#guess i will just have to go to the local bakery without you then

[knightkayeth]

Making your padawan and commander go AWOL with you? Literally a crime, but when compared to the fact you didn't invite me and Quasar? not even worth putting on your record. I can't believe you...

At the fairground with Azeno and Jailor, had to force both of them to change and actually blend in for once but we are going to DEVOUR, if I don't come out of this with 10+ giant plushies I will be so mad.

[transboyswitchytales]

Caught In A Bear Trap

Request by Anon : Unsupervised you mentioned witch hunters.. I’d love to see what would happen if a witch hunter happened upon Baby, and Agatha and Rio track them down and decimated them because no one touches baby but THEM. I can’t get it out of my mind and I’d love to see your take on it!

Warning: TORTURE/GORE /BLOOD / ANGST /DEATH / HURT READER / Nicky mentioned / Upsetting story / Prequel to Unsupervised / short fic / DARKFIC /Angst for sure /AgathaRioxReader

Anon I hope this is ok 🖤 if you want a part two let me know! I made it short because it is ouchie.

'Oh, I know that I can't live without you But this world will keep turning if you do Would you even want me looking like a zombie? Would you even want me, want me, want me?'- YUNGBLUD

You would look back at this moment as one of your biggest mistakes.

You knew better. But it was the 60s in San Francisco. And it was just a small blip

Later Agatha would implement a rule for what you’d done, the carelessness and brazenness in which you ignored your gut.

Rio had always told you to trust your tummy. She said every animal was made with fight or flight. Just as a a hare’s big ears stand at attention for a rustling in the forest.

Rio said that the hare knows and doesn’t second guess before he runs.

And she grabbed your arm tightly and said this last thing, a thing you’d think of later.

“A hare is small but trusts its instincts and runs. Baby it doesn’t matter the size. A grizzled bear still sniffs the ground for hunters. If he doesn’t he’ll step in a trap.” She’d cupped your cheek lovingly, “trust your tummy, don’t step into a trap.” Rio said it like it was the most important thing.

And those words repeated over and over as they sliced your skin.

But it was San Francisco in 1961. You were on Haight Street. It was the age of hippies and acid. Rio had commented offhandedly that marijuanaha would never be as good as it is now. You didn’t ask why she thought that. You simply smoked and did magic and listened to music.

You’d begged Agatha to stay in this city. She’d been reluctant at first. But being a witch sort of blended in with these rough looking hippies. They’re dreads and bell bottom pants made your long hair and earthy life style sorta normal.

Agatha also enjoyed how happy you and Rio seemed to be.

So she and Rio found an apartment with the bay windows. All that light. Rio buying endless plants into the place. Agatha was happy to find her first queer book shop. It seemed people were finally putting up stories of queer people.

Even if it was smaller and hard to find.

You three were happy. It was a starling wake up call.

On a Tuesday afternoon Rio and Agatha had needed to go to the local apothecary. It was in china town and you didn’t want to go. Agatha didn’t like the idea of leaving you. But you told her you would stay in the apartment, listen to vynil and make ice tea.

Rio hesitated as well, but you promised them youd have dinner ready by the time they got back.

You hadn’t even realized.

Perhaps they should have trusted their tummy’s.

You thought you’d bake your sourdough loaf today. But you noticed a lack of bread flour and figured the corner store might have some. If not you’d head over to Gabriel’s Bakery. He always gave you stuff for free.

You left the house. Wearing your happy hippy attire. Double checking you didn’t forget your two wedding rings on the sink from doing breakfast dishes. You walked to the corner store.

You will never forget it.

You bought Rio a new strand of mint. She’d been talking about wanting to grow it and you thought she’d be happy to see it in your kitchen. You loved getting them gifts. Small things to make them know you were always thinking of them.

You made an extra stop with your basket in the grocery store to find a bag of loose leaf tea for Aggie.

You checked out, handing the guy cash, you thanked him, and grabbed your brown bag. Walking out the store like your world wasn’t about to change.

Because that’s the thing about big trauma, no one ever knows before it hits.

You can spend everyday worrying and you’ll never be prepared for the truly earth shattering events.

Like this one.

You stupid fucking rabbit.

You were walking, aware of your surroundings for the most part. You were a powerful witch. Trained in necromancy, potions, and even mind control. You’d recently been more interested in speaking with the dead. But that was a different story.

It was a sunny day.

You’d gotten comfortable in San Francisco. You’d grown soft. No longer paranoid of what lurked in the shadows.

And you should be. You should be.

They came from behind, and you never even saw them coming. Didn’t even hear your head crack on the cement. No, you walked right into a trap, silly rabbit.

But you woke up to men in surgical masks. You woke in pain as they opened your veins. Letting the blood come out of you like the plague times.

You were naked on a cement floor, in chains. Like how so many witches before had been.

How poetic.

History repeating itself it seemed.

They’d used magic, ironically, these assholes had tortured another witch to make runes. You couldn’t use your magic, it sat like a phantom limb.

You screamed as they used their scalpels and medical instruments. Dunked your face in water until you stopped twitching. Then they’d wake you up again. Your vocal cords gave up on your screams as they cut you open over and over. Seemingly amazed at your ability to heal.

A resilient animal you were.

You wept until you had no tears left and in your mind you disassociated.

You left your body as they played with you like a child plays the game operation with tweezers.

Your muscles begged for release. Your body lost so much blood. Your magic was depleted. You had no fight. You had no will.

You did not speak to them once. Not as they asked you questions and tortured you. They asked about your coven. They asked about how you acquired income. They wanted to know how old you were. What tricks you could do.

You had thought yourself powerful. A witch. A fucking Harkness no less. You thought yourself strong. You were not a rabbit. You were the bear. How had you been so foolish to forget a world full of traps?

A man kicked your naked bloody body with his boot in your ribs. You slid across the bloody cement floor with a thud. Scabs breaking open once more, puss and blood leaking from wounds you could no longer keep track of.

If Agatha were here she’d sing to you as Rio licked them close. Aggie would wash the blood out of your hair. You sometimes hallucinated her above you. Only for your eyes to adjust once more.

You weren’t sure, as there was no windows, how long you’d held prisoner.

You shivered on the cold wet cement. With a broken left shoulder, two dislocated wrists, and you couldn’t feel your right leg. You weren’t sure if the nerves even worked anymore. They’d drilled into your knee cap.

You closed your eyes and remembered the smell of Agatha’s hair. That perfect scent as she held you at night, the comfort of her arms. You focused on the gap in Rios teeth as she threw her head back to laugh.

You hoped Agatha would forgive Rio.You hoped Rio would forgive herself for the job she was about to do.

Because you would die soon. You hoped it would come fast.

And you were ready. You made peace with it around the point one of the witch hunters had taken a hammer to your fingers. Where were your wedding rings? What did a corpse need with wedding rings?

You were done.

You lived a great life. A life full of Agatha and Rio.

How fantastic it had been to be loved by them. How lucky you were to have gotten to hold them close. To share laughter and kisses.

You lay in your blood unable to open your left eye anymore.

And you hoped Agatha would find your Yule gifts. You knew San Francisco lit up for Christmas. You’d already bought their gifts. You’d already written the love notes. You wondered if Rio would be able to play your records, listen to your favorite songs. Or would Agatha shatter each vynil? Would she turn away from love. You hoped not. You wanted Agatha to love.

You hoped Agatha would forgive you for giving up.

You were just so tired. And you’d fought for so long. You couldn’t stay awake one more minute.

You wanted to see Nicky again.

You wanted Rio to take you in her arms. Place the last kiss you’d ever be given on your split broken skin. And you could just give in. Not hurt one more moment.

Your eyes lulled back.

The room grew quiet.

You no longer felt.

You opened your eyes to see Rio. And you coughed blood and Rio had her hand in your chest.

“Take…me.” You signaled and her eyes turned black. So deep dark black.

“I’m going to. I’m taking you home baby. Agatha HURRY UP!” Rio screamed and you looked to the side to see…

Agatha covered in purple magic.

She was killing so many. They begged for mercy and she tortured their minds and made them kill themselves, slowly too. One man was taking his own eyes out with his fingers.

Agatha was making them relive what they’d done to you….but to those they loved most.

She wanted them to see it. See it how she seen it in their minds.

“AGATHA WE DONT HAVE TIME! COME ON!” Rio screamed and you coughed again.

“No..no baby. Hey come on. I don’t want to do my job. Come on. We looked everywhere for you. Please don’t. Fight baby. You promised. You promised me. You said I’d take you when you were an old crone. Please don’t go. Please don’t. I can’t do it. I can’t take you. I’m not strong enough.”

Rio was shaking and her hands were in your chest cavity. She was beating your heart.

Your cold black heart.

“It’-s..o..—k” you rasped out and she shook her head.

“No. I won’t do it. They can take me. Take me instead no. I can’t do it again. Don’t make me.” Rio sobbed and Agatha must have heard because she fell to her knees.

“No..no, no baby. Please stay awake. You can’t go. No please no. I can’t do this without you. “ Agatha begged and you couldn’t speak

The sound of your heart being squished between Rios hands was louder now.

“RIO IF YOU TAKE HER I WILL NEVER FORGOVE YOU. DONT DO THIS TO ME AGAIN. FIX IT! Fix it now. PLEASE MY LOVE!” Agatha gasped and you couldn’t keep your eyes open. It was too much.

“NO NO! YOU STAY WITH ME! YOU PROMISED NICKY YOU’D STAY WITH ME!” Agatha screams at you.

And then it’s black.

Goodnight moon.

‘If I can’t reach you…let my song teach you?’

But you hear Nicky…he’s laughing. You smell the wildflowers of Salem. You feel warmth return to you.

“Mama!”

And then….

And then pain hits your chest and you inhale once more.

Your life flashes so fast by you. And you are no longer with your son.

Blinking a few times you see a fuzzy shade of red… a room. It’s not home, it smells of incense and fermented magic. You blink and realize you aren’t dead.

Magic inscriptions hang in the walls.

Pain, lots of pain in your body. But not dead.

You hear someone’s speaking Cantonese. And you know the language but you can’t concentrate on the sounds.

You realize as your eyes adjust that you are in someone’s basement in china town. At the local medicine woman’s shop. You know this room.

Rio and Agatha can be heard arguing with said elder. You try to move your hands but you feel heavy.

Agatha lets out an earth quake of a sob and you know she sees you are awake.

You are alive.

Dark Fic MasterList. MasterList AO3

[vicolette]

𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐲 !

– Warning : mentions of y/n & English isn’t my first language, not proofread

Lamine was seated on the couch in his living room, a match of Real Betis playing against Villareal CF on the tv, since his next opponent would be the latter. The quiet and peace of him watching a football game (which wasn’t actually quiet at all, since he kept cursing at the referees‘ dumb choices or a missed goal) was gone as soon as his beloved girlfriend entered the room – you.

"Guess what I– oh!" Before you had left, which was around midday, he had told you that he would just spent the whole day watching football games and occasionally text you here and there, but you hadn’t expected him to say the truth. "Sorry, I'll go–"

"Y/n!" Lamine stood up from his seat as he made his way towards you, wrapping an arm around your waist while he pressed a soft kiss on your cheek, nuzzling his head into your shoulder. "Missed ya, baby."

"Aw, I missed you too, my dear," Your hands cupped his face as you pulled him away from your neck, knowing that he had a habit of biting you on your neck and shoulders randomly, and kissed him on the lips passionately. The kiss was full of affection and pure joy, without a tinge of lust – just a teenage couple sharing their love for one another.

Once you pulled away to get some air inside your lungs, he chuckled at the sight of you being so tired. Firstly then did he notice your shopping bag, as you had gone out with a few friends to spend the free day with them. Lamine took it and held it out of your reach, wanting to see what you had bought.

"Give it back!" He ignored your protests and instead searched for something interesting, when his gaze suddenly landed on a package from the city's famous bakery. Lamine took it out of the bag to see what it was, looking at you as a silent way to ask for permission. A sigh left from your lips before you nodded, making him drop the bag to the ground and gently open the package.

There were macarons inside of it, the flavors containing chocolate, strawberries and others. The delicate looking sweets made him raise his eyebrows, since he had expected anything but them.

At the sight of them, his stomach growled.

Lamine froze in place while his face turned red, whereas you stood close by and lowered your head, kneeling down to take another package of macarons from the same local bakery, just other flavors.

"Here, I bought some more!" A generous smile blossomed on your face as you offered him whole twenty four macarons, making him look at them and mentally slap himself for starving the whole day.

'I have a diet to hold onto,' He told himself as he stared down at the pastries, not acknowledging the fact that you were dragging him to the sofa to sit down and eat them. 'I'm a footballer. I can’t allow myself to have a cheat day.'

It didn’t take you long to realize that something was wrong, as it was very unusual for your boyfriend to act like this – silent, quiet, yet his mind was racing with loud, unnecessary thoughts.

"Lamine?" The said person snapped out of it and, before he could even realize what he was doing, he leaned closer to you and placed a hand on your hip, his nostrils inhaling an unfamiliar scent.

"'m sorry, baby, but I can’t eat them, y'know? I have to–" Just then, he stopped in the middle of his sentence and looked at you weirdly, before he got closer again and smelled how your scent was like. "You smell different."

"Yeah, I wanted to give you a haul on what I've bought! Can you guess what?" Lamine took a quick glance towards the bag, which was still on the floor a few meters away from you two, yet he somewhat couldn’t care less. He still had his arms wrapped around your waist tightly, just wanting the sweets to vanish.

But they didn’t.

Instead, as you pulled out some other stuff that you had bought with your friends – perfume, makeup products, books, a few clothes and whatnot – his eyes lingered on the package of macarons, swallowing his pride before he hesitatingly reached out for one.

Your chatting came to a halt as you watched him complicate the decisions that he had. Either, he remainsfig and strong and doesn’t break his diet, or he does and enjoys the sweets just once (and the following consequences).

"Why did you stop talking?" He raised an eyebrow as he looked back at you, which resulted into a giggle leaving your lips. They were probably better than some stupid, French pastries.

"Lamine, it’s just a little sugar." You sighed as you waved him off, taking a macaron for yourself as you held it to your mouth, but you didn’t bite just yet. "Plus, you work out every single day. Nobody would notice!"

The teenager still refused to eat as he wanted to place it back into the package, yet as he watched you take a small bite out of it, Lamine decided to throw all rationality out the window and ate it whole. In an instant, he leaned against the couch and bit into it, accidentally biting his tongue in the process.

"Ow!" Laughter filled the room with noise as you threw your head back, seeing how he finally gave up on strictly following his diet to become the best footballer and just enjoy some food.

Afterwards, you didn’t mind if he took one more or two, but when he got to eating almost the full package, you placed your hand over his.

"I still wanna eat." In response to that, he took one and held it to your mouth, chuckling when he heard your sigh.

"Say 'ahh'." Listening to his so called demand, you opened your mouth and bit into it, forehead you rushed to show him another thing that you had bought. Lamine watched rather peacefully, before he realized that his coach knew you personally.

"Y/n… are you gonna tell Flick about this?"

"Are you being serious right now?"

– A/N : upcoming Pau oneshot! Perchance also uploading tonight… thanks for reading<33

[pucksandpower]

Head Over Heels

Charles Leclerc x Vasseur!Reader x Carlos Sainz

Summary: in which Charles and Carlos are head over heels for you and you’re still painfully oblivious despite their best efforts

Warnings: this is a poly fic, overwhelming amounts of fluff

“Hey, Y/N! You’ve got a delivery!”

You look up, confused, as one of the mechanics hands over a beautifully wrapped bouquet. The vibrant pink roses and lilies contrast strikingly against the red of the Ferrari motorhome.

“For me? Who’s it from?” You ask, genuinely puzzled.

The attached card is simple: For someone who lights up the track without even racing.

“Must be from a sponsor or someone thanking Dad,” you muse aloud, inhaling the fragrant bouquet.

Your father, Fred Vasseur, chuckles from a few steps away, “A sponsor, you think?”

You nod, genuinely convinced, “Who else?”

Charles, emerging from his cool-down session after practice, spots you with the flowers. His heart does a little jolt, hoping you’d recognize his gesture. “Those are beautiful,” he comments, trying to sound casual.

“They are, aren’t they?” You beam, holding them out to let him get a better look. “I think they’re from a sponsor or something. It’s a nice touch.”

A small, knowing smile tugs at Charles’ lips but he just nods. “Very thoughtful of them.”

Your father watches the exchange with an amused smirk, clearly catching on to Charles’ hidden intentions. He leans in to whisper to the Monegasque driver, “You sure you want to keep it anonymous, Leclerc?”

Charles shrugs but there’s a hint of red on his cheeks, “I thought it’d be more … romantic? But I didn’t think she would be this oblivious.”

Your father chuckles, patting Charles on the back, “Give it time, son.”

The day continues and you go about your tasks, occasionally stopping to admire the flowers, still clueless about their real origin. Everyone around seems to be sharing knowing glances and subtle nudges.

Carlos, having heard about Charles’ gesture, approaches you. “Heard you got a surprise today,” he comments playfully.

You nod, beaming, “Yeah, a pleasant one. It’s always nice to be appreciated, even if it’s indirectly.”

Charles, overhearing, sighs from a distance. “I need to up my game,” he murmurs to himself.

***

“Morning, Y/N! I brought you something.”

You glance up from your paperwork to find Carlos holding out a steaming cup of coffee and a beautifully wrapped pastry. You can’t help but smile, already salivating.

“Thanks, Carlos. This is such a treat! How do you always know where to find the best coffee and pastries?”

Carlos shrugs, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he smiles, “Oh, you know. Just lucky, I guess.”

Your father watches the exchange from a distance, laughing softly. “Carlos sure seems to have a knack for pleasing your taste buds,” he teases as he approaches.

Rolling your eyes playfully, you reply, “He’s just being friendly, Dad. Everyone loves a good pastry, right?”

Your father just raises an eyebrow, sipping his own coffee, “If you say so.”

Carlos, seeing an opportunity, chimes in, “Actually, I’ve been exploring the local bakeries in each city. You know, trying to find the best treats.” He pauses for a second, cheeks reddening ever-so-slightly, “Glad you like them.”

It’s a small confession but enough to get a teasing cheer from some of the mechanics nearby. You just laugh, assuming it’s part of the team's usual banter. “You’re too dedicated, Carlos! Thanks for always thinking of me.”

Carlos chuckles, his eyes betraying a hint of something deeper, “Anything for a … friend.”

Later, as you’re engrossed in your work, Charles passes by, subtly observing the pastry and coffee by your side. He exchanges a brief, understanding look with Carlos.

“You know,” Charles says casually, taking a seat opposite you, “Carlos wakes up an hour early just to find these for you.”

You blink, surprised, “Really?”

Charles nods, smirking, “Ask anyone here. They’ve seen him race off, rain or shine.”

Your heart swells with appreciation. “I had no idea,” you whisper, truly touched.

Carlos, overhearing, intervenes with a chuckle, “Leclerc, stop making it sound so dramatic! I just … like to start my day with a good treat, that’s all."

You smile warmly, taking a sip of your coffee, “You’re such a good friend, Carlos. I’m lucky to have you looking out for me like this.”

Carlos nods, swallowing down a hint of disappointment, “Always, Y/N. Just looking out for a friend, right?”

Your father passing by, catches the tail end of the conversation. He winks at Carlos, teasing, “Oh, absolutely. Just a friend.”

Carlos shoots him a mock glare but there’s a smirk on his lips. “Exactly. Just doing what any good friend would do.”

You laugh, completely missing the underlying tension, “Well, here’s to more coffee-filled mornings. Thanks, friend.”

Carlos raises his cup in a mock toast, “To friendship.” But there’s a certain longing in his eyes, a silent hope that someday friendship might evolve into something more.

***

“Y/N, have you ever thought of getting behind the wheel?”

You glance up from your notes, finding Charles leaning against your desk, a mischievous glint in his eye. You laugh, “Of a race car? Surely you’re joking.”

He shrugs, an inviting smirk on his face, “Who better to teach you than a Ferrari driver?”

Your eyebrows shoot up in surprise. “Are you offering?”

Charles nods. “Why not? It’ll be fun and maybe you’ll get a new appreciation for what we do.”

You consider it. “Alright, when?”

“How about after tomorrow’s practice session? The track will be free.”

Carlos, overhearing the conversation, interjects, “Planning some secret training without me?” His tone is playful but there’s an underlying hint of jealousy.

Charles grins, “Just thought I’d offer our friend here a little taste of the track life.”

You chuckle, “Don’t worry, Carlos. If I crash, I promise I’ll come to you for my second lesson.”

Carlos smirks, “I’ll hold you to that.”

The following day, after the practice session, you find yourself clad in a racing suit, helmet in hand, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves. Charles approaches, looking much more confident than you feel.

“Ready?” He asks, voice full of anticipation.

You nod, gulping down your anxiety. “As I’ll ever be.”

The next hour is a blur of acceleration, sharp turns, and the roar of the engine. Charles proves to be a patient and encouraging teacher, guiding you through the intricacies of handling a race car. The adrenaline, the rush, and the sheer power of the machine are intoxicating.

At one point, as you glide around a particularly challenging curve, Charles whoops in delight from the passenger seat, “That’s it, Y/N! You’re a natural!”

Your laughter rings out, pure and genuine, “Maybe I’ve found my new calling.”

As the session comes to an end and the two of you climb out of the car, Carlos approaches, clapping. “Not bad for a rookie,” he teases.

You playfully shove him, “Thanks to my excellent instructor here.”

Charles laughs, ruffling your hair, “You were great, seriously.”

Carlos nods in agreement, “I guess I’ll be out of a job soon.”

You roll your eyes, “One lesson and suddenly I’m a pro? You flatter me. But seriously, this was amazing. Truly. Thank you for sharing this with me.”

Charles grins, “Anytime. And remember, there’s always more to learn.”

Carlos smirks, “And more instructors available, just in case.”

You laugh, “I’ll keep that in mind. For now, let’s celebrate me not crashing the car!”

As you all head off, you link arms with Charles, “You know, for a moment there, I felt the thrill you must feel during races. Thanks for being such a good friend and showing me that world.”

Charles smiles softly, a pang of both happiness and a touch of disappointment at the word you used. “Of course. Anything for a friend.”

Carlos, observing from a distance, shares a knowing look with Charles. The message is clear: the race is far from over.

***

“Hey, Y/N. Can’t sleep?”

You’re startled to find Carlos waiting by the hotel lobby, a charming smile playing on his lips. The clock on the wall reads just past midnight.

You rub your eyes, yawning, “No, not really. Jet lag, I guess.”

Carlos gestures toward the entrance, “How about a midnight stroll? I know this beautiful spot nearby.”

You hesitate for a moment but then nod, intrigued. “Sure, why not? Lead the way.”

The two of you step out into the cool night to find the quiet city bathed in soft light. The silence is comfortable as you walk side by side.

As you amble along, you can’t help but wonder, “Why are you up so late?”

He glances at you, “Couldn’t sleep either. And I thought maybe you’d enjoy some company.”

You smile, touched by his thoughtfulness. “That’s really sweet of you.”

He points to a quiet park with a pond, its surface shimmering with the reflection of the moon. “Here we are. This place always helps me clear my head whenever we’re in town for a race.”

You settle on a bench and Carlos quickly sits beside you, shoulders brushing lightly.

The night unfolds with shared stories and laughter. Carlos opens up about his journey in racing, the challenges he’s faced, and the moments of triumph. You listen intently, feeling a newfound connection.

As the hours slip away, Carlos admits with a soft chuckle, “You know, I’ve never brought anyone here before.”

You raise an eyebrow, “Really? Why me?”

Carlos smiles, the moonlight illuminating his face. “Because you’re special. You’re different from anyone I’ve met on or off the circuit.”

A warm feeling washes over you. “Thank you. That means a lot.”

He turns toward you, his gaze intense, “Y/N, there’s something I’ve been wanting to say. Something I’ve been feeling for a while.”

But just as he’s about to speak, you yawn loudly, unable to hide your exhaustion any longer. “Sorry. I guess jet lag finally caught up with me.”

He chuckles, disappointment flickering in his eyes, “No worries. Let’s head back.”

When you reach the hotel entrance, Carlos bids you goodnight, his voice tinged with a hint of longing. “Get some rest. We’ll have a busy day tomorrow.”

You smile sleepily, giving him a friendly hug, “Thanks for the midnight adventure. It was nice.”

He holds you for a moment longer than usual before pulling away, “Anytime. Sweet dreams.”

***

“Another one? Seriously?”

You chuckle, pulling out a small folded note from your jacket pocket, the fifth one this week.

“The world’s fastest circuits are slow compared to how fast you make my heart beat.” You read aloud, your cheeks warming at the words.

Carlos, seated nearby, smirks, “Someone’s clearly smitten with you. Any idea who?”

You shrug, “I figured they’re just motivational notes from the team. You know, to keep spirits up.”

Charles joins in, trying to keep his face neutral, “They’re quite poetic for just team motivation, don’t you think?”

You ponder his words, tilting your head. “I guess? But who would be sending them?”

Carlos snorts, “Oh, come on! It’s so obvious.”

You shoot him a confused look, “It is?”

Carlos and Charles exchange a glance, silently communicating. Charles, deciding to have a bit of fun, teases, “Well, they’re definitely from someone who admires you. And since they’re always hidden in places only the team has access to, it’s likely from someone here.”

Carlos nods in agreement, “Sounds about right.”

You laugh, shaking your head, “You guys are just trying to rile me up. It’s probably just one of the pit crew playing a prank.”

Charles, a touch defensive, says, “You might be surprised. Maybe you have a secret admirer closer than you think.”

Your father, passing by, overhears the conversation and chuckles, “It’s about time she figures it out.”

You stare, completely baffled, “Figures what out?”

He just winks, patting Charles on the shoulder, “Keep trying.”

Your day is filled with speculation and curious glances, with everyone seeming to be in on a secret that you aren’t privy to. The notes, while touching, become a source of playful teasing.

That evening, as you prepare for bed, you find another note tucked inside your notebook: Your passion and dedication make even the toughest races feel like victories.

You can’t help but smile. “Who are you?” You whisper to yourself.

Little do you know, just a few rooms away, Charles is scribbling down another note, his heart set on winning yours, one word at a time.

***

The night is electric, the post-race party in full swing, music thumping and lights reflecting off the crystal-clear waters of the pool.

“Y/N! Join us for a dance?”

You turn, finding Carlos standing there, his hand outstretched and a playful smile on his face.

You laugh, “You’ve seen me dance. You sure you want to take that risk?”

He chuckles, pulling you closer to the dance floor, “For you? Always.”

As the music shifts to a slower, more intimate tune, you feel a bit self-conscious. But Carlos guides you gracefully, making you feel as if you’re the only two people in the world.

“See? You’re a natural,” Carlos murmurs, his dark eyes locked onto yours.

You chuckle, “Or you’re just an excellent lead.”

Carlos smirks, “Could be both.”

Throughout the night you share more dances, both with Carlos and a few with Charles, who also proves to be quite the dancer. Each time you’re spun, dipped, or drawn close, there’s an electric charge, a connection that’s impossible to ignore.

“Enjoying yourself?” Charles asks during one dance, his voice soft and sincere.

You nod, “Very much so. It’s not every day I get to dance with Ferrari’s finest.”

Charles smirks, “Glad to be of service. You’re quite the dancer yourself, you know.”

You roll your eyes, “You’re just saying that.”

He leans in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper, “I mean every word.”

Before you can process his statement, Carlos swoops in, teasing, “Mind if I cut in?”

Charles sighs, releasing you, “Go on but save the next one for me.”

Carlos, dancing you away, smirks, “He’s quite smitten with you.”

You laugh, “Oh, stop. We’re just friends.”

Carlos raises an eyebrow, “Are you sure about that?”

You nod, “Absolutely.”

Carlos, holding you a bit closer, murmurs just low enough so only he can hear, “And he’s not the only one who’s smitten.” The hint of longing in his eyes remains hidden to you as the dance continues.

***

“Welcome to the local side of my home!” Charles exclaims with an open gesture, Monaco sprawling before you in all its glory.

You gaze around, taking in the sights of the city. “It’s beautiful. The tourist traps and casinos really don’t do it justice.”

He grins, obviously proud. “I thought you’d appreciate a personal tour. Ready?”

You nod enthusiastically, “Absolutely.”

Charles leads you through winding streets, each corner revealing another story, another memory. “This is where I had my first gelato,” he shares, pointing at a quaint little shop. “And over there,” he gestures to a narrow cobblestone lane, “is where I learned to ride a bike.”

You chuckle, “Really? These streets seem a bit treacherous for a kid on a bike.”

He laughs, “Let’s just say there were a few scrapes and bruises.”

As you continue, Charles points out his favorite viewpoints, cafes, and even his childhood home. It’s an intimate glimpse into his world and you feel honored.

“You know,” you say, pausing to gaze out over the harbor, “it’s one thing to know someone as a colleague and it’s another to really know them. Thank you for sharing this with me.”

Charles looks at you, genuine warmth in his eyes. “I wanted you to see where I come from, the place that shaped me. Who better to share it with than you?”

You smile, touched. The two of you continue, with Charles occasionally slipping his hand into yours, guiding you along.

Towards the end of the tour, you stop at a cozy café overlooking the sea. As you sip your drinks, Charles leans in, his tone serious. “Y/N, there’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you.”

You look up, curiosity piqued. “What is it?”

Before he can speak, his phone rings. Glancing at the caller ID, Charles sighs. “It’s the team. I have to take this.”

You nod, understanding. “Go ahead.”

When Charles hangs up, he looks apologetic. “I’m so sorry. Duty calls.”

You smile, reassuringly, “It’s okay. Today was special. Thank you.”

Charles nods, hesitating for a moment, as if wanting to say more. Instead, he simply leans in, planting a soft kiss on your forehead. “Until next time.”

***

“Oh, this doesn’t look good,” you mutter, noticing the looming dark clouds as you hurry through the paddock.

Before you can take another step, raindrops start to fall, quickly morphing into a torrential downpour. You’re caught in the middle, water soaking your clothes and making your paperwork soggy.

From a distance, Carlos notices your plight. “Y/N!” He calls out, already running towards you with an umbrella in hand.

By the time he reaches you, you’re thoroughly drenched, strands of hair stuck to your face. “Took a sudden shower, did we?” He teases, even as he huddles you under the umbrella.

You chuckle, shivering slightly, “It seems so. Thanks for the rescue.”

Carlos slips off his jacket and wraps it around you. The warmth of it, combined with his scent — a mix of cologne, fresh rain, and something uniquely Carlos — is comforting.

“You’re getting soaked!” You protest, noticing his wet shirt clinging to his toned body.

Carlos just shrugs, “You needed it more than I did.”

As the two of you find shelter from the storm, the tension between you is palpable. The rain has created a sudden intimacy and you’re both acutely aware of each other.

“Better?” Carlos asks, his voice softer than usual, noticing you inhaling the scent of his jacket.

You nod, cheeks heating up. “Yeah. Smells like ... well, you.”

He smirks, “Is that a good thing?”

You glance up, meeting his gaze, “Definitely.”

There’s a pause, a shared moment where neither of you needs to speak. The rain pattering outside creates a rhythmic backdrop to the charged atmosphere.

Carlos breaks the silence, his voice barely above a whisper, “Y/N, I …”

You lean in, “Yes?”

Just then, a gust of wind blows the umbrella out of Carlos’ hand, startling the both of you. The sudden distraction breaks the intensity of the moment and you both laugh at the absurdity of it.

Carlos, trying to chase the runaway umbrella, calls out, “Rain check?”

You laugh, trying to calm your racing heartbeat, “Quite literally.”

***

“You won’t believe what Carlos did this time,” Antonio, one of the lead engineers, whispers to Paolo, a senior mechanic.

You’re nearby, checking the equipment for the upcoming practice session, but their hushed conversation catches your attention.

Paolo chuckles, “Can’t be crazier than what Charles tried last week.”

Antonio smirks, “Trust me, it’s right up there. Both of them, head over heels, and all for the same girl.”

Your curiosity piqued, you edge closer, feigning interest in a nearby tire. “Who is it?” You wonder internally, trying to think of any new female team members or journalists that might have caught their eye.

Paolo, clearly enjoying the gossip, leans in, “You think she has any idea?”

Antonio shakes his head, “Nope. She’s completely in the dark. It’s actually kind of adorable how clueless she is.”

You bite your lip, even more intrigued. “Who could it be?” You muse.

Deciding to join in the speculation, you casually approach, “Hey, what’s this I’m hearing about someone making our drivers lose their heads?”

Both men look up, surprised to see you so close. Antonio stammers, “Oh, hey Y/N. Just, um, some silly paddock rumors.”

Paolo, trying to divert the topic, adds, “You know how it is. People love making up stories.”

You nod, playing along, “Of course. But, come on, spill. Who’s the lucky girl? Anyone I know?”

Antonio and Paolo exchange glances, trying to gauge how much to reveal. Antonio finally speaks, “Let’s just say she’s someone who is always around but seems to be missing all the signs.”

You laugh, “Sounds like she’s got her head in the clouds. I can’t wait to find out who she is.”

Paolo grins, “Oh, it’ll come out eventually. These things always do.”

***

The meet-and-greet in Maranello is packed to the brim. Fans from all over the world have gathered to meet their favorite drivers and the team uniform you’re wearing means you’ve gathered a considerable crowd around you too.

As you sign autographs and chat with fans, you notice a group of them exchanging knowing glances and excited whispers.

“Y/N,” one brave fan begins, “we’ve got a question for you.”

You raise an eyebrow, “Sure, fire away.”

The fan clears their throat, “We’ve been following you and the drivers closely, and, well, we couldn’t help but notice something.”

You exchange a curious look with them, “Notice what?”

Another fan chimes in, “You see, Charles and Carlos, they ... they seem to be really close, you know, off the track.”

You nod, “Yeah, they’re good friends.”

A third fan interjects, ‘It’s more than that, though. We think they’re totally into someone.”

You chuckle, thinking they’re just indulging in the typical gossip. “Well, they are both very passionate about racing if that’s what you mean.”

The fans exchange disappointed glances. “She really doesn’t get it,” one of them whispers.

But they’re not giving up that easily. Another fan seems to have a plan. “Okay, Y/N, hypothetical scenario. What if these two drivers were in a race not for points but for something else?”

You’re intrigued, “What do you mean?”

The fan grins, “Imagine if they were trying to win someone’s heart and that someone is right here, oblivious to it all.”

You laugh, amused by their playful scenario. “That would be quite the competition.”

They exchange triumphant glances, “Exactly! So, who do you think this lucky person is?”

You shrug, genuinely not knowing who they’re referring to, “I have no idea. Probably some lucky girl out there.”

The fans let out an exaggerated groan, “She really has no clue.”

Another fan leans in, conspiratorial, “What if we told you that this lucky person is not some random girl but someone they work closely with?”

“What do you mean?”

The fans exchange sly grins, “We mean, what if the person they’re vying for is ... you?”

Your eyes widen in surprise and you laugh, thinking they’re just pulling your leg, “Me? That’s crazy. They’re just my friends.”

The fans share a look of exasperation and one of them sighs, “She’s hopeless.”

***

“Alright, everyone, gather around! Intervention time!” Your father announces, drawing you into the center of the group of staff that were gathered on the first floor of the Ferrari motorhome.

You look around, bewildered. “What’s going on?”

Paolo, chuckling, pats your shoulder, “You’ve got the observational skills of a goldfish.”

You pout, “Hey! I notice things.”

Antonio snorts, “Oh, really? Do you recall Monaco? During the team photo?”

You nod, confused, “Yeah, we were all there.”

Antonio grins, “Carlos was standing right next to you. Instead of giving a thumbs-up like everyone else, he made a heart sign with his hands right behind you. Literally, right behind your head.”

Eyes wide, you protest, “He did?”

Your father chimes in, “And remember in Silverstone? When you lost that bracelet your mother gave you?”

You nod, “Yes, I was devastated.”

He continues, “Charles spent the entire night searching for it. He found it at 3 am and then hand-delivered it to your room.”

Antonio adds, chuckling, “Wearing those ridiculous race car pajamas, I might add.”

You blink, processing the information, “I thought I just dropped it while getting dressed ...”

Paolo, shaking his head in amusement, recounts, “During the team BBQ, Carlos grilled those vegetarian sausages especially for you. Remember wondering why we had them?”

Your cheeks turn a shade redder, “I just thought he was being considerate for the vegetarians on the team.”

Your father laughs, “We don’t have any other vegetarians on the team, darling.”

Antonio recalls another incident, “In Spain, during that heatwave? Charles, out of nowhere, had a mini fan delivered to you. Said it was team equipment.”

You gasp, “That was him?”

Paolo, grinning, continues, “Ever wonder who leaves those freshly peeled oranges on your desk every race day? That’s Carlos’ handiwork.”

You shake your head in disbelief, “But … why?”

Your father steps forward, placing a comforting arm around you, “Sweetheart, it’s because they’re both completely smitten with you. And while it’s entertaining for us to watch, it’s also driving the entire team bonkers with every passing day that you don’t realize.”

You look around, taking in the nodding heads and amused expressions, “I ... I had no idea.”

Antonio chuckles, “Clearly.”

Paolo adds, “It’s like watching a rom-com unfold right before our eyes, only you seem to have missed the entire plot.”

You laugh sheepishly, rubbing the back of your neck, “Okay, maybe I’ve been a bit oblivious.”

Your father smirks, “A bit oblivious? That’s like saying Ferrari is known for being a bit red.”

Antonio gives you a friendly pat on the back, “Welcome to the real race, Y/N. Buckle up.”

***

Carlos clears his throat, his usual confidence replaced with a rare nervousness, “Y/N, can we talk? Like, really talk?”

You drop what you’re doing, “Of course. What’s on your mind?”

Charles, appearing from the shadows, adds, “Actually, I’d like to be part of this conversation as well.”

You’re taken aback. “Alright, you both have my attention.”

Carlos begins, running his fingers through his hair, “You know, racing isn’t just about speed. It’s about timing, making the right move at the right moment.”

Charles nods in agreement, “Sometimes, you wait too long and the opportunity passes you by.”

You squint, trying to decipher their cryptic words, “Are we talking about racing or ...?”

Carlos exhales deeply, “This isn’t about racing. This is about ... us. You, me, Charles.”

Charles interjects, his gaze intense, “It’s about feelings. Ones that have been growing and evolving.”

You swallow, your heart pounding, “I think I know where this is going.”

Carlos, his voice laced with vulnerability, confesses, “Every time I do something hoping it will make you smile, every time I go out of my way just to be near you ... it’s not just because of friendship.”

Charles adds, “And every gesture, every moment we’ve shared, it’s been my way of trying to show you how I feel.”

Your eyes well up with emotion, “I ... I gained an inkling just recently but I still wasn’t sure.”

Carlos takes a deep breath, “We’re not just talking about individual feelings here. What we’re trying to say is we both care for you and we’ve discussed it. We both want to be with you and for the three of us to explore this ... together.”

Charles nods, “We want to navigate this track as a trio. If you’re willing.”

Carlos steps closer, his eyes searching yours, “We just needed you to know. Whatever you decide, we’ll respect it.”

Charles nods, “Just ... take your time. We’re here, no matter what.”

You take a deep breath, “I need some time to think, to process all of this.”

Carlos offers a soft smile, “Of course, Y/N. We understand.”

Charles gently places a hand on your shoulder, “We’ll wait, however long it takes. Your feelings matter to us. You matter to us.”

***

“Safety car deployed, safety car deployed!” The voice over the radio jolts you into high alert.

“What happened?” You ask anxiously, watching the large screen that displays the race.

Your father’s voice shakes slightly, “Multi-car collision at Turn 4. I can’t see which cars are involved yet.”

Your heart races, thinking of Charles and Carlos. “Please, let them be okay.”

Paolo, eyes glued to the live feed, mutters, “This looks bad.”

The images on the screen show plumes of smoke and debris scattered across the track. The safety car slows the procession of vehicles and you can see marshals running toward the crash site.

Suddenly, Charles comes on the radio, sounding strained but intact, “I’m okay but Carlos ... I can’t see Carlos.”

A weight settles in your stomach. Panic floods your veins. “Please, no.”

His race engineer’s voice cracks with urgency, “Carlos, if you can hear me please respond.”

What feels like hours pass but in reality it’s only seconds before Carlos’ shaky voice breaks through, “I’m here ... I’m okay. Got a bit shaken but I’m fine.”

You slump in relief, tears pricking your eyes. The reality of how precious life is and how quickly things can change hits you like a tidal wave.

Once the chaos subsides and both Charles and Carlos are confirmed safe, you rush out to the pits, needing to see them with your own eyes.

Charles, spotting you first, rushes over, his race suit smeared with dirt and sweat. Without a word, he pulls you into a tight embrace, the tension and relief palpable between you two.

Carlos joins, wrapping his arms around both of you, his breathing still slightly labored from the shock.

You pull away, tears streaming down your face, “Don’t you ever scare me like that again.”

Carlos musters up a hint of a smirk, “Didn’t plan to, trust me.”

Charles adds softly, looking deep into your eyes, “It makes you realize what’s really important.”

You nod, your decision clear. The events of the day, combined with the confessions of the previous week, cement your feelings. “Life is short. Too short not to be with who you care about.”

Carlos raises an eyebrow, “Does that mean ...?”

You smile, nodding, “Yes. I want to be with both of you. We’ll figure it all out together.”

***

“France in winter is so enchanting,” Carlos muses as you all stroll through the snow-covered streets of your hometown, having flown there right after the end of the season.

You laugh, “You should see it in spring.”

Charles wraps one an arm around your waist and the other around Carlos, “With you as our guide, I’m sure every season is beautiful.”

The moment you all step into your family home, the familiar smell of your favorite dish wafts through the air. “Ah, maman’s coq au vin!” You exclaim.

Carlos looks intrigued, “What’s that?”

“It’s a traditional French chicken stew,” Charles explains, revealing his fondness for it too.

At the dinner table, your father raises a toast, “To family, old and new.” It’s a nod to Charles and Carlos, welcoming them into the fold.

Throughout the night, more wine is poured and stories are exchanged. Heading about your childhood misadventures makes Carlos chuckle and Charles smirk as your mother brings out the photo album no matter how much you beg her to save you the embarrassment.

Your grandmother pulls you aside and whispers, “It’s beautiful, cherie, how the heart can expand to make room for more love.”

***

Next stop: Monaco. Before you can even ring the doorbell to Charles’ family home, Lorenzo swings it open, his grin wide. “Ah! The infamous new trio. We’ve heard so much about you.”

You laugh, “All good things, I hope?”

Arthur, joining Lorenzo at the doorway, smirks, “Mostly just about how our dear Charles here can’t stop talking about you.”

Charles rolls his eyes, a hint of red tinting his cheeks. “Can we not start with the teasing five seconds in?”

Carlos chuckles, elbowing Charles lightly, “It’s what brothers are for, right?”

Lorenzo nods, winking at you, “Oh, absolutely. You should’ve seen Charles when he was younger. Always getting into mischief.”

Arthur, with a gleeful glint in his eyes, adds, “Remember that time with the go-kart?”

Charles groans, “Do we really have to bring that up now?”

“Oh, but now I’m curious.”

Lorenzo, not missing a beat, narrates, “Our dear Charles decided to modify his go-kart engine. Let’s just say it ended up in the neighbor’s pool.”

Carlos bursts into laughter, “I wish I’d seen that!”

At one point, when Charles steps out to take a call, Lorenzo leans in, “In all seriousness, we haven’t seen Charles this happy in a long time.”

Arthur nods in agreement, “Whatever you two are doing, keep it up. It’s good for him.”

***

The three of you touch down in Spain to ring in the New Year. The evening is filled with laughter, traditional music, and the tantalizing aroma of home-cooked meals. As midnight approached, Carlos’ mother brings out individual bowls filled with glistening grapes.

“You know about the Spanish tradition, right?” Carlos asks.

You shake your head.

Carlos explains, “At the stroke of midnight, for every chime of the clock, you eat a grape. Twelve chimes, twelve grapes. It’s said to bring good luck for the coming year.”

You chuckle, eyeing the bowl, “Sounds easy enough.”

It was not easy.

The first chime rings out and everyone pops a grape into their mouth. By the fourth chime, you’re struggling, laughter bubbling up around a mouthful of the fruit as you desperately try to keep up.

Charles, equally struggling, shoots you a wide-eyed look, grapes nearly falling out of his mouth.

Carlos, on the other hand, seems to have mastered the art, smoothly munching away, though his eyes reveal his suppressed laughter.

As the twelfth chime rings out, you finally manage to swallow the mouthful, gasping for breath air rounded by the hearty laughter of Carlos’ family.

Carlos’ father claps you and Charles on the back, “Well done! You two are practically Spanish now.”

You laugh, wiping away a tear, “I think I’ll need a few more years of practice.”

Carlos grins, wrapping an arm around you, “Don’t worry, we will have many more New Years for you to perfect it.”

***

The sun casts a golden hue on the beach, the waves gently lapping at the shore. Your feet are buried in the soft sand and you lean back, enjoying the feeling of warmth on your skin.

Taking a moment to appreciate the surroundings, you sigh, “The view is so breathtaking.”

Charles, reclining beside you with sunglasses perched atop his head, follows your gaze. His eyes, however, are not on the horizon but on Carlos, who’s emerging from the water, droplets glistening on his toned body. Without missing a beat, Charles replies flirtatiously, “Yes, he definitely is.”

Carlos laughs as he approaches, water dripping from him, “You two are impossible.”

You smirk, “Well, can you blame him? You do look quite ... impressive."

Carlos, towel now draped around his neck, grins, “Is that so? Maybe I should spend more time at the beach then.”

Charles mock pouts, “And less time with your car?”

Carlos pretends to think about it, “Tough choice. But I think I can find a balance.”

***

“Look who’s back and glowing!” Paolo greets as the three of you walk into the paddock together for pre-season testing.

Antonio joins in the teasing, “Carlos, you’ve got that sun-kissed tan going on and Charles ... did you forget the sunscreen again?”

Charles laughs sheepishly, touching his slightly reddened nose, “Apparently, I just burn.”

Carlos smirks, “We tried but some people are just destined to be crispy.”

You laugh, nudging Carlos, “Don’t be mean. But … we did have that one day when he turned a shade that matched the Ferrari.”

***

“Here’s to the dream team!” Antonio raises his champagne flute, his eyes shimmering under the bright lights of the party.

Charles, holding his second-place trophy, grins, nudging Carlos who’s proudly holding his first-place one. “Feels pretty good to have another double podium, doesn’t it?”

Carlos laughs, “Only because I’m one step higher!”

“Hey! It was the other way around last weekend,” Charles pretends to sulk.

You roll your eyes playfully, “Children, children. Share your toys nicely.”

Paolo chimes in, “It’s not just about the podium finishes. The energy this season ... it’s been different, more vibrant.”

Charles takes a moment, his gaze flitting between Carlos and you. “Well, happiness does tend to have that effect.”

Carlos wraps an arm around you both, pulling you close. “I couldn’t have said it better.”

***

“You would think that after all these years, I’d have gotten the hang of it,” your father laments, eyeing the bowl of freshly washed grapes in front of him.

Carlos’ mother laughs, patting his arm, “You’ll do just fine this time, Fred. We’ve all been practicing.”

Charles smirks, glancing at his brothers, “Oh, trust me, they’ve turned it into a competitive sport. Last year, Lorenzo managed to eat an extra grape by mistake!”

Lorenzo rolls his eyes, “One time! And I blame Arthur for distracting me.”

“Okay, it’s almost time,” Carlos says. “Remember, the key is not to rush.”

You chuckle, “Says the man who’s been acing this since he was a kid.”

Carlos winks, “Natural talent.”

The clock begins to chime, marking the impending arrival of the New Year. Everyone takes their positions, holding their grapes, waiting for the signal.

As each chime rings out, laughter fills the room. The past mishaps with the grapes only make the current attempt all the more entertaining.

When the twelfth chime fades, everyone erupts in cheers. Even your father, much to his delight, has successfully completed it in time.

Charles wraps an arm around you, “Another year, another challenge conquered.”

Carlos steps up to kiss both of you, tasting distinctly of grape, “With many more to come.”

You smile, looking around at the blending of families, the fusion of traditions, and the love that fills the room. “I can’t wait to spend every New Year together with you for the rest of our lives.”

[mimikittysblog]

TXT when Someone Badmouths You

Pairing: OT5! TXT x Fem! Reader

Genre: Slight angst, fluff. Hurt to comfort.

Synopsis: How the boys would react when they hear and see someone badmouthing you, their lovely girlfriend.

Warnings: Some jerks bullying you for different reasons. Implied chubby reader for Yeonjun and Soobin, and somewhat body shaming for theirs too. I think that’s it? Please let me know if I missed anything.

A/N: Guess who made this instead of their thesis??? Meeeeeee! Anyways hope you guys enjoyed this, especially cause I made it on the fly. Also got a bit carried away with beomgyus lol

.✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ✧.

Yeonjun

Yeonjun decided to go out to take you shopping being the fashonistas you two are. While you’ve always loved clothes and fashion, it was always a bit of a struggle to find your size here in Korea, no actually it was a pretty big struggle, but Yeonjun never minded.

He just wanted to spend time with you and spoil you with whatever you wanted. If the store didnt have your size he’d just look for it online or actually have it custom made. Just for you. Whatever you wanted, its yours in less than a week. You were always grateful for that.

However it still bothered you a bit. It was also always quite embarrassing when you have to walk out of the dressing room to tell him the biggest size didnt fit you. It also doesn’t help when the store clerks are not so subtly or quietly poking fun at you.

“I don’t know why she even tries”

“I know right? Why is he even with her?? Like he clearly takes care of himself. Why can’t she do the same?”

“He deserves so much better.”

Yeonjun obviously heard it too, he isn’t deaf, nor blind cause he sees the looks they give you. He especially sees the small frown that you’re trying so desperately to hide.

“Hmm MY pretty baby” he says as he holds your cheek. “This store is not inclusive huh? How about we just leave and find a better store that values you more, hmm?”

“No yeonjun it’s ju-“

“Hush.” He cuts you off. “This store is clearly not a good one. Cause every good store should always carry beautiful people’s sizes which includes you and they must have RESPECTFUL. Staff too. Don’t you think so pretty baby?” He says as he leans into you.

“I-I guess..?” You say shyly, trying to ignore the harsh glares you’re getting.

“Well thats what I think baby. Come on! Lets find a better store and never come back here, okay beautiful?” He asks as he pats your head.

“Okay” you smile at him.

Before you two leave though, he pulls you in even closer and gives you such a passionate kiss, completely reassuring that he finds you so gorgeous and he doesn’t care what people say about you.

And without your knowledge he also opens his eyes to make eye contact and practically glare at the rude staff that was standing behind you. Seeing their reaction also causes him to smirk into the kiss.

He then pulls away and happily takes you away from that store. Constantly holding you close, to reassure you that he loves your body just the way it is, and he could never be ashamed of you, especially with how firmly and proudly he’s holding on to you.

“Thank you baby” you say as you snuggle into him.

“No one messes with my pretty baby. Remember that.” He said with his charming smirk.

Soobin

You literally only told him you think the weather feels perfect today, and he suddenly already had a picnic basket packed. So here you are now, at the park having a nice picnic with your lovely boyfriend. While he did pack some food from home, you two also went to your local bakery to pick up some of the most delicious bread and pastries ever. You kind of went overboard with how much you bought but you two wanted to have fun and enjoy your day with great food, if you still had some left you can easily bring them home. So it didn’t matter to the both of you.

That is until another couple who were also having a picnic nearby decided to stare at you and the large amount of food you two had. They were far enough to where you could barely hear what theyre saying, but unfortunately you could still hear. Even if you couldn’t the judgmental looks they gave you, and only you, said it all.

“Can you believe how much she’s eating?”

“Mhm. It’s just all pure carbs and sugar too.”

“Could she be anymore unhealthy? She’s eating so fast too.”

You were trying so hard to ignore it and were just about to take another bite of the croissant you got until you heard they made another comment and even laughed at you. You really did try so hard to ignore it and tried to take that bite but it just felt so humiliating. So you bit your lip and slowly put the croissant down. Soobin on the other hand quickly took the croissant again and put it back up to your mouth.

“Aaah!” He said smiling

“Oh.. Soobin I’m ful-“

“Don’t make me shove this in your mouth princess” he cut you off with another cheeky smile.

“Soobin..”

God the look in your eyes was so heartbreaking to him.

“You’re the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen okay? We also came here to have fun and eat well. I want you to eat well beautiful, and I also want you to have the happiest tummy ever. Please don’t let anyone stop you. Besides, good food makes you happy. And I also want you happy. So please.. Aaaah?” He said, staring straight into your eyes with the purest look ever.

How could you ever deny that? So with a smile you took the bite you did so desperately wanted. With that it made his smile even bigger. He then also took a bite. Since then he continues to feed you, showering you with encouragement and also continues to eat with you too to make you not feel alone. You could never feel alone with him, but he wanted to make sure you knew that.

“Thank you my love.”

“Of course darling”

By the end you were so incredibly happy and so was your tummy.

Beomgyu

It’s been a while since you had a date with your boyfriend due to your busy schedules. So when said schedules finally calmed down, you two were very excited to get to finally meet up at your favorite cafe and catch up. Unfortunately you were running a bit late so Beomgyu was already sitting and sipping at his coffee when you arrived. You quickly ordered before sitting down across from him.

“Beomieee! Oh I’m sorry!” You apologized

“It’s okay sweetheart, you’re here now and thats all that matters.” He said with his usual cheeky smile on his face.

The cafe was quite packed, so it was pretty noisy but you two were able to drown everything out with your conversations. You both missed each other very much. Due to the busy cafe it also took a while for your order to get done. By the time it was you and beomgyu decided to continue your date at a nearby park and have a nice walk. He had to use the bathroom first though, and you had to get your drink. So thats what you two did.

Unfortunately for you though, just after you got your drink, you accidentally slipped and caused your coffee to spill a little bit onto the shoes of a nearby customer.

“Oh my goodness I’m so sorry!! I didn’t mean to-“

“Are you fucking kidding me?!?! You bitch!!! These are brand new and now theyre ruined!”

“I didn’t mean to! I’ll pay to have them cle-“

“God you’re so fucking stupid! Didn’t you hear me they’re ruined! How can someone be so clumsy?! There wasn’t even anything there!! Fucki-“

“Oh sweetheart whats going on- WOOOOOAAHHHHH!!!” Beomgyu suddenly showed up out of nowhere and then (purposely and quite dramatically) fell and also spilled his coffee on this customer, though this time it spilled on the rest of their outfit too.

“WHAT THE FUCK!” They yelled and you could only cover your mouth in shock.

“Dang these floors are so slippery! don’t you think?? Everyone be careful okay!!” He chuckled as he still stayed there on the floor.

“Beomgyu are you okay??” You asked as you helped him up.

“Are you?” He asked concerned as he held onto you softly.

“Are you fucking kidding me?!? You just ruined my outfit!!!” This customer bellowed before you even had the chance to answer him.

“And you yelled at my lovely girlfriend for a simple accident. Listen, you have every right to be upset. it’s understandable. Hell she would’ve been upset if you did the same to her. However you had NO. Right to yell at her and talk to her the way you just did. She said she was sorry yet you still found it necessary to berate her in front of everyone. So yeah. I find it necessary to have the rest of your tacky outfit ruined. Even though what I did was an accident too.” He said with a smirk, clearly showing everyone who was still watching, that it was in fact NOT an accident.

“But yknow what? Here.” He explained before opening his wallet and throwing a good couple of bills at them. “Take this to go get those cleaned, or yknow, get better clothes that not only look better but wouldn’t be ruined by simple coffee. Come on my sweet.” He continued as he lead you to the door of the cafe.

And with that the both of you left.

“You okay darling?”

“Yea.. but you shouldn’t have done that beomie” you pouted at him. “I mean thank you! But ruining their outfit was-“

“Sorry to say sweetheart but I couldn’t care less about their outfit. Whoever is mean to my girl especially over something so trivial deserved that kind of treatment okay? I’ll always stick up for you my sweet. Never forget that. Plus, it waaaaas an accident” he said with his cheeky smile again. While you still felt a little bad, you could only chuckle and roll your eyes at this silly boy you call your lovely boyfriend.

“Thank you once again my prince” You said after giving him a sweet kiss on the cheek.

“For whaaat? It was an accident!”

“Oh stop it!!” You laugh

“You’re welcome my sweet”

Taehyun

You were never the biggest fan of the gym, however you always note that it’s not that bad. It gets you healthier when you need to feel like it, gets you to get out of the house a bit more and best of all, you get to spend time with your gym rat of a boyfriend. Who you love to look at when he’s all sweaty.

You don’t come as often as he does, you only join him like about twice a week sometimes just once. Sometimes it’s even once a month but you still go occasionally. Just to fill in some gaps in your schedule. Furthermore because you’re not the biggest fan of the gym, you do usually only very light workouts, again just to get your heart pumping and muscles moving, and usually people don’t have an issue with that. You’re healthy and thats all that matters.

Yet for some reason some people decided to be very judgy today. Typically you always have your music playing to focus on yourself, but while you were taking a break and making light convo with your boyfriend, your ears couldn’t help but pick up the chatter of nearby gym goers that can’t mind their own business.

“She barely did anything here and she’s talking about leaving already?”

“And she wanted to get fried chicken too like dang that bare minimum of a workout is really gonna go to waste huh?”

“Why is she even here?”

Taehyun who was putting on his hand wraps to have his boxing training session also couldn’t help but hear and lets say he wasn’t pleased. You took notice of that and simply patted his shoulders.

“It’s fine baby” You smiled at him.

“They shouldn’t be saying that.” He grumbled

“Hey its whatever..” You said trying to reassure him, but also yourself. ‘Cause to be honest, you couldn’t help but start to feel maybe you should workout a bit harder.

“No. Here baby put these on.” He said as he suddenly gave you some hand wraps too.

“Tyunnie, it-“

“No come one, lets have some fun” he cut you off with a smirk.

And how could you say no to that?

While you and Taehyun didn’t share your love of workouts or gym equipments, what you did share was your love for martial arts, specifically boxing. While Taehyun mainly did it for its physical benefits, yours was its mental benefits. It was kinda fun throwing punches and showing your strength that way, a good way to get all your anger and frustrations out too.

Plus when you first started doing it you realized you kinda had a knack for it too. So with Taehyun’s encouragement, and some slight anger towards those comments, you put on your gloves and started sparing with him. And let’s just say your punches and kicks were LOUD. People from across the room could hear and kinda feel it.

But mainly you and Taehyun just had fun, he constantly reassured you that you were doing a good job, you still had it, and he’s happy you’re here with him. Once you two were done, even though you were exhausted you two became a giggly mess. You quickly packed up and left to go home and still order some nice delicious fried chicken.

“Thank you baby” You said as you fed him some chicken.

“No worries my strong princess” He chuckled.

Hueningkai

You and your boyfriend, Hueningkai, had many common interests, from movies to food, one of the cuter interests you two shared are plushies. You both just LOVE plushies. How fluffy they can be, how soft and squishy they are, their cuteness. Like whats not to love really? The amount of plushies you share is quite concerning but hey! They make you both happy!

Today you decided to go out to see a new movie that came out, but you still had some time before the movie started so you decided to look around the mall first. You had no destination in mind, just wanted to walk and talk with your boyfriend before, hopefully, enjoying this new movie.

However as you continued your stroll you came across a new store that had just opened and was filled to the brim with the cutest teddy bears you’ve ever seen, and they came in every size you can think of. From teeeeny tiny to massive teddy bears that fills the corner of the room. So without much thought and a huge gasp you dragged hueningkai inside to check it out.

Quite the understatement to say you were having a blast checking out all the adorable teddy bears they had. They even had clothes for these bears. However excited you were, you didn’t actually have the intention to buy any, but Hueningkai being the angel he is offered to get you one.

“Are you sure?”

“Oh come on its like you don’t know me. Come on I’ll get one for myself. Our teddy bears can be dating too!” He said with his angelic smile.

Now thats an offer you couldn’t refuse!

So you two picked out your teddy bears and dressed them in matching outfits. You then left making your way to the movie theater, as the movie would be starting soon, but you couldn’t stop giggling and hugging your bear. It was just so cute and fluffy. You still had your bear in your arms as you waited in line to get your snacks, when suddenly the people behind you started whispering.

“What a fricken weirdo.”

“I know right? What is she? 5??”

“Exactly! Like who the hell would willingly carry that around?”

“Why would you still even want one at her age?”

Then it was followed by snickers. It made you gulp and as much as you hate to admit it, embarrassed. You were never ashamed of your love for plushies but hearing that just isn’t nice. You started to slowly try to put your plushie back into the bag the store gave you, when Hueningkai gave your hand a firm squeeze.

“Oh look honey, it’s our turn. So what do you two want?

“I.. huh? Us two?” You looked at him confused.

“Yeah! You and this cutiepie! And what should I get him too?” Hueningkai explained as he pinched your cheek, the teddys nose and then pulled out his own too.

“O-oh!” You giggled before answering what you wanted, and just some gummies for the plushies.

“What a great idea!” He added before ordering, then carrying the snacks for you, and sweetly asking you to carry his teddy for him.

As you two made your way to your designated theater you did catch the judging eyes of the people behind you.

“You didn’t have to do that you know hyuka” You pouted.

“Do what?” He asked with a tilt of his head.

“You know.. now those people think you’re a weirdo too”

“Why should we care? I don’t feel like a weirdo for liking cute soft things, and neither should you honey. These things make us happy! I don’t think we’re weird for that, and hey if it is, lets be weirdos together hmm?” He said, again with that angelic smile and a cute raised eyebrow. And you know, he’s right.

“You’re right, these cuties do make us happy.”

“Mmmmhm! So lets go! The movie is about to start!”

“Okay! Oh! And thank you hyuka”

“Anything for my cutie”

.✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ✧.

© mimikittysblog 2024

[cass-sturn]

It was the next day, and you decided to go to a different coffee shop in town. You saw it yesterday on your walk and told yourself that you would come here tomorrow.

The coffee shop in town was small but cute, the kind of place where everyone probably knew each other's names. A bell jingled as I stepped inside, the scent of freshly brewed coffee wrapping around me like a warm hug. It was cozy and had dim lighting; soft music was playing in the back, and a few locals scattered around chatting or doing work.

I walked up to the counter, scanning the menu even though I already knew I just needed a simple iced vanilla latte. The barista, a girl around my age with short Auburn hair and a friendly smile, greeted me.

“New face,” she said, tilting her head curiously. “You just move to Brookdale?”

I nodded. “Yeah, two days ago. I’m Y/N.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Leah.” She wiped her hands on her apron. “What can I get you?”

“Just an iced vanilla latte, please.”

As Leah punched in my order, the bell above the door jingled again. I glanced over my shoulder and, of course, it had to be him. Chris.

His hoodie was pulled over his head, his hands stuffed into his pockets, and he looked like he had already had a long morning. His eyes met mine, and for a brief moment, something unreadable flickered across his face----surprise maybe.

“Small town,” I said with a smirk.

He huffed a quiet laugh, stepping up beside me. “Yeah, you’ll get used to that.”

Leah glanced between us, her eyes narrowing slightly before her lips curved into a knowing grin. “You two know each other?”

“Neighbors,” I answered at the same time Chris said, “Not really.”

I shot him a look, raising an eyebrow. “Wow. That was convincing.”

Chris sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “We just met yesterday,” he clarified.

“Mm-hmm,” Leah hummed, clearly amused. “Well, in a town like this, you’ll probably see each other a lot.” She turned back to me. “Your coffee will be ready in a sec.”

I stepped aside while Chris ordered his drink. He seemed distracted, glancing at his phone a couple of times before shoving it back into his pocket.

I debated whether or not to ask, but before I could, Leah slid my coffee across the counter,

“Here you go, Y/N. First ones on the house---welcome to Brookdale.”

“Seriously?” I smiled. “Thanks, that's really sweet.”

“Don't mention it.”

Chris grabbed his drink a moment later, and for a second, it looked like he was about to leave without another word. But then he hesitated, glancing at me.

“You headed back?” he asked nodding, towards the door.

“Yeah, figured I'd walk around a bit first.”

He hesitated again, then sighed. “Mind if I walk with you?”

I blinked, surprised. “I mean… sure?”

Chris nodded, pushing the door open and holding it for me. As we stepped outside, the crisp morning air hit me, making me grateful for my hoodie. We walked in silence for a moment, the only sound was the crunch of gravel under our feet.

“You really moved here for a fresh start?” he asked suddenly.

I glanced at him. “Yeah. Why?”

He shrugged. “Just…people usually move away from Brookdale, not to it.”

I exhaled a small laugh. “Well, guess I’m the exception.”

Chris didn’t respond right away, just sipped his coffee and kept walking.

“How long have you lived here?” I asked.

“All my life.”

“Do you like it?”

He exhaled a breath that sounded almost like a laugh, but it wasn’t amused. “Some days more than others.”

I didn’t push. I could tell there was more behind that answer, but something about Chris made me feel like if I pried too much, he’d shut down completely.

We walked past a row of old brick buildings, the kind that has probably been here for decades. A bookstore, a bakery, a florist with colorful arrangements displayed outside. It was nice. Peaceful.

Chris glanced at me again. “So, what are you running from?”

I stopped walking. “What makes you think I was running from something?”

He stopped too, looking at me with an unreadable expression. “Because no one picks a place like Brookdale unless they’re looking for somewhere to disappear.”

His words settled between us, heavier than I had expected.

I wasn’t sure what surprised me more --- the fact that he saw right through me or the fact that I didn’t mind.

Hey! I'm really glad you like my writing. I put a lot of time and effort into creating it, so please be respectful and don’t copy or use it as your own. Feel free to use it for inspiration, but copying without permission isn’t okay. Thanks for understanding!

I am gonna try my best to get the next part out tonight!

With so much love, Cass!

Taglist:

@sturnsblogs @ilovesturn @chrissweetheart @ofeliasturnz @bigbombaclatttt @mattsturnsbows @starstrucktyrantinfluencer

dividers from: @saradika-graphics

[beanzwrites]

Enough Adventuring for One Day

Pairing: Dean x Sister! reader x Sam

Description: The Winchester's sister gets lost in a store.

Warning: Separation, anxiety attack 

-‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’--‘๑’-

     (Y/n) follows her brothers into a local grocery store. It was a large building, with high concrete walls and a ceiling that towers over the sectioned shelving. Red, yellow, and blue stripes follow along the edge of the interior, like an Elementary school does to add 'excitement'. 

        "OK," Sam says as he takes out a folded list from his flannel pocket. "We just need the basics. We can start with- Dean! Where are you going?"

        "They have cakes over here," Dean says in an obvious tone, "They might be on sale."

        "That's not essential," Sam sighs as he watches his older brother walk towards the bakery with a childish desire. "I guess it's just me and you, bug."

        (Y/n) obediently waits behind Sam as he analyzes the prices of lunch meat. She holds in a bored sigh as she lazily looks around. The young Winchester's eyes seem to brighten as she notices a small aisle of room decorations. Even though she's not home a lot, doesn't mean she can't admire the aesthetic objects of the store.

        The girl scrolls down the different comforters and figurines until a painting on the top shelf catches her eye. The moon on the canvas cascades over a lake and a shadow of trees; its reflection ripples through the waters like a pale entity. Orbs of colorful light dance about the scene like frilly dresses at a lively ball.

        The inspired energy that the girl got from it didn't last, however. (Y/n) casually glances to where Sam was, only to find that he was gone. She quickly looks back and fourth from the walkway to see if she could spot him. With no luck, and panic starting to settle, she backtracks to the bakery to find Dean.

        Tears form in her eyes as she turns the corner to find that he disappeared as well. She begins to feel claustrophobic as she helplessly looks around for her brothers.

        The world begins to spin and it feels like she is slowly falling. Her cheeks become wet and she knows the dam in her eyes finally broke. (Y/n) is scared.

        A large hand grabs her shoulder and the Winchester jolts forward defensively. Her fist connects to the palm of Dean's hand. "Whoa there," Dean grins, "I know we told you to keep your guard up, but gee. That could've hurt someone." His eyes glance over her shoulder, " I found her, Sammy."

        Sam walks over and grabs (Y/n) by the arms. "Don't ever wander off without telling me again," he says sternly. "One minute I thought you were right behind me, then I look and your missing. What if something bad-"

        "Lay off her," Dean says, "(Y/n), you okay? you don't look so hot."

        Sam stops his ranting and notices his sister's pale expression. "You feeling well?" He questions as he feels her forehead with the back of his hand.

        "I- I couldn't find you. I'm sorry- I was looking at a painting and was going to go back to you, but when I did, you were gone. S-so, I went back to the bakery to find Dean, but he was gone too-"

        "Hey, hey." It's alright. You're okay," Sam coos, brushing away a few stray tears rolling down her face. "I'm sorry I blew up."

        "Yeah," Dean butts in, "Don't cry, cause I got you cake."

        "For her?" Sam spectates with a raised brow, "Really?"

        "Of course," Dean bickers back.

        "Can we just stick together while Sam finishes his shopping... Please?" (Y/n) interjects, "I think I've done enough adventuring for today."

[kairiscorner]

“promise me you won't change. — kento nanami x reader”

summary: after catching up with you, 10 years after you two first met, nanami feels all weirdly sentimental and... he wishes you can stay as happy as you are, now, even if he isn't the reason why you stayed as amazing, as friendly and optimistic as you were back then in high school. word count: 2,008 (i got carried away) genre: angst.

he stares into his glass full of sake, the ripples in the drink fanning out as he does nothing but hold the drink. he doesn't feel thirsty, but his mouth is dry; he hasn't felt this way in a while, at least not this strongly. you look over at him and scoot a little closer. "hey, you okay, nanami?" you ask him, hoping he didn't feel too sleepy that he can't go home on his own. his eyelids are hooded and slowly blinks, though he doesn't look drunk, in fact, he hasn't even drank the sake—he's just... kind of out of it. you have no idea what nanami's been up to for the past 10 years, and uncharacteristically of you, you don't ask him right away. you hesitate and drift the conversation to small talk, which you're very aware he still hates.

he's always been the reserved fellow, he'd answer you in a blunt, straightforward way, he would spare as much details about himself as he could, which made it all the more harder for you to connect with him. nanami's golden brown eyes shifted to see you staring at him, with him raising his eyebrows and exhaling as he leaned back on the couch. "...i'm fine." he mumbles out as he lifts the glass to his thin lips.

he looks like a corpse, a ghost even—he's alive, but he's not... living.

you couldn't feel any more pity for him, though you felt guilty for feeling that way because, what did you know about him? you re-enter his life by accident 10 years after high school, and all of a sudden, you seem to care about him enough to take him to a local bar and hope he drinks at least so you don't feel any more crappy about the awkward situation you two are in tonight. you nod without even looking at him and down your drink, sighing as you drank it all in one gulp, wiping away the drops of your drink that was left on your lips. you call for a waiter to get you two more drinks, while nanami ends up staring at you now, and takes in all that'd changed about you. you looked more mature, that was a given; it seemed adulthood didn't plague you as much as it did for him, it was a miracle you even recognized him when you encountered him at that bakery one day. it was his haircut that made you recognize him, strangely enough; the 7:3 ratio was distinguishable in your eyes no matter how nanami styled it.

nanami broke the silence that lingered for a few minutes after the waiter got you two more drinks. "why did you... invite me out tonight?" he asked you with a fatigue in his tone, he was undoubtedly tired from nearly everything, everything, it seemed, except for you. he didn't feel as forced to go with you, it felt like a splash of cool water was thrown in his face when you pulled him out of his daily routine and offered to catch up with him over some drinks at a local bar.

you let out a soft sigh as you lower your glass and looked at him with a gentle smile on your bright face. nanami could never forget that smile, it stuck with him and was buried deep in the recesses of the back of his mind ever since those 10 years had passed—you shone the whole room with that smile, it was contagious; and nanami felt his face getting warmer, not because of the sting of the alcohol, but because of how genuine you seemed to him. "to be honest... i haven't the slightest clue either why i invited you." you admitted shyly, chuckling lowly to yourself as you shook your glass in a circular motion, laughing a little at the irony of it all.

"i guess... i just wanted to see how much things have changed." you uttered softly, and those words struck chords in nanami's heart; chords that played a familiar melody that resounded back to his adolescence with you, one of the only people who really made his time in high school worthwhile and less like hell. "and i can tell, you haven't changed, nanamin. yeah you, uh... kinda look like you could be a dad or someone's uncle now, but... you're still the same kento nanami i knew from high school; the same serious, stern boy who struggled having fun and had a thing for bread. i'm glad you're still you, nanamin; but you're... kinda refined now. is that weird to say?" you ask him, chuckling as the drunkenness settles in, with you taking another sip from your drink as nanami feels his cheeks flush at your words.

you don't even notice his blush, and even if you did, you'd've brushed it off as a flush of drunkenness—but it's not.

nanami leans forward a little and folds his arms over the table, ignoring the weird stickiness of it and brings his small brown eyes up to look at you, who's been staring at him the whole time in a slight, drunk daze.

"...i'm glad you didn't change, either." he mumbles, slowly rubbing at his eyes after he said that, sighing deeply. why did he say that? who was he to say that? after years of not reaching out to you, sweeping under the rug the fact you two were friends, very close friends in fact—forgetting your name sometimes when you both swore to each other to come through for the other if either of you were ever in trouble...

...it probably was to be expected, adolescents never know what real trouble is in the adult world; the awful mundanity of every day life was a subtle trouble that became permanent, with neither of you being able to save the other from it, or the traumas of what transpired in your high school years.

you laughed aloud and set you drink down, oh that laugh of yours... nanami could listen to you laugh all day and night, and he'd never get sick of it—he'd only wanna make you laugh even more, even if it was the stupidest thing to ever laugh at for someone in the right state of mind.

"you're glad i'm still sweet and naive?" you jokingly asked him with a snicker, emptying out your glass as nanami shook his head, maintaining eye contact with you. "not that... i mean... you're still so bright. so eager, so friendly. you're still you." he muttered, feeling a weird heaviness plaguing his heart. it wasn't a curse grabbing onto his chest right now, it was more like an intangible one, a purely emotional one that was his alone—it was a melancholic longing for someone who was right in front of him, you.

"you're... still the person i love. and i wish... you won't ever get hurt again, even if... i can't save you all the time. i want to, though, but..." he mumbled out, with you not hearing since you were already getting a lot more drunk. nanami didn't hope for you to hear it, at least partially—if anything... he hopes you wouldn't change, but not because he confided in your drunk self that he's still in love with you, his closest friend and ally that he regrets never meeting up with, wasting those 10 years without you in his life.

as you call for a waiter to come over and refill your glass, nanami takes your glass away from you, much to your disdain, pays the bill, and helps you up carefully as he takes you out of the bar, calling a cab for the two of you so he could help take you and your drunken self home.

during the cab ride, nanami made sure to keep you warm, to let you rest against him to feel comfortable, and to hold you a little whenever the cab drove over a pothole. he looked at you with such soft eyes as you dozed off, with him brushing the hair away from your face, berating himself for taking this long to see you again when you... you had the courage to talk to him, after all this time.

"...i have the feeling that saving you once won't make up for the 10 years i've spent without you. i want... to be yours." he whispered as he adjusted his coat on you, making up in his mind that he's letting you keep it, no questions asked. nanami managed to get you to your home, he paid attention when you told him where you lived by, should he ever visit you, as you put it. nanami would love to visit you, but... he's scared. he's scared that his first visit may be his last; and that might be too pessimistic of him, but realistically speaking, now that he's revisiting the world of jujutsu sorcery and has a new responsibility over the students at jujutsu high...

...it's not far off that he might never be able to visit you again, that tonight might be your last night together—nobody knows.

you drunkenly told nanami where you kept your spare key, after almost half an hour of you telling him he looks like he skipped 20 years of his life over those 10 years of you two not meeting. nanami sat you down on the couch and made sure you were comfy; surely, you could take care of yourself in the morning. nanami didn't need to overstep any boundaries here—entering your apartment while you were drunk, even to help you in, was already too much in his opinion; he didn't want to invade any more of your privacy.

"wait... aren't you... gonna say good bye?" you mumbled out in a slurred voice, calling out to nanami before he closed the door to your apartment to lock it from the outside, uncertain if he'll ever come back again. his brown eyes dart over to you, stirring over by the couch, groaning and grumbling for him to bid you goodbye. you were always like that, asking him for a farewell every time before you two parted—another thing he regret not giving you before 10 years had passed without ever seeing you until now.

he clutched the doorknob tightly, not wanting to say goodbye; but he owed you this much, more, even. "...good bye." he uttered, as if he felt cuts all over his body when he muttered those two words. you giggled and waved your hand at him with a lopsided grin on your face, telling him, "bye-bye!" as he closed the door and locked it, putting your spare key back where it was.

nanami inhaled the cold evening air and walked down the stairs of your apartment, despite every voice in his mind urging him to go back and to keep you company for the night—to stay with you until morning, care for you if you're hungover, and tell you when you're sober, when you can remember everything, that he loves you.

...but even if he loves you, he can't stay.

he is the same, the same kento nanami; he, who never stayed.

he, who could never stay.

he, who loves you dearly, but can never stay long enough to let you know that.

he, who could never live with himself if you got attached to him again... only to lose him once more, permanently.

if he could at least have things in his life go the way he wants it, for once... he hopes that if he leaves again, permanently or not... you'll live your life in peace, even without him.

"forget me, and be happy... the two things in life i ask for, and won't ever ask for anything more." he mutters to himself as a single tear rolled down his chiseled cheek, and fell down on the ground beneath his feet; a memento of him, which like him... would never be able to stay.

🍞 tags !! @rohansdisciple @meeom @patchi-chi

[bellesdreamyprofile]

chapter 12 - 1953

previous part

ELVIS PRESLEY

There's so many things you can do to feel something. To feel alive. Buzzy smokes, his cousin works in construction and Paul steals from the local bakery. That's what they did to feel something. That's what they did to feel alive.

And there I was in front of Sam Phillips' studio wondering the same thing. What can I do to feel that something? What can I do to feel alive? And why have my feet carried me right here?

In reality it was Cece who brought me here. Cece's letters made me think about life, about relationships and about my dreams. What can I do to feel that something? What can I do to feel alive?

Sing.

"I'm sorry, honey, but Sam ain't here this week."

"Ma'am, I-I promise I sound good."

Marion Keisker was Sam's assistant at Sun Records. She was a relatively short lady with big, chunky glasses framing her face. Her short, blond locks complimented her features. One thing I knew about Marion is that she could easily be bribed with a few pastries. Which Paul stole just this morning.

I pulled out two pastries I had wrapped in a napkin. "I bought them just for you, ma'am. I know you liked these.", I hoped the glimmer in my eyes and my knowing smile didn't throw her off.

She raised an eyebrow and sheepishly took the pastries from my hold. "How'd you know these are my favorites?", she asked and bit into the cream-filled sweet.

I shrugged and looked away. "Wild guess.", she hummed as if she knew something I didn't and turned around to grab a pen.

"Alright, darling, you've convinced me.", Marion grabbed her notebook and looked at me. "Full name?"

"Elvis Presley.", as I answered I felt my heart skip a beat. As if it felt some sort of connection to the dream I had all those years ago.

Marion looked up again. "What kind of singer are you?"

What kind of singer was I?

"I sing all kinds.", her lips parted at my answer. 

"Well... Who do you sound like?", she gave me a tight lipped smile. 

There was no way my answer wouldn't sound cocky. I wasn't particularly confident, but I was sure of what I was about to say. "I don't sound like nobody."

Marion's lips parted, her eyes wandered on my figure and then back on my face. I felt a shiver down my spine at the unfamiliarity. "I'm gonna write down good ballad singer.", she finally replied and I watched as she scribbled down the words on the small sheet of paper. I doubt Sam was ever gonna see anything written on that small thing.

"I have my own song.", she turned around as she straightened her back.

"You do?", I nodded and pulled out Cece's letter from my pocket.

"Well, I-I wasn't the one who wrote it, ma'am.", I frantically explained. "My best friend wrote it and she allowed me to sing it."

"You got an original.", she thought out loud and then moved her gaze on my letter. "May I?", I blinked in confusion until I realized she wanted to take a look at the lyrics.

I handed the sheet of paper to her. "Of course.", I watched the lady's eyes wander on every word and then go back to reread it again. It seemed forever until she spoke up.

"You think you can play it right now? I won't be recording it, but just so I know who I'm working with.", she looked up and my heart skipped a beat at her words.

I obviously agreed without thinking about it twice. "S-Sure, ma'am."

"Grab a guitar darling and I'm all ears." 

CECE MARTIN

The reason my mama found the courage to leave my daddy seemed to be because he had another family. I don't have vivid memories of any moment in particular, but I do remember that sensation. It's like the betrayal lingered in the air and stayed there until someone actually did something. 

Certainly, the only way to fix their problems seemed to be by shouting nonsense and occasionally throwing vases at each other. And then my daddy would leave without calling anyone for days with my mama worrying to death. I remember he once showed up two weeks later, saying he stayed at his cousin's place. A cousin even my mama knew nothing of. Despite the obvious lie my mama bought for truth, he came back, stayed and left again. We were both used to that kind of process. It became a routine.

Then at some point he never came back.

Staying in California with his new family made me remember something I thought was lost in the back of my brain. Maybe it was the bad weather outside that triggered that memory or perhaps the familiar smell.

"Naomi, for the love of god, stop being such a bitch all the time.", from the safety of my room I heard my daddy's voice calling over my stepmother's.

"How can't I be if I don't know what you're up to?"

I heard footsteps near my room, though my thumping heart was louder. "I said it's just work. Take it or leave it."

"It's not just work if you're out past seven, John."

And that was when I heard it.

The smash of a glass bottle. It didn't take me a long time to come to the realization that it was alcohol what my father had just destroyed.

"John! The kids!"

Naomi's tone didn't falter. I imagined her standing up to my daddy's manipulative actions and I admired her. After her exclamation it was like my brain had shut down. The room started spinning and my ears started creating a beeping noise. I walked up to my bed, sat down and pressed my hands to my forehead. My eyes forcefully shut at the sudden pain I was feeling all over my body. 

And that was when I heard the hunting words that my brain seemed to have purposely forgotten.

"I have a better family waiting for me."

"I have a better wife who will look after me."

"I have better children who will love me."

"Cece?", I shuddered at the sudden physical touch. I opened my eyes and found Naomi kneeling in front of me and Matilda's hand on my shoulder. Their eyes showed nothing other than worry and affection, but all I could focus on was the pungent smell of alcohol. Probably from the same bottle my father destroyed moments ago. My eyes closed again as I tried to focus on my breathing pattern.

"It's all okay, honey."

"No one can hurt you."

That was all I could make out. My eyes watered as I felt utterly hopeless for reasons I wasn't even at fault for. I didn't make a mistake, I didn't disappoint nobody. And I was crying.

"Listen carefully, Cece.", I looked down and noticed the seriousness in my stepmother's eyes. She grasped both of my hands and squeezed them. "I love you like one of my own, honey, never forget that, okay?", I nodded as I pressed my lips together to muffle my cries.

"This environment hasn't done you any good a-and I'm afraid it's not gonna get any better.", one of her hands delicately brushed away my tears. "Tomorrow you'll be back to your mama in Memphis.", my hand untangled from hers as I pressed it against my mouth. Naomi's hand brushed my hair, trying to calm me down.

"I called her a week ago and she can't wait to have you back, darling.", through my blurry sight I noticed her own eyes filling up with tears.

"A mother's pain is something that can't be compared to anything in this world.", she continued and lowered her gaze. "I regret not stopping John the day he tore you away from her, I really do— believe me Cece.", my head fell on her shoulder and that was when she took me in her arms.

"I love the little lady you've grown into, honey.", she whispered. "You'll see, everyone will be so happy to see you, yes?"

She pulled away, letting Matilda wrap an arm around my shoulder. Her mother looked at me with a small smile.

"You're going home, honey."

A/N: thank you for reading. love you all so much <3

index chapter 13

[aotopmha]

I have been really feeling the limitations of my physical disability recently.

I didn't use to rely on public transport this much for just general movement – I only used it to go to places I really needed to which were a decent distance away from where I needed to go (which I actually very much regret because it was free to me for a while as part of my disability and no longer isn't; I should have used the opportunity more, our public transport is not perfect, but decent enough to be used without massive issues).

Today that reached an high point where I completely forgot to check in my ticket card (we have a card check-in system with busses where you add money or a specific type of ticket to it and use it on a check-in device installed in the bus each time you enter the bus) and got a fine for it as a result for the first time in my life due to a regular inspection.

It was a mess of a ride because the bus was packed and people fainted and ER had to be called, but I still had a bunch of time to check in and just forgot. I was even going to recheck just in case, but inspection hit first, so it was all me.

(Which at the very least was after the ER incident.)

And I realised just how much I have been using transport to get to places because of how exhaustion has now turned into pain, awkwardness and discomfort when walking mildly longer distances.

Not super extreme pain, but rather milder annoying pain, which coupled with all of the above has really been testing my limitations in a way I'm not used to.

And at the start of the year I was feeling especially great about my progress, having gotten into a great routine for working on my walking and posture and everything great coming with it.

I was finally able to find a daily exercise routine that really worked for me and it did wonders to my physical and emotional health.

Current wip theory is that I ended up overdoing it and I'm feeling the consequences in all facets, in unexpected ways.

And I hate it.

I finally found courage and desire to not let my disability limit myself so much – actually exploring the city and trying stuff I've never tried before, actually spending more time outside and enjoying it.

I used to do the bare minimum in terms of going outside because I didn't think there was anything to do because I didn't have friends or money and both are still in fairly limited quantities for me, but recently I started exploring local food places since none of them are hyper-expensive and even if they are, I realised it's okay to treat yourself a few times in a month if you budget properly and keep things balanced.

I realised it's okay to get yourself something good from a local bakery or sushi or burger place occasionally, to add more spice in your life.

Through that also have started to try and diversify and be more smart about my diet as much as possible, too. It's been a gradual process since I moved to just get into a proper self-caring routine.

Eating healthy/properly nutritious and diverse food, keeping up proper hygiene, getting all my chores and responsibilities done as soon as they need to be done, exercising regularly.

Even the fact that I one day decided it's okay to use some of my money for non-essential stuff like games or manga was a long journey because of how limited my money has been my whole life.

In fact, the fine I got isn't too much of a hit because I have been budgeting properly for any possible hits.

And it all has culminated in me genuinely enjoying to go outside, even if it's just a 10-minute walk for groceries.

But hey, guess what, seems my knee decided otherwise and decided it makes my leg an awkward stick after anything more extensive than some walking.

I'm probably going to pull back on my outside time as a first step to see how it effects my walking and really figure out my current limitations and then see how active I can be within those limitations.

And maybe then take a look at further medical help since I've already told my doctors.

I very much fucking hate it, though.

But I'm also very grateful because many people in my position don't have this opportunity to live as full life as possible with the disabilities they live with.

I think I would be at a much more difficult place would I not have a disability pension or some opportunities offered to me to better myself, even as imperfect as they are. And oh boy is it imperfect, but I very much value it.

[sl-newsie]

Spook House (Dr. Spencer Reid x OC Coworker) *Halloween Special* 🎃

Summary: Penelope is too scared to go into a spook house and she gets some encouragement from one of their coworkers (Cindy), who seems to take a liking to a certain boy genius. Rossi and Hotch try to give them a push.

“But they’re so much fun!” I beg Penelope as I hand over her daily coffee.

“No, they’re over-the-top nightmares that will give me a heart attack!” She argues and swivels back in her chair.

Just then Rossi walks in. “What’s this all about?”

“Garcia’s too scared to go into a spook house,” I grin. “Halloween’s my favorite holiday and I thought we could do a team activity.”

“Really, you like Halloween? I couldn’t tell.” Rossi’s obviously being sarcastic in regards to me and Garcia’s outfits: she’s wearing an orange pumpkin shirt, a hairpiece made of black and green feather and ribbons, and black and white oxford pumps. I’m wearing a black corset-style dress with purple patterns, black victorian boots, and a dark purple witch hat.

“Actually that might be a good idea,” Rossi comments. “We haven’t had a- what was it you called it Garcia? A ‘team-building extravaganza’ in a long time. And I just happen to know of a charity haunted house that’s set up a few blocks down from me.”

Penelope groans. “Sure, the coffee girl gets a crazy idea to scare me to death and you go along with it.”

“Hey! I might just be the coffee runner around here, but I still have good ideas!”

“You’re more than a coffee runner, Cindy.” Reid catches our conversation and gives me a warm smile. He always makes me feel so important.

“Yeah, Garcia wouldn’t survive without your coffee deliveries,” Morgan jokes from outside.

By now the rest of the team has shown up, looking confused by our festive attire.

“I thought Halloween was this weekend?” Prentiss asks.

“It is, but Garcia and I have been dressing up like this all month.”

“My favorite outfit was your vampire dress,” Reid comments. “I like how you included the historically accurate Victorian brooch with your choker.”

Morgan scoffs. “Seriously? You’ve been dressing up all month?” 

“Leave it to Reid to notice the strange and unusual,” I chuckle and share a look with Garcia. “I guess since we dress so differently on a daily basis nobody seems to observe when we wear holiday clothes.”

“I was just telling them about a decorated house that donates its profits to the local fire department,” Rossi tells Hotch.

The stern leader actually seems, what’s the expression? Excited. And when Hotch is excited then we all better enjoy it while it lasts.

“I haven’t been to a spook house since college. Maybe this team activity is a good idea, that is if Garcia is up for it.”

We all give the blonde computer geek hopeful looks, even Reid whips out his pleading puppy eyes.

“So whaddya say, Penelope?” Morgan smirks. “Too scared to try something new?”

She rolls her eyes and waves her hands at him. “Fine. I will try it, but only because Cindy wants to do a team-building extravaganza and because there’s a bakery that makes the best pumpkin cookies on the way there.”

“That’s good enough for me!” I celebrate and clink coffee mugs with Reid, who’s sharing the same smile. Perfect! A Halloween team activity in a spook house and spending time with Reid! It’s like Christmas came early!

In the next few days we buy tickets and make plans to meet at the bakery. Friday finally comes and so far fate’s been kind to us because there’s been no new cases. Odd since it’s this time of year. Before we leave the office Rossi calls me back and asks me to meet him at his house before we meet the others.

“Why?” I ask with an arched brow.

“Just to talk, nothing too serious.”

Something tells me he’s downplaying whatever it is he wants to talk about, and it makes me wonder if he’s having any problems with his exes. After parking my bike in Rossi’s driveway he meets me outside and hands me a flashlight.

“Just being prepared. Never know how dark it’s gonna be. I see you’ve come appropriately dressed?”

Indeed, I’ve come dressed as a bloody nurse.

I roll my eyes. “It’s only once a year! Why pass up the opportunity?” We both climb into his car. “Now will you tell me what’s wrong? Is someone in trouble?”

The Italian agent shakes his head and starts the engine. “No, no. I just want to talk about how you’ve been, Cindy. How’s the family?”

Oh. “Everyone’s fine, honest. My brother’s almost through with college, and the folks are having fun in Arizona. We keep in touch, and I’ve kept busy with my job at the office and my community theatre group. But why the sudden interest? Have I done something wrong?”

“Do you always assume something’s wrong?” Rossi chuckles. “It’s just that, Hotch and I were talking earlier…”

“Uh-oh, that’s trouble,” I smirk.

“Haha, very funny. We were talking and were wondering if by chance you and Reid might like each other.”

My train of thought flies off the rails and crashes, burning any rational thoughts from my head and causing me to clutch my flashlight much more tightly.

“W- What would give you that idea?”

“Well you two seem to really enjoy each other’s company,” he explains as he starts driving.

I nod slowly. “Yes, we both enjoy shared topics. And both of us are not currently in a relationship.”

“Why not give it a shot?”

“Because Reid’s never expressed any interest. I feel we both think our work comes first, and I don’t want to jeopardize our relationship for some silly romantic idea.”

Rossi grins and pulls up next to the bakery, “Ouch, I think the air just got colder. Don’t take it the wrong way Cindy, but you and Reid deserve to find a good relationship. You’re both young, don’t rush into it and things will fall into place.”

We both get out and spot the others waiting inside, and seeing Reid’s cute Halloween tie paired with a purple vest almost makes me forget how flustered I am. Before we get to the door I give Rossi a pointed look.

“Now please promise me you won’t blab to Reid about my stupid crush?”

He opens the door, causing a bell to sound with a cheerful ding! And allows me inside. “On my honor.”

Inside the bakery there’s Halloween decorations everywhere, as well as a big display with fall-themed baked goods. 

“Hey, guys!” Garcia scurries up and hands me a muffin. She sees my bloody makeup and her eyes widen. “Very… gory costume, Cindy. Anyways, you’ve got to try their pumpkin muffins! They’re just as good as the cookies! I swear this place can put pumpkin in anything and make it taste like Heaven!”

“Welcome welcome, Cindy and Rossi.” Prentis says from a booth. “All you’ve missed is the past 15 minutes of Penelope getting us all hyped on a sugar high. Ready to get scared?”

Rossi leaves to go chat with Hotch, making me double-think what they’re saying.

“You betcha! I’m guessing JJ’s trick-or-treating with Henry?”

“Yeah, she says she’s sorry for missing the team activity but will make it up to us,” Reid says as he walks up. “Nice costume, by the way. I like how you’re using a well-known comforting profession and changing it to be scary.”

Thankfully the blood covers my blush and I nod. “Yes, plus it’s a warm costume so I won’t freeze. I really like your tie!”

Reid smiles and I feel my heart skip. “I thought of you when I picked it out. I figured since it’s Halloween I’d try to dress up too, but I can’t compare to you and Garcia’s fashion style.”

The computer geek herself is wearing a daisy headpiece, and is getting anxious.

“So are we ready or not? I just want to get this over with.”

“Steady, daisy. We’re going.”

Morgan starts corralling us out the door, with Rossi and Hotch following in the back. I really hope Rossi kept his promise. It doesn’t take long to get to the spook house and I can tell we’re getting close on account of all the screams getting louder. Penelope notices too, but I give her arm a squeeze to show support and she walks straight to the entrance with her head held high. Aside from providing comfort for her, I’m also enjoying watching Spencer point out all the different special effects.

“Wow! Look at the fog detail! And those blood stains! Isn’t it cool, Garcia?”

“Yup. Very scary.” 

“Come on, Penelope. It’s not that bad-”

Suddenly a shrieking banshee flies out from the corner and we all scream, causing Penelope to cling to Morgan for dear life.

“What is wrong with you people?! Why can’t you find fun in something more sane like movie marathons?”

“You wouldn’t like those either,” I grin sinisterly. “Insidious isn’t really your type of movie, Garcia.”

We keep walking, with Prentiss and Reid leading the pack while Penelope and Morgan stay safe in the middle and I’m left to trail behind with Hotch and Rossi. But I can’t help but feel a little disappointed. Seeing Spencer excited about Halloween is really adorable, but I must admit that I wish he’d show a little similarity towards my feelings for him. It’s just like I told Rossi: work comes first. Besides, why would Spencer be interested in a relationship with a coworker? Most times those relationships aren’t as sturdy anyway.

“Something wrong, Cindy?” Hotch asks.

“Yeah, just a little tired. I think I’m gonna check out the haunted asylum room.”

“Ok. Meet us outside when you’re done.”

I’m internally grateful for his understanding and walk off to the sounds of moaning mental patients…

Reid’s POV

Wow, this place is amazing! I was never really into spook houses growing up, however after seeing how exhilarating they can be I might make it a yearly routine! I know it’s all fake but it’s really fascinating to see all the talent and detail that goes into it.

Once we reach the exit I look at Garcia with a devilish grin. “Not too scary, huh?”

She’s pale in the face and nearly squeezing Morgan’s arm clean off. “I am never doing that again! I’ll stick to binge-watching cat videos and eating cherry chocolate!”

I look around for Cindy to compare opinions, but can’t seem to find her.

“Where’s Cindy?”

“I think she got lost,” Rossi says. “She was right behind us.”

We all look back at the dark pathway filled with shrieks and screams and Garcia starts to panic.

“Oh, no. I am not leaving her to be trapped in that spooky place! Go get her, Reid!”

My mind does a double-take. “Um- why?”

“Because you’ve had a crush on her for months and I’m too chicken to go back in! This will be the best time for you to tell her how you feel- during moments of unknown terror.”

Morgan frowns. “Garcia, you do realize a haunted house is very low on our scale of scary right? All this is just decorations and people in costumes.”

“It is people wearing way more makeup than I am, which is scary enough, and getting in my personal space!” She ushers me forward and points to the entrance. “You go get her Reid, and I will stay here being protected by the dashing Agent Morgan.”

The rest of the team doesn’t argue and keeps giving me hinting looks, which means it’s up to me to go get Cindy. Part of me is actually looking forward to spending time alone with Cindy- but I won’t let her know that. She wouldn’t be interested in me romantically- it’s not professional. Right?

I make my way backwards through the haunted house and when I turn a corner I enter a room we never went through: a haunted asylum.

“Die! Die! Die!” A shrieking voice screams and a wailing figure sprints towards me and I fall backwards into a pile of hay bales. I bump my head and it takes me a moment to fully register the sinister-looking shadow.

“Oh my gosh! Spencer, are you ok?” The figure kneels down and helps me sit up. “Does your head hurt?”

The voice is familiar. “Cindy? That’s you?” My eyes start to adjust to the dark and start to recognize the bloody nurse. “I thought you got lost.”

She shakes her head and keeps addressing my wound. “No, I told Hotch and Rossi I’d check this room out. I chatted with one of the workers and they said they wouldn’t mind if I helped scare them for a while. It’s fun!”

“But why did you leave the team? I thought you were having fun. Are we too boring?”

Cindy’s POV

I look away and try to seem occupied with the flashing lights dancing on the wall, but Reid sees right through it.

“You can’t ignore this, Cindy.” He pokes my nose. “I’ll keep pestering you until next Halloween. Now please tell me what’s wrong.”

Oh, how can his puppy eyes make me so compliant?!

“It’s not the team, it’s… something I have to work out on my own.”

“I know you, Cindy. You’ll beat yourself to the bone and never ask for help but that’s not healthy.” He takes my hand and it’s all I can do not to melt on the spot. “Please let me help.”

“You can’t help Spencer because you’re my problem,” I groan. There, I said it!

The brown-eyed geek gets a confused look. “Did I do something wrong?”

Do I have to humiliate myself further and spell it out for him?!

“I love you, you stupid profiler! I’dve thought you’d figure that out by now! I just guessed you don't want anything to do with non-professional relationships so I’ve kept my distance.” I get up from the floor and stomp my foot in anger. “But you make it so hard when you’re so adorable and so nice to me!”

Spencer doesn’t say anything, he just stared at the floor with a lost gaze and his mouth pressed in a straight line. I’m almost too sure I’ve crossed a line and curse myself for being so pathetic. How could I ever think he’d feel the same?

“And now I’ve probably ruined our friendship and made things weird, and I’m so sorry- I’ll just go home. You can tell the team I wasn’t feeling too good-” I go to walk out of the room but then a gentle but sturdy hand grips my hand and I realize Spencer’s caught up with me. “Reid what are you-?”

But I can’t finish because all of a sudden Spencer tenses up, leans in and presses a soft kiss against my lips. Nothing deep, just the whisper of a kiss just in case I don’t like it. So considerate.

He pulls away and at first I think he regrets it, but when I open my eyes he’s got the same anxious expression as I do.

“I didn’t think I’d ever be brave enough to do that,” he whispers. “Cindy you have no idea just how much I care for you. But I also thought you’d never want a romantic relationship, and it’s been so hard not to tell you.”

His confession sends a soft smile spreading over my face and we both chuckle.

“I guess miscommunication is to blame,” I say with a shrug. “Though I thought you weren’t the touchy-feely type like me.”

Spencer rolls his eyes. “Do you have any idea just how many germs are passed through kissing? If I’m kissing or holding hands with anyone it will only be you, Cindy. I… I love you too.” He dares to lean in again and rests his forehead against mine. “And I also notice you try not to call me by my first name. Why’s that?”

My face reddens but thankfully it’s too dark for Spencer to see. “Because… I thought if I said it too much then I’d never think of you as just a coworker. I guess I just used your last name to trick myself into not loving you… but it didn’t work.”

Spencer leans in impossibly closer and whispers into my ear: “Call me Spencer. I love how you say my name.” My heart nearly faints as he leans away and looks at me with curious eyes. “ Sorry that was weird- Um, if you’re up for this, um, whole dating thing, maybe we could catch a movie sometime? Or watch something at your place? Or my place, it really doesn’t matter as long as both parties of the relationship are satisfied-”

I cut off his adorable rambling by grabbing his tie to pull him closer into a deep kiss, one more passionate. Spencer moans in reaction and sets his hands softly on my hips.

“Your place next weekend, Sherlock Holmes marathon? That is unless we get a new case.”

Spencer’s head jerks up and down and he looks as if he just won the lottery. “Y-Yeah! That sounds perfect!”

“Reid! Cindy! You guys back here?” Morgan’s voice calls from the exit.

We both share a look and start walking back, hand-in-hand.

“Guess we better let everyone know we’re still alive,” I smile. “Do you think we should tell them about us?”

Spencer thinks for a minute (I love his face when he thinks!) and then shakes his head. “Sadly I think they’d already know. The team’s know I’ve liked you for months, in fact that’s why they pushed me in to check on you.”

I laugh and squeeze his hand. “Seriously? Rossi asked me earlier if I liked you and said you and I had a shot, but I told him you didn’t think the same. So… does this mean our team set us up for a date?”

Spencer grins and shrugs. “I guess so!”

We make it back to the front and find the others sitting on benches outside.

“There you are! You had me worried sick!” Penelope gushes.

 “Not to worry Penelope, it looks like the boy genius is all the company she needs,” Morgan grins wickedly as he points to our intertwined hands. Once the rest of the team notices we all start getting bombarded with questions and teasing.

“Finally! Took you guys long enough.”

“We’ve been waiting forever!”

“Congratulations! When’s the first date?”

Rossi and Hotch don’t say much and give Spencer and I ghosts of a smile, making me think this was their plan all along. Once all the conversations have ceased and we’ve both been tossed around for questioning we decide it’s time to start heading home.

“Happy Halloween, everyone!” Penelope calls as she and Morgan walk off.

I give Spencer’s hand a squeeze. “Guess it’s time to go. See you Monday?”

He smiles. “I’ll be there, coffee girl.”

“I’ll run some coffee made especially for you!” I grin and kiss his cheek one last time.

After everyone’s said goodnight we go our separate ways, and when Rossi and I climb back into his car I give him a curious smile. “You sending Reid after me didn’t have anything to do with what I told you earlier, right?” 

The Italian doesn’t answer right away and pulls out onto the road. “I’m guessing this team-building extravaganza worked out alright. You said not to tell Reid, so I told Hotch. We both figured we’d help give you guys a push.”

“A-ha. I see.” Thoughts of seeing Spencer again start to get me excited for Monday, and it feels as if my life’s taken on a whole new chapter. “Thanks, Rossi.”

Leave it to the BAU to analyze my life and help me find exactly what, or who, I want. And what makes it even better is that he wants me too.

[thenightfolknetwork]

So I know you don’t answer many questions from- across the pond, as it were, but I don’t need any legal advice, and I’m at my wit’s end. I’m hoping you can help.

So my genus is very small. In point of fact it’s just my family, as far as I know, and it’s only ever one creature active at a time- bunch of sapios doing sapio things, then the previous Creature dies or sees the Signs and boom! One of us Wakes and hey look at that, new Hierophant! And as the current Hierophant I Speak and Am Heard- part of the reason I’m writing to you.

A part of my genus is acting as the mouthpiece for a portent of the apocalypse. That's not a secret- hell, its why the town has the name it does and why the family name's on the radio station. Predictably, I am the foremost DJ on 226.5, the Voice of Birch.

It’s not a bad gig, per say. I go to work and between the traffic reports and the local top forty I give an update on the eventual Coming of The Burned Birch. It never lasts long and my local community really likes it. The Birch sort of became a touristy thing, you see- awesome in the autumn, all its leaves yellow and glowing with ghostfire.

Well, so they tell me. I can't actually LOOK at the Birch-if I do, I'll go by way of great uncle Milton and turn into salt. Thank goodness pictures and art don't count or we'd have to move the station and the whole family into the old mica mine.

The Birch likes being appreciated and turned into post cards and calanders, though. It’s a bit of a show off, really. I guess I’d be showing off if I were a tree that could move around at will.

The problem is that lately, the Birch has been sending me updates at the most inconvenient times. It's generally a twice a day thing, but now I’ll be brushing my teeth at five AM and the whole town hears me ominously spouting coordinates and warning of the cracking of the earth and rising of the dead. The Birch can’t even make the dead rise, there’s been wards on the local cemetery for a century!

Or I’ll be making an order at my coffee shop and suddenly I’m telling poor Taylor the barista that the trees come down the mountain to open their fiery branches to the burnished sky.  

The worst of it is at ten or eleven at night when I’m trying to settle into bed. My hometown is very small and quiet, so most folks are in bed early unless they’re nocturnal like the coven that runs the night shift at the bakery. I’ll be drowsing, mind floating off to dreamland, and all of a sudden I’m bolt upright in bed declaring that West Street’s pavement is going to shatter with the feet of elder gods, flee the Burned Birch, flee! People are losing sleep.

It's getting out of hand. I’m not in danger of losing my job or anything (not even sure I can be fired, to be honest) but when you live in a town with less than two thousand people and everyone knows you’re the Hierophant of the Burned Birch, well. That's me avoiding the next St. Mary's rummage sale.

I know you always say communication is key and I’ve tried, believe me. All the old methods- blood rituals under the full moon, a cracked labradorite under my pillow, whispering to the moths- it hasn’t worked.

There's nothing in the family archives about the Burned Birch acting like this and frankly, I’m worried. Is there something wrong? Some rot or fungus that infects only apocalyptic omen trees? Is it trying to reach out to me for help? I can't go look at it and my friends tell me it looks fine. They show me pictures and my omen looks fine! How do I tell if it’s being needy or if it’s being obnoxious? and how do I hang on to my declarations without a three hour nosebleed?

Literally anything you've got will help, at this point. Thanks in advance!

-Fat Ricki, The Voice Of Birch

First of all, may I say how lovely it is to hear from another radio professional? Liminal broadcasting is a topic close to my heart, and it's always nice to hear from others in the field.

To your question, I think your first job is to absolutely rule out the possibility of any physical or magical ailment your tree might be suffering.

You said you've had friends inspect the tree, and have looked at photos to assess the situation yourself. But tree diseases are not always easy to spot with the naked eye, especially to the untrained. This is doubly true for thaumaturgically active trees, which may be susceptible to infections, infestations and diseases on several planes of reality.

I recommend investing in the services of a trained arboreal arcanist. In the United Kingdom, customers can find specialists through the Arcane Arboricultural Society, whose members must meet the societies standards of professionalism and training. If such an organisation exists in your area, all to the good.

If not, take some time to read up on professional qualifications available to tradespeople in your state. You want someone qualified in thaumaturgic horticulture, and preferably with the ability to perceive reality on at least three additional planes, if not more.

There are several pests and diseases that might be causing your tree's distress, from spectral bacteria to ether flux. Better to invest a little time and money in ruling those out than risk leaving them untreated.

I think it's safe to say your tree is trying to get your attention for some reason. Once you've ruled out disease or discomfort as the possible reason, consider what else might have changed since this behaviour began. Has it been receiving fewer visitors than usual, or perhaps been the subject of a less-than-flattering news article?

Many apocalyptic trees, shrubs and bushes have a tendency to fussiness and egotism. It's very possible that your tree wants nothing more than to be the subject of a bit of ego-stroking fuss. You might try drumming up a few more visitors and acolytes, or performing a ritual of appeasement that recognises its great and terrible power.

The phrase “attention-seeking” carries with it a host of negative connotations. Instead, think of this as “support-seeking” behaviour. There is a need your tree feels is unmet, and as its Hierophant, it's up to you to meet it. With a bit of reassurance and attention, I think your tree should settle down into its usual ways in no time.

[For more creaturely advice, check out Monstrous Agonies on your podcast platform of choice, or visit monstrousproductions.org for more info]

[hardworkandguts]

Mitsuboshi Colors

三ツ星カラーズ

(Anime + Manga)

Slice of life comedy by Katsuwo

Era: 2010s

Rating: B

Plot: Around Ueno Park, peace is protected by the Colors, three elementary school girls doing errands and having fun.

Length: 12 episodes

Thoughts: You know, I really should stop watching shows because YouTube suggests me a video that I find funny (you can guess which from the image on top). Then again, so far the record on "shows I've seen from random clips suggestions keeping me entertained" is pretty good, so why stop? There really isn't much to say here, we have the three girls, the shy leader and bit of a crybaby Yui, the energetic menace Sat-chan and Kotoha, always holding her blue 3DS and looking for to put her feet on someone's head, and the people whom they interact on their adventures, including Saito, the neighborhood cop who's a prime target of the girls antics, Oyaji, owner of the local general store and novelty glasses aficcionado who often gives the girls something to play with, Nokoka, an highschooler friend of the girls who runs their family's small bakery, which her older sister Momoka wants to turn into a onigiri shop and Sat-chan's mother, who sells fruit.

This is another of those shows you can just turn off your brain for a bit and have fun. Most of the jokes are based on the girls' vision of the world and the kind of bluntness only kids have, but it's never exactly mean or ill-oriented (Saito probably disagrees). Each episode has two or three different segments, as the manga chapters can be quite short, which keeps things going pleasantly without trying to drag much story. As for the manga, the adaptation covers pretty faithfully maybe one half of it, there's no order to the chapters as beside the introduction of characters like Colonel Monochrome right in the first chapter and the Sasaki sisters, there's no continuity. Both are equally fun, there's more adventures in the manga, but the VAs really did s good job capturing the characters, so just do both, it's not particularly lengthy. Could it have another 12 episodes to cover the rest of the stories? Yeah, Sat-chan imitating a pigeon, the girls and the Sasaki sisters trying to harmonize in the rain would probably be a blast seeing animated and with sound. Necessary? Probably not.

Recommended to: very chill times

Plus:

It's all-around cute fun

"it's fun to be stupid", words to live by, Sat-chan.

Minus:

It is what it is, don't expect anything incredibly memorable, this is just a very fun thing.

[milkywaygg]

Confidential Affairs Chapter 7

For @eripops since they having a rough time with work. Figured this might cheer you up. Although warning, this chapter isn't as lovey-dovey as the previous had for...certain reasons lol.

Month Four

The smell of seasoned eggs woke Euphemia up the next morning, alongside a somewhat peppy hum coming from the kitchen. Rubbing her eyes, she took her wand off her nightstand and waved it in front of her face, turning her dark circles and bed head into her usual beehive bun and clean face, dressing herself in her usual cyan dress and white pearls before leaving the master bedroom, following the eggy aroma. She smiled lovingly as she watched Jules take a spatula and scrap the eggs from his pan onto two plates, setting one in front of Euphemia.

“Good morning, honey bunny.”, Jules said cheerfully, kissing his fiancé’s cheek as he sat across her.

“Good morning. You seem awfully chipper this morning.”, Euphemia commented, blushing. She much preferred this Jules as opposed to the weepy, crying Jules she had comforted the night before, “I’m guessing you feel better about what happened?”

“Ah, I was just being a little drama queen. I’m ok.”, Jules laughed, “I’m just sooo super duper excited! I have to see the doctor today for my check up and they promised me that they’re gonna let me see the baby when they do their little scanny thingy.”

“You mean an ultrasound?”, Euphemia laughed as her fiance’s simplemindedness. The way he either forgot or stammered when using words longer that three syllables made her weak every time. If she wasn’t trying to hold back a laugh, Euphemia would often correct him and look at him playfully as if he were a third grader trying to learn big words.

“Yea yea, that’s it! I think..”, Jules said brightly, “Do you…do you have to work today? Would you want to come along with me?”

“I uh…”, Euphemia stuttered for a minute, nearly forgetting all that she had planned for herself today. Knowing that she needed a new job as soon as possible, she had hoped to go back into town or get on her computer to surf various job listings or to check her emails for freelance clients or to schedule interviews. Yet, she couldn’t help but look into Jules’ emerald greens and felt her heart being tugged. He looked as if he wanted to get on his knees and beg her to go. She sighed…I guess one break couldn’t hurt. It’s for him after all. “Sure darling, I’d love to. I think I’m off anyways.”

“Yay!! That’s awesome because after wards, I wanted to do some baby shopping, maybe find a cute little crib and blankie and..”, Euphemia droned off as Jules kept talking excitedly and happily, nearly bouncing off his seat as he talked, “Oh! And…I went to see my parents the other day and they said that they were more than willing to let us use their garden as our wedding venue! Lookie! Look!”

Euphemia looked at the squealing man’s phone, analyzing all the various colors of flowers organized almost like a botanical garden, alongside an aisle of grass that Euphemia imagined Jules would use to walk towards her holding a bouquet of his mother’s finest roses and lilies. The more she stared at the photo, the more she was reminded of their upcoming wedding…and the more she realized that expenses were about to start piling up.

Even though she was somewhat relieved that Jules’ parents were helping them save money with a beautiful but cheap venue, she still thought about everything that still needed to be done. What would they wear to the wedding? Jules didn’t own anything particularly nice and while she had a couple of cocktail dresses from her parents’ numerous parties, she didn’t think that any of them screamed bride-to-be. Plus, what wedding would be complete without a wedding cake? They didn’t need anything fancy of course, since Euphemia and Jules had hoped for a rather small wedding, but even the cheapest cakes ran about $100 at the lowest at their local bakery, and her parents didn’t seem very eager to pitch in. Of course, what little guests they did have at the wedding, they would need to provide food for as well, so Euphemia couldn’t help but just see all the dollar signs just fly past her as Jules continued to blabber on about the wedding.

“Euphemia helloooo?”, Jules called, waving his hand in front of her, “What do you think?”

“It’s very nice. Saves us a lot of money.”, Euphemia said, unsure of what to say. Jules’ smile dropped a little bit.

“Well I mean, if you would prefer something nicer, then maybe we could find a church or something to have the wedding? I’m sure my mom and dad wouldn’t mine. Heh…you’re probably would prefer it like that.”

“Who said they were going to our wedding?”, Euphemia asked, making Jules’ good mood start to fade quickly, “They don’t even want to speak with me right now.”

“O-Oh ok then…I was just thinking out loud…never mind then.”, Jules’ voice got quiet, breaking Euphemia’s heart as she blushed in embarrassment. Right before he was able to grab his dirty plate, she placed her hand gently on top of Jules’.

“Jules wait, I-I didn’t mean to snap at you. The garden is lovely and I would be honored if we got married there. It’s just…Can we just not talk about my parents right now? They’re really starting to stress me out. I-I didn’t mean to take it out on you.”

“Oh…yes of course. I’m sorry. I didn’t realize talking about them would be upsetting right now.”, Euphemia kicked herself for dampering Jules’ mood, but as much as she HATED seeing him hurt or worry, anything remotely referring to her parents made her body tense up, almost as if it were squeezing itself tightly. “I didn’t upset you too much, did I?”

“No darling. It’s ok.”

“Are you sure.”

“Yes! I’m fine!”

It was all starting to become too much. This had been the millionth time he had tried to probe her thoughts, even though she felt that it wasn’t his job. As much as she loved him dearly, she had to admit that she was starting to get more and more annoyed with every question about her well-being? Why couldn’t he just trust her? Why couldn’t he see that she was an adult woman and that she was perfectly capable to taking care of her family? She knew he meant well, but sometimes…it was just too much for her to handle.

Usually however, she was pretty good at keeping her temper together, even though she often felt like she was about to explode. This time however, Jules’ frown deepened, crossing his arms as he looked at him.

“Ok you know what, what’s you deal?”

“What do you mean?”

“Is there something you’re not telling me?”

“I’ve told you a million times, I’m fine!”, Euphemia said defensively, “Can’t you just allow me to take care of you?”

“I’m sorry! You’ve just been acting so weird lately. I-I can’t help but feel there’s something you’re not telling me.”, Jules got up from his seat and Euphemia, despite feeling somewhat mad at him, couldn’t help but reach her arms as they walked into the kitchen and guided him to sit down. “I-I just gotta know. Are you happy right now?”

“What? Of course I am! Hadn’t I told you that a million times?”

“I-I know but…you just didn’t seem very excited when I told you about the venue. I know it’s not super high class like you had hoped for but…I thought we had agreed on a small wedding. I-I thought it would be what you wanted.”

“I…It is!”

“Euphemia, I need you to tell me the truth.”, Jules said sadly, finally sitting down for his unborn, “Do you even still want to be with me? I can’t help but feel that you’ve been avoiding me lately. You know, you’re never there for my doctor’s appointments, you didn’t come with me to my parents, you’ve been leaving a lot earlier than usual..”

“Well, what the hell do you expect me to do Jules?!”, she snapped, unable to hold her anger anymore, “I’ve got to take extra hours in order to pay for this baby and wedding, since my parents don’t seem to give a shit about my happiness! I’m doing the best I can, ok? I’m sorry I can’t be there 24/7. You know how much I would love to have you in my arms all day every day, but I-I just can’t right now, ok?”

“So…I-I don’t understand…you’re really confusing me…if you’re taking extra shifts from work, then how come in bills haven’t been paid on time?”, Jules asked, appalled by Euphemia’s attitude, “The late fees are really starting to pile up, you know?

“Well…I just forgot about them, ok? I’ll pay them tonight. I promise.”

“Ok that’s fine. If you need extra time then that’s fine, but…I just don’t understand why you’re getting so defensive with me!”, Jules’ vocabulary started to shoot up, making Euphemia somewhat nervous, “I mean…if you need, I don’t mind helping out if you would have asked me…I really don’t’ mind. I just don’t appreciate you getting all upset with me just because I wanted your input about the wedding I THOUGH you wanted and the child I THOUGHT you wanted to have with me.”

“Jules I…Swear, it’s in one ear and out the other with you.”, she muttered the last part of herself, thankful that he didn’t hear her, “I do want all those things with you-“

“Then why aren’t you acting like it?”

That last question made her jump slightly as his tone was somewhat angered. Maybe it was just his erratic move swings or maybe now that the 5th month was apporoaching, he was starting to get uncomfortable, but this wasn’t the usual sensitives, non-confronting Jules that she knew and loved. What stood before her glared at her, making her feel as if he had turned her into a tiny worm, squirming around in his hand.  Maybe it was about time he knew the truth? Unable to keep it together much longer, Euphemia opened her mouth before Jules held right hand up, while his left hand rubbing his temples.

“You know what…I’m getting a headache from all of this…I just…let’s just finish the conversation later, ok? I’m sorry I upset you. I..I didn’t realize getting excited about our wedding and baby was going to put this much stress on you.”, he sighed, “I’m headed to the appointment now. You can just come with me next time, if you’re up for it. Right now, I need some space.”

After she watched him wobble out the door, Euphemia sat down on the couch, wanting to kick herself in. She just couldn’t keep her anger in, could she? Of course, she wanted to give him the world. He deserved it after all. He was the only person in the world that saw her for her person, rather than for her family or wealth. But damn….why did her parents have to cut her off NOW? Of all times? Couldn’t they have waited after they had gotten married? At least they’d only have to deal with baby expenses instead of both wedding and baby.

Taking this new free time as an opportunity, she got up and went to her computer to do some job searching, his stress making her eyes fall heavy. At long last, during her surfing time on job recruiting sites, she couldn’t help but lay her head on the desk and close her eyes on. Only about 3 hours later, did a tall, green-haired figure make his way towards the computer and try to shake her awake.

[echantedtoon]

A Champion Time For The Heart Ch17 Return To Hammerlocke

To say you hated flying anywhere now would be an understatement. YOU ABSOLUTELY POSITIVELY DETESTED IT!! The only reason you agreed was because it was already paid for and because it was the fastest way back to Hammerlocke. Woo hoo. You weren't really in the mood for more video game-..Uh. Strangers flirting with you, but at least Ms. Opal was nice company on the way there and it was very nice of her to pay for the entire ride over to Hammerlocke. You and Gloria buckled in on one side, with your Drizzilie and her on the other. When you all left Bellonlea you were a bit more cautious of your slow pace with her as you walked along the beautiful woods to leave, and kept snapping your head about keeping an eye out for any Team Yell members or that looney guy again. It was nerve wracking to say the least. Luckily you didn't run into neither when you finally got back to the lamp posts and the entrance into the forest. The corviknight and it's owner were fast asleep in one of the shadows of the trees before being woken up by Opal tapping him with her umbrella and requesting he take all of you to Hammerlocke. And after steeling your nerves and guts, you all piled in and did just that....for the next four and a half DAYS!! Opal had just relaxed back with her eyes closed most of the trip leaving you and Gloria to quietly talk between you two(when you weren't gripping your seat and forcing yourself to not look out the windows-) or more commonly watch more videos on her phone. Opal remaining silent and you would've sworn she was asleep if she hadn't opened her eyes whenever Gloria talked to her and talked back to you both in a polite but right to the point kinda way. Never heard anyone talk quite like her. You also made a few pitstops every few towns, mostly at night to let the driver rest and you have time to eat something at the local inn without having to worry about getting air sick for a while, before it was back to the fear inducing ride. You swore when you got back you were NEVER EVER going hang gliding, or even travel by plane after this. You also learnt within that time Opal was apparently looking for a successor to take over her gym soon and the person had to have something 'pink'...Whatever she meant by that. Eventually Gloria also found a good way to distract you away from your fear for short periods of time by the third day when she asked if there was anything you really liked listening too.

You blinked kinda surprised by her but shrugged and said, "Well, I've always loved baking. In fact I wanted to go into the industry when I was your age."

She seemed surprised at your answer and even Opal cracked open a eye towards you silently. "Really? Why didn't ya ever say anythin' before?"

You shrugged with a slight frown. "Eeeeehhh. It's kinda...Complicated. I wouldn't say I'm bad but I'm not good enough of a chef for me to make a career out of it, and I don't have any kitchen to cook in."

"What about an assistant chef? Bet you'd be good at that."

You shrugged. "I tried, but thins happened. So I was going to get a business license and try to open by own bakery."

"Well why didn't you?"

You paused at her question for a moment. You couldn't just say "Because I got sucked into an alternate dimension where pokemon happens to be real based off a game I used to play" unless you wanted them to think you were crazy!! Thinking quickly you shrugged and told the truth. "I left home around the time I was supposed to and started traveling." Which was the truth even tho you weren't sure exactly how you left or how to get back.

"Huh. Well I guess everyone wants ta see the world and do somethin' excitin'," Gloria said with a smile and you sighed in relief. Before she held up her phone to you. "If ya like music how 'bout I show ya some o' Miss Opal's bake offs? It'd be a good way ta pass the time. Ya wanna see some?"

"Sure why not?"

And thus the two of you relaxed back a little more now that you could watch these desert themed pokemon display their sweet powers and that filled the taxi cab for most of the remainder ride there. Of course you two made sure Ms. Opal was fine with it and after cracking an eye open said she didn't care at all. You did wonder how high you were flying sometimes but brushed it off. Besides, you had more important things to worry about. Like getting home and right now getting to Hammerlocke in one piece. Which also happened the very next day. Gloria had pointed it out early in the morning when she looked out the window and pointed but you couldn't get yourself to look down in fear of losing your breakfast, clutching the seat tightly and praying the landing wouldn't be the same as the last time you landed. Luckily whoever was listening to your prayers answered them because other than one rough shove from the corviknight putting the cab on the ground, the decent and landing procedure was pretty smooth. THANK GOODNESS!! When you finally peered out the window you were greeted with one of the entrances/exits to Hammerlocke. In fact it was the same one you two had traveled Route Six out of to head to Stow-on-Side. A Gym League staff worker awaited by the entrance, most likely for their badge rule too no doubt.

The taxi driver was quick to hop down and open the door for you three as well. "We're here ladies. Hope the trip was alright for you."

"Thank you, Young man," Opal commented slowly getting up and leaving the cab with you and Gloria right behind her. Once out she breathed a sigh of fresh air before looking up at the castle like town, "Hammerlocke. Always such a dusty town. Though I suppose some pokemon prefer it that way. "

Without even looking back to you she began slowly walking off towards the entrance, and you two slowly followed with Opal in front of you two. She was easily able to walk past the man who stood at the entrance but like the last time you were here, stopped Gloria, asked if she was a Gym Challenger, and then asked to see her badges. Opal continued walking as the two of you stopped and Gloria had to dig through her backpack to show the man her badge circle of five badges attached to it. With a nod you both were let in and she stuffed it back into her bag as you two continued off after Opal. And you looking around nervously keeping an eye out for Raihan just in case. ....But it seemed as Ms. Opal disappeared as you two walked along and looked around.

"Where did she go?," you asked peeking into the window of a cafe as you walked by but she wasn't in there. "She wasn't that far ahead of us."

Gloria shrugged as she looked at the people walking by. "She said she had some errands ta run so maybe she ducked into one o' these shops."

Hm. Maybe. You both continued walking and looking around as you neared the corner where the pink pokemon center you remembered seeing. As you two got closer and closer to the corner, someone with white fluffy hair and a giant pink coat rounding the other side of the corner onto the street on which you both walked. Both of you froze upon realizing the identity of the person who was walking towards the both of you. And he too froze lavender eyes blinking widely at the both of you as well as his jaw dropped somewhat. ...Before he pointed at you two with a large scowl.

"YOU!?"

"Uh...Hey, Bede," Gloria greeted with an awkward wave.

His scowl deepened as he shouted at her. "Come to gawk at me now that I've had my challenge band taken away and my gym challenger status revoked?!" ...WHAT!? Both your eyes widened as you looked at one another. Bede growling in frustration before gripping his fluffy white locks. "I've had to spend the past days working under that despicable Raihan person as 'punishment' for what happened in Stow-on-Side!! Do you know how much that idiot makes you work doing the most ridiculous things!? And now I run into you here too! Can you really afford to waste time like this?!"

"HEY!" Gloria scowled as well pointing a hand at him. "I was the one who saved your bloody sorry self from bein' crushed by a rock after you decided to play construction worker with the mural! If it wasn't for me you'd be flatter than a waffle under yer own mess!!"

He scoff and turned his nose away. "Well....I suppose so. You no longer have to worry about catching up with me after all." His eyes narrowed at her. "I'll have you know though that I haven't given up! I must become the champion in order to help out the chairman! I will go and ask him to let me rejoin the gym challenge!"

"Again with the Chairman, mate?," Gloria sighed letting her arms flop to her sides as she turned from a scowl to a pitied look. "Look Bede. I dunno what to tell ya. It's kinda useless to keep wantin' ta help someone who kicked ya out of the challenge. Tho considerin' what ya did I'm not surprised that's what happened. Maybe ya should just forget 'bout the guy altogether."

He gasped offended a hand to his chest. "How dare you insult my reasonings with your twisted nonsense! Any girl who'd even consider fighting for my affection wouldn't be so brazen!"

"What are ye goin' on 'bout now?!"

"Hm? That boy." You jumped as the two kids still argued with one another, whirling around to face none other than Ms. Opal herself and she was staring right at Bede with curiousity in her eyes. ..Wait. Where the heck did she come from!? "Now that's what I could call pink! So sincere and straightforward yet so twisted and misguided. I like it! That's the kind of thing that gives people some depth!" Eventually Bede looked up from Gloria and had to do a double take blinking in confusion at the new arrival. "Time for my gym mission, Child!"

"HUH!?" Bede asked leaning back in confusion and surprise at what the older woman just barked at him. "W-Wha-!?"

You yelped as suddenly with speed you didn't think she had Opal RAN past you and up to Bede who froze in place wide eyed as she looked him over. "Pink! Pink! Pink!" She shouted as she examined him. ...What did 'Pink' even mean!? She chuckled a bit examining the frozen boy's dynamax band before looking up to him with a smile. "Congratulations, Child."

"M-Ms. Opal!?," Bede sputtered out pulling his hand away from her as he looked uneasy leaning away. Wait. Bede knew who she was? "What in the world has gotten in you?!"

"You were used by Oleana. Am I right?" Bede froze once again and behind her both of you exchanged bewildered looks behind them. Opal took his silence as a yes because she hummed and nodded. "You worked hard to gather wishing stars for her only to have her throw you away like rubbish once she was done with you." Wait...How did she know that? "Come with me, Child. I might be able to help you out." She offered.

And Bede ...blinked. "I...W-What?" He shook his head before frowning. "A-Are you saying you'd be able to get me reestablished back into the challenge?"

She chuckled and nodded. "Of course, it all depends on how much hard work you're willing to put in too."

"Are you...Are you testing me?," Bede challenged before clearing his throat and shaking his head, hands tucked into his pockets as he attempted to look calm. "Very well. I accept! In fact I plan on making sure you see my full talents and tell me everything you know about the wishing stars!"

She chuckled again before smiling wider. "I think my errands to Hammerlocke have been met." Taking a moment she turned to Gloria who blinked at her. "Farewell for now, Child. You should head to Circhester. I take it you know how to get to Route Seven." And she turned away back towards Route Six and simply began walking away. Like nothing that happened just happened.

Bede made to follow but paused before turning back to Gloria who still watched silently- Before clearing his throat and turning away again. "I-I still haven't decided what to say to you officially. I'll need more time to think and at the moment I-I'm way too busy! So d-don't follow me around!"

Gloria's brow rose more clearly confused. "Uh....Alright." You both watched as he jogged on after the older woman before she blinked and turned to you with a shrug. "What was that all about?"

......You smiled. "Oh nothing. I think they'll both be fine. I have a good feeling about this." You turned and nodded towards the train station. "C'mon. It's still morning so we'll have to wait for the afternoon train. If I remember right there's a food section in the train station. We can grab a bite there."

Gloria was quick to agree with the promise of food and you two headed off towards the station. To be honest you were looking forward to food too that wasn't bland or dried tasting camping food. You had eaten enough food like that to last you a hundred lifetimes. Without having to wait for Ms. Opal anymore the two of you could walk a little faster now and were easily near the station as you continued to look around for any signs of Raihan but thankfully still found none. When you were stopped by Gloria grabbing onto your sleeve and pointing. You blinked confused at her for a moment before looking to where she was pointing and you couldn't help but stare as well. NO WAY!! Who'd think you'd run into her again while you were here? It was Sonia! Again! She must've just walked from the station because she was coming right towards the both of you, but stopped once she took notice of the familiar sight. The three of you pausing and looking at one another before the redhead smiled and waved.

"Heya!," She greeted once she was close enough, "Fancy running into you here. The badge collecting going well?"

"Sonia!," Gloria happily exclaimed in surprise before nodding proudly. "I don't mean ta brag." She crossed her arms proud of herself. "But I won me two more badges since the last time I saw ya!"

Sonia chuckled at her antics and you asked, "What are you doing back in Hammerlocke?"

She turned her attention to you one hand on her hip. "I've been doing some research on the ruins in Stow-on-Side. The sword and shield. Once Mr. Rose had his team investigate it of course. ..But I still haven't figured out some things. What kind of Pokemon were they? And where are they now?" With a sigh she shook her head. "I still have so many questions. I was thinking about taking another look at the tapestries in-"

BOOM!! Sonia was cut off as what you could only describe as a gunshot from a gun the size of an elephant going off somewhere overhead. The very action made you react immediately by ducking and grabbing the back of your head as your Drizzilie dove behind you in terror at the loud noise and shaking of the ground. Gloria gasped and fell backwards onto her behind and Sonia had jumped back nearly falling over on those heels of hers. Blinking up and totally but understandably SHOCKED at the sensation you had just witnessed. Another boom!? AGAIN!? ....Oh NO!! Was that Bede again!? Was he doing something crazy again!? Other people around you yelling or having a similar reaction to one of you three.

"AGAIN!?," you asked to no one in particular.

"Are you kidding me!?," Sonia shouted herself glaring up towards a particular tower, "What was that!?"

"Do I look like I know?," you mumbled slowly leaning yourself up as Gloria made an attempt to get off the ground.

"Hammerlocke stadium shook...That's where Chairman Rose's power plant is isn't it?" You...nodded. You think so? It's been a while since you've been back here. But there wasn't any time for talking as a buzzing sound emanated from Sonia's pocket. She was quick to scramble, almost dropping the phone in the process, as she pressed the screen in a hurry and the buzzing noise ceased. .....Her blue eyes blinked widely at the screen. "Huh?....A..power spot?"

"Power spot?" You asked confused. "You mean like where you can Dynamax?"

She nodded not looking at you. "That's right. The power spot detector reacts when it's possible to dynamax."

You rose a brow. "Well that makes sense since there's a gym stadium here. You mean Raihan can't use the stadium's spot to dynamax?"

She went to answer but didn't get a chance too. "Usually you don't."

"GAH!!" You jumped in surprise and snapped your head around to the person who scared you...And came face to face with none other than the Champion. Leon chuckled seeing your expression...before you scowled. "HEY! I thought I asked you NOT to do that the last time!"

He chuckled some more before waving a hand. "Sorry, Y/n. Hey Sonia- Oof!" He laughed more and patted the top of Gloria's head as she hugged him beaming. "And you too, Gloria! Wow. You've gotten taller! By the way you felt the shaking right?" She nodded and he hummed before looking at the same tower Sonia had been. "Seems Chairman Rose is testing something again."

"This is bad!," Sonia insisted to him, "Pokemon might start dynamaxing right in the middle of Hammerlocke!"

"Is that so?," he asked looking back to her and she nodded immediately, "I can make sure the Chairman knows."

"You'll just get lost, Leon. I'm coming too."

"Hey. I'm not THAT bad with directions, Sonia. I only ended up on top of a barn once!"

"I'm comin' too!," Gloria piped up determined hands returning to her sides. But that melted away quickly when Leon shook his head no.

"Sorry, Glory," he apologized genuinely and rested a hand on her shoulder," But it'd be too dangerous for someone your age to be wondering about a power plant of all things. Especially since there's lots of research and development happening in there that could end up going south at a moment's notice. Don't worry about a thing and just let me take care of it. Ok?"

She opened her mouth to protest. "He's right." But blinked at you as you frowned worried. "I think with everything that's already happened in the past month, it'd be better to just let the literal pokemon champion and a scientist handle whatever's going on."

She blinked between the two of you for a moment before sighing. "Oh alright."

"So you should leave the investigation on the quaking to the adults," Sonia agreed, "In the mean time why don't you head to Circhester and get that badge? I'm really looking forward to seeing you compete in the finals."

Again Gloria nodded before turning to Leon with a slightly worried expression. "Hey. You're gonna be careful right?"

He smiled brightly in a reassuring way to her. "Of course! I'm always careful!"

"Except with directions." Sonia sighed before beginning to walk away.

"HEY! I'm always careful with directions," he insisted walking after her, "Since when am I not?"

"Says the one who got stranded on top of a barn and fell into the ocean multiple times when going to Hulbury."

"Oh my Arceus. It was just one time!"

You chuckled before shaking your head..but paused noticing Gloria wasn't doing anything but staring after them. She flinched when you put a hand on her shoulder. "Hey. Are you alright there?"

After a moment of silence she sighed and nodded before turning back towards the train station. "Yeah. Jus' a lil bit worried is all. Lee can get inta trouble if he ends up lost sometimes." And she began walking. "C'mon. Let's go get somethin' to eat. Ok?''

You blinked at her sad-ish tone but didn't push any further when you started walking behind her towards the train station by the flight of stairs leading to the Hammerlocke school where you two had encountered Paula. Sending a small shiver down your spine as you passed. Eventually you both reached the inside of the train station where you two found exactly what you were looking for. Within the train station was two men and a woman behind stands who looked like they either sold tickets or pamphlets, a lot of seats, the exit for entering/exiting the train, some ATM things, vending machines, and to the very left near the entrance when you two came in was the small cafe area with it's own designated seating. A man was already seated at one table looking at what you supposed was a menu, and two very recognizable teenage boys were sat at another talking....HOP AND VICTOR!? Seriously what was the odds of running into so many people today? You tapped Gloria's shoulder to get her attention but Hop beat you too it because as soon as he looked up he smiled and waved his full arm at her.

"Oh! Gloria!," He shouted at her. Like a dog to food her head snapped to him faster than lightning before the brightest smile ever lit up onto her face as Victor turned around in his seat to look at the both of you.

"HOP! Victor!," She cried out before rushing towards them with you trailing behind with your pokemon in tow. "I haven't seen ya in days!"

"Well we- Ah!" Poor Hop was nearly knocked to the floor when Gloria practically tackled him in a hug (again-) and had to wave his arms to regain balance before leaning forward luckily not falling over. "W-We just got here on the afternoon train! Glory! You're crushin' me again!"

"After noon?", you asked before looking up towards the clock on the wall surprised when you saw it read 12: 24 in the afternoon. "Huh. I didn't think we'd get here that late in the day." You then turned back to Victor. "You guys just got back here? We didn't see you at the gyms we stopped by."

Victor shrugged back at you. "We went straight to Bellonlea after I won against Bea," He explained, "Then we traveled a bit so Hop could practice his battling skills before we decided to head to Circhester. Hammerlocke was just a stop before we reached there so we stopped here to restock for the weather they have up there. ...And I wanted to stop by to see the Hammerlocke castle ruins on Route Eight. Legends say that they might even be the remains of the very first castle built in Galar."

"Oh. So how was Bellonlea for you two?"

Hop sighed, having freed himself from his best friend's crushing hug, slumping his shoulders. "First that forest then that mad quiz. I've been lost in every sense of the word...But it looks like I finally caught up to you again."

"Does that mean you didn't get the badge?"

He chuckled. "Took us one heck of a try but we managed somehow to get it from her." He turned back to Gloria. "Speaking of which. Come with me to Route Seven real quick.I could use a bit of competition to motivate me for the next leg of our adventure!"

Gloria blinked. "....Our adventure as in yours and Victor's next stop?"

Hop blinked at her a moment before reaching to scratch the back of his neck and looked away. "W-Well...I uh....I've been having a lot of time to think, and i-it would be nice for you to join us again this time....AH! A-And Y/n too of course!" He was quick to add holding up his hands and a slight pink hue coming over his face. "Of course I enjoy her company too! I-It's not the same without y-you both!" Smooth, Hop. Very smooth.

But it seemed like just like with Bede, Hop's flustered state flew right over her head as her eyes lit up as she quickly agreed. "Are ya kiddin' me!? OF COURSE YES!! I missed travelin' with you guys!" She pointed to the door making Victor duck to avoid getting hit in the head. "C'mon let's go see 'bout that battle!"

"Hang on a second!," Victor interjected with a frown, "What about lunch? Hop, y'know we need to stop by the clothes store and get warmer clothes!"

"..I-...Y-Yeah. But we're staying an extra one or two days so you can see those ruins anyways, so we still have time for a battle and food and shopping..and all that stuff."

......With a sigh Victor sat back down in the seat and picked up his menu again. "Fine. But make it quick. I would like us to get supplies before the end of today. The sooner we're all stocked up the sooner we can see the ruins and head off to Circhester."

Gloria was already tugging him out the door as Hop waved him off. "We'll be right back! Don't worry!"

"That's when I worry the most," he mumbled.

You chuckled before going to sit in one of the chairs across from him, Drizzilie hoping onto your lap of course before settling down and letting you wrap an arm around it's upper torso to hold it. "Well, you two certainly looked like you had an exciting time while we were gone."

"Yeah I guess you could say that. ..Hey. Let's just order something for the two of us while we wait." Your Drizzilie gave a thrum. "Uh...Three of us. The three of us order."

"Are you sure? I don't mind waiting for the other two."

"Nah. I'm hungry, and we'll still be here when they come back."

"Well...Alright then.''

You two went ahead and ordered, not really surprising it was more curries, and it wasn't too long before the three plates were set down in front of you three all different. Your drizzilie immediately went to grab at it's salad curry you had ordered for it, but Victor stopped it before pulling out his own camera.

"Wait a minute. Lemme get a shot of these first," he said holding the camera up to his face.

"You're doing that curry dex thing too?," you asked holding your Drizzilie's protesting hands as it pouted being denied it's food even for a moment.

"Nah. I've just been collecting more pictures of curries and pokemon for Glory since she needs them. Plus I like taking pictures anyways, so it's not a big deal."

"Aw. That's really nice of you."

He was quick to take a few pictures of the curries and you released your pokemon's hands. Drizzilie was quick to grab it's own food and begin scarfing it down much to your amusement as you two yourselves dug in. You were happy that it wasn't another bland tasting granola bar thing or dried fruit snack made for traveling. And it wasn't too long when you were into your food that the two had returned and taken seats next to the two of you as well.

"Hey you two," you greeted, "Welcome back. How was the battle?"

Hop was absolutely beaming and Gloria sighed but not in a sad way before saying, "I lost. Hop really has gotten stronger!"

"Hey, congrats!," you smiled at Hop, "I told you you could do it!"

"Hehe. Thanks," he smiled bashfully before pointing towards the food, "Looks like we're just in time to order ourselves huh? Great! We can catch up with everything that happened then!"

Gloria chuckled. "Well then better get a big curry n' some popcorn! Cuz I gotta lot to tell the both 'o ye!"

"Oh boy. Here we go."

You should've expected the shocked faces that they all gave when Gloria between eating her curry(after taking pictures of them of course-) told them everything. And I do mean EVERYTHING. From helping the lad find an applin for his crush, to the strange MAYBE ghost girl that had you all deliver a letter to Mr. Frank, to the weird guy in Bellonlea who thought he was a pokemon, to how you both met Allister, to her gym battles, and of course everything the two of you went through in Stow-on-Side after they left. The two boys looked more shocked than they would've been if you had suddenly disappeared before their very eyes back the way you came and magically ended up back home. You just simply ate letting Gloria ramble on and on and tried to keep your drizzilie was getting food everywhere. You swore it was like trying to feed a toddler in your lap. Eventually sometime between all of this Hop finally spoke with a scowl pointing at everyone.

"I KNEW it! I knew that bloke was up to no good! And look at what happened!"

"Hop, calm down," you insisted holding up a hand, "To be honest I think he only did it because he was pressured by someone and did what he thought was going to help. I don't know why he thought there would be wishing stars under the mural, but he was right about there being something under there. ...And I really don't want to just talk badly of him since he already paid for what he did." You did feel bad for him but in the back of your mind you knew he'd be fine and get back on the right path now. "...But I think Victor said something about stopping by a clothes store. What for?"

"You'll need some too, Y/n," Victor said, "If you don't wanna freeze your leg off that is. Circhester and it's gyms are located in the mountains where it's always cold and snowy. If we're heading there we'll all need to stock up on food for the long trip too since they're the farthest gyms from here."

"Oh. Well I say we finish up here so we can get started then. I don't know how when the stores around here close."

The rest of the stay in Hammerlocke wasn't very eventful thankfully. After the lot of you had finished eating and paid, you left and you followed them all to the clothing store that Hammerlocke had. You weren't expecting them to actually be selling winter clothes but low and behold they were selling them amongst the regular summer shirts and shorts. All of your pants and shirts was pretty long and warm anyways so you only felt the need to find a plain coat and gloves as the others took their time browsing around and tried on various other winter type clothing. But you did find one thing you liked. A small child's sweater that doubled as a hoodie with the hood attached to it. You looked between it and the Drizzilie before taking it and after wrangling your pokemon lightly, slipped it over his head and popped his arms gently through the sleeves. Drizzilie gave a couple chirps in protest and confusion as he was slipped into the sweater-hoodie...before blinking and pulling out the hem of it to look over it. ..And looked at you with a strange look.

"Hey. If you're not going to stay in your pokeball then you're going to need something to keep you warm too."

You were pretty sure a water pokemon without any feathers or fur to cover him wouldn't fair too well in the cold weather. By the time you all paid for the small pile of winter clothes for the five of you and left the store, the sun was close to setting and with your low food supplies without there being any supply stores in Hammerlocke Victor was clever enough to come up with a better idea. Leading the confused group back to the train station, he walked on over to the vending machines in the corner of the room and considering everything in them was already made to last a long time they'd do until you all found another store with better surprises. Sounded good to you...Or it would've been if Gloria hadn't had the bright idea to use her Rotom pokemon. You couldn't believe it but the rotom pokemon actually transferred itself from the phone into one of the machines and one after another cans of soda, chips, instant noodle things, candy bars, and other snack like foods tumbled down one after the other with the lot of you eagerly grabbing at it. When you pointed out wasn't this technically stealing, Gloria assured you the rotom would be using money coming from her Gym Challenger account to pay for this all. Oh...Well you kinda guessed she'd have one of those to be paid after battles and all. By the end of one vending machine being cleaned out Victor mentioned once it was divided between the four of you it SHOULD be enough to at least last you all the trip up to Circhester. That was good to hear. By the time the four of you were finished with your shopping spree, sun set had finally taken a hold of the town and Hop suggested now would probably be a good time to set up came outside Hammerlocke and rest up to take a visit to the ruins Victor wanted to visit the next day. As much as you'd like to go to Circhester right away it was unanimous that the next day you'd be spending your entire day at the ruins.

That night you slept pretty well and by the time you woke up the next day Victor had already cooked everyone breakfast early. By the smile on his face, you'd say he was pretty excited to spend the day at the ruins. After eating breakfast and packing everything up, the four of you made your way down Route Eight. The castle ruins weren't too far down the road from Hammerlocke, just maybe an hour or two's walk. There was some blocked off areas by rope blocking access to some of the more brittle or dangerous areas of the place. And you did enjoy yourself while you looked around too. There was a couple pokemon you hadn't seen while you were traveling before and both twins seemed to get a kick out of taking pictures of either the ruins or the pokemon hiding within them, as you all walked around along with a few other people who seemed to be looking at them as well. The only ones who really seemed bored just standing around and looking at the ruins was your Drizzilie still wearing the sweater hoodie thing you had gotten him yesterday as he grumbled and walked along after you. The ruins were pretty big and decently had a lot to look at so it was no wonder the four of you spent nearly all morning and half the afternoon there looking at it all before Hop suggested heading back towards Hammerlocke in hopes of catching the night train out of town. Sounded good to everyone..Huh. You wondered if Sonia had studied the ruins here for more clues too? It wasn't too late when the group got back to Hammerlocke, maybe three or four o' clock in the afternoon at the latest, but definitely late enough to have missed the evening train out. Of course the three had to show their badges to the man standing guard at the entrance in order to be let in but it wasn't too much of a hassle for you five to head on in and back to the train station. In the entire time you were back here in Hammerlocke you hadn't seen Raihan again even once. You guessed he must've been traveling again or just not here at the moment. Fine by you. You all had a few hours to kill until the night train showed up sometime around eight o' clock. In the next few hours you all busied yourselves by having dinner courtesy of the guys and Victor giving a very happy glory all the pictures he had taken over the days they were separated. A LOT of curry (when did they eat so much of that stuff-) and pokemon she was delighted to have and then secure into her books along with the newest pictures she took with help from Hop sorting them out and helping to place them within the labeled pages. Which took up most of the rest of the time it took you four to wait for the night train because it took you all by surprise when the sounds of rumbling tracks and a train horn made you all look up as a shiny subway like train pulled up into the station.

"Ah magikarp!," Gloria shouted before dropping her fork and then scrambling to pick up her thing played on the table. "Hop! Help me stuff these things back inta me bag!!"

Hop blinked but immediately did as his friend asked as he too scrambled to grab any leftover pictures and the two books to throw them back in her bag as Victor quickly dug into his pockets for something. Luckily you didn't have the need to pick anything up or collect anything other than the drizzilie sitting in your lap that you scooped up into your arms when the others scrambled to get up, and Victor tossed what looked like a two dollar tip on the table for whoever had to come collect the dishes. The horn blasting again for any passengers who wished to leave Hammerlocke, which you four sure did heading towards it. Looks like you all would be heading to Circhester and hopefully Gloria's next badge on the way.

[diskaywrites]

Fluffvember 2024

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭 #𝟐𝟐: 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐞. 𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: "𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥" 𝐌𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐱 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐚 (𝐨𝐜) 𝐱 𝐕𝐞𝐝𝐚 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐟: 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐚, 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐚 (𝐨𝐜), 𝐃𝐢𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬 (𝐨𝐜), 𝐀𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧

.✽✦✽.◦.✽✦✽..✽✦✽.◦.✽✦✽..✽✦✽.◦.✽✦✽..✽✦✽.◦.✽✦✽..✽✦✽.◦.✽

It was the end of an era and "Speedball" Mike Bailey was not entirely sure that he would have been able to do what was coming next if he didn't have support. For the last three years of his career, he had wrestled for TNA, then Impact, Wrestling. It wasn't the biggest promotion in the world, nor was it the most popular. What it had been to Mike was fun, exciting. The moment that Impact had gone under new management, he had seen the writing on the wall. It was going to be time to find a new place to work by the time his contract expired.

That hadn't made any of this any easier and that's when 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 came in.

While working an Impact taping in Chicago, some of the boys had suggested visiting a local bakery run by the younger brother of Ring of Honor star Colt Cabana. Mike was never one to turn down good sweets, especially not a good fresh treat. The bakery itself had been fun, themed after professional wrestling, with specials named after different wrestlers. It was cute, but not as cute to Mike as the girl working behind the counter, the niece of the owner Levi and daughter of both Colt and his wife Dia Banks. Everything from her wide smile to the blush in her cheeks was adorable and, after a bit of pressing from Ace Austin, by the end of the trip he had gotten her number.

When the bakery beauty had finally been introduced to Mike's better half, Veda, the three had decided that they wanted to share their lives together. Two years later and Mike couldn't imagine a life without his Veda or his Maisie.

The trio sat in the car, making their way between towns for Freelance Wrestling and Deadlock Pro Wrestling. Mike was driving, as he always did. Veda sat beside him, doomscrolling through her TikTok with Maisie sitting in the backseat playing something cozy on her Switch. There was silence, save for the sound of a pop punk band playing lowly enough to give some ambience. Mike cleared his throat, eyes cast on the dark road, "Can we chat, chat?"

Veda reached forward to turn the music off, resting her chin on her hand as she watched him, "Yes, baby?"

Maisie put her Switch in sleep mode, leaning forward as much as she could, "Locked in!"

"I just...I just want to thank both of you for-"

"I know, I know. Giving you my last Reese's Cup was an act of selfless love," Maisie playfully sighed, waving her hand in dismissal.

"No, no Maisie girl, he's thanking me for having such excellent taste in music. Being the dj is 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅," Veda sagely nodded with a wide grin.

Mike gripped the wheel a little tighter, their eyes cast into the darkness of the highway. "Both of those things are great, really important to our ecosystem, but I'm serious. I wanna thank you for taking this step with me. For...I dunno...I guess I wanna thank you for believing in me."

Veda reached their hand to gently squeeze Mike's leg, noticing the tears in those soft brown eyes, "Mike, we're your partners! Of course we believe in you!"

"Yeah, ya big dummy," Maisie rolled her eyes playfully, "what, are we just gonna abandon you from now on? No Mike now that he isn't in TNA? Only Maisie and Veda?"

"Ya know, Maisie, that's not a half bad idea," Veda teased, adjusting her glasses.

A soft smile crossed Mike's lips, though that was a typical sight. He loved their little car full of nerds who could make them smile in even the most serious of moments. The road ahead might have been an unknown, but with these two by his side, everything would be alright.