sneakybananabox

[sneakybananabox]

Burn

Chapter 2 Ash

WandaNatxReader

Summary: You are dealing with the aftermath of the explosion. Lawson's fate hangs by a thread. While unconscious you take a trip down memory lane for better or worse.

Note: The story is still in the lead-up phase. Hopefully, we will see our ladies soon.

You felt a jolt ripple through you. You thought you were awake, but awake was wrong. There was no way to describe it other than nothingness. You were aware, but couldn’t move. Was this death? You couldn’t feel your body. There was just nothingness. It was like your whole body was numb, but different. You were just thankful you could no longer feel the fire in your veins. 

You tried to open your eyes. You could feel panic at not being able to see. You gave up and tried again quickly, as if you could trick your brain. For a moment, you thought you might actually be dead. If you were dead, you hoped Lawson made it. Everything would be worth it if she were okay.

After an unknown amount of time just being, you lost consciousness. 

You were grabbing a cup of coffee. Thank god for probies getting in early to make breakfast and prepare the essentials for the shift.  

“I got to say, Kid, you made a mean omelet. You keep cooking like this, and you will be the station chef. “ Based on the fervor, your Captain was scarfing down the omelet, you would think he was lost at sea without food. 

“ I know it’s good, Cap, but please don’t make me do CPR this early in the morning. I haven’t even had my first sip of coffee.”  Lawson came up next to you, stealing the coffee you made for yourself with her signature smug smile. You contemplated how to tackle her ass without spilling scalding hot coffee everywhere.

“Yeah, right, as if you could Flare. We all know I would be the one to save Cap.” Lawson raised her mug to mock her theft. 

“You know what, Law, you better hope you never need my help. Maybe I won’t give it. Also steal my coffee again and I will fart on your pillow so you get pink eye.” Lawson choked on the sip of her stolen goods.

“Dear lord, got coffee down the wrong pipe.” She coughed to try and ease her pain.  “That may be one of the worst ways you have ever threatened me.” 

“That’ll show you for stealing my coffee.” As you grabbed another mug, the sirens blared. 

“Squad 3 and Ambulance 61 Trapped Victim”

You set down the mug while silently cursing under your breath. You ran to get the truck to get on your gear. You hopped into your spot next to Lawson. She looked over at you with a guilty look.

“I will get you your favorite pastry since I stole your coffee this morning, and if you promise to still love me.” 

You put your hand on your chin to contemplate for a moment. “Hm, that’s a tough one. You stole my first coffee of the day.”

“Come on, Flare. Don’t be a stubborn shit. You know you could never hate me.”

“Make pastries and pizza, and my love is all yours.”

“Deal!”

You could hear the others on your team laughing on the headset at your antics. They knew you two were inseparable. No matter how often you got on each other's nerves, you two were meant to be in each other’s lives.

As both vehicles pulled up to the scene, you could see that it was a mechanic. A man ran over to the Squad truck in a panic.

“I don’t know what happened. Jimmy and I were working on this Camaro, and it was like the lift just stopped working.”

“Flare and Lawson grab cribbing, airbags, and step chocks.”

Everyone jumped into action, securing the vehicle to make sure it wouldn’t shift during the rescue. The paramedic slid under to take vitals after securing. One of your teammates who worked on the electrical checked out the lift to make sure nothing else would shift and that it wouldn’t further crush Jimmy.

“His vitals are stable right now, but I don’t like how his breathing is sounding. As soon as he is extracted, we need to get him to Med right away.”

“Alright, we need to make sure it will be smooth when we pull him out, so we don’t risk further injury. Flare, I want you to slide under there and assess the situation so we can get him out.”

You got down on your back and slid in next to Jimmy.

“Hey Jimmy, I am Flare. I am here to help. I am going to make sure we can slide you nice and easy, and then you get a fun ambulance ride.” You could see the fear in his eyes. He seemed to be around your age, maybe a little younger. Fear was normal in this situation. Having almost 2 tons of a car ready to crush you would strike fear into anyone.

“Oh ok. Sounds easy enough.” You could hear the shake in Jimmy’s voice. You noticed his coveralls were attached to the underside of the car. You grabbed some shears and cut him free to make it easier.

“Alright, he is free. Get him out.” The team got him out. As you made your move next, there was a creaking, and then a whirring began. The lift started to lower, and the airbag that was being used failed and deflated. You could feel the pressure on your torso. You yelled out in pain. You could hear Lawson yell your name. Your team was trying to reinflate the airbag to slow down the car. You felt something crack in your chest. Lawson ran over to the remote control that controlled the lift and worked with speed. Thankfully, the lift stopped and began to rise. You felt your team slide you out.

Moving was the last thing you wanted to do right now. You could hear your Captain call for another ambo. While one paramedic worked on Jimmy, the other came over to assess you.

“Where does it hurt, Flare?”

“Please, I am all good. You know better than that.”  The paramedic opened your jacket and lifted your shirt to get a better look. You could feel her pressing on your ribs, and you grimaced in pain. You didn’t want to show weakness in front of your team. You could see Lawson coming over.

“Stop being a dumbass and tell her what hurts or I will never make you a cup of coffee and neither will the probies. You know they will listen to me.”

“That is a low blow, Law. You would never torture me in such a way.” You tried your best to smile, even though breathing felt like a knife was stabbing you in the side over and over. 

“Try me.”

“Fine, I heard a crack and have pain in my torso, but I figured it was the cribbing.” 

“They will do scans at Med, but I am thinking cracked ribs. I think you got somewhat lucky and nothing is broken.”

After being released from Med, Lawson insisted on taking you to your loft. One of the probies, Daniel, dropped off Lawson’s car while she took you home in your truck. She came around and helped you out of your truck so you didn’t jostle your injury too much. You got out with 3 cracked ribs that would have broken if there were any more pressure. You leaned into Lawson while she carried your crutches. 

Getting up to your loft was a process, but you were so thankful to be home. She helped you get situated on your couch. 

“Thanks for the help, Lawson. When I am a bit more mobile, I will make it up to you.” You slowly laid down onto some pillows. You tried to find the best position without aggravating your injury. Every time you moved too fast or the wrong way, the pain would shoot through your body, leaving you short of breath from the pain. 

“I don't like your tone, Flare. Makes it sound like you are kicking me out.”

“What? N-no. I just figured there were other things you would rather do than hang with a coworker on your off time.” You were on edge at the thought of Lawson trying to take care of you. You had only known each other for a few months, and the thought of being a burden made your whole body prickle.

“Sorry to tell you. But I took some time off and will now be known as Nurse Lawson. You heard Doctor Rhodes about how your recovery will be, and doing it alone is not an option. So suck it up buttercup.” 

For a moment, you could only look at Lawson. You hadn't known each other for more than a few months, and she was giving up time for your recovery. Your body was torn between the warmth of having someone care for you and the uneasiness from not wanting to be a burden. You hated letting people do things for you, even as small as buying you a coffee. Having Lawson take time off to assist with recovery made you want to throw up.

You sat in thought momentarily, trying to figure out how to respond. Thankfully, your coworker, turned nurse, knew not to push you. Maybe it's because of the comfort she gives you, but you allowed yourself a moment to be vulnerable.

“If you ever tell anyone about this, I will deny it, but thank you for doing this. I will make sure I pay you back in some way.”

Lawson met your eyes from where she was standing in your kitchen area. “You don't have to pay me back in any way. You would need help in recovery either way, and I am a capable person to help with that. Plus, I like to think you would do the same for me since I'm so charming.”

“Sure, charming, whatever you say, Law.”

Lawson starts tidying up in your kitchen and taking note of things she plans to get from the grocery store. She thinks you have to be secretly sponsored by Hot Pockets and the Bibigo Kimbap with how much is in your freezer. 

You sat as comfortably as you could on the couch. The whole time, you have been trying to say the words you want. You think maybe you can just let it out once. The longer the time passes, you think it's been too long. Eventually, you just let it out so you don't regret it.

“I would absolutely do the same for you.”

 Lawson froze while searching through your cabinets. She knew you loved everyone at the fire station, but you weren't the type to show vulnerability. No one knew much about your time before the academy. All anyone knew was that you were on your own with no family. Lawson's heart clenched at your confession, knowing it was hard for you to be vulnerable. She wanted to hug you for choosing her to make the first step with. You were like a coconut, hard to crack, but with work, she was going to crack down your walls.

“How about I make us some real food?” In that moment, you reminded her of a puppy with the way you tilted your head.

“Real food?”

“Yes, a home-cooked meal with some nutrients.”

“I will have you know the Bulgogi Kimbap and multiple vegetables in it. You act like I am a single dad eating only hungry man dinners.”

“You are one more hot pocket away from calling me champ and asking me to play catch.” You cackled at Lawson. You knew you weren’t winning this battle. You got up to help before Lawson threw a grape from the counter at your head.

“Sit your ass down or so help me cracked ribs will be the least of your worries.” 

You wanted to get up to do something while she worked on dinner. You hated feeling like a leech. You focused on watching Lawson to avoid your mind from spiraling. 

You watched as she prepared dinner. You couldn’t help yourself and got up as slowly as you could without making a sound. You went to your guest room and got it ready for Lawson. If you bent too much, pain would radiate through your body. Once the room was presentable and had plenty of blankets, you went to your room. You were thankful for a decent pain tolerance. Pulling out some clothes for Lawson to wear in case she wanted to shower, your side started to throb. 

After putting her clothes on the guest bed, you snuck back to the couch. 

“You aren't as sneaky as you think.” You swore Lawson was your reincarnated mother because the look she gave you sent a shiver down your spine. It was like being back in your childhood home after getting into trouble with your older brother. 

You were sure you were quiet for an awkward amount of time. Finally finding your voice, “I didn't want to be a bad hostess for my nurse. I have to make sure to keep my five-star rating.” 

“Keep disobeying your nurse, and you will get a 1-star, and I will trash you on Yelp.”

“How dare you? I get your bed ready, fluff your pillows, and include my most comfortable clothes so you don't have to sleep smelling like a bonfire, and you threaten me? I should steal all your shoelaces.”

Lawson's head snapped up to look at me. “Did I agree to nurse a psychopath back to health? Oh God, my name is going to end up being mentioned on a soccer mom's true crime podcast. Hopefully, they use good pictures of me in the docuseries.”

You throw a pillow at her to interrupt her monologue. “Ok ok enough of being dramatic. I was promised dinner with nutrients, whatever that means.”

She made a loaded potato soup and a panini loaded up with vegetables. You are both enjoying food on the couch, watching a comedy movie. After eating, you take some pain meds and get comfortable. Both of you decide to start a show together. The loft was always empty, with only music or TV filling the space. Having someone here for you was so foreign. It was like trying to figure out what to do with your hands in a picture. No matter what, it just felt off. Little did you know in this moment, Lawson was placing the first crack in your wall.

After binge-watching as much as you could, your eyes were beginning to feel heavy. The tiredness was catching up with you. Lawson forced you to go to bed. She helped you to your room and into bed. As soon as your head hit the pillow, you were out like a light.

Lawson took a shower and changed into the clothes you gave her.  She laid down in the bed in the guest bedroom. She was impressed with how soft it was. Lying down after a long day was just what she needed. After getting into a comfortable position, she allowed sleep to overcome her. 

“No…no… please, you have to save them.” Lawson allowed her eyes to come into focus. She could hear someone talking quietly. It took a moment before she realized it was you. She heard a whimper come from your room. She hurried over to your room and quietly opened the door. She could see your arms twitch and your legs thrash around. Nightmares were easy to spot, so she slowly walked over to your bed. 

“Flare, it’s me. It’s Lawson.” She slowly rubbed your shoulder to try and get you out of your nightmare. You snapped upright and looked around the room. You made eye contact with Law. Slowly, the fog left your mind, and you realized what happened.

“I woke you up, didn’t I?” You looked out your window into the city. 

“No, I had to pee, and I just happened to hear you. You know me, I have the bladder of a squirrel.” You knew she was more than likely lying, but you couldn’t help but appreciate it. It helped with the embarrassment of the situation. 

“Oh, okay. Thanks for waking me up.” Lawson started to walk back to your room. The words came out before you could stop yourself. “Would you be willing to stay? Here in my room tonight? But don’t feel obligated or anything. I don’t want to make things wei-”

“Flare, shut up for a second. It’s okay. If anything, this may help your rating.” Lawson slid into the blankets and got comfortable. You didn’t allow yourself to get too close. Having her warmth in your bed helped you back into a state of relaxation.

“Thanks for staying with me. I really appreciate it.”

“Of course, I used to do it for my younger siblings all the time.”

“They are lucky to have a sister as great as you.”

“Well, I hate to tell you that even if it’s only been a few months since we have known each other. You are now stuck with me. I am like a bad rash. Hard to get rid of.” You couldn’t help the smile that adorned your face. You hoped the dark covered it up. 

You thought for a moment, trying to decipher all the emotions you were feeling. It has been so long since the incident when you were a kid. The incident that left so many scars across your body and soul. The one that claimed your family. Maybe Lawson was the universe apologizing for everything. You were still wary, but in this moment, you were going to allow yourself a reprieve. 

“Well, I guess I'd better get used to it. When I was a kid, I always imagined having a sister. I loved my brother, but I always loved the idea of having a sister and being a trio.”

Lawson was astonished that you shared such a personal detail. You never talked about your family. Everything about you was more surface-level than what she had seen. You were close to your family at the station. Everyone knew they could count on you. The kids and families of the other firefighters loved you. You talked to everyone at the BBQs and other events with such warmth. They knew your favorite colors, movies, and food, but anything about your childhood was off limits. Debating on whether she should ask more and just sit here in silence with you, Lawson decided to risk it.

“ What was your brother like?” 

Maybe it was the events of today or the tiredness impairing your thinking, but you decided to answer her. The crack previously placed in the wall surrounding your heart deepened just a smidge further.

“He was the best brother. I know everyone says that, but I know I really lucked out. I would go to him with everything first. He was my go-to person. The one I came out to first, or when I would mess up, and was afraid to tell my parents. When I was a kid, he let someone borrow my bike to go down the street, and we walked to get it. Before we got there, I saw some boys about my age with a bike that looked just like mine. I remember saying to him, ‘Hey, they have a bike just like mine.’ He realized that it was my bike and ran after them. They didn’t realize it was mine because the person we lent it to left it by the side of the building near the trash cans. I swear in that moment he was like Superman because he saved my bike.” You could feel the tears slowly falling at the memory. “He always helped me whenever I needed it. Even when he could be struggling, he made sure I was good. Whenever I made mistakes, he was the first to know. He was my rock. Sometimes it’s easy to imagine he is still around. He still lives in our home city, and I am just working here. I pretend that I didn’t lose my whole family. It makes the pain bearable for a moment.” You allowed your mind to drift to the moment you realized that the fire took your family. You were stuck in the memory, and you couldn’t find your way out. 

Lawson saw your eyes go blank in the moonlight. She saw more tears start to fall, and a sob erupted from you. She moved over and pulled you into her. She held you as you cried and reassured you that she was there for you. That night, Lawson didn’t realize that your walls had crashed down. 

Throughout her time with you in your recovery, you got closer. And in a twist of fate her apartment flooded and she got a call from her landlord. It was natural that you had Lawson move in while it was being worked on. Once she moved in though she never left. You two became roommates, and her role as your family was cemented.

Part 1

[sneakybananabox]

Shadows

Hi Cuties!

This is a self indulgent fic. It's a one shot for now. I may one day add more, but I have another series going on so this will do for now.

WandaNatxReader

“I..am..Iron Man.” Tony could feel the power pulse within. He no longer had veins or blood in his body. He could only feel raw power. He went to snap his fingers, but nothing happened. His fingers wouldn’t move. A thick black fog was surrounding his hand. He couldn’t see through the fog, since it was so dark.

“No no no” he whispered. This was supposed to be it. He was supposed to snap and win. He knew this was his ending. This was supposed to be the last period of his story. Slowly, the fog enveloped the stones and removed them from his suit. He could feel the power leave his body as the stones were gone. The ground rumbled violently as if there was an Earthquake. Slowly, the fighting began to cease since neither side could figure out what was happening. The black fog began to expand, separating the Avengers from those they were fighting.

Finally, there in the middle stood Tony and Thanos in the middle while two walls of the black fog kept them separated from their respective sides. The fog changed to be more opaque, so they could see through, but whenever someone tried to break through, the wall wouldn’t budge. Cap tried to throw his shield at it, only for it to bounce back. Wanda threw her magic at it, but it only absorbed it. Yelena shot at it, only for the bullets to disintegrate. It was fog, but it acted as if it were solid.

Thanos tried to move towards Tony, but his feet were encapsulated in the fog, as were Tony's. Neither could move. Tony could vaguely hear people call his name.

More of the fog was moving around the field, and in a blink, several figures were surrounding Tony and Thanos. The figures were human-shaped, of varying height and size. No details could be made out other than that. It was as if they were walking shadows.

“What the fuck? Was a big purple alien not enough?” Tony’s body was so tired. The stones did a number on him, and he had to will his body to stay upright.

“Well well sorry we are late to the party.” One of the figures spoke out. It sent a chill down everyone’s spine. Tony looked over at Thanos, struggling to break free. He didn’t seem surprised by the appearance of the figures either. Tony wishes he were that surprised by this new occurrence, but his life leaves no more room for surprises.

The figures started to circle Tony and Thanos. It felt like a predator readying to pounce on its prey. “The Mad Titan. I would say we were almost impressed with your ingenuity. You had us there for a moment.” Tony looked over at his friends and family. He could see they had halted their attempts at breaking through the barrier. Hearing them mention Thanos planted a seed of hope within everyone on the Avengers side. Maybe these figures would be on their side. At the least, they would eradicate their problem. Everyone felt powerless as they watched their friend and loved one trapped.

“You made a big mistake. When you trapped us in our realm, you were so sure we would be there forever. However, there wasn’t one thing you could account for.”

Thanos gave up trying to escape the foggy restraints. He found his voice to respond to the figures. “And what could that possibly be?”

The figures paused there, circling with one figure now standing directly in front of Thanos. The figures began to change. The fog dissipated from them to reveal what seemed to be humans. There in front of Thanos stood you.

“You didn’t account for me.” For a moment, Thanos’s mask cracked. The slightest change could be seen.

Tony felt like he saw a ghost. Maybe you were a ghost, and everything he thought about death was wrong. He watched you die. He remembers you dying in Wanda and Nat’s arms in the earlier stages of Thanos.

Your back was to the Avengers side, but everyone knew that voice. Wanda felt her heart drop. She was sure that maybe she had died in battle and was seeing you in the afterlife. She felt her knees buckle for a moment. Pietro ran and held up his sister. They could only watch as you continued to speak.

“I think in my life, I was pretty level-headed. Sure, I had some times were my anger got the better of me, but for the most part, I was pretty calm. I was annoyed when we had to deal with the Sokovia accords and watched my family split in half, but we overcame it.” You started circling Thanos without breaking eye contact. You were here with a mission, and as much as you wanted to see your loved ones, you had something that needed to be taken care of.

“I was annoyed when a purple Barney fuck caused problems in my life. I was mad that I had to die, but more mad that you killed me in front of the people I love… I was pissed off when you snapped half the population and hurt the people I loved once again.” You could feel your rage building in your chest. If you had the gift of fire, you were sure it would be coming out of your nose and mouth as you spoke.

“I was slightly relieved when my family found a way to bring everyone back. But.” You paused as you motioned with your hands. Thanos felt the force of the fog move, bringing him to his knees. He gritted his teeth at the pain of his hard landing. “I was absolutely enraged to know that one of the women I loved sacrificed herself to get one of the stones. It being one of the stones we are set to protect was really the icing on this fucked ass cake. The thing about the realm you locked us away in is that we watched it all unfold without being able to act. Unfortunately for you, Thanos, you made one too many wrong assumptions.” You were face to face with the one who wreaked havoc on you and your planet.

You brought your hand up and allowed fog to encircle it like a glove. The stones were snug within the fog. “Make no mistake, Thanos, this talk is just beginning. However, I could do without your little cronies around. I was thinking maybe leave some survivors to spread the news throughout the universe of the failed attempt of fucking with Earth. Looking at them, though, I change my mind.” You snapped your fingers and watched as they started to crumble. They thought they could run from their fate, but all that was left was satisfying piles of dust. Thanos could only watch. You turned to look at Tony with a smile.

“No joking that these stones pack a punch. Tony, I have no idea how you held these for so long.” This was the first time you acknowledged anyone’s existence.

“Well, you know me, Kid. I have always been exceptional.”

“Yea yeah I know old man. I see even now the nickname stays.”

“ You should know that by now. How about you let me out of whatever is holding me in place?”

You released the fog around Tony and caught him when he started to fall. You knew he was tired and more than likely injured. You finally allowed yourself to look at the people on Tony’s side. You could cry at finally seeing them, but also because one of the people you loved wasn’t here. “Let’s get you patched up, old man. Oh, and Thanos? Please feel free to hang back.” You waved your hands and heard Thanos cry out in pain as the fog tightened around his limbs. “Oops, too tight?”

You looked at the other Shadows you arrived with for approval to help Tony. You know they had your back, but you wanted to make sure. You saw them nod their heads in approval while you assisted Tony. You walked up to the fog wall and went through it with ease, Tony hanging onto you.

You were face to face with Pepper, Steve, Wanda, Pietro, Clint and Yelena while the others hung back watching. You imagined this moment for years. Time moved differently in the realm, so it felt longer than it was.

“So I know there are so many questions. I will answer things as best as I can, but you all can rest first. There are obviously things I have to take care of.”

You helped Tony into Pepper’s hold. She looked at you with glassy eyes. She knew you saved Tony. She was angry with him for what he was going to do, but more than anything, there was relief.

“Thank you for saving him.” You looked at her and nodded your head. Your emotions were catching up to you. Seeing your family overwhelmed you, but you held on to your composure.

“Well, I guess your nickname had more meaning than we thought. Huh, Shade?” Yelena elbowed Pietro in the side. You chuckled at the grunt that came out.

“Yeah, Piet. I guess you could say that.” Wanda’s breath hitched at hearing you call her brother by his nickname. You looked at Wanda, and everything in you broke even further. You needed to see those pale green eyes for the first time in so long.

“Hi, Wanda.” Wanda wasn’t sure if she wanted to hit you or jump into your arms. She threw caution to the wind and launched herself at you. You caught her and held her as she buried her head in your shoulder. “I missed you so much, love.” You could hear her voice tremble as she spoke into you.

“I missed you, too, Mi Vida.” You wanted to hold her and just stay like that for eternity, but you had more tricks up your sleeve. You pulled back from Wanda so you could look at her. “Can I?” Wanda knew before you asked what you wanted. Before you could hear an answer, her lips were on yours. You just let yourself be in the moment as you both moved your lips against each other.

“Alright, as much as I would love to watch you two make out with each other. Do we not have other things to take care of? One of them being purple?” You smiled after backing up from the kiss at hearing your best friend's voice.

“Hm, sounds like jealousy, Yelena. All you had to do was ask for affection.” You tackled your best friend in a hug. You kissed her cheek. Being your best friend allowed Yelena to get used to physical touch. You knew what the Red Room was like for her and Nat. You became a constant in their life and allowed them to get comfortable with you, never pushing their boundaries. You stepped back and took in all those fighting on the Avengers' side. The number of beings was nothing if not impressive.

“You all have fought hard. It’s time for you to rest. My good friend Jax will be assisting with your injuries. I will be taking care of our Grimace issue over there. I am so sorry that I wasn’t here for all of you through this. You have been through some long years, and I will spend every ounce of my energy making this up to you.”

Steve walked up to you. He placed his hand on his shoulder. “Kid, there was nothing you could have done. There is no saying that having you there would have tipped the scale. Not to mention, you were gone. None of this is your fault.” You could feel your heart ache at his words. You knew he was trying to avoid mentioning your death. The guilt was like a stone in your chest. It weighed you down. Your death and your not being here led to Nat’s death.

You and Cap stood up. “It’s time to end this.” You backed up through the fog before anyone could stop you.

The team started protesting and wanted you to lower the wall. They were worried that death would come to claim you once again. You walked up to Jax and gave him a quick hug.

“Take care of them for me.”

“Of course I will. Though I can tell they are going to be stubborn about me healing them.”

“Where do you think my attitude comes from?”

“Well, good thing taking care of you has prepared me. Now go kick that douchebag’s ass.” You started to talk back towards Thanos. Your face darkened. “With pleasure.”

Your power surrounded your hand for a moment, then dissipated, leaving a curved dagger in your hand. The dagger was a deep black that almost looked like it wasn’t real.

As you stalked closer to Thanos, your moves became more calculated. This was the moment that you waited for as you were trapped in the realm.

You look at the other Shadows. They were still standing around Thanos, their faces told it all. They were daring him to move so much as a muscle out of place. As you got closer, Thanos's eyes fell on you. He was still kneeling while gritting his teeth. Your fog was still wrapped around him.

“I'm sure you may have questions. I think I am in a nicer mood now that I have gotten to see some important people.” You waved your hands to loosen the darkness without allowing Thanos to get up. There was a slight relief on his face. He was silent for a moment debating if he wanted to ask or if he should just accept his death now. He knew his death was inevitable at this point. Maybe it always was.

You motioned with your hands, and the fog moved and made a chair in front of Thanos. You sat down in front of him, playing with your favorite dagger.

“I don’t think you understand how many scenarios I dreamt up while trapped away. All the pain I would inflict on you. When it started happening, I even scared myself with what I thought of. While being alive, I was faced with the terrible things the world can inflict on someone. I know there isn’t a person on this battlefield who doesn’t understand that in some way. I tried to rise above and be a better version of myself. However, becoming a shadow upon death, I realized something. Destiny, I learned, was lurking around the corner waiting for me. I was born to become a shadow upon death. You just sped up the process.”

You stood up from your chair and stepped directly in front of the titan. In a swift motion, you lodged your dagger into his torso. He yelled out in pain as you twisted your weapon. You pulled out your dagger.

“The pain I am going to make you feel is only a fraction of what you caused. I hope you trust me when I tell you I am going to try my best to make it the worst thing you have felt in your life so that your last moments will be agonizing.” You stabbed Thanos again in the torso but left your dagger this time. You looked at the other Shadows and saw the glint in their eyes. They have waited for this moment for so long. They were angry, and even though they weren’t able to prevent Thanos’s actions, this would give them temporary relief from the guilt. You backed away and allowed them to swarm him. He was screaming in pain as they inflicted as much damage as they could. Once Thanos was a crumpled mess on the ground, you bent down near him to make sure he could hear you.

“I guess your trap had somewhat of a helpful outcome. I learned so much. Unfortunately, for you but fortunately for the world, you won’t be around to see it.” You lodged your dagger into his head as you watched his eyes glaze over. The titan was once again dead. You summoned the stones once more and snapped, allowing his body to turn to ash.

You grabbed your dagger and wiped off the blood onto your sleeve, and sheathed your weapon. You turned to your team of Shadows and saw the relief. They weren’t able to help the world, but to know this was over, you saw them breathe easier.

“I know this wasn’t easy for any of us. I know this affected people we love. I say that we take the rest of the day off and spend time with those we care about. Jax and I will take care of the stones.”

You hugged the other shadows and watched them vanish into fog as they went to see their loved ones for the first time in years. You looked and saw the wall of fog. Through it, you could see Jax tending to people, but also you could see some of the Avengers looking at you. They had never seen you use such brutality before, and you were nervous about how they would react to this version of you.

You changed your stance and motioned your hands, allowing the fog wall to drop. You walked over to Jax to check in on the status.

“How are things, J?”

“After some initial resistance, they have allowed me to tend to the more serious injuries. It’s pretty much just some cuts and bruises.”

“I would compliment you on how you are the best healer, but your head is big enough.”

“All I heard was you are the best healer.” You pushed Jax away from you while smiling. Since meeting him, he has always been able to keep you in a better mood. He had the kind of personality that melted the coldest of hearts. When you first arrived after dying, he was the one who snapped you out of your depression. The only time he couldn’t, even though he knew better than to try, was when Nat died on Vormir.

“As much as I love our squabbles, don’t we have some more business to take care of?”

“It’s called Avoidance, Jax.”

Jax lowered his voice to make sure only you could hear him. “I know you are worried about what they will think of you. Based on the reactions, I was able to hear, though. They are just happy you are here.” You could feel the tears wanting to fall. You held back as best as you could.

“I just don’t think I can handle more loss.”

“Won’t know until you find out, Shade. Stop being a scaredy cat.” Jax was laughing and poking at your sides.

“Call me scaredy cat again and I will plant legos in your path to step on.”

“ If I had pearls, I would clutch them right now. Now let’s finish our tasks.”

You walked over to Steve and the others. Before you could even say anything, Wanda threw herself into your arms. Of everyone, you were most worried about how she would react to you killing Thanos.

“You are never leaving my side again.” You chuckled as she burrowed herself into you. Your body was tense with worry. Your brain was in overdrive, running through ‘what if scenarios.

“You wouldn't be able to get rid of me if you tried.” You kissed the side of her head, trying to calm yourself.”

“Detka, I don't think any different of you, and neither does anyone else. Some people wish they got to be in your place.” With every word, your body slowly relaxed.

“I don't think there are enough words in existence that could properly display how much I love you, Wanda Maximoff.”

“All this time and you still know how to make a girl swoon.”

You pulled back from her so you could look into those beautiful eyes. You looked around at everyone as they spoke to each other. Everyone seemed lighter. Their souls would forever be marked by this war, but in this moment, they were just able to be without worry. It warmed you to see everyone intermixed. You interlinked your hand with Wanda's and backed up to where the fog wall once was.

“I know we just reunited, but there is another thing I need to do. Jax would he helping me. It won't be dangerous, but only Jax and I can do it.” You made sure to project your voice so you could be heard.

Those who knew you started to protest. You could feel the tension in Wanda’s body. You would owe her a million cuddles for stressing her out.

“ I know we just reunited, but we have to do this. It will be longer for us, but for you, it will feel like a minute at most. If it works, though, I can promise it will be worth it.” You stayed as vague as possible. If you told them the truth and, for any reason, it goes wrong, you couldn't live with the disappointment.

Tony walked up towards you. You could tell he was enjoying the healing done by Jax. He looks better off than at the beginning of your appearance.

“Kid, I think most of us would agree that we can't let you go. And you know it's bad when the Capsicle and I agree on something. You just came back, and now you are trying to go on some mystery mission with some guy we don't know that well. It sounds like you are asking for something bad to happen.”

“ I know it's been a long time, but before my departure, you all trusted me. I need you to put your trust in me again. This is one of the most important things I could do.” You had that look everyone was accustomed to. The determination within your eyes was assurance that no matter what, you were going to do whatever needed to be done. Wanda knew that look, and she loved you for it.

Everything in her wanted to panic. Every cell was trying to pull her into action, to keep you from leaving. However, you were like an immovable force.

“I know this will be quick, but I am going to need a shower when we get back.”

Yelena looked at you as if you had two heads.

“I am not sure if you have noticed, but we are standing among rubble. Did you hit your head?”

“Still got that Russian charm, I have missed Yel.” Before she could give you another smartass remark, you summoned the stones one last time. You waved your hand, and before everyone’s eyes, the compound was reassembled. Looking at the place that you considered home, made you feel so many emotions. Wanda walked up to you.

“I trust you love. I’m not happy about it, but I know once your mind is on something, there is no letting go. As long as you know that you have to make it up to me.” You pulled her into a strong hug.

“I promise that I will spend the rest of my life making it up to you. I plan to spend every breath loving you and giving you the life you deserve.” You placed one more kiss on her lips before regrouping with your fellow shadow. Jax motioned, forming a dark foggy circle. You both stepped through it.

You stepped out to the last place you wanted to be in. This was your last stop after returning the other 5 stones. It was only fitting that your last stop be Vormir. You both stepped forward and waited a moment for the Red Skull to make his entrance. Speaking of the Devil, Shmidt glided forward.

“You two are the last people I expected to see.”

“Let’s get past such pleasantries, Temu Version of Voldemort. We have come to return the stone and get back the soul connected to it.”

“Breaking the rules, are we now, Shade?” The way his spit out your name pissed you off. You wondered if he thought he was completely untouchable. Maybe the loneliness rotted his brain, or he forgot what pain was since he had been here so long. You summoned one of your special daggers through the fog.

Before he could blink, you stabbed Shmidt in his eye, leaving your dagger in place. This dagger was made from special properties only available to Shadow, so it added an extra kick. The yell coming from him made some satisfaction wash over you.

“You will watch your tone around us. Maybe your isolation has reduced your brain cells. This stone is ours to protect. Shadows were here for Vormir and the Soul Stone’s' conception. We know the fucking rules. Now before you piss me off further I suggest you get with the damn program. The Black Widow will be coming home, and if you ever take an Avenger or anyone we care about again, you will wish that death had taken you.”

You dislodged your dagger and allowed it to evaporate and return to its place. You returned the stone to its place and watched as an orange light beamed up into the sky. The stone disappeared, and in its place stood the other woman you love.

“Natasha.” Her name came out breathless. You couldn’t stop the tears that began to pour. You know she was disoriented, but your legs were faster than your brain, and you pulled her into a hug.

“I was hoping I would see you again one day,” Nat remembered the jump. She wasn’t sure what death had in store, but she was thankful it included you. She was hoping that the setting wouldn’t include the place where she died. Vormir had a certain beauty, but it held more pain than she could withstand. She held you tight, soaking in your scent and how you feel against her.

You felt your heart crack in your chest. She thought she was dead, and you were together. You allowed yourself a moment before pulling back into the gorgeous green eyes.

“Nat, my love, you aren’t dead.”

“What are you talking about? I jumped to get everyone back. I am now seeing you, and last I remember, you died right in front of Wanda and me.”

The guilt crashed into you like a tsunami. “ I know Honey and you are right, but some things happened and I will explain everything, but there are some people who I think would be happy to see you. Let’s go home, darlin.”

You formed the fog portal this time. You, Jax, and Nat walked through and could see most people were dispersed, leaving only a small group of Avengers. As soon as the portal closed and everyone realized you were back, there was nothing but silence.

“I told you it would be fast.” No one dared to speak. “I know we have a Panther around, but cat got your tongue?”

Clint stepped forward and looked at Nat. His eyes were full of tears. Never had he allowed anyone besides Laura or Nat to see his emotions. They both clashed in a hug. If you concentrated, you would be able to hear them whisper to each other, but you allowed them their privacy.

Wanda could only look at the two’s reunion. She wasn’t used to this feeling. Loss was a part of her very soul. To have the loves of her life come back to her in the matter of an hour couldn’t possibly be real. She was sure she was dreaming and at some point, she would wake up.

Nat separated from Clint and walked over to Wanda.

“ Hello moya lyubov.” Wanda pushed the Russian.

“No! You don’t get to come here and say something sweet and expect me to just be okay. You left! How fucking selfish could you be? I come back only to find out that my girlfriend was fucking dead on some planet. I was never going to be able to see you again because you had to be a self-sacrificing idiot.” Wanda was slapping her chest, unable to hold back her tears. You ran over and wrapped your arms around her from behind. You kept assuring her and whispering to her that it’s okay to just let it out. Wanda turned around and cried into your chest. You picked her up bridal style and signaled for Nat to follow you.

You and Nat took Wanda back to your home on the compound grounds. It was far enough that you had a sense of privacy, but close enough that you were able to interact with the team. You took the witch to the shared room and laid her down on the king-sized bed. You were going to take a quick shower before you felt a hand grab you.

“Don’t leave, please. Stay here with me…both of you,” Nat looked over in surprise. She thought the couch was going to be her best friend for a while. She knew it would take time to mend things, but this felt like a step in the right direction.

You grabbed some comfortable clothes for the three of you. You didn’t want anyone to get blood in the bed. As much as you wanted a shower, preferably with your two loves, you would take what you could get. After changing and getting into a comfortable spot between Nat and Wand, you felt the tension leave your body. Your body felt like it had run multiple marathons, and this is the first time you could lie down in years. Everyone’s hearts didn’t come out unscathed from everything that took place, but in this moment, being here with the two loves of your life. This was enough.

[sneakybananabox]

Burn

It's been a long time. I have not forgotten the other things I have started. Once my brain latched onto a fandom, it's hard to concentrate on other things. This is my latest one. I do have plans to finish my twins fic and any requests I have left.

Chapter 1 Burn

The station was the closest thing to quiet. If you focused too much, you could hear the city's song. You take what you can get when you work 24-hour shifts. You spend a full 24 hours running into fires or performing rescues. You were finally getting some sleep after the latest rescue on the Sears Tower. A window cleaner's harness malfunctioned, and you had to rappel down the side of the building before he ended up portraying a Jackson Pollock painting on the ground. 

You could feel yourself floating into a deeper sleep as your limbs relaxed in your bunk. The universe, however, is one cruel mistress, as the alarm suddenly blared. Your eyes shot open, and you jumped up to a sitting position to hear the announcement of who was needed for the call.

“Ambulance 61, Squad 3, Engine 51, multi-level warehouse fire.”

You shot out of your bed and darted to your spot next to the truck. You changed into your boots, pulled on your pants, and grabbed your turnout coat. You hopped into your spot in the back of your truck with your team and put on the headset so you could communicate. Main relayed the exact location, and the station rolled out with sirens blaring and lights on. 

“And to think I thought we were going to get some shut-eye tonight.” Lawson was the newest to Squad 3, coming from another station. She, however, fit into the team like she was always meant to be there with you. She was a ball buster just like the others. Everyone knew teasing was a firefighter's love language. You two got close very fast, and she was the only family you had left in life. Your team helped fill the hole that your family had left behind. If you weren’t about to head into a burning building, you would surely spiral.

“That'll teach you thinking we actually are allowed to sleep. Last time I slept, Betty White was still alive.”

Lawson gasped at my comment, “Too soon, hothead, too soon. I will be finding a therapist and immediately telling them about the trauma you have just caused me.”

You chuckled and pushed her forehead playfully. Whether it was movie nights or nights out in the city, finding new things to do, there was nothing you wouldn't do for her. She was the person everyone could go to, no matter what. There wasn’t a bad bone in Lawson’s body. Not to say she wouldn’t throw down if someone she cared about was being harassed or needed her. There was a warmth that radiated. She wasn't like the others with our probies. She taught them and guided them, instead of how others just threw grunt work at them. She was the definition of a platonic soulmate. This was always going to be your person who you go to for everything and one who you would protect until your last breath. 

The trucks and engines pulled into the lot where the warehouse was blazing. The smoke was a dark plume over the roof. Looks like that sleep will have to be put off a bit longer.

Everyone jumped out of their respective vehicles, and in a split-second decision, you grab your halligan over your axe. The Chief rolled up to the scene and started handing out the tasks for Squad, Truck, and Engine. The Captain paired you with Lawson, knowing how well you two worked together. Your Captain gave the reminder that even though it was likely this building was empty as it was abandoned, you are to never assume. 

You and Lawson put on your masks and made sure they were snug. Lawson stayed by your side as you used your Halligan to get the door open. It was time to start your search together while others were working on their sector. You could feel the heat in the building. The smoke worsened the visibility, but you and Lawson stayed close together.

“FIRE DEPARTMENT CALL OUT.” You made sure to project your voice since the fire was roaring. Lawson would check in with you, and you made sure to return the favor. You moved together like a well-oiled machine. As your search of your section was coming to an end, a shelf caught your eye. You would expect it to be dirty and older. It seemed cleaner than you would expect from an abandoned building. The seam where the back of the shelf was supposed to meet the wall looked off. You went to the side of it and started to push. For a moment, you doubted that you would be able to move the shelf, but thankfully, it moved fairly easily. You would have to remember to thank your Captain for the strength workouts they have been dragging you to. Behind the shelving unit was a door. Whoever was using this must not have expected this because the door was left unlocked.

“Lawson, keep searching. I am going to check this area.”

“Flare, are you sure? I don't want you going off being risky when it's not needed. The building seems empty.”

“Trust me. My gut is telling me to go through here. It's usually right. “

“Oh yeah, well don't forget about the time we had to spend the night in jail because your gut thought that clown was up to no good.”

“He looked sketchy! And I had no idea there was a kid's birthday party. Who even hires clowns anymore!?! Not the point, just finish the search, can we not have this convo not in the middle of a fire?”

“Fine, I trust you. Just come back in one piece, yeah? I can’t have my cornhole partner out of commision because they are an idiot.”

“Please, we have that tournament against the police department in our district. That douche Owens needs to be knocked down a peg.” 

You walked through the door and went downstairs. The heat felt like it increased tenfold. There was a secondary fire going down here. You started your search, making sure to call out for any survivors. Finally, you got to the last room, which seemed to be a lab. You looked at the area, and it appeared the fire had been alive longer down here than upstairs. You had done some work in arson investigation, and based on your quick assessment, the fire more than likely started here. There were vials and paperwork which was helping feed the fire. 

Based on everything you saw down in the area, you knew that this warehouse was not as abandoned as your team thought.

You grabbed your walkie to inform the Captain of the news.

“Cap, it feels like this place was used recently. There is a hidden secondary location. It was hidden behind a shelving unit. I completed the search and confirmed there is no life down here.”

“Good job, Flare. All areas are clear. Everyone, evacuate so we can knock down this fire.”

You made sure to stay low under the smoke when the fire changed. You know that movement anywhere and knew a flashover was coming. You ran by the table that had the vials and tried to duck for cover. You didn't notice the flammable sign through the black smoke. 

“Flare, are you down here?” Your heart sped up rapidly, realizing that Lawson had come down here looking for you. You could feel your heart beating against your chest. If she walked in, she could get caught in the flashover. Your heart hammered against your chest. You wouldn’t lose anyone else. Your body moved before your mind could catch up.

“LAWSON!” Jumping up from your spot as fast as you could, you ran towards your best friend. You grabbed her hand and pushed her into the furthest corner by a cabinet. You shielded her body as the fire flashed over. The mysterious chemicals finally reached their limit, and an explosion went off by your previous shelter. You could feel the fire lick your back as the fire craved to consume everything. All you could think about was protecting her. 

Both your and Lawson's PASS devices were alerting others of where you were. Your body was so tired. Lawson was mostly shielded with light burns on her turnout coat. Even with the boost of adrenaline, you could feel the pain of the burns where the fire ate through your turnout gear.

“Flare! Lawson! We're coming!” You could hear your team come through your walkie. You tried to respond, but your limbs were growing tired. You tried to will your vocal cords into working, but the low oxygen and adrenaline wearing off has left you feeling weight down like a brick. You gathered any strength you had left in your tank to help Lawson up.

“Next time you have a gut feeling, maybe ignore it.”  You could tell your best friend was exhausted. 

“When we have a chance, I am going to take you to that burger place we like with the garlic aioli. Drinks, shakes, burgers, and fries are all on me, I promise.”

“That sounds like heaven on Earth. You just earned yourself a little more time as my bestie.”

“Should I be offended that I have to buy your love?”

You and Lawson started hobbling back to the exit. You felt like something was off. As you two walked, you were sure you were missing something. Sure enough, you saw the flammable sign, which was the last thing you saw before another explosion went off. It felt like slow motion at first as you tried to cover Lawson again, so you took the brunt of the explosion. You saw your best friend lying there, while your ears were ringing. Your body finally had enough, causing you to pass out.

There was shouting, and you could feel yourself being carried. You needed to open your eyes, but God, you were so tired. Your body was exhausted, and it was too hot. It felt like the fire was consuming you. As if it jumped directly into your veins and was eating you from the inside out. You opened your eyes at what felt like a snail's pace. Your brain was trying to process everything. All you could feel was fire and pain, but it was like you weren't in control of your limbs. You looked up at the dark sky. That is the one thing you missed from where you grew up. It was a small city, so you could see the stars.  You looked around and saw Engine knocking down the fire with Truck assisting. Your heart stopped when you saw one of the paramedics performing CPR on Lawson.

You tried your hardest to talk. To say anything just so your best friend could hear you. However, your lead filled body filled with fire was keeping you from immediately speaking or moving. Getting burned and dealing with heat is part of the profession, but this felt like a whole different beast. One of the paramedics finally noticed you were awake.

“Flare is awake.” A couple of your squadmates rushed over.

“Hey, you are going to be okay.”

“We will meet you at Med. We will bring some stuff from your home for you.”

“L-L-Lawson?” Your throat felt like you drank battery acid, and it hurt to speak. None of that mattered; all you needed was your best friend. Before anyone could answer, our Captain came over and started giving orders.

“Ambo 61 takes Lawson, and Ambo 32 takes Flare. Take care of my firefighters. You both are going to be okay.” You could tell your Captain was trying hard to keep it together.

The light difference in the ambo was like a flashbang compared to the night sky. You recognized the paramedic watching your vitals and tending to your burns as best as they could. You could feel the fire roaring within you. It was going to burn you from the inside out. This feeling was hell on Earth, you were so sure of it. You tried to focus on the paramedic whose name you felt bad for forgetting.

You had to focus all your strength on trying to speak. 

“Will s-she be ok?” The paramedic pondered your question. She knew exactly who you were referring to. 

“The paramedics from your station were able to perform CPR successfully. You are both strong.”

It felt like your pain lessened just a small fraction. Your best friend was okay for now. The relief helped the pain slightly. You felt like you could rest for a moment. Your eyes were like bricks, and you couldn’t hold out any longer.

“No no I need you to stay awake.” The station 32 paramedic wanted to keep you awake until the hospital.

“Just so tired. Need a little rest.” You let your eyes close, and the last thing you heard was rapid beeping before the darkness took you.

Part 2

[sneakybananabox]

Hello cuties, it has been a long time. I want to say that I haven't forgotten about you all or the stories I have started but never finished. I have every intention of finishing them. I apologize to keep you lovely people waiting. I see notifications of people still liking them. I will say the twins hold a special place in my heart being the only OC I have ever created. My plans with what was going to happen to them have definitely changed. I didn't want to write something just for the sake of producing and wanted it to be something I am happy with. Again sorry for keeping you cuties waiting. I promise I have plans on finishing what I started.

Rambling over. Have a great day or night depending where you are in the world.

[sneakybananabox]

Well in that case, i have new request for u and thank u for writing previous. Poppy and mc are in a relationship and its poppy's birthday, so mc surprises her by taking her to spend time with her dad Art like in story poppy memtioned in letters that how much she wanted to meet him but cant bcz of piers. Please keep twin out of it like there are no twins. Thanks in advance. You are great.

I had this started but never finished. I had to practically dust off my idea journal to jog my memory. (I am being a little dramatic) I tried to do a quick edit so sorry for any mistakes cuties. Sorry for being awol again.

Happy Birthday

Poppy could feel the migraine beating against her head. Each surge of pain, only made her angrier. All the Zetas in the meeting felt like they were playing catch with a bomb, one wrong move, and everyone was dead.

“For bid day on Friday, we thought the theme could be Wizard of Oz because there is no place like Zeta.” Ohio clicked to her next slide with a picture of the Zeta house with a yellow brick road leading up to the front steps. Listening to all the girls get giddy about the theme only made her migraine worse.

“Everyone, could you shut up! I don’t want to sit through any more presentations so Ohio you are in luck. You, Chloe, Hayley, and Taylor will work on bid day. If you all fuck this up you can pack your bags.” Poppy hit the gavel against the table and got up to go to her room. “Meeting adjourned.”

She pulled out her phone to text Bea to see if she wanted to hang out. Her migraines made her feel clingy. All she wanted was to be cuddled in bed with her girlfriend.  Since dating Bea some say she had softened and lost her touch. It wasn’t that she lost her touch, she just wasn’t as angry anymore. Poppy no longer had to hide a huge part of herself anymore. She could finally be free to be herself. Her parents weren’t always on the same page, but it was time to live for herself not them. Even though they weren’t excited about her newfound partner, Bea Hughes, as long as she stayed number one her parents were satisfied. She needed to keep her position as head bitch in charge, no one would dare to take it from her either.

Hughes

Want to come over and keep me company?

I have a headache and need attention.

Sorry BB I have to help Zoey with her

setlist for Lil Nos F. After though I will

swing and give you some world famous

Bea Hughes cuddles. 

She threw her phone onto her bed. Her migraine needed to be gone and fast. It seemed like the perfect time to hit up her favorite tea place to help with her migraine. She changed into some more casual clothes and pulled out her jewelry box. She grabbed her favorite necklace Bea got her around the time they started dating. She admired the pink poppy in the middle with the black center. She looked at the bottom of the jewelry box and contemplated for a moment. After putting on the necklace she went over to her door to make sure it was locked and sat on her bed. She pulled up the false bottom of the box. Pulling out a stack of letters she went through the letters she never sent to Art Nakamara.

It had only been four months since she found out the truth about her family. She was home for the weekend for some business event she didn’t care about.

Piers was trying to impress a mogul from another company and he needed his token family to parade around to make himself seem perfect. Poppy had on one of her favorite pink dresses that was customized just for her. She was forced to talk to the mogul’s son Harrison.

“We were out on the lake for like a month. It was a great time, it would have been better if you were there in a bikini.” Harrison moved closer to Poppy to put his arm around her. He smelled like strong leather and tobacco. 

“I’m allergic to water, sorry.” Poppy got from under his arm, eyes stinging from the cologne. She practically sprinted to the bar, she needed a shot of anything right away. “Hit me with a shot of anything.” The bartender slid her a glass with clear liquid and before he had time to turn Poppy downed it. It was smooth, but burned like hell going down, just what she needed. She turned and was met with her mother.

“Poppy, what are you doing at the bar alone? Where is Harrison? He seems like such a nice single boy. Cute too.”

“He had to go to the restroom. I am sure he has women practically lining up to date him mother. I am however off market. I told him I would meet him at the bar” Poppy wasn’t sure if her mom believed her lie, but she couldn’t really care. Her parents were acting strange, which says a lot because her parents weren’t exactly like most. They haven’t been in contact as often. Weekly phone calls have turned monthly. They haven’t had the easiest time accepting Bea, but she couldn’t continue to live for them she needed to live for herself. Poppy was going to need six more shots to just get through the night.

“Just make sure you are a good hostess to him. We need to make sure the Vanderwald’s leave happy.”

“Yes mother I know. I will make sure he leaves…. Content of course.” Her mother must be out of her mind if she thought she would spend anymore time with that boring ass boy. 

The miscellaneous shots she took were finally kicking in. She pulled out her phone and looked through Instagram. She saw a picture of Bea back at Belvoire. It looked like her and Zoey were in their dorm. Poppy couldn't help but admire her girlfriend. She hated that she had to miss their night to schmooze these boring people. The alcohol she drank gave her a great idea though. She sent a text to Bea and hoped her plan would work.

About an hour later Poppy met Bea and Zoey at the door relieved she had back up now.

“What took you so long?” Poppy was running out of excuses to dodge Harrison all night. Bea enveloped Poppy into a hug.

“We had to get ready. If I am going to be around the Min-Sinclairs I need to look my best.”

“She changed her outfit like four times while freaking out.” Zoey was tired of watching Bea change her outfits back at the door. 

Bea playfully pushed Zoey, “She is lying. It was traffic too.” 

“I am just glad you are here to save me from the annoying Harrison Vanderwald.”

“Oh Yea, the guy that got kicked out of Belvoire for trying to bribe his professors.” Bea had a class with him and remembers him being such a dick.

The night went on with less bumps than the beginning. Harrison found someone else to leech off of in the night. People were finally leaving from the Min-Sinclairs and Poppy could finally take a breath.  

“Thanks for the invite Pops.” Bea enveloped Poppy in her arms.

“Alright you two I will be waiting out in the car. Thanks Min-Sinclair. Bea don’t take forever or I am leaving you.”

“Yea Yea Zoey. I will be out in a second.”  Bea goofily grinned, holding Poppy,excited to be alone with Poppy for the first time tonight. 

“I missed you Popcorn.” Bea kissed her girlfriend. 

“It’s definitely the alcohol making me soft but I missed you too.” They just held each other for a moment until they heard the sound of a stomach grumble. “Hughes have you eaten anything all day?”

“Well we were going to go to get pizza, but I got excited by your message.”

“Bea Hughes choosing me over pizza. You really do care about me.”

“I absolutely do Pops.” Bea places a soft kiss on Poppy’s forehead. Her stomach grumbles even louder this time.

“Alright let’s get you a snack” 

Poppy pulled out one of Bea’s favorite snacks. She had secretly been requesting this snack because eating it always reminds her of Bea. She would rather shave herself bald then tell Bea this.

“Ooh my favorite thanks Poppy.” Bea kissed Poppy’s forehead before indulging in her snack.  Poppy’s heart explodes everytime her girlfriend lightens up. 

After an angry text from Zoey wondering what was taking so long, Poppy and Bea started walking to the closest exit. They heard a whispered argument taking place.

“Ana if this gets out I will be a laughing stock. How could you be so fucking careless. The stock would plumet and then what of the fancy life I have given you.”

“I know, I am sorry. No one knows of this. Not even Poppy. As far as she knows you are her father.”

“Yea no one except me, you and any decent private investigator. I will take care of this like always.”

Poppy and Bea ran to the walk in pantry to avoid Piers from catching them on their accidental eavesdrop. Poppy felt like the air was sucked out of her lungs. She collapsed into Bea’s arm and quietly sobbed. Piers was not her father and her mother kept her from her bio father.

Poppy was lucky to find one private investigator not under Piers thumb. She was given Arts name and found out all she could about him. He was a well loved preschool teacher. He would supportive of his students and even as adults they would come visit him to catch up. Everyone saw his like another parent in their life. She felt robbed for missing our of know her real dad and stuck with Piers. Piers was controlling and not at all affectionate which as a kid made her question her self worth. Bea slowly helped her through her feelings and downfalls. She wishes her girlfriend wasn’t so busy because she could really use her cuddles right about now.

Bea felt bad about lying to her girlfriend but she was trying to desperately figure out what to give someone who has everything for their birthday. She has gone through a thousand ideas all of which she felt were not good/expensive enough for the girl who swiftly stole her heart. She barged into Zoey’s room and threw herself onto her bed.

“Bea what if I were naked. Knock at least next time!” Zoey lectured without even looking up from her laptop.

“I would have closed my eyes. I need some help from that beautiful mind of yours.”

“You are lucky flattery will get your everywhere with me. What’s the problem roomie?”

“I don’t know what to get Poppy for her birthday. I have brainstormed for weeks and came up with diddly squat.” 

“ That’s like picking a gift for Satan themself. Ow watch the laptop” Zoey rubbed her the back of her head that was assaulted with her fluffy pillow.

“Don’t be dramatic that was practically a cloud. Now please help me with this dilemma so I don’t end up sad and single.”

“First of all you are being dramatic and second of alll nothing wrong with because single. Most people will agree you have melted Poppy’s ice princess facade. Even if she doesn’t admit it she loves your ‘from the heart sappy shit you do’.  Just think with that big heart of …” Before Zoey could finish her sentence Bea jumped off her bed and ran out. 

Poppy held Bea’s hand while she drove. She paid attention to the hum of her car and the warmth of her hand. Her hands felt empty without her phone, but Bea insisted on her leaving her phone at the Zeta house. She didn’t need much convincing wearing a blindfold for a surprise. She wasn’t going to show it, but she was just happy to be in Bea’s presence. It was like feeling a calm wash over her mind. She vented about her day and how annoying the Zetas were during the presentations. They drove what felt like hours away from the University.

“Okay Pops I need you to do me a favor. Stay here while I go get something. No peaking or else I will withhold kisses for the next week.”

“Are you even allowed to be so cruel on my birthday?” Bea kissed Poppy quickly before running into the mysterious location. Pops just listened but none of the sounds were out of the ordinary. After about 5 minutes Bea came to Poppy’s door and opened. She helped her out of the car and handed she her favorite tea. 

“Don’t tell me we drove all this way for you to poison me.” She took a sip and recongized it being one of her favorite drinks Matcha. “Hughes I know you did not make us drive all this way for something we could go about 5 minutes from campus to get.”

“Poppy if I wanted to poison you I wouldn’t have done it in somewhere so public. But no it’s not just for the tea we had to come here for you birthday gift. Take of your blindfold.” Poppy took off her blindfold and felt like she recognized where she was. She looked around and noticed a man walking towards them.  He was a bit shorter than she was and he was smiling. She recongized him from the pictures the P.I. sent her as well as when she googled Art Nakamura , her bio dad.

“Hello, Poppy” The man beamed at her. “Happy Birthday” He held out a bouquet of flowers. Poppy hesitantly took the flowers.

“Hello Mr. Nakamura.” 

“Please feel free to call me Art.”

“ Thank you for the flowers Mr. Nakam– Art. Could you give Bea and I a moment?”

“No worries I will get us a table in the cafe.” Art walked into the cafe and Poppy turned to her girlfriend.

“What the fuck were thinking, Hughes?” Poppy shouted not worrying about the looks from passerbys. “How did you know about him? Do you know what could happen if Piers finds out about this? I could loose everything! Do you not fucking think!?”

“I was just trying to get you a good birthday gift and you have everything and I thought maybe it would be nice to meet him and get answers for questions you wanted. One of the nights I stayed over the letters were out and I accidentally read one of them. I didn’t say anything ,but the emotion just pour out of them and it seemed like you really wanted to meet him.”

“Those were private! Bea I can’t do this with you. Please just leave. I will find another way to get back to campus.”  

“But Poppy you don’t have your phone.”

“I don’t care. Just go.” Poppy shouted at Bea. Her chest felt heavy because she felt bad for yelling but she was just so angry. Anything else Bea had to say died in her throat. She walked back to her car and got in to leave. Poppy walked inside and found Art enjoying a mug of green liquid. She could smell the matcha.

“I am sorry for intruding, Poppy.”

“No, Art it’s no worries. It was just an unexpected surprise.”

They talked for awhile and Poppy’s stiff posture softened as she learned more about Art. He loved matcha just as much as she did. He talked about his time in college and how he always wanted to be a teacher. He showed her a picture of when he took his class to the museum and helped pay for the kids who couldn’t afford it. 

“I know it’s none of my business and my apologies in advance if I am over stepping. You shouldn’t be so hard on your girlfriend Bea.”

“She told you about our relationship?”

“No she didn’t need to. I know the look of love anywhere. We have all been bitten by the love bug once or twice.”

“ You don’t care that I am dating a girl.”

“Of course not. We can’t help who we love.” Poppy did her best to keep her tears from escaping.

“I appreciate you saying that Art. I just couldn’t imagine the wrath if Piers found out.”

“Bea said the same thing when planning this. She didn’t even let me bring my phone. I didn’t even park around here she made me park farther away and walk. I thought she was joking at first. She had me turn right 8 times to make sure I wasn’t being tailed.”

“I don’t have my phone either. She really went above and beyond.” She whispered the last part. Suddenly she felt like the worst girlfriend on this planet. She looked at where Bea had parked and saw an empty space. 

Bea found a quiet restaurant to sulk. She barely touched her fries when her phone started to buzz. It was a number she didn’t recongize, but there was no scam likely under it so she answered.

“Hello?”

“I’m so sorry for blowing up at you.” Poppy muttered. “I just was so sacred and had so many emotions running about I didn’t know how to react.”

“It’s okay Poptart. I should have ran this by you and not read the letter.”

“Will you come back? I want you to meet my dad.” 

“Absolutely, I will be right over.” Bea only went over 1 block, she didn’t want to leave Poppy stranded. After parking she walked into the cafe and saw Poppy laughing with Art. She was actually belly laughing. Bea’s heart felt so full to see her girlfriend enjoying her time with her father. She walked over and Poppy pulled her into a hug. She always felt light when her and Poppy embraced. Like nothing in the world could hurt them as long as they were together.

“Art I know you two have corresponded ,but I would like to officially introduce Bea my girlfriend.”

“Nice to meet you in person Bea. Thank you for today.” Bea shook Art’s hand and they sat and talked.

Art was telling them a story from his time in college and Bea was giggling at the story. Poppy imagined what life would have been like if Art was always her dad and raised her. She imagines with someone so warm as a father she would have turned out different. They stayed until close and parted ways after exchanging numbers on napkins.

On the way back to campus Poppy grabbed her girlfriends hands and planted a soft kiss on the back of Bea’s hand.

“Thank you for an amazing day.”

“Always. Happy Birthday Pops.”

Master List

[sneakybananabox]

Congrats on getting married and the internship

Howdy you cuties, I am alive and well. Thank you for congraulations.

I went from intern to full time so that has taken a lot of my brain power. Married life is good. I am going through the stages of grief currently and so I need something to keep my mind moving so I have been writing.

I do sincerely apologize for turning into a ghost for so long. Expect to see the next chapter for the twins and doing the requests I have left.

I hope you cuties are doing well.

[sneakybananabox]

Hey you haven't been posting recently :( are you okay?

Hello you absolute cuties. I recently finished my classes and have been placed in an internship. I will be working in aviation. I also get married August 15th so we still have things we are finishing. I promise you I am still work on ideas. I even keep my idea notebook with me. That have chapters 5 of the twins and the requests I have left. I apologize for not being around. Everything hit me all at once with work. I still think about writing and all you cuties. Expect a post soon.

-Your Favorite SneakyBananaBox

[sneakybananabox]

some people think writers are so eloquent and good with words, but the reality is that we can sit there with our fingers on the keyboard going, “what’s the word for non-sunlight lighting? Like, fake lighting?” and for ten minutes, all our brain will supply is “unofficial”, and we know that’s not the right word, but it’s the only word we can come up with…until finally it’s like our face got smashed into a brick wall and we remember the word we want is “artificial”.

[sneakybananabox]

You're so cool

You have so much adults things to do wow..

Good luck 👍

And come back with your amazing stories fast please 😩❤️

-🐧 (im your 🐧anon)

Anon you just lit a spark that gave me another reminder why I like to write. Also I absolutely love 🐧🐧 so you are even more of a cutie. 😊😊

[sneakybananabox]

Just checking in with you cuties. I didn't want to seem like I got sucked into a black hole. I moved into a new house with my fiancée last week. We are 3 months away from our wedding so it's definitely hitting crunch time. I also have to start preparing to be placed into my internship which starts the same month I get married. I have still been writing though. I have some things that will be coming out, I was just overwhelmed for a little bit. T (@timetravesty) I thinks helps keep me in check and helps remind me to write.

[sneakybananabox]

Probably my favorite version of Bea. An absolute talent.

More Spider-Bea, obviously it’s poppy calling jajajaj

Ko-fi

[sneakybananabox]

Hey, when will u post somethn?

I'm going to try and post something soon. I will be transparent. My productivity level has been low and I have been pretty stuck in my own head. I have to things started. A one-shot and chapter 5 of the twins. I am hoping to get some work done today because I would rather walk on Legos and take a scooter to the shin than leave yall hanging. I appreciate you all being patient with me. To those who read my writing I genuinely appreciate you. As always love you absolute cuties.

[sneakybananabox]

Omg I loved the part where poppy think Sab is Bea

We need more please it's so fun 😭💕

I don't know how to request that tho...

I had a lot of fun writing this one. Sorry it took forever. I hope you enjoy it. I am posting this at 2 a.m so any error I will fix in the morning. :)

Warnings:Cursing

Parent Trap

Bea landed on the plush couch with bowls of popcorn and puppy chow. Two of her favorite snacks for movie night. Zoey and Sab had already claimed their spots. The trio tried to get together once a week since classes have picked up for everyone. It really cemented the twin's friendship with Zoey, she was practically a Hughes now.

“Alright, what streaming service are we feeling tonight?” Sab turned on the Tv, scrolling through each service. 

“Let’s do Prime tonight,” Bea said while grabbing a handful of the popcorn.

Zoey waited for the perfect moment. She knew if she didn’t strike soon then she would lose her opportunity. Practically at the edge of her seat, she shouted out, “Oooh I call dibs on picking the movie tonight.” They always were quicker at calling dibs, having to do it all their lives. 

“Damn Zoey, how long have you been waiting for that?” Sab felt a little bit of pride, Zoey was actually acting like a sibling. She was an only child so the twins were the closest thing to a sibling she would ever get. 

“I have been practicing. I will no longer be losing to the Hughes twins. Your reign of movies is over. Suck it!”  Zoey smiled brightly, throwing some popcorn at Sab. 

“I have to admit I am pretty impressed. You have completely earned this win. What shall it be, champ?”

Zoey pondered her choices for a moment, the lightbulb then went off. She knew this would cause pushback from her roommates. “My choice is Parent Trap.”

Sab let out a whine. “Noooo. Why do we have to choose a twin movie?”

“Sab, Zoey won fair and square. I am not the most excited, but we honor dibs in this household. We always keep our word.”

Sabina wasn’t sure if her eyes could roll any harder. “You always have to be the kiss ass, Bea. I hate when you use logic” 

“As the champ, Sab, I say chop-chop and put the movie on.”

One popcorn refill later, the movie was coming to the end. The trio was notorious for commentating throughout the movie. It was no wonder why they were kicked out of the theater last week. 

“How did those Chessy realize that was the other twin, but neither parent couldn’t tell!”

Bea elbowed her sister in the side. “Sab shush, They are twins for a reason. I mean technically they were both played by Lindsey Lohan but besides the point! We are hard to tell apart.”

“I bet people would be able to tell the difference is all I am saying.”

“I think you are wrong.” Bea felt an idea spark off in her mind. “I have a proposition for you. Tomorrow we switch places for the whole day. I bet no one will be able to tell the difference. If I win then I'll pick your next tattoo and if you win then you can pick mine.”

“You know me, sis, I never back down from a bet. You are on. I hope you are ready to lose.” 

“Well, tomorrow will be interesting. Now both of you shut up. I never get to pick a movie and you will not ruin the rest of the movie for me.”

The three congregated in the kitchen to make the ground rules for the bet. Zoey was the witness so no cheating would be able to take place. The rules were stated as follows: No one beside Zoey could be told of the switch, the switch would end officially at the end of classes, if someone is made and it ends up on the T it equals an automatic loss, and if neither twin ends up on the T it will be based on how many people figured out each twin. Bea and Sab shook on it and they went to Sab’s room to pick out outfits. 

Sab picked out a black Henley and black jeans to cover Bea’s tattoos. Bea decided on a maroon Henley and dark denim jeans for Sab. Their tastes were similar, but Sabina was the party, dark and moody type while Bea was the studious one with golden retriever energy. 

Now that they were dressed, it was time to swap bookbags and keys for their cars. 

“You two are forgetting something.” The two stare at each other for a moment. “Your phones you ding-a-lings.” They swapped phones and the switch was final.

Bea looked at the schedule on Sab’s phone and went to her first art class in the morning. She wasn’t too worried, ever since she was young the two had artistic gifts. Thankfully it was only Art History 101 so she didn’t have to do too much. She picked up a coffee on the way, she would need it if she had to pretend to be Sab all day.

“Hey, Sab. getting your usual today.” The barista blushed as Bea stepped closer. She was lucky the girl had a nametag on or she would have been made easier.

“Yes Hayley thank you.”

“You never called. I thought we were going to go on a date last Friday.” She really shouldn’t have been shocked. Her sister was an absolute player whenever she interacted with women. Now she had to think of something, sound like Sab and not break this poor girl’s heart.

“I am so sorry, beautiful. Something came up and I had to help my sister Bea. I will absolutely make it up to you. How couldn’t I, especially to someone so amazing.” 

“I can’t stay mad at someone so charming. Your coffee is on the house today.” No wonder her sister flirts with baristas. The girl was gorgeous and she gave out free coffee. 

Sabina knew this would be easy. She always thought of herself as the more attractive of the two. She definitely had the better style of the two. She was going to mass communication for Bea. This was going to be a breeze. She knew Professor Roberta was practically a fangirl of Bea. She was one of the few students who actually participated and ever since they grew on the T the professor loved the drama. Sabina stood near the top of the steps to figure out what spot Bea would sit in. She felt someone shoulder check her and dropped her bag.

“What the fuck!” Sab looked at the stranger and was met with Poppy. Of course, the devil in pink was in this class. She didn’t understand how this was her sister’s favorite class. 

Poppy scowled at Sab, she was such an annoyance. She hadn’t had her coffee in the morning so she was even more irritable. “Excuse you, Farmsville. You should really watch where you are standing.” 

“Really blondie because you bumped into me. They didn’t teach you how to walk in hoity-toity stuck up bitch class 101”

“Who the fuck do you think you are Hughes!” Poppy was surprised because Bea usually clapped back, but she seemed to be upping her game. No one normally dares to argue with the queen of Belvoire. What was this feeling? Did she like being challenged? Mass communication was one of her favorite classes, but maybe the reason was something else. 

“Listen, we could keep going with this back and forth. I could keep owning your ass, but class is about to start.” Sabina walked away and chose a spot closer to the front of the class. She knows her sister was a nerd so, of course, the front is where she would be. Much to her dismay, the only other spot was next to her and Poppy had to take the seat. 

“Don’t get excited, Farmhand.”

“In case you didn’t notice, I don't care Popsicle.” 

“You know I hate when you give me those stupid ass nicknames.” God could this girl be any more annoying. She didn’t understand how her sister could have feelings for this drama queen. Bea never told her how she felt, but she could see how her sister looked at Poppy.

“Yes yes, I know Popcorn. Now if you don’t mind I would like to pay attention in class.” Sab could feel the heat radiate off of Poppy. She may have pushed her too far, was this the day she gets murdered. Surprisingly Poppy didn’t say another word during class. She didn’t even look her way.

The class was finally over and so Sabina gathered her things, well technically Bea’s things, and left the class. She was walking down the hall of the building when a mysterious figure pushed her into an empty class. She was flush against the wall and Poppy was pressed against her.

“Hughes what the fuck was that back there?”

“What the hell Pops. What are you doing?”

“I could ask you the same thing. I thought we had an agreement. We don’t outdo one another in public.” Poppy leaned in close to Sab. Sab’s brain was having a hard time catching up to what was going on. It was too late and Poppy leaned in close and kissed Sab. She hurried and got from Poppy’s grasp. Sab’s brain caught up, but couldn’t get her lips to make words. Bea was sneaking around with the queen of Belvoire. She was proud of her sister, that pride won’t stop her from killing her though. She just kissed her sister’s sorta girlfriend. 

“Um I am sorry I have to go, Poppy.” Sabina sprinted out of the room, leaving a confused Poppy.

The two finished their classes and were back at the dorm. Sabina felt like her heart was going to explode out of her chest. She never really saw her sister lose her cool and she really didn’t want to. They switched clothes and were in the living room discussing the day with Zoey.

“Well Sab it’s hard being the winner and unless you were recognized then I win the bet.”

Sab looked at everything beside her sister. She felt like she was sweating bullets. “Uh yep you were right. I will get the tattoo. We can switch back now.”  

“I’m surprised. You aren’t even arguing. Everything okay?”

“Wel-” Someone was banging on the front door. Bea went over and Sab knew her luck was running out because Poppy was at the door. “Shit,” Sab mumbled under her breath.

Poppy pushed Bea into the apartment, slamming the door closed. “Hughes how dare you fucking reject me today. I kiss you and you just fucking runoff.” 

Sabina could practically feel the blood drain out her face. Yup she was dead for sure now. 

“Poptart, what are you talking about?” Bea was dumbfounded. Not only did Poppy just reveal their relationship in front of her roommates, but she just found out her sister kissed her girl. She turned around and saw Sabina’s pale face, it was a dead giveaway.

“You are dead.” Bea lunged at Sab, but Zoey grabbed her just in time.

“Bea I didn’t know! This was something you could have mentioned. Who has a secret girlfriend and doesn’t tell their twin.”

“How are you going to blame me when you kissed my girl!”

“Bea don’t be mad! I admit I lost the bet. I will get whatever tattoo. Zoey is the witness.” Sab shielded her face in case Bea got through from Zoey’s grasp. She closed her eyes to brace for impact, but the only thing she heard was a laugh. The hell? She looked up to see Bea and Poppy laughing. Zoey looked just as confused. “Okay, what the fuck is going on.”

Bea stepped out of Zoey’s arms. “After Poppy kissed you she found me. I broke, greeting her which is not something you do. It just further confirmed we switched places. She knew directly after the kiss that it was you and not me. Well, we concocted a plan to mess with you. Also, you should be nicer to Hayley. She really likes you. I have two witnesses though so now you are getting a tattoo. We keep our word in this household, remember?”

Sabina can’t believe she was pranked this hard, but she was about to get her payback. ”Technically Bea, you lost the bet though. She could tell the difference. So it looks like you will be getting a tattoo as well. I say we go matching.”

Bea lost her smile instantly. “Fuck.”

The next week the twins, Zoey and Poppy, sat back on the couch.

“Alright what streaming service?” Bea asked with the remote in one hand and the other around Poppy.

“Let’s go Netflix this time.” 

“Dibs on picking the movie.” Zoey yelled out.

“What aw no fair.” Poppy pouted until Bea kissed her on top of her head.

“You will just have to come over more often to get quicker.” 

“I think so too.” Poppy softly grabbed Bea’s arm to inspect her tattoo. The twins agreed on matching tattoos. They decided to get their state flower to always remind them of home. Maybe one day Bea would add a Poppy flower to her arm.

[sneakybananabox]

M excited for next chapter. Finally some poppyxmc

Already working on it so it doesn't take forever. 🤣 If you love Poppy and Mc then I 100% recommend @timetravesty as well. She is an amazing write and has a few series out. As always thank you cuties for the anons.

[sneakybananabox]

The Twins take on Belvoire Ch.4

I'm sorry this took so long. I hope you all enjoy, you absolute cuties.

Warning: Cursing

Chapter 4 

Bea sat in the library preparing for finals, the last semester has been hectic. Between working for Professor Kingsley, studying, and doing homework; there was no such thing as free time. Someone set down two cold brews and an iced chai, she looked up to see Sabina and Zoey. They sat down and set up their work to study. The whole campus knew if you saw one of them then the other two weren’t far behind. The trio had taken the school by storm quickly climbing ranks.

“It’s about time, I thought you went to grow the beans.” Bea whined after grabbing her drink. 

“It’s midterm time on campus, did you think there wouldn’t be a line?” Sab shot back.

“You were flirting with the Barista weren’t you?”

“Actually surprisingly our girl Sab here didn’t even flirt once.” Zoey couldn’t help ,but tease Sabina.

“Okay, the both of you lay off. I just am serious about school right now. Keep talking shit and I will be taking your drinks back.” She knew her roommates could tell she was lying, but couldn’t help to care. She had been sneaking around with Ina most of the semester. They have been careful, only meeting in places they knew was safe. Sabina and Ina became regulars at a hotel, it was a three-star so she knew the Belvoire population wouldn’t even step foot near it. Their love has been a whirlwind. They would be on the video calls all night. They could talk until five a.m. most nights just talking the entire time or watching a movie together. It made them feel like they were together even though they were a secret.  She didn’t tell Bea or Zoey about their relationship. She figured they would just judge her or say it was a stupid decision. She just wanted to enjoy her relationship with Ina. The professor always made her feel worthy of love. They hadn’t said the three magic words yet, but Sab could feel herself falling. 

While studying in the main area for a while it was time for another round of drinks. Bea and Sabina played rock, paper,scissors to see who would go this time. Bea lost the two out three, she usually did since Sab could practically read her moves like a book. Bea headed to the cafe inside the library. She walked in and started to browse for brain fuel. 

Bea looked through the snacks in the now-empty café, everyone had gotten their fix earlier. She picked out some chocolate chip muffins and chips for the trio to share. She ordered two more cold brews and a chai. While waiting for the drinks she noticed a familiar pink walking figure. Her daily Poppy run-ins had been lacking lately. With her schedule being so packed she would only really see her around lunchtime. Poppy’s usual spot had been empty and she kinda missed going back and forth with her. The barista got her attention and handed her a carrier with the drinks. She ran to catch up to Poppy.

“Pops, have you been avoiding me?” Bea jokingly bumped Poppy’s shoulder. 

“Please Farmhand what makes you think you are so special?” 

“I don't know, the rankings sure have been liking me and I figured that would have gotten your attention.” Bea knew exactly how to push Poppy’s buttons.

“Farmsville, you will never get to top fifty let alone top fifteen. I don’t know what I have to do to show you, but I don’t like you, Hughes. Now you and your hay smell can leave now.” Poppy bumped Bea’s shoulder and began to leave. Bea was desperate to get her to stop.

“Are you worried I would knock you from your precious throne? I heard you only got the number one spot because of your dad.” Poppy halted mid-step, it was like glue clung to her stiletto. She turned around and marched back to Bea. Anger welled in Poppy’s chest, she couldn’t control it. 

“Hughes, you don’t know shit about me or my father. I don’t need some charity case coming here and fucking everything up. Keep your fucking nose out of my business. We aren’t friends. We just happen to go to the same university and that is it.” Poppy jabbed Bea’s chest with her finger. Bea could feel the pressure, pain was left in place of Poppy’s finger. 

“Whoa Poppy, I’m sorry okay. I didn’t know it was a sensitive subject. I’m sorry. Is your dad that harsh?” Bea knew how it was to have a rocky relationship with her parents. She figured someone so perfect wouldn’t understand, maybe she was wrong. 

“I don’t need any more friends Hughes. I said, ‘Keep your nose out of my business,’ not to try and pry even more.” Without another word Poppy turned and left to gather her things and go back to the sorority house. Bea felt guilt nestled in. She was hoping she didn’t screw things up too much with her.

Bea went back to Sabina and Zoey with their drinks. The trio spent most of the day in the library studying and downing caffeine. Finally, they made it back to the dorm. 

“I feel like my eyes are going to melt out of my head.” Bea threw herself onto the couch.

“If I read one more chapter I might throw up.” Sabina threw her book bag by the door. 

“I’m going to take a long bath.” Zoey headed to her room.

“Need company?” Sab smirked at Zoey.

“Come anywhere near my tub and I’ll drown you Sab.” Zoey joked while walking to her room.

Bea nestled more comfortably into the couch. She should go to her room but there was no way she was getting up from the couch. 

“Fuck!”

“What’s up Bea?”

“I forgot I have to give Ina back her flash drive. She needs it tonight to prepare a presentation for tomorrow morning.” Bea was about to get up from the couch when Sab stopped her. 

“Wait no sis. I can do it for you.”

“Are you sure Sab?”

“Yea of course. What kind of sister would I be if I didn’t help you out. You have been exhausted with everything. “ Sab tried to keep her voice even, as to not let Bea on to her ulterior motive. Her heart quickened at the thought of being able to see the raven-haired woman. 

“Fine. Since you love me so much though, can you bring back the ingredients to make puppy chow? I have been having a craving. “ Bea shifted to get more comfortable on the couch. She grabbed her favorite blanket and threw it on.

“Sis, I will even make it for you because I love you so much.” Sab hurriedly grabbed the flash drive and stuffed it into her pocket. She stopped at the mirror to make sure her hair looked okay, quickly grabbed a jacket, and started her walk to Ina’s office.

Sabina walked to Ina’s office a little faster, anytime with Ina was perfect so getting there as soon as possible was her mission. The night had a chill that felt nice in her lungs when she would breathe in. She looked up as she was walking, wishing the stars would show themselves. It wasn’t like being back in Farmsville, with no light pollution or smog to obscure the stars at night. She and Bea would stare at the stars for hours while in their treehouse. She always had the dream of getting a telescope so she could explore the night with her sister. 

“Hey, Bea!” Sab looked around and saw someone waving from afar. She was going to correct them, but it looked like they were already going in the opposite direction of Ina’s office. She didn’t want to miss out on any time with the raven-haired woman so just kept up her journey.

It was after hours so there wasn’t anyone in the Anthropology building this late at night. Sabina knocked on Ina’s door. She could hear Ina shuffle from her desk and walk to open the door. When she opened the door it was like seeing her for the first time all over again. She took in every feature she could, it was like discovering your favorite song for the first time. It just clicks. Her smile could brighten the universe, her laugh could put an orchestra to shame with how angelic she sounded, and every time she looked at Sab it was like the world moved a little slower. 

“Sab? What are you doing here? It’s late. Did anyone see you?” Ina grabbed Sab’s hand and pulled her into her office, closing the door and flicking the lock. 

“Relax killer. I am returning the flash drive for you. Bea was exhausted and I am being a good sister. I mean how could I not want to come to see you. Beautiful, talented and did I mention beautiful?” Sabina beamed at Ina, she just made her feel calm. 

“I just worry. I would never want to cause issues for either one of us. Thank you for delivering the flash drive. How could I ever repay?” Ina sauntered closer to Sab, pulling her closer by her jacket. 

“Why Ms.Kingsley, I would do anything for you, pretty lady.”  Sab lowered herself to meet Ina’s lips, she had been dreaming of those lips all day. It's like her lips were water in the middle of the desert and she was oh so thirsty. Each time she was in Ina’s presence, she felt like she was going down the peak of a rollercoaster. Ina put her hands around Sab’s next and pulled her closer. It felt like they were the only people in the world. Sabina pulled her closer by her hips, she would do anything to get close to Ina. 

Sabina and Ina have swept away with one another, they didn’t notice that in the dark of the night someone was watching. A hooded figure in all-black watched the two lovebirds. The figure loomed in the window. They stood and watched with their phone out. 

The next day Bea had hardly seen anyone, everyone was doing finals. Zoey left the dorm before she was awake, leaving fresh coffee and french toast. Sab was already at the library to finish some last-minute studying. It seemed like today was a solo day. She would finish her finals today just in time to pack some things to take back to Farmsville.

Bea was a bright student and always had been, but sometimes big tests made her panic. She knew she was ready with all the studying she did. The trio missed a bunch of parties in preparation for test day. She knew the top fifteen had people to do her finals for them. What was the point of coming to university if you weren’t going to actually learn anything? After feeling wrecked from her last two finals she decided it was time to treat herself to ice cream, even if it was getting colder out. Back in the Midwest ice cream was an all-year thing even with snow on the ground. She only had two more finals left then she was free to go back to the farm for winter break. She and Sab would be driving back together, a whole twelve-hour drive to get back to the Midwest. Being stuck in a car with Sabina, maybe she could just hitchhike it instead. Their parents were so excited to have them back home. Her mom called to ask them what kind of dinner they wanted to celebrate being back for the holidays.

Bea went to her favorite ice cream place near campus, inside she saw a familiar face.

“Hey Taylor!” Bea went over to the short brunette girl. She greeted her with a side hug. 

“Oh hey Bea. How are you?” Taylor looked around skittishly, she shifted all the clothes in her arms. Practically almost losing balance by the sheer amount of clothes. Bea grabbed the pile of clothes with no problem. She had thrown around hay bales way heavier than this. 

“Doing well. What’s with all the clothes, did you knock off the dry cleaners on the way here?”

“I had to do errands for Poppy today. She is running me ragged, I have barely had time for finals. She has been hard on all of us, especially since they were doing pre-rushing events for next semester.”

“No offense ,but why would people voluntarily rush knowing Poppy is a Zeta.”

“Who are you telling, the other week she made someone cry so bad they transferred.”

“Why am I not surprised by that? I mean we should know by now with the monster in charge.”

The pair turned as the front door bell rang. Bea noticed Taylor blush when the young student walked in. He noticed the two of them and approached.

“Hey, Taylor. I have been meaning to talk to you. I was wondering if you wanted to hang out. I could get you your ice cream and hang out before we get hit with more finals.” 

“I wish I could Benedict, but I am so busy with all the stuff for Poppy and barely have time to even study for finals.”

“Oh, maybe another time. See you around then.” Benedict walked over to order deflated. Bea looked at Taylor and could see her eyes fighting back tears. It made her heartbreak. 

“Taylor, I can take the dry cleaning for Poppy. I will even get whatever frozen treat she wants. I want you to take the rest of the day off. “

“Bea, Poppy would kill me. Then I would never get to date Benedict unless he has an Ouji board.”

“What percent is your phone on?”

“Eight percent.”

“Put her phone on the max brightness and let it die. If Poppy tries to check your phone, she will see there is no juice left. Enjoy your date.”

“Are you sure Bea?”

“Taylor, you deserve a nice day. You are a great girl. Let me help you.”

“Thank you so much Bea.” Taylor gave Bea the note with Poppy’s ice cream order on it. She went over to Benedict to ask if the offer was still available. 

Bea was proud to help Taylor. Ever since the first day on campus after the standoff, Taylor had always been so kind to Bea. They could only really talk if Poppy wasn’t around, she would probably blow a gasket if she saw them talking.  As she approached the Zeta house, nerves started to settle in her stomach. Maybe it was because she was walking into the lion’s den, but maybe there was more to it. Now she had to figure out how to get into the house without causing too much of a ruckus. Coming up the steps of the Zeta house she bumped into Veronica.

“Bea Hughes, awfully brave of you to show up here. Poppy has no morals against murder.” Veronica stared at her phone, not bothering to look at Bea. 

“Very funny Veronica. I came to deliver some stuff for Poppy.” The nerves in her stomach tripled in size. Should she be worried about getting murdered?

“Hm well, good luck Hughes.” Veronica moved aside to let in Bea. She closed the door and followed her in.

“Vi weren’t you leaving?”

“Well if Poppy does murder you, I should be here to live to stream it. It would be a shame, I think you are too hot to die.” Bea couldn’t help, but blush. She wasn’t used to people being so forward with their flirting. 

Bea walked up the grand staircase with Poppy’s dry cleaning and ice cream. She looked at all the doors and saw one decorated in pink. The strawberry blonde was so obvious. Hoping for nerves of steel, she approached the door. She went to knock on it, but the door was already cracked open. She peeked inside and saw Poppy laying on her bed.

“Dad, I am still number one in rank. Yes, I know you were number one for four years during your time here. No one is going to take it from me. Y-you would disown your own child? I understand. Yes sir. I was wondering if maybe you wanted to go to dinner. Oh, you have a business trip. Yea I get it. I love y.. And you hung up.”

Bea could hear Poppy shuffle and she hurriedly back away from the door. She waited a moment and finally knocked on the door. Poppy opened it, she was wearing a pink silk robe. Bea took in the full view. Even when she was scowling Bea couldn’t help but admire the way her hair flowed and how great her legs were.

“This better be some sick joke, Hughes. Why are you in the Zeta house?” Poppy didn’t sound angry though. She just seemed more defeated and sad.

Bea snapped out of her trance. "I was just dropping off your dry cleaning and a frozen treat for you.”

“Funny because I definitely told Taylor to do that.” Poppy got out her phone to call Taylor and chew her ass out. It went straight to voicemail and it only caused Poppy’s anger level to rise even more. 

“Something came up and she was so worried about getting your stuff to you, so I volunteered. Her phone was dead so she couldn’t get through to you.”

“Whatever Hughes, just put the stuff down and leave.” She didn’t need Bea to make her headache worse. Her dad Piers already put her in an absolutely horrible mood. 

Bea went over and put the pile of clothes on an ottoman by Poppy’s closet. She put the bag of ice cream on her vanity. She stepped over by the door looking at Poppy.

“Um I know we aren’t the closest or even really friends, but I am a really good listener.”

“Why the hell would you say something like that? I have plenty of people around me to listen to. I would rather die a slow and painful death than talk to you about feelings.”

“It just seems lonely sometimes. All these people, but it only seems like they do it out of fear or power. I know how it is to feel alone is all I am saying.” 

“You think you know it all, Farmsville. You don’t know shit about my life. Leave.”

Bea stopped and pulled out the receipt from the ice cream. She went over to the vanity for a pen and wrote her number on the back. 

“If you ever change your mind, here is my number. All you have to do is give me the word and I will listen. I won’t even respond if you don’t want me to.” 

“I don’t know why directions are so hard for you, Hughes.” Poppy grabbed the receipt and balled it up, throwing it into the trash.

“Now please get the hell out of here.” Poppy said the words, but Bea could tell they had no real bite to them.

The twins picked up Bea’s Ford Bronco, hugging Zoey before they left. Bea got into the driver’s spot since she didn’t always trust Sabina’s driving. They started their twelve-hour trip back home.  Hopefully, the time with their parents would go smoothly now that Sab and Bea finally mended their relationship. Bea’s phone rang over the Bluetooth to her car as she drove. 

“Hey Mom, what's up?”

“I was just checking in on my amazing daughters. We are going to have the family over for dinner. Oh Bea titi Eva was saying how she is excited to hear about all your law classes.”

“Oh yay that’s so great.” Bea tried to muster up excitement, but it just fell flat. Hopefully her mother didn’t notice. 

“Alright, you girls drive safe. We will see you soon.”

Bea always dreaded talking about her future. It was always the worst thing, especially since she was practically forced into pre-law. She would need a miracle to get through this winter break.

One New Message: Unknown Number

If you tell anyone I messaged you, I will murder you and hide the body.

Well maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.

[sneakybananabox]

Heyy can you tell me what's the next fic you'll be working on?

The one you posted today was amazing, protective poppy I stan

I am actively plotting multiple fics in my idea journal (dream journal vibes like Sharkboy and lavagirl) . My memory has been shot lately from some stress stuff so the book was introduced. I have three requests I want to get to because I love the prompts so much. I am also plotting things for chapter four of the twins and then a brand new one based on art. Chapter four is taking a bit longer because I wrote it out, but some things are being changed. @timetravesty is often subject to the inner workings of my brain and helps me so big shoutout to her. 😊

[sneakybananabox]

Thank u for writing the I’m sorry fic! Love Sab and Beas relationship btw

Thank you Anon you absolute cutie 😊 . I'm glad you like it. Different sibling things I have imagine for them always make me giggle while I write. 😅