#side b chapter 💚

[katyawriteswhump]

love and other catastrophes at the omega cafe (2/8)

I’ve was totally overwhelmed (in the best possible way) by the reaction to chapter 1 of this fic—billions thank yous 💚I will admit I got a bit nervous about this chapter and not letting everyone down, but it’s a long one, and I really, really hope you enjoy! I will probably be updating every weekend, more regularly if I can 💚 

Summary: Steve is a runaway Omega who gets a job at an Omega café, where he’s basically paid to curl up and purr in Alphas’ laps. It’s legal, and he earns a living, rents his own place. He’s getting along fine for a packless Omega. Then Alpha rockstar Eddie Munson turns up for an hour of ‘kitty’ petting, and shatters Steve’s fragile little world…

Rating: M (will be E); Chapter length: 4000 words, No major warnings; Tags: omega steve, alpha eddie, a/b/o dynamics, rockstar eddie, fluff and angst; (It won't get tooooo angsty, I promise)💚Chapter 1 on tumblr (also index post) On Ao3

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Chapter 2

After waking up in Eddie's lap, Steve dabbed his lips again. He dared peep upward. His burning cheek was pressed to Eddie’s solid Alpha chest, his hand creeping helplessly up the faintly soggy black t-shirt.

Eddie was beaming, for sure. He was also wearing a pair of ray-bans and a baseball cap with ‘Bite me, Baby,’ emblazoned on it. He’d gotten the collar of his jean-jacket turned up. After a further moment of confusion, this time at Eddie’s transformation, Steve gasped in a lungful of Eddie’s smoky-plummy scent.

Eddie was a rockstar. Who doubtless wished to remain incognito. Somewhat like Steve did, although Steve was a very long way from home, and… Nope, he wouldn’t think about that. No way could Eddie have wanted to stay so long, while the café filled up with customers.

On the other hand, Eddie could have woken Steve anytime.

He hadn’t.

“Good snooze, Steve?” Eddie’s vibes remained totally chill.

“Yeah. Um…thanks?”  Steve wriggled slightly, sitting up straighter on Eddie’s lap. “I’m not supposed… Why didn’t you wake me?”

“And interrupt that blissful purring? Sweetness, you delivered exactly what I paid for, and I didn’t even get a cramp—insane!”

Eddie’s arms tightened into a full-on hug, keeping him in place. The fleece blanket had slipped off them, and the intense heat rolling from Eddie’s body teetered on the right side of scorching. It was unsettling not being able to read Eddie’s eyes. But if Eddie still didn’t want him to shift, no part of Steve was gonna argue.

Then Steve felt it.

That slab of Alpha cock gouging somewhere north of his knees. He felt slick trickle lightly, heat flushing down his face and neck, and then…

Carol hollered, “Chrissy, the pancakes were for table three, you ditzy O-head!”

“Yeah?” Chrissy replied, quieter but no less shrill: “You try reading your chicken scratch handwriting!”

That ripped Steve from whatever dreamland he’d been sucked back into. It seemed to shatter the moment for Eddie too: “Weeeell, it’s been fun, Kitty-cat. ’Fraid I gotta love ya and leave ya. I’m gonna get my ass busted for being late at the studio.”

He released Steve, who slid off his lap backwards and clumsily. Steve’s elbows and butt landed on the sofa with a thud, his feet taking their place on Eddie’s thighs. The loss of full-body contact sent a wretched shiver through him. Before he could gather himself, Eddie had gathered up his goddamn feet in his large, rough-feeling hands:

“Steve, are these feet or ice chips?”

Oh God, oh God, oh God!

Eddie launched into the most delicious foot massage, thumbs gently kneading into his arches, then leaning forward to lavish his feet with warm gusts of breath:

“You have the cutest toesies, Honey, you know that?”

Steve’s terror ratcheted up a whole new notch. He sure as heck didn’t have a foot kink, but Eddie’s relentless touch unhinged him. In all his time working at ‘Kitties,’ he’d never felt so close to losing control, to melting into a puddle of need. Weren’t the blockers supposed to curb such extreme reactions to even the most sizzling Alphas?

And Jesus Christ, Eddie’s lush mouth was so close to Steve’s feet now. Too close—was he gonna kiss them?

Steve spotted Carol back at the cash register, casually glancing their way. With an effort, he swung his legs off Eddie’s lap.

“Aw, is petting feet against the rules?” There was an air of kicked puppy about the Alpha that Steve struggled not to fawn over. And which segued quickly into a devastating earnestness. “Look, seriously, this isn’t a kink of mine.” That made two of them. “I can’t leave you shivering, not any part of you. I’ll pay extra?”

“I… I…” To be fair, there was nothing in the rules against petting feet. Right now, Steve simply couldn’t deal: “I thought you were gonna k-kiss them. Sorry, I…um…”

Eddie raised his palms. “No, I’m sorry, Steve. Truly. Self-control has never been my forte.”

“Please don’t apologise. It’s all good, and my feet are always cold. I dunno if it’s an Omega thing, or just me, or…” Stop prattling, Harrington.

Eddie smiled tightly, then rose and strode off to settle his final check with Carol.  Steve sat on the couch, arms wrapped tight around himself. He wiggled his toes, which seemed to tingle with the memory of Eddie’s breath. Then Eddie wandered back over. He blocked Steve from Carol’s view and pressed a hundred-dollar bill into his hand.

“Wow! I can’t accept—”

“Take it, Omega,” rumbled Eddie, in a deep gravelly tone that no part of Steve could argue with. As Eddie retreated, Steve found himself ogling how those sweatpants clung to the flat muscular planes of Eddie’s Alpha butt. At the door, Eddie glanced back, lifted his shades, and winked.

“See you soon, Stevie.”

Stevie!?!

Carol heard, and the instant Eddie had gone, she bounced over and hugged Steve. He’d never seen her so non-bitchy and jubilant. Then again, she was hardly gonna complain to Tommy that Steve had slept on the job when Eddie had spent well over two hundred dollars. He’d tipped her well, too. She made Steve a grilled cheese sandwich—actually one for Steve, rather than one she’d made for a customer and accidentally burned. Then she allowed him an extra-long break, to sort his hair and loosen his collar, before he had to clamber into the next lap.

It took all Steve’s concentration not to squirm and fidget and generally give a shitty kitty experience to the seemingly never-ending line of Alphas. He couldn’t help wondering if it wouldn’t have been easier to endure without Eddie’s throwaway, “See you soon, Stevie.”

Yeah, Steve would’ve felt flat, but he had ways of pepping himself. Even being petted by these randos might’ve helped return him to his usual fake-purring levels of okay.

Knowing Eddie might be coming back?

Each second with another Alpha was excruciating.

When he clocked off at five, everything changed. He literally bounced on his toes to the bus-stop. Thinking about Eddie made his insides feel fizzy and light, every part of him happily trembly—lightyears away from the morning’s exhaustion and fading heat cramps.

It wasn’t exactly convenient, tho’. When he reached his condo, it took him three attempts to fumble his key into the lock. One of his neighbours sensed his fluster through the thin walls.

She poked her head into the corridor. “Hi, Steve—are you all right?”

“Hey, Joyce. Yeah, I’m fine. Been a long day, and I’m beat.” He finally managed to turn the key. “Thanks for asking.”

“Okay, dear. If you feel up to joining us for quilting club tonight, we’d love to see you. I’ve baked cookies.”

“Maybe.” Steve quirked a smile, before darting in quickly and closing the door.

Leaning back against it, he let out a long, shuddering sigh. Joyce was kind, and Steve liked chatting to her. However, she knew as well as Steve that he wouldn’t be joining any of the local Omega-Omega support groups. Even when the heating was broken, and some of the other Omegas formed ‘snuggle’ nests together, he preferred to shiver alone.

He was fine with bodily contact these days, obviously, much as he enjoyed being called ‘cute’ and generally being admired. But he was used to having his own space. Which was why he loved his little home, really he did—despite its loud clunky plumbing and the damp patches on the walls. It was the only real nest he’d ever had. He’d stitched most of his throw cushions and drapes himself, apart from a couple that had been swapsies with Chrissy. Robin had gifted him a duck-down duvet and a thick wool blanket. She was the closest thing he had to a pack, and he enjoyed snuggling beneath her offerings through the long winter nights.

Now, after a few hours sleeping in the arms of an Alpha he might never see again, his little slice of paradise… felt horribly drab.

Still leaning on the door, he pulled the hundred-dollar bill out of his coat pocket and pressed it to his cheek. Which was gross given that it’d been passed between literally thousands of germy hands.

It still, very faintly, whiffed of Eddie.

He breathed deep of it as he dared and then: “This is dumb! This is so dumb!”

It wasn’t like he could keep it. A hundred dollars would settle his rent arrears this week. He dumped it on the counter and wandered toward his bathroom pod.

When he peeled down his underwear, he winced. He’d changed twice today, once after Eddie left, then again at a later break. Both times, his panties were damp with slick. Now, after travelling home dreaming about Eddie, another pair was soddened, and his peachy-chamomile scent was stronger than since he’d started blockers. He stripped, shivered and turned on the shower, holding his hand under the icy flow.

It started to get slightly warmer. Not exactly toasty, and he shuddered as he stepped in. He knew that he, like that bill, retained a slight tang of Eddie. Especially in his hair, which he was particularly reluctant to wash.

He went through the motions, the glide of his own fingers setting him sighing then sniffling stupidly at the memory of Eddie’s gorgeous touch. When the shower temperature switched suddenly thermo-nuclear hot, he leaped out with a yelp. After sticking his hair under the kitchenette faucet to finish rinsing, he blow-dried. Then he tidied away the yucky tissues, painkillers and hot water bottles he’d left scattered at the end of his heat. Finally, he cuddled up in his nest with another of Robin’s gifts—his third-hand refurbished iPhone.

The Wifi was working again, and he was tempted to google Eddie, find out every last thing about him, although… What if Eddie was mated or married or lived on the other side of the country? That said, he’d mentioned going to a studio, so he had to be staying locally, or…

Steve resisted searching. He wanted to enjoy his silly crush without knowing crap that would spoil it.

He avoided the internet for the most part, anyway. He’d been raised without it and was terrified to get a login for anything, even under a fake name. This was chiefly paranoia, probably. It was also sometimes annoying. All the social media sites where Chrissy showed him pics of ‘Hot Alphas’ tended to chuck him out before he’d properly feasted his eyes.

Nevertheless, he managed to find the ‘Knot me now, Alpha,’ thirst thread that he’d gotten a faint idea Eddie was familiar from. He was right. He admired Eddie’s pic there for a long while—a shirtless, sweaty mass of raw Alpha sex-appeal and bulging-at-the-crotch leather, nailing some finger-work on his electric guitar.

Then Robin texted, and they bantered for a bit. He didn’t mention Eddie. Screw it, what the hell was there to say?

The next morning, at exactly 10.37 am, Eddie Munson entered ‘Kitties.’ This time, he’d gotten a tie-dye scarf muffled up over his face and wore a crazy multi-coloured bucket hat.

He looked ridiculous.

Nothing could subdue that scent.

Steve felt a squeal bubbling in his throat, which he released only briefly. It was enough for Chrissy to shoot out from the back to check everything was okay.

Steve had his head in one of their regular customer’s laps, and they’d paid up till 11 o’clock. DAMN, DAMN, DAMN! He struggled to subdue his panic. He didn’t want Eddie to see him with another Alpha! It’s not like he could’ve refused the customer, but… a silent scream tore from the depths of his soul. Carol was already meeting and greeting Eddie, offering him Chrissy’s or indeed her service.

Which Eddie graciously refused. “I got time to wait for Steve. Any chance of an Irish coffee, Ma’am?”

“Sorry, we don’t have a liquor licence.”

“No sweat, Sweetheart. I’ll have a coconut-mocha with extra cream. It okay if I move the furniture a bit? I could do with a cosy corner.” He dropped his voice so soft and low Steve strained to hear it: “Somewhere where nobody can shove a camera in my face.”

“Absolutely, Sir. I’ll help. Chrissy—get over here!”

Eddie refused the aid of the Omegas and shifted a large couch himself. He then settled with what felt too much like a cold-shoulder to Steve—although his wish for privacy very much suited Steve too—and started scrolling on his cell.

Steve’s skin crawled every time the other Alpha touched him. When they skimmed the strip of bare flesh between his tight tee and shorts, his stomach seemed to flip upside down and refused to right itself. He couldn’t fake purr. His collar felt chokingly tight, and when he tried to take a gulp of air, Eddie’s beautiful scent caught in his windpipe.

He released it as a stifled sob, and then the purrs began to happen. They were definitely purrs of distress, and they shook him like a leaf. Maybe Eddie would realise Steve was not worth waiting for and leave?

Steve watched the clock crawl toward eleven. At which point, Carol snapped at Steve’s customer, “Time’s up, Mister. Steve is booked!”

Steve shuffled on his knees over to Eddie. The thread of Eddie’s scent—screw it, his sheer Alphaness—drew Steve like he was on a leash. He couldn’t suppress a pang of disappointment when Eddie left his scarf on and plopped a thin cushion into his lap. Christ, Steve wished he’d been able to wash! The other Alpha’s burnt-toast scent had been barely noticeable, easily drowned by the chemicals and Eddie. But would Eddie detect it and despise Steve for it?

“Sorry about the wait,” whispered Steve. “I… I…”

“It’s okay,” said Eddie. His tone was strange and rough, bordering on scary, before softening like melting butter: “I missed you.”

“Missed you too,” squeaked Steve, before he could help himself.

Wtf? Missed me? He’s lying—he only just met me!

Yeah, now he thought about it, Steve had spent every moment they’d been apart missing Eddie like hell. Alphas were different, right?

He sank his cheek onto Eddie’s cushioned lap, staring ahead at the slinky black cats silhouetted on the walls. Eddie’s fingers glided into Steve’s hair, and Steve’s stomach finally settled the right way up again. For the first time since he’d left Eddie’s lap yesterday, he felt totally warm, comfortable, serene… and, suddenly, so very safe.

“How’s your day going, Steve?”

“Oh, like, seriously, it sucks. And this creepy stalker Alpha just showed up and it’s gotten even worse. Um… Joking.” He was being sassy now? Where did that come from? Fortunately, Eddie hooted, and Steve’s voice wobbled with his excited purrs. “I’m good, thanks. How about you?”

“Mighty fine right now.” Eddie leaned down close, speaking quiet and confidential: “Got another manic afternoon in the recording studio coming up. I lost my mojo, Stevie, did you know that?”

The reminder that Eddie was a badass rockstar shook Steve’s happiness. Only for a moment. A little voice in his head squealed:

He called me Stevie again! He’s giving me PET NAMES!

Eddie’s knuckles skimmed, featherlight, down the curve of Steve’s throat, sending heat sparkling through several layers of skin. Eddie’s coffee-spiced breath ruffled Steve’s hair, and his world was perfect.

“I can’t imagine you’re ever not great at everything.” Steve revelled in the sensation of Eddie twisting a strand of Steve’s hair around a finger, giving it a gently delicious tug.

“You say the sweetest things, Sweetness,” replied Eddie. Then, with a bitter twist: “You clearly don’t follow much music news.”

“Hey, don’t say that! Music journo is my dream career.” Woah! Again with the sass. Again, Eddie chortled indulgently, while Steve added, “No, sorry. I really don’t.”

“Damn, you really are the puuuuurfect little kitty, aren’t you?” sighed Eddie. “Wish I could stay here all day.”

Steve was so overcome, he couldn’t even whisper, Me too.  An ecstatic little noise bubbled in Steve’s throat, which might’ve been a chirrup if he’d not swallowed it back in time. He’d never chirruped. Never! He pressed his legs together, scared that the slick trickling lightly from his slit would leak out of his shorts.

They were decidedly skimpier than yesterday’s shorts, basically hotpants—cut right at the line of his butt-cheeks. He wondered if Eddie’s eyes had wandered there yet. Despite the slick, he sure hoped so, and…

Dammit, focus on his touch, Harrington. Not on his scent. And definitely not on how close you are to his dick and how badly you want it inside you.

Apart from Steve didn’t want that, not really.

No Alpha had ever triggered such strong reactions in him. Which was all the more reason he shouldn’t get carried away. Eddie would never be interested in being Steve’s Alpha, even without Steve’s… complications in that department.

Eddie was here to relax a while. If not today, then soon, he’d leave and never look back.

Steve’s purrs grew fractious, though it turned out to be almost impossible to remain stressed out in Eddie’s lap. Like yesterday, Eddie seemed to read his anxiety, asking if Steve was okay, smoothing Steve’s hair till Steve’s troubles slipped away.

It helped that Eddie wanted to chat, and he was so fun and engaging Steve briefly forgot he was even an Alpha. It was like being with an old friend, though that was an experience that Steve wasn’t exactly flush with.

Eddie asked Steve about what music he liked, and Steve came clean instantly. He didn’t listen to music much. He got too easily overwhelmed by emotional tracks.

“I mean, I like a whole variety of music, honestly. It’s just, sometimes lyrics and melodies just get me so deep, and…” The next thought that popped into his head stunned him—I guess it might be different if I had an Alpha to guide me, to anchor me when my emotions are overstimulated. Nope. Would be waaaay too needy to say that out loud. “Wow, that sounds pathetic.” He wrinkled his nose, pressed a finger between his brows. “None of it makes sense.”

“It’s not pathetic, and it makes perfect sense,” said Eddie. Almost as if he’d heard the parts Steve hadn’t said out loud. “I mean, you might find Corroded Coffin a bit shouty.”

“I can do shouty,” said Steve.

With you to hold my hand… Oh, seriously self?!?

Turned out, despite Steve’s ‘difficulty’ with music, they liked plenty of other things in common. Including dainty little rose cupcakes, of which Eddie ordered a plateful, and fed to Steve with his fingertips.

Feeding the kitties was permitted—at the discretion of the kitty and as long as fingers didn’t enter mouths. Steve, naturally, was totally up for the chance to lap lightly at any part of Eddie, salty goodness mixed with super-sweet floral pastry.

“It cracks me up how many Alphas miss out on this good stuff because they’re scared their precious Alpha image will be tarnished,” said Eddie, when they’d finished the last mini cake. His fingers and thumb—deeply grooved from plucking strings and shiny wet with Steve’s saliva—still lingered on the cushion a hairs’ breadth from Steve’s lips. Gnnnnnng! What Steve wouldn’t give right now to inhale any one of those digits deep.

Softly, Eddie asked, “What about you, Steve? What do you enjoy that flips the bird in the face of conformity—that’s totally un-Omega?”

Steve closed his eyes to temptations of the flesh. If only it was so easy to shut out Eddie’s scent! He focussed on the question: “I used to love sports, especially swimming. Before I presented Omega, I used to train three times a week. Tho’ I got really nervous, I loved racing, the thrill of competition. I miss that.” His latest purr mingled with a heartfelt sigh. “Nobody lets Omegas train, and even those special Omega hours at pools are few and far between and so stupidly pricey. I heard a rumour it’s because they don’t want the pools all slicked up. Jesus, we can control ourselves!”

At least, when we’re not being petted by super-hot Alphas.

“That really sucks,” agreed Eddie. “Steve, I might know a pool where—”

“No, no, no, no, no,” said Steve, kinda panicked suddenly without knowing why. “It’s fine. It’s one of those things I just need to let go of.”

An uneasy growl rumbled from Eddie’s core, but he must’ve sensed Steve’s renewed agitation, because he let it drop.

He probably just wanted to see Steve in his speedos. Steve sure as hell would love to see how Eddie managed to stuff his Alpha dick into his.

Eddie returned the next day, having booked Steve for the entire morning in advance, and they chatted more. This time Steve spent most of the hour sitting in his lap for a proper cuddle. Steve hugged around Eddie’s neck, clinging tight as he dared. He was glad of the scarf there, muffling Eddie’s scent slightly. He ended up turning his face away, anyhow. Like on Monday, he was petrified he wouldn’t be able to stop himself burying his nose there, nor turning super-submissive and baring his own throat.

Once again, breaking the rules himself.

Why did Eddie have to be sexy Alpha perfection incarnate and a great guy? And his voice… Gnnng! It touched some secret place in Steve, chiming happy chords buried so deep he’d never known they were there.

Before long, though, Steve had gotten his head notched cosily beneath Eddie’s chin and was keen to get as much of himself into Eddie’s lap as possible. He huddled into a ball, knees hitching till his bare heels kissed Eddie’s thighs.

No part of him was cold now. He couldn’t remember what cold was, hardly. Being with Eddie was like a dream.

But he was not gonna fall asleep again. He didn’t want to miss a precious second with Eddie, whether laughing and chatting, or just quietly snuggling. He even adored the way Eddie hugged him a little tighter—once almost bruisingly so—whenever another Alpha passed by. Once or twice, Eddie growled at them, too. It was all daft, because it was merely an Alpha being Alpha, following his possessive, protective instincts. It didn’t mean anything. Steve basked in the vibes, all the same.

“Same time tomorrow?” asked Eddie, when, with an obvious reluctance, he allowed Steve off his lap.

Steve glanced uneasily between Eddie and Carol. The café was quiet, and she was busy arranging the pastries. “I’m on in the evening tomorrow,” admitted Steve. “It’s ‘kitty-kitted-up’ night—you know, we wear the ears and whiskers and shit. Oh, and we screech like kitties in heat too. I mean, most of the customers need earplugs to stop their brains imploding.”

“Steve!” snapped Carol, while Steve enjoyed Eddie’s goofy grin. “Stop fooling around. Honestly, Sir. Nobody screeches.”

“Aw, shame,” said Eddie. “That sounded like a blast. Either way, I’m in.” Then he cringed, and Steve’s heart seemed to drop like a stone. “I guess it’s pretty popular? I take it you don’t have, I dunno, anywhere private I can book? A back room or something?”

“You know, we don’t,” said Carol, making moon eyes at Eddie, while Steve’s knees gave way beneath him. His butt slammed heavily onto the couch—onto the lusciously warm patch Eddie had vacated.

A private room. Alone with Eddie.

Oh. My. God.

“However, you are our favorite customer.” Carol’s smile verged on a simper.  “I’ll talk to Tommy. I’m sure we can figure something out.”

Eddie turned to Steve, who scrambled to his feet. “You okay with that, Steve?”

Steve nodded. Yes, he was.  He shouldn’t be, but this was Eddie. He wanted to ask Carol if the same rules would apply as usual.

His voice failed him. To be fair, he hardly cared if they did, or they didn’t. He just wanted to be back in Eddie’s lap.

“You sure?” prompted Eddie. “Because if you feel uncomfortable about this in any way—”

“No! It’s fine.”

Steve trusted Eddie. Maybe he shouldn’t. Crazily, he did. These past three days, he figured he should’ve felt more scared about his past catching up than usual, about being found out.

He didn’t. His past seemed more distant than ever. Having Eddie in his life made him feel safer.

Yup, crazy.

“Honestly, I like the idea,” he said, dispelling a final hint of doubt from Eddie’s sincere and searching gaze. “It gets us away from Carol here. She can screech high enough to shatter glass.”

“Shut up already, Steve!” Carol tittered and blushed in equal measures. “We don’t screech, Mister Munson. Honest. He’s being a total douche.”

After Eddie had gone, Steve managed to resist analysing his emotions too deeply by squealing his head off with Chrissy and Carol and dancing around the café.

Right until another customer turned up, and they all had to crash back to earth pronto.

Chapter 3.1 on tumblr Chapter 3.2 on tumblr

Chapter 3 on AO3

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Thank you so very much for reading. If you enjoyed, every little like and reblog or comment means a lot to me so thank you💚

I am always happy to tag, pls let me know, or you can follow the tag #steddie omega cat cafe 💚

tags 💚🐈‍⬛💚 @disrespectedgoatman 💚 @bumblebeecuttlefishes

@katethetank 💚 @themoonagainstmers 💚

💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚

[uhohbestie]

There Are Monsters Nearby [Chapter 35]

🏜 Pairing: Grian/Scar

🧟‍♂️ Tags: zombie AU, zombie apocalypse, lovers to exes, slow burn, eventual reconciliation

📖 Summary: The day after Scar breaks up with Grian, the dead come back to life. Knowing that venturing out alone is a death sentence, the sudden onset of the apocalypse forces them to stick together despite their tensions. In the wreckage of the world, they're forced to survive side-by-side, coming to terms with the fact that—try as they might—there's still no one they trust more than each other.

Chapter 35 - Is it a lucky break? Or has a terrible new hand been dealt. Either way, Grian and Scar find themselves once more in over their heads, nursing old wounds they're now forced to realise they never really let heal.

📝 Words: 8633

🔗 Link: Read Chapter 35 on AO3

—

“What’re you two doing here anyway?” B asks, the question popping up all at once, like an afterthought.

“Saw your signs,” Scar lies, the words coming as easily as breathing. It’s impressive, and a part of Grian is proud of how quick he is on the uptake. “Figured we’d camp out here until help came to us.”

“Well if you’re looking for a group to stay with, you’ve come to the right place!”

“We’re heading North,” Grian interrupts, feeling small when two sets of eyes turn to look at him in unison.

“Oh,” B says, making no effort to hide his disappointment. “That’s fine too, of course. There’s no pressure to stay.” There’s a pause, B clearly struggling internally before he turns to face Scar, something apologetic in his tone as he adds, “But, you know, it might still be nice to rest up with us for a night or two before you head on your way… It’s the least I can do for you.”

A muscle in Scar’s neck flexes, his jaw tightening around a knee-jerk response that would no doubt go over poorly. Instead, a cold smile carves across his face, painful to look at, though Grian doubts B would be able to tell the difference from his genuine one.

His heart is pounding so anxiously in his chest that he feels like he might faint, breathless from the tension of it.

“Why, what a kind and considerate invitation. By all means, lead the way,” Scar drawls, motioning B on with a hand and tipping his head to him in deference.

Clearly relieved, B turns towards the forest, beckoning them along over his shoulder. “C’mon, I’ll take you back to meet the crew.”

[ read more ]

—

Having come all this way, and having stuck with us through so many other cameos, we are so, so excited to finally be here with the Life of the party ❤️💛💚

You can read the whole fic thus-far in the link below ↓↓↓

You may not rest now, There Are Monsters Nearby (on ao3!)

[sebastianswallows]

The English Client — One

— PAIRING: Tom Riddle x F!Reader

— SYNOPSIS: The year is 1952. Tom is working for Borgin and Burkes. He is sent to Rome to acquire three ancient books of magic by any means necessary. One in particular proves challenging to reach, and the only path forward is through a pretty, young bookseller. A foreigner like him, she lives alone, obsessed with her work... until Tom comes into her life.

— WARNINGS: none for this chapter, just Tom being grumpy and hating the world

— WORDCOUNT: 3k

— A/N: This is a fic that was requested by @localravenclaw as a gift for @esolean 💕 It's going to be a bit of a rollercoaster, with angst and fluff and smut galore. I plan to post twice a week, Mondays and Fridays. I had a lot of fun writing it, and I hope you will have fun reading it, my dears! 💚

I

Tom was twenty-five. It had been seven years since he graduated from Hogwarts, and just as many since he started working at Borgin and Burkes. Now, he found himself in a sweltering place with the world passing him by. Trapped, for his sins, in a moving metal coffin. If this was hell, it looked like rolling hills, houses nestled in the fog, narrow rows of poplars and puffs of grazing sheep, all set to the tune of clinking chains and carriage shuffles. He hated this assignment.

After taking the train from London to Dover, he caught the ferry that sailed to Calais, and from there took a series of coaches and trains meant to take him on to Italy. To Rome. They had just stopped in Lyon to pick up more passengers, and now they were on their way again.

He had fought with Burke regarding the logistics of the whole thing. Why couldn’t he just use Floo like a normal wizard? But the miserable old stoat said he’d sooner trust muggle transportation than Tom’s pronunciation of Italian or French — and besides, was Floo even networked all the way down there? It didn’t matter anymore.

Tom was convinced it was all done to save costs, and perhaps for Burke to not have to call in any favours. So off he went with one measly suitcase and two billfolds of franks and lira — all of which were merely enchanted oak leaves. They would inevitably transfigure back to their original form in a couple of weeks or so, but by then Tom should be long gone. Who said money didn’t grow on trees?

He tried to distract himself from all this misery by checking his notes again. His little book cracked open, snapping at the spine, and its insides were revealed to him like a cadaver cut through with a black spidery scrawl. It was a list of books and authors, with observations added vertically on the side to save space.

“The Secrets of Wisdom, N. Tamisso 1650 — high priority, any edition. The Lost Word, B. Trevisan 1661 — low priority, optional. Delomelanicon (or The Invocation of Darkness), A. Torchia 1666 — first edition, mandatory.” The latter word was underlined three times. His notes continued with the instructions Burke had given. “Check the rare book dealers, antiquaries, private collectors if necessary. If you can not find it, find out who can. If they will not sell it, take it anyway.”

Tom’s lip curled. Whatever joy there was in being away from the squalor of Knockturn Alley was soiled by what he had to do in Rome. It wasn’t the books he minded, and in fact, he quite admired Burke’s taste in this matter. But to be flung so far away from home on such short notice, and for such a length of time, was pitiful to him. The heir of Slytherin turned errand boy…

“Excuse-moi, est-ce que — Oh, bonjour.”

Tom turned his frown toward the sliding doors of the compartment, between which stood a young man in his twenties. Lanky brown locks fell into his eyes veiling the crinkles of a smile.

“Yes?” sighed Tom.

“I was wondering if this was free,” said the boy. And without waiting for an answer, he dragged his luggage inside — three suitcases, all leather with copper fittings looking ready to burst — and closed the doors behind him.

“I suppose it is,” mumbled Tom. He subtly closed his notebook and tucked it back into the messenger bag at his feet while he kept track of the stranger from the corner of his eyes.

The fine quality of the newcomer’s clothes was somewhat disguised by how carelessly they hung around him. His white and starched shirt was loosened at the top, revealing a hint of tanned skin sprinkled with sparse curls. A golden pin kept a red and blue striped tie affixed to it, and around his pinky finger was a silver ring thickly laid with marcasites and crowned with a malachite stone. His lips were full and purple-stained from wine. His eyes were a bright blue. Judging by his pressed trousers and clean leather shoes, he was a gentleman who had arrived at the station by car — or, at least, he was the spoilt brat of one.

“Clement,” the boy grinned, extending his hand.

“Tom,” he replied, giving him a firm, brief shake.

“I’m on my way to Rome!” Clement sighed, plopping down onto the seat opposite him. Almost immediately, he cracked open a cigarette case and started fishing for a lighter in his trouser pocket. His luggage lay strewn all around the floor, suitcases filled with junk, no doubt. “You?”

“The same,” Tom said and instantly regretted sharing anything at all. With people like these — the overly friendly types — it was best to not encourage conversation.

“Oh, magnificent. Vacation?”

“Work.”

“How sad,” tutted Clement as he popped a cigarette between his lips. He offered one to Tom as well.

“Don’t smoke.”

“Ah.”

He closed the case with a loud click and set it on the table between them. With a smooth, almost theatrical motion, he lit up his pocket lighter — silver, older than him, probably an heirloom, engraved with an elaborate floral motif featuring a fleur-de-lis — and let the flame dance on the tip of his cigarette until he was satisfied.

“Don’t talk much, either,” the boy chuckled. He kept his eyes on Tom as he took a drag, then started puffing away without a care. He attempted to blow rings of smoke but failed. “What do you use your mouth for, then?”

“Cursing, mostly.”

Clement laughed. “The same!”

Tom doubted it.

The compartment soon filled with smoke, and the narrow window open at the top only made it dance around inside. The muggy summer fumes were driving Tom to madness already, and he could only hope the train moved fast enough to clear the air. But as they went further into the rural parts of France, the scent of sheep took over. Maybe it’s not too late to try to Apparate directly at the station, he thought.

“So, what do you do?” asked the French boy, vowels gliding altogether in one breath between his lips. His arm extended elegantly to tap the ash into a cheap tray by the window.

It took Tom a moment to look at him and answer. “I’m in, er, publishing.”

“Truly?” he said, excited enough to lean over the table. “That’s magnificent. I intend to be published too.”

“Oh? What do you write?”

“Poesies.”

“Poetry? Ah, not my area, I’m afraid.”

“But you must know some people…”

Tom wanted to tell him that if he were any good he’d have found a publisher already, but intuition told him to temper himself.

“I might,” he said, “but I’m afraid I’m full up at the moment.”

The boy puffed away nervously as he tapped the round gemstone of his ring against the window, and kept his eyes on him. Tom turned to watch the view rolling past them, seeing without seeing. The sensation of being watched was as familiar as it was discomforting. It crawled down his thin cheeks, his narrow neck, and from there sank into his clothes like sweat. He gazed briefly at the tapping ring from the corner of his eyes in irritation, before focusing away again. For a few moments, he thought he’d successfully ended their conversation.

“Well, I’m in show business,” Clement said instead, grinning brilliantly. There was a gap between his first incisors that made him look boyish and pure. “Theatre.”

“Your parents must be very happy.”

“No,” he laughed. “Miserable. But,” he shrugged, “it is not their decision.”

Tom hummed and said nothing else.

“Your parents are happy with your job, no? You go on important business trips to France, to Rome, and… erm. Well, it is a good job, for sure. Makes them proud, yes?”

Whatever sunshine beamed through the window was chilled and clouded by the glare in Tom’s dark eyes. Why did this bothersome Frenchman have to talk to him? He wasn’t going to keep doing it the whole way to Rome, surely…

“I wouldn’t know,” he finally said. “They’re dead.”

“Oh… Oh, I am so sorry...”

“I’m not,” he mumbled. He didn’t think Clement had heard him, but he wouldn’t care even if he did.

The boy pulled the ashtray closer and put out his cigarette, then leaned his head against the glass. Fidgeting, he held the silver case in his hands and clicked it open and closed, open and closed… He did that for quite a while.

Tom could feel him staring. Could even sense to some extent the messy thoughts inside that head: curiosity, intrigue, and joy.

What could be joyful about that moment?

Well, if Tom was being honest, this wasn’t the first time he’d had such an effect on people. Memories of Burke’s clients came back to him accompanied by the customary shiver down his spine. Clement had the same flippant merriment about him that all the others did, those careless old witches and wizards. That unguarded look of innocence surrounded by the fog of greed. An airy absence of thought and feeling. Must’ve been the side effect of all that money.

Tom had once envied such people. Had even flattered himself with the knowledge that he, however distantly, was one of them. What greater destiny than to be born to glorious old blood? What greater tragedy than to be fallen from it…? He could even remember, with much clarity and shame, how he’d spent several months during his third year obsessing over the Gaunts and Riddles, chasing up on genealogies, and smattering the back pages of his diary with heraldic designs.

But the more he understood the upper classes — their uselessness, their inborn idiocy, their paradoxical sense of superiority which stood impervious to anything reality threw at them — the more he grew to hate them.

“I am sorry if I offended…” said Clement rather softly. “Sometimes, I talk too much.”

“Oh, really? I didn’t notice.”

“No, but I do, I do…”

Tom had overshot his subtleties, apparently.

“So you are not happy with your job? Forgive me for asking…”

“No, it’s quite alright.”

“A pity, you know…”

“Why?”

“To not like it.”

“Oh, it’s not too much trouble most of the time. Why? Do you like your job?”

“But of course!” he said, blue eyes twinkling.

Tom cast a scathing look his way. How strange… He couldn’t imagine enjoying any form of employment — other than the coveted post of DADA professor at Hogwarts.

“Why are you in Rome, then?” Tom asked.

“On vacation. I am, erm, meeting a friend,” he whispered with a grin.

“A girlfriend?” asked Tom with a smirk.

Clement shook his head and giggled. “A boy friend.”

Tom’s brows nearly reached his hairline. He’d never heard of such things being bandied about quite that openly before, at least not in England. Clement seemed not to care. Must’ve been a habit of his, as he seemed to not care about much at all other than enjoying life.

“You have a fun vacation ahead of you, then.”

“More than you know,” he winked.

Tom curled his nose at that and sat back, away from the whole conversation. But Clement leaned closer, arms braced over the table lazily, eyes flashing excitedly.

“We will rob this old fool, and run with his money.”

That captured Tom’s attention again. The boy was waiting eagerly for his reaction, and not a thought ran through his head that Tom might’ve been untrustworthy. Of course, far be it from him to ruin someone else’s fun, but the scenario Clement proposed was too absurd to be believed.

So what else could Tom do but laugh? The sound of it filled the cabin, and so out of use were those muscles that his cheeks began to ache. The sight of it seemed to delight young Clement. He leaned back and gave another one of his brilliant smiles.

“You can join us, if you like,” he offered smoothly.

“Sorry,” said Tom, his cheeks still flushed. “My schedule is full.”

“Oh, pity, pity… You would like my friend, I think. His name is Donatien. He is more serious, like you.”

“Is that so,” said Tom distractedly.

“By the way, what is your hotel?”

II

They entered Rome on a train that ran six hours late, and wobbled on its tracks, and stank of mouldy cheese and wine rust.

Clement talked most of the way there, and seemed to be satisfied with Tom mostly reacting with brief hums and tilted smiles. They even exchanged gifts. The French boy was enchanted by what was, in Tom’s estimation, a fairly average switchblade. He’d only taken it out to peel an orange. It was something he’d bought in London right before his seventh year, and although it was quite plain, it did have some delicate embellishments on its ivory handle of two writhing snakes. That seemed to appeal to Clement, who offered his own blade in exchange — a Swiss army knife that also had a screwdriver and bottle opener tucked in its red body. Considering it a more efficient deal, Tom shrugged and accepted the trade.

Faint details came up now and then about his plans with this Donatien, but most of it was lost in smoke and loud metallic rattles. As much as Tom hated flying on brooms, even he could agree it would’ve been preferable to this…

But at least he didn’t have to fear any Ministry or Aurors in these parts. Not any that were familiar with him, anyway. The Italians had their own Ministry of Magic, of course, but it was all the way down in Mirto, Sicily, and foreigners were a low priority for them. There were so many people from all over the world in Italy those days that it wasn’t worth keeping track of them all, or at least so Burke had told him.

The train slowed and pulled into the station, and pulled, and pulled… It groaned as if in pain. Clement took the jolt of inertia as it all came to a stop with cheerful clapping, and promptly got up to collect his bags.

“So, we are agreed?”

“Absolutely not agreed. Besides, I doubt my lodgings would be to your taste.”

“Ah Tom, you do not know my taste!”

“Very well, but best keep your complaints to a minimum once we get there.”

They struggled to get everything off the train with four suitcases between them. Tom was travelling light with just the one, about which Clement made some snide comment that he soon forgot, but he helped him anyway. His own belongings consisted of plain muggle clothes and some books that Burke wished him to barter with, if it came to that. Between the lines, and between Burke’s sparse and slimy brows, Tom understood he was expected to use his charms to get a bargain price — as per usual — but he did not intend to let some fat old antiquary put his grimy hands on him. Not this time. Besides, conversing with Clement had stained his dignity enough.

Being away on the continent had one advantage, at least: he was no longer under the vulturous watch of his employer.

Tom stepped out onto the platform, muscles sore from days of sitting down, and looked ahead as if he knew where he was going. People were chatting all around him, filling the cool hall with murmurs all the way up to its dome — some in German, some in French, others in variously accented English. Tom wiped the sweat off his brow with his sleeve and picked up his suitcase to follow Clement, who was hunting for a trolley to load his luggage onto.

As soon as they stepped out onto the street, the heat of Rome in August hit Tom in the face like an oven door and he, frail and pallid thing, was not prepared for it. He squinted in displeasure, to Clement’s great amusement.

“This way, Tom!” he said as he popped on a pair of sunglasses. “I see a taxi!”

Tom had spent most of the journey brushing up on his Italian with the help of a conversation guide he picked up at the Gare du Nord. His extensive knowledge of Latin came in pretty handy. But now that he saw Clement handle things, perhaps he needn’t have bothered. His companion could easily direct the driver to the dingy old hotel Tom was staying at, the Gallienus on Via Domenichino, and chatted a bit more besides.

“Vacation in Rome often, then?” he asked.

“I just know some phrases,” Clement smiled. “You don’t need much with these people.”

The driver pretended not to understand the slight.

“Where do you want to have lunch, then?” Clement asked.

“Lunch? I’m certainly not in the mood, not now.”

“Oh come ooon…”

“You can eat on your own.”

“We can leave our stuff and take the taxi to this place I know on Via della Mercede. They make the best seafood, the best!”

It had not been until now, with this journey to somewhere far away, that Tom realised how limited his world had been at Hogwarts. He’d once felt equal parts ashamed and at a strange advantage next to the other Slytherins, his peers, all purebloods, for knowing both the magical and muggle worlds. Now, exiled for this assignment among strangers, it seemed to Tom as if he were starting life all over again. He looked out the window and everything was new, everything was strange. The buildings, the street, the people, even the clothes were different. The city, like London, was massive, but the streets were broader, blazing white. Some disappeared into little alleyways that slithered like dark serpents. Tom could easily see himself getting lost in such a place.

It was… humbling. He didn’t like it.

[potatoplace]

Omega Needs - chapter 3

Feylin, eventual Feysand

Chapter 2 Chapter 4 Series Masterlist

Story Summary: Feyre presented as an omega after being changed into a high fae Under the Mountain. Her heats have been hellish, and Tamlin has neglected certain aspects of her presentation. After the disastrous wedding ceremony, how will Feyre’s omega handle being away from her Alpha?

Words: ~2.1k

Warnings: just A/B/O dynamics, Rhys being a bit of a dick

Author's Note: having lots of fun writing this, I'm gonna try to post on AO3 too if I remember. I enjoyed this chapter, I hope you will too!

18+ only pls

🩵💚🩵💜🩵

“It’s… not what I expected?” Feyre admitted, surprise lacing her tone. “It’s a lot less… ominous then I thought it would look.”

Rhysand laughed, a lighter one than he used back in Spring. “You are probably picturing the other half of my court, but no need to worry my darling Feyre-”

“I’m not your anything!” Feyre interjected, moving a few paces away from him. “Do not act like me being here for a week every month gives you any kind of ownership over me!”

Rhysand held up his hands in surrender, attempting to placate Feyre’s still wired emotions. “I meant no claim in my statement, Feyre. If you’ll come with me, I’ll show you to where you’ll be staying when you’re here,” he told her, walking in the direction they were facing.

Feyre stared at him for a moment, wondering why he seemed so much more relaxed now that it was just the two of them. She tried to take a step forward to follow him, then remembered that she was still wearing those cauldron-damned heels that were far high and far too thin for her to feel safe in.

Carefully, she lowered herself to her hands then sat on the floor, attempting to reach past the skirts of her dress to untie the shoes.

“Feyre, what are you-?” Rhysand started, turning to face her again. “Oh, Feyre darling, would you like some help taking off your shoes?” He asked in a playful tone, already returning to her side, his citrus and sea scent washing over her in a wave of calm.

Seeing as she still hadn’t managed to get her hands on one of the shoes yet and her hands didn’t seem to want to help now that she’d scented him, Feyre sighed “Yes, please.”

“Good manners too, better than most of the times I’ve seen you.” His voice was full of mirth, but the compliment made her feel more at ease. Her omega was settling down, happy to be acknowledged for something, anything positive. He gently lifted the skirts of her dress, and quickly untied the heels from her feet, his hands lingering for a moment before grabbing the heels and standing up.

He extended his free hand, which Feyre ignored. She managed to get on her knees again, but the weight of the dress and her exhaustion combined was too much for her to get her feet beneath her again. She sighed again, grabbing his hand and letting him help her the rest of the way up, brushing against his chest on accident, getting an even deeper breath of him this time.

Lovely. Refreshing. Safe.

“They really didn’t want you to run away, did they?” Rhysand asked after they started walking.

“Excuse you?” Feyre asked, stunned by the question and her thoughts.

“I just mean that they have you in a dress you can barely walk in from the weight and shape, and shoes that seem a bit dangerous to wear. Especially on grass,” he points out, shaking the heels still in his hand.

Feyre leaned over and snatched them from him. “Impractical is the fashion, it does not mean they want me to be shackled to Spring.”

“Two things can be right at the same time, Feyre,” he said, stopping in front of a door to their right, turning the handle and pushing it open, allowing Feyre to walk in first.

The open wall at the back had silk curtains of different hues of blue covering it and swaying in the slight breeze. The bed was situated against the left wall, also covered in deep blues and purples, and a canopy of fabric above it, with drapes tied up and ready to be let down- perfect for feeling safe in a heat, her omega whispered inside of her, a thought she crushed down deep inside of her.

The bed was lovely though, it looked soft and comfortable and ready for her to take a nap in.

Looking over the rest of the room, Feyre saw a large open archway at back of the right wall, presumably leading towards a bathroom, as well as a vanity with a mirror, a large armoire, and a plush looking chair in the corner. Near the back of the room was a small round table with two chairs, and she knew she wanted to have breakfast or tea there one of her days here and look out at the mountains… she might even daydream about painting them.

Feyre walked further in, wanting to see the bathing room. And she wasn’t disappointed- her mouth fell slightly open, staring at the large tub, nearly the size of a small pond, with an open wall facing towards those very mountains she wanted to admire.

Maybe this was where she would take her tea.

Today, if possible.

She moved back into the main room, back towards where Rhysand was standing in the doorway.

“What do you think?”

“It’s… beautiful,” Feyre admitted reluctantly. She had been prepared to hate her time here. Hate everything here. But so far, everything… even Rhysand has been tolerable. Lovely, even, in the case of her room.

“Thank you, Feyre. I’m glad you like it.”

Feyre chewed her lip, trying to force out the question sitting in her throat.

Violet eyes tracked the movement, his brow cocking a moment later. “Yes, Feyre?”

“Were you…” she paused, embarrassment at the question building. “Were you serious about returning me to Spring if I… gointoheat?” is forced out of her, needing to know the answer.

“Of course, sweet omega. I would never deny you going back to your chosen alpha when in need,” he said reassuringly. Her cheeks flushed at pet name, unable to make herself as mad about it as she should be, since he had taken her away from said alpha and her wedding ceremony itself-

Oh, the anger was coming back. She had been taken from her alpha.

“But you’ll take me from him on my wedding day.”

Rhysand rolled his eyes. “You were panicking over your wedding day Feyre, shooting all of those emotions right down the bond at me,” he said, waving his left hand at her. “I saved you from having to run away in front of all those guests, from the alpha who still hasn’t claimed you after a year.” His voice quieted at the end, rage pouring into it.

Feyre inhaled sharply, her fear suddenly a gaping wound, she knew it wasn’t right that Tamlin hasn’t marked her yet-

“And while I would love for you to be my sweet, claimed omega, I know that you are very much in love with Tamlin.” Feyre bared her teeth slightly at his words, anger bubbling to the surface over her hurt. “It’s just too bad that there were all those petals everywhere, too bad that your betrothed couldn’t bother to make the ceremony feel safe for you.”

“How dare you!” Feyre yelled, hurling one of the shoes in her hand at his head, striking him on the forehead. She raised the remaining shoe as he opened his mouth again, ready to hit him again if he continued insulting her alpha.

“I have merely stated the truth Feyre.”

The second shoe went flying, disappointingly caught in his hand instead of by his stupid, perfect face. “I did not ask for your warped version of the truth, Rhysand. I also did not ask for you to save me from my wedding.”

He considered her words for a moment, and then the shoe was dissolving into nothing but dust. “And yet I did anyways,” he said with a smirk, turning to leave her room. “Do remember, I gave you a whole year before calling in the bargain. I was simply worried about you, Feyre darling, and decided to pay you a visit.” He picked lint off of his finely tailored suit, before looking Feyre in the eyes again. “I will see you for breakfast in the morning, Feyre. Taking your meals with me will be my one requirement of your time here. Dinner tonight will be on your own, however. Nuala and Cerridwen will be available to help you if you need it-” he paused at her look of confusion. “The shadow wraiths who helped you Under the Mountain,” he explained, and Feyre nodded her head tightly at the reminder.

Rhysand moved towards the door, taking a moment to look back at Feyre, still in her wedding gown. “Would you like me to have them come in now to help you take off that monstrosity of a wedding dress? Or perhaps I could-”

“Rhysand!” Feyre yelled in answer, storming over to the door as fast as she could to slam the door in his face.

Feyre turned the lock on the door, nearly sliding down it before she remembered that she was unable to get up on her own. She trudged over to the vanity, observing herself in the mirror. Her makeup was still alright, but her hair looked worse than before, now a frizzy mess on her head. She began pulling the various pins from her, each one followed by a small sigh of relief. Once she had finished, she shoved the pins into one of the drawers of the vanity, not caring about being clean at the moment.

All she could think about was getting out of this cauldron damned dress and into that amazing tub just a few feet away.

She tried to remember how Alis had put her into this thing, but her memory was of no help to her. She knew it had gone over her head, but she thought Alis had secured it somehow, buttons maybe?

But she couldn’t reach them. No matter how hard she fiddled around, she was stuck in the dress.

If Tamlin were here, this would be so much easier. He would probably rip straight through it and tear it off me, Feyre thought, a shiver of anticipation running down her spine. But Tamlin wasn’t here. So she continued trying to free herself.

After a quarter hour struggling with the damn thing, she gave in and reached out through her bond with Rhys.

Could you send Nuala and Cerridwen in to me?

Of course, darling, was his answering, insufferable reply.

A minute later, the two wraiths were at her door, before Feyre remembered she had locked her door, and would take a while to get up alone. “I locked the door and can’t get up, could you come in anyways?” She asked, her voice small.

They passed through the door, becoming corporeal on the other side.

One of them helped her to stand, and the other immediately set about finding the buttons holding her inside of the dress.

They worked incredibly quickly, one twin working on the buttons as the other lifted the layers upon layers off of her body, and within five minutes she was left in just her slip dress and lingerie.

“Thank you,” she smiled at the two.

“Of course, Lady Feyre,” said one of them. “Is there anything else we can do for you before dinner?”

Feyre chewed her lip, then asked “would you get me a pot of tea please? On a tray I can have next to the tub, if that’s possible. Oh, and please call me Feyre.”

“That should be no problem at all, Feyre. We’ll be back in a few minutes, feel free to get comfortable in the bath if you’d like.”

And with that, the quiet and gentle twins left the room, taking the pile of tulle with them.

Feyre looked over to the archway, and like a moth to a flame drifted into the bathroom, landing on the edge of the tub, dragging her fingers through the water. Already the perfect temperature.

Her slip went over her head as she walked back into her room and was thrown onto the large chair near the armoire. She sighed as she slipped off the bra and panties she had been so excited to show her husband fiancé, and tossed those on the chair as well.

Returning to the bath, she tested the water again with one foot, and then stepped in fully, sinking down and submerging herself up to her neck, tilting her head back to wet her hair.

She floated over to the edge of the bath, resting her head along it and looking out into the beautiful, snow capped mountains.

Aside from how annoying Rhysand can be, and how he knows just how to get on her nerves, the Night Court doesn’t seem to be as horrible as Tamlin and Ianthe claimed it would be.

After all, she has a room fit for a queen and a view so spectacular, her fingers are itching to paint for the first time in over a year.

[freshie-owo]

HEHEHEHEHE kicking and giggling, I loved your response to the A/B/O verse of PBP and I’m extremely excited for what else you have planned for the story (including a rewrite you say?) and whether or not you do make an a/b/o ver, I’ll be happily reading anything Zenitsu & the uzuis centric.

(I may also do my own spin of the a/b/o idea or just Zenitsu Uzui in general, I mainly write for Sanemi & Genya on my ao3 but Zenitsu is so blorbo and I love the idea of him being blood related or somehow adopted by the uzuis. However of course I’ll be giving credit/the inspiration link to your ao3 and works because they quite literally are the main inspiration)

And YES !! Monthly reread, I’m not kidding when I say it’s my favorite Zenitsu fanfic ever. It’s genuinely so hard to find fanfics of him that cater to my taste and your entire work is just the equivalent of hitting diamonds in a mine for me. I remember this year when you updated I had the shittiest day at work and what was getting me thru is that I got the ao3 notif of the last update LOL I went straight into reading when I got home and then took a shower and ate.

Oh also side note — I really liked and am curious about the jealously aspect of alpha/father/pack leader tengen, Tengen’s jealousy has been hinted a few time in PBP, especially when Zenitsu talked about his gramps, and I find that so interesting since we see a Lot of Zenitsu’s jealously in the fanfic. Basically what I’m saying is that if you go the possessive/jealous papa tengen route when they meet gramps/jigoro I’ll go bonkers just because the idea of 31 year old tengen beefing with this literal old man is so funny to me and because he’s so much more like Zenitsu than he actually thinks. And I bet he would be tweaking on the inside seeing Zenitsu be so familiar and affectionate with someone who isn’t in their “clan”

But this is just me theorizing/rambling and I’ll love anything that you put out!!!!!!!! Thanks for answering my questions and I hope you have a great day/night.💚

I'm glad you liked it, it was tons of fun for me to speculate about too, so thanks again for the ask!! And yes, I have a rewrite planned for a different series of events, and eventually I want to write not a full chaptered fic, but a fic with scenes of how I imagine things would go for some parts of Zen's life if he grew up with his fam! Tho don't get too excited considering how slowly I've been working on the main fic lol 😅

And if you're inspired to do your version of Zen and the uzuis ABO style then you should do it!! As I'm sure you saw in my fic, I was totally inspired by @kuwajima's fic to write my own, so welcome to the "inspired to write about Zenitus and the Uzuis they are family ur honour because of another writer" club haha!! But I would say don't let being used to writing one set of characters stop you if you wanna try with a new character! You'll know what feels right to write (lol)!

And I'm so, so flattered you re-read that often and that the fic is so right for you - I know I go absolutely feral when I find a fic like that for myself! I feel like I'm not putting it into words well but I just. Thank you. Thank you for loving the fic so much and for telling me so. It truly means so much to me 🥹

I'm sorry you had a shitty day when that happened, but I am delighted that I could provide something to make your day even a little bit better :)

As for Tengen getting jealous of Jigoro. Well. 👀👀👀👀👀 <- me looking at the next chapter draft and my notes lolololol

(Tengen and Zenitsu please get your shit together for two seconds and see how you are similar instead of different pls and thanks if you did maybe this fic would have been a oneshot)

And thank you, I hope you have a great day/night too!!

[braveclementine]

Chapter 18

Warnings: None, Readers under 18 can read this book. It is solely fluff- nothing sexual

Copyright: I do not own any Wizarding World characters that J.K. Rowling wrote. I do however own Elizabeth Kane (main character) and Trang Nyguen (best friend). There should be no use of these two names without my permission. I also do not condone any copying of this.

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𝕱𝖔𝖗 𝖆 𝖒𝖔𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙, there was silence as the three teachers and two parents took in the sight before them. Ron, Lockhart, and Ginny were covered in muck and slime. I looked like a water bedraggled rat covered in blood and Harry was just plain covered in blood and slime.

Then, Mrs. Weasley and Mr. Weasley recovered, throwing themselves on Ginny with hugs and tears and kisses.

I looked past them. Professor Dumbledore was standing by the mantelpiece, beaming as though this was what he'd expected all along, a piece of crumpled paper in one of his hands. Perhaps he had figured we'd save her since my outburst in the teachers room.

Professor McGonagall looked she might have an aneurysm. She had her hand over her heart and was taking deep breaths.

Then, for some reason I couldn't fathom considering he wasn't the head of Gryffindor house was Professor Snape. He glared at me furiously. I sighed.

Then, I found Mrs. Weasley hugging me and I yelped as her weight pressed me down into the ground. I found that she was sobbing, "You saved her! You saved her! How did you do it?"

"I think we'd all like to know that." Professor McGonagall said weakly.

"Mrs. Weasley." Professor Dumbledore said kindly. "I think Miss Kane needs to sit down."

Mrs. Weasley let go of me and went back to Ginny's side. Harry helped me into a chair and I felt much better.

Harry laid the sword and diary on the table. Then, he started telling everything that had happened this year. The disembodied voice that both of us could hear, how Hermione finally made the connection, talking to Aragog in the forest, how we figured Myrtle was the girl who died, how the entrance was in her bathroom. . .

"Very well." Professor McGonagall prompted him as he finished telling that part. "so you found out where the entrance was- breaking a hundred school rules into pieces along the way, I might add- but how on earth did you all get out of there alive, Potter?"

Harry then told about Fawkes arrival, the sorting hat, all the instructions I'd basically screamed at him, and apparently how I'd distracted Riddle while he managed to destroy him. However, he avoided talking about the diary.

"What interests me most, is how Lord Voldemort managed to enchant Ginny, when my sources tell me he is currently in hiding in the forests of Albania?" Professor Dumbledore said, somehow knowing this without knowing about the diary.

Was that where he was hiding?

"W-what's that?" Mr. Weasley asked in a stunned voice. "You-Know-who? En-enchant Ginny? But Ginny's not. . . Ginny hasn't been. . . has she?"

"It was this diary." Harry said quickly. "Riddle wrote in it when he was sixteen."

I avoided Snape's gaze. He hadn't taken his eyes off of me once and I found it a bit embarrassing. Couldn't he tell I looked horrible! Why didn't he let off?

"Brilliant." Dumbledore said softly, "Of course, he was probably the most brilliant student Hogwarts has ever seen. Very few people know that Lord Voldemort was once called Tom Riddle. I taught him myself, fifty years ago, at Hogwarts. He disappeared after leaving the school. . . traveled far and wide. . . sank so deeply into the Dark Arts, consorted with the very worst of our kind, underwent so many dangerous, magical transformations, that when he resurfaced as Lord Voldemort, he was barely recognizable. Hardly anyone connected Lord Voldemort with the clever, handsome boy who was once Head Boy here."

"But, Ginny." Mrs. Weasley said. 'What's our Ginny got to do with-with- him?"

"His d-diary!" Ginny sobbed. "I've b-been writing in it, and he's been w-writing back all year-"

I felt all my guilt wash over me again. "Ginny! Haven't I taught you anything? What have I always told you? Never trust anything that can think for itself if you can't see where it keeps its brain? Why didn't you show the diary to me or your mother? A suspicious object like that, it was clearly full of Dark Magic-"

"It was my fault." I choked out. Everyone's heads (excepts Snape's) turned towards me.

"Pardon?" Professor McGonagall asked, shaken.

"If I'd just been a better friend" I exclaimed angrily, "Then she wouldn't have written in it and none of this would've happened!"

"Miss Kane." Professor Dumbledore said kindly. "Don't put all the blame on your shoulders."

I shook my head. "I knew! I knew at the burrow she was writing in it! I should've made the connection faster! I had all the benefit too! I could see everything! And I still couldn't manage to stop it!"

Professor McGonagall said warmly. "I thought you were the one who told me that to interfere with the future would rip holes in the time continuum."

"Well yes. . ." I muttered. "But still. . ." I clenched my fists in my lap, still extremely angry at myself.

"What I want to know." Professor Snape finally spoke, sounding very cold, "Is what happened to you."

"Oh you know." I said very vaguely. "Thrown into a couple walls, fell into some water, nearly drowned, broke an ankle, nothing very important."

They all stared at me and my cheeks coloured red even more.

"Basically." Harry deciphered. "Riddle controlled her with my wand and threw her around when she tried to disarm him. Then, the Basilisk knocked her into the water while she tried to jump on its back, I don't really know what happened there, but I think the water had jets that pulled her downwards. Oh and she dueled Riddle while I stabbed the Diary."

"Basically what Harry's trying to say," I said, shooting daggers at him, "Is that he did all the work and I was a bit of a nuisance."

"Actually-"

"Alright, we get it." Snape said sharply. "I regret asking."

"Miss Weasley should go up to the hospital wing right away. This has been a terrible ordeal for her. There will be no punishment. Older and wiser wizards than she have been hoodwinked by Lord Voldemort. Bed rest and perhaps a large streaming mug of hot chocolate. I always find that cheers me up. You will find that Madam Pomfrey is still awake. She's just giving out Mandrake juice- I daresay the basilisk's victims will be waking up any moment."

"So Hermione's okay?" Ron said brightly. I looked up sharply.

"There has been no lasting harm done, Ginny." Dumbledore said softly. The Weasleys left and Dumbledore turned to me. "Professor Snape, will you escort Miss Kane-"

"No." I said. "Something interesting is going to happen and I want to be here to witness it." I said.

"Very well." Dumbledore relented. "Minerva, I think all this merits a good feast. Might I ask you to go and alert the kitchen?"

"Right." Professor McGonagall said, back in the groove, though she gave me a peculiar look. "I'll leave you to deal with Potter, Weasley, and Kane, shall I?"

"Certainly." Dumbledore said. "Severus?"

"I think I'll stay and see what this interesting event is going to be." Snape said in a fairly bored voice and he drifted over and stood behind my chair. Shivers went over my spine.

"I seem to remember telling you both that I would have to expel you if you broke any more school rules." Dumbledore said suddenly and I felt goosebumps go over my arms. I felt Snape tense behind me. Ron opened his mouth in horror.

"Which goes to show that the best of us must sometimes eat our words." Dumbledore said with a smile and Snape sighed behind me. "You three will receive Special Service Awards for Services to the School and- let me see- yes, I think two hundred points apiece for Gryffindor and two hundred points to Hufflepuff."

I smiled but it didn't matter. We'd still lost. But that was quite alright.

"But one of us seems to be keeping mightily quiet about his part in this dangerous adventure," Dumbledore went on. "Why so modest, Gilderoy?"

I chuckled.

"Professor Dumbledore." Ron said quickly, "there was an accident down in the Chamber of Secrets. Professor Lockhart-"

"Am I a professor? Goodness. I expect I was hopeless, wasn't I?" Professor Lockhart said, an expression of mild surprise on his face.

I heard Snape quietly laugh behind me. I was suddenly glad he'd stayed.

"He tried to do a Memory Charm on us and the wand backfired." Ron explained carefully.

"Dear me. Impaled upon your own sword, Gilderoy?" Dumbledore said, shaking his head, though his lips seemed to be quivering with laughter. I wasn't sure though, his beard covered it up.

"Sword?" Lockhart asked, looking around. "Haven't got a sword. That boy has, though. He'll lend you one." He said, pointing to Harry.

Snape coughed, covering his laugh.

"Would you mind taking Professor Lockhart up to the infirmary too? I'd like a few more words with Harry. . . Elizabeth, when exactly will this exciting thing happen?"

I sighed in disappointment. "I guess I won't be able to see it except in my mind." I got up, stumbled, and grabbed Snape's arm. "Shame. See ya, Harry."

"Actually, Elizabeth." Dumbledore said. "Could you come back in, oh six minutes. I do have a question for you."

Snape helped me out and we stood in the hallway for six minutes and then, I went back in, once again, with Professor Snape.

"-while I write to Azkaban- we need our gamekeeper back. And I must draft an advertisement for the Daily Prophet, too. We'll be needing a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. . . unless Elizabeth, you might already know who we'll be hiring?"

Harry shot me a peculiar look. I looked at Dumbledore. "Yes sir. His name is Remus Lupin."

"What?" Snape hissed. "You're going to hire him?"

I glanced up at him, not at all perturbed by this reaction. "I understand the concerns with hiring him, Professor, but if you were to put the ad in the paper, he'll be the one who responds and I figured I would save you the trouble of putting an ad in the paper. I can foresee him being a success too."

Dumbledore nodded happily but at that moment, the door slammed open. The door bounced back off the wall. Harry and I, standing shoulder to shoulder, turned around to see what was happening. A smile grew over my face. Show time.

Lucius Malfoy stood there, looking furious. Dobby was cowering behind his legs, carrying a stained rag. Malfoy's shoes were half-polished and his normally sleek hair was disheveled. I smirked.

He stormed past the two of us, knocking into us. I stepped back onto my bad ankle. I could only be glad that Professor Snape was behind me. He caught me before I fell completely, helping me stand again. He bent and whispered, "Was this what you wanted to see?"

I nodded, not daring to say anything. Lucius hadn't seemed to have seen Severus, standing in the shadows. He was too preoccupied with Dumbledore. How had he even gotten on school premises?

"So!" Lucius yelled furiously. "You've come back. The governors suspended you, but you still saw fit to return to Hogwarts."

"Well, you see, Lucius, the other eleven governors contacted me today." Professor Dumbledore was smiling amiably but he sounded like he was talking to a little boy. "It was something like being caught in a hailstorm of owls, to tell the truth. They'd heard that Arthur Weasley's daughter had been killed and wanted me back here at once. They seemed to think I was the best man for the job after all. Very strange tales they told me, too. . . Several of them seemed to think that you had threatened to curse their families if they didn't agree to suspend me in the first place."

I snorted. Lucius went pale and Snape put a cautious hand on my shoulder.

"So- have you stopped the attacks yet? Have you caught the culprit?" Lucius demanded.

"We have." Dumbledore said with a smile.

"Well?" Who is it?"

I very nearly said 'you' but I knew how things needed to play out so I kept my mouth shut.

"The same person as last time, Lucius. But this time, Lord Voldemort was acting through somebody else. By means of this diary." He held up the black diary, and I studied Malfoy closely. He paled ever further. I realized Snape's hand was tighter than before.

"I see. . ." Malfoy said slowly.

"A clever plan." Dumbledore said in a calm voice, still staring into Malfoy's eyes. "Because if Harry here-" Lucius shot Harry a swift look- "And his friends Ron and Elizabeth here-" Lucius looked at me and narrowed his eyes. Snape's hand was even tighter now "-hadn't discovered this book, why- Ginny Weasley might have taken all the blame. No one would ever have been able to prove she hadn't acted of her own free will. . .And imagine, what might have happened then. . . The Weasleys are one of our most prominent pure-blood families. Imagine the effect on Arthur Weasley and his Muggle Protection Act, if his own daughter was discovered attacking and killing Muggle-borns. . . Very fortunate the diary was discovered, and Riddle's memories wiped from it. Who knows what the consequences might have been otherwise. . ."

"Very fortunate." Malfoy said stiffly.

"Don't you want to know how Ginny got hold of that diary, Mr. Malfoy?" Harry asked very suddenly.

Lucius rounded on him. "How should I know how the stupid little girl got hold of it?" He sneered.

"Because you gave it to her." I answered for him. His eyes shifted to me. I looked at him calmly. "In Flourish and Blotts. You picked up her Transfiguration book and slipped it inside."

"Prove it." He hissed, taking a step towards me. Snape's hand became even- if possible- tighter.

"Oh, no one will be able to do that." Dumbledore said, smiling at both Harry and I now. I suppose he was proud of us for figuring it out. "Not now that Riddle has vanished from the book. On the other hand, I would advise you, Lucius, not to go giving out any more of Lord Voldemort's old school things. If any more of them find their way into innocent hands, I think Arthur Weasley, for one, will make sure they are traced back to you. . ."

I openly grinned. Lucius' right hand twitched. Then he said, "We're going, Dobby!"

"Don't trip on the way out." I said quietly, not looking at him.

He froze. "I knew it was you!" He hissed furiously at me. He stepped towards me, his hand flying to his wand. Dumbledore was out of his seat in a flash, but Professor Snape was there first, moving from behind me to in front of me.

"Lucius." Snape said in a dangerous voice. "Think before you act."

"Severus." Lucius replied coldly and then turned and stalked off down the hallway.

"Harry." I said quickly. I hurried over and whispered in his ear.

Harry grinned and said, "Dumbledore, could I give the diary back to Mr. Malfoy?"

"Certainly, Harry. But hurry, The feast, remember. . ." Harry dashed from the room. Dumbledore turned to me. "Now, Miss Kane. I would very much be relieved if you would go to the Hospital wing and get your ankle fixed. Severus."

"Certainly" Snape said and led me out of the room. Once he closed McGonagall's door, he scooped me up in his arms. My heart thudded in my chest so loudly, I thought perhaps he could hear it and a thrill raced through my chest.

"This is becoming a habit Elizabeth." He said as I rested my head on his shoulder.

"That's okay." I said much more honestly than I had meant to. "But I would like to know something."

"And what's that?" Snape asked as he started up the stairs.

"How did you react when I locked you all in the teachers' room?"

"I didn't react at all." Snape said stiffly.

"Mm." I said, amused. "That's not what Harry said."

Snape's faced reddened. "He saw that fiasco?"

"Yes." I said, delighted. "Nice to know you do care about someone, isn't it?"

Snape's hands were tightened. "You're treading dangerous territory now."

"Perhaps." I whispered. "As long as you always care, I don't think I'll mind much."

I closed my eyes and nothing more was said until we got to the hospital wing. But Professor Snape didn't open the door right away.

"Elizabeth." He said in a strained voice. "I can't-"

"Stop." I whispered. "It doesn't matter and don't say what you were going to say."

I slipped down from his arms and smiled half-heartedly. I opened the hospital door and then paused, turned around, and said, "Thank you for the flower necklace by the way. It was my favorite Christmas present."

Then I closed the door and let Madam Pomfrey take care of me.

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𝕴 𝖏𝖔𝖎𝖓𝖊𝖉 𝖙𝖍𝖊 feast around a quarter to three. My ankle was all healed, my scar on my face was healing nicely, and I was dry.

I stopped by the Hufflepuff table to say hello to Justin. All the Hufflepuffs greeted me nicely. I had after all, secured second place with my two hundred points. They all wanted to know what had happened in the Chamber of Secrets. I basically told them the truth- which was Harry had done everything- but I was still treated like some big hero.

The best part about the Hufflepuffs was Ced coming over and saying, "I'm glad your not dead Liz." and clapping me on the shoulder.

"Gee, thanks Ced." I said, laughing.

Cedric gave me a hug which made me receive jealous glares from other female Hufflepuffs. Then he made me tell him the story in detail. I obliged, telling it as it had been and he seemed impressed for some reason I couldn't fathom. I would've liked to have kept talking to him all night. However, I soon made my way over to the Gryffindor table. Hermione was the first person that I hugged. Then, I found Ginny and hugged her.

Fred yelled for me to come join him and I held up my finger for him to wait a moment. I sat down with Harry and Ron.

We were eating when Harry asked, "Elizabeth, how come the teachers were always asking you to come to Dumbledore's office?"

I sighed. "I suppose it's about time that I tell you that I can see the future."

Harry and Ron looked at me for a long time. "Wait, are you serious?" Harry asked slowly.

"Well somewhat." I corrected. "I get visions of what might possibly happen. Like for instance, when Dumbledore asked for the new DADA professor. I could look into next year and see what was happening. Or like how I know that Hagrid is going to show up at half past three."

"I can't believe you kept that a secret from us!" Ron exclaimed. "We are supposed to be friends after all!"

I blushed. "Well, when people know that I know the future, they start asking all sorts of ridiculous questions. I mean, the teachers always thought I had the answers- didn't they?"

"Fair enough." Harry said. "I just hope that you're right about Hagrid."

As it turned out, I was correct. Hagrid came in and approached us. He clapped Harry and Ron on the back, knocking them into plates of trifle. I laughed out loud.

"You knew that was going to happen, didn't you?" Ron asked, wiping trifle off his face. I grinned but said nothing and got up and went over to sit next to Fred.

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𝕴 𝖘𝖕𝖊𝖓𝖙 𝖙𝖍𝖊 rest of my time at Hogwarts in the Forest, either with Hagrid or Firenze. I was avoiding the castle because Snape had been trying to talk to me. Word had also gotten around that Elizabeth Kane had futuristic visions and people were asking me all sorts of questions.

Hagrid on the other hand, enjoyed my company for my company and nothing else. I had done a couple of dragon sketches which he now had in his house.

"Guess what?" I said, one afternoon as we tramped through the forest. Hagrid was looking for any trees that might have fungus or such.

"Wha's that?" He asked cheerfully.

"Professor Dumbledore will need a new Care of Magical Creatures Professor next year." I said slowly, checking a berry plant for fungus. It looked perfectly fine. "How much do you want to bet he's going to ask you to be the Professor?"

Hagrid looked at me cautiously, "Now, don' play with meh, Elizabeth."

I tapped the side of my head and continued walking.

"Really now? Me? A Professor?" Hagrid said, looking up at the trees, looking for Bowtruckles.

"Well, at least..." I teased. "That's what I'm foreseeing!"

Hagrid remained skeptical, but continued to smile. I knew that he was excited, that he was hoping I was saying the truth. And I was and I was glad that I was.

"Keep it a secret though." I said, pruning a tree limb that had silverweed. "Everyone else gets to know next year, okay?"

"Sure, sure." Hagrid said.

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𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝖉𝖆𝖞 𝖇𝖊𝖋𝖔𝖗𝖊 we were supposed to leave on the train, I was out in the forest, getting a few last sketches in when Firenze approached.

"Elizabeth Kane." He greeted me and I jumped down out of the tree.

"Hullo Firenze!" I said cheerfully. "I was going to come find you sometime soon. You always seem to find me so quickly though."

"Yes, one only has to look up to find you though." Firenze said, smiling. "I've heard strange stories through the forest about the school. Perhaps you would enlighten me about your adventure?"

I told it the way I had told it before, though I did not omit details. Every word that had passed between Riddle, Harry, and I were shared. Every moment, from being thrown with the wand to falling into the water bed to the duel was shared.

Firenze was a patient listener and so he did not interrupt as I spoke. It took about ten or so minutes to explain everything and he was silent for a long time as we walked afterwards.

"Hmm." He finally said. "yes, you were quite reckless, weren't you?"

"Perhaps I wasn't thinking properly." I said honestly.

"Yet, I believe you played an important part in the future, don't you think?" Firenze asked. He had an unusual mischievous smile on his face and I frowned.

"You know about my visions now, don't you?" I smarted a little.

"A little bird told me." Firenze said, amused, stepping over a log with his four legs. His blond hair was a bit longer and flew away from his face in the light breeze.

"Hagrid?" I asked.

"Yes, Hagrid." Firenze admitted, helping me over the log.

"Can you talk to birds?" I asked, interested.

Firenze let out his laugh that I loved so much. "Indeed! We Centaurs can talk to any creature if we listen hard enough!"

I sighed, a bit put out. "I suppose I should've expected an answer like that."

His sapphire eyes gleamed. "Now, Elizabeth, my turn for a question."

I waited patiently as he thought about how he was going to put his words.

"Perhaps you could explain your motivation."

I frowned. "What motivation?"

Firenze snorted, sounding more horse-like than ever. "And I thought you were intelligent! Well, if I must put it out so plain for you." He's joking and I know he is because he's smiling with his eyes, not just his mouth. "Just because I live in a forest doesn't mean I don't know the comings and goings at the school. The teachers love you because you are a hard-working student with the highest grades. And yet, you don't stop learning in the class. You ask for private lessons, you read extra textbooks, you even risk your life to come into the forest day and night to learn from us Centaurs. Now, I must ask, why? No student that has ever passed through those doors has ever done what you do. Not even Dumbledore, and I admire him greatly"

I paused. Well, naturally I'd wanted to do well at Hogwarts. Everything in my life had seemed a bit easy, like I had a cheat sheet in my brain. I had always known that I had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. I wanted to know everything. But had really no one else done so? No other student had asked for private lessons? I could believe in me being the first student to converse with the Centaurs. But really?

Firenze was right of course. Hermione had stopped at just the classes- though occasionally an extra book. So, why wasn't I satisfied with that as well? I certainly wasn't better than Hermione.

I opened my mouth to answer and then closed it. The fact of the matter was that I simply didn't know. And so, this is what I told Firenze.

Firenze seemed a bit put out by this answer, "You don't know? You work this hard for no reason whatsoever?"

When put that way. . .

"Well..." I started slowly, gathering the right words. "Perhaps I want to know more than everyone else because I feel that I need to know more, if you get my drift. My father... well, he's a werewolf and it's my dream to make a cure for him. Not just him, of course, but I would like to start with him. Of course, I feel that if I don't learn more than what's in the class, perhaps I'll miss something, something crucial that could only be learned here, in the forest, or in a private lesson that a teacher wouldn't normally teach in class. I may not remember everything I learn, but I can remember most of it."

Firenze did not speak for a long, long time. When he spoke, the question he asked was quite unrelated, "You are adopted then?"

"Well, yes. But can werewolves not have their own children?" I asked curiously, remembering what Riddle had said in the Chamber. "Biologically, I mean."

Firenze was quiet for a moment, thinking. "They can." he finally said. "My knowledge is limited on werewolves but it has been seen that not many marry and have kids. Though, from occurrences that have been heard of, no kid born of a werewolf and non werewolf has ever had the curse."

"What are werewolf cubs?" I asked. If Firenze could provide an answer I would never have to asked Dad.

"If two werewolves meet and mate at the full moon -a highly unlikely contingency which is known to have occurred only twice (though of course it's possible there are more)- the result of the mating will be wolf cubs which resemble true wolves in everything except their abnormally high intelligence." Firenze said, stepping over a little yellow flower. "They are not more aggressive than normal wolves and do not single out humans for attack. Such a litter was once set free, under conditions of extreme secrecy, in the Forbidden Forest at Hogwarts, with the kind permission of Albus Dumbledore." Firenze tacked on.

"Huh." I said. "They sound cute."

Firenze chuckled. "Perhaps, but back to my original point. Who were your parents, Elizabeth Kane?"

"I thought you knew." I muttered, looking away. "In the forest last year, I thought perhaps you'd picked it up."

"That you're the Potter boys' sister?" Firenze asked. "Well, I had come to the assumption, but I don't like to be solidly based on assumptions."

We walked in silence.

"He doesn't know, does he."

It was a statement, not a question.

"No one does." I whispered.

More silence.

"That's why your so sad when you're with him." Firenze stated, stopping and turning to look at me.

"I'm not sad when I'm with him!" I exclaimed.

Firenze stared at me for a long moment and said nothing else about the subject and started to talk about the creatures that existed farther in the deep forest. I responded with half-hearted questions and eventually said good-bye and that I would see him next year.

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𝕴 𝖍𝖆𝖉 𝖕𝖆𝖈𝖐𝖊𝖉 all my things up and was waiting with the other students for the train. Ginny came up behind me. "Hullo Ginny!" I greeted her cheerfully. The conversation with Firenze was still fresh in my mind and I quickly pushed it away.

"Hello Eliza." Ginny said. She had taken to this nickname and I quite liked it. "I have been meaning to talk to you."

"Alright." I said, "What's up?"

"We haven't really talked about. . ." she hesitated. ". . .the er- other night."

"What about it?" I asked, frowning.

"Do you really believe that everything that happened was your fault?" She asked, staring into my eyes. I flinched.

"Mostly." I finally said. "I feel responsible at least."

"You shouldn't." Ginny said.

I hesitated and then said, "Ginny, I really am sorry."

"I know." she said simply. "But it wouldn't have mattered if you had been there or not. And you were there, whether you knew it or not. I still would've written in the. . . the diary and I still would've. . . would've. . ."

"Alright, fine." I said with a roll of my eyes but I didn't want her to feel that she had to explain herself. "I no longer feel guilty, happy?"

Ginny giggled. "Sure Eliza, sure."

Harry, Ron, and Hermione came up behind us.

I yawned.

"Tired?" Harry asked.

"I took a nice long walk in the forest yesterday." I said, stretching. "But I might've stayed out to late."

This was a lie. I had spent a bit of the night pacing back and forth in front of the Potions classroom door, seeing if I should say good-bye to Professor Snape. However, since I wasn't going to be doing this to any other Professor and since I was going to see him next year, it had felt awkward and I slipped away back to the dorm. But I wasn't going to tell them that.

The train pulled up and staff members came out to help those who needed help with luggage. We climbed aboard and we found an empty carriage and I sat down gingerly by the window.

Fred and George joined us and we played Exploding Snap, set off some fireworks, and also practiced disarming people. Harry was quite good at this particular spell.

We were getting ready as the train started to slow down when Harry suddenly asked, "Ginny- what did you see Percy doing, that he didn't want you to tell anyone?"

Ginny and I giggled. "Oh that." She said. "Well- Percy's got a girlfriend."

Fred dropped a stack of books on George's head, making me laugh harder. "What?"

"It's that Ravenclaw prefect, Penelope Clearwater. That's who he was writing to all last summer. He's been meeting her all over the school in secret. I walked in one them kissing in an empty classroom one day. He was so upset when she was- you know- attacked. You won't tease him, will you?" She finished off anxiously.

"Wouldn't dream of it." Fred said who looked as though summer break had been extended by a few more months.

"Definitely not." George said, sniggering gleefully.

The train slowed down and completely stopped. Fred, George, and Ginny grabbed their luggage and left. Fred winked at me as he ducked out the door. Harry pulled out his quill and a piece of parchment. He wrote down some numbers three times and ripped the parchment up.

Speaking, mostly to Ron, he said, "This is called a telephone number. I told your dad how to use a telephone last summer- he'll know. Call me at the Dursleys', okay? I can't stand another two months with only Dudley to talk to. . ."

Dudley was our cousin. I'd never met him, of course, though I'd caught a glimpse of the fat boy last year. I wasn't particularly pleased to be related to such a pig, but family was family so I didn't try to think about it to much.

"Your aunt and uncle will be proud, though, won't they?" Hermione asked as I put the piece of parchment into my jean pocket. (we'd already changed into Muggle clothing). "When they hear what you did this year?"

"Proud!" Harry scoffed, but he was laughing. "Are you crazy? All those times I could've died, and I didn't manage it? They'll be furious."

We all laughed and together, we walked back through the gateway to the Muggle world. 

⬅️➡️

[vulpine-spectacle]

Just passing by to say that I really admire your work as a writer 🙈 and I would like to know how you organize your ideas and how you decide to discard something for something else that you find more interesting. One of the coolest changes I thought you made was giving Paul delphine 😅 I really like their interaction 💚

I wish I could say I'm organized, but I'm actually super disorganized. X'D Whenever I try to be more organized by having separate documents, my OCD brain goes nuts trying to organize things to perfection, and then my ADHD brain loses focus. So, I keep everything pretty much in one document. I organize things by Heading in Word Docs, so that way it shows up in a cute side bar on the side of the document. It's labeled by Chapter One, Chapter Two, etc., and then things like: Random Notes, Giedilith Language, Specific Plot Points, and Unused Scenes. This way, it's all in one place and I don't get overwhelmed.

As far as discarding, I never truly 100% discard something. If I've written a scene that no longer fits for the current narrative, I add it to my Unused Scenes section in my doc. I 99.9% of the time reuse scenes, this why they still get life. I put a lot of value in written words, so I try not to throw anything away unless I absolutely have to. The same goes for plot points. Just because I'm not using Plot A anymore doesn't mean I can't incorporate it into Plot B with a new skin.

And then as far as Delphine goes, that was an interesting change. Initially, Delphine was supposed to stay an antagonistic figure and Isca was going to be Eurydice's companion. But the more I sat on Delphine, I realized I didn't like the idea of having a one dimensional bully archetype. And the more I thought about her, the more inspired I became. She fully fledged herself as a character in my mind. And then her interacting with Paul started off as a joke in my brain, then became a, yup, I'm doing it.

When it comes to writing, there's two categories: architect and gardener. For the most part, I do pre-plan and build specific plot points and goals. Like, I always knew Eurydice was going to end up Giedi Prime. But how she ended up there was a garden, where it grew authentically. The same applies to Delphine's growth and future plot points. It's my brain having creative liberties and I'm just here for the ride.

[espithewarlock]

Hello! I loved Deep Dive (and the first Mermaid!Charles fic of course) and am taking you up on your request for prompts related to that au. 😊 If you’d like, I’m curious about Max’s POV for (a) the decision to tell Marko about/capture Charles (like - how did he think that would go?!??), and (b) what his whole deal with Daniel is (does he think Daniel isn’t seriously into him or what?). If you’re not interested in those things no worries, and thanks for the lovely hours I got to spend in that world - it really helped distract me yesterday when I was otherwise in an angst spiral about some stuff happening today.

Hello! Thank you so much for the ask! It means a ton to me that these stories helped you in some way, shape, or form. I hope that things are looking up for you! 💚

I’m going to answer these in reverse, so apologies for inflicting you with my chaos!

For B - Max has a lot of…weird hang-ups on relationships. In this AU, his home life wasn’t exactly the beacon of positive, healthy romantic relationships to say the least. Then, in high-school & university he was always comparing and trying to differentiate himself from Pierre. 

After one too many rejections, (and a couple of people trying to get close to him to get close to Pierre) he sort of built an identity out of being “above” or “better than” romantic relationships. He didn’t think anyone could be interested in him, so he resolved to not be interested in any relationship. 

Thankfully, Daniel is also a stubborn bastard and can see the goofy, carefree, loveable side of Max that he lets slip around his friends. I combined your prompt with Daniel meeting Charles in this chapter and I hope you enjoy it!

Now A is something I’ve thought about. A lot. And I’m probably not going to actually write the snippet because it’s not a happy one. Max is selfish, more than a bit of a bastard, and I don’t like thinking about how he completely discarded his friendship with Pierre. The highlights look something like this:

Max makes the connection that Pierre is visiting with Charles on his lunch breaks when he sees the picture Pierre finally shares with them at Trivia night

He tries following him a few times, then finally has success and sees Charles

In shock, the first person he runs into is Dr. Marko and he basically blurts out the secret that mermaids exist without thinking

One thing leads to another, and before he knows it, he’s making plans to capture and study Charles

At one point, guilt and doubt start to creep in, he second guesses what he’s doing, but Dr. Marko talks him out of it. Basically convinces Max that his friendship with Pierre is holding him back and he’ll never find success if he’s tied down like that

It’s very reminiscent of things his father has said about achieving success, so Max basically shoves all those feelings away and focuses on the plan

After Charles is captured, Max is hit with a ton of guilt when his friends ALL choose Pierre over him. Instead of apologizing, he doubles down and stubbornly tells himself that he doesn’t need them. He’s going to be famous and they’ll all wish they sided with him.

Over the months that Charles is in the lab, he sees little glimpses of the care Pierre and Charles have for each other and how much Pierre is destroying himself over this

Max realizes about 6 months in that he truly fucked up. He hasn’t gotten a single text from a non-family member in that length of time and that’s when he decides to do what he can to fix it.

Everything else pretty much happens on-screen. Max helps with the escape and slowly re-integrates into his friend group. It still takes him a while to get together with Daniel, but at least he has support from his friends for that one.

I hope this satisfies your prompt request! I've got a few more prompts in the queue and feel free to send me anything else you're interested in reading!

[ellesthots]

the treat 💞 a fic playlist !!

SPOILER PLAYLIST !! Spotify link ❤️

NON-SPOILER PLAYLIST !! Spotify link 💚

for the past few months i've been curating this playlist for Fateful Beginnings, endlessly switching in, out and around different songs and artists to capture the emotional arc. SO EXCITED to finally share it!! music is such an integral part of my process. so many scene ideas come to me on drives with my partner with my head out the window in the countryside, blasting songs and seeing what feels right.

this playlist follows the emotional arc in order from start to finish! i've played it through incessantly, feeling the turns and transitions between songs, making sure everything felt seamless; and if not seamless, intentional in how it shifts the tension. there are plenty more songs that would have fit, and i may make a 'b side' playlist in the future, but this playlist is intentionally focusing on the flow of the emotional arc between Bruce and reader.

the first two songs are a sort of 'primer', a thesis statement if you will. his and hers <3 then it pulls into the time of Bruce in Arkham as its starting place. meant to be listened to in-order for full effect, but totally able to pick and choose as well. i tend to listen to different 'eras' in the playlist too, the clusters of songs that I feel flow particularly well and make up a specific experience in the story. i have some favorites 🤭

as for which songs are assigned to Bruce vs reader, that's dependent on lyrics rather than gender of the artist. some songs will strike as more Bruce, more reader, or both. just gotta feel it (and maybe guess for the later chapters) 💓

since this playlist is for the entire plot, there are spoilers so far as some of the emotional twists and turns; if you want to remain totally innocent of the directions the fic will take, i might wait on this playlist <3

i would love to talk about any and all songs, hear any reactions, questions, theories, anything and everything :) but no pressure, as always! just a lil treat for us to share ❤️🎧

(may be updated if more fitting songs and scenes come my way 💭)

[nyx-night-demon]

Hi!! So I though I would say this before I come on here and you know like do anything and say I am a wattpad story writer so ima be posting stories here and on wattpad but here is my @

Wattpad:UAs_MurderDrone

START OF MY STORY IS A NOTE

Okay so this is because i see so man and i'm kinda into Batman x Joker . 

In case you were wondering  Joker is going o be he one from suicide squad and so is Harley.

 Batman is going to be the one from The Dark Night.... I think that's the one lol anyway , You may be asking why Harley is even in his and my answer is she is in he book because she is going to be joker's therapist again but instead of  Joker corrupting her  she  becomes a hero or she continues being a therapist i haven't decided  yet but i'm going for her being a hero with batman and  you side with Joker .

I HOPE YOU GUYS ENJOY THIS BECAUSE ILL EB POSTING EVERYDAY BTW BEFORE ANY ONE SHOTS BACKSTORY AND AN ACTUAL LIKE BOOK TO GO WITH IT AND THEN WE'LL DO ONE SHOTS.

I LOVE WHOEVEr READS M CRINGEY SHIT I DO APPRECIATE YOU

ALSO PUT IDEAS HERE 

THERE WILL ALSO BE SMUT IN THE CHAPTER AFTER BACKSTORY.

OKAY NOW ENJOY💚💜🖤❤️🤍

◑ω◐

CHAPTER ONE:

SAID I WAS DOING  B A C K S T O R Y  ' S lol so here it is 

We  all know batman's B A C K S T O R Y  and JOKERS so rlly is just you(Myra) & Harley.

Btw the club La Gatita Amable Will be known as JOKERS CLUB

ANYWAY LETS GET IT

¥/ñ   ßÄÇK§†ÖR¥¥¥:

"Goodnight mom" I Called  "Goodnight darling" My mother called back.  I was not going to bed I was ready to head to a club. Joker's club.  I got in my sexist oufit because joker didn't pay me 300$ every night for me to serve him and the rest of the Suicide Squad food.  I was their personal stripper. As soon as I got to the club Joker approached me stoking my face gently "Your late Kitten" His voice was soft but also a little bit raspy. "I'm sorry Sir. It won't happen again." I Replied  Joker walked behind me and wrapped his hands around her neck. "I love the outfit Kitten but I got out a better one in the back hurry up and get changed Daddy wants to see you in it okay" He said his voice in my ear while I blush and agree. Once I walk out deadshot throws his cash on the floor by the pole as I wrapped my legs around it putting my hands on the bottom of it. 

†𝙸𝙼𝙴 𝚂𝙺𝙸𝙿 𝙻𝙸𝙺𝙴 𝙰𝙱𝙾𝚄† 𝙰𝙽 𝙷𝙾𝚄𝚁 𝙻𝙰†𝙴𝚁 

I was naked at this point dancing on Joker as he requested. "Just like that kitten" Joker whispers while running his hands down the sides of my body Stopping once he got to my hips. Spoon after I heard my phone ring and it was police the phone said the words "Miss.Phelps?" "Yes that is me. Who is this?" I answered nervously "Well this is the police department. Your mother and father woke up to find you not in your bed so they went out to look for you.... And in the process of that A drunk driver hit your parents killing them....." No words were spoken for 10 minutes "O-Oh uhm I actually left for work.." I replied showing no emotion at all Joker stared at Me thinking I might be as psycho as him. " And where is your job ma'am? And the job you have there." The police officer asked kindly "I- uhm well I word at club La Gatita Amable as a stripper...." I blushed as I said this because my shift was over and I was in my black lace panties and black lace bra when he had called and Joker came up behind me moving his hand down my body again. "Okay Ma'am well would you like to talk to someone about the funeral planning?" The man asked quickly "Uhm no not at the moment....... thank you, sir Have a nice rest of your day." I hung up before he could say anything back. I turned around towards Joker as he towers over me. i look up at him and smile

†𝙸𝙼𝙴 𝚂𝙺𝙸𝙿 𝙻𝙸𝙺𝙴 𝙰𝙱𝙾𝚄† 𝟺 𝚆𝙴𝙴𝙺𝚂 𝙻𝙰†𝙴𝚁

It's had been 4 weeks since my parents died and I had no emotional hurt. No sympathy. Nothing. Not even remorse. "Kitten!" Joker called "Yes sir?" I replied in the back removing my bra. Once Joker walked he stared at m naked body for several minutes. "Y'know  you could join me Myra." He whispered quickly "Join you in wha sir?" I replied turning around "KILLING BATMAN AND ANYONE ELSE WHO GES IN OUR WAY!!" Joker grabbed my face pushing it up. "It's batman's fault my parents are dead..... THAT STUPID FUCK!" I scream "Come. You can be my New Partner Kitten." He smiled and I agreed. I got dressed in my Stripper outfit and that was the day I became We. Joker The clown Prince of crime and Priya Noxious The Queen of death.

HARLEYS IS KINDA SHORTS SORRY

 Hårlêêñ £råñ¢ï§ Qµïññ'§ ßå¢k§†ðr¥ ñðw LÖL

My names Harleen Francis Quinn Or Harley Quinn I'm Joker's therapist or psychiatrist whatever you want to call it. "Are you ready to see Joker ma'am?" The guard holding Joker said "Mhm send him in" I called back "Hello~" Joker said "Hi wanna talk this time or ramble on about Arkham prison?" I said smiling "Uuhhhh I don't know Lets talk Quinn..." Joker mumbled  while secretly unlocking his handcuffs. Batman knew Joker was with Harley so he stood outside on the ledge by the window waiting. "Well how have you been since you have gotten out of Arkham" She said writing. "JUST GREAT" Joker screamed frading me by my throat When batman smashed through the window "Joker i should've known you would try to pull something like this..." Batman's voice was raspy and deep "Aww batsy how nice of you to join us." Joker held my neck harder. "B-Batman P-please Help M-me" I managed to say while feeling my breath shortened. Batman threw his batarang and the jokers head knocking him out letting me breath "Thank you batman" I say breathlessly "Your good bate" He replied smiling helping me up "Let me work with you.." I said breathing heavily "No I work alone"  It took  moths of begging for him to finally let me train and fight at his side I turned into we. Batman the dark knight and Hero Harley.

OMG I COULD NOT THINK OF A NAME FoR HER OMFG LOL HERO HARLEY IF YOU WATCH DC YK WERE I GOT THAT NAME FROM ;)

CHAPTER 2:

OKAY SO THIS IS LIKE HOW SHIT GOES DOWN I GUESS IMA THINK ABOUT WHAT TO WRIGHT BECAUSE YK 🥲

Jokers POV

"Love when we're gonna go through with our plan?"  Myra whispered as she sat next to me in our room "I don't fucking think we got his god damn attention." myra continued "I know darling I don't fucking understand why.....Dose he not love it anymore? I need to find another villain myra. Someone to help us out! The riddler? Oo or maybe the Penguin!" I ranted on

 "okay I can get whichever one you want love~" Myra said laying down pulling my face into a kiss. We kissed for about 20 minutes then I got on top of her. "You really are a naughty girl." I say smiling "You must be a real naughty boy then too baby."  

She laughed and kissed me again. I stopped and got up. "Baby whats wrong?" She frowned " I don't know i want his fucking attention so bad.... I think i'm an attention whore. I only want HIS  attention though." I mumbled 

 "I got it, i'll get Penguin and The Riddler and we can make a truce and uh pay the price..." Myra moaned "As long as they get here, and you do what you can for me baby I wont be mad." I smile at her "Good I love you Joker"  Myra smiled "I love you too darling." 

Okay so Penguin and The Riddler are both from the netflix series Gotham.

Myra's POV

I left the hideout to look for Penguin first. I know his hideout is near the steel mill. It's a very cold gambling room of this abandoned zoo. 

I walked in to see batman on his way. I know Batman knows I'm there so why think of hiding. I just walked behind him until he turned around 

"What are YOU doing here Priya" He mumbled grabbing my face slightly " Nothing that you need to know making Joker all sad." I rolled my eyes "Joker? Sad? About me? No way." batman said laughing a bit 

"Well i'm serious BATSY." I stared at him "I'm leaving for Penguin. Soooo bye" I pushed past him making my way to the place.  wait- Priya.... are you really being serious?"  "Yes i am Batty." He looked down, mumbled something and left. 

10 Minutes Later

"Myra? Is that you..." Penguin grinned  "The One and Only Oswald." I replied  "Joker need ASSISTANCE again?"  

He asked as he put his hand on my face. "Mhm. I can pay the price this time he said so."  I smiled "Good.. I'm guessing you might need the riddler too."

 "Yes i do." I replied  "Hmm alright i was just going that way so i'll join you" He smile brightly planting a kiss on my forehead. 

About 16 minutes later I found the riddler "Hello there darling and My dearest friend Oswald." The riddler cooed

 "I assume Joker needs assistance once again."  He laughed "Yes he dose. I can pay the price this time." I smiled devilishly 

"Well them time to pay the price."

Batman Pov

Joker being sad....about me?  There is no way. I went to the steel mill  to visit joker. After Priya pushed past me to see Penguin "Fuck. Batman is getting on mother fucking nerves. He won't answer. FUCK!" He went on knocking his stuff down. 

"Joker" I said feeling a little bad "B-Batsy?" I walked to him and sat down next to him on his bed. "You really missed me hu." I said looking at the floor 

"of course i did Batsy. I-I.." He was blushing when I looked up. I smiled at the sight. I went to get up and leave when I felt a soft yet chilling pair of lips on mine. I looked down to see the Jokers face and mine together as he tried to invade my mouth with his tongue. He pulled away and laughed at my confused face. 

" Joker what are y-" I got in before he kissed me again but this time I gave in to the kiss. But I pulled away and left the steel mill. I have to tell alfred  o-or maybe Priya.....

Myra's Pov

"S-shit" I whined underneath the penguin "shh darling" he smirked thrusting into me faster

 About an hour later he asked "Do you want me to stop?" Oswald asked breathlessly as he pounded into me. No' I whimpered because I didn't want him to stop. His answer surprised me and I bit my lip to keep from screaming 'yes' as loud as I wanted to.

"Do you want me to stop?" he repeated and I glared at him trying to make him see how much I hated that question.

"No you bastard! Keep going!" I screamed throwing my arms around his neck and squeezing my thighs around his to make sure he knew I wanted him to fuck me hard.

Oswald didn't stop as I asked. He kept thrusting into me and I felt my pussy become more and more wet. My body was responding to his every thrust and I felt myself cumming again and again.

I heard myself scream 'Faster daddy!Faster! Please fuck me harder!' as my body tightened around his and I felt my pussy clench around his cock. Oh fuck! Oh fuck! Oh fuck!'' I groaned as I felt a climax build inside me. It was going to be a big one this time I could tell.Myra! Oh fuck! oswald moaned as he stated to cum 

"Fuck" he grunted as I felt his hot stringy semen shoot deep inside of me. 'Your good at this now it time for the riddler to fuck you.'

Edward smashed his face into mine while he removed he shirt and pants. He pulled his boxers down quickly. Soon he plowed into my ass as i whined under him. While he pounded me he planted kisses on my neck. I had to fight back the urge to scream. 

Edward was so much more aggressive than Oswald. His kisses were so hot and so deep that it made me feel sick. "You Little slut." He whispered as he pressed me down onto the mattress harder while I hold back moans. "You like that dont you." He said. As he pressed down more, my hands were pulled to my sides. My arms were pinned to a crossbar .

 As Edward continued to pound my back, I began to scream. He was pounding so hard that my head began spinning. When I finally came to, Edward had me spread out on the bed. With my face being pushed down with my body and my eyes staring up at him I begged him to continue, he said "I love it when you beg."

I was whimpering as I felt Edward's hand on my shoulder. As I looked up, his eyes were on me with a smirk on his lips. He then grabbed my head and pulled my hair back with his hand. While that happened he pounded my ass even harder with his cock hitting my g-spot each time . I started screaming and pleading with him, his other hand was on the back of my neck and he began pulling my lips to his. 

His hand moved up and down my body as his fingers moved to find my sensitive nipples . My legs were still pinned and I couldn't move. When he found them I started screaming, he pounded faster and harder. As he played with my sensitive nipple, the room started to spin and the ceiling started falling. All the lights went out and then the world went black. 

Edward and oswald were laughing . My eyes popped open and I gasped as my mouth was filled with Edward. "Mm," I moaned as Edward began licking the inside of my mouth. I gave in to the kiss. I whimpered when he cummed so deeply inside me. Then it was all over the price had been payed.

Jokers Pov?

"He left...." I feet stupid I just kissed batty. "Fuck" i moaned putting my head in my hands "Myra my poor girl" I said frowning "She loves me and I lover her but not like I should" I said silently. "What the fuck am I gonna do now....."

< So um this already is to long so next chapter of Basket love is coming up >

CHAPTER FOUR:

Batman Pov

" Joker what are y-" I got in before he kissed me again but this time I gave in to the kiss. But I pulled away and left the steel mill. I have to tell alfred o-or maybe Priya.....

I have no idea what i'm gonna do. "Alfred..." i said into my phone "Yes Master Bruce" alfred replied in his british accent. "Get harley" I spoke  "Anything else master bruce?" alfred replied "Get in contact with Priya.." I mutter "Sir are you positive about that last one? you could tell he was shocked "yes I want her there in 10 minutes. Understood" alfred sighed "Understood Master Bruce."

PS:THIS IS ALL I HAVE DONE

[edupunkn00b]

Out-of-context spoiler quote for 💚 What Might Have Been: Chapter 8 💚

“You said what to my husband?”

[michelleleewise]

Chocolate and promises

Pairing: Loki x female reader (eventually)

Warnings: mentions of domestic abuse, slight mention of blood, hitting, mentions of bruises and injuries (not graphic), toxic relationship, reader needs a hug, possessiveness, controlling behavior, self deprecating thoughts, minor dark themes, loki comforting reader

Summary: your friendship with Loki and grown over the last two years, until something threatened to take it away

A/n- this chapter will have two parts. A&B, it was too long for one part lol.... Graphics by: @harlequin-hangout 💚💚

Part one--part two: a-

You ran down the hall making your way to Loki's room, wanting him to be the first to know, You bounced on your feet knocking on the door hearing shuffling on the other side, smiling as the door opened revealing.. "oh..hey, is Loki in there?" You asked smiling at the man. "Whose asking?" He huffed crossing his arms. Another jealous one..you thought to yourself "y/n...best friend. And you are?" You asked holding your hand out watching him look down his nose at it "Jason.." he sneered keeping his arms crossed. "Well..Jason is Loki here?" You asked again when the door opened further revealing your Loki.

Hello my dear, how are you?" He asked stepping into the hall wrapping you in a hug. "Great! I have news, but your bodyguard here wouldn't let me pass...I must not be on the list." You said as Loki turned to the man. "Just because I shared my bed with you for the night does not give you liberty to tell my friend anything, am I clear?" He snapped seeing Jason's eyes widen "I'm sorry, it won't happen again." He said stepping back "your right, it will not. See that you are gone when I return." He said turning back to you "what was your news darling?" He asked guiding you down the hall to the kitchen.

"Oh yes! Allen asked me to move in with him!" You screeched as loki rounded the island grabbing the kettle "isn't it a bit soon y/n?" He asked seriously filling the kettle "we've been dating six months loki, dont be such a prude." You snarked sitting on the stool "I beg your pardon?" He feigned offense, one hand on his chest "I thought you would be happy for me." You said seriously "I am dear, I just don't want you to rush into anyrhing." He said smiling "some of us don't have as much time as you old man." You snarked "well if your just going to call me an old maid.." he started "no! No..I just...I'm happy." You said smiling as Loki walked around the island "if you are happy then I am." He said pulling you into a hug.

"And everything is going to be great! You'll still see me here, and don't even think your getting out of our movie nights." You smiled hearing him laugh "Well I should hope not, what else do I have to look forward to?" He asked grabbing two cups from the cabinet "Oh I don't know....jason." you smiled seeing him glare at you. "Sorry about that by the way." You said looking down "you did nothing wrong, he had no right to say anything. Besides...he wasn't that good anyway." He said shrugging making you laugh "oh..so no loss then?" You asked as he slid a cup to you "Darling, as long as I have you, I'll be fine." He smiled "ooo careful, your bordering on sentiment." You said sipping your tea. "Only for you my dear." He smiled.

Loki looked at his phone for the umpteenth time seeing no messages, sighing as he set it down. It was going on six months since you moved out of the tower and he felt like he was losing you more and more each day. He sat back in his chair looking out the window thinking about the last few months. He had noticed your behavior slowly start to change from your happy, bubbly self that he adored beyond reason, to a quiet reserved shell. The drastic change unsettled him, as well as your change in wardrobe. Where once you wore bright pastels, were replaced with blacks and greys with the occasional dark blue. Not to mention the only skin showing was from your neck up and your hands. It gave him an uneasy feeling.

"Friday...is y/n in the tower?" He called out to the ceiling "no Mr Laufeyson she is not." The AI responded making him sigh. He hated what he was about to do but for you he would walk through Helhiem barefoot. He got to his feet and made his way down to the labs. His mind raced with possible scenarios as the elevator traveled down. If that insignificant human hurt you he would end him in the most painful way he could imagine. He was pulled from his thoughts as the elevator dinged, the doors sliding open.

Stark!" He yelled across the lab making Tony jump "geeze Rudolph give a guy a heads up." He said holding his chest "I need to know where y/n is, I have not heard from her in quite some time." Loki said crossing his arms. "Oh, she put her notice in." Tony said sitting down "what does that mean?" Loki snapped staring at him "it means she quit, she isn't here anymore." Tony explained "what..why?" Loki asked taken aback "something about her boyfriend wanting her to stay home or something" Tony said running a hand through his hair "but I told her she's welcome back whenever she wants." Tony explained. "Very well, thank you stark." Loki said turning around. "You've seen it too...haven't you?" Tony called out making Loki stop "whatever you do...don't get caught." Tony said, loki nodded before heading back to his room, something was going on and he was going to get to the bottom of it.

You heard the doorbell ring, hurrying to the door before it woke Allen, opening it seeing Loki standing there "H..hey...what are you doing here?" You asked looking around "I have not heard from you, so i.." he started "I'm fine..really." you hurried fidgeting with the sleeve of your sweater. You looked up seeing him frown. "Sorry I haven't messaged, I've just been really busy." You said smiling. "That's quite alright dear, I was wondering since you missed movie night, Stark is hosting a small evening for us, and I wanted you to join me." He smiled watching you. "Oh...um I don't know." You trailed off looking down when Loki gently grabbed your hand.

"Please darling, i..I miss you." He said, looking up seeing his eyes soften. "How can I say no to you." You said seeing him smile "then I shall see you there?" He asked "yes, I'll be there." You agreed when Loki leaned forward wrapping his arms around you making you stiffen before he stepped back looking at you "I'll see you tonight " He smiled turning to leave as you slowly closed the door. "Your not going." You heard from behind you making you jump. You turned heading for the kitchen "have you been talking to him again?" Allen asked making you freeze "what did you tell him?" He continued stalking towards you. "You took my phone, how could i...." You were cut off by the back of Allen's hand hitting your cheek, knocking you to the floor, touching your lip seeing red on your fingers.

"Are you talking back?" He snarled looking down at you. "No, I just..." you trailed off as his fingers threaded through your hair pulling harshly "I think someone needs taught a lesson." He said, pulling you up dragging you towards the bedroom "Allen stop! Your hurting me!" You yelled as he opened the door pushing you inside. "You know what to do." He snarled, kicking the door shut. You walked towards the bed, closing your eyes hearing his belt buckle "I think twenty should do it? Don't you think?" He asked walking up behind you. You stayed silent knowing that was the best option.

You laid awake, wincing when you rolled to your side, your eye and cheek stinging. You waiting for Allen to doze off, listening as his breathing evened out you knew it was now or never. You slowly crept out of bed, padding to the closet to grab whatever clothes you could find in the dark before going to the door, looking back hearing him snore you slowly opened the door, slipping out. You walked to the living room quickly throwing on the t-shirt and sweatpants, grabbing your shoes as you tip toed to the door. Slowly opening it to freezing as it creaked, looking back to the bedroom door praying he hadn't heard. After a few minutes you carefully slipped out closing the door behind you. You released the breath you had been holding as you bent down slipping your shoes on, looking up and down the dark street you sighed, starting towards the tower.

You slunk down alleyways and backstreets until you saw the top of the tower, taking a quick look around before making a run for it. You knew Allen would be awake soon, If he wasn't already and he would definitely notice you missing. You heart raced as you made it to the end of the alley across from the tower, your eye throbbed and your lip burned where it was split but you were so close you could taste it. If you could just make it over there everything would be fine. You took a deep breath, looking up an down the street before bolting to the doors, pulling them as hard as you could but they wouldn't budge. "Shit!...Tony!...Loki!" You yelled as loud as you could knowing they couldn't hear you.

You heard a car up the street, hurrying behind the building trying to hide when the car stopped. "Y/n! I know your out here!" You heard Allen yell making you blood run cold. "Just come home and I'll forgive you." He said when you heard footsteps rounding the building. "You know I love you I just got upset, let's talk about it." He continued. You looked around seeing a dumpster against the building, quickly running over lifting yourself in "stop making this harder then it needs to be!" He yelled when you heard a door fly open "Al, hey...what are you doing here? You heard Tony's voice. "Oh hey Tony, y/n and I had a small disagreement and she left. I thought she might be here." You heard Allen say back making you scoff.

"Well I haven't seen her, but if I do..." he trailed off "what is going on?" You heard a deep voice "loki.." you whispered, feeling a tear run down your cheek "hey lokes, Al here lost y/n." Tony said. "What did you do to her?" You heard Loki ask sternly "that's none of your business." You heard Allen snap back. "She's my friend, so I'm making it my business!" You heard Loki yell before the scuffle of footsteps "ok, ok calm down, Al go home. I'll call you if I see her." Tony said when you heard footsteps retreat. "You will not call him!" You heard Loki yell "of course not! But I wanted him to leave." Tony said. You released the breath you were holding, shifting to lift the lid of the dumpster.

You peeked out seeing Loki holding his daggers and Tony with his blaster on "Hey guys...it's just me." You said quietly, lifting the lid higher "Oh my God..y/n?" Loki said, rushing over he lifted you out like you weighed nothing, setting you on your feet but not letting go "what were you doing in there?" He asked brushing trash off your clothes "he was right behind me, i..." you trailed off feeling your eyes burn. "Well he's gone now, let's get you inside." Tony said holding the door open. Loki gently grabbed your arm guiding you, keeping your head down so your hair would cover your face. Making it upstairs you walked into the common room seeing it empty.

"Ever the insomniacs huh?" You laughed "Well i was headed to bed, y/n your welcome to any room you like, just let me know." Tony said heading back to the elevator "ok, thank you Tony." You said looking down "anytime kid...Loki." Tony said stepping onto the elevator. "I should probably find a room." You said keeping your eyes down, not wanting him to see how weak you had been when you felt his fingers under your chin, slowly lifting your head up to look at him. His eyes meeting your one, traveling across your face when you felt his thumb lightly brush you puffy cheek "l..loki...i..." you tried, feeling a lump rise in your throat when he wrapped his arms around you, gently cradling your head to his chest

"I am sorry y/n, I should have come sooner." He whispered, pressing his cheek to your head "no, it wasn't your fault loki, it was.." you started when he suddenly pulled back "no, absolutely not. None of this was your fault." He said through gritted teeth "I will have his hands for touching you." He growled beginning to pull away "no loki...please. he's not worth it." You said grabbing his shirt "he does not deserve his pathetic existence." He snarled trying to pull free "Please, don't go...stay with me." You whispered making him stop and look at you, his eyes softening "very well, anything for you darling." He said relaxing. "Help me find a room?" You asked looking down the hall. "If you wish, you could stay in my room tonight, everything is already set up." Loki said smiling.

"Are you sure? I don't want to impose." You said fidgeting with your sweater. "You could never impose, come on let's get you settled." He said holding his arm out you looped yours around his as he guided you towards his room. "I'm not displacing Jason am i?" You asked smiling hearing him laugh "I would throw him out of the window for you dear." He said making you laugh "haven't you done that before?" You asked nudging him with your elbow "and I will again." He said looking over smiling at you. You made it to his room as he opened the door waving you in first. You looked around, smiling seeing nothing had changed.

"If you wish you can take a shower, there are towels In the bathroom, have you eaten?" Loki asked turning the lights on "um. No.." you said pulling on your sleeve "ok, I will make you something while you get cleaned up." He said walking into the small kitchen. "Loki.." you trailed off, his eyes meeting yours "Thank you, for everything." You smiled "I would burn the realm for you dear without hesitation." He smiled back. You walked to the bathroom closing the door with a soft click before pulling your sweater over your head, grimacing seeing the bruises littering your skin. Slowly running your fingers over them you finally let yourself feel as tears streamed down your cheeks.

Sinking to the floor you brought your knees to your chest quietly sobbing as the weight was lifted. Your life wasn't your own, it was Allen's. He had taken everything from you, and you were too weak to stop him. You thoughts spiraled when you heard a soft knock on the door "everything alright darling?" You heard Loki ask "yes, I'm ok." You called back wiping your face. "I have some sleep clothes for you when you are done, they are on the bed." He said "ok, thank you." You said standing up. Looking in the mirror at your puffy face you sighed "i want my life back." You said to yourself, walking over to the shower turning it on.

You came out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel seeing Loki reading in the living room "I'll be right back" you said trying to duck into the bedroom, but your were sure he saw. You quickly dried off, slipping the clothes on he had left, smelling his cologne on the shirt making you sigh. You grabbed the towel throwing it in the basket seeing his cloak hanging by the door. Thoughtlessly reaching your hand out feeling the material "how is that so soft." You said grabbing it wrapping it around your shoulders seeing it engulphed you as you wrapped it around you. You walked into the living room seeing Loki set his book down "I see you've taken to claiming my things again." He laughed, standing up. "Oh i...um sorry I can put it back." You said starting to take it off when Loki grabbed it pulling it back over you "no, you are welcome to anything you wish darling." He smiled.

"Now, come eat." He said guiding you to the couch, he sat down patting the space between his legs holding up a hair brush "come darling, sit down." He said as you sat down on the floor between his knees, seeing he made you grilled cheese and soup. "T..thank you Loki." You said, feeling the lump return to your throat as he threaded his fingers through your hair. "You are welcome, now eat while I work my magic." He said making you smile. You took a few bites of your sandwich, feeling the brush glide through your hair, closing your eyes sighing "tilt your head Darling." He said as you shifted, laying your head on his thigh feeling his fingers seperate and twist your hair.

"Did you know, where I am from when we go in to battle and return victorious we place a braid in our to symbolize our strength and courage." You heard him say, your scalp tingling feeling his fingers gently glide through your hair "and you my dear have ridden through Hel and emerged triumphant." He said tying the end of the braid setting the brush down. "Darling.." he trailed off, looking down seeing your fast asleep. Running his fingers along the braid you shifted slightly, his cloak slipping down your shoulder revealing a bruise traveling around your neck, clenching his fist he took a deep breath, trying to calm himself as you nuzzled his leg making him smile.

He got up, cradling your head he lifted you up carrying you to the bedroom gently laying you down tucking his cloak around you. Slowly backing up he felt your fingers wrap around his wrist "loki...please.." you trailed off, eyes still closed "yes darling? Do you need something?" He asked watching you "stay.." you mumbled pulling on his arm "I don't know y/n.." he said when you scooted over pulling him with you "please.." you whispered. He sighed, flicking his wrist changed into a shirt and sweatpants he laid down next to you as you curled up to his side, nuzzling your face into his shoulder making him laugh. He ran his fingers through your hair hearing you sigh. "Sweet dreams, my little valkyrie." He smiled closing his eyes.

@vbecker10 @lokisgoodgirl @sinsandguilt @high-functioning-lokipath @mochie85 @slytherclaw1227 @jaidenhawke @budugu @xorpsbane @schizonephilim @lokidokieokie @holdmytesseract @your-taste-on-my-lips @lokixryss @asgardianprincess1050 @tallseaweed @aniar4wniak @sekaishell @lokispetblogs @loopsisloops @trojanaurora @lonadane @yelkmelk @stupidthoughtsinwriting @123forgottherest @silverfire475 @goblingirlsarah @commanding-officer @glitterylokislut @kkdvkyya @cueloki @daggers-and-mischief @sititran @witchyblue @verycollectivecreator @nixymarvelkins @chantsdemarins @shinraski @usagishira @nightshadelm @filthyhiddles @dukes2581 @assemblingavenger @lulubelle814 @irishhappiness @wolfsmom1 @luvlady-writes @lovingchoices14 @thomase1

[lacunafiction]

I’m obsessed with all of these! The Fernweh Diner scene has me like: 😳🥰. 

I did go ahead and sketched the scenes from prologue and chapter 1 from TFS by @lacunafiction. Specifically the introductory scene. This was a fun warm-up I can't wait to do more of! (づ￣ 3￣)づ

High-res available here.

[lacunafiction]

I feel a bit ashamed asking this, as it's dumb, but can someone explain the thing with the flowers? I got the Bilateral Symmetry achievement on my first try, and on later tries saw that other combinations didn't earn quite as much...approval? Sorry, I'm an ignoramus

Hi Anon,

First, for you: 🌷🌸💐🌻🌹🌼.

Please don't worry about asking this question. 💚 The flower meanings and the mechanics of that achievement can require some trial and error. It also somewhat depends on your nightmare guest, such that B's responses are more cutting, while J's responses can be marginally (?) softer.

So, if you're looking more into the mechanics side, I'm going to recommend the Chapter 8 section of the achievement guide: here.

Story-wise, the flowers can relate to the romance routes. Does this mean that you have to pick a daisy to romance B? No, you may want an aster for your patient, studious, elegant MC with B. That's fine, but the reason why certain characters say particular lines is because they are judging the selection. They are also judging the character. There are 36 scene variations (six of them are harder to unlock) where you can learn more by reading in-between the lines. One important thing is that this is a nightmare, so you can't always trust what's being said; however, there might be some truth to how R on the JR route will defend the forget-me-nots (J's flowers) when J is being critical. 🤔

The key thing is: You can learn different things (in an obscure-ish way) by messing with the flowers. How the characters view the other romance routes, hints about future conflicts or who might be more supportive, Mal can say a lot, daises on J's route hurt, etc.

But, yes, a 'match' unlocks Symmetry where the RO path matches the floral arrangement. Dissonance is when there's a 'clash' and they don't match up. Bilateral Symmetry relates to a particular combo.

I hope this makes you more excited about the flowers! Thank you for your ask. 💚💐

Book One Launch Post💚 | TFS Patreon 🌲

New, alpha content✨from Book Two coming in May to patrons! If you enjoyed your time in Fernweh, please consider reviewing/rating it.

[darsynia]

Modern Mythology | Ch3 (complete)

(Tony Stark/OC; soulmate AU pre-Ultron, in 3 parts)

image from peakpx.com

Summary: Abigail Carson takes a chance on a second job as a courier in the hopes that it’ll help her find her soulmate, whose words on her skin imply that he’s signing for a package she delivers. When she hears the words spoken by Tony Stark, though, Abbi has second thoughts. She’s practically a nobody!

Length: 3,491

MY MASTERLIST | PREVIOUS CHAPTER

Taglist: @starryeyes2000 @raith-way @arrthurpendragon @starksbf @themaradaniels @tiny-anne

--and @patheticallysentimental because I wrote it for her a while ago! Hope you're doing wonderfully 💚 I thought you might like to see to see the graphic I made!

Excerpt:

Tony was looking at her like he’d missed seeing her for a few years, and drinking her in was all he was capable of.

“You’re exaggerating your expression to make me feel better,” she finally said, at the first red light. “Watch the road.”

“Yes, dear,” he teased. The endearment made her glow from within, just a bit, because it seemed to come so very easily. Abbi felt tongue-tied, and she sat in the car and just watched him drive for the five minutes it took to get to the side street he pulled into.

“I made a special arrangement,” he said. “Wait here.”

She definitely felt self-conscious waiting in a car that expensive in an empty alley, but he came out after less than five minutes with two large carryout bags.

“Wanted to eat looking out on the city. What do you think, Persephone?”

Chapter Three: Eternal Spring

Abbi took forever to dress for her date. Tony had said he’d just take her to someplace out of the way, somewhere that celebrities liked to go when they didn’t want to be recognized. He promised that dressing in casual ‘date-wear’ would be enough, but once she was wearing the little black dress with the asymmetrical neckline, she wondered if ‘date-wear’ for the wealthy was far more fancy than that.

The skirt was flirty and fell to her knees, and she paired it with her sexiest black heels and an eclectic green necklace that brought out her eyes, but Abbi still worried.

She was less worried when she’d only had to wait thirty seconds for his car to pull up. It was the same one he’d dropped her off in, and when she’d gotten in, the expression in his eyes told her she’d dressed just fine. Tony was looking at her like he’d missed seeing her for a few years, and drinking her in was all he was capable of.

“You’re exaggerating your expression to make me feel better,” she finally said, at the first red light. “Watch the road.”

“Yes, dear,” he teased. The endearment made her glow from within, just a bit, because it seemed to come so very easily. Abbi felt tongue-tied, and she sat in the car and just watched him drive for the five minutes it took to get to the side street he pulled into.

“I made a special arrangement,” he said. “Wait here.”

She definitely felt self-conscious waiting in a car that expensive in an empty alley, but he came out after less than five minutes with two large carryout bags.

“Wanted to eat looking out on the city. What do you think, Persephone?”

Under the light of the restaurant’s rear light, he looked a little bit like a Hades figure, she decided. His hair was lighter at the tips, like he’d gotten it styled in the twenty-four or so hours since she’d seen him last. She could picture him like a modern-day Greek God, sitting on his throne in the Underworld and complaining about the poor quality of people that kept dying and cluttering up his domain.

“Get in and show me?” she said, feeling brave.

“I’d love to.”

Again they didn’t chat much on the drive, which felt strange considering their easy discourse the night before, but that hadn’t been a date, so Abbi wasn’t too concerned. The sunset was well underway once he was parked at his destination, which turned out to be an exclusive parking garage. It appeared that he had a special tag on the car somewhere because the gate opened right away when he pulled up. The surroundings were kind of bland but the actual view was spectacular. So was the food.

“I can’t believe you’re letting me eat in here. You just met me,” she said after a few heavenly bites.

“Sometimes you just know,” Tony said, looking over at her.

Abbi was blown away by the expression on his face. Had he been hiding this from her? He looked-- he looked like he was in love with her. Something about her reaction must have spooked him, though, because his lips twisted up into a sad kind of smile and he looked back at his food.

“So did you do something with your hair since I saw you last night?” she asked, trying to break the tension.

“Yes. Yep. Touched it up a little.”

For the first time, Abbi felt uneasy. Certain things about his behavior just felt off to her. Granted, she didn’t have much to go on, but the dynamic between them seemed completely different, from his side. He was acting as if somehow they were much more emotionally attached, but also as if he was reticent to hold any kind of a meaningful conversation.

Abbi had set her phone on DND when she’d hopped into the car, but she pulled it out, ostensibly to check up on her mother. Before she got a chance to hit the button to turn on the screen to check notifications, Tony’s voice, sharp and anxious, startled her into dropping it into her lap.

“On your phone already? That doesn’t bode well.”

“I need to check up on my mother. I told you about her cancer?”

“Shit, yes, I’m sorry,” Tony said. “Your mother.”

“It was just yesterday,” Abbi said, meaning that he hadn’t known for long, but once again, Tony’s behavior triggered a kind of alarm in her.

“I have a lot on my plate right now. I just forgot.” He sounded defensive and pissy, if she was honest with herself. “It’s been-- I forgot.”

“Well, if it’s all the same to you, I’m going to stand up. I think I dropped a piece of rice down my dress, and before you offer to find it for me, standing up will get it to drop onto the pavement,” Abbi said. She phrased it as casually as she could, but inside her head all of her senses were screaming to check her phone. Her dress didn’t have a pocket, so she did the only thing she could think of, certain that with his odd behavior, Stark would take the device and hide it somewhere if she so much as set it down within his reach.

Abbi tucked her phone into her bra.

Stark grinned. “Is that on vibrate?”

“Hold that thought?” she said, trying to sound enticed.

“Always.”

Again, he looked at her like a man drunk on the sight of her. Abbi brushed aside the way it made her skin crawl. It was almost like someone else was wearing his face? It was the strangest feeling. She opened the car door, sliding her feet onto the concrete and shifting the meal setup off of her lap and onto the floor of the car. When she stood, she shook her dress out, and, hoping it wouldn’t actually break her phone, slipped it out of her bra in as surreptitious a move as she could before letting it fall against her skin and down inside the dress.

Whoever she was on a date with, she couldn’t risk that he wasn’t as smart as Tony Stark was, and it seemed like he really didn’t want her to look at her phone.

Luck was on her side. The phone landed face up, and she said, “Shit,” under her breath, leaning over to pick it up.

“Abbi,” Stark said, his voice very serious.

The phone was full of notifications. From Tony. Who was wondering where she was.

Abbi’s whole body broke out in goosebumps.

“Abbi, don’t freak out,” the man in the car said.

“How exactly do I not freak out?” she said in a high-pitched voice. She lifted her foot, knocking the shoe off of it. Her hands were shaking, but she unlocked the phone as fast as she could, tapping one of Tony’s messages and starting to type a response. Running could only do so much if he didn’t know she was in danger!

She heard a noise and tried to turn to protect the phone, smashing her fingers against the screen to try to trigger the ‘send’ button, even if she hadn’t gotten everything typed out.

Stark wrapped an arm around her, pulling the phone out of her hands in the moment of frightened confusion when she felt him grab her.

The screen showed that she had sent a message.

I’m with you! who. HEL;’lp,/]

He looked at it and swore under his breath, throwing the phone off the side of the garage. Abbi started to cry.

“No, no, no, sweetheart, don’t, don’t,” he said, his voice tender and his arm gentling around her.

“Who are you?” she gasped out.

“I’m me. Tony. I’m just-- the hair, it wasn’t yesterday. Been like this for over a year. I’m from, well. A different universe doesn’t quite describe it. Call me Hades, I guess. Lord of the Underworld. I came for you.”

He started walking them to the car, and Abbi stumbled, kicking off her other shoe.

“You came for me?” she asked, hoping she could figure out how to stall him.

“You are-- were my wife. You… well, you’re dead, but you didn’t die. You disappeared. A lot of people did. We tried to fix it. It didn’t work, but we figured out how to travel between universes. I gave myself a few years to try to unravel what went wrong.”

Abbi let her body go limp, resisting him as best she could. This-- this was Tony, a version of him. A dark, desperate version of him. Hades, he’d called himself, and that seemed apt. He seemed practically consumed by hubris. Unfortunately, Tony Stark was Tony Stark. He was one of the strongest people she’d ever known, and her passive resistance was doing practically nothing. He sat her in the car seat, throwing her food into its bag and tossing that into the back.

“Why not take her? Take your wife, before she disappeared!” Abbi pleaded. Tony, find me, please have done something ridiculous to my phone! she pleaded silently. 

Stark buckled her into the seat so tightly Abbi winced, and he immediately loosened the belt, touching her face with a loving hand that felt ghoulish.

“Can’t. She’s doing something important seconds before. I tried.”

“Pick a different universe, then! Why would you rob another self of his possible happiness?” Abbi asked, aghast. She watched him start around the car and reached for the door handle, only to find him lunge to stop her.

“Abbi, for fuck’s sake! It’s me, I’m still Tony. I love you. Don’t you want to be with a Tony that already loves you? I need you. More than he does.”

She could scarcely breathe for the terror she was feeling. “You’re not mine. I’m not yours. This is wrong.”

“I’ll convince you,” he promised. He tapped at the glow of his ARC reactor on his chest, and his suit started growing from the thing, spreading in tiny particles to cover his whole body. Abbi was only inches away and she was frozen in fear to watch it, understanding that this was futuristic technology for her time. When he was fully encased, Stark pried up a loop that appeared on his right arm, and a handcuff appeared.

“Not with that you won’t. If you truly loved me, you wouldn’t lock me up, or restrain me, or, or handcuff me to you!” she protested.

“I would if I had to,” was his bleak reply. “If it was the only option. And it is.”

“JARVIS, do you hear me?” Abbi asked in inspired desperation. “You’re running his suit, right? You have to stop him!”

“Clever girl, but JARVIS is gone,” Stark told her.

“Hands off my soulmate, Muldoon.” Tony’s voice was coming from above them. It was Abbi’s version of him, hopefully, hovering with both repulsors in his hands activated and pointing straight at Stark.

Stark gave up on the handcuff and shot a repulsor at Tony, who was knocked out of midair and landed in a scrape of metal on the concrete, ten feet away.

“Time to go,” Stark said, tapping at his ARC reactor again to reveal his pants pocket, where he pulled out a bracelet with a small suspended gap between the edges. He tried to slip it onto her arm using the gap, but she unbuckled her seatbelt and shoved at him, her hands scrabbling at the door handle.

“Duck, Abbi,” her Tony’s voice called out, and she threw herself down as far as she could. 

The motion gave the alternate version of Stark the opportunity to get the bracelet around her arm, but she crushed it against her chest before he could activate anything. Stark’s determination to do even that small thing got him knocked sideways when Tony fired his repulsor not at either of them, but at the engine of his car. The whole thing rocked up into the air, but she was less jostled than Stark was, who fell over and out onto the concrete.

“Stay down. Help is on the way,” her Tony told her, flipping up the faceplate so she could see him. The two men looked different, she saw, but for both of them, she was a distraction.

“Don’t focus on me!” she told Tony, seconds before he shoved the probably totaled car away from the two men with a powerful kick. The whole thing slid probably twenty feet, her stomach lurching with the lateral speed, but what Abbi was more frightened by was the huge, wide repulsor Stark had created out of the center of his suit.

“Mine’s more powerful than yours, Tony. You have ten, fifteen years before you’ll get results like this,” Stark said, firing a beam of white, concentrated power at her Tony. Luckily he was smart enough to jolt away.

Something about the triumph in Stark’s face made Abbi remember the bracelet, and she tore it off of her wrist and threw it onto the driver’s seat beside her in fear.

It flashed something like an aborted countdown, and she heard an anguished cry.

“Abbi! Please!” Stark screamed, grief writ large across his face for a split second before a white suit with red accents encased his body, including his head. Then, he seemed to shrink into nothingness in front of her and completely disappear.

An Iron Man suit flew over to her and hovered. It looked authentic-- the chestpiece had a triangular window to Tony’s ARC reactor, and there were no strange geometric glowing shapes at certain joins of the armor, but Abbi still eyed it warily.

The version of Tony struggled with the faceplate for a while until it finally lifted. “Okay, that was weird. Wasn’t that weird?”

“Weird you got frosted tips or weird there were two yous?” Abbi asked, half of her attention still on the strange bracelet-thing. In the sky far behind them she saw what looked like a third suit of armor, and in utter fear and dread, she pointed. “Another you incoming!”Tony’s faceplate slid down with a servo sound, and he spun around, activating his repulsors, but seconds later, he powered them back down. “It’s Rhodey. My best friend. I called for backup.”

“Which you called for backup, though?” she asked.

“Good point. If he has frosted tips, I’ll blast him to Mars,” Tony promised.

“I don’t even know him and I have a feeling he won’t appreciate that you said that.” For the first time that evening, Abbi smiled. Tony smiled back, and her heart leapt just a bit. “You might want to grab that thing and put it in stasis or something. I think he was trying to take me back with him. You might be able to figure out how to make a dimensional portal or something with it.” She pointed to the bracelet.

“Just do me a favor and don’t touch it. I’ll have Rhodes lock it down before I take it anywhere,” Tony said, and his caution warmed her heart even further. “Why don’t you get out of there just in case?”

“Gladly,” Abbi said. As she climbed out of the car in her skimpy dress (something she was pretty sure Tony would have loved to have witnessed if he wasn’t reporting the absolutely batshit events that had just transpired to his similarly-suited friend), she felt a pang of loss for the desperate, insane Tony Stark they’d encountered.

“You’re dead… You… disappeared. A lot of people did.”

It didn’t seem like that Tony Stark was trying to save the ‘lot of people’ who disappeared, though. He was just trying to save her. Because he loved her so much he tried to steal another version of her just so he didn’t have to do without anymore. It was sobering.

She walked away from the car and shivered. Night had fallen, and they were on something like the ninth floor of the parking garage, which was already situated on somewhat of a hill. The wind cut right through her thin black dress.

“You okay?” 

It was Tony’s voice, but Abbi still started in surprise, looking over to see that he’d taken off the armor. She walked closer, lifted her hand to brush it through his hair, which seemed like it was all the same brown color. The look on his face as she touched him reminded her a lot of the look on the fake Tony, and Abbi backed away, still shaken by what had just happened.

“He didn’t fuck things up for us, did he?” Tony asked, his tone resigned, vulnerable.

“No, I don’t think so,” Abbi said, truthfully. “That man loved me. I could see it in his eyes. Whatever happened between this night as it was meant to go, and the day he lost his version of me, it was real. But the way he looked at me? It was toxic, Tony. Destructive. I don’t ever want you to turn into that man, even if it means we have to part ways right now.”

“Don’t go all noble on me,” he said in a shaky voice, taking a step toward her. “I saw it too. I’d like to try on the good parts before we toss it all for the good of humanity, maybe?”

“You saw what his suit was made of, and you’re probably already figuring out how to make one. He said, what? Ten, fifteen years? I give you six months,” Abbi said, hearing the pride in her voice and marveling at the way it made Tony’s eyes light up. She took a few steps in his direction, only leaving a few feet between them. “And then there’s that bracelet.”

“Rhodey used one of his gauntlets to contain it. He’s flying it back to a facility we’re building, upstate, for containment,” Tony interrupted. He grinned, looked down at what space was left between them, and reached out his hand to grab and pull her so she was more like an inch away. “Did he kiss you?” he asked, suddenly.

Abbi shook her head, tipping her head to the side as she looked up at him. Confidence and concern wove patterns in the lines on his face. There were fewer lines than the other Stark, and these were already becoming familiar to her. They’d shared something, this night, something more profound than a simple first date. Not that she was going to count this as a first date.

“Good,” Tony said. “I want to be the first Tony Stark that falls in love with you and gets to kiss you.”

“Selfish as always,” Abbi teased lightly. “It doesn’t lose something, knowing it’s going to happen? I mean, not just us, but-- he was haunted, Tony. Something’s going to happen. Something really terrible. And he didn’t even try to warn us. I don’t want you to ever get that broken.”

“Well, losing you was a step toward that, so…” Tony said, dangling the conclusion with an insufferable smirk.

“You’ll lose me to the cold, at this rate,” she said, exaggerating by about fifty degrees. Abbi shivered, and he dragged her up against him, rubbing his hands along her back and arms.

“I’d put you in the car and turn up the heat, but--”

“He totally stole it from you, didn’t he? How do you even report that to your insurance?” Abbi asked, laughing against his chest.

“I’d rather he stole the car than the girl, honestly,” Tony said. He tipped her head up toward him and lifted his eyebrows, silently asking. Abbi nodded, and Tony leaned down, brushing her lips with his once, twice, then pressing in for a deeper third kiss, nudging her lips open and brushing her tongue with his gently before pulling away. “Tell me you’re not going to have nightmares that wear my face,” he whispered, kissing her temple and pulling her against his chest again.

“I can’t promise that, but-- Tony?”

“Hmm?”

“Hades didn’t succeed in taking Persephone, in this universe. Maybe we can prevent the terrible Winter he was so destroyed by?” she suggested. “That would do a lot to declaw those nightmares.”

“Eternal Spring,” Tony said, a hum of happiness resonating through his chest to the cheek she rested against it. “I like the sound of that.”

“Me too,” Abbi said. Spring was the start of something new. The broken, desperate version of Tony Stark had asked her if she wouldn’t rather be with a Tony who already loved her, but she hadn’t even been tempted. Sure, this version didn’t look at her like she was a goddess personified, yet, but she wouldn’t give up all of the moments in between now and then for anything. Not even the chance to be Queen of a technologically advanced underworld ten years in the future.

Persephone was the goddess of new beginnings, after all. That was close enough for her.

[lokisgoodgirl]

I saw this game with another author but unfortunately I can’t remember who it was…:€

If you want, choose 5 of your fics (can be any genre) and list them alongside with your most favorite quote out of each💚

This is very self-indulgent but it's Sunday so I'm into it! Thank you for asking lovely anon :)

In the spirit of the final episode of Clandestine F*cks looming, I'm gonna pick some of my favourite lines from the 24 up at the moment. They'll also be exerts, rather than lines...because if we're doing this we're doing it right. Also, this is not exhaustive...there are plenty more but these are the ones that come to mind :D

1) In a flash your arms were pinned upwards as you struggled beneath him. His thick thighs squeezed the sides of your ass through your leggings, the smallest graze of his crotch against your mound. Loki lowered himself to your ear, his breath making you shiver against the growing heat of your skin.

“Does this bring back fond memories, kitten?” he whispered, a knowing smile flickering on his lips. (Yield to Me)

Why though? - This is a little nod to my headcanon that the Clandestine F*cks couple is the Pinned Down couple (and so the whole of CF is just an extension of that first part in another direction). A lil lol for me.

2) “May I sentimentally remark that your breasts look phenomenal in this position, darling...” he groaned, casting a lingering look at your cleavage pressed against his chest. (A Touch of Sentiment)

Why though? Y/N is catching feels and asks Loki to be more sentimental when they have sex, just this once. He is, but he also can't resist a bit of self-preservation humour.

3) “Jeg er din...darling” he gasped loudly, his body clenching through the final throes of a bone-shaking orgasm. “I am yours...I am yours…” he panted breathlessly, his forehead resting against your chest, swaying with every slowing gyration of your hips. (Claim Him)

Why though? Just hot, innit. And desperate, and pure. I love this chapter so so much for so many reasons. And this line is one of them.

4) “If you call Mjölnir into my chambers, I will show no mercy-there are antiques you cretinous philistine, have you no shame-” Loki choked gruffly, as though something were pressed to his throat.

“This is...a lot of information. For my brain” [Thor] grunted, as Loki nodded. “Yes, brother. And already under such strain by its mere existence. Why don’t you sit down.” (Asgardian Standards)

Why though? - This is actually two exchanges between Thor and Loki in this episode, I just love their whole angsty brother vibe in amongst the smut sandwhich.

5. Climax crested through every nerve in your core, blossoming glacially through your body like blood in water. You arched your back, crying his name as tears pricked your eyes. It was too much.

And yet, it would never be enough. (Asgardianese)

Why Though? Sad, sexy b*tch hours to the max. I just think this part is quite pretty :)

Thank you for asking Anon :) This was fun.