant felt like it was burning down around them more often than not, but they at least had a few shreds of stability in each other. But now Sydney wasn’t so sure. She wondered if she’d driven a stake right through the last piece of consistency she felt like she had at The Bear these days.

Even from the dining area, she could hear the typical levels of ruckus coming from the back of the house. Taking a deep breath she walked back into the kitchen. She found Carmy and Tina talking about ingredients, and she gave them a brief greeting as she made her way back to the office.

She lingered silently in the doorway when she saw Natalie and Richie talking somewhat quietly as they poured over paperwork. Richie was sitting at the desk, Natalie leaning on his shoulder as she gestured to the forms and numbers in front of him. The only thing that clued them into Syd’s sudden appearance in the doorway was the sound of her shoe squeaking along the floor as she leaned against the door frame.

“Syd!” Natalie looked at her with a smile.

Sydney returned the gesture, hoping it was more convincing than it felt. “Hey—how’re you feeling?”

Natalie shrugged and nodded. “Fucking pregnant and busy,” she answered with a laugh. She stepped away from Richie, giving Syd a quick hug as she excused herself from the office.

The two of them lingered there in silence for a moment. Richie stayed seated at the desk, looking up at her as she stood just inside the doorway now. His expression, for once, didn’t give much of anything away. Sydney didn’t know if she found that to be reassuring or terrifying.

She took a few small steps over so that she was standing beside the desk, sort of in front of him, sort of next to him. She crossed her arms over herself as she leaned back. She was half-perched on the edge of the desk as she looked down at Richie. He didn’t break his gaze, not able to divert his attention from those big brown eyes of hers that were full of so many questions all fighting to be the one that made it past her lips. Letting one of his hands drop so that it was resting on top of the desk, he leaned back in the chair and turned to face her more directly.

“Hi,” Syd finally said.

“Morning, Chef.”

She managed a weak smile. “All good?”

She said it with enough levity that, if Richie wanted to, he could pretend that it was just a question about work. She said it so that anyone who heard her asking it as they walked by the office would think that it was just a casual question about the state of the restaurant, about all the things everyone had been contending with lately. The only people who knew it meant all of that and then so much more were Sydney, who could feel the knot in her gut, and Richie, who would see the borderline desperation in her eyes.

He didn’t know what the realest answer to that question was, but the longer he stared at her the more he came to realize that there was only one answer that he was ever going to give her. Tapping his pen against the top of the desk, he said, “All good.”

Her relief was visible. Her shoulders dropped, and she stopped twisting her hands in her lap. “Good. Alright then.”

He nodded. “Alrighty then.” He diverted some of his attention to the paperwork he’d been looking at with Natalie. None of it was new but the sword was hanging lower and lower over their heads with each passing day. “Friends and family is fuckin’, fuckin’ soon.”

Sydney groaned and dropped her face into her hands. “Don’t remind me.”

“What the fuck are we—”

“I’m working the rest of it out with Carmy and Tina.”

“Today?”

She lifted her face from her palms. “Soon.”

“Both of them?” Richie asked, the question partially genuine but also goading.

Sydney felt her annoyance creeping back in but she also couldn’t deny that there was a sense of normalcy to the interaction that she had desperately been wanting. She nodded as she stood up from the desk. “Hopefully.”

Richie chuckled quietly ass he made her way towards the door. “Good luck, Chef.”

She stopped in the doorway and turned around to look at him again. She let herself feel at ease enough to smile. She studied his face for a moment, watching the way he ran his hand through his beard. She also couldn’t help but to notice in the process of that, that he was still wearing his wedding band. Surely that wasn’t something that was going to go on the rotation of thoughts that made up her mental carousel.

“You too, Chef.”

As she walked out of the room she told herself, a few times over in rapid succession, that the two of them were fine and they’d continue to be fine. They had to be. It was half genuine reassurance, half mantra at this point. For the last couple of months she had been telling herself some version of that—this just happened to be the first time she was telling herself that after the two of them had hit some turbulence. As she thought that, she couldn’t help but to think how far the pendulum had swung in the other direction from when she’d first shown up at The Beef. Back then she never would’ve thought that Richie would be the person that she was turning to for stability. She just hoped that it held, because if the knot in her stomach told her anything, it was that she needed to gear up for some rough times ahead.

She thought that she had been ready for whatever that was going to end up meaning. Then the universe pushed her to what was seemingly the absolute limit of what rough times could be. The highs and lows that made up the days and nights leading up to Friends and Family, and then the clusterfuck of Friends and Family itself had put more than just Sydney through the wringer. It took Richie and Carmy and Natalie and everyone else right down into it along with her.

It’d been exhausting and draining and it left her wondering if she could even do this the way that she thought she’d be able to. It left her wondering if she even wanted to anymore. She’d stood out back behind the restaurant puking her guts out wondering if it was going to feel like this every night for the rest of forever, wondering if the relief of having survived it was worth the turmoil of going through it. Hands braced on her legs, on the fence to keep her at least halfway upright, she felt herself teetering on the edge of an absolute and unstoppable spiral.

Then she thought a little harder about specific parts of the night, the parts that had gone right. She pushed the broken freezer and Carmy’s tantrum from her mind, tried her hardest to forget about the fact that Marcus had to fire one of their cooks for doing crack out in the back alley that she was currently standing in. Instead she tried to think about the way that the rest of them had rallied. Tina stepped up to the plate. Marcus doubled down. Richie took the reins when they were on the brink of completely falling apart.

She thought harder about that, about how well she and Richie had worked together. Things that there hadn’t been time to think about in the moment—his hand on her shoulder, grazing against her back. The way he held her gaze, the way that the two of them were able to say so much to each other while only saying half of those things out loud. That was good. That was the type of good that could keep someone from cascading over the edge into a complete mental breakdown.

Once she had said her piece to Carmy, she knew that she needed to leave before she lost what little was still left of her sanity. She collected up all of her things, not commenting on the way that Carmy headed to the back alley for a smoke and to make a phone call. She didn’t ask who he was going to call, she just hoped that he was going to make the right choice.

As she made her way down the sidewalk to go to the station, she walked past The Bear’s lot where she saw Richie’s car still parked. It wasn’t on, no lights and nothing coming out of the exhaust, but she thanks to the lampposts around she could still see his silhouette in the driver’s seat. Figuring that the worst he could do was tell her to fuck off, she started to walk over. Normally this would be the time that she felt like she had so many things to say to him, but her brain was so fried and overwhelmed and tired that she didn’t have a single coherent thought to spare.

He must’ve seen her, because he opened the car door and stepped out as she appeared in front of the hood. The exhaustion in his eyes was different than hers, but just as palpable. “We fuckin’ did it.” It wasn’t what he really wanted to say, but it was all he could manage without dissolving into a tirade. It wasn’t a lie, at least.

She nodded, wanting to respond but afraid that she was going to puke again if she did. Clearing her throat, she spoke carefully as she said, “Yeah, we did it.” She took a deep breath, feeling a little better about her odds of not throwing up mid-conversation with him as she watched him light a cigarette. “Are you, uh…” she trailed off, looking over at the restaurant and knowing that the answer to the question she was about to ask was a pretty obvious one, “all of that…”

He shook his head. “I can’t fuckin’ deal with that shit right now.”

She knew the feeling. Walking so that she was standing next to him, she said, “I get that.”

“You outta here?”

She exhaled low and slow. “Yeah, I’ve been throwing up like, a lot, so I should probably just go home.”

He didn’t mean to laugh at that but he did. “Shit.”

“Yeah.”

“Need a ride?”

She shook her head. “No, I’m good, I think. I don’t wanna throw up all over your car.”

“You can roll the window down. Crank that handle real fuckin’ fast.”

She rolled her eyes. “Your windows aren’t hand-cranks, Richie.”

He chuckled as he flicked the butt of his cigarette away. “Then you can definitely roll it down in time.”

Richie had to admit even if only to himself that he was glad to have a distraction and a reason to pry himself away from the restaurant. He reached, resting his hand on her back between her shoulder blades. His palm was there for a few seconds before he pulled it away quickly.

“Shit, sorry, don’t wanna make you—”

“I’m not gonna get sick from you touching me, you know.” She laughed. “Think it would’ve been a problem before now.”

He laughed harder at that than he thought he was going to. It wasn’t often that they were in a position to make jokes or comments like that lately, too much other chaos putting distance between them. Even before the most recent waves of turmoil, very rarely was it ever Sydney who was making remarks like that. They looked at each other for a moment longer, and Richie rested his hand against her back again, his thumb rubbing back and forth in an attempt to provide whatever comfort he could in the moment. Syd was looking down at the pavement, but Richie felt her muscles lose some of their tension at the contact, and he smiled despite the exhaustion of everything that had already happened, and everything that was bound to happen next. For now, he settled for being able to drive her home. They could deal with everything else as it came.

(divider by @saradika-graphics)

The Bear Taglist (please let me know if you'd like to be added!): @garbinge @darqchilddaydreamz @withmyteeth @hausofmamadas @narcolini

@justreblogginfics @ashlingiswriting @fromirkwood @ago0112

[green-army-soldier]

Benny sat down, trying to take deep breaths as his whole body shaking. He gulped air, trying to speak.

"I... oh. Okay." He paused. "I'm sittin' here. That's where I am right now: sittin'." He went quiet again until a nervous chuckle forced its way out. "I guess sittin' ain't so bad. I've been used to doing somethin' when I ain't sleeping. No time for sittin' when there's farm chores that need doin' and missions to execute... No time for sittin'."

@green-army-soldier said : what if i don't have time? (Benny having his mid-life crisis a decade early XD, green-army-soldier)

Now was an opportune time to explain to Benny gamma mutants have more lives than a room full of cats, but he chooses not to take it, kid was clearly freaked out enough without talk of green doors and the like.

❝ I'm going to need you to sit down and take a deep breath. Just try to focus on the here and now, take things minute by minute. Can't do much about things that haven't happened yet, but you can control your present, revel in that ❞

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY / Accepting!

[green-army-soldier]

" Don't worry, I'll be with you every step of the way."

(* pushes grandpa Red at Flux for a mission xD*)

"Alright... I appreciate that, Sir. I don't know why I'm so worried. I just got a bad feeling about this mission, if I can be honest. 'He shook his head, chuckling. "Maybe I just seen too many horror movies with folks going pokin' around old tombs and such, gettin' themselves killed."

[ofmdrecaps]

10/26/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TLDR; S2 Finale Anniversary! Rhys Darby; Taika Waititi; Con O'Neill; Kristian Nairn; Samba Schutte & Damien Gerard; Rory Kinnear; Other Fandom Petition; Fan Spotlight: Cast Cards; AMuseOfFyre; Love Notes; Daily Darby/Today's Taika;

== S2 Finale Anniversary ==

It's been a year since the finale of S2 aired crew! What a year it has been! Our friends over at @adoptourcrew asked some important questions and would love to hear from you on their various socials!

Source: Adopt Our Crew Twitter

== Rhys Darby ==

Rhys is announcing his Midwest Comedy tours going on in Indiana and Missouri! The Helium Comedy Club in Indiana information is here and Missouri is here!

Source: Rhys' Instagram

== Taika Waititi ==

Taika out and about!

Source: Instagram

== Con O'Neill ==

Con was so appreciative of everyone coming to join him and the folks of The Men out at Alnwick Playhouse!

Source: Con O'Neill's Instagram

Deepest thank yous to the super sweet Radical Hysteria on Instagram for being kind enough to share these adorable shots with Con! It looked like everyone had such an amazing time!

Source: radical_hysteria on Instagram

== Kristian Nairn ==

Kristian was out at MCM Comic Con in the UK-- and god to meet up with none other than Dogpool!

Source: Kristian Nairn's Instagram

Kristian's also got a new event happening in Dundee, UK on November 29th! For more info, check out Progressia Events!

Source: Progressia Events

Annnnnd if that wasn't enough, Kristian's also going to be at Beastly Books in Santa Fe, New Mexico on October 31 from 7pm -8 pm! To learn more, checkout Beastly Books!

Source: Kristian's Instagram

== Samba Schutte & Damien Gerard ==

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 released on the 25th-- and guess what? Both Samba, and Damien voice characters in the game! Yannick and Harry Stone!

Source: Samba Schutte's Instagram / Damien Gerard's Threads

Oh, and just by the way, Good Dead Entertainment has reported Advanced Chemistry has a 100 on the Popcorn Meter! Great job everyone! If you're still looking to help get Samba recognition, you can still do reviews on Amazon and other sites! For help on where, you can visit the repo for more info.

Source: GoodEntertainment Instagram

== Rory Kinnear ==

Our favorite Badminton Twins, Rory Kinnear..and well Rory Kinnear is going to be playing in the latest season of The Diplomat on Netflix! It premieres October 31st!

Source: Netflix Articles

== Other Fandom Petitions ==

Some other fans are hoping to get a full 6 episode series after the latest news about Good Omens only getting a 90 minute movie! They were so kind over the past year in sharing petitions for OFMD renewals, if you have a moment, and are willing, can you do a quick signature for them?

== Fan Spotlight ==

= Cast Cards =

More Cast Cards tonight from the ever-wonderful, sweetest person ever, @melvisik! First up is Rhett Giles! One of our Segment Producers! "Segment producers exist in television programs such as morning news shows. They produce the various “segments” in the show, such as a cooking, local news, or special weather report segment. They’re typically responsible for writing about stories assigned to them in. their production system from their Executive Producers, who get their stories from their news source like CNN." - The Film Fund

Next up is just a PLETHORA of awesome Stunt Performers! James Gerardi, Kieran Gallagher, Matthew Lorenceau, Raw Leiba, Tait Fletcher, and Steve Brown!

Source: @melvisik's Twitter

= A Muse of Fyre =

Another absolutely stunning muppet by our dear friend @amuseoffyre-- this time featuring Calico Jack! I am floored at how that mustache turned out!

Source: amuseoffyre's Instagram

== Love Notes ==

Hey lovelies <3 I hope your weekend ended up treating you well. Sending some mini-love notes your way tonight. Good luck on the week ahead!

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A post shared by The New Happy® (@newhappyco)

Source: NewHappyCo Instagram

== Daily Darby / Today's Taika ==

No theme, just hair! Gifs courtesy of some of our Gif-Maker Extraordinaires, @fandomsmeantheworldtome and @fuckyeahworldoftaika <3

[the-californicationist]

Good Fences (Fluffuary #23)

FEB23: Established Love

John had been on tour through the spring and summer, and you’d spent the warm months alone. For part of it, he could talk to you freely, but near the end of his duty, he had warned you that he’d need to “go dark” for a while. Days had turned into weeks, and weeks had become months. The fiery sun had shifted across the sky, and what was once a humid morning now had a cold nip in the air. 

Then, as if he had come in on the change in the winds, he was back. Or, a version of him was, anyway.

He had been home for a few days, and while he had told you that “it” was “over”, he had been changed by whatever it was, and he hadn’t told you much else. You noticed he was sleeping for only a few hours at a time. Sometimes, he would wake you up in the mornings with a ravenous, animalistic need, and other times you would find him on the balcony, drinking coffee, enjoying the sunrise. Sometimes he would go out in the middle of the night for a cigar, and some nights he would be at your neck and your breasts and your hips with his lips and his teeth. You never knew which John you were going to get. 

But, he also seemed relieved. It was as if he had been running, sprinting full out, and had finally reached his destination.

One morning, while you were showering together, he was soaping your body as well as his own, and he made a suggestion,

“We should go to the Smithsonian today. They have the Klimt exhibit you were talking about. I looked it up last night, and it’s there this week.”

It wasn’t out of character for John to suggest a day trip, but he hated D.C., and you had only mentioned the Klimt exhibition off-handedly back in January, so it was a bit of a shock. 

“Yeah, John,” you rubbed his body with the lather, marveling at how toned and thick his muscles had become, “That sounds nice. We can take the train.” 

You admired his body as you washed him, but you also felt the shade of contempt rising like bile in your throat. He was hardened by whatever had happened to him, by whatever hell they had put him through. He was only made to look like this broad, cut Adonis because they (whoever they were) had used him like a hammer to a nail. And you resented them for it. 

As much as his heavy form stirred your core and made you crave that strength to be used on you, you wanted to rinse it away. You wanted your soft bear back. You wanted him to be chubby and happy and filled with cheesecakes and champagne and bagels in the morning. You didn’t want him to be a hammer. You wanted him to be your lover, and you thought, selfishly, that it should be his only responsibility. The world, you decided, could save itself. He deserved peace. 

But, that wasn’t up to you. He was his own man. You tried to put those thoughts out of your mind, but you had to admit that this last tour had been hard on both of you. 

The train ride was quiet, as was the stroll down to the museum. John held your hand as you walked through the exhibits, and when you came to the hall that housed the visiting Klimt pieces, you gasped. 

There, in all of its golden glory, was The Kiss.

You stepped toward it, marveling at the gold and watching the light dance across it. The Lovers were there, locked in their perpetual embrace, and she was at his mercy, literally on her knees for him, held tightly in his hands.

John’s voice rumbled in his chest, and he said,

“That’s how I feel about you. I feel as if I’ve never loved anyone until now. I’ve never been loved, and I’ll never be loved again. Not like this.”

You turned away from the masterpiece you’d been admiring to face your very own lover, looking up at him and letting his words sink into your bones, wrapping around them like golden threads, never to be taken back. 

Then, it was his turn to be on his knees. You watched him fall to the floor, confused at first and then —

“Marry me, love. I can’t live without you by my side. Please.”

He offered you the ring, a huge, round pearl surrounded by diamonds. It looked like it cost as much as the painting. You felt hot, heavy tears flowing down your face, and you didn’t even realize you’d been crying. 

But, you managed to nod and whisper, 

“Yes. God, yes. Yes, I’ll marry you.” 

The ring fit like it had been made just for you, and he rose from the ground and clutched you to his chest. All at once, you knew how the girl in the painting felt. You kissed John, and in doing so, you knew how she had kissed her robed man. You could imagine how the blood had rushed through her body, flushing her cheeks and pooling in her belly, responding to her love’s embrace. John was him, and you were her, and you were one.

[green-army-soldier]

"Alright, I wasn't sure if you'd be takin' suggestions, but figured I'd ask anyway." He froze for a moment at the slap before chuckling. "I don't know about that. I'm usually better at followin' orders than planning. Don't mean I can't plan or nothin', but you get what I mean." He felt awkward, but the internal chastising couldn't keep his spirit of celebration down. Though he knew it would be best to return to Hulk and figure out what to do next before idle thoughts started weighing on him.

❛ I think this Easter will be better than my last. ❜ (for Hulk from green-army-soldier)

@green-army-soldier

“How did you celebrate your last Easters?” Banner never got to run around, looking for eggs. The most their mother could do what hide a little piece of chocolate and pass it along to Bruce. It had always been melted but he hadn’t cared. Nothing mattered if Mama was there with them…

Shaking his head, Hulk got back to the conversation and smiled. “Well, we don’t actually do much at Easter, mostly keep an eye on things so that the kids are safe….Not after the last Easter incidents….” Another frown appeared on his face at that. “We can’t have another incident. My heart can’t take it again.”

[thegreeks]

MASTERLIST: Mr. Darcy x You

A Winter's Love at Pemberley:

admiring your two children playing in the winter snow

A Dance Beneath the Stars:

enjoying a day with your busy husband and ending it with a loving dance with thanks to his sister Georgianna

A Most Unexpected Surprise:

• Part 2

telling your husband you are to be expecting a second addition to your family

A Love Beyond Time:

your lovely wedding day with your Mr. Darcy

A Dance of Words:

your friendship with Georgianna Darcy leads to the beginning of your courtship

A Heart All Their Own:

due to encouragements from friends and family, you and your husband realize it's time to expand your family

The Dance of the Swan:

playing piano and dancing to Carnival of Animals XIII The Swan with Mr. Darcy at his ball

The Heart's Awakening:

an unknown bitterness sparks when an acquaintance makes a move on your close friend Mr. Darcy

An Affectionate Rebellion:

Lady Catherine de Bourgh comes to Pemberley to scrutinize the unity between you and her nephew

• Prequel- The Warmth of Home:

the joys of an aristocratic life with your husband and son Edward

An Undisclosed Love:

Bingley!Reader; You and Mr. Darcy confront the tension of the inexplicably drawing connection, marking the quiet beginning of a romance

Love and Tenderness:

your gentle, intimate wedding night with Mr. Darcy

Confession of Broken Hearts:

you cannot bear to see the one you love show tender affection to another, thus you urgently confess

Whispers in the Storm:

• Part 2

• Part 3

an urgent calling for you and your husband to Longbourn amidst a terrible storm

Tremors of Betrayal:

• Part 2

grappling with the haunting presence of your husband's past love

The Cost of Pride:

Mr. Darcy reflects on pride that caused the greatest loss

Tender Moments: Home with Darcy:

loving moments at home with your dear husband as you reflect on your union

Gentleman's Restraint of Yearnings:

coming across you on a walk, he realizes he is not at liberty to comfort you though he wants to be

Melting Hearts:

"I felt as if I were melting inside, and I might go on and on melting" - Joanna Glenn

Between Love and Grief:

• Part 2

"Love and grief, joy and pain. They're very close together. Or perhaps sometimes they're not even different things." - Joanna Glenn

A Fevered Return:

Mr. Darcy returns home to Pemberley to find his wife has taken sickly

A Visit to Longbourn:

Bennet!Reader; shortly after your marriage, you receive an invitation to your family in Longbourn

Jealousy and Devotion:

"Such is my life; A minute ago I was happy, immersed in a book. Now I feel a misery only violence could cure." - Kim Addonizio

Ripples of the Lake:

finding yourself in an unexpected lakeside encounter, revealing a surprising side of Mr. Darcy

A Family Announcement:

Bennet!Reader; telling your dear friends and family you are to be expecting a child

A Tour to the Lakes:

a journey to the Lake District with your dear husband

Tormented Love:

"- You don't love me? - Yes, but in torment." - Marina Tsvetaeva

Whispers in the Dusk:

"It is dusk. I want to know how to be close to you. Closer." - Else Fitzgerald

A Night at Netherfield:

"I was oversensitive. I'd been told this my entire life. It was a liability, my sensitivity, but it was also a power," - Suzanne Scanlon

In the Stillness of Night:

with footsteps in the unease of night, your husband Mr. Darcy protects you from any danger

Ink and Affection:

Part 2

"Writing to you is like kissing you. It is something physical" - Simone de Beauvoir

Damnable Eyes

"Eyes are full of language." - Anne Sexton

Threads of Duty and Desire

"I've been looking after people my whole life. Holding it together. Holding everyone together. And I've stopped. And I'm exhausted." - Joanna Glenn

The Quiet Observer

"Speak to me aching heart; what / ridiculous errand are you inventing for yourself / weeping in the dark" - Louise Glück

Unspoken Years

“‘You talk as though I’ve had an amputation.’ ‘I think you have. I think someone has cut out your heart.’” - Jeanette Winterson

Candlelight and Confession

a masquerade a Netherfield, who ever could this enchanting gentleman be?

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