#bob is everything and needs to be protected at all cost

[thibouniverse]

Dead Weight (Bob Reynold x gn!reader)

Pairing: Bob Reynolds x gender neutral reader.

Summary: Bob is having a selective mutism day and you try your best to help him.

Warnings: none i guess, thoughts spiraling, bob needs a hug.

Word Count: 3,146 words

Author's note: I relate to Bob on a very high personal level and this is just what it is.

(pictures are from the Pexels website and the Thunderbolts movie)

~~~~

You hadn’t seen Bob all day.

You couldn’t help but worry about how he was doing. 

If it was a bad day or a bad day.

You didn’t want to pry either. When you were having a bad day, you’d rather lock yourself in until it passed. Not bothering anyone.

But Bob wasn’t you.

And even though you hated to think of it this way, it was a reality after all: Bob was��could be—dangerous on a bad day.

But it was obvious no one wanted to bother him.

He had been around everyone for the whole week, even cheerful and participating. Ultimately, he needed a little rest.

Away.

But you’ve been in the common room all day and he didn’t get out of his room—or you would have seen him.

And that meant he hadn’t eaten all day. And that worried you more than anything.

So between the long hours of the afternoon when everyone was doing their thing—whether it was dozing off in front of the tv, reading, going to their room or going training—you took the opportunity to take a snack; nothing big, just some cashew nuts—which you hope Alexei wouldn’t notice you’ve taken—and an apple, cut in little pieces.

You made sure to pick a book in your room before gently knocking on Bob’s door—which was always slightly opened.

You dared a look in the room to see him on the edge of his bed, his arms around his legs and his chin on his knees looking at the ground in front of him.

The air felt heavy and you couldn’t help the little tug at your heart when his eyes met yours for less than a second.

You removed your shoes and entered, hoping from the bottom of your heart that you weren’t invading his privacy.

Before you sat next to him you asked, gently, softly, almost in a whisper: “You don’t have to answer, but I just have two questions.” His head moved slightly to his right where you were, but without meeting your eyes. “Do you want to talk?” His head said no in the most imperceptible way and you nodded to yourself. Silent day then. “Do you want me to stay?” And this time he met your eyes for a tiny bit longer than a second and you almost regretted asking. It’s like he was saying How can I know what I want when I don’t know who I am?

“Alright,” you answered his unspoken question. “You don’t have to do anything, but I’m staying. Oh, and I brought snacks. You need to eat something, Bob. I know it’s hard, but believe me, it helps.”

You settled on his bed, back against the headrest, book in your hands and started reading, bathed in the silence of the room.

You left the snacks to Bob, not wanting to bother him with your chewing sounds if he was sensible to it, especially today.

The only sound in the room then, still came from you, from turning the pages once in a while, and it took some time before you heard the shuffling of fabric from Bob who moved a little. From your peripheral vision, just above the book, you saw him turn his head to look at you before returning to its original position.

As you turned another page, you heard him chew on the bits of the apple and you smiled behind your book, happy that he was putting something in his stomach. He obviously thought he was disturbing the silence as he chewed very slowly, sometimes even waiting for you to turn a page.

It took a whole chapter before he sat in the middle of the bed, keeping his position with his arms around his legs. He, nonetheless, brought the bowl of snacks closer to you so it was in your reach. You smiled at him even though he was avoiding your eyes and took some cashew nuts, chewing them slowly.

Once in a while he would sigh, out of nowhere, his turmoil of thoughts obviously weighing on him.

None of you moved except for your regular shift of crossing your legs at the ankle once in a while.

It took another fifteen minutes for Bob to move again and this time sitting next to you. There was still a little space between you two, but his right shoulder was inches from yours.

Bob wasn’t one to give or initiate physical touch, but there were days where it was obvious he was craving for it. He would sit closer to the person next to him. Or the way his shoulders dropped immediately when one of the team hugged him—mostly Yelena or you, but even Alexei. Or when he would look a little longer at a hand that touched his shoulder for a second, as if he wanted this touch to last just a tiny bit longer.

It reminded you of little you sometimes. That’s why you felt so close to him sometimes, like you could understand him without words.

That’s why this silence didn’t feel uncomfortable.

How many times were you unable to ask for some company—no talks, just physical presence—during one of your bad days? That just one person, next to you, could be here, reminding you that the world was real and that you weren’t alone. Most of the time you didn’t even know you needed quiet company to feel better. But sometimes a friend would come, unbothered, just sitting here in silence and you would feel better.

And you hoped it was the same for Bob.

When you saw him dozed off a little from the corner of your eye, his head slightly dropping until he shook it awake, you stated quietly: “You can rest your head on my shoulder if you want.”

His head snapped in your direction and immediately looked away when you turned your head to look at him, but saw his big round eyes anyway, as if you had said the most impossible thing. That made you softly smile before you saw him play with the hem of his shirt.

You shrugged, adding “I don’t mind” and returned to your book chewing on some bits of apple.

For a moment he didn’t move, as if your words had told him he should stay awake, like he had been caught and couldn’t be again.

But since he’s probably been in that state and in that position of hugging his legs since the early hours of the day, it didn’t take him long before his head, slowly, and tentatively, rested on your shoulder.

And you immediately felt relief from his gesture. He was letting himself be physically close with someone without the fear of bothering. That was progress.

You even felt the urge to read to him, as you were sure he was reading from where he was. You wanted to read to him so he could fall asleep more rapidly and easily.

It didn’t take long for him to readjust his position and be closer to you. You even removed the bowl of snacks so he could feel at ease and then the whole length of your left side aligned with his right as he stretched his legs out on the bed.

And surely, soon enough, his breath evened, his hands between his knees and his head a little heavier as sleep took him.

And you couldn’t help but smile for yourself. For how proud you were of him for coming all the way here. It was never easy when you were in this state, feeling like a burden, a dead weight. That no matter what you did, it felt wrong, whether it was in your head or in the eyes of others, your perception almost showing you another reality, a distorted one.

Bob was probably very close to a bad day. And you were glad that despite your fear to bother him and make things worse you were able to come and stay.

You even closed your book for a minute, appreciating the silence of the room, almost dozing off too as you realised that your surroundings hadn’t been this quiet for a very long time.

That meant you hadn’t spent time alone in a long while.

Or even with Bob.

Because he had this thing where, when it was just the two of you, everything was just… calmer.

Mutual understanding.

The adrenaline and rush in your veins seemed to slow from a tidal wave to a regular one, the peaceful rhythm of the waves reaching the shore. Everything was different with him. Which was weird knowing that his thoughts were going a mile a minute. But since yours were doing the same, it felt comfortable to know you weren’t alone.

You went back to your book to put your mind elsewhere and after a few more chapters Bob moved a little, and before he was even fully awake, his stomach growled making you chuckle a bit.

“Sorry,” he said, holding his belly as he sat right. His voice was hoarse from his sleep, but majoritarily for not talking all day.

“It’s okay. Here,” you replied as you reached for the bowls of snacks, without looking away from your book.

He cleared his throat before muttering a “thanks” to which you just smiled and nodded.

He looked around him, as if discovering his room for the first time as he picked some cashew nuts to eat.

“Is it any good?” he asked, suddenly, making you hold your book a little tighter at the surprise of his voice and question.

“Bob, it’s ok you don’t have to—” you stopped, looking at him for a second, analysing if he was feeling forced to talk or not. He seemed ok. “Yeah, it’s good. Actually I’m reading it again,” you add as his eyes seemed to focus around you a little more. “Much better than the first time.”

“Cool,” he nodded before eating some more cashew nuts.

You then closed your book, looking at him for a second. “You don’t have to answer, but, are you okay?”

He stopped for a second, holding the bowl in his two hands, before replying, hesitantly, “Sleeping helped. Thanks for coming, by the way. I’m sorry, I–”

“Hey, don’t apologize,” you reassure him immediately, slightly nudging his shoulder. “I came here on my own right? I’m ok.” He nodded, looking elsewhere. “Do you need anything?”

“Um, no?”

“Have you even drank water today?”

He just looked at you and you had your answer. You didn’t say anything bad, neither rolled your eyes like you would with the others, but just got up and told him “I’m getting you a glass of water.”

“You really don’t have to.”

But you were already out the door.

Of course he forgot to drink. He had been so caught up in his own mind and thoughts that drinking was the last of his problems.

You took the opportunity to stretch your legs a little bit, seeing that no one and nothing had moved or changed in the few hours you were with Bob.

It felt even quieter than before. As if something in the air had left the room.

You came back to Bob’s room, slightly knocking on the door just like before, this time a little “come in” answering you.

He was back to sitting on the edge of the bed, his feet on the ground and you sat next to him, handling him the glass of water.

“Thanks,” he replied, still unable to meet your eyes. “For everything,” he added before drinking half the glass in one go.

“Do you want to talk about it?”

“I don’t know”, he replied, some of his fingers brushing the rim of the glass. “I’m not sure how to. It’s just… all these thoughts. It’s like they keep bouncing and spiraling back and forth in my head and it never stops.”

“Must be exhausting.”

“Yeah,” he exhaled in a sigh, his elbows now resting on his knees and his head down. “And the more it comes the less I wanna talk, if that even makes sense.”

“It does. It’s like if you open your mouth you’ll just regret whatever comes out. Sometimes because you don’t want to bother, sometimes because you’re on the edge and then you’re sorry for whatever tone you used when you speak to other people. Talking just makes things worse all the time.”

“Yeah. So… you-you feel like this too?” he asked hesitantly while he looked at you from over his shoulder.

“Sometimes. Happened only rarely since we’ve been living all together. Sometimes it’s irritating not having time for yourself, but I guess the loneliness, the real one, is worse.”

“Yeah, it makes sense.”

You then sighed and put your hands behind you, looking at the ceiling.

“Do you want me to leave?” you asked, suddenly aware you might overstep now that he was feeling better.

“No,” he replied without an ounce of hesitation which made you smile. “I mean if you’re ok with staying of course,” he added, slightly pivoting to look at you again.

“Of course I am.”

“Thanks.”

And as you crossed your legs on his bed and straightened your back he looked back at the floor, the glass still in his hands between his legs.

You still felt some uneasiness coming for him. It seemed like he didn’t feel as relaxed as when you walked out of his room a minute earlier.

“Everything ok, you sure? You can tell me, you know.”

“It’s just… I don’t like asking this kind of stuff,” he chuckled nervously.

“What is it?” you asked, hunching forward a little to level with him, your hands on your ankles. “I promise if I can help I will.”

“I’m sure you will.” He replied.

You could hear a smile in his voice but he stayed quiet for another minute.

You could almost feel his inner battle, how to say what he wanted, probably needed to say.

He took a few big inhales, but the words couldn’t get out.

“Do you want to write it? Maybe it’ll be easier.”

“No, I… I can say it out loud. I need to.”

“Bob,” you said gently, risking a hand on his shoulder, “you don’t need to do or say anything if you’re not comfortable with it. No one is forcing you.”

“I know. It’s just– I’m working on this. Even if it’s hard I need to let things out. No matter the thought or the request. It can’t stay up here, bottled up until it’s too late.”

“Okay, yeah, I get it,” you reassured as you removed your hand. “Take your time, then. I’m not leaving.”

He looked at you to make sure you were serious and you smiled at him, genuinely. If staying here could help him then you would.

He took another sip of water before putting the glass on the ground and mimicking your position, cross-legged on the bed. His right knee was touching your left and you watched him look at it.

You watched him close his eyes, take a big inhale as his hands grabbed his ankles, turning his knuckles white. It obviously was a struggle for him and you weren’t sure what to do at this moment.

“Can I, maybe, hold your hand?” you took his long exhale as a time to process his question before immediately answering: “Yes, of course.” And you held out your hand on your knee for him to take.

He slowly and tentatively reached yours, holding it like preschoolers, and you saw his shoulders drop instantly.

“Feeling better?” you asked in a whisper leaving a little pressure on his hand.

“Yeah,” he said in an exhale, nodding. “Thanks. Sorry if that was weird.”

“No, not at all. Next time you feel like this, you don’t have to ask, you can just… do it.”

“Seems even more terrifying,” he chuckled, which made you smile, “but I’ll try to remember that.”

You both stayed quiet for a while as your thumb slowly caressed his hand in a soothing way.

“Thanks. Again. For today.” He hesitated before adding “I think today might have been a bad day without you.”

“I kinda figured. I mean… I don’t want to overstep and you’ve been with us for such a long time this week, I wasn’t sure if I could or should come.”

“I’m glad you did,” he replied, holding your hand a little tighter.

“Bob?”

“Yeah?” he asked, looking at you.

“Do you want a hug?”

“I–” he hesitated, obviously caught off guard by your question. “Yes, please.”

He didn’t have tears in his eyes. Today wasn’t one of those days.

He just needed reassurance, something grounding. Something to make him feel real. You felt it so much as a kid. This need to just hold a piece of a human living thing. A reassurance in this wild big world that seemed so frightening from time to time.

You got up and helped him, your hands still clasped into one another, and you made sure he wouldn’t spill the glass of water on the carpet before you opened your arms. He slipped his arms around your back as you closed them over his shoulder.

His chin rested on your shoulder and he held you a little tighter. You could feel his warmth engulf you, and for a second you wondered how he could bear it. How could he wear sweaters and hoodies when his body temperature was so high all the time?

“Thanks,” he muttered. “I needed this.”

“Yeah, I figured,” you simply replied, slowly starting to rub his back.

“Are you actually a mind reader?” he asked, chuckling softly, his breath falling on your nape.

“Who knows,” you chuckled too. “You remind me of me sometimes. So I just assume. Most of the time.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, you’re good at assuming, then.”

“Thanks, Bob.”

It took another minute before he stated: “Tell me if this is too much.”

“Take all the time you need. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Thanks,” and he held you tighter if that was even possible.

The hug seemed to last a lifetime as much as two minutes when his stomach interrupted the moment.

“Come on,” you said, breaking the hug, but taking his hand in yours. “We’re gonna get you something to eat. Something more consistent than apple and cashew.” You added as he eyed the bowls, still on his bed, over both your arms.

“Won’t you get in trouble for that?” he asked as you exited the room.

“What? Oh the cashew, you mean?” he nodded “What he doesn’t know can’t hurt him. I won’t tell if you won’t,” you shrugged.

“I won’t.”

“Perfect!” you exclaimed, “Then it’s our little secret.”

You laughed softly and he smiled, and suddenly today felt much more better and far more promising than it did a few hours prior.

[inkandapex]

stream madness pt. 2

Lando Norris x Reader

Summary: Lando Norris embraced his now-public relationship as a chance to openly and unapologetically adore his girlfriend. Fans saw it as a win—though it came at the cost of Max F constantly getting roped into their antics.

Words: 4.8k

Warnings: swearing, mentions of sex, suggestive dialogue

part 1 | part 3 | part 4

Protect Max

Fans were absolutely loving how Y/N had become a bigger part of Max’s streams. They got to see a side of her they’d never caught on social media and beyond the glimpses from the paddock with Lando.

It was just another day of chatting and gaming for the two during a break between races, the pair sat in an ever familiar room in Lando's place in Monaco, but with him absent as Max had mentioned he went out for training.

"We just agreed on not using grenades you cheat! Lando's rubbing off on you way too much. I don't like it" Max exclaims as his character on Counterstrike once again, gets killed by Y/N less than a minute into the round.

"Oh go cry about it Max, just admit I'm better than you" Y/N smirks as she grabs her water bottle to take a sip

"You cheated! I got absolutely knocked by that"

"Fine! You big baby, no grenades this time, promise" Y/N groans as they start another round

"they're so sibling coded" "not bob getting dethroned from being Max's gaming partner" "she's so gonna beat Max again this round"

“Okay, chat, no need to rub salt in the wound—by the way, I was the one who taught you how to play, you should be grateful—shit!”

Max was mid-sentence when Y/N sniped him, knocking him out of the game and securing yet another win—this time, fair and square.

“The student becomes the master,” she smirked, leaning back in her chair, clearly enjoying the moment.

"What's going on here?" the mic picks up Lando's voice before he even enters the frame.

"I'm absolutely dominating on counterstrike—did you just get back?" A playful smile spreads across Y/N's face as Lando walks into the room, standing behind her chair and gently massaging her shoulders.

"I've already showered and everything. Been here the past 30 minutes, you two were too busy bickering—I could hear you all the way down the hall," Lando chuckles, looking down at her with a cheeky grin.

He leans in, but Y/N quickly shifts away, avoiding the kiss.

"You're avoiding my kisses now?" Lando teases, his mouth hanging open in mock surprise.

"The stream, Lan..." Y/N mutters, a little pout on her lips, making Lando laugh softly.

"Alright baby, for our eyes only, yeah?" Lando smirks, leaning back down while reaching for the camera, his hand covering it just in time to hide their kiss.

"Hello?! My eyes! My eyes! What about Max’s eyes?!" Max's shout makes the two burst into laughter as Lando pulls his hand away, revealing Max’s face, twisted in utter disgust.

"lol poor max" "bet he misses P a lil extra today" "i think im going to cardiac arrest they're so cute"

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Snitches get stiches

The night before testing in Bahrain, Lando hopped onto Max’s stream for a few rounds, confident as ever. After absolutely schooling Max, he decided it was time to call it a night, shutting down his setup and stepping away.

What he didn’t step away from, however, was the chat.

Curled up in bed, phone in hand, Lando lurked—dropping smug messages every few minutes. No matter how much Max tried to ignore him, chat was loving it, egging Lando on as he tormented his friend from the shadows.

" 'Just take the L—' Mate, I did take the L. You’re the one still lurking in chat," Max laughed, shaking his head as yet another message from Lando popped up. "You have testing tomorrow, by the way."

Then, a new message appeared.

"Ed said he let you win this morning."

Max smirked, grabbing his phone. Without a word, he held up a finger to the camera and pressed dial. The stream went quiet as he waited. After a few rings, a familiar voice came through the speaker.

"Hey, Y/N, you alright? Sorry if I woke you. You’re in Bahrain with Lando, yeah?" Max finally said, his grin growing wider at the thought of absolutely snitching on his best friend.

"Hey, Maxie. No you're good, just in the other room catching up on work. Lando went to bed about an hour ago. Everything okay? Do I need to wake him up?" Y/N sounded concerned.

"Yeah, 'bout that... he’s wide awake, actually—just finished streaming golf with me. Wouldn’t leave my chat."

The pause on the other end was almost too satisfying. Max leaned back, waiting patiently, his smirk never fading. The sound of rustling and soft footsteps had him turning up the volume, bringing his phone closer to the mic. He even covered his mouth, stifling his laughter, determined to catch this golden moment in all its glory.

"bro is cooked" "oh no she's mad" "not max snitching on lando AGAIN"

"You’ve got testing tomorrow, Lan." "Fucking snitch, Max! Grow up!" Lando’s voice barely made it through, muffled. "You said you were going to bed an hour ago," Y/N said, clearly not amused. "Baby, I am in bed," Lando mumbled, his tone defensive. "You were just playing with Max—" "—For one round, my love. I’m in bed now, aren’t I?" "Don’t play me, Norris. Go to sleep, or I’m taking your phone away." “How am I supposed to sleep without you next to me, huh?” Lando’s voice was full of fake desperation, stretching the words out like he was pleading for a lifeline.

“Right, well, now I’m about to throw up,” Max interrupted, cutting through the conversation with his dry humour.

"Fewtrell, you knew better. shouldn't have entertained him when he asked you to play." "yeah that's right! you get him baby" "Didn't I say go to sleep? I'm telling Jon about this tomorrow" "This isn't over Max!" Lando manages to shout before the line cuts.

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Taking her back

Lando, Max, and Y/N had been best friends long before Lando and Y/N started dating, and though Lando loved how well his girlfriend and best mate got along, there were times when his jealousy got the best of him.

"Baby, come on. You've been playing with Max forever!" Lando whined, his voice dripping with playful frustration. Both Y/N and Max paused their game, turning to see Lando dramatically sprawled out in the chair behind them, looking all sorts of pouty.

"Lan, you’ve been glued to your phone for the past two hours," Y/N teased with a laugh. "We’ve asked you to join us, like, a million times"

"That’s different!" Lando huffed. "I need you. Did you not miss me? It’s the first time we’ve seen each other in a week!" He gave them a puppy-dog look, and Y/N couldn’t help but smile at his adorable pout.

"A week’s not that long, mate," Max teased, unable to resist poking fun.

"Shut up, you dickhead. I wasn’t talking to you," Lando snapped back, a grin playing at the corners of his mouth. "You're only saying that because P’s been with you the whole time."

"Y/N is literally 6 feet away from you—" Max shot back, raising an eyebrow.

"—Yeah? And you’re about 6 feet away from getting punched," Lando retorted, his playful threat making everyone laugh.

"You’re so easy to wind up," Max said, shaking his head in amusement, clearly enjoying Lando's reaction.

"Very mature, you two," Y/N spoke up, watching the back-and-forth between Lando and Max with an amused smile.

"Baby, please, can we kick Max out? I need some me and you time," Lando groaned, rolling his chair closer to Y/N, his eyes full of exaggerated desperation.

"Lando, chat asked her to join my stream today," Max protested, raising an eyebrow. "You’re really gonna steal her away from them?"

"They’re stealing her away from me right now," Lando shot back, narrowing his eyes playfully at the camera.

"Alright, you big baby, one more round, then we'll leave Max alone," Y/N chuckled, turning to face Lando and gently running her hand through his hair.

"No. Now," Lando pouted, shamelessly showing just how needy he was, making Y/N laugh as she gave him a soft, teasing look.

"I'm about this close to bleaching my eyes and ears, mate," Max teased, smirking at the chaos unfolding.

"I'm about this close to kicking you out of my flat—" Lando leaned forward, narrowing his eyes at Max.

"—OKAY. Chat, my kids are throwing tantrums now, I think it’s time for me to go," Y/N sighed in defeat, sitting up straight with a playful roll of her eyes. "You two are impossible." She gave both of them an exasperated but affectionate look, knowing she’d have to be the voice of reason.

"boooo! not bob stealing y/n from us" "NOOO don't leave Y/N" "LN being selfish lol" "hes neeeedy"

Max let out a laugh as he read through the chat, clearly enjoying the chaos. "They're booing you, mate—yeah, chat! That's right! He’s stealing Y/N from us!" Max egged them on, his voice full of mischief.

Just as Y/N stood up from her seat, ready to leave, Lando grabbed her arm, pulling her back down onto his lap. He held her firmly by the waist, giving her a quick kiss.

Y/N gently shoved him, standing up again with a soft laugh, trying to hide the flustered look that had crept onto her face from his sudden move. Lando, now sporting a proud smirk, looked straight at the camera. "Gotta take my girl back now, chat," he said with a playful wink. "We’ll see you guys next time."

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Look at my girl

"Did you get the code? I sent it to you on WhatsApp," Lando said, setting his phone down and turning his attention back to his screen as he finished setting up the game.

"Yep, got it. We're using in-game mics, yeah?" Max replied, joining the lobby.

Before Lando could answer, a soft knock echoed through the room. He instinctively pulled off one side of his headphones, swiveling his chair to find Y/N standing by the door.

"I'm heading out now, bub" her voice carried through the mic, chat flooded with messages about how soft Lando’s gaze had just turned.

"Look at you all dressed up—where are you headed, my pretty girl?" Lando smirked, leaning back in his chair, eyes shamelessly trailing over his girlfriend.

A blush crept up Y/N’s cheeks as she shifted on her feet, slightly embarrassed by her boyfriend’s proud declaration. "I’m having lunch with Alex today, remember?"

"You look beautiful, my love," Lando murmured, his grin widening before turning back to his stream. "Chat, doesn’t Y/N look absolutely stunning?"

"Maate, start the bloody game!" Max groaned, dragging out the words in frustration.

Y/N chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Alright, Lan, I gotta go—they're arriving soon."

"Alex is picking you up?" Lando asked, tilting his head as he kept his eyes on her.

Y/N nodded. "Charles offered to drop us off at the restaurant. I'll bring you home food, and I’ll send you the menu when I get there."

Lando’s expression softened. "Have fun, my love. Text me if you need anything."

"Got it. Bye, chat—" Y/N smiled, giving a small wave as she stepped out the door.

"—What?! Hey, hey, no! Come back—baby, my kiss!" Lando whined, nearly pushing himself out of his seat, watching her leave with a dramatic pout.

She let out a playful groan but stepped back into the room, making her way toward Lando.

"Look at her, everyone—stunning," Lando grinned, taking her hand in his. "Alright, bye, gorgeous. Have a great time."

Y/N smirked, holding her hand up to the camera—mimicking the way Lando had covered it on a previous stream—before leaning down to press a soft kiss to his lips.

"Thanks for that, Y/N, really appreciate the modesty," Max's voice rang through Lando's headphones, dripping with sarcasm. "Hope you do that to my eyes next time, yeah?"

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Don't look at my girl

Lando had been on Twitch for a good hour now, casually playing UNO with Max and a few other friends on who were on Discord. It was all easygoing banter, a way to kill time before diving into a more intense Tarkov session.

Y/N walked in not too long after, carefully balancing plates of food in her hands. Without looking up from his screen, Lando muttered a quick, “Thanks, love,” too focused on his cards to even glance her way.

It wasn’t until the chat suddenly exploded with rapid messages that his attention flickered toward the comments. His brows furrowed, eyes scanning the screen.

"hi Y/N" "okay hot mama!" "Y/N you look stunning babe" "can Lando fight?"

“‘Can Lando fight’—chat, what the fuck?” he scoffed, finally turning his head toward his girlfriend.

And then he saw it.

The slightly cropped, low-necklined tank top hugging her in all the right places, a sight he was very much happy to see, just not so happy to share with the rest of the world.

His reaction was instant. “Baby… where’s the rest of your shirt?” Lando whined, reaching out to tug at the hem of her top as if he could magically make it longer.

Y/N only laughed, swatting his hands away. “It’s literally just a tank top, Lando.”

“Yeah, and apparently, it’s starting fights in my chat.” He shot a glare at the screen before narrowing his eyes at her playfully.

As Y/N stood up, completely unaware of the way the camera was angled, she leaned forward slightly to grab something from behind the monitor.

Lando, ever vigilant with his quick reflexes, moved faster than ever, one hand darting out to cover her chest while the other reached for the mouse, ready to slam the stream off if necessary.

“Woah, woah—baby! Careful, please,” he blurted out, eyes wide as he practically shielded her from the world.

Connor’s laughter echoed through the call. “LN’s about to have a heart attack, mate.”

Y/N, finally realizing what had just happened, let out a soft laugh as she sat back down, napkins now in hand. “I was just grabbing these, bub. Calm down.”

Lando let out a dramatic sigh, clutching his chest like he’d just lived through a near-death experience. “Baby, please, I’m begging—could you put on a hoodie or something?” His voice was almost desperate, eyes flicking between her and the chat that was going absolutely feral.

Y/N raised a brow, arms crossing over her chest. “You’re overreacting.”

“Yeah, well, they’re not getting a free show,” Lando huffed, shooting a glare at the screen before rolling his eyes. With one last grumble, he finally turned his attention back to his game, picking up his fork to dig into dinner—all while side-eyeing the chat every few seconds.

Meanwhile, Max was wheezing through his mic. “I swear you just aged five years.”

Connor chuckled. “Bro’s fighting battles no one else can see.”

"still cant believe he was able to pull her" "Y/N leave him be with me" "she looks unreal" "lando better know how to fight"

Lando didn’t say a word, just stood up abruptly and rushed out of the room, leaving his friends confused as his turn in UNO was about to run out.

“Where’s he gone now?” Max muttered, clicking onto Lando’s stream, only to see Y/N sitting there, casually eating and playing in his place.

She simply shrugged, unfazed, taking Lando’s turn for him as she popped another bite of food into her mouth. A few seconds later, Lando reappeared, arms full, determination set on his face.

“Pick.”

“Huh?” Y/N blinked up at him, mid-chew.

“Pick one. Shirt, hoodie, or blanket?” He stood in front of her, dead serious, holding up the options like this was a life-or-death decision.

Y/N let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. “You’re kidding, right?”

“Baby, pick.” Lando repeated, unwavering.

“Lan, it’s really not that—”

Before she could even finish, he had already tossed the clothes onto the floor and made the executive decision himself, unfolding the blanket and draping it over her shoulders. “Right, blanket it is.”

Y/N sat there, wrapped up like a burrito, staring at him in amused disbelief.

Max was howling through the mic. “Mate, she’s looks like she's about to go to bed”

Lando glanced over at her, a proud grin spreading across his face as he admired his work. “There. Better,” he said, his tone smug but warm, clearly pleased with himself for making sure she was all cozy and covered up.

Y/N couldn’t help but laugh at how serious he was about it, “You’re ridiculous, you know that?” she teased, tugging the blanket a little lower, enough to free her hands.

“I’m just making sure you’re comfy,” he replied, his grin only widening. “Don’t want you catching a chill, do I?”

She shook her head, playfully rolling her eyes, but the smile she gave him was all warmth. “You’re something else, Lan.”

Lando only winked, clearly pleased with his efforts. “I try.”

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

Rumour has it

It had only been a couple of weeks since Lando and Y/N had last been seen together in public, but the internet had exploded. Breakup rumors, theories about a fallout, and even claims of a “divorce era” started circulating among fans. Of course, Lando and Y/N found it all utterly ridiculous. But why not have a bit of fun with it?

Tonight, Max was streaming, and Lando was, as usual, by his side. The chat was absolutely flooded with questions and speculations, with fans wondering where Y/N had gone, why they hadn’t seen them together lately, and if they were still a couple. Usually, they wouldn't entertain it, but Lando couldn’t help but grin at the chaos as Max glanced at him, his face filled with mischief.

“Mate, you’ve been dodging questions for weeks now. People are asking if you and Y/N are okay. What's going on? Is it true? Are you in the ‘divorce era’ now?” Max teased, his voice full of drama.

Lando leaned back in his chair, groaning. “Oh don't even say her name around me. We're happily separated,” he said with exaggerated seriousness. He watched as the chat went wild, fans speculating whether he was joking or not.

"this is NOT funny im fighting for my life over here" "i honestly cant tell if hes serious pls" "stop asking ab their personal lives guys" "theyre clearly fine, look at him" "oh theyre fine lol"

Max laughed, clearly enjoying it. “Heard it here first chat, there you go”

Lando shrugged dramatically. “Sometimes, I still hear her voice"

Before Max could respond, the door behind Lando opened. Y/N walked in casually, wearing one of Lando’s hoodies, hair up in a messy bun. She stopped when she saw the camera, raising an eyebrow at Lando’s ridiculous grin.

“Hey, guys,” she said, giving the camera a casual wave.

"See! it's like she's still here” Lando pretends to wipe a tear

Max burst into laughter, while Y/N, confused as ever, attempts to read the chat. "Why are you guys talking about me like I've died?"

Lando looked at her with all seriousness. “Baby please. We're broken up remember, gosh keep up will 'ya"

Y/N nods, the expression on her face immediately switching from confused to locked in. "Oh— guys, being in this room right now pains me. I can't even look at him"

Max, lounging back in his chair with a smirk, couldn't help but shake his head. "You two were definitely eating up this breakup rumour stuff, huh?"

Lando and Y/N couldn't help but break, letting out small laughs at the comment. “Oh fuck yeah, we’ve been lying in bed, giggling like idiots, reading threads and watching tiktoks about it,” Lando said, acting like it was the most normal thing in the world.

“We purposely stopped liking each other’s posts and hid from the public" Y/N grinned, “And had so much fun doing it,” she added, sticking her tongue out at the camera.

Max threw his hands up. “You lot deserve an Oscar for this shit”

Lando, still grinning, nodded enthusiastically. “Oh, mate, you’re telling me— I had Carlos knocking at my hotel room at three in the fucking morning after reading some random breakup article online.”

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

Not so subtle

It was well past 1 AM, but Lando was still wide awake, glued to his Twitch stream, deep into another round of Tarkov with his friends. The chat was slowly saying their goodnights, viewers logging off one by one—but Lando? He and the guys were more awake than ever, already planning a few more rounds like the night had just begun.

Y/N was not one to stop Lando from enjoying his alone time, but it was getting late. She had just finished yet another episode of her go-to comfort show—but sleep still hadn’t come. With a glance at the clock and a sigh, she finally got up, padding toward the other room. Maybe she could convince Lando to get some rest… or at least come fill the cold, empty space beside her.

“Baby… it’s late, come to bed.”

Y/N’s soft voice barely stood a chance against Lando’s, drowned out by his rapid-fire strategy talk and the sharp bursts of gunfire from his game. He didn’t even flinch, too locked in, too focused.

It wasn’t until she stepped closer, bathed in the soft glow of his monitors, that the chat began to stir, messages flooding in at the sight of her. Only then did Lando pull off one side of his headset, glancing up at her with a lazy smile.

“Hi, gorgeous. Thought you were asleep already,” he murmured, seamlessly giving out directions to his teammates in the same breath.

“Couldn’t sleep… You should come to bed now. It’s late.”

“I know, baby. Just give me ten minutes, alright?”

“Bedtime for little Lando?” Connor teased, earning a chuckle from Max and an eye roll from Lando.

“Shut up, Connor."

Instead of leaving, Y/N plopped down in the free chair beside him, mindlessly scrolling through her phone. She barely noticed how time slipped by—until she glanced at the clock. Fifteen minutes had passed since Lando promised he’d be done.

“Lan, it’s been 15.”

“10 more minutes, baby. Just a little longer,” he mumbled, eyes still glued to the screen.

"he's so stubborn lol" "poor y/n" "listen to ur gf pls lando, im sleepy but i have fomo"

Another 15 minutes passed, and Y/N, now visibly annoyed, let out a sigh. “Lando.” No pet name. Just his name. Max chuckled on the other end.

“Mate, I’d log off now if I were you. Y/N is scary when she’s tired and cranky.”

Lando glanced over, taking in her tired expression. “Baby, go to bed, you look exhausted… I’ll be there soon, okay? C’mere, gimme a kiss.”

Smooth. A clear attempt to buy himself a little more time.

Y/N gave him a blank stare, then simply nodded before standing up. No protest, no further attempts to drag him to bed. Instead, she turned to the stream with a small smile.

“Okay… goodnight, guys. Have fun playing with Lan. Goodnight, baby.”

Lando blinked, a little surprised that his plan actually worked. He grinned up at her, feeling triumphant, until she leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek, her lips barely brushing his ear as she whispered.

“I was gonna let you have me any way you wanted tonight… your loss.”

His smirk vanished instantly, his head following Y/N's trail, now exiting the room.

"WHAT DID SHE SAY OMG" "look at his face she definitely said something" "bro is cooked lmao" "lando fumbled baaad"

Beyond distracted by what his girlfriend just whispered in his ear, he misses an opponent causing Max to get killed in game earning a battering of complaints

"Gotta log off now guys, goodnight" Lando, without saying a proper goodbye, had managed turn everything off, leaving both the game and his stream in record breaking time.

Max, watching Lando vanish without a word, quickly put the pieces together as the chat exploded with teasing. Realizing he could save his friend from some serious trouble, Max cleared his throat and leaned into the microphone.

“Bet she’s got him in trouble now. He’s probably getting an earful for keeping her waiting.” Max grinned, adding, “Man’s gonna need a serious apology when he gets off. You know how it is—no escaping when she’s upset.”

Even the chat could pick-up how he's working extra hard to save the his best friends from a PR nightmare.

"Max working extra hard tonight" "LN and Y/N got Max sweating bullets lol his face" "Max being the bigger man, respect" "Theyre bout to hear an earful from max too after this"

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

Shameless

Chat was going wild. It was a random Friday night, no announcements, yet, somehow, Lando had appeared with his own stream. Even Max, mid-game, was caught off guard when the messages started rolling in, asking him to play with Lando.

Lando, sitting in his chair, still looked like he had just stepped out of the shower, his hair damp, he wore a matching grey sweatsuit and hoodie.

“What’s going on, mate? You’re back early. Thought you two were out for dinner?” Max’s unmistakable voice crackled through the speakers as he joined the group Discord, clearly catching onto the sudden shift in the vibe.

“Aye chat, Max is here! Yeah, mate, we were, but got back home and decided to hop on,” Lando cheered, clearly stoked to hear his friend's voice.

“Loving the enthusiasm, man. You seem happy tonight. You up for some golf?” Max chuckled, amused by the energy radiating off Lando.

“We can play whatever you want, Max. Feeling really lucky tonight,” Lando replied, a grin spreading across his face.

Max raised an eyebrow, eyeing him with a teasing smirk. “You’re worrying me a bit, mate. You sick or somethin’? Bit too happy for my liking.”

Lando just kept dancing and singing along to his music, looking even more upbeat, and Max couldn't help but laugh. “Alright, what’s going on with you, seriously?”

It was as if the universe had perfectly timed it—Y/N walked into the room, completely unaware that her boyfriend had already started his stream. She was wearing nothing but the white long-sleeved button-up shirt he had worn during their date earlier that night, the one fans had captured in photos. Her hair was slightly messy, giving her a carefree, just-rolled-out-of-bed look as she casually walked in.

"Lan, did you see my cleanser by any chance? It’s not in the bathroom." Y/N stood just by the door, just enough to be in frame of Lando’s camera.

As soon as she appeared, the chat went wild, and Max couldn’t help but laugh, not even attempting to rescue them this time. “Hey Y/N, my chat's saying Lando’s shirt looks better on you than it did on him.”

Y/N froze for a few seconds, her face turning bright red before she quickly dashed out of the room, her voice still audible through the mic as she shouted, “Lando Norris, you little shit!”

Lando, in too good of a mood to keep it together, couldn’t help but laugh. “Alright, chat, calm down—we’re all adults here.” He leaned back in his chair, a grin spreading across his face as he wiped away a few tears of laughter.

After a beat, he stood up, still chuckling to himself. “I’ll be back in a minute, guys.”

He left the room, probably heading off to help Y/N find her cleanser, maybe even consoling her after the little reveal. The chat was buzzing with teasing comments, but it was clear Lando wasn’t too worried—he’d be back soon, and the situation was already too funny to be mad about.

"post sex stream is insaaane" "man was glowing, no wonder" "PR team fighting for their life after this" "Landos phone bout to blow up" "meeting being set up as we speak"

Lando returned, a smirk still tugging at his lips as he casually sat back down, as if nothing had happened. “Right, Max, what are we playing tonight?”

Max raised an eyebrow, eyeing his friend with a grin. “Look at him, so smug. Had a great night, didn’t you?”

Lando let out a laugh, shrugging nonchalantly. “Told you, mate, we went and had dinner.” He paused for a second, then winked at the camera, his smirk widening. “Just had to head home early to have some dessert.”

[lilmarshie]

Ooohh, I have a request for some Bob HCs! With getting inspo from wonderful works of yours like the Overprotective Bob headcanons, I'd like to ask: maybe some HCs about how our boy reacts to reader getting kidnapped and/or injured on a mission?? 👀👀

Taken

Bob Reynolds x Reader Headcanons

How Bob reacts to you getting kidnapped while on a mission. Mentions of the reader getting injured on a mission.

Thank you, anon for the request! I hope that you enjoy! I have two other requests that I need to write still so stay tuned for those to come out very soon.

Bob initially goes into full blown panic mode when he finds out that you’ve been kidnapped. He’s immediately devastated and blames himself fully for what happened, wanting to take on the full responsibility of you getting taken.

He begins to obsess over what he could’ve done differently and almost drives himself away from the rest of the Thunderbolts in the process. Void whispers negativity in his head the entire time, causing him to amplify the guiltiness that he’s experiencing.

Sentry takes over his body once he realizes that you’re truly gone, enveloping his thoughts and actions, leading him down a dark path. He becomes hyper focused on finding you no matter the outcome. His powers are amplified tenfold by the desperation and fear that he’s experiencing. He tracks you down relentlessly, not stopping until he finds you. His precious darling, the love of his life. He even resorts to using Void to help him be able to find you. (Which he only does as a last resort.)

Upon finding your captors, he doesn’t hold back his full power. Bob unleashes the full force of his strength against your kidnappers, letting out all of his rage and anger against the perpetrators. The raw power he unleashes is terrifying, but he’s meticulously careful not to hurt you in the process. He’ll dismantle the threat with terrifying efficiency, prioritizing your safety above all else.

Once you’re safe, Sentry would subside and Bob would take over again. Bob is overwhelmed with exceeding remorse for not ensuring your safety. He feels terrible for not protecting you against the kidnappers. You reassure him that everything is alright and that you both wouldn’t have seen this coming the way that it did. He's incredibly gentle and attentive, tending to your injuries both physically or emotionally with unwavering care. He’s haunted by the fear of losing you again, becoming even more protective over you.

If you were seriously injured during a mission, Bob goes into a protective rage. Bob becomes a whirlwind protecting you from any other outside enemies or threats. He takes down anyone who stands in his way with a formidable power that no one stands a chance against. The Void would be clawing at the surface, eager to unleash its full force, but Bob would fight to keep it under control, focusing his power to protect you.

Even if he manages to save you, Bob would be consumed by the guilt that he feels. He sees himself as a danger to you, someone who attracts trouble and puts you in harm's way. He becomes a bit withdrawn, and pushes you away in an attempt to protect you, even though it would break his heart.

Ultimately, Bob needs your reassurance that you don't blame him, that you trust him, and that you want him in your life. Your love and support would be the only thing that can truly calm his fears and help him come to terms with the incident. He clings to your words, drawing strength from your presence and reaffirming his commitment to protecting you, no matter the cost, even if it means with his life.

[let-spretend]

hey…. so i’m back to rid of the urge to write a bob x reader ..

i will keep writing until my creative juices run out !!!! second part in the works !!!!

edit: i got rid of the weirdly big spaces but idk if it looks worse now

heavy space between us pt. 1 (bob x reader)

The New Avengers' paperwork lines the communal table, you, diligently filling it out for the team. It had been a bit of a blur the past few months, being thrown into this new team and working together to protect citizens. It gave you a new purpose, rather than the necessary killings you needed to do to protect yourself, you could channel that expertise for the benefit of good and getting paid. But, you were simply getting tired. Physically straining yourself everyday: practicing, training, working out and doing your hero job, it was starting to catch up to you. Though the others have experienced many of the hurt you have, it was difficult to open up to them and you felt yourself lagging behind, despite the Void incident bringing you a bit closer. You were the only one still reluctant to share your past fully to the team. They knew and you knew it as well. Throwing yourself into work helped you feel connected with them in a way, and deserving of this position.

You punch in some numbers into the calculator about some living costs and upcoming expenses that need to be made. Your left hand meets your hair, scratching at it as some stress reliever. It feels warm.

Soft shuffling could be heard to your left, indicating someone approaching the dining area you were occupying. “Y/N?” Bob asks, groggily. You turn to see him rubbing his eyes, adjusting to the half-dimmed lights over the dining table. His hair was disheveled, him still in his simple matching PJ set. You cock your head to the right, wondering why he was awake this early in the morning.

“What’s up?” You say. “Just workin’ on some taxes and other things.” His eyes trail over to the mess of papers and slightly ajar laptop.

“Do you.. want some help?” He asks. His voice was now much clearer, a sign he’d woken up indubitably. He looked hesitant about asking, afraid of being pushed away like he constantly was. But you remember him always wanting and willing to help around the tower. This, being one of the rare things he could actually help with. You honestly didn’t want him to. Not in the sense that he’d slow you down or otherwise, but this extra work and feeling like you were contributing, was all you had right now. You look down at the papers. Still so much left to do.

Though your sense of contentment would be diminished, you realize he was feeling and thinking the same way you do.

“Sure. Come here.” You beckon. His mouth contorts into a content smile and happily takes the seat next to you. “We have to calculate our incomes, health insurance, assets, etc. for our AGI. If we’re eligible, use the IRS’ tax software with my laptop. Sound good?” He nods silently and gets straight to work. You stand up and he looks over to you, assuming you’re going to leave him. His eyebrows knit together a bit, confused. “I’m just going to make coffee for us, don’t worry.” You coolly state.

He gets a bit sheepish, for you having figured him out. So you give him a small smile.

Everything felt a bit fuzzy while you were putting together the coffee. You were sure as soon as you got a sip in you would be fine. You were brewing up a simple Americano for yourself, first putting the hot water into your cup. The sound of the boiled water hitting the bottom of the mug lulls you.

You don’t notice your hand burning until it begins to sting. You peer down to see your left hand directly on the kettle. Slowly removing your hand, the palm appeared red. Huh, I should've instinctively.. “Uh, cold brew, right?” You ask, with uncertainty laced in your guess. You decide to just ignore that mishap. You just need to get the coffee done.

The top of his head becomes his face, his side bangs covering his eyes. He brushes them out his face with his right hand, pencil still in grip.

”Yeah! I’m surprised you remember.” He laughs.

Toward the beginning of the new team formation of “The New Avengerz,” you all had gotten roughed up by some sort of villain attack on the city. Bob had offered to get you all coffee to lighten up the mood. You shrug a tiny bit, remembering that day. He really is just someone nice to have around.

You really didn’t care to measure, lazily filling in the portafilter and locking it into place for your Americano. You peer into the fridge for Bob’s cold brew and sigh. No cold foam.. You were just going to skip it and just serve it to him blank, but his hard-working form makes your body do otherwise. His back slightly hunched, engrossed in working for the team. Sighing again, you take the heavy cream and milk out of the fridge and eyeball their measurements into a cup. Substituting vanilla syrup with some extract, you stir it with a spoon gently. You never said it was going to be good, or even ideal. You mentally faceplant, looking at the almost whipped texture.

Tamping your coffee clumsily, you place it back into the machine once more, starting the shot. Your hand feels as if it were beeping, reminding you of its mild burn. You watch the coffee begin to pour into the cup, lightly splashing as it meets the hot water. The once clear water begins to turn into a soft brown, the aroma of fresh coffee hitting your nose. It smelled like this in the coffee shop Bob took you all to.

“It smells really good, Y/N!” He comments. It brings you out of your trance and reminds you to finish making his drink. You briefly look over to him to acknowledge his comment. Taking out a tall glass, you pour his cold brew and top it with the mildly sweet cold “foam”. It sat with a little curl on the top.

Your espresso was beginning to blond, so you stopped yours and grabbed them both to the table. It stung to even hold the handle to your mug.

“Wow, it looks so good!” Bob says, happily taking the cold brew from you. He takes a second to admire the generous amount of cream. He takes a little sip and widens his eyes to show you it was delicious. “Thank you so much, Y/N.” You try to look at his eyes, but the cold foam on his upper lip distracts you greatly. He looks at your distracted eyes, searching for where your attention was. You could see his face visibly flush from your staring.

“Something on my face?” He stutters. Bob’s left hand reaches for his cheek as he attempts to get rid of whatever you were looking at. Instinctively, your right hand goes to his lip to wipe off the cold foam. His whole body stiffens, his eyes on your hand.

“Got it.” You say.

Looking at your finger, you realize you never got the chance to taste your concoction. Licking the foam off your finger, it was a little on the sweeter side. You didn’t mind it though.

“Haah.. Right. Thank you.” He darts his eyes away, continuing sipping on his drink.

-

Even with the cold brew reinforcement, sleep had won over Bob’s body. There were still a couple more documents that needed to be filled out, but the throbbing in your hand was becoming too much. First, draping a small blanket over Bob’s shoulders, you stroll over to the bathroom. A small medkit was hiding behind the mirror over the sink, where you had last supplied it. Mainly for the others.

The antibiotic ointment felt cool on your hand, contrary to how it felt wrapping it. It was weird. It obviously hurt, but it felt oddly freeing, reminding you why you were still here and serving along with your team. Squeezing your left fulfilled this urge. Not good.

You return to Bob still soundly sleeping on the table. You squeeze your fist a bit. You want to try harder for him, the team. You scootch into the chair as quietly as you could without moving it. He stirs a bit when you shuffle the papers, but remains asleep. The finished papers were in a neat pile, done by Bob. Without him, it would’ve taken you an extra day to finish. The few that littered the table motivated you to keep on going this stretch.

When you finished up, it was about 5 in the morning and the others would soon begin their routines. Wanting to let Bob get a few more hours of sleep in, you carefully lift him up into the air. Your power was to control and manipulate blood. It normally didn’t take so much effort to do so, but a strain was beginning to form in your mind. Despite the nuisance, he continues to float over to his bedroom, landing softly into his bed. You could tell he was in a completely relaxed mood by his palpitations. Feeling the blood coursing through his veins, it signaled his livelihood. Though, he always felt awfully heavy, you assume due to his added void personality.

He snuggles into his familiar bedding subconsciously, you covering his body with his light gray duvet. It was weird. You felt warm again.

“What are you doing?”

You turn around to see Yelena peering into Bob’s room. Rather than her usual suited getup, she was in workout clothes. She made no footsteps, deeply contrasting Bob’s slight drags of feet when he entered the dining room. She must’ve been the reason you felt something was off.

“He was helping with the paperwork. Fell asleep doin’ ‘em.” You say.

Yelena’s reaction seemed as though disappointed but still suspicious, as if she were trying to catch you in an embarrassing act. You never really found these “miscommunications” embarrassing because they simply weren’t true and you stood on that.

“Bucky wanted me to tell you, you have a mission with him and my father in 10 minutes. Sudden reports of a disturbance in the upstate area.” Yelena reports. You nod, thanking her for the heads up. She looks down to your bandaged hand and questions if you were in optimal shape for the sudden mission. “We Powerless need to be in our best condition in order to keep ourselves and others safe.

”Well, it’s not supposed to be urgent or dire, right? I have Bucky and Alexi, don’t worry.” Waving her off. She sighs. You forget you haven’t told or revealed your powers to anyone in the group yet. You hadn’t found the need to, your hand-to-hand being one of your more controlled and trained traits.

With what came with your powers, was self-destruction. Lifting one living person barely needed thought until you straight on stopped using them unless necessary. Where your powers are at their most optimal, was complete exposure and vulnerability - freshly drawn blood. Blood when contained in the body or other containments, means extra weight and concentration. Though you say you can only lift one person now, when you were at your peak, killing, anything conceivable was possible. Your powers came with the need to access fresh blood as much as you could for your benefit. To be cut when you need to. To be willing to.

There was only one person always at your disposal to do so. But it’s not like you really had a choice, was there?

[myinconnelly1]

All the Luck in the World pt 5

Masterlist

Warnings: , depression, John Walker being an Asshole

Pairing: Robert "Bob" Reynolds x OFC (you)

Word Count: 1063

Summary: With all her luck, Jinx has to wonder if it's good or bad. When she meets Bob, she starts to get her hopes up..

A/n: I'm hopeful for smut soon!

Your back slid down the closed door of your bedroom until you crumpled into a sobbing pile on the floor.  There was a soft thud from the other side of the door barely audible over your tears and whimpers.  You were so angry with yourself for trying to make yourself feel better at the cost of someone else.

Bob’s head landed softly against your bedroom door.  He had liked the way that your lips pressed against his, and the way your skin felt against him.  He wasn’t ready for the kiss to end when you had pulled away, and your fear and apology had almost ended him.  Bob didn’t want you to run away from him.  He didn’t want you to be scared of him.  He didn’t want you to be sad.

He pulled away from your room not being able to handle your sobs anymore.  Bob shuffled down the hallway of the tower back to where the others were sitting around a table talking.

“Everything okay, Bob,” Yelena asked quietly.  She had a way of knowing that he was not alright, even when he didn’t want her to.  He shook his head subtly.

“We’ll talk later,”  He muttered so that the others wouldn’t hear him.

“We are not going to just throw her out, at least not while she is under the effects of the Sentry’s blood,” Alexi said.  He was arguing something with John Walker and Bucky as Bob sat down at the table.

“Hey guys,” Bob waved nervously as the name that Valentina had given him was said.

“Your little girlfriend is causing issues at this table,” Walker said to Bob gruffly.  No one other than Yelena noticed Bob's slight change in demeanor when Walker called you his girlfriend. 

“She’s not my girlfriend,” Bob said under his breath.

“Bob’s not the one that shot her and carried her back to the tower,”  Ava said firmly.  “Who might that be, Walker?”

“Yeah well if I was thinking clearly, I would have left her there for an ambulance.  She was probably looking for a way to get a quick fix,”  John was lashing out.

“What do you mean if you were thinking clearly,” Bucky asked quietly.

“What?”  John asked still heated.  But Bob and Yelena both looked at Bucky, noticing a change in his tone.  It was not mad but like he was trying to unravel a knot.

“What did you mean by not thinking clearly?”  Bucky repeated.

“I don’t know, I turned to protect my back and that’s when Meg and Ghost were caught in the crossfire.  Alexi picked up Ava and it just kinda felt like it was what I was supposed to do, so I carried Meg back to the tower.”  John sat back in his chair as he tried to find out what was wrong with the events.

“I never even considered going to hospital,” Alexi said as he looked from John to Bucky.

“I suggested a blood transfusion before I even started to clean her wound,” Yelena pipped in.

“What does that mean?”  Ava asked, not seeing the thread they all seemed to be chasing.

“Alexi and I had no idea that Walker was going to attack Meg earlier.  So why did we come rushing in like there was a problem?”  Bucky offered to the group.  “I just felt like something was wrong and I needed to be there.”

“Same,” John and Alexi said.

“You think she’s enhanced?”  Ava asked looking around the table.

“Jinx,” Bob said quietly.

“What was that?”  John asked loudly.

“Her dog tags said Jinx.  It was a bad joke between her and her sponsor.  She is exceptionally lucky.”

“How is getting shot lucky?” Bucky asked.

“It's not good luck, it's not bad luck.  It's just random luck,” Bob said vaguely and moving his hands uselessly.  “What if it spreads from her and affects people nearby?”

“Like accidentally glitching in front of a civilian?”  Ava said softly.

“And giving her super soldier blood to make sure she gets a full recovery instead of a hospital where they won’t take her seriously,”  John said looking from Bob to Bucky.  “Is it safe for her to stay here with us?”  Bob looked up quickly.  His heart rate had skyrocketed faster than he anticipated.  He couldn’t believe that John was entertaining the possibility that you could be dangerous and shouldn’t stay here.

“She can’t be any more dangerous than I am,” Bob defended.

“We can’t send her away,” Bucky sighed, putting a hand up to placate Bob. 

“Is that you talking or her luck?”  John said seriously.

“I don’t think it matters,”  Bucky said rubbing his forehead.  “Try to keep an eye on yourselves and each other to make sure that we don’t fall into a trap we can’t get out of, but she is obviously here for a reason, and we need to keep that to ourselves for now.”

“It’s later, let’s talk,” Yelena said as she followed Bob away from the table.  “I can tell you like her.”

“She’s only been here a few days,” Bob shrugged.  He knew it was useless to lie to his friend but the idea that he might be falling for someone he just met felt ridiculous.

“It only takes a little while.  It’s not love Bob.  I liked you after only knowing you a few minutes,”  Yelena said comforting him.

“She kissed me,” Bob decided to be open.  Yelena was his closest friend and he didn’t know what else to do.

“Oh?”  Yelena’s surprise was not well hidden.  “Did you like it?”

“That’s not the point,”  He said crinkling his eyebrows and shaking his head at her in confusion.  “She ran away after.”

“Must not have been very good,” Yelena teased gently.  “I’m kidding, I’m sure you have your ways.  You have to watch the quiet ones, like you.”  She bumped her shoulder against him.  “Maybe she is scared of herself.”

Bob looked at his friend.  She almost never minced words and somehow, she always seemed to cut straight to the heart of the problem.

“Since she kissed you, I would guess that maybe she likes you too, but that scares her.  Maybe she doesn’t have control over her luck and presses her in ways she’s not prepared for.”  Yelena offered seriously.

“What should I do?”  Bob asked.

“Be careful,” Yelena said softly.  “You’re still healing too, on the inside.”

[ithinkabouttzu]

I love your writing!!! I feel like you would do this so well but if it’s too much I totally get it! I was wondering if you could do a how easy co reacts to a readers crazy ex bf, like restraining order level crazy, maybe past trauma that they never ever talked about before but suddenly the guy is around so it gets brought up? Reader seems terrified and they realize why type of thing. Doesn’t even have to be all reactions either… maybe just winters, Speirs, guarnere, bull, and Liebgott?

Yes of course thank you for your request!! I hope you enjoy it! 💖

Easy co.’s reaction to their s/o having a crazy ex

genre: romance, angst, jealousy?

warnings: Fighting; violence, swearing (reader is gn!)

Description: The easy co. boys reaction to their s/o (you) seeing your crazy ex in public

Taglist: @executethyself35 @linhkhanhcps @1waveshortofashipwreck @grumpy-liebgott @barbeygirl @samwinchesterslostshoe @ronsenthal @sweetxvanixlla (If you want to be on this list, let me know!! :))

BoB masterlist

Dick Winters: You and him would be out downtown, window shopping and enjoying one another’s time. He’s very attentive so I feel like if something was wrong with you he’d notice it immediately. He’d see you constantly fiddling with your hands and glancing away. “What’s wrong honey?” He would ask you before seeing them. Your ex, walking towards you two. He would immediately take the initiative and move you and him away from your ex. Making sure that you never have to worry about coming face to face with him. It’s a very rare moment where he gets very protective over you. When you tell him what happened with you and your ex, he feels furious. He somehow wishes he could have been there for you, to make sure you never got hurt in any way possible. He promises to you that he will never hurt you or let anything happen to you, he swears by it.

Bill Guarnere: I feel like he’s one of those boyfriends who already does some research on your ex/s wayyy before getting in a relationship with you. So when you guys are out and about and he sees him, you don’t have to worry about him not coming up to y’all, because he’s already walking up to him ready to beat the hell out of him. (he’s a whoop-ass and explain later type of guy) I think he gets more emotional than you do. Just because he loves you so much and would hate to see you uncomfortable, especially when he’s around. I also feel like he’d take the “protector” role very seriously in y’all’s relationship so be prepared for that also. He’d spend the rest of the day just making up to you and trying his best to make you feel safe.

Joe Liebgott: You and him would be having a cute little date at the zoo, looking at all the cute animals and enjoying the nice weather, I think both of you are too distracted with one another to notice that there is a weird looking person walking up to y’all very quickly. Joe notices that you look uncomfortable first, and when he sees your ex he finally connects the dots and gets very defensive over you. He kinda has this instinct where he needs to protect you at all costs, like pushing you behind him in case things get out of hand lol. “If you gotta problem, pal, you can tell me” You honestly have to pull Lieb out of a fight no kidding. “do something like that again and see what happens” Is definitely threatening your dumb ass ex. He feels so bad bc he felt like seeing your ex ruined the date, but promises to make it up to you. “I swear darlin’ I’ll never be like them.”

Bull Randleman: He would have taken you out on a beautiful dinner after a long week. Something nice that you and him both deserve, all until you see your ex. In all honesty he would hate to see you scared. Like it makes him so angry, all he wants to do is hold you and tell you everything will be okay. He sees you so nervous and genuinely doesn’t know what’s going on, until he sees you looking at someone who looks a lot like your ex that he’s seen before. He has to mentally talk himself out of going up to your ex, and just “talking” to them. In reaction to all this he just keeps you close and offers for you and him to leave the area if you’d like. “I promise you, sweet thing, you don’t have to worry about them anymore. I’m here now.” He just wants to take you away from the situation and let you pick what you guys do for the rest of the evening. He probably has a one-on-one conversation with your ex while you wait in the car. “Whatever happened in the past, it’s over. Don’t ever look at them again.”

Ronald Speirs: It’s pretty self explanatory on how this guy would act. He doesn’t fly completely off the rails but it’s very obvious he wants to commit crimes on your ex. Like if looks could kill your ex would have been obliterated into the air. And if your ex APPROACHES you?? Oh it’s game on. He really doesn’t have an excuse to be cordial anymore. He goes for the, “Honey, is this guy/gal bothering you? Do I need to do something about it?” He is the most intimidating person ever in this situation. Verbal threats are definitely said from him, clear warnings if anything. Seeing you so nervous and scared sets something scary off inside of him. Like he’s ready to tear anyone apart just to make sure you are safe and sound. If anything you’ll be needing to calm him down for the rest of the night. “If you ever see him/her around here close to you, let me know and i’ll handle it” It’s safe to say that you won’t have to worry about them again lmao.

I hope you all enjoyed!! If you did, make sure and help a writer out by leaving a like or reblog, your words mean the world!! 🧡

[strawhbrrries]

Babys Breath, vi

pairing: bob floyd x seresin!florist!reader

summary: Bob stumbles into the nearest florist to the funeral he’s attending and, unknowingly, charms Jake Seresin’s sweet younger sister with all the anxious charm he possesses.

warnings: everyone calls reader “sunshine”, fluff!!!, protective older brother jake??, horrible descriptions of the navy, warnings will differ depending on chapter, no use of y/n or description of reader, not proofread 

word count: 836 words

authors note: ....drama!!! as always, please enjoy! mwah!

tag list: @myownworstenemyyy @kloofspeaks @bcon24 @chaosofmanyfandoms @strangerparks @kmc1989 @angelbabyange @ephemeralninon

find the masterlist here!

read the previous part here!

Your mouth dropped at the sight of Jake leaning against your car, squeezing Bob’s hand like your life depended on it. Jake looked like he was ready to tear the two of you into shreds and Bob looked like he was ready to defend you at all costs.

“You know I came out here to apologize for being an asshole. For not believing you. And here you are, doing exactly what you fucking said you weren’t doing.” Jake laughed, using all the self control he had to not lash out. 

“Actually, she only said she wasn’t texting me.” Bob interjected, holding onto  your hand just as tight to let you know he was there.

“Oh shut the fuck up, Bob.” 

“Don’t speak to me like that, I’ve done nothing in this situation.” Bob stood up for himself, squeezing his free hand into a fist. Seeing firsthand how Jake was speaking to you made him increasingly more mad, the more words that came out of his mouth the more Bob just wanted to resort to violence.

“Jake, let's speak about this at home.” You felt small, he had never been this mad at you before and the last thing you wanted to do was make it worse. Maybe, just maybe, if you removed Bob from the situation you could talk it out and fix it all.

“No, Sunny. We’re having this conversation here, in front of your little boyfriend.” Jake motioned towards Bob, his face turning a bright red.

“What do you want me to say? I’m sorry? Because I'm not, Jake. Bob isn’t like the other guys you try to protect me from.” You rationalized, trying not to break into tears over the situation. 

“Have you told him?” Jake asks, the calmest he’s been all night.

“No, leave it alone.” You knew what he was referring to, the situation that’s caused Jake to be so overbearing. You hadn’t told anyone, nobody needed to know. 

“Tell him.” 

“Jake, stop. This isn’t the time or place for this.” If you had felt small before you felt even smaller now. Your breath quickening, palms sweaty and mind racing. It was too much and he knew it.

“I’ll do it. So basically, Bob-“

Before Jake could continue his sentence, the free hand that Bob had balled into a fist connected with his cheek, he scrunched his face as he hadn’t realized it hurt to punch someone. Jake brought his hand to his cheek, rubbing it softly and grunting in pain. 

“She said no, what is it with you and being such an asshole to fucking everbody? Jesus Christ, Hangman.” Bob let go of your hand and walked closer to Jake, possessed by some sort of confidence he’d never had before. He dealt with the asshole attitude enough of work, eventually somebody had to take it down a notch or two. “Don’t fucking speak to her again unless you’re apologizing.”

You stood there awkwardly, watching your brother being threatened. In another world maybe you would’ve interrupted and talked it out, stepped in between the two of them to avoid an actual fight. But right now, you felt like he deserved this. No amount of brotherly love excused the way he’d spoken to you, or Bob. If anything, you wish Bob had landed more than one punch. You’d whispered something about wanting to go home, your words didn’t feel like yours. Everything was still spiraling and it was overwhelming.

“My place or yours?” Bob whispered, turning back to you and wiping away a tear you didn’t even know had fallen. “Come on.”

You ended up at your place, setting your things on the coffee table in the living room and sitting on the couch. You rubbed your hands up and down your jeans, trying to self regulate just a little bit. Bob was moving around the house behind you, it was all just a blur and you were more focused on yourself. A glass of water was placed on the table in front of you, the couch dipping as he sat down next to you. He smoothed down your hair, placing a small kiss on your temple.

“I’m sorry.” He whispered, leaning his forehead against the side of your head.

“For what?” You asked, taking the glass of water and just holding it in your hand. Contemplating if you wanted a drink or not before taking a sip.

“Him, my punching, me. All of it.” He responded, moving his hand from your hair and rubbing your back.

“It’s not your fault, Bobby. I did it, I should’ve known it was going to blow up sooner or later.” You leaned against him, placing the glass back on the coffee table.

The front door opened, you didn’t need to look to know it was Jake. He walked right past the two of you and into his room, closing the door behind him without uttering a single word. He didn’t apologize to anyone if he thought he was right, and he thought he was right. 

[therealmak]

ACT I

Danielle Rose Russell as Odessa Blake

"The Grounder of the Sky"

Odessa is the twin sister of Octavia Blake and the younger sister of Bellamy Blake, she bridges the gap between Skaikru and the Grounders with diplomacy, empathy, and strength

"Marcus if you're my dad, does that make you Bell's and O's father too?"

"You call it chaos, I call it family.

"I've never fit in with the Ark. Being down here, I've been caught between two worlds--maybe it's time I make my own."

➶➷➴➶➷

Alycia Debnam-Carey as Lexa Kom Trikru

"The Heda"

Lexa, the commander who found a home in Odessa of the Sky People

"Odessa, you're not just Skaikru or Grounder; you're something greater--a bridge between us all."

"Together, we can build a world where our people don't just survive--they thrive."

"You stood between me and death, Odessa. You saved me... but you almost destroyed me in the process. What good is my life if it cost me yours?"

➶➷➴➶➷

Zack McGowan as Roan Kom Azegeda

"The Ice Nation King"

Roan's bond with Odessa defies Azgeda's reputation for brutality, offering hope for peace

"You really do see the best in me, don't you Ai hodnes?"

"I'll tell Odessa she's lucky to have you as a brother."

"You don't realize it, do you? Your power over me and Lexa makes fighters like us crave peace, not war."

➶➷➴➶➷

Bob Morley Bellamy Blake

"The Protective Brother"

Bellamy's fierce loyalty to his sisters pushes him to be both a shield and a sword for them

"It's time for the two of you to stop playing grounder."

"My sisters, my responsibility."

"Our mom would be so proud of your Dess, you turned out beautifully."

➶➷➴➶➷

Marie Avgeropoulos as Octavia Blake

"The Twin Sister"

Odessa's stubborn counterpart, Octavia protects her like the sword she wields

"Yu bash op Dessa, en Ai frag op Yu Tu." [You hurt Dessa, and I kill you two.]

"You grounders think you're tough? Try surviving a Blake."

"The Ark stole our freedom, Odie, but it didn't steal our will to survive. You and I, trapped in the dark, fought to be seen--and nothing will ever change our bond."

➶➷➴➶➷

Henry Cusick as Marcus Kane

"The Father"

Kane, the father to Odessa, teaches her patience and diplomacy

"You see the good in people, Odessa--don't let this world take that from you."

"You're just as much a Kane as you are a Blake."

"I'm ridiculously proud to call you my daughter. Your heart, your strength, remind me every day that this is worth fighting for."

➶➷➴➶➷

Adina Porter as Indra Kom Trikru

"The Adopted Mom"

Indra's mentorship teaches Odessa strength and respect, blending their cultures

"You are stronger than you realize, girl."

"Odessa, Trikru sees you as one of us--walk with pride."

"Your heart will lead you where your head cannot."

➶➷➴➶➷

Ricky Whittle as Lincoln Kom Trikru

"The Brother in Spirit"

Lincoln's unwavering love for Octavia extends to her twin sister, Odessa. He serves as a mentor and a calming presence in her life, guiding her through the complexities of Grounder culture and offering wisdom when she needs it the most

"You see people, Odessa--truly see them."

"You remind me that there's always hope, even in the darkest times."

"You saved my life today, Pike was two seconds away from pulling the trigger."

➶➷➴➶➷

Charles Michael Davis as Marcellus Kom Trikru

“The Loyal Warrior”

Marcellus, Odessa's fiercest protector and closest Trikru ally

"You have fire in you, Odessa, one that doesn't dim. It's why I trust you--why Heda trusts you."

"You see the world in a way none of us can. Your dream for peace... it challenges everything me and my people live by."

"In truth, I would follow you to the ends of the Earth, you will always have a friend and protector in me."

➶➷➴➶➷

Riley Voelkel & Claire Holt as Nova & Dela Kom Azgeda

"Roan's Sisters"

The fierce warriors that share Roan's devotion to Odessa

"She's the first to see the good in us. Don't make her regret it." - Nova

"Azgeda may be harsh, but Odessa makes it bearable." - Dela

"Roan, I think Dessa's softer side is rubbing off on you." - Nova

➶➷➴➶➷

Eliza Taylor as Clarke Griffin

"The Soul Sister"

Clarke and Odessa share a bond forged by leadership, mutual loss, and understanding

"You've been the only one who truly understands."

"You make surviving look like living."

"You've done everything you can, Odessa. It was not your fault."

➶➷➴➶➷

Other Characters

-Abby Griffin

-Thelonious Jaha

-John Murphy 

-Monty Green

-Jasper Jordan

-Queen Nia

-Ontari Kom Azgeda

-Echo Kom Azgeda

-Niylah Kom Trikru

-Gaia Kom Trikru

-Nyko Kom Trikru

-Titus (Fleimkepa)

-Many, many more lol 😂

Tags: @witchygagirl @xnix07 @katspersonalhq

[randomnameless]

To continue the woobified view of the Elites and my comparison of them to the Black Eagles :

Same for me regarding the BE, especially because they also literally fought Edelgard's troops in WC when you choose their house, and even if you don't, they definitely still would know that Edelgard dus nasty shits in WC.

The idea that media literacy is dead is quite fitting, because the idea that even rotten persons have loved ones/that having loved ones doesn't mean you're not rotten is a known thing, yet the Eagles and elites get a pass solely because "they genuinely believe in the cause" and "they love and care for each other"

Probably Fraldarius was as devoted to Nemesis as Ingrid to Dimitri, Lamine very well may have been as sassy as Dorothea, perhaps Goneril was as brave and endearing as Caspar, or Maurice was as loyal to his clan's interests as Petra to Brigid's happiness (through a strong bond to the Empire) but like the BE, they are butchers, who relished in the destruction of everything those against them hold dear, lap dogs and rabid curs of someone they definitely know have crushed innocents and scorn the very idea of peace except under their domination.

The only meaningful difference between Edelgard-following BE and the elites is that we can know more about the BE and we are forced to dislike cutting them down even as they refuse to let northern Fódlan alone.

Honestly I need a fanfiction where the BE are called out for that bullshit.

Yep!

That's the tone deaf feeling I got from Nopes, the Deers are hunting someone bcs their leader wants her dead for no reason, but Raph only comments on how hungry he is.

Uh, sure Raph, you're not the most thoughtful character in there, but come on? Some commentary or exposition on what you're doing? Hello KT? Can we have characters be challenged or even react to the events of screen instead of wondering what's for dinner/teatime?

No??

I wouldn't say it's an issue of media litteracy being dead, but more something in the lines of people being more and more "all or nothing" nowadays, without any nuance and conflating liking a character with the idea/image that might project on you : if I like ASOIAF's Cersei, I don't think everything she does is "justified", but modern fandom, I feel like some people would categorize you as a "good" or "bad" person based on the characters you like, and it's just... not what fandom is or was supposed to be imo, I'm here to nerd and gush about favourite characters, not write litteral essays about the Geneva Convention.

Corollary is what, imo, made the Fodlan fandom hell : some people really take "criticism" against a character personally - sure the way FE16 was written invites projection, but at the end of the day, making a Berning Fire Joke is, just, making a joke about a bunch of pixels, nothing more.

Back to the BEs, they can have a sense of camaraderie and genuinely support each other... as they tear apart "people because Supreme Leader told me to" and fight side by side with Bob the Carpented who was turned into Waldi the demonic beast.

Ferdie can skewer Flayn on her father's lance because she is "a creature that has plagued humanity for ages" even if they reached a C support before shit hit the fan - and still protect Mercedes and Bernie from their abusing Fathers. Does that make him a great guy? A nuanced guy?

I think the trope is called "even evil people have loved ones" or something like that?

I don't think so, but he is no random one note villain sycophant either - now, what is the more annoying with the Fodlan games is how this dichotomy is never called upon : everything is just a giant blob or Hresvelg Grey ("morally grey" but only applied to Supreme Leader) where no one really is angry at her, and all the "sacrifices" she's making are off-screen while the characters on-screen always moan about her "ReFoRmS" and "IdEaLs" without talking about the cost bar some milquetoast "but war bad". And no one, in the game, will ever throw this hypocrisy to their face - Gallant Ferdinand will dream about the Opera as he wipes off the blood of a young woman who just wanted to return to the only home she had.

Yay.

FWIW, some mutuals and I have nothing but pure lols about Doro's line in the non-CF routes being "we killed Ferdie professor :'(" because, hey, why should I care more about Ferdie than about random loldier 55 ? Rhea? Felix? Claude? Ignatz?

Maybe the Elites were really friends and became """"nice""" persons with time, to their families and loved ones ?

Does this magically erase what they did before? Will that "good" they did erase all the "wrongs" they have previously done? Will theyr forever escape the consequences of their actions?

In a game that depicts Flamey as a terrorist for 11 chapters only to drop that plot point by the window to moan, again, about her "IdEaLs", "consequences" are maybe something you can eat as a snack, or throw in a trashcan.

So following the rules of this verse, given how Supreme Leader never receives flak for her Flamey stunts, why should the Elites receive any for what they did? Look, Maurice calls Daphnel his friend, surely he is not that bad of a man? Well yeah, he might have seduced women and planted a lot of wild oats here'n'there, but he cares about his friends!

Jeritza likes ice creams and cats! Surely it's more important to paint him as a cat lover than to deal with all the consequences of his stunt as the Death Knight, kidnapping and implied rekting young woman while he was in GM, under Flamey's orders, right?

Calling it now, after eviscerating Seteth's older brother, Goneril might have melted in front of one of Rhea's kittens, and adopted the cat asap. Surely that makes Goneril a "good" character right? And forget the entire "genocided a bunch of hippies living isolated in their village" stuff?

I don't have fanfics recs where the BEs are called hypocrites, but I confess I don't read a lot of fanfics in the FE16 fandom because of all of the aforementioned issues.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

Cosmic beings, if you’ve been following my work for a while, you’ve probably heard me talk about the 2020 ascension, especially in my article for Refinery29 back in 2020 about what the world could look like by 2032. Now here we are, five years later, and the astrology is catching up to the prophecy. Pluto, the planet of transformation and revolution, officially entered Aquarius in January 2025, where it will remain until 2044. This is major. Aquarius rules revolution, community, rebellion, and systems designed to benefit the people: think of Bob Marley, Huey P. Newton, Angela Davis, and Alicia Keys. The age of illusions is dissolving and the age of awakening is upon us. We’re also feeling the rumblings of another generational shift: Uranus, planet of disruption and innovation, is at 28º Taurus, preparing to enter Gemini on July 7th after seven years of shaking up our relationships with money, land, food, and ownership. The final degrees of any Uranus transit bring chaotic revelations — buried truths coming to the surface. This week, expect that energy to intensify. Whether we’re talking about the U.S. government, the humanitarian crisis in Congo or gentrification and housing crises in cities like Los Angeles. This is global, and it’s astrological. The system is revealing itself (and it’s crumbling). Will we look away or lean in? On June 15th at 10:36am EST, Jupiter in Cancer forms a tense square to Saturn in Aries, bringing tension between our desire for care, community, and safety (Cancer) and the need to uphold boundaries, structures, and discipline (Aries). It’s giving “protect the people at all costs” energy. Jupiter wants to expand love and nurture, and Saturn demands we get serious about how we do it. Whether it’s family drama, government repression, or collective exhaustion, this square asks us: What are you willing to stand for? And what systems do we need to dismantle or rebuild to protect what truly matters? Then, on June 18th at 11:16 p.m. EST, Jupiter squares Neptune in Aries, creating fog and confusion, but also a deep spiritual reckoning. It’s like the rose-colored glasses finally fall off and the grief sets in, but so does the resolve. We may feel emotionally raw, even disillusioned, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. On the contrary, this square is here to help us get clear about what’s worth fighting for, and what delusions or distractions we must release to live more aligned lives. Luckily, Mars enters Virgo on June 17th at 4:31 a.m. EST, just in time to bring some much- needed grounding. After weeks of pride-fueled theatrics with Mars in Leo, Mars in Virgo wants us to clean house, quite literally. All signs will be feeling a desire to organize, declutter, simplify, and start fresh. But beware: Mars in Virgo can bring out our inner perfectionist. Don’t get stuck trying to do everything “right.” Do it with intention. Start where you are, and let progress be the new perfection. Finally, we wrap the week with the Summer Solstice on June 20th at 10:42 p.m. EST, when the Sun enters Cancer. The longest day of the year brings a moment of pause and celebration. Cancer Season is a time of emotional nourishment, family reunions, and ancestral remembrance. We’re being asked to return home: not just physically, but spiritually. What does safety feel like in your body? What communities make you feel loved? This solstice, let your answers guide your next chapter. Read your horoscopes for your Sun and Rising signs for the most in-depth forecast. DashDividers_1_500x100 Aries Sun & Rising: This week, Aries, the tension between your inner and outer world becomes impossible to ignore. With Jupiter now in Cancer, activating your sector of home, roots, and emotional security, you may feel a deep urge to create more nurturing and stable foundations. But on June 15th, Jupiter squares Saturn in your sign, which is activating your sector of identity, self-worth, and autonomy. It’s a cosmic tug-of-war: your desire to care for or be cared for clashes with your need to assert your independence. Whether it’s family, roommates, ancestral ties, or even the concept of “home” itself, this transit asks: where are you overextending emotionally, and what boundaries do you need to fortify? Then on the 18th, Jupiter squares Neptune (also in your sign), making it easy to spiral into self-doubt or guilt. You may wonder, “Am I doing enough?” But this square is not here to shame you, it’s here to help you forgive yourself, soften your inner voice, and reimagine what it means to belong. Luckily, Mars, your planetary ruler, enters Virgo on June 17th, helping you find focus through functionality. This transit activates your sector of health, work, and daily routines. After the ego-saturated drama of Mars in Leo, you’re ready to tune out the noise and return to the rituals that keep you grounded. It’s giving “clean the house, drink the water, mind your business” energy — not out of avoidance, but as an act of self-respect. If you’ve been avoiding a conversation, a doctor’s visit, or a commitment to your body’s needs, now’s the time to create a plan you’ll actually stick to. Start small and stay consistent. By the time the sun enters Cancer on June 20th, you’ll feel an emotional softening. Cancer Season activates your sector of roots and family even further, making this solstice a turning point in how you relate to care — both giving and receiving it. There’s power in learning to mother or reparent yourself. There’s power in telling your family what you need, or in creating chosen family where your truth is safe. This solstice, come home to yourself. Taurus Sun & Rising: Taurus, this week’s astrology hits your soul like a plot twist you felt coming but still weren’t fully prepared for. Jupiter is now in Cancer, activating your communication sector, and on June 15th, it squares Saturn in Aries, which is in your sector of healing, surrender, and the subconscious. This transit may stir up hidden fears or blockages that have lingered unspoken. Maybe a truth you’ve been holding in out of fear of judgment or rejection now wants to be released. Then, Jupiter squares Neptune in Aries on the 18th, making your dreams feel extra vivid or your intuition eerily on point. But be mindful: this isn’t about spiraling into worst-case scenarios or over-explaining yourself to be understood. It’s about trusting that your voice has power, even when it trembles. When Mars enters Virgo on June 17th, you’ll get a confidence boost in your sector of creativity, romance, and play. If Mars in Leo had you stressing over what others think, Mars in Virgo says: “Cool story, but how do you feel?” Use this transit to reconnect with your inner child. Make art that’s messy and sacred. Say what you mean in love, even if it’s awkward. This Mars transit can help you heal self-doubt that’s kept you playing it safe, especially when it comes to pursuing joy just for joy’s sake. The solstice arrives June 20th, and Cancer Season officially begins. For you, Taurus, it’s a cosmic green light to express yourself more freely. Let this be a season of softness and connection — with your audience, your friends, your loved ones, your ancestors. You’ve been listening closely to the universe. Now it’s your turn to respond. Gemini Sun & Rising: Gemini, this is the week you’ll realize that your worth isn’t up for debate. With Jupiter now in Cancer lighting up your money and self-esteem zone, you’re being asked to slow down and take stock of what (and who) you give your energy to. The squares to Saturn and Neptune in your career sector may feel like a reality check… maybe that gig you thought would take off is dragging, or maybe you’re realizing you’ve outgrown your own expectations. Instead of spiraling or overworking yourself to “fix” everything, ask: what actually feels nourishing right now? Your values are evolving, and so is your relationship to success. Let your worthiness lead the way. Mars enters Virgo on the 17th, charging up your home and family sector for the next six weeks. You might suddenly feel the urge to deep-clean, redecorate, or set stronger boundaries in your personal space. Try not to project your perfectionism onto the people you live with — this Mars transit is more about finding inner order than forcing outer control. Be patient with what needs to shift slowly. By the time the solstice hits on June 20th, the Sun joins Jupiter in your sector of values and income, officially kicking off Cancer Season. This is your cosmic green light to stop downplaying what you bring to the table. Get clear on your financial goals, but also your emotional ones. You don’t have to grind to prove your worth — what’s already inside of you is enough. Cancer Sun & Rising: Cancer, can you feel that? You’re getting the cosmic memo to vibe and thrive. With Jupiter newly in your sign, your self-worth is bubbling up. But this week’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in your romance and creativity sectors may feel like they’re raining on your parade… maybe you’re second-guessing your latest pitch or doubting if that passion project will land right. Instead of spiraling, breathe into it: these growing pains are expanding your creative integrity. You’re learning that even the most authentic ideas can take time to bloom. This is a week to be radically honest with yourself about where fear of failure or rejection may be holding you back from glowing fully. You don’t have to water yourself down to be accepted. You just have to keep showing up. Mars enters Virgo on June 17th, activating your communication sector. For the next six weeks, the universe is giving you homework: refine the way you speak to yourself. Catch your inner critic mid-sentence and choose compassion instead. You’ll also be more discerning in how and with whom you share your thoughts. This is your season of building mental discipline, whether that’s journaling, working on a manuscript, or finally sending the email you’ve been avoiding. As Cancer Season begins on June 20th with the solstice, it’s time to take the throne. You’re entering your solar return with a fresh dose of divine authority. Celebrate the journey you’ve been on and get clear about what kind of story you want to write in this next chapter. You’re not who you were last year. Let that be your power. Leo Sun & Rising: Leo, this is the part of your story where you realize your legacy starts with your inner world. Jupiter in Cancer has entered your sector of rest, healing, and closure, urging you to slow way down. But this week’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in Aries — in your sectors of travel and expansion — might have you feeling major FOMO or restlessness. Maybe plans get delayed, or your desire to “do more” clashes with your soul’s craving to simply be. Instead of pushing past your limits, what if you honored your need to unplug and recalibrate? You’re not lazy… you’re integrating. You’re releasing timelines and embracing divine timing. Meanwhile, Mars makes its shift out of your sign on the 17th and enters Virgo for the next six weeks, activating your money sector. This earthy transit helps ground you in your worth. Financial discipline gets easier when you’re focused on why you’re doing what you do. Set clearer intentions around your hustle. And if you’ve been afraid to raise your rates or launch something that truly reflects your value — now’s the time. As the solstice arrives on June 20th and Cancer Season begins, your emotional awareness gets supercharged. You may feel more nostalgic than usual, or find yourself reflecting on what (and who) you’re willing to leave behind. The more you create space for spiritual cleansing, the brighter your solar return season will be next month. Virgo Sun & Rising: Virgo, this is the week you’ll remember: just because you can do it all doesn’t mean you should. Jupiter in Cancer lights up your community sector, helping you attract aligned collaborators and friends. But this week’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in your intimacy and relationship zones may expose relational patterns that no longer align with you. Are you overextending yourself to be liked or included? Are you being vague about your own needs to keep the peace? Jupiter is reminding you that boundaries are a love language — especially with yourself. Meanwhile, Mars enters your sign on June 17th, and that’s big news. For the next six weeks, the Universe is putting you front and center. This transit is about embodied action: the version of you who shows up boldly, unapologetically, and with precision. Just don’t let perfectionism paralyze you. Consistent progress over polish, always. As the week comes to a close, Cancer Season and the June 20th solstice invite you to soften into connection. You’re being asked to lead with your heart, not just your to-do list. Share your wins, celebrate your people, and let yourself be poured into. You’ve got nothing to prove, just everything to be. Libra Sun & Rising: Libra, this is the week your inner compass says: pivot. Jupiter in Cancer is elevating your career sector, and big blessings are on their way. But with Jupiter squaring off with Saturn and Neptune squaring in your health and routine zones, the first thing you may feel is tired. These transits are your cosmic red flag: your body is asking for a new strategy. You don’t need to burn out to succeed. In fact, the more you trust your rhythms and rest intentionally, the clearer your path to purpose becomes. On the 17th, Mars in Virgo begins its six-week journey through your spirituality and subconscious sector. Expect your dreams (both literal and metaphorical) to become more active. You may want to deepen your rituals or spend more time in solitude. This is your chance to rewire your inner beliefs and dismantle limiting self-talk that’s been on loop for too long. By the time the solstice arrives and Cancer Season begins on June 20th, you’ll be more aware of what’s worth your energy and what’s just a distraction. Give yourself permission to climb your own ladder — not the one society built for you. Your success story is already being written… make sure it has your name on it. Scorpio Sun & Rising: Scorpio, this is the week you realize expansion doesn’t always look like more — sometimes it looks like truth. With Jupiter now in Cancer, your sector of wisdom, publishing, and long-term vision is activated for the next 13 months. This week, however, Jupiter squares Saturn and Neptune in Aries, which govern your health, work, and wellness. You may feel torn between a deep desire to pursue big dreams and the sobering realization that your daily habits and energy levels don’t yet support them. Instead of spiraling, use this friction as motivation to redesign your systems. You’re not stuck, you’re being recalibrated. Your planetary ruler Mars enters Virgo on June 17th and activates your community sector, helping you call in more aligned collaborators and friends these next six weeks. But with Mars in this detail-focused earth sign, you’ll also become much more discerning about who and what gets your time. No more fake support systems or draining group chats… this transit empowers you to say no without guilt. The week ends with the June 20th solstice and start of Cancer Season, which anchor you in spiritual softness. You’ll find yourself reflecting more deeply on your role in the world and how your voice or story could help others. Whether through writing, mentoring, or traveling somewhere you’ve long dreamed of, let your heart guide you into the second half of the year. Sagittarius Sun & Rising: Sagittarius, this is the week you realize your heart has its own timeline, and you’re finally catching up to it. Jupiter in Cancer is activating your sector of intimacy, soulmates, and deep emotional transformation. This can feel exhilarating and unsettling — especially with Jupiter forming tense squares to both Saturn and Neptune in your sector of romance, fate, and creativity. You may feel torn between surrendering to a magnetic connection or playing it safe out of fear of disappointment. Childhood wounds or past heartbreaks may resurface, asking to be acknowledged. But this isn’t a test; it’s a reminder that your heart is wiser now. Let it lead with discernment, not defense. Mars in Virgo begins a six-week activation of your career and legacy sector starting June 17th. This is your time to sharpen your focus and refine your vision for what long- term success looks like. Don’t get caught up in comparisons. Every little step you take now matters more than you know. Cancer Season begins on June 20th, activating your sector of depth, merging, and outside resources. You’re being pulled inward this season — into healing, pleasure, and release. Let the solstice mark the shedding of self-sabotage and the welcoming of emotional reciprocity. Capricorn Sun & Rising: Capricorn, this is the week you realize commitment is more than showing up… it’s being seen. Jupiter in Cancer is spotlighting your relationship sector, and the squares it forms to Saturn and Neptune in your sector of home and roots might bring up generational wounds or family patterns you’ve outgrown. You may be grappling with where your loyalty lies, with who you’ve been, or with who you’re becoming. If you’re partnered, conversations around safety, space, and emotional labor could arise. If you’re single, this is about breaking free from unconscious scripts about who you should love versus who truly feels like home. Mars in Virgo enters your travel and exploration sector on June 17th, bringing six weeks of clarity about what lights your fire. You’re craving more meaning right now… not just in your career, but in your everyday experiences. Let curiosity gently guide you. With the sun entering Cancer on June 20th, relationship energy deepens even further. Whether you’re calling in new love or recommitting to yourself, this solstice is about emotional integrity. No more performing, Capricorn. Focus on cultivating presence. Aquarius Sun & Rising: Aquarius, this is the week you realize burnout is not a badge of honor — it’s a sign to pause. Jupiter is in Cancer now, supercharging your sector of health, work, and daily rhythms. But this week, it forms two sharp squares to both Saturn and Neptune in your sector of communication, information, and tech. You might feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of messages, tasks, or mental chatter. It’s time to unplug from the chaos and refocus on the essentials. Don’t believe every critical thought your mind throws at you, especially if it’s rooted in scarcity or urgency. Prioritize your mental peace. On June 17th, Mars enters Virgo, activating your sector of emotional depth, sex, and transformation. This six-week period invites you to take your power back — not through force, but through strategic boundaries and honest self-inquiry. If it’s not growing you, it’s draining you. Cancer Season begins on June 20th, encouraging you to build new routines that support your nervous system. This solstice reminds you that caring for your body is spiritual work. Slow it all the way down as the week comes to a close, and be intentional about what you’d like the second half of 2025 to look and feel like. Pisces Sun & Rising: Pisces, this is the week you realize that your worth is not up for negotiation, no matter who’s watching. With your ruler Jupiter now in Cancer lighting up your sector of joy, creativity, and romance, you’re being asked to let yourself shine, even when it feels vulnerable. But Jupiter’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in your sector of money, security, and values may stir up insecurities around being “too much” or not enough. You might be reevaluating how you price your work, how you advocate for your needs, or how you speak about your talents. This tension isn’t here to break you — it’s here to help you claim your space louder and prouder. Mars enters your opposite sign of Virgo on June 17th, sparking six weeks of energy in your relationship sector. You’ll crave more clarity and structure in your partnerships — whether business or personal. It’s a good time to co-create something beautiful, but only if it’s mutual, and if you allow yourself to pace yourself instead of rushing into it. The solstice on June 20th opens the door to even more heart-centered expression as Cancer Season begins. As the week comes to and end, make room for more play, more softness, more joy, Pisces. You don’t have to earn your happiness — you just have to consistently let it in without trying to make it last forever. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?Your June 2025 Horoscope Is Here Source link

[norajworld]

Cosmic beings, if you’ve been following my work for a while, you’ve probably heard me talk about the 2020 ascension, especially in my article for Refinery29 back in 2020 about what the world could look like by 2032. Now here we are, five years later, and the astrology is catching up to the prophecy. Pluto, the planet of transformation and revolution, officially entered Aquarius in January 2025, where it will remain until 2044. This is major. Aquarius rules revolution, community, rebellion, and systems designed to benefit the people: think of Bob Marley, Huey P. Newton, Angela Davis, and Alicia Keys. The age of illusions is dissolving and the age of awakening is upon us. We’re also feeling the rumblings of another generational shift: Uranus, planet of disruption and innovation, is at 28º Taurus, preparing to enter Gemini on July 7th after seven years of shaking up our relationships with money, land, food, and ownership. The final degrees of any Uranus transit bring chaotic revelations — buried truths coming to the surface. This week, expect that energy to intensify. Whether we’re talking about the U.S. government, the humanitarian crisis in Congo or gentrification and housing crises in cities like Los Angeles. This is global, and it’s astrological. The system is revealing itself (and it’s crumbling). Will we look away or lean in? On June 15th at 10:36am EST, Jupiter in Cancer forms a tense square to Saturn in Aries, bringing tension between our desire for care, community, and safety (Cancer) and the need to uphold boundaries, structures, and discipline (Aries). It’s giving “protect the people at all costs” energy. Jupiter wants to expand love and nurture, and Saturn demands we get serious about how we do it. Whether it’s family drama, government repression, or collective exhaustion, this square asks us: What are you willing to stand for? And what systems do we need to dismantle or rebuild to protect what truly matters? Then, on June 18th at 11:16 p.m. EST, Jupiter squares Neptune in Aries, creating fog and confusion, but also a deep spiritual reckoning. It’s like the rose-colored glasses finally fall off and the grief sets in, but so does the resolve. We may feel emotionally raw, even disillusioned, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. On the contrary, this square is here to help us get clear about what’s worth fighting for, and what delusions or distractions we must release to live more aligned lives. Luckily, Mars enters Virgo on June 17th at 4:31 a.m. EST, just in time to bring some much- needed grounding. After weeks of pride-fueled theatrics with Mars in Leo, Mars in Virgo wants us to clean house, quite literally. All signs will be feeling a desire to organize, declutter, simplify, and start fresh. But beware: Mars in Virgo can bring out our inner perfectionist. Don’t get stuck trying to do everything “right.” Do it with intention. Start where you are, and let progress be the new perfection. Finally, we wrap the week with the Summer Solstice on June 20th at 10:42 p.m. EST, when the Sun enters Cancer. The longest day of the year brings a moment of pause and celebration. Cancer Season is a time of emotional nourishment, family reunions, and ancestral remembrance. We’re being asked to return home: not just physically, but spiritually. What does safety feel like in your body? What communities make you feel loved? This solstice, let your answers guide your next chapter. Read your horoscopes for your Sun and Rising signs for the most in-depth forecast. DashDividers_1_500x100 Aries Sun & Rising: This week, Aries, the tension between your inner and outer world becomes impossible to ignore. With Jupiter now in Cancer, activating your sector of home, roots, and emotional security, you may feel a deep urge to create more nurturing and stable foundations. But on June 15th, Jupiter squares Saturn in your sign, which is activating your sector of identity, self-worth, and autonomy. It’s a cosmic tug-of-war: your desire to care for or be cared for clashes with your need to assert your independence. Whether it’s family, roommates, ancestral ties, or even the concept of “home” itself, this transit asks: where are you overextending emotionally, and what boundaries do you need to fortify? Then on the 18th, Jupiter squares Neptune (also in your sign), making it easy to spiral into self-doubt or guilt. You may wonder, “Am I doing enough?” But this square is not here to shame you, it’s here to help you forgive yourself, soften your inner voice, and reimagine what it means to belong. Luckily, Mars, your planetary ruler, enters Virgo on June 17th, helping you find focus through functionality. This transit activates your sector of health, work, and daily routines. After the ego-saturated drama of Mars in Leo, you’re ready to tune out the noise and return to the rituals that keep you grounded. It’s giving “clean the house, drink the water, mind your business” energy — not out of avoidance, but as an act of self-respect. If you’ve been avoiding a conversation, a doctor’s visit, or a commitment to your body’s needs, now’s the time to create a plan you’ll actually stick to. Start small and stay consistent. By the time the sun enters Cancer on June 20th, you’ll feel an emotional softening. Cancer Season activates your sector of roots and family even further, making this solstice a turning point in how you relate to care — both giving and receiving it. There’s power in learning to mother or reparent yourself. There’s power in telling your family what you need, or in creating chosen family where your truth is safe. This solstice, come home to yourself. Taurus Sun & Rising: Taurus, this week’s astrology hits your soul like a plot twist you felt coming but still weren’t fully prepared for. Jupiter is now in Cancer, activating your communication sector, and on June 15th, it squares Saturn in Aries, which is in your sector of healing, surrender, and the subconscious. This transit may stir up hidden fears or blockages that have lingered unspoken. Maybe a truth you’ve been holding in out of fear of judgment or rejection now wants to be released. Then, Jupiter squares Neptune in Aries on the 18th, making your dreams feel extra vivid or your intuition eerily on point. But be mindful: this isn’t about spiraling into worst-case scenarios or over-explaining yourself to be understood. It’s about trusting that your voice has power, even when it trembles. When Mars enters Virgo on June 17th, you’ll get a confidence boost in your sector of creativity, romance, and play. If Mars in Leo had you stressing over what others think, Mars in Virgo says: “Cool story, but how do you feel?” Use this transit to reconnect with your inner child. Make art that’s messy and sacred. Say what you mean in love, even if it’s awkward. This Mars transit can help you heal self-doubt that’s kept you playing it safe, especially when it comes to pursuing joy just for joy’s sake. The solstice arrives June 20th, and Cancer Season officially begins. For you, Taurus, it’s a cosmic green light to express yourself more freely. Let this be a season of softness and connection — with your audience, your friends, your loved ones, your ancestors. You’ve been listening closely to the universe. Now it’s your turn to respond. Gemini Sun & Rising: Gemini, this is the week you’ll realize that your worth isn’t up for debate. With Jupiter now in Cancer lighting up your money and self-esteem zone, you’re being asked to slow down and take stock of what (and who) you give your energy to. The squares to Saturn and Neptune in your career sector may feel like a reality check… maybe that gig you thought would take off is dragging, or maybe you’re realizing you’ve outgrown your own expectations. Instead of spiraling or overworking yourself to “fix” everything, ask: what actually feels nourishing right now? Your values are evolving, and so is your relationship to success. Let your worthiness lead the way. Mars enters Virgo on the 17th, charging up your home and family sector for the next six weeks. You might suddenly feel the urge to deep-clean, redecorate, or set stronger boundaries in your personal space. Try not to project your perfectionism onto the people you live with — this Mars transit is more about finding inner order than forcing outer control. Be patient with what needs to shift slowly. By the time the solstice hits on June 20th, the Sun joins Jupiter in your sector of values and income, officially kicking off Cancer Season. This is your cosmic green light to stop downplaying what you bring to the table. Get clear on your financial goals, but also your emotional ones. You don’t have to grind to prove your worth — what’s already inside of you is enough. Cancer Sun & Rising: Cancer, can you feel that? You’re getting the cosmic memo to vibe and thrive. With Jupiter newly in your sign, your self-worth is bubbling up. But this week’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in your romance and creativity sectors may feel like they’re raining on your parade… maybe you’re second-guessing your latest pitch or doubting if that passion project will land right. Instead of spiraling, breathe into it: these growing pains are expanding your creative integrity. You’re learning that even the most authentic ideas can take time to bloom. This is a week to be radically honest with yourself about where fear of failure or rejection may be holding you back from glowing fully. You don’t have to water yourself down to be accepted. You just have to keep showing up. Mars enters Virgo on June 17th, activating your communication sector. For the next six weeks, the universe is giving you homework: refine the way you speak to yourself. Catch your inner critic mid-sentence and choose compassion instead. You’ll also be more discerning in how and with whom you share your thoughts. This is your season of building mental discipline, whether that’s journaling, working on a manuscript, or finally sending the email you’ve been avoiding. As Cancer Season begins on June 20th with the solstice, it’s time to take the throne. You’re entering your solar return with a fresh dose of divine authority. Celebrate the journey you’ve been on and get clear about what kind of story you want to write in this next chapter. You’re not who you were last year. Let that be your power. Leo Sun & Rising: Leo, this is the part of your story where you realize your legacy starts with your inner world. Jupiter in Cancer has entered your sector of rest, healing, and closure, urging you to slow way down. But this week’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in Aries — in your sectors of travel and expansion — might have you feeling major FOMO or restlessness. Maybe plans get delayed, or your desire to “do more” clashes with your soul’s craving to simply be. Instead of pushing past your limits, what if you honored your need to unplug and recalibrate? You’re not lazy… you’re integrating. You’re releasing timelines and embracing divine timing. Meanwhile, Mars makes its shift out of your sign on the 17th and enters Virgo for the next six weeks, activating your money sector. This earthy transit helps ground you in your worth. Financial discipline gets easier when you’re focused on why you’re doing what you do. Set clearer intentions around your hustle. And if you’ve been afraid to raise your rates or launch something that truly reflects your value — now’s the time. As the solstice arrives on June 20th and Cancer Season begins, your emotional awareness gets supercharged. You may feel more nostalgic than usual, or find yourself reflecting on what (and who) you’re willing to leave behind. The more you create space for spiritual cleansing, the brighter your solar return season will be next month. Virgo Sun & Rising: Virgo, this is the week you’ll remember: just because you can do it all doesn’t mean you should. Jupiter in Cancer lights up your community sector, helping you attract aligned collaborators and friends. But this week’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in your intimacy and relationship zones may expose relational patterns that no longer align with you. Are you overextending yourself to be liked or included? Are you being vague about your own needs to keep the peace? Jupiter is reminding you that boundaries are a love language — especially with yourself. Meanwhile, Mars enters your sign on June 17th, and that’s big news. For the next six weeks, the Universe is putting you front and center. This transit is about embodied action: the version of you who shows up boldly, unapologetically, and with precision. Just don’t let perfectionism paralyze you. Consistent progress over polish, always. As the week comes to a close, Cancer Season and the June 20th solstice invite you to soften into connection. You’re being asked to lead with your heart, not just your to-do list. Share your wins, celebrate your people, and let yourself be poured into. You’ve got nothing to prove, just everything to be. Libra Sun & Rising: Libra, this is the week your inner compass says: pivot. Jupiter in Cancer is elevating your career sector, and big blessings are on their way. But with Jupiter squaring off with Saturn and Neptune squaring in your health and routine zones, the first thing you may feel is tired. These transits are your cosmic red flag: your body is asking for a new strategy. You don’t need to burn out to succeed. In fact, the more you trust your rhythms and rest intentionally, the clearer your path to purpose becomes. On the 17th, Mars in Virgo begins its six-week journey through your spirituality and subconscious sector. Expect your dreams (both literal and metaphorical) to become more active. You may want to deepen your rituals or spend more time in solitude. This is your chance to rewire your inner beliefs and dismantle limiting self-talk that’s been on loop for too long. By the time the solstice arrives and Cancer Season begins on June 20th, you’ll be more aware of what’s worth your energy and what’s just a distraction. Give yourself permission to climb your own ladder — not the one society built for you. Your success story is already being written… make sure it has your name on it. Scorpio Sun & Rising: Scorpio, this is the week you realize expansion doesn’t always look like more — sometimes it looks like truth. With Jupiter now in Cancer, your sector of wisdom, publishing, and long-term vision is activated for the next 13 months. This week, however, Jupiter squares Saturn and Neptune in Aries, which govern your health, work, and wellness. You may feel torn between a deep desire to pursue big dreams and the sobering realization that your daily habits and energy levels don’t yet support them. Instead of spiraling, use this friction as motivation to redesign your systems. You’re not stuck, you’re being recalibrated. Your planetary ruler Mars enters Virgo on June 17th and activates your community sector, helping you call in more aligned collaborators and friends these next six weeks. But with Mars in this detail-focused earth sign, you’ll also become much more discerning about who and what gets your time. No more fake support systems or draining group chats… this transit empowers you to say no without guilt. The week ends with the June 20th solstice and start of Cancer Season, which anchor you in spiritual softness. You’ll find yourself reflecting more deeply on your role in the world and how your voice or story could help others. Whether through writing, mentoring, or traveling somewhere you’ve long dreamed of, let your heart guide you into the second half of the year. Sagittarius Sun & Rising: Sagittarius, this is the week you realize your heart has its own timeline, and you’re finally catching up to it. Jupiter in Cancer is activating your sector of intimacy, soulmates, and deep emotional transformation. This can feel exhilarating and unsettling — especially with Jupiter forming tense squares to both Saturn and Neptune in your sector of romance, fate, and creativity. You may feel torn between surrendering to a magnetic connection or playing it safe out of fear of disappointment. Childhood wounds or past heartbreaks may resurface, asking to be acknowledged. But this isn’t a test; it’s a reminder that your heart is wiser now. Let it lead with discernment, not defense. Mars in Virgo begins a six-week activation of your career and legacy sector starting June 17th. This is your time to sharpen your focus and refine your vision for what long- term success looks like. Don’t get caught up in comparisons. Every little step you take now matters more than you know. Cancer Season begins on June 20th, activating your sector of depth, merging, and outside resources. You’re being pulled inward this season — into healing, pleasure, and release. Let the solstice mark the shedding of self-sabotage and the welcoming of emotional reciprocity. Capricorn Sun & Rising: Capricorn, this is the week you realize commitment is more than showing up… it’s being seen. Jupiter in Cancer is spotlighting your relationship sector, and the squares it forms to Saturn and Neptune in your sector of home and roots might bring up generational wounds or family patterns you’ve outgrown. You may be grappling with where your loyalty lies, with who you’ve been, or with who you’re becoming. If you’re partnered, conversations around safety, space, and emotional labor could arise. If you’re single, this is about breaking free from unconscious scripts about who you should love versus who truly feels like home. Mars in Virgo enters your travel and exploration sector on June 17th, bringing six weeks of clarity about what lights your fire. You’re craving more meaning right now… not just in your career, but in your everyday experiences. Let curiosity gently guide you. With the sun entering Cancer on June 20th, relationship energy deepens even further. Whether you’re calling in new love or recommitting to yourself, this solstice is about emotional integrity. No more performing, Capricorn. Focus on cultivating presence. Aquarius Sun & Rising: Aquarius, this is the week you realize burnout is not a badge of honor — it’s a sign to pause. Jupiter is in Cancer now, supercharging your sector of health, work, and daily rhythms. But this week, it forms two sharp squares to both Saturn and Neptune in your sector of communication, information, and tech. You might feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of messages, tasks, or mental chatter. It’s time to unplug from the chaos and refocus on the essentials. Don’t believe every critical thought your mind throws at you, especially if it’s rooted in scarcity or urgency. Prioritize your mental peace. On June 17th, Mars enters Virgo, activating your sector of emotional depth, sex, and transformation. This six-week period invites you to take your power back — not through force, but through strategic boundaries and honest self-inquiry. If it’s not growing you, it’s draining you. Cancer Season begins on June 20th, encouraging you to build new routines that support your nervous system. This solstice reminds you that caring for your body is spiritual work. Slow it all the way down as the week comes to a close, and be intentional about what you’d like the second half of 2025 to look and feel like. Pisces Sun & Rising: Pisces, this is the week you realize that your worth is not up for negotiation, no matter who’s watching. With your ruler Jupiter now in Cancer lighting up your sector of joy, creativity, and romance, you’re being asked to let yourself shine, even when it feels vulnerable. But Jupiter’s squares to Saturn and Neptune in your sector of money, security, and values may stir up insecurities around being “too much” or not enough. You might be reevaluating how you price your work, how you advocate for your needs, or how you speak about your talents. This tension isn’t here to break you — it’s here to help you claim your space louder and prouder. Mars enters your opposite sign of Virgo on June 17th, sparking six weeks of energy in your relationship sector. You’ll crave more clarity and structure in your partnerships — whether business or personal. It’s a good time to co-create something beautiful, but only if it’s mutual, and if you allow yourself to pace yourself instead of rushing into it. The solstice on June 20th opens the door to even more heart-centered expression as Cancer Season begins. As the week comes to and end, make room for more play, more softness, more joy, Pisces. You don’t have to earn your happiness — you just have to consistently let it in without trying to make it last forever. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?Your June 2025 Horoscope Is Here Source link

[digiblaze]

Worth The Extra Quid? Standard vs Liqui Moly Car Services Compared

What's All This Fuss About Premium Services Then?

Ever stood at the garage counter feeling a bit lost when they start banging on about "premium" oil and "enhanced" services? You're not alone. I was in the same boat last month when my trusty Astra needed servicing, and the mechanic started pushing this Liqui Moly service that cost nearly forty quid more than the standard option.

So I did a bit of digging, and here's what I found out about what you're actually getting for your money:

1. The Oil Quality – More Than Just Basic Stuff

Let's face it – with standard services, you're getting whatever oil meets the bare minimum requirements for your motor. It'll do the job alright, but it's hardly anything special, is it?

Liqui Moly, though, they're proper fussy about their oils. They make these fancy blends for different driving conditions that go well beyond the basic rubbish your car manual bangs on about.

I was reading Auto Express the other day (you know, that car mag you see in WH Smith) and they reckon these posh oils like Liqui Moly can actually save you about 4% on fuel compared to the regular stuff. Their oils supposedly:

Reduce engine wear and tear

Work properly whether you're up in the freezing Scottish Highlands or down in sunny Cornwall

Mean you don't have to visit the garage quite so often

Give your engine decent protection during those Baltic winter mornings when everything's covered in frost

2. A Proper Engine Clean, Not Just a Quick Rinse

Your standard services change the oil, yeah, but they don't necessarily shift all the gunk that builds up – especially if most of your driving is just popping to Tesco and back.

Liqui Moly services usually chuck in engine flushes and cleaners that give your engine a proper deep clean. It's a bit like the difference between changing your bedsheets (standard service) and giving the whole bed a proper good wash (Liqui Moly). Just feels more thorough, doesn't it?

3. Looking After Your Whole Car, Not Just the Engine

Standard services mainly focus on changing your oil and filter, with a quick look at the other bits and bobs.

Liqui Moly services take a more thorough approach, often including:

Fuel system cleaners to sort out your mucky injectors and valves

Fancy oil treatments for better protection

Additives for your gearbox

Cleaners for diesel particulate filters (if you've got a diesel that's probably clogged up from city driving)

Radiator cleaners to keep your cooling system working properly

Some clever clogs at the Institute of Automotive Engineering reckon this kind of thorough maintenance can extend your car's life by up to 30% compared to just doing the basic stuff. Not too shabby for spending a few extra quid at the garage, eh?

[peterlbrowncompany]

Peter L. Brown Company

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[the-firebird69]

I'm going to set up a meeting with his people regarding dismantling a few nuclear plants in Florida and to crush it up and dispose of it and they send you a video and everything and I don't have to say anymore do I I guess so I want to see where it goes I'm laughing and he's laughing but it's not funny cuz he says waste Management in Iowa it's actually not funny so I'm going to ask ahead of time if it's our facility if it is I'll probably still haven't do it because it's a pain in the ass but I do see what you're saying oh Bob probably so you know stupid is stupid does and his joke is usually real and all that crap and they probably still work there and yeah yeah it's stupid so yeah. I really want to see the place friend says, have someone tore it and tape it look at that because your little assholes and so I will do that and it's going to be in special containers it's a special route the time frame is pretty good it's like 1 month and the whole place is tented using an independent structure I'm curious why it's so inexpensive but they're saying they want to reestablish society here that's one reason and he says I don't think that they use it for anything it's a minor amount of radiation the vessels are high pressure but they're not high strength it's true too and once you remove the reactor containment I mean that's the vessel and it's concrete I can't really do much with it although it's highly contaminated but it's mixed in with concrete it's like 20% of 10% pure after you a year then we get that so I don't know, and he says that is true it's making it into anything it would take a long time and even for energy cost more but he thinks that when they grind it it actually becomes kind of flammable if you mix it with a certain thing and I have seen that it's something that deteriorates the concrete and it nights and it burns pretty good so it's for energy for one thing but not much so just to get rid of it and to make Florida livable is the reason why and we want that so we're going to go ahead and sit down with them and talk about it and new plants in that location are not necessary and we can continuously decontaminate it and coordinate It off until it is decontaminated and we're going to go ahead and do that we're going to remove that thing completely there's two others that need to be then we're going to look at the natural gas and its locations should have that and he says he should and Ken says he does I have the information on the natural gas deposits and where they are and it's all the usgc and its private firm that did the investigatory work a couple years ago so it's fairly recent it's going to meet with Ken and that's a good idea. Thank you for your input Thor and Freya and of course your son and we do value it and Ken of course is valued and the guys can come along and I just for their comments. He says Chris wants to be in the front seat oh yeah nuclear plant you can't go there also said what if you're not a giant well those two can go they can withstand some of it not much but more than humans more than I mean other people and can too and I'm already bald damn it I have a little bit more resistance but help me find a helicopter it's a good idea they say

Thor Freya

We're going to take a look at this it's a good idea the two guys go along I'm going to go and they can say that they are the asset protectors and they said no we'll just go along and went out your foolish crap unless you bring Bob he can say it all these guys are protect you in case Mac is weird but anyways we're going to go down there big and there are others too that are worth going into because you can run certain elements of the city with it public stuff and sometimes it's possible like Tampa is separate and it requires just a small plant and would cost anybody anything for the most part and he says it's it's kind of a little different it would be the parts department and so I understand that so it wouldn't cost them out of pocket directly it would be taxes but they already pay those. So it's a good idea Max says and we're going to go out there shortlya

Mac

We approve these ideas and it's not bad for Monday you got into it because of robots and they're fooling around talking about their service robots being too human getting kicked out and getting booted onto the streets of New York they did get some work but it was like panhandling and he said why don't we do that for you we're too human like and her master's kicked us out so they started laughing and I'm telling jokes and we're doing magic tricks and my husband got up and he said okay what am I and he froze and it said robot and he sat there for like 10 minutes and then outside clapping and laughing and said now move and he said I can't I'm a robot I need a oil so she got up and started oiling me and I started moving piece by piece and it was hilarious people are laughing I can't believe it but that would be a routine that we should do and part of a street carnival so we're going to look for those and try and do it

Zues

I was talking and then you no it was Thor Freya about us but that's what we're doing now they want to see us do that stuff and we want to

Hera

That's ridiculous you guys want to do Street carnival stuff probably want to sweep the streets wipe windows I can't believe this but it's going to be so much fun these guys are ridiculous the same stuff like that okay

Mac

I'm going to make up the signs for us tired and hungry for a hookup for trickle charge don't want to be scrapped after working in a nuclear plant

Zues

Hahaha and no he didn't plan it but it's funny as hell it's got great jokes and probably get us arrested his robots but really if we had our own money we could try and get an apartment so want to see if we can do that and all sudden they said well you might have to use a storage area and go in and out of it at night and have someone else rent it

Hera

I can't believe this there's going to be homeless robots

Rental center that my husband rented at for like a couple weeks in Port Charlotte woman

[pr14nce15]

The Cummings

These guys have also had a bit of a hard time too after Grandma Kristi passed. And Grandma Michelle, as Erin had a close relationship with Michelle when she was younger. When Dad would come around to her and Grandad Chris’ home Erin would always come over because she loved the company she had Michelle. So the passing of Grandma Michelle hit her hard too.

Since then, they have all been focussing on being the best they can be. Erin and Levi have both said to bring joy to the families maybe to have another baby even after they said after having the twins would be it but who knows. Again I don’t need any more cousins😂 They have been potentially talking about maybe taking over Mom and Dad's old shop but it may change. It would be really good to keep a family legacy going for sure. As for the Twins, Trey and Isiah are both at school now and are like the best of friends and brothers and twins. they have been doing really good in school and have taken on sporting activities after school. Gabrielle on the other hand, is really struggling. We all thought that her being with Jamal would be the best thing for her to happen even after we found out he is the nephew of Bob Pancakes but we found out that Jamal and Bob are plotting on the families and the first person to get through to is Gabby. Unfortunately, Jamal showed his true colours and was out to get Gabby. But this time I had to step in. Jamal was looking for a fight and I gave it to him. I told him ‘I did the worst to her ex-boyfriend. Don’t let me do the same to you.’ At that moment my focus was protecting my cousin and keeping her out of danger. So at the moment Gabby is in a very sensitive state and has ended up staying in the same place with me and Sierra as she doesn’t like the idea of being alone and as we have both been hurt she needs someone who understands her pain. But as a family, we are protecting each other at all costs because the people they really want are my mom and dad they still think the reason for Eliza’s death is because of them but with everything in my power The Pancakes will never get to us.

[pinkipeachiikeen]

And The Stars Will Guide Us Home

A Dazai x Fem!Reader Bungo Stray Dogs/Batfamily crossover

Chapter one ----> Next

Y/n swore to herself the day she got onto that plane that the only reason she’d ever return to Yokohama would be to burn the hellscape to the ground and dance in the ashes. Yet, ten years later she stands in the heart of that very city, swirling cheap booze in an even cheaper red solo cup.   After all this time, the only thing she can conjure herself to think is; How, in the everloving fuck did I get here?

A decade after Y/n escaped fled from Yokohama and shed herself of her past she's sent back with a new name and new goals.

-Protect Atsushi Nakajima at all costs

-Don't let your past catch up to you

But some things are easier said than done with the port mafia on her tail and when increments of her past come in the form of a shady, bandaged detective.

All Y/n knows is that Yokohama is in danger, and she'll be damned if she sits on the sidelines, doing nothing to protect the city that failed to protect her

Even if it's at the price of losing all she's worked for, and remembering all she died to forget.

DISCLAIMER: You do not need to be a Batman fan to read (but you do have to be a BSD fan, obviously lol), everything you need to know is mentioned in the fic. If I had to make a guess the fic is 80% Bungo Stray Dogs and 20% Batfamily, only appearing in the flashbacks of the first few chapters until much, much later.

Series warnings (as of now): All warnings kind of coincide with the warnings of the series, such as; violence, mentions of abusive/neglectful guardians, swearing, past character deaths, nightmares, mentions of self-harm, nightmares, Mori being kinda a creep, panic attacks etc.

Chapter warnings: Swearing, panic attack, nightmares, Dazai makes a creepy joke (Y/n tries to remove Atsushi's tie when he's passed out so he doesn't harm himself in his sleep, Dazai implies she's trying to take advantage of him; she's not.)

WC: 5104

Y/n swore to herself the day she got onto that plane that the only reason she’d ever return to Yokohama would be to burn the hellscape to the ground and dance in the ashes.

Yet, ten years later she stands in the heart of that very city, swirling cheap booze in an even cheaper red solo cup. 

 After all this time, the only thing she can conjure herself to think is;

How, in the everloving fuck did I get here?

“WHO WANTS TO SEE ME CHUG THIS GALLON OF CHOCOLATE MILK?!” The detective with a funky hat announced to the cheers of the younger overall clad detective, glugging it down with the vigor of an intoxicated frat boy trying to impress his brothers. Another detective, adorned with a bob and a hair clip that shimmers so slightly in the fluorescent ceiling lights of the office, drunkenly slurs something incoherent to which the scrawny kid in suspenders. Although Y/n couldn’t make out what she said, she can only assume that she was trying to convince her new coworker drink along with her, given the outstretched bottle in her shaky hand and the suddenly very flustered face of the other new hire sputtering something along the lines of ‘uh- i’m too young to drink! S-sorry!” 

Y/n sighs in both wonder and defeat before taking a sip of her drink, settling into the wall she’s leaning against. This is what I'm doing now, I guess. 

“Not a party person?” a  smooth voice asks as he slides next to her, red solo cup also in hand. 

Her eyes tilt to face him, a seemingly uninterested glace. ‘You could say that.” She nurses her drink, eyes scanning the room once more. “Although I have never been to a party where you chug chocolate milk,...” Her eyes peer to see the scrawny kid from earlier (Atsushi, if she’s correct) who fell into peer pressure, chugging a carton of chocolate milk with cheers from office staff and the younger detectives while Glasses scolds Hair Clip on appropriate workplace behavior. “..but they sure look like they are having fun. Sure looks better than jungle juice.”

“Ah yes, chocolate milk, the drink of champions and school age kids alike.” he quips. “Although I believe strawberry milk is superior.” 

She takes another glance at the man. Dressed in layers of stiff, restrictive clothing, and even going to the extent to hide sensitive, vulnerable areas (such as the neck and wrists) in copious amounts of bandages. His hair was long enough to cover what the bandages on his neck couldn’t and was also long enough to hide if need be. His trenchcoat, although worn open and freely, is there as a mere taunt or a front of sorts. Drawing people in while simultaneously keeping them out and away. Or that's what she would think, if she couldn’t see the frayed and worn edges around the cuffs and the discoloration at some more well loved spots. The trenchcoat is obviously sentimental in some way or another. His armor. 

Everything about him suggests that he would be a loner, the quiet type, an avid avoider of all things small talk, yet his actions and body language was smooth and fluid. He was posed freely against the wall, eyes gazing upon hers as if he had nothing to hide.

Alright. She downs the rest of her drink. I’ll bite.

“Do they always throw parties for the new hires?” she asks, now giving him her full attention.

“Well, no. But we don’t often get two newbies at once. Especially when one of them’s the prez’s daughter.” 

She gives a tight lipped smile. “So I was an orphan all my life and now I'm a nepo baby.” she retorted dryly. “Great.”

“Y’know, I never really thought of Fukuzawa as a dad, y’know? No, that's a lie.” he corrects himself. “He’s like the dad of the agency.”

“No shit.” she mutters. “‘Learned that from the welcome committee.”

He gives a quick chuckle. “Yeah, Ranpo’s sure is an eccentric one.”

She raises her eyebrow. “Says the man who asked me to commit a double suicide upon the first three seconds of meeting me.”

He throws his hand back to his forehead dramatically, as if he was a helpless maiden. “Oh but Belladonna, can’t you see! I’m just a lonely man, plagued by misfortune and misery,” he grasps her hands, fingers dancing around the solo cup in each of their hands. “the only way to cure my ailment is-”

“DAZAI, DID YOU ALREADY FORGET WHAT FUKUZAWA TOLD YOU, YOU OBNOXIOUS TWAT?” the scolding glasses fellow yells from across the office, gathering everyone’s attention.

“Kunikidaaaa,” Dazai whines. “Do you really have no faith in me?”

“None.” he quickly replies. 

Yoru bite back a laugh with a cough.

Dazai  gasps. “Rude. I was just telling her my dream of a double suicide with a beautiful woman, not inviting her to have one. There’s a difference” he informs, crossing his bandaged arms. “But ‘twat’, that’s a new one! Good for you on broadening your vocabulary!!” he cheers with a thumbs up.  

Kunikida just rolls his eyes and goes on to lecturing Overalls on how ‘in no circumstances would bringing a cow into the agency be even remotely logical, yes even for chocolate milk, Ranpo.’

“I thought Fukuzawa was the dad.” Yoru comments.

Dazai laughs. “Fukuzawa is who Kunikida wishes he looked like. If we were talking about parental roles here, Fukuzawa would be the corporate 9-5 father while Kunikida would be the overworked mother that no one listens to.”

Yoru chuckles. “I don’t know… He seems like he’d be a hell of a PTA mom. 

Dazai shudders. “Now that’s a terrifying thought.” He takes another sip of his drink. “So Fukuzawa definitely has dad energy, I just don’t think I can picture him with a child. The man is wayyyyyy too serious. A real ‘married to my work’ kind of guy, I don’t ever think he’s been on a date, let alone got some.”

And there it is. The actual reason for this conversation. 

“I mean, all men have needs though, can’t ignore that. I bet he’s the strong silent type- oooh I bet he-”

“Dazai, right?” she interrupts

“That's me.”

“I’mma tell you something, and I don’t want you to take this the wrong way,” she starts putting a friendly hand on his shoulder. “I’m not a fan of all the ‘subtle, hinted at, implied,’ shit. If you wanna know something, just ask. It saves everyone time and energy.”  she tosses her cup in the nearby trash can. “Maybe you can learn from him how to ask about someone’s parentage without talking about their father in bed, m’kay?” She smiles bitterly. “Thanks.” 

Dazai’s eyes widen the slightest amount, his mouth opening slightly to speak-

“AY, YORU COME TRY THIS!” Hair Clip calls, waving a bottle, nearly hitting the copper top detective in the head. 

Y/n breathes out a laugh, “Alright, only if someone else pours it, though, and you put it down.” she jokes, taking the bottle away from her and away from the heads of others.  

You would think a guy weighing 120 pounds wet wouldn’t be so hard to carry. Y/n has had to carry many people out of burning buildings or away from hazardous areas but none of them seemed to be this heavy, and they usually work with her in some way. They weren’t a jumbled ball of intoxicated dead weight, limbs flying every which way and silver hair flying into her face.

 “Come on, kid.” she grunts, throwing his arm around her neck. “Work with me here.” Fate clearly wanted to work against her since his leg nearly sent both of them into the rough sidewalk. “GOD DAMN IT.” she grunts. “How much did this kid drink?” 

“He only had a sip!”

“Gah!” she nearly drops the boy.

“Oops, sorry! I didn’t mean to startle you. Here, lemme help!” he offers, taking an arm.

“No, I-” she starts  before he throws the older boy over his shoulders like a sack of potatoes. “Well, alright then.” 

“Dang, he is kinda wobbly.” he admits to a slight groan from the boy over his shoulders. How he did not wake after being manhandled like that, Y/n has no clue. “Sheesh, I never met anyone this much of a lightweight. He only had the tiniest amount of sake.”  he shakes his head in disapproval. “Anyway, you are going to the dorms, right?” 

She nods.

“Okay, right this way!” he points and continues on, like he wasn’t balancing a person nearly half a foot taller on his shoulder. 

Alright, I guess. 

“How are you liking the agency so far?” he asks, kicking a stray pebble.

“It’s… definitely something.” she admits, resting her hands in her jacket pocket.

He nods, hair tickling Atsushi's waist.  “I’ll be honest, I really was surprised when Fukuzawa came back from his business trip with someone, let alone his own daughter! That threw us all in a loop!” he confesses.  

Y/n gives an awkward half laugh. “Yeah I bet.”

“I’m sorry Ranpo was kinda rude to you, he’s just…like that.”

She chuckles. “You mean blunt?”

He nods. “Yeah, blunt. That works.”

“Yeah I'd be kinda surprised too, I don’t blame him for being shocked. I was too.”

“It must be hard packing up all your stuff and moving here! I mean waking up in a whole different continent one morning must be so weird. Must be like waking up on a whole ‘nother planet!”

She smiles. “Kinda. But it’s not nearly as strange as when I moved to the states in the first place. At least I already know all the customs here, not to mention the langauge.”

He paused. “Why’d you move in the first place?” he asks, quickly following up with “Not to sound rude or anything, just curious!”

She shakes her head, “don’t worry, you’re good.” she clarifies. “hmmmm…”She thought for a moment. “Sometimes people just need a change, y’know.” she reveals. “A fresh start.”

“How does it feel to be back?”

She takes a deep breath in, brisk night air tickling down her lungs, staring into the polluted Yokohama sky. 

Suddenly, she was 14 again, staring down the very same lights she sees now, saying goodbye to a land that never felt like home. 

“It….” she starts. “It almost feels like I never left.”

“Home sweet home,” Yoru mutters, unlocking the door and welcoming Kenji in. 

Kenji looks around. “Where should I put him?” 

“Over there is fine.'' She tilts her head to the left tatami mat, covers slightly tousled while hanging her jacket over the coat rack. “Honestly, you should just shake him awa- or that. That works.” 

Kenji dusts his hands of the invisible dirt after casually tossing him onto the mat as if he was merely a jacket, leaving Atsushi in a poor tangle of limbs and guaranteeing a crick in his neck and back pain when he awakens. Then he lets out a big yawn and says his goodbyes before heading to his own dorm to retire, muttering something about ‘finding a midnight snack.’

Left alone (besides the intoxicated weretiger, who she grew more concerned about by the minute), she sighed. I guess this is my life now. She hears a subtle groan and suddenly regrets not taking Yosano up for another drink. 

Flipping Atsushi into a more breathable position (i.e, in a position not akin to a marionette,) and reaches to take off his tie.

“Wow, Yoru, I never really took you for the type.”

Whipping her head around she sees Dazai, lounging slyly against the doorframe. When the hell did he get here? Didn’t Kenji close the door? “The type for what, exactly?” she questions. “I don’t know what the hell you are trying to imply, but i’d rather my roommate wake up with a hangover, not dead. Thank you very-”

In an instant, the weretiger shot up and shuffled away from Y/n in a panic, hands protecting his face in a desperate attempt to protect himself.

An action Yoru knew all too well.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry! Please don’t hurt me!” 

Yoru’s harsh eyes immediately softened, her stone cold, almost apathetic exterior melting away to the surprise of Dazai whose eyebrows raise, just for a moment.

She lowers her hands to her sides and sits up straight, creating some distance.“Atsushi…”

Atsushi curls himself into a ball, head dug deep into his knees with his arms blocking out any possible sources of light. Rocking slightly back and forth, he whispers i’m sorry, again and again like a mantra. Hoping, pleading for his own safety with his breath getting only heavier and quicker after each word. 

“Atusuhi,” she says calmly and clearly, “You’re having a panic attack, I need you to breathe for me. Just a few deep breaths. Can you do that for me?” 

Y/n wasn’t sure if he shook his head no, or if he was just shaking, but she  doubts if he even heard her as he continues his ‘i’m sorry’s, voice only getting more choked after every word.

She takes a deep breath in. “You are safe, Atsushi. It was just a nightmare. Nobody is going to hurt you here, I promise you. I need you to do something for me, okay? Nothing hard. Just need you to answer an easy question, okay? It’s a little silly, but I need you to bare with me here. Can you tell me something you hear?”

No response.

“Atsushi, I need you to tell me something you can hear.”

His rambling slows down to harsh breaths. There we go. 

She starts to repeat her command before she hears the boy whimper something.

“Hm? I’m sorry, I didn’t-”

“You. I can hear you.”

She smiles. “That’s right, good job Atsushi. Now can you tell me something you see?”

The sounds of labored breathing echoed in the room before he slowly peeks his head to murmur “Mats. There’s a mat.”

Y/n nods. “Yes there is a mat. You are doing great. Just one more question. I need  you to tell me something you smell.” 

“C-chocolate milk.” he sniffs. “I spilled some on me earlier.”

Y/n puffs out a laugh. “Yeah, you did go a little crazy with the chocolate milk.” she jokes. 

Seeing the gleam in Atsushi’s eyes over his knees, she scoots a smidge closer. “You are safe here,” she repeats. “The only people here are me and,” she turns to the door to find it closed, no sight of Dazai. “Just me. I’m the only person here.” testing the waters, she scoots closer, now by his side. “I really doubt that anyone is dumb enough to break into the Armed detective agency’s dorms. Sounds kinda like a death wish to me.” she joked. 

He gave a half smile, sniffed and used his wrist to rub his eye. “Yeah, yeah you are right.”

“Besides, if someone did, I'd kick their ass. I’m a lot tougher than I look. But I think you are tough enough to win by yourself, Tiger boy.” she teases with a slight playful nudge, making the boy blush a little. “Anyone in their right mind would haul ass as soon as they see a fucking tiger. Imagine you are trying to rob a joint and you break in all sneakily just to find a huge tiger staring you down!” she shakes her head. “Yeah, I'd change career paths real quick. Find god and become a priest or something, sheesh. They’d go out to their van with all their thieving pals like..” she musters up a deep voice “Dude, where’s all  the goods? And why are your pants wet? And…why does it smell like pee?”

Atsushi chuckles this time, fully emerging from his bundle of limbs he was hiding in. “I- I don’t think I'm that scary.”

Y/n gives him the ‘are you kidding’ face. “Please, I've seen someone crap their pants after seeing a doberman. Someone pissing themself is not out of the question when confronted by a giant angry white tiger.” she ruffles his hair. “Don’t sell yourself short, kiddo.”

He smiles. “Thank you.”

Her eyebrows furrow. “It’s just the truth.”

He shakes his head. “No, not for that, well I guess that too,” he corrects before shyly looking away, running his pale hand through his tousled hair. “For everything.”

She shrugs. “Don’t worry about it. It happens to the best of us.”

His eyebrows raise. “The best of us wake up to panic attacks?”

She sighs, and settles into a more comfortable position. “Well, I do.”

His heterochromatic eyes widened. “Really?”

She nods. “Yup. And I can’t quite say I'm the best, but I'm pretty damn great. In my opinion at least.”

He’s silent, for a few moments, before almost whispering, “Do they ever stop?”

She takes a deep breath in, biting her lip. “No. No, they don’t.”

He casts his eyes to his knees again, tears rimming his eyes. 

“Atsushi, I'm not gonna lie to you. You deserve to know the truth. What you went through affects your brain in the way other memories don’t. This isn’t just something you can forget over time, no matter how much you want to.” Atsushi gulps and bites his lip, holding back tears. “You went through something so harmful it changed your brain and how it processes things. And no matter what you do, you can’t change that.'' She places a hand on his, drawing his attention to her words “But if I learned one thing in my 24 years of life is that nothing I can do will ever change what happened to me. But just because I suffered a great deal before, doesn’t mean i’m incapable or unworthy of living a full and happy life.” She looks at him in his glassy eyes. “Atsushi, I don’t quite know what you went through, or for just how long, but I know for a damn fact that you deserved none of it. No matter what you did, you were a child that deserved to be protected. You might not feel that way now, but you will one day. Because although we may never be free from our past, we can heal from it.”

“W-what do you mean?”

“Have you heard of the word ‘trauma' before, Atsushi?”

He nods.

“Well, just like physical trauma, there’s also mental trauma. With physical trauma you get physical scars, and with mental trauma there is…” 

“Mental scars?”

She nods. “Yes, mental scars. If you ever are seriously injured in a way that leaves physical scarring, the effects of it linger for your whole life. Sometimes it's just with the physical reminder that its there, and sometimes it's pain from something that happened so long ago.”

“So, you are saying that I'm always gonna be afraid like this?” he whimpers. 

She shakes her head. “That’s not what i’m saying. Atsushi, ten years ago i’d wake up almost every night crying, and that's the days that I could sleep. I could barely hold a conversation with anybody, because anyone could be a threat. I was too scared to share my name let alone talk to you about my past like this. Now? I have nightmares once every few months, most of them just leave me a lil shaken and I drink some tea before falling back to sleep. What i’m saying is that it gets better. I promise. 

“A-are you sure?”

She huffs out a playful laugh. “Yes, I am 100% sure. But it takes time, Atsushi. Some days are gonna be worse than others, and sometimes things trigger bad memories. For example, someone touching around your neck while you're sleeping. I’m sorry for that, by the way. I was trying to take your tie off.” she apologizes.

“I-it’s okay!” he replies, rubbing the back of his neck. “You were just trying to help!” 

“Speaking of help,” she starts, standing up and stretching her legs. “You know what I used to do with my friend after having really bad nightmares?”

“What?” he recipes as she walks over to the small dorm fridge. 

“Eat ice cream and watch kids shows.” she said, picking up a pint. “Here, catch.” she said tossing it to the were-tiger who awkwardly juggled it before catching it properly. 

“Um is this a common practice when it comes to nightmares and panic attacks? A-and where did you get the ice cream?” he asks as she sits down next to him, two spoons, her tablet and her own pint.

“Nope, but it always made me feel better. And Fukuzawa asked if some of the secretaries could go buy some food to make me feel more at home.” she  shared, setting up her tablet. “Anyway, what's your favorite show you would watch as a kid?”

“I never really watched tv as a kid. Or ever, really.”

“WHAT?” she said a bit too loudly, making Atsushi jump in his seat. “Sorry, but how have you never watched any tv as a kid? When I was in group homes they just sat us in front of the TV all day.” she lied, partially at least.  “Are orphanages really that different?” he shrugged. 

“Well today's your lucky day kiddo! I’ve got just the show for you!” she said, fiddling with her tablet. “This was my favorite show as a kid, I probably watched every episode of the original series 10 times, at least.”

He sits up, intrigued. “What's it about?”

“It's about a boy going on mighty adventures with his companions learning skills and training to be the masters of their field.”

“Oh, sounds interesting.”

“Oh it's also about monsters they use to fight that they keep locked up in containment.” she reveals, pressing play on her tablet.

“Wait WHAT.”

“I wanna be the very best, like no one ever was..” the tablet sings. Yoru smiles at Atsushi’s dumbfounded expression. “Pokemon?” he asks. She nods. 

“What else?” she smiled. 

“I had no idea Pikachu was such a jerk when he first met Satoshi.” Atsushi shares, taking another scoop of his ice cream, eyes transfixed on the pixilated glory that is 90’s anime.

‘Well,” she starts, taking a scoop into her mouth. “Houw wood you feeel eef shome ranoom keed wok’d ober ta ou an startet bossin ya round?” she said nearly incoherently. 

He nods, completely understanding what she said. . “True. Hey, what ice cream flavor is that?”

“Curry.” she says, coherently this time. “Wanna try?” she asks, holding out her pint.

He shrugs, scooping some onto his spoon and into his mouth, before immediately coughing. “Why,” he coughs. “Why is it so spicy?”

She shrugs. “It’s curry flavored, and curry tends to be spicy.”

“It just tastes like cold curry!” he shakes his head in disapproval. “I know there's a lot of strange flavors out there, but this has to be the strangest i’ve ever tasted.” He admits, taking a scoop of his vanilla ice cream to drown out the spice. 

“You don’t like it?” 

He shakes his head. “Not really. It’s definitely not a flavor I think of when I'm craving ice cream, that’s for sure.”

She nods. “Yeah, me either.” 

His eyebrows furrowed in confusion. ““Then why are you eating it? And why did the secretaries buy his flavor out of all of them and not a more common one like matcha?”

“Because I asked for two pints, a spicy curry one for me and any other flavor to share with you. Ice cream is better shared, y’know.”

He gives her a funny look, the adventures of Satoshi and Pikachu disregarded. “Well yeah I guess it does taste better when shared, but that doesn’t explain why you specifically asked for a flavor you don’t like?”

She sighed, taking a lick of the gooey orange substance. “It reminds me of someone i once held dear. And sometimes,” she looks into the pint, reminiscing on lives past lived, “Nostalgia is the sweetest thing of all.”

Once Yoru was sure that Atsushi was lulled to sleep by the overly animated voice of Pikachu and friends, she turned off her tablet and put away the slosh that remained in the ice cream pint. Gazing over his peaceful figure, she smiles softly, and drapes his comforter over him. Basked in the peaceful silence, she finally releases a breath she’s been holding ever since she boarded the jet to Yokohama. Grabbing her jacket and lazily sliding it on, she heads out to the terrace, the starry night sky greeting her once again

.

“hey Kanako, look at that one! it’s so bright” the little girl pointed out, small scrawny hand cast to the sky in amazement. Laid besides her, her sister sighs. “Kasumi, they’re all so bright, we live in the middle of nowhere.”Kasumi responds by nudging her playfully. As Kazumi watches the stars, Kanako watches her sister, a rare smile graces her face watching her sisters unbridled joy. 

“Hey Kanako,” Kazumi says, eyes still attached to the stars

“Hmm?”

“Ya wanna know why i like stars so much?” she asks, her usually happy go lucky voice hinting at something more

“Sure.”

Shes silent for a second, before she answers. “They make me feel less alone.”

Kanakos was well prepared to respond with ‘How do you ever feel alone, i’ve been by your side since we were in ma’s belly’ before she saw the look on her sisters face. Her once joyus smile has slipped into something more melancholy. 

“We live in a world with billions of people, even tho’ our world only consists of each other  really. Not that i mind spending every day with you! I just wanna explore the world like they do in the cartoons! Or at least like the other kids our age.” She explains, her eyes still glued to the starry night sky. “Everyone’s life is so different than ours…” She nearly whispers. “but the stars!” she suddenly brightens, as if she was a star herself. “Everybody sees the same stars. No matter how big or small you are, no matter where you live, we all see the same stars.” She turns to her sister, meeting her eyes. “Even if we ever part, we  could just look to the night sky and we’d know that the other one is looking at the same stars.”

Kanako furrows her eyebrows. “Why would we ever part?” 

She shrugs.

“Don’t ya ever wanna run away?”

“Huh?” Kanako shuffles to sit up. “What do ya mean?”

 Kazumi pushes herself up to sit next to her sister. “Y’know, run away from home. no more mom or dad, no more stupid, podunk town.”

Of course she has thought about it. She thinks about it every time she takes her sister to hide under the table when their father gets home reeking of beer and bad decisions. She thinks about it whenever their mother finds any and all reasons to insult and berate them. She does so everythime she sees the other kids in the neighborhood with their parents, hearts full of joy and parental love and affection. Something that was so foreign to her. 

But she doesn’t live in a fantasy. 

She was more than capable of running away, hell she doubt her parents would notice for a few days at least. Although she is young, she’s more than capable of providing for herself, as she has been providing for herself and her sister for years.

But thats just it.

Sweet, sweet, Kazumi. She’s always been the more fragile child, trailing behind her and speaking in soft whispers to anyone but her sister. Kanako learned from a young age that she’s her sisters keeper, even before she fell ill. she’s always been sickly, from the moemnt she was born,  she needed extra care and support. It was assumed she would grow out of it, that babies are just very fragile and susceptible to illnesses and complications, but alas, that was not the case. Kazumi’s life has been plagued by illness since the day her life began, there was no way she could survive the trek out of the boondocks they lived in. 

Kanako would love to run away. to finally feel free and have the weight lifted off of her shoulders, but she knows she never would.  Kanako was only elder by mere minutes, yet the gap between them was one of decades. Kanako has a responsibility that no child should bear; protecting one’s innocence while their own has been shattered. She knows she can never leave Kazumi, the one she promised to protect till their dying breath.

So she shrugged. “Sometimes, i guess.” 

“Oh come on,” She whined playfully. “Don’t cha wanna go on adventures, like they do in Pokemon?”

“I don’t think the real world is as amazing as Palet town, Kazumi.”

“You wouldn’t know! we never leave this stupid town, anyways.” She shifts to her side to face her sister. “Don’t you wanna leave? Away from….. everything?”

“I don’t know.” she said, looking at her tiny, worn out shoes. 

She didn’t didn’t have to say why, Kazumi already knew. 

The crickets hummed to fill the silence, before she adds a quiet “I wouldn’t blame ya, y’know.”

“No.” Kanako quickly snaps. “I don’t know what you got in your head that makes you think i want to leave ya, but you need to get rid of it. I’m not going anywhere without cha. we’ve been together all our lives, what makes ya think that i wanna leave ya now?” She asks.  

Kazumi simply shrugs in response, ashamed to look her sister in the eyes.

Kanako sighs and throws her arm around her sister. “Listen. one day when we are older, we are gonna run as far as we can away from this town, got it?” she said, pullin her closer. “and no one could tell us shit!” they both giggle at the ‘dirty word’.

“It’ll be our little adventure!” Kazumi cheers.

Kanako nods. “Yeah. our little adventure.”

You really shouldn’t be able to see the stars out here in the city, pollution from the smog of factories and the lights decorating buildings, calling people in and keeping them awake. But yet, if you know where to look, and don’t mind squinting, you can always spot them and they’ll wave to you like an old friend. Sighing, y/n pulls a cigarette out from her jacket  pocket, lights it and takes a slow, long drag.

“I guess this is another adventure,” she states to no one in particular, rubbing the pendant on her neck. “Right, Kazumi?” 

And that's chapter one! I hope you enjoyed it because there's a LOT more to come. If you have any questions or comments (I love comments <3 the make me more motivated to write!!!) don't hesitate to let me know!