#And besides focusing on the civilian side is a nice change of pace! Let's see how they manage leading double lives!

[phoenixcatch7]

I know 'person with secret to hide spots other person with secret to hide but doesn't say anything' is like. Thee trope in superhero crossovers, but come on! Some of these guys have been doing this for decades! There's tons of heroes that have gone to pretty extreme lengths to be Completely Imperceptible in civilian life.

Don't you think it's scarier, after all is said and done, to sit there and think I didn't notice a thing? I wouldn't have ever realised? I would never have known? To know that someone you were familiar with - close with, even! - had this whole other personality and skillset and powers and experiences and life just behind the curtain, and they hid it so completely you didn't even see it was there.

'I always knew there was something off' what if you didn't. How world shaking would it be to be so utterly blindsided? To know that this person had somehow learned to so deceptive?

[echoes-of-the-clockwork]

Book Four: War (Gladiolus x Reader) Chapter Fifteen

When morning came, Gladio and (Y/n) left their room and headed to the lobby. There, they found Ignis and Prompto chatting while Noctis was fast asleep in one of the cushy chairs.

The blonde was the first to spot the couple and pointed at them. "Y-You two..."

The shield eyes the marksman in confusion. "What about us?"

"Did the dirty!"

(Y/n)'s mouth open and closed in shock. She wasn't sure whether to laugh or be annoyed at his accusation. She decided to set the record straight instead. "Not sure where you got that idea, but we didn't do the "dirty"."

Prompto blinked in surprise. "Th-Then what was with all the noises?"

She grinned. "That was the sound of Gladio losing every round we played. He wouldn't give up until he won, but he gave in after the twentieth round of blackjack."

Gladio threw his arm around the girl's shoulders, pulling her into his side. "Little lady's one helluva blackjack player."

Noctis suddenly awoke from his nap when someone accidentally bumped into the chair. Seeing everyone was gathered, he got to his feet with a yawn. "We ready to head to the first secretary's estate?"

"Yes, let's," Ignis said.

They left the Leville and made their way to Camelia's estate. They took a few wrong turns due to Noctis' poor sense of direction, but they eventually arrived at their destination. The raven-haired boy addressed the guard on duty and headed into the estate, forced to leave behind everyone else.

While the four of them waited patiently for the negotiations to end, Prompto began pacing back and forth. He was becoming impatient and couldn't bear the silence between him and his friends.

Suddenly, the blonde screamed out in fright when someone appeared in front of him. He jumped back, nearly tripping over himself in the process. He placed a hand over his racing heart. "You were right, big guy. They're everywhere!"

(Y/n) greeted her sable-haired sister. "Haven't seen you in a while, Death. Looking as pale as usual."

Death snorted at War's humor. "Nice to see your sense of humor is still intact, Sis."

"Now I've finally met them all," Gladio spoke up.

The two Horsemen glanced at the shield before back at each other. "Anyway, I did some scouting of Altissia," Death said with a serious expression. "I had a small run-in with the high commander."

The redhead sighed. "Please tell me he doesn't have the dullahan's head..."

Death purses her lips slightly. "That...would be a lie."

"Dammit..."

"I did manage to eavesdrop and learn what he plans to do with the head. He plans on using it to cooperate with the dullahan, hoping it will do his bidding during the rite."

"That sounds...really bad," Prompto said.

"Altissia will be a slaughterhouse if that damned monster shows up," War stated.

"Which is why Pestilence, Famine, and myself have already begun evacuation details. We've also taken the liberty of setting up a few traps around the city," Death explained.

"What does the high commander hope to achieve by utilizing such a creature?" Ignis asked.

"To prevent Noctis from gaining the Tidemother's favor. Ravus will most likely cut a deal with the dullahan."

"What kinda deal?" Prompto inquired.

"If the dullahan manages to kill Noctis, Ravus will reward it by returning its head."

"I need to find that head," (Y/n) said. "It's somewhere in the city. I hope I can find it before the rite."

"Need a hand?" Gladio offered.

"Death and I can handle this."

"Well then, ready to start looking?" Death pondered.

"Yeah. Let's go."

The two Horsemen vanish. They reappeared on the opposite end of Altissia. Death looked around the now empty area. "This is where I spotted the high commander with the head."

War sniffed the air. She grimaced when receiving a whiff of the dullahan's head. "Well, the head was definitely here. It's starting to rot..." She turned to face her sister. "Any idea on which way Ravus went?"

"No idea," she nonchalantly replied. "Let's look around."

Death and War examine the area closely. They searched for any inkling that would lead them in the right direction. However, they couldn't find a single clue. (Y/n) gritted her teeth, clenching her fists. "There's nothing here. This place is a dead end."

"I'll check the southern part of the city. You search the western part." Without waiting for a response, Death vanished. War made her way down the street, noticing it was getting busier and busier. She scanned the crowd, sniffing the air. It was a mixture of flowers, fresh bread, and the one odor she was hoping to detect-rotting flesh. It was much stronger than earlier.

Pushing through the people and muttering small apologies as she did so, she did her best to follow the foul scent. She ran up and down streets in haste, hoping her search would be short and she'd be able to annihilate the dullahan before it could be used by the empire.

Eventually, War followed the scent to an alleyway. It was strong, but she couldn't tell from which direction the odor was coming from. She frantically looked around, huffing in annoyance. Continuing to search, she managed to enter another alleyway. This one was far from the main streets and was dark. The buildings blocked any sunlight that could possibly illuminate the area. Checking the darkest corners, she found the remains of a magitek trooper. (Y/n) kicked it in the side, making sure it was lifeless. When it didn't move, she kneeled down and examined the hollow machine.

Analyzing the damage to the machine's exterior, War realized the rotting odor was emanating from it. Her nose wrinkled at the horrid stench. "Guess this magitek handled the head..."

Just then, Death reappeared. She kneeled next to her sister, eyes focused on the dead machine. "What an awful stench..."

"Pretty sure it still doesn't compare to the wendigos."

"True. Those things smell like rotting corpses that were left out in the sun."

"That's...really specific," War mumbled.

The sable-haired girl clapped her hands together and immediately changed the subject. "Anyway, I think I found something. Follow me."

(Y/n) followed Death through the streets of Altissia. They eventually reached a less populated area where people were few and far between. Heading to the waterway, they stopped at the edge. War easily saw what her sister wanted her to see. There was a dead body of a young woman splayed out on the ground. Blood seeped from the wound on her chest, her wide eyes void of life. The redhead gasped in shock. She recognized the pattern of the wound. "The dullahan's already here?"

"This area is off-limits to civilians. It's being guarded by a small force of imperials already in the city," Death explained. "And that horrid stench is everywhere."

(Y/n) could only think of one possibility. "The high commander must've sectioned off this area of Altissia as a location to deal with the dullahan. As a pre-payment, he handed over a civilian to the monster. That would explain the body and the putrid odor."

"But how is the dullahan here without any of us sensing it?"

"That, I'm not sure."

War held up her hand, but Death stopped her. "What're you doing?"

"Burning the body. If someone else were to find it, the entire city might panic before the rite thinking there's a killer loose on the streets. The entire rite might be cancelled if the first secretary learned of the corpse."

Death released her sister's hand and let her burn the body. The corpse was soon a small pile of ash, but the smell of burning flesh added to the rotting odor veiling the area. "Now it really stinks..."

All of a sudden, War sensed someone behind them. Turning around, she saw Noctis, Prompto, Gladio, and Ignis. "What're you all doing here?"

"Pestilence informed us of your location," Ignis replied.

"So, what's going on?" Prompto wondered, glancing between the two Horsemen.

Death took it upon herself to share the gruesome nature of their finds. She even shared War's theory. Noctis couldn't believe what she was saying. "You really think the empire would just hand someone over to that thing?"

"They destroyed your home," War remarked. "You really think killing one more person is impossible?"

"Good point..."

Just then, (Y/n) noticed a red dot travel across the prince's body before settling on his forehead. Realizing what it was, she acted quickly and pushed him out of the way. The sound of a rifle being fired was the last she heard before a severe pain surged through her head and she collapsed.

Death, seeing the bullet pierce War's head, turned around to search for the sniper. When she found them, she disappeared and teleported to their location. Noctis was still in shock, staring at (Y/n)'s lifeless body.

"Get Noct out of here," Gladio demanded, looking at Ignis.

Ignis escorted Noctis back to the Leville. Prompto placed a hand over his mouth when he inaudibly gasped. "W-Was that...?"

"An assassin," Gladio answered as he fell to his knees beside the Horseman. He carefully placed a hand on her cheek, turning her face towards him. Seeing her lifeless (e/c) eyes and the bullet hole in her forehead, he gritted his teeth in anger.

The blonde was clearly still in shock from the sudden attempt on Noctis' life. "If (Y/n) hadn't done that..."

"Noct would be dead, I know," the shield hissed. His eyes were focused on the bullet hole in the girl's forehead. When seeing no signs of healing, his thoughts raced back to the time she appeared in Malmalam Thicket severely wounded. The feeling of losing her again blossomed inside him.

As Gladio went to search his pockets for a potion, Death returned. She kneeled beside her sister's body, analyzing the wound. When catching sight of the shield's worried expression, she placed a hand on his shoulder. "There's nothing to worry about. The brain is a little tricky to heal and it'll take some time for her wound to mend. Luckily, War is the quickest healer out of all of us."

"How long will it take?" The brute asked.

"Roughly an hour."

Gladio gently scooped (Y/n) up into his arms and carried her back to the Leville with Prompto by his side. Death left, leaving her sister in their capable hands.

Back at the hotel, Gladio placed the girl on the bed in their room. Prompto, Noctis, and Ignis joined him a few minutes later. The shield explained to the prince and his advisor what Death told him. Seeing as they had no other place to be, the group decided to wait for (Y/n) to heal.

After an hour of waiting, the boys heard War groan. Gladio, who was sitting in the chair beside her bed, moved to sit on the bed. He combed a hand through her scarlet locks as life returned to her (e/c) eyes. "Welcome back, firecracker. How you feelin'?"

She pushed her body up and propped it against the headboard. "My head hurts..."

"I wonder why," he teased.

(Y/n) was tempted to push him off the bed, but she refrained from doing so. Looking away from Gladio, she gazed at the other boys. "Is everyone else okay?"

Prompto nodded with a small smile. "Yeah. We're great!"

"Good..."

"Hey, uh..." Noctis rubbed the back of his neck. "Thanks for that, (Y/n). It's not even your job to protect me."

"It might not be my job, but I wouldn't have been able to forgive myself if I didn't do something knowing I could." That's when she noticed her sister was missing. "Where's Death?"

"She took it upon herself to deal with the assassin," Ignis said.

War focused her gaze on Noctis. "If I were you, I wouldn't leave the hotel. Who knows how many assassins the empire has planted throughout Altissia."

"Good thing we don't plan on heading out again," the prince replied.

"Does this mean we're ordering room service?" Prompto asked with a gleam in his cerulean eyes.

"It appears so," the strategist answered.

"Speaking of food..." The blonde patted his stomach. "I'm kinda hungry now."

Ignis, Prompto, and Noctis left the room, leaving Gladio and (Y/n) by themselves. The girl slumped down on the bed, grabbing one of the pillows and using it to cover her face. "Damn... This headache is awful..." Her voice was muffled by the pillow.

Gladio had heard her complaint. "Anything I can do to help?"

With the pillow still over her face, she patted the empty spot beside her. That simple gesture was enough for him to understand. With a small smirk, he climbed onto the bed and laid down beside her. Before he could reach out and touch her, he received a pillow to the face. The moment he grabbed it and tossed it aside, (Y/n) straddled his waist. She placed her hands on his lower abdomen, which took him by surprise when he felt how cold her hands were. "Damn, your hands are freezing."

"Yeah, well, I was dead a few minute ago," she stated. "Moving past my irregular body temperature... You told me in the nightmare to keep on living and make up for all I've done. How am I doing so far?"

"Let's see..." Gladio counted the number of people she's saved and how many times. "You're doing pretty damn good so far. You get bonus points for saving Prince Charmless today since he's my responsibility."

"It'll take more time to make up for all my mistakes..." she sighed.

"Now it's my turn to ask a question." Gladio placed his hands on her hips, squeezing them gently. "Why the hell didn't you have your own shield when you were queen?"

"Gaius wasn't only my advisor. He was supposed to be my shield as well. It's ironic the person who was supposed to protect me wound up killing me. Probably makes a nice, twist-ending for a book." She leaned down closer, her face a couple of inches from his. "Tell me, Gladio. If you were my shield instead of Gaius, what do you think would've happened?"

"I'd make sure bastards like Gaius never could get near you. You wouldn't have to worry about manipulation and betrayal."

"Vanaheim's future would've been brighter if you were there for me instead of Gaius," she mumbled under her breath. "Noctis is lucky to have a man such as yourself as his shield, and that brings me to the next subject."

He arched a brow. "And what's that?"

"Whatever happens during the rite tomorrow, you do everything you can to protect Noctis."

"You think I can't protect you and him?"

"It's not that, but he should be your main priority. He is more important than me. But from your eyes, I can tell he already is. Good."

Gladio gripped her hips tighter and flipped their position. War was unfazed by his actions and continued to stare into his amber eyes. A few second passed before Gladio spoke up. "You make it sound like something's gonna happen to you tomorrow."

"None of us know what's going to happen tomorrow. I'm a pessimist. I'm already preparing for the worst."

"Then we better make this night count," he grinned before slamming his lips against hers, kissing her passionately.

It was a brief kiss due to (Y/n) pulling away a few seconds in. She looked around the room in puzzlement. "Do you hear that?"

He wasn't sure what she was talking about. "Hear what?"

A wicked grin manifested on her face. "The sound of me kicking your ass in blackjack."

"Maybe we should "do the dirty" instead."

"Only if you can beat me in blackjack."

"I'm definitely gonna win."

"We'll see about that..."

[aalissy]

Hands

I had a lottt of fun with this prompt hehe. I hope you like it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Lemme know what you think :)?

AO3

Marinette and Luka were both on the park grass, her head on his lap as they both quietly soaked in the sun’s rays. His hands gently brushed against her bangs as her eyes fluttered closed. Humming quietly, she sank deeper into the warmth and security that Luka was providing her. This all changed when the akuma alarm started blaring, however. Marinette’s eyes popped open and she quickly sat up before catching sight of a familiar face. Mumbling a quiet curse, she stood up and grabbed Luka’s hand, managing to tug them both away a few feet before Stormy Weather quickly trapped them in an ice block. The nice, warm heat of before quickly disappeared as the two teens clutched at their arms in an attempt to stave off the new frigid temperatures.

“I’m so sorry, Luka,” Marinette turned back to him with a sorrow glistening in her blue eyes. 

The boy’s brow furrowed at her response, “Why are you apologizing, Marinette. It’s not your fault that she got akumatized again.”

“I know. I guess I just thought I could get us out of her range of sight in time,” she gestured at the walls of their icy chamber.

Luka merely came closer, entwining their hands together, “That’s not your fault, Marinette. And, to be honest, you reacted faster than most people when it comes to akuma’s.”

Missing out on his words of praise, she instead focused on the chilly grip of his hand in hers, wishing she could have tugged them out just a bit faster, “Your hands are so cold,” Marinette murmured, tightening her grasp on his hands in a desperate attempt to warm them. 

She glared at the ice block that had them trapped, looking for any weakness in the structure that would allow them to escape. Finding none, she let out a breath of pure frustration. Her eyes darted up at the musician nervously before clenching them shut. Come on, Chat. Please get here soon! I can’t transform with Luka here, she thought to herself longingly. 

“Don’t worry, Marinette. They’re not that cold. Besides, you’re shivering. I should be trying to keep you warm,” his arms wrapped around her in a tight hug, rubbing her arms up and down quickly in an attempt to get rid of the goosebumps on her skin. 

Giving him a small, thankful smile, she attempted to reassure him as her teeth chattered relentlessly, “I-I’m fine, promise. Besides, I’m sure L-Ladybug and Chat N-Noir will be here s-soon.” Luka’s eyes seemed to widen in alarm before he was looking down at the ground, murmuring something she couldn’t hear. Her brow furrowed as his gaze seemed to avoid her completely, “Are you alright?”

“What if Ladybug doesn’t show up?” his head snapped up, meeting her eyes determinedly, something unfamiliar flickering within their depths.

“W-what do you mean?” her stutter this time had nothing to do with the cold and everything to do with the boy’s steely determination, “Of course Ladybug will show up, she always has, so why wouldn’t she this time?” 

Marinette was still chuckling nervously, waving a hand in the air when Luka spoke once again, “Say Ladybug gets stuck with a civilian and couldn’t transform. What would happen then?”

A shiver of dread raced up her spine, “T-that’s impossible. Surely Ladybug would know better than to get stuck in a situation like that, right?” she giggled anxiously.

“Ok, but say it did,” Luka blew out a breath of air, the stark white standing out against the icy blue reflection of their cage, “And say, hypothetically speaking, that this civilian knew Ladybug’s identity. What would happen then?” his eyes glimmered with something before he was pacing, running a hand through his hair.

“Hey, hey,” Marinette soothed, reaching out and grabbing his hand to get him to stop, “If, hypothetically, this civilian did know her identity. I think she would want to know. And they’d probably have to talk after the battle was over because I mean this is her secret identity we’re talking about,” she squeezed his hand softly.

Luka’s eyes seemed to soften, some of the anxiety washing away to be replaced with adoration, causing her cheeks to light up to a soft pink, “Then it’s okay, Marinette. I’ve known for a while now. You can transform,” his grip became slightly tighter as he searched her eyes desperately.

Though they had been dancing around the issue for a little while now, it didn’t stop the shock and panic that his words brought on. Oh my god, oh my god, oh my GOD! Tikki is going to kill me! What do I do?! Marinette gnawed on her lip anxiously, contemplating whether or not he would believe her if she lied. Her worry instantly disappeared, however, when another shiver raced through Luka’s body and he winced in pain. She was distinctly reminded of the cold, so very cold, hand that was still entwined with hers. 

As the anxiety melted away, a strong sensation of determination took its place and she gave him a short nod, stepping back and calling on her transformation, “Tikki, spots on!” the energy flowed through her and with it, the icy chill that she had been feeling previously dissolved as warmth took its place. 

“Wow, that was amazing,” he whispered. 

Ladybug’s cheeks turned a shade darker at his words before giving him a confident smile, “Don’t worry, Luka. I’ll get us out of here.”

“I know you will, Marinette. I trust you,” the musician’s smile was filled with admiration and she beamed at him. 

Within the next second, however, his teeth clattered together as he shivered once again. Furrowing her brow, Ladybug looked around at their surroundings, “Unfortunately, I don’t have another miraculous with me, so you’re going to have to withstand the cold for a few more seconds until I can figure out a way out of this.”

“T-that’s okay, take your time, Marinette. I can handle the cold,” Luka began to rub up and down on his arms in an attempt to keep warm.

“Luck charm!” she called out, throwing her yo-yo in the air. When a bag of salt dropped down into her hands, she gave Luka a wide smile, “We’ll be out in a little bit!” 

Throwing handfuls of salt onto one of the walls of their ice chamber, Ladybug watched in satisfaction as it began to melt. Soon enough, they were both free and the superheroine quickly grabbed Luka up, throwing her yo-yo in the direction of his houseboat. Landing on the bridge of the boat as quickly as possible she placed him down, “Get someplace warm as soon as you can. I don’t want you to get frostbite over this. I’m going to go detransform quickly before joining the fight with Stormy Weather,” her brow furrowed as her earrings gave a calculated beep.

“Don’t worry, I will,” he reassured her with a quick nod, “Oh, and Ladybug, thank you for saving Paris,” Luka brushed her cheek with his lips, leaving a soft kiss there that caused her face to flush.

“You’re welcome, Luka,” Ladybug giggled sweetly, “But don’t think this conversation is over. I’m coming to talk after the battle so we both get scolded by Tikki.”

“I eagerly await your arrival then, Ladybug,” he grinned, giving her hand one last squeeze before she turned away to go detransform. 

After detransforming and receiving a small lecture from her kwami as she ate a macaron, Marinette’s gaze darted around their surroundings nervously, looking for any signs of the akuma or her partner. When Tikki was ready, she quickly transformed, following the sounds of crashes and shouts before joining her partner who was in the middle of a battle with the akuma. Luckily, even though she was distracted as she was, Ladybug managed to defeat Stormy Weather rather fast with the use of her Lucky Charm. Bidding a farewell to her partner, she swung towards Luka’s houseboat. Letting her transformation fall away in an alleyway nearby, Marinette gave Tikki another macaron before nervously making her way over to the boat. 

When she neared the bridge, she noticed that Luka was already on it, looking for something. Marinette raised her hand in a silent wave when he finally caught sight of her. Rather quickly, he was rushing towards her, wrapping her up in a tight hug as he spun her around, “Marinette! You’re alright!”

“Of course I am,” she squealed and giggled, her hands squeezing onto his shoulders tightly, “Now put me down!” Luka did as she requested, though his hands remained around her waist as he beamed proudly at her. Marinette brushed herself off before a small smile spread across her cheeks, “Did you really think I’d lose to someone I’ve beaten before.”

“No, not at all. I’m just happy to see you,” his beam seemed to grow even brighter as he squeezed her slightly. 

Marinette laughed lightly before sobering up as she looked up at him seriously. She grabbed his hand before leading them both into the safety of his bedroom. Pacing nervously, she chewed on her lip as Luka sat down on the bed, watching her warily. Running a hand through her hair, she eventually turned to him after blowing out a breath of air, “How long have you known?”

“Honestly?” he hesitated, to which she gave him a nod, “Since I got akumatized.”

“Since you got... since you got akumatized?!” Marinette screeched, pulling on her pigtails, “Why didn’t you say anything?!”

Luka rushed up, grabbing a hold of both of her hands tightly, “Because I was worried about getting you in trouble. I didn’t want to get your miraculous taken away!” her mouth dropped open in shock as he continued on, “You’re an amazing superheroine, Marinette, and I don’t think Paris could have survived half as long without you as Ladybug. I wasn’t going to take that chance.”

“That’s so sweet, Luka,” she cupped a hand on the side of his cheek, a small smile spreading across her face.

A second later, however, a tiny voice interrupted their moment by clearing her throat. Tikki’s arms were crossed as she stared at Luka, “Have you told anyone else what you know?”

“Tikki!” Marinette shouted, frowning angrily at her kwami.

“This is important, Marinette. Luka knowing your identity can put you both at risk! I don’t want that to happen,” her lips pursed.

Luka chuckled softly before shaking his head, “No, I haven’t. Honestly, I wasn’t 100% certain it was Marinette until she transformed right in front of me.”

“That’s good then,” Tikki gave a sharp nod, “So far you’re the only one who knows her identity and I want to keep it that way until Hawkmoth is gone.”

“Understood, little bug,” he winked.

Rolling her eyes affectionately, her kwami uncrossed her arms and got closer to Luka’s face, “I’m glad she got stuck with you, then. I’m afraid if she had been with anyone else we might still be in that icicle.”

“Thank you, Tikki,” he patted her on the head lightly.

Marinette cooed in awe at the scene before her when a phone chime disturbed her. Pulling out the device she saw the text from her parents asking her if she was alright after the latest akuma attack. Wincing slightly, she turned to the musician, “I’ve gotta go now, my parents are worried about me. We can talk tomorrow though, right?”

“Of course, Marinette! I’m here whenever you need me.”

Ducking her head shyly as she blushed, Tikki quickly phased through her purse. Waving goodbye at him, she turned to head back to the bakery. Maybe someone knowing her identity wasn’t the worst thing ever.

[thedistantstorm]

Keep On Rising (Until The Sky Knows Your Name) 19

Found Family | Zavala is Tower Dad | Father-Daughter Relationship | Childhood Trauma and Recovery | Canon-Typical Violence | Amputation

A story about how an orphaned Amanda Holliday comes to belong in the Last Safe City and the family she finds along the way.

(Or, the story of how Commander Zavala finds himself responsible for one Amanda Holliday.)

Chapters: 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 [end]

This time: A new beginning.

-/

They are an inconspicuous combination, the Commander in slacks and a tunic, scarf over his head in accordance with city fashion, and the child in a t-shirt with matching sweatpants - something comfortable enough to move in, picked by Eva. Instead of his usual gait, Zavala walks far slower, knowing it would take three steps with her crutches to match his usual pace.

"The terrain changes ahead," He informs her in his calmest of tones. "The brick will be uneven. Let me know if you need a break."

She hums her acknowledgement, focused on getting herself to make as far as she can on foot, and Zavala, though noticing her discomfort, knows this is a lesson she’ll learn the hard way. When he sees the crutches quake he pauses, watching her wince as she continues, stubborn.

"We still have a bit to go," He tells her.

Ignoring that, he watches her take another handful of steps, stumble, and moves to save her from the pavement. If it were grass, and she were a bit more recovered, he’d have let her fall, but he does not want to take the chance with her so close to being cleared to come home. Shiori makes the child-sized crutches disappear before they hit the ground. The therapists had warned him before clearing her to go on this afternoon trip - a trial run, they called it - that she did not know her limitations, or if she did, she was purposefully ignoring them in lieu of pushing herself.

She sighs into his shirt, angry.

"You'll likely have blisters on your arms."

"Yeah," She grumbles.

"Part of recovering is learning your limits and respecting them," He advises, far more incognito with a child on his hip than walking beside her. It's clear she's frustrated with herself, though she eventually releases her tight grip on his clothes and rests her head against his shoulder. "You will learn when to push, and when to ease back. It will take time."

"'m not real patient," She admits in another exasperated huff.

He chuckles, smooth and low against her hair. "No, you're not," He agrees.

Zavala almost expects that she's fallen asleep after a few minutes of carrying her; he can feel her slight weight incrementally increase. Instead, she's simply relaxed, looking out at the Traveler looming in the distance where the sky meets the walls and the City. He turns, noticing when she starts craning her neck.

She drawls, "Can we watch the ships a while?"

Indulgently, he hums into her hair, "You are not in pain right now?"

"A li'l," She supposes. "But I'm usually sore."

 "We'll go the long way back," He decides, a compromise for them both.

"Y'don' mind?" She asks, bashful, resting her head on his shoulder once more.

"I don't get outside much," He admits. "I think we could both stand to see the sky."

It is strange to be in the Tower without being in full armor, or in charge of one small child instead of the entirety of its affairs. He feels almost like a voyeur, watching Guardians run about around the small influx of civilians who sell their wares or have a food-stand nearby.

It feels even stranger when a shadow looms over them from behind, eclipsing Zavala completely. Amanda curls into him, fight or flight senses triggered into something more like a freeze when her new guardian stops walking. He puts a hand on her crown, silently willing her to believe her that all is well before turning back toward his fellow Titan, careful to lead with the hip opposite the one he is carrying her on.

"Step back, Shaxx."

The shadow recedes. "You know word travels," He informs Zavala loudly. "Though half these miscreants wouldn't give you a second glance without the regalia."

Zavala releases Amanda's head, though he lowers his hand to her back. He can feel her heart thundering through the back of her ribcage. "That's the point," He tells the armor-wearing Crucible handler. "Is there something you need?"

"Not at all," He says. "Is this the girl?"

Said girl is clearly shy, wrapping her arms around Zavala's neck, breathing harshly against his collar. "Amanda, this is Shaxx."

She murmurs to Zavala, wary, "He's big," And Shaxx laughs, hearty and boisterous.

"He will not hurt you. He's a Guardian, too. And an old friend."

That spurs Amanda to act. The mop of blonde hair moves, the child leaning up and away from Zavala, brave but not about to let go. "Hi," She greets, looking up into an impassive helm.

Shaxx tilts his head. "Hello, Amanda," He returns, hands on his hips, loud enough that it forces a tremor through the girl. 

"Can he not hear very good? People yell when they have trouble hearing," She asks Zavala, not quite whispering herself.

Zavala laughs, carefully readjusting his hold on her. "No, Amanda, his hearing is perfectly fine. His listening skills are another thing entirely," He deadpans, quirking an eyebrow with a little dip of his eyes to the top of the child’s head. A reminder not to say anything inappropriate for little ears.

Amanda giggles at that, girlish and unbidden. It sounds like something the Matrons would say.

The one-horned Titan tilts his head to the side. "Oh, this is trouble," He says, but there's no malice in his tone, only glee. "You understand his sense of humor."

"Do people not?" Amanda's nose scrunches up in her confusion. "He's funny."

Shaxx chuckles. "Most, sadly, do not. But you are not most." He eyes the duo carefully - more enthusiastic than anything - before stepping back and waving toward the hall of Guardians. Of course, Zavala thinks. The Crucible could not go more than a match without him. “It was a pleasure meeting you, little lion,” Shaxx says to the child. “Make sure he brings you around.”

“Why a lion?” Amanda asks.

Shiori flits into the space in front of them. “That sentimental beast,” She chirps sharply, but it sounds more affectionate than anything. “A lion is-”

Zavala shakes his head. “She’ll figure it out on her own.”

-/

Just shy of two months to the day of the incident, Amanda is discharged from the hospital. She has a wealth of plans and treatments - almost as many as Zavala himself has meetings and engagements of his own. Recovery will be hard work. Supporting her in it, just as much. No matter. Zavala is committed to this. He will not shy away from his duty, both to the City and to his ward.

She refuses the wheelchair outright, intent on making it out of the hospital on crutches. Zavala appreciates her spirit and especially praises her for asking for help, a block later, when the walking becomes just a bit too much. She’s a quick learner, though he will have to watch. He does not want his every word to be law, well meaning though he is. She should learn and make her own decisions, to some extent.

"Home sweet home," Shiori calls as Zavala closes the door and lets it lock behind them. She transmats the tiny crutches back into being, propping them against the couch in a flicker of Light. 

"Yeah," The child says thickly in reply, allowing Zavala to set her down and hand them to her one at a time.

"Let's have a look around, hm?"

She nods. Zavala shows her the kitchen stocked with food - her tummy rumbles at the sight and she flushes, the little nook that was a dining area but has now become an office, the living room that houses a comfortable couch, modest screen and his knitting supplies in the corner. The washroom is next, down the hall, followed by a room he skips in lieu of showing her his own: full of deep, dark, soothing blues and yet spartan, save for a bookshelf.

Lastly, he lets her into her own room, lingering in the doorway when she carefully hobbles in.

Eva has outdone herself, it's clear by the awed expression Amanda wears, the tightness of her shoulders as she comes into the room. The once bare walls have pictures of different class ships with stylized shaders, the bed a subtle compliment with its themed sheets and comforter. Across the bottom half of the bed is her freshly laundered red blanket, ready and waiting for use.

"Do you like it?" He can't help but ask.

The girl takes a deep breath, hinging on a sob. "It's real nice," She says, overwhelmed. "Thank you."

"I would not thank me," He tells her, placing a palm between her shoulder blades to steady her. "My sense of style is a bit more minimalistic, as I'm sure you can tell. Eva had a field day designing this."

"Will she come 'n visit?” She asks, voice thick and eyes watery. “I gotta thank her, too, then."

"Don't worry. You will see her plenty. Why don't you investigate your desk and dresser? Eva guessed at much of it, but anything you need, we'll figure out together."

Together. Amanda likes the sound of that.

end.

. . .

. .

.

-/

PS: be on the look out for the sequel for this next month (Nov. 2019)! Thanks so much for reading!

[starxiddraws]

Your Guardian Angel Chapter 3

Chapter 3- A New Ladybug?

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Tagging @princessaurax @cassiopeia-barrow @sketchy-characters-in-progress   @mystical818

“Please be safe, kitty,” Marinette called out to Chat Noir, who headed off to go see Master Fu. “It’s really late anything can happen.”

“Don’t worry my lady, I know how to defend myself, I’ll be back before you know it,” he gave her a wink before disappearing into the darkness. Marinette giggled and shook her head at the ever flirty Chat. She had to call Master Fu ahead of time to make sure he hasn’t turned in for the night, despite it only being the early evening. Sometimes he liked to turn in early to get up early to go to the park. Apparently there was a television show he was interested in at the moment, so conveniently, he’s still up, watching. They let him know that Chat Noir was going to drop by and give him the miraculous and to talk about a few things.

Marinette shivered and walked back into her room for warmth. Odd because it was approaching summer, chills were uncommon summer nights. She sat down and started working on her homework to pass the time while she waited for Chat Noir. It was very silent and she felt very lonely. Tikki always kept her company while she worked, always giving her encouragement and ideas. Marinette already missed Tikki and half of her wished that she didn’t give up the miraculous, but she thought it was the necessary thing to do. Still, the loneliness was suffocating and she hoped that Chat Noir hurried back.

* * *

Chat Noir landed on the rooftop of the apartment complex where Master Fu resided, looking around and making sure no one has spotted him. Confirming that the coast was clear, Chat transformed back into Adrien and gave Plagg a wedge of Camembert. Still carrying his backpack, Adrien set it down and pulled out a simple black hoodie, a green beanie and a pair of lens-less glasses so that no one would recognize him and ask questions.

“You stick out like a sore thumb, kid. A hoodie? Beanie? It’s almost summer, not winter!” Plagg bit into the wedge as he gave Adrien a once over. Adrien rolled his eyes as he pulled up the hood over his head.

“Relax Plagg. It’s kinda chilly out, so this is appropriate for right now. Besides, I just have to deliver the miraculous to Master Fu, and just head back. In and out.” Adrien began to descend to Master Fu’s floor, hiding whenever he heard anyone in the vicinity.

Finally approaching Fu’s door, Adrien knocked a few times and waited patiently. After a few minutes, Wang Fu answered the door and quickly let Adrien in and locked his door. All of the blinds were closed in the apartment. “Thanks for seeing me at such a time. Marinette thought the sooner the miraculous got back to you, the sooner you can find a new Ladybug,” Adrien pulled out the box from his backpack and held it out to the Guardian, expecting him to immediately grab it and hide it, but Wang just stared at the box thoughtfully.

“What do you think, Chat?” Wang asked, suddenly turning his back to Adrien and walked towards his stove to start making some tea.

“Wh-what do you mean?” Adrien placed the box into the pocket of the hoodie and followed him into the kitchen, where he sat down and waited for an answer.

“Do you think Marinette made the right decision?” Wang asked, setting the kettle on the stove, turning it on so that it could heat up. The question caught Adrien off guard.

“Well, she thinks it’s the right decision, so of course i’m going to support her–”

“Let me rephrase the question… Do you want Marinette to stop being Ladybug?” Taken aback, Adrien stared at Wang, wondering where he’s going with this.

“Personally, I don’t want her to stop being Ladybug, I think she’s the best there is, and we work so well together. But this isn’t about what I want, Master Fu. Why did you ask me that question?”

“Because I agree with you, Adrien. Marinette was one of the best Ladybugs I have ever had the pleasure of choosing. She’s very smart and kind, you two work together like Yin and Yang. I don’t want her to step down.” Master Fu poured water into some tea cups with some tea already in infusers. “Besides, I’m sure Tikki wouldn’t want to say goodbye to Marinette just yet.”

“It’s true… But it was her decision, she was set on it, even if it made her sad. I know she doesn’t want to stop being Ladybug, but she thinks it’s the best choice. I’m not going to disrespect that with what I want.” Adrien took the teacup from Wang and thanked him for the tea. Wang just gave him a big smile and nodded.

“That is the right answer, Adrien.”

“What?” Adrien had the cup up to his lips but paused.

“I was thinking about who to choose to be the next Ladybug, but, you have proven that you are fully capable of doing that yourself. Putting your feelings aside for what’s best. You have grown much.”

“Wait, so are you saying you want me to choose the next Ladybug? But I’d know her identity, wouldn’t that violate the rule you have given us?” Wang chuckled and sat across from Adrien.

“I suppose it would, but Marinette knows the identities of Rena Rouge and Carapace. And we all know Queen Bee’s identity. So let’s make an exception. I get the feeling it’s going to work out better than we think it is.” Adrien pulled out the box in his pocket and stared at it.

“That’s such a huge responsibility… I’m not sure–”

“Like I said, Adrien, you have proven yourself worthy of making that decision. It’s going to turn out better than we think it is. I trust you.” Adrien snapped his eyes up too look at his master, who was smiling at him. “You are one of the best Chat Noirs I have had the pleasure of choosing as well. You do tend to be a bit pushy with Ladybug, but I’m glad you’re calming that down right now. Now go, Marinette is waiting for you.” Adrien nodded and placed the box inside his backpack, keeping it safe. He got up to leave when Master Fu stopped him. “Before you go, I just want to let you and Marinette know that I’m proud of the both of you. Now go!” Adrien’s eyes stung with tears and thanked. Wang shut the door after Adrien and locked up tight. It’s going to be our hardest fight yet, but I believe in the both of them. Adrien hurried to the rooftop feeling ecstatic. “Did you hear that, Plagg? He said he was proud of Marinette and I. I have not heard anyone tell me that since… Since mother was still around. It…” Adrien burst onto the roof and stared up at the beautiful full moon, shedding a few tears. “It feels really nice. Plagg, claws out!” His form changed, but the hoodie, beanie and glasses remained. Weird, but okay. He sprung up from where he stood, and went on his way back to Marinette’s.

* * *

Marinette paced along her balcony a bit too fast, glancing out into the night, hoping for Chat Noir to arrive fast. “Oh kitty, I hope nothing happens to you and you get back safely.” The chill got slightly worse and Marinette headed downstairs so she could grab a blanket, leaving her phone resting on her lounge chair. It suddenly lit up with Luka’s name taking up the screen, quietly ringing for a few seconds, but then it stopped. Marinette walked back up and noticed it ringing a second time. Picking up the phone, and stared at the screen with a confused look on her face.

“Luka?,” She finally answered, feeling a slight blush brush across her face. “H-hey what’s up?”

“Marinette! Oh thank god you’re alright, I tried to call you a bit earlier, but you didn’t answer. It got me worried there.”

“Oh I’m fine, I was just away from my phone for a bit.” Marinette sat at the edge of the chair, wrapping the thin blanket around her shoulders. She heard a sigh of relief on the other side, causing her heart to flutter a bit. She shook her head to get rid of the feeling. It would be nice if it was Adrien on the other side… Again she shook her head and focused on Luka talking.

“I wasn’t paying attention to the mainstream media, but when Juleka got home from Rose’s, she immediately let me know what was going on. I knew I had to call you as soon as possible. How have you been all day?”

“I’ve.. had my fluctuations of moods all day. I mean, my civilian identity was exposed, so there’s only so much I can do for damage control, which isn’t much really…”

“How about saying it was a hoax?”

“That’s a kind of half and half thing really. Already a lot of people believe it, and I’m sure Hawkmoth wouldn’t believe that anyway, he’s too smart.”

“Obviously not as smart as you. But still, it’s worth a shot.” Hearing this, maybe she should have gone with saying it’s a hoax, and hopefully a lot could be resolved. But she gave up her miraculous already. She buried her head in her hands.

“I can’t do that because I already decided to step down as Ladybug and gave back my miraculous…”

“Oh… Gave back your miraculous? To who? Maybe they can give it back?”

Marinette scrambled to respond, “Ah, er, well, I-I can’t tell you that, and the person probably already gave it to someone else, someone more… worthy. Someone who won’t mess up as bad as I did.” Marinette stood up and walked to the railing of her balcony, sadly looking out to the rooftops.

“Don’t say that Marinette. Of course you’re worthy. How long were you Ladybug?”

“About the good part of a year, possibly longer.”

“That’s quite a while of hiding your identity. That’s pretty good, I’m sure some people can’t do that for two days.” Marinette giggled. She remembered how Chat wanted to reveal his identity to her soon after they became heroes, and Chloe, the exact moment she transformed.

“I’ll say Chat Noir was almost someone. Only to me though, so it wasn’t as drastic.”

“That Chat Noir… Have… You two spoken yet?” He sounded a bit resentful. It sounded almost like jealousy.

“Y-yes, as a matter of fact, I asked him to return the miraculous for me. He was kicked out from his civilian home so he’s crashing (with my parent’s permission) at my place until he can go back. In the meantime, he’ll be protecting my family and I until a new Ladybug arrives.”

“Why was he kicked out?” He didn’t hide the accusatory tone dripping from his words.

“He didn’t tell me. Regardless, he’s my partner and I trust him completely. I just hope everything gets resolved for him. I wouldn’t want whatever to bring him down.” There was silence on the other end of the phone, making Marinette a bit nervous. “Luka?”

“I-I’m sorry. Something just came up, are you sure you’re going to be fine for tonight?”

“I swear I’m okay at the moment, you don’t need to worry about a thing. Thank you for calling to make sure I’m okay,” Marinette gently smiled. She appreciates his concern but for tonight, she knows she’ll be fine, despite the chill she’s been getting.

“Okay, then have a good night, Marinette.”

“Good night Luka!” Marinette hung up her phone and stared out, again looking for Chat Noir. She felt a bit crestfallen. Luka called her and made sure she was okay, but the whole time, she felt like she wished it was someone else talking to her, someone like Adrien, but he hasn’t messaged her all day. Maybe his dad took away his phone….

* * *

“He wants me to choose the next Ladybug.” Chat took a moment to think on the roof nearby Marinette’s balcony. He saw her sitting on her lounge chair, and it seemed like she was talking on the phone, but she didn’t notice him watching. “I really wish I can choose her as my Ladybug. No one can ever replace her. But she’s insisting on not being Ladybug… Why does master Fu have to make this so hard on me? Why does he want me to pick? I know he said because I have learned to put my feelings aside for the greater good. But what if choosing Marinette is for the greater good? UGH this is so hard and confusing!” Chat slid a little ways down the roof onto the ledge. He kept watching as Marinette leaned on the balcony, still talking on the phone. Her raven black hair faintly glowing in the moonlight, her skin radiant as ever. She was still in her cute pink dress, with a thin blanket draped over her shoulders. He never really realized how cute Marinette was. He was so busy pining after Ladybug that he never really paid really close attention to Marinette. Technically they’re the same person, but still. “I’m still so confused. Is she just a friend or am I seeing her in a different light?” Chat Noir shook his head, frustrated at himself and finally decided to arrive at Marinette’s balcony.

“–swear I’m okay at the moment, you don’t need to worry about a thing. Thank you for calling to make sure I’m okay,” Marinette was too ingrained in her conversation to notice Chat landing on her balcony with a loud thud. “Good night Luka!” The name Luka pierced Chat Noir though his heart, suddenly spreading jealousy all over his body. Chat decided to ignore the sudden surge of emotion and cleared his throat gently, startling her a bit.

“Was that your boyfriend, my lady?” Chat tried to tease, but his voice caught a bit at “boyfriend.” He hid his face in the shadows to hide the pain on his face. Marinette shook her head and giggled a bit.

“Chat! Nice outfit, it is a bit chilly out, weirdly. Don’t worry kitty. He’s just a friend.”

Chat was inclined to retort with “Yeah sure,” but he realized that he constantly said that about Marinette whenever Plagg teased him about her. His own “medicine” was used against him and now the last two brain cells in his head are starting to work overtime to figure out something.

The reason why he was very confused; he never not noticed her, he constantly noticed her; he wasn’t seeing her in a different light, he was just finally realizing what Plagg had been trying to tell him all the time. Adrien Agreste was in denial about his feelings for Marinette. He was just so infatuated with Ladybug that he let it overshadow Marinette. “Go for a different target,” He remembered Kagami telling him. Welp, he’s stupid. He always assumed that she was talking about herself, well maybe she was, but it doesn’t change the fact that if he went after Marinette, he’d still date the girl he loves.

“Besides, I like someone else…” Marinette sadly looked up at the moon and sighed, leaving Chat perplexed. He was about to ask who, but seeing her looking so sad made him change his mind and he decided that he’ll get his answer when she’s ready.

“Let’s get you inside. It’s getting chillier,” Chat opened the hatch to her bedroom and gestured for her to enter, “my lady.” Marinette giggled and gave him a slight playful curtsy, walking down to her bedroom, followed closely by Chat Noir. “May I use your shower?” Chat tried to subtly sniff his armpits, he did feel a bit dirty today.  Marinette gave him a sheepish smile.

“I was going to shower before I headed to bed,” Marinette scratched the back of her head. “I feel like a shower would reinvigorate me after everything going on today.”

“Oh you go first then, Princess. I’m sure you need it more than I do. I can go afterwards.”

“Thank you kitty. I’ll help you settle into the spare bedroom. It’s actually connected to the bathroom. So you can sneak in after I finish,” Marinette grabbed Chat’s hand, which caused some fluttering of the butterflies in his stomach. She guided him to the bedroom which was a bit small, but cozy. A queen size bed rested in the corner nearest the window, with lovely light blue sheets and a white with silver fleur de lis patterned duvet covering the mattress. The pillows, same pattern as the duvet, looked large, soft and fluffy, Adrien knew he was going to have the best sleep ever. An oak nightstand stood next to the bed with a simple little lamp and an alarm. An oak dresser stood nearby the door and across from the bed was the door into the bathroom. Chat trotted to the bed and sat down, firm but not too firm, just like he likes it. “I hope it’s okay. It’s for the very occasional guests we get.” Chat Noir flashed her a dazzling smile and nodded.

“I think it’s perfect,” Chat laid down and tested out the pillows. They feel like fluffy clouds, so heavenly. “I’ll be crashing hard after my shower.”

“Make sure your hair is completely dry before you do. You’ll get sick,” Marinette warned, pouting her face and wiggling her finger. Chat laughed and Marinette joined.

“Okay mom, whatever you say mom,” Chat crossed his arms and dramatically scoffed. More giggling ensued.

“I’m going to go shower now so that you can too. I’ll see you in a bit kitty.”

“Take your time, my purrincess.” Chat shot her a wink as she closed the door. As soon as he was sure she was gone, he transformed back to himself, pulling out two slices of Camembert for Plagg to devour gleefully.

“My gosh kid, it’s exhausting to be Chat Noir all day. I’m pooped. I’m going to have the best cat nap since ever,” Plagg began to wiggle himself onto one of the pillows with one of his slices, apparently in complete bliss. Adrien rolled his eyes and smiled. Typical Plagg. Shrugging off his black hoodie and finally pulling off the beanie and glasses (which he looked amazing in), Adrien started getting ready for his shower. Pulling out pajamas, and his toiletries, he set them on the nightstand, having them ready for when Marinette gets out of the shower. He hears the shower turn on and began to wait, wondering what he should do in the meantime. “I should have brought my phone or a book or something, Now I don’t know what to do with myself.”

“Why did you leave your phone behind? I noticed that you did it on purpose,” Plagg was still lounging on the pillow, not a crumb of cheese on sight. He might be a slob, but he wouldn’t dare waste an ounce of Camembert.

“My dad could probably trace it and I just really want to get away from him, at least for  few days,” Adrien lay down on the bed and rested his head on the pillows, staring up at the ceiling.

“How long do you actually plan on staying away? He will raise an alarm, and search parties will happen.”

“I’ll just go to him as Chat Noir and tell him that I’ve got it under control. I obviously know that I’m okay, because I’m Chat Noir and I know Adrien is okay because I’m Adrien.”

“Do you really think he’ll be convinced that you’ve got it under control as Chat Noir?” Adrien shot him a glare but Plagg shrugged and just snuggled back onto the pillow. “You know your dad, he’s a piece of work.” Adrien sighed and closed his eyes, trying to think on what he should do if his dad raises an alarm. Maybe transform back as Adrien and come out of nowhere and let him know he’s okay, he just wants to be away for a while? Let him know as Chat Noir that Adrien doesn’t want to see him? Or just go back? NAH.

“I don’t know Plagg. I just wish he wasn’t so controlling. He doesn’t understand how much Marinette means to me. Protect me? He’s just holding me back…”

“Holding you back from what exactly? You have it all to be honest. A great career as a model, a rich dad, popularity,” Plagg turned to face Adrien, who had his eyebrows furrowed and a frown.

“I don’t care about that. I just want friends I can spend more time with, I want to do my own things, and for my dad to not be so busy that I end up alone during dinner… Having dinner like a family. Like today with Marinette’s parents. It felt very nice…” Adrien turned and faced the wall, wanting to hide the tears that spilled out of nowhere. “I think I just want companionship in general. It’s… it’s something Ladybug gave me, even if it was unexpected. I finally felt like I belonged somewhere, right there, by her side, fighting, flirting, being accepted… Just having that taken away from me hurts…”

“Well why not just have a relationship with Marinette. She was technically Ladybug, just date her and all your problems would be solved.” Especially that convoluted love square thing that Sugar Cube and I have been watching for a long time. We both agree, it’s ridiculous.

“I can’t. I can’t because I would put her in danger. She may not be Ladybug anymore, but if Hawkmoth knew, he could use it against me…” He faced the ceiling again.

“It’s not like you completely lost all your friends. Marinette is still here. Heck, You’re in her house for cheese’s sake. Then there’s Your guy friend and his girlfriend… uhhh”

“Nino and Alya.”

“Yeah those two and blegh, I guess Chloe.” Adrien chuckled. He understood Plagg’s distaste, but he’s got her all wrong.

“Chloe isn’t that bad. She just… needs help getting along with others. She’s also been lonely, so I can see why she acts up… I just don’t want to lose Marinette. She’s been so amazing towards me. Even if she’d get nervous. I don’t know why though…” Adrien didn’t notice Plagg facepalm loudly beside him. There was a gentle knock on the door connecting the bedroom and bathroom, and Marinette’s voice chimed from the other side, “It’s your turn now, kitty. Take all the time you need!”

Bowing, although she wasn’t there to see, Adrien purred “Thank you my Purrincess. I’ll be going in soon.” He heard a giggle and footsteps walking away. “At least I’ve made her laugh a bit few times.” He then entered the bathroom and prepared for a nice, steamy shower.

* * *

Marinette sat on the chair at her vanity, still wearing her bathrobe, pulling the towel from her head, letting her damp hair fall to her shoulders. She grabbed her comb and began to detanlge her hair.

“You really did fool them, no one would have suspected a thing. Though, now that I think about it… You two do look a lot alike. I’m surprised no one caught that– Well… one person did though.”

The thought bounced around in her head in the shower and it continued to do so, aggravating Marinette with every passing. “I have to tell someone about what she did. I have to but will anyone believe me? I would have been fine if she didn’t catch me. Nothing would have changed. Like it usually does. Going back to normal… I am back to being normal…” Marinette stared at her reflection. “Just a normal girl, with a normal life. Everyone knows about me… It’s not a secret anymore. I have to go back to that. I… I don’t want to go back to that… I don’t want to go back to being a nobody. Someone who’s not worthy… I just don’t… I want to keep helping people, I want to… I want to keep fighting alongside Chat Noir… And be with Tikki. I miss her…” The pillow looked empty without Tikki lying down, reading a book or magazine. Her advice whenever Marinette was stuck on something. All of the uplifting words uttered when doubt and self consciousness arose. Tikki was such a positive influence on her. “I hope the next Ladybug appreciates her as much I do.” Marinette finished combing her hair and let it be so it could air dry. She began looking through her drawers for a nice clean pair of pajamas when there was a gentle knock on the hatch on the floor. “Yeah?” Chat’s voice carried through but she couldn’t understand what he said, so she knelt down, lifted the hatch a bit, revealing a Chat Noir looking up with his hair still wet from the shower. “What’s up?” She and Chat made eye contact which seemed to last a moment then his eyes accidentally wandered downwards and he looked away quickly, flustered and abruptly red. He barely noticed she was still in her bathrobe, and that her bathrobe was slightly askew, though not revealing anything. Chat realized at that moment that he was a bit innocent.

“I-I was wondering if you were doing okay and wanted to talk, b-but y-you’re still dressing up, I-I can wait until you’re ready,” He leapt quietly to the ground and sat at the bottom of the stairs, facing away from her and fiddling with his fingers. Confused by what just happened, Marinette resumed to getting dressed. When she finished, she fished Chat from his perch at the bottom of the stairs and they headed up to her balcony again to let the outside air dry out their hair.

“I wanted to ask you if you have any idea of who could possibly be the one to record you and spread the video. I’d like to have a nice little chat to chat with them. I have my theories, but I want to hear your input first,” the full moon shone upon them brightly as Chat stared intently at Marinette, who wore a stony face as soon as he said “who”.

“Funny you ask that seeing as how I was thinking about the person who held me captive in the bathroom at school admitted it to me,” she said through gritted teeth, eyes growing dark. Chat almost gasped out the name of who, but he knew as Adrien who it was, Chat didn’t.

“Admitted?” Chat furrowed his eyebrows, wanting to confirm this. He remembers Lila walking out of the bathroom, at first concerned but the brief look of malice was unforgettable. He just knew she was up to something, but not to this extent.

“Lila Rossi. She cornered me in the bathroom and told me ‘Who would have known that Marinette Dupain-Cheng was Ladybug. You really did fool them, no one would have suspected a thing. Though, now that I think about it… You two do look a lot alike. I’m surprised no one caught that– Well… one person did though.’ Then she waved her phone as if saying it was her. Then she did a total 180 when Alya stepped in to comfort me. She’s malicious and devious. I didn’t want to dislike her but…”

“You don’t like liars,” his attention was directed dark street underneath, as if he was hoping that it would show him Lila’s reasoning why she would do that.

“She also threatened me a few months ago. When she turned into Chameleon. Do you remember that? I got fed up with her lies so I hid in the bathroom to chill out. She then followed me to continue lying saying that she doesn’t know why I don’t like her, saying that I’m jealous because I wasn’t able to sit next to– sigh..– saying that we shouldn’t fight over a boy and that she may be able to help me get close to him. That’s when I called her out on her lies. She then told me that she only says what people want to hear–”

“That’s technically lying.”

“That’s what I said. Then she threatened to turn all of my friends, including my crush against me if I didn’t side with her.” Chat stared at Marinette with wide eyes, his eyes furrowing, and he frowned deeply. He slammed his hand on the railing.

“That little– Have you told anyone?” Chat doesn’t remember Nino or Alya telling him about this.

“For some reason, everyone seems to believe her over me. Even if I tried to tell Alya and Nino, they wouldn’t believe me. They… They believe a strange girl over their friend–” Marinette’s shoulders fell and she glanced away. She clasped her hands together on the railing and began to fidget. “What did I do to make everyone mistrust me?” Adrien has not felt so betrayed in his life. His own best friend and Alya, Marinette’s best friend, not trusting Marinette, the girl who does so much for them– for everyone– only to be tossed aside like fodder?

“I trust you, Marinette,” Chat placed his hand on Marinette’s to calm her down. “I know my bugaboo wouldn’t lie about something like this. You have always been a trustworthy partner, and a caring friend. I don’t know what’s wrong with your friends, but I’m not mad at them. I’m just highly disappointed in them.” He’ll have to have a word with the both of them at some point over this, when this all blows over. He shouldn’t be saying anything though… He, as Adrien, has told Marinette to not do anything about Lila’s lies, thinking that hopefully her lies would come crashing on her. It’s only come to this.

“Thank you kitty, that– that really means a lot to me,” Marinette sniffled, moving her gaze up to the moon, shedding one little tear. Chat was moved by how stunning she looked under the moonlight. The blueness of her eyes were somehow enhanced, and her skin was radiant and smooth, her hair has dried now and it was slightly fluffy and it framed her face beautifully. She caught him staring at her, but he refused to move his eyes from hers. His handsome green eyes shone under the moonlight, and his golden hair almost glimmered. His skin looked smooth from what she could see, and the faint smile she gave him was dazzling, Marinette was slightly mesmerized. She felt little butterflies flutter in her stomach and a very faint blush brushed across her face as they unknowingly inched towards each other. Their lips were mere inches away when they both realized what was going on and quickly pulled away, stammering.

“I-I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to–”

“I-I’m the one who got close–”

They both faced away blushing, fidgeting and tapping their feet in ecstatic embarrassment.

“I-I’m sorry, I know you like someone and I shouldn’t have gotten close like that, you just look stunning under the moonlight and…” Chat cleared his throat and sheepishly glanced at Marinette, who gave him a bashful smile.

“Oh Chat. It’s not like he likes me anyway. So many other girls are after him, and well, as Chloe has said, I’m not worthy of him. Kagami is probably more worthy–”

“Wait, wait, Chloe said that?”

“Y-yeah.” Chat howled with laughter, doubling over holding his stomach.

“She’s really one to talk– Wait, Kagami…?”

“Yeah, she and Adrien seem to be spending a lot of time together, and it just seems like it’s a matter of time before they get together– Kitty, a-are you okay?” Chat stood stock still after hearing his name. The dots were finally connecting and Chat could only think about how Marinette said his name.

“I-I’m sorry, I’m,” Chat coughed “I’m processing this information. You like Adrien Agreste?” Marinette blushed at his name and looked away, nodding. “He’s a good guy, almost as handsome as me, possibly even more handsome.” Marinette giggled. His heart fluttered happily. He was desperately holding back his joy. His feet were threatening to jump and his heart was about to burst. She likes Adrien Agreste, Chat is Adrien Agreste.

“He’s dreamy, and kind, and has many talents, it’s no wonder many girls like him. Chloe, Kagami, Lila–”

“I don’t think he’d like Lila. Trust me, she really isn’t anyone to fawn over, especially if you’re in the picture,” Chat winked at her, causing her to gently hit his arm, blushing. He giggled gently and gave her a tight hug. “Everything will work out in the end. I promise.” He held her at arm’s length and held out his pinky, just like he did before he left earlier as Adrien. She gasped softly and she held his pinky with hers. She recognized the gesture, but didn’t connect the dots quite yet. “Let’s go to bed, we have tomorrow to face and we need to be well rested.” Marinette nodded and they both headed down into her room, Marinette securely locking the hatch and Chat Noir adding a pole for extra security. “Oh, before I go, please tell Alya and Nino about what Lila did. Please.They need to know.” Marinette stared with wide eye but she nodded.

“I’ll tell them tomorrow morning.” They bid each other good night and Chat quickly rushed to his bedroom to quickly transform back. He began to do a little excited dance as Plagg watched him.

“She likes me, Plagg!”

“What? Really? You?”

“Yes! Me as Adrien! Can you believe that?! Marinette likes me. Oh my god, and we almost kissed before that.” Adrien flopped down on the floor and began to roll around, covering his blushing face.

“Kid, you’re embarrassing me.”

“Sorry Plagg, I can’t help it! It’s just, who knew it would be so perfect like that?” He lay flat on his back on the floor and stared,smiling gleefully. “It’s almost like a dream.”

“Yeah, well, sorry to burst your bubble, but remember what you said earlier about you two dating?” Plagg, hovered over his face, and Adrien frowned.

“Yeah, thanks for spoiling that. Couldn’t you let me have one good thing after all of the crap that happened today?”

“Nope! Let’s go to sleep, I am exhausted.” Plagg flew towards  the bed and snuggled onto the pillow. Adrien rolled his eyes and he got up and switched off the lights, flopping onto the bed and he let sweet sweet sleep take over.

But sweet sweet sleep did not take over. The sudden thought of finding a new Ladybug suddenly took over his thoughts. He wondered who would be a good candidate for such an important position. Who does he know would make an exceptional Ladybug?

Chloe? No, she's not patient at all and can be very selfish at times. Besides, she's Queen Bee, she does not need any more powers.

Alya? Maybe. But she isn't as trustworthy as she likes to think she is. For goodness' sake, she doesn't believe her own best friend about Lila lying. How could he trust her to have his back in a battle?

Nathalie? She's his dad's assistant, he'd rather not.

That left Kagami.

Out of all of the girls he knows well, Kagami was the one who seems to be the more qualified candidate. She's sharp and her reflexes were precise. She doesn't let her emotions cloud her judgement and she can read movements, especially in fencing. She can be brash, but it's only a front, as she has shown a soft side to him as Adrien. How would she act towards him as Chat Noir? Maybe he can find out in some way before deciding.

Adrien stared at the ceiling, mulling over his options, blinking slowly as his tired eyes stung. Plagg was silently snoring beside his head and the rhythm of his breathing was lulling Adrien into sleep.

Adrien thought of Marinette as sweet sweet sleep finally took over.

I acknowledge that there is a lot of Marichat in this

Not sorry!

I am sorry if it a bit slow though.

Ack! I’m sorry it took a while because work (and block) but I finished the chapter!

YAY

Enjoy!

[justformyheroacademia]

A Disaster (In More Ways Than One)

based off of this post by @sparkingstoryinspiration | (check tags for tw’s!)

“I need you two down at the far end of Musutafu. Now.” Their teacher’s urgent tone instead of his typical monotone snapped both of the boys out of their playful bickering. “What’s happened, Aizawa?” Kirishima questioned, already out of his place on the dorm’s couch and moving towards the door. The exhausted teacher followed the two up to the floor their rooms were located, explaining the situation to the best of his ability.

A smaller town on the outskirts of their large city was at the epicenter of an earthquake. Despite it being contained within the town, it most likely wasn’t a villain attack, just nature being nature. Bakugo huffed as he snapped on his gauntlets. Of course this would happen while everyone else left. At least he didn’t have to this alone, he thought, sparing a glance at his bright-haired friend.

The pair made their way towards the disaster, deciding the Bakugo carrying Kirishima while blasting in the air would be quicker than catching a bus or cab. “Aizawa, where are you going?” The blond turned his head to see their teacher running towards the school. “He’s obviously getting more heroes, idiot. You expect them to trust two first-years to help an entire town after an earthquake? C’mon, you’re wasting time,” Bakugo responded for the pro. His friend mumbled something under his breath, something he couldn’t hear. As much as it irritated him, Bakugo didn’t press him, just grabbed him and took off towards the town in danger. They needed to get there as soon as possible.

“Fuck,” Kirishima let out a breath as they examined the town. And fuck was the only thought in Bakugo’s mind as well. Neither of them predicted it to be this bad, seeing as they didn’t even feel the ground move from the dorms. Buildings, once tall and proud parts of the infrastructure, now dwarfed to half their size and unnaturally slanted to the opposite side of the other. Debris of varying size and material covered the ground, leaving nothing but awkward footing for the two students to tread on. It split a major apartment complex in the center. Everything around them looked as if one wrong step and it would all collapse on top of them—especially the people. Parents hugged and consoled their children while other tried to clear an area for them. These people had no clue what they were doing, just imitating what they saw heroes do on television.

He rested his hand on top of Kirishima’s shoulder, “C’mon, we gotta help these people before any of them seriously hurt themselves.” The two launched into action instantaneously. Kirishima cleared an area and reassured the civilians, treating those who were injured, while Bakugo started looking for anyone trapped under rubble of in a collapsed building.

Before he could get far, he felt a hand grip his gauntlet. Before he could yell at the person responsible, a man with bandages around his head said, “Please, find my son! He was playing in the yard when the ‘quake happened. Please, please, find him!” The father pointed towards the caved in apartments. “He has a watch just like mine!” he flashed his bulky, silver watch, “I’ll do anything, just-just find my Aki, please, sir!” He choked out, emotion clogging his voice. “I will, just relax as you see the future number one do his job,” Bakugo responded, gesturing to Kirishima as he did so, who came over to treat his head injury again.

Without interruption this time, Bakugo set off towards the apartments the man gestured towards. He’ll find this kid, then check if anyone else is nearby, he thought as he quickened his pace. The unsteady rubble made rushing more difficult than he wanted. But the student got to the destroyed apartment complex, beginning his search. He started with a quick sweep, not bothering with checking inside but focusing outside. It must have been a nice play area before the earthquake, filled with playground equipment. He would’ve ruled over this place as a kid. The light-hearted thought then turned into a stone and sunk straight into his gut when his eyes laid upon the scene before him.

A mighty oak tree laid on the ground, debris from the broken apartment decorating the surrounding ground. Underneath the large branches stuck a little hand. It lay limp, barely able to reach the top of the branch, as if the human attached to it tried to escape. A striking flash blinded the boy for a moment. Upon focusing his eyes a bit more revealed the source—a bulky, silver watch, similar to another he just saw. Bakugo was frozen in place, stomach acid rising, legs shaking. He’d never seen this before, someone’s corpse. UA never prepared him for this.

He heard a soft “Bakugo! Aizawa’s team is here!” some ways away. He stayed staring. “Holy shit…” Kirishima’s voice came from beside him. A faint feeling on his shoulder—a hand, Kirishima’s hand—caused his side to move. He has to snap out of it, but he can’t. He knew this was reality, that sometimes people can’t be saved, but he was never told how to deal with it.

Another voice, the striking gruff voice from their homeroom teacher, came from his other side. “Bakugo, go meet up with Midoriya’s, I can deal with this.” It was barely above a buzz, but he obeyed anyway, following Kirishima—still holding onto him—towards the sound of more voices. Not even the stumbling caused by the uneven ground could ground Bakugo to reality. He was stuck.

No one said anything to him—at least, he thinks no one did—as they arrive. A soft fabric wrapping around his shoulders shocks him for a moment. Bakugo can only focus for a second, but he sees something infuriating. It was a large, fluffy, grey blanket being wrapped around his shoulders. He ripped it off and face the culprit. “Why the hell do you think I need this goddamn shock blanket?” he yelled and thrust the blanket back at Uraraka. She began stuttering some shitty excuse. He didn’t need this, he screamed in his mind. Just as he was about to yell more at the girl, he caught Aizawa out of his peripheral. His teacher was crouched near the man he spoken to earlier, not long after, the father broke into sobs, hiding his head in his hands.

“It wasn’t your fault, Kacchan.”

“If only I were faster,” he whispered, voice tense with unspoken emotion, as he turned away from the peers trying to comfort him, “then that kid would be over there.”

With fists clenched in self-loathing, Bakugo announced “I’m going to look for more people over there,” before leaving the group, hoping his presence wouldn’t cause more death. He heard Kirishima call after him, but it fell on deaf ears.

Aizawa, after consoling the grieving father, turned towards the support group to see Bakugo leave. As much as he wanted to tell him to stop and process everything that just happened, he understood the feeling. The pro sighed, wishing Hizashi or All Might were here. He was shit at all this emotional stuff, barely understanding it for himself. Why couldn’t have he gotten here sooner? If he did, what would’ve changed? Maybe he would’ve found the kid, dead or alive, instead of his student.

The teacher stopped thinking about it, opting to focus on saving lives and pushing everything back, saving it for when he was up at five-in-the-morning again.

Overall, the mission was successful. Everyone’s injuries were treated, and the heroes moved them to a shelter within Musutafu. Only a single life lost. In the overall scheme of things, it was successful, but it didn’t feel that way to Bakugo. The teen who usually went to bed early now stayed up, staring holes into the ceiling, just thinking. The feelings he felt upon discovering the kid, images of the wailing father, discovering the corpse trapped—everything about that day.

He wants to tell his mind to shut up and stop tormenting him, but he deserves it. He shouldn’t have been so slow. This is his punishment for not being good enough. So he cries every night, thinking about the kid he failed, about how he doesn’t deserve to be number one.

[avi-stella]

Hero in the Night | Nyx Ulric x Reader

RATING: Teen | GENRE: Slice of Life/Fluff | WORD COUNT: 1,730 SUMMARY: You meet a hero after a near death experience at night.

Nyx Ulric was your hero. Quite literally, too. The Glaive had just finished up with his work, tired and eager to just head on home and allow his mattress to swallow him and his aching muscles whole. Night had already fallen, and the streets were mostly empty save for a few people finishing their shifts or just hanging around to have the only kind of fun available in these late hours.

Nyx's body was heavy, his feet dragging along the sidewalk as he struggled to keep his eyes open just until he reached the comfort of his home. His attention briefly fell to your figure that approached his, your eyes glued to your shoes as you walked in the opposite direction of him. Nyx had moved off a bit more to the side to give you the space to pass without bumping into each other.

And really, that should have been just that. You were nothing more than just some stranger the young man passed by on the street. Ordinary. Not even really worth sparing a second glance or pause. No sudden sparks or "love at first sight" or anything like that. You were just any regular civilian that should have been nothing more than a mundane blur on the street in just another typical day. You were no one important to the Glaive, and he was no one important to you. ...Not yet, at least.

The two of you passed by each other on the street without thinking much of it. Nyx continued on his way when he noticed a car that was driving awfully recklessly. His eyes widened in realization of the oncoming possible threat, and suddenly, all his fatigue momentarily left him as he became much more alert and awake. Thankfully, there was nobody else around to be caught in this danger except...

Nyx swirled his head around, remembering that he did pass by someone just a few moments ago. You were within his sight, your attention still on the ground below you that you didn't realize the car on the road that swerved and headed straight towards you.

"Watch out!" Nyx yelled a warning towards you at the same time instincts managed to take over his feet so that he could run towards your unsuspecting form.

Before you even had time to react, your body was suddenly enveloped in something warm and hard before being carried off to the side and crashing down onto the pavement. Your eyes clenched shut, wincing at the pain that shot through you at the impact, but then you realized that the pain wasn't as sharp as you would have expected from colliding with the cold ground.

A deep groan sounded beneath you, and you realized that you were on top of whom you figured to be your saviour, his arms wrapped tightly around you and taking the brunt of the fall. "Are you alright?" He asked you, choosing to ignore his own pain for now and put your well-being first.

Baffled yet touched by his kindness, you nodded slowly. Satisfied with your response, the man let go of you, and you shakily stood up while offering your hand out to your hero. He graciously accepted it and stood up, brushing himself off before inspecting the car that crashed into one of the street poles. The door opened, and out stumbled a very drunk young woman.

The authorities arrived soon afterwards, no doubt a resident in one of the nearby buildings calling them after hearing the commotion, and after taking your statements and all that other fun stuff, you were given permission to go home.

Nyx was prepared to resume his journey back home, but seeing how visibly shaken you still were from your near-death experience, he put aside his own wants for now. "Would you like some company to walk you back home?" He offered.

You glanced up towards him, hesitating on your response despite the simple question. Chewing at the corner of your bottom lip, you furrowed your brows and nodded. "Y-Yes, thank you..."

The atmosphere between the both of you was awfully tense and awkward. Nyx walked beside you, keeping a respectable distance from you while matching your pace. The Glaive stole a glance your way, your head bowed low and focusing on the ground. Nyx found your behaviour strange at first; it felt as though you were making a conscious effort to avoid any sort of accidental eye contact with anyone.

Clearing his throat to break the silence, the man introduced himself. "I'm Nyx, by the way. Nyx Ulric."

You gave a small flinch at the sound of his voice, surprised that he even started talking to you. Knowing it would be rude to ignore him, you forced yourself to meet his gaze for a second as you muttered out your name in return.

Before Nyx could respond, you turned your attention back to your shoes as awkwardness settled into the space between the two of you once more. "That's a nice name," he commented after a pause, hoping it would help start up a conversation.

"Thank you," you answered before falling quiet once more. Nyx gave a defeated smile and small shrug of his shoulders while you winced at your own inability to maintain a conversation. "I'm sorry," you said suddenly, surprising the man. He glanced towards you and noted the way you fiddled with the ring on your finger as you continued, "I'm not...really that good at...talking with people..."

Seeing how much you were beating yourself up over this, Nyx replied with a light and easygoing tone, "That's okay. People tell me I talk more about myself than I listen."

"I wouldn't be surprised if that was true," you said before realizing that perhaps that was a bit rude. You hurriedly tried to correct yourself, "I mean—"

You were cut off by Nyx's bark of laughter. "It is the truth," he acknowledged, and you slowly found your previous tension easing away.

Nyx really helped in making you feel comfortable around him, and the more comfortable you got, the more the two of you talked with each other about the most mundane of things and just getting to know each other in general. "So, what's a pretty lady like you doing all by her lonesome on the streets in the middle of the night?"

Your steps faltered at the realization that your hero called you "pretty", and you almost fell down before quickly regaining yourself, your cheeks extremely flushed from embarrassment. You cleared your throat. "I was just heading home after a night out with a few of my friends." Nyx hummed in response, and you returned the question. "And you?"

"Just got off work and was ready to go back home and sleep," he answered.

"Oh... Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry!" You apologized abruptly, confusing the male. "If I had known..."

Finally understanding what you were apologizing for, Nyx shook his head and flashed you a reassuring smile. "It's fine, it's not your fault! I was the one who offered to walk you home anyways."

Still feeling slightly guilty, you decided to change the subject. "What do you work as?"

Nyx blinked in surprise for a moment. He figured that you would have recognized his uniform he was donning, but apparently not. Well, not like it mattered. "I'm part of the Kingsglaive," he answered, sounding neither proud or upset. Just stating a fact and nothing more.

"You're a soldier..." you thought out loud. "I guess that makes sense."

"Hm?" Nyx made a questioning sound, tilting his head to the side as he gazed at you curiously.

"It's nothing," you said. "It's just...this kind of air you give off. Like you've seen lots of things us civilians don't usually see."

The Glaive fell silent after that, at a loss for words. Thankfully, before any kind of solemn awkwardness can sweep in, the two of you arrived at your destination. You walked up to your doorstep and hesitated. After a few agonizing seconds of internal debate, you bit down at your bottom lip and rummaged through your bag. Nyx assumed that you were looking for your keys, but what you took out instead was a small sheet of paper and a pen.

You scribbled something on the paper before handing it over to Nyx. The Glaive took it with slight confusion etched on his features before glancing down and being met with a string of numbers. He tried to search for words but for some reason ended up empty handed, looking back up at you with an expression you couldn't quite read.

"I want to thank you properly for saving me. I can treat you to maybe some coffee? I know a really good café—oh, unless you're not really into that, but still. It doesn't have to be coffee, but I would like to thank you somehow, and oh Six, I'm rambling..." You trailed off for a moment and buried your face into your hands, trying to catch your breath again. Nyx couldn't help but chuckle in amusement.

After regaining yourself, you brought your hands down and started again, "You can text me at any time if you'd like to take me up on my offer to treat you to something nice."

"Sure thing," Nyx grinned, a fluttery feeling settling in his heart. "I appreciate it."

Hoping to save yourself from any further embarrassment, you gave a curt nod and turned sharply on your heel and back to your door. Before heading inside, however, you spared one more glance behind you, your eyes widening in surprise when you saw that Nyx was still standing there and looking at you.

"Thank you again," you bade your farewell. "Good night...my hero."

Now it was Nyx's turn to be surprised. He was used to being called a hero, but hearing it from your lips was different. It made his heart pound against his ribcage and drew a smile to his lips. By the time he composed himself, you were already gone and inside your home. The man stared at your door for a few more moments before grinning like an idiot to himself, tucking into his pocket the sheet of paper you had given him with your number as he walked all the way back home feeling quite a bit more revujinated than before.

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