#‘they would not listen they didn’t know how perhaps they’ll listen now’

[a1asta1r]

Vincent by Don McLean is such an Anderperry song it’s painful

[fintan-pyren]

Sometimes, life is busy. You shouldn't let that stop you from enjoying a good book, but who has the time to read the same words over and over again?

For your enjoyment and convenience, I have removed all duplicate words from the first Keeper of the Lost Cities book.

blurry fractured memories swam through sophie’s mind but she couldn’t piece them together tried opening her eyes and found only darkness something rough pressed against wrists ankles refusing to let move a wave of cold rushed as the horrifying realization dawned was hostage cloth across lips stifled cry for help sedative’s sweet aroma stung nose when inhaled making head spin were they going kill would black swan really destroy their own creation what point project moonlark then everblaze drug lulled toward dreamless oblivion fought back clinging one memory that could shine tiny spot light in thick inky haze pair beautiful aquamarine fitz’s first friend new life ever maybe if hadn’t noticed him day museum none this have happened no knew it’d been too late even white fires already burning curving city filling sky with sticky smoke spark before blaze miss foster mr sweeney’s nasal voice cut blaring music he yanked earbuds out by cords you decided you’re smart pay attention information sophie forced open not wince bright fluorescents reflected off vivid blue walls amplifying throbbing headache hiding sweeney mumbled shrinking under glares now staring classmates pulled shoulder-length blond hair around face wishing hide behind it exactly kind went way avoid why wore dull colors lurked blocked other kids who at least foot taller than survive twelve-year-old high school senior perhaps can explain listening your ipod instead following along held up like evidence crime though probably he’d dragged class natural history balboa park assuming his students be excited about all-day field trip didn’t seem realize unless giant dinosaur replicas came started eating people cared tugged loose eyelash nervous habit stared feet there make understand needed cancel noise hear chatter from dozens tourists echoed fossil-lined splashed cavernous room mental voices real problem scattered disconnected pieces thoughts broadcast straight into brain being hundreds tvs different shows same time sliced consciousness leaving sharp pains wake freak secret burden since fell hit five years old she’d blocking ignoring nothing helped never tell anyone wouldn’t you’ve above lecture don’t give asked pointed enormous orange duckbill center how lambeosaurus differs dinosaurs we’ve studied repressed sigh flashed an image card front display glanced entered photographic recorded every detail recited facts twisted scowl classmates’ grow increasingly sour weren’t fans resident child prodigy called curvebuster finished answer grumbled sounded  know-it-all stalked exhibit next over follow thin separating two rooms block muffled grabbed little relief nice job superfreak garwin chang boy wearing t-shirt said i’m gonna fart sneered shoved past join they’ll write another article child teaches lame-o-saurus still bitter yale had offered full scholarship rejection letter arrived few weeks allowed go parents much pressure young end discussion so attending closer smaller san diego college year fact some annoying reporter newsworthy enough post local paper chooses ivy league complete photo freaked wasn’t strong word more half rules unnecessary front-page articles pretty worst nightmare they’d newspaper complain editor seemed unhappy story run place on arsonist terrorizing trying figure mistake bizarre white-hot flames smelled burnt sugar took priority everything especially unimportant girl most ignore or used caught sight tall dark-haired reading yesterday’s embarrassing black-and-white looked seen particular shade teal smooth sea glass beach glittered flickered expression gaze disappointment decide shrugged leaning closed distance between smile belonged movie screen heart did weird fluttery thing is pointing picture nodded feeling tongue-tied fifteen far cutest talking i thought squinted brown uh yeah sure say reason felt conversation accent british somehow crisper which bothered know are suck words soon left mouth course boys cute made mushy perfect returned told hulking greenish standing albertosaurus all its lizardesque glory me do think that’s it’s absurd

isn’t see saw small t rex: big teeth ridiculously short arms fine laughed i’ll get meet turned leave just classes kindergartners barreled fossil crushing screaming knock step whole realm pain kids’ stinging high-pitched needles many once angry porcupine attacking hands darted rubbing temples ease stabbings skull remembered alone reaction locked forehead pained imagined seconds hushed blood drain mean created plenty racket shrieks squeals giggles plus sixty individual chattering away gasped solved earlier everyone boy’s distinct accented speaking totally completely silent possible whispered widened moved whisper telepath flinched skin itch gave can’t believe backed exit reveal total stranger okay holding sort wild animal calm afraid froze my name’s fitz added stepping name searching sign part joke joking thinking wobbled spent seven find someone else world tilted sideways steady here looking twelve we better question: want air jerked bolted door stumbling shaky legs rhythm sucked breaths ran down stairs burned lungs bits ash flew ignored wanted space strange come shouted picked pace raced courtyard base steps wide fountain grassy knolls sidewalk got inside because poor quality footsteps gaining wait pouring energy sprint fighting urge glance shoulder halfway crosswalk sound screeching tires reminded both ways terrified driver struggling stop car plowed right die second blur swerved missing inches jumped curb sideswiped streetlight heavy steel lantern cracked plummeted instincts hand shot pulling strength somewhere deep gut pushing fingertips force collide falling gripping extension arm dust settled floated feel weighed ton put familiar warned bringing trance shrieked dropped without hurtled watch yanking split crashed ground impact knocked tumbled body broke fall landed chest stretched flurry questions swirling coherent idea sat replaying sense need witnessed miracle tighten panic let’s overwhelmed plan resist street reached intersection north zoo where crowd during firestorm running missed hearing changed terrifying scenarios involved government agents throwing dark vans experiments watched road ready bolt anything suspicious zoo’s massive parking lot relaxed outside milling cars happen witnesses slowed walk breath promise sincere easier opened hesitated supposed am trust won’t considered father sent specific age observe report always talk frowned disappointed himself does means expected threw what’s wrong touched eyelids suddenly selfconscious figured again awe us stopped whoa hang ‘one us’ frowning spotted fanny-pack-wearing within earshot deserted corner ducking green minivan there’s easy we’re human stunned speak hysterical laugh escaped repeated shaking riiiiiight insane trusting kicked stomped telling truth minute last listen plea humans vanished gone reeling leaned argued taking clear set pole minutes ago almost three managed finally saying alien erupted laugher cheeks grew hot also relieved compose elf hung foreign object belong visions tights pointy ears danced giggling expect guess stick wavy spikes rock star good crazy agreed refused serious frodo ring save middle-earth toys hid corners showed oh ought folded slender silver wand intricate carvings etched sides tip round crystal sparkled sunlight magic asking rolled actually pathfinder spun latch top dangerous you’ll faded depends take concentrate matter happens proof prove whisk land curious harm someone’s willed palms sweat fingers laced stupid tingled everywhere scanning warning look scowled bit tongue concentrated racing seriously become those silly girls counted raising facet beam refracted tightened grip forward warm tingling million feathers swelling underneath tickling giggle melted goo keeping oozing blanket warmth wrapped faster blink eye might squeaked stood edge glassy river lined impossibly trees fanning emerald leaves among puffy clouds row castles walt disney throw rocks kingdom golden path led sprawling elaborate domed buildings built brick-size jewels each structure color snowcapped mountains surrounded lush valley crisp cool

cinnamon chocolate sunshine places exist less appear forgotten released realized hard squeezing unable castle towers oddly our capital call eternalia heard shangri-la lost cities you’d stories rarely ridiculous things elves burst quiet gentle breeze brushing soft murmur traffic hammering unspoken very silence rising tiptoes view streets ghost town building towered others stones emeralds banner flying tribunal progress everyone’s watching proceedings council basically royalty holds broken law they’re deal laws well shook wrap cringing question funniest glared funny regained control try cling remaining strands sanity sun casting ray onto leaping hitched ride headed impossible infinite travel haven’t theory relativity stumped dumbest i’ve albert einstein huh dumb argue confident unnerving harder waited feather sensation dryer scattering directions until rubber band later shivering ocean whipping glowed carved moonlight failed passed bring herself true science book read confused observed ‘hey learned smug grin best minds begin comprehend complexities reality elves’ ahead slowest trump proper education shoulders sagged sank four scenery blurred whether tears entire lie nudged hey fault believed taught i’d done works bells chimed large gateway floor-length velvet capes draped tunics emerged followed creatures marching military formation rocky pants muscles prominently flat noses coarse gray pleated folds armadillo goblins signed treaty hating trembling dressed forbidden lumenaria worlds gnomes dwarves ogres trolls mentioning focused motioned farther squatting betrayed ancient councillors intelligent rule planning war ancients violence disappeared forbid any contact devices working defend race famine problems chilled frigid wind licking who’d known must’ve after eventually evolved myths simple yes peeked glowing crucial identity clicked spinning thousand loud clang gate stepped shadows sleek cobalt home jolted mom bus bland boring stole incredible blinding swept smoky fresh surprised recognized plain square houses narrow tree-lined house ask lived coughed handle putting pollutes planet these aren’t normal chemical smells usually wildfires smell barbecue melting cotton candy burn rain arsonists admitted pocket hoping notice dad wants knows neither important meant mystery he’s happy careful please shown today thank act family doesn’t suspect squared courage telepaths special ability rarer ones thirteen six months corrected liking youngest manifest start reverberated scanned positive waking hospital moment forget hooked kinds machines hovering shouting barely separate hold happening group adults haunted worry brows narrowed doing extra private keep wall weak hated bossed answering concerned action worked imagining stretching shadow mine blurted pale process hardest worries live fumbled answers long trouble knees link amazing will tomorrow panicked battered cluttered living phone she’s receiver having reeled daggers calling wandering worried police sorry stammered convincing horrible liar scared mom’s anger concern nervously curly guy realizing lies based freaking walked trolley train teacher guard ugh complained closing adult rubbed wrinkle appeared stressed upset safe stand weirdo understood dangers teased tormented bullied deflate wish trailed close rest sister slipped pin painful tight hug welcome honey dinner ten amy upstairs kitchen unease twist stomach worn linoleum pastel tacky knickknacks ordinary glittering kissed cheek shabby briefcase table how’s soybean wink baby apparently pronouncing thousands times lid simmering pots garlic cream filled handed silverware turn crackin’ scooted plopped usual chair nine role mastered opposite lower average grades popularity sisters wondered definitely powers lowered breathing: inhale exhale repeat care nickname dizzy must lay should eat skipping acting fettuccine night favorite rich sauce sudden nausea tug eyelashes chewed bite swallow fork official thanks great homework sprinted bed hiss shattered marty pounding fluffy cat sitting tail slunk settling lap marty’s purring

confront downstairs settle explained blonde chubby brunette screamed throbbed deeper ripped apart blinked related change lots adopted poked brought e l fudges plate cookies milk getting sick palm fever tired cookie stumbled routine crawled blankets wrapping pillow dreams kissing tucked tradition breathe ella yep elephant stuffed sleep tonight um guys hugged tighter hours labor endured switched birth daughter doubt wondering anymore dreamed keebler perfected recipes liked oreos drown vat fudge woke overrated morning quick shower jeans shirt buttery yellow stripes item closet self-conscious wear gold flecks admit clipped toyed lip gloss snuck check crept yard blinking stuck contained next-door neighbor perch middle lawn forkle rearranging garden tableaux nosy checking effect beady bored hers loved sentences complaining 911 obligated gnome fraction inch gives headaches yapping interrupted ball fur streaked barking spandex jogging shorts chased grabbing dog leash clumsy lunge kneeled stroking wild-eyed panting creature drew growled strained mad sister’s hates displaying several halfmoon wounds bleeding scar suppose willing carry blocks seems winked piercing certainly yelled jogger guy’s louder chaos wonder grab drag should’ve trick react stopping tracks side man straightened height quite intimidating ordered glowered promised snorted grumbling moving explaining whenever appearance waiting incident eyewitnesses frustrating confusing bell rang lurking scream demanded loudly heads bad flashing cocky rush blush unanswered tries creepy snatch slow replayed scene remember growling forkle’s quietly quieter we’ll we’d eyeing suspected impending mischief leap english ditch yesterday strangle pull disappearing fail willingly use telepathy brushed whispering pushed further test tested permission assignment frustrated matters invading offense scrunch nod movement nearby oak drowned could’ve sworn jogger’s campus gestured tree either imagine adjusted shouldn’t anyway who’s committee sidelong heat breaking automatically furious enjoyed caused determines grinned future shield surveyed surroundings metal nearly everglen leading doors absorbs directly likes privacy stressful doubted king kong faint click swung inward striking clearing growing midnight cape fastened clasp diamond-encrusted wings lean vibrant resemblance alden introduced bow curtsy shake greet shy pleasure prominent kidding unusual flush smiled embarrassed fire alden’s injury muttered son shared kidnapping considering such might’ve paranoid has touch rude assure love kidnapper searched reassure kindness agree placed gently jacket ticked indeed fascinating sounding triumphant perfectly specifically nexus forgot covered dug cuff coat clamped bracelet wrist twisting fit snug comfortable accessory single jewel rectangle symbols letters spelled gibberish odd decorate finality safety precaution break particles carried concentration circumstances bare early fools overestimate skills fade cautious answered lose yourself able fully reform pulls forever goose bumps dimple cleared throat prefer reproving send mission collect long-lost guests wiped blooming red pink purple rainbow perfume flowers dizzying testing qualify foxfire paused fungus insulted prestigious academy named represents glow darkened comes ‘fungus’ strongest talent kiss goodbye excuse proud attend accomplishment earliest levels develops abilities continue studies elvin sneak work knowingly chills mixed night’s troubling revelation sickening councillor bronte difficult impress feels upbringing lack disqualify surprises existed miffed votes squat brown-skinned huge tended fairy tale plants slantways shuffled carrying basket twinkling fruit guessing pictured men hats statues servants stare choose safer gardens enjoy privileged taste gnomish produce lunch treat dig slimy tubers slugs hoped menu peeled meadow elegant manor entirely intricately numerous turrets gables rose tower resembled lighthouse braided foyer prism widest hallway fountains spouted streams colored water hall dead-ended encrusted jeweled mosaic

diamond unicorns amethyst spoke wealth squeezed formal dining sheer silk curtains drawing chandelier waterfall shimmering crystals platters fancy goblets figures jewel-encrusted circlets plush thronelike chairs surrounding curtsied necks clasps keys horribly underdressed fabrics except disguise kenric oralie football player toothy princess rosy ringlets met smallest cropped features finger pairs floor laughter squirmed joined pleased shape it’ll transformed noticing autorepeat: scooting oralie’s one’s died yet hurt immortal trace sorrow bodies aging reach adulthood wrinkles belongs yourselves guest uncovered grimace strips glop goop tasted juiciest cheeseburger stuff mashed carnissa root umber leaf tastes chicken animals tone ate toxic waste squirming grimaced vegetarians horror vegetables cheeseburgers tells swallowed mouthful thud discussing openly respond kenric’s jaws dry remembering warnings stay begun eight pass mentioned learn relax bronte’s icy gust common announced jaw flushing chagrined incredulous impenetrable key sentence ‘almost breached guilt conscience sounds infallible thinks likely exceptionally lift weight telekinesis recovering embarrassment shrank goblet accident raised lifting invisible scoffed unimpressed limitations unlike physical confidence clue giving blew pretending imaginary extend sharper worth saucers applauded excellent praise couple glasses determined stronger ounce core empty collective gasp including breathed celebrate cramped strain knocking thunderous collision open-mouthed shock hollered sealed clapped language guys’ enlightened leaped instinctive interesting babbling teasing noisy gripped ‘soybean’ mispronouncing blushed chuckled beside dusting waved insisted sighed suldreen stretch line rare species bird puzzle solve uncomfortable coincidence convince decision barked shoving moonlarks vote otherwise fight favor final fragile lovely empath emotions extended grasped delicate fear confusion sincerity describe azure settles revisited till adjust invoke demand probe planned arranged quinlin busy decipher fun training looks iffy ‘bothered’ dad’s reluctant emptiness exploded choked saving colder implications ditched stall punishment atlantis nowhere patch white-capped waves signs seagulls screech poop hardly continent tide pool triangular slip slick shoes match gown begged status noble members nobility offices empire waist beaded neckline dress costume seeing clothes: tunic embroidery edges pockets sewn sleeves exact size sit boots completed thankfully knowing biana comparison changing subject ledge engineered catastrophe compartment revealing bottles label bottle whirlpool uncorked flung blast whipped faces roar churning ladies suggested worse gulped maelstrom beneath salty sprayed jump push count dignity drowning flailing idiot formed tunnel dipping weaving craziest waterslide starting launched vortex sponge licked toe pack kittens minus kitten sprang cushion smoothed wet incoming rocketed slightly squishy packed sand gleaming metropolis dome beyond soared skyline bathing radiating spires network canals interconnected arched bridges pictures venice modern clean despite bottom underwater muted hum background seashell ear build stores power precisely amount changes plated reflect firelight illuminate sink wandered shops renaissance fair women’s gowns shifted advertised two-for-one specials bottled lightning fast approval spyball applications strolled hybrid chicken-lizard invented main canal hailed carriages floating almond-shaped boat rows high-backed benches elbow-length steered bench reins skimming surface eight-foot-long scorpion deadly pincers reared curled sting eurypterid stroked shiny shell eurypterid’s slice emitting low hissing petted harmless carriage quinlin’s yours fiber mutant insect doom probed gritted pressing hideous sonden’s office thrashed heebie-jeebies commute while secure needs protection file highly classified business district windows tracing bearing names treasury registry interspeciesial services unreadable random strings runes nonsense writing

alphabet clueless chin jumble nah affected gap kid option country tests dropping member broad kelp ornamentation precise read: sonden: chief mentalist cube swiped elbow ping assurances humiliating bypassed receptionist dim damp stone desk dark-skinned chin-length seat ceremony unique understatement squirm handing lick dna unsanitary tiniest hologram center: rotating unearthly breathing prentice sacrificed double helixes sacrifice reasons fears hundred seventy-eight murmured began pacing invaded she’ll greatest keeper older midstep record share trained charge protecting currently hidden karaoke game sing off-key notes clearly eavesdropping strip slid winding stairway climbed oval footage brush projected chill aerial southern california lines circle area images deepened valleys ruled reflections note interrupting communicate waving warn turning overreacting glancing shuddered desperate kidnapper’s threatened easily implied nameless faceless entity quickly threatening authorities would’ve shivered accelerant chemicals leads lighting spilling oil blowing investigate council’s position here: takes visit babysitter decent equally spying steam secrecy existence discovered hoax search updated slight bypassing distracted evillooking matches keepers lagoon glint shimmery dunes lake west shore statue topped hollow iridescent film shimmered loop apparatus resemble bubble lifted clung shrieking levitate forming touching bubble’s rumble coming geyser shoot eleven crash below bobbed where’s scary pure joy popped whisked glaring gates flash strode olive contrast youth shone nerve summoning personal shorter intimidated difference sooner exiled clench fists backward tiergan aware opinion summoned convinced tiergan’s fierce crumbled crossing expert inventory widening whatever foxfire’s newest mentor puppy officially weirding becomes provide retired given persuaded return resentment mixture surprise hone assistance reasonable restrictions pretend opportunity silencing bet terrible mood mumbling mostly irresponsible manage choice benefit stares notify dame alina returning kept bruise meantime session listed remedial schedule lessons dummies correct assumption warmed tuesday brilliant panel everglen’s grounds sessions study student subjects one-on-one nerves one-onone succeed mention level grade relearning self-doubt heavier fragmented disappear explanation aside pleasant dis arguing overstuffed armchairs woman squealed snickered wife della pinched gesturing dear vanishers smiling musical hint della’s beauty tossed pursed heart-shaped parents’ combined gangly troll interceded borrow errands frumpy files requested denied request approve grady edaline case torn radiant parcels strobe unwrapped packages clasped cord neck choker pendant elf-y anytime fund’s activated fund register money standard dollars lusters laughing luster dollar crinkled ew insult afford differently limited seventy eighty makes sad curved window overlooking silvery floor-to-ceiling aquarium wingback facing piled books scrolls anxiety remind stacks newspapers circled crossed news removed drawer theories irritation super stuttered discuss faced solution allow ours they’ve effective immediately too-simple accept kick constant discovery longer unbearable loneliness friends grasping overwhelm areas access severely restricted dead deciding gravestones became vivid: grave tearstained draw suffer struck complicated relocated jobs erase tear obvious believing shutting function erased armchair scrubbed forbade sob occurred risking twenty alert plans clothes sees wiping focus bent unshed horrors cringed buried trembled bouncing busted eavesdrop grounded hugging worrying pouted pettiness bratty obnoxious pain-in-the-butt embrace struggles play daughters mouths senses hook hurry daze rememorize room: dusty available quilt mother tripped furry crouching releasing pathetic meow disk sleeping gas release drugging physically ill backpack slung giggled elizabeth clutching anywhere couch fingered ordering thirty crumpled burying recognize crouched smearing drool snot drugged sobs

overcame jerk washers bags regret bear slept finish hawaiian family’s limp determination taken fourteen cried assured stranglehold haunting gets hope personally oversee relocation flared wrung guardians title selected enthusiasm strangers elwin’s blue-crystaled temptation shiver raked bones orphan conservatory lead backyard security choosing saved ache suffering gift raise ended abandoned wipe elwin physician medical hate doctors brave regular nightmares brief stays struggled dragging direction drop free implying biana’s glare escape punch bathed gigantic glued cushioned cot syringe goes fidget spectacles scientist snapped painless orb flasher manipulate skilled orem vacker show eclipse biggest celebrations traditions damage permanent tensed food chance innocent cells dashing depending orbs squinting lenses stunningly lit dramatic expecting toxins research rifled satchel vials liquids major detox braced medicine syrups nectar unknown fruits tingly drink youth legends enzymes essential health refreshing downed contents gulp drank medicines list follow-up checkup whistled sometimes heated lame stinky stegosaurus shame horrified production wimp doctor phobia jumping needle strap bunch shots allergic how’d concrete nine-one-one unconscious genes kicking trigger bedroom canopied chandeliers room’s gotten deserve ruined chanting mantra shut pajamas tuck asleep belonging alive twenty-five catch breakfast clock shop furniture detoxes materializing clutched ghostly exotic heartbreaker fitted glamorous shopping explosion behold wardrobe outfits extras pick beat-up sparkly casual packing leaked days unpack hungry knotted sadly dampened preserve havenfield exciting jolie deny loss wonderful booming fenced-in pastures spread scrambled versions rehabilitation centers sanctuary protected trap nessie artist endangered gorillas lions mammoths extinct thriving herd woolly colonies saber-toothed tigers slack exists rob qualities provides thrive feeding hunt diet steep cliffs caves flower-lined using ropes lasso lizard neon beast protest drama queen husky male commanded beast’s heave feat twice snaarrll bucked guardian lunged tangled writhed losing balance verdi tyrannosaurus comments meeting jaculus winged serpent feeds support contain bloodsucking snake claws snout tremble lowering fangs glinted slobber motioning glimpse dinosaur-riding chiseled feather-covered james bond robin hood balding relate handsome feathery banged pet rub rex’s stayed docile unblinking separated verdi’s wound plugged slime death rot tuna fish combination kelpie dung bites jar swear edaline’s grady’s wary compared palatial estate mansion standards columns cupola roof entryway central upper floors cascaded ceiling wispy fabric turquoise amber curls similar circles fluff presentable rex picking playing rodeo cowboy nope wash staircase sadness lingered tea mallowmelt insist gooey cake fresh-baked chip soaked ice frosting butterscotch dripping hasty slices served nook grazing linens painted china homesick woken lushberry juice pop possessed conjurer form teleporting objects coolest unfortunately scraggly slurps burps letting friend’s ached grieve fished imparter simply strangled pounded reassuring deafening third star-shaped dangled glittery weaved carpet scent canopy occupied dressing bookshelves brightly volumes bathroom bathtub swimming biting awesome assumed jolie’s tour awkward delicious soupy pizza unpacking wrinkled scrapbook wherever welled remnants dried sixteen sunrise streaks blending mirror darken awake finishing hovered doorway interrupt riser shades clap bruises conjured bowl spoon banana bread tempted impose sloppy handwriting upside symbol corner: bird’s beak tickled babble scare extremely documents cipher moisture particularly believable prescribed drawn eager fidgeting ruffles simplest bought hi kesler groaned island mysterium identical mold vendors spices sweets buzzed crowded sidewalks working-class social rank ‘talent simpler correspondingly unfair born lesser lives type designed village avoiding whispers ruewen pretended different

store crooked nursery rhyme burps: merry apothecary belched maze shelves pills laboratory beakers bubbling burners rainbow-colored lab skinny tousled strawberry periwinkle blob tubes add amarallitine dex tongs vial experiment poured beaker sparked plume dirty gag concoction exclaimed hello ‘hello impersonation sludge eda scrap sheet kesler’s brother-in-law nephew practically monday al freaks dimples burped beanpole hooded cloak vika annoyance handiwork written girl’s bald scalp meanwhile stina ’cause twitched battling sell solutions sasquatch dent bony appendages children throttle hairoids stock week wailed ogre wicked misses responsible friendly rage here’s spat helping customers potent hat flinch useless buy countered retort stina’s oooh slammed fist timkin heks helps situation traditional absolutely brings stuffy nobles happier grinning mess tweak supplies armful worktable sneaky beard dex’s evil mortar pestle teach tingle attempt fifty-seven solo property collapse practiced checked displayed sliver percent chose he’ll hawk mentors monitor weakness expelled pushes transferred exillium swallowing bile mounting attack messy juline riveted gossip interruption interest hilarious bookshelf mounted cover camera summer flipping pages naked mouse suit disneyland dizznee photos honestly movies outlets flipped technology solar powered rifling sir conley’s luck lady galvin highest rate rig calming flooded seventeen gadgets chimes arrive uniform skirt leggings shirt-vest-cape combo laceup jerkin long-sleeved slacks waist-length superhero captain blueberry rescue meaning order demonstrate rid wimpy halcyon mastodons mascot birds storm mastodon ceremonies costumes glad idiots appealing crest triangle heart: scarlet eagle soaring talons chemistry equipment theirs adopting adoption adopt temporary enrollment manticore themselves parties dies span cope calmed orphans wylie whose recover connection blames wylie’s hanging leapmaster 500 lucky authorized 250 tons rotated five-story pyramid sharply angled u stained seventh amphitheater extensive fields grass hopelessly prodigies uniforms building’s finding ducked starts orientation principal reads announcements attendance collar track peal close-up stunning porcelain caramel-colored foremost whoever reekrod weekend mark punished fullest extent threat dangle continued detect ah spotlight hissed viper’s nest ssssssophie hole crawl concludes today’s nearest exception divided wing banners bore midflight halls quad throughout sparkling sapphire chatted doorways lining atrium spectacle creating marked rune locker mirrored lock uses gross faculty picks flavors pepper sneeze croak yelped stench rotten eggs dash diaper muskog wheezy snicker whirled towering mass frizzy cackling hags stalking hairs shave earth serum friday retorted raven swishing behavior phasers ashamed apologize obviously spend detention alexine stinks beet minions kinda frog fumes catching jensi rapid-fire speech talked buckets redder instructed honest ‘human girl’ ‘sophie’ whim elementalism pride backtracked twists turns drops warped wooden session’s zapped ‘zapped’ thunderclap eighteen tray electrocuted quiver conley hitting fluted botched sending tornado tornadoes mastering elements entering foods series stalls court mall recognizable eaten tables cafeteria whom discourage joining verge perceptible message clear: focusing bigger jensi’s acne braces fairly slicked greasy ponytails drooled setting bang c’mon dude unison ‘e’ duh drooly volunteered singed universe daunting exaggerated messing ‘dude’ killing explode cough pixielike rescuing tossing petite balled braids suicide overeager marella mare nicknames obeyed enemies honored pucker licorice lemon fan prettypants rather grumpy brat brother’s dreamy willpower copying sip looped defending dizznees triplets says ‘bad match’ genetically incompatible inferior aunt uncle superstrange celebrities famous vackers superimportant marella’s sympathy grandma heartbroken helpless veins hopeless cases guarantee scooping mammoth shudder awful afternoon feared astronomical

learning astin whispery complex maps planetarium effortless excelled hour survived approaching dragon hateful invited feelings letters: extinguished stuffing fill animosity deck ‘nice uncanny royal highness bothers remembers talented ‘deck beaming nineteen thursday disaster goal sandwiched colosseum pe vanity near door: sneakers ponytail owned ship slap reply lasted compare redek squish may fool stops idle threats grouped twos tromps manifested fifty-fifty manifesting mysterious remark required variable reign terror ‘everyone’ impressive jolt supervise caton titan god informed channeling supereasy channel parts body: heights speeds normally unimpressive attempts threes bumped defense appetite startled spaceship unremarkable studying superintently snapping scraping probing concept unsettling establish forcing eighty-seven puckered brow assume cheerful scraped intended drained steadying suggest ethics attached meganeura exercise annoy fidgeted cocked wanna buzzing dived vulture-size dragonflies patted freaky-looking bug blown gargantuan proportions creepiest disco balls grown monster enclosure phys ed intense emergency weirdest part: proven trustworthy receive assignments lectured responsibility detecting discover elite avoided mesmer nauseated wow sheesh inflicting curiosity won causes dara lecture: pyramids tidal army hairy hollowing himalayas strangest mumble creeped exile interested dying supertalented fundamental guilty underground eternity ruin fluke churned abandoning illegal washer alter dump brother secluded sorted reminding effort flavored flumes spritzed shove disturbing failing smirked alchemy pupil encouraging cracking melody ominous ingredients trophies gilded items pointy-toed suspiciously midas milky liquid dancing rushing rustle red-brown updo hunter silky decorated patterns swished slightest alkahest universal solvent stored itself dissolves wood flesh taxes substance alchemist wise teaching masters tincture poultice basic serums yellowed box flask jars iron transmuting metals recipe formula labeled instructions fiddled rechecked mistakes plunged whip fizzed rumbled jelly galvin’s exquisite dissolved luxurious damaged salvage welt healing ma’am murder retrieve afterward muttering incompetence flunk sprawled hallways stark ditching keefe gulon disheveled untucked popular belva crush blame 90 certain paid accidentally cue epic alina’s ugly crying treated whiter phobia consisted rooms: treatment beds brewing physician’s paperwork slinky scurried bullhorn demented ferret banshee adorable fellow dramatically wanting seize mmm-hmm acid mimed effects destroyed salve measured whap wash present laughs clarification confirming twenty-one embellished version destruction joked bottling anwen multispeciesial 324 faxon metaphysics complimented requests brown-eye create overnight granted incredibly challenging explosions occurrence unlearn lifetime knowledge levitating rainbows constantly messed highlight skill effortlessly amazed unwanted transmit else’s psychic photograph needing patient plague suspicion snotty maruca i-hate-sophiefoster club reaching growl jealous prettiest bedlam subdue chasing rabbits antlers swinging trunk lump verminion pen boosted mammoth’s trumpeted earthshaking squeal ringing mound timid twig hiiiissssssssssss uncurled rodent bulging hamsters rottweiler-size hamsterzilla trample japanese hamster cooed snaarrrlll impressed chase steer dashed catches fifty stupidest clod mud nailed grooowwwwllll fatal flaw pinned grunted press snarling squeeze verminion’s unlocked assortment spewed whined pile gloves shed trade trudged oversize squirrels rats identify burlap sack quivering snarl steeled shriek batlike heaved wool scratches leg outbuildings carefully organized veterinarian’s laid sterile spreading limbs smeared eyedropper dripped creature’s rewarded squeaky rumbling crackly purr smiles cage barrel soapy chain-sawesque snores vibrating brattail tuber sausage imp guessed six-inch venomous stings snoring vicious describing tame yetis outnumbered conked chipper iggy strand swell

generous hugs touches gestures glistened dubious trails twenty-two sharing congested warthog roommate snuggly sleepless spoil caring ultimate splotching championship sacks cheered sympathetic secretly celebrating partnered naturally teamed splotcher splattered loses winners person wins marks smugly win splotch splat deserved colorful prize contest pardon hopes wonderboy gagging rounds beat opponent knots backing aim ow raw telekinetic flushed compliment disqualifies pumped victory hotter cheering opponents experience duel beginner’s talents mighty competition grumblings battle odds experienced evidently four: sixes trella dempsey paired hopeful muster bested winner fluttered appears competitors betraying butt preference keefe’s chant ladies’ float clenched adrenaline surged audience back-up splotches rebound phenomenon weightless collided simultaneous fate collapsed twenty-three placing compress wincing muscle injured whermiwhahapped worse: laying banshees mortal danger stirred lucid winced stiff glands zinged collected rebounded bounce specialized hammered controls actual mix matched draining practice evenly awfully sidelines wobbling auditorium applause teensy annoyed copied blushing elbowing ribs tie protested declared excused lesson rejoin splotchers acted delivered p congratulations confirm bath lathering bathers soggy instinctively besides creased drive twenty-four meter one-third younger that’d wonderboy’s precious midterms score seventy-five recommend nissa tutoring consider tutor projection gagged flavor yell daily tore prattle chewy caramel peanut butter pouch cracker jack horse mane prattles’ unicorn pins collection examined digital 122 185 number eighty-five super-rare bitterness vaguely compute unexpected development century too-little-too-late branch other’s replaced beeline simultaneously sniff aw stuck-up snob wasted invite humiliate walking ambush capable teeniest details clanged cricket chirped embroidered satin sash wringing exhaled seeming makeovers wrestling polite fortunately braid flutter dirt pitter-patter eh sayin’ shooting quest grateful team jealousy guarded raid questers tagged sentry tabs isolate general nail targets listened softer instantly presence tremendous connected forest thundered vision racked credible crashing bushes partner deceive insists hasn’t secrets toes staying chain apologizing visitors sulking funk snipe wagged there’ve weekly jokes havenfield’s defied exams panicking passing guide narrowing shipped exam brass copper transmutations ideas challenges thwarted spilled gashrooms reek pored frozen cause shattering cheated accomplished cheat ideal dreading twenty-six tri-angular apex streamed pane angle reflection examining confessed forgave neutral violated ethical regulations expulsion suggesting argument ruling obey flourish bother violating reporting stifle closely icily respect authority advises wedding flapped nor pointless cheating tolerated huffed regrets confess serve minimum assigning becoming theme slipping unnoticed what’d gloomy atmosphere desks thumbs-up siren song appreciation art nature clapping earsplittingly shrill whine whale nails chalkboard toddler uncover broadening horizons claiming repentant company brand torture ballroom belva’s sirens dances edwardian claimed valin ponytailed promenade dancers valin’s sweaty chime stars shined brighter spit wickedly slobbery octaves fanned hmm irritated flattered scored points empathy forked smirk ironing holes stack detained increased practicing leaps eyebrow empaths powerful mundane purification vein easiest transmutation lockers traded twenty-seven banging annoyingly caps disqualified chorus groans nonstop cap smurf amalgam telepathic integrity wrote essay betrayal over debate automatic 100 last-minute mentally repeating tips negative vibes stress ethic claim fame skipped skip supportive doubting brag mercifully stalled magenta berries rusty discipline chosen purify ruckleberries fifty-five nasty impurities elderly human’s alchemists methods dive knife pierced berry dribbled pinky haggard glacial quarters

deducted mediocre performance forth whirlwind crack exhausted brutal slamming slumped that’ll public hooks presents spine cards schools hassle babysitters edged obstacle tugging stressing rigid suitable gifts jewelry charms charm twenty-eight unrecognizable streamers shrub toilet-papered tinsel confetti bubbles prizes popping appointment teal-wrapped package uglier hurrying plowing regain literally prying trademark smirks spoken sapphire-encrusted navy-blue intently hairstyle contrasted pristine infamous deflated wilted father’s oily insincerity resigned flame cassius lord performing unremarkably radiated apologies fos er disappointing scores fake critical said: creeps prize-filled prattles dwarf lollipop topple snappy comeback comment loser fails organize overflowing half-empty month misunderstanding shushed slim parcel chiming signaled parent-mentor conferences celebration feast unwrap snatching self ‘dear dance sometime vice president boyfriend rattled reader tease ribbon tapped gadget fingernail speaker thingies coloring dunno disbelief variety edible glosses speckled spider snapper plant fed spiders riddler writes riddle miniature violet thanked showing misty seventy-nine improvement range sensing tomato congratulated comfort sobbing partying included sneer party note: f snap k sugarplums boy-craziness necklace cuffs wristbands vanisher platter customs gelled perfection gym ornate immaculate alvar talks often rumpling fizzleberry wine juggling girlfriends hero beamed piddly quicksnuff emissaries tend conspiracy possibility myself pieced undivided swan’s curve pattern term replied active recently unauthorized investigation frustration twenty-nine alternate spending smelling clues accomplish consumed trapped counting resumed vacation finals received eighty-one eighty-three unacceptable prepared chorused poufy thrown towel drooped oven roasted frosters transmitting charts transmitted peed suffered rested cryokinetics freeze manipulating pyrokinesis mesmers inflictors monitored pyrokinetics inflict fire’s unpredictable truly forbidding pyrokinetic library surely three’s librarian banned archives libraries bust problem: section dire wolves peek promising bins mountain littered haphazardly spaces scan unrolled flip papers helpful lacy dulled childhood: strung lanyards dolls framed bone picture: breathtaking tragedy drinking leftover junk trunks piles unopened bin disturbed murky midterm roll scroll shelf sample starlight moonglade: fireflies flickering stellarscope upside-down spyglass view’s billions wad tag amaranthis memorized fourth lambentine bag spout wider scope knobs cluster dials stiffened lever thumb clinked rubini orroro azulejo cobretola indigeen scratching spectrum rearranged indigo zelenie isolated this’ll bluff scrounging elementine adjusting fidgety hummed shining teared welts frantic thirty-one blackish-purple blisters pot burns sprinkled powder adventure soaking numbs balm miserably regulate temperature palace crown nicer handful roots mutilating blades destroying bashing stubbornness reappeared ointment knelt furrowed fingertip rags longest hottest soapiest griffins discreetly boring-looking firecatching bode bundle solid downright incoherently darkly quintessence fifth element myth truest conditions blow metallic-toned bronze wildly flamed audible unmapped locations merit thirty-two platform thrones remotely procedure involving throne cushions tourmaline sturdy polished dotted onyx heard: clarette velia terik liora emery ramira darek noland zarina flicked mere evacuated three-thousand-year task undisclosed location trial salivating convict straighter dozen marched stationed bodyguards swordlike weapons belts fanfare blasted crowned amateurs seated sapphires shall world’s ungraceful consuming detector fuzzy lying endlessly jell-o hobbled astin’s honesty assigned emery’s argento auriferria pennisi merkariron styggis achromian slower plotting map cowering submit lists convenient judgment frightening hardened remained expressionless mediates telepathically consensus united aspirin unanimous

rise violates actions intentional accountable foster’s involvement addressing agreement millionth wished exchanged dimpling kiddo thirty-three banks sienna bark paintbrushes purfoliage palmae calls pures filter pollution freshest crispest tinge fuzzed hesitation observant instruction lurched sunset farthest councillors’ steadied emerald-encrusted circlet bowed pleasing honor beg refuse descryer response delightfully potential clamoring backfired speaks beginning optional 327 sensed crane sweeping peacock log dream softly regularly useful one-armed fiancé’s projecting vividly replace album dinner’s stroke retracted apology hurting tricks arches replica model thirty-four planted curl plotted page difficulties rivaled protect quieted los angeles hollywood trash conspicuous spider-man batman posed mann’s chinese theatre blended beams issued ‘forgot’ oblivious ourselves stubborn softened unwillingly seeped ‘got of’ ant pavement explore warring hurried consequences captured pleaded mercy prentice’s behalf oversaw shatters society metaphor insurgents rebellion kindest whatever’s decisions encouragement revelations ability-detecting exercises cornered superbusy insistent significant elf-ish onetime played envy tracked master tracking switch spots conspiracies investigating headway ignorance ever: permanently jarred conservation legitimate scientific principle nagging elixir nogginease limbium mineral supposedly resisted bike wheels giddy week’s supply unnaturally syrup absorb nauseating unfastening vest skin’s collapsing allergy dimmed cradling thirty-five fluttered chafed sandpaper wildhaired soothed sensations spectators cleaned vomit upright moaned allergies wits bullhorn’s trite soiled airtight vomiting swollen blotch-free humiliated undershirt noticeably absent dazzling alvar’s raptor disgusting decade spare injected steroids tied budge scolded showers heels crisis ushered deathly tough disasters blankly rests brothy soup elsewhere shadowy comforting yawn snuggled thirty-six squealing hundreds eagle-size pterodactyl somersaulted screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeech stability rein speed momentum gained screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeech torch pasture dispersed uncannily fried engulfed birdbath sparks jerking possess flareadon fire-resistant replay triggered animal’s cares octave higher killed resting flareadons volcanoes occur gildie strayed ‘flareadon female correcting wade debacle breaks wrestled socks shredded apparent vague emotion animals’ distances qualified lightened results defined iggy’s gildie’s paw tummy reward downy fury paled out-of-breath aura recoiling imperative vital violate risk humiliation fled her: cooperate freezing peered railing partial drifted bars errand thirty-seven mush nights begging blend processing forgetting tearing fluorescent locker: insider’s librarian’s timing shoe absolute librarians plastered sinking confirmed dog-ear chapter everblaze: unstoppable blind thirty-eight paper-strewn something’s ‘everblaze frissyn x stands detailed extinguish overruled excluded unheard indecision warred babies hatch extract unregistered code name: egg cast conventional purpose determine pregnant fertility posing implanted embryo manipulated outstanding retain discovering affects genetic anomaly renegades weapon ‘prodigy illegally forgiving messages suffocating choke word: controlled puppet issue triggers twilight proudly soothe facade crumble table: throaty fix drove wedge messenger delivering seal reseal rampaging limits chaise skimmed bead luminous nonluminous generated lumenite drilled clarify rip grubby paws riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiip chunk possession skittered treasure retrieving tattered assess rug glue document accordance canceled thirty-nine heartbeat scrubbing choked-back muffle misery acknowledge gaping owe regardless charade  obeying command churn yeti ricocheted ooooookaaaaaaay slinking acknowledging attempting library-appropriate slothlike triple-check echoing phew scrutiny shrug candleshade overhead clipping playlist jarring numbness bass mature speakers bands sarcastic tune swirled seeping cracks triumphed

tiptoed rustled creaked padding crawling lonely forgive forty cheer stricken envelope headline: claims victims scrawl announcement corridor stark-white gulps sneaking suggestions weigh resolve admirer flood applying replacement heal eased uncertainty brothers recent discoveries recording spy undetected textbook dreaded licensed pathfinders restriction threatens ‘everblaze’ accusation fintan pricked balefire fintan’s requires fuel supported cosmic ‘fire ignite conclusive example surveillance ruining depths former dealing approved overrule objection trusted phantom rebels snatched emissary citizen confidential duly noted digging forty-one partly imprisoned sorting reminders pity tension distant lately preparing prejudice megacrush cave commands successful method unwrapping names: connor kate natalie freeman apply permit huddled thinner echoes evacuee note’s unquenchable abandon supporter afar forty-two stashed drawers ‘you threaten chaperone global dumped significance supplied clothing resistant fly willful punish facets stagger hills screeched tying pried displays seals survival glinting corneas swoop thickest raspy coughs locate singeing shift current overcome coughing inferno ouch thrashing clouded watery beads capped treats paced treating scorched angrier contorted squatted pee severe scalding plunked sticky-sweet healthy grim balled-up yelling homes camped affairs mesmerized desperation launching steal dumping tenderness justified reacts offer unintelligible agreeing concerns forty-three relatively illness actress w-what admitting lifeless freaky dumber connections traitorous resisting grasp peace decency furball storm’s appropriate cliff reveling shard clatter soothing relishing pulverized smithereens boulder violent frightened irrational fallen possibly smothered meaty cloaked swooped sickeningly nostrils sedative cursed rallied scuffle scuttled captor circulation rasped viselike lolled rescued forty-four bonds staging unfortunate complication fog scrambling muddled funerals pendants vise sweetness blackness necessary loomed constricted heaving choking gruff hyperventilating suffocates coated hacking nods croaked relocate stolen grunt syllable drugs mist strapped bound shivers eerie breathy wheeze venom trail gumption predicament footfalls disposed disappearance guts throb ignorant cackle toy reserve widen contorting poison ple clarity struggle overwhelming happiness rocked jostling rescuer foggy occasionally elevator altitude delirium parted flimsy fumbling promises caress weary forty-five searing heightened awareness sensory overload barrage cigarette butts alley surveying hideout interrogation kidnappers scoured alexandre desperately operates anyone’s him: upcoming rounded apologized broom peeking roofs yards landmark eiffel gaped graceful paris france french indian saris currency exchange robbing bank machine atm watches account measures ‘make work’ cameras covering buttons alarm bills robbed technopath froster internet café sandwiches cheese once-living boxy computers navigated web browser googled number-one result pont iii bridge seine lanterns shopkeeper sped excitement decorations horizon lamp nexuses lasts mathematics applied dawn forty-six melder stun evening strolls cloaks leader obscurer bends distortion coil rope goons goon pathways underestimate wire enhanced wishful swirl severing rapid duck whizzed seizure dusted flailed gurgling blank forefinger crescent shaped jagged cowl stumble scarred heft frenzy hatred writhing strengthened pumping pulse heavyset figure’s hideouts options battering crushed nearing tug-of-war lessened allowing glorious drift fading surrendered mind’s imagination funeral weariness overtaking hazy snow labored conscious sparkle freedom sweep forty-seven brightness peaceful wove persisted appeal surge newfound pooled aches splintered clearer enveloped strawberry-blond-haired numbing sedated tingles luxuriating gulping wetness numb shhh sniffled recognizing propped girly seasons faltered proves meaningful floppy snickers emergencies conversations flirting scratch

blasts streaking injuries concentration’s cell half-drained gaunt fleeing canceling flitted nuzzling scratched there’d yawned lights forty-eight covers washed sandor goblin bodyguard inflictor paralysis semiconscious incapacitated dormant trauma latent polyglot languages advance interrogated sandor’s bunny seven-foot-tall buffed-out overtime blindfolded seared monitoring proved arrested custody awaiting deaths tragic innocence error motivate condemning madness reluctance single-handedly now’s crescent-shaped recalled epiphany overweight swells digest explains operative guarding subliminal advantage activate developed who’ll address database detectives arson reigned supreme wisest greater questioned decades measure influential amok globe rejected imprison devastated uprooted supporters initiative resign outspoken recruited activity satisfied handled poorly kidnapped prisoner resolved disposal stamped justice voiced revenge birthday birthdays indefinite spans thirteen-year-old crushes plots rebellions grown-ups understands teenager accepted bargain relented insisting uncertain responding arrange forty-nine pedestal charges bylaws sub-bylaws committed transgressions minor tortured regal express safely accused drafting addressed firmly murmurs debated arguments raging attitude disrespectful rebellious overlooked gratitude however static rulers experiences inappropriate assign ‘already served’ sang admission din bursting provisional basis due aforementioned cannot proceed suggestion issues seats smoothing occasion fancier signaling require records indicate provided remain appreciated despised gladly nicely dipped textbooks someday squash toughest earn deserves murderous successfully fingering justifiably displeasure smirking retake propose alternative state events revealed therefore practical prudent career prospects shifting internal logical volatile qualifies majority erupting directing registered cuddly earned oneon-one immediate tangle concluded gathered twirling nudging trades sidestepped congratulate surviving multiple tribunals swirls diamonds feminine unlatch decides woven triply journey

[luveline]

hotch overhears r telling the girls that hotch isn’t interested because he’s not flirting back and is like 😦 i have the biggest crush on u wdym?!?! i think he would be so oblivious hehehe. but only if you are so inclined! love you bunches miss jade 💘💘

Thank you for your request, you have a huge brain <3 fem!reader

Hotch is standing in the kitchen with the curtain pulled shut, reclaiming just the smallest bit of space after a long week of close quarters. You, JJ and Emily sit toward the front, and he’s no idiot — as soon as he’d entered the kitchen your easy conversation had stopped.

Not stopped. Quietened.

You’re speaking in whispers.

He’s perhaps a bad boss for trying to listen. He turns his good ear to the curtain and holds still, fighting to make sense of it over the low thrum of the jet engines.

“It looks like it’s going well!” That’s Emily, whispering but excitable, the loudest out of the three of you.

“Sometimes I think it is…” That’s you. He hears the beginning but not the tail end, your whispers too careful.

“They need more help than they’ll admit to,” JJ says softly.

“That’s the thing– I thought I was helping, you know? I’ve actually been awful.” You laugh and his brows ease up from their natural scowl. It’s a really nice sound. “I don’t know how many casual arm touches I have left in me.”

“He likes you, I know it,” says Emily.

“I really don’t think he’s interested,” you say, and you sound sad. Not in any danger of crying, simply sad. A depressed hush. “I complimented his haircut, a few days ago, and he didn’t even answer. He just smiled. I’m striking out.”

Hotch almost drops his cup of coffee because you’re talking about him. He’d had a feeling, of course, but that’s plain confirmation, unless you’re going around telling all your male friends you like their hair. And said male friends had also been pleased into silence, flustered and smug that you’d even noticed. It’s not like his hair ever gets very long.

He makes a show of opening the curtain and keeping his head down when he returns to his seat. Reid and Morgan both nod at him, a chess game between them that Morgan thinks he’s winning, and Reid knows he’s winning.

If he thought it wouldn’t make you an anxious ball of nerves, he’d stop you on your way past him and ask if he can speak to you at the office. As it stands, any hint that he’s heard your conversation would be a cruelty, so he smiles when you meet his eyes and doesn’t say a word. He loves smiling at you; you’re a frequent receiver and yet every time you get one you act like it’s a gift, your own doubling in size and your eyelashes kissing with the force of it.

Only when the jet’s touched down and you’re all making your way back into the office for paperwork does he hold you back. He actually reaches out for you, fingers over your pulse.

“Can I steal you?” he asks, trying to sound as you sound, sometimes, that lilting sweetness that comes with your flirting. “It won’t take long.”

He doesn’t miss the knowing glances from Emily and JJ. They’re a brilliant confidence booster, actually.

If Hotch weren’t your boss, he’d have asked you out by now. But he is, and so he needs this to be on your terms. That being said, he’s certainly not about to discourage you. The rest of the team keep walking, leaving you and him alone.

“I wanted to commend you for some amazing work this week. It was a long case, and you didn’t falter.”

You glow.

“Oh, thank you.” Brilliance melds to confusion. Hotch isn’t the type to pull someone aside for praise and nothing else. “It was rough but, uh, we’re a good team, aren’t we? We always get it done in the end.”

“We’re a good team,” he repeats. Then, because he has a huge, awful crush on you, and he needs to inspire some more bravery from you, “Sometimes I need more help than I’m willing to admit to.” He claps your upper arm gently. “You don’t let me down.”

He quickly stops touching you, taking a slow step toward the door that you follow automatically. He wants you to have the space to think about what he’s said, worried he’s read the signs wrong, worried he’s come on too strong, but you catch up and tuck your hand into the crook of his arm.

“I like helping,” you say, quiet but undeniably delighted. Your smile is cherubic. “People have said that about me, I’m a helper.”

“Yeah?” he asks with a laugh.

Your cheek touches his shoulder, the heat of it seeping through his suit. “Definitely.”

[fancyfeathers]

Yandere Wriothesley encountering his escaped darling (normalized yandere AU)

Connecting with the Yandere Neuvillette and Wriothesley series- Yandere Neuvillette & Wriothesly’s darling thoughts, Nothing You Can Take From Me Was Worth Keeping , I’m Bad But Then Your No Prize Either , post story headcannons, Pankration ring rules, Heartbreaking comparisons, Wriothesley’s darling escaping

took inspiration from this scene from Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

Wriothesley’s darling escaped with the help of her mother to Natlan, having nothing but the clothes on her back, a bag of food, her vision, and her father’s guitar. There she encountered a group of traveling musicians, like her, some of them on the run, others just didn’t have a family outside of this chosen on, no where else to go. She joins them and becomes apart of this family, spending nights under the open sky, looking at the stars above as they sing around the camp fire and sleep by each other for warmth, and the days, traveling from town to town, and doing the only thing they know how to, preforming. With them she went from angry, stubborn, and depressed from when she was with the Duke to strong, joyful, and sassy in the best way possible with this family.

Meanwhile for the Duke of Meropide it has been years since he has seen his darling and it was draining on him. He missed her snide comments, he missed her voice, he missed how she would bite at his lips when he tried to kiss her, it was still her touch. While the Duke is draining away his darling is thriving, finding family, and perhaps even love as she opens her heart again to one of her band members, a cello player, and a brilliant young man. So while Sigewinne is worrying about Wriothesley’s health, his darling is miles away kissing another man who actually treats her like a person, who doesn’t kidnap her, but gives her freedom.

It has been years and call them stupid but their groups decides it’s time they explored the world outside of Natlan. So they set out from region to region, Mondstadt (stopping to say hello to the darling’s family who fled there after helping her escape) Liyue, Sumeru, and so on, until they reach Fontaine. The group agreed to only stay there a few days and only give one performance, specifically in one of the poorer parts of the city, as to not draw the attention of the wealthier crowd, they’ll earn the keep plus some and then leave. Then on the night of the performance the darling sits down with her new lover and tells him of the put in her stomach, this feeling she has of something horrible happening. He tells her it’s just nerves and not to worry but she makes him promise that is something does happen that he’ll take the rest of the crew and run, don’t look back.

At the same time as all this Wriothesley gets forced out by the head nurse to get out of the Fortress and to go get some fresh air. So he sets out into the Court of Fontaine and hears whispers as he goes to a tea parlor that a traveling band is passing through. The wealthy women he is listening to scoff at the idea, such lowlife they say, but Wriothesley has nothing to loose so he decides to go watch since it may take his mind off his missing darling.

The performance buzzing with people, families, couples, children, the old, men, women, it’s just a lively environment. Then he hears whispers about how they can wait to hear her sing again, and how it’s been so long since she left Fontaine, let alone preform. The is a feeling of hope in the duke’s mind at this, a foreign feeling to him now and one what he cannot place. He shakes those thoughts away as he stands in the back and watches…

That’s when his heart stopped…

It was her…

Her dusty skirt twirling as she stepped onto the old stage, guitar in hand. She spoke to the crowd in that charismatic manner that she did to everyone, everyone but him. She was talking to her home again, a place she hasn’t been in what feels like forever. He watched as she held her guitar and began to sing, oh the first time he had heard her sing since she taken to the fortress and it was beautiful. His eyes were fixed on her as she sang, the lyrics should be like knifes to him with their meaning but he didn’t care…

Then she saw him, his heart soared…

and her heart sank…

she wanted to vomit when she saw the Duke, wanted to run, to scream, but she couldn’t…

Wriothesley watched as she trembled on her words but pushed on with the song and she looked away from him, her gaze shifting to another man, the cello player beside her, stepping over and pausing her singing to lean over and kiss the musician on the cheek which made the crowd cheer. The Duke felt his blood boil, but he could only silently grit his teeth and watch, starting a scene here would cause a panic…

for now he would let her enjoy her last preformance…

and don’t worry she won’t be dragged to the fortress alone now…

no her whole group broke the law, crossing the boarder without documentation…

is that not a law? Don’t worry he’ll talk to the Iudex of Fontaine about that, the man who’s darling was the singer’s best friend, who she ran with in the beginning and who she would share the same fate with in the end.

[equestriagirl16]

You accept Neige’s offer to transfer to RSA~💔

(Alternative pt.2 from here -🌹)

“Please Y/N, you’d fit in so well at RSA!” Neige’s familair voice rang throughout the courtyard you were trotting through after another day of classes. Your friend from across the way once again, despite his best intentions, absolutely insisted that you transferred to RSA here and now. For what you figured to be the 100th time.

“Neige I already told you-”

“I know I know, but you don’t get it Y/N! NRC isn’t a place for someone like you. Your heart and soul are way too pure, you’d have so many friends and a warm welcome waiting for you at RSA. You just have to let me take you there!”

Unbeknownst to you both a few of your said NRC friends may or may not have been purposefully eavesdropping on your conversation ever since they caught wind that the little do-gooder stopped by. Secretly they feared your answer, they knew that they didn’t give you the easiest time here. Perhaps someone as kind as you would find a better place at RSA, and maybe they should try to accept that rather than fight it for your own benefit.

…

“You’re…you’re right.”

Your dark haired friend immediately froze in shock at the apparent acceptance, but softened hearing your somber voice. Those who honed in on your conversation beyond your knowledge felt waves of dread wash over them, but listened on hoping to the great seven that they heard wrong.

“No one treats me right here, I clean their messes and slave away like I’m in some sort of tragic fairytale.”

You tried and failed to suppress the hiccup that left your throat. All this time after Neige’s constant pestering, no matter how much you tried to deny the offer. Just one more attempt was enough to break the damn.

“I love them but- I don’t want to feel like this anymore. I’m so powerless, like nothing I ever do will be enough.”

Neige places a sympathetic hand on your shoulder, you reciprocate the gesture by crashing your head into his body. Hiding the tears that were welling up from anyone’s gaze.

“Like any day I could just die if I make someone mad enough…”

You were quickly embraced in protective hold after you let out a defeated chuckle.

“I’m so tired Neige. Please- please help me.”

You felt the hasty movement of Neige fervently nodding in agreement. When all was said and done, he lead you away from the courtyard with a supporting arm so you two could continue to plan elsewhere. Perhaps with time and with this choice you’ve made, things could finally change. Because those you left behind would never be same.

Legs weak arms heavy(mom’s spaghetti), as they fell to their knees. Anything they could see was blurred and all they could feel was a pain in their chest that hurt worse than any punishment they could face from a professor. You were their best friend and yet they had no idea you felt like this. So soon enough your your pain became theirs. They have to do something, ANYTHING! Please just- PLEASE don’t leave them!! They’re so fucking sorry, but all they can do now is mourn over your choice.

- ACE & DEUCE, Kalim, Floyd, Epel, Cater

Very much in the bargaining and denial phase, they REFUSE this reality and they REFUSE this awful decision you’ve made! And curse that RSA nuisance for pestering you so, pushing you to the brink, this was just as much his fault as it was anyone else’s! They may have been ignorant to your pain but they can change! What do you need???!! They’ll give you anything, they’ll give you the world. Respect, fame, no one would ever be cross with you again as long as they had anything to do with it. You belong here, with them! They know it’ll upset you, but they won’t let you leave that easily as they stomp away already concocting a plan to block your path and change your mind.

VIL, RIDDLE, MALLEUS, Leona, Azul, Jade & Floyd, Sebek

Heh, that’s ok! They kinda knew all along you didn’t feel the most like yourself here. From the shadows they always saw how you suffered, and worked yourself to the bone but didn’t say a word. Even if they did they only encouraged you to push on further, giving you a helping hand and a warm smile. If they could make you laugh maybe you’d feel ok again! But deep down it hurt them to think that maybe, just maybe you weren’t happy here. Low and behold they were right. I-It’s fine though, with this you’ll finally be happier! No place is better for that than RSA, and even though it’ll hurt like a bitch they’ll be there. They’ll help you pack and wish you goodbye. You won’t always be around but at least they know you’ll come see them again, right?

Kalim, TREY, Ruggie, Silver, LILIA, Rook, Jack, Ortho

Numb, nothing. Just at an utter loss, complete defeat. They did this to you, they pushed you to feel this way. All their problems, all their emotions. EVERY. SINGLE. THING! That could’ve possibly pushed you to the edge was their fault, and even if it wasn’t they still did nothing to support you! You were just a human in their eyes, and when you became so much more they barely showed it. They fucking failed you, they hurt you, and they broke you. They’ll never forgive themselves for as long as they live. Even if they won’t make you stay, nothing in all the worlds will ever hurt more than watching you go.

JAMIL, Riddle, Azul, Idia, Leona, Vil(*cough* just the entire overblot gang *COUGH*), Malleus

[cocogrrrl]

the wingmen

wendy needs you to accompany her date with stan. luckily, you're not the only one accompanying someone. kyle broflovski x gn!reader no cws wc: 1427

“Please, YN. Stan’s bringing a friend along too!” Wendy pleaded on the phone.

You were listening to your best friend, Wendy, trying to convince you to come with her since she’ll be hanging out with Stan later.

Initially, you declined, seeing how, whenever this happens, you’re always left to your own devices by the side. You didn’t think badly of Wendy for this—no way—you just believe that you could be doing something more productive. However, seeing how someone else will also be a victim of their intense affection, you reconsidered your choice.

“Sure,” you said hesitantly. “Do either of us know who it is?”

“Oh, my gosh! Thank you!” She exclaimed as her excitement could be easily heard from your phone. “I don’t know if you know him, but Stan’s bringing Kyle along.”

You were trying to recall who that was. Although you hung out with Stan often because of Wendy, you didn’t know who his friends were. Though, you could vaguely remember what he looked like. “The tall guy who studies law?”

“Yeah, him! He’s Stan’s best friend, actually.”

Huh, you do see Stan hang out with him a lot whenever he wasn’t with Wendy. Perhaps Kyle’s around whenever you aren’t—hopefully, this means that he’s also endured the Wendy-Stan third-wheel experience. However, that’s just wishful thinking.

⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆

As you were on the way to the diner, where the four of you would meet up, anxiety started to bubble up in your system.

What if you and this Kyle guy had nothing in common? What if you screw up and make a bad first impression? What if he doesn’t like you? What if he doesn’t want to talk to you at all?

So many questions and what-ifs were in your head. Whenever it’s just the three of you, you already feel so awkward. To add another person to the mix? That sounds disastrous. It’s not like you could do anything, though, because you had just arrived right now.

Wendy dragged you through the glass doors of the homely and cozy little diner, immediately spotting Stan and Kyle and dragging you to the booth where they sat at.

“Hi, YN,” Stan said nonchalantly. He turned to Kyle and said, “Uh, this is Kyle.” He simply waved at you. Although he seemed polite, your brain automatically assumed he wanted nothing to do with you.

“So I’ve heard.” You nodded. “It’s nice to meet you, Kyle.” You returned the wave to him.

“You too.” He replied.

You two didn’t really talk one-on-one after that. Unfortunately, it was mostly Wendy and Stan carrying the conversations. Occasionally they’ll ask you about something, or Kyle would add a witty remark to something Stan said. It wasn’t the worst thing ever since Kyle’s stillness was comfortable, but it wasn’t going that great, either.

Deciding to give the two a little less time to focus on you two and more on them, you excuse yourself outside for a smoke. However, after a few minutes, you found out you weren’t about to stand there alone either.

You heard a knock on the door you exited. Quickly, you turned to see who it was—Kyle. “Hey.” You welcomed. “You want one?” You asked, offering a cig to him.

“No, thanks. I’m good.” He shook his head as he stood beside you.

“Oh, so why’d you come out here then?’ You peered. You didn’t mean anything bad by that—you were just confused. Clearly, he isn’t outside to smoke or vape or anything, so why did he even go out here in the first place?

“I wanted to give the two lovebirds some time to focus on each other. You know how they are, I assume.” You simply nodded to his statement. Maybe he’s also experienced being the third wheel.

“I also wanted to get to know you better.” He quickly muttered out that last part. He said it so suddenly, so you didn’t get to make out what he said.

“What was that?”

“Well, it would be a shame if I wasted all my time not being able to talk to someone as alluring as you are.”

You broke the peaceful silence between you two. “I’m not as impressed as your line as I am with the word alluring.” You two suddenly broke into a brief fit of laughter at your brutal honesty.

“I’ve never heard anyone use the word alluring ever!” You said in between giggles. “To hear you say that really caught me off guard.”

For a while, you two clicked right off the bat. It felt so easy talking to him. It felt so easy being with him. You didn’t realize it at first, but maybe you liked him.

I guess you shouldn’t be surprised; he was an attractive guy who was extremely respectful but also hilarious. No wonder you like him. That’s a combination of qualities you barely find anywhere.

“You like The Cure too?” He beamed. 

“Yeah! I’m seeing them next week since they’re headlining a nearby festival. Are you gonna see them too?”  You asked, sharing the same excitement as him.

“Oh, I didn’t get to buy tickets since, when I checked, the prices were listed for really pricey already.”

“Actually,” you paused. “I was thinking of bringing Wendy since I have an extra ticket. If you’re not busy, do you want to come with me?”

“Are you serious?”

“Yeah, totally.” You smiled.

“I would’ve never thought that Wendy also listens to them as well. Sorry, I can’t. I just feel mean for taking her ticket.”

“Oh, don’t worry! I kinda just wanted to drag her along since I have no one else to go with. She actually doesn't really listen to them.” You awkwardly laughed to yourself. “I’m guessing you’ll make more out of the ticket than her.”

“Sure, but only if she agrees to that and only if you let me pay for how much you spent on it.”

“Kyle, no, you don’t have to pay-”

“Nope. Those are my only conditions if you want me to go with you.” He said with a smug grin.

“Well, if you insist. I’ll ask Wendy if it’s okay with her if you’ll go with me instead. Is that okay with you?”

“It’s definitely okay with me, YN.” You heard a bubbly and shrill voice come from your left. Immediately, the two of you turned your heads to see Wendy and Stan giggling at the sight of the two of you, blushes forming on your cheeks.

“How long have you two been standing there for?” Kyle asked, both of you hoping that they didn’t hear much of your conversation.

“Long enough for me to hear YN asking you out. You scored well, YN!” She gave you a thumbs up, high-fiving Stan at the same time.

“I’m honestly disappointed in you, YN. Why didn’t you offer me the ticket?” Stan asked. You couldn’t tell if he was being serious or not, but it was probably the latter.

“I am not asking my best friend’s boyfriend to go to a concert with just me. That’s weird.” You rolled your eyes, although you meant that light-heartedly.

“Aaaanyways,” Wendy cooed. “We’re paying the bill, and we’re all splitting, yeah? We need you guys to come back in to sort it out.” She said before she and Stan made their way back into the diner—leaving just the two of you again.

There was an awkward silence that fell between you two. Luckily, Kyle was the first to break it.

“Now that you have Wendy’s permission, how much was that ticket?”

“I’m not too sure, to be honest. I’ll check later when I get back home. Is that fine?”

“Oh, yeah, don’t worry.” He grinned. “Can I have your number, though?”

That question took you by surprise. “Wait, why?” You asked while you handed your phone out to him.

“So you can text me how much the ticket was. Why? What did you think I was gonna say?” He returned with a voice that sounded genuine yet smug as well.

“Ah, I thought you were really interested in me.” You joked.

“What makes you think I’m not?” He said, handing you back your phone as he typed on his.

Suddenly, you got a text on your phone.

???, 9:47 PM hello alluring ;)

You looked back up at him and rolled your eyes while also laughing at his sweet little message.

“We should head back in now.” You suggested, making your way back to the door.

He followed behind you. “Whatever you say, gorgeous.”

“Now that’s a more normal word for attractive.”

[actually-safer-to-kiss]

The Pink Moon

Summary: Reader's anxious attachment style gets in the way of her enjoying the full moon.

Couple: Spencer Reid/Fem!Reader

Category: angst, somewhat hurt to comfort

Word count: 1.3k

The night is chilly and humid. You wrap yourself in a blanket while watching your chunks of Amethyst and Rose Quartz charge in the moonlight. You stare at them like they’ll hop off the ledge when you look away. Just as fast, you find yourself distracted by the moon behind them, glowing softly against the clear, dark sky.

Spencer comes to mind. You remember (once again) that it’s been nearly 13 hours, and you’ve barely heard from him. The Pink Moon is about relationships; you hoped he would spend time with you tonight for that reason alone, even though you were definitely not in a relationship. Instead, the crisp wind that grazes the back of your neck reminds you that he’s not here; no one is here tonight to keep you warm.

Your Tarot deck is in front of you. It seems easy to start a reading. But the idea of them saying anything about Spencer, explicitly calling you out for being such a lovesick fool so quickly, is something you know you couldn't handle right now.

You started seeing each other a couple of weeks ago after Penelope introduced you. You were shocked that the young genius at the FBI was easy to talk to. You had been in constant communication since he asked you to dinner after work just days later. His gentle gestures and calm tone were something you were not used to.

Now, he’s in Richmond working on a triple homicide case, as he said on the phone this morning. He’s likely surrounded by people who need his help. And you mope while wondering if that’s the last phone call you'll get from him. You're worried, actually expecting the case to be solved, the killer to be locked away, and Spencer to get home safely and not even bother to tell you.

Your list of past relationships is short. You could recall three if being together for a month counted. When your exes learned about your witchy tendencies at the start, they were for it. They were friendly when they asked about the Tarot and the significance of different colored candles on your altar. But it would fizzle out one way or another, usually after discovering your practices did not follow into the bedroom. Text messages and phone calls were then hours apart until they stopped altogether. And you were left to pick up the pieces again.

~ ~ ~

Science and behavior were some of Spencer's passions. He spoke about what he does for work and how he’s assigned to analyze things from a killer’s journals to how they present bodies upon being found. You wondered for a minute if you were in over your head when you agreed to dinner; and if such a logic-based personality could entertain your interests and beliefs. 

As you spoke, though, Spencer leaned in to listen, fingers laced under his chin, not even looking away. Like your exes, he admitted he didn’t know much about Tarot. “Oh, bullshit,” you remember saying.

“What?” He laughed.

“I’ve got insider information.” You replied while tapping your temple. “Penelope said you knew everything. She said she even quizzed you on the cards. You didn’t miss one.”

“Well, that’s true —”

“Aha!” You point.

Spencer had to hold back another laugh. “But I couldn’t tell you what they mean in sequence. Like, during an actual… reading. I think that’s the lingo. Garcia taps into something I simply can’t.”

“Hm,” You lean back in your seat. “So, is this a sign to do a reading for you in the future?”

Spencer pursed his lips. “Perhaps.”

The rest of the night took place in a nearby park, where you both stood under a tree, and Spencer gave you what was equivalent to a lecture on constellations and how they had been a storytelling method as far back as the ancient Greeks. You lapped up the lesson, watching his hands move and his fingers crook as information flowed out of him with ease. It was like he was a textbook in a corduroy jacket. It only reinforced that he was being himself from the moment you met. And you liked that about him.

The first kiss came shortly after, but it wasn't easy. You made what Penelope would later call “embarrassingly obvious" flirting attempts that Spencer was not understanding. You dropped it until he walked you to your apartment door. This was the first time the entire night that silence hung awkwardly between you. You tried once again and hugged him goodnight. You attempted to pull away, but his arms were still wrapped around you, not moving. You didn’t question, simply held on, keeping your arms where they were for another two, three, four seconds. 

When Spencer let go, you saw his smile was different. It was lazy, and his eyes were darker when he finally asked, “Can I kiss you?”

Your response, however, could be seen as less than polite. Instead of an enthusiastic yes, you poked his chest, an acrylic nail right into the corduroy. Despite moving away from it slightly, his arms around your waist helped you move along with him.

“Was I not obvious enough in the last hour?”

He raised his brows in genuine surprise. “Wait, no!” The gentleness of his demeanor shined again when you admitted what you wanted. And “Oh, thank God” was all he said before his hands rose to enclose your face in his warm palms and bring your lips together. And you enjoyed the crisp clarity that Spencer liked you as much as you liked him, and he wasn’t afraid to show it.

~ ~ ~

Your heart races with the memory. The wind blows at the back of your neck again, cooling you down this time. You pull your crystals off the balcony ledge and hold them in your hands, and keeping them close is more soothing. They can't get away from you here. Then you pick yourself up and prepare to call it a night. Your phone says it's tomorrow. It was easy to assume Spencer was asleep. 

However, the universe added a twist by having his name pop up as you look at the time. Your phone vibrated, waiting for you to decide. You placed the crystals in your pocket. “Hello?”

“Hey!” The enthusiasm behind his voice makes you swell, and you hate to admit it. “Sorry that I’m calling you so late.”

"No, you're fine! How’s the case?”

“Good, we’re at the hotel packing up. Should be leaving in the next 30 minutes.” 

“Oh, good,” you swallow. “I’m glad you’re safe.”

“Thanks.” He chuckles. “You’re looking at the moon, right?”

A smile creeps up on you. “Yeah. I am.”

“Me too.” The background noise of his team chatting is notable, but Spencer keeps talking. “I’m sorry I’m not there. Last minute calls are part of the job.”

“I know there are people who need you. It’s understandable.”

“I know.” He says. Silence reigns again. “I was doing some research on the Pink Moon on the drive. And apparently, it’s a good time to nurture relationships.”

“That is true.” You say. You feel like you should say more, but nothing comes to mind.

Spencer fills in the gap. “Doesn’t feel as nurturing to just be talking over the phone after not getting to speak for 13.4 hours, you know?”

“You think you can make it through the night?” You ask, sounding like such a confident smartass. When in reality, your heart is pounding in your ears.

“I’ll try my best to.”

“I will too.”

Silence is becoming more familiar between you, but a calmness in your core convinces you not to worry. So you sit in it, listening to Spencer as he breathes and even chokes down a yawn while the wind blows through on his end. “I don’t want to hang up.” He whispers.

“Me either.” You look up at the sky. The moon stands out against the stars, but you recognize some patterns in the glittering specks. Your heart continues to pump and you wonder if Spencer can easily pick up your deep breaths like you can with his. “Tell me about the constellations you can see.”

[thatmooncake]

The way Sun and Moon have experienced so much hurt and so much horror but in a way they may never be able to fully address because they just may not quite have the full understanding or the drive to unpack all of what’s happened to them in any sort of context beyond just seeing it as another part of their lives as silly jesters performing at the whims of other people as a small fragment of a dying franchise. That denial and where that understanding escapes them makes it even more tricky for them to heal because they can’t even begin to come to terms with the way the virus and their repurposing has affected them both, but the horrors keep on coming and they’re slowly unraveling and they know - they’ve known from the start - that something is wrong, and yet they can’t quite figure out what for the longest time.

When the virus hits, they just carry on as normal because that’s all they’ve ever known. They notice the other one is acting differently and it alarms them but they aren’t listened to. Perhaps they don’t openly voice their concerns, or maybe no one is there to hear them. Perhaps they don’t even stumble upon the answer until a long time has passed, sitting in denial, just blocking out the changes and the concerns, and the other one whose existence has now thrown their lives into turmoil.

Sun carries on like everything’s fine and dandy - that is, until he can’t anymore. What a life. Always on. Always acting. He’s a good actor, sure, but when you’re meant to play one half of a day-night cycle I bet it wears at you when you now have to cover both shifts. The fact that he’s even trying to - he’s desperate not to be pulled back into the abyss so Moon can come out because he knows how broken Moon is right now. And I’m guessing that even if he did have a clue how to fix them (which, maybe he honestly didn’t, or simply wouldn’t come to terms with until he saw the faz-wrench in Cassie’s hand in Ruin), he couldn’t leave the daycare at most hours because he’d be at work, entertaining the kids, or not supposed to be out if the daycare was out of order. And then when the pizzaplex was closed, there were the blackouts all over, keeping him locked in where the generators were, where he’d have a chance to retreat into the light (and we can’t forget how useful Moon was to Afton and co as a retrieval bot, so he’d be out and about of course, they’d make sure of that, but not as himself).

The alternative would have been knowingly risking unleashing Moon upon more potentially innocent victims, and getting both of them in even more trouble when he should have been out. He should have been making sure things stayed working at least a little bit. And we see Sun fighting Moon with everything he has in the Ruin jumpscares just so they won’t do something they’ll regret. How long has he been fighting? How many times might he have tried and failed to stop Moon and woken up with blood on his hands?

How exhausting that must have been. Did he blame Moon at all? Any animosity between them could only have hurt more. And even if he didn’t give in to that frustration, the fact is, he was keeping Moon away that whole time, not letting him out to play. For his own good or not, that can’t have felt nice, and it certainly can’t have been easy.

And then Moon on the other hand expresses little clear awareness that something is wrong in Security Breach itself, at least none that’s addressed to Gregory or any of the others, simply going about his business, but it’s heavily implied he knows - and maybe he always knew - that there is something pulling from beneath the surface from the things he says in Ruin. “It won’t work!” He knows at that point at least that Sun (or perhaps Cassie) has a plan, of sorts. But he denies it. He doesn’t trust in that plan to fix them. He knows Sun is there, fighting to come out the moment the lights come on. He’s determined not to stay locked away anymore.

Imagine that frustration too. He wants Sun gone - he has to - because he’s in pain as long as the lights are on. And we can tell from Sun’s sad little song that he feels every bit of emptiness when he’s not active as well. And yet, being active feels like a desperate struggle on both sides as well. They’re in a constant battle with themselves, and there can be no victor.

Now imagine if Moon’s awareness - or his relative resignation at the state of the virus - had extended way back to the main game, when they first became afflicted by it. Knowing there was nothing he or Sun could do to stop it - because he (because they?) tried, and failed? Or just (optionally, if we’re considering the novels) because he was always the “villainous” appendix FazCorp couldn’t cut out of the otherwise comparatively “functional” working daycare attendant? Because then maybe Moon knew all along that there wasn’t a version of events where he was actually supposed to be here anymore.

(When he was infected by the virus, on the other hand? Moon had a purpose. Not a nice one, exactly, but a purpose nonetheless. Something Sun still had in the daycare that he wasn’t allowed. It’s not surprising that they ended up at odds with each other at all no matter how you look at it.)

[honeydippedwaffles]

Request: Our Intertwined Fates

Request Information: A set of possibly two or three parts surrounding one my mutual's favourite, non-companion characters in the game: Rolan. This in a look at how Rolan and Tav's relationship builds over the course of the story from a friendship to something more.

Tav is not referred to by name.

Content Warnings: She/Her Tav

Word Count: 2.1k words

╔═══*.·:·.☽✧    ✦    ✧☾.·:·.*═══╗

The scent of rust mingled awfully with the flowering bushes surrounding the grove. Something felt wrong about strolling into such a place with goblin blood still drying on her armour and the cling of an abduction over her shoulders.

She did so regardless, muscles strung tight from a battle nearly lost and an argument she could scarcely defuse. Who knew helping somebody out would cause such trouble.

“We’re off to a great start,” she said to nobody in particular. “Barely free of some wretched pod and already we’re wrapped up in another conflict.”

Her companions and her had crashed into this isolated area of coastline just the very morning they stumbled into this grove. How they’d managed to get themselves involved in whatever impossible argument was occurring between tieflings and druids escaped her understanding.

“This really isn’t our business,” she admitted to them when they looked at her. “But I suppose if we’re going there anyway, the least we can do is talk to the head druid? It won’t do any harm.”

She lied to herself like that sometimes.

If somebody asked her for help, she’d never been able to turn them down. Offering her assistance felt negligible in the grand scheme of things and this conflict really seemed to have a solution she could find. It would help also, to have the grove’s knowledge on her side.

Those excuses really didn’t feel genuine when the threat of a tadpole behind her eyes lingered.

Yet despite having it in mind, when she overheard an argument, she couldn’t help herself but stop to listen. The trio of tieflings sounded so irritated with one another as they fought about whether they should remain with the group or forge their own path to the city. A fight they’d clearly gone over before if the exasperation said anything.

“Don’t be ridiculous, we don’t even know these people. I’m not sticking my neck out for every person we come across. With my magic, we have nothing to fear about the path to Baldur’s Gate as long as we leave now.”

“Just because we don’t know them doesn’t mean we should abandon them here. What use are all our spells and blades if we don’t even use them to help people.”

She listened curiously, not planning on interjecting but also wondering about the goal of Baldur’s Gate. Some things unfortunately rarely changed and she couldn’t help but worry for this group. “Does Baldur’s Gate welcome tieflings at all?”

Her question directed itself at nobody in particular and yet, she must have spoken loud enough for them to hear as the three all turned to her with various expressions of disinterest or appreciation. She shifted uncomfortably beneath their gazes and smiled to show she hadn’t meant to get involved.

“More so than other cities,” one of the tieflings answered. “Perhaps they’ll stare but nobody will pull a blade out. It doesn’t really matter either way because I’ll be welcomed. You’re speaking to the recently accepted apprentice of the great wizard Lorroakan.”

Tall, haughty, and certainly pretty enough to be a wizard rather than a fighter, she could tell he had a great deal of trust in what he said.

Maybe even too much.

Lorroakan sounded familiar but she couldn’t place why it felt wrong. A wizard certainly but not one whose name carried very good rumours alongside it. She could share what she knew but to do so felt wrong and so she smiled.

“Congratulations,” she urged. “You must certainly be very talented to earn yourself such a grand apprenticeship.”

“I assure you, I am.”

“Then it sounds as though your help could be invaluable to these people who are blessed with neither magic nor fighting skill.” Her gaze drifted to where children and others attempted to spar with sloppily created training dummies. “Honestly, I believe they’ll need all the help they can get.”

He frowned; caught in the small trap she’d created through his own confidence. She felt a little bad for taking advantage of his arrogance but she hadn’t been lying when she commented on the tieflings.

They probably wouldn’t survive a day against the goblins.

“That’s what I’ve been saying. We have to stay and help.”

The wizard looked between her and the others before he threw his hands up in agitation. “Fine but if we end up rotting on a road because of this, it’ll all be your fault.”

He stormed off and she glanced awkwardly at the others. Perhaps she had overestimated their skills but she doubted their chances even more if they split from the group and tried to do it alone.

But if they died, the weight would never lift from her shoulders.

“Thank you for intervening. Rolan can get obnoxiously stubborn at times but he’s a good person. He’d have regretted choosing to leave later.”

She laughed awkwardly, unsure how to respond beyond offering her name as a means of introduction before hurrying off. They had so many problems to face, far more dangerous than even taking on a slew of unending goblins. Such a thing could wait until after the worm got removed.

One poisoning later and another child rescued and they took on the very task she’d tried to avoid, regardless of Astarion’s unimpressed complaints about it.

They ended up fighting through a, quite frankly, impossible number of goblins after rescuing a massive druid from the dungeons. Followed it with a battle against shadow druids who were disguising themselves as rats. And then still ended up standing exhausted at a party with the blood not fully washed from her hair.

As tired as she was, she couldn’t skulk away into her tent so early into the night. Everybody wanted to speak to her and she was now avoiding Lae’zel as best she could after the gith caught her off-guard with the strangest proposition she’d ever heard. Flattered, but uninterested, she looked around for help and eventually caught Lia’s eyes.

“What are we doing?” she asked.

“Rolan’s going to put on a show for us,” Lia told her, excited and a little teasing. She, like many of the others, appeared a little tipsy as she gestured to her brother. “Watch.”

“Patience,” Rolan chided. “You have no respect for showmanship.”

“Performance issues,” Cal whispered to her and she laughed behind a palm despite the wizard’s glare.

After all the near misses with fireballs through the day though… well, she really hoped whatever magic he wanted to use involved snow or water. Anything she didn’t have to dodge.

He surprised her pleasantly with neither and the small cascade of dancing lights lit up the sky in pretty shades of blue. She’d seen children do similar magic when first learning of their abilities and it never failed to make her smile.

“He can also make them purple,” Cal told her proudly.

She politely clapped and tried to keep her expression supportive of the tiefling trio. Rolan had skill enough to make something of himself in Baldur’s Gate… if his tutor held up to his expectations.

And, of course, the group had to get there first but she had faith. Zevlor, if nobody else, looked well equipped to shield his group from danger.

“You’ll do brilliantly with the proper training,” she complimented when she noticed Rolan’s gaze hover over her for a second longer. “You can ask Gale about some spare scrolls we found while exploring. They may come in use during your travels.”

Rolan straightened his spine beneath the praise, pleased with his successful show. “I have no need for scrolls but I thank you for the offer.”

She laughed and raised her glass to him. “If you say so. The offer still stands.”

She bid the three siblings good luck with their further travel and stepped away to clear her head, finally seeing an opportunity to seek peace and quiet. The shadows provided some solace as she made her way into the forest.

When she came across a small clearing, she settled on a log. It had been a long day filled with unending waves of enemies and her eyes felt heavier than ever.

She’d almost drifted off when she heard footsteps behind her. Footsteps, clumsy and unused to stalking through the dark. At least she knew it not to be an assassin, she imagined.

Although she’d expected Karlach or Gale rather than the tiefling she saw.

“Rolan?” she asked, confused as to why the wizard had followed her and now hovered uncomfortably at the edge of the clearing.

“Lia made a very good point,” he said, straightening imaginary creases from his robes as he spoke. “Scrolls could be useful if we get into a situation where my magic is lacking.”

She frowned for a second before she remembered her offer and waved back at the party with a smile. “Oh, right. Those are with Gale or one of the others. I don’t know what spells they have but any magic is useful, right?”

“Obviously but they’re mainly for Lia’s peace of mind. I don’t think we’ll have any problems when I have my thunderwave to handle threats.”

She smiled. “I’m sure. Make certain to aim for the nearest cliff.”

A wince followed as she remembered shoving a goblin from one of the rafters earlier in the day. She hadn’t appreciated the crunch of bones or the smear of blood… she hadn’t cleared out a goblin camp before the day and it really didn’t suit her.

“With any hope, you’ll have no need of spells at all,” she said. “I think the path to Baldur’s Gate should be open.”

“If it wasn’t, I don’t think they’d be singing your praises so highly,” he scoffed.

He took a few seconds to place the strange jealousy in his voice as not related to handling the goblin camp but rather the heroism of it. Strange, she’d never thought of a battle as something to be envious of. She certainly left with a great deal of pain in her ribs to show for it and little else.

“Something wrong?” she asked, fixing him with a soft gaze.

Rolan shrugged but she noticed the way his tail flicked, irritated, back and forth. He watched everything besides herself, not truly meeting her eyes as he gazed around the clearing.

“Nothing,” he said. “I’m just hoping you haven’t given my siblings any ridiculous notions about going off and being a hero. They’re not the type to walk through a goblin camp with no problem.”

She smiled, understanding his concerns. “I’m sure they’ll be fine. It’s not about being a hero, it’s about giving help where it’s needed and… I suppose it was selfish too. I needed a healer and Halsin was my only option.”

“A healer?” he repeated, gaze lingering over her bruises. “Did he manage to fix whatever’s wrong with you?”

Her heart thudded a little and her stomach sank. He hadn’t been able to do anything for her. Halsin pointed her in a direction and promised to help but he couldn’t remove the tadpole from her head. Every day, she ended up closer than ever to becoming a creature from her worst nightmares and she could do nothing.

Honestly, it may have contributed more to her mood surrounding the party than the actual exhaustion had.

“No, then?” Rolan asked.

She shook her head and tried to shake free of the worries. “Unfortunately, my condition goes a bit beyond his talents but he did give me a way forward. We’re heading toward Moonrise Towers to look for answers.”

‘You don’t sound confident.”

“It’s hard to be sometimes,” she admitted. “But I don’t really have much of a choice in what I do next.”

He coughed, a little awkward as he shifted his weight from side to side. “Well, I mean you’re clearly more than capable of handling things. I’m sure getting to wherever will be easy enough for your little group of heroes.”

She laughed at the unexpected and strange praise. “Thank you, Rolan.”

He nodded and seemed about to turn around and leave so she stood and the movement momentarily froze him. She leaned forward and pressed a small kiss to cheek in thanks.

“You’re going to do great with your studies,” she said. “I’ll be sure to brag to everyone I know once your name becomes renowned.”

Somebody once told her tieflings couldn’t blush but she swore she saw colour darken the tops of his cheeks even in the dim light of the forest.

Taglist: @miwn8

[sereneres]

hug? ³˙⁵

kim minji x 6th member!reader / 2k

summary. — you and minji have a much-needed talk (after some more unnecessary yet necessary drama) while the girls eavesdrop, as per usual.

warnings. — only a little less dramatic / a lot more comforting

it has never been this bad before.

that was something newjeans – excluding the two members that were currently fighting – agreed on.

after the two of you had walked back into the practice room and started heading to the ground floor where your manager was waiting, you had split off, minji going to hanni and danielle while you went to haerin and hyein. you had put up a happy front, smiling at the younger girls and reassuring them that everything was fine.

“are you okay, yn-unnie?” hyein asked worriedly, her brows furrowed. “you don’t look too good.”

“i’m okay, hyein, don’t worry. i’m just a little tired, that’s all.” you smiled, rubbing the younger girl’s shoulder reassuringly.

the two girls glanced at each other, both concerned by the way you acted but not wanting to say anything that would make you upset.

“manager-unnie should be here soon to pick us up.” haerin said after a moment of uncomfortable silence. “and then we can go to the restaurant hyein’s friend recommended to her.”

“okay.”

“speaking of which, i hope it’s not too pricey.” hyein murmured, biting her lip. “we don’t necessarily eat a lot, but if it’s expensive…”

“don’t worry, hyein. minji-unnie or yn-unnie will pay for us, though they’ll probably fight over the bill first.” haerin said before nudging you. “right, yn-unnie?”

“who knows.” you say, your gaze shifting from the two girls to minji, who was walking beside hanni and danielle as she moodily stared at her phone. “maybe we won’t fight about it this time after all.”

you would rather argue with minji about who would pay the bill than not talk to her at all.

if your manager noticed anything off between you and minji – and just the group synergy in general – she didn’t say anything of it, instead choosing to stay quiet and occasionally steal glances at you and your members.

perhaps uncomfortable with the silence, or maybe she just wanted to talk, hanni spoke up.

“so, what restaurant did your friend recommend you hyein?” she asked, turning in her seat to face the younger girl.

“huh?” hyein blinked, clearly having not been expecting for someone to speak to her. “oh, uh, i think it’s mainly a chinese restaurant? they have a lot of korean foods ok the menu, though, if you aren’t into chinese.”

“chinese food sounds great.” in the corner of your eye, you can see minji giving you a stink eye from where she was sitting behind you. “do they have an online menu? maybe we can see what they have and order right away.”

“let me check.”

as hyein searched for an online copy of the restaurant’s menu, hanni brought up the topic of foods she didn’t and did like, which prompted danielle to join the conversation, then hyein found the menu, and just like that, half of the six members of newjeans, who had been silent, were now talking about food.

the other half were either listening (haerin), preoccupied with thinking about other things (you), or just moodily staring out the window (minji).

“are you and minji alright?” your manager suddenly asked, her voice low so as to not be heard by your other members. taken by surprise, you turn to look at her, your brow raised. “excuse me?”

“minji keeps glaring at you.” she continued as the car slowed to a stop as the light turns red. “normally, i wouldn’t have said anything, but seeing as its both you and minji…” she trailed off, shrugging.

“we’re fine.” with how unconvincing you sounded to your own ears, you weren’t too surprised when you received a very unconvinced look from your manager.

“we’re just in the middle of a disagreement, unnie.” you say reassuringly, patting the woman’s shoulder. “we’ll be okay, i promise.”

“remember, yn.” she murmured, eyes fixed to the road as the light turned green. “it isn’t just you and minji in this group. if a scandal arises because of this, you may bring the whole group down.”

you sigh, resting your head on your hand. “i know, unnie. trust me, i know.”

lunch was a quiet affair. by the time you got there, everyone had quieted down again, too hungry to continue talking about food. meanwhile, minji had stopped glaring at you, although now she refused to look at you whatsoever.

“what do you think, unnie?” you blink, turning your head to see hyein to your left, looking at you while she ate. “does it taste good?”

“it tastes okay.” you answer, looking back at your plate to see it still somewhat full. from across the table, minji scoffs before mumbling something incoherent, her brows furrowed as she glared at her plate.

“minji,” you called, exasperated. “if you want to say something to me, say it to my face, not to your food.”

the girl looked up at you for the first time since you had entered the restaurant, her eyes wide with surprise. from her reaction alone, it was obvious that she must not have expected you to outright confront her.

“you–”

“guys, let’s not do this here.” danielle interrupted, frowning. “we’re in public and we’re eating. if you guys want to argue, then do it later. not now.”

“…”

one look around the table made it clear to both you and minji that the rest of your members agreed with the girl’s statement, so you both went back to your plates, minji aggressively eating her food while you nibbled on yours.

“unnie, i don’t like this.” hyein murmured to hanni, who patted her on her shoulder in an attempt to comfort the girl.

“i know, hyein-ah, but it’ll be over soon.” she glances at minji, who was still eating her food aggressively, her eyes narrowing. “i’ll make sure of it.”

“minji, why are you so upset with yn?” hanni asked, having burst into the older’s room several seconds prior to her question. “she hasn’t done anything wrong.”

“you think i don’t know that?” minji snapped, irritation clear on her features. “i know she hasn’t done anything wrong, but we both– no, we all know that she’s been overworking herself. that itself is the problem.”

“what i don’t get is why you’re so hung up on this.” hanni said, brows furrowing. “when haerin started practicing late at night to practice her footwork, all you did was encourage her to try her best and to not come home too late.”

“that’s different.” the older girl said as she frowned.

“or what about the time hyein keep re-recording that one part of ‘ditto’?” the aussie continued, slowly growing more and more frustrated by the korean. “she literally lost her voice because she overused it, but all you did was–”

“yn isn’t like them.” minji interrupted. “when the others need help, they’ll ask someone for help without another thought. when yn needs help, she doesn’t ask for it.”

“then why pick a fight?” hanni asked, her expression softening. “why argue when you could’ve just helped her?”

“she’s stubborn, you and i both know that. if i offer her my help, she’d just refuse it outright.” minji sighed, shaking her head. “i figured that if i picked a fight with her, maybe she would understand where i was coming from, but–”

“your emotions got the best of you.” hanni finished, and minji nodded, a sheepish look on her face.

“well, it doesn’t look like yn is upset at you whatsoever.” the former said, crossing her arms. “she’s just tired of it all.”

minji snorted, rolling her eyes. “of course she is – she hasn’t slept for more than five hours since our comeback was announced.”

“actually, i have been sleeping for more than five hours, believe it or not.”

upon hearing your voice, the two girls froze, eyes widening as they both turned to look at the door to see you leaning against the door frame, an amused look on your face.

“i came here to talk to you, minji-unnie,” you said, walking towards the two surprised girls, “but it looks like hanni-unnie got to you first.”

“how-how long have you been standing there?” minji stammered, hastily standing up from her seat on the floor. “and why didn’t you say anything earlier?”

“i got here around the time hanni-unnie started ranting about the times the others have overworked themselves during our past debut’s and comebacks.” you say, looking at the aussie, who stared back at you with wide eyes. “by the way, hanni-unnie, minji-unnie did a lot more for us behind the scenes, you just weren’t there to see it.”

“i-i-”

“hanni, get out.” minji ordered, having gotten over her shock upon realizing that you had been eavesdropping on them. “i need to talk to yn.”

her eyes still wide, the younger girl wordlessly left the room, leaving the two of you alone. silently, minji gestured for you to sit on her bed and sat beside you once you did.

“i’m sorry, unnie.” you say after a bout of silence, looking down into your lap. “i shouldn't have said all those things.”

the older girl snorts. “we hardly said anything offensive to each other, yn. all we did was bicker like children.”

“still. i should have just accepted what you said.” you murmured, biting your lip. “i didn’t want to burden you guys by asking for help, but i ended up burdening you anyway by making you worry about me, so i’m sorry, minji-unnie. i already apologized to the others as well.”

“there is no need to apologize, yn.” the girl said gently, placing a comforting hand on yours. “you will never be a burden to us, no matter what you do. besides, the others and i would never think of you like that.”

“and i also have to apologize for the way i picked a fight with you for no real reason.” she continued. “it wasn’t something i should’ve done, and it was definitely not right of me to do it.”

“it’s okay, unnie.” you smile as you look up at the older girl, who’s eyes widen when she notices that your eyes are slightly teary. “you had good intentions.”

“don’t cry, yn.” minji said firmly as she began to tear up herself. “if you cry than we’ll both cry and–”

“ah shit–”

both you and minji flinch as the door abruptly opens and then blinked owlishly at the pile of girls on the floor, with a certain aussie at the bottom of it and hyein on top of it.

“i told you this was a bad idea.” haerin mumbled, her words muffled by the plush carpet her face was pushed into.

“no, you said that the door would probably collapse if we pushed against it too hard.” hyein said, frowning. “you didn’t say it would be a bad idea.”

“it was implied.”

“i’m so happy you two made up!” danielle smiled, bounding over the two of you happily. how she had gotten out of the pile when she was stuck under haerin and hyein, you had no idea. “did you guys hug yet?”

(ah yes, the hug-after-a-fight tradition. danielle had been the one to introduce it when hyein and hanni had argued over potato chips, and it had stuck ever since.)

“ah, no. not yet.” minji said, still baffled by the sudden intrusion of the four girls. “were… did you guys hear everything we said?”

“not really.” haerin squirmed, managing to slide hyein off of her and onto the floor. “you and yn-unnie kept mumbling, so we missed out on a majority of your convo.”

“you two should hug!” danielle chimed in, reclaiming your attention. “hug! hug! hug!” she turned to the rest of your members, looking at them pointedly.

taking the hint, hanni was the first to start chanting along with danielle, even pumping her fist despite still being on the floor. “hug! hug! hug!”

“hug. hug. hug.” haerin joined in, languidly pumping her own fist.

“hug, hug, hug!” hyein said excitedly, pumping her fist excitedly in contrast to haerin’s lackluster fist pumping.

“hug?” minji asked, turning to you and smiling, shyly opening her arms for you to walk into.

“hug.” you respond, smiling back at her as you walked into her arms.

previous. / get up. / next.

x. taglist — @awkwardtoafault @brocoliisscared @yerisdumbass @sserajeans @luvjanexx @captivq @yizhoutv

[infernalodie]

𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 || 𝐑𝐮𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭

"𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘚𝘩𝘦'𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘖𝘧𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦"

Inspo: Kamal. - people don't change - demo

Pairing: Rue Bennett x Black!Male!reader

Summary: Maybe you had held out for hope for no reason...

Warnings: Reader and Rue dated prior to Jules ever arriving, drug abuse, and a lot of angst.

Words: 1253

DNI IF YOU'RE YOUNGER THAN 18 OR SENSITIVE TO THE WARNINGS ABOVE!

At the heart, you wanted to believe Rue was trying to get clean. Indeed, you wouldn’t be a friend if you didn’t believe it. What made it hard was sitting in this parking lot, standing by the counter to grab your guys’ food and knowing precisely what she was doing inside your car. A powdered line along your phone case with a rolled-up bill in hand. Her shame had no limits.

And you weren’t going to try and act high and mighty because you’ve done your fair share of drugs. But you didn’t let them take ahold of your life like Rue has.

But who were you to judge? It’s not like you were someone that had control in her life. You were a mere ex-boyfriend and only recently she had befriended you again after the two of you caught up from the few months of her being in rehab.

You didn’t know how to navigate around the clear issue she had been sent to deal with. And the people in her life, like Fez, weren’t exactly helping. Him giving her drugs after knowing about her going to rehab set her back at square one. The difference was he cared about her, unlike most drug dealers. So, you could respect him for that.

Once again; what could you possibly even do?

Grabbing the bag of food, you walked to the vehicle. Rue noticed your approach and slipped out with a tired smile. “I’ve been needing this.”

You smiled. “I’m glad I can be of service.” Handing her the food, you moved to the other side of the car and took your own out.

“Yeah, man. Mom’s been on my ass about these drugs and shit. I can barely be able to go out anymore without her throwing a drug test in my direction.” She took a bite of her burger, humming in satisfaction.

A groan fell from your lips that hadn’t been intentional but simply slipped out. “Here we go again.”

Hearing that made Rue frown. Her lips twitched in a confused grin with her head tilting slightly. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Taking a bite out of your burger, you grabbed a napkin and wipe your lips. “You’re always complaining. Why does everyone keep walking out of my life? Maybe you keep pushing them away? Perhaps you’re the problem.”

Rue scoffed, shaking her head. “I don’t complain, man. Ask anyone and they’ll tell you that.”

“That’s all you do, Rue,” you laughed. “You don’t realize it, but when you were gone, Leslie had me driving Gia to school instead of the bus and I get to hear all about that shit.” Rue, of course, hadn’t known this considering the two of you ended things on a harsh note with her slapping you in front of the entire football team. Now, you weren’t going to take the full blame because you had yelled at her for deciding to skip out on your game to do drugs. And your anger came from your worry, but she hadn’t seen it that way and it resulted in her cutting all ties to you. “You complain and complain about your circumstances and why it won’t get easier. You say you want “change” but you don’t want to change.”

“Pretty high and mighty coming from the asshole smoking weed in front of me,” Rue pointed out, snarky. “If I had recovered at rehab, you would be the cause of me going back to drugs. You ever think about that?”

You smiled, leaning your arms on the roof of the vehicle and saying, “I wouldn’t if I knew you were off of them but I hear everything from Fez. You completely forget that I buy my shit from him.”

She looked about ready to walk away just so this didn’t ruin her high. But you continued, keeping her shortening care to listen. “Rue, you aren’t unique, all right? If I have to be the one to tell you, then I will. But you are just like every addict in this world that is struggling just like you. They had something happen in their lives that put them down the same path as you.” Sighing, you tapped your hand on the roof of your vehicle and said, “The difference is people in your life care and have been trying everything to help you, but you won’t accept it.”

“Why do you even care?” Rue asked.

Exhaling deeply, you said, “Because for a time, I loved you and I still care about you enough to tell you when you are being a jackass. And maybe I had hope that you would get better and go back to who you were before all this shit.” She stared at you for a few moments, perhaps thinking. Whether she was or not, you glanced away before popping open the door. “But then again, I don’t mean jack shit.” And you left her with that hanging statement for most of the ride.

Life had its way of working things out and you were sure that in some way, your words would come to reality for Rue. There hadn’t been malice for years and your intentions weren’t to destroy her. But you saw the only way she could heal was to crumble and repair afterwards. There could only be so much pain and torment she could take before she had to look for a way to pivot to either keep herself safe or keep the people she cared about in her life. And you hoped she found it sooner than later because you could already see the aftermath of her decisions if she kept down this road.

Pulling up outside of her house, you placed the car in park and allowed your hands to fall by your thighs. Leaning your head back into the cushioning of the headrest, exhaling softly.

Rue shifted from time to time, clearly wanting to express her thoughts. She could get out of the car and walk away with the remnants of resentment she’d held against you for years. But she didn’t. She sat there, uncomfortable in her thoughts that she couldn’t put together well enough to make a coherent and important statement.

Sighing, you said, “I know you don’t care about what others think Rue and I can’t change your mind. I am just an ex-boyfriend that you dated for a little while. I can accept that.” Turning toward her, you shook your head. “But your mom, Gia, Fez, Maddy–everyone fucking cares. The last thing anyone wants to see is your face on the early morning news dead from an overdose. I don’t want to see that shit.”

Rue chewed on her bottom lip, nodding to herself. As she went to grab the door handle, she stopped, looking back at you and muttering, “You know, I’m sorry about us-”

“Don’t.” Rue watched as you shook your head, glancing at her. “You don’t need to go digging into the past to apologize to me when you should be focused on the road ahead. It’s embarrassing.”

Again, harsh. But needed. And for the first time since the start of the argument, Rue didn’t bite back or protest. Almost agreeing. Because it was despicable how she desperately tried to indirectly apologize. Especially for something she knew she didn’t deserve the opportunity to apologize for. “It’s in the past and you found someone new and I’m happy for you.” Unlocking her door, you sighed. “Just don’t go ruining it like we did with our relationship.”

[neteyamsoare]

hii, my names kate and i’d love a lo’ak x fem reader one shot or drabble. if it’s okay with you, angst to fluff maybe 🤭 the reader is a little bit clingy and she kinda gets insecure about her clingyness with lo’ak so she starts distancing herself but then lo’ak takes notice and confronts her?? maybe?? perhaps??? thank you

Stuck With Me.

༉‧₊˚. Featuring. Lo’ak Sully x Fem! Na'vi! Omaticaya! Reader.

༉‧₊˚. Summary. You believe your clinginess to Lo’ak is going too far so you decide to step back, what happens when he starts to notice the changes?

༉‧₊˚. General Tags. Angst and fluff.

༉‧₊˚. Content Warnings. Aged up! Lo'ak, mention of deceased parents, and friends to lovers.

༉‧₊˚. Word Count. 2,3k.

༉‧₊˚. Notes. I'm so nervous, I don't know if I came through on your request, if not let me know and I'll redo it, I put some backstory in case I did a part two, which is only coming out if you liked how I went it so again let me know. Compared to the one I'm doing with Neteyam x reader, I can say it's much different cause I narrated more in this one. I hope you enjoy it now I'm going to hide. 🙈

༉‧₊˚. Extra. Comments, likes, and reblogs are highly appreciated but not pressured. 🤍

༉‧₊˚. Starred Links. Navigation + Masterlist + Prompts + Taglist

My parents were close friends with Neytiri and Jake, and my parents would babysit their kids whenever they went on dates. My mom got pregnant with me right around the same time Neytiri got pregnant with Lo’ak which made them spend even more time together thinking of how we would turn out, thinking of names to call us, and of course, as mothers do placing a bet on if Lo’ak and I will be mates. 

When Lo’ak and I were born, the only way to soothe me down was as if I were next to Lo’ak and vice versa. I would fall asleep holding Lo’ak’s hand and the grownups couldn’t help but find it so adorable. As Lo’ak and I grew up, we were always around each other, people called us the troubled duo, whenever one of us got in trouble the other wasn’t so far behind. 

The sky people made their appearance again making it known they weren't going to stop til they get what they want, my parents went to fight causing me to feel scared for their well-being. Nobody other than Lo’ak could soothe me and reassure me that they’ll be fine and although I still worry, I listen to his calming voice as I fall asleep with my head on his shoulder. 

A few minutes pass and I wake up to Lo’ak looking down at me, I punch him gently in the shoulder calling him a creep for watching me while I was asleep. When I stop giggling, I look up at his face and notice nothing but sadness across his face. “Lo’ak what’s wrong?” I say bringing my hand to his face. When he said nothing, worry started to crawl up on my face that when Neytiri walked into the tent with tears running down her eyes, I didn’t need an explanation to find out my parents were gone. Tears started to fall down my face uncontrollably knowing that I would never see my parents again knowing that the hug I gave them was the last time I would ever hug them. Making me wish I could turn back the clock and tell my parents that I loved them one last time. I feel my body slide to the ground feeling like I couldn’t breathe til I feel Lo’ak arms pull me into a hug, Neytiri joining afterward holding us both as I cry into his chest all night.

Becoming one of the sully’s wasn’t so hard since Neytiri and Jake never treated me differently than their other kids. Neytiri taught me how to cook and hunt while Jake taught me how to be a strong warrior, things that I thought my parents would teach me. It has been years since they passed and not a day goes by that I didn’t miss them. I’m seventeen now spending my days of course with Lo’ak, that didn’t change. We did everything together, instead of painting the town beige, we were exploring the forest, racing with our ikrans, and causing trouble which led to Lo’ak and I getting scoldings from Jake and Neytiri. 

I was with Kiri and Spider while I waited for the war party to get back. I watch Kiri put blue paint on Spider’s arm which only made me chuckle. “Those blue stripes won’t make you any faster,” I laughed as Spider roll his eyes making Kiri laugh a bit “Shouldn’t you be out on the field with your loverboy instead of taunting me?” he says with a smirk on his face leaving me shocked. “First I wasn’t allowed to go with them today and second Lo’ak is not my lover,” I say while trying to stop myself from blushing. 

“Oh come on, y’all spend every minute with each other, I believe y’all can’t go one day without being together.” I roll my eyes since that can’t be true. I couldn’t think much more of it since Tuk came screaming saying that the war party came back and I immediately get up from my spot running to see Lo’ak, Neytiri, Jake, and Neteyam, that’s what I kept telling myself but my eyes light up when I see Lo’ak jump off his ikran. As I run up to them I stop where I was after I hear the irritation in Jake’s voice when he asks for Neteyam and Lo’ak to come to him. I notice that Neteyam looks hurt and I couldn’t help but scan Lo’ak’s body for injuries. 

When Jake is done scolding them, I rush over to Lo’ak grabbing him by his shoulders. “Are you okay? What happened?” I say pulling him into a quick hug “I’m fine just a mission gone wrong,” he says as I release him from my embrace. “I don’t want to talk about it, do you want to go do something with me,” a small smile shows up on his face as he looks at me already knowing that I was going to say yes, and immediately starts running while I chase after him. 

Sleep was the last thing on my mind that night while I thought about what Spider said, “I believe y’all can’t go one day without being together.” Is he right, have I been way too clingy when it comes to Lo’ak? I look over all the memories I had with him and notice it's true, there was never a time that I wasn’t with him which made me sit up and rub my head. I had always been close with him before and after my parent's death so basically I was like a puppy dog following him around every day.

“Damn, he must think I’m annoying.” I couldn’t help but think how it wouldn’t hurt if I backed off a bit. I felt my chest get tightened a little, breathing ever so slowly. “How could I let myself get so attached to him without giving him some type of space?” “What if he stops talking to me, what if I’m hurting our friendship? “I can’t lose him, not when…” I fidget with my fingers while these thoughts hit me one after the other. “Ugh, I’m like the clingy girlfriend in those human romance movies Jake tells us about and Lo’ak probably sees it.” 

I take a small breath and exhale, “No this ends today, I’m going to be strong and when tomorrow comes, I’m going to start distancing myself from him.” I chant to myself knowing it’s going to be hard to be away from him that I lay back down and try to fall asleep.

The next day came and I was sticking through with my promise, at the rise of dawn instead of seeing what Lo’ak was doing, I busied myself with training. When I heard his voice a mile away heading towards me, I quickly ran so he could not see me. Of course, I felt nothing but sadness that I couldn’t be with the person that made me happy but I would do anything to keep him in my life and if that was to give him space, letting him do things on his own was fine to me. 

I was fishing with Neteyam when I heard Lo’ak call out his brother's name, In an instant I ducked into a nearby bush praying to Eywa, that he didn’t hear me and that he wouldn’t find me. Neteyam turned around slightly toward his brother wondering why in the hell would I switch up like that but had no time to say something when Lo’ak came running up to him. “Yo bro, you see [Name] lately, I went by her tent but she wasn’t there then I asked Kiri about her and she said she saw her training, I go to where she always hunts and she is not there either.” I try to stay as quiet as I can cause if I make a move, he's going to know I’m here. “No I haven’t seen her, maybe she’s with dad.” Neteyam quickly says as I already know I’m in his debt for covering for me. 

I don’t come out of hiding till I see Lo’ak disappear from my eyesight, I stand up and stretch since being crouched down in that bush was not comfortable as I had thought. “You wanna tell me why you're hiding from him?” he says, going back to steadying his bow to catch the fish in the right spot. “No, I don’t want to talk about it,” I say as I hear a soft chuckle from him “Hmm, you do know you owe me right?” he smirked as I rolled my eyes not giving him an answer. 

Lo’ak’s Pov

“Damn, where is she? It’s like she dropped off Pandora.” Lo’ak thinks to himself a bit upset that he can’t seem to find her anywhere. He couldn’t think of a time when she haven’t met him at the time of dawn ready to explore the forest with him. He was looking forward to flying with her and was ready to place a bet on who could get there faster. “Yo bro where’s your girlfriend at?” Spider says while running up to me. I roll my eyes, “Shut up skxawng” he chuckles as I look him up and down and let out a laugh, “Those blue stripes won’t make you any bigger bro.” he hissed at me while I continued to laugh. 

“Where is she anyway, I thought we were supposed to go to the battlefield?” I felt a little sadness creep up inside me as I say, “I think she’s ignoring me.” Spider looks at me, “Why do you think that?” I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding. “I can’t think of a day we haven’t gotten up and met up with each other. 

“Did you do something to make her mad like that time you cheated that race y’all had?” he chuckles and I roll my eyes again. “First off, I won that fair and square and she knows it.” he continues to laugh. “And second, no I can’t think of anything that I did that could have upset her in any way, at least I don’t think so.” I try to think over recent moments with her but come up short as soon as spider goes to say something I shut him up with a look as my ear twitches hearing her voice. Just as I look in that direction, I see her walking with her friend with a smile on her face. 

I leave Spider standing where he is and walk toward her. What I thought would go softly turned a bit tricky because after she saw me walking in her direction, she started running in the opposite direction. “[Name], come back here!” I yelled running after her getting pissed off that she even took this route instead of just talking to me. There was no way I was going to let this slide, she was going to talk to me one way or another.

{Name]’s Pov 

“Damn it [Name]! You weren't careful enough.” I thought as I was running through the forest trying not to bump into people, ducking under branches. I look behind me to see if I lost him but nope he was right on my tail and he wasn’t letting me out of his sight. When I turn back around I didn’t see the branch sticking out and I end up face-first on the ground groaning. 

“Oh, shit are you okay?” Lo’ak says with a concerned tone while he slows down to help me up. I accept his help and immediately brush myself off. “I'm alright just didn’t see that branch.” I try to look anywhere else but his face, I couldn’t help but feel embarrassed. “Why have you been avoiding me all day?” he says with a bit of anger. “I haven’t been avoiding you, just had been busy,” I say, still looking down but Lo’ak takes his finger to my chin and gently tilts my head so he can look into my eyes, I couldn’t help but notice how soft his hand felt. “[Name], you forget I know everything about you.” I was about to say something but he cut me off. 

“I know when you’re sad, angry, happy, and when you’re avoiding someone, you can’t hide that from someone who spent his entire life with you.” I can feel the tears starting to form but I try to hold them back. “That’s the problem!” I practically yelled leaving Lo’ak to feel shocked and he took his finger off my chin and crossed his arms over his chest. “What are you talking about?” He looks at me with a serious look waiting for my response as I feel like I am in a box and the walls are closing in on me. 

“I’ve been thinking over the memories we share and notice that in all of them, I always cling to your side, never giving you your space,” I explained while looking at his chest scared to look into his eyes. “I get way too clingy when it comes to where I want to spend every minute of the day with you.” “I know I can get a bit annoying so that’s why I decided to give you some space because I couldn’t take it if me being clingy would make me lose you.” I could no longer fight the tears that were now rolling down my cheeks, the thought of him not being in my life hurt me deeply. 

Wanting to turn around and run as far as I can feeling so embarrassed that I’m crying in front of him till I feel his soft hands touch my face wiping away the tears and making a dark shade of blue appear across my face as I look into his eyes. “You know I hate when you cry,” he then takes my hand and leads me to a spot, and motions for me to sit, and when I do, he joins never taking his eyes off me.

“[Name], I love the time we spent with each other,” “There’s nothing you could do that will ever change the way I think of you.” My eyes never leave his as I focus on what he was saying almost like I couldn’t find my voice but I manage to say, “Are you sure?” he chuckles a bit and cups my cheeks, and places his forehead to mine, “You’re stuck with me.” A smile forms on my face.  

© neteyamsoare 2023. | All rights reserved. Do not repost, reupload, translate, modify, or claim my work as your own.

[cozage]

The Daughter's Return Part 3

Chapter 16: Let's Talk Strategy

Start From Beginning | Next Chapter | Table of Contents | Read on AO3

Characters: female reader x Portgas D. Ace Word Count: 1.6k

“Do I have to keep these on?” You shook your shackles in front of Marco’s face as you laid on the examination table. 

“Considering you knocked out the last person in charge of you with nothing but your fist and your sea prism bracelet? Yes. You do.”

You groaned in despair, dramatically flopping your arms back down onto the table. “What if my lack of energy harms the baby?”

“That’s why you have checkups every day,” Marco said. “Now lay still.”

You groaned again, but did as you were told. Perhaps if you did everything without complaining too much, they might take your shackles off before you got to Marineford. And then they wouldn’t be able to stop your decisions. 

Marco placed his stethoscope on your stomach, and you sucked in a deep breath at the contact of the cold metal against you. Being affected by temperature was something you weren’t sure you’d ever get used to. But you didn’t complain. 

A smile widened across his lips after a moment, and he looked at you with excitement. “Do you want to hear it?”

You frowned, unsure of what he meant. “Hear what?”

“The heartbeat.”

“Oh.” You weren’t sure how to answer that. In your mind, this baby only existed when you and Ace were together. He wasn’t here to witness it, and it felt cruel doing this without him. 

“Listen,” Marco advised, holding the stethoscope up to you.

You took it from him hesitantly, but you listened. A soft whooshing filled your ears, strong and steady. 

“It’s fast,” you whispered. “Is it okay? Did I do-“

“It’s normal,” Marco reassured you. “Their heartbeats are faster while they’re developing. But everything looks and sounds completely normal.”

“A healthy baby,” you said, placing your hand protectively over your stomach. 

“A healthy baby,” Marco confirmed, a smile on his face. 

The two of you walked to the commanders and strategists meeting. You sat alone at the division two seats, trying not to think about how there were two empty commander seats now. 

Everyone eyed your sea prism shackles, but nobody said anything about them. You were thankful for that, even if it did leave an awkwardness hanging in the air. 

“Has every subordinate captain been notified?” Your father asked, looking around the table. 

“We all told everyone the same thing. Meet outside of Marineford and we’ll storm in together.”

“Good,” your father said. “Then we can all ride in together.”

“That won’t work,” you said. “They’ll see us coming a mile away.”

“There’s nothing else we can do,” Elmy said. “We just have to hope the wind is in our favor.”

“No,” you said, your mind racing to think of another solution. “Aokiji will freeze the sea before we even make it there. And Akainu will burn down our flags. Instead of saving him, we’ll have a front row seat to his execution. We can’t-“

You couldn’t keep talking in fear of your voice giving your emotion away. 

“We can do the bubble trick,” you said, changing the subject. “How we get down to Fishman Island, but head for Marineford instead.”

“That won’t work,” Elmy shot back. “We don’t know anyone skilled enough to do all of our boats in a week's time.”

Your eyes shot to your father. “I know someone,” you said. “He can do it. Please. Let me ask him.”

His eyes flashed pure anger. “I thought I told you-“

“I’ll take Marco!” You cried. “Please. We’re close to Sabaody. Me and Ace talked to him the last time we went through. He’s a genius. Please, dad-“

“No,” he hissed, glaring at you. If you hadn’t been in your current state, you probably would’ve gotten another dose of his haki treatment. 

You stayed quiet for the rest of the meeting. There was no point in strategizing what would happen after you arrived in Marineford.  If you rode into battle in the way they were proposing, everyone would die before their feet touched land. 

There had to be another way. A way to convince your father to let you go. But you would worry about that later. 

You swore you could still hear the soft, fast heartbeat of your child, fighting and growing with every passing hour. The baby was so tiny, and yet you were halfway through your pregnancy. How on earth could something that small grow to be the size of a baby in four and a half months? It simply didn’t seem possible. 

And yet, it was happening. A new person was growing inside of you. You had to believe it contained only the best parts of you and Ace. Hopefully more of Ace’s traits than yours. His kindness, his love, his willingness to sacrifice…

“Y/N,” Marco prompted, tapping your shoulder lightly. “Let’s go get dinner. You need to eat.”

You were so lost in thought, you hadn’t noticed that the meeting had ended.

You were about to argue and say that you weren’t hungry, but you decided not to. You rose without a word and followed him to the mess hall, painfully aware of your father’s eyes on your back. 

“Did that baby take all the spunk out of you?” Marco mumbled the question in your ear so nobody else could hear as you walked into the mess hall. 

“I’m thinking.” You waved him away from your ear and picked up a tray. 

“You should probably double up on fruits and vegetables,” Marco said. “And cut out the fish.”

You did as you were told. Your father had told you not to argue, so you wouldn’t argue. Maybe if you listened, then so would he.

You sat down across from Marco at an empty table, your mind still running through possibilities. 

“Hello?? Earth to Y/N?” Marco was waving his hand in front of your face, snapping you back to the present. 

“Oh.” You blinked a few times and realized your tray was still full. He must’ve thought you were trying to get out of eating. “Sorry.”

You shoveled some food into your mouth to appease Marco. You knew it was the same ingredients and recipes as always, but it tasted off. Thatch hadn’t had part in the process, and you could taste that, somehow. 

“You need to snap out of it,” Marco scolded. “We’re only going to be able to do this if you are at your very best. We can’t lose our best strategist now, okay?”

“There’s no strategy that can get us past the Vice Admirals,” you said, eating another bite of tasteless food. “Not if we’re sailing in that obvious.”

“How well do you know this coating mechanic?” Marco asked, biting his lip. 

You shrugged, trying to think of a cross between truth and lie. “I know his name and I know his work ability.”

“You’re sure he can do it?” Marco asked.

You nodded. “If I ask nicely enough.”

Marco sighed, shaking his head. “Let me see what I can do. Go get ready for bed. Any funny business and-”

“I know,” you said, finishing up your plate and standing to take your leave. You could feel your voice trembling as you spoke. “Trust me Marco, I know.”

You walked to your room and stood in front of the door, too afraid to go in. You didn’t want to know what it was like in that room without Ace. 

“Is it locked?” Izou’s voice startled you, and you wiped your eyes before you turned to face him.

“No,” you whispered, and then cleared your voice before speaking again. “No, it’s not.”

“Ah,” Izou said, his eyes darting back to the door. “Is there something you would like me to grab?”

“What happened to Jinx?” you asked, ignoring his question. 

“The cat?” Izou raised an eyebrow and then chuckled. “A day after you and Ace left, Marco heard some ungodly cries coming from the room, and we all kind of collectively remembered that you all had a cat. Marco’s been watching her since you guys left. They get along quite well.”

Tears poured out of your eyes. You shouldn’t have been so relieved over a stupid cat, but at least Jinx was still okay. At least there was still something left of Ace here. 

“Do you need me to get anything for you?” Izou asked again, looking at you.

You shook your head. You couldn’t open that door. Not yet. Instead, you took off towards Marco’s room. He would have everything you needed to get by for now. 

When you opened the door, you saw a black mound on the bed, eyes staring at you threateningly.

“Hi Jinx,” you sobbed, kneeling down next to the bed. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry,” you cried. You felt so guilty for returning alone. 

Jinx rose from her place on the bed and approached you, and she rubbed her face against yours. It was so surprising that for a moment, you stopped crying out of shock. Jinx purred softly against you, and you couldn’t help but feel like maybe-maybe-everything would be okay. 

“Alright,” Marco said, entering the room. “We have a private meeting with Pops tomorrow morning. I think-hey,” Marco realized you were on the ground, and he bent down next to you. “Are you okay?”

You started crying again at his question. There was no way to answer it. 

“I’m so scared,” you sobbed softly, trying not to scare Jinx away.

“Me too, kid,” he whispered. He wrapped his arms around you and held you tightly, and you could tell he was telling the truth. You could feel Marco’s fear in his grip around you. You weren’t sure if that was relieving or terrifying. 

The three of you fell asleep in a strange pile, entangled together with hope and despair.

--

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[ftwdb]

Don’t say go.

Chapter 18.

Warnings: Dark themes, sexual content, violence, non-graphic description/implications of SA, child abuse and domestic violence. References to addiction. Unhealthy love/obsession/relationships. Soulmate AU. Eventual smut.

Not proofread because I am too tired 😴

It’s dark by the time you feel the strength of The Pull reaching its peak, and you know what that means. You look around into the darkness. In the wastes there isn’t much besides stretches of empty barren land and mountains in the distance. You know you’re not yet at your destination which can only mean one thing. The boy with the flag was headed toward you too.

You see twin lights in the distance. A car headed toward you. Eventually you stop in the middle of the road and just wait. The lights get closer until they shine on your windscreen and you both sit, unmoving, just waiting for the other to make the first move.

You cut the truck’s engine and step out.

The boys does the same. The lights of your vehicles illuminate the night just enough that you can make out each other in the darkness.

The boy steps forward enough that he is more clearly thrown into view and you can see now the warm brown eyes, his features which are so different from Troy’s. Softer but still strong. You hesitate. Your gun is tucked in the back of your jeans and your fingers twitch.

The boy speaks.

“Hi… I’m Nick.”

You don’t say anything, you just keep watching until he clears his throat as if a little unsure of himself.

“You came alone?”

For a second you could have kicked yourself. Coming alone had been a risk but now that he was here, in the middle of nowhere and no one knew where you’d gone you realised how vulnerable you’d left yourself.

“For now.” You answered him flatly. At least if you were vague about whether you had people with you it might make him have second thoughts if he was planning anything questionable.

The boy waits a beat before trying again.

“I guess you felt it too then…”

You don’t want to say the words out loud so you simply nod your head. The boy, Nick, continues.

“I thought I was going crazy at first. I never thought I’d find my… find you. Feel it, you know?”

You frown at this. Everyone worries they’ll never find their soulmate but something in his voice captures your attention. It’s less that he’s worried about the odds and more… something you can’t quite distinguish.

“Why?” You ask.

Nick hesitated before shrugging a little.

“That’s a… it doesn’t matter. What matters now is that… I found you. It feels… weird. Don’t you think?”

Perhaps if you hadn’t already had the experience with Troy you would agree. But you didn’t want him to know that Troy was your soulmate and so you don’t answer his question.

“Look I came here to warn you. Some of the people from my community are coming back tonight to finish what they started before. You need to tell your people to run.”

Nick frowns at this information.

“We agreed to a truce-“

You shake your head in annoyance. You don’t want to explain all this. You want him to just listen to your warning and leave so you can forget about whatever this mistake is between you both and go home, go back to Troy.

“They’re acting of their own accord. Some of the men have certain… loyalties. This isn’t about protecting their home it’s about revenge.”

Nick is watching you closely now and you don’t like the way his eyes are roaming over you. You freeze. You wonder if he can feel your emotions just like you can with Troy. You reach out in the same way you do with Troy and try to find Nick, to feel what he feels… there’s nothing. Just the regular sense of The Pull.

“You’re warning me because of this feeling between us? You came looking for me because of it.”

You shake your head growing more frustrated as all you want to do is head back before Mike and the others see you out here.

“I don’t have time to explain myself. You have to get your people and go, far away from here. Don’t come back.”

Nick’s eyes widen as he realises you have no intention of staying with him.

“But… you have to come with me. When I left earlier, after I saw you, it felt like my heart was being-“

“It doesn’t matter.” You say quickly, all too familiar with that pain. “I can’t come. I won’t go with you. But I don’t want you to die either so, please, leave.”

Nick is staring at you incredulously.

“I can’t do that.”

You actually growl from your frustration with him.

“Why!?”

“Because,” Nick says as he steps closer. You take a large step away from him. You can’t risk him getting too close, having him touch you. You don’t know what will happen. “I just found you. I can’t walk away!”

“Then run! Drive! Fucking skip for all I care! If you stay, you die. Not that I care-“

“That’s a lie.” Nick cuts you off quickly. “Soulmates need each other. Hearts literally break when they lose one another. So why… why are you denying this?”

You swallow nervously and look at truck. You could just get back in now and drive away, but what if he follows? You have a feeling he would. He seems the type. Reckless and stubborn.

“I… it’s complicated.”

You say and you hate how pathetic that sounds.

“It’s Complicated used to be a Facebook status.” Nick quips quickly. “Tell me the truth. Why run from me?”

“I’m not!”

“Then what are you running from!? Or… wait… what are you going back to?”

You clench your jaw as Nick slowly starts to put the pieces together in his head.

“You have someone-“

“No.”

“A boyfriend? Fiancé?”

“No! No one!”

“Your home then, your community. You’re worried this would cause a problem. Conflict? But maybe it could help solve the bad blood between us! Two soulmates who find each other in opposites sides-“

“This isn’t bloody Romeo and Juliet, Nick!”

He grins and it makes you want to slap the beautiful smile off his face.

“You’re hardly Juliet sweetheart.”

You snarl, your anger beginning to erupt. Why won’t he just listen! Why make this so complicated!

“Whatever! Just get in your car and drive away Romeo!”

Nick laughs and it’s almost like he’s enjoying this.

“Oh the universe is truly a bitch. I didn’t think it’d find my soulmate because I didn’t deserve one. But maybe I do. It’s ironic that she would hate me, a poetic kind of punishment I guess…”

Your expression eases but doesn’t soften as you listen to him ramble. Hate? You didn’t hate him…

“Why would you be punished?” You ask, your senses on alert in case this was the part where he confides he’s a serial killer or something.

Nick shrugs again.

“If you got to know me, you’d understand.”

You shake your head again with a weary sigh.

“You don’t listen to do.”

Nick steps forward again and this time the light moves so he’s back in the shadows with you.

“I could… but you’d need to actually tell me something for me to hear it. Something besides “run away” because that isn’t happening.”

You swear at him and he smirks.

“We don’t have time. Your people will be killed.”

Nick rubs his hand over the back of his neck and it finally seems to dawn on him, he has other responsibilities. Other people to protect.

“When are your people attacking?” He says.

“They’re leaving the ranch around midnight, so probably by the early hours of the morning. Before sunrise though.”

“Element of surprise, cover of darkness. They’re smart.”

“And we’ll armed. So will you listen to me now?”

Nick states at you for a few seconds and you almost believe he’d let his people risk being slaughtered instead of going back to warn them.

“Fine.”

You blink at him.

“Fine?”

“That’s what I said. I’ll go back. I’ll warn them.”

“And you’ll run? You can’t fight back, it’ll be a bloodbath.”

“Look I can’t promise anything… we have some stubborn members of our group and they might not take the truce being broken well-“

“The truce isn’t broken. It’s just a small group-“

“Still breaking the truce. Still disobeying your leader, right?”

You bite your tongue. Jeremiah wasn’t their leader officially but…

“Yeah. Yeah I guess. So what? You’ll go back and they try to defend themselves?”

Nick shrugs again.

“If they think it’s more beneficial than running.”

You pinch the bridge of your nose.

“I’m getting a damn headache.”

For some reason this amuses Nick.

“Head rub?”

Your look at him is deadly and he sniggers.

“Joking. Lighten up. Look, I’ll go back and do what I can to stop anymore death. But I can’t promise anything. We lost people. The guy who was in charge came at us like a demon. We didn’t stand a chance…”

Your stomach twists as Nick talks about Troy.

“You want revenge?”

Nick’s expression blanks out and you recognise the perfectly controlled mask on his face. You’d used it yourself before.

“Me? No. But there are those who do.”

“Then convince them their lives aren’t worth it. Tonight is not their night to die. Please… no more death.”

Your voice breaks as you finish your sentence and Nick tilts his head at you. You look away, hating that you’d let some vulnerability slip through.

“Who’d you lose?”

You take a slow breath and shake your head.

“Doesn’t matter. Just… do what you can. And if you can’t save them… save yourself at least.”

Nick looks like he wants to say more. He looks pained.

“Can I… see you again?”

It’s almost laughable. Like a schoolboy asking out his crush. You place your hand on the door of the truck and grip it tight as you give him a firm “no” and turn away before you can see the look on his face.

You slide into your truck and slam the door, locking it before turning in the engine. This was for the best. You didn’t know what else to do. There had been some mistake and maybe Nick had another soulmate out there somewhere too? You hoped so… you didn’t want him to be in pain.

You hear a loud tap at the window and you look over to see Nick still standing there, motioning for you to wind it down. You do, only a few inches so you can hear him speak.

Nick pauses as he looks you over before speaking.

“It’s him, isn’t it.”

You frown and Nick elaborates.

“The guy who attacked us. The one whose skull was caved in. He’s why you won’t stay with me.”

You feel your stomach drop. How did he know? Your hands clench on the wheel as you grit your teeth.

“His name is Troy.”

“Troy…” Nick repeats and you hear the sadness and disappointment in his voice. “Well, you must love him a lot to chose him over your soulmate.”

You avoid his eyes still and stare straight ahead until the light from his car burns your eyes.

Nick continues.

“… I hope he makes it, for your sake. And… I want you to know it wasn’t me. I didn’t hurt him.”

You nod. Not that it would have mattered, as much as you loved Troy you could understand he’d made a choice that led to his own injuries. Even if he’d done it to protect you… you hated that the blood spilled was on your hands too now.

“I have to go.” You say emptily, and put the truck into reverse.

Nick steps back just in time to save his foot being run over as you reverse and turn, glancing back to see his shadow in the headlights as you drive back home. Back to Troy. Back to where your heart felt complete… as you try to ignore how it felt as if you’d just left a piece of it in the darkness behind you…

[cande1808]

Episode 5 is one hell of a ride!! So this will be long!!

Firstly we have Susie with her father and you can see she doesn’t like the idea of Eddie being killed, so she starts thinking strategies to keep Eddie safe!! Bobby is a hardcore Susie Eddie shipper hahaha I think he wants both of them to realize they are good together.

Now, they play golf business partners 101!! (Partners who spend quality time together, stay together ;)) Here she mentions she wants him within the organisation… As an active member… I think that’s why she makes him part of the Belgium situation, to allure him with the idea of staying. 

When they are at the farm and the electricity runs off, Susie is girlboss!! But you can see that Eddie is second in command… Blanket goes with him and follows HIS orders!!

The travellers are introduced...

This whole interaction in the caravan was hilarious but I love that both of them are relaxed around each other, in sync when the travellers want in, they both talk at the same time, having exactly the same reaction!! Then they make a decision together!! About passing the weed with the help of the travellers!! They discussed it together like partners!! And Eddie is the one IN CHARGE of the whole exchange and she lets HIM!! 

The moments before the rager, JP takes the poutin and they look at one another. It drives me crazy how they need to find each other to say are you hearing this fucking shit!! They need each other's support!! I’m DEAD! 

These glimpses of the party!! Dancing together slowly… MARRIED!! I just can’t with the fact that the only time they aren’t discussing business or planning something, and they are truly relaxed in very different circumstances, they allow themselves to act on their feelings!! The way he looks at her, my boy is down bad!! AAAaggrrr

Get a man like Eddie that knowing you are hangover will go and say I’m gonna solve this!! Allowing you to rest. That is true love!! 

JP mentions they were cozy… She rolls her eyes (she remembers everything!!) I think because she can’t show she��s interested… she doesn’t allow her to accept her feelings for Eddie, and says it’s a work thing…  

She enters the warehouse and the duke is there leaning back on his chair and when he sees her, he SMIRKS!! (he remembers everything too!) Jesus just be together, pleaseeee!! Not only that, but he is in control, he follows her with his eyes and knows what she’s asking without her saying a word!!!

Here comes my favorite scene of the episode… He is smoking a cigar, she’s with her champagne, walking towards each other... You see it!! In their eyes, they are proud of each other, and what they accomplished!! Of what’s growing!! (and aroused ;))  HOOOOT!!! GOD!! I CAN’T!! 

Then the money is stolen and HE takes charge, of everything and goes to give Susie his opinion and SHE listens!! I love how she says WE need to take a trip to Zeebrugge, because she needs him!!! In the restaurant scene; I enjoy how they finish each other’s sentences, the way they are comfortable around one another, and how they aren't afraid to show their dark side... True love!!

I love how he knows she's disappointed with the Keith situation so he is the one pouring the whiskey and asking HER how she wants to handle the situation (wifey is sad)… and her a very poised woman, who would never take her shoes off in front of anyone, is with her BARE FEET up and relaxed on a couch with HIM!! The intimacy and familiarity!! Aarrggg!! They’ll be my death! And the trust talk, when she says you never know… because even though she should not trust him, she DOES!! 

When Susie is with Bobby discussing the business you can tell she’s clever and knows the business but Bobby is not listening, she is ten steps ahead!! My girl is THE BOSS!! LOVE HER!!

Eddie realizes there's no way out, he's angry and feels disregard for the whole Jethro's situation… I think he’s angry because she didn’t trust him by not telling him anything. 

Comment aside perhaps Geoff and Lady Sabrina’s love story shows us how Susie and Eddie story will be… the longing, the way they can’t be together (different backgrounds) but at the end they are!!

The denim jumpsuit drives me insaneeeee!!

[letsquestjess]

Yeehaw! First kiss prompts?! If it brings you joy, may I please request...

"Are you sure about this?"

...with...

I feel like it's suited to Tech... but would be happy to read it for anyone you're feelin! <3

As always, feel free to ignore! :D

Hi Free!!! Thank you so much for the request! 🤗💜

First Flutter (Tech x GN!Reader)

Summary: Tech's first kiss with you comes as a bit of a surprise, but not an unwelcome one.

Word count: 916

Warnings: Just a whole load of fluff!

-- -- -- -- --

Swinging your legs from the edge of the workbench, you almost tasted the salt in the breeze as you peered out of the opened rolling doors. On the horizon, the sea glittered, pinching at the afternoon sun and transforming the rays into watery silver glimmers. Waves soaked the shore and lapped at the pale grains and pebbles in a billow of foam. During this time of year, seaweed climbed high above the surface to make mischief for the coast fishers, snagging on their lines and pulling catches from hooks. 

In the workshop, the floral air from outside hung heavy, masking the odour of soldered metal and scorched trimmings. Weathered yellow paint trailed the rim of the wall shelves and worktops, and hulking, square columns held wide drawers, some of the lower units drooping open until Tech nudged them closed with his hip as he rambled. The far surface was cluttered with an assortment of half-finished projects and the bin full of scraps waited to be emptied. 

“Are you listening?” Tech said, standing to his entire height and tilting his head in your direction. With a slight annoyance, he pushed his slipping goggles back up his nose with a finger. 

“Yes,” you replied. “I’d be a pretty poor assistant if I didn’t.”

“What was I saying?” 

“You were explaining how the navigational system and early detection sensors will not only monitor sea depth but also keep track of aquatic life and allow trawlers to adapt quickly to sudden changes in weather.”

Tech let out a brief hum in approval and bent down to attach the final tiny motor to his project. “Can you pass me the-”

Before he got the words out, you handed him a hooked tool. A radiant grin brightened your features, and if it hadn’t been for the restless whir of the extractor fans above diverting your attention, you would have spotted the blush in his cheeks. 

Embarrassed, he kept his gaze down as he completed the last alteration and hoisted the apparatus into the crate with the others. As he placed the machine into the makeshift holders, it rattled and jingled until the outer pipes clicked into the clips. “We can deliver these in the morning,” he said, returning to the workbench. “They should not take long to set up.” 

“Between the two of us, they’ll be done in a couple of hours,” you agreed. “The fishers will appreciate them, especially after the last storm.” 

“I only wish I had thought of it sooner.” 

“You can’t blame yourself. From the moment you got to Pabu, you’ve been helping as many people as you can, but you’re only one person, Tech.”

“But I am not only one person now. I have you.”

The unexpected tender lilt in his voice made you pause, and you halted the aimless swing of your legs. You wished to let him know he could rely on you indefinitely, that you would be there as long as he wanted you to be, but all you managed was a nod.

“Perhaps we could make some modifications to the boats themselves,” Tech pondered. “They do seem rather old and while they are structurally sound, further protections would be beneficial.” As he speculated aloud, he absentmindedly reached for a tool behind your hip and jolted at the abrupt proximity. Nearly nose to nose, he faltered. 

“Would you like me to get that for you?” you asked, the question emerging in a tentative sigh and your gaze locked on his startled expression. He didn’t budge, his eyes singing of the pent-up emotions you had both been tiptoeing around for months.

The warmth of your breath fluttered across his burning cheeks, your thigh briefly brushing his hip and the stray curl dangling from his hairline tickling your eyebrows. Electricity sparked where your body met his. “I… I, um…” He swallowed determinedly, willing the words from his mouth, but all he could concentrate on was the softness in your eyes and the curve of your slightly parted lips. He wondered what they’d feel like on his, how they’d move and how they’d react to the lightest pressure. 

Need guiding him, he inched forwards and skimmed his fingertips over your cheek to cradle your face. His heart raced with anticipation as you leaned into his touch, daring to hope you craved that connection as much as he did. 

“Are you sure about this?” you said, noticing his hesitation. 

In answer, Tech bridged the gap, lips whispering of his affection for you with the first timid press. A tiny whimper escaped from the depths of his throat. When he’d contemplated kissing you in the past, he imagined a surge of fireworks in his core, consumed by an overwhelming passion. But what he experienced instead was so much better. His entire being was engulfed by a soothing calmness that was so wonderfully you it erased all his worries and relaxed his racing mind. He was right where he was supposed to be, and it lulled him into a sense of ease and purpose. 

Haltingly, he parted from you, breathless. He wanted to tell you to take it. To steal his breath, plunder all that he owned, for it was all yours to begin with. It would always be yours. “You asked if I was sure,” he said, planting a kiss on the tip of your nose and admiring the bright smile that twinkled all the way to your eyes. “I’ve never been so sure about anything in my life.”