#chaptersummaries

[bookodidact-blog]

Stay tune fur chapter summary. #bookofknowledge #bookloversnest #bookodidact #autodidact #bookishlovers #thebookoholics #readingabook #readabooktoday #booksbooksbooksbooks #leadersarereaders #wearereaders #educationalinsights #appliedknowledgeispower #fathead #chaptersummaries #summaries #booknerdsunite #bookloveforever #foreverabooklover #reading📖 #reads https://www.instagram.com/p/BxoZLrQny3E/?igshid=1dy7o9fbe5msl

[wickwickreadsreads]

The End of Chapter 1

goddamn this is so wholesome, and I am so glad this dad survived

I didn’t really know what to expect from Naruto in terms of quality, but I am really happy with this.

Chapter 1 was an excellent hook into the series imo. We got a really good idea of what Naruto is about as a character, a little of how this world is like, a wonderful mini-arc about Naruto and his Psuedo-Dad.

It’s also an interesting place to start the powerscale, and gave an interesting idea of how people fight. Cloning oneself with some degree of competency was mandatory for like, 10 year olds to graduate ninja school, implying that its a pretty fuckin simple and easy to learn technique, despite how incredible that seems. Naruto, who should be about 2 years older than his peers, can create over a thousand clones, which is presumably far more advanced. I do know that the clones have like, limited durability, inversely proportional to how many you make. That does limit the power severely, since each individual clone should pop pretty easy, but its still insane.

I was surprised Mizuki didn’t use any ninja magic, but hey maybe thats because he’s a bitch.

Chapter 2 coming soon.

[luisricardovillalobos]

#atomicHabits #chapterSummary how to find and fix the causes of your bad habits (at Mexico City, Mexico) https://www.instagram.com/p/COPIa4gjfkc/?igshid=1j4qoy94uksm2

[certifiedlovergirlsstuff]

a new chapter

summary: a new year has arrived in Hawkins, Indiana. I shall show you different months and interactions that our Byers sibling will be having. we will watch as she goes through the ups and downs of dealing with this new trauma. will she eventually come to terms and slowly start to recover and process everything?

WC: 4.1K

warnings: depression, ED mention

A/N: ALL THE STORIES CAN BE FOUND UNDER THE TAG- The Byers Harrington Story-

this is where i’m gonna be a bit worried about my writing because it’s fully just my imagination working at whatever speed it can. i’m not sure how many of these in betweens i’m gonna do, i want to try and do a couple for each month. i already have the last in between planned and after that one it will lead into season2. i hope everyone enjoys these little stories.

previous chapter  next chapter

January 5, 1984

“Mom, do you think you can get me a job here?” you asked while picking a lollipop from the display rack.

Joyce was organizing items behind the counter, and you were sitting on the checkout counter at Mendel’s. You were a bit bored at home so you felt like following Joyce for the next few hours of work.

It’s only been about three months since you quit, sorry, since you were fired from Lenny’s pizza. It was nice to have a break from working, focus on school, and you can freely be depressed in your room. Your sleeping was still not great, even with the weed you would buy from Eddie, but it didn’t help all the time. You were also on a tolerance break right now so you didn’t get too used to the drug and its effects. Plus, you didn’t want Joyce to find out, she was starting to get suspicious of your behavior, “Honey, did you get sprayed by a skunk?”

Anyway, you’ve enjoyed not working and all that, but you need to sum up all the money you can get your grubby hands on. You aren’t a big spender anyway, but still, you want to save up money for the future. Five months of paychecks, two a month, $3.75 an hour, it’s not a lot in the long run. You would look in the paper and check if anyone was hiring, see if something caught your eye. You may be a little desperate for a job, but you still have standards. You didn’t want to work in food again, you’re kinda worried about Carol or Tommy H showing up wherever you're working and making a scene. You thought retail would be the next best thing, always good to have different job variations.

“I don’t know honey, business isn’t exactly busy,” Joyce huffed from the ground where she was sitting.

“I know, but I’m just asking for a part-time job. Maybe I’ll get a second job when summer comes around,” you looked around the empty general store while the two of you were having this conversation.

Joyce stood from her seat behind the counter and looked over your hunched figure on the counter. You were sucking on the lollipop and just staring out the glass windows and looking out to the empty main street. You looked to the different stores that might be hiring. Sally’s Sugars and Sweets Bakery, Johnson’s Formal Attire, Hawkin’s Post, etc.

None of them caught your interest as you scanned the store signs. You sighed, maybe you could see if the library needs attendants, maybe City Hall could use interns or something. Maybe you could be a newspaper girl, Jonathan does that on the weekends.

“Honey, why don’t you just use this time to focus on yourself? You look like you could use it.”

“What does that mean?” you replied a bit timidly.

“Well I- I’m just saying you should spend time with your friends. You know, Steve sometimes calls for you.”

That got your head perked up. You already knew this information, but something in Joyce’s voice got your interest. The way she said Steve’s name and how he calls for you, no one else, just you in the Byers’ household, she was playing coy. Also, you could tell she was warming up to Steve and his new presence around the house and with you, Will also didn’t seem to mind, Jonathan though… “I know, it’s just sometimes I end up third wheeling him and Nancy, also Jonathan doesn’t like Steve, so I try to keep them separated from each other.”

“I know honey. What about that girl from school? Jonathan tells me that you’re together during lunch and after school sometimes.”

Robin. The two of you have been getting a little closer after your first study session. At first, you still tried to keep your distance a little, worried if you get attached to her, she’ll be dragged into this terrible predicament. But then her bright smiles and chipper attitude started to crack at the brick wall you placed around your heart, and each day the two of you hung out, a new crack would form in the wall. Eventually, you just gave up the cold facade and welcomed her in openly, but still trying to refrain from mentioning anything to do with the Upside Down and all that stuff.

“I’m- I’m just nervous. What if she’s just a school friend?” “School friend? What?” “You know, someone you hang out with only at school. It’s a line you don’t want to cross ‘cause some people are completely different outside of school, like a whole new personality.”

Joyce was looking at you like you were a bit crazy with this whole “school friends” explanation. 

Her brows were furrowed with the crease in the middle, her head cocked to the side and her lips were puckered. She was leaning a hip against the counter while her hands rested in the pockets of her work shirt. 

Her hair was longer now, her bangs more grown out and the ends of her hair now touched her shoulders. She looked healthier, a bit happier after just these past few months. That twinkle in her eyes was back, it may still be a bit dulled, but it was shining again. That’s all that mattered.

You on the other hand. Your hair was disheveled most days or just thrown into a pony or low bun to tame the rat's nest. Your clothes were rumpled and mismatched, but not in your usual way, more in a ‘throwing on the first piece of clothing that you grabbed off the floor because you couldn’t bother putting in effort’ way. Your skin was growing ghostly white from not going outside unless needed, like school, or walking into the woods so you could smoke freely. The bags under your eyes were growing and the dark circles were starting to look like someone punched your eyes in a fight. You’ve probably lost some weight, your appetite comes and goes, sometimes you could eat three meals a day, or sometimes you would just eat breakfast and just chug water the rest of the day.

Joyce removed a hand from a pocket and gently tucked loose strands of hair behind your ear. Anytime she did the action you felt like a child like you were pulled back in time. It felt like she was protecting you from the outside world, wanting to keep you safe and wrapped tightly in bubble wrap. Like she wasn’t witnessing her daughter slowly destroy her body and mind because of something horrific that no one should ever experience. Like you weren’t staring into the eyes of the woman who birthed and raised you with such hollow emotions tucked behind your corneas.

No, the simple motion of the hair being tucked behind your ear brought dreams and childhood innocents.

“Honey, I just want to make sure that you’re okay. I don’t want to push you to do something that you don’t feel comfortable with, but I just want to see you happy. That’s all a mother could ask of her children after all.”

You felt yourself getting choked up, “I know mom,” you whispered.

The both of you are just gazing at each other with tears growing, but not yet falling over. It felt like a switch of who was taking care of who, when Will was missing it was you and Jonathan worried over Joyce and watching as she was slipping. But now you were slowly losing a hold on yourself and Joyce was trying to show that she was here for you. You know Jonathan and Will would also be there for you, but you tried to keep this side of yourself hidden from them, you don’t want them to worry about you.

“You know, you’re the best mom anyone could ask for,” you sniffled.

Joyce gave a slight chuckle at that, “coming from you, that’s the best compliment I could ever hear.”

The both of you just shared in choked giggles until the bell from above the door signaled a customer. You hopped off the counter and stared over the top of the small aisles to try and see who entered the store. With a quick look outside the windows, you were able to see the beige Hawkins Police truck before you saw the mystery person.

“Hi Hopper,” Joyce exclaimed.

You turned in the direction that Joyce was looking and saw as Hopper walked closer to the counter the both of you have been at for the past hour and a half. He held his hat in his hands and gave both of you a welcoming smile, “Hello Byers.”

“Everything good at the station Hopper?” you asked, making polite conversation.

“You know Hawkins, pretty quiet.”

“Right.”

You all knew that wasn’t true, but at least you weren’t the only one choosing to be a little delusional about everything.

Hopper hit your arm with his hat in a playful gesture and grinned at you, “actually I have something that you might like back.”

Your eyes widened and you stood a bit taller. You completely forgot about the rifle. Nancy took Lonnie’s revolver for herself and you had other stuff clouding your mind that you just forgot the rifle you took from the shed. Not like you planned on going hunting or whatever, but at least with the rifle back home you knew there was some protection for the four of you.

“I checked your house to see if anyone was home to take it, but all of you are out.”

“Well, I was planning to head home soon, if you give me a ride I’ll take it.”

Hopper looked from you to Joyce behind you and gave her a ‘is that okay?’ look. You turned to see what her response would be, well you already knew, “yeah, that’s fine. I don’t want her riding out too late anyway.”

Hopper nodded his head. You looked between the two adults and noticed the looks they shared, mostly Hopper’s gaze. It peeked a bit of curiosity inside of you, but you weren’t one to meddle in other people’s business.

“How’s Will doing?” Hopper spoke after a cough.

“Um, he’s- he’s okay. He seems like he’s getting back to his normal self,” Joyce supplied.

You wanted to interject and say something, like how sometimes you could hear Will’s cries through the walls late at night when you couldn’t sleep and no one else should be awake. Or how sometimes the two of you run into each other in the kitchen and the both of you would just eat cereal at the table together. Sometimes when you couldn’t sleep you would go outside in the backyard and lay down on the grass and just stare at the stars, and sometimes Will would end up joining you. You two had each other in the dead of night when everyone else had peaceful dreams, the two of you had nightmares that sunk into your skin making it hard to fall back asleep.

“(Y/n), honey, are you ready to leave?”

You blinked a few times and realized you zoned off for a moment as Joyce and Hopper continued their conversation. You turned to Joyce and her expression was blinking like a sign showing that she was worried about you. You then make a glance at Hopper and he looked just as concerned.

“Yeah, sorry. I’ll see you later mom.”

“See ya, honey.”

…

You and Hopper drove in silence for a while. Neither of you not knowing what type of topic of conversation the other would be interested in. The radio was playing some AC/DC song, something as background noise. Hopper had the windows done just a crack allowing for the cool late winter air into the truck, it felt refreshing.

You noticed the way that Hopper was tapping his fingers against the wheel, either in rhythm with the song or just a mindless motion, you didn’t know. He was rubbing his free hand across his facial hair and then went back to rest it against the windowsill. While you sat in your seat you were twiddling with your fingers in your lap and looking out the window, watching as the trees and buildings whizzed past the moving vehicle.

“Hey, um…I know I probably sound like a broken record, but, are you okay? You’ve just seemed a bit out of it lately.”

You look away from the moving scenery and over to Hopper. He took a glance your way when you didn’t say anything right away and you noted the way his brows furrowed just a little in the middle and the concern pooling in his warm eyes. You were debating in your head if you should tell the truth. When people have been asking if you’re okay, you mostly just say “I’m fine” and they would just accept the answer. But you weren’t fine, and you did want to talk to someone about it, but you didn’t want to add any extra concern to anyone, and it’s not like you can go to a therapist.

You let out a sigh and looked to Hopper’s side profile, “if I tell you, can you not tell my mom?”

You noticed the way Hopper’s mouth opened a bit like he was gonna say something before the thoughts formed, “ah…Why- why would you not want me to tell your mom?”

“Well, she’s already worried about Will, and she does notice that I’m a little different now, but I don’t want her to know the extent of it.”

It was silent, you allowed Hopper to think about what you said. You want to talk about this stuff with someone you trust, someone who won’t judge you. You know your family wouldn’t judge you for anything, you and Steve were still getting used to your new friendship, you and Nancy were friendly but…eh, and it’s not like you could dump this stuff on the kids. Hopper was the only adult other than Joyce that you trusted.

When the truck pulled up to the house and Hopper shut the engine off, you turned to him. He was rubbing his facial hair again and then turned his attention to your waiting gaze.

“Let’s talk in the house.”

You felt a tiny smile on your lips.

The both of you slammed the doors close and Hopper grabbed the rifle from his trunk. With your keys, you unlocked the door and walked to the kitchen. You started to pull out stuff to make a sandwich and grabbed a coke from the fridge.

“You want anything to eat, I could make a sandwich or something?”

You called out to Hopper who was still in the living room. You didn’t hear a verbal response so you looked up and saw as he walked into the kitchen and just sat at the little table.

“I’m fine, (Y/n).”

You just nodded and when you finished making your sandwich you put everything back and sat in the seat across from Hopper. The air was slowly building in tension, the tension mostly coming from you because you were suddenly deciding if this was a bad idea.

Hopper speaking broke through your loud decision-making thoughts, “what’s going on (Y/n)?”

You kept your head down and just stared at the sandwich you made and tapped your nails on the plate or the table. Running your teeth along your bottom lip you looked at Hopper, he was leaning forward and had his arms on the table with his hands clasped together. His hat was also off, it allowed for you to stare freely at his face.

“Well, I-I…you know how me, Jonathan, and Nancy along with Steve went up against the Demogorgon?”

“I do, also I remember telling you and Jonathan not to do that.”

You just gave a cheeky smile at the comment, “well you can thank Nancy for bringing the idea back.”

“Anyway, so I’ve been having these nightmares, and this was before the attack. I had one the night we went looking for the monster the first time.”

“The first time?” Hopper questioned.

“Yeah, we went into the woods. I know it probably wasn’t the smartest idea, but we’re dumb kids.”

Hopper breathed a laugh at the statement. It made you smile for a moment.

“So these nightmares, how bad are they?” Hopper asked after a few seconds.

“Umm, on a scale of 1-10 I would say that they sit around 10 for 10.”

Hopper gave a solemn nodding at your answer.

You continued to just stare at the sandwich, you don’t even know why you made it, you had no appetite while talking about this. You just huffed a sigh out through your nose.

“Do…Do you want to talk about what happens? In your dre-nightmares.”

You were hesitant, but after a few seconds, you gave a timid nod to Hopper. He didn’t say anything or move closer to you, he let you take your time in formulating your thoughts and kept a good distance so you didn’t feel suffocated.

“It’s kinda always the same format, someone else and I are running away from the monster, and then it would get to them first. It was like it was taunting me, enjoying that I was witnessing it rip this person to shreds and I would just freeze from fear and stare as the life drained from their eyes. And then when it was satisfied it would drop their body onto the floor and stalk towards me as I was shaking and coward against the wall or in a corner. It would lean in close with its flowered face and open allowing for me to stare at the rows of teeth within and then it would get me, but that’s when I wake up. And I’m a cold sweat and shaking when I wake up and I wouldn’t be able to go back to bed. I would be up until my body just collapses from exhaustion.”

The tension in the air you felt earlier dissipated and all you felt now was a form of exhaustion but it wasn’t in the air or from Hopper, it was you. Just talking about them made your body feel like it was running laps without stopping until your legs just gave out. You heard the creaking of the chair and looked at Hopper who now moved to the seat next to you instead of across from you.

“Do you take any sleeping pills to try and sleep?”

‘Weed’ you answered in your head, “yea, they worked for a little, but it still wouldn’t help,” you half lied out loud.

“If you could, well want really, could you tell me who is usually running with you?”

You hesitated a bit in this part. Yeah, it would be fine if you said Joyce or Jonathan, but mentioning Steve or Hopper, to Hopper, you weren’t sure if it would be weird for him. You don’t know how Hopper would feel if you just said ‘hey sometimes I dream that you get eaten by a monster and I can’t do anything but watch’ you don’t want to scare him off, but he asked and you need to talk.

“Sometimes it’s Jonathan, especially how I remember the scene that played out in the house. Where it pinned him down and stood over him, drooling like he was dinner. Other times it’s Joyce, but not often luckily. Um, for this next one could you not mention it to anyone, like at all?”

Hopper looked a bit worried and confused but nodded his head.

“Sometimes- Sometimes the person I’m with is Steve. And as we’re running he’s always protecting me and that’s how he got killed and I can’t even do anything.”

“Harrington? Why- Are you two close or something?”

“It's a- It's a new development you could say,” you muttered.

“Is there anyone else in these scenarios? You seem a bit hesitant.”

You turned your gaze on Hopper and tried to see if this silent answering of just your eyes could answer his question. It seemed he understood, but not exactly, so you cleared your throat and said, “actually the only other person in these scenarios is…its-its you, Hopper. I sometimes watch you get ripped apart before my eyes.”

Hopper looked taken aback by this information you laid out for him. You just told Chief Hopper, a man who you didn’t converse with before this crazy government stuff, that sometimes you watch him get killed. Maybe your subconscious was trying to say something, maybe you were starting to latch onto Hopper because he was the only older male figure in your life at the moment. A.K.A, daddy issues.

“Hey,” Hopper quietly said, he tapped your hand on the table to draw your attention.

You kept your head tilted low so you looked up a bit with your brows raising. You were gnawing on your bottom lip anxiously because you weren’t sure what he was going to say. You weren’t trying to overstep any boundaries, you didn’t want Hopper to stop checking in with your family because of your disturbing nightmares.

“These are just nightmares, dreams. They aren’t real.”

Real, it felt weird, but you had to mention this detail, “Hopper, I know this sounds crazy, but sometimes when I do have dreams they manifest in some way or another. When I first dreamt of being chased by the Demogorgon I pictured it with the flowering head and rows of teeth, I didn’t even know what it looked like, Nancy didn’t even describe it to me. And another dream, Steve was in it and he was giving me a gift, a piece of jewelry, and for Christmas, he said a similar line from the dream and gave me a ring. It’s not like I think I’m psychic or whatever, but with these dreams or nightmares, I get worried that they’ll come true somehow.”

Your body started to lightly tremble and your vision was blurring around the edges, the tears were coming. Distracted by your anxious state you didn’t pay attention to Hopper and his actions. All you felt was the slight shift in the air from his movement, heard the chair move and his feet taking steps. Then you felt his hands on your upper arms moving you into a standing position, and then he pulled you into a hug. It took you by surprise for a moment, but then your arms moved into action and you wrapped them around Hopper’s waist, and just lightly, barely anything, you clenched some of his uniform into your fingers and held on.

One hand moved to the back of your head to keep you pressed against his chest and the other was resting high on your back and was moving between your shoulder blades in a comforting motion. You felt the hard pressure of his chin soon resting on the crown of your head. The tears kept slipping from your closed eyes, but it wasn’t because of your nightmares. No, it was because, for the first time, you felt like you had a father. The only time Lonnie ever touched you was to give you an undeserving beating, whether it was because of a stupid accident or cause he was drunk, he never even gave you even one hug you could remember.

Hopper, a man who mostly kept to himself, a man who somehow became a welcoming presence in your life, and a man who could have just ignored your paranoid and tired behavior. Hopper was someone who was comforting you because he knew you trusted him and just needed someone to listen and just be there for you.

“Hey, it’s gonna be okay.”

He whispered these kind reassurances into your hair and with each one spoken, you lessened in your shaking and your tears were drying. Soon when all you had was tear streaks and a few hiccups escaping from your mouth you loosened in the holding of Hopper’s arms. He moved his hands back to your upper arms and leaned back to look you in the face.

“Thanks, Hopper, I really needed that.”

He gave you a reassuring smile and rubbed his thumbs over your clothed arms, “anytime kid.”

“I’m here for you whenever you need me.”

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

taglist: @heartyhope / @preciousbabypeter / @dessmxsworld / @piper3113 / @animiacorn / @burn1ngw00d / @drxwstxrkxy / @m-rae23 / @noisyeggsmoneystatesman​ / @yournan69 / @thats-s0-ravenn / @ameliabs-world / @mayonesavegana / @gracella0709​ / @gengen64​ / @alecmores / @choclate32 / @stvrdustalexx​

[soxrox12]

✨qotd: what's the last move you watched? I just watched "Work it" with Sabrina Carpenter and it was AMAZING! ✨Last weekend before going to college eek! I'm trying not to overthink and be overdramatic since realistically I'll still see my family occasionally. #notes #studygram #chemistry #greenandblue #calligraphy #chaptersummary #examprep #studyblr https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6dhf_J1OB/?igshid=3u4wt1fs6ub5

[bruce-slutsteen]

mirrorball || chapter ten - FINAL CHAPTER

Summary:

Ted develops a budding friendship with a single mom who happens to be a popular romance author, Priyala Kumari. Her eldest barely knows who he is while her youngest is a Richmond super fan and the most aggressive player on Phoebe’s team. Priyala knows even less than he does about football, loves tea (chai), and has the sweetest laugh he’s ever heard. She likes Ted just as much but wants to support him as his friend. Until they match anonymously on bantr.

Preview:

On a random day, Priyala brings over his coffee as he sits in her kitchen. Ted takes a sip and sighs.

“This is perfect. God, I love you.”

Priyala’s eyes widen, stunned.

“Oh damn. I didn’t mean that I just I really fudged it.”

She sits on his lap. “Hush, I love you too.”

“You do? I didn’t mean to say it so suddenly but it’s true, Pri. I love you. I know a guy like me doesn’t usually get such a gorgeous, smart, funny—“

She puts her finger on his lips. “Stop that and kiss me.”

Ted chuckles and cups her face bringing her mouth to his.

Read more on AO3!

tagging list: @ocfairygodmother​ @ocappreciation​ @asirensrage​

[libralita]

Truths and Roses have Thorns About Them | Chapter 11

Beginning | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Summary: The Marchen Tavern draws in many strange characters from all across Angielle and beyond. While it may bring wonder and mystery to those who stop, it does make keeping staff members a challenge. However, Fella Treslyn is up to the task of being the Marchen’s new cook. But is really ready to deal with all the antics it has to offer?

They were both silent and all Fella could hear was his heavy breathing.

“Klaude…” she whispered again, she could not help but reach a hand out to him. “Klaude, what’s wrong?”

Klaude had cried out in pain before but it had never been this…full. Perhaps every other time he was trying to hold back. There was also something mixed into the cry. Something…feral. It was as if there were two beings both screaming.

Klaude had moved away and Fella found herself following him.

“No…” he growled at her. “stay…back…”

His breathing was so heavy. She should be angry at him. But…he was in so much pain. She felt out for him and pressed a hand to his back. She felt his bare skin, it was hot and sweaty.

When flesh touched flesh, Klaude ran. Fella could barely comprehend how fast he was. “Klaude!” She called and the only thing registering what was happening was hearing his loud footsteps.

Fella’s feet moved before her mind could. She ran downstairs, when she reached the landing she heard a loud BANG! Fella flinched and covered her face but nothing hit her. It sounded like it came from the sitting room.

Fella went there and nearly tripped. Someone had moved the furniture about and it was in her way. She went around it as best she could and reached for the door handle but felt nothing but cool night air.

Where’s…where’s the door?!

There were more sounds coming from outside, Fella cautiously went outside. She moved towards the woods and her bare feet found that there was debris strewn about haphazardly. Tree branches and uprooted grass. It was…like someone had made a path just by running through it.

Fella nearly screamed when she heard a loud howl coming from the woods. Something was other there and it could attack Klaude.

“Fella!” It was Delora’s voice coming from inside. She was going to drag her back into the Marchen. I have to find Klaude. “FELLA GET BACK HERE!”

But it was too late. She was running through the forged path.

~

Okay, so maybe Fella was a bit daft. She ran as fast as she could. On the upside, the path made a pretty straight line. On the downside she getting battered by all the debris and her feet were taking the majority of the hits. Is the path getting…larger? She thought vaguely. “Klaude!” She screamed. “Klaude! Where are you?!”

She continued to run. trying to find the end to this path. “Kla—AHHHH!!” She screamed as her foot did not find ground but instead air. And she was falling. She brought her arms up to break her fall and she ended up rolling a few feet until she was at a clearing.

Fella quickly tried to get up but her ankle gave out. She cried out in pain as she fell back to the wet dirt.

And then she heard it. A low…evil growl.

She let out a small gasp. Something was in the clearing with her. She scooted back as much as she could, feeling for the ground for something to defend herself. She came up with nothing.

The thing drew nearer, Fella felt like she could hear the large claws digging into the ground. Every instinct in her body was telling her to run.

“…klaude…” she whispered as if he would suddenly appear to defend her. No one came to her rescue.

She hadn’t realized she started crying maybe it was from her ankle or maybe it was because of the fear but wet tears ran down her face. The monster grew nearer and she felt moist…hot breath.

“…please…” she whispered leaning back as far as she could. The monster still came closer.

Two giant arms were pressed on either side of her. They might have been as large as her. Sickeningly hot salvia fell onto her chest and lap.

Then it pressed it’s snout to her neck. Fella squeezed her eyes shut and raised her face up to the sky in prayer to the gods. Perhaps they would look down on her and let her death be swift. She held in her breath.

Please oh merciful gods above…

The mouth opened slightly.

…know that I am a faithful follower and allow me to enter sanctua—

“……fel……”

Fella released her breath and her eyes snapped open. …?

Suddenly the monster moved away and thrashed. The night had been quiet with the exception of its low growls and now it was like an endless cacophony on noise. It did not sound like anyone had come to rescue her or that it was fighting some kind of animal. It was…angry at itself.

Fella swallowed and then shifted into a crawling position.

The monster had stopped whatever it was doing and seemed to be paying attention to what Fella was doing.

You really are stupid, Ophella Treslyn.

And then she put one hand forward. The monster immediately growled at her but did not move back towards her. Fella swallowed and then moved a “step” forward. As she came forward the monster seemed agitated but did move to attack. Was it hurt…?

No.

She moved for what seemed like forever until the heat of its breath met her. She sat in a position that was comfortable with her ankle then reached a hand towards it. It growled and snapped its large mouth. She yelped, moving her hand away and squeezed her eyes shut. She trembled in place and waited for something to happen. But nothing but growling.

She grabbed whatever courage she had left and raised her hand. It growled but Fella pressed her hand to its snout. The fur was…surprisingly soft. Though it seemed to…shift and move on its own accord. It was unnatural.

Because this was not a monster. Nor an animal. Nor a beast. It was…

“Klaude.”

He let out a painful howl. Klaude’s head moved to rest on her lap and he continued to howl but this time softer.

“……fel……la…….”

Fella ran her fingers through Klaude’s fur and closed her eyes. It sounded like it hurt for him to speak this way. “I know.” I know it’s you.

“…love…you…” The beast took a shudder, harsh breath. “But no one…can love…a beast.”

Fella leaned her face down into his head. His strange fur tickling her face as she breathed in. “You’re wrong. I love you, Klaude.”

Suddenly everything went…not black. It took moments for Fella to comprehend what she is seeing. It is…bright? Perhaps this is what people see when they look at the morning sunrise. It felt like Fella was bathing in sunlight. Her body became so warm. When she was running through the forest she got plenty of cuts in bruises on her arms, legs, feet but they all suddenly went away. Even the pain from the ankle was gone.

Her heart was full.

Then she felt strong arms around her waist.

The…light was gone and it was back to darkness.

“Fella.” It was Klaude’s voice in her ear as he hugged her. He was no longer shirtless, she felt the soft the softness of his coat. Fella wrapped her arms around him, burying her face into his chest. This time Klaude did not try to push her face into his chest or move away from. Instead, they held each other for a long time. The forest silent.

Reluctantly Fella moved away and Klaude did as well. He gently took her hands into his. “Fella…I am so, so sorry.” He said, squeezing her hands as if he thought she would slip away if he didn’t hold on. “I should have told you everything as soon as I realized that you weren’t affected by my curse. I was just so scared. But I promise to tell you everything and be completely honest with you.”

“I forgive you, Klaude.” She said and then leaned forward and did what was originally going to do that previous night. She pressed her lips to his and kissed him. He made a surprised sound but then kissed her back passionately.

“Sorry…” He said, cupping her cheeks in his hands. “I have wanted to do that for a long time.”

Fella’s face felt hot but she grinned at him. “You don’t have to apologize…but we should probably get back. Though I’m pretty sure Delora is going to kill me for…running after you at night alone.”

“I will protect you against all those who want to do you harm,” Klaude said, nuzzling their foreheads against one another. “But…do we really have to go back? I don’t like the idea of having to share you with other people, again.”

“Klaude, stop it.” She said, giggling. She tried to stand up but wobbled and almost fell if not for Klaude scooping her into his arms and carrying her bridal style. Her ankle had been healed by…whatever magic had broken Klaude’s curse. Power of love or something. But it felt like it was asleep and thus hard to walk in.

Also.

Klaude is carrying me. Fella had her arms wrapped around his neck. His clothes were just as soft as they always were.

“Um…”

“What is, my sweet?”

“Stop giving me that look.”

“You cannot see any given look I am given you.”

Fella groaned as they—well Klaude—started moving. “I know that satisfied look you’re giving me Klaude. And I do not like it.”

Klaude laughed, but still held her securely. Klaude said he was walking them back to the actual path. “The sun is coming up.”

“How long have we been out here?”

“I’m not—”

“Fella!” It was Dion’s voice. Fella flexed her foot and it seemed more awake so she asked Klaude to set her down. He carefully did so. She got her footing and then hurried over to Dion’s footsteps. They both hugged each other tightly. “What happened?”

“Um…remember how I said Miss Karma lied to me?” Fella asked quietly and then waved behind her. “Well, that’s Miss Karma.”

She felt Dion look up and moved to part from her. “She’s a man?”

“Yes, and your cousin’s lover.”

Did he really have to say it like that?! Fella said covering her face and it turned red. Dion made a surprised noise and she felt a slim arm wrap around her.

“Fella!” Delora’s voice made her jump. “What on earth were you thinking, running into the forest like that? You could have gotten hurt!”

I mean, if you want to be accurate, I did get hurt. Probably not the best response. “But I did break Klaude’s curse.” She said.

Delora made annoyed sounds before sighing. “Karma, I hate to break you two apart but we need you right now. Princess Emelaigne and Prince Rod are here.”

“Why on earth are they here?” Klaude asked.

“They were put in prison and there is a coo being attempted.”

Fella blinked. “Not a dull moment in the Marchen, is there?”

~

Apparently the day before Lucette had gone into town and heard that king claimed he was terminally ill. However, that was most likely a lie. Apparently a man named Sir Alcaster said that if the king did not hand over his crown then he would kill the queen, prince, and princess. Then a man named Sir Fritzgerald helped the prince and princess.

Fella remembered what she had heard from the knights a while back. And now the people of the Marchen were talking about how to fix it. They needed to rescue the king and queen.

Fella listened as Lucette started to argue about her going to save the king. She hoped that whatever they decided to do that Lucette would be able to get a better relationship with her family. Especially since she was so close to breaking her curse. One more good deed.

Lucette, being a true princess, ended up getting her way.

“If only we had the time to get reinforcements from Karma’s country.” It was Waltz’s voice and it was a little surprising to think about. She sometimes forgot that Klaude was a prince and that he could probably raise an army if he so wished.

Klaude and Fella were sitting together. She felt a bit useless in this meeting because she could not really do anything to help. However, Klaude seemed to silently insist that she be there. His arms wrapped her waist.

“Karma’s…country?” Rumpel—now Chevalier—asked.

“Brugantia.” He said.

“How is it possible that a Brugantian citizen can simply ask for reinforcements?”

“I am the crown prince of it.”

“You’re the lost prince?” Emelaigne’s sweet voice asked. Fella realized that she had actually heard of Klaude before. It was a bit of gossip that a neighboring country had lost its prince. Fella had just not put two and two together. She could never imagine being the one to find him.

“Lost prince…” Klaude said, he squeezed Fella lightly and she leaned further into him. “It sounds like such a tragedy, doesn’t it?”

“I am sure you’ll make it very dramatic when you retell the tale.” She said, smirking.

Annice then jumps in. “All this time and I never knew. I am so sorry, Your Highness.”

“There is no need for formalities, Annice. I am the lost prince after all. I keep my lineage a secret because right now, I am just a normal commoner. With a beautiful lover.”

That last part was ignored by most and Fella attempted to teasingly move away. “But you’re a prince!” Chevalier protested. “Couldn’t you still ask for reinforcements?”

“It would take them up at least a week to get here and we do not have that time.” Klaude said, sounding sorry that he could not do more to help.

The plan continued. Waltz would lead them to the palace. Jurien and Garlan will follow right behind him, watching for immediate enemies. Klaude would watch from the back, along with Delora and Lucette. Fella squeezed Klaude’s hand when hearing he was going. They had just now gotten together and now they would be separated.

When the meeting finished Klaude turned to her and cupped her cheeks. “Fella, I need you to promise me something.”

“What is it, Klaude?” She asked, putting a hand on his leg.

“Promise me that you will stay at the Marchen.”

“Really? You do not trust me to stay put?”

“My love, I do not.”

“I mean remember how useful I was when you had to save me my first night here? Or the second time when I was out shopping? Or the third when I was spying on the knights—”

“You only told us the first and third time you got into trouble!” Delora’s voice called.

“And the fourth time when you had to save me from Delora’s wrath?” Fella said, moving his hands so she was holding them. “And the only time I saved you, I was covered in cuts and hurt my ankle. It was only thanks to the power of love that I am not in pain right now.”

“Alright,” Klaude said, kissing her forehead. “I am sorry that I underestimated your common sense.”

Fella giggled, blushing at the kiss. “But I am serious. I will stay here. But…promise me you’ll stay safe, okay?”

“I of course need to come back safe. I need to take you back to Brugantia. I still need to properly propose.”

Fella felt her face heat up. Marriage?!

Klaude laughed at seeing her so flustered and leaned in closer. “Tonight I will tell you everything. I promise.”

~

Fella laid on top of her bed. She had finished dinner, though it was a pretty slow night due to the crackdowns by the palace. Not many people could come out. Fella doubted many people wanted to. Klaude had been extremely busy with patrols and preparing for the rescue of the king. This was not some sort of game. Someone at the Marchen could lose their life.

Fella heard a knock at the door. “It’s me.”

Fella sat up from her bed and told him to come in. She heard him enter the room and briefly worried. Was she supposed to do anything to prepare for this? Make tea? Worn something nice? Klaude had said he was going to explain everything so all they were going to do was talk but…

“It makes me happy to see you blush when I come into a room.” He teased. Fella blushed even more and he chuckled but there was a tension in the room. Klaude cleared his throat and then walked over to sit next to Fella on her bed. “Where to begin?”

“Did you like dressing as a woman?”

It was the only thing Fella could think of. They were silent before both of them started laughing. Fella felt warm arms wrap around, she moved so they were both scooted back so they could lean against where the bed was pressed against the wall.

“I didn’t mind it, really. I still own all those dresses and makeup. You girls get to wear quite an assortment of those things.”

“You could always give them to me.” Fella teased.

“Oh, no, my love. You look good in cooler colors such as the blues you always wear. I much prefer warmer colors. We actually complement each other quite nicely.” Fella shook her head and Klaude chuckled. “I can appreciate the beauty in anything. Though, I do feel more comfortable in my own clothes.”

Fella touches his arm to feel his clothes. “Soft enough.”

“I am glad you approve,” Klaude said, nuzzled his nose on top of her head and she blushed. “Shall we truly begin? I don’t really know where to start…”

Fella actually knew a decent chunk about Klaude. She knew where he was from and how he became cursed. Most of the questions she had for him were about who he was now. And that she knew he posed as Miss Karma that answered some questions. “So, your curse. I was right when I said you had to get a woman to fall in love with you.”

“Yes, you were. Though it was a bit more complicated than that. I had to get a woman to fall in love with me but as you experienced, women constantly fell in love with me. The trick was that if I fell in love than I would turn into that beast. And once I turned into a beast, that love spell would no longer work.”

Fella’s mind whirled at that idea. “That sounds…ridiculous.”

Klaude laughed and she asked why he was. “This reminds me the first time I told you about my curse. You look like you are ready to march over to whoever cursed me and give them a firm talking to.”

Fella paused. I probably would have, if given the chance. While maybe Klaude learned his lesson about vanity, this seemed like a poor way to learn a lesson. It was vindictive and cruel.

Klaude patted her head. “It is a bit convoluted. But I think it worked out in the end. I found a girl who is willing to try and comfort a horrific beast. You don't find crazy like that every day.”

Fella snorted but then a memory popped up. “When I came into your bedroom, you spoke about another girl and how you thought she could break your curse.”

Klaude let out a small sigh. “Shortly after I came to Angielle, there was a woman named Elaine that I met. Her smile was as radiant as sunshine. She was beautiful and when she laughed, everything felt right about the world.” He seemed to be lost in thought about this Elaine. “I knew her for many months. Time passed and I thought we were truly in love. But then…”

Fella wrapped both of her arms around him and he held her back.

“And then I turned into the beast. And she screamed in terror at seeing me. I tried to reach out to her but all she could see was the beast and how terrifying I was. That is another aspect of the curse. If a woman under the spell were to see my beastly form, it would break. I am not in control when I am the beast and I almost…”

Oh, Klaude. He pressed his face into her hair and took a shuddering breath.

He pressed his chin to her head, still holding her close. “I visited her once as Miss Karma again and she did not seem to remember anything other than she was attacked by an animal.” He moved so he could gently cup her cheek in hand. “You were scared as well.”

Fella placed her hand over his. “I was.” She admitted. “I didn’t…it is kind of all a blur. I remember falling into the clearing and…I tried to find something to beat you off with.” Klaude let out a small laugh and Fella felt her heart warm that he seemed a little happier. “I sort of just…resigned myself to what was happening. I was scared and I couldn’t think of anything to do. Then you said my name and it sort of clicked in my head what was going on. And then…I did something incredibly stupid.”

Klaude let out a more full laugh at that. “Fella, please never try to touch dangerous animals again.”

“Only if they happen to be handsome princes, then I can touch them.” Fella giggled.

“Oh? You’re going to touch more handsome princes?” Klaude asked.

“If I so wish, I shall.” Then Fella was being tickled. “Klaude!” They were now both lying on her bed and she should probably feel embarrassed but she couldn’t. It was nice to be able to finally relax with him. “Hey…where does Karma come from?”

“Hmmm?”

“The name Karma.”

Klaude cleared his throat. “My full name is Klaude Aidric Renaldi Mattheus Almonte.”

“Klaude Aidric Renaldi…Karma! That’s where your name comes from?” Fella laughed. “What cruel parents do you have?”

Klaude chuckled softly. “My father loves jokes like that. I am sure you two will get along splendidly when this all over.”

The tenseness of the room returned. Fella had stopped laughing and let out a sigh. “I wish you did not have to go.” She whispered softly.

Klaude moved so her head was nestled in his chest. She breathed in his smell. It was the smell of the forest. Why had Miss Karma’s perfume smelled so good to her before? It was pleasant but like everything about her, it masked what truly lied beneath.

“I would never ask you to not go. The Marchen needs you. I’m just…” she held him close. “I’m scared, Klaude. We just got together…”

“Do not be scared, my love.” He whispered. “I promise you that I will come back to you. Then I will take you home with me. You shall meet my parents. My mother will shower you with gifts. My father will tell jokes and we will live happily ever after.”

Even though Fella felt that worry in the back of her mind, she actually felt at ease by his swords. He seemed to be one of the best swordfighters. I will trust that you will come back to me Klaude. Now that Fella was relaxed, everything that happened and being in Klaude’s warm arm lulled her to sleep.

~

Klaude was talking about something when he heard Fella’s soft snoring. Klaude kissed her forehead before trying to escape being pinned between Fella and the wall. It was a bit awkward to maneuver, especially when he did not want to wake Fella. But he was agile enough so he did it while not disturbing her peaceful sleep. He gently put the blanket over her and quietly left the room.

He went back to his room and blinked. It was a disaster. His bedding was all over the place, there were clothes all over the place, and…were those scratch marks on the floor? Delora was going to kill him.

He leaned against his door and slid to the floor. He recalled when he sat on the floor of his room and it felt like a lifetime ago but it could not have been more than a day go. Did…he actually have a conversation with the beast inside of him? The days leading up to his curse being broken were a blur.

…

The memory that played crystal clear was when his curse overtook him. He remembered running away from Fella and nothing could stop him. Furniture, doors, trees. He ran as a painful transformation engulfed him.

When he landed in a clearing he attempted to get a hold of himself, desperately fighting off the Beast. Then he heard a scream and when he saw Fella fall to the ground. His heart lurched seeing her in pain but that only fuel the beast’s grip on his body.

The Beast let out a growl and that got Fella’s attention. Klaude tried to keep the Beast back but it slowly moved towards her. She was so small compared to him. He could see every strand of hair on her head, every thread that made up her nightgown. Every small cut that glowed crimson in the moonlight.

The Beast pressed its mouth to her throat. I’ll give her a chance to run. Klaude thought. It hurt so much but he got out a whisper of her name.

She had stayed so still and then that paralysis released once he uttered the small bit of her name. He briefly saw her eyes shoot open as she released a breath. Klaude moved his body so she was away from the Beast. Go. He thought. Run away, even if you’re hurt. Go!

Klaude had wrestled with the Beast until they both heard movement. Klaude watched as Fella started to crawl towards him.

The Pray welcomes her fate. Klaude did everything he could to hold the Beast back. Klaude tried to tell her to run but it came out as low growls. Let me grant her wishes.

No!

And then Klaude saw her small form before him. She was battered and her face was tearstained. However, she reached out a hand towards her.

N-No…you can’t be…

Klaude’s grip on the Beast loosened for a moment at the shock of what she was doing. The Beast attempted to snap at her but he quickly held it back. Fella cowered at being snapped at. The small form trembled as she squeezed her eyes shut.

Just run, Fella.

And then he saw it. She was still trembling but there was that resolve she always had. She raised her hand. The Beast tried to growl at Fella. Ward her away. But Fella had such determination and her small hand touched Klaude’s snout.

No…

“Klaude.”

NO!!!!

Klaude could not tell if the Beast was howling or Klaude was but he seemed to have more control over this body. He rested his head on Fella’s small lap. All he really wanted to was lie there and hear her say his name over and over again.

He said her name back to her. It was soft and pained. Everything hurt being in this form but he needed her to know it was him.

“I know.”

He couldn’t hide to truth from her any longer. He couldn’t lie to himself any longer. “…love…you…” It was painful to speak but those words were so hard to get out. “But no one…can love…a beast.”

Klaude noticed that she was moving and for a moment he thought she had fainted. But she buried her face into his fur. “You’re wrong. I love you, Klaude.”

When the words left her lips, glowing light surrounded him. He sat up and the pain he felt from the beast slowly faded. He looked down and his hands were his. He was wearing clothes. The curse…had been broken.

Well, done, Little Prince. The voice was not his own or the Beast’s but it was a familiar, feminine voice. Klaude could not dwell on that for long as he was back in the forest. He saw as the small cuts from Fella’s body glowed before fading and then disappeared. She had an awed expression before it faded. Perhaps she too had seen the light.

…

Throughout the day Klaude felt like he was in a dream. He held Fella in his arms as much as he could. It was like he was making sure that she was actually there. That he would not wake up and he would have to go back to lying to himself. Keeping everyone at arm's length from him. Pretending he did not love her since who knows how long. Perhaps since the moment, she gave him that defiant look, daring her to question her abilities as a cook. The Beast breathing down his neck, threatening to come out.

The curse was truly broken. Fella had forgiven him and said that she loved him. But now another threat loomed. I’m scared, Klaude. We just got together…

“I promise,” he whispered softly, standing up. “That no matter what I will return to you, Fella. Nothing, not even death can keep me from you.” Promises always felt more real when he said them aloud, even if that person was not around to hear it.

[derstudienfreund]

Summary. - #studieren #studying #lernen #literature #literatur #tulips #tulpen #blumen #handwriting #handwrittennotes #handgeschrieben #notizen #buchbearbeitung #summary #chaptersummary #studyblr #studygram #student #derstudienfreund #thesis #thesisvorbereitung

[bookodidact-blog]

How about you ???#how #about #you #questionstoask #toyourself #booklove❤ #bookishlover #ilovebooks📚 #bookodidact #booknerds #bookstagramcommunity #businessbooks #chaptersummaries #bibliophilediaries #bookoholics #leadersarereaders #lifelonglearners #autodidacta #booksbooksbooksbooks https://www.instagram.com/p/BxPjzWInyhb/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=18qzd910o8rqn

[kurtvonnegutwilson-blog-blog]

Chapter 1 Analysis

This was a very strange chapter to me. It's difficult for me to really understand the purpose of it. After looking at the beginning of the next chapter, where it seems the actual story begins, I feel like the entire first chapter could have been omitted. At the end of the first chapter, Vonnegut states that "This [book] is a failure." and that the next one he writes is going to be more fun. This makes me question why this book is one of his most famous ones, even though he thinks it is a failure.

Overall the first chapter was pretty dull, and difficult for me to understand, though I'm sure there was lots of symbolism in it. I am hoping the symbols become more clear, and the book is a little more eventful in the chapters to come.

[luisricardovillalobos]

#atomicHabits #chapterSummary how to make a habit irresistible (at Mexico City, Mexico) https://www.instagram.com/p/CN6kC3ZjWW1/?igshid=1uygoq2in5oxy

[certifiedlovergirlsstuff]

a september chapter

summary: two different scenarios play out with robin and eddie

WC: 2.4K

warnings: cursing, use of drugs, one mention of killing, a quick nonconsensual kiss. should be it.

A/N: ALL PARTS UNDER THE TAG -The Byers Harrington Story-

give me your opinion on the eddie part of this story, cause i just wanted to do a moment were reader does something hella stupid, because shes human and we all do dumb shit.

shout out to my dad and Beyoncé since their birthday is sep4. also i was on the phone with my dad and he would not stop talking about greta van fleet, man is obsessed.

previous chapter  next chapter

September 4, 1984

“Robin,”

“(Y/n)”

“Do you ever feel…do you ever wonder what it would feel like to be-to be someone normal?”

A beat of silence followed.

“What- what do you mean, ‘to be someone normal?’…(Y/n), what?”

You don’t know how you even thought of that question.

You and Robin were just sitting on the abandoned bleachers during your lunch period, the cool autumn breeze would join the two of you and cut through the fabric of your coats and hit deep in your bones. The bleachers were your go-to spot now at school, wanting away from everyone? bleachers, eating lunch? bleachers, wanting to have conversations about certain topics and not want anyone butting their nose in? bleachers. Maybe that’s why you randomly chose to ask the question.

It was a pretty loaded question, it had a deeper meaning underneath, but you weren’t gonna just say the actual question out loud. There were two versions of the question you wanted to ask, ‘what if you could be normal? Normal as in being a part of the popular group, someone who had a pretty normal family life, didn’t have to worry about being picked on just for breathing in someone’s direction.’ And the other version you wanted to ask was something you can’t outright say without digging your grave, ‘what if you were normal? Normal as in…as in someone who didn’t have to worry about asking that one person the wrong question or doing the wrong thing in public and worrying about possibly getting killed.’

You turned to Robin who was already staring at you, her eyes bugging and her teeth worrying at the plush skin of her lips. Her freckled face was turning a bit red, whether it was from the cold wind hitting her face or because of your abrupt question, you weren’t hundred percent sure. Just from hanging out and interacting with Robin for almost a year you could tell, you could tell she was someone you wanted to keep in your life. She was someone you would be able to tell your deepest secrets to and she would somehow be able to keep them from spilling even though her mouth sometimes runs faster than her brain when forming sentences. She wouldn’t judge you and would understand some of the things you’ve had to deal with because both of you came from similar home lives.

Robin felt almost like a haven in a way for you. You weren’t sure if you could even describe out loud what you feel, what you mean, but she just felt safe to be around. It was nice to have that feeling with someone who wasn’t in your family, it gave you a type of hope. Hope that you would be able to find this comfort and safety with non family members, you could have your blood family, people who will be there until the day you die, and down the line in the future, there will be people who you meet and make this connection with that makes you happy.

You hesitantly reached out your hands to try and hold one of Robin’s that was on the bench beside her. She must have seen the action you were doing because she held the hand palm side up and wiggled her fingers in an open invitation. With your clammy hands you held onto Robin’s like a raft and what you were about to tell her could be the push to send you over the edge of the waiting waterfall.

“Robin, what I’m about to tell you, I’m telling you ‘cause I feel safe with you. The only other people who know about this is my family, and even then I was nervous to tell them about this part of myself.”

“(Y/n), please don’t tell me you’re pregnant or- or that you murdered someone. Because I don’t think I could keep that last one hidden for long.” You giggled at Robin’s nerves as they calmed your racing heart down just by a beat or two. After a moment you inhaled a deep breath through your nose and exhaled with your eyes closed before blurting out, “I like girls, the same way I like boys.”

It felt like the world stopped moving, even the wind stilled. You weren’t sure if your heart was still beating or if you were breathing. With your eyes still closed, you weren’t able to see the expression on Robin’s face. You couldn’t see that her mouth was agape with surprise, her lips moving but no thought was coming to mind as she was processing what just happened. You couldn’t see the look in her sea green eyes, the sullen gaze pulling her brow, the slight heartbreak peeking into her iris. 

Only when you felt the tiny pressure of her hand giving a squeeze did you slowly open your lids. The sunlight blinded you for a moment and then you saw her. She was holding your hands with both of hers and was fully facing you now, her legs crossed over each other on the dirty bleachers. She was just observing you, her eyes taking in every inch of your face, from the stray brow hairs to the tiny pimples along your jaw. When her eyes finally settled on yours a warming smile overcame her.

“(Y/n), I will keep this secret until the day I die. And just because you like girls doesn’t change anything about you, you are still the wonderful, amazing, extremely kind-hearted (Y/n) Byers that I have come to know as my best friend. And no one can change my mind about that.”

Your eyes stung from the tears gathering, but they were tears of relief, of joy, nothing to be sad about today. Moving your hands out of Robin’s grasp you moved your arms to pull her into a hug around her shoulders and her’s flew to a warm grip on your waist.

With your face buried into Robin’s dirty blonde hair, you smiled and whispered, “I love you, Robs.”

You weren’t sure if she could hear your declaration, but you got an answer back, “and I love you too, Byers.”

…

September 20, 1984

The car was clouded in the hazy and thick smoke, the dark interior of the van making it seem like you were sucked into a black hole. The cushioned rug in the back of the van made your high feel extra warm like you were wrapped in a giant blanket burrito. The lids of your eyes felt like twenty-pound weights and you were struggling to keep them open, the whites of your eyes overtaken with red veins inching their way closer to your iris. Your lips tug into a Cheshire grin against your will and light chuckles make their way out through your open lips.

“What's got you so giggly, Byers?”

You giggled before replying, “absolutely fucking nothing, Munson. This weed is just perfect,” you ended on another round of giggles.

You heard the shuffling and felt the movement of the van before you saw Eddie now leaning over you. His arms were on either side of your shoulders, his curly dark hair just barely falling past his shoulders, Eddie says he wants to grow his hair out, really living his rockstar fantasy to the max.

He was grinning mischievously down from above, his eyes darting over your face, you think, your vision is kinda hazy and blurring at the moment. You reached out a heavy hand and swirled your cement-feeling fingers into the dark tendrils of Eddie’s growing mane.

“Pretty,” again another string of giggles.

Seeing the grin growing stronger on Eddie’s lips made you copy his actions. Then the feeling of skin on your forehead and then your cheeks made you feel warm inside, the feeling of Eddie’s soft, but slightly rough fingers brushing hair away from your face made you think of him just for a split second.

“Steve?”

“I’m sorry babe, it’s just Eddie.”

“Oh, oh that’s okay,” and then you did something bizarre for your medicated brain.

Leaning onto your elbow that was still on the floor you leveled yourself just a breath away from Eddie’s face, the tips of your nose barely touching. With a glance and not a coherent thought running through your mind, you closed the small space and-

“(Y/n)!”

It was now open air, the ghostly feeling of Eddie’s lips against yours gone in a second. He was away from your body and now sat beside your stretched-out legs, one hand laying on your lower leg, just below your knee. Fully pushing your upper body off the floor and then pulling your legs into your chest making Eddie drop his hand with a thunk.

It took just that second to understand what you did and why you did it. It makes you feel an acidic feeling bubbling within your intestines, worried for a second you might throw up. You tried swallowing a forming lump in your throat, but it wouldn’t leave.

“Eddie, I’m- I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t- fuck I shouldn’t have done that.”

“Hey, hey, (Y/n), it’s okay. You're high, you're not thinking fully. I know you didn’t mean it.”

You sniffled the oncoming snot, “I’m sorry, I- I just thought maybe…fuck I’m so stupid. Thinking if I just kissed you I might stop thinking about Steve for one second.”

A moment of silence passed in the small space of the van, it was still foggy inside from the hotbox, so you could only hear your breathing which sounded like a fog horn in your ears. You can’t even fully tell what’s happening with Eddie, yeah you sobered up just a fraction from your high, but you still couldn’t comprehend everything around you.

And then you heard a deep sigh, “well, I’m flattered you thought I would help your little problem, but I don’t swing that way, babe.”

That got just a baby of a chuckle from your throat, but then you went back to moping. You felt awful and disgusted with yourself, you tried to- no you kissed Eddie while the both of you were stoned. It’s like you got possessed by a frat boy in that split-second decision, and you fully hated yourself for that. You started to gather your belongings, throwing your coat back onto your shoulders, rushing to make sure nothing from your bag dropped onto the floor, and then you were rushing to throw your shoes back on.

“(Y/n)-”

“I- I should probably head home, my mom’s probably worried. Eddie, I’m really sorry and I understand if you don’t want me aro-”

“(Y/n)!” Eddie raised his voice an octave and held you by your shoulders.

“It’s okay, it was just a quick peck. And I know you didn’t mean any harm from it. Just- just let me take you home, okay? I don’t want you walking by yourself.”

Your bottom lip pulled between your teeth, nostrils flared and brows pinched in the middle, you stared at Eddie with a worrying glaze over your eyes.

“Please, (Y/n), at least for my peace of mind. Just let me take you home.”

You were hesitant, you know Joyce wouldn’t like you walking home by yourself, but you felt like you couldn’t look Eddie in the eyes. Finally, you gave in, for Joyce.

With just a timid nod of your head, Eddie moved to the driver's seat and started up the engine. You stayed behind still in the back for a couple of minutes until you decided to join in the front.

“Ah, finally, some company. I thought there was a cemetery around with how quiet everything was.”

A quick chuckle from you, “Eddie, again I’m so sor-“

“(Y/n), I already told you, I forgive you. Everyone does stupid shit when high, especially after you took a nine-month tolerance break. Yeah, you weren’t gonna be very lucid for a lot of things. I’m just happy you’re doing it with me because if it was someone else, I would be extremely worried for you.”

You turned your head to look at Eddie as he drove down the quiet highway, the moonlight and sometimes a lamppost would illuminate down through the front window. The moonlight bathed Eddie in a ghostly white sheen that looked hauntingly beautiful, it hurt your heart in a way, you weren’t sure of the reason, but it just did.

With your finger twiddling and picking at the skin in your lap, you spoke up, “Eddie-“

“I said I already forgive you, babe.”

“No, it’s not that- well not exactly, but also I should probably just stop smoking now. Anyway, I’m sorry that kissed you because I was trying to rid Steve freaking Harrington from my mind. That was a dick move.”

“Byers, a question for you,” Eddie spoke with a teasing tone.

“Why did you have to fall for Steve Harrington? ‘King Steve’ ‘The Hair’, just why? You’re way too cool for him. Plus he doesn’t deserve you in the slightest, because what I see is that all of a sudden he’s now taking an interest in you, and it’s got me a bit worried about his intentions with you.”

That last part got a snort out of you, “his intentions with me? this isn’t the 1700s, also that’s something for Jonathan to mostly worry about.”

“Yeah, well I see myself growing as your friend slash brother figure, although you trying to kiss me is very Luke and Leia of you.”

“Eddie, gross! Please can you…can you- ugh!”

The two of you filled the silence with your giggles and sometimes ugly laughing that escaped from deep within. The low humming of whatever cassette Eddie had in the car already was just soothing background noise along with the noise of the van as it drove just a bit of the speed limit. The starry night sky and the moonlit your path back home.

When you turned your head to look out the window and only saw the darkness of the never-ending woods, shivers crept up your spine and goosebumps arose on your arms. The knowing that something dangerous could be lurking in the shadows, just watching, waiting to pounce. It made you uneasy.

Tapping on your upper arm stole your attention, “You okay, Byers?”

You looked between Eddie and the open road, “yeah, probably just getting sleepy.”

You lied right through your teeth.

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

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[luisricardovillalobos]

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