#Accident And Fracture Hospital Near Me

[theemporium]

congrats on 10k lovelyyyyyy!!! truly deserving, your works are some of my favorites on this app 🫶🏻 may i order a 💜 "I can't smile at you, I'm mad." with nico hischier ?!! lots of love for youuuu

thank you for requesting!🫶🏽

1."I can't smile at you, I'm mad."

.

“Fancy seeing you here.” 

Nico shot you an unamused look as he held the door open, long enough for the nurse in the room to sense the tension in the air and quickly scamper off. He flashed the nurse a thankful smile before letting the door close behind her, turning his attention back to you. 

“This isn’t funny,” he said eventually.

“It’s a little funny,” you countered, watching as he crossed his arms over his chest. “Okay, but in my defence, I didn’t think anything bad would actually happen.” 

“How is that your defence?” Nico countered with a frown.

“It’s all I could think of in the twenty minutes it took for you to arrive,” you admitted with a sheepish expression.

“Baby,” he sighed heavily. 

“Is this the part where you tell me I told you so?” You asked, still lighthearted and teasing as if you weren’t currently sitting on the hospital bed with your ankle all bandaged up from an accident that could have very easily been avoided. 

It was a running argument between you and Nico for the duration of your time spent in the apartment. You had moved in together over a year ago and it was absolutely perfect, minus the fact the top shelves of the cupboards were just out of your reach. 

It wasn’t too bad, considering most of the things on the top shelves were things you and Nico barely used in your everyday life. It was rare for you to reach for them, and even when you did, Nico was usually in the flat to help grab them for you. 

The argument stemmed from the day he came back home after practice to find you on the kitchen counter. Nico deemed it too unsafe, that you could fall or slip off when straining to get something from the shelf. You said he was being a bit dramatic, that you had done it plenty of times before with ease. 

The boy near had a heart attack every time he witnessed it in person. 

Now, here you were in the hospital, ankle wrapped up with an x-ray confirming it was broken and an odd sense of embarrassment towards the fact that Nico was right, that it was unsafe, that this all happened because you had the urge to bake and the cake tins were right at the back of the shelf. 

The doctors had called your emergency contact—Nico—after the x-rays had confirmed the fracture.

“Babe,” he said once again, his brows furrowed together as he shook his head. “I’m not happy about being right, you know that, right?” 

“You have to be a little bit smug though,” you countered. 

“My girlfriend broke her ankle and had to find her way to hospital alone,” Nico stated as he rounded the bed, like he needed some reassurance that you were okay as he reached for your hand. “Nothing about that sentence makes me feel happy or smug.” 

“Nico, baby, I’m fine,” you reassured him, squeezing his hand before patting a spot on the bed for him to sit down. “It’s not the end of the world and, overall, it’s funny. Now, c’mon, smile for me.” 

“I can’t smile at you, I’m mad,” Nico muttered but took a seat on the bed, perched at the edge like he didn’t want to take too much space. Which was just comical with the size of him. “What if I was away on a roadie? Or what if something more serious than a broken ankle happened? What if—”

“You know why I love you so much?” You cut him off, watching as the boy flashed you a confused look. “Because you care so much. You had such a big heart and you are so, so sweet.” 

His cheeks flushed a little. “Stop trying to butter me up.” 

“I’m only telling you the truth,” you retorted before squeezing his hand once more, tugging him a little closer so you could lean in and peck his lips. “I’m sorry for worrying you. And I’m sorry for not listening to you about the kitchen counter. You were right.” 

“I’m sorry for being so hard on you,” he murmured in reply, leaning in for a longer kiss before his shoulders dropped a little in relief. “I swore my heart stopped when I saw all the missed calls and voicemails. I think Jack had to catch me a little when I realised it was from the hospital. I thought something really bad had happened and—”

“Instead it was just your pretty girlfriend busting her ankle whilst trying to bake?” You finished for him, a smile on your lips. “God, at least I never managed to get anything in the oven or we would have bigger problems to deal with.”

Nico snorted despite himself. “Shut up.” 

“There’s that smile I love,” you grinned happily, your finger lightly poking the dimple of his cheek. “Plus, look at the bright side.”

Nico raised his eyebrows. “And what’s that?” 

“I now have an excuse for you to carry me around,” you joked, something in your stomach twisting to see that dimple once again. 

Instead, his expression softened as he raised your hand to press a kiss against your knuckles. “I’d carry you wherever you wanna go, baby. Gonna take care of my girl,” he said with so much sincerity. 

“My own knight in shining armour,” you sighed happily.

“More like a sexy nurse,” he corrected, something quite like amusement shining in his eyes. “If I was your knight in shining armour, I would have caught you when you fell. Easy.” 

.

[gloomysoup]

@steddieangstyaugust day 4 | prompt: angst with a happy ending | rating: g | word count: 748 | tags: hospital, vague description of a near-panic attack | ao3

it starts with a phone call

Eddie can't breathe.

He’s in his car, music off, breaking every law possible in his haste to get to the hospital.

This is a nightmare.

It started with a phone call. A vague call from Wayne that gave no details whatsoever. Something happened. Steve was in the Emergency Room. Eddie needed to get there. So, that's exactly what he was trying to do.

Eddie had never been so terrified. He didn't know what happened, or if Steve was okay. Wayne didn't say anything. Eddie is thinking the worst, of course. A freak accident has left Steve in a coma for the rest of his life. He's never waking up. It was the end of Eddie’s life as he knew it.

So, yeah, he was panicking. A lot.

His chest was tight, his vision a little blurry. He wanted to throw up, but didn't know if he even could. He had a white-knuckled grip on the wheel just to keep his hands from shaking.

Eddie swung into the parking lot, barely shifting it in park and shutting it off before throwing himself to the pavement and racing inside the sliding glass doors. Tiny pinpricks were settling under his skin as he searched the room for any sign of someone he knew.

“Eddie.”

His head snapped around. Wayne was standing up from a chair on the other side of the room. Eddie met him halfway, tugging his hands through his hair. “What happened? Where is he? Is he okay?”

“Slow down, kid,” Wayne said calmly, placing a firm hand on Eddie’s shoulder. “He just took a little tumble helpin’ me with some house work today. The docs are still runnin' tests. Knocked his head pretty good, so they're just rulin’ out further injury.”

Eddie breathing came a little easier, but not much. More head trauma for Steve was not great. What if it did something to his brain? What if something was seriously wrong?

“Where is he? Can I see him?”

“Gettin’ some imaging and such done. The doc’ll be back to update us soon.”

Eddie reluctantly followed Wayne to the collection of chairs, sitting beside him. His knee bounced anxiously. He hated this part; the waiting. He wanted to be useful. He wanted to do something. Unfortunately, there was nothing he could do. He just had to sit, and wait, and hope for the best.

It was nearly half an hour later when someone came to update them.

“For Steve Harrington?” the doctor asked, nodding toward them. Eddie was immediately on his feet.

“How is he? Is everything okay? Can I see him yet?”

The doctor smiled softly. “So far, all the imaging has come back clean. We’re still waiting on results of a blood test, just standard procedure, but everything looks good so far. He does have a fractured ankle, so he’ll need to stay off his feet as much as possible for the next few weeks or so, and also a sprained wrist. Other than that, he should be just fine. I can take you back to see him now, if you'd like.”

“Yes, please.”

Eddie and Wayne followed the doctor back to a separate room. Steve was sitting up in the bed, a cast on his ankle and a brace on his wrist and forearm. He smiled when they walked in the door, and Eddie finally felt like he could breathe again.

The first thing he did was wrap Steve in a tight hug.

The second thing he did was slap Steve’s shoulder.

“What the hell were you thinking? You scared me half to death, Steve.”

Steve shrugged, looking a little sheepish. “Sorry. I was just trying to help. I figured it was safer for me to be on the ladder than Wayne. Guess I was wrong.” He looked up at Eddie, grabbing his hand and giving it a squeeze. “I swear I'm fine, though. It wasn't even that bad of a fall.”

Eddie plopped into the chair by his bed, rolling his eyes with a huff. “Yeah, because a fractured ankle, sprained wrist, and more head trauma 'isn't that bad’. Bite me, Harrington.”

Steve grinned. “Gladly.”

“Oh my god, shut up,” Eddie said with a loud, put-upon groan. There was no heat in his words, though. Not with the way he grinned right back.

Maybe his morning hadn't gone quite the way he'd planned, but at least Steve was safe. And Eddie would never let him climb another ladder again, as long as he lived.

[its-all-or-nothing94]

Formula 1 / MotoGP Fusion - Prologue (Prestory)

Summary: You are the first female MotoGP rider ever. You race for KTM Factory Racing, leaving Jack Miller your teammate, and one of your main sponsors is Red Bull. You grew up with most of the riders but your best friend is the multiple MotoGP Champion Marc Marquez. After your horrific crash the year before, you are ready to start the new season and probably a new love?

A/N: This is my first Social Media Story, so please go easy on me :) It's a mix between "Breaking News", Instagram posts, Twitter reactions and Insta-Stories :) My OC in this story is Jamie Murphy and she is the first woman to accomplish to drive in MotoGP. It was easier to have a face for this ;) Oh and this is like the "Pre-Story".

Ship: Not telling yet (Marc Marquez, Carlos Sainz or Charles Leclerc)

Warnings: Major accident

Terrifying Crash Shakes MotoGP World: Y/N Y/L/N Hospitalized After Horror Accident at Silverstone!

August 7, 2022

In a Heart-Stopping Moment, Y/L/N's Life Hangs in the Balance as Fans Pray for Her Recovery

Breaking News: In a shocking turn of events at the Silverstone race, Y/N Y/L/N, the trailblazing MotoGP rider, has suffered a horrific accident that left her unconscious and in critical condition. The accident, which occurred during a high-speed collision, has sent shockwaves through the racing community and has fans anxiously awaiting updates on her condition.

Eyewitnesses report that Y/L/N's motorcycle made contact with another rider's bike, causing her to lose control and crash violently. The impact was so severe that a part of her motorcycle became lodged in the side of her stomach, resulting in immediate medical intervention.

Emergency medical teams quickly arrived at the scene, providing urgent assistance to Y/L/N. Due to the severity of her injuries, she was airlifted to a nearby hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Medical experts worked tirelessly to remove the foreign object and repair the damage caused.

Further examination revealed that Y/L/N also sustained a small fracture in her neck, requiring additional surgery to ensure her long-term well-being. Despite the complexity of the procedures, the medical team remains optimistic about her recovery.

Y/L/N's condition is currently listed as stable, and she is being closely monitored in the intensive care unit. Her family, friends, and fans around the world have rallied together, sending their thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes for her swift recovery.

The racing community has been deeply affected by this harrowing incident, with fellow riders expressing their concern and support for Y/L/N and her family. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by these incredible athletes every time they take to the track. 

As the MotoGP world awaits further updates on Y/N Y/L/N's condition, one thing is certain: her strength and determination will undoubtedly play a crucial role in her recovery. Fans worldwide join together in sending their love, hoping to witness her triumphant return to the sport that she has dedicated her life to. 

Stay tuned for more updates on Y/N Y/L/N's condition as her fight to recover from this terrifying accident continues.

🌟 Inspirational Comeback: Y/N Y/L/N on the Road to Recovery After Terrifying Crash 🏍️💥💪

October 10, 2022

✨ Defying the Odds: Y/L/N's Remarkable Progress Amazes Doctors as She Embarks on Rehabilitation Journey 🏥⚡🏋️

Breaking News: In a stunning display of resilience and determination, MotoGP rider Y/N Y/L/N continues her remarkable recovery following a horrifying crash at Silverstone. While the road to recovery has been challenging, Y/L/N's strength and unwavering spirit have astounded medical professionals, providing hope for her return to the track in the near future. 💪🏁

After undergoing multiple surgeries to address the injuries sustained in the accident, Y/L/N's progress has been remarkable. Doctors have confirmed that she will not suffer any long-term injuries, a testament to her strength and the excellent medical care she received. Visible on her neck is a bulging scar, a reminder of the ordeal she endured, and it is believed that a scar on her stomach serves as evidence of the motorcycle part that became embedded in her side, narrowly avoiding potentially life-threatening damage to her lung. 😱💉

Y/L/N's recovery journey now enters the rehabilitation phase, where she will undergo intensive therapy and training to regain her strength and mobility. Physiotherapists and specialists will work closely with her to ensure a safe and efficient return to her athletic peak. 💪💙

While the road to recovery will require time and patience, Y/L/N remains optimistic and focused on her ultimate goal: returning to the MotoGP World Championship. However, it has been confirmed that she will not be able to compete in this year's championship, prioritizing her health and well-being above all else. 🏆🏍️❤️

Fans around the world have rallied behind Y/L/N, flooding social media with messages of support and encouragement. The outpouring of love and admiration for her bravery and determination has been overwhelming, reaffirming her status as an inspiration to many. 🌍💕

Y/L/N's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the risks that professional athletes face and the strength required to overcome adversity. Her story resonates not only with the racing community but with individuals worldwide who have been touched by her tenacity and courage. 🌟🙌

As Y/N Y/L/N continues her rehabilitation, the entire MotoGP community eagerly awaits her return. Her absence from this year's championship only intensifies the anticipation for her comeback, as fans eagerly anticipate the day when she will once again grace the track with her unparalleled skills. 🏍️🎉

Stay tuned for further updates on Y/N Y/L/N's rehabilitation progress and the inspiring journey that lies ahead for this extraordinary MotoGP athlete. 📣💪✨

🏍️ Revving Back to Life: Y/N Y/L/N Returns to the Track with Unstoppable Determination! 💪🌟

December 12, 2022

💥 An Unbreakable Bond: Miller and Marquez Stand Strong as Y/L/N Embarks on her Thrilling Comeback! 🤝❤️

Breaking News: In a triumphant display of resilience and unwavering determination, MotoGP sensation Y/N Y/L/N has made her highly anticipated return to the track after months of intense rehabilitation and hard work. With the support of her teammate Jack Miller and her best friend Marc Marquez, Y/L/N is proving that nothing can keep her away from her passion for racing. 🏁🔥 

Witnesses have spotted Y/L/N spending an increasing amount of time at the KTM headquarters in Munderfing, Austria, immersing herself in the world of motorsport once again. With each passing day, her dedication and commitment to her craft become more evident. 💪🏆

The heartwarming sight of Y/L/N back on a test track, straddling her bike, has ignited excitement and joy within the racing community. Her infectious enthusiasm and indomitable spirit have not only inspired fans but have also captivated her teammate Jack Miller, who has been a pillar of support throughout her recovery journey. Miller's unwavering presence by Y/L/N's side speaks volumes about their unbreakable bond and the camaraderie shared among teammates. 🏍️🤝❤️

Furthermore, the ever-supportive Marc Marquez has stood shoulder to shoulder with Y/L/N, offering encouragement and guidance as she regains her racing form. Marquez's own remarkable journey of triumph over adversity has uniquely positioned him to empathize with Y/L/N's challenges, making their friendship even more profound and inspiring. 🌟🙌

As Y/L/N continues her training and testing on the track, her presence is a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of athletes and their ability to overcome any obstacle. The racing world eagerly awaits her official return to competition, where she will once again showcase her extraordinary skills and tenacity. 🌍💨

Stay tuned for more updates on Y/N Y/L/N's remarkable comeback, as she proves that setbacks are merely fuel for her relentless pursuit of greatness. With Miller and Marquez by her side, the future looks brighter than ever for this remarkable MotoGP star. 🌟🚀💥

Next Part >>

[deathmetalunicorn1]

Angst requesr, RoR characters receive a call from the hospital that teen!reader got into a horrible hit and run accident. The reader woke up soon after surgery and immediately cried in pian

-There was a phone call, one that nobody realized would change their lives.

-You were on your way home from school and someone blew a stop sign and struck you before driving off, a hit and run.

-You were in transport to the hospital when they received the call, fury and tears quickly rising before Brunnhilde spoke, quickly taking charge, “If you’re going to the hospital, come with me! I’m leaving now!” most followed after her, but a few went to the scene of the accident, to speak to police about what happened and if there was any information about who had struck you.

-Four hours had passed, the hospital staff wouldn’t let any of them back to see you, as you had been rushed to surgery, which send a chill of dread down their spines.

-Jack, Nikola, Lu Bu, and Hades had been the ones to go to the scene of the accident and question the police. Nikola was easily able to hack into the nearby security cameras and once they had their target, it was a race to who would get to this bastard first, them or the police.

-Just past the fifth hour, night had long fallen, a doctor finally came out to speak with your massive adoptive family, pulling them all aside to a quiet area of the waiting room so she could speak with them. Hermes video called Hades, so the four hunters could get an update on you, as their hunt was coming to a close, as the offender had been driving nonstop to get away.

-Both legs broken, your left on your femur and your right at your fibula and at your ankle, your right clavicle was snapped, your right shoulder dislocated, your right radius had a hairline fracture, your wrist and two fingers had hair line fractures, multiple abrasions and internal bleeding from the blunt force trauma, and a mild concussion.

-Your snapped clavicle was the one thing that caused the most worry, mainly because it broke outwards, nicking your carotid artery and nearly caused you to bleed out. Adding in the shock your body was forced into, you almost didn’t make it.

-The doctor was calm but demanded the same from your family, for them to remain calm, as she told them everything that had happened to you, but she calmed them with three short words, “She’s now stable.”

-You were unconscious when she allowed them to visit you, but they had strict instructions to not touch you at all, but seeing your broken little body in the bed, breathing mask over your mouth, casts on your arm and both legs, several of them had to step out, unable to stand the sight of you broken like this.

-Adam was openly crying, kneeling by your bedside while Brunnhilde was seething in anger, near vibrating, she only calmed when Odin put a hand on her shoulder, to ground her and it was only then when she realized tears had been cascading down her cheeks since she entered the room.

-The headhunters arrived at the hospital about an hour later, not bloody, but furious, as the police had gotten to the driver first, it was another teenager, one who didn’t even have a license. He was being booked on multiple charges and Jack, who was the only one not at the hospital, staking out the police station, had kept everyone up to date, that the kid’s parents arrived and there was a lot of shouting at the kid for his actions once the police received the report and the footage of the hit and run and the report of your injuries. He almost killed you.

-For once, the color of fear disgusted Jack, as the boy reeked of it, he didn’t even need to use his gift to see it, he found the color disgusting and thought the only worthy thing was the death of this idiot, but he held back, knowing that he just ruined his life and Jack hoped that the rest of it would be dreadful.

-It was another two hours, close to midnight, when you finally stirred and you could hear several voices calling out your name as well as the sound of people crying.

-You felt numb, you couldn’t move anything, you tried to open your eyes, but everything felt so heavy, like you were being crushed.

-Like lightning, your body immediately flared with pain, a harsh groan leaving you as you tensed and instantly you gasped harshly, almost to the point of hyperventilating as you felt like you couldn’t breathe, tears pouring out as the machines around you went crazy.

-You looked around, frantic, scared, you didn’t know where you were, you didn’t know what happened, the only thing that you could comprehend was the pain that seemed to ignite every inch of your body.

-Doctors and nurses rushed to you, ordering your family to leave except for Adam who refused to leave your side, holding onto you uninjured hand, trying to ground you.

-Those next ten minutes were pure torture for everyone, hearing your screams and cries of pain, the shouts of the doctors, the nurses running in and out until finally everything went quiet again.

-The doctors upped your morphine, to help deaden some of the pain, as well as to calm you down, as the shock from the pain sent you into a panic attack.

-Once deemed safe, your family was allowed to enter, Adam sat next to you on the bed, holding your hand carefully as you looked around, pupils blown out, showing you were loopy but awake.

-It hurt to talk so they all spoke for you, telling you what had happened, how you were injured, where you were, and that they caught the idiot who did this to you.

-You ended up spending almost three full weeks at the hospital before you were finally stable enough to go home with your family, who have all been constant visitors, almost to the point where they didn’t want to leave you.

-You had seen on the news that the kid who did this to you was going to prison for at the very least, twenty five years, you didn’t want to think about it but certain members of your family, Shiva, Lu Bu, Thor, Loki, Hades, Jack, and Beelzebub didn’t think prison was a good enough punishment.

-Once home, you had to adjust to being carried everywhere, at least until your legs healed, they didn’t want you walking at all, so if you wanted something, they either went and got it for you or carried you to what you wanted.

-They never once made you feel like a burden, each of them taking turns sitting with you, doting on you, helping you, but never making you feel like a burden.

-They were your biggest cheerleaders while going through physical therapy, constantly motivating you to do your exercises, and cheering with each milestone you hit with your recovery, never letting you give up, something you could never thank them enough for.

[polar-equinoxx]

☁️The heavens told me that clouds have been grey

yes that is from lady gaga's song hold my hand from tgm-

Here lies all of my icemav fics! So guaranteed smooches <3 (None of them link to each other unless they are in a seperate series btw)

Here is the big ol’ masterlist :)

goose and slider forever judging them in the background

☁️There's a silver lining on every cloud 13k+

Rated Teen, and with copius amounts of fluff :3 A collection of various icemav kisses prompts from a tumblr post full of them

☁️Only One Bed (1076 words)

Rated Gen, emotional hurt/comfort Iceman and Maverick are on a mission of somesorts together, and they get put in a room which has, yep, you guessed it, only one bed. And Maverick has a nightmare.

☁️Sunset on the Field (1086 words)

Rated Gen, first kiss, a sunset, that's it. Maverick invites Iceman to sit on a field near a runway to watch the sunset and maybe stargaze, a thing friends do, right? And they both deny their plainly obvious feelings for the other until neither of them can bear it any longer…

☁️Smoke in the Air (735 words)

Rated Teen, with anxiety, and hurt/comfort They don’t tell Iceman that Maverick is missing in action. Kind of important information when you're in a hospital ward twelve hours after you're shot down.

☁️Warmth (1020 words)

Rated Teen, angst and hurt/comfort Maverick hates sleeping in the same bed as Ice. He also hates himself. Tonight makes it way worse.

☁️Blame (957 words)

Rated Teen, angsty thoughts and its a sickfic, so.. Maverick was sick. Not the little cough and blocked nose sick, but the feverous, restless sick that gives thumping headaches and coughs that give you chest ache.

☁️Missed You (2119 words)

Rated Teen, secret relationship, anxiety, mental and regular hospitals (i'm sorry Mav) An accident. Two injured pilots, a broken wrist on one, a fractured ankle and twisted shoulder on the other. A string of numbers. 225 63 2829

☁️Still by your Side (2006 words)

Rated Teen, angst, post-break up, hurt/comfort, injuries It's been a couple of months since Iceman and Maverick broke up. They're still wingmen, they still fly missions together. But it takes a bad landing from an ejection for them to realise that they still need each other. Inspired by this post , that broke me.

☁️Even Ice Melts (1927 words)

Rated Teen, angsT, grief, stormy night, post-argument, hurt comfort, good god this has it all. “No one will be there to mourn you when you crash and burn,” Ice hisses slowly. Oh how he hated Iceman. “Then let us hope I crash and burn tomorrow,” he says harshly, still somehow maintaining eye-contact with him.

☁️Starved (1825 words)

Rated Teen, hand-holding, emotional hurt comfort, mutual pining sort of at the end... Maverick is touch-starved. He doesn't know it. Nobody else knows it. Nobody else except for Iceman. Of course he had to notice. And despite them being rivals, Ice plucks up the courage to offer Maverick a seat in the next lesson.

☁️Boys Don't Cry (1921 words)

Rated Teen, fluff, emotional hurt/comfort, Ice needs a hug. Iceman Kazansky has been told all his life by everyone older than him that 'boys don't cry', 'boys don't have emotions' and if they do one must keep it all to themselves. He gets it, it's kind of why he'd called Iceman. But if there's one person that'll unexpectedly rewrite that lecture it's his newly rival-turned-wingman. Or, Ice tries to hold all his emotions in for the hundredth time and Maverick helps him understand he doesn't have to hide them anymore.

☁️Cingulomania (2127 words)

Rated Teen, fluff, hurt/comfort, Maverick needs a hug (noun) - a strong desire to hold someone in your arms. "When I go, I hope I go out just as beautifully,” Ice muses out loud. “Oh-” Maverick starts, seemingly involuntarily. “I’d really prefer it if you didn’t go at all..” Or, Iceman has unknowingly forged an emotional connection with his wingman

☁️I'm in Your Arms, I'm in Your Care (4187 words)

Rated Teen, two parts in one, hurt/comfort, both Ice and Mav need hugs Luck wasn't a strong enough word to describe how much love Ice felt for Maverick. There was such a thing as touch, though, and that was heaven for both of them.

☁️The Time Will Come (2633 words)

Rated Gen, SO much fluff, dadt, dadt repeal If there's one thing that had got Ice this far, it was the promise that one day, things would get better. He'd just have to wait. But he had got this far, looking at the smirking face of his partner-in-secret, Maverick Mitchell of all people.

[delusionisaplace]

Meet The Writer Tag

thanks for the tag @mjparkerwriting :)

Three facts about me:

Instead of growing, I started shrinking—I went from 5’4 to 5’2 over the course of 3 years.

I’ve had 4 near death experiences, with one resulting in a trip to the hospital. DONT WORRY IM PERFECTLY FINE 😭😭

I’m very accident prone, but I’ve never broken or fractured any of my bones.

Favorite season: Fall and spring. Fall because it’s cold, but not cold enough to the point where I have to sleep with a hoodie and a heater, and spring because where I’m from, it tends to rain a lot during the spring.

Continent where I live: North America

How I spend my time:

Listening to music

Studying / doing assignments

Reading (mostly manga, manhwas and manhuas though 😬)

Watching TV / Movies

Drawing

Scrolling through TikTok / Tumblr

Going through YouTube

Writing

Watching / practicing volleyball (i used to play varsity, but i don’t have the time to play as much nowadays)

Are you published? I remember in high school, we had to write a short story and a poem for the school paper, but I don’t know if it was ever published or not. I don’t think it was though, so nope.

Introvert or Extrovert? I’m an introvert cursed with a group of extroverted friends who are constantly trying to push me out of my comfort zone. I still love them tho lol

Favorite Food: I grew up in a Haitian household, so most of my meals had some sort of meat, so maybe chicken or beef. But I also really like takeout and Popeye’s lmao

gently tagging: @fleurtygurl @kae-luna @wisteriaxxviolet and anyone else who wants to do this!!

[ash-and-books]

Rating: 5/5

Book Blurb:

NEW from bestselling and award-winning author Andrew Joseph White! A queer Appalachian thriller that pulls no punches—following a trans autistic teen who's drawn into the generational struggle between the rural poor and those who exploit them.

Preorder now and recieve the LIMITED FIRST EDITION featuring specially designed photo endpapers—only while supplies last!

On the night Miles Abernathy—sixteen-year-old socialist and proud West Virginian—comes out as trans to his parents, he sneaks off to a party, carrying evidence that may finally turn the tide of the blood feud plaguing Twist Creek: Photos that prove the county’s Sheriff Davies was responsible for the so-called “accident” that injured his dad, killed others, and crushed their grassroots efforts to unseat him.

The feud began a hundred years ago when Miles’s great-great-grandfather, Saint Abernathy, incited a miners’ rebellion that ended with a public execution at the hands of law enforcement. Now, Miles becomes the feud’s latest victim as the sheriff’s son and his friends sniff out the evidence, follow him through the woods, and beat him nearly to death. 

In the hospital, the ghost of a soot-covered man hovers over Miles’s bedside while Sheriff Davies threatens Miles into silence. But when Miles accidently kills one of the boys who hurt him, he learns of other folks in Twist Creek who want out from under the sheriff’s heel. To free their families from this cycle of cruelty, they’re willing to put everything on the line—is Miles?

A visceral, unabashedly political page-turner that won’t let you go until you’ve reached the end, Compound Fracture is not for the faint of heart, but it is for every reader who's ready to fight for a better world. Hand this story to teens pushing for radical change.

Review:

A queer Appalachian thriller following a trans autistic teen thrown into the general struggle between the rural poor and those who will exploit them. Miles Abernathy is a sixteen year old socialist who has just come out as trans to his parents... and when he sneaks off to a party carrying evidence that would turn the tide in the feud in Twist Creek.... proving that the county's sheriff has been killing people and purposely injured Miles's father, things take a dark turn as the sheriff's son faces off against Miles. Miles just wanted to go unnoticed but its too late when the sheriff's son catches him with the evidence and proceeds to beat him to near death to keep him silent... and when the Sheriff threatens Miles into silence, Miles accidentally kills one of the boys who had hurt him. Everyone is under the sheriff's heel but maybe Miles will be the one to finally break this cycle... even if it means bodies will start dropping and blood is the only way to end the feud. This was a bloody brutal story about a small town feud, the toxic treatment of queer individuals, and the lengths people will go to to control others. Miles was such an interesting and compelling character who is constantly being handed terrible situations and must find a way to endure and survive them. This was a twisted fun read and one I would absolutely recommend for anyone who enjoys a good thriller and complex characters. I have been a huge fan of Andrew Joseph White's stories and writing and this one did not miss at all for me. I would absolutely recommend this book!

Release Date: September 3, 2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and Holiday House / Peachtree / Pixel+Ink | Peachtree Teen for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

[rsedits9420]

mark estapa taking care of injured reader or other way around or both

Caretaker

Mark Estapa blurb

Word count: 1.5k

Masterlist

I was leaving my last lecture for the day to go get ready for Mark’s game tonight. Mark is my boyfriend of 3 years. We met junior year of highschool and instantly fell for each other. I followed him to U-Mich as he continued to presume his hockey career. He says I’m his number one cheerleader. And I kinda am. I love to make outrageous signs and go all out for the games. I even purchased season tickets where my seat was right next to the penalty box. Mark didn’t find me as funny as his friends did for doing that, but what can I say? When your boyfriend has over 80 penalty minutes, you expect him to be in the box a lot. Tonight they play Pen State at home. It’s nearing the end of the regular season, so emotions are running high. Our boys need to keep winning. And that’s what they plan to do.

I am stopped at a red light when all of sudden I hear a screech. I quickly turn my head to be met with the sight of a 18 wheeler flipping on the road. I’m frozen. I can’t move. The truck looks like it’s flying in slow motion and it’s coming straight for me. I instinctively protect my head. The truck hits the roof of my car and I sink down into the seat. Something knocks my head, and then my vision goes black.

Mark

As the team is just ending our pregame warm ups, Coach calls me into his office. Damn. Please don’t bench me. I already promised to not get anymore penalties. “Mark. Can you sit down for a sec?” I nod and go sit in the leather chair across from his desk. “Mark something has happened. I don’t know the full extent, but I know when I tell you, you’re not going to want to play tonight.” I look at him with a worrisome look, ” What happened?” I say. “ Y/n was in an accident. An 18 wheeler flipped on top of her car. From all I know she’s at the hospital and she’s stable. They couldn’t give me any more information. I’m sorry that’s all I have, but I already talked to Philippe and he’s going to take you, because I don’t want you to drive in your condition.”

I’m in shock. She got in a crash?

Y/n got hurt.

Y/n got hurt.

Y/n got hurt.

That’s the only thought going through my head.

We were talking on the phone less than 2 hours ago. I quickly get out of my head and go to get my stuff. I quickly grab my phone and wallet and go to find Lapointe.

Phil dropped me off at the hospital, he offered to stay but I told him just to go back to the game and I’d keep him updated. As I walk in, I go straight up to the front desk. “Ma‘am I’m looking for a Y/n Y/l/n. I’m her boyfriend. I was told she was in an accident.” I say in a worried manner. The receptionist clicks something on the computer then says,” She’s just down that hall there, room number 1432. I thank her and quickly make my way down the hallway she pointed too. When I open the door, a man in a lab coat says,”You must be y/n’s emergency contact. She was sitting at a red light when a car collided with an 18 wheeler, which caused the 18 wheeler to flip. Luckily it wasn’t going full force towards her, so she has minimalistic injuries. She has a concussion, broken collarbone, and a couple fractured ribs. Other than that she has some cuts and bruises, but nothing too serious. She’s a lucky girl, that’s for sure. She was in fact knocked unconscious at the scene, and is still struggling to gain consciousness. We suspect she has a grade 3 concussion.” I nod and try to process the information. “I am allowed to see her?” I ask still in shock. He opens the door and I see her fast asleep. She has a big bruise on her forehead and a busted lip. I hurry and get by her side. I put her hand in mine and hold it close.

About an hour later, she starts to stir. “Baby, are you awake? I’m here y/n. It’s me Mark. I’m here.” I whisper. Her eyelashes flutter and her beautiful y/c eyes appear. “M-mark. Is that you?”she groans. I grab both her hands into mine and say,” Yes baby. I’m here. Are you feeling better?” She looks at me with a confused expression and says,”What happened? How did I get here?” I tell her all of what happend and at first she’s upset about her car her dad had given her for her 18th birthday, but I told her we would get her another one. All I was worried about was her health. I loved this girl with every bone in my body. And I would spend the rest of my life staying by her side.

The next day, she struggles to move, so I’m helping her do anything she needs. Her body is still bruised and cut. They gave her a cast and she let me sign it first. She says I’m lucky because she’ll be wearing my signature for the next month. We have spent the majority of our time laying with each other and me holding her. There isn’t much she can do so I like to get my phone so she can listen to some of her favorite tv shows.

Y/n

Two weeks later

After I got discharged 9 days ago, I’ve been staying with Mark and his roommates. He insisted that I stay with him, so he could be there if I needed anything. He’s totally been babying me, but honestly I’m not complaining. He’s a real sweetheart when he wants to be. He’s always trying to make sure I’m super comfortable. It the sweetest thing. I am hopelessly in love with this man it isn’t even funny.

“Babe! Can you bring me a Gatorade so I can take my pain killer?” I shout. After a few minutes, I hear loud footsteps coming towards Marks room,” Here. I got you red and yellow. You can pick which one you want. Me and the boys have to head to the rink in 15 minutes, but call me if you need anything. I’ll check my phone at every water break just in case.” I give him a kiss on the cheek and say,” Love you Marky!” He cups my check and gives me a gentle kiss on the lips, while saying,” I love you more that you’ll ever know.”

Then the next day, all of the guys were going to get lunch and Mark refuse to leave me alone. “I wouldn’t be a good caregiver if I left you alone, now would I?” He asked. We ended up just cuddling for the rest of the afternoon. He also made sure to play my favorite songs so I can have somthing to listen to. The hardest part of the whole thing is no screens. Lucky for me I have an AMAZING a boyfriend, who just went to get me some more books from the library.

My car was totaled, so today we are shopping for a new one. Mark wants one he can actually fit in, but when you're a 6 '2 hockey player it’s hard to find cars that fit him that aren’t trucks. “Babe look at this one!” I point at the tahoe in front of us. “Let’s check it out.” Me and Mark both go over to it and we both fall in love with it. We both get in and he says,” you could take all of us to the rink in this! You could be our personal taxi!” I laugh at Mark's comment, then I say,” Or…. You could finally fit in so you could drive me! That way I’m the passenger princess not you!” I say jokingly. “I am not!” He says defensively. I laugh and plant a kiss on his check before going back to checking out the car.

We ended up getting the Tahoe. Mark drove it back so I could return the rental car. He picked me up from the rental place and took us home. On our way home I felt one thing, peace. The past couple weeks have been hectic. With the crash, hockey, and school, I haven’t felt calm in a while. I think I can get used to this.

Me and Mark get back to the apartment, and he helps me to the door. Almost 3 weeks later and I’m still sore. “Come on. I got you.” Mark whispers in my ear. He has been nothing but supportive and caring for the past 3 weeks. I feel bad because I can’t do anything for him in return. “So we have a game today, and yeah I know you can fully get to go, but I got a coach to let me snag you a suit to watch the game. You’ll be in your own quiet room and it’s pretty dark up there so it should be fine for you to come.” I give him a kiss and say,” Now what kind of girlfriend would I be if I didn’t come watch your game? Of course I’ll go! I want to see my baby get some more penalties!” He gives me a serious look while saying,” You better not. If I get anymore penalties I’ll be benched for the rest of the year.” I giggle,” Mark I was just playing around with you. I know you’ll be smart about it.” He pulls me in close to kiss me one last time before leading me to the kitchen so he can make my favorite soup. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better caretaker. He’s the best there ever was.

[r1999-transcript]

Worn Teeth And Old Marks 02 - Empty Glass Jar

Tooth Fairy: Huh … Huh … … Humerus … and pelvis, fracture deformity … Ankle, open fracture. Blood loss … estimated to exceed…

From the looks, the unfortunate boy I hit at that time was probably under 10 years old. He was thin and small, and quite tan. Within only a few seconds, he was almost entirely weltering in blood. The tiny baby tooth was soaked in the blood, too white not to be noticed.

Tooth Fairy: … Damn.

Hands trembling. Dizzy … That’s all I felt at the time.

Tooth Fairy: … Hello. Emergency Service! I’m on …

No one would have ever expected a child to suddenly appear on the empty highway. But things just happened beyond my expectation, and it happened very quickly without any signs.

Emergency Services: According to your information, we’ll arrive as soon as possible within 50 minutes. Please be patient.

Tooth Fairy: He’s in a critical condition and can’t wait for 50 minutes …

The warm rock formations within my view and the agave of a man’s size, both demonstrated an undisputed fact - - that in the Platinum 10 Minutes, and in a desert where there was no hospital nor any medical resources, I could barely save his life with any human medical treatments.

Tooth Fairy: … Hey!! Hey!! Can you hear me!

Boy: *cough* Ouch …

Tooth Fairy: Oh … shit.

Pints of blood was pouring from every single wound. If it went on like this, in less than 30 seconds, he would go into shock from blood loss. I do have a better idea.

Tooth Fairy: Damn … damn it …!

Because of the blood, my fingertips kept slipping uncontrollably on the glass jar that I carried, and I could barely open it.

Tooth Fairy: Look up, boy, look up …

Knock the area three fingers from the lower jaw. Hold the nape gently. Stretch the throat muscles. For the first time I was so unconfident about the dosage … and also the first time to try to heal a human with tooth fairies. My arms were moving like a machine, stuffing the boy’s body with these little monsters that were dropping golden powder.

Tooth Fairy: The fifth … Yes, right … good boy … go on, swallow it.

Boy: *cough* Huh …

Tooth Fairy: Hah … Hah …

…

Tooth Fairy: … Thank goodness.

…

Motel

Boy: Um …

Tooth Fairy: Please do not move. The wound on your ankle is expected to heal in thirty minutes. We’re in the motel near the highway. I will ask you a few questions. Please answer as quickly and accurately as possible. How many fingers?

Boy: Uh, hiss … you are … two?

Tooth Fairy: Please do not move. Is it day or night?

Boy: Day …?

Tooth Fairy: Good boy. Do you remember your name and age?

Boy: Jo … John. John Garcia … 13 years old. I live in the Mare Town nearby.

Tooth Fairy: Thanks for the cooperation. You could call me …

John: Hm? What’s covered around my feet … ?

Tooth Fairy: … ! Don’t!

John: Wow … ah! What … what are these?! Are they … wings? My God! The ointment has golden powder on it …

Tooth Fairy: … Please don’t worry. It’s not harmful, nor will it make you feel painful. If it’s hard to take, just close your eyes and don’t think about it. This is a motel. You could call me Tooth Fairy. It’s their name, and mine too.

John: No, this looks COOL … I’m not afraid. It feels amazing on my ankle!

Tooth Fairy: …

John: Did you save me? With that amazing … ointment?

Tooth Fairy: In fact, I caused the accident. Fortunately, I know how to heal in some way.

John: I’m sorry … Mom once warned me to stay off the highway. I just … I … my beetle … it went out to the middle of the road.

Tooth Fairy: No. You should not be the one to apologise. Your Mom is right. Please keep her words in mind.

John: I will! I just … hiss!

Tooth Fairy: … Take a deep breath … Open your mouth.

John: Hey! It … it’s alive … Wow, a flying granny … Shall I just put it in my mouth?

Tooth Fairy: If you want the best healing effect, I suggest you swallow it.

John: Ugh … hmm! It’s sour. And a little sweet! Hmm … huh? The loose tooth in my mouth is gone!

Tooth Fairy: … It’s here. … Are you taking it back?

John: Oh, not really. I’m surprised you didn’t throw it away! Hmm … and, the granny, can I have one more?

Tooth Fairy: I’m very sorry, John. This is the last one. But if you behave well, I’ll give you some other snacks.

I searched in my pocket, trying to find something other than a tooth … anything like a toffee, or sea salt flavoured chocolate, or a caramel kind of thing … Kids need it.

Tooth Fairy: Like … a candy?

John: Awesome! I’ve never had candies before! Wow! In your pocket … Why are there SO many teeth?!

Tooth Fairy: It’s my personal hobby.

John: Hobby … Ah! I get it! Is it just like how I love the beetles?

Tooth Fairy: … Probably.

John: No wonder you didn’t throw that baby tooth away! In that case, I’ll trade you this for a candy … Huh? Ah! It’s here! It’s Toto’s tooth that fell out this morning! It always loves it when I rub its belly.

Tooth Fairy: … Thanks.

John: You’re welcome … Hey, wait, it’s amazing! I don’t feel any pain at all! Not even hungry anymore! You’re even better than Grandma Susie!

Tooth Fairy: … Grandma Susie?

John: Her cabin is right next to my house! People in town said Grandma Susie is an arcanist … She really didn’t have a good temper, as she always drive me away with a broom, and never allowed me to catch beetles in her doorway … But she would secretly give me a few pieces of corn crisps every time, and I haven’t tasted any good crisps since she moved away … Grandma Susie could turn an apple pie out of nothing, and she even moved a huge palace. Although people said that was just illusion, but … can you do it too?

Tooth Fairy: I’m sorry. I can’t do any of them.

John: But you saved my life! You must be an arcanist, too!

Tooth Fairy: Have a taste?

John: It’s … toff … toffee! Oh, I tuned out just now … Here’s Toto’s tooth!

I looked at the tiny tooth in my palm, and guessed it might belong to a bloodhound whose bloodline wasn’t pure. Apparently, the owner of the tooth was also malnourished.

John: Mmm … so sweet! … Ms. Tooth Fairy, is it that whatever the pain, you could drive it away?

Tooth Fairy: I wish I could. But the truth is, there is no one who could cure all diseases.

John: But you are powerful … Arcanists are all very powerful …

Tooth Fairy: Powerful doesn’t equal all-powerful, John. If it hasn’t been me who caused the accident … or if I had hesitated even for a second, it would be a completely different story. … Now, you should get some rest. Feeling no pain doesn’t mean you’ve recovered. Tuck in, and get some sleep. Then I will take you back.

A motel is not a good place to rest, but sometimes we don’t have a choice. Fortunately, John was so skinny that even the smallest quilt was way adequate for him. Gradually, he’s breathing well, and my nerves finally relaxed for a moment.

John: Ms. Tooth Fairy …

Tooth Fairy: …?

John: If I may …

I saw him turn over with difficulty under the quilt.

John: Can you please … meet my Mom later …?

[andreafmn]

12 Days of Ficmas - Day 2

Prompt (by @12-days-of-ficmas): i broke my ankle slipping on ice but hey at least the ER nurse/doctor is cute

Word Count: 1.5K

Story Description: (Y/N) truly believes working the night shift is a cursed practice. Every time she's scheduled during that time she has some sort of accident. This one just so happened to land her in the hospital.

Fandom: Chicago Med

Pairing: Will Halstead x Fem!Reader

A/N: sorry, I posted so late. Was busy taking care of my grandma. But enjoy this short, cute story 💖

Follow 😊 -> TikTok • Instagram • Business

If you’d like to be tagged in 12 days of ficmas, let me know in the comments. 

For any other story: click here

Here’s the 12 days of Ficmas schedule: click me

<;- Previous | Next ->

No More Night Shifts

Working retail during the Christmas time was one of the most stressful things anyone can do. From the hustle and bustle of living in the city, to getting to work early and leaving late at night, to the freezing weather of the Chicago winter. It took a lunatic to agree to pull double shifts.

That crazy person just so happened to be (Y/N).

Her boss had asked her to fill in for a colleague that had come down with a very bad cold and could not make it in for her night shift. In the spur of the moment, she had said yes. But as she walked, the cold wind nipping at her skin, her feet sliding on the icy pavement, she contemplated returning home.

(Y/N) hated working the night shift at the store she worked in. Customers were rude, management always expected her to stay overtime without pay, and for some reason, she always got into some sort of accident when she was going back home.

And just as she had thought, the shift was a nightmare. She filled up her bad customer bingo. Which went something like this:

Mister ‘It doesn’t scan so I guess it’s free.”

Miss ‘My coupon is expired, but I’m gonna try to use it.”

The ‘You don’t mind using your employee for me, right?’ person.

The family excursion troop.

The no receipts returners.

And the people that think you’re a personal shopper.

By the time three in the morning rolled around, (Y/N) wanted nothing more than to collapse on the floor. Her whole body was sore and her eyes were tired from sleep. She cursed past her for agreeing to pick up that night shift.  She thought of being on her couch, a hot mug of tea in her hands, and bundled up with her thickest blanket with her boyfriend. She would be warm and comfortable, instead of absolutely miserable and cold.

But her daydreaming took a turn for the worst.

As she neared the bus stop, she didn’t notice the big puddle of sludge that had formed on the sidewalk. She slid on the pavement and her body collided with the frozen ground. One second she was walking and the other she was in the hospital.

***

In the Emergency Department of Gaffney Chicago Medical Center, doctors and nurses were up to their necks with patients. With the weather going down, many people succumbed to the illnesses the cold temperatures brought. Cases of colds, flu, and pneumonia trickled in and out of the hospital at a fast pace. The ED was never empty.

“How’re we doing, Maggie?” Will Halstead asked the charge nurse of the department.

“Well, we keep filling beds as soon as one empties,” she sighed. “It looks like it’s gonna be a very long winter season. Although it looks like tonight might be slowing down. You going home yet?”

 “I was just getting ready to do so,” he smiled tiredly. But the two were interrupted when the brick chirped. The doctor let out an exasperated sigh, knowing that his plans to finally lay down were just trampled. “Let me have it.”

“Incoming,” Maggie announced. “Trauma 1.”

“Talk to me,” Will told the paramedic as they walked in. That was before he took a good look at the patient.  “What happened?”

“Unconscious female, visible ankle fracture. Witness said she slid on ice and fell to the ground. She’s been in an out of consciousness. We have stabilized the right ankle with a splint and there is no sign of a spinal injury. The ID in her bag says her name is (Y/N) (Y/LN).”

“I know,” he breathed. “She’s my girlfriend.”

They all entered the room, other staff following suit. Tension built into the space as everyone noticed who it was. If they didn’t know (Y/N) personally, they knew of her and her involvement with the ED’s attending physician.

“Alright everyone, on my count,” he told the paramedics and nurses that would help transfer the woman from the gurney onto the hospital bed. “One, two, three.”

They all took hold of (Y/N)’s body, careful not to disrupt her ankle or any other injury she might’ve had. Behind them, Nurse Doris rolled in the X-Ray machine, handing Will and April a lead apron before she instructed the rest of the staff to exit the room, as well as the paramedics.

“So, it looks like it’s a bimalleolar fracture,” the doctor announced as the image came up on the screen. “Thankfully, the ankle is not dislocated so immobilizing it with a cast should do the trick.”

“Alright, I’ll get the kit.”

“Okay, let’s also get a full blood workup, and a head CT,” Will told April. “Now, pupillary response is good. Heartbeat is steady. She’s breathing on her own which is a good sign. Let’s start an IV drip with 2.5 mg of morphine…”  

 “Wait, Will, look,” she said. “She’s waking up.”

(Y/N)’s eyes started fluttering open, the bright lights worsening the headache she already had. Her whole body felt mangled and sore, and she was sure it was not from the long day at work.

“Hey, welcome back,” a voice said. “Can you tell us your name and where you are?”

“(Y/N) (Y/L/N) and I’m in a hospital because god doesn’t exist.”

When she finally opened her eyes, she suddenly did not mind that she was in the hospital. Before her, she was met with a handsome red-haired doctor. He smiled at her and she could feel butterflies forming in her stomach.

But her pleasantly surprised feelings quickly shifted to ones of embarrassment, when she noticed who it was.

“He-ey, doctor,” she stammered. “Funny running into you here.”

“Good to see your sense of humor wasn’t impaired,” he chuckled brightly. “Now, do you remember what happened?”

“I was walking to the bus stop to go back home when I slipped on a puddle of sludgy ice and now I’m here.”

“Okay. And other than your ankle and your head, does anything else hurt?” 

“My pride,” she grumbled. “I told you, the night shift is cursed.”

“It sounds to me that you were distracted and you fell,” he laughed. “I don’t think there is any curse.”

“Yet you all believe people turn crazy because of the full moon.”

“Well, your memory seems to be okay. So, I’m gonna leave you with April so she can get your bloodwork to the lab,” Will told (Y/N), a kind smile on his face. His initial panic subsided when she woke up and recognized who they both were.

“Can you stay?” (Y/N) pleaded softly.

“I promise to be gentle,” April chuckled. If there was one thing she knew about her friend it was how desperately afraid of needles she was. “I’ll draw your blood really quickly and then I’ll sneak in the IV. How does that sound?”

“Like you’re gonna still gonna stick me with needles.”

“At least the pain in your ankle is gonna stop,” Will offered. But (Y/N)’s fear was still evident on her face. “Alright, just focus on me, babe. It’ll be over before you know it.”

“Just don’t let go of my hand.”

April quickly got to work as Will distracted (Y/N) with mindless chatter of what they would do during Christmas – spend the day in pjs, drink hot chocolate in front of the fire, and exchange gifts even though they told each other not to get presents. And before she knew it, the IV dripping pain medication into her system has started doing its job.

“There,” April announced, calling the couple’s attention. “We’re all done. I’ll be back soon to take you to the CT scan – for precaution -- and to bring your results. I’ll bring by the kit in a bit.”

“Thanks, April.”

The nurse smiled back at the couple in response, closing the curtains on them as she exited.

“So, what’s the verdict, doc? Am I gonna lose my leg?”

“Nah, just 9 to 12 weeks with a cast. You’ll have to come in a coupled of times to do x-rays, just to make sure the bone’s healing as it should,” Will explained. “But don’t worry, we don’t have to amputate.”

“Well, no late-night shifts for me in a while,” she joked. “Maybe that’s what I needed to break the curse, huh?”   

“What?” he laughed. “Slipping on ice and spending your morning in the ED?” 

“Hey, at least the doctor is cute,” she said before she placed a kiss on his lips.

“I’m just glad you’re okay, baby. It was pretty scary to see you unconscious on a stretcher like that.” 

“Oh, don’t you worry, Halstead. It would take a lot more to bring me down.” 

“Alright, (Y/L/N). Settle down,” he smiled at her. Will had been terrified that something worse would have happened, but if a little slip is the worst that could happen, he could live with that. “Take this as a little Christmas gift – you won’t have to work for some time.” 

“NO NIGHT SHIFTS!” (Y/N) exclaimed excitedly. “It’s a Christmas miracle!” 

Taglist: @beckiej0073-blog @thatgirljayy

[the-hinky-panda]

I’ve been really quiet lately and I’m sorry about that! I’ve been sick for three weeks and finally made it into the doctor’s to find out I’ve most likely had and am starting to recover from strep throat and now have a sinus and ear infection. But I have been writing and having some fun with @bullet-prooflove​ as I venture into the Mayan MC universe. So to prove that I have in fact been writing, here’s a sneak peek of what was supposed to be a one shot and well...now it’s not. 

Monsoons are incredibly beautiful and very dangerous. 

Everything starts when you see the small Audi hydroplane across three lanes of traffic and clip the back of a motorcycle, sending the bike and its rider sliding across the pavement. You’re out of your car and sprinting towards the prone biker before your brain catches up with your body. There’s another driver that has stopped and you turn towards them. 

“Call 911! Biker ejected on the roadway!” 

The driver nods and immediately gets on their phone. By the time the paramedics make their way through south San Diego traffic, you have the rider’s suspected broken leg splinted and his head and neck stabilized. He drifts out of consciousness but you manage to get his name. Angel Reyes. And promise to not let the paramedics cut his kutte off him. Unfortunately, that means when they load him into the ambulance, you are left standing in the middle of the highway, holding his leather Mayan vest in your hands. 

You know what hospital they’re taking him to so you go back to your car, sit in the traffic pile up from the accident and end up walking into the ER almost three hours later. Finding his friends is easy as there is a small gathering of men wearing similar kuttes with matching Mayan patches emblazoned on them. You return the vest to a man that introduces himself as EZ, Angel’s brother. Despite the tension of worry in the group, they all express their gratitude to you and your fast-thinking skills. You end sitting next to them as they wait for the doctor, between a tank of a man named Gilly and a thin, almost jittery man who introduces himself as Coco. 

The news is good: a severe bone bruise on his femur and minor whiplash. There were some minor fractures in his wrist but that is the worst of it. Thankful that the day ends on a positive note, you shake hands with the club members and head out to your car. Coco offers to walk you out to the parking garage, a show of thanks for your care and time. 

“So, how’d you know how to do all that?” he asks you when you get into the elevator. 

“I’m an ER nurse up in La Jolla. I also volunteer at a free clinic in Palm City near the Mexico border.” 

“You sound busy.” 

That’s an understatement. You had been valedictorian of your high school class, went on to Med School and your residency, dedicating yourself to your studies and career. What little spare time you had was spent at church with your family or volunteering at clinics, homeless shelters, or community events. “I am busy, yeah. You could say that.” 

He gives you a crooked grin when you reach your car. “Too busy for a little bit of fun?” 

You have no idea what he’s implying. Your religious upbringing and subsequent sheltering causes you to think the worst. “What kind of fun?” 

“There’s a community barbeque next weekend in Santo Padre. It’s not that far from Palm City. Would be nice to have Angel’s guardian angel be the guest of honor.” 

Guardian angel. Guest of honor. You laugh in mild embarrassment. “I don’t know if I would go that far but I do like barbecues.” 

He pulls out his phone. “You give me your number, I’ll give you the details.” 

It’s the most outrageous thing you’ve ever done. But “fun” is something that you’ve never made time for and perhaps it’s time to change that. 

You give him your phone number. 

[scapegrace74-blog]

Artificial Nocturne, a Metric Universe Story

A/N This is an idea I’ve had banging around in my head for quite a while, and I’ve finally got it down on paper.  It’s about Metric Jamie and Claire facing a huge test in their relationship, and how they react to it.

When I first wrote Lazy Dancer and Calculation Theme, the two ficlets that eventually became the multi-ficlet Metric Universe, I had no idea at what time they were set, beyond being modern. Since then, the Metric Universe has grown into a twenty-four (and counting!) installment beast with actual hooks into a particular point in history, so I've gone back and assigned Metric-canon-compliant timeframes to those first two stories. That's important, because this installment takes place a full three years after Jamie and Claire get together officially as a couple in No Light, No Light, and nine months after Calculation Theme, which up until now was the latest in the series, chronologically. This is a seasoned couple with a lot of water under the bridge. I have other ideas for ficlets that take place in the intervening years, but it felt important to get to this installment first.

With that said, this story is for all the readers who patiently waited for me to come back to this universe. I'm glad I didn't let you down, and I hope that you're satisfied with the result!

The entire Metric Universe, in chronological order, can be found here. 

November 6, 2021, Spittalfields, London, England

The fact that the voice on the phone wasn’t Jenny was a harbinger of disaster arriving at their door.  Claire knew the tone; had used it herself in countless conversations with loved ones.  Measured.  Clinical.  At one remove from emotional connection.  Being the recipient of such a call made her want to track down every family member she’d ever spoken to in such a way and beg their forgiveness.

Jamie slept, blissfully unaware of the anguish that awaited him on waking.  Nearing midnight, it was far too late to catch a flight or train to Scotland.  She briefly considered waiting until his alarm woke him for his early morning shift but dismissed the notion as selfish.  If their situations were reversed, she would want to know.  Pain did not lessen by being deferred, but the numbing of raw nerves took time.

He was asleep on his side, one arm curled on his pillow as though fending off a blow.  She ached for his oft-fractured innocence, longed to take him inside her flesh where nothing more could hurt him.

“Jamie, wake up,” the night’s peacefulness shattered with her words.  “There’s been an accident.”

***

Phone calls.  Internet searches for last minute flights.  Packing an overnight bag for an indeterminate trip.  She understood why Jamie rushed into burning buildings.  There was purpose in action, a conduit through which to siphon the poison of fear, the viscousness of futility.

“I’ll take an Uber tae Gatwick.  There’s no need fer ye tae miss yer shift.”

They were standing in the kitchen, both staring vacantly at the fridge as though willing it to provide further imperatives to guide their shipwrecked purpose.

“Alright,” Claire replied without truly hearing him.  “Did you remember to pack the Atkinson novel?  I promised Jenny I’d return it the next time I saw her.”

This was skirting the borders of absurdity.  Jenny’s spouse lay in an Inverness hospital, the victim of a farming accident that saw an over-turned tractor crush his body into Lallybroch’s fertile dirt.  The literal last thing on her mind was a borrowed book.

“Aye.”  Jamie opened the fridge door, peered inside, then let it swing closed again.

“Let’s go to bed,” she suggested.  “There’s nothing to be done for a few hours yet.”

“I canna sleep, Claire,” Jamie protested, following her dutifully towards their room all the same.

“I know.  Just rest your eyes.”

She slipped, fully dressed, beneath the covers.  Beside her, Jamie lay still like the effigy of some noble lord, the sharp angles of his profile limned in silver-blue streetlight.

“I am a coward,” he confessed to the ceiling, “for I dinna want tomorrow tae come.

She took his chilled hand in her own and held on tight.

***

“What are you thinking about?” she asked as shadow continents drifted along their wall.

She knew he was awake from the measured cadence of his breathing, from the tight grip he maintained on her hand.  She hadn’t expected prompt candour, however.

“How Ian helped me after the explosion.  Jenny was flailing about wi’ all the subtlety of a jack-hammer, sticking her stubborn wee heid inta everything.  I was in a terrible state, hooped up on morphine an’ feeling right sorry fer myself.  Ian jes sat by my side, night after night.  When I woke screamin’, he would use his voice tae calm me down.  When I refused tae get outta bed, he dragged me up wi’ his own two hands.  He stood in the middle of the path tae despair, and he wouldna let me get past.  Ian Murray an’ the memory of ye: those were the two ropes I used tae pull myself back onto my feet.”

Considering Jamie’s memory of her at that point consisted of a drunken encounter and half an hour keeping him from flat-lining in her emergency room, she couldn’t imagine how she’d earned equal standing with his life-long best friend.  It was a conversation best saved for another day.

“We have to believe that he’ll be okay,” she said, despising the hollowness of the words but unwilling to make empty promises.

Rather than responding, Jamie rolled into her side, burying his nose in the concavity of her neck.  She half-expected tears, but he lay still, breath ratcheting like a xylophone on each exhale.  After a time, his mouth began to move, pressing urgent moist kisses to her clavicle, nosing her shirt away so that he could reach the uppermost swell of her breast.

“It feels as though there’s a fist tight about my throat,” he muttered into her sternum.  “I canna draw a decent breath.”

“Come closer and let me breath for you, then,” she offered, raising up to peel the uppermost layer of her clothing away.

In their three or so years together, they had made love a hundred different ways: shyly, tenderly, teasing or passionate as a raging storm.  This was something new.  A desperation that hurt to witness. An unfailingly considerate lover under normal circumstances, Jamie seemed driven purely by his own base needs.  With impatient fingers, he shoved her underwear to the side, burying himself a hundred absolutions deep inside her body.  This wasn’t about sex, she understood.  He was seeking solace and succour from her at the most primitive level, chasing the tabula rasa of release.

With nerves raw as copper wire, Jamie finished within minutes.  A rough expulsion of heated breath and he crumpled towards the mattress, his weight pressing her down like lead.  She prayed he would drift to sleep and gain the temporary reprieve of oblivion, even if it meant laying crushed beneath him.   Instead he rose silently to use the washroom, coming back with a warm cloth to clean between her legs.

“I love ye, Claire,” he whispered once they were again lying side by side, waiting for the muster call of dawn.

In the days and weeks that followed, she would revisit those words and remember how they had the finality of a farewell.

***

Their flat rang with the sepulchral expectancy of an empty train station.  An independent loner since her youth, Claire nonetheless found herself filling the silence left by Jamie’s absence with inane chatter.

She spoke of her penultimate clinical rotation, and of her absolute certainty that gerontology was not the specialty for her.  She narrated her list of chores, assuring him she wasn’t over-watering their spider plant and that his mobile phone was in no danger of being cut off for late payment.  She debated the merits of various residency programs and confessed her doubts that she would be accepted to any of her top choices.

By contrast, their actual communication was brief and infrequent.  Ian’s condition was no longer life-threatening, but the doctors had to amputate his left leg above the knee where the tractor had crushed the bones beyond repair.  The surgery and post-operative rehabilitation took place in Edinburgh, forcing Jenny to chose between abandoning her husband or leaving her children and the estate in her brother's care.  Jamie’s emotional state shifted from blind terror to a weary aloofness as the long road to recovery stretched before them.  His grim mood added metaphorical distance to the physical divide already in place.

“I sure wish you were here to talk to,” she whispered to his pillow after a particularly grueling twenty-four hours.  “My life only makes sense when I see it reflected in your eyes.”

***

Upon due consideration, Jamie determined that he would sooner run into a burning building than be solely responsible for putting two children under the age of six to bed every night.  It wasn’t yet eight o’clock and his neck ached with the accumulated strain of holding his head upright.

Since arriving at Lallybroch three weeks earlier, his days had taken on a relentless sort of routine.  Mornings revolved around dressing, feeding and transporting his niece and nephew to their primary school.  Midday was reserved for the countless tasks and duties that went into the running of the estate: finishing the harvest, caring for the livestock, making minor repairs and keeping the house at least a step above squalor.  By afternoon, he was mentally and physically exhausted but there were still five hours of child-minding, meal preparation, bathing and story reading before he could collapse, nerves brittle and eyes tacky, onto the sofa where he more-often-than-not fell asleep listening to the fire crackle, a half-finished dram of whisky teetering precariously in his hand.

It was from that sofa that he leapt, realizing he had failed to pack the children’s lunches for the next day.  A cursory glance in the fridge confirmed that he had not shopped for groceries in several days.  With few nutritious options to hand, he settled for toasting sliced bread with two dabs and a smear of butter.  Despite his exhaustion, he smiled when he pictured Wee Jamie and Maggie discovering their bologna sandwiches decorated with happy faces the following day.

For the thousandth time, he considered at what juncture he would need to capitulate and accept the kindly offers of neighbours and more distant relatives to pitch in and carry part of the load.  Jenny was insistent that the bairns’ routine be upset as little as possible, considering the many inevitable adjustments they would need to make once Ian came home.  In principle, Jamie agreed.  In practice, he was holding things together with only the most tenuous of grips.

Seen through the haze of fatigue and apprehension, his life in London took on the quality of a fevered dream.  He yearned for Claire with a burning ache that migrated from his wame to the back of his throat.  Not unlike Ian’s amputated limb, he diagnosed himself with phantom pains. A vital part of his life was missing.  With time, he would adjust.  His heart would learn to beat despite its missing half.

That’s not how the cardiovascular system works, my lad.  He drifted to sleep with Claire’s voice correcting him, rounded vowels rolling about in her haughty mouth.

Insistent rapping infused his dream, translated as musket fire that startled him awake.  The mantle clock read half eleven. He briefly considered leaving whatever maniac was beating down his door at that hour to the tender mercies of the night.

Upon unbolting the door, he was greeted by a sight so inexplicably astonishing that he wondered if he was still dreaming.  Claire Elizabeth Beauchamp, face pale in the moonlight and curls as dark as peat, stood on his front step, a suitcase braced against her calf.

“Aren’t you going to invite me in?” she asked when he showed no outward reaction.  On the inside, his heart was bellowing away like a concertina.

“Aye,” he shook himself.  “Aye, I’m jes startled tae see ye, Sassenach.”

He left her heavy suitcase at the base of the stairs and turned to find her looking around the great room as though she hadn’t visited a dozen times before.  His own gaze took in the mess of toys on the floor and the half-finished glass of whisky on the table.  The fire had burned low while he’d dozed.  Hopefully the dim lighting at least hid the lines of strain on his face.

“Can I offer ye some tea?  I’m afraid there isna much tae eat, unless ye favour bologna sandwiches.”

“Tea would be nice.  I always forget how cold it gets up here at night.”

Such a statement would normally serve as the perfect opening to suggest they keep each other warm in the laird’s bed.  Instead, he fled to the kitchen, tongue thick and dry in his mouth.

It shouldn’t have been as surprising as it was to find his girlfriend at his doorstep: Claire wasn’t a woman who sat back and let change happen to her.  In all the scenarios he’d drawn of his near and distant future, however, this particular one hadn’t factored.  He wasn’t ready to have this conversation.

The perfect geisha bow of her lips crimped as she blew across the steaming mug of tea.  Across the narrow bridge of her nose were tiny nutmeg freckles that only became visible when she was tired.  It had only been three weeks.  How had he forgotten how completely and utterly besotted he was with her?  It made what he had to say that much harder.

“No’ tae sound unwelcoming, but what are ye doin’ here, Claire?”  he asked.

***

Claire saw the way Jamie was watching her like an oasis in the desert, as though she might vanish like mist as suddenly as she’d arrived.  In trying to tamp down that very evident longing, he’d overcompensated towards surliness.  It reminded her of their recent phone calls: Jamie valiantly trying not to sound overwhelmed while she listened to him grow more and more distant.  It was obvious he felt obliged to face Ian’s accident and the upheaval it brought to his family alone.  She’d given him time to come around, and when she’d grown impatient with that approach, she’d bought a one-way plane ticket to Scotland.

“I’ve come to help out,” she answered his question plainly.  “However and wherever I can.”

Jamie bristled, his face an amalgam of relief and shame.  Despite the fact he was surrounded by the evidence of his very thin hold on any semblance of control, he wasn’t going to make this easy.  Fortunately, she was more than his match when it came to stubbornness.

“What about yer studies?” he countered.  “Ye’ve jes the one clinical rotation left, and yer applications for a residency are…”

“I deferred them,” she interjected.

“…due anytime now and then the interviews and… what did ye jes say?”  Russet eyebrows raised in dual arcs of shock.

“I said I deferred them.  Hell, if Cat McInnis can miss a rotation to get a Brazilian butt lift, I can certainly take time off to support my boyfriend during a family emergency.”

“Nae, Sassenach," he shook his head adamantly.  "Ye’ve worked sae hard tae become a doctor, and I willna be the one standin’ in yer way…”

“Well, it’s a good thing it isn’t your decision, then, isn’t it?” she sniped, growing exasperated with his near monastic insistence on self-sacrifice.  Jamie was many things, but he wasn’t a monk.

“I may ne’er return to London, Claire,” Jamie confessed with the air of a man playing the last card in a very bad hand.  “Even once his rehabilitation is complete, Ian will ne’er be able tae work the farm as he once did.  I owe it tae the memory of my parents tae stay here and help Jenny any way that I can.”

“I know all those things, Jamie.  It’s why I’m here.”

“I canna ask ye tae give up yer dreams tae become a farmer’s wife!”

The words echoed through the large room, seeming to increase in volume the longer neither of them acknowledged them.  Claire waited for Jamie to recant his Freudian slip, to explain away the word’s significance by referencing his obvious exhaustion and agitation.  Instead, he sat a foot away from her, his breath soughing in great gusts, eyes shiny with anguish.

“I need to ask,” Claire spoke slowly, “which aspect of that statement you find the more impossible.  Is it the part where I don an apron and a wooden spoon?  Or the bit where we would be joined in holy matrimony?”

Beside her, Jamie let out a disbelieving huff.

“Surely ye ken I want tae marry ye,” he said, not looking directly at her.

“Given that you’ve not once, in all the time we’ve been together, mentioned that fact?  No, no I don’t ken that, Jamie.”

“I was waitin’ fer ye to finish yer schooling,” he explained as though this should have been self-evident.  “Which is what we were discussin’ before we got sidetracked…”

“Sidetracked,” Claire scoffed.  Admitting the intention to ask for her hand in less than a year’s time was a trunk line issue, as far as she was concerned.

“Aye, sidetracked,” Jamie persisted.  “Tae be sae close tae becoming a doctor, only to walk away jes because my plans have gone tae shite...” he petered off, shaking his head where it rested between his palms.

“First of all, your plans are my plans.  That’s the way this commitment thing works, as far as I can tell.  And more importantly, the last I checked, Scotland was still participating in the British medical system.  I can make arrangements to finish my last clinical rotation and complete my residency up here, when the time is right.”

Finally making eye contact, Jamie’s mouth opened and closed like a landed fish.  Generally logical above reproach, there had to be a reason that particular solution to their dilemma hadn’t occurred to him.

“What’s this really about?” she whispered, taking his hand in her own.  It was the first time they’d touched since she’d arrived, and a current of warmth flowed from his body to hers.

“I dinna want tae be a burden,” he whispered back. “T’would kill me if I ever felt ye resented me.”

Foolish man.  Foolish, obstinate, noble and flawed man.

“That’s the brutal joy and utter calamity of love, Jamie.  That we want to spare the ones we hold most dear.  But what feels like a burden to the asker, the recipient wears like a mantle of honour.  You taught me that.”

Crystal blue eyes filled with tears as he regarded her with such tender hope that she felt the back of her own throat grow tight.  Seeing the storm before it arrived, she opened her arms and allowed him to collapse into her, his sobs soaking through her cotton shirt.  She drew her hands through his hair, stroking him like a fretful child.

“Shhhh, shhhhh, it’s alright.  I’m here.  You’re okay.  I’m here.”

Over and over again until he finally calmed.  They lay curled together on the sofa, silent save the occasional sniffle from Jamie and pop of sap from the fire.

“Did you really mean it?” she asked, trusting him to know what she meant.

Instead of answering, Jamie rose and went to the mantle, where a small box sat amongst other family keepsakes.  When he returned, he was holding a small object.

“I’ve been holding onto this since that first time ye came here, when ye asked if ye were my Lady Lallybroch.”

A delicate and intricate silver ring, warm from the heat of Jamie’s hand, was pressed into her palm.  It was her turn to weep, apparently.

“You knew you wanted to marry me way back then?” she choked out.

“Nay, Sassenach.  I kent I wanted ye tae be mine the first time I saw ye, drunk and imperious, in my local pub.”

She handed the ring back to him, her grip shaking and weak.  For a second, Jamie looked defeated, thinking she was rejecting his proposal.  Then he noticed her extended left hand.  With a long exhale he carefully placed the ring on her finger.  Something intangible and abiding slid home in her soul as well.  Looking into Jamie’s eyes, she could tell he felt the same way.  There was the two of them now, autonomous yet intertwined as surely as twin planets.

Healing kisses, breathless laughter, rapturous tears.  Sometimes all three at once.  Until Jamie interrupted their celebration with an enormous yawn.

“Sassenach, dinna think I’ve forgotten that I owe ye an orgasm,” Jamie began.

“You’ve been gone for three weeks, Fraser.  I’d say you owe me quite a few more than that,” she retorted from her spot nestled against his chest which rumbled as he chuckled.

“Fair enough.  But that only makes what I��m about tae ask all the more shocking.  Would ye mind terribly if we simply went tae sleep?  I’m ded on my feet, and I willna make love tae my fiancée fer the first time when I canna serve her properly.”

Claire rose and extended her ring-adorned hand.

“What time do Jamie and Maggie wake up in the morning?” she asked as they ascended the staircase towards the laird’s room.

“Wi’ the lark, the wee heathens.  They’re usually bangin’ on my door by six thirty.”

“I’m setting my alarm for five o’clock,” she advised as they slid into the four-poster bed, meeting with a sigh in the middle.

“I admire yer strategic thinkin’, Sassenach.  Wi’ preparedness like that, ye’ll make a braw doctor.”

Their bodies banished the air between them, two elements that yearned for each other at some molecular level.

“Sassenach?” Jamie mumbled when she thought he had already dozed off.

“Mmmm?”

“Waz’a Brazilian butt lift?”

A half-hearted kick to his shins was her answer.

“Ne’er mind,” he sighed as both hands drifted down to grasp her arse.  “Canna improve on perfection.”

And with that, he fell asleep.

[lifeflowingon]

| FRACTURED 1 |

Summary: After a traumatic accident, you wake up with memories of a life, everyone around you denies you ever lived.

Pairing: Jungkook x female reader

Warnings: Angst, crime, mystery, kinda strangers to lovers.

A/N: This is clearly inspired by "Our Time" by @taestefully-in-luv Since I couldn't take it out of my head, I wrote this homage.

||||

FEVER DREAM

You were printing the remaining documents wishing for the machine to hurry up already, so you could drop them at court and finally go home.

"Still here?" asked Captain Min, peeking through the door of your small office.

"Yeah, I want to take this there today so they'll get the documents to check first thing tomorrow morning. I want her out of questioning and out of the city as fast as possible.

"Quite a complicated case though" he replied "I'm not sure they'll let you represent her as usual. Her statement could save tons of lives"

"I know, but I gotta try" reaching for the latest paper you started to organize them in a binder, already full of evidence "We are talking about girls and women Yoongi. I need them to give me the green light so I can work on getting the full statement to represent her in court. She doesn't need to go through this twice, that's why I work here, it's my job.

"I know, I'm just saying is unlikely"

In a somber mood, you checked your watch and realized you have wasted precious time talking.

"Gotta go If I want to make it on time. See you tomorrow captain" you said mischievously while squeezing through the door in a rush.

"See ya, victims advocate" replicated Yoongi laughing heartily.

Still laughing you left the precinct making sure to say goodbye to the new security guy and strutted across the streets trying to reach court in time.

||||

"Star... Star can you hear me?"

Blinking, you tried to remember where were you, but you couldn't. The last thing you recalled was walking to the local courthouse, but all was fuzzy before and after.

"Star, are you okay?"

Shaking your head you focused on the voice that was talking and groaned. Your head was pulsating and your throat was sore.

"Her pulse is fine," said another voice "And she is waking up now, I'll come back later to see how she continues but she should be okay now".

"Good, thanks doc. I'll take it from here".

Finally being able to focus you realized you were laying on a bed in what you supposed was a hospital room. But the place looked small and shabby.

"Where am I?"

"You scared us for a second Star," the man sitting in a chair right against her bed said, "When we took you out of the water we thought we had lost you".

Water? So you did have an accident... but you were nowhere near the water, your town isn't close to it.

"Do you remember, right?" the man looked around searching for someone, but they were alone in the room now.

"I-I... the last I remember is getting out of work and-"

"Yes, thank god, we were going out of work" The man looked relieved you were both on the same page "Since the accident, you have been having memory problems and I didn't know if you were going to wake up this time knowing us or not".

"Memory problems? I-I that can't be. I remember my life fairly well, how could I have lost it..."

"Star, you've been here for a few weeks, and every time you wake up you look more and more confused. The doctor said it was expected since, well lack of oxygen could lead to memory trouble".

"But I don't have amnesia!" you screamed stressed, your head was palpitating and you couldn't breathe well "I know who I am, and my fucking name is not Star!"

Apologetically, the man sighed and got up from the chair.

"This been going on for a while, I-I need to take a break," he said looking defeated.

Trying to calm your beating heart, you looked around and strained your ear to hear noises from outside, but it was silent.

You felt tempted to get up and look out the window but before you could do that, the door opened again and a different man entered the room.

"Star!" he exclaimed. His mop of hair bounced, as he hurriedly made his way to you, once he saw you were conscious "You’re awake!"

"Don't get your hopes up" said the first man appearing again and leaning in the door's lintel "She doesn't remember us".

"W-What?" the doe eyes of the second man looked impossibly big "Baby, you don't remember me?" He said with a pout while grabbing your hand.

"I-I what? Baby?" Retiring your hand from his grasp you put it over your heart. It was beating like crazy "I'm sorry, I don't know you".

"Oh. I see" replied the man, looking disappointed.

"Look I just wanna go home. Can I do that? Can I leave?"

"Sure. I'll take you home".

"Not yet," said the first man, now entering the room and sitting next to the bed again "What's the last thing you remember?"

"I already told you," you said, exasperated "I finished printing the paperwork at my work, I said goodbye to my boss, and was on my way to drop some documents at court. I don't remember anything else after that. Besides walking on the street, I mean."

"What should we do hyung?" asked the guy with the wavy hair. He looked defeated.

Sighing, the older man straightened his back and made eye contact with you.

"Ok. We'll have to believe something happened with your brain - as the doctor said - because what you just told us makes no sense".

"What do you mean?" You whispered, afraid of the answer he might give you.

"First of all, my name is Kim Namjoon and I'm the spokesperson of the village we are in".

"More like a leader, hyung"

"Whatever you want to call it, I'm the voice and face inside and outside of here".

"Ok".

"We know you by the name of Star and you've lived in this place for as long as I can remember..."

"That, that can't be... how?" Confused you looked around the room again. You were sure of who you were, but this made no sense "My name isn't Star is y/n, and I work at the 4th precinct downtown".

"Downtown? Where?" Kim Namjoon asked, looking exasperated "We live on an island. The only way out of here is by boat or by car. By boat is closer, hence why we always use it. Driving takes at least 12 hours to get us out the forest and out of the island".

Astonished, you remained silent.

"You've lived here since your parents died and my father heard of their passing. I'm not sure how they knew each other, but he brought you here and raised you as his own. I remember being childish while he tried to explain it to me, saying the only other option was an orphanage..."

"My parents aren't dead! They live across the country!" You yelled furiously. You knew this story wasn't real, it couldn't be. You remembered everything. "I don't know who you think you are, but I'm going home. I can't listen to any more nonsense".

Sighing, both men looked at each other.

"Fine. First thing tomorrow morning, I'll take you wherever you want to go. But hear me out Star" you could only roll your eyes at the constant use of a name it wasn't yours "I am not leaving you there. It could be dangerous, you'll realize you are confused and have nowhere to go. And when you see that and you'll see it, you'll have to come back with me. I won't put you in unnecessary danger".

"Don't worry Kim Namjoon, everything will be fine" she said defiantly "I'll be sleeping in my bed tomorrow night".

"Sure thing. Wanna sleep here tonight or in your house?"

"I have a house?"

"Yes Star, you have a house" he deadpanned.

||||

Hope you like it! Let me know what you think :)

[squadron-goals]

An unfortunate day for Berthold

22 May 1916

Since my engine had blown apart at one point during an air battle on 25 April, forcing me to make an emergency landing, I was to be given a 160-PS Pfalz. The aircraft, about whose type much was said, I was to try out thoroughly once. Unfortunately, the whole thing was just a deteriorated French knock-off. I take off, lift off from the ground and at the same moment the engine stops completely. I am at an altitude of about 100 metres. The bird sank down in a flash. I hear a splintering sound, feel a bump against my head, feel an insane pain and then nothing more ... The intense pain momentarily restores my senses: I unleash a fierce curse on those who, thinking I'm done for, not-so-gently yank me out of the mess. "He's ranting again, he's alive!", then a thunderous hurrah I hear, then it's night again. Once again I come to my senses and hear voices: "He might pull through, but he'll stay blind!" Then I scream, no, I roar with soulcrushing pain. I scream for the coup the grace ... Then night again!

25 May 1916

I wake up after long, long hours. I can see everything, even if not clearly. I'm lying in the hospital. A dull glow all around, everything so quiet. A woman with a glass of water in front of my bed. I only regained consciousness after 2 days. I can think clearly again and reflect on my situation: my crash was very serious. In 99 out of 100 cases, certain death! By throwing the little bird onto the left wing at the last moment, I at least mitigated the impact of the fall somewhat. The plane was completely destroyed. I suffered a complete fracture of my femur, upper jaw and nasal bone, as well as a fractured skull, a concussion and an injury to my optic nerves. The most terrible thing for me was the thought of having to lie here for weeks and months! In the next room lay the badly shot observer of the English plane that I had shot down a few weeks ago. He urgently asked to be allowed to see me, his conqueror. His request was fulfilled by opening the door to my hospital room when the Englishman came by outside... I'm struggling internally, especially since the start of the Somme offensive, where our airmen are missing. The nurse who looks after me, nurse Luise, tries to make everything easier for me and to help me get through difficult times. I will always remember her with gratitude. My dear comrades from the unit came as often as their duty allowed. With the Battle of the Somme, war as such ended. A miserable murder and slaughter begins. Hell begins! These incredible losses, these terrible injuries! The hospitals are all overcrowded. Doctors and nurses work day and night, their strength almost collapsing. Day and night they bring in the wounded, you hear the screams of the badly injured... I'm just now receiving the news that on April 29th my dear brother Wolfram, the theologian and Erlangen fraternity member, had a fatal accident near Lille during a gas combat exercise! I still can't believe it, it's a terrible blow to our family!

[anonymousfiction211]

You just have to believe 1

You just have to believe masterlist

See the complete summary in the masterlist. But Loki tries to take over earth, instead of an army he is running for president. He needs a girlfriend for the campaign, which so happens to be Rachel who is down on her luck. (Loki and Rachel don't meet until chapter 4, so a little bit of a slow burn. Hope you stay with me 😊. Doesn't mean you don't get to know what Loki is doing in chapter 1 to 4😉)

1) Spiralling Rachel looked around to see which street she was walking on. She was walking on Carlton Eve, close to Forte Green Park. The park where she always had lunch on warm sunny days, she realized. It was near her office, or rather her former office. She was trying to remember if this was the first time, she was walking this street today. She shook her head while thinking back to the incidents that had changed her life. It started small but quickly spiraled out of control.

Flashback She had a fun night out with some of her best friends. Drinks were flowing, conversations were entertaining and at some point, she was singing 'Wannabe' of the Spice Girls into a microphone. And killing it, or so she thought at the time. But she had to get up early for her work. Saying goodbye to everyone had cost her 2 hours, 3 more drinks, and one shot. Eventually, she left, alone. It wasn't the smartest idea she ever had. Luckily, there was a taxi nearby that drove her to her house. When she entered the house she rented, she put her belongings on the table in the hall and walked upstairs to her bedroom. Only to realize that her phone was still downstairs. Back on her way to grab it, she lost her balance and fell down the stairs.

When she woke up, the sun was shining brightly. She was dizzy, nauseous and saw spots everywhere. She was still lying down at the bottom of the stairs. She crawled back up. Her head was pounding, and her neck hurt badly, but not near as bad as her left leg. When she put her weight on it, the pain intensified, and she screamed. She heard her phone ringing and struggled towards the table. It was her boss. When she answered he was yelling at her. She broke down and started to cry. The little strength she had to keep her upright left her, and she fell again.

The next thing she remembered was some doctor shining a light in her eyes. She woke up in the hospital. Jade was sitting at her side. Apparently, her boss had called 911 and they called her emergency contact Jade, her best friend. The doctor told Rachel that she had a severe concussion, three bruised ribs and she had a minor fraction in her left leg. She had to use crutches for 6 to 8 weeks, keep her leg elevated and get plenty of rest. Jade took her home after the doctor cleared her. And Rachel slept for the rest of the day.

In the evening Rachel had awoken and called her boss to explain what happened. At the time she was working as an office manager at an architectural firm. It wasn't the most exciting job, but she liked it and it paid well. In the meantime, she was figuring out what she really wanted. She told her boss that she couldn't come in every day and hoped she could work from home most of the time. Just until her leg felt better. Her boss wasn't as understanding as she hoped. Mainly because he knew she had been going out the night before and the whole thing was a drunken accident. He had fired her over the phone.

Losing her job wasn't the worst thing that happened to her. After that, things really spiraled. She thought she could find another job in the six weeks her leg was healing. But luck wasn't on her side. Her leg was still killing her, she was mostly asleep from the pain medication, and she had to go back to the doctor. Apparently, the fracture wasn't healing as it should. Meaning they had to break her leg and set it again. It meant 8 more weeks in a cast and physical therapy. After the procedure, her leg hurt more than before, but after some time the pain was starting to ebb away.

That was around the time the hospital called, saying they hadn't received any payment since the last procedure. She apologized because she realized she completely flaked on her mail. She was so busy recovering, that she hadn't thought about it. She checked the big pile of mail she had, there were multiple hospital bills that were high, but there was one piece of mail that was worse. It was from her health insurance. Because she was fired her health insurance had expired. Meaning, the insurance company wasn't going to cover the bills for the reset and the physical therapy. Rachel quickly canceled the physical therapy, even though the doctor strongly advised against it. She paid her hospital bills and had little money left.

She couldn't afford her rent anymore and was forced to move her things to a storage unit. She crashed with friends and was still searching for a job and an apartment. But didn't succeed in finding any of it. Because she didn't have a home address anymore, her unemployment checks stopped coming. Eventually, her friends were growing tired of supporting her and having her on the couch. And Rachel was growing tired of feeling like her life was falling apart. She wasn't in the best mood and started to fight with her friends. Jade was the last one she had left, but she had kicked Rachel out after a particularly bad fight. And now Rachel was living on the street.

Now Her leg was starting to throb, and she knew it was time to rest soon. She decided she would find a park bench and lie down for a while until a police officer would send her away. She was almost near the park when she walked past a tv-store. It was quite an old store that still stalled their tv's in the window with subtitles. She used the store sometimes to catch up on important events around the world. This time it showed a man, sitting on the couch and being interviewed. She didn't recognize him, but he was handsome. He had half-long, black hair that curled at the end. His skin was pale, but it only made his green eyes pop out more. His cheekbones were very toned, as was the rest of his body. 

… and since my brother has taken the throne, I thought it was a good idea to strengthen our bond with the other realms. And earth, humans, are resourceful, creative, and progressive. I thought it was a good time to combine that with Asgard and reach heights together no one thought would be possible. The subtitles showed what the handsome man said.

That are very ambitious goals Mr. Odinson. But do you think the American people would be interested in a foreign leader, who wasn't even born in America? And haven't lived in this country? If history has taught us anything is that they won't take kindly to that. The interviewer said.

The handsome man, Mr. Odinson, just laughed a little. I was waiting for you to bring that up. And please, call me Loki. He flashed the interviewer a charming smile. You see, the American president must be born in America or a part of America. And since America is a part of Asgard, I would say Asgard is a part of America. And I may have looked different at the time, but I can assure you this isn't my first time in America. I feel like once the people know of my plans and what I can do to make this country more advanced, more inspired, and ahead of the rest of the world, they will realize that I am the best choice. If I am chosen as your next president, I will change this country in ways that go beyond your imagination. You just have to believe! The handsome man smiled brightly and rounded up his interview.

Like that guy will really change anything, Rachel thought as she rolled her eyes and struggled to make her way to the park bench.

Taglist: @benaddictcumberbatch @joyful-enchantress

Series taglist: Let me know if you want to be added

[hopelessromantic1352]

New Beginnings- Chapter 12

After a minor block that has officially been broken (I hope) by Red Carpet Diaries Appreciation Week, chapter 12 has been finished! Gah I love these two and exploring their relationship. @alj4890 You are the perfect influence for my Thomas obsession 🤣

Thomas tags: @alleksa16 @kuladekiwi @lxaah11 @lilyoffandoms @moodyvalentinestories

Word count: 2136

Warnings: Mentions vehicle accident, broken bones

****

Thomas was not a man who ran. Anywhere.

His heart hammers in his chest. A quick and steady thump. Thump. Thump. It wasn’t only from the fast pace of running, it was the pure dread weighing down on him since Landon received that call.

Natalia is in the hospital.

He counts the number of steps it takes to reach the doors of the hospital. Then he counts the number of steps to the receptionist’s desk. Thirty-two. Not a moment passes before Landon breaks Thomas from his daze. The younger man quickly finds where his sister and again, both of them stride down the halls until they find a waiting room occupied by Natalia’s mother and father.

“Landon!” Elizabeth’s worried voice rings out and she hurries to her son, hugging him tightly.

Stepping away from her son, she looks between both men, “She is in surgery now.”

Noticing Thomas’ fear filled eyes, she turns her full attention to him, placing a soft hand on his cheek. “They told us when we arrived, it’s nothing more than two serious fractures and a few bruises and such. Nothing life threatening.”

He feels his entire body sag in relief and he releases a whoosh of air, running a hand through his hair. Shutting his eyes tightly, he urges his thundering heart to calm down. When he opens his eyes again, Mrs. York smiles fondly at him.

“Come, sit with us. They estimated about three to four hours to repair the fractures.”

She leads him by the arm to the waiting room. Edward sits, perched on a chair near the window overlooking the parking lot. He doesn’t acknowledge anyone, and reciprocating the action, Thomas sits. He unbuttons the second button on his shirt, taking a deep breath in. Landon claps him on the shoulder before he begins pacing the room.

“Mrs. York, did they inform you what happened?”

She crosses the aisle and sits next to Thomas, taking his hand tightly. “You may call me Elizabeth,” she turns a motherly smile on him when he nods. “All they informed us was that it was a semi that hit the taxi broadside. Apparently the driver lost his brakes coming up to his red light.”

Taking a shuddering breath, she looks away from Thomas, hiding her wet eyes. “They were fortunate the truck was not traveling fast.”

A nod is his only answer. He looks towards the doors that read “O.R.”, his heart tightening at the thought of Natalia being all alone in that room. When he looks back to her mother, her shoulders quake with silent tears as she looks at the floor. He takes her hand in a strong grip again, closing his eyes when she squeezes back.

Hours pass before the surgeon returns to the family. He speaks to Elizabeth in a quiet voice, but Thomas can see relief spread across her face and the surgeon gives her shoulder a squeeze before turning and striding away down the hall. He nearly jumps out of his chair when she returns to the group. Edward joins him and Landon as Elizabeth takes a shuddering breath, but she breaks out in a relieved smile.

“They repaired the fractures. She needed plates in her arm and leg, but he said all went well and she is now in recovery.”

Edward nods and walks back towards the window, hands clasped behind his back as he stares out upon the city. Thomas swears he can see the older man release a heavy sigh, but ignores it when Landon asks the question he needed the answer to as well.

“When can we see her?”

“He said they would send a nurse when she was settled. She’s still not awake.” Her hands shake as she swipes down the wrinkles in her skirt before walking to her husband.

Landon pulls Thomas into a friendly hug, while he stiffens at first, the comfort relaxes him and he responds quickly.

“Thanks for being here with us, Thomas.” When he pulls away, he pats the other man’s arm in a manly gesture before resuming his pacing.

After what seems like hours, a young nurse leads the family and Thomas back to Natalia’s room. He allows her mother, brother, and father in first, his heart beat picking up. When he steps in, her family crowds her side so he walks around to the other side.

A quiet gasp escapes his lips and he stumbles slightly at seeing her. She wears a cast on her right arm, below the elbow and on her right leg below the knee. Her beautiful face has new scrapes tattered across the right side. A deep, purple bruise is forming along the small cut in her bottom lip. As he gets to her side, he starts to reach out to her hand, but stops. Unsure of where she isn’t hurt, he just stands, looking down at her with longing.

Edward’s phone begins ringing loudly and he hurries to answer it, walking into the hall, ignoring the “no phones” sign hanging to his left. Thomas grunts his disapproval. Not minding the gazes of her mother and brother, he runs a gentle finger down Natalia’s cheek, leaning down to whisper quietly in her ear, his lips brushing her skin softly.

“I love you, darling.” He closes his eyes, nuzzling her with his nose while his hand goes to her hair.

Seconds turn into minutes and minutes into hours. Edward had since left, something more pressing was requiring his attention at the office. Elizabeth begged him to stay to no avail, so the three who were left got comfortable. Landon fell asleep on the couch at the window, his mother laid a blanket over him before she sat in the recliner in the corner, succumbing to sleep as well, but Thomas couldn’t will himself to close his eyes for long. He stayed by Natalia’s side, the plastic chair not giving his back any relief but inside, he hardly felt anything aside from pure anguish. The woman in front of him consumes all his attention.

He checks his watch and sighs, rubbing his eyes as the stress begins to weigh on him. They all had been at this hospital for over ten hours and by now, everything that unfolded happened yesterday. The hospital was eerily quiet aside from machines whirring and whooshing along with the rhythm of Natalia’s heartbeat beeping next to her bed.

He could not help dropping his head down onto the side of her bed. A prayer falling from his lips again. Then, he feels a weak and gentle hand delve into his hair. His head raises quickly and he sees her half lidded eyes gazing at him. He catches her hand gently, holding it as if she was fragile porcelain he could shatter at any moment.

“Thomas.” Her voice is hoarse, cracking as his name tumbles off her tongue.

Noting the discomfort in her voice, he stands and pours her a cup of water from the pitcher on her side table. Carefully, he helps her lean up slightly and holds the cup to her lips. She drinks gratefully, holding onto his hand that holds the cup, her eyes looking over the disheveled man. His hair is ragged, suit wrinkled, and eyes darkened with bags underneath them. When she finishes drinking, he sets the cup on the table and rubs hair off her forehead.

“How are you feeling?” Voice thick with emotion, he clears his throat, still rubbing her forehead carefully.

“Like I was hit by a freight train.” She laughs and immediately winces.

Taking his seat again, he holds her hand in his, looking at her worriedly. “Do you remember what happened?”

She nods and adjusts herself carefully, looking down at the two casts on her right side, frowning. “That semi ran into us.”

Thomas nods, “I… I didn’t know if I would ever have the chance to hold you again.”

Her eyes fill with tears, the hand she holds squeezes as tightly as she can manage. “I’m sorry I left like that. Everything just became so overwhelming.”

As her tears spill onto her cheeks, he stands and leans over her, wiping each wet trail away as it falls. “You have no reason to apologize. I am simply grateful you are alright.”

Suddenly her eyes widen, “What of the driver? Is he alright?”

His lips quirk at her worry over a stranger, “Yes. Apparently you were on the passenger side which took the hit, he only had a few bruises and scratches. As your mother put it, you’re lucky the semi was not traveling fast.”

Her bottom lip trembles again and Thomas quickly hushes her. Softly running his fingers through her hair and kissing her forehead gently while his hand ever so softly cups her cheek.

“Natalia, there is something I have had on my mind for quite some time.” He sits back down in the chair next to her bed, looking over his shoulder to ensure the other two occupants of the room are still asleep. As he looks back, his eye meet hers, “I love you.”

She gasps quietly, the breath leaving her. The sound causes Thomas to tense, wondering if he’s said it too soon.

Perhaps I misread her intentions.

“I apologize, perhaps I—“

“I love you too, Thomas.” A weak smile spreads across her scraped and bruised face.

A long quiet moment passes as the two just look at each other, the only sounds coming from the machines next to them.

As the silence stretches on, Thomas exhales and shakes his head while a frown forms across his lips. “I did not know what to expect when Landon got the call from your mother. I was distraught.”

He just shakes his head again, standing and begins to pace slowly next to her bed. Before either could say another word, Elizabeth stirs and sees her daughter awake.

“Oh, thank the lord.” She hurriedly pushes her blanket off and gets up, rushing to Natalia’s side.

When she hugs her, Natalia’s eyes don’t close but focus on Thomas. Worry filling them as he stops and looks back at her intently. Then he nods firmly and steps out of the room.

The next day, Natalia is released from the hospital. It would be eight to twelve weeks before she would feel a hundred percent again. Not including physical therapy. She had a fairly long road to recovery so she could continue on with the movie.

“You did what?” The surprise in her voice makes Thomas smirk as he pushes her wheelchair towards the estate.

“I have postponed any filming until September. We have plenty of footage to edit and review, not to mention we do not have many scenes left to shoot.”

Mr. DuBois opens the door for them and fusses over the woman he watched grow up. Despite her efforts to shoo him, he insists on making her a hot toddy until she reminds him of her medications. So instead he hurries to the kitchen to make a non-alcoholic Tom and Jerry.

“It’s as if he thinks I have a cold.” Natalia shakes her head and laughs until she winces. “It is definitely no cold.”

Thomas gently rubs her shoulder until they both hear the television coming from the living room. He moved her into the room so they both can see the screen and a reporter stands in front of Lenox Hill, the hospital Nat was just released from.

The squirmy looking man in a suit grins at the camera as he motions to the looming hospital behind him. “We have just learned Natalia York, daughter of the infamous UK ambassador Edward York, was just released from Lenox Hill. While in town filming for her upcoming movie Beautiful Endings, she was involved in a two vehicle accident. The hospital will not release any more information at this time.”

“Thank goodness.” Her voice isn’t hushed enough to hide her grumbles from Thomas who smirks at her.

The reporter speaks up a bit, continuing on, “We have also learned that she and Thomas Hunt have become quite close. Closer than friends as a matter of fact. Hunt was seen doting over the injured York in the hospital. One nurse expressed that he was never far from her side. So upon further investigation, we found they have been intimately involved for much of the production of Beautiful Endings. So the real question is, did she sleep her way to fame?”

Her shuttering gasp is all Thomas hears. His vision is red and his fingers tighten around the handles of the wheelchair. Before one word could be spoken, a telephone rings.

It takes a few moments for Thomas to realize it was his own.

The caller ID reads “Lucas - Agent”.

He grimaces and curses under his breath.

Here it goes.