#’your name is Tom right? ok glad we got that straight’ | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

ptergwen · 3 years

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smoke and mirrors

⇢ richkid!tom x richkid!reader ⇠

w/c: 4.1k

warnings: swearing, drinking, light angst, and implied smut

summary: because of your mother’s insistence on a pristine family image and tom’s messy one, you deny your true feelings for him

a/n: ok ok ok the pics of tom in monaco really made me think and i had to get everything out of my system so here we are! thank you and enjoy x

your living room is engulfed by a hushed chatter that comes from far too many guests. half the people, you hardly know. it’s overcrowded, superficial, and the last place you want to be. it’s one of your mother’s get-togethers, as she likes to call them. these things are always far from the casual affairs they sound like.

weeks go into planning, caterers and decorators making themselves at home in yours. the family’s image is everything to your mom, so being a good hostess is her top priority. ironically, she’s more concerned with throwing her gatherings than raising you. so much for family, huh?

the only reason you agreed to make an appearance tonight is that tom might do the same. he’s a really good friend, someone you’ve been able to count on through all the mess that is your lives. you met in high school, when he moved from london to the states. his dad was offered a job promotion he couldn’t pass up. plus, tom and his brothers would be receiving a stellar private education here in america.

it was a win for everyone, especially you. the freckle faced boy who got lost on his way to english class became your closest confidant. tom’s company is such a sweet escape. he’s not interested in opera or the stock market like most people you meet are. he sneaks you out to go on walks at dawn and does shots with you until you can’t stand straight.

as you two continue to grow together, revelations about yourselves have come to light. what you want beyond your inheritances, who you want beyond friendship. you figured out the second part on a faithful night recently. tom showed up to your place with a bottle of tequila. after you drank it down through lots of lime chasers and giggles, he kissed you. you didn’t kiss back.

your heart said to go for it, but your mind pulled you back in. you were so shocked and overcome with new feelings, you froze up. that, and you’d infuriate your mother. although she cares about tom a great deal, she loathes his public figure. he’s always getting papped in places and with people he shouldn’t be. the two of you together would just destroy her.

you still want to please your mom at the end of the day, no matter how deep under your skin she gets.

tom immediately apologized and tried play it off as him being drunk. you grew up with him, became part of each other’s families, which means you know him well enough to know he was lying. he meant every second his lips were on yours.

what you need to do now is something you’ve meant to for a while. the only problem is that you’re stuck at your mother’s party, and tom hasn’t shown up yet.

“y/n, darling,” your mom calls for your attention. she’s dragged you into a conversation with some bloggers, but you haven’t spoken a word. “why don’t you tell us about your trip to spain last summer?” she plasters on her award winning grin and squeezes your shoulder. it’s time to play along.

“oh, it was beautiful,” you halfheartedly reply, more to the bloggers than her. they nod in clear interest. one jots down notes. “we went for a few weeks and visited a bunch of different cities. i’d love to go back sometime.” the typical press formatted answer earns your mom’s approval. you’re off the hook. your eyes start to wander around the room, hoping to set on tom.

“we?” the woman taking notes asks. must everyone pry? “my friend and i,” you shortly reply. you’re standing up on your tiptoes to see over the crowd. you’d think six inch heels would do the trick. “i’m actually looking for him right now, so if you’ll excuse me,” you offer a polite smile and silently pray they won’t ask who. unfortunately, your wishes don’t come true.

the other blogger, a short and stubborn man, speaks up. “just a friend you say? come on, tell us. who’s the lucky fella?” he inquires. your mother raises a firm eyebrow, signaling for you not to.

tom has a reputation for his reckless behavior. it’s your mom’s worst nightmare when the media associates your names under most circumstances. you’re representing her, so she does whatever she can to control how you’re seen. you’re constantly in the papers, being a young socialite and all. it sucks.

“he’d like to stay out of the tabloids, sorry,” you cover for tom, on your mom’s behalf. “i should really go. it was nice meeting you.” the bloggers don’t bother to hide their disappointment as you shake their hands. your mother rubs your back in approval. “thank you for doing that. we’ll talk later,” she speaks lowly. “bye, mom!” you practically make a run for it.

weaving through the sea of people, you end up by the main entrance. it’s hard not to get lost even though it’s your house. the place is packed with girls just a couple years older than you, wearing pearls around their necks. men’s strong colognes flow through the air. you’re in a form fitting red slip dress and louboutins yourself.

smoke and mirrors is what they call it. you show the pretty parts to distract from your ugly ones.

harrison suddenly comes waltzing in with a lady on either of his arms. you’d expect nothing less. he’s tom’s best friend besides you, considering the failed kiss attempt didn’t change that. their parents worked at the london branch of the same company. they each came to the states and met you. you happily introduced them to your world, helping to make it theirs as well.

“haz!” you meet him at the front door. he’s smirking while he leads the women inside. “fancy seeing you here, isn’t it?” he jokes. “very funny. i died laughing,” you deadpan, curiously eyeing harrison’s plus two. they merely giggle. “listen, have you seen tom anywhere? if he’s coming.” you’re fighting back a frown. “why wouldn’t he be?” harrison questions in a more serious tone this time.

“long story. you have guests to entertain, so i won’t get into it now,” you decide and manage a small smile instead. he perks up. “right. i’ll let you know if i see him?” nodding, you give him a wave goodbye. “enjoy yourself.” “you too, love. cheers!” the girls lean into him, harrison wiggling his eyebrows at you. he’s ridiculous.

hours pass by without word of tom. it isn’t like him to miss an event, especially if you’re in attendance. you despise these exhausting nights, and he’s supposed to be your rock during them. he should have his arm draped around your shoulders, whispering silly remarks to you while you hide out somewhere. you miss him more than you thought possible.

you’re just about to give up when you spot nikki ushering her husband inside. behind them follows tom, clad in a grey checkered suit with his locks perfectly tousled. he’s here. you waited the whole night, and he finally came.

tom kisses his mom on the cheek before strutting over to the drink table, not without a few reporters hassling him. they’re probably looking for another holland scandal to break. he declines their requests for comments on this and opinions on that, instead pulling up a chair next to harrison. the two exchange hugs and fix themselves glasses of champagne, you watching their encounter.

harrison fills tom in on the drama he’s missed tonight while they sip their drinks. tom keeps forcing smiles that don’t reach his eyes. he’s fiddling with his fingers, leg bouncing up and down steadily. those are the telltale signs he needs saving. however awkward it may be, you’re going to have to break your silence. it was bound to happen eventually.

“mate, i’m telling you. she fit her entire first right up her-“ “boys,” you cut into harrison’s story, greeting him and tom. his face tints deep pink upon your arrival. “don’t let me stop you. finish your charming anecdote,” you encourage him and subtly glance over at tom. he’s biting back a grin as he sets his elbows on the table.

“not with a lady present. let’s just… pretend you didn’t hear that,” harrison chuckles nervously and hops to his feet. “i’m gonna leave you two to chat.” humming, you move to take his chair. tom sucks in a breath. “what happened to the girls you brought?” you wonder. “they left. said they got bored,” harrison admits, tom stifling laughter. he elbows his friend for that.

“oh, fuck off. i’ll see you later,” he mopes, flicking your arm for good measure. tom salutes him and grabs his nearly empty champagne. “so long, bruv.”

it’s just you and tom now, seated side by side, silently so. he has no intentions of speaking first. he’s too embarrassed, and you don’t blame him. this is on you. you clear your throat before starting the conversation.

“can i top you off?” you tap the bottom of his glass with a tiny smile. tom shakes his head. “i’m alright, thanks.” he finishes the last sip and sets it down, turning to face you. your smile has vanished. “wasn’t sure you were gonna make it. i’m glad you did,” you change the subject. as if he’s considering the sincerity behind your words, tom furrows his eyebrows.

“mum wanted us to. she dragged me and dad straight off the golf course,” he explains and clasps his hands in his lap. his fingers interlock with each other. you fight off the urge to replace them with yours. “we would’ve been here sooner, but the paps are camped outside.” the hint of a smile forms on his lips, at last. “guess it’s not often you get the town’s finest under one roof.”

“you think i’m one of the town’s finest?” you tease, resting your chin in your palm. something flashes behind tom’s eyes. he looks right into yours, scooting closer. “absolutely. you’re the most eligible bachelorette in this whole building.” you allow a toothy grin to spread across your face. “tommy, stop it. you’re too nice to me.”

the nickname is music to his ears. tom looks you up and down, licking his lips simultaneously. “no, seriously. you look gorgeous,” he muses, you pushing at his chest. he exhales a breathy laugh, and you giggle yourself. “red’s definitely your color.” “reverse card. you wear it way better than i do,” you insist. your fingers tug at the collar of his suit. “too bad you didn’t match me.”

you’re relieved you two can talk like you usually do, light flirting and good vibes. it might not be so hard to put the kiss behind you. well, you can’t go on pretending it didn’t happen. you have to at least discuss the fiasco. tom should know why you didn’t reciprocate, then you can take it from there. whether he still has feelings for you, assuming he ever did, will depend on how that turns out.

“not to ruin the fun, but we still have to talk,” you murmur, tom’s body stiffening across from yours. he’s not sure he’s ready to discuss that. “can it wait? we’re at a party,” tom reminds you, running a hand through his styled locks. “yeah, my mother’s. don’t tell me you’re having a good time,” you playfully chastise him. he simply shrugs. “hardly. you’re the best part.”

you ignore the butterflies roaming about your body.

“you won’t mind a quick convo, then. it is with me,” you attempt to persuade him and place a hand on his knee. tom coughs a bit too loudly, the contact surprising him. “you know what? i think i’ll take you up on that drink first,” he decides with a mustered up smile. “coming right up.” you pat his leg before taking his glass. he chews on his lower lip while you poor the bubbling liquid. that was certainly… odd.

you slide tom his champagne back with an exaggerated wink. tom scoffs at this. “mm, thanks. care to join me?” he brings the alcohol to his lips, eyes never leaving yours. your mother specifically said no drinking tonight, since the press would be here. screw your mother, though. “please. could you hand me a glass?” you eagerly grab the champagne bottle. tom searches for an empty cup next to him.

you two are unspoken drinking buddies at this point.

“here you are, darling,” tom drawls, holding out the glass for you. every time he calls you that, you completely melt. “thanks, tommy,” you purr in response. you’re finally pouring your own drink when someone taps you on the shoulder, and hard. you look behind you to find your mother standing with her hands on her hips, less than thrilled. speak of the devil.

“hello, mother. can i help you?” you make sure to ask rudely. she responds with a smile that’s obviously fake. if tom weren’t here, you’d be getting scolded. “yes, my darling. those bloggers from earlier were hoping you’d finish your interview.” your mom shakes your shoulder in a motherly way. you squint up at her. “didn’t they leave hours ago-“ “they’re back,” she sharply informs you.

she’s lying, and you have a hunch as to why.

frowning, you hold tom’s hand in both of yours. “sorry, this won’t take long. why don’t you go find tuwaine?” you suggest instead. “he’s around here somewhere.” tom gives you an understanding nod and laces your fingers together, even if it’s only for a moment. “must be chatting up some producers or whatnot. i’ll see if i can help.” he’s such an incredible friend to everyone. he deserves the same from you.

“thomas, so lovely to see you,” your mom interrupts. tom stands up, kissing both her cheeks out of courtesy. “you, too. what a wonderful party. thank you for having us.” despite what the rest of the world believes, his manners are impeccable. “of course. give nikki my best, will you?” your mom puts her hands on his shoulders. he grins at her. “definitely. take care, mrs. y/l/n.” “always a pleasure,” she states, nudging you to come along with her.

you shoot tom one last apologetic look as your mother pulls you along and towards the crowd.

tom is no idiot. he’s well aware how she really feels about him.

when a swarm of guests is surrounding you, your mom lets go. you scowl, crossing your arms over your chest. “why would you do that? i haven’t seen tom in days.” she sighs without a care. “isn’t it time you branch out? expand your social circle?” her manicured fingers ruffle your hair. you push away her touch. “i’m social enough. we were in the middle of something really important.”

you begin to walk away, but your mother takes your arm. “whatever you’re about to do, it’s a mistake. he’ll make a fool of you,” she practically spits. yanking your arm from her grasp, you laugh bitterly. “of me, or of the family name? look around, mom.” you gesture to the spot beside her where your dad should be. “as far as i’m concerned, i have no family except tom. i’m gonna go check on him.”

you’re gone before your mom can stop you. she simply stands there, utterly mortified by what you said.

you run around the house to find tom, stumbling in your heels and not giving a fuck. you’d truly meant the part about him being your family. all the holland’s, honestly. they’re the most genuine and caring souls, and you don’t want to lose the one you’re closest to because of your mother’s delusions.

tom is in a circle with harrison and tuwaine, the three of them chuckling amongst themselves. you’d hate to bug him, but this can’t wait anymore.

“uh, tom?” you mumble his name, appearing behind him. he steps away with another quiet laugh. “hey, y/n/n. that was quick, hm?” your face gives away your distress. his whole demeanor shifting, tom reaches for your hands. “what is it, love? is something the matter?” “just… come with me,” you croak out.

you manage to smile at harrison and tuwaine, dropping one of tom’s hands so you can lead him upstairs. they each return the smile and share curious looks.

following behind you, tom keeps your hand tight in his own. he’d thought you were going to grill him about the kiss that barely happened. it seems like this is a much more pressing matter. his outburst of emotions can be discussed another time. now, it’s time to deal with yours.

you drag tom into the first room on the second floor, which is your dad’s study. he’s away on business this weekend, so he luckily couldn’t make the party. tom sits down in the office chair. you sit up on the desk, in front of him. your lip quivers the second his worried features come into view.

“y/n/n, what’s going on? why are we in here?” tom wonders, his tone soft. your heart clenches. “i- i wanted us to have some privacy when i told you this,” you sniffle out and blink back the tears forming. you’re sort of shaken from the conversation with your mother, and mostly because you have no idea how tom will react to your confession.

his hands come to stay on your thighs, right below your dress. they feel warm against your bare skin.

“tell me what? i’m listening, yeah?” tom gazes up at you with so much love. “lay it all out for me.” god, he’s fucking amazing. if only you knew where to start. “do you, um…” you trail off, letting your tears subside and words settle. “do you remember when your family made your big debut in town?”

a grin replaces tom’s frown, painting his beautiful face. “how could i forget? you made it quite memorable.” he traces circles on your thigh and elicits a giggle from you. “i spilled a whole thing of soda on your white fucking button down,” you recount with a lighthearted sigh. “right before your dad was supposed to introduce you to everyone, too.”

tom presses his tongue into his cheek to hold back another grin. “took ages to get it out. dad went mad when i didn’t show.” he cocks his head to the side, you leaning back on your hands. “you held me hostage in the laundry room so you could do that bloody stain stick.” your mouth drops open in mock offense. “i had to clean up my mess! i wasn’t gonna let the world meet you covered in pepsi.”

that was one of your earliest memories together. the holland’s threw a party and invited everyone who was willing to attend. they had been hoping to properly introduce themselves to the town, and this was their way of doing so. although yours and tom’s friendship was fairly new, you spent all night together because you had experience with such events.

tom’s dad was making a speech to thank the guests for coming. you and him listened from the snack table, until his name was called. he rushed to go up there while you were pouring yourself a drink. he’d bumped into you, and the bottle ended up all over him. you snuck tom right off to his laundry room.

you’d felt terrible as he stood there shirtless and blushing, you aggressively swiping his button down with a stain stick.

“why do you bring that up?” tom questions and continues circling your skin. you purse your lips. “i dunno. it was the last party i actually enjoyed,” you admit, putting your hand over his that rests on your thigh. “like to reminisce when i’m suffering through one of my mother’s.” his eyes shift to where your hands are laced. “i see,” he affirms. “so, is that… all you wanted to talk about?” “not even close,” you laugh out.

a burst of courage coursing through your body, you say it. “when you kissed me the other night-“ “i won’t do it again,” tom cuts in, trying to avoid the rejection he thinks you’ll give him. “it was a mistake, and i’m so sorry. our friendship is more important than my feelings.” you seem excited to hear that, though it’s not for the reason tom expects. “you do have feelings for me?”

he’d forgotten about his i was drunk excuse.

“um, yeah. i do,” he admits, cheeks rosy and lip caught in his teeth. “but, i’ll learn to put them aside, if that’s what’s best.” “no, no. it isn’t,” you dismiss him and put your free hand on his chest. “i love you, tom. that’s what i was really trying to tell you.” your words bring an instant grin to his face. he chuckles in disbelief, standing from the chair.

“fuck, thank god. that’s all i’ve ever wanted to hear.” he’s between your legs now, his hands moving up to your hips. you’re beaming at him as your arms snake around his neck. a burning question comes to tom’s mind. “hang on. why didn’t you kiss me back, then?” he almost whispers, thumb brushing over your hipbone. “this is gonna sound weird, but… my mom,” you reluctantly let out.

“you’re gonna have to elaborate,” tom prompts you and raises an eyebrow. you can’t hold back your eye roll. “she’s never been a fan of the person you are in the media.” his lips form a line. “i gathered.” your fingers tangle in his curls at the nape of his neck reassuringly. “i was subconsciously scared i would be letting her down in some way, if we were together.”

tom allows your hands to work their way up to his scalp. he exhales contentedly as you play with his ever so soft hair. “i understand, she’s intimidating. what’s changed that brilliant mind of yours about coming clean?” your nose scrunches up when he pokes one of your temples. “oh, yeah. i yelled at her earlier ‘cuz she stole me away from you.” his face lights up. “sexy.” “shut up,” you groan. “someone had to tell her off.”

“good thing it got to be you,” tom agrees with a squeeze at your hip. “‘m proud of you, y/n/n. it’s not easy, standing up to mummy dearest.” you tug on his hair. “like you’d know. nikki is a saint.” “that’s what she’ll have you believe,” he says under his breath, you gasping. his lips turn up in a smirk. “on that note… i love you, too.”

“would’ve been embarrassing if you didn’t say it back,” you acknowledge with a cheesy smile. tom dips his head down to rest his forehead against yours. “yeah, yeah. save the attitude for your mum.” your legs easily wrap around his waist, tom’s breath hot as it hits your face. “let’s give that kiss another go,” you mewl. he doesn’t hesitate to reply. “with pleasure.”

tom’s lips land on yours, you kissing back right away. he smiles into it as your lips gently move together. “about fucking time,” he grumbles, your hands situating in his chocolate curls once again. he’s savoring every second you touch him, kiss him, love him. the taste of your mouth is one he’s craved for longer than you could imagine.

it doesn’t take long for things to heat up, you messing with tom’s hair and tom rubbing your hips. you lay back on the desk as his tongue enters your mouth. holding you by your waist, tom hovers over you. his tongue tangles with yours in a deep kiss. between that and his fingers beginning to massage your thigh, you’re done for. you’re ready to take this a step further by the time he’s kissing down your neck.

“tommy?” you grab onto his shoulders, your head back. his lips detach from your skin with a grin. “yeah, love? ‘s everything okay?” he coos, pressing a final kiss to your collarbone. “more than.” you tilt his chin up to peck his lips. “you wouldn’t happen to have a condom, would you? just thinking ahead.” he laughs breathlessly, reaching into his suit pocket.

“conveniently enough, i do. not sure your dad would like me fucking you on his desk, though.” tom sets his hand on your leg that’s still hooked around his waist. “my room’s always available. carry me?” you make grabby hands and bat your lashes. he hoists you up by your waist, not lifting you just yet. “that would break the news of us, no? your mum’s gonna go apeshit.” he keeps his arms around you, chuckling.

“let her. besides, i know a couple of bloggers that would love to announce our status update.” you peck tom’s lips, grinning as you do. you’re suddenly in the air and being picked up by tom. the surprise of it makes you squeal, clutching onto his broad shoulders instinctively. he gives you the look of adoration that’s reserved for you only.

“we’ll go pop a few bottles with everyone, then we’re celebrating on our own.”

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one-boring-person · 4 years

Note

Ok. A little different but I was thinking about Top Gun and I was wondering if you could do an Iceman x Mavericks little sister reader where they meet at a local bar near the base and slowly start falling in love

I hope you like this!😊💛

You Beat Me To It.

Tom "Iceman" Kazansky x reader

Warnings: swearing, alcohol consumption (moderate)

Masterlist

As cliche as it sounds, it had all started with an unfortunate accident in the popular little bar near the airbase.

It was a busy night in the small place, as it usually was, the room filled to the brim with pilots, RIOs, ground staff and civilians. Music blared somewhere overhead, garish lights illuminating the area in their own peculiar way, casting an odd glow over every person there. People gathered and collected around the bar itself, the tenders never kept idle, money flowing in from a variety of hands, the alcohol and beverages keeping spirits alive throughout the bustling room. It had been here that Iceman found himself.

Slider had insisted they went on that night, despite his own reluctance; it had been a long day at the base and all he had really wanted to do was to sleep and rest. Of course, he knew there was no arguing with his RIO, the young man far too persistent for his own good, so naturally the pilot had found himself dragged into the busy bar, a beer shoved into his hand almost instantly. It hadn't taken long for the girls to start flocking to him.

Iceman knew he was good-looking, so he wasn't surprised that he was quickly engulfed in a crowd of eager women, all of which flirting and baying for his attention, though he could already tell none of them would tickle his fancy. He kept them entertained, joking with them and keeping them on their toes the entire time as he peered at them over his sunglasses, which he insisted on wearing inside, smirking as they swooned over him. Hands seemed to be everywhere, pressing at his shoulders, chest and stomach, feeling over the muscle in his arms, creeping up his neck until he batted them away with a pointed look. Eventually, he had tired of this, however, and went to push out of the gathered group. Misjudging himself, Iceman had then collided with someone else, a surprised yelp escaping the person as moisture spread between them.

Turning to them, Iceman had been ready with a sharp quip, finding himself tongue-tied when he actually saw who had bumped into him.

"Careful, big guy." Is all she said before she collected her composure and left, heading towards the other end of the room, where some others from the airbase were.

Frozen in place momentarily, he had watched as she went straight to Maverick and Goose, the former slinging an arm around her shoulders as she approached, grins appearing on their faces.

From that moment onwards, the two seemed unable to avoid meeting each other in the bar.

Not even a week later, Iceman had been sat at the bar, thankfully alone for once, slowly drinking from a beer bottle in front of him, the pilot deep in thought. Once again wearing his sunglasses inside, Ice never realised someone had come up beside him to order drinks until they spoke to him directly.

"Last I checked, the sun tends to stay outside." She had commented, tapping her fingers on the countertop as she waited for her drinks.

Looking up, Iceman had once again gone to say something sharp, only to be surprised when he immediately recognised the person standing beside him.

"Maybe it's not the sun I'm protecting my eyes from." Is all he can manage, pretty stuck under the intensity of her gaze, a somewhat familiar feeling he had when talking with a particular pilot.

"No? What, then?"

"When I've figured it out, I'll tell you."

She had given him a quick smile, then, thanking the bartender as he gave her the drinks, before leaving, returning to the group of aviators she was with.

Everytime after this moment, every conversation between the two had been started by a sarcastic or teasing comment on his choice of eyewear, both of them often finding themselves at the bar at the same time. It had been after their fifth time meeting that she actually stayed with him for more than a minute, placing herself into the stool beside him as he fought off a couple of persistent girls, her face creased into a barely concealed smirk of amusement. When he'd finally gotten rid of them, she'd passed him a beer with a knowing look.

"You ever gonna take those off?" She had asked him, gesturing to his sunglasses, sipping her own drink.

"Only when you finally tell me your name." Iceman had replied, smirking at her. In their last few meetings, he'd found he'd started to enjoy her company, often looking out for her when he first enters the bar.

"You only had to ask." She shrugged, holding out a hand, "I'm (Y/n)."

Taking her hand, he told her his name before reaching up to remove his sunglasses.

"Well, I can see why you always have a fan club." (Y/n) acknowledged, smiling at him to show she meant no harm.

"Thank you, but they're a right pain." He laughed, placing his glasses in his breast pocket.

"I can tell." She chuckled, sipping her drink.

"You often come here?" Iceman inquired, curious as to her reason for coming.

"Yeah, pretty often. I meet up with my brother here." She casts him a look, "You might know him. Pete Mitchell? I guess you'd know him as Maverick."

Iceman had done a double take.

"Maverick? He's your brother?"

"Yep. And before you say anything, he's just as annoying out of uniform as he is in uniform." (Y/n) rolled her eyes, gesturing to the pilot across the room.

"I thought he might be."

Following this meeting, it wasn't too hard to arrange a repeat of it, the two finding that they enjoyed themselves a whole lot more than they thought they would. Of course, as soon as Maverick had found out his sister was hanging out with his rival, there had been some trouble.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?!" The young pilot had snapped at him a couple of months after he and (Y/n) had first met.

"What are you talking about?" Iceman had responded, looking up from the beer in his hand to acknowledge his fellow pilot.

"My sister, you asshole! What's your deal with her?"

"My deal?"

"Yeah, your deal! What the hell do you want with her?" At this point, Goose had come up to stop his pilot from going too far, laughing it off as he always did.

"She's my friend. I don't want anything with her except that." He had told Maverick, though he knew it was a lie: he had developed a particular affection for the girl, finding her presence very enjoyable to be in at all times.

"Bullshit. I know what you're like, you want to get laid." Maverick had been quick to spit back, this comment feeling particularly unfair.

"No, I don't. (Y/n) and I are friends. Suck it up, dickhead." Iceman bit back, scowling at his fellow aviator angrily now, standing up so that he loomed over him.

"And even if we were more, that's none of your concern, Pete." (Y/n)'s voice cut through their argument, the girl coming to stand beside Iceman, an action that clearly irritated her brother.

"He's not good for you, (Y/n). Stop hanging out with him." Maverick tried to reason with her,

"No, he's my friend, and you don't control me."

"Come on, (Y/n), I'm just looking out for you."

Sighing, (Y/n) had then done the one thing that stuck with Iceman for months to come.

"No, you know what? Fuck you, Pete." And with that, she had kissed Iceman on the lips, right in front of her brother.

It hadn't been a particularly long kiss, or a particularly passionate one, but it had left him wanting more, his lips tingling with want as she pulled away after a second. And Maverick's face afterwards had been totally worth it.

(Y/n) had quickly left after that, leaving Maverick to go sulk with Goose, Iceman fighting with his morality, before he also got up and followed her from the room. Catching up to her just outside, he had taken her arm in his hand gently, pulling her into him. Without letting her speak, he had kissed her again, glad when she had reciprocated, heart skipping a beat when their lips had moulded together almost perfectly. For what felt like years, they had kissed, neither wanting to let go, not until they had to, at which point they'd pressed their foreheads together and stood still, breathing heavily into each other's faces. At that moment, their relationship had become much closer.

In all honesty, he wasn't expecting her to turn up.

(Y/n) had been distant in past months, but that was understandable - her brother lost his best friend, so it made sense that she'd want to be there for him to help him through it. Unfortunately, that had meant that interaction between her and Iceman had been sparse, though he had managed to ask her along to his graduation, which he was very much looking forward to. He was certain he'd won the Top Gun trophy with Slider, and he wanted her to see that.

So when he notices her sitting at the back of the crowd as he takes the award, he feels a burst of pride flare to life within him. With her slight absence in recent weeks had come a revelation, a revelation that he intends to tell her today, whilst the confidence of this win is still rife in his body. Nerves run rampant through him, worried that it will go wrong, though he is mostly sure of what he wants to say; somehow, this is worse than flying a plane into battle, the reaction here totally unforeseeable for him for some reason.

As the crowd gathers to congratulate everyone, he politely pushes through them to the back, focused on (Y/n) as she waits for him, a smile on her face. Quick to reach his destination, he laughs as she swiftly runs to him and climbs into his arms, holding him tightly.

"Congratulations, Ice. I'm so proud of you!" She says to him, looking up into his eyes with a broad smile, pressing a kiss to his lips.

"Thank you, (Y/n)." He grins back, unsure of whether or not now is the right time.

"Reaching up to play with the hairs at the base of his neck, (Y/n) seemingly considers something, before she leans up to whisper to him.

"I love you, Tom."

His heart nearly stops at her words, body filling with happiness, relief flooding his mind at the thought that she feels the same way.

"You beat me to it. I love you, too, (Y/n)." He hums back, pulling her in for a deeper kiss.

#top gun #top gun iceman #top gun imagine #iceman x reader #Iceman

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gaaavin · 3 years

Note

Hello I like your work and I was wondering if you could do Dom! Dutch x M!reader.

Like y/n was running from Colm and y/n got caught up in Dutch’s and Colm’s fewd. And Dutch edges y/n for answers of colm’s location, till y/n brakes and tells him. And y/n is stubborn as hell.

Idk if you feel comfortable with male x male and if you can’t write it, it’s ok😊

“Oh now come on, Colm! I ain’t a snitch! I didn’t give the law any information about your whereabouts. I’ve known you for ages – why would I betray you like that? I’ve always been loyal to you and you know it.” Your eyes wandered between Colm and Tom, another member of the O’Driscolls, who claimed to have seen you interchange information with some lawmen in a dark alley a few hours ago. For some reason, although you’ve known Colm for years by now, he didn’t believe you – but him – in this.

The three of you were gathered in an old cabin in the Cumberland Forest, which was quite frequently used by your gang as a hideout. He had ordered you to come there alone. Up until this very moment Colm had always trusted you, had never second-guessed you. Right now, though, he looked at you ready to send you straight into damnation. His eyes flicked between you and Tom and you could see the insecurity and uncertainty in them shining right through. You wanted to say something, defend yourself, but just as you opened your mouth to speak, Colm was quick to nip your efforts in the bud.

“Don’t – I know you’re lying. Tom wasn’t alone when he saw you back there. You tell me you ‘ain’t a snitch’” These rats! you thought to yourself. Colm spat out the last word with so much derogation, it made shivers run down your body. “And yet here you are telling me nothing but lies. Now, Y/N, you know what we do with traitors, don’t you?” You knew very well what exactly happened to people betraying Colm – you had seen him kill and torture so many people throughout the years because of failed jobs, falsely spied-out leads or other disobediences. One time, though, you had heard of Colm taking out his anger not directly on the concerning person, but where it actually hurt – their beloved significant other.

Dutch van der Linde, leader of the notorious van der Linde gang, whom you had met a few times before, was a good friend and business partner of Colm for quite some time. But this relationship turned eventually into a mortal hostility after Dutch had killed Colm’s brother. Colm of course sought revenge and wanted to snatch the most important thing away from Dutch – his partner Annabelle. Since then, the two gangs kept on living in an ongoing blood feud. So, you knew exactly what Colm was capable of.

Your gaze landed on Colm again, finally settling on his sliding-down hand. You had to act quickly, so you imitated his actions and pulled out your weapons, simultaneously jumping for the door and starting to shoot blindly behind you. You eventually jumped on your horse. “C’mon, we gotta leave, get outta here.” Your mare seemed to sense the urgency and ran as fast as it possibly could.

“To your good health, Arthur.” That voice sounded strangely familiar but where did you know it from? A few days had passed and you started to build a new life away from the O’Driscolls, away from your old way of living – or at least from the killing. You still stole and robbed to survive. Currently sitting on a bar stool, you turned your head slightly towards the source of noise and indeed, there he was – Dutch van der Linde. Your stares met for a brief moment, before you quickly turned around again. Goddammit!Leaving your old life behind you wasn’t as easy as you thought. Shortly after, you risked another glance. Did he recognize you? If so, he didn’t let it show. Better get going, you thought to yourself and stood up to head straight towards the door. Just as you stepped out of the saloon, you noticed movements behind you. Loudly whistling for your horse, you grew anxious. Did he know who you were – or better who you used to be?

Your mare trotted too slow for your liking through the streets and ultimately you two arrived in the open with no one around. The first thing you perceived were the hoofbeats. Was someone being chased? You turned around, but couldn’t see too much. It was already dark at night by now. The sounds got closer quickly, too quick for your mare to run away. The next thing you felt was a rope around your torso, quickly followed by the pain of falling down your horse. Damn, that hurt. “Got him, Dutch!” Whose voice was that again?

The ride on the back of the horse was anything but comfortable, especially hogtied, but soon you arrived in a camp. “Welcome to your new home. Hope you’re real happy here.” Dutch said with sarcasm in his voice. “Do you want me to make him talk?” The burly man said. You just couldn’t remember his name. Was it Alvin? No. Maybe Allan? “Oh no, Arthur. Now, all we’ll get is lies. Uncle, Mr. Williamson, tie this maggot up some place safe! We get him hungry, first.” His gaze landed on you again and burned into your eyes. “I got a saying, my friend. We shoot fellers as need shooting, save fellers as need saving and feed ‘em as need feeding. We’re gonna find out what you need.” Dutch turned to walk away, before continuing. “I can’t believe it! An O’Driscoll in my camp!”

Your capture happened almost a week ago and you grew more and more impatient. Nobody listened to you, gave you any food or even spared you a glance. It was frustrating, really. Right now, the sun was rising after another night being tied up and your whole body just hurt. You watched around camp and saw Dutch approach you with a devilish smirk. “O’Driscoll, you ready to talk?” He asked you, looked you up and down, clearly pleased with your current state. “How many times do I have to tell you that I’m not an O’Driscoll anymore. Goddammit! Screw this place! Screw your gang and most importantly, screw you, Dutch van der Linde! I’m never going to tell you anything. Even if I did have some information about where Colm could be, I’d never tell you, so leave me alone!” If your outburst surprised Dutch, he didn’t show it in the slightest. Instead, he stepped closer to you, his face now inches away from yours and his hand grabbing your cheek harshly. His voice threateningly low. “You’re going to talk. The only question is now, or after I’m done with you.”

Dutch took a few steps back from you, resulting in him standing now opposite of you. “If you don’t want to talk voluntary, I will have to help you.” You rolled your eyes, before answering sarcastically. “Oh please, what are you going to do? Kill me? I believe you need me alive, don’t you?” Dutch laughed quietly, shaking his head slightly. “Well, Mister, let me tell you that you won’t like what’s about to come.” He pulled out his revolver and emptied all but one bullet from it. “I’m going to show you some manners. We are going to play a nice little game. I’ll probably shoot you eventually, but up until then you have the opportunity save your own life.” You gulped audibly and your body grew tenser by the minute. His hand with the shiny revolver in it raised almost in slow motion, his finger twitching slightly on the trigger.

By now, you were sweating profusely. “So, Mister, do you have anything to say?” Dutch stared you dead in the eyes. “No, Mister van der Linde. I’ve got nothing to say.” Click. You flinched and waited for the pain, which oddly didn’t come. “Oh, how lucky you are to still be alive.” He said, before reloading his gun. “Changed your mind yet?” With the second possibility to get shot, you grew more and more nervous. Should you tell him what you knew? You did in fact have a few information, after all, Colm planned his heists and travels quite a bit in advance. Click.

“Still testing your luck I see?” Dutch was about to reload his gun again, but… “Okay, goddammit! I’ll tell you. Colm’s on the Hanging Dog Ranch right now with a dozen of his fellow gang members.” You almost screamed at him out of breath. “Why, thank you kindly. Wasn’t too hard, was it?” He smirked again satisfied, before leaving you tied up to find the others. “Boys, we’ve got work to do. Let’s go. John, Arthur, Charles, Micah, let’s ride! Bill, Javier, you too! Come on, let’s go!

A/N: Hiya! First off, thank you so much! I’m glad, you enjoy my other works. Sorry this took so long, I wanted to get the dialogue right. If you wanted something more in the nsft-ish-way let me know and I’ll gladly adapt it. Hope you enjoy!

#dutch van der linde #dutch van der linde x reader #rdr2 #red dead redemption 2 #asks #mywriting #mine

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nerdflash · 3 years

Text

Lights, Camera, Action

A/N: Thanks for all the recent likes. This is the eleventh part in the Lights, Camera, Action series. Here are the links to the other parts if you want to catch up. Part One - On Set Favourites Part Two - Mixed Messages Part Three - The Orchid Part Four - Tears of a Clown Part Five - Dazed & Confused Part Six - Moving Day Part Seven - Trying to Forget Part Eight - Action Part Nine - Cause for Celebration Part Ten - Friends & Enemies

Synopsis: Truths are exposed, but not all of them are welcome.

Word Count: 3.5k Mentions: Alcohol, lies, jealousy, anger, teasing and some slight smut and fluff

Taglist: Let me know if you want to be tagged. Tagging @hysteriadarling @wanniiieeee @happyeverafterjunkie , @cherthegoddess @writingformany and @tayrey21

Part Eleven - Coming or Going

You hear someone saying your name softly and frown in your sleep. Your body is telling you it’s far too early to be awake, but when a gentle hand is placed on your arm, your eyes snap open and you gasp in shock. Tom’s eyes looking down at you gently, his hair all messy and on end. He smiles at you as you sit up and rub your hands over your face, suddenly conscious that you’ve fallen asleep in your dress and make up and must look a mess.

“Hey...Erm...I guess you’re freaking out a bit right now?” He sits next to you on the sofa and glances at you.

“Not freaking out, just curious.” You smile at him and can’t help but realise how cute he looks with sleepy eyes and bedhead.

“You got a little drunk last night and couldn’t stand up straight. I couldn’t find Nadia and by the time I got you in the Uber, you’d passed out. I didn’t have your address so...Here we are.”

You watch as he brushes his hand through his hair and licks his lips, a playful look in his eyes. “And you gave me your bed?” You shrug your shoulder and tilt your head slightly. “Well I was just going to leave you outside, but I was feeling generous.” He laughs and you feel your cheeks flush with colour.

“Can I get you a coffee or something?” You stand up and move to the kitchen, Tom following you and sitting on one of the stools by the counter.

“A coffee would be great, thanks.” You set about making the coffees, Tom’s eyes on you.

“Thank you, for making sure I was okay. And sorry if I said or did anything embarrassing.” You smile as you bring over sugar and cream, shaking your head.

“You weren’t embarrassing.” You place your hands on the counter and regard him “I just didn’t want you feeling worse today, and honestly I should thank you...Those heels were killing me!” He laughs again as you grab some mugs and the coffee pot.

“Well I’m glad I could be of assistance.” You put the mugs down and pour out of the coffee, sitting down on a stool opposite Tom’s.

“Thank you.” He grabs his mug and blows onto the hot brown liquid before taking a sip and wincing slightly. His eyes study your face but you don’t notice as your mind is wandering again.

“Are you ok? You seem a little out of it.” You sigh and lean forward, rubbing your hand across the back of your neck.

“Yeah, I just...Had a weird visit from Taron this morning.” Tom raises his eyebrows.

“What time did he come? It’s not even 9.30am!” You play with your cup, eyes lowered.

“Around 5am...It’s not that, that’s made me feel weird. He was acting strange.” The man opposite you looks thoughtful and leans forward, resting his elbows on the counter.

“Maybe he was drunk?” You nod your head and add some cream to your coffee.

“Maybe? I don’t know something just seemed off and now I’m worrying that I’ve said the wrong thing or scared him off.” Tom smiles at you kindly, his voice soft.

“I don’t think anything you could say could scare him off.” Your eyes snap up to his and you hold his gaze for a moment before lowering them again. Sighing and trying to ignore the twisting feeling in your stomach. “I dunno...I told him I was falling in love with him and he didn’t react how I hoped he would.” A wave of overwhelming sadness washes over you and you audibly sigh. The room seems silent and still, the atmosphere tense.

“Are you?” You frown as his question isn’t the response you were expecting. You sit up straighter and shake your head.

“Am I what?” Tom swallows and looks you straight in the eye.

“Falling in love with him?” You feel dizzy, the look in Tom’s eyes unreadable.

“I think so…” Tom sits back, exhaling and rubbing a hand over his face. You watch him, urging him to say something comforting to you. When his eyes meet yours, they looked glazed over, as though he’s not really here, but somewhere else, miles away.

“I know I shouldn’t say this, I don’t want to make you feel worse, but I have to tell you the truth…I have to get this off my chest.” You find the breath catching in your throat, your whole body alert to his words.

“I’m not happy...I don’t want to be with Nadia. I’m not going to lie and say I hadn’t been talking to her, I had. And it’s true, we did date for a while but we split up and then got talking again before I came to start filming this. The first week or two I spoke to her, and casually said she should come see me.” Tom takes a breath, his eyes become clearer now, you remain still and silent, your eyes watching him closely.

“But then, things got busy and I met you. And for the first time in a long time, I didn’t mind the long hours because I got to spend them with you.” Your cheeks flush deeply here, a light feeling in your chest. He smiles softly and looks almost shy but keeps talking.

“You used to make me laugh all the time, and I felt so comfortable around you. And the more time I spent with you, the more I started falling for you.” Your breath catches in your throat and you have to steady yourself against the counter. Tom’s cheeks flush with colour but he keeps his voice soft and steady.

“That day in my trailer, I wanted to kiss you. I didn’t know Nadia would be with Harry and Sam and I panicked. I hate how I made you feel in that moment, I hate that I referred to you as though you were just someone I worked with...Everytime I tried to talk to you, I either used the wrong words or she’d pop up shouting my name!” He rolls his eyes here and despite the tension, you laugh softly.

“Then I saw you and Taron growing closer and I felt like I’d messed everything up...And I know I have...Nadia and I don’t work, she’s not even as nice as she seems to be when we’re around you. But I had to let you know y/n, that the only person I care about and want is you.” The silence and tension is palpable and you struggle to find the words to say something, but you’re just stunned. Tom brushes his hand over his face and sits back.

“I shouldn’t have said all those things, but I couldn’t hold it in any longer.” He stands up and you mirror him. Unsure of what to do, how to act, you come around the counter and stand opposite Tom, his face softens then, but there is still a severe sincerity in his eyes.

“I’m sorry if I’ve made things more confusing...For what’s it worth, I can tell he makes you happy and if you are falling in love with him, then I hope he knows how lucky he is... And I’d still like for us to be friends...If you wanted to be that is...” And then he’s leaning forward and kissing you softly on the cheek. As he walks away and lets himself out of your apartment, you can only stand frozen in place as your mind begins to hum with a million questions.

You frown at your phone and feel your stomach pull again. You’re aware that there have been times in the past when you yourself had slept in late after partying all night, but it was pushing 8pm and you still hadn’t heard from Taron. You sigh and try dialling him again, but once again, it’s engaged. You decide to shoot him another text and head to bed, the events of last night and this morning, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted.

“Hey gorgeous...I’m guessing you’re still asleep or something, I’m heading to bed. I’ll message you in the morning. I’m sorry if what I said has scared you at all, if you want to talk about it let me know. Goodnight.x”

You climb into bed and pull the blankets over you, your hand tucking under the pillow. You breathe in deeply and feel your cheeks flush as you recognise the smell of Tom’s aftershave. His words come back to you with magnified clarity, you close your eyes and allow yourself a moment of guilty pleasure, as you breathe in his scent and imagine he’s there with you. You’re pulled from the moment as Taron’s face comes into your mind and as you’re pulled into sleep, you wonder if it’s possible to love two people at once.

You’re surprised when you get to work the day after, with still no text from Taron. And it’s even weirder when you get there and find that the man has phoned in sick. A pang of anger going through you, that he has the strength to phone in sick but not send you a quick text. You try to keep yourself calm by focusing on work, which is fairly easy as Tom is on a training day, so you don’t have the added worry of trying to avoid him.

But when Vanessa and Ted approach you at lunch, with concerned expressions on their faces, you realise how anxious you’re feeling.

“What’s happened?” Ted glances at the floor and Vanessa reaches out and places her hand on your arm. You balk and feel panic grip you, sickness coming over you.

“Is it Taron? Is something wrong?” Your friend looks at you kindly and shakes her head.

“Nothing’s wrong, it’s just...Ted and I got talking last night and…” Vanessa takes a breath, her eyes glancing to her fiance who swallows and nods his head, a message in his eyes that only Vanessa can read. His voice is gentle when he speaks.

“On Saturday, I saw Taron and Nadia kissing and then head outside.” You feel your legs go weak and you sway on the spot, Vanessa grabbing your elbow. You shake your head.

“No...No...Because Nadia is with Tom and Taron came to see me…” You trail off here as you remember how weird Taron had been acting, you feel the blood rush from your face and a cold sweat break out on your body.

Ted puts his hand on your shoulder.

“I’m sorry Y/N it’s why I looked weird when you asked if I’d seen them...I didn’t know how to tell you. I’m sorry.” Tears prick your eyes and you sigh, plastering a smile on your face.

“It’s not your fault…” You step away from them, a single tear tracing itself down your face. Vanessa and Ted look at each other, her coming forward again and putting her hand on your elbow.

“Why don’t you take the rest of the day off? I’ll cover you.” You nod your head and let your friend pull you into a hug, feeling detached the whole time.

The drive home allows you time to think about things. Perhaps you were being a bit too dramatic? After all, although it had been for a scene, you had kissed Tom and Taron had been fine about it. It buoys you with a feeling of confidence and you make a couple of stops before making your way to Taron’s. You wipe your hand against your jeans before knocking on the door and hold your breath.

A few moments later, Taron opens the door, shirtless and cheeks flushed, his mouth in the shape of a small o. You lick your lips and smile as brightly as possible, gesturing to the carton of hot soup.

“I heard you weren’t feeling well so I bought soup.” He lowers his eyes, his face etched with guilt and you decide that it’s best to just treat it like a band aid and rip it off in one go.

“I know you kissed Nadia…” His head snaps up but before he can say anything, you hear the tread of footsteps behind him and a moment later Nadia appears, wearing only a towel and a smug look on her face. You drop the soup to the floor, the contents splashing all up your legs, but you don’t react to it. Your eyes brim with tears as you take a step back like you’ve been stung. Taron’s face redenning, you turn and run away, his voice reaching after you.

“Y/N I can explain...PLEASE.” You run out into the blinding LA sun, jump in your car and speed away, your heart feeling as though it’s been smashed into a thousand pieces.

When you got home you phoned Vanessa, all the emotions coming out. She was patient, kind and angry for you. Even Ted had gotten on the phone and apologised, and despite feeling like you had all the life knocked out of you, you felt glad to know how good Ted was and felt happy once again that your friend had found one of the good ones.

“Are you sure you don’t mind?” You asked again, but your friend’s tone was filled with certainty.

“Absolutely. You take a couple of days off. And don’t feel like you have to answer any calls from Taron. I wish I could fire him!” And Vanessa was right, he did phone, a lot! But you left your phone on silent and headed to the gym, pushing your body as far as possible so that you fell into an easy sleep that night.

The day after you wake up late and check your phone. Nearly 80 missed calls from Taron and numerous texts. You read them all but don’t reply. Later that day as the sun is setting in the sky, there’s a knock on your door. You feel your stomach drop and wipe your hands off on a dish cloth as Taron’s voice comes through the door.

“Please y/n…Please. I’m sorry, just let me explain!” You put your hand against the door, your eyes burning with tears and shake your head. A pointless gesture considering he can’t see you. You speak then.

“I don’t want to talk to you. Please leave or I’ll call the police!” You hear him sigh, his voice breaking.

“Please…Nadia’s gone. I threw her out…Just let me explain...I was drunk...Please.” You close your eyes and take a deep breath in an effort to keep your voice composed.

“You don’t need to explain anything. I have eyes. Please leave.” You turn and walk away, Taron banging on the door a few more times. You sit on the edge of the sofa, hands folded in your lap as you try to calm yourself and stop the tears from coming. Time seems to pass slowly, but when you’re pulled from your reverie by another knock on the door, you’re surprised to realise an hour has passed, the sky a deep blue.

You clench your fists together and feel tears spill on to your cheeks as you stomp over to the door, your voice angry and breaking.

“LEAVE ME ALONE TARON!” You pull open the door and see Tom stood there. His eyes sad and full of concern. A bottle of liquor in his hand.

“Can I come in?” You nod your head, shocked and step to the side, swiping at the tears on your face as you close the door. You follow him into the living room, he sighs and turns to look at you.

“I’m sorry y/n…” For the first time since you’d found out about Taron, your eyes widened as you realised this affected Tom too. You cross your arms over your body.

“I’m sorry too…I guess I’ve been so shocked I’ve not even thought that you’ve been hurt in all of this too!” Tom shakes his head and shrugs off his jacket, placing it over the sofa. He lifts the bottle.

“I thought you could use a drink and someone to talk to…And you have nothing to apologise for.” You grab some glasses and put them on the counter as Tom pours a generous amount in both.

“After I left here, I went home and told her to leave. I told her how I really felt.” He sits on a stool and you sit on the one next to him, your eyes watching him.

“She screamed so loud, started throwing things…Told me she’d already found someone else. I told her I didn’t care and she laughed.” He takes a pull of his drink here and winces slightly. “She sent me texts after you had been to Tarons…Photos of the two of them in bed…I’m so sorry y/n.” His voice is heavy with emotion, his eyes big and sorrowful.

You reach for your glass and knock it back in one go, it burns the back of your throat but you take some comfort in the warm feeling that washes over you. You stand up as Tom watches you and take a deep breath.

“I really don’t want to talk about it. I’d rather…” you lick your lips, your eyes on Tom’s. The man frowns at you but smiles softly.

“You’d rather what? Just say it y/n…I feel this is partly my fault, I want to help in anyway I can.” And then there’s that feeling in your chest again, pulling you towards Tom. A look of surprise on his face as you lean forward and kiss him softly. The two of you are reluctant at first, but soon Tom is pulling you closer to him, his hands gripping your hips. As you move your arms around his neck, moaning into the kiss as you tangle your fingers in his hair.

“Hmmm…Are you sure about this? I…I care about y/n…I…” You press a finger to his lips, your eyes looking into his.

“I love you Tom…The truth is, I did care for Taron, but he’s not you...He never was.” Your voice is a whisper and Tom’s eyes light up, he brings his hands to cup your face and smiles at you softly.

“Really?” You nod your head and close your eyes as he plants a single kiss on your forehead. It’s true, you’re hurting over Taron but Tom, he’d never been far from your heart or your mind. And was there really anything standing in your way now?

You stand on your toes and catch his lips with your own, a thrill running through you as you feel his smile. His hands move down your arms, to the small of your back. Warmth pooling between your legs as you grip the front of his shirt and kiss him deeply. He presses you against the counter, his body flush against yours, trailing kisses down to the hollow of your neck. You whisper his name and squeeze your thighs together, trying to ease the tension there, caught up in each other.

The pair of you pull apart breathless when you hear banging on the door again. Your eyes widen as you hear Taron again, his voice heavier now and slurring.

“Please Y/N, I just want to talk!” You look at Tom, who clenches his jaw, his face flushed. He puts a finger under your chin and gently tilts your head.

“Y/N? What do you want to do?” You can hear Taron sobbing and you feel a tug in your heart. You grip Toms hands in yours, lacing your fingers with his.

“I should talk to him...He’s not going to leave me alone till I do.” Tom’s eyes look suddenly sad, so you reach out and press your hand against his cheek.

“I want to be with you Tom...But despite what Taron has done, he deserves to hear it from me...Otherwise, I’m no better than he is...Besides I need to know why.” He nods his head and kisses you softly again.

“Okay...Call me later?” You nod your head and guide him to the door. Taron stumbles in slightly when you open the door, his eyes scowling as he looks between you and Tom.

“Replaced me already?” A flash of anger goes through you, tears of frustration brimming your eyes. Tom grabs Taron by the front of the shirt, pushing him against the wall his eyes and face filled with anger.

“You’ve got some nerve…” Taron seems to sober up slightly and has the good grace to look sorry. He squeezes his eyes shut as Tom loosens his grip, you with your hand on his arm.

“I’m sorry…” Taron looks at Tom first and then you, the latter looking at the man sternly.

“I don’t want your apology, I don’t really care. But y/n deserved better...Deserves better!” Taron says nothing, only swipes at his eyes and steadys himself against the wall. Tom turns to look at you, his eyes soft and sincere.

“Call me if you need anything?” He looks like he wants to say more, there are unspoken words on the edge of your own tongue but now is not the time or the place. He gives one last look at Taron before walking out of the apartment and leaving the two of you alone.

#Tom Holland x y/n #Tom Holland x Fem!Reader #Taron Egerton AU #Taron Egerton x y/n #Tom Holland fanfiction #Tom Holland fanfic #fanfic #fanfiction #5th August 2021

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wannabemobwife · 3 years

Text

Guns, Glamour and Goodfellas - Chapter 13

Chapter 13: Revenge Never Felt So Good

Dad!Mob!Tom x Mom!Mob!Reader

-Pairings: Tom Holland x Reader, Rosie Holland x Henry Osterfield

-Warnings: Guns, bombing, language, murder, blood, hints to smut (none actual smut), typos, shitty writing, torture I guess

-Words: 4.9K

A/n: Can we get back to mob stuff? Please. I want to apologize for this chapter, it is absolute shit and I could tell by writing it. Kind of a filler chapter. Sorry it is long.

Chapter 13: Revenge Never Felt So Good

Words: 4.9K

It had been a week, since you got your memories back and you declared your love for Tom once more. Right after that, you and Tom were on the first train to Paris, refusing to fly for awhile.

You and Tom returned last night, just in time to see Parker and Rosie off to school the next morning. While you and Tom had been enjoying a second honeymoon in the city of love, Nikki and Dom so graciously offered to watch the kids. Everything was falling back into full swing. Parker and Rosie were going to school regularly. Rosie spending all her time with Henry and Parker still living his secret double life.

Things going back to normal. Somewhat.

It was a typical morning, but anytime everyone every thinks that, something gets massively screwed up. You woke up early to make pancakes and bacon.

“So what is plan for everyone today?” You asked, sipping at your steaming cup of coffee.

“Well, Rosie and I have school,” Parker explained.

“I have plans with Henry,” Rosie chimed in.

“I have meetings all day, love.” Tom said, pressing a gentle kiss to your cheek.

“Ok, so I’m all alone today,” you muttered, a little disappointed.

“I’m sorry darling, you could join me. You know much I love it when you sit in my lap during meetings. Really show them who’s boss,” Tom said, wrapping you in his embrace.

“No, it’s ok. I have some errands to run anyway.”

“Alright, angel. I love you. I’ll see you for dinner.”

“I love you too. Come on, kids. In the car we go.” You said, pushing everyone out the door.

“Why is Jared not driving?” Parker asked.

“Cause, I have errands to run and besides he’s driving your dad today.”

“Now let’s go.” You said as Parker and Rosie hopped into the car.

Tom was having a hard time returning to his mob personality. Some business was conducted in Paris, you tagged along and enjoyed every minute of it. Tom sometimes overcompensated for not being as dangerous and intimidating. He had grown soft taking care of you after the helicopter crash. Helping you get your memory took most of his time, he had to step away from the mob for awhile. But you were his top priority.

Tom couldn’t remember the last time he sat in his office doing business. He missed it. He missed the thrill of torturing someone, having them beg for their life in front of him. He missed the feeling of firing his gun.

“Tom, you’re late,” Haz said as Tom got out of the car.

“Sorry not sorry Haz, I enjoyed breakfast with Y/N and the kids this morning,” Tom responded.

“I have to tell you something.”

“What? It’s never good news if it’s right when I get here.”

“We’re down two more.” Harrison mumbled referring to then decreasing number of soldiers part of the Holland Empire.

“Are you fucking serious? Haz, I’m so fucking tired of this bullshit. My men are getting fucking killed. Everything has gone to shit,” Tom screamed, enraged.

“Tom, we’ll figure it out. Just need to keep your cool.” Haz said, trying to avoid Tom’s wrath.

“Easier said than done. Alright, who’s here,” Tom asked, trying to forget about everything else.

“William.” Haz said with a straight face.

“What? Why? He’s always been loyal,” Tom questioned. One of his most valuable men, working against him, the rat?

“I got word from the soldiers he has been taking bribes from Parker,” Harrison explained.

“What the fuck for? Well, I guess we’ll find out.” Tom said, walking into the main room of the warehouse.

“William, I’d never thought it would be you in this chair.” Tom said, walking up to one of his most trusted employees.

“Tom, you gotta believe me. I didn’t do anything. I’m not the rat,” William pleaded. He knew what had been happening to the mob.

“Did you or did you not take money from Parker?” Tom asked.

“Yes, he just wanted to get out of the manor at night. So, he paid me to turn a blind eye.”

“Where was he going?”

“I don’t know, I assumed to some girl’s house.” “William, I trust you. So I’m going to let you off with a warning, but you can’t let him sneak out anymore. I’m afraid we are being targeted. If he tries to leave, you have to tell me.”

“Yes, boss. I’m sorry.” William apologized.

“It’s ok, but you understand what needs to happen right? I can’t be looking like I’ve gone soft,” Tom asserted.

“Yeah, I can take it. It’s ok,” William said, gritting his teeth as he waited for the collision of Tom’s fist to his cheek. Tom winded up to deliver one swift punch to William’s left eye. Not breaking the skin but creating a dark purple blotch.

All of Tom’s frustrations have been channeled into his mob duties. Each punch riddled with anger and frustration. A release of catharsis combined with blood. Tom wears the smell of blood and death like a perfume.

The rest of the day was full of uneventful meetings. Meetings with business associates, actual business associates for the company.

When Tom came home, he planned to confront Parker about his whereabouts if he tried to sneak out again. Everyone retired, you went to sleep first and Rosie went to her room. Parker said, he was going to bed but Tom could see right through him.

Tom was sitting in the den, sipping a glass of watered down whiskey. Waiting for his son to disobey him. At 11:55 PM, Parker made his way downstairs ever so slightly. Only to be met with the dagger eyes of Tom.

“Where the fuck do you think you are going?” Tom asked as Parker tried to sneakily leave.

“I… I thought I heard noise outside and I’m going to go check on it,” Parker stammered. Getting caught by Tom was not part of the plan.

“Oh, ok. Parker the guards can do that. Go back to bed.” Tom said, turning back to the TV in the den, broadcasting Raiders of the Lost Ark.

“Ok. Night, dad,” Parker said, trudging himself back up the steps.

“Night…. I know, you’re lying,” Tom whispered loud enough for Parker to hear.

“What? I’m not lying.”

“Parker, I know you’ve sneaking out for weeks and bribing William.”

“Dad, I’m sorry,” Parker immediately started apologizing, no bother in trying to lie himself out of this one.

“Why have you been sneaking out?” Tom questioned, seething with anger but refusing to show it. Trying to have a mature adult conversation.

“I’ve been going to a girl’s house, her name is Jamie.”

“Oh, glad you find someone. You know after everything with Charlotte,” Tom replied.

“Well since I told you the truth, can I go? We made the plan a couple days ago and don’t want to cancel,” Parker lied.

“Alright, just be back before sunrise or your mother will have may head,” Tom informed him.

“Thanks dad, you should get some sleep,” Parker said, making his way out of the heavily guarded house.

Parker left as quickly as possible. He knew Wilson would be pissed for him being late. The talk with Tom was not how this was supposed to happen.

He couldn’t betray his family and himself anymore.

Parker hoped this was the last time he would have to talk to him. He planned to quit, after the conversation with Dom. Parker had become everything he hated, someone who kills for sport.

“Wilson, this is the last thing I’m doing then, I’m out,” Parker said, walking towards Wilson.

“We’ll talk about it later, my boy,” Wilson said, patting Parker’s shoulder.

“Alright who am I killing? You never gave me a target.” Parker shouted at Wilson walking.

“Oh, this isn’t a hit, it’s a robbery. Here’s your new firearm,” One of Wilson’s men explained, tossing a MP5K at him.

“You okay kid? You know if you’re too much of pussy the boss might understand,” jeered one of the men as Parker gulped at the size of the weapon.

“Fuck you, I’m fine. Let’s just get this over with,” Parker barked, trying to put his mind aside. He has never done anything like this. It wasn’t just one person he was killing, it was the possibility of having many causalities. Altering his persona from a hitman to a mass murderer.

A million thoughts flooded Parker’s mind. He wouldn’t be killing people who deserved it like before, contract killers or drug dealers, these were innocent people. Stupid people for gambling all their hard earned money away but nonetheless innocent.

Parker’s heart nearly stopped when he saw where the van pulled up to. A place he knew all too well, it was one of Tom’s casinos.

The company that Dom had built, but all the Holland boys sent thriving in the new century, was more than it seemed. Holland Exportation and Luxuries was much more than exporting goods.

It was casinos that ran all along the French Riviera, more specifically Monaco. It was hotels across the entire globe. It was a business but not the family one. More of a front for the mob but it paid the bills. Harry and Sam had been in charge of running and establishing the hotels and casinos across Europe.

“Y’know your way around, right? That’s why the boss put you on this.” One of men asked Parker as he fiddled with his new machine gun.

“I guess so.” Parker replied.

“Here’s a map. Where are the guards? Which posts?” Asked a soldier, pointing to the main entrance hallways, where security was sure to be.

“I don’t know.”

“So we’re going in there fucking blind? Fuck, thought you’d be good for something. Just stay out of our way,” yelled one of the capos.

“No. I’m taking point. If you have a problem, you can fucking talk to me about it along with my Glock,” Parker threatened.

“Alright. Don’t screw this up. The boss wants big bucks from this. Says “it’s step two in the fall of the empire.” Whatever the fuck that means.”

“On my count, 1, 2… 3,” Parker screamed.

They came storming in, barricading all the entrances and exits. Parker and Wilson’s men clad in all black and payday masks. All various colors and designs. They looked as they were trick or treating.

This was the last thing Parker wanted to be doing. He came today to quit and now he was robbing a casino.

Parker kept repeating a mantra in his head “Last one, then I’m done” as held his gun high. Pointing it directly at innocents, he could see them shaking in fear.

“EVERYONE ON THE GROUND NOW!” He shouted, aiming his machine gun high.

“Don’t you fucking touch that button. I know what it fucking does.” Parker barks at the person behind the token counter. “Open the vault.” Parker said, pointing the gun at him.

“Why should I?” remarked the worker.

“Cause I fucking said so and I’m threatening your life,” Parker explained

“Enough of this shit!” He screamed, firing a few rounds close to the worker but not hitting him.

“You don’t have to do this. You could walk out of here, all of you. And we could go on with our lives. No need for money or the cops.”

“I think we both know that’s not gonna happen. I’ll ask nicely, please open the vault,” Parker mocked. “Boss said “start killing hostages in 10 minutes.” One of the other men whispered in Parker’s ear.

“Did you fucking hear that? We’re gonna fucking kill you if you don’t cooperate. So I suggest you open… the fucking… vault.”

“Sir, we can’t.”

“See this gun. LOOK AT IT! It has the power to put a bullet through your skull. Open the fucking vault. I won’t ask a fifth time.”

“That’s it. Now, type in the code.” Parker directed towards them.

The vault door creaked open, revealing trappings of pure wealth. Money stacked on tables, almost reaching the ceiling. And gold bars, glistened as the light reflected off of them.

“Now was that so fucking hard. Take all of it. Everything, even the gold.” Parker said, directly towards his men.

“Thank you, you’ve served you purpose,” Parker said to the worker, shooting him dead not even 3 seconds later. The screams of the other hostages echoed through the vacated room.

“Now to everyone here, there’s already one dead. I don’t mind making it more,” Parker barked.

“What’s your name?” Parker asked the nice looking girl kneeling on the ground.

“It’s not nice to not answer when someone asks you question, especially someone with a 9 caliber MP5K in your face. I ask again. What’s your name?” Parker spoke.

“Jane,” she whispered, shaking with fear.

“Well Jane, I want to thank you for your cooperation. You are in charge of talking to the cops, ok? And let your boss know, that Wilson is always watching,” Parker said, as he turned to leave.

“I will but you won’t get as far as you hoped,” Jane asserted, trying not to irritate Parker.

“And why’s that?”

“I know you. I remember you. You’d come in here with your dad.”

“You don’t know fucking shit!” Parker screamed.

“I know your name and that puts me at a high position of power,” Jane expressed, growing less afraid by the second. Realizing he is just some scared boy. Maybe not afraid of his own shadow but broken down by the fear of the world.

“I’m the one pressing fucking gun to your head. I HAVE ALL THE POWER!” Parker vociferated loud enough to shake the chandelier hanging above.

“You wish. Men like you always wish.”

“Seems like you’re doing some wishing yourself sweetheart. Wishing to be escorted out of here in a body bag. Now shut your fucking trap.”

“Hey. Let’s go. Leave her.” One of the Wilson’s men said, pulling Parker towards the exit.

“He still loves you and he’ll forgive you for this,” Jane shouted as Parker left.

Refusing to turn back, he had taken enough lives from this ill attempt at revenge. Parker didn’t know who he was fighting against anymore. Who was the hero and who was the villain?

All the wrongdoings as vast as the sea. All his attempts to make someone pay were misconstrued. Who actually deserved it?

The words of the woman replayed in Parker’s head. She was like a broken record, forcing him to listen to a truth he hoped to forget. How could Tom forgive him? Parker knew what he done was unforgivable. It was a mistake, all of it.

Parker marched into Wilson’s office and said, “Ever since I started working for you, my family has been in danger. I thought my dad was the reason for my girlfriends death, but I was wrong. I guess I’ll never know. Here Wilson, my gun. I quit.”

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing? I own you. I could end you, boy. Just like I almost did your parents,” Wilson barked.

“What?” Parker questioned, a look of confusion are on his face.

“Oh, please. You really think it was just a malfunction,” Wilson scoffed.

“What are you talking about?” Parker asked.

“Their helicopter. Pretty brilliant work, if I do say so myself,” Wilson gloated.

“They almost died.”

“Yeah and so? Your dad is my enemy. That is the whole reason you came to me in the first place.”

“You promised you wouldn’t hurt them,” Parker screamed. “Promises are meant to be broken. They don’t call me the Merchant of Death for nothing.”

Wilson was ready for the fight and been the one pulling the strings the entire time. Tom warranted no quarrel. Never being the instigator in a fight with Wilson.

They had been divided for years to come, focusing on their separate mobs. Only acknowledging each other if they accidentally crossed paths. There was Wilson’s mob, then a few others scattered round London such as Graham’s which was almost non-existent and Shaw’s which was mostly the drug scene. But Wilson was Tom’s biggest competitor. Being a part of then game for years before didn’t matter, Tom eclipsed Wilson just like the sun does the moon.

Or the moon to the sun, that was exactly Wilson’s play from the start. Taking out the pillars of Tom’s life. First a reason to have his son turn on him, the death of a loved one. Next, removing you from Tom’s grasp. Eventually a play had to be made on Rosie. Leaving Tom utterly alone.

Only thoughts that would cross his mind be suicidal ones, having lost everything he ever cared about. It was a long play, one Wilson vowed to see through. Wilson saw all his work as justice and merciful. Almost biblical, they way everything was playing out.

“It was you. All along. The fucking puppet master,” Parker mumbled under his breath.

“If you are talking about your little girlfriend, that was strictly business, nothing personal. But yes, I have been the one behind the scenes driving your father mad. Remember the note?” Wilson exclaimed.

“She didn’t deserve to die,” Parker shouted.

“What? Are you really upset? That was ages ago. Plus, I had to get you on my side somehow,” Wilson teased.

“Wait, you knew I’d come here?”

“Parker, how stupid are you? When will you grow up and learn this rivalry is just the beginning of a war. What side are you going to be on? You have a choice. I’ve warmed to you and I want you on my side as I take your daddy down.”

“That’s your first fucking mistake don’t have any weaknesses,” Parker admitted, taking a lesson from Tom. He drew is gun, point blank at Wilson.

“Parker, what are you doing? Put the gun down,” Wilson pleaded for his life.

“No, you made me into a cold blooded killer. Not my dad. I quit.”

BANG

After a loud thud sounded, the room was silent. Only a faint smell of smoke from the gun was there as Parker fled as quickly as possible.

Parker made his way home that night a changed man. All his kills in the pass were strictly business. Never driven by emotion but this one was personal.

It wasn’t a job or a hit. He was no longer a contract killer. Killing for the sake of money or an obligation. He was cold blooded killer.

In some twisted way, Parker enjoyed Wilson and his company. Looking up to him. He was then one who saved him from the horrible life he thought he was leaving behind. The one full of deceit and betrayal. The one with Tom, you and Rosie.

The one that led him to be next leader of the Holland mob. The one that resulted in the death of his beloved girlfriend. The one that had almost taken you and Tom away from him. The one that almost took his life. The one that forced him to kill for sport.

But no, he was wrong Parker brought that on himself. Parker’s naivety was his greatest enemy. He was just a child not too long ago. Once afraid of his own shadow, then afraid of failing at life and school, especially the SATs. Now, he was an adult burdened by problems a 16 year old should ever face. He could sit there and blame Tom, but it would do him no good when all he had to do was look in the mirror.

Parker was his own worst enemy. Searching for justice, when none could be found in a world wear mobsters roamed. Causing shootouts, robbing banks, and killing innocent people. People deserved to be avenged and Parker sure as hell wasn’t doing anything to aide.

Parker drove home, took four showers and threw his clothes away. Anything to wash off this abhorrent day. The next morning, Parker went on like nothing had changed. As if he didn’t shoot his boss and Tom’s rival in cold blood. As if didn’t only see himself as a cold blooded killer. Everything that he is and everything he owns soiled with the scent of murder.

He played it as though it was any other morning. Eating his pancakes and bacon before starting the day. Telling you about his plans for the day. Trying to keep his cool. The lovely morning breakfast conversation was interrupted once Tom’s phone rang.

RING, RING, RING

“Haz, why are you calling me? I’m having breakfast with my family,” Tom asked, annoyed his precious breakfast was interrupted. “Charlie is here, you need to get here. I have to tell you something,” Haz informed Tom. “Ok, I’m on my way,” Tom said, brushing off the request. Why would the

company’s electrical engineer for aeronautical transportation be there?

“Love, I’m so sorry but I’m needed at the warehouse. Thank you for this wonderful breakfast, wish I could enjoy it. Bye, kids. Have a good day at school,” Tom said, making his way out the door. Bidding you all goodbye.

“Haz, what’s was so urgent that I couldn’t finish my breakfast.” Tom barked, annoyed he was pulled away from you and the kids even on a Saturday.

“We were robbed last night. The casino.” Haz explained, his head hanging low.

“How the fuck? Did they catch them?” Tom seethed with anger.

“No, we do have eye witnesses though.”

“How much is missing?”

“About 11 million dollars, from cash to gold bars.” Haz said, waiting for Tom to explode.

“FUCK. We need to make them pay. I’m done playing fucking games.” Tom shouted, calming himself down for his meeting with Charlie.

“Now, you said Charlie was here, right?”

“Yeah, in your office.”

“Charlie? What are you doing here?” Tom asked, a little annoyed he was taken away from his morning with his family.

“Tom, I ran my report and did diagnostics tests and it’s not good,” Charlie started.

“What the fuck does that mean, Charlie?” Tom yelled.

“I think the helicopter was sabotaged.”

“What? You mean is that someone tried to take out my wife and I while we were on a helicopter,” Tom repeated, making all the connections necessary .

“Yes, it wasn’t just a normal malfunction. Did they ever find the pilot?” Charlie asked.

“No… Jesus fucking christ, if it’s true then…Fuck, I’m sorry I have to go,” Tom yelled, running out to the car.

“Jared, home now.”

“Mr. Holland is everything alright?” Jared asked, concerned by Tom’s frantic manner.

“No. I just found out the helicopter was sabotaged. I think someone might being trying to take out Y/N and I.”

“Come on baby, pick up,” Tom whispered, frantically dialing your number over and over.

“Y/N answer the god damm phone!” Tom shouted, when heard the same voice message over and over again, “Hi, this Y/N Holland please leave your name and number and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.”

“God fucking dammit. Fuck, voicemail. Jared do you know where my wife is?” Tom yelled, afraid what your silence meant.

“Last I heard she was at the store getting groceries,” Jared explained.

“Fuck, I have here location on my phone. Change course,” Tom barked, praying you were okay. With the information he just learned he didn’t want to leave you alone, not even for a second.

“Y/N! You’re okay.” Tom said, inhaling a breath of relief. You were coming out of the store pushing a cart of groceries.

“Tom! Of course, I’m okay. What are you doing here?” You asked.

“I’ll explain later. Get Parker and Rosie we need to go home now.”

“They’re already home. Henry’s there also. You’re scaring me.” You said, Tom never acts like this.

Being a part of a mob there is a constant fear of someone behind you. All throughout Tom’s life he only had to worry about himself until he met you.

Tom’s worst fear is him being the reason you no longer walk the earth. The last week he had glimpse of life without you and didn’t care for it one bit. You weren’t a weakness but at the same time, you were. For anyone with a dangerous job there’s always a target on your back.

“Come on, love. In the car,” Tom motioned towards the car.

“Tommy, my car is here. I’ll meet you there,” you said, kissing his cheek goodbye.

“Ok just be careful please.”

“I’ll be fine.”

“Ok, Jared. Home now plea—“ Tom directed but was cut off by a loud BOOM.

“Jared, what the fuck was that?” Tom asked.

“Sir, it was Mrs. Holland’s car.”

“Y/N! Y/N?” Tom jumped out of the car. Nothing else mattered in that moment, only finding you.

Time stood still as thick black smoke bled through the air. Coating everything in its path with a faint ash. Screams echoed from the bystanders as the car went up in flames.

“Tom, I’m okay. It wasn’t mine.” You exasperated, coughing from the smoke. It wasn’t your car but it was close in proximity.

“Thank god. I can’t keep almost losing you,” Tom whispered, kissing you hairline.

“I’m here now.” The second you were in his arms you knew you were safe.

“Yes you are. It sure does look hell a lot like yours, though. Come on, I’m taking you home,” Tom said, wrapping his right arm around your shoulder.

Pulling up to the manor, everything looked different. There were more guards posted at every corner with heavier weaponry. Tom had the gate barricaded with another car in case some where to ram into the gate.

“Jesus, what took you so long?” Haz said

“They tried to bomb Y/N’s car. Thankfully the dumb fucks who planted it, picked the wrong car.”

“Tom you need to tell me what’s going on.”

“I will. Family meeting in the living room. Now.”

“Some of us have some secrets to share. I want to know everything that happened here while your mother and I were in Paris. Someone start talking,” Tom said, pacing in front of Parker and Rosie sitting on the couch.

Rosie and Parker were both hiding something. Rosie’s however was a rather monumental milestone. Rosie reminisced of her wonderful night with Henry while you and Tom were away. She loved Henry so much and was overjoyed to share that experience with him.

Rosie had told Henry at the wedding that she was ready to take that next step with him. Seeing you and Tom re-commit yourselves to one another affirmed that for Rosie. That she loved him more than anything.

“I’m sorry, dad. You don’t have to worry, we were safe,” Rosie blurted out.

“What?” Tom barked growing more anger by the second.

“Henry and I used a condom,” Rosie responded.

“Rosie?” You questioned, knowing what she was talking about.

“WHAT?” Tom screamed.

“That’s not what you were hinting at?” Rosie stammered.

“No, this is about Parker,” Tom reckoned.

“Fuck,” she mumbled under her breath.

“Where the fuck is he?” Tom yelled, bolting out of the living room. Looking for the boy who had stolen Rosie’s innocence. You and Rosie soon followed hoping Tom wouldn’t do anything rash.

“Dad!”

“Tom!”

“Henry, you bastard! You fucked my daughter!” Tom shouted charging at Henry.

“Oh shit,” Henry muttered, he knew Tom could kill him in an instant.

“You went in my daughter! What’s stopping me from killing you right now.” Tom asked with gritted teeth, hoping this dumbass wouldn’t answer.

“Tom, put him down,” you said, as Tom was gripping his collar and dangling him in the air.

“Daaaadddd.”

“Tom, please,” you pleaded as Tom held a gun square to Henry’s head.

“The safety is on, I was never gonna shoot him. Just make him shit his pants a little. From now on, you two can’t be here alone. And if you are in your room the door needs to stay open,” Tom said, pointing fingers at Rosie and Henry.

“I believe we have more important business to get to. Now come on,” you said, pulling Tom away.

“Y/N, you know I was never going to actually hurt the boy right?”

“Yes, Tommy. Now please resume the family meeting.”

“Parker. Do you have something to tell us?” Tom asked, knowing his son will lie.

“I’ve been sneaking out at night and I’m sorry,” Parker started, you could hear the disappointment behind his voice.

“Why? I know it’s not because of a girl. I want to know everything,” Tom explained, fucking tired of all the lies.

“Everything?”

“Everything.”

Parker began by explaining how he felt by the loss of Charlotte and how he turned to Wilson. In Parker’s mind he was doing the right thing. Serving justice to those who wronged others. But in reality he was the one committing the wrongdoings.

Parker came clean that he was the one killing all of Tom’s men and that he killed Jazz. That he went Wilson before coming to Tom. Becoming Wilson’s secret hitman was never supposed to go this far. He only intended for it to be a big fuck you to Tom. Not destroy his livelihood and his family in the process.

Including all the details of Wilson’s secret agenda of taking you and Tom out. But Parker left out the fact that Wilson was no longer a threat. Having taken care of him the day before.

“I’m sorry. I should’ve never been this naive and stupid. I’m the one you’ve been searching for. I’m the rat,” Parker exclaimed. “Dad, say something,” he pleaded.

“Get out,” Tom said with an unchanging expression.

“What?”

“I said get the fuck out!”

“Tom,” you tried to reason.

“You are no longer my son. Betraying me, betraying your family. Get out.” Tom screamed.

A/n: I’m sorry. I like the content in this chapter but not the writing.

Guns, Glamour and Goodfellas Masterlist

taglist: @thenoddingbunny-blog @dummiesshort @adriannauni @bi-lmg @allthisfortommy

#tom holland #tom holland imagines #tom holland series #tom holland fanfic #tom holland mob au #tom holland au #tom holland x reader #tom holland fan fiction smut #tom holland imagine #tom holland masterlist #mob!tom x reader #mob tom #mob!tom #mob!tom holland #mob!tom x mob!reader #mob!tom holland x reader #dad!mob!tom holland

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soyouthinkucanwrite · 3 years

Text

Chapter 2 - Show Time

2.8k words

Synopsys: The name of the series is super random, don't mind me. Reader is a postgraduate student at NYU, made a docuseries on her research, and the show got picked up by Netflix. She goes on a press tour and meets Tom on a ‘chat show’. They get together and she decides to stay for a few days in London with him. This could be an amazing few days or more? It’s been interesting writing how they’ll deal with distance and tight schedules once ‘honeymoon’ is over...

Heads up: my first language is Portuguese, so that might explain some things here - of course, I wrote thinking about myself hahaha

Warnings for the series: mention of illicit drugs, angst caused by distance, smut (next chapters, very explicit), anxiety caused by paparazzi, and rude random people taking photos.

Other than that, this is just my guilty pleasure writing so lots of caring sweet Tom and fluffiness.

Chapter 1 - A new city

Chapter 2 - Show time

Chapter 3 - Unexpected texts

Chapter 4 - A new day

No extra warnings. A lot of it was adapted from the real interview, so you might wanna watch it again before reading this, for refreshing. The docu-series doesn't have a name, so you can imagine your own favorite subject.

HEY THERE EVERYBODY! MY NAME IS TOM HANKS AND IT IS MY GREAT PLEASURE TO SAY WELCOME TO THE GRAHAM NORTON SHOW!

You walked down the corridor led by the stage assistant, but you could already hear the cheering and claps close by. “Don’t worry. There’s a monologue and then he’ll introduce you guys.” She smiled at you. You smiled back. Nervous smile.

“I think I need to poo.” You said.

“What?” She stopped and looked at you.

“No. I don’t really need to poo. I’m just really nervous.” You said. She definitely thought you were in way over your head.

“Okay, just wait there and you’ll go on stage when he calls your name. Frank is there to signal, don’t worry. Good luck!” She said and turned back running.

“Ok. Thank you!” You shouted after her but she was already gone.

“Shhh!” The other guy with a headpiece, Frank you assumed, shushed you.

“Sorry.” You whispered. You looked to the side and Jake Gyllenhaal and Tom Holland were talking. Jake was taller than you imagined. Tom was shorter.

“Oh don’t worry. You’re the star here, you can do whatever you want to.” An older voice said to you. He was obviously joking. You looked to see Tom Hanks. You smiled and nodded. God, please don’t let me freeze from starstruck now. Please.

“Ehh…” You’re pathetic.

“Hi!” Said Gwyneth Paltrow to everyone in the dark zone, having just arrived after you. Everyone responded excitedly.

“You guys are on. On my mark.” Said Frank pointing to Tom and Jake. They looked at you and said hello but you could barely answer before hearing Graham Norton’s voice going:

HES THE OSCAR NOMINATED STAR OF BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, NIGHTCRAWLER, AND DONNIE DARKO. PLEASE WELCOME JAKE GYLLENHAAL!

And Jake went up the small flight of stairs. The curtains opened for a while and the sound got really loud and everything went bright. You took a look at Tom Holland and boy was he hot. He was looking at you too. You smiled and he smiled back.

HE’S YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN. IT'S MISTER TOM HOLLAND!

“See you out there.” He said and walked out. You barely had time to process anything when Frank pointed at you and said: “You’re next”. You were still trying to remember how to walk when you heard:

SHE’S THE PRODUCER AND STAR OF A BRAND NEW NETFLIX DOCU-SERIES. STRAIGHT FROM NEW YORK: MISS (Y/N)!

Up you go. You walked out and Graham Norton went to greet you. He went for a kiss on the cheek and you went for a hug. Great. Off to a good start. He laughed it off and showed you the couch where Tom and Jake were standing in front and clapping. You went for a kiss on the cheek this time with both of them when you greeted them.

“Hi!” You said casually. Graham was speaking and soon Gwyneth was standing by your side. She greeted you and the actors by your side and then there was only Tom Hanks left. His introduction was longer and the cheering was way louder. But you weren’t surprised by that. This place was massive. There are so many people here. Way more than you’d think by watching from home.

“We met backstage.” Tom Hanks said pointing to the other guests on the couch.

“You all chatted backstage. I went backstage, I didn’t see the two of you. Nor you (y/n). Where were you guys?” Graham asked.

“We were there” Jake said.

“We waived” Tom said.

“Yeah, I- I was late.” You said laughing a little.

“Very suspicious. I bet you were having your own private party with your entourage.” Graham said making everyone laugh.

“Welcome all! Welcome all!” Graham went on to start the round of interviews and apparently, Tom Hanks was the first topic. You just smiled and laughed along, copying the way Gwyneth Paltrow was sitting and concentrating to keep your posture straight. Once in a while you would laugh and moment by moment you were getting more relaxed, even touching thighs with Tom accidentally when you laughed.

…

“I started recording Woody in 1991.” Tom Hanks said.

“Guess who wasn’t born then?” Graham said and both you and Tom raised our arms laughing.

“I was having sex I think, by 1991.” Gwyneth said.

“And so were our parents.” Said Tom gesturing between you and him. Everybody laughed.

“He probably meant his mom and his dad and my mom and my dad. Separately.” And everyone laughed even harder.

“Ok. We painted a picture now.” Graham said.

“You never know, it was a crazy time back then in 91” Jake added making everyone bust out laughing.

…

“Now, our newest guest tonight is the beautiful (y/n). This is your first time in the show!” Graham said looking at you. Oh boy. This is it.

“Yeah! This is crazy. Thank you for having me! And my first time in London!” You answered, blushing a little by the claps and cheering from the audience.

“Now, of course, (y/n) you’re the star and the producer of a documentary. The new Netflix series everybody is talking about. Have you guys seen it?” He asked the other guests.

“Absolutely! It's so good! I loved it!” Tom Hanks said. You stared at him like he just said the most absurd thing, and then Gwyneth said:

“We loved it! It's so different from everything we’ve seen out there.” She complimented you. You put your hands together and bowed your head in gratitude.

“I started watching it today when I knew you were coming here, but everybody is talking about it! It's so good! I wanted to binge-watch everything but then we had to come here.” Jake said.

“Own! Thank you, that’s very sweet.” You said.

“What about you Tom Holland? Have you seen it? Or have you guys met before? Because you have the same age, isn’t that right?” Graham asked him, pointing between the two of you.

“I was the one who told Jake to watch it! I must have seen it twice already!” He said laughing.

“What? Twice?” You laughed.

“Yeah because every time someone’s watching it if I’m passing by, I’ll just sit down and watch along. And all my friends decided to watch it now, it’s like some fever, I don’t know, it’s just really fun and you actually feel smarter binging it!” He said making everybody laugh along.

“But did you guys knew each other already? Because you sure sound like a fan!” Graham teased him. Tom shook his head no and you answered first.

“No…well, I know you. I definitely know all of you. But we’ve never met.” You said vaguely, trying to change the focus from you and Tom. But Graham was on a mission.

“Are you sure? Because the two of you weren’t seen early on backstage so I’m just wondering…” He said cheekily.

“I was late today! It was quite not British of me, I know, but we were very late so I didn’t get the chance to say hello before. Sorry, everyone” You said apologizing to everybody on the couch who waived and laughed politely.

“That’s quite alright. Thankfully you’re not British so we won’t punish you. Well, maybe we’ll leave that to Tom later if you’re into that sort of thing” Graham said making you and Tom very much embarrassed.

“These 90’s kids are crazy man” Jake added making everybody laugh.

“Anyway, we have a clip for you guys.” Graham announced.

[CLIP FROM THE SERIES]

“That’s so great! By the way, I introduced you saying ‘from new york’, because the show was taped there, but you’re not really from NY are you? You’re actually…uh… from (your city/country)! Is that right?” Graham asked you and the rest of the cast looked at you interested.

“Yes! That’s right. But I’ve been living in New York for a good while now so, that’s ok.” You answered.

“You’re getting your PhD, isn’t it?” Tom Hanks asked you.

“Yes, the show was part of my research, actually. I’m surprised you know that.” You said.

“Dude, I told you to pick up a book once in a while. Jake said teasingly to Tom, who just laughed and shook his head looking down.

“You guys are making this so much easier to me. Thanks!” He said sarcastically. Now it was your turn to get embarrassed.

“He’s right though, you might wanna step up your game here cause she’s both smart and beautiful. Do you speak…how many is it? 5 languages?” Graham stepped in.

“Well, I mean…sort of, yeah. I guess.” You answered kind of embarrassed for being in the spotlight, but glad it was about your brains and not looks.

“And the show is so good! I’ve seen a critic saying that is (your reference) meet Humans of NY. In a good way! Where the idea came from? Did you always wanted to film a tv show?” Graham asked you.

“Well, first of all. Thank you for the compliments and I’m truly honored by the comparison to (your reference) and Humans of NY, because I truly watch and admire those projects, so they’ve definitely inspired us. But uh…about filming a TV show, I guess not. I’m researching (your subject of preference). But I’ve always loved to, you know, get in there and get ‘my hands dirty’, I wouldn’t want to write about something I haven’t experienced. So I got to know so many incredible stories and amazing people. I followed their routines and there were so many great plots…I just couldn’t let that go. And I’m really glad I didn’t. It’s like we’re highlighting the extraordinary in the ordinary. I’m really glad people liked it as much as I did because it would have been really heartbreaking if nobody cared, I guess.” You laughed. Everyone was staring at you in awe. You got really excited when you were talking about this project. Maybe a little too excited.

“How did you do that by the way?” Gwyneth asked you.

“Did what?” you said.

“Get them to care about it. To give it a shot.” She explained.

“I’m not sure. I think there’s so much noise out there. And everyone is just competing for our attention, but they don’t always have anything to say. And these people have so much to say. To teach us. I just tried to show that.” You answered honestly.

“Well, thank you for that. And not jinx anything, but I have a feeling we’ll be hearing a lot more about you too. Any new projects coming soon?” He asked you.

“Uh…not really. I’m just living in this high for now, I guess. But it really has already opened so many doors, I’m very grateful for that.” You answered honestly.

“And your boyfriend must be really proud too" Graham asked teasingly.

“No, no boyfriend.” You answered suspiciously.

“Ah! Of course.” He winked nothing discreetly in Tom’s direction.

“So there’s a chance Tom! You might want to pay attention to this next one. Gwyneth Paltrow! What is this I hear about vagina steaming?” Graham continued making everyone bust out laughing.

…

The show went on and soon, the topic was Tom again. “I was making a film with Doug Liman, in Montreal. And I was playing a real tough kid and he asked me to grow as much facial hair as I could.” Tom told everybody. You just looked very closely at him, because his face was very much hairless.

“I think we got a picture.” Graham said. And then everybody was laughing out loud.

“(y/n)? Is your heart won yet?” Graham teased. You just laughed.

“Oh come on! The kid’s got better moments! You got to give him a chance!” He teased some more.

“Oh man! What is going on with this show? I swear I did not put him up to this!” Tom said looking at you and you just laughed awkwardly.

“It’s true! I did!” Jake said laughing and then got up to high five Graham.

“You know, if this wasn’t going so badly I’d ask if my mom put you up to this. Cause she’s the only other person I know who’s so focused on getting me matched.” You teased.

“You think its going badly?” Tom asked and the crowd “aww” loudly. Silence and some laughs.

“Right, moving on.” Graham joked and everybody laughed. You were feeling a little awkward, especially because you did not want him to think you weren’t interested, just not while in a tv show. But you can’t get things mixed up. This stuff is new to you, but you’re not some schoolgirl. Focus on the job. Stormzy was singing now, so the show must be almost over.

…

“Oh this is wicked! I was really happy when I saw you’d be here!” Stormzy said when he sat on the couch.

“Me? Wow! Really?” you asked him, surprised.

“Oh-oh looks like you got competition Tom Holland” Graham joked and Tom just laughed and shook his head.

“Well cause your show is just really cool” He said to me.

“Wow! Thank you for saying that!” You couldn’t believe this, someone from all across the world liked something you did. You’re going to get emotional.

“You know that we live really close to each other?” Tom asked him.

“Is it? Where do you live?” Stormzy answered and the conversation went on.

AND THAT’S IT FOR THE SERIES! IF YOU’D JOIN ME NEXT WEEK FOR A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST 12 WEEKS. WE’LL BE BACK IN THE AUTUMN, TILL THEN HAVE A GREAT SUMMER! GOOD NIGHT EVERYBODY BYE BYE!

This was becoming routine now, but there’s no other way to describe it other than to say that you loved and hated every minute of it. Well, at least it’s done now. The lights went out and when everybody stopped clapping and cheering the producer approached you guys and said you were taking a picture. Graham went for the back of the couch and everyone snuggled a little closer. Tom put his hand on your thigh and you instinctively looked at it. “Sorry.” He mumbled and took it off. You just smiled and shook your head lightly. After some pictures, you made sure to thank everybody and say how much of a fan of them you are. When it was your turn to talk to Tom he said laughing: “Sorry about that whole thing” You could tell he was uncomfortable.

“No, common! He was playing with us. Well, you more.” You dismissed.

“Yeah! It was fun though. Had a great time, it was great to meet you!” He said politely.

“You too. Love your movies! Can’t wait to see the new one.” You offered and heard someone calling your name.

“Right this way Miss.” The stage assistant called.

“Ok, so…bye! Good luck on growing your facial hair!” What. You. Idiot. He just laughed it off. And touched his chin.

“Right. I’ll try my best. Thank you! Good luck with (your research subject)” He said back.

“Alright, thanks” You had to go, the stage assistant was getting impatient. “Bye Tom.” You offered your hand and he hesitated a bit before taking it and shake.

“Bye (y/n).” He said.

David was already waiting for you down the small flight of stairs. “That was really great! Congratulations!” He hugged you.

“That…wasn’t bad, right?” You said. “I actually had fun.” You completed while you two made your way to the little room where you did your makeup and hair earlier.

#tom holland #tom holland one shot #tom holland series #tom holland x fem #tom holland smut #jake gyllenhaal #graham norton #tom holland imagine

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clanoffetts · 4 years

Text

someday. | paz vizsla x fem!reader

Chapter II

masterlist

synopsis: Paz Vizsla finds himself stuck on Dantooine with a broken ship and no credits. Luckily, he finds you, a mechanic that will fix his ship for passage to Hosnian Prime. Over the course of your time together, a courtship blossoms.

warnings/things to note: star wars swear words; reader has hints of PTSD that will be expanded on in further chapters (and those will be tagged with stronger warnings); no use of ‘Y/N’

word count: 7.3k

also I guess this is now an AU where Grogu becomes a foundling and Din and Paz are besties.

You woke the next morning fairly early but nowhere near as early as yesterday. The sun was already high in the sky.

You showered and dressed for the day, and then began deciding what to pack. You had a fairly large backpack, and decided that’s what you’d pack in. You shoved the few shirts you had into the bottom, followed by a pair of leggings, then your coveralls. On top of those went the holopad and a few holo photos of you, Aliria, and a few of your friends you’d made on Dantooine. That was all you cared to bring, really. Everything else had no importance, and you didn’t have the room to bring it.

“Whoever you sell it to can have the stuff that’s in it,” you tell Aliria over breakfast. “Or you can have it. I think I’d prefer it if you have it.”

Aliria wasn't going to sell your stuff, even if you told her to. “I’ll keep it, dear,” she said as she poured you some tea. “I’ve been eyeing that sofa since you got it.”

“Oh, trust me,” you said. “I noticed.” She laughed, her eyes lighting up with almost as much life as her voice.

You looked at her, taking her presence in. “I’m scared, Ali,” you said. She cocked an eyebrow and put her hand on yours, asking why without words. “I forgot how scary it is to start a new life.”

“You’re strong, dear,” she squeezed your hand. “Your General Organa will take care of you, not as well as me, of course, but I’m sure she will.”

You rolled your eyes. “Always so confident, Ali.” You sat in a gentle silence while you ate, lost in thought.

You said goodbye to your mentor in private, embracing her tightly as she reassured you that you were strong, you were capable. When you emerged from Aliria’s house it seemed like the whole town was waiting for you, even the Mandalorian, though he stood quite far off.

“We’re going to miss you, you know,” Tom, the mechanic, said.

You smiled at him. “I’ll miss you too, Tom.”

“What about me?” Zenith said.

You pulled him into a hug. “You’re a good kid, Zen,” you tell him. “Keep it that way, yeah?” He nodded. You felt your eyes well up as you pulled some of your closest friends into hugs.

Eventually, you’d hugged everyone at least twice, and there was no way around leaving. It was time to go. “Alright, Mando,” you called to him, trying to keep an air of happiness in your strained voice. “I’m ready!”

You slung your bag over your shoulder and he came to walk beside you. You couldn’t bring yourself to look back, knowing everyone was standing there. The Mandalorian put a big hand on the top of your back, some kind of gesture of comfort, you thought.

He cleared his throat under the helmet. You’d been walking a little while, the town was no longer in view, and the ship was starting to take form in the distance. “You ok, kebiin’ika?”

“Not really, Mando,” you say. “But I will be.” His hand had not wavered from your back, and you were glad. His touch was soft, despite the thick gloves and his intimidating demeanor. As his touch burned into your back, you thought of Aliria’s words: I’ve always thought you’d like a warrior husband, she’d said. Maybe she was right, you’d thought, allowing your mind to wonder what it’d be like to come home to the Mandalorian. This is silly, you scolded yourself. You don’t even know his name. Stop it.

The Mandalorian was thinking about the same thing. Wondering what’d it’d be like to introduce you to the covert, to court you in the proper Mandalorian way, to watch you meet the foundlings. He, too, stops himself. He isn’t naive.

Finally, the two of you arrived at the ship. The Mandalorian’s hand hesitantly left your back, and he motioned for you to board ahead of him. “Go ahead, kebiin’ika.” You felt your feet leave Dantooine’s soil and felt your heart get heavier. Still, you pushed forward onto the ship. It wasn’t the biggest craft, but it had a refresher, a bedroom, and one bunk out in the open.

“The bedroom is through there,” the Mandalorian said, gesturing towards the back of the ship. “You’ll sleep in there, I’ll sleep out here.”

You shook your head. “I’m not taking your bed, Mando.”

“You are,” he said. “I don’t mind the bunk. It’s really not that bad.”

You sighed. “I have a feeling you won’t take no for an answer.”

“You have good instincts, then, kebiin’ika,” he replied and made his way to the cockpit. You went the opposite direction, towards the bedroom. The door slid open with a woosh to reveal the room. Room was a generous word for the bed that was shoved into what was probably a storage compartment. The bed took up most of the space but there was one little nightstand that was no wider than a foot. It was just large enough for a chrono and a glass of water.

The bed itself had a quilt on it, made with all different colors and different sized blocks, and was obviously hand sewn. It reminded you of the quilt in Aliria’s living room that stayed folded on the back of her chair. Another pang of sadness in your heart. The pillow was flat and bare, you’d probably have to fold it in half to get some semblance of comfort from it. You dropped your backpack onto the bed, and left the room.

Entering the cockpit, the Mandalorian was pressing buttons on the ships dashboard, and you silently prayed to whoever was listening that the rust bucket of a ship would get off the ground. “Everything look ok?” you asked.

“So far so good,” he said. “Now sit down and buckle up, we’ll see if it’ll fly.” You obeyed, sitting in the chair next to him and fastening the clasps of the seatbelt. When you looked back up from the clasps, the blue helmet was staring right at you. “Are you sure about this, kebiin’ka?” he asked. “I’m not trying to break my end of the deal, but you don’t seem like you want to leave.”

You nodded. “Yes, I have to do this. It’s important,” you told him. “But that doesn’t mean I can’t be sad.”

“Alright, then off to Yavin IV,” he said, and began initiating take off protocols. You lifted out of the clearing in the trees slowly, and as you got higher up you could see the town. The people were still congregated in the middle of town from the good-byes.

Eventually, you were out of the atmosphere and into space. The journey was going to be short, especially with the hyperspace jump. Just under 12 hours and you’d be on Yavin’s fourth moon.

“Jumping in 3, 2, 1,” he said and the ship jolted and the ship became shrouded in the swirling blue light of hyperspace. “Have you ever been to Yavin IV?” he asked.

You nodded. “Yeah, I lived there for awhile.” You loved Yavin IV when you’d lived there, despite the circumstances of your residency. The forests were beautiful, the climate was lovely. You remember watching Leia presenting medals to the newest heroes of the Rebellion.

“Oh,” he said. “Why’d you leave?”

You looked at him. “You ask a lot of questions, Mando. And I’d answer if I knew you’d answer my questions.” Why were you even trusting him? You knew nothing about him, but there was just something in the way he carried himself that made you believe he would never harm you and would never let anyone else harm you, either.

“I don’t mean to offend you, kebiin’ika,” he said, hardly phased by your hostility. “My religion, kebiin’ika, it’s binding. I don’t want to break the resol'nare.”

You cocked an eyebrow. “Resol’nare?”

“The tenets of Mandalorian life.”

You nodded, trying to understand. “That’s why you can’t tell me your name?”

“Kind of,” he nodded. “We have to be strict with the Resol’nare. A big part of it is our armor and protecting our tribe. We keep the armor on, we protect our tribe. We keep our secrets, we protect our tribe.”

You remembered hearing about the Purge of Mandalorians. That’s probably why they lived all the way out on Yavin IV, and why he was having to get so many supplies before he goes back. “I’m sorry,” you say. “For getting hostile. It’s just...hard. You want me to open up to you but you won’t do the same,” you say. “I’m not saying you have to open up to me. I just want to explain myself.”

“No, I understand,” he said. Then his visor turned back forward, staring into the blue blankness of hyperspace. “Would…” he began. “Would it help if I told you my name?” He was still staring straight ahead, hands gripping the arm rests of his chair.

You looked at him, shocked that he’d offer this. “I wasn’t trying to guilt you into telling me about yourself, Mando,” you tell him.

“I want to tell you my name, kebiin’ika. I’m asking you to trust me and you don’t even know my name,” he said, finally looking over at you. “That’s a bit unreasonable I think.”

You took a deep breath. He was right. It was unreasonable. “Alright then, Mando,” you say. “If that’s what you want, then I’ll happily learn your name.”

“Paz Vizsla,” he said. “Clan Vizsla.” After the fact he realized that his clan wouldn’t mean anything to you, but it felt weird to introduce himself without saying it.

“Paz Vizsla,” you repeat. “I’ve heard the name Vizsla before, I think.”

He nodded. “Vizslas were important on Mandalore. But that was a long time ago.”

“I like your name,” you say. “Paz Vizsla.” Paz smiled under his helmet. He liked the way his name sounded coming out of your mouth. He hadn’t heard his name spoken without a vocoder since he donned his helmet all those years ago.

“I like when you say my name,” he says before he can stop himself. Maker, you must think he’s strange. But you smiled a toothy smile at him, and said his name again. “You know, I haven’t heard my name in awhile,” he says.

This made you sad. He hadn’t heard his own name in Maker knows how long. “You don’t speak your names at home? On Yavin?”

“Sometimes. But often the kids just call me ba’vodu and the adults call me vod.” He noticed the confused look on your face. He wasn’t used to speaking this much with people who didn’t know Mando’a. “Vod means sibling or close friend. Ba’vodu means uncle.”

You smiled. “That’s sweet, Paz,” you say. “I like Mando’a. It’s pretty when you speak it.”

His heart swelled with pride for his people. This was what the Resol’nare instilled in him, a pride for his people and his language. And the fact that you loved it was amazing to him. “We’ll have a long ride to Hosnian Prime, maybe I can teach you some?”

“I’d love that, Paz,” you say. You could tell he loved talking about his people, you wished he was able to tell you more. He seemed so happy.

You now sat in your room. His room? Your room? You weren’t sure. But you were sitting on the bed nonetheless, reading on your holopad. You had a few more hours of your journey, and you felt like you were in Paz’s way if you weren’t in this room.

Your thoughts had long drifted from the article you were reading. They’d drifted to Paz. You thought of how happy he was that someone was interested not only in Mando’a but interested in him. How willing he was to share his name if it made you more comfortable. There was something in the pit of your stomach that started to swell. Those feelings you’d felt when his hand guided you to the ship. No, you scolded yourself. Not him. You can’t start crushing on him. But he was just so kind. So gentle despite being so utterly terrifying with his height and his armor.

Paz sat in the cockpit, staring into hyperspace. Mandalorians were a patient people, they had to be. Especially now, living in the shadows. Waiting their turn to be the one who emerges from their hideouts. But, truthfully, Paz wasn’t utilizing his Mandalorian patience, the meditation that all the young children are taught. His mind was racing with thoughts of the girl who lay on his bed right now. Thoughts of how kriffing interested she was in the little bits of Mandalorian culture he’d introduced her to.

Paz had never really thought what his ideal riduur was like. He knew he wanted her to be smart and to be able hold her own, but that was as far as he had gotten. But now, now he saw the shape of his ideal riduur begin to form in his mind: the shape of you. When he was younger, he’d imagined marrying a Mandalorian, but with so much of the Tribe gone now...he just didn’t see that happening. He still couldn’t believe he was this entranced by you, a shopkeeper turned mechanic from a village on Dantooine, of all places. He didn’t like the feeling of not having control over these emotions, no matter how hard he tried. He didn’t like how he didn’t know if you felt the same way, and if you did he had no idea how to go about courting you. You’re getting ahead of yourself, Vizsla, he thought. She just learned your name a few hours ago.

“Kebiin’ika?” He called gently from the other side of the door. He knocked as gently as he could and repeated, “Kebiin’ika?” A sleepy hmm? came from the other side of the door. “We’re almost there. Just dropped out of hyperspace.”

The door wooshed open, and you were standing right in front of him. Close in front of him. You rubbed sleep from your eyes and stretched in the doorway. “Already?”

He wished you could see his smile under his visor. He usually cherished the blankness of the helmet, but in this moment, he wanted nothing more than to smile at you. “Yeah,” he said. “Surprised the drop didn’t wake you.” He was staring down at you, something that normally intimidated people, but you just stood there, looking up.

“I’m a deep sleeper,” you say. “Do you have any food? My breakfast has worn off.”

He nodded. “There’s a little kitchenette through here.” He led you through another a little farther up on the ship. It certainly was small, a tiny conservator under one of the cabinets that you doubt housed much, a stove, and a microwave. “There should be some stuff in here. It might not be the best, but it’s something.”

“Do you want me to make you something, too?” You ask.

He shaked his head. “I’m alright, kebiin’ika.” He made a mental note to ask you what foods you wanted so he could pick up groceries on Yavin IV, but for now he needed to land the ship and you needed to eat.

When the ship landed, you were both in the cockpit. You were munching on a ration bar, as most the things in the kitchen were expired and the things that weren’t wouldn’t make a meal. You’d told Paz just to get whatever for the kitchen, that you’d eat just about anything.

“Ok, kebiin’ika,” he said as the ship’s main systems shut down after the landing. “I’ve got to get these things back to the covert, and you’ll have to stay here.” He saw the flicker of disappointment on your face. Maker, how he wanted to take you to the covert and introduce you to everyone, but that couldn’t happen. While he trusted you, he knew not everyone would, and it would be frowned upon to bring an outsider to their secure location.

“Ok,” you replied. “Do I have to stay on the ship?”

“You don’t have to, but I’d prefer it. It’d be safer, and the town is a good hour’s walk from here,” he told you.

You nodded. “Ok, I’ll stay here.”

About that time, you heard the woosh of what you thought to be jetpacks. You followed Paz to the ramp, stopping in the doorway as he continued down. There was one Mandalorian down there, on a speeder bike, towing another behind him. His armor was unpainted, just pure, bright beskar. He greeted Paz with a hug and followed him to the cargo hatch. The visor of the new Mando’s helmet met your eyes with what you thought was probably suspicion, but he continued on.

They’d expertly tied all the goods onto the speeders, and the new Mando sped off, and Paz turned around and gave you a wave before following his friend.

“Who’s the girl, Paz?” Din asked as they stopped in the bay of the covert’s new home.

“A new friend,” Paz said. Din wasn’t satisfied. “My ship stopped working back on Dantooine, and I didn’t have any credits. She said she’d fix it if I took her to Hosnian Prime.”

Din was shocked, but with his helmet on Paz couldn’t tell. “Maker, Paz, we need you here. Not on kriffing Hosnian Prime.”

“I know. But we needed these supplies, too, and if it weren’t for her I don’t know what I would’ve done,” Paz said. Eager to change the subject, he said, “How’s your foundling?”

“Grogu?” Din asked. “He’s good. Eats all the vermin. He’s like a Loth-cat, Paz,” Din laughed and Paz joined him. The little green toddler had made a big impact on the covert, specifically with how adorable he was. Grogu was Clan Djarin, but he was everyone’s family.

Paz was greeted in the hallways of the covert almost immediately, his vod emerging from the rooms they were working to make their homes, and the young children coming from the school room. Shouts of “Ba’vodu!” filled the halls. Paz was beaming under his helmet as he knelt down to hug all the children.

“You’ll have to excuse me, everyone,” he said. “I’ve got some business to attend to.” The children groaned, wanting fun Uncle Paz rather than the stern man in front of them. But they got the hint, and backed off back to the schoolroom. Paz went to the workshop first, where he knew he’d find Bezza. And he did.

“Bezza?” He asked, walking into the almost empty room. She sat at a workbench, hunched over something. “I’ve got something for you.”

The young girl looked up. She had a helmet on. She hadn’t had that when Paz left. “Paz? You’re back?” She jumped up from her seat and rushed into a hug. Their beskar sang when they collided. “I walk the way of the Mandalore now,” she said when she backed away.

“I can see that,” Paz laughed. “The armor of your clan?” He asked. She nodded. Paz couldn’t see her face, but he knew it was solemn at the memory of her fallen buire. He pulled the journal out of his pack, “I got you this on Dantooine.”

Paz wished she had waited to don her helmet, just so he could see the way her face lit up when she saw the leather journal. “Ba’vodu,” she was breathless. “It’s gorgeous. On Dantooine? Why’d Dantooine have this?”

“It’s a long story, Bezza,” he replied. “One with crazy old ladies and me making friends with pretty mechanics.”

Bezza’s head tilted. “Uncle Paz finally smitten? Wait until Armorer hears. The whole covert will be on the edge of their seats.”

Paz immediately regretted the ‘pretty’ remark. “Bezza, you wouldn’t dare,” he said. Gossip traveled fast, especially amongst the older members of the covert who ached for their best warriors to bring more younglings into the tribe.

“No,” Bezza said. “Especially since she's on Dantooine and not here.”

Paz spoke without thinking. “Well, she is here.”

“Here? At the covert?” Bezza looked behind Paz frantically searching for the pretty mechanic.

He shook his head. “No, Bezza, not here,” he laughed. “Armorer would kill me if I brought her here. But she’s on my ship.”

“Uncle Paz...I know you didn’t leave a girl you have a crush on alone on your ship,” Bezza said.

“First, I don’t have a crush on her. Second, should I not have?”

“Kriff, men really can be clueless,” Bezza sighed. “No, Paz, you shouldn’t have. Not if you’re thinking about courting her.” Bezza's voice drifted into a singsong for the last bit.

Paz tilted his head down in a stern manner that Bezza recognized from her days as his student. “I'm not thinking about courting her,” he said. “Besides, I’m an old man compared to her.”

“Maker, ba’vodu, you’re not old. And, that doesn’t matter,” Bezza said. “But what does matter is that you left her on the ship alone in the middle of the forest. Poor thing.”

Paz rolled his eyes beneath his helmet. It couldn’t have been that bad.

It’d been three hours since Paz and his friend rode off into the dense forest. You were bored. There was no service for your holopad to pick up on, and you’d walked the layout of the ship a million times. You were mad at yourself for napping when you did, because if you hadn’t you’d still be on Dantooine time and would be fast asleep. But you had napped, and now you’d be on Yavin IV time, and it was midday here.

You were back on the bed, unpacking your backpack. Your credits jangled at the bottom. I could go get some clothes in town, you thought. Maybe some nicer shoes. You definitely had the credits for it, and you didn’t want to meet with Leia in your old, tattered clothes.

You figured out how to engage ground protocols from outside the ship, and then slung your backpack onto a shoulder and set off walking. You realized you should’ve tried to leave a hint to Paz that you’d gone into town, but it was too late for that now. Surely he could figure it out.

The town came into view. It wasn’t a big place, and it was fairly new. It hadn’t been here when the Rebellion had. A few chain stores and restaurants were littered between mom and pop places. You entered the chain fashion store, knowing their prices would be the most reasonable for the budget you’d set.

All kinds of clothing were scattered over the store. A section of jackets and headwear for Togrutas and Twi’leks, shirts with varying numbers of sleeves, and pants for varying numbers of legs. You got yourself to the two-arm and two-leg section fairly easily, picking up solid colored tees and a sweatshirt of dark green. Just the staples. These were softer than the t-shirt you had on now, and thinner than the coveralls in your bag. Good for Yavin’s climate, and easily layerable for whatever Hosnian Prime had in store. You picked up some jeans and sweatpants as well, might as well build up a wardrobe here. You knew the prices on a popular planet like Hosnian Prime would be outrageous.

“Can I take those up to the counter for you?” A teenage girl asked. She had blindingly neon pink lekku that caught you by surprise when you turned around.

“Sure,” you said, handing her your goods. “Thank you.” She turned to walk away, and you continued looking around. There were gorgeous dresses towards the back, most likely for the local teenagers to buy when school dances came around. You ran your hands over all the different fabrics, your eyes taking in all the colors. They looked utterly expensive. You caught a glance at the price tag and yanked your hand back. You couldn’t risk harming one of these gowns, or you’d have to tell Paz you ran out of credits and needed to go back to Dantooine instead.

You paid for the items, the Twi’lek girl giving you some kind of discount since you were a first time customer, and then walked out with the bag of clothes at your side. You wandered around for a bit, eventually finding yourself in some tech store being held up by a protocol droid. You’d made the mistake of telling it you were visiting from Dantooine, and now you were getting an extensive history of Dantooinian/Yavinian relations. Anything beat being bored on that ship, though.

Paz sat alone in his quarters, sipping on a broth. His helmet stared at him from the other side of the table. The chrono on the wall indicated he’d been gone from the ship for almost five hours. Then he thought back to what Bezza had said. He felt guilt, similar to the guilt he had felt when he realized he should’ve offered to walk you home after your first day of working on his ship. But this was more intense. He cursed at himself for not realizing how rude that was. He needed to get better at that, he decided. I’ll go meet with Armorer, he thought. She can advise me.

Paz’s heavy knocks landed on the door of the armory. Seconds later, the door opened, and Armorer allowed him in. They sat at her meeting table together. “Tell me about your mechanic.”

Paz groaned like a frustrated child. “Bezza tell you?”

Armorer shook her head. “Bezza told one of her friends, who told their father, who told a member of the council, who told me.” Of course. Everyone here was a gossip. They had to be, after all, because where else would their entertainment come from? “Tell me about her, Paz. Bezza said you seemed quite smitten.”

“I am not smitten,” Paz said, and then proceeded to tell the Armorer how you became a passenger on his ship.

“You left her alone on the ship? For all this time?” Armorer asked.

Paz sighed. “Why does everyone keep saying that? She’s a grown woman, she can take care of herself.”

“I’m sure she can,” Armorer replied. “But that doesn’t mean it isn’t rude. Especially if you want to court her.”

“I never said I wanted to court her.”

“You didn’t have to,” Armorer replied. “I have counseled members of this tribe for many years. I can just tell.”

Paz leaned back in defeat. “Well it’s not like I could bring her here.”

“You don’t trust her?”

Paz sat up, quickly, defensive. “Of course I trust her. But I didn’t think you would be too happy.”

“I wouldn’t be,” Armorer replied, voice unwavering.

Paz’s face contorted in confusion under his helmet. “Then why is me leaving her on the ship alone such a big deal? What was I supposed to do?”

“It’s a big deal because we want more children running around, Paz,” Armorer said, humor ringing through her voice. “But seriously, Paz, you’ve been gone for how long? Five hours? That’s a long time on a foreign ship alone. You won’t be leaving until tomorrow, you can come back then for supplies and fuel. For now, go be with your mechanic.”

Paz obeyed, standing from his spot at the Armorer’s table. “Thank you, Armorer.”

“We care for each other,” she said. “This is the Way.”

“This is the Way.”

Paz had said his goodbyes for the evening and walked with Din back to where they left their speeders. Grogu, clinging to Paz’s chest plate, was saying something that neither of them could understand.

“Is that so, kid?” Din cooed at the foundling. Grogu laughed. “So, Paz,” Din’s voice had returned to its normal pitch. “You gonna court this girl?”

Paz sighed. “Why does everyone think I’m going to court her?”

“You don’t usually act this way towards anyone, especially not an outsider,” Din replied. “And we all know you’ve been looking for a riduur.”

Paz’s eyes rolled under his helmet. “I don’t know, Din,” he said. “Maybe. She’s nice, a hard worker, but she probably sees me as an old man. She’s probably still in her twenties.”

“Maker, Paz, you’re not old,” Din told him. “Just think about it. You seem quite...taken with her.”

Paz nodded as they neared the speeders, handing Grogu back to Din. “Trust me, Din, she seems to be the only thing I can think about.” Din gave a smug laugh and sent his vod on his way.

Paz wasn’t a reckless driver per se, but he certainly was fast. He neared the ship in half the time it took him and Din earlier. Secured safely on the back of his bike was a thermos of broth for you. Dusk was on its way to Yavin IV, it was dinner time.

When Paz got to his ship, he was confused. Everything was shut down, and locked up from the outside. Once he was able to get in, he called for you. No answer. Surely you didn’t just up and leave him, right?

“Kebiin’ika, this isn’t funny,” he said as he opened the door to your room. But there was nothing there. Not even your backpack or your holopad. He feared the worst, that you’d been taken, but he knew it was irrational. Still, he rushed back to his speeder bike.

The townspeople of this particular town of Yavin IV had never seen a Mandalorian arrive in a fury like Paz did. Or, at least what they thought was fury. The dirt of the ground kicked up beside him as he stopped and dismounted. He scanned the town, people were going into shops or homes, fearing this was an attack of some sort. Everyone, all over the galaxy, had heard stories of Mandalorian warriors.

Paz sometimes forgot how terrifying he looked, and in this moment he wished he didn’t. He went into the first store. No luck. The diner. No luck. He began thinking you’d been taken. He stood in the middle of the town and bellowed your name.

“Paz?” A voice behind him said. Your voice.

He whipped around to see you, shopping bags in one hand, ice cream in the other. “Maker, kebiin’ika,” he said, walking up to you, looking you up and down to make sure you were ok. “Thought you were gone. I thought you were hurt.”

You winced at his words, wishing you had turned back to leave a note. “I’m sorry, Paz-”

“Don’t call me that in public,” he said, his voice taking a bit of a mean tone. But then he said, softer, “Sorry, I shouldn’t be rude. You didn’t know. It’s part of my religion. Don’t use my name in public.”

You nodded, and then moved on. “I’m sorry, Mando, I just got so bored and figured I could use new clothes and here I am. Ice cream?” You offered the unlicked side of the cone.

He pointed at the helmet. “I think I’ll have to decline.”

You nodded. “Can we go back to the ship now? I don’t like all these people looking at me.” Paz hadn’t noticed, but you were right. Everyone in town was looking at the two weirdos in the middle of the town.

“C’mon,” he said, placing a guiding hand on your back. “Got a speeder bike over there.”

You got on the speeder behind him after he’d secured your shopping bags to the front. One arm wrapped firmly around his waist, the other holding the half-eaten ice cream. “Go slow, Mando, I paid good money for this,” you told him, and he did. You cruised back down the path towards the clearing in the woods that held the ship. “How was your family?” you asked.

“Good,” he said. “I gave a girl in the covert that journal, that candy to the kids, I love to see their reactions. Makes me happy to make them happy.”

Your heart warmed, you could tell that he enjoyed making others happy. That’s what he seemed to live for. “I didn’t know people even used journals anymore, especially not younger people.”

“She’s sixteen,” Paz told you. “She lost her parents recently, and she’d been talking about a journal since she knew what they were. It felt right to buy that for her.”

You laid your head against his back, and brought both hands around his waist, as you’d finished your ice cream. “That’s sweet,” you said. “I’m sure she’s strong, after going through all that.”

“She is,” Paz agreed. “I told her about you.”

“Good things I hope?”

He laughed. “Of course. But everyone told me I shouldn’t have left you on the ship alone. That you’d get bored.”

“What do you mean ‘everyone’? Who all did you tell about me?”

Paz wasn’t sure if he made a mistake. “W-well, you know, just my close friend and Bezza, and of course I told Armorer. That’s all though.”

“Who’s Armorer? I mean, besides the armorer.”

Paz stopped the speeder as you got to the ship. “She’s our leader, our counselor, and our armorer. She’s the backbone of the Tribe.”

You hopped off the back of the bike, hands leaving Paz’s chest. “She seems important,” you said and Paz hummed in agreement. He was untying your bags, and the soup from the back. “Why’d you tell her about me?”

“Needed to know if my friends were right about leaving you alone on the ship,” he laughed. “Seems like they were.”

“You weren’t wrong to leave me, Paz. I understand that Mandalorians are very secretive,” you say. You hated to think he felt bad about a protocol that kept his Tribe safe. “Don’t feel bad.” You took the shopping bags from him and then followed him up into the ship.

“Still, I’m sorry,” he said. “Wasn’t very...gentleman-like.”

You let out a loud laugh, and he turned around to face you. “Sorry,” you said between laughs. “You just don’t strike me as someone who cares about being a gentleman. Not that you aren’t one, of course,” you cringed at yourself. You didn’t want him to think you didn’t like him or found him rude. Kriff, he was a caring Mandalorian, and those were rare.

“I usually don’t,” he said, motioning for you to sit at the table in the common area of the ship. “But I’d like to be a gentleman for you.” Maker, Paz, could you not be more subtle? he thought. Not wanting to give you any time to respond, he continued, “This is some kind of broth they had for dinner tonight. Brought you some back.” He poured the soup into the lid of the thermos and handed you a spoon.

You took the spoon slowly, looking directly into the black of his visor. Somehow, you knew he wasn’t looking back. He was looking above you or over your shoulder or something. “What do you mean you’d like to be a gentleman for me?”

Paz sucked in a strained breath. Suddenly, the beskar that had always made him feel free and safe felt like a prison that suffocated him. “I just care about you,” he said. “You know, like, you’re trusting me and so I care about you. I should protect you.”

“I can take care of myself,” you said. “And I think you know that. That’s not what this is about, is it?”

His head shifted slightly. Now you knew he was looking at you. Then it was your turn to avoid his gaze, looking down into the soup and taking a bite. “No,” he said. “It’s not.”

“Then what is it, Paz?”

Now or never, he thought. “When I was back home, everyone was asking me if I was going to court you,” he started. “I thought about it. A lot. All day.”

“And?”

“And I think I’d like to, if you’d let me,” he said quietly. You had a Mandalorian wrapped around your finger.

You looked up from your soup at him. “What even is Mandalorian courting? Is it like normal dating?” He noticed the lack of answer, silently cursing himself for bringing this up too early.

“Well, kind of. Lots of symbolism,” he said. He pulled a vibroblade from his belt. “Like, I would give you this, as a gift, an offering, if you said yes to a courtship. To mark me giving a piece of myself to you.”

You looked at the blade in his hand. “I don’t have a weapon to give you.”

“That’s ok,” he said. “You don’t have to give me anything. It’s my tradition, not yours.”

You smiled, he was so willing to accommodate you. But you knew this was a traditional man, deep down. “But you’re giving me a piece of you, I should give you a piece of me.”

“You don’t have to kebiin’ika,” he insisted. He sat the vibroblade down on the table, and he watched with wide eyes as you picked it up.

“You’ll have to teach me to use this, Paz,” you said. “But yes, I will court you.” You swore you could feel the relief that washed over his body as you spoke. “But I do want to give you something.” He tilted his head, questioning. “I don’t have anything like this to give you, but I can still make myself a little more vulnerable, like you have.”

Paz smiled under his helmet, glad that you picked up on the message of the blade. He was giving one of his weapons to you, one of his ways to defend himself, and that was deeper than the surface level for a Mandalorian. “How?”

“Ask me all those questions you’ve been dying to ask,” you said. “I’ll answer them. Besides, you should know what you’re getting into with me.”

He nodded. “Where are you from?”

“Alderaan,” you reply. You wanted him to move on to the next question quickly, so you didn’t have time to think about it.

But he didn’t move on quickly. “I’m so sorry, kebiin’ika,” he said, a gloved hand reaching out at one of yours that lay on the table. “I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry. It’s not like you blew it up,” you said dryly. An attempt at humor that usually only worked with other Alderaanian survivors. “Any other questions?”

“What’s on Hosnian Prime? Who’s the friend?”

You smiled at the thought of Leia. “Princess Organa is my friend on Hosnian, or I guess she’s Senator Organa now. When the Rebellion became the New Republic, she told me if I ever needed work I could come see her and she’d find me something.”

“You were a part of the Rebellion?” There was some surprise in his voice, but he’d had an inkling that you’d been involved. Something hardened you, something gave you your skills.

You nodded. “I was here on Yavin when Alderaan was blown up. Fixing up an X-wing when a pilot ran in and told me.”

“Maker,” he said. “I can’t imagine.” He’d known what it was like to lose a lot of people, but never your entire homeworld. Yes, he’d lost Mandalore in some ways, but at least it was still there.

“I thought about abandoning the Rebellion after that. I thought we couldn’t win,” you said. “But when Leia came back with the plans for the Death Star and Luke blew the damned thing up, I couldn’t leave. I was doing the bare minimum, I was just fixing ships.”

“But without you to fix the ships, the Rebellion would’ve been done for,” he said. “Armorer always says that the Tribe is a machine, and we’re all the parts. If one of us is gone, we wouldn’t function,” he says. “I’d bet that’s how the Rebellion was.”

“I guess so,” you replied. “But, kriff, some of those droids I had to fix were annoying.”

He chuckled. “We don't have droids in the covert.”

“Then count your blessings, Paz,” you said, remembering a protocol droid that talked your ear off while you fixed an astromech. “But, if we’re courting, are you coming with me to Hosnian Prime? Your part of the machine would be gone.”

He hadn’t thought of that. “Well, I don’t know. Are you still wanting to go to Hosnian Prime?”

“I kind of have to, right? If I can’t live with you in the covert,” you said. And that was part of the reason, but the other part was that you deeply missed Leia. As daughters of Alderaan and daughters of the Rebellion you’d formed a strong bond. One that you had cut yourself off from when memories of the war became too much.

He nodded, thinking. “You don’t have to, but I think you want to. If not to stay, but to at least see your friend.” Was this man a mind reader?

“Yeah, you’re right,” you agreed. “I want to see Leia. I’ll comm her in the morning, tell her we’re coming.”

“You haven’t told her? You just planned on showing up on a Princess’s doorstep?”

You nodded and shrugged. “Haven’t spoken to her in a long time. Thought it might be best to just show up.”

“You’re very smart, kebiin’ika, but that’s not the brightest decision you’ve ever made.”

You two sat at the table talking for a few more hours. The conversation came with ease as he told you stories of his bounty hunting and of Clan Vizsla’s greatest warriors. But when you yawned, he said, “You’re getting tired. You should go sleep.”

“What about you?” He pointed to the tiny bunk. “No,” you said. “You’d hardly fit in that thing! You’re too long for it!”

He laughed. “I told you earlier, I’d manage.”

“I don't know if this goes against any of your courting rules,” you started. “But you could always sleep in the proper bed with me.”

He thought about it for a moment, he really did, but he shook his head. “Gotta keep the helmet on, kebiin’ika. This is the Way.”

“It gets pitch black in there and I have a sleep mask. I wouldn’t see your face even if I tried,” you said. “And I wouldn’t try.”

Finally, after a lot more convincing, he gave in. You took a shower in the tiny ‘fresher, and came out in pajamas you had bought earlier that day, matching eye mask in hand. “Your turn,” you said, gesturing him into the ‘fresher.

When he emerged, you weren’t ready. The woosh of the door startled you and you clamped your eyes shut, slapping your hands over them. A low chuckle rang through the room. “I’ve got the helmet on, kebiin’ika. Open your eyes until I tell you to shut them.”

You obeyed, and you took him in. He was in a sweatshirt and sweatpants, and even without the armor, he was one huge man. His helmet still sat on his head, looking out of place with his loungewear. He made his way to the other side of the bed, and situated himself next to you.

“Alright, kebiin’ika,” he said. “Time for lights out.” You nodded, shutting off the lamps and then placed the mask over your eyes.

“Ok, I can’t see,” you said. And then you heard the helmet hit the floor on the other side of the bed.

It was a bit awkward at first. Both of you, just laying on your backs in what was relatively a small bed. But eventually, his hand found yours under the covers. “I wish I could show you the covert,” he said. “Introduce you to my family.”

“Is there any chance you could?” you asked. “I mean, before we leave for the Hosnian system?”

He pondered for a moment, not wanting to make an empty promise. He thought of what Armorer and the council might say. “Maybe,” he replies. “Maybe not before Hosnian. Someday, though.”

“Someday.” you repeated, and then you drifted off, hand in hand with your gentle warrior.

#paz vizla x reader #paz vizsla x reader #paz vizla #paz vizsla #the mandalorian

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tallstars-rewrite · 3 years

Text

Chapter 46

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The Thunderpath was the last barrier between Talltail and home. It was dark, and there were no monsters in sight, but the steps across were the longest and most nerve wracking of his life. At last, with a nudge from Jake when he hesitated on the last tail-length of stone, his toes touched heather wet with dew from the late greenleaf rain. He stopped and breathed in, his jaws open to drink in the taste of the moor. The gorse, the bracken, the soil. Home. Relief and a sudden unexpected giddiness hit him all at once and Talltail found himself bounding forward, streaking across the grass as fast as he could just to remember what it felt like. He knew exactly where he was, coming down the farthest edge of Swift-Step Hills, the downward momentum letting him remember that feeling of flying. He remembered this trail, and the bramble patches and scattered stones he passed. After so long of unknown land, bewilderment, at last… He felt right. Whatever part of him had worried that maybe he would be too changed to ever feel as he once had so long ago was quickly swept up and blown away in an instant. He wanted to let out an excited yowl, and might have if he didn’t suddenly remember that he had no idea how a WindClan patrol would receive him if he accidentally barreled into one. In his mad dash, he’d also nearly forgotten that he needed to circle back so as to not leave Jake in the dirt. Jake was waiting with a fond gleam in his eyes as he trotted, a little more clumsy on the steeper slopes, down the hill after Talltail.

“I was worried you’d just take off entirely,” Jake said.

“Sorry. I just needed to...needed to...you know?” Jake headbutted his shoulder gently. “Yeah, I know.”

Talltail shook himself. He did need to get his head on straight. Tonight could go very badly, but he needed to allow himself that brief moment of joy before the intense fur prickling anxiety set back in. He wasn’t sure what he was hoping for. A patrol? That would surely be better than waltzing into camp, but...how much better would depend heavily on who was on the patrol.

What he wasn’t expecting was a lone cat scouting the moor with no other patrol in sight. Whatever he’d been hoping for...it certainly was not what he saw.

Talltail froze mid step as he was suddenly aware of a shocked pair of sharp yellow eyes meeting his from within the heath, before the cat they belonged to slowly rose up. Shrewclaw stood alone half way down the hill, staring up at Talltail and seemingly just as frozen to the spot.

The stars clearly weren’t ready to forgive him just yet.

Talltail wasn’t sure how he expected Shrewclaw to react. Shrewclaw, who out of every living cat in the clan, he would have been the most certain unabashedly hated him. A warning snarl perhaps, or a taunting ‘so you think you can come crawling back, huh?’

What he didn’t expect was the expression on Shrewclaw’s face to shift from stunned shock to something that might have resembled...relief. Seeing a positive emotion on Shrewclaw’s face was odd enough on the best of days, but now, Talltail didn’t know what to make of it.

His old rival took several careful steps towards him. “Talltail? Is that...you?”

Talltail wasn’t sure how to reply, and then Shrewclaw was right in front of him.

“You’re alive,” Shrewclaw said stiffly. Talltail couldn’t make out what the tone of his voice meant. It was not quite aggressive, but not quite welcoming either. “We all thought...at least, most of us thought for sure you were dead, w-what--? Why--?”

“I, um,” Talltail stuttered. “I’m sorry. I don’t know how this must look to you, but I-I need to speak with the clan.”

To his further surprise, Shrewclaw stepped forward and touched his nose, hesitantly. Talltail realized with a start Shrewclaw had to lean up to do so. Have I really grown since I left? Or maybe he got shorter...

Shrewclaw took an awkward step back. “I thought you might be a ghost, just...checking.”

“You thought what?”

“I don’t know. I just can’t believe you’re here again I'm--I’m sorry.”

“Y...you’re sorry?”

“Yeah, I mean-- It wasn’t fair--I didn’t mean anything I said--Well...no, maybe I meant some of it, but not the worst stuff, you know? I thought it was my fault. It’s been such a mess since you left, and I thought I’d never get to...just...I’m sorry, ok?”

Talltail just stared. What was he looking at? Who was this cat and what had they done with Shrewclaw? Where was the unstable angry tom who would sooner drop dead than apologize for anything? What else has changed while I was gone?

Before he could ask Shrewclaw to elaborate, the tom perked up. “By StarClan! You need to get your stupid tail back to camp right now, everyone won’t believe it...Dawnstripe, and Woollycloud and--Ugh you have the worst possible timing, with everyone riled up about ShadowClan!”

“Weren’t we already riled up about ShadowClan?”

“Yes, but it got better for a bit, and then it got way way worse!” Shrewclaw growled. “And now you have the nerve to just pop back up!? We need to go, it’s not safe in this part of the territory without a full patrol right now.”

Talltail narrowed his eyes. “You’re out here without a full patrol?”

Shrewclaw glared. “Yeah, well, mind your own business.”

Well that sounded a bit more like the Shrewclaw he remembered.

Talltail looked over his shoulder at Jake, not far behind him, and gulped. This is what he got for not making a clear plan for this moment. “R-right, you’re right we should go, but I have uh. I have a... friend? He’s the reason I could come back, and I want him to stay with me.”

Shrewclaw looked behind him and his fur bristled a bit on sight at the orange kittypet, who gave him an awkward wave of the tail.

“Hello!” Jake called and promptly let out a huge sneeze when the grass he was hiding in went up his nose.

Shrewclaw blinked. “I… really don’t have time to argue with you about this. Whatever, fine, let's just go! I have to tell Briar.”

Talltail looked back at Jake and nodded, though he couldn’t hide his uncertainty about this situation. But no matter what, there was no going back now. He was being brought right back into camp...and he would have a lot of explaining to do. Jake stayed close beside as they ran at a steady pace through the eastern fields, up towards Outlook Hill overlooking WindClan’s camp. Talltail’s heart thudded louder than ever in his ears with each step closer to home.

They hadn’t run long when he spotted Briarpaw, bounding across the heather toward them. Had they already been seen? Shrewclaw scooted by him and said “I’ll let everyone know,” and kept going. The nervous bird fluttering in Talltail’s chest was now having a full-blown panicked fit, but his eyes were brought back to Briarpaw’s too quickly to think as the medicine cat reached him and headbutted into Talltail’s chest so hard he was almost knocked backward. Talltail was stunned for a moment while Briarpaw pressed his muzzle against his chin.

“Talltail! Talltail, you came home! You’re ok!”

Talltail, hesitantly at first, leaned into his old friend, and for a few moments just remained there remembering his familiar scent and gentle purr.

“You're really home…” Briarpaw breathed.

“Briarpaw I...I’m sorry I left so fast. I’ve missed you.”

There wasn’t a trace of anger on his face, he simply corrected. “Briarface.”

Talltail blinked in surprise “R-really? You already got your medicine cat name?”

Briarface ducked his head almost bashfully “I’ve had a lot of time to focus on honing my skills. It kept me busy. I only got it a quarter moon ago, actually.”

“That’s...great! Congratulations, really.” Talltail couldn’t help but feel the moment was bittersweet. Briarface had been so nervous about getting his name, afraid he wouldn’t get it at all at one point, unsure of his talent. I wanted to be there when he did… he thought sadly. He and Shrewclaw had planned a celebration for it once. It was one of the only things they agreed on. But then, that was before everything had gone so wrong. He shook the pangs of regret from his head. He couldn’t change what he’d done, he could only do better now. Briarface pressed his nose to Talltail’s.

“I’m glad you're here now,” he mewed, as if he knew Talltail’s worries. He probably did. Briarface’s golden eyes drifted past Talltail to rest on the bright ginger tabby sitting half crouched among the moor grass. Jake looked as if he couldn’t decide if he should hide, come forward, or simply wait, and was stuck in the middle of all three, awkwardly shuffling his paws as Talltail greeted his oldest friend. Talltail waved him forward with his tail and immediately Jake perked up at the invitation and trotted forward in the usually warm manner. He stopped short a tail length away and hastily dipped his head, clearly barely remembering the clan's custom greeting.

“Uh, ‘evening!” he mewed.

“You must be Jake?” Briarface purred. Talltail wondered briefly if he had told Briarface Jake’s name, but then, he had apparently seen Talltail with him moons ago when they were young. He felt a rush of relief at Briarface’s lack of suspicion. Jake surely still carried traces of twoleg scent, but Briarface didn’t recoil or comment on who this strange outsider Talltail traveled with was at all.

Talltail turned to Jake, “this is Briarface. He’s been a dear friend of mine since I was a kitten.” If only I had always treated him as such… he added silently.

Briarface dipped his head politely to the orange tom “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Jake lifted his head and blinked at the medicine cat. “You’re Briarface?” he mewed seeming in thought for a moment “Huh...Well, you are pretty.”

Briarface blinked. “Uhm...Thank you?”

Talltail cleared his throat loudly. “Anyway...Jake is my close...friend. A lot more than that really--er. W-We’ve been through a lot together and...”

“Yes, I can tell. Well any friend of yours will be welcome, I’m sure.” Briarface purred with amusement. “I’m sure you’ve come a long way, but I'm afraid there isn’t much time for rest. Come on, let's not keep anyone waiting.”

Briarface seemed so confident about the idea. Even so, Talltail expected some kind of anger when he got back, after the way he left. The more he thought about it, the more deeply ashamed he was for it. If they were furious, they had a right to be. He heard loud voices from over the crest of the camp's border, and Talltail followed Briarface down achingly familiar paths, his paws falling so naturally into pawprints he’d walked for so long. Like he’d never left at all. But I did, he reminded himself And I have no idea what will happen now.

Then they were there, cresting the slope leading into camp and there was no more time left to worry. Within a heartbeat, Dawnstripe had tackled him to the ground even harder than Briarface had, with Woollycloud at her heels. He saw the familiar forms of the siblings Fallowspring, Ryewhisker and Fawnleap. Shrewclaw followed behind, and Talltail was surrounded. He could hardly think through their purrs and questions as everyone tried to touch noses with him at once, some a little too hard in their haste.

“You’re alive!” Woollycloud sobbed

“Where have you been?” Dawnstripe cried,

“Are you hurt?” Ryewhisker asked

“I-I’m sorry,” was all Talltail could choke out. “I’ll try to explain as...as best I can.” Where would he start?

Fawnleap paused, his eyes narrowed slightly. “Hey...are you taller than me now?” he cried, almost sounding offended.

“What? I uh--? Don’t know?” Talltail stuttered. He couldn’t think of what else to say amidst all the chaos.

“You do look different. Your journey has changed you,” Briarface added with a glint in his eye.

“O shut up Fawnleap, you flea-brain,” Fallowspring said, “There are way more important matters here. Like who in StarClan is that?” She gestured over at Jake, who grinned sheepishly in return.

“He’s my er--companion, he helped me back home,” Talltail said quickly. He hardly knew what to do with himself or where to start. It was hard to imagine he’d gone so long alone, forgetting the feeling of having so many others around him. He didn’t realize how much he had missed the security, the feeling of surety of being surrounded with so many trusted cats. He wanted to answer everyone’s questions, they certainly had plenty, but his voice was failing him.

Dawnstripe was pressing her forehead into his. “I’m extremely cross with you, Talltail,” she said, although she didn’t sound particularly cross.

There really had been no way to know what he would find upon returning. He feared that he would be met with scorn, with the others turning their backs on him for his actions. And there certainly were a couple cats that looked genuinely cross, but... not necessarily hostile. Mostly, there were looks of amazement and relief--even joy. He could have toppled over in relief having that sudden fear swept away. Maybe they really did want him home as much as he wanted to be here.

“Everyone,” Talltail started, trying, and failing, to keep his voice from cracking. “I really wish could explain now, b-but I think I should speak to Heatherstar--”

“Yes, I think you should.” Heatherstar’s sharp commanding voice cutting through the crowd had everyone awkwardly shuffling back, parting for their leader as she strode towards Talltail with narrowed stormy eyes. Talltail dipped his head low at her approach.

“A convenient time for you to appear in our midst again,” Heatherstar said coldly. “You have very poor timing--or perhaps it’s lucky timing for you, considering we have no time to properly sort out what should be done about the desertion act you pulled.”

“You have every right to be angry with me Heatherstar,” Talltail began, still struggling to look her in the eye.

“I know I do. Your clan thought you were dead. I sent patrols out past the borders looking for you, only to find you’d simply left.” Then her voice softened, ever so slightly, to his surprise as she added, “but I am glad to see you are alive.”

Talltail stiffened as her eyes drifted behind him, surely resting on the strange orange kittypet sitting politely back a couple fox-lengths. Her face instantly hardened again, shifting her questioning glare back at Talltail. He cleared his throat and stumbled through the briefest, least awkward, explanation he could manage about meeting the kittypet, and how Jake helped him get home, and that he was very...important. She was still glaring when he finished, and Talltail felt flushing heat under his pelt while he went back to avoiding her gaze.

Eventually she let out a very slow, very exasperated sigh. “Talltail, for StarClan’s sake...” Talltail winced at how transparent he was being. Someone in the crowd snickered. Heatherstar closed her eyes in frustration, seemingly talking half to herself. “You are making your case harder by the second. You had to bring an outsider home with you now of all times?”

“He’s not just--I wouldn’t have made it home at all without him. He wanted to make sure I was ok. I-I promise we were very careful to give ShadowClan territory a wide berth.” Talltail stuttered.

“I almost wonder if you’ve planned this out. I wouldn’t feel comfortable kicking you out now when there's a chance you could be seen by them, even if I wanted to. We do not need to be seen with a kittypet on our land after all the ridiculous accusations we’ve been faced with these past moons!”

“T-that wasn’t my intent--” Talltail started.

She swished her tail dismissively. “What was your intent then? You disappeared for nearly two moons. Why have you returned now?

“I came because I was worried. And I...I am ashamed of how I left. I want to make it up to you. If you will let me. I heard trouble was coming and I couldn’t stand to be away any longer.”

She gave a curt nod. “Yes, well, I certainly wouldn’t say it’s been peaceful. We've dealt with multiple border skirmishes and a lot of unpleasant arguments and gatherings. I can’t understand how all of this lying and turmoil is worth a small spot of land for ShadowClan.”

“It's possible they aren't making up lies exactly,” Talltail said. “I think we’ve been set up. There’s a lot I learned that you might want to hear.”

After a long pause of consideration, Heatherstar waved the clan away. “You may speak to me privately. But your companion is going to remain under watch”

Talltail wanted to protest. Jake had never been in a place like this, surrounded by so many strange cats who were giving him sideways glances or wrinkling their noses at his collar.

Luckily, Briarface quickly stepped forward and whispered to him, “I’ll look after Jake, don’t worry, he’ll be fine.”

Talltail gave one last look behind him before he followed Heatherstar, but Jake just blinked back at him with a small shrug before following Briarface away from the center of the staring crowd. Thank the stars Jake was so resilient.

Once in her den, Talltail told Heatherstar all he could of what he had found, that ShadowClan had discovered their abandoned tunneling project and saw it as a threat, and that since then a lone bunch of young ShadowClan cats had enlisted the help of a rogue through threats to purposely cause trouble between them. She seemed reluctant when he mentioned Sparrow, but something in his eyes must have convinced her he was not making wild accusations out of grief or anger this time.

“I spoke to Sparrow, and to ShadowClan’s medicine cat. Sparrow and the rest of his family are free from them now, and I doubt he intends to return to clan territory ever again. ShadowClan may intend to retaliate...soon, but only because they have been fed so much false information.”

He hesitated to say ShadowClan was possibly planning an attack on the new moon, two days from then. He desperately didn’t want Heatherstar to react by saying ‘then we must immediately launch an attack first’. There was a chance that Ratfang would succeed in talking her leader down from the idea. She wanted to prevent a battle, and she must have been desperate to put so much trust in a potential enemy. Talltail wanted to at least try making good on that trust. There could still be time.

Heatherstar furrowed her brow slightly. “I admit that would explain where the accusations came from. But even if what you say is true, that certain cats acting alone wanted to set our clans at each other...knowing that may not be enough to fix anything. I know at least one ShadowClan warrior has died from infected battle wounds as a result of these skirmishes, and the lot of them have been even more hostile since. Meanwhile, our clan has still been insulted and harassed on our border for moons, that is very real, and Brackenwing’s death is fresh in our minds. Even if these deaths were accidental casualties of battle, they happened all the same...Not to mention, if what you say is true, then ShadowClan was likely indirectly responsible for Sandstone’s death as well--and that particular invasion was under Cedarstar’s orders. Knowing that, you still want to see if we can resolve this?”

Talltail swallowed. “I do. If I thought retaliation would bring us peace, I would feel different. But I cannot in good conscience chase that drive for vengeance against them, especially when the cause will be playing into a treacherous cat's desires. You know this could spiral into an endless on and off war, and we are approaching the cold seasons. I just...I don’t want to lose anyone else. I will help defend us at all costs if we are left with no choice, but if we have a choice...”

Heatherstar regarded him quietly for a moment. “I would prefer to avoid seasons long hostilities as well. I will send a messenger and request a meeting, since there is reason to believe peace will not wait until the next gathering. But keep in mind, since this is happening on a night when the full moon doesn’t protect us, it may end in a battle if ShadowClan does not believe us, and especially if they refuse to give up their push to expand the borders. They may wish to protect the honor of their own, even if their own have broken the code, at any cost. If they agree to a meeting, I suspect Cedarstar will bring his warriors, and so will we. If it comes to violence despite our efforts, your first step in proving yourself to your clan again, if that is your goal, will be to fight beside us.”

“I will. Always.” Talltail hoped she heard the conviction in his voice. A meeting with a battle patrol worth of warriors wasn’t the most hopeful scenario. But it was the best he could do.

***

Heatherstar announced to the clan her intentions to mixed mutterings and confusion. WindClan would send their messenger, and knowing ShadowClan, they would have patrols waiting nearby the border. They would make one last attempt at peace, but go in prepared for a fight.

“Why are we talking at all?” Shrewclaw hissed, casting a fierce glare at Talltail. Talltail stubbornly flattened his ears. There was the old angry tom he remembered. Whatever may have changed about Shrewclaw, this topic made it clear that old resentment built seasons ago when Brackenwing died was still there, burning away hot as ever. “You haven’t been here to see what they’ve been doing. This is a waste of time, violence is the only language ShadowClan understands. We have to make them regret ever setting paws under the Thunderpath tunnel to ensure they won’t dare try again!”

“I just think if one decisive battle was enough to fix things, the clans would have stopped fighting ages ago.” Talltail said evenly.

It was torment waiting around to hear back from the messenger. More than anything, Talltail wanted to sit with his old friends and hear about their lives, what had changed, if they were doing well. But there wasn’t time for that yet. Additionally, many cats were still looking at Talltail and Jake curiously, some a bit suspiciously. Perhaps they thought Heatherstar was letting him back in too easily. Honestly, Talltail wondered that as well. Heatherstar had been vague about what she planned to do with him, and about the outsider he had brought back. It seemed she wanted to deal with one big problem at a time, and any cat could see Jake wasn’t the most important threat around at the moment.

Talltail was arguing with himself over whether it was a mistake to allow Jake to come into this mess. He didn’t think anyone would hurt Jake, but it was true that coming back with a kittypet really wasn't helping his case to be smoothly accepted back. Strong relationships with any outsider was frowned upon, and kittypets even more so than the average rogue. But Jake was worth that risk. Talltail wasn’t ashamed of him. Imagine how furious Sandstone would be if he were here to see it, some petty part of him whispered. The thought, surprisingly, was almost funny now.

Maybe bringing Jake here was for selfish reasons, as having him nearby made Talltail feel braver, and he needed all the bravery he could get right now. To Talltail’s relief, Jake was still just sitting around amiably, clearly not frightened at all. He didn’t let himself get ruffled, even by the occasional hostile glance. He grinned and nodded a greeting to everyone he saw.

“I know you care about these cats, so I may as well try to make a good impression,” he said to Talltail. A cat could get used to anything, Jake had said once. Even all this.

Eventually Cloudrunner returned with the message, and ShadowClan, to everyone’s surprise, accepted the meeting immediately. Talltail thought they might at least wait a while, he’d been hoping for more time to settle his nerves and just get used to being back in WindClan’s camp again after so long. But he couldn’t relax until this matter was solved. Many cats were suspicious, and they had a right to be. Heatherstar was clearly prepared for an ambush. He just hoped she was also prepared to sort this out without claws. If they could.

“Our medicine cats will be on standby in case.” Heatherstar announced, not even bothering to call a meeting as everyone was already anxiously gathered. “Reedfeather will put together the patrol. Only a select few will meet, while the rest of you will wait nearby and listen for the signal if things go wrong.”

As those chosen for the patrol were preparing to leave, Briarface nudged Talltail gently. “It will be alright. And no one will harm your friend here, he’ll be safe.” Although his words were reassuring, that old cloud of worry marred his expression. Perhaps the medicine cat was trying to convince himself. “Be careful tonight, Talltail. I hope you can help us. Whatever happens...have faith in yourself.”

Before Talltail could leave camp, Jake was running up behind him. “B-But...Are you really telling me to stay behind again?” he demanded.

“I know you don’t want to,” Talltail whispered to him, “But I have to insist this time. I can’t afford to disobey orders right now. Heatherstar is not happy as it is and you haven’t been trained to fight clan warriors in the event something happens with ShadowClan! If an outsider is seen in battle, the accusations could start all over again.”

“I’ll watch over your friend,” Fallowspring offered “I have to stay in camp. I’ll at least make sure Whitetooth doesn’t bite his nose off.”

“But--!” Jake protested.

Talltail pressed his nose to Jake’s cheek. “I’ll be back soon, I promise. Fallowspring’s a good cat, don’t worry.”

Fallowspring nodded, but she looked weary. Talltail could see she had remnants of cobweb on her hindleg covering a wound, probably from a more recent border skirmish that looked painful to walk on. Of course, there was nothing else that would keep her from joining the battle patrol. She looked after the patrol with some frustration, and worry. It wasn’t hard to guess she was probably looking after Shrewclaw, who was already about to run on ahead.

Fallowspring gave Talltail a long look, and said quietly, “as thanks...Try to make sure some cat keeps Shrewclaw from doing something mouse-brained. If you can.”

Talltail nodded slowly “I will but...I would have thought you’d be on board with him?”

“I don’t know...I might have been once. But now my siblings and mate are all on a battle patrol without me, and I can’t do anything to help. I just don’t want any more blood to be spilled on that border. I care so much about him, but I can’t make him listen.”

“I’ll do what I can.” Talltail said, before leaving to catch up to Heatherstar, feeling Jake and Fallowspring’s anxious eyes on his back as he went.

Talltail sent a silent prayer up to the stars peeking out in the pitch dark sky. He could only hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

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#FRU46 #chapter 46

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fawad-khan · 4 years

Text

Together Always

A/N: hey guys, this is a part of @in-a-lot-of-fandoms-tbh 's 1k writing challenge, congratulations again, queen K! I hope you enjoy. I’m so sorry for the delay hvfuuvcurv, i hope you enjoy! This is my longest yet, if this flops, i will be angy :)

Masterlist

Pairing- Harry Holland x reader

Warning- some angst maybe? mentions of hospital, nothing too gory, maybe swearing here and there

Word Count- 3.5k+ (woohoo!)

Prompt- “Marriage? Pass”

Prompt will be in bold

Summary- you finally realize why people choose to go ahead and take a long term committment with each other.

(At age 10)

You were sitting on a park bench alone, crying by yourself. No one was around, for you were sitting in a quiet and empty part of the park. Your head was bent to your knees, which you had brought closer to your chest. You were so engrossed in your own sorrow that you did not notice two identical faces catching your sight and walking towards you, wondering what was wrong.

"Hey, what happened? Are you alright?" You heard a voice in front of you and looked up, seeing two twin boys standing in front of you. One of them had curly hair, while the other had straighter hair.

"Well no, I'm not in a really good mood right now." You replied meekly.

"Do you want to talk about it?" The curly haired boy asked. You let out a sniffle and wiped your wet eyes. They sat down beside you, the curly haired boy sitting on your left and patting your hand for comfort, and the straight haired boy sitting by your right.

"Well, uh it's just that my mommy an-and my daddy they do-don't want to live with each o-other anymore and are getting a d-divorce."

"Oh, uh that's really sad to hear. Do you know exactly why this happened though? Like do they fight or anything?"

"Harry, don't ask her all that! She will tell us if she wants to."

"It's ok, uh they kind of fight a lot everyday and I overhear them saying they cannot live like this and all, I guess." You said, smiling sadly. "Now I have to decide who I want to live with. It's gonna be a bit hard for me." You sniffled again, making the boy named Harry (you guessed when the other boy called him) rub your arm in comfort.

"Well if you ever have any difficulties, we don't live very far from here. You can always come and maybe live with us, if our mum agrees with it."

"No no, I don't wanna burden you like that, but uh sounds nice!"

"Oh and I'm Harry, he's my twin Sam." He said, pointing to the straight haired boy.

"I'm (y/n)." You said, shaking their hands. Little did your 10 year old self know at the time that their friendship would make a tremendous difference in your life.

----

(6 years have passed)

It has been 6 years. You decided to finally move in with your dad, partly because he was kind of a better parent to you and partly because his house was near the Hollands, which made it easier for you to see the twins more often.

Ever since that day, you had become great friends with Harry and Sam. Of course, through them, you also met Tom and Paddy and their parents, and they were the sweetest people you ever met. They helped you go through your parents divorce, as it is always very difficult for a small child to go through such things alone. They were like a second family to you. Tom kind of became like a protective older, while Paddy was like a little brother.

Harry and Sam were your best friends, of course. They never failed to always keep you happy and amused, especially when they did a lot of silly things on purpose.

Harry never failed to pull you out of your blues. No matter what it was, he always managed to get a smile out of you every single day. He made you feel warm and fuzzy every time it was just the two of you together. You often accompanied him whenever he would do some casual photoshoots, as you were a great help to him, giving valuable tips, helping him choose a perfect scene, etc.

Of course, as you grew older, puberty was obviously very much favourable to all of you. Harry was no longer the cute little boy with a baby voice, you were no longer the small girl with a doll face. Harry grew more tall, his muscular features become more and more prominent. His voice had become deeper, which you found pleasant to hear all day long. Not to mention, he was more attractive as well, so naturally he often attracted the attention of girls in school which often made you jealous.

Sam of course grew up to be a very charming and handsome lad as well, quite like his twin. His cooking skills had improved a lot too. But, the bond between the two of you was more platonic. You felt a deeper connection with Harry, something more than friendship. You were still wary of a long term committed relationship, given that you had gone through your parents divorce, but that did not stop you from daydreaming about what it would be like if you and Harry were together.

----

(Age 17)

It was your senior prom and your date had turned out to be a bitch, deciding to never show up at your house to pick you up. He had messaged you about having caught the flu, and right when you were about to just give up and stay in at home instead, Sam insisted that you come to prom anyway. What you did not know was Harry had not managed to get a date, so he just decided to show up solo. He had been hoping to ask you, but seeing that you got a date already, he decided to just go by himself.

So when he saw you alone and dateless, looking absolutely impeccable and breathtaking in your body hugging purple dress that ended above your knees and hair opened save for a small braid in the side, he decided to take this chance and go for it.

You had seen him too, looking so handsome in his tuxedo. How you were mentally wishing that you both would be together instead. The way his curls flopped despite his best efforts to keep them tidy only made him seem hotter in your eyes.

"What happened? Todd ain't here?" He asked, referring to your date.

"Na, he's had a bout of flu, at least that's what he says."

"What do you mean by that?"

"I dunno, I guess I just kinda had this coming you know, maybe I'm not meant to have a nice date to a dance and have fun. Ah, just my luck."

"Come on, any guy would be lucky to be with you."

"Yeah right." At that moment, his eyes fell on a couple who had entered the ballroom, and when he realised who it was, his blood boiled and his fingers were clenched as he tried to control the urge to just go and punch him.

You could feel him tense up beside you, and looking at his face, you could sense something wasn't right. His face held an agitated expression.

"What's the matter, Harry?" You asked, concerned.

"I hate to tell you this, but uh looks like Todd is in perfect health." He mumbled.

"Wait whatever do you mean?"

"See for yourself." He pointed you in the direction where he was looking, and to your immense surprise, there was Todd all suited up, getting quite cozy with some random chick who was in a dress slightly shorter than the prescribed dress code. You could feel your blood boiling. The audacity of the motherfucker to lie like this and then just show up like that, you couldn't control the rage building in you.

Before Harry could stop you, you stormed your way towards the couple, who were now making out in a corner and ripped them apart. The chick had barely uttered a word when you gave him one tight slap.

"Fucking bastard, so this is your flu? How did I even agree to you, you son of a bitch?!" You shouted out so loud that now the whole hall of students was staring at this scene. Harry finally came behind you and held your shoulders in an attempt to calm you down.

"Hey hey hey, just leave that fucker alone, okay" he whispered in your ear and dragged you away from them towards the drinks table. He handed you a cold drink and you gulped half the drink in one sip, which helped you to calm down.

"Are you okay?" He asked softly, holding your hand for comforting you.

"Yeah, I'm fine just, I should've expected this would happen, I guess. I don't think boyfriend and all is meant for me." You said, feeling a small lump in your throat as you felt tears in your eyes.

"Hey hey hey, now don't say all that." He lifted your chin up and looked into your eyes. "Don't cry over that wanker. You wanna dance with me?" He held out his hand, waiting for your answer. You wiped your tears and smiled at him, taking his hand, which he took as yes.

He took you to the dance floor and held you by the waist, pulling you closer towards him. Some slow music was playing. You held his shoulders and rested your head on his chest, swaying slowly to the music. The space between the two of you was not that prominent now, and you could hear your heart beat very loud and felt that Harry could probably hear it too.

He was feeling sorry. Sorry that you were made upset by a total jerk, but at the same time glad because that was the reason he was here, holding you close, dancing with the prettiest girl he knew, the girl he had liked over the years. He could smell sweet shampoo from your hair, mixed with some perfume you had applied, lulling him into a trance of you.

The beat of the music changed as the DJ changed into another song with faster rhythm, making you pull away from each other as you matched to the rhythm. He accompanied too, although he wasn’t too great of a dancer, but he still looked cute trying to match your moves, making you giggle at him. You danced to a few more songs, before you felt a little hungry and thirsty, signalling Harry who was feeling the same. You went to the snack counter and got some snacks for both of you, while he got the drinks. You quickly chugged the drink and snacks at once, making him laugh, you following suit.

“Thanks for this Harry, I’m really enjoying prom.”

“You’re welcome, love.” you froze a little at that nickname. Love, huh. You’d love to get used to that nickname. You just smiled in response.

The rest of the prom just went in a blur. All that you really remembered and cared about was when you sneaked out of the party and took a walk in the park. You both were just walking side by side, hands brushing every now and then. Harry suddenly stopped and let out a deep breath.

“Hey, (y/n)?”

“Yeah Harry?”

He cupped your cheeks and leaned in, pressing a soft kiss on your lips, catching you off guard. Slowly you melted into the kiss, moving your lips against his soft ones. He pulled away from you, eyes closed and pressed his forehead against yours, hands still cupping your cheeks.

"Would this be a good time to say that I like you? Like maybe we could be something more?" His eyes slowly opened, looking into your (y/e/c) eyes, both of you knew the answer.

"Yes Harry, I'd love that." You said smiling, making him grin from ear to ear. He leaned in again to kiss you harder, one hand still on your cheek while the other pulled you closer by the waist to practically press into his chest. Your hands went around his neck as you kissed him harder as well, with more passion, as if letting out all of the tension into it. Needless to say, this was your happiest memory of your lives.

----

(Age 23)

You never thought that you'd be in a relationship this long, but here you were, six years later. Harry was now a professional photographer and often had lots of photoshoots lined up for him. You had decided to take up journalism, as you were fond of writing a lot and often wrote plenty of articles in your school days.

You both now lived together in an apartment of your own, not very far from the Hollands'. You were both busy in your professional lives, but always found time for each other as well. You’d maybe go out on dates to a restaurant or to the movies, or have a night in having a movie night or just do something goofy or have some fun ;)

He has always made you feel complete. Neither of you really felt the pressure to go to the next step, which was marriage, or well so you thought. Harry would lie if he said that it didn’t occur to him. However, he knew that you weren’t ready just yet. He did not mind much, so as long as he could be with you all his life.

You were sitting and having tea with one of your colleagues Sally, who was also a good friend of yours. You were just sitting and discussing stuff about some work and boyfriends, bitching away about some stupid colleagues in your office.

“Oh also, I have something to say.” she said in a very excited voice.

“Oooh what is it?” you asked, curious as to what she was going to say. She simply squeeled a little and thrust her left hand in front of your eyes and you saw a beautiful silver princess cut diamond cut ring on her ring finger. You covered your mouth, a big smile on your face. You gave her a big hug. You were so happy for her.

“Oh my god, Ricky proposed? I cannot believe this! When did this happen?”

“It happened this morning! He did it when I woke up! Isn’t he so amazing?”

“Of course Sal, I’m so happy for you!”

You could not, however, feel a panging in your heart. It felt a little like a longing pain, as if you would love for something like this to happen. You had no intentions to settle for a long term commitment like a marriage, but maybe, just maybe, there was a teeny tiny part in you that perhaps wanted that with Harry.

“So what about you and Harry? Are you guys planning to marry any time soon?” she asked cheekily. You gave a clamped smile.

“Marriage? Pass.” you said, trying to sound nonchalant, even though your voice quivered a bit.

“Are you sure though hun? I mean, you and Harry have been going strong for years now. Don’t you even think about it sometimes?”

You gulped. She was kind of right.

“I don’t know, maybe? Ok, yes maybe I’ve thought of this a few times.” you paused to take a sip of your coffee and continued, “well actually speaking, I have some issues to be in a long term commitment. So far, I am kinda surprised that I’ve been in a relationship this long, although Harry is really amazing. It’s just that, I don’t want that if we marry then something happens, creating a wedge between us, and then we have to split up. Like, in the case of my parents as well, who couldn’t wait to leave each other. I guess, I’m just scared of that happening, that’s all.”

“Oh I see. Hey, its normal to feel scared of what may happen in the future. I would be lying too if I said that I’m scared too. But sometimes, we just have to go for it, you know? Life is a roller coaster, yes, but if you find the right person to spend it with, then you’ll be ready to face them.” she held your hand to give you assurance. You let out a breath and nodded in agreement.

“Thank you so much, Sal. Also congratulations again! I’m so happy for you!” you hugged her again and headed towards your bike to go back to your apartment, Sally’s words never leaving your mind.

----

(many weeks later)

You were sitting in your office cubicle, editing an article on your computer. Suddenly you saw Sam’s name flashing on your phone as it buzzed since you had put it on silent. Sensing that something was up, since he never called you while you were at work unless it was an emergency, you picked up the phone, a “hello?” leaving your mouth. If you were not mistaken, you could hear him crying.

“Sam? What happened? Is everything okay?” you asked, getting worried.

“Oh (y/n), come to the hospital quickly. Harry’s been admit-ted.” he stuttered, followed by more cries. Your hand flew to your mouth, you went into a shock. Harry? In the hospital? Was he ok? With so many questions buzzing in your mind, you managed to mutter a quick yes and got up from your desk, gathering your bag and telling your boss briefly that you needed to go to the hospital urgently, to which he agreed. You quickly climbed on your bike and drove to the hospital, which was thankfully not very far off.

You went to the receptionist, where Sam was standing, waiting for you. Seeing you walk towards him, he just gave you a hug, tears dropping from his eyes. You hugged back, trying your best to soothe your best friend by patting on his back.

“It’s ok Sam. Where is he?” your voice was suddenly high as you choked back your tears. He just led you to a hospital room, where Tom was sitting beside the hospital bed, face tear stained. He gave you a small and faint smile when he saw you. Your eyes finally fell on Harry, who was lying on the bed, his eyes closed. The heart monitor was bleeping, he had an oxygen mask on his face. Many wires were attached to his left hand, for medicine and blood supplies. He had some bandages on his left arm and his left leg as well.

“Wh-what exactly h-happened?” you stuttered, tears spilling from your eyes.

“He got into a crash, and got injured. The doctor said that he hasn’t suffered too many injuries, but he is yet to gain consciousness.” Tom said, voice still shaking. “We’re all just waiting for him to wake up.”

You took a seat beside the bed and held his right hand, which did not have any needles. You muttered a silent prayer for him to get well soon. You stroked his hair as he kept on sleeping peacefully.

----

Harry finally regained consciousness two days later. You all were so happy and relieved. The doctor also gave good news that he was better and would be good to go in two more days, as he had to do some minor check ups. You were relieved that he was going to be alright. You had been so afraid to lose him, as you couldn’t imagine your life without him. He had been your support all your life.

Oh. Oh. A realization hit you. He was your whole life. You did not want to spend your life without him. This episode of almost losing him had made you realize it. You quickly made your way towards Harry’s room, where he was just lying awake. Sam was telling him something, and he had an amused look on his face.

“Hey, babe. How are you feeling?”

“Better. How’re you?”

“I’m great. Hey, could I talk to you for a minute?”

“Yeah sure, (y/n/n) what is it?”

You took a deep breath. “So uhh, I’ve actually been thinking ever since we almost lost you. I don’t know, but it got me thinking. You know how I’ve always been wary of the idea of marriage, as I have always feared that what happened to my parents, would happen to us, which is not what I want. But umm, I’ve realized that I never wanna lose you, ever. I cannot imagine a life without you with me. Also, what Sally said to me the other day, made me realize that you are indeed the right person for me.”

“Oh my- wow (y/n) so, are you saying that um, that umm you’d consider taking the next step?” he asked, hoping you’d say yes.

“Yes Harry.” you tucked a hair strand behind your hair, took his hand in yours and continued, “so Harry, I know this is probably not the place to say this, we’re in a friggin hospital” he chuckled as you smiled and continued, “but maybe, when time comes, and I’m hoping it comes soon enough, do you wanna consider maybe going further? Like, be together forever?”

“You have no idea how much I’ve waited for this.”

“Is that a yes?”

He just pulled you towards him in response and caressed your cheek, attaching his lips to yours. You kissed him back gladly, smiling into the kiss. He pulled away and stroked his finger on your hand, whispering a “yes”, a goofy grin on his face.

The End

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marvelousell · 4 years

Text

The Agreement (Part 6.)

Pairing(s): frat boy!fwb!Tom x reader, frat boy!Harrison x reader

Summary: Tom is a typical frat boy, his love for partying, drinks and girls are bigger than his ego. Y/N is a whole different dimension, she keeps her circle small, and even though she knows her best friend Tom is a total douche, she can’t say no to the little deal that was sealed between the two of them.

Word count: 3.1k

A/N: My heart is beating for Haz rn but Tom is my fave so I’m confused af ok😫. Also who tf is Emily🤡? I hope you like this chapter and I would appreciate it if you leave a comment, reblog or send a feedback!❤️

My tag list is open for this series!

Warnings: flufff, swearing, mentions of alcohol

Part 1. Part 2. Part 3. Part 4. Part 5.

Masterlist

“Ready?”

Monday came quickly honestly. Probably the constant overthinking during the whole Sunday and Monday morning distracted you pretty well.

And here you are now.

Fresh out of the shower, with your robe around your body staring at Anna in front of your door who was ready to ‘glam you up’.

“I don’t know, I think I’m gonna puke if we’re being honest.” You spoke, exhaling the air from your lungs.

“It’s totally normal to feel like that! That means you like him.” She winked, marching to your bedroom.

“Well I do like him and that’s why I’m worried. What if I mess everything up? I’m so awkward you know that.” You began to panic, chewing on your bottom lip nervously.

“Just be yourself, he is already smitten. Believe me, what could go wrong?”

Maybe the truth about Tom, I don’t know.

“You’re right, but I’m still sweating and I feel sick.”

“Can’t wait for you to return from the date and say to me ‘oh I was so stupid for worrying it was amazing Ann I love him!’” She mocked you, laughing along with you.

“I really hope that will be the end product after tonight’s date.”

“Harrison is a really great guy, you will have the best night with him I’m sure.”

Your mouth curved into a smile at the thought of him.

At the thought of his blue eyes and his contagious laugh that was ringing in your ears since Saturday.

Maybe he really is the one for you?

If only Tom didn’t come that night at your apartment, everything would be fine.

The thoughts were eating you up, but you tried to remain calm.

“Just remember Tom’s words. Maybe this deal won’t last that long.” You said to yourself.

“So what are we doing for tonight?” Anna spoke resting her arms on the chair, looking at your reflection in the mirror.

“Nothing extra, keep it casual.” You replied, not wanting to look like you’re going to a red carpet.

“Keep it casual got it.”

“Did you spoke with Tom yesterday?” She asked curiously, making your heart skip a beat when she mentioned his name.

You were trying your best not to react.

“No, he didn’t call me. Why, did something happen?” You asked, trying to look worried.

“No, no. Just asking I thought that he maybe apologized or something, but it seems he is still acting like a total douche.”

You kind of forgot the scene from the party, Harrison being on your mind practically every second.

But now that she reminded you, you were pissed. He could at least call and say a stupid ‘sorry’, however he was too proud. Tom would never admit he was wrong even when it was a small, unimportant thing.

“You know he is like that when he is around a girl that he wants to shag, but still I don’t approve that, I mean we’re his friends.” You responded.

“That’s absolutely right. Gosh I don’t know how could someone sleep with him? I know he is hot and all that but c’mon Tom just thinks with his thing down there and that’s disgusting.” She spoke bitterly while your face turned red.

You don’t know a thing Anna, but you’re definitely right about that.

He just knows how to make a girl say yes straight away, that’s the problem.

“U-uh yes, I agree.” Your voice coming out as a whisper.

“Let’s not ruin our night with him, we love him although he is like that so it’s not important. Did our prince charming say where you two are going?” She changed the subject, focusing on your hair that was the last thing that needed to be done.

“Didn’t drop a single clue, he just said he will pick me up at seven.” You chuckled, glancing at the clock.

Thirty minutes and he will be here.

“Oh shit he is outside.” You whisper yelled, heart almost jumping out of your chest.

“Listen. Don’t worry, just relax and be yourself. Harrison is fantastic and not a pompous dick like others.” She put her palms on your shoulders giving them an encouraging squeeze.

You closed your eyes, inhaling deeply to calm your nerves.

“Thank you so much Ann, I owe you big times. I will call you when I come home or you can stay here and make yourself comfortable whatever you want.” You said, hugging her tightly.

“Thanks for the offer but I will go home, and I will be waiting for your call. And you miss have fun.” She smiled like a proud mother, hugging you back.

Your hands were shaking, and your stomach lurched when you saw him leaned on his black car waiting for you.

You both immediately smiled at each other.

Harrison was as nervous as you were. He spent his whole day rambling to Harry that tried his best not to laugh at his friend who was totally excited to see the girl that couldn’t leave his head the whole weekend.

He was finally ready to find a girl. Someone who will be here even when things went downhill.

“Good evening gorgeous.” Harrison greeted, flashing you a broad smile.

“Well good evening to you too handsome.” You greeted him back, standing now in front of him with a shy smile plastered on your face.

“You look stunning tonight love.” He half whispered, with his eyes still on yours.

“Thank you, so do you.”

“Ready to hop in?” He asked, opening the door for you.

“Of course, how could I not be with a gentleman like you by my side?” You flirted shamelessly, making him laugh.

“Eager to know where I’m taking you?” He asked, starting a conversation.

Your eyes were glued on the road and everything around trying to guess where you were heading to.

“Definitely, hope you’re not gonna kill me or something already.”

“Too much criminal series love.” He chuckled at your response.

“And I would still want the place to remain a surprise, but don’t worry nothing will happen.” He added.

“It better not Harrison I trust you.” You continued to joke, enjoying the rest of the drive.

“And we’re here beautiful.” He parked his car, opening the door for you again.

Holy fuck.

The view was mesmerizing. It was like a hill, with a view on the whole city that was glowing now.

Your whole face lit up, not only because he was creative and didn’t take you to a classic restaurant on the first date but because you had such a great person next to you to enjoy the breathtaking view with.

“This is truly stupendous Harrison..Gosh.” You were so dumbfounded at the sight that you didn’t feel the warmth of his body behind you.

“I’m so glad you like it, I wanted to take you somewhere special the first time.” He spoke into your ear, sending shivers down your spine.

“I appreciate that a lot, and you really left me speechless here.” You giggled, turning your face to his.

Harrison put a lot of effort in this, wanting to show you how much he fancied you.

This wasn’t just an ordinary place that he googled up or something.

This was Harrison’s special place ever since he was twelve. He would often come here when he needed some time for himself or when he wanted to sit and relax looking at the whole town that was in a rush as always.

The place was unique in Harrison’s life. His gut told him he could trust you and that this was a brilliant timing to share it with you.

He hoped maybe it will be your special place by the end of the night, because he was sure you were the girl that will change his life.

“It’s actually my secret place or whatever they call it nowadays.” His eyes lit up looking at the two most beautiful sights in front of him.

“Oh no sorry, now I ruined the whole secret place thing for you.” You grabbed his hand, feeling bad in some kind of way.

“Don’t be silly love, if I thought you weren’t noteworthy I wouldn’t share it with you.” His fingers stroked your skin carefully, making your heartbeat go wild at the feeling of his gentle touch.

“Happy to hear that you think I’m that special.” You whispered, noticing the small blanket positioned on the grass behind him.

“C’mon let’s sit and enjoy the real magic from here.” His hand took yours, rubbing his thumb against your palm.

“So you study English Literature?” He asked, pouring the sparkling wine in your glass.

He sure planned this all well, and you weren’t complaining. In fact you loved it so much that you could sit like this forever. Just you and him.

“That’s right. Does it sound that boring?” You asked, the nervousness now long gone.

“Absolutely not! Mr. Phillips must be your favourite professor I assume?” He rose his eyebrow asking sarcastically.

“Are you like in my class or something because that would be awkward as hell. And no c’mon he is a total ass.”

“If I was with you in the same class I would definitely ask a beauty like you out a long time ago, don’t worry. My sister is taking his classes, she started her first year so you know heard some stuff.” He chuckled, sipping his wine.

“I’m sorry for her, he can be an idiot towards students but that shouldn’t discourage her at all.”

“Totally, every college has someone like that.” He added, receiving a nod from you.

You two were talking like you knew each other your whole life and that was something you craved for a long time.

Harrison couldn’t keep his eyes the whole night away from you.

It was something about your irresistible smile and how your head would fall back when you laughed that got him love-struck.

He really liked you and your sweet soul that was full of tenderness.

That was something he could never find in someone ever since Emily.

“Tired?” He gave you a half-smile when he felt your head resting on his shoulder.

“No, just loving this atmosphere and your presence. I could do this every day for the rest of my life if you ask me.” You said softly.

Harrison thought that this was the perfect timing to wrap his arm around your waist, caressing it carefully.

He was sure he wanted to kiss in you that exact moment. Even though he was distracted by his heart that was a beating mess and by his sweaty palms, he couldn’t wait more. He reminded himself if he waited and didn’t speak to you that night nothing of this would happen, so what could go wrong now?

He didn’t want it to be forced, it should be memorable for the both of you.

What’s the point if he doesn’t show you how much he liked you through the kiss?

So his hands leisurely traveled to your arm and shoulder. Your skin was landscaped with goosebumps, and you were sure he could see how your cheeks turned red although it was dark.

You relaxed in his hands, leaning your face into his neck inhaling his scent.

The grin on his face was growing bigger when he felt your body on his, he would trade anything just to be always like this with you from now on.

His fingertips brushed the skin of your hot cheek while his eyes were admiring your body that was illuminated by the moonlight.

Eventually his large palm cupped your cheek, bringing you close to his face.

His nose bumped into yours, his eyes now focused on your sparkling ones.

“Is this okay?” He asked for consent.

“Yes.” You whispered back, wrapping your hand around his wrist.

“God you’re so beautiful.” His lips were ghosting over yours, still testing the waters.

Harrison was exhilarated at that moment, closing the small space between your lips. They were moving against yours delicately. He could taste the sweet wine from your lips mixing with the taste of your cherry chapstick and it was a combination that he will always associate with you.

Your heart fluttered, and the only thing you could think is how his lips were soft against yours.

Harrison would break the kiss, opening his eyes to ensure himself that you were real and that this wasn’t a figment of his imagination before pulling you in for another short innocent kiss.

You both stayed close to each other after the intimate moment, with Harrison’s thumb still on your cheek.

“I really like you Y/N, I want to be around you more.” He spoke in your ear, nothing but the truth.

“And I like you more, hopefully this will be something more.” You responded truthfully as well.

“Thanks for the wonderful evening love, and thank you for giving me a chance to finally find and enjoy the time with someone as pretty as you, inside and out.”

“No, thank you for everything. You were the first who showed some love and interest for who I really am, not just for some fun.” Your voice getting smaller when you said the last part.

“Love, if someone doesn’t see your true beauty behind that graceful face, he doesn’t deserve a single look from you, let alone something more.”

Oh how right you were Harrison, you don’t even know.

You were a grinning mess after his statement, the only thanks you could give him was a small peck.

The car stopped in front of your apartment, silence now filling the space in his car.

His hand rested on top of yours through the whole ride back to the apartment.

Harrison was beaming, glancing every now and then at you, memorising every feature of yours.

“Here we are.”

There was just a little bit of sadness that could be heard in his voice, because the night was over and he was already missing you in his embrace.

“Thank you for this beautiful night. You really made it special.” You spoke once again, caressing his hand that you refused to let go.

“Please love, I already said what I really mean. You are a wonderful person and no one could prove me wrong.”

“You Y/N made this night one of my favourites and thank you for that.” He admitted, kissing you passionately.

This one was a much longer and caring. The kiss was like a perfect match and it made you smile during it.

“Thank you.” You murmured as he pulled away.

“I’m going to call you love, I can’t wait to see you again.”

“Not if I call you first.” You answered.

“I won’t complain.”

“Have a good night beautiful.” He added, pecking your lips.

“And you as well handsome.”

It was like you forgot how to walk when you stepped out of his car. Harrison’s vehicle not leaving the driveway until he was sure you entered the house safely.

The smile on your face was genuine and the whole night was repeating in your head non-stop.

It occupied your mind so much that you didn’t even notice the light being turned on in the living room.

Until a loud groan finally caught your attention.

“Who’s there?” Your voice trembling.

“Fuck, just me.” A male voice responded, mumbling the words.

Just me?

“Are you normal? How did you even enter the apartment?” You relaxed immediately when your eyes landed on a half drunk Tom.

“Key behind the flowerpot, not a brilliant hiding place if you ask me.” He laughed while his eyes remained closed.

“Yeah..right, forgot about that. What do you want?” You spitted, clearly annoyed at the realisation that you will probably not spend the night alone.

“Gotta see my favourite girl, but looks like she was busy.” Tom slurred, resting his hands on the back of his head.

“Tom if you’re drunk you can crash on the couch.” You stated, making your way to your bedroom.

“C’mon babe, wanted to spend the night with you.” He rushed next to you, grabbing your waist.

“Thought you didn’t do that.”

“I meant as friends love, but I can always make an exception for you.” Tom whispered as the smell of the strong alcohol hit your nostrils.

“Are you going to talk to me and say why are you here or?” You tried again.

“I was with Sophie today ya know. It kinda went well I guess? Or not? Because she said I’m gonna regret that decision and that tone but hey I don’t care at least her annoying ass is out of my face.” He smiled, receiving an eye roll from you.

“I told you to talk politely, now she is going to get all crazy.”

“I was polite! But she just doesn’t understand what it means I don’t want anything with you. That’s the problem.”

“Okay, you have a point here, she can get pretty hard to handle.” You believed his words knowing she was a special case.

“Thank you. Also I came to apologize for my behaviour.” Tom added, mumbling the last words.

“Oh really? Why?” You crossed your arms, waiting for him to speak.

“Because I was tipsy, and that was a shit move, you know I didn’t mean that.”

“It was.” Your mouth set in a hard line.

“I’m sorry love okay?”

“You’re forgiven, apologize to Ann as well.” You weren’t in a mood for a fight, and he at least said sorry so all good.

“Not happy to see me love?” He turned his attention to you, squeezing your hips.

“I’m tired Tom, but I appreciate your apology and everything, feel free to take the couch.”

“Where were you that late on a weeknight anyways?” Tom asked curiously, eyeing your body and how pretty you looked tonight.

“On a date.”

Date?

Oh yes Harrison.

That dolled up for him?

Why does he even care about that, you two were nothing?

“Looks like you had fun. Tell me more.”

“You really won’t let me sleep tonight am I right?” You asked, trying your best not to smile but he was making it so hard already.

“Nah, let’s make ourselves comfortable on the couch and spend the night like that hm?” He smirked, pulling you back into the living room.

“Why can’t I say no to you? You need to stop that.”

It was so hard, switching thoughts about two boys every minute. One second it was Harrison only and then Tom just shows up out of nowhere and makes everything go wild inside of you.

You didn’t want to lose Tom nor Harrison.

However you were aware that someone in the end will get heartbroken no matter what, and that was your main concern.

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faefictions · 5 years

Text

Stay

Harry Holland x Reader

Word Count: 2,839

Summary: Your best friend, Harry Holland, ghosts you while he’s away for work. The harder you try to get him back, the further he pulls away

Warnings: a lil angst

It had been three months. Harry, your best friend of 6 years, left for America and essentially forgot about you. You didn’t blame him, at first at least. He was following his dreams, and sure he was going to get busy. Working on set with his brother Tom left little downtime, but in the past he had always found time to send you stupid snapchats or tag you in memes he thought would annoy you (although they never did).

This time was different though. He ignored you for about a month. At first, he never opened your messages, and never sent any himself. After a couple weeks, he started to open all of them, but he never replied. Some of those messages were nothing but rude to leave without a response, and it hurt to see him instantly read them, but never reply.

After he did that for the 8th time in a row, you decided to call him. And when he didn’t pick up, you kept calling. You called until you eventually got sent straight to voicemail, and that was when the first message since he had left came through.

“Sorry Love, busy right now. Is it important?”

If it weren’t important, you wouldn’t have been blowing up his phone, and he knew that. You had no idea, but he knew exactly what was going on. There was no way in Hell he was going to help it along, though.

“Call me when you’re free,” was all you could reply with. You paced your apartment for an hour, thanking the forces of the universe that your roommate was out for the night and not experiencing your anxiety.

You almost forgot about the time difference between New York and London. When he called at 1 am, you were about ready to explode, until it clicked that he was 5 hours behind you. So you took a deep breath and tried to at least forgive that one understandable misstep before you started the dreaded conversation.

“Hey,” you awkwardly greeted, and he instantly read the discomfort in your voice. It was the conversation he had been dreading.

“Hey, what’s up?”

“Are you serious, Harry?”

You didn’t sound angry at all, and that may have been what hurt most. You just sounded…desperate.

“What do you mean?”

“Harry, why the fuck are you ignoring me?”

“I’m not. I told you, I was busy.”

“Busy all the times you’ve left me on read in the last month too? Look, I get that you and Tom are busy. I know that you’re working hard out there, but this is the first I’ve heard from you since you’ve left. So if I did something, please just tell me.”

“Y/n, I can’t just reply to everything you send me. I have more responsibility than last time, I’m doing a lot of shit. You can’t get mad over that.”

“Harry, I think we both know that’s bullshit. Paddy told me you were texting him last Saturday, complaining about how bored you were. I texted you twice that night, and was instantly left on read both times.”

“Ok, well Paddy’s my brother. Maybe I just wanted to talk to him. I missed him.”

“So you don’t want to talk to me then. Got it.”

“Y/n, no that’s not what-“

“No, I get it Harry. I’m not family. I don’t matter as much. You don’t have to say it.”

“God, you’re being fucking ridiculous.”

“Never mind, Harry. Forget I even called.”

“Really? You’re going to act like that?”

“I’m being serious, Harry. Forget I called, forget I texted, just forget I exist. You seem to be good at that.”

“Y/n, you’re being fucking ridiculous. I didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Ok, whatever, just… have fun in America, Harry.”

And with that, you hung up.

You weren’t sure if Harry would have kept leaving you on read after that, because you didn’t have the heart to send anything anymore. But he wasn’t reaching out either, so you took it as a safe bet that he didn’t care much anymore. And you didn’t blame him. Sure, you didn’t understand it before, but you had blown up on him. He hated confrontation, so no matter how much you hated him for the initial transgression, you had to remind yourself that this was partially your fault, and he now had reason to be just as upset with you.

You started losing sleep, and that never really stopped. Losing Harry felt like losing a big part of yourself. You tried avoiding his family after that, Harrison included. They were tangled into your life, and it felt like you were ripping a prickly barb from a poorly knitted sweater. You just couldn’t get them out of your life without it all starting to unravel.

After the first month, the second of which Harry had been gone, they all took the hint. Paddy and Nikki stopped inviting you over on the weekends, or to their lonely family dinners. Harrison stopped checking in on you. He had claimed that it was Harry’s idea at first, but you saw right through that lie.

The third month, your mental health dropped drastically. You were only getting a couple hours of sleep a night, you were working yourself to the bone. And while the money was nice, your boss was threatening to make you take time off. Even she could tell that that something was seriously wrong.

When you started to make mistakes in your work, expensive mistakes, she forced you to go midday. She told you to take the rest of the week off, pleading with you to get some rest. You were just glad that you hadn’t been fired.

That day, you went home and spent the rest of daylight in bed, nothing but silence filled the room. When your roommate, Kayla, came home and found you quietly staring at the ceiling, she offered to take you out to dinner, but you didn’t have the energy.

“Y/n when are you going to get over this? You’ve been depressed for over a month now. This isn’t healthy, and I swear you’re not even trying. I don’t want to be that bitch, but you need to get off your ass and get over it. So get up, we’re going out.”

You gave her a dirty look, but you knew she was right. You didn’t want to get over Harry, because you didn’t want it to really be over. But it had been long enough, and neither of you had heard from the other, so you let out a loud groan and got out of bed to put on some real pants so you could go out.

You didn’t look half as decent as you usually did on nights out. You barely put effort into your outfit, you weren’t even entirely sure it matched. You didn’t put on any makeup, so your under-eye bags were dark enough to almost seem like you had been in a fight.

Kayla would have encouraged you to at least try to look like your normal self, but just getting you out of bed was enough of an achievement for the night.

She ended up taking you to your favorite restaurant, but it did nothing for your mood. Harry had taken you there dozens of times. He always insisted on taking you to dinner for your birthday, and his brothers would always find a way to infiltrate your night, but you never minded. You loved their company.

Being there just reminded you of him. When your food arrived, you excused yourself to the bathroom, needing a moment alone to clear your head. Staring at yourself in the mirror helped you take a few breaths, but you couldn’t get Harry off of your mind. Half of you wished that he was there with you, but the other half was still mad at him. Mad at him for ignoring you for a month. Mad at him for pretending like that wasn’t what he had been doing. But most of all, you were mad at him for leaving things how they were. Of course you could have called or texted, it was a two way street, but you were afraid that he would just ignore you again, and you didn’t know if you would be able to handle that kind of rejection.

You tried to take one last deep breath before going back out, but when you opened the door to make your way back to the table, the breath was knocked out of you. Harrison was sitting at the table with Kayla, and she didn’t look one bit surprised to see him.

You weren’t in the mood for an intervention, so you made a beeline for the front doors, trying to keep your head down as you passed their table so they wouldn’t see you leave. In hindsight, you should have known that getting out of there undetected wasn’t plausible, but Harrison’s voice calling your name didn’t so much as make you pause.

The night air was colder than you had remembered it being just 20 minutes prior. It could have been the cold, the lack of food in your system, or the anxiety bubbling in your stomach just from seeing one of Harry’s closest friends, or a combination of all three that was making your body tremble.

You could only imagine how pathetic you looked. You already looked like you were sick from the lack of effort you put in to your appearance, and the tears rushing to yours eyes didn’t help either. You were about to ready to rush into an alleyway to hope for the best while you rode out the wave of tears, but as you took a sharp turn around a corner, you crashed into someone, almost sending you both to the ground if it weren’t for his steadying hand on your upper arm.

You knew instantly, the sweatshirt and cologne were a dead give away, but you were in denial. Sure enough, you looked up to meet those brown eyes that you loved oh so much, yet somehow despised even more. You thought you had looked bad, but he looked almost worse, which surprised you. The bags under his eyes were darker than you had ever seen them, and his hair was disheveled. You were almost embarrassed to admit that you recognized the sweats he was wearing as the only thing he would wear when he was throwing a fit, but this was much more than a measly tantrum. This was a heartbreak.

“Hey,” he stumbled breathlessly. You were a little relieved to see how surprised he was to run into you. You would have originally guessed this was all a big set up that he was a part of, but he seemed to be just as clueless as you. Still, you couldn’t muster up the courage to greet him like he wanted, so with a half hearted smirk, you tried to rush past him. He was having none of that though.

After you hung up the phone that night, he had known he fucked up, but he was too stubborn for his own good. You had told him that as a joke a million times, but now he knew what you meant.

He blocked your path just before you could pass, and if it weren’t for his pleading eyes, you would have just pushed right through him.

“Please, don’t walk away.”

“What do you want?”

“Are you serious?”

“Dead.”

“I-I just want to talk.”

“Really, Harry? You’ve had, what, four months to want to talk? Must not be that important.”

“Y/n, don’t do this again.”

“Do what, Harry? You fucking abandoned me, without so much as an explanation as to why, but I’m supposed to be happy to see you? Is that what you want? You want me to just forget how shitty you made me feel for four months and just jump into your arms?”

“No, I-“

“Then what the fuck do you want, Harry?”

“Y/n, you’re making a scene.”

“I will make a scene if I goddamn please, Harold.”

He let out a sigh, a moment of silence passed over the both of you. You almost took it as a chance to walk away, but something inside you was screaming to stay.

“When’s the last time you slept? You look like shit,” he asked, his eyes finally coming up to meet yours. You would have slapped him on the shoulder if his concern wasn’t written so explicitly on his face.

“How endearing.”

“You know how I meant it,” he gave you a sad half smile.

“Look, I can’t do this right now. Today has been shitty enough, I just can’t handle-“

“What happened today?”

“I’m not really in the mood to divulge that information to you. I just wanna go home.”

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine.”

“No, I don’t mean for asking that. I’m…I’m sorry for leaving you on read. For ignoring all your calls. For not hitting you up in my spare time. And I’m sorry for not reaching out after that last phone call.”

“Ok, thanks, but sorry isn’t going to change anything.”

“Well what do you need from me then?”

Need. That word almost made you stumble back. He didn’t sound annoyed by the fact that you weren’t immediately forgiving him after his apology, as he usually would. He wasn’t asking what you wanted from him, he was asking what you needed, and that seemed to make a world of difference in your heart.

“An explanation,” you murmured after a second of silence, but he heard you loud and clear.

“I don’t know if I can give that to you.”

“Ok, then let me know when you can. In the meantime, I’ll be walking home.”

“Y/n, please.”

“No, all I’m asking is why. If you can’t give me that, then this isn’t worth it in the first place. I’ll see you around, Harry.”

He didn’t block you as you walked away, but it may have just been because he saw the tears in your eyes. He knew you hated crying in front of other people.

You must have made it half a block away before he turned around and called something after you, but you couldn’t hear him over your sniffles.

“What?” you asked as you turned back around to see him jogging towards you.

“I missed you.”

“Ok… I missed you too?”

“No, I mean, it’s the shittiest excuse, but… I missed you too much. Talking to you, knowing you were a world away living your life without me, it just, it hurt too much. And I sound like a fucking idiot saying it out loud, and I think that’s partially why I didn’t want to tell you, but that’s why. So, please, don’t go.”

“You missed me too much?” you asked, implicitly calling out his bullshit.

“Yes, I promise that was the reason.”

“Usually when you miss someone, you just, I don’t know, fucking call them.”

“I know, and I should have. I should have replied to every single one of your messages, and I should have sent you one every single time I thought about you. I should have told you how things were going every night, just like I wanted to. I should have caved and just told you how much I fucking loved you, but I didn’t.”

“You what?”

Both of you could barely breathe as he looked nervously into your eyes, trying to gauge your reaction. He sensed nothing but surprise though.

“Loved you. Love, I guess, since I still do. Always have.”

“Well that’s terrible timing, because I fucking hate you,” you said finally cracking a smile.

“Ok, I deserve that,” he admitted, smiling right back.

“You really mean it? You’re not just trying to find a way out of the situation?”

“I mean it.”

“Promise?” you asked, more seriously this time, as you stuck out your pinky. Without hesitation, he linked his own with yours.

“Ok… I think you owe me a drink before I can reciprocate.”

“That sounds about fair.”

“Maybe dinner too.”

“You got it.”

He pulled you in for a big hug, and the faded smell of his cologne on that sweatshirt was enough to calm every nerve in your body. You had missed him more than you had cared to admit.

“Let’s get you home, I was serious about you looking like shit,” he said, and you decided to hit him on the shoulder this time. He laughed at you, knowing full well that he deserved it, and that smile melted your heart.

You walked the whole way back to your apartment with his arm around your shoulder. Sure, deep down, you still resented him just a little for putting you through the past four months, but it was nothing that a little teasing and guilting him into buying food for you for a month wouldn’t fix. Nothing, not even this, could come between the two of you, and you hoped that nothing would ever try again.

#harry holland #harry holland blurb #harry holland imagine #harry holland oneshot #harry holland x reader #harry holland angst #harry holland fluff #harrison osterfield

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ranger-jedi-knight · 4 years

Text

A New Hero Ch 22

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20887313/chapters/63998701

Taglist: @bluesimani

Ok, so here’s the next chap for the fic!! This is going surprisingly quickly considering I have classes. Any delays that happen now r due to my sisters cat comin over and cuddling me preventin me from workin lol. Lol. Anyways, here’s the next chap, I do hope you enjoy this next chap!

“Ok, so you really do know more about this….I thought Xan was bluffing about at least Mari knowing,” Lana said looking at the two in front of her in shock. Damian had put on the mask he wore as Robin and showed her the weapons he carried on his personal 24/7. Mari just transformed into Ladybug and then transformed. “But how come you revealed your identities to me?” she asked figuring Xan only knew from an accident or they told him when he doubted they could help him from what happened(it was easy to guess Damian before he told him YES he was Robin, and Ladybug ya, probably an accident but purposeful).

The two shared a look before looking at her once more. “Well, we can see that your not going to stop training to do what Damian and I do. So we might as well help you. Both in and out of the uniform. I’ll help you two get the right items for your suits,” Mari said smiling gently at Lana which she returned. Damian clapped Xan on the shoulder and nodded.

“Not to mention, what you’re planning is quite noble. It would help us so that we can focus on gangs and the big boys when they escape,” Damian added and the two nodded again.

“Thank you for agreeing. I just couldn’t stand watching someone getting hurt and not being able to do anything. I won’t let anyone else go throu what I did,” Lana said giving a slight nod as the three shared scowls at the thought. Even though it all happened when they were young, they still hated not being able to help. Granted tho, Damian also knew he would have probably killed the man given a chance, so it was smart to not let him out.

“With our help, you’ll be able to do just that. And you’ll be able to call on one of us should you need help,” Damian added and once more, Lana sent him a thankful smile.

“Now, Xan why don’t you give me an idea of what you’re wanting to use when you go out and I’ll be able to get an idea of what fabric will work best,” Mari said and Xan nodded as they went to the table in Lana’s apartment. Cocoa rubbed herself against their legs before going to play with them or nuzzling their feet. Damian and Lana cleared an area out(granted that didn't mean much since she didn’t own lots of things) and got into fighting stances.

~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mari beamed at the two as Damian took her back to the hotel. They spent a good two hours with Lana and Xan, each sparring against Damian at first while the other talked to Mari. In Mari’s sketchbook, she had a good idea about what they were thinking of and was planning on looking into many different fabrics that would work.

But that would be later.

Right now, she had to get back to Lila and help her plan what to wear for her date tomorrow.

She was beyond lucky that Gotham Academy was letting them do school work online for a week to get used to it before the semester started up again in September, a good couple of months away.

She smiled softly over at Damian as she took his hand into hers and gave it a squeeze as she leaned her head against his shoulder. “That was pretty sweet of you to help Lana, and Xan but he’s more prepared than her,” she said as they walked down the sidewalk and Damian gave a one-shoulder shrug.

“It was just the smart thing to do. Xan explained what was going on and I simply agreed to make sure they don’t get hurt. It’s obvious she would have gone out with or without our help. So, to make it easier, might as well help,” he replied looking forward even as he felt Mari squeeze his hand again.

“Still,” she hummed out. They walked in silence for some time. When her hotel came into view, she bit her lip. “Are you going to tell B?” That had Damian looking down at her before he looked straight ahead in thought.

“No,” he spoke after a minute, “It’s not my place to tell him. He won’t enjoy having two more vigilantes running around, but as long as they leave the big bads to us, he’ll leave them be. Only they can tell B. I won’t break their trusts,” he replied with a decisive nod.

“Good. They’ll appreciate that,” she said squeezing his hand as they paused outside the hotel.

“What about Lila?”

“I’ll tell her about myself when Hawkmoth is defeated-” she started with a sigh but was interrupted by her phone beeping. She pulled it out and scowled at seeing the headline. “Akuma,” she muttered and Damian nodded, glad to have brought his gear.

“First our date, and now the conversation. He has great timing,” Damian deadpanned. Mari giggled at that but soon grabbed his hand and ran into the hotel and up the stairs. Adrien appeared with Nino and she nodded.

“Figured you could use my help,” Nino said.

“That we will. Get to Fu’s shop to get his miraculous and meet us at the Seine,” Mari said as Mari and Adrien transformed. Mari then took out Kalki and merged while Damian quickly threw his gear on, managing to get the last piece on right as Mari opened the portal to Paris that landed halfway between Fu’s place and the Akuma in an alley.

~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~

The four groaned out as they leaned against the walls of the stairwell. The battle was quick but painful. Mari and Adrien’s transformation fell and they shared a weak ‘pound it’. Nino was a better off, smiling at the two as he rubbed his wrist. The Turtle miraculous was back with Fu, she was glad that Nino was able to do that quickly in the two minutes they had left before de-transforming.

“Ok, now I really need to get back to Lila. She’s probably freaking out about her date tomorrow,” Mari said and the group nodded.

“I’ll join you, Angel,” Damian said when he finished getting out of the Robin suit. Mari smiled at him as they held hands and followed behind Adrien and Nino as they talked about what happened in the morning before the Akuma attack. Reaching their rooms, the duo’s separated, Adrien going to his and Nino’s room, and Mari and Damian heading to her room. Opening the door revealed Lila pacing and muttering to herself. On her bed were a few outfit options, and the closet looked messy, quite different than the orderly fashion she usually had it in.

“Whoa, Lila, are you ok?” Mari asked, startling the girl from her thoughts.

“Mari! No, I’m not! I’m panicking!” Lila said flinging herself over to Mari. Mari caught her easily and hugged her before pulling back to hold her hands.

“Don’t worry. Everything will go well. He really cares about you, Lila. Even Damian, who is quite frankly, bad at emotions some days, can see it,” she said, ignoring the offended look Damian was sending her. But it had the desired results.

Lila giggled.

Mari smiled at her friend as she then pulled her to the bed with Damian trailing behind them. “Ok, Damian, do you have any idea about what Xan would do for their date?” Mari asked and Damian hummed as he thought about the different things Xan appreciates.

“What time are you two going out?” he asked and Lila hummed.

“We didn’t set an exact time, but it’s going to be past evening,” she replied and Damian nodded.

“Ok, I can think of a couple things you would do. He’s probably going to take you to his favorite park here. Either before or after he’ll probably take you to a place you both enjoy, like a cafe, or a nice sit-down place,” Damian replied after a bit and Mari started nodding along.

“Ok, so you’ll probably want to dress warm. It can get pretty cold at night,” Mari said looking through the options and immediately putting back anything that was short and pulling out some longer items. “Did you want to wear a dress or are you fine with pants?” she asked, turning to her friend who bit her lip.

“I’m fine with whatever,” Lila replied and Mari nodded. After a bit, she put together three outfits. The first consisted of thick black leggings, a deep gray-blue sweater that went past her mid-thigh with tied bows at the wrists, and red combat boots and newspaper cap. The second one was a black tank top with a white oversized jacket, black shorts with thigh high tie up boots, The final one was a maxi-dress that practically covered her feet when she wore heels, it was a nice light purple with lavender and wild flowers going up from the bottom hem. Around the waist line was a thin black belt paired with 2 inch black sandal wedges.

“Ok, here are three options that would work. For the dress just wear some leggings underneath for more warmth,” Mari said and Lila beamed as she looked at the different options.

“Thank you Mari! And thank you Damian,” Lila said pulling her friend into a tight hug and just sending Damian a smile.

~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mari: got the samples. ill bring them over tom

Lana: thank you Mari! your the best!!

Xan: cool. see ya in the morning

Mari: see ya then!

Mari smiled as she walked back from the fabric store with the samples in hand. Tikki and Kalki pressed against her thigh throu her purse. She smiled softly as she patted the purse and stopped by a bakery to get some cookies and tea. At the counter she wrapped the cookies up with a few sugar cubes and put them into her purse so that they could snack on them as she walked back to WE to help Tim out a bit for a few hours.

Tired @prouodgothamite

Here we go! I’m starting a How-To channel explaining how to do things in Figure/Ice Skating and Parkour. My therapist suggested it. I hope you guys enjoy it #iceskating #parkour #howto #explaining #videos *youtube link showing the thumbnail of Lana in ice skating gear on the ice with ‘How To Do A Toe Loop’ next to her*

Ok, so here’s the next chap! Sorry it’s a bit short. When I was writing it, two of my sisters' cats, Bonito and Snowflake(but she’s named Sunflower but I like my name for her), kept jumping onto me to cuddle which is adorable. But bad for me since I am allergic to them. So that had me out all day yesterday since I could barely think. I kept having to blow my nose, my eyes were irritated 90% of the time even thou I had taken both my allergy meds n antihistamine(spelling what?) eye drops. And then I got a headache. So ya, all that just threw what I had planned out the window and I couldn’t catch it. So ya. But anyways, I hope you enjoyed this chap. I’m wanting to write some more joker n mari buddy fics so please leave a PROMPT(joker will be ooc, cause thats the only way im doin buddies joker n mari(excludin that new fic i put where mari snapped)). Until next time!! -Love Willa<3<3<3

#fanfic #fanfic update #update #my writing #daminette #maribat #ml x dc #A New Hero #ANH #chap 22 #lana grayson #xander grayson #alya grayson

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dawnwave16 · 5 years

Text

Marinette and her Dragon

I think I’ve dropped a couple of teasers about this story along with one other, however, this one came easier to me so it gets posted first! This is a one shot and is open ended as I suck at writing definate endings so Enjoy!

Story:

It was a normal Saturday morning in the bakery when Marinette first met Tōshirō Hitsugaya. He had come in looking for watermelon flavoured treats and had been slightly disappointed when she told him that they didn't have any in stock. In truth, they had never made anything that was watermelon flavoured before but Tom Dupain had a standing policy that should a flavour be requested even once, they would attempt to make something in that flavour. The easiest thing to make in multiple flavours was macaroons but if the person who requested the unstocked flavour had a particular treat in mind, that is what they would attempt to make.

As Marinette knew this policy all too well she had immediately asked the white-haired teen if he had any preferences only to discover that as long as it wasn't too sweet, he'd enjoy it. Marinette didn't think much of it she just told him that they would have an array for him to try next Saturday and after getting his agreement that that arrangement was ok, Marinette moved on to the next customer.

She spent all day on Sunday working with her Maman trying different recipes that she could adapt to have watermelon as the main flavour, only to find the ones that worked best was indeed macaroons and surprisingly enough, a cheesecake. She hoped that he would enjoy the treats when he came in to try them.

Monday morning came as it usually did, though this time there was the added bonus of it raining heavily. She had cursed slightly when she had seen this as she hadn't closed her skylight properly after the previous nights akuma fight but kept running towards the school, planning on texting her mother as soon as she could to as her to close the skylight for her. She knew she would have to change her bedding either way though!

She had been worrying about her skylight so much that she didn't notice that there was a new student in her class until Mlle Bustier asked her to please show him around and make sure he was comfortable. She nodded in greeting to him which he returned but they didn't try talking as Mlle Bustier had started her lesson already. While showing him around the school she came to understand that he wasn't the most expressive person and decided to give him her number if he ever needed it but with the understanding that she didn't expect him to do anything with it. She also filled him in about the akumas and how to avoid them and or how to avoid becoming one herself.

It was three weeks later that Marinette received the fright of her life. She had been on patrol, once again it was a solo one due to a temper tantrum from the brat she called a partner when she saw someone who looked very similar to her new classmate sitting quietly on a roof. She made her way towards him taking in his clothes as she did so. He was wearing a sleeveless white haori which had a green sash around his shoulders and it looked like it was being held together by a star-like clip. It looked to Marinette like the sash was holding a sword's sheath in place on his back. Marinette stopped for a second to wonder where he got the sword before continuing towards him. It was only as she reached him that she remembered that she was still transformed into Ladybug but knew it was too late to turn around.

* * * * * * *

Tōshirō hated the assignment he was currently on. Not only did he know he would have a mountain of paperwork to complete by the time he got back, but he was around more teenagers than he was used to. Even when Ichigo was around there weren't as many as there currently was around him. He was glad that he could walk around without having anybody expecting from him for the most part but he still didn't like it. He had only just started the assignment when he decided to check where or who the high reiatsu he was sensing was coming from. To his surprise, it was from a small, dark-haired girl that was working behind the counter in the bakery he had just walked into. He had asked for watermelon flavoured pastries as a cover but was surprised when she had informed him that while they didn't have any that week they would the next week. He asked why and was further surprised about the policy that the owners had regarding flavours.

When she arrived in his class and then was instructed to show him around the school, he had half expected her to be just as bubbly as she had been while behind the counter at the bakery. It was due to this that he had to hide a frown when instead of being bright and bubbly, she was quiet and almost withdrawn as though she was trying to make herself invisible or at least less of a target. Even her reiatsu was more contained. Tōshirō stayed quiet throughout the lessons and asked a few questions about the school during the tour. He listened intently as she told him about the akumas that plagued the city and how to avoid making himself a target and for a while he thought that was the reason for the drastic change in her behaviour. He discarded that notion fairly quickly though as if that was the case her behaviour wouldn't have changed.

After she left his side for a bit he got his answer. A group of his classmates cornered him, telling him that Marinette was a bully and that she was constantly picking on Lila. The stories they told didn't make sense to him though as his encounters and observations suggested something completely different. He hadn't agreed but nor had he disagreed with his classmates by the time they left however it seemed Marinette had witnessed the confrontation and had stayed quiet ever since. For the next two weeks, she didn't reach out to him except to help with classwork when he asked. In fact, Tōshirō noticed she stayed quiet in general and on the nights when there had been akuma attacks, she came to school with a large carry mug of green tea loaded with honey. It was seeing this and remembering his early days as a captain in gotei 13, where he would fight hollows all night and still go to his office in the morning to get the paperwork done.

It was less than a week after he came to the conclusion that his ostracised classmate was Ladybug that he got his first alert for a hollow being in the area. The fight had been extremely easy, and there was no damage that would have to be explained away so he decided to sit on a rooftop to relax and possibly get some thinking done. He soon lost track of time as he gazed at the slightly cloudy night sky when he felt the same large reiatsu that he always felt around Marinette and turned to see Ladybug walking towards him.

“Tōshirō, what are you doing out so late? Are you alright?” Tōshirō smiled at the concern he heard in her voice as she spoke softly to him.

“I'm fine, Ladybug, just needed to think.”

“Oh. Is that why you are wearing clothes from your home country instead of...” She slapped a hand over her mouth and went bright red. Tōshirō glanced down to make sure nothing had moved in the slight breeze then looked at her on confusion when he saw nothing out of place and thus nothing to cause her any embarrassment.

“Ladybug?”

“I can't believe I asked that! Bad enough I called you by your name! I am such a spaz...” She muttered covering her face with her hands and squeezing her eyes closed. Tōshirō smiled as he got the answer to his unspoken question. She had revealed that she knew him despite never having met him as Ladybug and she was feeling guilty about the mistake. He got to his feet and walked over to her, then in a move that would have shocked everyone who knew him, he gently grasped her wrists and moved them away from her face.

“Hey, it's alright, I already knew who you were.”

He regretted saying that straight away as she went rigid and almost growled “How? I've always been careful! How did you know who I am?”

“Can we go somewhere a little more private so that I can explain?” She appeared to think for a moment then nodded. She turned and started to move away before stopping and turning to him.

“The best spot is probably at the bakery. Can you get there yourself or do I need to carry you?”

“I can get there myself and I promise I'll explain how when I explain how I know your identity.” She nodded and turning again, flung her yo-yo out to cross the gap between buildings until they reached the balcony above the bakery. When he arrived soon after, she nodded and opened the skylight and stepped through it indicating that he should do the same. He was surprised when he landed on a bed and was about to say something when he saw that she had made her way to the main floor of the room and had flopped back onto the computer chair. He made his way down the stairs and sat on the chaise then had to wince as a bright light flashed briefly in the semi-darkness.

“Marinette! You shouldn't -”

“He already knew, Tikki. I was about to find out how but thought you'd like to hear his explanation too.” Marinette said tiredly to the floating red thing that she had called Tikki. Tikki turned and looked at him, tilting her head to the side and blinked.

“Oh, that explains it.” She stated calmly.

“Explains what, Tikki?” Marinette asked in exasperation.

“He's a Shinigami, and as such is immune to the glamour that comes with the Miraculous.”

“A Shinigami? Wait not like Ryuk, right? And what glamour Tikki?” Marinette was clearly trying to keep her voice down, which Tōshirō appreciated but he was very confused by the reference to someone called Ryuk.

“Yes, a shinigami but no not like Ryuk, Marinette. That anime got the role of shinigami so wrong which is why I always get annoyed when you watch it. A shinigami guides souls to the afterlife or purifies corrupted ones called hollows much like you purify akumas. They don't see what the hollow looks like once purified though as in most cases the soul will move on to the afterlife once it's purified. In cases where the soul was evil even before it became a hollow, defeating the soul will send it to hell but that's really rare!” Tōshirō nodded when Marinette looked at him for confirmation of Tikki's words.

“Ok that answers about what shinigami are but what about that explains the glamour you mentioned? Or how he can see through it?” Marinette pushed.

“When we choose a wielder we cast a mild glamour over their civilian form that basically redirects everyone's attention when you need a getaway to transform. If someone tries to watch you transform it will blind them temporarily and they won't remember that they were with you when you transformed unless you give them your permission to do so, then the blindness won't bother them either. In the case of cameras, it will blur the image and no amount of filtering will clean up the image to get a positive ID, though this only kicks in when you are needing to transform. As shinigamis deal primarily with souls, the glamour doesn't affect them nor do any of the other side effects of the glamour. He also can't be akumatised but the miraculous cure can heal him if he is hurt or caught in an attack.” Tikki explained. It was clear Marinette still had questions about what Tikki had said but she seemed to accept it all and moved her focus onto him.

“So, what are you going to do with the information and how long have you known? What brought you to Paris in the first place?”

“I wasn't planning on saying anything to anyone about your identity, to the point where I haven't even included it in my reports as it has no relevance to Gotei 13 nor to the council.” He sighed, thinking then gave Marinette a run down about reiatsu, the ranking system they had so as to explain why he was sent instead of anyone with a lower rank and even how hollows were formed. He even told her about how her reiatsu had attracted the attention of Gotei 13 and their worry about it after the drama that had happened with Ichigo, “That's mostly why I'm here” He concluded before he glanced out the window and his eyes widened in surprise at seeing that dawn was breaking. Have we really been talking for that long? He thought. Thank Kami that today is Saturday and we don't have classes today.

Marinette had followed his gaze and groaned. “Well, today is going to be fun!” She moaned sarcastically before continuing when he shot her a confused look. “I have to work in the bakery with my parents today and we didn't get any sleep. If I sleep now I'll get an hour, two at most before having to get up to help anyway and I'll feel worse then I would if I did sleep than if I didn't.”

“Oh! Sorry about that we should have kept an eye on the time.”

“Yeah we should have,” she replied then glanced to the side and smiled, “At least Tikki got some sleep!” They both laughed softly at that before Tōshirō left with the promise to keep their friendship and her identity secret.

* * * * * * * *

A month had passed since that all-night conversation and the two of them had become even better friends. They had even asked Tikki if it was possible for Tōshirō to use a Miraculous if he needed to and they were both relieved that it was indeed possible. Marinette was getting better at keeping her reiatsu under control in order to avoid accidentally attracting hollows to herself and it had helped her with her emotions as well which she was happy about.

A change to her fighting style and even her strategising had taken place when Tikki had revealed that there was a way to link the miracle box to her yo-yo as she was the current guardian, which helped shorten the akuma battles immensely. Due to Miricle Queen, she hadn't been using the various temporary holders she had originally chosen, which had most of them sulking but she had a duty as Ladybug to keep everyone safe and she was determined to do just that. She also didn't trust Alya, Nino or any of her classmates other then Tōshirō thanks to Lila so they were all out of the question as temporary holders anyway. Even her crush on Adrien had vanished due to his lack of spine. She was still grateful that Master Fu hadn't left the scans and translations of the grimoire on the tablet but had transferred it to a flash drive, which he had given her almost as soon as the theory part of her training was completed as a safety measure. While Hawkmoth had managed to get the tablet everything had been done on, it had been whipped by professionals so there was nothing on it except Master Fu's cute animal pictures.

Unfortunately, Chat had seemed to notice this and kept pushing for her to share the guardian's duties with him and his temper tantrums had resulted in her telling him to grow up more than once. She had noticed that he was unable to see Tōshirō when he was in his soul form and that had resulted in yet another long and uncomfortable conversation with Tikki. Apparently, he wasn't a true match for the black cat miraculous, so it wasn't giving him the same boosts as the ladybug one was giving her. Eventually, they had decided he had until the end of the month to either shape up or he would be replaced.

The number of akumas that had been sent out had remained the same but the number of amoks had dropped to one every two to three months so Marinette knew they were due for one soon. It was just her luck that on the day the amok- akuma duo struck on a Friday whilst Tōshirō was visiting her. Marinette heard the scream first so she spun the computer chair around to check her computer for details and grumbled under her breath. She sighed when she saw that there was a sentimonster as well as the akuma so she knew she would need extra back up. However, as she watched a plan formed in her mind that would work whether or not Chat showed up. She quickly walked over to the Miricle Box and pulled out the Dragon Miraculous as well as the Fox.

Tōshirō looked at her as she walked over to him and offered the Dragon Miraculous to him. “Are you sure?” He asked quietly.

“I'm sure,” she answered even as she put on the Fox Miraculous.

He nodded and greeted Longg before they both transformed. Due to using a combination, Marinette's costume looked very different from what she normally did. The red was now a rusty red rather than her usual scarlet. Instead of gaining a tail like Rena Rouge did, her hair lengthened like it did when she and Chat had accidentally swopped miraculi. Instead of one braid though she had nine trailing down her back, all from one high ponytail, each tipped in the same rusty red as her suit. She still had her spots, however, she now had panelling of pure black that formed a corset as well as arm guards and thigh-high boots. Her mask remained the same except for the colour changing from scarlet to rust like the rest of her suit.

Tōshirō, on the other hand, seemed to be paying a tribute to his Zanpakutou, Hyourinmaru and his element of ice. His hero costume looked very similar to his shinigami uniform but without his haori and it was an icy blue colour instead of being black. His normal sash was holding the sword that came with the Dragon Miraculous and the Dragon symbol replaced his star sharped pin. The sash, much like the rest of the detailing on his outfit was a teal green that matched his normal eye colour. His mask had a scaled effect in ice blue and teal on it as well as lenses that gave him amber reptilian eyes much like the way Chat's gave Chat cat eyes. It was very striking in Marinette's opinion, as well as being very stylish.

Due to her preplanning and Tōshirō's experience battling hollows, the battle was over relatively quickly. Tōshirō had taken out the sentimonster while she had concentrated on the akuma of the day. They had switched briefly so that she could cleanse the amok, then they tag teamed each other with the akuma. They were about to finish the battle off without her having to call on her lucky charm when Chat arrived. As usual, he threw a temper-tantrum about the fact that she had called on a new Hero, Kōri no ryū. He was highly annoyed at the fact that he hadn't been consulted on who to choose, as well as the fact that the new hero was male. She exchanged a glance with Kōri no ryū and he nodded slightly, which caused her to sigh. She tuned out Chat's voice and quickly finished off the akuma sending both the purified feather and butterfly on their way.

She then turned her attention to Chat, who was still moaning and hadn't moved from the spot he'd been on since he'd arrived. This hadn't gone unnoticed by the rest of the population of Paris and they were all muttering to each other as they watched Ladybug to see how she reacted. She felt more than saw Kōri no ryū walk up to join her so she murmured a quick query about how much time he had left, only to find out that Longg had told him due to his shinigami status he didn't have a time limit. As her eyes had never left Chat she saw him take a deep breath to prepare for his next round of complaints.

“Do you even hear yourself right now, Chat Noir? You rarely show up to fights after you throw one of these fits, you always complain about the fact that I have the responsibilities of Guardian yet you show no maturity when it comes to battles and almost invariably gets controlled by the akuma if it has mind control capabilities. Do you even bother with doing your patrols on the nights when you are meant to be doing a solo patrol? Don't bother answering, I know the answer is no.” Ladybug closed her eyes and took a deep breath to steady herself. “With this in mind 'Wǒ, piáo chóng, dōngbù hǎiguī hézi de shǒuhù zhě, zài cǐ, xiàng nín (qiáo tè·nuò yī) bōduó nín de zhízé hé “hēi māo de qíjī”. Rúguǒ nín kàngjù, nín jiāng miànlín rènwéi héshì de hòuguǒ.'”

Chat stared at her, making it clear that he spoke Chinese and understood what she had said. Although the crowd didn't seem to understand they did notice the glow that was starting to come from Char's ring.

“If you wish for your identity to remain a secret I suggest to leave now and send the ring with Plagg and Kōri no ryū as he is a permanent holder. However, if you wish to fight you have less then three minutes to do so. Do you understand?”

Chat growled low in his throat before trying to call 'Cataclysm' only for it not to work.

“Plagg no longer has to respect your control therefore he won't let you use the full extent of his powers. You now have less than two minutes and counting.” Ladybug said looking completely relaxed, while still being ready to fight the second Chat tried to make a move to fight them. He seemed to fold in on himself as he realised that not only had everyone witness his attempt to kill Ladybug or Kōri no ryū but that Ladybug was serious about taking away his miraculous and exposing him. He was about to leave when his time ran out and with a bright flash of green light, Adrien Agreste stood where Chat Noir had once been. Plagg flew out the ring and grabbed it off of Adrien's limp fingers, flying onto Ladybugs outstretched hand.

“For what it's worth Adrien, I'm sorry it came to this. I just wish you could have grown up instead of acting exactly the same way you did when we were just starting to fight against Hawkmoth. I also hope you know better than to be akumatised over this.” Her voice was soft and those closest to her could see that she was trying not to cry. Adrien nodded and simply walked away, knowing that he was currently prime akuma bait with his tremulous emotions but also knowing he would fight tooth and nail against being possessed.

Ladybug cast her miracle cure and Kōri no ryū used the Kikanshinki wipe away any evidence that Adrien was Chat Noir as well as remove the memory of what had just happened and replace it with an extended battle followed by an announcement introducing him and about Chat retiring as he was moving. He left Adrien and Marinette unaffected though and told her what he'd done as soon as they were back in her room.

Marinette was so thankful for what Tōshirō had done and so overwhelmed by what had just taken place that she couldn't help it. She burst into tears. Tōshirō wrapped his arms around her and let her cry all her emotions out while Tikki kept an eye out for akuma butterflies. Marinette had cried herself out within an hour but instead of falling asleep like her body practically demanded she do, she sat up and sighed.

“Tōshirō, I meant what I said about you being a permanent holder until Hawkmoth has been defeated. Unfortunately, I also have what may seem like a random question to ask you. It may seem like I'm trying to use you for your shinigami abilities but I promise I'm not.” He silenced her rambles with a quick, soft kiss then smiled as he watched her try to get her brain back under control.

“I know you wouldn't ask me to use my skills unless you had a really good reason.” He said softly.

“Why did you...” Her voice trailed off as she gazed up at him.

“Two reasons. One, you were starting to ramble and as cute as it is I thought it would be better to stop you from getting totally confused by your own rambles.” He smiled indulgently at the pout on her face as he said that. “And two, I've wanted to do that for a while now and I couldn't help it.” She looked at him with wide eyes so he nudged her slightly. “We can talk about that later, you wanted to ask me to do something but got yourself distracted, so feel free to ask. If I can't do it due to rules that I have to follow or for personal reasons I'll tell you.”

Marinette nodded then started to speak softly, “When Lila first came to our school she stole a book that Adrien had stolen from his Dad's safe earlier that day. Tikki identified it as the Guardian's Grimore and urged me to take it to Master Fu, which I did after I saw Lila throw it away. It also got me thinking that M. Agreste could be Hawkmoth. Chat hadn't liked the idea and I see now why but he also agreed that it was a strong possibility at first. Anyway, my question is would it be possible for you to scout around the Agreste Mansion while in your soul form to see if you can confirm it? If so it would probably be best for you to leave soon as he's likely to try to confront Adrien about why he's so upset. Either that or he'll still be transformed and trying to send out a new akuma. I suspect that Nathalie is Mayura but I'm not sure. If she is she'll be extremely sick right now and so there is also the possibility that M. Agreste will be trying to tend to her.”

Tōshirō nodded in agreement with her theory then popped a soul candy to ditch his Gigai. He was half surprised to see the Dragon Miraculous was still around his neck but smiled in thanks anyway. He gave Marinette another quick kiss then headed out. She directed the false soul that was currently in his gigai to lay on the chaise as though he had fallen asleep, which is all she felt like doing. Instead, she focused on making sure she had some watermelon flavoured treats ready for when he got back, then went to work on her homework.

She got most of it done by the time Tōshirō returned from his scouting mission she had completed everything that she could, catching up to where she should be and had a list of questions about certain concepts to ask when she got back to school on Monday. All she'd had to do was take a quick glance at his face to know that her suspicions were confirmed. He flopped back into his gigai with a groan, the devoured the treats she had out for him and gratefully accepted the glass of ice tea that she offered him.

“It's worse then we thought.” He started with a sigh after a moment. “M. Agreste is definitely Hawkmoth while his assistant was Mayura. This last amok she sent out killed her and her negative emotions at her time of death caused her to become a hollow just as I arrived, so I had to fight her first. Thankfully, she wasn't sent to Hell for her actions but it wasn't an easy fight either way. M. Agreste doesn't seem to have realised that she's died yet so I was able to get the Peacock Miraculous before I carried on.” He handed it to her as he took another drink from his tea, wishing it was Sake but knowing he shouldn't drink. “I had a look around before I left again. It looks like M. Agreste has his wife in suspended animation underneath the house. However, while her body is perfectly preserved, her soul chain is cut and there's no sign of her soul anywhere. Not even the faintest trace of reiatsu remains meaning she is well and truly dead.”

“I guess we know what M. Agreste's wish is then, he wants to use it to bring her back. While the miraculous wish would work, the price should he get that wish is too horrific to contemplate!”

“I agree. We can't let that happen, no matter the cost.”

They checked the time and decided they had done all they could for that day as it was 10 PM and Marinette was on duty in the Bakery the next day. They had also ignored the fact that he had kissed her twice and that they had yet to talk about it. He brushed himself off then stood up and Marinette did the same thing.

“Do you want to come to supper tomorrow night? It's my turn to cook and I'm going to be making Amanattō for dessert.”

“You are spoiling me, Mari,” he murmured even as he nodded in agreement. Just as he turned to leave Marinette walked over to him and kissed him, taking him by surprise.

“You aren't the only one who has wanted to do that. You just happened to beat me to it.”

* * * * * * * *

By the time Monday arrived they had confirmed that they liked each other and that they wanted to date, but they also wanted to wait until Hawkmoth was gone before they settled anything. They didn't know what would happen with Gotei 13 and if he would be allowed to stay once everything was stabilised so they made a few contingency plans as a precaution. When Hawkmoth was defeated, Tōshirō would return to the Seireitei to find out what his new orders were. If he was to stay there, Marinette would move to, Karakura Town and continue her studies there. She wasn't all that attached to Paris anymore and while she loved her parents they weren't as close as they once were.

The plan to take Hawkmoth down was simple. Luka would wield the Turtle Miraculous whilst Kagami would use the Bee. Marinette would use both the Fox and the Ladybug again. They would sneak in late on Friday night and Kagami would use Venom to paralyse M. Agreste before he could react. They knew they would only have five minutes to work after that so Kōri no ryū would raid the house for any and all Miraculous related artefacts with Luka, while they were doing that Marinette would take the Butterfly Miraculous away from M. Agreste and force him to listen to what the consequences of his actions would have been had he won. The four of them would then use a spell designed to prevent someone from ever being able to recognise a miraculous ever again to prevent M. Agreste from coming after the Miricle Box once they left.

School that week seemed to drag. Everyone was talking about the new hero and at the surprising news of Chat stepping down. Adrien seemed even more withdrawn than normal but everyone put it down to Nathalie's death and not the fact that he used to be Chat Noir. Eventually, though Friday arrived and everything was ready. Kōri no ryū and MiShell were ready to move as soon as Sasu Hachi (Stinging Bee) stung M. Agreste. The plan worked flawlessly as they snuck in and soon Ladybug was explaining exactly what would have happened had he won to M. Agreste. As everything that was miraculous related seemed to radiate a small amount of reiatsu it was all found relatively quickly. Then the spell was cast and they were all gone as though they had never been there.

The planned press release was given to Nadja via Marinette who said it had been delivered to her by Ladybug with the request that it be aired on Sunday as a special broadcast. Nadja was only too happy to do so as she knew that if Ladybug asked for something to be released then it was obviously the scoop of a lifetime. She was confused as to why Ladybug was leaving the disk for her and not for the Ladyblogger but she wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth. The note on the front asked that the disk's contents be aired without any editing, as well as without anyone watching it first. T.Vi was wary of doing that but they chose to trust Ladybug and did as they had been asked.

They, along with the rest of Paris, were stunned when they saw what was on the disk. The last thing they had expected was a recording showing four Heros standing in front of the original statue that had been erected in Ladybug and Chat Noir's honour all those years ago. They didn't expect to hear the news that HawkMoth and Mayura had been defeated and that it was doubtful that any of the heroes would ever be seen again due to how Ladybugs civilian form had been treated. Paris listened in horror as Ladybug told them of how she had been subjected to unspeakable betrayal and bullying as a civilian and how she had often wished that she could just give up and leave them to their fate. Ladybug then proceeded to tear apart ever lie that had been posted on the Ladyblog as well as call Alya and Lila stalkers while she cuddled into Kōri no ryū for comfort. She didn't talk about how she felt regarding Chat Noir and how he treated her, nor did she talk about their ever-increasing fights but as far as everyone was concerned there had been enough bombshells dropped for the day.

School on Monday morning was an interesting affair. Tōshirō had had to report in about everything that had been happening in Paris and unfortunately, he had to do so in person. This meant that Marinette would be facing her classmates alone as she didn't doubt that M. Agreste would have pulled Adrien from school for the day at least after he had found Nathalie dead and with the news that M.s Agreste was dead too. Not that Adrien would have stood up to help her anyway.

The noise as she entered her class was deafening. Alya was busy screaming at Lila about her lies and how her blog was destroyed. The rest of the class were also screaming at Lila about various promises that had been made and demanding to know what else she had lied about. Marinette simply walked past everyone and made her way to her normal spot at the back of the classroom next to the window. Rose was the first to see her and she alerted the rest of the class to the fact that Marinette had arrived.

Soon there was a throng of people crowding around her desk and Marinette was ready to tear into them about their

unfair expectations of her simply forgiving and forgetting everything when a woman with black hair walked into the classroom.

“Alright class, settle down now. I need to take the register and-”

Before she could continue Alya yelled out, “Why should we listen to you? You are not Mlle Bustier! Where is she?”

“That will be detention for you, Mlle Césaire. As for who I am, I am Mme Ariès and I am your new teacher. Mlle Bustier has been fired due to her handling of this class and her handling of bullying in general. I'm sure she is a wonderful woman however, we need to carry on with your education, which you have all fallen behind in thanks to various factors. Now...”

Marinette tuned the rest of the new teacher's speech out as she got a message from Tōshirō, which she quickly checked while the teachers back was turned. Tōshirō had been told that he was not coming back to Paris, so he had set their plan in motion by contacting Kisuke Urahara. Kisuke would be in charge of creating a candy that would make her totally fluent in Japanese, not only speaking wish but being able to read and write it too. He would also be in charge of enrolling her in Karakura High School and making sure that Ichigo would be able to host her as he had recently married his long term girlfriend and they had their own house. She knew where Tōshirō had been staying so she would have to swing by there after school to fetch everything.

Marinette nodded to herself sadly, she knew that what she had planned was for the best but she also knew she would miss Paris and her Parents. After class came to a close Marinette looked around the classroom one last time. She had some good memories of it but most of them were tainted by Lila and Hawkmoth. Feeling Tikki touch her leg through her small purse Marinette shook her head, then headed home to pack. By this time tomorrow, I'll be in Japan thanks to Kaalki. She thought to herself. I doubt anyone will even notice I'm gone, but I'm excited about what the future holds. For the first time since I became Ladybug, I'm free to choose my path. I can't help but wonder where it will take me though!

(Translation into Chinese done by google translate – please let me know if it's wrong! Should read: I, Ladybug, Guardian of the Eastern Miricle Box, hereby strip you, Chat Noir, of your responsibilities and the Miraculous of the Black Cat. Should you resist you will face the consequences as deemed fit.)

@northernbluetongue, @ilovechocomintcoffee (Please don’t injure yourself this time hun!)

#mlb #bleach #marinette deserves better #marinette x toshiro

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