#Attempting to write

[mika-chaos-bean]

So I was writing a thing.

A Yo-Kai Watch fanfic.

Under the cut because is long

pls reblog this so others can see it! i worked very hard on it!

(edit: YES i liked my own post.)

Prolouge

The forest of Mount Wildwood was quiet, the full moon casting a glow on the wet rocks near the river. A distant owl hoots, the sound echoing softly through the night. A cicada chirps softly. Hey, wait a sec, that's not a cicada...

It's a Cadin!

Cadin is a yo-kai of the Charming Tribe. What's a yo-kai you ask? It's a mischievious spirit, of course. People usually don't see yo-kai without a watch, but there are sometimes exceptions. Cadin hops towards a nearby log, where another yo-kai was sitting. That yo-kai was Ushio.

“Any luck, dear friend?” Cadin asks. Ushio sighs, shaking her head. “No luck. I can't find it anywhere. Perhaps a Peckpocket took it, or somethin'...” she looks at the ground, upset. Cadin pats her shoulder reassuringly, “Thou mustn't be so down. I am sure we shall find thine talisman.” he says. Ushio smiles halfheartedly at him. “...That talisman is more than just some sorta decoration, it's... it's the only thing I have left from my human life. If I lose it forever, I... I dunno what I'd do.” she says. “I'd lose sight of what I once was, and... well, it'd be a pretty big deal is all I'm saying. I'd do anything to find it. I'd even fight the strongest yo-kai out there.”

Cadin nods, looking at the river. “Thy bravery amazes me, Ushio. Thou art more courageous than a Blazion.” he says. Ushio chuckles, “Hah, I've endured a lot as of late. Fighting boss yo-kai sounds like an easy task. But I bet once I actually face it, I'd die in mere seconds. I am still... really weak, for an A rank yo-kai.”

“Thou shouldn't underestimate thyself. Thine full strength is yet to be found.” Cadin says, his wings fluttering behind him. Ushio stays silent for a second, contemplating what Cadin said. She nods, looking into the river. “I guess you're right... thanks, Cadin.” she looks up at the moon, which was high in the sky. “We better turn in for the night. We can find the talisman tomorrow. We should get some sleep...” she gets up from the log.

Cadin nods in agreement, hopping up on a nearby branch, saying, “Very well. Until we meet again, Ushio!” He then disappears into a cloud of smoke, teleporting away.

“...I'll see you around, Cadin.” Ushio sighs, walking through the bushes, toward the Mount Wildwood Shrine. She had one last thing to do before going to bed.

She stops at the small pond of koi fish near the shrine, sitting in front of it. Ushio... wasn't a fan of water, and yet she was good at controlling it. It annoyed her that she didn't get an attribute she wanted when she became a Yo-Kai, but oh well, water attribute was given to her anyway. Ushio takes a deep breath, and exhales. “I'll be able to find it. I'm sure I will.” she gets up, fading into her human disguise, and going to her home in Uptown Springdale. She sneaks into the house, not wanting her (adoptive) parents to find out she'd been sneaking around outside.

She makes her way upstairs, and lays down in her bed. “What a day this has been. I wonder if I'll ever find it.” she mumbles, before falling asleep.

Chapter one: Befriended

Ushio, in her Yo-Kai form, was sitting on a park bench, observing others at play in the field. There was a lot of emotions Ushio was feeling at once. Confusion, sadness, amusement... all at the same time. Times sure have changed since when she was human. When she was young, the way of playing would be joining with a few friends and play fighting. In the times of now, people would kick a ball, and call it fun? Ushio never understood the modern human ways.

“This ball game confuses me. What is the point of kicking the ball? It did nothing wrong. This is injustice!” Ushio grumbles.

“It's called kick-ball, Ushio.” someone with a British accent says. Ushio facepalms, knowing exactly who it is. “...Hey, Whisper. What is it, now?” she hisses. “I have a feeling that a big Yo-Kai might be around here!” Whisper says.

“Whisper, wait up!” a more scrawny-ish voice coming from afar yells. Ushio jumps, “w-who is that?!” she asks. “I never introduced you to Nate, have I, Ushio?” Whisper says. Ushio sighs, shaking her head. A child runs up to them. He's slightly shorter than Ushio, and a red cat Yo-Kai is following from behind him. “Whisper, don't leave us behind like tha-... W-Whisper, what Yo-Kai is that?” Nate points to Ushio. Ushio growls in response, “Hey, pointing at others is rude! Watch where you point, human.”

“Nate, this is Ushio! She is a Yo-Kai of the Mysterious Tribe, with a water attribute!” Whisper says, almost excitedly. Ushio doesn't say anything, but her eyes narrow and extends her hand to Nate for a handshake.

After they shook hands, the red cat Yo-Kai jumps in. “And I'm Jibanyan, nyan!” he says in a high-pitched tone. Nate sighs, “Let's just focus on the huge aura coming from right there!” he gestures to the front of the school. Ushio nods, “I agree with the human.”

Nate looks through the lenses of his Yo-Kai Watch, and then he sees a giant lizard Yo-Kai. Slimamander.

On the Yo-Kai, was a blue Talisman. Ushio recognized it immediately. “Hey! It's got my talisman!” she growls, stepping foreward. “W-Wait, Ushio, you can't face him head on!” Whisper yells. “We'll help you, nyan!” Jibanyan says. Nate facepalms, “Why does this always happen to us... okay, fine, we'll help!” he says.

Ushio jumps at Slimamander, trying to land a hit, but it was covered in slime, so all the attacks bounced right off. “Hmph. I underestimated you.” Ushio grunts, throwing a bullet of water at its closed eye. The eye opens.

“That's it's weak spot! We need to hit it's eye!” Nate says, grabbing a medal and putting it in the Yo-Kai Watch. “Come on out, my friend! Calling Cadin!”

Ushio's eyes go wide. Cadin already had befriended Nate? “Wait- Cadin?” she stops fighting, and ended up getting hit by Slimamander's attack.

Ushio got knocked back, slowly getting up. “...It's strong... but not strong... enough...!” she hisses. “Ushio, wait, you need to heal!” Whisper says. Ushio couldn't hear him, and kept on throwing a flurry of attacks at Slimamander's eye. Cadin joined in too. “Thine fighting is admirable, Ushio. But thou must rest at some point!” he says. Ushio looked at Cadin, “I will, but I'm not stopping until I get my talisman back!” she says.

“PAWS OF FURY!!!” Jibanyan yells, hitting Slimamander's eye with his quick paws. Ushio looks at him in awe. “Okay, that was cool.” she says, quietly. Slimamander then closed it's eye again. “Ah, you're joking!! We have to open its eye again?!” Ushio growls. “Stay focused Ushio!” Cadin calls. “Right, right, yes, I know...” Ushio mutters, landing a waterfall attack on Slimamander. It does nothing to lower its HP, but it'll get it to open its eye quicker.

After a few more attacks, its middle eye opens to reveal... a tongue? “Wh- It's eye was there last time!!” Ushio says, looking mildly concerned. “Ah-ha! Yes, Slimamander can switch its eye and two tongues around! Only its eye is it's weak point though!” Whisper yells.

“Why are you named 'Whisper' if you are so loud?” Ushio asks, annoyed. Whisper looks at her angrily, before turning away, not answering the question.

Soon enough, they found which head Slimamander's eye was in, and they (supposedly) defeated it. Whisper flies in a circle excitedly “That was too close! I bet that you wouldn't have won without MY help-”

“Whisper, you didn't even give a lot of advice.” Nate grumbles. “HEY BE NICE TO ME I'M YOUR YO-KAI BUTLER!” Whisper yells. Ushio looks at both of them in amusement. “You guys are funny. Here. Take this, Nate. And don't you dare lose it.” she says, giving Nate her Yo-Kai Medal. “Oh, cool! Thanks! I guess this means we're friends now?” Nate asks. “I wouldn't have given it to you if we weren't.” Ushio answers. Nate smiles, “Thanks Ushio, for helping us out. We do have to be going though. Seeya!” he takes his leave, waving at Ushio. Ushio smiles in return and waves back, “Until next time, Nate.”

Now, Ushio was alone again. Slimamander was still lying there, seemingly dead. Ushio looks at the fell Yo-Kai, realizing it was still breathing. Ushio lets out a sigh of relief. “Good, it isn't dead.”

Slimamander then woke up, preparing a fire attack to throw at Ushio.

Ushio freezes. She felt rooted to the spot. Like she couldn't move. “Welp, this is it.” she sighs. Just as the fire was about to hit her, something, or someone, appeared in front of her, sheilding them both from the attack. Ushio couldn't see who it was, but the figure had an azure blue scarf that looked like two dragons.

The figure attacked Slimamander, and Slimamander fell down, and teleported away. The figure turns to Ushio, their golden eyes watching her with... some sort of emotion in them. They step closer, showing themselves a bit more. They looked... human. But too much aura to be a human. They were a Yo-Kai, like Ushio.

“You... saved me?” Ushio seemed grateful and confused at the same time. “Yes, well... I'm not in the government. So don't expect another bailout next time. Farewell, Ushio.” the Yo-Kai says, and then he disappears. Ushio stood there, confused even more. “How did he know my name? Why did he save me? Who WAS that?” she questions. She looks around. Seeing the seals have been fixed, and there was no more trouble in the area, Ushio retreated back to Mount Wildwood.

End of chapter.

Can yall guess who that Yo-Kai was?

[cal-the-imp-artist]

BOOM

DOODLES OF MY NOVEL

ENJOY

[sparksinger]

gonna try and write a thing in one sitting

'try' being the operative word here.

my mood is marginally better than it was when i last checked in. i have been taking the sertraline as prescribed and the side effects so far have been minimal. tomorrow i go up to 100mg for a week, so we'll see how that goes.

anyway, i'm going to try and write a very short (like only a few thousand words or so) oneshot for 'love just is.' it popped into my head last week and my head only now feels clear enough of that weird foggy feeling to try and get it down.

well, we'll see how this goes.

wish me luck.

[strange-ever-consuming]

Writing more TGTF stuff, this is setup as I am too tired to horny, read at your own peril because I really am a terrible writer. I did try to start with a nonbinary amab person in this one, but idfk.

Charlie considered themselves a pretty bog-standard weirdo. Their friends loudly disagreed, but Charlie knew better. They spent a lot of time on virus-ridden corners of the internet, paging through miles and miles of bs claims to find something real.

After all, Charlie had a fascination with the idea of skinsuits. They weren't sure if it was a disguise or imposter kink- Damn the creator of the Broome catalogue for making that a meme for the world's most well disguised fetish, but it didn't seem to fit them either. They didn’t want to be anyone but themselves, but well. There was a fascination in the idea of a female version you could just.. take off, like a shirt. They had tried to explain to a couple of people before, but it had been met with confusion. So, instead, Charlie scoured the internet for some kind of solution, magic or otherwise, that might appear before them.

It was a particularly late night when they stumbled on a defunct site from 2003. not even http protected. But at the top of the site was a banner: “If you're looking for our services, this site is down, but you can call or text at (tsf)-TgTf-TfTg. with nothing better to do.. Charlie picked up their burner they kept for bad ideas like this and called.

A groggy man's voice on the other end answered. “Hello..? Who is this? How did you get this number?” Charlie took a breath, feeling their nerves grow. If the number had changed.. it'd been over 20 years since the site had been touched, after all. “My name is Charlie. I found your website, I.. I would like to place an order, if you still do those.” There was a sharp intake of breath on the other end of the phone at the mention of the website, but once charlie finished speaking, chuckling came from the speaker. “You seem like a nice kid. How long have you been looking for transformation stuff?” Charlie rolled their eyes. “About 5 years, but you guys are the first ones that gave the.. shoot, what's the word I wanna use. Genre, that's good. The genre I wanted.” The voice over the speaker shifted- Not just in seriousness, but it somehow lost it's gruff edge, lilting upwards slightly. “You're not looking to try and possess someone, are you?” Charlie winced. That was the drawback a lot of fiction added to skinsuits. They had just hoped it wasn't applicable to real life, if it was even possible. “Uhm, No. I just wanted a afab version of, well.. Myself.” Charlie could practically hear the smile over the phone, the tone shifting once again to something Charlie couldn't explain. It was as if a choir was talking in perfect sync. “Good! Now, charlie.. You woke me up. I'm tired. I will call you back in let's say.. 5 hours? Be good and wait for me until then, won't you?” click.

Charlie sputtered at their burner. That was- Well. They did wake.. whatever it was up. Maybe a nap was in order for them, too.

[celestialgunfireopera]

I want to write something that sticks with people. Characters that people connect with and stories they can’t stop talking about. I want to tell stories that help people the way stories helped me.

BUT

That requires like… actually writing. And there are no words in my brain box right now.

I return to reading fanfic and screeching at the sky.

[shu-box-puns]

Working on polishing up part 2 of ‘I wouldn’t have given you to them; not for anything’ and UMMMMM, might need to increase the number of chapters! Damn this thing is beginning to look CHONKY!

[cityelf]

this poem is about being nonbinary.

[thoughtfulfangirling]

I hate how I can write a whole scenario out in my head while I'm trying to go to sleep, but prop me in front of my computer and a blank page, and I just can't make it flow like last night. It's not even something like not being able to keep up. I remember most the beats of what I want to do, but not all the little moments that got me there. UGH

[artsymeeshee]

The magic 8-ball

[mika-chaos-bean]

Yo-Kai Watch fanfic that I still don't have a name for. Chapter 2!

@princessbunnyzelda @quinnwolfess

Under the cut because is long

(EDIT FROM 5/24/2025: ALL THIS IS NOT CANON NOW! Along with the first chapter)

Chapter two: Meeting

Ushio was sitting by Catfish Pond, staring into the water, watching as the fish swirled around. Part of them were at ease. The other, seemed to be more... annoyed. They were wracking their brain for answers on who that Yo-Kai was, or why he was still on their mind. Ushio was... new to all this, to say the least.

She was so deep in thought, she didn't realize another, small, more frail looking yo-kai behind her. “E-Excuse me. H-Hello?” it calls out. Ushio jumped. “Who's there!? Show yourself, beast!” they growl, looking around, expecting some big monster yo-kai to appear out of thin air.

“U-Um, down here.” the small yo-kai says. Ushio looks down, and sees a blue dog yo-kai. It looked freezing cold. “..Oh. Hello, little one. Are you cold? It seems to be pretty cold today.” Ushio murmurs. “I-I'm... Pupsicle... I'm always cold.” the small yo-kai replies. Ushio nods, understandingly. “Ah, yes... can you bear being cold like that? It would seem pretty annoying to be that cold all the time, to me, at least.” she says.

“Y-Yes, I can bear it... I uh, just wanted t-to ask you if you could... l-leave? You're c-c-creeping me out...!” Pupsicle says. Ushio gets up quickly, hovering in the air. “Y-Yes, sorry for bothering you!” they say, before flying away. Pupsicle lets out a sigh of relief.

Ushio looks for another place to think, and everywhere else seemed loud, and annoying. So they settled by the large tree, where the Crank-A-Kai was. They sit down under the tree, deep in thought again.

“So we meet again.”

Ushio jumps, facing the one responsible for the interruption. It was that yo-kai again. The one who saved her the day before. This time, Ushio got to see what he looked like a bit more. He had long, dark teal hair, a purple kimono and a black overcoat, and he wore sandals. The dragons on his azure blue scarf seemed to be... somewhat alive? They didn't seem hostile though..

And the Yo-kai had piecring yellow eyes, that seemed to be staring straight into Ushio's soul. He was definitely intimidating, but something about him made Ushio's heart skip a beat, and she didn't know why.

“...I-It's... you again.” Ushio mumbles, looking surprised, and a little frightened. The yo-kai looks back at them, his eyes narrowing. “There is no need to feel frightened. I am only here in search of a strong yo-kai. His name is Rubeus J.” the yo-kai says, his voice sounding a bit growly when he says the name of the yo-kai. “Can you describe Rubeus J to me? Perhaps I could be of assistance.” Ushio says, wanting to at least help a bit. “... Rubeus J is the manifestation of a dead beast. His body is as red as blood. His ear was scarred in battle, and is missing a chunk. His anger towards iron beasts still beats strong.” the yo-kai replies. “...Sounds a lot like something I've seen before.” Ushio replies. “I will keep an eye out. By the way, if you do not mind me asking, what is your name?”

“My name is Venoct.” the yo-kai replies. “Venoct...” Ushio mutters, “Hm. Well, how did you know my name even if we haven't met before? And why did you save me?” she asks. Venoct pauses, taking a moment to put what he wanted to say into words. “Somehow, I remember you from my human life. You look almost just like her.” he says, his voice shaking a very small bit. “...What was her name?” Ushio asks.

“Her name was Aika.” Venoct replies. “She was a... childhood friend of mine. She... did not live long. I wish I could have protected her from her tragic end. But there was nothing else I could do.” his voice is deep with grief, his stoic facade cracking veeery slightly. Ushio frowns, feeling sympathy for Venoct. “I see. I am... sorry that happened.” she replies. “Do you know what your name was when you were a human?” she asks. “No... but somehow I remember hers...” Venoct murmurs, “I must leave now. I need to find Rubeus J. Farewell!” he then runs into the forest, surprisingly quickly.

Ushio stood there, mumbling something incoherant, before getting up, and walking back to Springdale. She had something to do. She looked around, in search for Nate. Then she found him.

“Hey, Ushio! Look!” Nate calls, gesturing to a Tattletell that was next to him. Tattletell is a Yo-kai of the Mysterious Tribe. Each Yo-kai belong to a tribe. Jibanyan is in the Charming Tribe, Ushio is in the Mysterious Tribe, and so on.

Ushio takes a step back, keeping her guard up. “Whoa, there!” they yip. Tattletell steps closer to Ushio, seemingly enjoying making the stronger Yo-kai scared of it. “Tell tell!”

Ushio takes another step back, her eyes glowing a bit. “Uhh, Tattletell? I think Ushio is getting a bit uncomfortable.” Nate mutters to Tattletell. Tattletell grumbles and backs away. “Tell tell...”

Ushio sighs in relief, “Thanks, Nate. Sorry, I uh, I'm still working on meeting new people. Especially if they're... small, and gremlin-like. No offense, Tattletell.” she chuckles.

Later that day, Ushio decided she'd go walk by the ocean. She was a little bit scared of the ocean, due to her cause of death, but she'd learned to not be so scared. Staring off into the ocean... it was something she did to clear her mind. If she had something on her mind, she'd just stare into the ocean until she forgot it. It always worked. But not this time. She still had so much on her mind. This was the only time it didn't work.

Ushio growls to themself, lifting a large amount of water and then splashing it back down into the ocean, causing people to gather around where the water splashed. “Whoa, what was that?” “Was it a fish?” “It was so close to land!” the people said, scared and amazed. Ushio, being a Yo-Kai, could not be seen by any of the humans, but she still felt overwhelmed. There were just too many faces, Ushio couldn't handle it. So she flew out of there, landing on a nearby building.

“So that was you?”

Ushio immediately recognized who it was.

She turned around to see her small cicada friend. “Oh, hey, Cadin! Yeah, that... that was me. I know I'm not supposed to use my power for no reason, but I was bored...” Ushio says. “I have told you, thine full strength is yet to be found. Thou must wait until you know what you are doing.” Cadin says. Ushio nods, “Apologies.” they mumble. Cadin's wings flutter behind him, “Apology accepted. As much as I would like to stay and talk, I must be off. Until we cross paths again, Ushio!” Cadin replies, before disappearing in a cloud of smoke. “Seeya, Cadin.” Ushio says.

“Venoct... I need to know more about him.”

End of second chapter.

BOY, i sure did have a lot of fun writing Venoct. Any guesses on what'll happen next? And if yall have any ideas for what I should call the book, PLEASE give me ideas because i am STUMPED lol

Also I just wanna say Ushio is a demigirl like me so I used she/her and they/them for their pronouns.

[swiftielouie55]

I need critical advice (idk if that is correct)

Hello people of tumblr lol. I've been writing some different things like mini stories, but I am just not sure they are good or even decent.

So... I was hoping that someone around here could give me some pointers on what to improve or if I should try a different approach.

Although I have always been very afraid of posting anything online related to what I like to do, I think I find myself in the perfect time to start posting my writing or ideas on here so I can get feedback from strangers and not feel so judged I guess, lol idk.

This is a very tiny idea I had, but I don't feel too confident about it and I am confused on how to continue. Just please be kind, I'm only trying to get better at writing.

"There I was, standing in a corner of the library, completely alone because my friends don’t have a free period, until she comes walking towards me and I freeze. 

– Hey, I saw you from over there and I just wanted to say that I love your hair – the girl said. 

– Oh, t-thank you... - I answered lamely grabbing a piece of my purple curly hair. 

– I’m Marlene, – she sat next to me at the table – and you are? 

– I’m Zoey.

– Nice to meet you, Zoey – she said, smiling the most beautiful grin I’ve ever seen, and with that look in her eyes I knew right away she would be the death of me."

So... yeah. If you can help me thank you so much, if not thank you anyways for taking your time to read the post.

Have a nice day :)

[madbard]

[loveless-arobee]

Its really infuriating how common it is to overstep, ignore and ridicule the boundaries of people who want non-romantic sex / sexual relationships. Yes, including if they’re alloromantic.

It doesn’t matter how open you are about your boundaries around romance and love; how often you repeat to whoever you fuck that you don’t want romance, that you won’t fall for them, etc., once they fall in love with you, you are the bad guy for not loving them back, for not wanting a romantic relationship, for not ~getting over your fear of commitment~

And when you point out how fucked up that is to people who’ll call themselves allies to aromantic people, often they’ll respond "well, they never said they were aromantic!" Cause like. Hot take i guess but alloromantic people don’t deserve to be forced into romantic relationships, either. If the only way you can accept someone not wanting a romantic relationship is if they’re aromantic, know they’re aromantic, and will out themself to you unprompted, you don’t actually accept that decision, like, at all. Because that person, yknow, could very well be aromantic and just they haven’t told anyone because they don’t want to, because it wouldn’t be safe, or even just because they don’t fucking know because aromanticism is still a very unknown thing.

And even if they’re not, this type of treatment is still incredibly fucked up in exactly the same way! Because guess what, alloromantic people can be romance repulsed, too! And it’s not something that needs to be fixed for them, either!!

It shouldn’t be so fucking normal for people to publicly boast about how they "tricked" or pressured or just straight-up forced their sexual partners into a romantic relationship and be celebrated for it as if that shit was even remotely funny. It’s disgusting.

[robbysreaders]

pairing: jack abbot x f!reader   word count: 2k and i have so many other ideas, lmk if you want more parts! notes: this one goes out to the nonny in my inbox when i asked for ideas! i kinda blended both your ex!reader and babydaddy!jack ideas! hope you enjoy!

You ended things amicably — as amicably as two people can when love’s still there but the capacity to hold it isn’t. Jack didn’t have space for you, your kid, his job, and his trauma. Something had to give.

But you co-parent well enough. There are bumps, but the rhythm is there.

Usually, handoffs are easy. He comes over, eats dinner with you both like old times, then wrangles Beau back to his place. But today’s different — off-cycle. You’re headed to the airport for a work trip, and Jack’s just wrapping up a shift, so you agree to meet at the hospital.

It feels strange walking in. You haven’t been back since the two of you ended things. There are plenty of familiar faces… and a few new ones.

The second Beau sees Jack, he’s wriggling out of your hand.

“Beau—no running in the ER—” you start, but he’s already barreling toward his dad.

“Oof, kiddo, remember we said soft hugs?” Jack laughs, catching him easily, hoisting him up into his arms.

Dana and Robby round the corner just then.

“Hey, look who it is!” Dana says, but Beau clams up, burying his face in Jack’s neck.

“Sorry, you know kids. He’s shy this early,” you say, brushing a hand down Beau’s back. “Be nice to Dana and Uncle Robby, baby.”

“It’s been so long since we’ve seen either of you around,” Dana says, pulling you into a quick hug. “I only get my Baby Beau fix from Instagram stories now.”

“Oh, I figured Jack would still be throwing his infamous backyard parties,” you say, trying to keep it light.

“Nope, those petered out. What’s it been—three years?” Robby glances at his watch, then at Jack with a pointed look.

It doesn’t take a genius to realize what he’s referencing.

Samira passes by next, lighting up at the sight of Beau. “Hi, Beau! Didn’t know I’d get to see you today!”

“Hi, ‘mira,” Beau murmurs, a soft smile still pressed into his dad’s shoulder.

“Sorry to interrupt, Jack—could I get your opinion on something before you head out?”

Jack looks around. You jump in before he has to juggle.

“I’ve got a few minutes. I can set him up in the lounge?”

Jack nods, grateful. “That would be amazing. It’ll just be a minute.”

As you head down the hallway, you catch a whisper from a pair of interns behind you.

“Damn, didn’t know Abbot married a hottie.”

Dana’s voice cuts in, dry: “Not married. She’s smart enough to not sign a contract with a guy who’s half in love with his job.”

You finish laying out Beau’s coloring book when Jack slips into the lounge, pouring himself a coffee, rubbing at one eye. That tired, end-of-shift look still gets you.

“You know, you could’ve told me you were d-a-t-i-n-g,” you say.

“Huh?” he blinks. “Want a cup?”

“I’m running late,” you wave him off. “And I don’t mind — I just think maybe we should tell each other when new stuff like that comes up. For his sake.”

Jack straightens, confused. “I have no idea what you're talking about. And you didn’t give me a heads up about Carl or Craig or whatever his name was.”

“Chris. And yeah, I should’ve told you. I did tell you, eventually. I’m working on being better about communication, and I’d hope you’d want the same.”

He sighs, then pulls you just outside the lounge, out of earshot.

“Okay, I don’t want to make you even later, but if we’re going to talk, then talk. Don’t allude to stuff — just say it.”

You exhale. “I thought maybe you and Samira were… seeing each other. From the way she spoke to Beau. And the looks from Dana and Robby—”

Jack actually laughs. “She’s 29. I’m her attending. We grab coffee, I mentor her. Sometimes when I have Beau, yeah. If that bothers you, I’ll keep it in mind. But I’m trying to be a good doctor. A good mentor. A good… whatever to you. And it still feels like I’m messing it all up. So just—don’t assume. Talk to me.”

You flush. “You’re right. I’m sorry. I’m just stressed.”

He twists a strand of your hair between his fingers, gently. “Y’know… would take a lot of stress off both of us if you moved back in. We could split the chores. Carpool. Coordinate pickups. Plus, I can think of a few stress relievers we used to be real good at…”

You swat his hand. “Okay, sure. Ha. Ha. I’m going to say bye to Beau. See you Saturday.”

On your way out, you pass Dana outside on her cigarette break.

“You know, a couple doctors I know say those things kill you.”

She exhales a laugh. “Not if this job kills me first. Life’s too short already to deprive yourself of the things — or people — you love.”

“Sure, Dana.”

“Any time, missy. And just so you know… he’s different. He’s been going through it, but he’s doing the work. Seeing that therapist. Doesn’t come in as much on his days off. There’s some… balance there now.”

“Sure, Dana. Bye, Dana.”

But the thought lingers.

Two days into your trip, you’re feeling a bit lonely. It always hits harder when Jack has him. You don’t usually FaceTime when they’re together — boundaries. But this feels like an exception.

you: how’s my boy? jack: i’m doing great. how’s my girl? you: 🙄 you: how’s Beaujack: see, you gotta be more direct. a man could get confused jack: he’s great. hit a double. got a popsicle. we’re watching transformers for the 80th time. classic boys night. you: bad time to try to facetime?

Incoming Call: Jack Abbot (ICE)

You swipe to answer, suddenly aware of the dark circles under your eyes, still in the hotel bed after a full day of networking.

“Mooooommyyyy!” Beau’s voice shrieks through the phone. “I did so good at baseball and then got a treat and Daddy made pasta and we’re gonna watch a movie!”

“That sounds amazing, baby! Are you having a good time?”

“The best! When do you come back?”

“Three sleeps.”

“And then we have Mommy and Daddy time?”

“Of course. You think about what you want to eat, okay? I’ll pick it up on the way.”

“Okay. And then we all sleep here?”

You pause. “No, baby. Remember? I sleep at my house, Daddy sleeps at his. You sleep at either.”

He gets quiet. Your chest aches.

“Alright, time for jammies and teeth. Go get ready, kiddo.” you hear shouted from the other room.

“Okay, bye Mom!” he says, dropping the phone.

Jack’s face replaces the ceiling. “I like hearing your voice in the living room again. Makes the house feel full.”

“Jack. You gotta stop.”

“Just saying. Beau’s not the only one who likes the sound of you here. My offer’s still on the table.”

You roll your eyes. “Sure, Jack. Hey… would it be okay if I called again Friday? I know we don’t usually, but… I miss him.”

“You’re never a bother. I could strap the iPad to my chest, have you join us for the whole day.”

You laugh. “God, Jack. You really know how to make a girl’s night better.”

“Oh baby, don’t I always.”

“Bye, Jack.” you roll your eyes, but you’re still smiling when you hang up.

--

The weather turned halfway through your drive from the airport, and between the stop for food and the hike from the only available parking spot, it feels like you swam the last block.

Jack opens the door barefoot, in joggers and a hoodie, towel slung over his shoulder.

“Hey,” you breathe.

“Hey,” he says, eyes flicking down to your drenched clothes. “Jesus.” He reaches instinctively for your bag, handing you the towel, hand brushing yours. “C’mon. Let’s get you warm.”

You step inside. Beau’s already wrapped around your legs before you can shrug off your coat. Jack disappears into the kitchen, already dishing out dinner.

“You don’t have to—”

“Just eat,” he says, setting a bowl in front of you. “You’re freezing.”

You sit. The food’s still warm, garlicky, comforting. You glance up at him. “You’ve gotten better at this.”

“Ordering takeout?” he teases, leaning against the counter.

You laugh, shaking your head. “No… this.” You wave a hand vaguely at the house — the toys in the living room, the quiet rhythm of it all. “The parenting. The life stuff. You don’t seem rattled anymore.”

He gives a half-shrug. “Had to be better.”

You eat in companionable silence while Beau chatters from his spot at the table, recapping his week in half-sentences and excited tangents.

“Mom, can I watch a show while you finish?”

“Dad’s house, dad’s rules,” you say, looking to Jack.

“Sure thing, kiddo. But grab your gifts for Mom first — then one episode.”

Beau vanishes.

“Gifts?” you ask, raising an eyebrow.

Jack shrugs like it’s nothing. “Just some stuff he made. He’s proud of it.”

The silence that follows stretches, not quite awkward, but thick with something unspoken.

Then Jack says, low and clear, “I miss you.”

You look up, startled. Heart catching in your chest.

“I know I don’t say it often. Or the right way. But I do. I miss you. Not just the idea of you being around — you.” He runs a hand through his hair. “I’ve been thinking about how it felt, before things got hard. And… how lately, it’s been feeling like that again. When you’re here.”

You put your fork down, gently. “Jack…”

“I’m not asking to go back. Or to pretend the last few years didn’t happen. I’m just wondering if maybe we could try something new. Something more intentional.” He gestures faintly in the direction of Beau’s room. “We’ve already rebuilt the foundation, haven’t we?”

You study him. The steadiness in his eyes. The quiet way he’s offering — not demanding.

Finally, you exhale. “I didn’t think I’d get another version of you.”

“I didn’t think I had another version to give,” he says softly.

“So… what are you saying, exactly?”

“I’m saying I want you back,” he murmurs. “In the way that counts. I want to build this life with you — not just pass each other in it.”

You reach up, cup his cheek. “That’s a really nice speech.”

“I practiced,” he grins.

“You’re still kind of an idiot.”

His smile widens. He brushes a damp strand of hair off your forehead. “I said I’ve grown, not become a completely new person.”

You let out a breath you hadn’t realized you’d been holding. “Okay. So how do we do this?”

“What?”

“I’m not just moving back in and jumping into bed with you, Jack. You still have a lot to prove.”

“Of course,” he says, straightening a bit. “I was thinking… maybe a family movie night tomorrow? Something easy.”

“Okay,” you nod. “I like the sound of that.”

“And if that goes well, maybe a grown-up movie night? I’ll wine and dine you. And we can make out in the back row like teenagers.”

You laugh, big and genuine. “I think I like the sound of that too.”

“God, I missed your laugh.”

The silence that settles then feels different. Full, not tense.

Then Jack says, almost too casually, “Oh — I’m switching to days.”

You blink. “Wait, what?”

“Robby and I talked. Figured I’d use this week off to reset my sleep schedule. I start the day shift officially tomorrow.”

Your jaw drops slightly. “Jack…”

“This isn’t about you. Well — a little. But it’s mostly about Beau. Nights just aren’t sustainable anymore, and I want a more stable schedule for him. It’s time.”

You reach up, fingers brushing the side of his hair. “Okay. But only if it’s right for you. I never wanted you to give up what you love.”

“I’m not giving up what I love,” he says, voice quiet but sure. “I did that three years ago. I’m just rearranging things now — so I don’t lose it again.”

You don’t answer with words.

You just kiss him. Soft. Certain.

And when Beau comes racing back in with a construction-paper-wrapped something clutched in his hands, he skids to a stop and grins.

“Are you guys kissing?”

Jack smirks against your forehead. “Yeah, bud. I think we might be.”

[myuuchii]

Love's Final Frontier (Chief Engineer O'Bailey/Head Botanist Winona) by RULERZREACHF4N

[cursedbycrossovers]

Help Wanted ≠ Send Sacrifices

Danny gripped his bangs in his fist, staring down at the paperwork before him with endless frustration and not a lick of comprehension.

Why was there so much paperwork, anyway? Pariah Dark hadn't exactly seemed like the type to keep records. Had he done this on purpose? As punishment to whomever wound up taking the throne from him? Danny had to admit, that sounded like a really devious plan. Unless the next ruler had been, like, The Secretary Ghost or something.

… that gave Danny an idea.

Clockwork had told him about this "Kingly Connection" thing he had yet to try out. Supposedly, it made it so that the king could address his subjects all at once, no matter where they may be. In case of an urgent announcement or Realms-threatening danger, or something.

To Danny, it sounded like a really efficient way to send out a 'Help Wanted' ad. Everyone would be able to hear it, and anyone who for some reason didn't could learn about it through word of mouth. Those who felt they were qualified could come see him at the Keep, and those who didn't could just continue on with whatever they'd been doing. It was the perfect plan.

Danny flopped back in his seat, relieved for the reprieve as he shut his tired eyes. He followed the pull, down, down, into his core… and then even further, til the light behind his eyes got brighter, til he reached the power of the KING.

Hey, everyone. This is your King speaking. I need like, a secretary or something. Someone who can help me handle literal millennia of paperwork. So, if y'all could come on down to the Keep, or pass the offer on to the smartest person you know, that'd be dope.

Danny felt as the power pulsed within his chest, sending his message out along the millions of tiny strings tying all Undead souls back to his. He sighed and slouched in his chair, exhaustion finally catching up to him. All he had to do now was wait. A little nap in the meantime couldn't hurt, could it?

— — —

Jason felt simultaneously floaty and more grounded than he had since his mysterious resurrection. All his anger and uncertainty was just gone, replaced by pure drive and direction. He wasn't thinking very deeply, but he knew what he was doing. It was like laying on the surface of a sunlit lake, letting the gentle waves take him wherever they wished.

The Red Hood finished the chalk circle in the middle of the wide, empty warehouse floor and stepped back. The lines and starbursts that decorated it were drawn immaculately, without a single smudge. Now, all he needed was…

… the smartest person you know…

… Where was Tim?