#Ellie just wants help to rescue her mom

[goggles-mcgee]

Phantom Fudge

I love the fics of Danny settling into Gotham and having some sort of business and just absolutely confusing the Batfam with how flippant he is about the crime.

My take is, instead of a coffee shop or bookstore or occult shop, Danny opens a fudge shop!

His parents taught him, and he found he actually really loved it, and besides, his dream of being an astronaut was out of reach due to his unique medical readings. In this au, his parents learned about him being Phantom and took it well after a good period of spiraling because-Holy shit they shot their son. You may be asking, Goggles, didn't you just make a post that was all about Jack and Maddie not taking the news well? Yes. Yes, I did.

I go back and forth with wanting to salt them and not. I like both.

So anyways, Danny is the heir to the Ghost Throne, but he won't actually take up the official title until his time on Earth is naturally over. After everything got better with his parents and his regular ghost fighting buddies, he actually was able to raise his grades and graduate. Many teachers were amazed at the progress but really, Danny may not have been as smart as his parents and sister (he is an unreliable narrator and is actually very smart just not as conventional as his family) but before his accident he had done pretty good in school. The GIW was still a thing, but without the Fenton technology, they weren't doing as well as they previously did. His parents broke their contract after they rescued him from the GIW labs, it was a little after he told his parents about his halfa status and they came storming in to save him and all the other ghosts that were captured. After that, life got so much better. His parents listened to him, and he got to teach them all about his people. They started publishing more papers with actually accurate information and were doing their best to overturn the anti-ecto acts. They haven't accomplished it, but Danny was sure they would.

That's actually why he moved to Gotham. Tucker had the idea of contacting the Justice League to help with the anti-ecto laws, but their calls weren't being answered. Neither were the...strongly worded emails Sam sent in. So Danny did what he did best and jumped into something not entirely thought out but hoping for the best. He moved to Gotham so he could get close to Batman and ask for help. He got accepted into Gotham University on a scholarship. But he wanted to make some money on his own without his parents sending him some kind of allowance, and he didn't want to work at Bat Burger. He started selling fudge around winter at his school, and he got permission to do so.

From there, he got enough money to actually open a small fudge cart. Then he got enough for a small shop near his apartment which was rather close to Crim Alley so he hired some working girls to help with the shop and he employed any Alley Kids looking for some cash as delivery workers. (They only delivered in Crime Alley, though, but that was fine with Danny.) Danny loved his little fudge shop that he lovingly named Phantom Fudge, and the sign had a cute little ghost eating some fudge on it. When he was in school for classes, he left the shop in his friend Ginger's hands. She had been a working girl before, but before that, she had had experience working a small mom & pop kind of shop, so Danny felt good leaving her in charge. When Ellie visited, she helped out with the shop too.

Danny was thriving. Then he started getting customers of the ecto variety because, of course, he would. Apparently, he was something of an ecto filter for the shades and ghost of Gotham, so they would visit his shop to soak up some of the pure ectoplasm in the air. Then he experimented and made some ecto-fudge, which is what he gave to any ecto beings that entered his shop. Most couldn't pay, but they would give him a heads up if they saw anything shady happening around his shop.

Like a little heads up that some robberies were happening in the area, or some rogue was getting close. It was a nice little system they had. Though some ghosts came in just to tell him their unfinished business and like...he wasn’t King yet, but these were his people, so he tried to help them out as best they could.

One particular couple showed up a lot and would ask him to help warn their son of any danger they heard was brewing. They would ask him to leave messages for the son or any of his kids but also the butler if needed. Danby thought this guy had some great parents. They didn't cross over because they needed to make sure their son was safe and taken care of. It was most likely that they wouldn't cross until their son did by the sounds of it. He got permission to call them Grandma and Grandpa, which was weird, but he didn't question it.

Martha and Thomas were nice spirits, so he had no problem helping them out. But Danny is Danny and his well-intentioned help of course caught the eye of the whole batfam.

They had been receiving letters in the Manor that appeared mysteriously. The first one they had all thought was a prank from the many people there. It was a simple, 'Don’t go to the gala. Something bad will happen.' That started it all. They were all baffled but laughed it off, and those who went to the gala didn't know how to feel when the seeming wait staff took over the event and held the guests hostage.

A coincidence surely.

Then they got another note, 'Freeze is planning to do a B&E and snatch some equipment from a Wayne lab. Idk which one since you have so many.' And just like last time, the note was speaking the truth. It continued from there, and everyone tried to capture whoever or whatever was leaving the notes, but any cameras they had glitched out before returning to normal and showing a new note had showed uo somewhere in the Manor. Bruce was going crazy trying to figure out who or what their messenger was.

Alfred once found a note that said, 'Tim has been awake and pushing himself too far. He is going to crash.' He took it to heart though and made Tim rest and take a break. He would not let the note happen. Tim had had far too many crashes the past couple of months.

The note that broke Bruce, though, was small in words, but it made him feel crazy. It was his parent's death anniversary, and when he went to visit the exact spot, he saw a sticky note on the floor. He shakily picked it up to see all it said was, 'It's okay.'

Now he is really worked up and determined to find the note messenger.

While that's going on, Danny also gets some local vigilantes visiting his shop, and he is so excited to see them and try and be their friend so he can ask for help. Plus they seem to be fans of his fudge and that just makes him happy.

The batkids thing the Phantom Fudge shop owner is suspicious, but hot damn did he make some bomb ass fudge.

[meetmypointlessaddiction]

Rescuing Ellie: Part One

This is the first chapter of a new series I'm hoping to start in which Ellie is fostered and then eventually adopted by the Miller family. I can't promise when updates will be but I'm hoping it won't be too long until the next one is posted, enjoy!

Warnings: mentions of trauma, Joel and Sarah being too cute, Ellie possibly being neurodivergent is touched on slightly, childhood trauma, I think that's everything, Sarah calls reader 'mom'

Words: 1,9k

Prompt: You, Joel and Sarah and made aware of Ellie’s existence as your little family prepares to add one more

Joel was pacing around the living room, Sarah sitting on the couch with a book in hand sharing a smirk with you. “Dad! Sit down. If they walk in and see you pacing like a mad man they’re gonna turn the opposite way. Relax.” Sarah told him sternly and he nodded, making you laugh. Sarah had always been able to make him do as he was told. 

“Is the bathroom clean? Did we vacuum the kitchen?” 

“Joel, baby. I love you but please shut the hell up. Everything is clean, everything is tidy but the house still looks homely and welcoming, ok? The social worker would be stupid to think that our home wasn’t good enough to bring another child into.” You said to him and he nodded, taking a seat next to Sarah and letting his arm extend around the back of the couch as she leant on his shoulder. 

“What book are you reading kiddo?” He asked and she smiled. 

“To Kill a Mockingbird. Miss Garcia recommended it so mom took me to get it from the library on Friday.” She explained and Joel shot you a small smile.

Sarah wasn’t your biological child but that never stopped the three of you from acting like a true family. You had met Joel in a bar when Sarah was just 4 and, after a few dates, you finally got to meet his little girl and the pair of you were on your honeymoon a year later. Giving birth had never been something you had wanted to do, stories from friends and family completely putting you off the idea, but Sarah was desperate for a sibling and you knew, deep down, that Joel would love to have another kid in the house.

A knock on the door had Joel shooting to his feet, almost falling into the table, as he walked to the door to let the woman. “Mr and Mrs Miller, it’s good to see you again. And I take it this is the Sarah I got to know so much about?” She asked with a cheeky smile and Sarah laughed. 

“Yeah my dad can get carried away with his bragging.” She said and Joel blushed, you squeezing his hand before he stepped aside to let the woman in. 

“Well, I’m sure you're aware of why I’m here. I’m Courtney, the social worker who’s been asked to come and have a look around, make sure everything is up to scratch and walk you through the next few steps.” She clarified and the three of you nodded, Joel gesturing for her to take a seat and then taking his seat back next to Sarah who was laying her book on the coffee table. 

“To Kill a Mockingbird? You like reading?” Courtney asked Sarah who nodded quickly. 

“I was always read bedtime stories from dad or my uncle Tommy when he lived with us and then mom would help me read the harder books because those too are hopeless when it comes to words with more than three syllables.” She teased and Courtney laughed while Joel looked at Sarah with faux offence while you snorted into your hand. 

“Well I can already tell that the three of you have a lovely dynamic going on. We’ve already discussed that it is your intention to foster a child and then adopt once the child is settled, correct?” She asked and Joel nodded. 

“We don’t think it’s fair for a kid to get used to living with us and then we just change our routine once another kid comes along, you know?” You said and she nodded. 

“Well, would you be able to show me around?” She asked and you nodded, Sarah opting to stay seated while you and Joel led her around your home. 

“That room at the back is mine and Joel’s, Sarah’s is on the left and then the room on the right is obviously the spare room. We’ve left it pretty plain so that we can decorate it to their tastes but the room design is their choice.” You explained and she nodded. 

“And you said you have two bathrooms?” She asked and Joel nodded. 

“There’s the ensuite in the master bedroom and then the bathroom on your left is the bathroom that Sarah uses.” Joel told her and she nodded with a bright smile. 

“It seems you’re all quite prepared for a new arrival. I believe there is someone in our system who would benefit greatly from being included in your family. If you’d like, I can set up a meeting for the pair of you to meet her and then another a few days later where you can bring Sarah along so the girls can get to know each other a little bit?” Courtney suggested and you and Joel both nodded quickly. 

“That’d be great.” 

“If we go and take a seat, I can go over some of her details and we’ll see what you think.” 

Sitting back on the couch, Courtney pulled out a folder and Sarah peeked over the book. “Someone that eager to come live with us?” She asked and Joel rolled his eyes, nudging her slightly. 

“Not when they find out you’re here.” He teased and she scoffed. 

“Your old man grunts when you get up off the couch would be enough to scare anyone away. Surprised mom didn’t escape when she could.” She threw back at him and you looked to both of them. 

“That’s enough with the pair of you, let’s listen to what Courtney can tell us about the girl ok?” You said and they both nodded, Joel smiling gently at you. 

“So, her name’s Ellie, she’s 10 and she’s pretty mature for her age. Became independent at a young age and is generally intelligent if that’s something that interests you. She does have slight trauma which can cause occasional nightmares and she can be generally nervous around new people but is fiercely protective once she gets to know someone.” Courtney said and Joel sat up straighter. 

“Sarah, you wanna go to your room for a little honey? We’ll call you back in once we go over some of the finer details?” He asked her and she nodded, collecting her book from the table and heading to her room. You looked at him confused and he cleared his throat. 

“When you say trauma, are we allowed to know what that trauma is?” He asked and you looked at him shocked. Was this going to be a dealbreaker for him? “Woah no not because of anything bad. I just meant would there be anything that we could do to make the transition a little easier. Like is it better to have her meet us one at a time or maybe Sarah first or-.” You breathed a sigh of relief as he explained himself. “Kids have trauma, it doesn’t put me off fostering her just because she’s had a shitty past. I just don’t want her to feel like she has to feel a certain way once she joins us, you know?” He said more to you than to Courtney and you nodded. 

“It’s probably better that she meets the pir of you first. Ellie’s mother died during childbirth and no one knew who her father was which meant that she was placed straight into foster care. She’s had some really bad experiences with foster homes which is why we are extremely careful of who we place her with. She struggles with men quite a lot which is why we always ensure that there are more women than men in whichever home she goes to. The best thing you can do for her is to just be yourselves. She has an extremely good judge of character so she’ll see straight through whatever facade you try to put up.” Courtney encouraged and you and Joel nodded, you watching as your husband took in all the information he could. 

“The only other guy that’s ever really here is my brother but most of the time his wife and son are with him. Would that be ok once she gets settled?” He asked and Courtney nodded. 

“As much normalcy as possible will help her settle. She doesn’t like to be a burden so feeling like your routine is being changed for her will make her feel awkward. We’ve had many fosters change their mind with Ellie due to some of her personality traits.” Courtney revealed and you frowned. 

“Personality traits? What do you mean?” You asked and she frowned slightly. 

“Many of the fosters believe that Ellie may be neurodivergent which could lead to some of her other traits such as her short temper and her objections to certain food textures or smells. She also struggles to divert from certain routines and some families found that hard to adjust to and it was making Ellie restless. It should also be noted that Ellie isn’t the ‘typical girl’ that a lot of families are searching for. She has very strong tastes in the clothes she wears and how she is viewed and will refuse to cooperate if it goes against what she wants.”

“We don’t expect her to stick to any kind of mould. As long as she’s her own person we don’t care.” Joel said and you nodded. “Would she be interested in any kind of sports? Sarah plays soccer so maybe signing her up for that would be a good idea?” He asked and Courtney shook her head with a smile. 

“Ellie is quite small for her age so she gets pushed around a lot whenever it comes down to sports or physical activity. Her favourite hobbies are music and drawing but I’m sure she’ll tell you all about that once you get to meet her. Once you find a topic she enjoys, the girl can talk for hours.” She said and Joel’s eyes lit up, your husband’s love for music shining through and Courtney seemed to notice. 

“Well, I can see you’re clearly excited to meet her so I’ll let you guys talk it over and once I’ve spoken to Ellie I’ll email with a date for you to come down to the home and meet her if that’s everything you had to ask.” You both shook your heads and Joel called for Sarah who bid goodbye to Courtney and then the three of you flopped onto the couch, Joel’s head dropping into Sarah’s lap as she shot him a stink eye for interrupting her reading. 

“Well that seemed to be a success. I can’t wait to meet her.” Joel said and you chuckled, Sarah just resting her book on his face and continuing to read.

“I say we order pizza to celebrate.” You suggested and Sarah cheered while Joel grumbled. 

“I hope it’s your money that’s paying for it.” He said and you and Sarah both burst into laughter. 

“Of course not. Don’t you wanna provide for your girls my manly husband. Inn’t that what all you Texas men are built for?” You teased and he scoffed, laughing as you kissed his cheek. 

“Make sure to order a ham and pineapple for the monster bookworm.” He told you and you nodded. 

“If anybody’s order was going to be forgotten it’d be yours dad. Just accept that mom loves me more.” Sarah said, prodding his cheek and you smiled. 

“What is it you want Joel?” You asked sweetly and grunted. 

“All I ever want is cheese and it’s always forgotten.” 

“Shut up you giant man baby.” You pushed his face into the couch cushion and he pouted. 

“Thought I was your manly husband?” He asked with a slight smirk showing on his face until Sarah hit him with her book.

“Stop flirting with my mom. You’re ruining my appetite.”

[cowgurrrl]

Sweet Creature

Pairing: Joel Miller x fem!reader (plus platonic Ellie Williams x fem!reader)

Author’s note: holy shit thank you for your ideas this is my favorite. also i put it in the tags of darlin’ i’d wait for you BUT there is a beautiful easter egg in the baby’s first and middle name and the first person to tell me what it is gets a kiss on the mouth

Summary: “Helping one another is part of the religion of our sisterhood.” - Jo March, Little Women aka Ellie rescues you and Joel [1.3k]

Warnings: newborn DRAMA, post-partum anxiety if you squint, Joel being a softie for his daughters

"C'mon, Charlie girl, you've gotta help us out." You mumble as you bounce your crying baby around the room. It's been an hour of her crying nonstop, and you've tried everything. Nursing, changing her diaper, changing her clothes, burping, changing the room's temperature, and playing music. You even went as far as to check her for any injuries that you may have missed. You're not sure what kind of trouble your one-week-old could've gotten into to warrant an injury, but you're exhausted, and it seemed to make sense. 

Joel woke up with her first, as he has done every night since you gave birth, so you had the chance to get some rest. Recovery has been rough for you, and he's already doing so much for you. He and Ellie barely let you get out of bed most days because they want to ensure you take the time to heal. Even though the thought is nice, you wake up and listen when Joel gets up with her every time. It's not that you don't trust him. It's that you're already the world's lightest sleeper, and Joel is deaf in one ear and is rarely aware of just how loud he is. You also don't mind secretly watching as he lays her on his bare chest in the low light of your room, singing to her or explaining what he's doing for her to engage her little brain. He's caught you staring at least twice since she's come home. 

But tonight was different. She woke up crying and was pretty much inconsolable until Joel brought her over to you. She nursed for a minute or two before wrenching away from you and screaming. Since then, you and Joel have been taking turns trying to get her to go back to sleep. It's hard having a newborn with two capable parents. You have no idea how you had a baby as a single mom. 

"D'you wanna try to feed her again?" Joel asks as he stands next to you, disheveled and overwhelmed but trying his best to comfort the both of you. 

"I don't know," you shake your head, your throat starting to feel like sandpaper. You were always the more emotional person in your relationship, but postpartum emotions are nothing compared to your regular ones. "I don't know what's wrong." You cry. Joel touches your back and makes a sympathetic noise as tears fall down your face.

"Let me take her for a little bit so you can sit down, okay?" He suggests as he carefully takes Charlie from you. She chuffs at the transition before going right back to screaming her head off. You sit on the edge of the bed and watch as he holds her like a football and hums what sounds like Hank Williams to her. You'd be surprised if she could even hear him over her own crying, and you take a deep breath, racking your brain for what could be wrong. 

"What are you doing to her?" Ellie asks as she walks into the room, rubbing sleep from her eyes. She's wearing one of Joel's shirts and hand-me-down shorts from Maria, and her hair is as messy as Joel's. If you weren't still crying, you think you'd probably laugh. 

"She's just a little fussy. You can go back to bed." Joel says, but she shakes her head and walks over to where he's standing with Charlie. 

"What's going on, bug? Huh?" She asks, crouching to look at Charlie's tired, sad eyes. She may have your eye shape, but she got those heartbreaking brown eyes from Joel. When she cries like this, they look like the saddest puppy dog eyes in the world. "D'you want me to try?" Ellie asks, and Joel shoots you a look.

You've been very intentional about not putting too much pressure on Ellie to help with the baby. She's sixteen, and she shouldn't have to be burdened with that if she doesn't have to be. You told her she could help as much or as little as she wanted, but she took it upon herself to help more often than not. You just didn't want her to wake up for midnight cry sessions or feel like she had to be put in a parenting position. She's still a kid.

"It's worth a shot," Joel says, and you shrug, way too tired to argue with him. He carefully passes Charlie to Ellie, who cradles her close and pushes her hair out of her face. Joel stays nearby in case she decides to hand the baby off, but he doesn't intrude on their moment.

"Hey, it's alright. You let it all out," Ellie says as she sways. Her fingers muss Charlie's hair, and she's quieting down. Not a lot, but enough to see it as crying instead of blood-curdling screaming. "I've got you, sweet girl." Ellie's hand moves to her chest, gently scratching and rubbing little circles into Charlie's onesie, and like magic, she stops crying. She turns her little head toward Ellie and yawns big and long like we kept her up. You sigh in relief and tip your head up to the ceiling as silence fills the room. Your ears are still ringing, and your body hurts, but it's quiet. 

It would be easy to claim that Charlie calmed down because Ellie's wearing one of Joel's worn shirts or that she just finally hit a wall and fell asleep, but you like to think she was just missing her sister. Joel looks between Ellie and Charlie in disbelief, mumbling "shit" under his breath. "What can I say? She loves me." She shrugs, and you quietly laugh as she walks over to the rocking chair in the corner and curls up with Charlie. She snags the yellow blanket one of the older women in town knitted for you off the back of the chair and drapes it around them. You would think they've known each other for centuries. 

Joel is still standing in the middle of the room, his curls a mess on top of his head, as his sleep-deprived brain tries to piece together what happened. He scratches at his stubbly jaw and shakes his head as he thinks. "You don't have to stay up with her. I can put her back in the crib." Joel offers, and you watch her hold on Charlie get a little tighter.

"It's gonna take me a long time to fall asleep. You guys should get some rest. I've got her," Ellie says, a smile pulling at her lips. "Besides, I like hanging out with her." You would cry again if you had the energy, but you don't. Instead, you crawl back into bed and get comfortable. Joel looks to you for confirmation, always looking for your approval as the mother of his child before making any decisions, but you're already half-asleep again.

"If she's volunteering, I'm not gonna stop her," you mumble into your pillow. "Just don't fall asleep."

"Sir, yes, sir," Ellie says. They may have stayed up talking. You're not sure, but when you wake up, Ellie is between you and Joel in bed, and Charlie is in her crib. She's tucked under the arm Joel is using to hold your waist as he sleeps, and her hand is on his chest. He's snoring lightly as he holds you both, perfectly content to cuddle with his girls in bed. You smile and kiss each of their heads before falling asleep again.

You vaguely remember fearing how the new baby would affect Joel and Ellie's relationship and worrying if Ellie and the baby would get along. You don't know exactly why Charlie was crying last night or why she calmed down so fast once Ellie had her, and you don't need to. 

Sometimes a girl just needs her sister. 

Sometimes a father just needs to baby his sixteen-year-old a little longer.

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taglist: @evyiione @nyotamalfoy @abbyhaslongshorts​

[mozart-the-meerkitten]

Kitten update!

So Maraly's kittens are now four weeks (1 month) old and Leeli's are now 3 weeks old! And you know what that means...

NAMES! :D

I know some of you wanted me to give them Wingfeather names to go with the mamas, but the problem with that is... we can't keep 11 kittens. Even I, who am the epitome of a crazy cat lady with the softest heart for kittens ever, know that this is not feasible. We already had four cats before this, and we're keeping the three original rescues. We can't have 18 cats again, especially if 16 are inside our house! And it's going to be very hard for me to give the babies up as it is and giving them names of characters (or other cats I've had) I love will just make this harder. Also, my mom came home one day like, "so I think we should name the kittens after Inkheart characters" and who am I to disagree I love the Inkheart series. That being said there is one special baby kitten with a Wingfeather name but I'll get to her later.

Maraly's babies names!

So this is Elinor (Ellie), formerly known as Gray! She is the eldest kitten, Maraly's firstborn, and she acts like it! She is the biggest and most advanced in skills. My mom said the other day (and I agree) that she acts more like a 6 week old than a 4 week old (and she weighs 1.2 pounds! That's about a FOURTH of Maraly's body weight!). She leads the charge in most accomplishments (except eating, interestingly enough, she was the third to start eating wet food) being able to run, hop, climb, play with balls, use the litterbox and attempt to escape their playpen before all the rest of her siblings! And she is the SWEETEST little darling- loves to cuddle and looks at you with the most adoring eyes. We don't know who she's meant to help, but she is an awfully special kitten and God definitely has a plan for her.

This is Roxanne (Roxie), formerly known as Four as she was the fourth of Maraly's kittens born. She is right behind her sister Ellie in all physical accomplishments, though she was the last kitten to start eating wet food (I JUST got her to start YESTERDAY!). She is a BUSY little thing, always running and adventuring somewhere! She wants to go everywhere and see everything. She's also very sweet, though less cuddly and she likes to try and climb my legs. xD

Maraly's three black babies are nigh impossible to distinguish in pictures so here's just some cute pictures of the three of them.

The biggest black kitten's name is Inkheart, as she is black and easiest to see markings on in the right light (since Inkheart is the name of a book markings=words, I thought it was fun and my mom insisted we name a kitten Inkheart so xD). She was the first to start eating solid food (wet AND dry food!). She screamed a LOT at me when she was younger but now she likes to climb on my lap and cuddle (or bite me, y'know, depends on the mood xD).

The second biggest kitten is named Sabine, formerly known as white spot. My dad named this one after a character in the Star Wars show Rebels since we've been watching it and we all think she's cool. She was the second kitten to start eating wet food and she ALSO likes to climb on my lap and attack and/or cuddle with me. xD

The littlest black kitten is Maraly's one and only boy, named The Black Prince (Prince) and formerly known as white tip, since he has a few white hairs on the very tip of his tail and it's how I've been distinguishing him since he was a newborn. xD He's an awfully cute little bugger, and fiesty, very playful.

All three of Maraly's black babies frequently play together and get up to trouble together. For instance, today they were trying to climb on top of their play tent WHILE their baby cousins were sleeping in it! They also often gang up on Maraly to nurse from her. xD Two of them (Prince and Sabine, I think) have been claimed by a girl who works at a local bakery my mom often stops at, so they will be able to continue to cause trouble together even after they leave us!

Since tumblr only lets me put ten pictures in a post and this is already quite long I'm going to put the names of Leeli's babies in another post (hopefully soon). In the meantime, here's a few more pictures:

*I'll make a man out of you playing in the background*

Meeting uncle Kalmar! (he was so sweet and nice to her! didn't hiss or growl and I think he gave her a kiss here <3)

This kitten is illegally cute *flips table*

[catsofcalifornia]

Ellie and Pete from All Animal Rescue & Friends in Morgan Hill, California

Click here for more information about adoption and other ways to help!

Click here for a link to All Animal Rescue & Friends’ main website.

Ellie is a super confident, happy and lively kitty. Her motto is: play hard, sleep hard, love hard... repeat. She loves to be around the action in the home, and always wants to be in the loop with whatever is going on. She is fearless and interactive and has an inquisitive nature with a confident sense of independence that gives her the personality edge of a calico. She loves to play fetch, enjoys tag with her siblings, and is proud when she successfully manages the pest control in the house by taking down flies and small creepy crawlers!   One of her favorite activities is running laps on the cat exercise wheel! She taught herself how to use it and is a natural pro (and her foster mom has been trying to teach the adult cats for years with no success and Ellie mastered it all own her own in just a few days!) When it's time to unwind and relax, Ellie loves laying alongside you for a good movie and cuddle session! She is well socialized and gets along with kids and cats of all ages, as well as dogs. Ellie would love to be adopted with her brother Pete and would thrive in an active home.

Pete is the kind of cat that if he were a person, you'd say, "everyone wants to be friends with Pete". He is confident, outgoing, engaging, and the life of every party! Petey is interactive and wants to be involved with all family members and what they are doing, regardless if human, cat, or dog! He is also equally sweet and affectionate and loves snuggling up in your lap for the workday computer hours, and enjoys snuggling beside you or on in your arms when it's time for TV.  His foster family calls him "Squeaky Pete" because when he has something to say it, his meows are the cutest little squeaks. Pete also considers his pest control services a free perk for his family, and will take care of any flies or little creepy crawlers that make their way into the house! He is a friendly little guy and is well socialized and gets along with humans and cats of all ages, as well as dogs. Pete would love to be adopted with his sister Ellie as they are especially close.  

[sunnyie-eve]

19 || I'm Sorry

Series: Trust | Maze Runner (Thomas x OFC)

Word Count: 1.5k

Warnings: none

A/N: Might be a few mistakes

| MASTERLIST |

When we get back we discuss with Fry, Brenda, and Jorge about our way in. "No. There's gotta be another way." Thomas speaks up.

"Like what? You've seen the building. She is our only way in." Gally makes a point.

"I completely get your point but you really think she's gonna help us?" I look at him across the table.

"I don't plan on asking for her permission." He says.

"Am I missing something here? This is the same girl who betrayed us, correct? Same dick that basically killed Liz's mom because she called Wicked?" Brenda laughs causing me to nod my head.

"I like her." Gally points as Brenda.

"What's going on?" I ask seeing the look on Thomas's face as he paces.

"You don't actually care about Ellie because you're afraid your other little girlfriend's gonna get hurt? Hmm? Because this has obviously never been just about rescuing Minho. Has it?" Newt finally speaks up making Brenda grab my hand.

"Wait, what are you talking about?" Thomas asks confused.

"Teresa. She's the only reason that Minho's even missing in the first place like Ellie already said. Now we finally have an opportunity to get him back. And what? You don't want to because of her? Because deep down inside you still care about her, don't you? Just admit it. The part of you that was before the maze." Newt gets all up in his face making him walk backwards.

"Newt, I..." Thomas gets cut off.

"Don't lie to me! Don't lie to me!" Newt shoves him up against the wall and I'm taken back starting to tear up. "Sorry. I'm sorry." Newt apologizes looking back at us before leaving.

I leave the room to follow Newt up to sit on the roof, "I'm sorry." Newt says as I sit next to him.

"Don't be. I know how you feel and I feel the same why." I lay my head on his shoulder and I see him mess with his right arm. "You okay?" I ask him causing him to sigh.

"I'm sorry, I've been hiding it." He raises his sleeve and I see all the veins.

My eyes start to tear up and I can't stop them from falling. "Newt..." My voice cracks as I put my hand over my mouth.

"Yeah." He sighs pulling it back down.

"Why wait to tell me? Newt, me? You should have told me right away... I'm your best friend. We're supposed to be best friends forever." I cry to him.

"I know but we just got you back after six months and you went through a lot... I couldn't do that to you. I didn't want you to worry about me. There's nothing we can do."

I just cry more, "But there is... My mom helped Brenda and look at her she's just fine. If we wait too long we can't help you. I watched my mom when she took Thomas's blood making the serum. I can do it for you."

He wraps his left arm around me pulling me into him, "We don't have the things we need to do that and right now we need to focus on gets Minho back." He kisses the top of my head.

"I hate you Newt. When it comes to yourself you never care." I cry looking up into his eyes.

"Like you? You always put others before yourself too." He kisses my forehead as Thomas comes out so I leave giving them to space to talk.

As I go back inside I see Gally at the table messing with things so I join him. "Oh you're back..." He looks at me for a second before snapping his head back, "Why are you crying?" He takes me by my shoulders only making me cry again wrapping my arms around his waist.

"So many things but mainly Newt." I cry into his chest so Gally rubs my back.

"What about Newt?" He asks so I just cry more.

"He's not immune." Gally quickly wraps his arms around me holding me tight as I continue to cry into him.

"Elizabeth, I'm sorry for everything back in the Glade." He says once I finally calm down. "I was a terrible boyfriend and friend to you. I really did believe in you but I was just a dick. I wasn't the best as showing how much I loved you." He says as I step back out of the hug.

"You weren't that terrible Gally. Yes, you made me feel like shit but you still weren't a dick... Well, until Thomas showed up." I laugh a little.

"And I'm sorry." He pats the top of my head.

"I'm glad you're alive." I give him a smile poking his chest where he was hit.

"You tried to come back to me. You saw I was still breathing." He takes my hand into his.

"I still cared and loved you Gally. You were and still are my friend that I care about and love. I thought I lost you and Newt when you went back to help him when the train was coming." I squeeze his hand.

"I still care about you and love you too. But you didn't lose us. We're still here." He says then notices my face drop. "When we get Minho, we'll get the serum to help Newt." He tries to get me to think positive.

"So you and Thomas..." He raise an eyebrow.

"What about us?" I laugh.

"I can put a few things together and get the story. You love him." He says so I roll my eyes.

"You always seem to know my feelings about someone. You knew I only loved Newt as a friend, Minho as a brother figure, and that I loved you before I even said I loved you. And now you know I love Thomas when I haven't even come to terms with myself about it." I laugh as Brenda comes in.

"Nice to meet the ex who was supposedly dead." She gives him a wave.

"You talked about me to her?" Gally laughs as I go over to Brenda.

"Once but yes she did." Brenda puts an arm around me.

"I'm honored. Now I think I heard correctly... You found your mom before she was killed." Gally raises an eyebrow.

"Yeah. Got to remember her for a few hours before Janson shot her in front of all of us. She used to work for Wicked but then realized what they were doing to us was wrong. Can we not talk about her anymore please." I explain and he agrees.

Thomas comes back in with Newt and Thomas asks Gally what's the plan so we plan one out. "Elizabeth will help Brenda out getting the kids on the bus and out." Thomas says and I cut in.

"I'm going in with you get to get Minho."

He sighs shaking his head, "No, you're not. I'm not letting go into that building." He looks me in the eyes.

"Why? I can handle it." I tell him.

"I just don't want you to go into that building! What if they get a hold of you again or worse kill you." Thomas gets loud.

"Then oh well Thomas! You know what type of person I am so get over it. I thought you believed in me?" I pull that card out making him give me a look.

"I do." Thomas sighs as we continue the plan.

As I go to sit with Brenda Thomas pulls me to the side, "I'm just worried about. You know that right." He looks me in the eyes.

"I know but you can't keep me from doing things that I want to do. Did I keep you from going into the maze? No." I explain to him.

"This is a little different, Lizzie. You got taken by them before and I'm scared it can happen again. Six months I was worried about you and when I got you back you were beaten up." He touches my hair.

"Is Newt right though? The part of you that remembers before the maze with Teresa? You two had something too after me..." I look at him and he sighs.

"It wasn't in that kind of way though. It was like you and Newt."

"What is this?" I motion between us. "Because," Thomas cuts me off with a kiss.

"We can talk about it more after we get Minho so we don't have anything to worry about. But let me remind you... I care about you." Thomas gives me a kiss again before going over to Gally while I go to Brenda now.

"Did he tell you he loves you yet?" She says making me laugh.

"No. Said we can talk about us after everything. But Gally still loves me. As a friend, don't freak remember we were friends after the break up." I laugh at her panic face for a second.

"Thomas will come around. Trust me. He ranted to me about you one day during the six's months." She pats my back.

[allthingsfangirl101]

CE Chapter 28: To The Rescue

Masterlist

"I don't care what it takes," George instructed his men as they walked into the old house, "tear this shithole apart until you find her."

"Yes, sir," his men said in sync. They kicked the door open and started sweeping the house, looking for Ellie.

George and Jacobs turned around when they heard the police siren.

"Should we be concerned?" Jacobs asked.

"No," George said with no emotion. "They're some of mine."

"Mr. Montain," Officer Polk said as he and his partner, a newbie, got out of their car. "Is there a problem, sir?"

"Not at all," George instantly replied. "Just a slight problem with property."

"George," Officer Polk whispered. "If something is going on. . ."

"My soulmate's father lied about being dead and decided to take her from me," he explained quickly. "I found her father and beat the shit out of him. One of his men finally told me that he was keeping his daughter, the love of my life, here."

"Your soulmate?" Officer Polk asked.

"Yes, officer. My soulmate, Ellie."

He glanced at the house and then back at George. "Carry on, Mr. Montain."

Officer Polk started to leave. His partner tried to stop him but he shook his head and walked back to their car. George and Jacobs watched as the officers left.

"Remind me again when we got the police force in your pocket?" Jacobs asked as they turned back to the house.

"Ever since we hired Henry Wilson," George explained. "His father is the police captain of the precinct we live in. I gave him a raise and donated a lot of money to the police force if they agreed to leave me and my business alone."

"You and your connections," Jacobs laughed. His smile dropped as he went back to watching the house. He couldn't help but glance down at his watch. "This is taking too long."

George leaned against the car and watched as Jacobs ran inside. He tried to be patient but this was taking longer than he had wished. He grabbed his gun and started nervously unloading and reloading it.

"Sir," Jacobs said, running back out, "we found her. She's downstairs in the basement."

George ran past him and followed the sound of his men's voices. He found them standing guard at the basement door.

"She's right through there, sir," Owen said.

"Is she okay?"

"She's pretty shaken up," Owen admitted. "She's scared. We didn't want to go down there and scare her even more."

"Thank you," George said.

"Give her a hug for us," Owen said as he opened the basement door for him and nodded as he passed.

"Ellie!"

George ran down the stairs, by his fiancé's side in seconds. He knelt down and instantly moved the piece of hair out of her face. As she saw him in front of her, a tear streamed down her face.

"Baby," he whispered as he caught it with his thumb. "Everything is going to be okay. I'm right here, gorgeous."

He slowly removed the duct tape from his soulmate's mouth and gently cupped her face in his hands.

"George," she sobbed.

"It's okay, darling," he whispered. "I'm right here. Just hang in there and we'll get you out of here."

"And back home?"

"And back home." George pressed a soft kiss to her lips. He broke the kiss, reached down, and started to untie her. The second the ropes fell off her wrists, Ellie wrapped her arms around George.

"My dad," she sobbed. "He's the one who did this to me, George. I didn't even know he was alive."

"I know, baby," he whispered. He reached up and ran his fingers through her hair. "I know, baby. I'm handling it."

She pulled out of their hug, looking up at George. "I want to talk to him before you do anything."

"Are you sure?"

"I need to know," she said, her voice breaking. "He abandoned me. And I think he. . . I think he killed my mom, Georgie."

George pulled her into his chest and hugged her tightly. His stomach dropped when he felt her shaking in his arms.

"You're going to get those answers," he whispered. "I promise, baby. I will do whatever it takes to get you those answers."

                                * * * * *

The cars pulled up to George's mansion. He opened the door and carefully helped Ellie out. The couple turned around as Olivia came running out of the house.

"Ellie," she said, a sob getting stuck in her throat.

Ellie let out a small whimper as she left George's embrace and immediately got sucked into Olivia's.

"Oh, sweetie," Olivia cooed. "Everything's going to be okay."

"I was so scared," Ellie sobbed.

"I know, sweet girl," she soothed. "But you're home, honey. You're safe."

"Let's get her inside," George said softly. "Wesley should look her over and then she needs rest."

"And a proper meal," Olivia said as she finally stopped hugging her soon-to-be daughter-in-law. With her arms still wrapped around her, Olivia led Ellie inside.

While George and Olivia took Ellie inside, his men ran to the infirmary and told Wesley to meet them in George's and Ellie's bedroom. Ellie gasped in pain when Olivia helped lay her down.

"I'm sorry, sweet girl," she sighed. "How about I make you something to eat? How about some soup?"

"Sounds wonderful," Ellie chuckled. Olivia kissed Ellie's forehead and hesitated for a little before heading down to the kitchen. George ran to Ellie's side, sitting next to her.

"What can I do, baby?"

She leaned against his shoulder and let out a shaky sigh. "Sit with me," she whispered. "I just need to know I'm safe."

"You're safe," he repeated. "You're home and you're safe."

"I love you, George," she sighed sleepily.

"I love you too, Ellie," he whispered. They sat in silence for a little while but Ellie started to get uncomfortable.

"George?"

"Yes, my love?"

"I'm really. . . I'm covered in dried blood and dirt and sweat. Can you run me a bath?"

"Of course," he said instantly. George sat up and turned toward his fiancé. "Lay down, baby," George whispered. "I'll go run you a bath and help you into it."

"You're not going to leave, right?"

"Of course not, my darling," he said quickly. "I'm never leaving your side. Ever again."

He gently grabbed her chin and kissed her lips. He broke the kiss and quickly walked into their bathroom. He ran the bath, making sure it wasn't too hot. He poured in the bubbles she liked and threw in a bath bomb. He went back to Ellie, smiling when he saw her sleeping. He didn't want to wake her, but he knew she'd be more comfortable after a nice warm bath and some food.

George walked over and knelt beside Ellie. He leaned in and kissed her forehead. "Baby," he whispered. He smiled when her eyes fluttered open. "Your bath is ready. I'm gonna help you up, okay?"

He reached forward and helped her sit up. He wrapped his arm around her waist and led her into the bathroom. They were quiet as George helped her get out of the dress she was wearing at their engagement party. His heart sank as he looked over her bruised and bloody body.

"I'm so sorry, Ellie," he said under his breath. "I should've found you sooner."

"Hey," she said, making him look up at her. "I know you found me as fast as you could."

"But your beautiful body," he whispered.

"Is fine and is going to heal," Ellie finished for him. She reached up and gently cupped his face. She shakily stood on her toes and kissed him.

George deepened the kiss as he wrapped his arms around her. Without breaking the kiss, he gently picked her up bridal style. He carried her into their bathroom and placed her delicately into the bath. She gasped making him freeze and finally break the kiss.

"Are you okay?" He rushed. "Is it too hot?"

"It's perfect," Ellie smiled. George felt his heart rate slowing down as he helped her into the bath. She laid back and immediately closed her eyes. George dimmed the lights and lit a few scattered candles.

"I love you, Georgie," Ellie whispered, her voice getting stuck in her throat.

"I love you too, baby. I'm going to go check on that soup Mom is supposed to be making you."

"I adore your mom," Ellie mumbled. "I can't wait for her to be my mother."

"She's already your mother, gorgeous," George reassured. "She thinks of you as her daughter. She was out of her mind with worry when you were missing, sweetheart. Honestly, I'd love to watch my mom handle your father."

"It would be pretty funny," she giggled. George reached over and moved a piece of hair out of her face.

"I'm going to go check on your soup," he whispered. His heart sank when he saw the fear on her face. "Don't worry," he soothed. "Jacobs and Owen are right outside. I'll be back, baby. I promise."

George stood up and was about to leave when Ellie grabbed his wrists. "What happened to them?" She asked, her voice breaking.

"To who, darling?"

"My security team. I saw what happened to Mark. . . He was shot. Right in front of me. I'm so sorry, Georgie."

"Oh, baby," he whispered. "He was doing his job. They all were, darling."

"But. . ."

"I know that Mark and Anthony died doing everything they could to take care of you."

"Anthony died?" She asked, her voice breaking.

"He and Sam were taken when your father's men realized that they weren't going to stop fighting," George explained. "Anthony fought until he was killed."

"And Sam?"

"He survived, baby," he soothed. "He's in the infirmary."

Ellie relaxed more in the bath. George reached forward and caught one of her tears with his thumb.

"I'm gonna go get you some soup," he whispered.

She nodded as he stood up and ran downstairs. He got to the kitchen right as his mother was ladling the soup into a bowl.

"How is she?" Olivia asked as her son walked into the kitchen.

"I ran her a bath," George said, leaning his elbows on the counter. "You should see her, Mom. She is covered in bruises and dried blood. I can only imagine what that son of a bitch did to her. But I swear, if I ever find out what he did, I am going to beat him until he is nothing but a bloody stump of a. . ."

"George," his mother said, gently putting her hand on his arm. "Sweetie, breathe. I understand how angry you are. Truly, I do. I want to wring my hands around that pathetic little man's neck. How could he turn his back on that sweet girl? But we have Ellie now. We need to take care of her."

"You're right," he sighed as he took the bowl of soup his mother was holding out. "He's secure downstairs. Right now, I need to take care of my soulmate."

"Hang on," she stopped him. She got out another bowl and ladled some soup into it. She grabbed a tray and placed both bowls onto it. She then grabbed three water bottles from the fridge and three rolls.

"One bowl of soup, one roll, and one water is for you," she explained. "The rest is for Ellie. I doubt that monster fed our girl. She needs to get her strength up. After she eats and when she's done with her bath, I want Wesley to look her over and make sure she's okay. Then I want her to sleep for at least three days."

"I'll make sure it happens," George smiled. He leaned over and kissed his mother's cheek before grabbing the tray and taking it upstairs.

When George walked into their bathroom, Ellie smiled.

"It smells good," she said softly.

"What can I say?" George teased as he got a tray and set everything up for her. "My mom is one hell of a cook."

Ellie hummed as she painfully sat up. George froze as he watched his fiancé.

"What can I do, baby?" He asked, desperation coming through his voice. He had to help her. No matter what she needed, he'd do it.

"I don't know," she said, her voice breaking. "Everything hurts, Georgie."

"How about this?" He offered. "Sit in the bath a little longer. Eat my mom's magical soup. Then I'm gonna have Wesley come check on you. I want to make sure everything's okay."

They sat in silence as Ellie slowly ate her soup and rolls while George watched her. Once she was finished, George helped her out of the bath. He wrapped her in her robe and led her back to their bed. As soon as she laid down, he tucked her in. George turned around when there was a soft knock.

"Come in," George called out, looking back at Ellie. She was barely keeping herself awake. Her eyes kept fluttering open and closed.

"Hey, you two," Olivia said softly as she walked in. "How's my favorite girl doing?"

"I've been better," Ellie shrugged, cringing in pain. Olivia instantly put her hand to her heart.

"Well," she whispered, "our in-house doctor is here, Ellie. He wants to look you over. Is that okay?"

Ellie looked over at George, her eyes slowly filling with tears. "You're gonna stay, right?"

George grabbed her hand when her voice broke. He leaned in and delicately kissed her forehead.

"I'm not going anywhere, baby," he whispered. He turned to his mother and nodded. "Send him in."

"Olivia, will you stay too?" Ellie asked hesitantly.

"Of course, sweetie," she smiled.

Wesley came in and just like they promised, George and Olivia stayed by Ellie's side. At the end of the check-up, Wesley gave Ellie some pain medication. It instantly knocked her out.

"How is she?" Olivia pushed.

"We should step outside," Wesley said, glancing at Ellie. "Ms. Ellie really needs to sleep."

They stepped into the hallway, but George kept the door open a little in case Ellie needed him. He turned to Wesley and nodded for him to continue.

"Ms. Ellie is covered in bruises. She has a minor concussion and hasn't had anything to eat since the party," Wesley started to explain his boss's fiancé's health. "As far as I could tell, she doesn't have any broken bones. A couple of days of rest and food, she should be back on her feet."

"Thank you," George sighed. He instantly went back into the room to check on Ellie.

"George?" She mumbled.

"I'm here, baby," he whispered. Ellie opened her arms, welcoming him in. He laughed as he lay next to her. He gently wrapped his arms around her, calming down when he felt her cuddle into his chest.

"I'm glad you're here."

[jobrookekarev]

So I Showed up on Your Doorstep

Chapter Nine of Eleven: You Know, When It’s Time To Go

Words: 4,384

Chapter Summary: Jo, Alex, and Luna head back to Seattle, leaving the farmhouse behind.

Fandom: Grey’s Anatomy.

Relationship: Alex Karev/Jo Wilson, and Jo Wilson/OC. 

Characters: Alex Karev, Jo Wilson, Luna Ashton-Wilson, Izzie Stevens, Alexis Stevens, and Eli Stevens. 

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences. 

Additional Tags: Hurt/Comfort, Airplane, Friendship, Kids, Toddlers, Soft! 

Read at AO3

Read at FFN

……………………………………………………………………

That night in the barn was their first of many nights together and they haven't spent another night apart. Jo moved to Alex's bedroom and Luna's pack-and-play moved with her. Although she often slept over in the twin's room, giving them plenty of alone time. Something they took full advantage of.

Jo’s days are filled with love and she found herself leaning into Alex and kissing him freely. Much to the twins' excitement, Luna’s happy squeals, and Izzie’s knowing smile. However, they both knew she and Luna couldn't stay at the farmhouse forever. 

Their little vacation bubble burst two and a half weeks later with a phone call from Tom’s lawyer. It's a summoning to court in Seattle to fight the restraining order and abuse accusations. She knew this would come, but Jo still broke down after the call. Alex held her and told her she was safe and she believed him. He promised to go to Seattle with her and protect her. She's not alone anymore and she never will be. So a week after that they were all ready to go. 

“Okay,” Izzie said as they went over the checklist on the notepad in her hand. “You have Luna's diaper bag, your suitcase, and your purse. Alex's suitcase is with him upstairs as he's still packing. Alex's carry on bag is here, you have lunch and extra snacks, and you've got your tickets on the phone. Plus, phones, tablet, keys, wallets, and of course, Ellie?”

“Yep, that's everything,” Jo confirmed as she pointed out every single bag and pointed to where Luna was holding Ellie. 

Jo looked at the tickets on her phone. Their flight left in three hours. It would take one hour to get there, another in security, and an extra hour of wiggle room in case Luna had a meltdown or something else went wrong.

Jo looked over at Luna who was playing with the twins. They had set up an airplane on the couch and had an airplane window view video on the TV. Jo watched them for a second, Eli was flying the plane with his stick on tie and captain’s hat. Alexis was serving the drinks with her play food while Luna sat with Ellie and made sure her elephant had their seat belt on. She was trying to tie the imaginary seatbelt with the ribbon she had just like Alexis taught her, but her cubby toddler fingers just fiddled with it. The three of them were trying to savor every moment together. They had protested Jo and Luna leaving the moment they told them a few days ago. 

She pulled out her phone and took a video of them just playing. Izzie put an arm around her and laid her head on her shoulder as they both watched their kids play together. Jo loved their sweet little bond and she didn't want to take Luna away from them. She wished they could stay here, in this moment. Since becoming a mom, Jo had learned to take as many pictures and videos as she could. It was always these sweet little moments that she wanted to bottle up and keep forever. Videoing them was her way of doing it. 

Suddenly Luna got frustrated as she yelled and whined. She held up her hands that were tangled up in the ribbon and looked over at Jo as she stepped forward to rescue her daughter's fingers. However, Alexis and Eli raced over to Luna first. Alexis pulled her into her lap as Eli sat down in front of her. 

“I can help you, Luna,” Eli said as he delicately put his fingers over hers and Luna nodded.

“Eelp pless,” Luna said as Alexis gave her a hug and Eli started to undo the string on her hands. 

Izzie let out an awe at the cuteness and Jo smiled as she video taped all of it. She wasn't used to Luna having the help of a big sibling. Luna was the one who acted older and helped out with Scout in her own little ways. Meanwhile, with Meredith’s, Ben and Bailey’s, Teddy and Owen’s kids, she refused their help and insisted she try to do it on her own first before she reluctantly let Jo help her. She always thought that Luna would be her oldest, helping her younger siblings. Now, Jo wanted this for her, she wanted Alexis and Eli to be her older siblings. 

Eli untangled the string and wove it into a circle before setting it down as he leaned in to kiss Luna's hands. “All better?”

“Yeah,” Luna nodded as Alexis giggled before setting Luna back down.

Luna walked over to Jo and showed her, her free hands. Jo smiled and picked her up as she snuggled her little girl close and kissed her hands as well. “Did Alexis and Eli help you, baby girl?”

“Yeah, eelp,” 

“Did you say thank you?”

“Tank ooh,” Luna said with a wave. She always waved when she said thank you.

“You're welcome,” the twins replied in unison.

“I'm going to miss this so much,” Izzie said with a sigh as she held out her arms for Luna’s who smiled as she pulled away from Jo as she reached out to Izzie. 

“Me too,” Jo said in agreement as they looked over at their kids.

“Oh I could just eat you up sweet girl,” Izzie smiled and Luna laughed as Izzie peppered her head with kisses and gave her a gentle squeeze.

Jo laughed as Luna wiggled out of her arms and went back to her play with the twins. They watched them for a moment before Izzie looked over at the bags.

“I guess we should start loading up the car,” Izzie said with a sigh as she looked over at Jo. 

“Yes, I suppose so,” Jo said, although she made no move to do so.

The thought of actually going back and facing Tom turned her stomach and she put a hand on her stomach. Jo turned away from the kids to face the kitchen as she tried to keep her lunch down. The kids had noticed her throwing up often, although Jo managed to hide her anxiety from them. Although they played it off and said she had the stomach bug. The twins had been so sweet and offered their favorite movies and Lamby, which was the white fluffy lamb hot water bottle cover. Jo’s heart ached to miss them already.

“Oh no,” Izzie said as she watched her and grabbed the plastic bowl from the countertop.  “Just take a deep breath, Jo. It's going to be okay. Alex is going to be with you, protecting you and Luna every step of the way.” 

“I know,” Jo said with a nod as she did as she was told and breathed deeply in through her nose and out through her mouth. 

Jo had always had a nervous stomach, but it had been worse the past couple of days. Her nausea had popped up the day of the court summoning. However, it had gotten worse when they bought the tickets back to Seattle. The thought of going home should have been a comfort, but instead, it terrified her. Tom’s presents threatened her world back in Seattle. She only took comfort in the fact that Alex was coming with her and that all of her friends and family in Seattle would help her.

“I’m okay,” Jo lied, her breathing steady again, but her stomach still felt unsteady.

“Just take a few more deep breaths,” Izzie said with a kind gentle voice as she started to rub low circles on Jo's back.

Still, she took a few more deep breaths, standing upright after a second. She knew it was passing as she sighed, but then she looked at the bags again and her stomach turned again. Jo leaned forward and threw up in the bowl. Izzie quickly pulled her away from the kitchen and into the bathroom down the hall. Although Jo's nausea soon passed and she didn't throw up again, it left her tired as she sat on the floor as Izzie flushed the vomit down the toilet. 

“I'm sorry. I can wash the bowl in a second,” Jo said as she looked up at Izzie. 

“Oh nonsense,” Izzie said as she rinsed out the bowl and set it aside. “You're the sick one, you don't have to clean it up.”

“I used to do it all the time when I was a kid.”

Izzie sighed as she looked back at her in the mirror. It was the look of pity and horror that flashed across people's faces when Jo let slip the mistreatment from her childhood. Alex never got that look, he was the one person who knew as he had horror stories of his own. 

“Well, you'll never have to do so again so long as I'm here and I'll tell Alex to do the same,” Izzie said as she caught Jo’s eye in the mirror. 

Jo smiled too, she loved that Izzie took care of her like a big sister would. she’d never had that and never wanted it before. Now that she had Izzie, she was reluctant to leave her. They hadn't discussed what would happen going forward. She knew Alex would stay with her, but would that mean the twins would travel? Or Alex would go back and forth? Would Izzie travel with them or stay in Kansas? It was a conversation and decision they had all avoided making.

Jo and Izzie got up and went back to the kitchen. Izzie gave her some anti-nausea meds and Jo sat on a stool at the kitchen bar as her stomach settled. Izzie came over to her and they both sat together and watched the kids play. Finally, Alex came down the stairs with the last bag, and just like that, the moment was gone. Jo looked back at their bags on the floor and she knew it was time to go. 

“Ready?” Alex asked as Jo nodded, she looked over at Izzie who sighed and pulled her in for a hug.

“I'm going to miss you so much,” Izzie whispered as she hugged her tighter. 

“I'm going to miss you too,” Jo said, as she squeezed her back just as hard, not wanting to let go.

But they finally pulled apart, although they kept their arms linked. Alex hugged Izzie too as they gave each other a squeeze. 

“I’d tell you to be careful and not do anything stupid in Seattle, but I'm sure Jo will keep an eye out for you,” Izzie said to him as Alex chuckled and shook his head.

“You know I will,” Jo said with a smile as they exchanged a giggle.

Alex shook his head. “I'm a grown man, I can take care of myself.”

“Of course, you can,” Izzie said with a little smirk.

Alex nodded and grabbed a couple of the bags as Jo and Izzie grabbed the last few. They took them out to the car and loaded it up. Jo double checked Luna's car seat and blanket and made sure that Ellie was still with her. She had always been an easy travel kid. Thus, she was hoping that Luna would either nap in the car or on the plane. 

Unlike her, Jo was always nervous to fly. She preferred the car rides that took longer but got there in their own time. Maybe that was a bit of lingering nostalgia from the time she lived in her car. Although it was rough at the time, for a while it was home. As she looked around the farmhouse she couldn't help but feel torn between going home and staying just a bit longer.

Finally, they got everything packed up and all that was missing was themselves and Luna. They walked back into the house to see the kids still playing airplane. Although this time they were strapped into their seats as they flew through a storm. Eli yelled at them to hunker down, while Luna and Alexis hugged each other. They all screamed with each pretend jolt of the plane and pretend to bounce and sway from side to side. 

“Alright guys, time to take a pause,” Izzie said, grabbing the remote and stopping the video as they all looked over at her with a sigh.

“Is it time for Luna and Jo to go?” Alexis said as she clung to Luna with a large Karev pout.

“I'm afraid so, my sweet girl,” Jo said as she knelt down and held her arms up from Luna, but Luna looked up at Alexis and snuggled back into her arms. 

“No!” Luna insisted as Eli came and hugged her as well and just like that Jo's heart broke. 

“Can't they stay just for a little bit longer, we're not even done playing airplane,” Eli protested as he matched Alexis's pout.

“I'm sorry buddy,” Alex said with a sigh. “It's time for us to go. The plane takes off in a few hours and we need to be there on time.” 

“But you don't have to go,” Alexis protested, and it was the familiar argument they had heard in the past few days. “Jo and Luna can just stay here forever like Daddy did.”

“You guys know that Jo and Luna aren't like Daddy. They can't stay here forever baby girl,” Izzie said with a sigh as she went over and sat next to Alexis. 

“I know it's hard, but Luna and I need to go home to Seattle. This isn't the last time you guys are going to see each other. You three are going to come visit us in just a few days,” Jo said as she tried to smile and remain hopeful. 

Alex came over too and grabbed the fourteen piece paper chain they had made that morning. “See in just fourteen days you guys are going to come visit us in Seattle.”

“Yeah,” Izzie said with a smile as she nodded. “And we're going to see Grandma Robbie, Auntie Meredith, and Auntie Bailey. We're going to stay with Luna and Jo in their penthouse this time. We're going to go on a ferry ride, see the Space Needle, all the whales, the ocean, the beach, and everything!”

“If we're going to go to Seattle in fourteen days,” Eli said, holding up ten fingers. “Why can't we just go now?”

The twins had been eagerly looking forward to their trip to Seattle. However, they desperately wanted to go with Jo and Luna instead of without them. However, they all agreed that it would be best to wait until the first hearing was over. Jo was nervous here in Kansas enough and she didn’t want the twins to see her that anxious. 

“I need to clean up the penthouse, it's very messy,” Jo said with a shake of her head as Alex chuckled. 

“But we could help you clean up, we're good picker uppers,” Alexis added although they all knew it was a lie.

“I'm sorry, guys this is the way it is and unfortunately it's not going to change,” Izzie said with a sigh as she gave each of the twins a reassuring squeeze. She looked down at Luna and brushed the hair out of her face with gentle fingers.

“Come on guys, it's time to go,” Jo said with a gentle whisper as she was sad to admit it as well.

Luna finally got up and went over to her Mama as Jo swept her up in her arms. She gave her a hug and a kiss before setting her on her hip. They all pause for a second, looking at each other. None of them wanted to leave this moment and part ways, however temporary, but it was time to go. 

Alex put his hand on the small of Jo’s back and the two of them got up to go as Izzie and the twins followed them out. She got Luna settled in her car seat, although the toddler started to whine and protest immediately. Jo almost didn't have the heart to fight her, but she still got her buckled in. Alex started up the car and sat in the driver's seat as Jo got into the passenger seat next to him. Izzie and the twins stood on the porch and waved to them as they pulled out of the driveway. The sorrow on their faces was mirrored in Jo and Alex’s.

“Say bye-bye, Luna,” Jo said as she looked back at Luna in the backseat and waved to the twins and Izzie on the porch. 

“Bye-bye wove you,” Luna said to them. She aggressively waved as much as her little arms could. 

“Bye-bye, we love you too,” Alexis and Eli shouted back as they waved as big as their arms could. 

Jo and Alex waved goodbye as well. Right up until the moment they turned onto the main road and the little farmhouse disappeared. Tears sprung into Jo's eyes and Alex looked over as he saw them. He gave her hand a squeeze before handing her a few tissues. Jo didn't want to leave the farmhouse for good. She didn't want it to be a place that she just visited on vacation. She began to rethink the idea of Seattle being home. Maybe it was time to go. 

……………………………………………………………………

The plane ride home was rough. Luna fussed and then had a full-out tantrum on the plane for the majority of the flight. It didn't help that the plane was turbulent and her nausea came back. Jo and Alex did everything they could think of to help, from cuddles and movies, to videos of the twins and Izzie. There was a brief interlude before landing where she was placated by a movie. But only so long as she sat on Jo's lap, cuddled with Ellie, and was wearing Nana's hat. By the end of the flight, everyone was frustrated with them, although Alex bought everybody drinks and snacks, which seemed to help.

They finally landed in Seattle and Jo and Alex let out a sigh of relief. They ran to get off the airplane and got their bags as quickly as they could before taking Jo's car back to the penthouse. Alex smiled as he settled into the idea of being back in Seattle and watched the skyscrapers light up the night. He was still surprised when they pulled up to the skyscrapers that Jo called home. They parked underground and took the elevator up to the penthouse. He half expected Jackson to meet them at the door, but Jo inputted the code and opened the door up to her home. 

The penthouse was definitely hers. It was covered with colorful rugs and macrame art, with kids' toys scattered around and dead plants in the kitchen. There was a tan leather couch instead of their white one, but he understood why she didn't keep it. This was Jo and Luna's home and not his, yet. 

“It's not exactly the loft is it,” Jo said as she absentmindedly swayed with Luna in her arms the toddler had finally passed out the second she got in her car seat.

“No, it's got much better views though,” Alex said as he looked out through floor to ceiling windows

“Yeah, it's definitely better than the workers at the docks and Highway 99,” Jo said with a smile as she watched him take it all in.

“Jo is that you?” Link's voice came down the landing as his heavy footsteps came on the stairs. 

“Yeah, we're home,” Jo replied back as she went out to greet him although Alex hung back. 

Jo had told Alex that they had lived together ever since Jo moved into the penthouse. Now they co-parented Luna and Scout together. Alex was glad that she wasn't alone. She always had a hard time living alone. He was grateful that Link was there for her when he couldn't be. He also knew Link would protect Jo, even from him and especially after the letter. 

“Thank god you two are home,” Link said, wrapping his arms around her as he held her and Luna in a hug before he pulled back. 

He held her face as he studied it. The bruises had faded into a light yellow that Jo had mostly hidden with makeup. But he picked up her wrist as Jo sighed. 

“I'm fine, I promise,” Jo assured him, but Link wouldn't be placated. 

“You got x-rays and everything and are you able to send those to me? I'd like to give it a second look just to make sure the fracture is clean and you don't need surgery or....”

“I'm fine, Link I promise,” Jo said, giving him a reassuring smile. She pulled her wrist back and placed her free fingers on Luna's back. “But I'll send you the x-rays if it'll make you feel better.”

“It would,” Link said as he gave her a soft smile and put his arms on her shoulder as he leaned in and kissed her forehead. 

Jo closed her eyes and smiled and for a second, Alex got the feeling that something deeper was going on between the two friends. However, Jo looked back at him with soft eyes filled with love and he knew he loved him with all her heart. Link caught sight of him too, sending him a glare although he didn't say anything as Jo shot him a look and Alex took a tentative step towards them. 

“It's good to see you again, Link,” Alex said with a nod. “I'm glad to hear that you've been taking care of Jo and Luna.”

“Yeah well, that's what good friends do,” Link said, clearly resenting Alex for not doing the same.

“No fighting tonight, please,” Jo said with a deep sigh as she looked between them. 

They both nodded in agreement and Alex took her hand as she pulled him upstairs. Jo led him into the master bedroom, to their surprise it was clean and Jo was very thankful that Link had done that for her. She went over to the crib set up in the corner and gently laid Luna down. Jo made sure Luna still had Ellie and her hat before she put the blanket over her. Jo stared down at her daughter for a second before she reached down and kissed her head. Then she pulled back and looked over at him. 

Alex put the bags on the bench at the end of the bed. He wasn't sure which door was for the closet or the bathroom. Jo just sighed and started to strip. She took off her jacket and pants and kicked off her shoes and her shirt and bra until she was only in underwear. Then she dove between the covers. She laid down on her stomach with only her head poking out on her pillow as she let out a deep sigh and closed her eyes. Alex smiled and he started to follow and took off his shoes. It had been a long day and they were both exhausted. 

Jo reached out for the water bottle on the end table. She always woke up thirsty in the middle of the night. She opened her eyes and frowned as she saw that her nightstand was empty. 

“Shoot I think Link took my water bottle downstairs and washed it,” Jo said with a growl as she frowned at the offending empty nightstand.

“I'll go get it,” Alex said standing up, he was still in jeans and a shirt, unlike her.

“You don't have to,” Jo said, although she made no move to get out of bed.

“Considering that I'm the only one dressed, I think I have to,” Alex said with this smile as he looked down at her and just shook his head with a smirk.

“Thank you.”

“No problem.”

Alex went back downstairs and wasn't surprised to see that Link was still there. He was picking up a few of the toys on the floor that must have been Scouts with the basketball game playing on the TV. There was instantly an awkward tension in the room as Link caught him and glared at him. Although he continued to pick up the toys on the floor. 

“I'm just getting Jo some water,” Alex explained to him although he didn't have to.

“Yeah, I washed her water bottle after she left. It's in the rack next to the sink.”

“Thanks, man.”

Link nodded and returned to picking everything up. Alex got the water bottle and filled it up, watching the game for a little bit. Then he put the top on and made sure it was secure before he went to go back upstairs. However, Link saw him getting ready to go and stood up in front of him. 

“Look, I'm glad that Jo was able to go to you for protection. I'm also kind of glad that the two of you are back together. Jo loves you a lot and she seems happy again, but that doesn't mean you're fully forgiven. If you ever hurt her, I won't stand by and let it happen again.”

“This time around I know better, and I'm not going to hurt Jo. I promised her this and I promise you too.”

“Yeah well, we all know how well you keep your promises,” Link said, sending him one last glare before returning to the couch and letting Alex go back upstairs. 

Alex knew that was true and he secretly wondered if Jo worried he would break his promise again. However, he hoped that his actions proved his devotion to her. He went back to the bedroom and handed the water bottle to Jo as she smiled and took a few sips of water. After he finished stripping down to his undershirt and boxers, Jo held open the covers for him and he slipped under them. Alex laid on his back and stared up at the ceiling as he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in. Jo let out a sigh and smiled again as she laid her head on his chest. 

With Jo in his arms, back in Seattle, it felt kinda like home. He fell asleep with this feeling of home inside his heart. Even though half of his heart, the twins, were still in Kansas. They would be here soon enough and his heart will be whole.

[elliot-morey]

Shattered into ash {Self Para}

In which Elliot is too late to save a kid.

When: Between September - October 23, the last scene happens on Oct 23 Triggers: Allusions to the death of a child, and death by fire

If you want a summary please feel free to hit me up. I know it’s a heavy topic and people might not want to read it. There are no descriptions.

There were many things Elliot loved about working in a bigger city. There were more situations he got called out on. Not all fires, but he rescued people, he took part in a squad call hoisting himself down a cliff bringing the victim to safety.

He got called for simple potential gas leaks, he took kids on tours of the rig and if they had a light day he got to bring them on a ride around the block.

Of course there were fires, some were horrible but he trained harder. He focused in despite his lack of focus when he hung out around the house, he was focused, calm and collected.

All qualities of a good lieutenant if he wanted to take the exam and try for it.

But Elli liked being a foot soldier, he liked running into the fire. He liked saving people.

Every time that bell rung, Elliot hustled to get geared up rushing out to a call.

“It’s a group home. A lot of the calls before this have been fake but I want us to check it out non the less.”

Everyone nodded, especially since it was kids no one would take this lightly.

As everyone piled out of the truck Elliot watched the headcount happen. 

“One of our boys are still inside.”

“What’s his name?”

“Justin but he’s deaf he won’t be able to hear you.” 

“Morey! You’re up! Get in there and get that boy out.” Elliot nodded getting his gear on just in case as some other boys snickered. 

He never spent much time in group homes. It was only a brief stop before he was placed in another home. Young enough to be desirable.

That wasn’t the point though, not as he scanned each room. Too small, too many beds. Locked fridges and cupboards. None of it was abnormal but Elliot still hated it.

Spotting a little head in the corner, Elliot pulled off his mask and helmet leaning down.

Hi are you Justin, My name is Elliot. I’m here to help.

Are you here to take me back home.

I’m sorry but I’m not. We need to leave, the fire alarm was pulled.

Glancing around Elliot grimace, no flashing lights and a deaf child. None of this was safe.

I pulled it.

Why did you do that.

Because everyone is mean. Because no one listens to me, because i don’t want to be here.

I know it’s not a great situation but that is no reason to pull an alarm. We need to make sure those alarms are only pulled in real danger so we come when we’re needed

But what if i need you now. Mom always said firefighters were the best heroes. They would help no matter what.

They will but if there is no fire you can come down to us at the station and talk to us. You can reach out to your case worker. Pulling the alarm is not the right call. Now we need to get you outside before we can make sure everything is safe. Would you come with me.

It took some coaxing but it didn’t take long before Justin took his hand and Elliot could lead him out. Ready to give the woman running this place a piece of his mind.

_________________

Elliot of course couldn’t leave things like that, not when no one knew how to communicate with the boy. Not when it wasn’t up to code. Even on his days off he was traveling down to spend time with Justin.

He just sat and talked, learned about the drug addicted Mother that was in rehab. That she wanted to take her son back as soon as she was clean.

Elliot taught a few some signs so they all could communicate. He even splurged and bought them a giant lego set to work on and build because everyone in that house was smart. They just never applied themselves. 

They hadn’t gotten as lucky as Elliot had with his family. They would continue to bounce around house to house or even stay here.

Places like this shouldn’t exist. There should be no need. 

But he only had so much time left with this boys and the way Justin ran to him every time, Elliot wasn’t sure how he would manage to leave this area.

While he didn’t want to transfer. There was part of him that did.

But with Iz’s campaign this weekend that wasn’t a thought he could address right now.

____________

With Iz’a campaign event over Elliot planned on talking to someone, anyone about the situation. Justin was too smart to stay like this. He wasn’t being cared for as well as he could be.

Maybe Elliot could take him in. Just long enough for his Mother to finish her rehab.

That’s what this fostering was about. Making sure Justin returned to his Mom.

He had even started to talk about it around the house.

He just had to make the call and maybe talk to his family. After all he would be staying in Swynlake full time in just about a week now.

Elliot should have known better. He should have acted quicker, as soon as the alarms blared and the address was read out, no one spared Elliot a look as they all rushed to their stations speeding down the road.

Elliot knew for a fact Justin had stopped setting off the alarm. After he got Elliot’s number he just texted him when he needed him.

Something was wrong.

Pulling up to the house, Elliot froze in place for a moment before scrambling out of the truck. The House was already ablaze. It was only his firefighters that stopped him from running in without being properly geared up.

As others headed in, Elliot was stuck with the house, focusing on dosing the fire and preventing it from spreading even more. But the blaze grew hotter and hotter and kids were rushed out, one by one and Elliot tried to find Justin.

He should be the one going in there. He knew all of his favourite hiding spaces. He knew where to look, he called them out over the radio but no one radio’ed back that they had him.

With the blaze under control and the headcount confirming what Elliot already feared, he rushed in blinded by his tears pushing him even faster even when his name was called out. 

The building wasn’t safe.

But if it wasn’t safe for him, it wouldn’t be safe for Justin either.

But Elliot wished he had listened to the warnings because he wasn’t sure he’d ever forget the scene when he opened the door.

______

It wasn’t hard after that to request the time off.

Elliot wasn’t even sure he had.

Honestly he wasn’t all that sure how he or his car got home. 

All he did remember was staring at the lego figure on his side table and his Mother bringing in some food and pressing a kiss to his head.

[eonthief]

Eon's Story: The Wounded Hero

"How do you always get yourself into these situations? You know your father and I worry about you" I remember my mom telling me that after she found me beaten and laying on the ground.

Growing up I was always told stories of the Red Mages of our homeland and how heroic they were. Their stories inspired me, and of course led me to where I am today.

Laying face down in the dirt after protecting an old couple from some bandits. I breathed in deep and pushed myself up off the ground, ignoring the pained cries from my body. As I struggled to my feet I felt a pair of frail hands on my sides as a pair of bodies got under my arms to help lift me.

I looked to either side and saw the old couple with worried looks on their face, "Easy now" the old woman to my left cooed, "The bandits are gone, you need to rest." Her words were exactly the rallying cry my body needed to force me to sleep. The last thing I remember before consciousness left me was the sound of my feet dragging behind me.

I awoke on an unfamiliar bed, before my eyes had time to open I felt a cold and damp rag on my forehead. My eye lids had slow began to part when I saw the old woman from before sitting at my bedside. I began to sit up when I felt a firm but gentle hand on my shoulder, looking for the source I saw the old man. Realizing that I was fighting a losing battle I relented and returned to my previous position.

"You're a lot more banged up then we thought, it's a miracle you were even able to stand much less fight. But my wife and I patched you up what best we could. The least we could do for you coming to our rescue stranger." His voice was just like his hands, kind yet firm. I smiled weakly at the pair, "Thank you for your hospitality, but I don't want to intrude for longer then needed." The old woman returned my smile with one as warm as sunny Limsan day, "Nonsense, we insist that you stay until you're at least until you're feeling well enough to move around without issue."

Sensing that they wouldn't listen to my protests I nodded, which considering the amount of pain I was in was quite the feat. The old woman stood up from my bedside and the old man moved to stand next to her, I could tell they were an old couple the way they interacted. The old man cleared his throat, "Well I s'ppose introductions are in order, I'm Mason and this is my wife Ellie." as he introduced her she bowed her head with that same smile. Her smile was infectious, so trying my best to return her energy I mustered my warmest smile, "It's pleasure to meet you both, my name is Eon."

They nodded and Mason started to make his way to the door with Ellie following behind him, she stopped before turning back to face me a look of confusion crossing her face. "If you don't mind my asking, why'd you risk your life to save a couple of old folks like us?" Her question caused Mason to stop as well, he turned to look at me with the same look as his wife had.

My eyes met theirs before I looked at the ceiling above me, I drew a ragged breath in and returned my gaze to the couple. "Ever since I was a kid, whenever people were in trouble my body would start to move before my brain could process what was going on. I would rush to their aid, like the heroes in the stories I was told as a child." As I spoke my smile had began to grow, "Eventually I grew up and I got stronger, so I was able to keep fighting even if my body needed the rest. Much to the dismay of those around me." A small pained chuckle escaped my lips before I looked back to the ceiling, "But truthfully, I don't care as long as I'm able to save people. To me, that's what it means to be a hero."

After I stopped talking the room was silent for a few moments, that silence was broken by Mason's laughter. "You're one strange kid you know that?" His question made me laugh, and my laughter turned into coughing. Then Ellie chimed in "Your parents must've been worried about you growing up, huh?", and for just a moment it was like I was looking at my mom again. I swallowed back my pain, I gave my biggest grin and nodded "Yeah, I was definitely a handful."

[bewitchingbooktours]

Hell Holes: A Slave’s Revenge

Hell Holes

Book Four

Donald Firesmith

Genre: SciFi, Dystopian, Alien Invasion 

Publisher: Magical Wand Press

Date of Publication: August 1, 2021

ISBN: 979-8527374209 (Paperback — Amazon KDP)

ASIN: B09416M34X 

Number of pages: 455

Word Count: 105,000

Cover Artist: Ellie Augsburger 

Tagline: An epic story of love, loss, friendship, and survival under the most hellish of conditions

 Book Description:

A multi-award-winning prequel to the Hell Holes series of alien invasion novels, Hell Holes: A Slave’s Revenge is an epic story of love, loss, friendship, and survival under the most hellish of conditions.

A typical Alaskan teenager, Paul’s greatest joy is hunting and fishing with his father. But when alien demons attack his family’s isolated cabin, they shatter Paul’s comfortable life. After killing his father, the demons enslave Paul, his mother, and his twin sister and teleport them to a desert world in the Demonic Empire. Once on the planet Hell, the captives’ survival is far from certain, and they face a terrible choice. They can either live as useful slaves or be immediately slaughtered as food for the merciless demons.

With his demon masters demanding their slaves’ absolute obedience to their brutal human overseers, Paul soon learns to hide his burning hatred and desire for revenge behind the stoic expression of a servile slave. But as the years slowly pass, Paul adapts to survive, first as a field slave and then as a gladiator. Will he live long enough to take his revenge, or will Paul’s years of slavery rob him of his will to resist and cost him his humanity?

Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/BZfNSeO_f8w

 Amazon: https://amzn.to/3HCOVBt

Excerpt:

Prologue

MY NAME IS PAUL CHAPMAN. When I was just fifteen years old, a band of demonic aliens murdered my father and captured my mother, sister, and me. These vicious creatures — the source of humanity’s myths of devils, imps, and hellhounds — took us through a hidden portal to Hell, the nearest planet to Earth in their vast empire. I spent the next twenty-three years there as their slave.

I was rescued during the Armageddon War and became the only captive human to ever escape from Hell. Over the following months, members of the US military and various specialists spent countless hours interviewing and debriefing me to learn everything I knew about Hell and the demons. They provided a therapist to help me recover from my horrendous experiences and adjust to my new life back on Earth. She recommended I document my life as a slave. This book is my story: the autobiography of my life as a slave on Hell.

The Hunt-Chapter 1

MY PARENTS, Robert and Mary Chapman, met while first-year students at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. He studied wildlife biology while she studied anthropology, concentrating her studies on the history and culture of the native Inuit. Although they had grown up in the Lower 48, they fell in love with Alaska and decided to remain after graduating.

Dad had hoped to obtain a job as a wildlife biologist, but such jobs were rare and paid little. Mom hadan even harder time finding suitable work. So, when my maternal grandfather died two years later, my parents decided to use her modest inheritance to buy a dry cabin and live a subsistence lifestyle. They would hunt caribou and moose, trap small game for furs and food, and fish for salmon during spawning season.

Mom and Dad eventually bought a cabin on the north shore of the Kobuk River. Only seven miles upstream of the tiny town of Kobuk, the house was close enough to make buying provisions easy. The town’s simple landing strip also made visiting relatives practical and would enable evacuation in case of a medical emergency.

Miles from their nearest neighbors, the cabin was also isolated enough to offer all the seclusion a family could ever want. Nestled between the nearby river and the Brooks Range a few miles to the north, my parents had found the home of their dreams.

My twin sister, Sarah, and I were born a few years later, and we grew up in some of the most beautiful land imaginable. The chores were many, the work was hard, but the rewards of freedom and the wilderness’s majesty made the hardships well worthwhile. I loved the life and couldn’t imagine ever leaving it.

This story begins when Sarah and I were fifteen. It was early August, and the Chinook salmon were running up the river to spawn. After breakfast, Mom and Sarah were going fishing. Dad and I had built a fish wheel, an ingenious tool that automatically catches the salmon. An underwater fence forces some of the fish towards the wheel that the river’s current turns. Baskets attached to the wheel’s rim scoop up the fish and dump them into a box. Mom and Sarah were going to carry the salmon back to the cabin, clean them, and hang them up over a fire in our smokehouse. Their work would ensure we would have plenty of smoked salmon to eat during the long Alaskan winter.

While they were fishing, Dad and I would hunt moose and check our traps for small game. We took our rifles and headed upriver away from town. We left our dog, Sergeant, behind so her barking would warn Mom and Sarah of any bear that might be attracted by the smell of our fish.

We started by checking our traps, but they were empty. Not a single one had been tripped. And we didn’t spot any small game even though we didn’t talk, and we walked carefully to avoid making any unnecessary noise.

When it was nearing lunchtime, we turned around and headed back to our cabin. This time, instead of following the river trail, we hiked up towards the nearby mountains forming the southern edge of the Brooks Range. As before, the area seemed completely devoid of animal life, which was pretty unusual. We’d typically see something, even if it was too far away or on the far side of the river.

About halfway home, we spotted the remains of a bull moose that had been recently killed.

Because the bears were busy with the salmon, we initially thought it had been brought down by wolves. But it wasn’t. Enormous chunks of flesh had been removed in single bites, and the bites’ edges were too clean to have been made by wolves or bears.

It was strange that we couldn’t identify the tracks in the soft ground around the carcass. There were many large and small hoof prints, but they were shorter and rounder than moose and elk tracks.

Stranger still were the giant paw prints from the carnivore that had brought down the moose.

Easily twice the length of wolf prints, they had only three toes, and the separate claw marks were much longer than wolf or even bear claws. Dad, the biologist, was stumped. The prints didn’t seem to belong to any Alaskan wild animal or to any animal for that matter. The only tracks he could think of that were even somewhat similar were those of ostriches, emus, and cassowaries.

But the claw marks were too short for ostrich and emu tracks, and the cassowary only has one claw that long, not three.

“Dad, how about a really big dog?” I asked. “Maybe a Newfoundland had lost a toe.”

Dad shook his head. “Can’t be. See how the toes are arranged symmetrically? And besides, why would a dog have the same toe removed on each paw?”

“What about a dinosaur?” I suggested jokingly.

Dad actually considered it for a second before answering, “You know, it does look a little like a theropod footprint. It might have been a reasonable hypothesis if it weren’t for the little fact they’re all extinct except for the birds. No, this has to be a hoax. Someone’s trying to start a rumor about a strange beast roaming the Alaskan wilderness. Probably wants to draw tourists hoping to catch sight of the mythological creature.”

“But Dad, what about the bite marks?”

“My guess is that they used a curved knife to make them. Still, whoever did it did a good job.

They had me going for a bit. Come on, let’s head home and tell the girls about our mysterious find.”

So, we hiked back to the cabin and had lunch with Mom and Sarah. They told us about the baskets of fish they had caught and cleaned. We told them about the moose kill we’d stumbled on, the strange tracks, and the huge bite marks. Mom agreed with Dad that it wouldprobably turn out to be a hoax, but Sarah wasn’t sure what to think.

After lunch, Dad and I headed out again to see if we’d have any better luck hunting. We didn’t.

The animals, both big and small, were still missing, and we were once more forced to come back empty-handed. I did, however, carry my camera with me and took some pictures of our find. For a laugh, I figured I would upload them onto Facebook the next time I was back in town where I could get internet service.

 About the Author:

Donald Firesmith is a multi-award-winning author of speculative fiction including science fiction (alien invasion), fantasy (magical wands), horror, and modern urban paranormal novels and anthologies of short stories.

Prior to retiring to devote himself full-time to his novels, Donald Firesmith earned an international reputation as a distinguished engineer, authoring seven system/software engineering books based on his 40+ years spent developing large, complex software-intensive systems.

He lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with his wife Becky, his daughter Sera, and varying numbers of dogs and cats.

Website: http://donaldfiresmith.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.firesmith/

[somewhatgreatexpectations]

I'll Stand By You (Wanda Maximoff/ Reader)

Hello! We've reached Halloween in Westview. I hope you all enjoy!

Songs used: "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders (1994) and "This I Promise You" by NSYNC (2000)

Summary: Westview is slowly falling apart as Wanda worries reader is drifting away. With some sibling chaos. I'm bad at summaries. :)

With a sigh, you began making your way downstairs, following the sounds of the commotion. Wearily tugging at the skin-tight suit that you couldn’t seem to avoid wearing for the day.

“Woah, smokin’ costume, sis-in-law!” You heard Pietro whistle which only made you sigh again in exasperation. “If you weren’t already married to witchy over here…” He trailed off as he leaned against the wall.

You rolled your eyes, biting back a chuckle when you saw Anna smack his shoulder. “That’s my sister you’re talking to.” She warned, glaring at Pietro who just laughed in response.

“You and Mom look nice, Momma.” Billy said sweetly with a smile which you easily returned. Reaching over to affectionately ruffle his hair.

“Yeah, Mom is old Red Riding Hood and you’re old green riding hood, Momma.” Charlie said with a laugh, looking at Pietro for approval who merely held up a hand for a high five. You clutched your chest to feign hurt and gave Anna a disbelieving stare when she began to laugh as well.

Much to your annoyance Pietro then turned his attention back to you. “Let me guess, you’re a… woodland fairy queen? Or the woman of my dreams?” He finished with a wiggle of his eyebrows.

“Pietro.” Wanda warned. Anna smacked him in the back of the head.

“Yes, that’s exactly what I was going for, Pietro. I live to visually please you.” You quipped back sarcastically.

Before he could say anything else, Wanda walked over to you. Leaning in and pressing a kiss to your lips which you shortly returned. “Thank you for humoring me and wearing this… dramatic get-up, honey.”

“Well, there were no other clothes in my closet, so…” You replied flatly, watching the way Wanda’s smile faltered. Unable to stand seeing the look on her face, you attempted to lighten your tone. “I knew you had a thing for me in tights.”

Her shoulders relaxed when you posed dramatically and sent a teasing smile her way. “I have a thing for you in general.” Wanda said in a husky voice, a small smirk on her lips.

Leaning in closer you matched her smirk, “What a coincidence because I just so happen to have a thing for you as well.”

Wanda let out a quiet giggle and you smiled adoringly at the way her nose scrunched. As Wanda was leaning in again, you turned to face the rest of the family in the living room. Wanda sighed.

A short laugh escaped your lips as you watched Billy and Anna cover Pietro and Charlie’s eyes in a desperate bid to win the video game that they were playing. The laughter faded when you watched Pietro pull out sodas, teaching the twins how to chug the can and then burp much to your annoyance. Anna threw her own can at Pietro’s head.

“It’s wonderful that our siblings are so…” You paused as you watched the four begin wrestling for the remote. “Great with kids.”

Wanda nodded unconvincingly as she watched the scene by your side. “Yeah... They’re just full of surprises.”

Lightly you pat her shoulder as you stepped around her. “Well, good luck with them tonight. I’m sure it’ll be entertaining to say the least.”

Wanda turned to face you, a frown tugging down at the corners of her lips. “What?” She followed after you as you made your way to the door. “What do you mean? You’re all dressed and ready to go.”

You gestured vaguely to yourself. “I’m undercover. Ellie said there’s been mischief running amuck in the community and she suspects neighborhood watch. An inside job, Wanda! I'm an investigative journalist now.” Dramatically you tossed your cape over your shoulder for emphasis.

The frown on Wanda’s face remained as she shook her head lightly, “But that’s not what you’re supposed to…”

Skeptically you eyed Wanda. “What do you mean supposed to?”

“You didn’t tell me you had plans.” She eventually grumbled in annoyance, ignoring the question entirely.

“Well, I’m telling you now.” You replied with a small shrug.

Her eyes gleamed with frustration as if she couldn’t believe the words you were saying. “It’s the twins first Halloween. You have to be there.”

Anna and Pietro stepped over before you could get a word out. “Woah, what’s the big deal?” Pietro asked as he teasingly placing his hands in between you both like you were about to start fighting. “I’m much more fun than Y/n. No offense, you’re still smokin’.” He winked your way and you gagged.

Anna pushed him away and turned to Wanda with a reassuring smile. “It’s okay, Wanda. We can help with the twins. It’ll still be fun.”

“Uncle Petey to the rescue, huh?” Pietro added with a goofy grin.

You clapped his shoulder and turned to Wanda. “Sure… Petey. Problem solved. Have a spooky time tonight, kiddos. I love you!” You called out to Billy and Charlie who were engrossed in their game.

“Love you.” They called back distractedly, never taking their eyes off the screen.

Hesitantly you stepped back over to Wanda, ignoring the gloomy expression on her face as you lightly caressed her cheek.

With a small smile you leaned in and kissed her other check. “Be good.” You whispered before pulling away. Once again, you posed dramatically, smirking when Wanda begrudgingly replicated the action. “Time to solve this case!” With a final toss of your cape you left.

Wanda’s shoulders drooped slightly as the door closed behind you. Seconds later, you poked your head back in. “I forgot to say… you look beautiful, my love.” You called out sincerely, sending a wink Wanda’s way before shutting the door behind yourself again.

The blush on Wanda’s cheeks made both Pietro and Anna smirk in amusement.

____________

“Unleash hell, demon spawn!” Pietro called after the twins with a smile as they walked off to one of the houses with Anna. He furrowed his eyebrows questioningly when he noticed Wanda staring at him.

Wanda attempted to force an easygoing smile on her lips. “Do you remember when we were at the orphanage and there was this song that we used to sing? The one that would play on the radio whenever the soldiers radio frequencies would interfere with the our frequencies? It went like,” Pietro just stared, his head tilted slightly. “Let me come along, ‘cause even if you’re wrong-”

“-I’ll stand by you, I’ll stand by you. Won’t let nobody hurt you. I’ll stand by you.”

You sat patiently outside the door, the music playing quietly on your phone to break up the silence that surrounded you. And possibly send a message to the woman who was currently ignoring you.

Natasha walked over and kneeled by your side. “Are you planning on staying out here all night?” In response you lifted your shoulders slightly in a small shrug. “You should at least eat something.”

“I’m not hungry.” You murmured, spinning the rings on your fingers absently.

With a sigh Natasha stood up and gently pat your head. “I’m going to bring you both food. And I expect you both to eat, even if you aren’t talking right now.”

Almost as soon as Natasha had walked away the door behind you opened, causing you to fall backwards. “You can turn the cheesy 90s music off now. I get it.” Wanda said quietly, her posture tense.

You scrambled to shut the music off and rushed to your feet. “Hi.” You said nervously.

From where you stood you could see Wanda fight a smile. “You’ve been sat outside my room for three hours and all you came up with was hi?”

Shyly you rubbed your arm. “I did have a whole speech planned out in my head but looking at you now I can’t seem to think of anything other than you.”

Wanda melted with your words and you could see the frustration in her eyes begin to fade away. “Did you really mean what you said? That you don’t care?”

Tentatively you reached out and took her hands. “Never. Not about you. I was talking about myself. I will care about you forever.” Care was a placeholder for what you truly wanted to say and you both knew it. "I'm sorry for making you think I didn't."

With a sigh, Wanda pulled you into her arms. “Well I care about you, so if you care about me you also have to care about yourself.”

You buried your face in her neck, breathing in her sweet scent. “Okay. I care...” You mumbled letting the silence wash over the moment. “Did we just have our first fight? I hated every minute of that.”

Wanda’s chuckled slightly. “Yeah. Me too…” Her eyes shone brightly with amusement as she gently tilted your head up to meet her lips, finding comfort in your touch.

You were her safety.

Impatiently Pietro snapped his fingers in Wanda’s face, squinting his eyes slightly at her expression. “You’re testing me.” He said flatly with a knowing point of his finger.

Wanda quickly feigned innocence, still shaking away the memory that had filled her mind. “No, I’m not.” She insisted.

Wanda was testing him though. She knew he wouldn’t know that song. He shouldn’t have.

In response he waved a hand dismissively as he gestured vaguely to his face. “Hey, it’s cool. I know I look different.”

Unable to help herself, Wanda nodded. Her brows furrowed. “Why do you look different?”

Pietro shrugged. “You tell me. I mean, if I found Shangri-La I wouldn’t want to be reminded of the past either.” Wanda looked back at him pensively.

Anna then rushed back with the twins. “Your turn, Uncle Petey!” She exclaimed patting Pietro on the shoulder.

“Alright, Uncle Petey’s about to maximize your candy acquisition. Not like your lame Aunt Annie over here.” He joked, ruffling Anna’s hair who just smacked his hand away. He offered a hand to Charlie who eagerly took it as Billy linked on.

Before Wanda could even blink they had sped away. “I’m beginning to think he’s a bad influence.”

Anna spun around to face her. “Beginning? I hate to break it to you, Wanda, but between the two of us I’m the only good role model here.”

Wanda just shook her head in amusement when someone in the distance caught her attention. “I’ll be right back, Anna.” Anna nodded and ran to try to catch up to the twins. Wanda made her way over to the person of interest. “Hello, Ellie.”

Ellie turned to face Wanda a mild look of surprise covering her features. “Hi, Wanda. Where’s your lovely wife?”

The polite smile that Wanda had grown so accustomed to made an appearance. “Oh, it’s okay you don’t have to be secretive. Y/n told me about the undercover piece about neighborhood watch that you have her working on.”

Curiously Ellie quirked her eyebrows. “I haven’t assigned Y/n to any undercover pieces.”

Wanda’s smile wavered slightly. “Oh. I thought… I thought she…” Her lips pulled down slightly in thought.

Ellie shifted nervously in the silence as her brows furrowed in concern. “Is there something I can do for you, Wanda?” She continued on before Wanda could utter a response. “Do you want something changed?”

A confused chuckle fell from Wanda’s lips. “No. It’s fine. I must have just misheard her this morning.”

“If you say so. Tell Y/n I said hello.” Ellie finally replied, sending a wink Wanda’s way as she walked off.

“Hey, that woman looked so much like Amelia. Y/n loved her.” Wanda jumped at Anna’s sudden appearance. Her eyes clouded over when she processed what the teenage girl had just said.

__________________

“This is so lame. I can’t believe you’re making them return all the candy.” Pietro grumbled with a roll of his eyes.

Wanda crossed her arms indignantly. “Well, I can’t believe what a bad influence you are.”

“That’s why I’m better.” Anna added in a sing song voice.

Pietro sneered. “Oh, shut it, pipsqueak. We’re here to do the exact same thing, okay? Come to town unexpectedly, create tension with the sis-in-law, stir up trouble with the rugrats and ultimately… Give Wanda grief.”

Anna huffed when Wanda looked at her suspiciously. “I mean, that’s what you wanted, isn’t it?” She asked, her tone dripping with irritation that was a stark contrast to her positive attitude earlier.

The confusion at the situation caused Wanda to purse her lips as she allowed herself to consider the two people before her. “Anna, weren’t you six when Hydra… I mean, you weren’t a teenager when you…” She trailed off slightly, not wanting to finish the thought.

The younger girl rolled her eyes defensively. “Look, that was years ago. I aged. That’s what happens inn life, isn’t it?” Anna crossed her arms when Wanda didn't seem convinced. “I don’t know, okay?”

Wanda frowned slightly then turned her attention to Pietro. “And you. What happened to your accent?”

“What happened to yours?” Pietro countered defensively. He sighed when Wanda leveled him with an unimpressed stare. “Look. Details are fuzzy, man. For both of us. All I remember is getting shot like a chump in the streets for no reason at all. Next thing I know, I heard you calling us.”

Anna stepped forward, nodding along with Pietro. “We knew you needed us.”

The words hung in the air like an unanswered question. “Uncle P, Auntie A, guess what?” Charlie shouted excitedly effectively ending the conversation as she rushed over with Billy.

“There’s a treasure bag with full sized candy bars on the lamp post!” Billy pointed up eagerly at the post that was hanging directly above their heads. “Mom, can you help us get it?”

The sound of metal crunching filled the air as Charlie waved a hand. The lamppost giving way easily as she skipped over and took the bag off the light. “Next stop, Cavity Town!” She cheered as she walked back over and passed one of the treats to Billy.

“My niece is a badass!” Pietro hollered as he lifted Charlie on his shoulders. Wanda couldn't help the pride that bubbled in her chest as she watched her daughter's powers develop. She wished you would have been there to see it too. “Just like your uncle P! Chip off the old Maximoff block!”

Anna coughed pointedly. “Manipulating earth and metal? Sounds a lot like the badass comes from my genes.”

“It’s okay, baby. You can take it slow, and you can-” Wanda’s words were interrupted as Charlie began flying through the sky, cheering all the while. Wanda shook her head in amusement at the way Charlie smoothly flew through the air, her smile unwavering.

Billy watched his twin excitedly which Wanda took note of.

When Charlie floated too low, Wanda grabbed her foot and gently pulled her down. “If you’re going to explore, please just take your brother with you.” Wanda said seriously.

“Really?” Billy asked happily.

“Really?” Charlie repeated with a pout.

Wanda bit back a smile as she nodded. “Really. And please, just remember-”

“Don’t go past Ellis Avenue.” They responded in unison.

“We know, Mom. We know.” Charlie said dismissively as she offered her hand to Billy and a moment later they floated into the air.

Pietro and Anna shook their heads. “Be careful! I love you!” Wanda shouted after the twins.

_________________

For the past several hours a feeling of discomfort had settled in your chest as you wandered the city of Westview. The feeling reached its breaking point when you watched a woman frozen in time, replicating the same action again and again. The moment solidified your resolve. You needed to see what was outside this city. To see if all these odd occurrences were just that… odd occurrences.

You didn’t want to believe it was Wanda. It couldn’t be.

In a bid of desperation, you took advantage of one of your new-found skills and allowed yourself to fly into the skies of Westview. Everything looked completely normal... Except for one set of lights stopped strangely at the edge of the town.

Curiosity got the better of you as you flew over to investigate the scene. The sight of the stalled car unnerved you as you wearily made your way over to the driver’s side. “Agnes? What are you doing here?”

Despite the question, Agnes continued to stare off into the distance, almost as if you weren’t there at all. “Took a wrong turn.” She lifted her shoulders in a slight shrug. You worriedly took note of the way her eyes were glossed over with unshed tears despite her face being completely void of emotion. “Got lost.”

Her words were monotonous which was so out of character for the woman you’d seen before. You frowned. “Lost? In the town you grew up in?” There was no response from the other woman as she continued to stare blankly ahead. Your fingers tingled with uneasy energy. “I wonder…” Hesitantly you lifted your hand until it hovered over her temple. You closed your eyes as you focused, becoming one with the earth’s current until a short burst of light drifted from the tips of your fingers into the side of Agnes’ temple.

With a gasp, she sprung back to life. Agnes desperately took your hands, pulling you down. “You! You’re one of the Avengers! Are you here to help us?”

“I do want to help.” You assured her. “But what’s an Avenger?”

Agnes pulled her hands away as if she’d been burned. “What? Why don’t you know?” Suddenly she began patting herself down anxiously. “Am I dead?”

Your brows furrowed in concern. “No, no, why would you think that?”

There was a brief pause before Agnes turned her attention back to you. “Because you are.”

The tightness in your chest increased tenfold. “I am what?”

“Dead. You’re dead. Dead, Dead!” Agnes shouted hysterically causing you to flinch back involuntarily.

Determinedly you pushed forward again, ignoring her words. “Agnes, I want to help. I’m going to get help. To reach someone outside of Westview and figure everything out.”

“How? No one leaves. Wanda won’t even let us think about it.” Manic laughter startled you into silence as she continued. “All is lost. We’ll never escape her.”

Despite numerous attempts to call out to her, Agnes’ laughter never stopped. The unsteady tingling in your fingers began again as you took a deep breath and grounded yourself with the earth once more. You lifted your hand to her temple and almost as soon as the light entered her temple the laughter stopped.

“I will fix this.” You declared softly.

A caricature of a smile overcame her features. “Alrighty, neighbor!” She said as she turned the car around. “Happy Halloweenie!”

With a new sense of determination, you marched forward into the open field in the distance. The soft buzzing of static becoming louder and louder the further into the field you ventured.

Cautiously you reached a hand out to touch where the sound seemed to be coming from only to be met with resistance even though nothing was there. Confusion took hold of your emotions as you watched the costume you were wearing transform into your typical clothes as you pushed your arm through the energy barrier.

Knowing this was the only way, you pushed forward, feeling as if your mind was being wiped clean the further you walked.

The pain was becoming unbearable, but you knew you couldn’t turn back.

As the pain worsened, a quiet song began playing in your mind, almost as it was attempting to comfort you.

“Hey, hey, it’s okay. Look at me.” A soft hand on your face tilted your chin up. Her eyes were flooded with worry but her gentle touch brought you comfort. “This might hurt a bit, but we have to do this.”

A soft groan fell from your lips as you could feel the first stitch begin to close your wound. “Wait, wait.” You hissed, pushing her hand away from your bleeding side.

Her fingers gently brushed through your hair. “Y/n. You’re bleeding, we need to stitch this up now.” You knew she was right, but you still wanted to roll away. The woman quickly scrambled to her feet, stepping away for a moment before rushing back with a small device in her hands. “Here. Focus on the music. Focus on me. Not on the pain.”

“I've loved you forever, in lifetimes before and I promise never will you hurt anymore. I give you my word, I give you my heart. This is a battle we’ve won and with this vow, forever has now begun…”

When the song from the radio reached your ears, a choked laugh fell from your lips despite the pain you were in. “Did you plan for the cheesiest 90s song to play?”

In response she smiled ever so slightly, but her eyes remained focused on the task. “I didn’t, I swear. Guess I just got lucky.”

“Yeah. Me too…”

Staring up at her made it impossible for you to focus on anything else as you processed the words that floated from the radio. She was done before the song had even finished. You didn’t feel a thing.

“I didn’t see they were government agents.” You murmured guiltily after a moment as you watched her wrap your now stitched up side.

Her concerned eyes met yours. “Y/n, I don’t blame you. I’m just glad you’re okay. I was so scared I wouldn’t get there in time. That I wouldn’t be able to protect you. I... care about you.” Her words were sincere as her thumb lightly caressed your cheek. The placeholder word from your past making a comeback.

The small box of a room that was your newest hideout was dingy, but with her here it was the most beautiful place in the world.

Your chest tightened with familiar feelings that you spent so long avoiding. “Can you hold me?” You looked away as you asked, still not used to the vulnerability.

“Of course.” She breathed out, carefully helping you to bed before gathering you in her arms. Her heartbeat against your ear was the sweetest song you had ever heard. You had never felt safer than when you were in her arms.

Wanda was your safety.

“Wanda.” You gasped out, feeling yourself refocus on the current world around you as thoughts of Wanda flashed through your mind. Of Wanda smiling. Of Wanda laughing. Of Wanda crying. It was all there again.

Until it wasn’t.

With a gasp you fell to the floor, clutching your head, feeling yourself – your mind - begin to fade away.

“Why aren’t you helping her? Something is wrong with her, she needs help!” You heard a voice scream anxiously. You looked up just in time to see the woman get held back by someone. “Steve! Natasha! Help her!” She cried out holding her ear as a man tugged her arm down and handcuffed her to a car.

Despite the pain coursing through your veins you continued to weakly crawl forward. The threat of losing consciousness and the sense of who you were increasing the further out you moved from the barrier. “Th-they need h-elp.” You gritted out, not remembering why, but knowing it was why you were there. One of your arms gave out from under you as you fought to keep your eyes open.

The bespectacled woman watched you with growing concern, tugging desperately at the handcuffs that kept her in place. “Steve, Natasha, you need to hurry.” She said quietly, her eyes widening when you fell to the floor.

Everything went dark.

__________________

There was a comfortable silence in the air and Wanda could almost allow herself to relax as she sat on one of the bales of hay while the twins played on their own in the town square.

Almost.

“Where were you hiding all these kids up until now?” Pietro suddenly questioned with a smirk.

“What?” Wanda replied in surprise.

Anna leaned back on her hands, feigning amusement. “I assume she let them all sleep peacefully in their beds.” She picked at the hay in disinterest. “No need to traumatize beyond the occasional holiday cameo, right?”

Pietro rolled his eyes. “Hey, back off. She’s the empathetic twin.”

“I don’t-… I didn’t-” Wanda stuttered. Anna smirked slightly.

Waving his hands dismissively, Pietro continued. “She handled all the ethical considerations of this scenario as best she could.” Wanda’s mind seemed to be put at ease as Pietro’s speech continued. “Families and couples stayed together, most personalities are the same, people got better jobs. Better style, for sure.”

Flicking a piece of hay at Pietro’s head, Anna added. “Convincing my sister that she’s in love with her.”

Wanda turned her head sharply at Anna’s words. “What do you mean convincing? Y/n loves me.” Her brows furrowed as she considered Anna’s words. “She does.”

A laugh fell from Anna’s lips. “You can cut the act, Wanda. Pietro and I know everything.”

“I’m not acting. Y/n and I love each other.” Wanda defended quietly, trying desperately not to let Anna’s words get to her.

Anna shrugged. “If that’s what you need to tell yourself. Y/n was in love with Amelia- sorry, you renamed her Ellie.” She smirked when she saw Wanda’s fingers flex slightly. “They were soulmates. They made the best team. I’ve never seen Y/n more in love than she was with her.”

Wanda’s jaw clenched, and Anna’s smirk grew.

“Do it. Make her go away.” Pietro encouraged Wanda when familiar red tendrils began drifting from her fingers.

Anna tilted her head in mock sympathy. “What? You don’t want to hear the truth?”

With a wave of her hand, Anna slumped on the hay. Pietro cheered. “She’s just sleeping. She’ll be up in a few minutes.” Wanda said quietly, feeling the shame creep up on her as she tried to shake Anna’s words. Pietro laughed, and she turned to face him. “You don’t think it’s wrong?” Wanda asked quietly, her voice uncertain.

“What, are you kidding? I’m impressed! Seriously.” He admitted with a knowing smile. “It’s a pretty big leap from giving people nightmares and shooting red wiggly-woos out of your hands.”

For a moment Wanda stared off in the distance, allowing his words to wash over her.

“How’d you even do all this?” He finally asked. Wanda shifted uncomfortably at the question. “Hey, I’m not some stranger, or your wife, or your wife’s annoying little sister. I'm your brother. You can talk to me.”

Wanda’s eyes began to glisten to unshed tears as she thought over his question. “I don’t know how I did it.” She admitted quietly. “I… I only remember feeling completely alone. Like I was drowning. Just… Endless nothingness. Empty.” A tear fell down Wanda’s cheek.

“Mom! Mom!” Wanda heard Billy call out to her frantically as he ran over with Charlie following closely behind him. Wanda quickly composed herself.

Rushing over to the twins, Wanda felt dread build in her chest. “What is it, Billy?”

“I hear Momma. In my head! She’s in trouble.” The fear on his face made Wanda’s concern increase tenfold as her stomach dropped. “I don’t know understand. What’s happening to me?”

Wanda placed comforting hands on his shoulders as she struggled to control her emotions. “Where is she? Where is your mother?”

“Hey, don’t sweat it, sis. It’s not like your dead wife can die twice.” Pietro flippantly replied with a chuckle.

Anger. That's all she felt when Pietro spoke so dismissively about you. Unable to control her anger, Wanda shot out a hand as Pietro was sent flying back from the force of her powers.

Taking a breath, Wanda turned back to her terrified son. “Billy, I need you to focus.”

Closing his eyes, Billy began recounting what he saw. “I can’t tell. I see these… soldiers.” Wanda tensed even more. Billy gasped. “They think she’s dying!”

For a moment Wanda was sure her heart stopped.

Thinking quickly, she turned away from Billy, her eyes glowing red.

.

.

.

Steve and Natasha ran up just as the walls of the barriers began moving forward. They continued to sprint forward while Haywards minions made desperate attempts to run away.

“Y/n!” Steve cried out, feeling fear seep into his bones when he saw your lifeless form sprawled out on the empty field. On numb legs he began moving faster. Hopelessly, he was forced to watch the red energy wash over you once again.

Natasha cursed as they lost sight of your body. The red barrier continued to push forward when they were mere feet away from Darcy. “Fu-” They heard her mumble through a wince as she also became lost behind the barrier.

“We have to get in there!” Steve shouted.

With determination, Natasha nodded. “Let’s try.” A moment later they were pushing against the red energy that was fighting against letting them in.

Annnnnd we have concluded with the 90s! Chaos is the main population of Westview right now. A lot happened here. I'm not even sure what to say to be completely honest. A little nervous about this part.

Anyway...

As always, thoughts and comments are always welcome! Let me know what you think. :)

Taglist:

@theofficialzivadavid // @tquick99 // @abimess // @marrymemcgrath // @the-camilucha // @afuckingshituniverse //@pxterstrk // @aimezvousbrahms // @ensorcellme // @sapphicshots

[guacam011y]

***SPOILERS FOR WANDAVISION EPISODE 6***

So I’m still processing everything but holy shite that ep was wild...

FIRST THINGS FIRST - WANDA, VISION, BILLY AND PIETRO ALL IN COMIC ACCURATE-ISH COSTUMES AND TOMMY IN A MINI QUICKSILVER COSTUME

PIETRO CALLING BILLY AND TOMMY DEMON SPAWN - GOD DAMMIT, IT’S MEPHISTO ISN’T IT? HOUSE OF M HERE WE COME

HERB ASKING WANDA IF SHE WANTED SOMETHING CHANGED

AGNES ASKING VISION ABOUT THE AVENGERS AND STUFF AND AT FIRST SHE SEEMED GENUINELY FREAKED OUT BUT THEN STARTED LAUGHING MANIACALLY AND I STILL DON’T TRUST HER AND AGNES BEING DRESSED AS A WITCH? AGATHA HARKNESS WAS A WITCH - COINCIDENCE? I THINK NOT!

DARCY LOOKING OVER MONICA’S MED SCANS AND TELLING HER HOW THE HEX AFFECTS HER EACH TIME SHE GOES IN - IS SHE DEVELOPING HER POWERS?

PIETRO’S CORPSE - SCARED ME JUST AS MUCH AS VISION’S

MOVIES SHOWING IN THE THEATRE IN THE BACKGROUND - THE INCREDIBLES: A MOVIE BASED AROUND A SUPERHERO FAMILY AND THE PARENT TRAP: A MOVIE ABOUT TWINS WHO MEET AT CAMP AND TRY AND SET THEIR PARENTS UP

DON’T GO PAST ELLIS AVENUE - NOW I DON’T KNOW IF THIS IS A CONNECTION OR JUST A COINCIDENCE BUT ELLIS IS THE LAST NAME OF THE PRESIDENT DURING IRON MAN 3

TOMMY HAVING HIS SPEED POWERS AND BILLY HAVING HIS REALITY WARPING/TELEKINETIC POWERS - WELCOME SPEED AND WICCAN

A CALL BACK TO INFINITY WAR WHEN VISION EXITED THE HEX? SLIGHTLY DUSTING AND HE PROBABLY WON’T SURVIVE BEING OUTSIDE OF THE HEX - HE’LL JUST DIE AGAIN 🥲

I STILL DON’T TRUST HAYWARD - HE’S VERY SUS

DARCY BEING TAKEN INTO THE HEX WITH THE OTHER S.W.O.R.D AGENTS - HOPEFULLY WE CAN SEE THE OUTFITS THAT KAT DENNING’S WAS EXCITED ABOUT

I SWEAR THEY BETTER NOT STRAIGHTWASH BILLY AND TOMMY OR I WILL RIOT 😤

***FURTHER UPDATES***

So sit-com wise, it seems they were referencing Malcolm in the Middle as the twins broke the fourth wall and talked to the audience, like Malcolm did

However, the theme song has told the viewer to stop questioning the reality of Westview - which could be a little reference to Mystery Science Theatre 3000? - When Pietro first shows up in the title sequence, along with his name title card, the lyrics say “Though there may be no way of knowing who’s come to play” - Istg, I do not trust Pietro

Vision says to Wanda that he had to wear his Halloween costume because there were no other clothes in his closet, Wanda is trying to move the plot along and forcing Vision to play along

Evan Peters’ ‘Mom’ tattoo is shown, which is a tattoo he actually has in real life ! But could this stand for ‘Multiverse of Madness’ or some other red herring?

Pietro mentions to Wanda that if he had found ‘Shangri-La’ he wouldn’t want to leave either - Shangri-La is a real place on Earth-616 that was founded by a version of Vision

Tommy refers to Pietro’s speed as ‘kickass’ and then Wanda repeats that, saying ‘kickass’ again - Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Evan Peters (both versions of QuickSilver) were in Kick-Ass together

The ad for this episode was freaky af - the character on the beach who starved and decomposed could be a little nod to Indiana Jones, where a Nazi’s face melts in - and it could also be reference to Wanda being all alone and struggling to process her grief. The shark in the ad could also be Nightmare or Mephisto or just someone more powerful than Wanda offering her a new beginning with Vision or trapped her in some way - and is feeding off her magic? The flavour of the yoghurt is strawberry flavoured and strawberry’s are red on the outside and pink-ish on the inside - much like Wanda’s og costume and her magic being red 👀

Pietro and Wanda talk about their Sokovian accents at a point in the episode and how neither have them anymore. Wanda’s, as we know, has disappeared over the course of the MCU movies and Pietro’s just doesn’t exist - another nice little nod to Peter Maximoff from the fox X-Men films? Also, Pietro states that “I’m just trying to do my part, okay? Come to town unexpectedly, create tension with the brother-in-law, stir up trouble with the Rugrats (a 90’s cartoon 👀) and ultimately give you grief.” - in reference to the grief part, could Pietro be killed off again? Stir up trouble with the rugrats, being possible shards of the demon Mephisto’s soul, could this be Mephisto trying to influence them on a deeper level? It’s also many many common sitcom clichès

Pietro talks about how “I got shot like a chump on the street for no reason at all” - nice little nod to how Pietro was killed off unnecessarily and how we as a fandom still talk about how regular bullets shouldn’t have killed him

Herb is dressed as Frankenstein’s monster - Dr. Frankenstein created his monster and soon lost control over him, and he was created using electricity or lightning - much like Vision was created and brought to life by Thor using Mjolnïr to bring lightning down to his incubator thingy majig. Could this also be a reference to either Wanda slowly losing control over Westview or someone else controlling Wanda/controlling the citizens of Westview - we saw in episode 3 that Agnes told Herb to be quiet as it seemed he was about to spill the beans 👀

Vision goes towards Ellis avenue and is at a ‘crossroads’ of sorts - in folklore, crossroads are often used to speak to or summon the devil and are also used when an important character is making a decision that could change everything. He spots some citizens repeating certain actions and/or just standing completely still, could these be npc’s (non playable characters)? And now that the barrier of the Hex has spread, will those citizens now start to move? 👀 Also I know that all stop signs look like it, but the stop sign is also a red hexagon 🛑

Darcy scrolls through Hayward’s computer files and goes past a file called “Project C4-113” - it could reference Avengers Issue #113 in which Wanda and Vision both appear on the cover and she says she’s going to make the world pay for Vision’s death. There’s also another file called “Project M5-247” which could be a nod to Avengers Issue #247, which shows the origin of the Eternals and in the same vein, Scarlet Witch and Vision trying to help Captain Marvel. And when Darcy emails Hayward’s cataract plans, you can see the names of “James Alexander and James Gadd” - James Alexander is a visual effects producer on Wandavision and James Gadd works on post production at Marvel

Also: Agnes pulls as Mrs Hart and repeats the same phrase over and over again

After Wanda blasts Pietro, you can see on a fake grave stone the name of “Janell Sammelman”, Janell is a first assistant director on Wandavision

When Wanda moves Westview to save Vision, she turns S.W.O.R.D and it’s agents into clowns + a circus - I just love that the agents turned into clowns 😂 but there is a nice little plot line in the comics where Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver and Hawkeye join the circus - and this COULD be stretch, but earlier in the episode there is the number #22 which could be Avengers Issue #22, which is the Issue that they join the circus

As soon as Vision was brought back into Westview, he was healed - which means if he was to exit again, he probably wouldn’t survive 😭

The episode title is ‘All-New Halloween Spooktackular!” - which “All-New” is a designation that is often used on covers for comic books. And the first issue of the second The Vision and the Scarlet Witch series takes place on Halloween night - but the events in this comics didn’t influence this episode’s plot

Pietro points out that he has the “XY chromosome” - X for X-Men? Plus there’s the X gene 😂

He mentions “Uncle Peter to the rescue” - Peter is the name of Quicksilver from the Fox X-Men Franchise

Pietro and Tommy quote the movie Top Gun (1986) by saying “I fell the need, the need for speed”

Wanda almost seems hesitant to trust this version of Pietro (rightfully so, in my opinion) and is wary of him being around Tommy and Billy

Pietro says some very Mephisto/Nightmare-like things this episode - “Unleash hell, demon spawn!”, “The kids need a father figure”, “Damnit, if Westview isn’t charming as Hell...” - And if Pietro isn’t Mephisto/Nightmare, it HAS to be Agnes or her other half Ralph and Pietro is probably Ralph tbh...or could Pietro just be a scapegoat and Hayward is Ralph? 👀

The theatre in town, which is playing the Incredibles and The Parent Trap, is called the Coronet. There’s a classic poem called “The Coronet” written by Andrew MARVELL (Marvell, is also the true name of the first incarnation of Captain Marvel in the comics) and is about a guy who knows that the sins of mankind led to the death of Christ. He attempts to create a new crown for Christ’s head in an attempt to atone, but finds that there is sin in the crown as well, as the devil is within the crown and therefore he may achieve glory and success with his new creation 👀

Hayward’s confidential project “Cataract” included experimenting on Vision’s body, as was revealed by Darcy (my wife 💙 and Monica is also my wife 💚 and so is Wanda 💛, I just love women, you know? 😂). A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye that leads to a decrease in vision - is Hayward trying to weaponise Vision? Or maybe even trying to bring Ultron back? Or do what Tony wanted to do in the first place, and make a suit of armour that’s around the world? Either way, it’s for nefarious purposes

Who is Monica’s guy? Jimmy and Monica are off to meet him - could it be Reed Richards (Mr Fantastic)? Or could it be Victor Von Doom (Dr Doom)? Could it be Hank McCoy (Beast)? Or even Adam Brashear (Blue Marvel)? Or if it is a woman, could it be the Skrull daughter of Talos that Monica befriended at the end of Captain Marvel? Could it be Abigail Brand (A major character in recent S.W.O.R.D comics and an Alpha Flight Member)? Or even Toni Ho (Iron Patriot, and could she be introduced to help lay the ground work for my other queen, Riri Williams/Iron Heart?)? Or could it even be Sue Storm (Invisible Woman)?

In the background of the episode we see a number of children and adults dressed up as many different characters, which includes: Sub-Zero from Mortal Kombat, Jason Voorhees, with a sweater striped like Freddy Krueger’s and even a kid that looks dressed in an off-brand Charizard costume 😂 Pokèmon has always been popular, but saw an increase during the 90’s

Pietro and the kids are drinking “Kane Cola” which could be a reference to the 90’s drinks “Jolt Cola” or even “Surge” - it could also, with all the X-Men Easter eggs, be a reference to Garrison Kane, who was a member of Cable’s mercenary team “Six Pack” and is sometimes also known as ‘Weapon X’

The kid that Wanda mentions having a “skin thing” in the orphanage - could that be a reference to her Brotherhood of Evil Mutants co-worker Toad? Or maybe even Mystique? Maybe Kurt Wagner (Nightcrawler)?

One of the houses has a sign up that says ‘Macabre Mansion’ - another possible reference to House of M?

During a flashback, it’s shown that the twins are playing Dance Dance Revolution, which came out in 1999. Also this might be a stretch, but the boys have a dog plushie in their room the right - which is coloured red and black - could this be a reference to Dogpool? 😂

I love this show 🤣💙

[apenapaperandadoofus]

Can you make a list on who you think is the most to least reliable of the RFA (+ Minor Trio if you want!) when it comes to pets 👀

gasp you know what yes (I've been wanting to make some lists for a while -maybe least to most bottom of each of the RFA characters LMAO-)

MysMe characters least to most reliable with a pet and what pet would they have:

11. Rika

LMFAO bet ya didn't expect that did ya!? Nah you probably did, anyway the reason why she's the least reliable for a pet it's kinda obvious, first of all, she would refuse to get her pet treatment when it almost turns blind and ma'am? Please help your dog???

Also if at any time the pet dies she would start another cult so let's not risk it with her. Instead of an animal maybe give her a rock instead pfttt (actually wait-no she'd probably throw it at our poor mint coloured hair boy just give her a dog plushy it smth she can't be trusted with alive things)

10. Saeyoung

You may be asking me, Amanda, why, Saeyoung absolutely loves cats he'd be a cool cat dad, and yes, you're right. But you also don't understand that this man's love for cats goes SO far that he will actually cause chaos all around him. He'd give the cat SO many treats, not only that, but he'd also cuddle them, and that's nice tight? Wrong. This man will try to stretch the cat, grab it and twirl it around, reenact the lion king and do the 'Simba' bit and everything. Not only that he'd completely use it to prank Zen and everyone else, overall, he'd be a great pet owner but it'd be too much chaos so let's just stick with loving cats from afar.

Also I feel like he'd get a snake for some reason, and he'd dress them up in like a fancy bowtie a hat, or an iguana or chameleon y'know? He'd go for the amphibian type :o

9. Ray

I love our boy, I really do, but honestly how do you expect him to take care of a dog if he can't take care of himself. 😢

Actually scratch that, if he had a dog he would definitely love it and spoil it, and we live for that but also:

honey focus on yourself too we don't want you to D I E

Maybe give him a hamster or smth, while he's hacking away and watching MC in their room the hamster will be spinning on it's wheel super happy

Or he can have some cute fishes 🐟🐠

And like his brother, because great minds think alike, maybe a chameleon. He'd be pretty scared of them at first but he found one under some flowers and decided to rescue it, and now he sort of ended up adopting it :D

Although I find it pretty unlikely that he'll get a pet, he's more into flowers anyway

(OH WAIT WHAT ABOUT BEES? YA LIKE JAZZ -im sorry pft but now I need to see Ray in like those bee farmer dress things lmao)

8. Zen

I could see him as the pet owner that takes their dogs on walks and such, but honestly, if he's allergic to cats he's probably allergic to other animals too, at least some with a lot of hair! Although I feel like he'd get one of those big dogs and he'd go on runs with it all the time. The dog would be like the ones that are mostly thought of as super dangerous or aggressive but it turns out they're a sweetheart. Either that or a poodle 🐩💀 (but like I said, he's probably allergic to animals with lots of hair.)

HOW ABOUT A PARROT? ZEN COULD TOTALLY PRACTICE HIS LINES AND SONGS WITH THE PARROT AJDNFBFB

7. Jihyun

Jihyun would be pretty good as a pet owner but honestly he'd be super nervous at everything at first. Welcome to the Jihyun apologizing to his pet show akdjdn. But would we trust him with a pet? He wasn't really able to take care of two teenage boys -although it was mostly because he was in a toxic relationship 💀

When he has his sight problems he could totally get those helper dogs? (Forgot what they're called I'm sorry T_T)

He'd probably get a more chill pet tho, maybe a cat (he probably likes them a lot too! Also they're pretty calming.) So he could have like the guide dog and a small kitty too!

6. Jaehee

She'd be an awesome pet mom lol. I don't think she'd get a cat after being traumatized from pet-sitting Elizabeth. Maybe she could get like a turtle 🐢

Or maybe a rat to reenact Ratatouille lmaoo

She wouldn't get big pets unless the MC wanted to adopt something (and if they're a couple, we all know what people who want kids but can't or just aren't able to adopt at the moment, do, they get DOGS AND CATS!!!)

So honestly she'd start understanding why Jumin pampers Elly so much, since your dogs basically your child now PFTTT

Maybe a bunny too? I could see her working with the bunny on her head lmao and that's adorable

Omg imagine her with a SNAKE, HOW BADASS WOULD THAT BE???

5. Suit Saeran

You may be wondering once again, WHAT AND WHY

Let me explain.

Suit would dffinetly get those scary and big dogs that have spiky collars and everything, and he'd probably call him something like Killer or Skull Destroyer, or maybe Blade lmao

And we all know he'd die for his dog. It's the only one he can trust ajdhdbdbd

He'd be like the bad boys that walk around with their dog everywhere growling at people (not just the dog, the two of them)

And "Spike" would be so well taken care of. Believers have to start doing draws to see who feeds the monster dog that always bites them PFTTT

The dog would also dffinetly know how to fight. It'd be cute if the only person he likes appart from Saeran tho is MC hehe

AND you cannot change my mind in this, ever since Saeran got "Dark Knight" (I'm experimenting with the dog names pfft) he's shown him a picture of Saeyoung and taught him to absolutely hate his guts, so Seven, buddy, maybe don't get to close to them lol

AND the backstory for this dog is that Saeran found him under some bushes, hurt, and the dog reminded him of when he was younger, so he took him in and that's how the doggie came to be :3

3. GE Saeran

Idk, he'd also get the normal-ish animals, like a bunny or a cat (he'd like how calming they are.)

He'd be awesome with animals too!

Also uhm, someone please draw him as a farmer AJDHDHD lmaoo that's the first thing that came to mind 😂

He'd be the person that likes animals but like....other people's animals? He'd love to see Elizabeth and such, but he wouldn't really want to have one (unless MC wanted to of course.) It's not that he doesn't like them, it's mostly because he feels more comfortable with other people's pets ajdjdbd

Also he doesn't want them to ruin the garden oop

3. In a tie with Saeran, Yoosung

I forgot about him and didn't want to change the numbers lmao

Yoosung is a vet, c'mon he knows how to deal with animals!

At first he'd be so freaking nervous and would be just like a helicopter parent, making sure the doggie is alright and such, but then he gets the hang of it and he's perfect.

We all know we got a bunny with him too in his GE :D so maybe a dog and a bunny! He'd have more than one pet I'll tell ya that.

2. Jumin

Listen he's the king alright? He pampers his cat SO much, and you can just TELL how much he loves Elly. We all stan a man that loves animals.

He'd probably get some exotic pets too, maybe a few horses and birds that are really exotic or something

But can you imagine him with like....a tiger PFT

He'd be like: omg this is a cat but bigger let me have one

It'd be like Sebastian from Black Butler lol

He'd also be up to a dog, it'd take a bit of convincing but if MC wants one then he'd snap his fingers and get them one immediately (I love this man he's so ADORABLE) and then they'd have two children and Zen wouldn't have to worry about just Elizabeth

1. Vanderwood

Yes! The one! The only!

He's the only one appart from Jaehee that has more than one braincell PFTTTTT

He'd have a pretty big and scary dog that would've an absolute sweetheart when you get to know them. Everyone at first is scared but the dog just wants to sleep and eat, that's all.

Vanderwood is super responsible, I mean after Saeyoung I'm sure a dog would be nothing. He'd also compare Seven to his dog lol "Not even Capitan America is that dirty!"

"you named your dog Capitan America...?"

"shut the hell up or I'm tasing you."

His dog would spend all day sleeping. Sometimes Vanderwood will take him on walks, and they really enjoy that time together.

Vanderwood romance route? Uh, no he's far too in love with his dog to be doing anything else PFT

And you cannot once again change my mind on this:

He talks to his dog when he's alone.

He will tell him about his day as he cooks or does the laundry. He'd be in an apron making some dinner and be all like:

"Ugh, today I had to take care of that no-good for nothing guy again. It's incredible how messy his house can get in just a matter of hours! Not only that, he wasn't eating properly again, that idiot. I had to practically drag him out of his chair and make him eat some food. Not that I'm worried. It'd just be a hassle to have to find another hacker as good as him. Seriously that guy...."

And the dog would be like excuse me do I look like your therapist please just give me food lolol

[themadauthorshatter]

Henry Stickmin Headcanons Part 2, to "celebrate" the finale of the Toppat!Charles AU(Press F to pay respects). I'll be going in and oit of the AU as well, but that will be seperate from the other headcanons

In Triple Threat, and in order, the tallest is Ellie, standing at 5'9" and Henry is the shortest at 5'4". Charles sits comfortably between them at 5'7". Neither use their powers for evil, even though it's tempting to literally something over his head sometimes.

Each member of Triple Threat has their reactions toward horror in general.

Charles is pretty unfazed by games like FNAF or anything with heavy jumpscares. He will not watch a movie with bad jumpscares(jumpscares used poorly.) He was a baby watching Sinister, The VVitch, and Lighthouse.

Ellie gets scared by just about anything, but breaks whenever she sees evil clowns specifically.

Nothing really scares Henry. Or at least he tells himself that. He's less open by getting scared, but don't tell Ellie or Charles.

Ellie and Heney, because they were in a mischief mood, tried scaring Charles. He punched Henry in the face on accident.

Charles sings really well, but only when he thinks there's no one around.

Ellie is the smartest of the trio. That doesn't mean Charles and Henry are idiots, even though they've done things that have warranted them a spot in the dumbass hall of fame.

When Rupert first joined, he'd literally never been more annoyed than when he met Charles, who, in his opinion, talked too much and didn't take anything seriously. It didn't really help that Galeforce always partnered the two, as to keep Charles safe on the ground when he couldn't directly see him. Rupert was mad at the fact he'd gone through a lot of training and was promoted to government babysitter, and it boiled out of him when Charles asked if he was okay. Rupert snapped at him, shouting at the pilot to just shut up for five minutes and actually do his part in missions, which was have Rupert's back or keep him informed of anything around them. He also yelled that Charles is incompetent and shouldn't even be in the military, as all he does is talk. He had brought this up with Galeforce, when the two got back and Charles excused himself to allow Rupert to give the report on their mission, but got a very proper scolding. He apologized to Charles when the YOUNGEST PILOT EVER got them both out of a sticky situation using some incredibly evasive maneuvers that Rupert was sure would get them killed.

After the deaths and funeral of Mr. And Mrs. Calvin, Galeforce adopted Charles, something that was in the couple's will. Charles did not talk to him for a long time, not until a rainy day that prevented any work that needed to be done. Galeforce noticed Charles sitting near either a patio door or by a window staring up at the clouds. He carefully sat next to him and admitted that he missed Charles's parents, too, saying they were very good friends of his and were always good to turn to for a smile or just to take a breather. He couldn't imagine how Charles felt, but he still missed them and was sorry all the same. That's when Galeforce noticed a card Charles was holding to his chest; a birthday card, one that read, "Charlie, if you're reading this, know that your father and I love you very much. No matter what, always remember that. We couldn't have asked for a better son, one as silly, smart, and ambitious as you. We will always love you. I'm sorry. Love, Mom," from Charles's mother and, "Hey, hawk. If you're reading this, it means something really bad happened to us both. Sorry we won't make it back for your birthday, more specifically that I broke my promise to you. You deserve to be happy, and I hope you can do that again someday. Charles, you can miss us, you can be sad, you can cry, it's more than okay to. I just hope one day you can smile and be happy again for us. I'm sorry. Your mother loves you, Charlie. I love you so much, son. Love, Dad," from Charles's father. There smugdes on some parts of the card, some old and some new, and it especially struck Galeforce that the two extremely sad messages shouldn't have been on a nine year old's birthday card. Galeforce apologized for not being Charles's parents, though told him that he'd try to be what they were, maybe more. He didn't talk, but Charles did huddle closer to his side and Galeforce put an arm around him as they continued watching the rain.

Do not challenge Charles to a foot race. He will outrun you.

Do not challenge Ellie to an arm wrestling match. She will always win.

Do not challenge Henry to an underwater how-long-can-I-hold-my-breathe challenge. You will most likely drown.

Triple Threat beat each other in their respective challenges/contests by cheating/sabotaging each other; Henry will try tackling Charles while Ellie will try to trip him, Charles will try kicking Ellie's chair to push it away while Henry teams up with him to try and push her arm down, and Ellie will throw little pool torpedoes at Henry, which is more passive than Charles shouting, "This is the greatest PLAAAAAAN!" and cannonballing in before wrestling Henry back above water.

Charles wakes up Ellie and Henry in various methods, since he's usually up first: He'll usually use an alarm, but sometimes, when he's really energetic, he bangs pots and pans together, gets a teakettle singing, uses and airhorn, and, the most extreme he's ever gone, taped a brown lunch bag to a leaf blower and brought a really bright light into both their rooms, rigging the devices to a light switch. With a snicker, he began to play that army/military wake up song on a trumpet with a megaphone taped to it and flipped the switch.

Both of them were ready to kill him.

Henry was initially left at an orphanage, but he was adopted at the age of seven. He was brought up well enough, until one of his parents started noticing that he was acting "weird," as in his 'ability' to see his choices and fails. This parent started ignoring him and told him to start acting normal or he'd be sent back to the orphanage. The other parent, the one that also noticed but didn't want to talk about it, still loved him, though started to get a little irritated when their partner left out of spite; "Either I go or the crazy brat goes." The other parent re-married and this new step-parent was nicer, but happened to wirk as a janitor for the CCC, and warned Henry to be careful with his 'powers' because the people the step-parent worked for weren't nice and would do bad things to him. The step-parent meant well, but Henry, having the memories of the parent that left fresh in his mind, took it as a threat to behave, which made him a very anxious kid. Anxious enough to become a kleptomaniac and pickpocket to relieve stress.

Ellie had the most normal life, having two parents and a brother, but turned to a life of thieving because the pressure of being a good person and her family's view of a black and white world drove her crazy.

You would have to be crazy to try and take on all three members of Triple Threat at once.

The trio sometimes share a room and bed, because of nightmares and they don't want to be alone.

Yeah. Triple Threat is basically a found family.

Ellie is the father and Henry and Charles are her two, wonderful, dumbass children, even though there are times the two take turns being the mother.

Now, ONTO SOME POST TOPPAT!CHARLES AU STUFF! This is kind of like an Epilogue, so buckle in.

Triple Threat gets two weeks off to fully recover. (Thank goodness)

They return to their apartment and go straight to bed, though they actually just camp out in the living room.

They still sleep like the dead; they wake up LATE the next day, at 4 in the afternoon.

Breakfast for dinner.

Even when they know they should go back to sleep around 10 pm, they stay up and watch movies. They let Charles pick, and he chooses a collection of Looney Tunes, Merry Melodies, and even the Looney Tunes Show.

Henry and Ellie notice him giggling whenever Daffy's on screen, and can't help but wonder why, though they don't ask when he also gets tears in his eyes. He explains later that he used to watch the old version of Looney Tunes and Merry Melodies with his parents and even Galeforce, sometimes, even though it was something that happened less frequently as Charles grew and became a more solid part of the military.

They stay up all night, taking turns watching movies, making small talk, and just enjoying each other's company.

Charles does have an episode when they're making lunch the next day when he accidentally drops a glass and has a flashback of Right killing the pilot of a destroyer sent to rescue him. It is a nerve wracking memory and it leads him to breaking down on the floor. Henry and Ellie do help him out of it, but he refuses to share what he saw with them. They don't push it and tell him to feel free to share whenever he's ready.

They keep an eye on him when he takes his ADD medicine, just to be safe.

They often go outside to do workouts, because they don't want to break anything in the apartment. Charles keeps up with them, and they simply enjoy the breeze and the outside when they're done.

Henry and Ellie do talk about what she told Henry back in Part 6, and she apologizes for not telling Henry sooner, also admitting that she was scared he would abandon her, if she told him. Needless to say, Henry's just glad the three of them are together.

Charles is welcomed back much more warmly when they return from their break.

First daybback and it's out of the frying pan and into the flame, because they have another group of thieves to deal with, smaller than the Toppat Clan, but still noticable: a biker gang that's here to steal stuff by any means necessary and be an insane headache for police and people on the road.

They don't know much now, but they will when the gang is followed in the air.

Galeforce offers Charles to fly and get some possible intell, though says that if he isn't comfortable with it he can back out.

Charles agrees, and says with an excited, nervous smile that he's missed being in the air.

Galeforce makes sure Henry and Ellie keep an eye on him, which they promise to do, before everyone sets out, Charles taking a seat in his fixed up helicopter with Henry and Ellie behind him.

With a deep breath, they head out, ready to do some government recon, which they're successful in.

At The Wall, Dmitri is grumbly and still a little pissed at how Henry got away AGAIN, but has to admit it's good to not have to worry about the Toppat Clan anymore, most of whom being in maximum security cells.

Right is bored as hell, but is glad that his cellmate is Reginald; Right's missing his cybernetic arm from the elbow down, his legs have been downgraded to be normal legs, and he is no longer OP.

Reg apologizes for letting this happen to the clan, but Right assures him it's not his fault, self deprecatingly admitting that he may have been stupid for MAYBE crossing the line. Reg can't help but softly chide him for it.

Right promises that they'll get out, though Reginald only snuggles into him more, saying it can happen in good time, but right now he just wants to be close to Right a little longer.

The CCC hasn't gotten a single major chaos reading since the orbital station was destroyed and the clan was arrested. Bill Bullet chuckles a simple, "Not bad, kid," as he leaves his readers to their work.

Terrence is kicking back in his new room, lying in a bed as he reads a book. He's enjoyed having regular, warm showers, access to a razor to shave, and, mostly, a sky that didn't have the orbital station in it; it leaves a bad taste in his mouth that Reginald actually outdid him, sending the clan in space for a short time.

He chuckles at the fact that Henry would've been a damned good leader, mostly because he could see overthrowing HIM to be easy. "Too bad he joined the government instead," Terrence sighs with a shrug before he burts into laughter, mad, hysterical laughter. It really would've been fun to see Henry as the leader of the Toppat Clan.😉

Back with Triple Threat, after their mission as they sit on a hill that would've held Charles grave, if this was Valiant Hero. They're quiet, enjoying the sunset and the sound of the waves below, not ready to go home yet.

Even though they're all quiet, Charles tips his head back and takes a deep breath, taking in the sun, the air, everything, before returning his gaze to the sunset.

"Man," he breathes, "I've... really missed this."

Ellie replies that she has as well, Henry nodding in agreement.

They all watch the remainder of the sunset, though, quite nicely, all three are holding each other's hands and smiling to themselves

[tabloidtoc]

Us, May 3

You can buy a brand new copy of this issue without the mailing label for your very own at my eBay store: https://www.ebay.com/str/bradentonbooks

Cover: Pregnant Meghan Markle: My Baby, My Way

Page 2: Red Carpet -- rufflemania -- Hollywood style stars are tier-ing it up in this flattering design with feminine flair -- Tracee Ellis Ross, Kaitlyn Dever, Margot Robbie, Logan Browning, Nicola Coughlan

Page 3: Lizzo, Maude Apatow, Lucy Boynton, Jessica Alba, Lily Collins

Page 4: Who Wore It Best? Anya Taylor-Joy vs. Isla Fisher vs. Regina King in Stuart Weitzman Nudist sandal

Page 6: Loose Talk -- Shonda Rhimes on the intense backlash she received over Rege-Jean Page's exit from Bridgerton, Kelly Ripa on her most embarrassing interview, Luke Bryan on his mother LeClaire's Instagram fame, Blake Shelton on The Voice's new coach Ariana Grande, Reese Witherspoon joking about wearing bottoms that aren't sweatpants

Page 8: Contents

Page 10: A Final Farewell to Prince Philip, his four children Prince Charles and Princess Anne and Prince Andrew and Prince Edward were among the loved ones who participated in the emotional ceremony, feuding brothers Prince Harry and Prince William (and his wife Duchess Kate) put their differences aside after the intimate service, due to Covid-19 protocols the grieving Queen Elizabeth stayed socially distant from the other 29 people who attended the funeral for her husband of 73 years

Page 11: ACM Awards 2021 -- Maren Morris teamed up with her husband Ryan Hurd and won Female Artist of the Year, Thomas Rhett won Male Artist of the Year, Carrie Underwood took the stage

Page 12: Hot Pics -- Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wore an orange coat during a visit to NYC, John Stamos plays a coach on the TV show Big Shot, Zach Braff goofed around on the set of Cheaper by the Dozen in L.A.

Page 13: Eva Longoria on her trampoline while aboard a yacht in Miami, Howie Mandel arrived to the set of America's Got Talent dressed as a bug in Pasadena

Page 14: Jon Hamm and his rescue dog Splash strolled around the neighborhood in L.A., Heidi Klum in all white in Pasadena, Sara Gilbert and Linda Perry take a stroll in L.A.

Page 15: Eddie Cibrian and LeAnn Rimes held hands after dinner at Il Segreto in L.A., Patrick Dempsey shot a scene for his show Devils in Rome

Page 16: Rachel Brosnahan in a blue dress and carrying a clear umbrella on the set of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in NYC, Lin-Manuel Miranda at the opening of a vaccination center for Broadway workers in Times Square, Trisha Yearwood feeds one of her rescue pups

Page 18: Gen Z Has Spoken -- these celebs are making the young kids proud -- Baggy Jeans -- Hailey Bieber, Tracee Ellis Ross, Bella Hadid

Page 19: Middle Parts -- Busy Philipps, Lizzo, Jennifer Lopez, Kourtney Kardashian, baguette bags -- Dua Lipa, Elsa Hosk, Irina Shayk, Kendall Jenner

Page 20: Seeing Double -- stars bear a striking resemblance to their famous counterparts -- Elizabeth Banks and Chelsea Handler, Emmanuelle Chriqui and Nina Dobrev, Betty Gilpin and Jodie Comer

Page 21: Rob Lowe and Ian Somerhalder, Jaime Pressly and Margot Robbie, Isla Fisher and Amy Adams, Rupert Grint and Ed Sheeran, Kyle Richards and Kacey Musgraves

Page 22: Clueless Crew -- stars are totally buggin' over Cher Horowitz's style in yellow plaid -- Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, Katie Holmes was rollin' with her homie beau Emilio Vitolo Jr. in NYC, Vanessa Hudgens, Dianna Agron

Page 23: Gabrielle Union

Page 24: Stars They're Not Like Us -- Jay Leno took one of his vintage automobiles out for a spin in L.A., Chrissy Teigen and John Legend took a selfie with a fan while grocery shopping in Beverly Hills, Kylie Jenner has custom vending machines

Page 25: Carrie Underwood in her massive walk-in closet, Denzel Washington signs autographs for fans in NYC, Megan Thee Stallion on a private plane, Drake and his bodyguard in Beverly Hills

Page 26: Stars They're Just Like Us -- Sarah Jessica Parker catches a yellow cab after working at her shoe store in NYC, Brad Paisley picked up five pizzas to go in Montecito

Page 27: Kelly Osbourne handed out goods at a drive-thru food distribution event at the Islamic Center of Southern California, HGTV's Egypt Sherrod transformed her closet into a meditation space in Atlanta, in between filming Law & Order: SVU's Mariska Hargitay and Ice-T take a selfie

Page 28: Hollywood Dads -- Scott Porter on parenting his two kids McCoy and Clover

Page 29: Jonathan Tucker on life with twins Hayes and India, parenthood is a lot tougher than Jovi Dufren imagined, Maksim Chmerkovskiy can't wait to show son Shai his work

Page 30: Love Lives -- Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are showing no signs of slowing down -- the pair enjoyed a night out in L.A. hotspot Delilah where they were holding hands and laughing and they're not hiding the fact that they're dating but they just don't want people in their business -- they're a good match and are each other's best friend

Page 31: Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber may look like the picture-perfect couple, but Justin admits that their first year of marriage wasn't what he expected, saying it was really tough and there was just a lack of trust and he blamed the strain on his own personal struggles and said before he didn't have someone to love or someone to pour into but now, more than two years after exchanging vows with Hailey, he has that

* Kacey Musgraves' romance with Dr. Gerald Onuoha is giving her butterflies -- the pair are so happy they found each other and while Kacey, who split from her husband Ruston Kelly last summer, is trying not to get too ahead of herself, her connection to the Nashville-based doc is off the charts and it's got the potential to go a very long way

* Today's Savannah Guthrie is thankful to have husband Michael Feldman in her life, especially given the demands of her early morning work schedule

Page 32: Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker are getting serious -- all the details on their whirlwind romance

Page 33: Adapting to parenthood has been a breeze for Emma Stone and she's soaking in all the precious moments of being a mom for the first time -- she and husband Dave McCary welcomed their baby daughter in March and Emma is super protective and a very hands-on mom and Dave is also hands-on and helps with their daughter -- thanks to the little one, Emma's marriage with the comedian has also gotten stronger and having a baby has brought them closer in a way they never expected -- Emma is looking forward to getting back to work; she's taken this time off to embrace motherhood and her number one priority is to raise a healthy baby so that's what she's focused on right now

* Britney Spears is setting the record straight -- despite her ongoing conservatorship battle with her dad, Jamie Spears, she is doing totally fine, assuring fans that she's extremely happy and she has a beautiful home, beautiful children and she's taking a break right now because she's enjoying herself -- although the legal drama with her father is heating up, Britney is staying strong and she has this wonderful ability to see the positive even when the odds are against her

* Keeping Up With Us -- production for the Downton Abbey sequel is underway, Mossimo Giannulli is a free man, Chrissy Teigen returned to Twitter 23 days after announcing that she was leaving the platform, Vanessa Bryant remembered her late husband Kobe Bryant on what would have been their 20th wedding anniversary, Helen McCrory lost her battle with cancer at age 52 according to her husband Damian Lewis

Page 34: A Day in My Life -- Whitney Port

Page 35: Colton Underwood is ready to live his truth -- during an interview on Good Morning America, the former Bachelor came out as gay, saying he's run from himself for a long time and he came to terms with his sexuality earlier this year and he's the happiest and healthiest he's ever been -- now that he feels like he can finally breathe, Colton is excited for his next chapter, which fans will get to see on an upcoming reality show with Olympian Gus Kenworthy -- a huge weight has been lifted off of Colton's shoulders and he is looking forward to being his authentic self

Page 36: Moms Tell All -- Happy Mother's Day! From milestones and manners to rules and nanny-bans, celebs and insiders talk about raising kids in Hollywood

Page 37: Bindi Irwin says life at home with her daughter Grace Warrior has been positively blissful and her family with dad Chandler Powell is so full of love, adding that the newborn has already met some of the wildlife at the Australia Zoo where Bindi and Chandler live and work and of course she's seen some crocs and really lit up when she saw them -- while the Aussie conservationist is sad Grace won't get to meet her late dad Steve Irwin, Bindi's brother Robert Irwin and mom Terri Irwin have been by her side constantly and Robert is obsessed with Grace and has been helping out so much and her mom has been the biggest guiding light and she's already taught Bindi so much about being a mother, both in how she raised her and by showing her things day by day and Terri is quite the baby whisperer and she's so great a calming Grace down when she's crying -- first-time father Chandler is also a natural with Grace and he's been the most supportive and involved dad and together, he and Bindi make such a great team -- for now, Bindi, who stars with Chandler in Crikey! It's a Baby!, is hoping Grace will follow in her animal-activist footsteps, saying having three generations of strong women working as conservationists is a dream come true

* Jennifer Garner said teaching your kids is a lifelong job, and certainly values are something you have to show them -- Jennifer, who shares kids Violet, Seraphina and Samuel with ex Ben Affleck, is staying true to her word and has led by example when it comes to things like kindness and patience and she won't let anyone in the house to judge or speak ill of people, and she enforces the same wholesome, traditional values that she was raised with and the kids have been taught to be loving, hardworking and fair -- Jennifer has always taken a kids-come-first approach to parenting, and it shows as they bake together, enjoy movie nights, read books and have very active lives and it's a very healthy, happy household filled with laughter and love

Page 38: Gwen Stefani has her hands full with her sons Kingston, Zuma and Apollo with ex-husband Gavin Rossdale, but she wouldn't want it any other way -- Gwen's a tomboy, so having three boys wasn't daunting for her at all, plus she has fiance Blake Shelton by her side to pitch in with parenting duties and Gwen and the boys have a blast at Blake's ranch in Oklahoma where they enjoy riding their ATVs, and they play baseball and football -- it's not all fun and games, though because Gwen is big on boundaries and manners and she doesn't want to raise Hollywood brats and it's important to her that her sons be gentlemen

* Meghan Markle's pregnancy with Archie was no walk in the park, as she revealed during her bombshell TV interview with husband Prince Harry, the couple had concerns over whether or not the royal family would provide security for their son and claimed there were conversations about his skin color -- but this time around, as Meghan and Harry gear up for baby No. 2 at home in L.A., she's doing everything her way, without the royals and Meghan and Harry feel blessed that they're able to raise their daughter in the U.S. and can live by their own rules and make the decisions they feel are best for their children; having independence is the most important thing for Meghan and she's got free rein to be exactly the kind of mom she wants to be -- her parenting style is really like most mothers out there, and she's been craving pasta and doing yoga two times a day as her due date nears and she keeps a lot of art supplies out to foster creativity and healthy snacks around and she's a devoted mom and wants the best for her kids

Page 39: Kate Hudson has a lot on her plate, so the mom of three, who shares son Ryder with former husband Chris Robinson and son Bingham with ex Matt Bellamy and daughter Rani with boyfriend Danny Fujikawa, knows when to put her foot down as things can get a little overwhelming at times for Kate, but when she says no, it absolutely means no, and the kids respect her very much because of that

* Gigi Hadid, who shares daughter Khai with boyfriend Zayn Malik, wants to spend every waking moment with her precious little girl -- Gigi could easily afford to employ a team of nannies but chooses not to and she prefers to do everything herself and besides, she can't bear to be away from Khai for more than a few hours

* Candace Cameron Bure's three grown kids are flying the coop, but she's still super involved in their lives, despite slowly becoming an empty nester -- the mom of Natasha, Lev, and Maksim with former hockey player Valeri Bure says it's been a very transitional time and she's been trying to help them make decisions they feel good about and it's challenging, but they're figuring it out

Page 40: Oh, Baby! Meghan Markle's due date is just around the corner, and here are all the details

* Bump Brigade -- Halsey, Gal Gadot, Shawn Johnson East

Page 42: 10 Years of the Cambridges -- a look back at Prince William and Duchess Kate Middleton's solid marriage for their anniversary

Page 44: Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez: What Really Happened -- cheating and lies? The truth behind J.Lo's split from fiance A-Rod

Page 45: Friendliest Exes -- these former couples managed to stay close after going their separate ways -- Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin, Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux, Orlando Bloom and Miranda Kerr, Demi Moore and Bruce Willis, Lisa Bonet and Lenny Kravitz

Page 48: Gifts for Mother's Day

Page 54: Entertainment -- Ben Barnes on Shadow and Bone

Page 58: Fashion Police -- the most daring Oscars looks -- Bjork, Whoopi Goldberg, Charlize Theron

Page 59: Rachel Weisz, Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Gaga

Page 60: 25 Things You Don't Know About Me -- Julia Michaels