#I keep going 'so comic when??' and having to gently take myself by the hand and go it is okay. Take a minute to gather yourself

[lexicals]

Absolutely wild that it's already been 3 weeks since I moved it feels like half that.... also feels like I'm still in recovery mode (I keep being like "recovering from What dude" to myself but I know the answer it's just. Hard to think let alone say or write.) but I've been slowly watching so many things on my list that I've been meaning to get to and not had the bandwidth for which feels like progress? Like I'm exhausted physically but mentally I feel way better. I know I have a lot of things I need to do but it's not stressing me out as much as it used to bc no-one is breathing down my neck about them & I can get to them as quickly or slowly as I want. I'm not forcing myself to do things when I'm not up to it and yet they still get done and I don't feel like shit during the process. I didn't mean for this to be this long I'm just. Aaa

[forever-rogue]

hi miss bee 🐝💛 would you pls bless us w more joel x wife!reader 👉👈

since it was joel being protective of reader maybe this time it can be the other way around where he comes home from a patrol and is slightly injured and she makes a huge fuss over him and then tries to o make him feel better through some sugar and spice 😋🫶

AN | Well, well, well how the turntables have…anyway, I love this concept so much! 💕

Pairing | Joel Miller x Fem!Reader

Warnings | Language

Word Count | 2k

Masterlist | Joel, Main

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

You paced around the kitchen as you waited for him to walk through the door. You’d already been waiting…and waiting and waiting. You’d done so much that you’d made enough baked goods to feed a small army; it was something to keep your mind and hands occupied. 

“Holy shit,” Ellie’s big, brown eyes went comically wide as she stepped into the kitchen and looked at the mountain of cookies and muffins and breads. You turned to face her with a guilty little expression on your face, “that is a lot of food.”

“I…yeah,” you admitted sheepishly, “I was going to go and give some stuff to the neighbors…I needed a distraction.”

“Joel?” she asked hopefully, her eyebrows perking up as you leaned against the counter and shook your head.

“Nothing yet,” you sighed, trying to keep all the bad thoughts and worries at bay, “I’m sure he’ll be back any time. Soon.”

“Of course he will,” she promised, wanting to keep you from panicking while trying to convince herself of the same thing. The truth was that she too was worried about how long he’d been gone. He should have been back two days - he was almost never late, “Joel’s a stubborn old man. He’s coming home no matter what.”

“He is and he will,” you agreed, “I just…I want him home.”

“Me too,” she confessed quietly, “me too.”

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Long after Ellie had gone to bed, and you should have as well, you were still sitting on the couch. Waiting. After every couple of minutes, you’d look at the door as though you were somehow going to will him to come home. You’d read the same page of your book about ten times, but still weren’t fully sure what was happening. 

But then - as you were almost dozing off - you heard it. The unmistakable sound of the door being unlocked and then slowly opening. You tossed your book to the side and jumped, scampering to the door. When it fully opened you found yourself face to face with your husband. 

“Joel,” despite your best efforts, tears were rolling down your cheeks, ‘you’re home.”

“You’d never get rid of me that easily,” he smiled, a tired and crooked thing, “hi baby.”

“Oh my love,” you threw yourself into his arms and held onto him tightly, melting into his familiar body, and enveloping yourself in his scent, “I’m so glad you’re home. I’ve been…”

You trailed off as you pulled and looked him over. You could see the grimace on his face, despite his best efforts. It was then that you noticed the bruising and cuts on his cheek. He could sense you growing worried and shook his head, “baby-”

“What happened?” you stood in front of him and reached up to take his face in your hands, gently brushing your thumb over his cheek, “who did this? Where else are you hurt?”

“It’s fine,” he insisted, but he knew that you weren’t going to relax. That wasn’t your nature; you were caring and nurturing and always fiercely protective of those you loved, “I’m not that hurt.”

“I don’t believe you, Joel Miller,” you reached for his hand and gently pulled him over to the couch. You reached for the hem of his sweater and silently looked for permission to take it off. He gave you a small nod and you tenderly pulled off his sweater, and set it to the side. Your frown only grew when you noticed all the bruising on his left side, “what happened? I hugged - oh no. I squeezed you so hard. Did I make it worse?”

“I did this to myself,” he insisted as he reached for your hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, “I tried and fell - landed too hard on my side. Just a clumsy old fool.”

You huffed lightly - you were still worried. Nothing that he could say would change that, “has one of the medics or anyone taken a look at you? Are you sure-”

“I’m sure,” he tugged you softly towards him onto the couch and you reluctantly sat down next to him, “nothing permanent and nothing terrible. Just a lot of bruising and soreness and some cuts. I’ll be alright, I promise.”

“You know that I’m still going to worry,” you huffed, making a small sound of surprise as he shuffled you so you were perched on his lap. You delicately ghosted your fingers along his ribs, sighing softly at the lavender haze on his skin, “you’ll tell me if it hurts?”

“Of course I will,” he set his hands on your hips and gave them a gentle squeeze, “baby, let me just enjoy being back with you. Let me enjoy you.”

And you almost gave into him - almost. You wrapped your fingers around his wrists and shook your head. Your husband groaned heavily as he tossed his head back dramatically, “nuh uh, Joel Miller. Not right now.”

He was a good man through and through, so while he was going to be dramatic, he was going to respect your wishes. He sighed softly as he took your hand in his and brought it to his lips, placing a delicate kiss to your knuckles, “I love you.”

“I love you too,” you melted under his reverent gaze, “I’m glad you’re home, my love.”

“I will always come home to you,” he promised and you knew it was true. It still didn’t mean, however, that you weren’t going to take care of him. Oh no; as long as he was hurt, you were going to take care of him.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Joel was fast asleep next to you, snoring softly and bundled up in blankets. You, meanwhile, weren't able to sleep and were sitting up and leaning against the headboard, an unopened book on your lap. You were too busy worrying about Joel, and if the extent of his injuries were more than he was letting on.

You'd made him take a long, hot bath before getting into bed, taking care of his cuts and scratches. There wasn't much you could do for the bruising besides be gentle with him. 

"Baby," he murmured softly, eyes still closed as he rolled onto his side, "sleep."

You couldn't help the small snort of amusement that escaped your lips. He knew you way too well. The book was tossed onto the bedside table as you turned the light off and snuggled up to him. He wasted no time in throwing an arm around your waist and pulling into his body. He could feel you tensing up with effort to keep from hurting him.

"Relax," he insisted through kisses pressed to your shoulder, "'m alright."

"Promise?"

"Swear."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

You slipped out of the house before either Joel or Ellie were awake. You pulled on some clothes and walked over to Tommy Miller's house, going over the conversation you planned on having over and over again in your head. You didn't want to be over the top or dramatic but you also felt instinctively drawn to protect your loved ones.

You knocked on his door and rocked back and forth on your heels, trying to remain calm. When Tommy opened the door a few moments later you reached for his hand and pulled him onto the porch light. 

"Hey - hi- what's up?" He looked confused for a moment before noticing the worried expression on your face.

"What happened to Joel?" And yeah, everything you'd practiced in your head faded into non-existence. You sounded as hysterical as you felt, "he c-came home and he was hurt."

"It's okay," he put a hand on your shoulder and gave you a gentle squeeze, "I had him checked out as soon as we got back."

"He's -"

"A stubborn old fool," Tommy insisted as you couldn't help but chuckle at him, "but he's okay. The steps to the cabin on our route were slippery and he fell. He wasn't paying enough attention and down he went. That's all."

"And you're not lying to me?" You visibly relaxed when he nodded. At least now you had the reassurance that nothing was seriously wrong, "good. I know I probably seem -"

"Protective," he finished for you as you smiled softly, "loving. That's all."

"Yeah," you agreed, "thank you, Tommy. Thank you for keeping him safe."

"He does just as much for me. Besides, we're all family," he gently nudged your side as you laughed softly, "but you're welcome."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

By the time you made it back home, you heard commotion in the kitchen and were met with the smell of coffee and delicious foods. Your heart kicked into overdrive as you almost ran into the kitchen, expecting to find the worse but instead -

“Hey baby,” Joel wore a lazy smile as he looked at you from over the cup of coffee he was drinking while Ellie was busy making pancakes. You relaxed sightly at the sight of your family, “what’s wrong?”

“I…” you ran a hand through your hair in exasperation before shaking your head fondly at them, “Joel, you should be resting!”

“Hey,” his voice turned soft as he put his coffee mug down and stepped over to you and touched your cheek gently. You pouted at him, and if you weren’t so upset he might have laughed and kissed it away, “it’s okay, I’m okay - I’m right here. Please don’t worry about me.”

“But you’re all…bruised up,” you looked at him with big doe eyes and he sighed wistfully, “I don’t want it to get worse.”

“I know,” he promised, “I know it’s all out of love. I’m sore, but that’s all. It already feels better just being back home with you.”

“I like to worry,” you admitted as your face grew warm and he brushed his knuckles along your jaw, “I can’t help it.”

“And that’s okay,” he insisted, “I love you, baby. You know you’re not getting rid of me that easily.”

“Or me!” Ellie chirped from the stove, a bemused little smile on her face.

“I love you yoo,” you went over to the young girl and gave her a tight hug which she pretended to abhor but you knew she loved it. You turned your attention back to Joel and gingerly hugged him too. Joel responded with a bone-crushing hug that had you breathless and giggling, “Joel!”

“It’s alright,” he leaned down and kissed you softly, stealing away all of your worries and fears, “promise.”

“Okay,” and finally, a real giggle bubbled up as you leaned up to kiss him in return, “I love you too, stubborn old man.”

“But I’m all yours, baby.”

“And I’m yours too.”

[lanaswritingbook]

I can’t tell you (1/2?)

Dave Lizewski x black!reader

Warnings: Cursing, argument, lost trust

Summary- Dave has been acting weird lately and when Yn finds out he was in a alleyway with another girl she loses full trust in him.

pt. 2- https://www.tumblr.com/spenceswife/736249594091012096/i-cant-tell-you-22

Today was a good day. I’ve been in the local cafe working on all my assignments for school when one of my friends popped up.

“Hey Yn!” Lisa sat in the chair across me

“Hey how you been?” I ask taking a sip of coffee

“Good… but i wanted to talk to you about something.” she said nervously moving side to side

“Yeah what’s up” she took a deep breath before replying

“So I was walking to the comic store earlier and I saw Dave in the Alleyway with a girl and uh his shirt was off.” I stared at her not trying to freak out.

“Oh. What’d she look like?” I tried to smile “She was white, blonde, and kinda short” she grabbed my hand immediately.

“I promise it’s okay to cry, we can go for a walk if you need” I shook my head trying to hide my watery eyes.

“It’s okay. I’ll talk to him” she gave me hug walking out the store.

It was one thing for Dave to start blowing me off out of nowhere but him being caught makes it worse.

I had to think about anyone it could be. Myself esteem started to lower, i’m nothing like the girl Lisa explained. I was a chubby black girl with curly hair. It’s just heartbreaking hearing your partner is with someone else.

-

“Hey babe” Dave kissed my cheek sitting down on the bleachers next to me.

I kept my head forward watching the other students play games around the gym.

“I’ve tried to catch your attention in the halls but I guess you didn’t see him” he gently laughed putting his hand over mine.

“I saw you.” I blankly say. “So why didn’t you stop?” he turned his head towards me trying to catch my eye.

“Thought you would have better plans to do” he raised his brow never really seeing me like this.

“Can you look at me? What are you talking about” he tried shifting me towards him.

I shake my head crossing my arms.

“Yn please. Why are you mad at me?” his big brown eyes begged. And as much as I wanted to kill him I couldn’t

“You don’t wanna be together anymore Dave? Just say that. Stop trying to keep me around when your bored” he jumped back

“Whoa whoa what are you talking about?” I roll my eyes

“For one everytime I try to hang you have a lame excuse as to why you can’t. And two Lisa told me she saw you in an alley with a girl. With your fucking shirt off Dave. So I think that’s why i’m mad at you.”

His mouth was open trying to think about what to say

“It’s definitely not what you think babe I promise.” he grabbed my hands looking me in the eyes

“Then tell me what it really was. Because this is a crazy thing to justify Dave.” he closed his eyes

“I can’t tell you…” ripping my hands from his grasp I grab my bag standing

“Yeah i’m done.” shaking my head I head out the gym towards the bathrooms.

Dave sat there in shock. Did he really just lose his girlfriend over a misunderstanding?

[cowboythighs]

When Wayne took Eddie in, his biggest worry was that he was going to screw the poor kid up even more than his parents already had. After all, what did he know about taking care of a kid? How would he know what his nephew didn’t know- what Wayne needed to teach him? And how was he going to manage raising a whole little human and provide for them both? But to his surprise, Wayne soon found out that Eddie was shockingly self-sufficient. That he’d had to learn how to cook and clean and do laundry for himself, because his parents were too caught up in themselves and their own issues to take care of him.

Wayne’s momentary relief that he wasn’t starting from ground zero was soon replaced by a level of resentment towards Eddie’s parents. It wasn’t fair that Eddie had been forced to rely on himself so much. It hurt Wayne to see someone so young worrying the way he did about not using too much water; hurt watching Eddie silently going behind Wayne to turn off unused lights because he worried about the bills being too high to pay.

When he figured out Eddie's lemonade stand wasn’t set up to fund a new comic or toy, but rather to try and pay his share for room and board, Wayne took Eddie to the local thrift store and headed straight for the toys section. He was stern when he told Eddie to keep his money, and that they were not leaving until Eddie had an armful of his own toys because Wayne was determined to make sure Eddie had the chance to be a kid.

He watched as Eddie slowly pursued through the selection of toys- inspecting them carefully. When Wayne caught on that Eddie was looking at the price tags he gently admonished him; told him these are used toys; they’re cheap enough and that Eddie didn’t have to worry about money with him.

Eddie tried to argue, insisted that he knows how this goes and appreciates the thought, he really does think it’s nice that Uncle Wayne wants him to have fun stuff to play with, but he knew that just because they have money now it didn’t mean they won’t somehow come up short later, and how he’d much rather have heat than a GI Joe.

Wayne tried to be patient, to not to be as gruff as was his nature as he told Eddie “I may not be your daddy, but you're my boy and I’m gonna take care of you”. Wayne told him it was time to stop fussing and enjoy being a kid. Wayne allowed himself a smile when Eddie relented and picked out a handful of toys.

When they passed the book display as they walked towards the register Wayne stopped. “You like readin’?'' he asks. Eddie looks longingly at the books but only shrugs.

“Don’t know, never had any books to read”. Eddie says it like it doesn’t matter, but his face betrays him.

“They had books in school, didn’t they?” Wayne asked. Eddie just gave another shrug.

“Guess so. I didn't get to go to school very often. Mom and dad were almost always too tired or too sick in the mornings to take me. and we moved around a lot. When we lived close I could walk to school by myself as long as I had clean clothes. If you go to school dirty, teachers get too nosey," Eddie stated like it was common knowledge, “and then they call your parents and you get in trouble and have to move again. But mostly it was too far to walk so I couldn’t go anyways.”

Wayne’s heart felt like it was breaking anew with each detail of casual neglect his nephew had to endure. It wasn’t right for a kid so young to have gone through so much and be so nonchalant about it. Making up his mind he directed Eddie over to the books and told him he can have whatever he wants. There's a slim selection of children’s books to choose from, but it's a place to start.

Wayne watched Eddie's eyes as they kept wandering back to a boxed set with dragons and wizards on the spine. Wayne picked up the set of the Lord of the Rings books without a word and took the set up to the register with Eddie trailing behind. They were far too advanced for a kid his age, especially one as far behind as Eddie, but Wayne decided he would read to him every night. would read aloud the stories of Bilbo and Frodo and Middle Earth and watch Eddie's love for learning grow.

Wayne was proud when time passed and Eddie started leaving dirty dishes in the sink and letting his room get messy. He didn’t mind when Eddie took a long shower or stayed up late writing his own stories. Wasn’t disappointed when he got held back in school, or spent his free time playing games of make believe with his friends. Because he knew better than anyone that Eddie had a rough start in life and had been playing catch up for a long while. And besides, it gave him a chance to be a kid just a little longer, and there was nothing Wayne wanted more than that.

[my-little-delusions]

To the Ends of the Universe Pt. 1 - Dick Grayson x Reader

Pairings: Dick Grayson x Reader (Romantic), Bruce Wayne x Assistant!Pennyworth!Reader, Donna x Reader (Platonic)

Warnings: Death, cursing, violence, talk of self harm, talk of domestic abuse, talk of terminal illness and hospitals, experiments, smut (skippable)

(It's a long summary I know I'm sorry. Read it or don't.)

Summary: When you were 6 years old, you were diagnosed with a terminal illness. The doctors said there was nothing they could do, and your health would rapidly decline. You wouldn't live past 8 years old. Your parents refused to take that answer and decided to make their own cure for you. However, they couldn't stop there, they didn't just want to make you healthy, they wanted to make you super. Make sure nothing could put you in harms way ever again. After a faulty experiment when you were 10 years old, the lab they worked out of, killed your parents and left you a sole survivor.

When reports of a "super kid" loose on the streets reached Wayne Manor, Bruce picked you up. Alfred ended up adopting you legally, but when Bruce realized you had no control of your powers, he decided to train you. Teach you how to use your powers and keep them under control.

A year later Bruce adopted Dick. Growing up and Training side by side you and Dick were inseparable. Your crush on Dick, the cute guy you would with a year older than you, only got worse. As well as his protectiveness over you. Your relationship flourished and you two seemed unstoppable. But what happens when Dick convinces you to leave Gotham? Make a new life for yourselves all on your own.

Disclaimer: I am fully aware my timeline/numbers are screwy, don't think about it. This is based solely on the Titans show, it is definitely not comic accurate lol.

--------------------

"I wish we could stay like this forever" Dick says, his hand brushing my hair gently behind my ears. The night breeze blowing wisps of it back into my face. He leans in ever so slightly, his eyes locked in with mine. Looking at me full of love and admiration. Causing my heart to swell.

He's never failed to make me feel the way he did when we were kids.

I smile at him softly, tilting my head to lean my face into his gloved hand. Slowly, my hand reaches up to grasp around his wrist, pulling his hand away from my face.

I can tell through his mask that his face falls slightly. I cup his hand between both of mine in my lap. His gaze falls down.

"Dick," I sigh, squeezing his hand, watching as he casts his eyes away to look at the city lights below us, "Look at me... please" His eyes dart up to look at mine, flickering away slightly, "Stop stalling. You have to tell me eventually,"

He takes a deep breath. Eyes hardening.

"I am going to quit Robin, quit Batman. The whole thing."

My grip on his hand loosens a bit, the shock settling in, "W-what?"

"I can't do it anymore Y/n, I-I mean you've seen what it's done to me," His voice wavers a bit but his tone is harsh.

"Are you sure?"

"I can't be here anymore. This... place. It's making me a person I never wanna be. I'm becoming just like Bruce. A violent, paranoid, detached person."

"But-"

"No buts! I need to do this." He says, sounding completely serious.

My breath hitches a bit before I go to speak, letting go of his hand and shifting to sit an inch further from him, "Dick. I love you. I will always love you. Bruce saved us. Both of us. We'd be dead without him. But he's also done us some damage. I will miss you, with every part of my being but I think it's a good idea for you to go. Y-you should get out of here. You're right, G-gotham is eating you alive and I-I can see it. I am so sorry I let it happen without saying anything. B-but you are going to do great things out in the world."

My lips wobble as tears prick my eyes but I try to contain myself. Not wanting to make Dick feel guilty.

"Woahwoahwoah. Y/n. Baby. No. I want you to come with me. I need you with me." He says, almost launching himself, this time grabbing both my hands in his, forcing me to look up at him and his hopeful eyes.

"What? Dick... I.. I don't know. I mean, I don't want to lose you but Bruce needs me. I can't just abandon him. After everything he has done for me. Now that Alfred is gone... Batman can be Batman without a Robin. Bruce can't be Bruce without a Pennyworth. I owe it to him. I'm sorry Dick."

It is silent for a moment. The wheels in Dick's head churning away.

"Then I won't go."

"But-"

"No."

"Dick-"

"Y/n I can't leave you! I won't!"

"Dick that's crazy!" I yell, standing up on the ledge we were sitting on, throwing my hands up,

"What do you mean it's crazy?!"

"We have known each other all our lives. It's always been just the two of us. When is the last time you got close with anyone remotely close to our age since Bruce took us in? I mean seriously Dick!" Exasperated, I pause to catch my breath, "... I love you. You mean everything to me, but I refuse to hold you back! You've only ever known me, what if your true soulmate, the person you're really supposed to be with is out there! I mean, hell, Donna? Dawn? Someone new? If you go out there I know you will find someone. I mean, you're a catch Dick," I say, trying to pass it off as a joke with a forced laugh, however the softness of my tone does little to hide quiver in my voice, "I can't let you ruin yourself. I can't let you stay in Gotham and fall apart right in front of my eyes just for me." I say solemnly, looking down at my feet.

Dick gets up as well, chasing after me to the spot I stormed over to in my rant, "Are you kidding me Y/n? I love you! I don't want anyone else! Donna was a crush I had for a month and you know damn well Dawn and I didn't work out because I couldn't forget about you! I've always wanted you! I will always want you! No one out there is meant for me but you! You are my end game. Don't you understand that?" He shouted, his voice growing hoarse and cracking, the veins in his neck protruding slightly as he strained, "I will just work harder. Get stronger. If that's what it takes to stay with you it's what I'm gonna do."

There Dick stood, right in front of me, his chest heaving as he caught his breath. The air in front of his face fogging up.

My eyes filled with water as I fiddled with my fingers, "I'm sorry Dick," I barely whisper.

Without missing a beat Dick wraps his arms around me, pulling me into a tight hug and burying my face in his chest.

"Don't be sorry, just let me do this," His says, kissing the top of my head, "I'm not leaving you, okay?"

"Okay."

-------------------

"Thank you, Y/n." Bruce said, walking into the batcave.

"Always," I sigh, a smile on my face, spinning around in the chair at my console.

"I don't know what I would do without you," He says.

I pause, shocked that Bruce would say something so kind casually.

"I don't know either," I snicker. Standing up from my chair and pulling together all of my stuff, "Is there anything else you would like me to do before I tuck in for the night?"

"No thank you, you have done plenty tonight,"

"Okay," I sigh, "Please, Bruce... Get some sleep."

"No promises... but I'll try,"

With a smile I make my way out of the batcave and up the steps. My steps speeding up as I excitedly head up to Dick's room.

"Dick?" I call softly, poking my head around the doorframe.

Then I pause.

I hear something.

It sounds like... sniffling?

That can't be Dick.

Dick has cried in Wayne Manor since we were kids.

I hear a rushed shuffling followed by a hoarse, "Come in,"

Walking in wearily I see Dick, seated at the end of the bed, his cheeks stained with tears and his eyes painfully red.

"Oh.. babe," I say dropping, my stuff on the floor and finding myself at his side. Wrapping my arms around his broad shoulders the best I can. Rubbing his back and his shoulder gently.

He tries to shrug my arms off ever so slightly, "It's nothing, don't worry about it,"

Without saying anything I just continue to hold him, pulling him in a little tighter. Waiting patiently in silence.

After a little while, the sound of sniffling returns, his shoulders shaking. Dick leans over, resting his head on my chest, letting me wrap my arms around him fully. Only then does he release his tears fully. Allowing himself to sob in my arms.

"I-I almost b-beat somebody to d-death. Y/n I-I almost k-killed him," He struggles put in between his shaky breathes, "I-I don't like who I'm becoming," He says quietly to himself.

After that, I let him cry in my arms for hours. Until finally he had exhausted himself of all his tears and passed out. Tucking him into our shared bed, I admire him, looking more peaceful than I realize he has in a long time.

Shedding a few silent tears of my own, I climb into bed next to him. Finding myself exhausted but unable to let myself sleep. Not after this.

--------------------

"Hey" A voice whispers to me, disturbing me from my sleep, "Y/n"

Sitting up a bit, I rub my eyes, letting them adjust to the light. Turning my head, I see dick, already dressed and ready for the day.

Weird.

He usually wakes me up right away.

"Good morning baby," He says smiling and kissing my cheek, pretending like nothing happened the night before.

I just sit there, shocked, stunned, eyes wide.

"Did you sleep okay? I was thinking for breakfast I could-"

"Let's leave Gotham."

"-maybe make some..thing... wait, what did you say?"

"Let's quit. I'll go with you Dick,"

"But you said-"

"I changed my mind."

"But Bruce-"

"I care about you more."

He pauses for a minute, just starting at me, "Are you sure about this?"

"Dick...I want this, for you, and for me. I want to go with you."

My heart feels a bit heavy at just how much his face lights up when I say that. The guilt of ever making him stay here eating away at me.

"I love you," He says breathly and quickly before connecting our lips.

*Gets a little steamy here, skip if needed to the next red*

Gently, Dick pushes me down onto the bed, climbing on top of me.

He pulls away for a second, eyes filled with lust and love as he looks me over, "god I can't wait to start a new life with you,"

Without hesitating, he attaches his lips to my neck and slides his hand down the front of my pants, his fingers immediately find my clit.

"Fuck, Dick," I moan, throwing my head back.

"Your so fucking beautiful,"

His other free hand slips under the bottom of my shirt. Chills run down my spine at the feeling of his calloused hands grazing the skin of my waist.

Lifting his head from the crook of my neck, he begins to pepper kisses all over my face.

All of a sudden, the loud alarms of our phones go off. It's Bruce. Calling us down.

"Fuck." We both say.

I whine as Dick removes his hand from my pants.

Both of us panting slightly, looking each other before I finally say, "we have to actually go see what he needs, you know."

"I know," He says smirking, "I just need a minute to get rid of this hard-on you gave me,"

I roll my eyes, pushing him off me slightly, "You know... we have to tell him as well," I say, a little solemnly.

"Leave that me, don't worry," He says, reassuring me.

----------

*Time Skip*

"Here we go," I say, a wide smile plastered on my face that I can't contain.

Dick turns his head smiling back at me, one hand on the wheel of our truck and the other one rested on my thigh, "I'm so glad you came with me,"

"I'd follow you to the ends of the universe," I say to him, "I know you would too."

Pt. 2

[deartouya]

GINGERBREAD COOKIES — HAWKS

❅ *:･ﾟkeigo is an awful baker, but luckily for him he makes up for it with his enthusiasm and pretty face.

*:･ﾟ❅ pairing: hawks x gn!reader

*:･ﾟ❅ content: fluff, established relationship, soso much domestic fluff, keigo's bad at baking but he's handsome so you put up with it, mentions of food/eating.

hehe this turned out cuter than i thought it would :3 alsoalso ik it makes sense for him to be able to cook !! but baking's a whole different skill so !! yeah !!

"What are you doing?"    Keigo starts, his feathers poofing and nearly sending your mixing bowl—one he must've haphazardly balanced on the edge of the sink—clattering to the ground. He looks comically caught, gripping your now dirty whisk with both hands and his eyes rounded in surprise. 

It takes a moment for your sleep-addled brain to catch up, to notice the batter and poorly greased pans—he's baking. Never a good sign when it comes to Keigo, he’s never been the best in the kitchen.  

You couldn’t count on two hands the times you’ve caught him huddled over the stove stirring something which should not be stirred or trying desperately to save the charred remains of dinner. Keigo had a multitude of practical skills, cooking anything but the basics just wasn’t one of them. At least not when you leave him unsupervised. 

“S’a little early to be baking cookies, isn’t it birdie?”  

He hums, eyes heavy and saccharine again with the weight of his grin, “never too early for something sweet, dovie.” 

You don’t bother responding, instead shuffling across the kitchen so you can drape yourself over his shoulders. You tuck your face into the crook of his shoulder, the heavy and warm smell of his cologne overwhelming as you nose along the line of his jaw. Your fingers reach to tangle in his hair, nails scratching lightly over his scalp and drawing a low, appreciative hum. 

The bowl of batter sits abandoned in front of him, and you finally get a better look at what he was trying to make. You think it’s supposed to be gingerbread, but it’s thick, full of clumped powder and smells overwhelmingly like cinnamon. 

“I don’t know if you’re doing that right, baby,” you tease, eyeing his clumpy batter mixture. “Think you’re supposed to mix it until there isn’t any clumps.” Your arms belt tighter around his waist, hooking your chin over his shoulder to get a better look at the mess. 

Keigo blinks then, staring down at the bowl with furrowed brows, “I've been following the recipe. It didn’t say what it was supposed to look like.”  

“Supposed to turn into dough, baby—uniform so you can roll it out and cut it into shapes.” 

His pout deepens then, returning the whisk to the bowl before detangling himself from you, settling against the counter to look at you. It’s then you notice just how messy he’d gotten, streaks of flour litter his cheeks and chin. The sight makes you laugh, leaning into him to wipe gently at his face with your thumbs. Keigo leans heavily into your touch, fighting to keep the pout on his face. “Mhm maybe you’ll have to stay and help me with them then, dove, you always make the best sweets.” 

"Only if you promise not to go anywhere near the oven. I’ll fix the batter and you can help decorate them once they’re baked.” Keigo finally lets the smile grow on his face, leaning to nudge your nose with his own. 

“Aww, you don’t think I can manage a few cookies all by myself? I think the dough woulda turned out good if you’d left me to it,” his voice is light and teasing as he turns into you, lips skating across your cheek. 

“I think you would’ve come out with some rock-hard cookies if I let you try and put that batter in the oven,” with a quick kiss to his collar, you tug him back away from the counter. “Now scooch—quicker we get these made the quicker I can drag you back to bed, hero.” 

He hums, letting you take his space in front of the stove and replacing your spot, draping his broad form over you. Keigo watches as you work, chin hooked over your shoulder and pressing incredibly unhelpful kisses to them. 

You’re not entirely sure he knows just how unhelpful he’s being, a heavy weight at your back which forces you to awkwardly shuffle to get ingredients and makes whisking a much harder task than it should be. 

You quickly learn he’s not much better at decorating the cookies then he is baking them, icing melted and crudely overlapping the lines of what was supposed to be a Christmas tree. 

At least he’s pretty.

tags: @dinodumbass ; @uwuthatshit ; @hirugummies ; @dukina ; @trashy-bowtie ; @boo-kugo ;

[yuri-is-online]

Sled Ride Together With Yuu (Jade Leech)

a/n: Yuri write something that isn't about Jade challenge (impossible). This is just some random stuff set during the Harveston event. I have half a thought written out for Idia that was supposed to go on this post but turns out the next part comes out today and I know I won't be happy to finish that until I complete the available story content. Sorry :/

notes: Jade is a red flag and Yuu is implied to be comically short, what are we? energy being answered with a shrug emoji, no one in NRC knows how to communicate and this includes Yuu.

“Well if Mount Moln is involved I might know someone who would be interested.  Not too sure if he’d be down for the sled race, though.” 

“There’s no need to be so shy prefect.”  He had interjected, fully intending to round on you and tease as soon as he was finished making his pitch to Epel.  But you, delightful, unpredictable, beautiful you had instead rolled your eyes at him once he obtained your friend’s blessing and went in on the attack.

“As cute as your self-confidence is, I wasn’t going to suggest you.”  Both he and Epel are left flustered as you sigh and turn to the most unexpected of persons.  “Idia you’re going to miss the QTE.”

“Cute.”  He pouts at your back, you’ve barely spared him a glance this trip unless prompted.  You had avoided commenting on his applepom Idia’s too but he certainly wasn’t paying extra attention to how you treated him, even after he spoke his mind about yours.  His sanity’s only current saving grace was the way your pupils had dilated the first time you had been forced to look at him; otherwise he might have been forced to assume all the careful months of dancing around your unspoken little attachment to one another was the misread of the century.

Thankfully he doesn’t have to wait much longer to find out what you are currently "arguing" about.  The entire trip is practically made worth it with the little stall Epel guides them to, filled with the bounty of the mountain he was so eager to witness.  His eyes dart over the stall, wondering if he can maybe convince Epel he should be allowed back sometime in the future when he has time to spare.  A month perhaps?

“... I have no idea what any of that meant.”  says Sebek as Jade rattles off plant names.

“Sounded like monster or mecha names to me.”  mutters Idia.  You sigh.

“He’s just using the scientific names for the plants; it's not that hard.”  He smiles as you finally move to his side, gladly adjusting to be as close to you as currently acceptable.

“Did you recognize any of them?”  Epel asks, genuinely impressed as you nod.

“I should hope so,” Jade interjects before you can respond “we certainly discuss plants enough in the Mountain Lover’s Club.”

“YOU’RE A MEMBER OF THE MOUNTAIN LOVER’S CLUB?”  Sebek asks at a completely normal volume and you roll your eyes, suddenly remembering that you’re supposed to be angry at Jade who is taking a bit too much pleasure in this revelation.

“Unfortunately.”  You mutter and Jade laughs.

“It’s just the two of us.”

“Oh so it’s Fungus when one of my friends invites me somewhere you want to go but fungi when it comes to storing the climbing gear?”  You huff and Jade blinks.  Oh.

OH.  He has to bite the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing.  So that’s what this was all about.

Jade turns towards you, eyes dangerously aglow as he lets out a pitiable, put upon sigh, slipping his right hand free of his glove.  “Darling,” he says with that toothy smile, in just condescending enough a tone you nearly miss the desire swimming in the subtext of how he traces your jawline with his long, cold fingers “you keep suggesting that I’m causing problems for myself on purpose.  If I’ve caused you distress, please do forgive me.”  He leans downward, gently pointedly kissing your forehead and nuzzling your hair, dropping his voice in both tone and volume to murmur in your ear.  “I assure you, I can reach our things just fine.” 

You really, really, r e a l l y want to shriek and cuss him out, but it’s all you can do to steady your breathing with how keenly aware you are of every eye in Kokko Market heavily judging you both.  Jade seems blissfully unconcerned, you know he’s not unaware, as he pulls his focus away from you and back to his purchase and Epel mercifully, though clearly judgemental, tugs you away with the rest of the group deeper into the market.

The merchant is trying hard not to laugh, though Jade quickly notes it’s not at him.

“I used to do the same thing.”  Jade’s polite smile returns, eyes darting momentarily to the small woman sitting next to the stall who appears to be competing in the reddest apple contest Epel mentioned earlier with the shade she’s turned.  “It’s just so cute to watch how far they’ll go before asking for help.”  

“It really is.”  He agrees, pulling his hand back into his glove as he prepares a few fake tears.  “Still I am worried I’ve gone a bit too far this time.”

“Aww chin up.”  the merchant finally audibly laughs.  “I’m sure you’ll find a way to make up for it.”  The red woman sighs, still embarrassed but settled enough to face him finally.

“If you’re looking for suggestions, I might have one in mind.”

~~~

You’re quite finished huffing and puffing by the time Epel allows them to take a break from sledding practice, though Jade’s presence still causes you to stiffen.  He apes embarrassment well enough, though you’d like to think you know enough about his acting that your skepticism is warranted. 

“I don’t suppose you have any comments to offer?”  he asks innocently enough.  “You seemed to be observing quite diligently.”  You snort, he’s practically screaming praise me.

“Not anything substantial.”  you dodge, still too flustered from earlier to even think about throwing Idia or anyone else under the bus again.  “I’m afraid plush sledding is beyond me.”  

“How disappointing, you seemed so enthralled with the animals earlier.”  You sigh and brace yourself, gearing up for another… conversation making the mistake of closing your eyes to center yourself.  “You know I was wondering something.  Earlier when Epel was talking about stuffed animals, he never bothered to ask about you.”  That was not where you were expecting the conversation to go, and when you look up at him he does seem interested to a degree.

“Stuffed animals are popular in my world.”  it sounds lame to say.  Sort of like confirming your world’s humans also breathe air.  You’re so embarrassed you find your gaze naturally drawn to your shoes as you kick lamely at the snow.  “Um.  I had a teddy bear when I was a kid I really liked.  That’s a sort of stuffed bear but it doesn’t look anything like Idia’s-”  Something soft hits the side of your face and you turn to look up at Jade in surprise.  You come face to face with a plush reindeer, similar to the one Jade’s been practicing with for the past few hours being pushed forward to boop your nose.  You sneeze as he laughs, tugging you forward into his arms when you attempt to take the plush; that familiar heat of embarrassment floods back into your chest as you try to resist the urge to squeeze it to death.

“How unfortunate.”  he sighs, but there’s a smile tugging at his lips similar to the way he looks when inspecting a plant he really likes, only this time he’s inspecting you.  “Here I was thinking I finally had a chance at making some progress, but you’re still talking about other men.”  He bends down to your level again, pressing his forehead to yours with a content sigh.  “You will be rooting for me I trust?”

“A bit greedy to want me all to yourself, don’t you think?”  There’s not even a hint of malice in your voice, you can’t bring yourself to pretend to be mad anymore as you try to focus on the gift and not your rapidly beating heart.

“Oya, are you saying I don’t already?”  and technically, no he does not.  He hasn’t asked, but that’s something you are content to keep fishing for later, for now you just blow a raspberry that he kisses into as you sigh in content.

*I left the merchant gender neutral since they aren't mentioned in game to my knowledge. I was picturing a cottage core lesbian couple though.

**I'd like to think originally no one joins the mountain lovers club because they're afraid of Jade and then after this Yuu joined everyone stayed extra far away because they didn't know what was going on, but they didn't want to be in the middle of it. Hence Sebek screaming and Epel judging.

[giggly-squiggily]

Hi Squiggly! It's the bish anon who requested the Kokushibo x reader for tickletober! I saw your mini-vacation post. I hope you're doing better...If you feel up to it, can you please consider writing a 'cuddle' fic with soft lee! Kokushibo x Ler! Reader? I'm sorry, the six-eyed terrorist makes me melt more than he should😭. Get well soon!

Koku my beloved! I've gotcha covered, anon! :D It's time we give our six-eyed demon some much needed love, shall we? :3

Cloud 9 (Taglist)

@cupcake-spice13, @thatbigbisexual29, @duckymcdoorknob @wolfyeatstacos @gladdygirl18 @baby-tickles2022, @backy-san @t-wordiiish, @sarahmaystock5578

“Good evening.”

Kokushibou froze, the sheath holding his sword halfway towards its destined spot. Slowly, he peered at you, finding you standing by with a furious glare. “Good evening, (Y/N)...did you sleep well?”

“Not at all. I was too busy worrying about my husband. See- he hadn’t come to bed yesterday morning. Or the previous morning. Or the mornings before that.” You kept your voice low, but your temper sharpened each statement until you were practically biting them out. “From what I’ve gathered- he’s been out training from dawn till dusk.”

“That…certainly is an issue.” Kokushibou placed the sword against the wall, turning so he was facing you. An outsider would likely find this comical- the highest rank moon being scolded by a lesser demon. Of course- Kokushibou would have had their head for even thinking of you as anything less than his equal. Regardless of hierarchy and Lord Muzan’s blood; to Kokushibou, you were just as strong as he.

And in a game of wills; even stronger.

“Yes, it is. Tell me, my dear husband- have you already forgotten what you promised me?” You tried to keep your anger, but the longer you looked at him the more soft you felt. He was clearly ragged, the visible skin along his arms bruised and scratched. His clothes were dirty, and his hair was a wild mess of twigs and leaves. It was his own fault, sure, but that didn’t mean you were completely shut off from the visible aches.

“...That I’d return when the sun began to rise so I could rest and in turn spend time with you.” Guilt touched his eyes, and he bowed his head in apology. “Forgive me, (Y/N).”

Your anger melted away as you shook your head, walking to your husband. “I always do. But my forgiveness isn’t going to help you in the long run. If you overwork yourself, you’ll be sloppy. Isn’t that what you told me when you were training me the first time?” You reached out, tracing his face with your hands. “Come on- let’s get you out of these clothes and into something comfortable. I’ve already got a bath running.”

~~~

“I can do this myself, (Y/N)...”

Despite the words, Koku’s voice lacked any real argument. You sat behind him in the bath, combing through his mangled hair gently as you removed the various twigs within. It took some mild persuasion to get him to let you help.  “You’re my husband; don’t be so modest,” You teased, even though you knew why he hesitated on you seeing him nude. The water reflected the scars along his skin, old and fading- full of stories. You didn’t pry about them; instead choosing to wait for the day he was comfortable sharing.

“Nope. I haven’t seen you in days. This is our time.” You smiled as you pulled the last tangle free, watching his hair pool around him in soft waves. “Besides- for all that patience of yours, you’d give up not even halfway with your hair.”

“Hm.” Was all he said in response. You grinned as you picked up a washcloth. Victory was yours.

After he was bathed, dressed and clean, you pulled him along to your bed, pushing him gently into his side before sitting behind him once more, tugging at his robe. “Take this off- I have something for you.”

“Didn’t you just insist I put this on?” He asked as he did as told, shedding the upper half of the robe. “So indecisive.”

“Hush.” You pinched his bicep before reaching over, gathering up a bottle of oil. Daki snagged it on her last mission but hated the smell, giving it to you because “It seems like something you’d like.” Sure enough- you found it pleasant. “I’m gonna give you a massage.”

“Oh?” Kokushibou blinked, looking at the bottle curiously. “(Y/N)...You do know we regenerate. Muscle aches are no longer a thing for any of us.”

“There’s more to massage than just ache relief, love.” You told him after he investigated the bottle, returning it to you with suspicious eyes. “You’ll see what I mean.”

Kokushibou didn’t argue as you gathered his hair up, tossing it over his shoulder and out of the way. Nor did he complain when you pressed your now oil bearing hands into his upper back, gliding them across his skin. If anything- he seemed to have suddenly lost the will to fight, his tense shoulders easing almost immediately.

“Feels good?” You asked, grinning when he groaned in response. Another victory for you.

~~~

By the end of your massage, Kokushibou was puddy in your hands.

Lying beside you, he didn’t argue as you scooted closer, pressing his head against your chest as you stroked his hair, humming a song you remembered from your time being human. There was a twinge of sadness with it, but it was nothing compared to the sight you got to witness.

Kokushibou felt so sturdy yet so vulnerable in your arms. You didn’t say anything when tears dripped against your chest, only wiped them away as they came. Just how long had it been since someone held him? The thought made your soul hurt far worse.

As if sensing this, you felt your husband squeeze you tighter, his way to reassure you. He always seemed to know when your mind began to wonder. No words were exchanged, you just leaned down and kissed his crown.

Eventually, his tears dried and the ache you felt had eased. The two of you were just lying there, entrapped in each other's arms. You were happy- it felt so good to finally have him back with you.

At the same time however, all the petty revenge schemes you made when he was gone came to mind. You were no longer angry, yes- but that didn’t mean you were completely over it. Feeling sneaky, you let the hand stroking his hair drift down to his back, keeping your touch feather light as you traced along the back of his ribs.

“Hm!” Kokushibou made a noise resembling a muffled laugh. Then another. Eventually, you felt him shake against you, muffled giggles creeping out his throat as you carried on tracing his ribs up and down. He didn’t pull away and you didn’t press in- neither of you wanted to break the serenity of this moment. “(Y/N), pleahhahahahse.”

“This is what you get for overworking yourself.” You told him simply, kissing his crown once more as you danced your fingers over his lower back. Again- you earned a round of muffled giggles, the sound deep and rich that vibrated your bones in the best way. “I missed you- and I missed your laugh. Don’t leave me alone like that again.”

“I prohooohohmise! I prohooohohmise, my mohoohoohohon, now stahahhhap thathahhahat!” He laughed out, relaxing once more when you stopped, returning to his hair. “Heh…you are a devil, (Y/N).”

“I’m your devil.” You smiled, feeling him take your chin in his hands before his lips found yours, kissing you deeply.

“And I love you for that. I’ll…be more aware. Of my limits going forward.” He traced your face with his thumb, taking it in like it was the only sight in the world worth looking at. “I’m sorry for making you worry.”

“It’s okay…as long as you come home, that’s what matters.” You pulled him into you, returning to your serene state. “I love you, my great swordsman.”

“As do I, my beloved moon.”

Thanks for reading!

[amalia-uwu]

Final Exams

Undertale by Toby Fox! The rights go to the respective owners!

Sans x Female Reader, Sans & Female Reader

Warnings ⚠️ : angst, anxiety

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels:

📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚

Inspired by fudgelling-away's comic @fudgelling-away and my exams.. :')

Sequel “Exams Day”

So, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow I'm giving finals.. I wrote this to keep my sanity. Ha!... *sighs*

Enjoy!

First Person's Point of View

.

.

I was a 5th years student in the university.

2 lessons. That's all it was for me to take my degree...

Yet, it seemed too much..

Sans.. Heh, Sans was visiting me, bringing me snacks patting my  shoulder, giving me hugs, encouraging me!

Heh, he even caught me many times not reading and just slacking off. Heh...

I always loved the face he had when he caught me red-handed.

He looked intimating yet I knew he wanted only the best for me..

I tried to read. I really tried.

But, by the time I began third year; I began feeling the grip on concentration slipping away.

So much studying. I went through everything fighting with tooth and claw for a job I loved so much.

I enjoyed reading!

Really!

Is just that now, I..am struggling..

Was it my age? Was it other problems I was trying to solve and got overwhelmed? Was it a combination?

Maybe a combination...

Now I was just tired. Everything seemed too much. Yet, I kept trying...

Even though my stomach felt like someone had made it a tight knot.. I kept trying.

Even though I felt an invisible hand gently touching my chest.. I kept trying.

Anxiety drowned me.. Squeezed me. I kept trying.

No matter what. I kept trying.

Eventually; I had enough.

It was one of these moments where I was sitting on the chair.

The book, laptop, opened in front of me.

I was reading but, the words didn't make sense.

Concentration had given up hope on me..

I lowered my face. Hands crossed on my lap. My hair covering my face. My lips in a tight line. Teeth clenched.

The air shifted, I knew who was about to appear.  "heya pal" I heard his deep soft monotone voice.

I felt a soft hand wrapping my shoulder. My hair were still covering my eyes.

"i brought you some snacks. coffee, fruits and some sweets. i see that you are studying, nice! call me if you need anything!".  He gently let the dish down with a soft sound.

He gave me a soft pat on my shoulders and let go of me.

I didn't want to speak but at the same time, it would be rude..

All this trouble for me... The least I can do is thank him.

"Thank you!" I said  softly with strain and mentally slapped myself...

Sans stopped. He turned around, something in my voice felt wrong. "are you okay?"

My shoulders began shaking. "Of course".

A couple of tears ran down my eyes. I removed my glasses.

Sans walked and stood next to me. He pulled the second chair and sat down.

He carefully brushed my hair to the side.

He gently took my face. Rough bones on my chin and cheeks. I refused to look at him.

"what's wrong?" his soft masculine voice held concern, care.

"Nothing". I said bluntly, hoping he'll go and just leave me alone!

"i'll count on 3", his phalanges moved and touched my shoulder, firmly yet gently.

Oh man; I should have known better, he won't let go so easily. I said nothing.

He began counting.

I refused to look at him and speak.

"2.5". I stayed silent.

"2.9". Ugh! I looked at him.

"Okay, I'll tell you! ". I held no malice, just slight annoyance, yet relief..

He stopped. I could understand that he was listening.

"Its the exams.. Im tired. My concentration has abandoned me... It's getting too much! I only have 2 lessons, yet I can't concentrate. I just can't... It's not like I don't want to, I can't concentrate! Plus, other worries... ".

He gently hugged me and caressed my back. Eventually I broke... I kept talking.

Telling him my fears; losing the ones I care about, staying alone, my physical appearance, my weight..

Everything, was spilled before him and he kept hugging me.

I buried my face on the crock of his neck. His soft hoodie a pleasant sensation on my face. Our sternum touched. He could feel my heartbeat on his sternum and I could feel his soul and soft magic trying to comfort me. He was warm in touch.

He waited for me too stop crying, some of my tears stained his hoodie.

He caressed my back. His phalanges through my hair.

Soon my tears faded to hiccups and shaky breaths.

He waited another couple of minutes before talking.

"assuming you fail is there another chance?" he asked pulling me away, his cyan eyes looking at my brown ones.

"Of course, either I take other lessons in summer or I give the same ones on September" I answered while cleaning my eyes with a napkin he gave me.

"okay, if you fail, is it the end of the world?" he never broke eye contact with me. I tried to keep my eyes on him but I felt shame for breaking in front of him.

"N-No..." I lowered my face. He raised it up to look at him. 

"will someone take your head?" his voice was so soft and caring...

"No.." My breathing became even.

"its gonna be okay! can you at least try?" he put both hands on my shoulders, he hugged me.

"Yes, *sniff* yes I can". I answered hugging him.

His scent sure calmed me down.

Wait... Was that a mixture of lavender and lotus? Heh... Really?

"do you like my fragrance?" he asked turning his head slightly. I nodded "Yeah.. The perfumes are comforting.. You always smell nice!".

He was silent for a while. He nerver smelled bad, even tho he could go days without a shower. He always smelled nice around me.

I could feel in my sternum, how his soul flattered. Ha! I got him shy and aaawww coochie coochie coo!

After a couple of seconds? Minutes? "go put on  one of your favorite dresses, add a little makeup and come here. im waiting". He said softly breaking the hug.

I looked at him dumbfounded but complied anyway.

I put on my blue dress with small navy blue flower designs.  I fixed my hair, added soft makeup and went to meet him.

He was waiting reading one of my books.

"I'm ready! Sorry you waited so long" I announced. He looked up at me and smiled.

"hm.. come with me". He grinned stretching his humerus.

I nodded gently holding him. I closed my eyes and I felt the wind shifting. The ground shifted under me.

"here we are" he informed.

I opened my eyes. I was at the beach, the soft breeze caressing my face. The sound of waves filled my ears.

We walked by the seaside.

Photo by Travis Rupert from Pexels:

The salty smell, the breeze, the waves, him, alleviated my worries.

"Sans?" I asked timidly.

"hm?" his attention was on me; Oh stars!! I'll never get tired of those soft cyan eyes.

"Thank you! I mean it! For everything! May I treat you with some food?" you hoped he will say yes. Come ooonnnn!!! Say yes!

He smiled and nodded "sure, got something in mind?"

"You okay with sweets?" I asked, he wasn't picky but needed to know anyway, maybe he wasn't in the mood for sweets today.

"sure" he grinned and shrugged softly.

"Waffles?" I asked fixing my glasses and playing with the end of my silk black belt.

He chuckled "heh, sure! lead the way girl" he said.

I nodded, took him by the hand and leaded him to my favorite place.

I caught a glimpse of him grinning softly.

It took some minutes for us to go there. Once we did ; We sat down, there was glass in front of us, the sea and the palm trees, the road our view.

I ordered hazelnut praline with biscuit, and caramel ice-cream waffle.

While Sans took the milk chocolate with biscuit and vanilla ice cream.

We ate and chatted a little bit. I went to the bathroom and paid as promised.

We walked a little bit then he took me home.

"Thank you Sans"

"don't mention it moonlight" heh, that was a nickname he gave me. Along with «starlight».

He knew I was a shameless selenophile (someone who loves the moon).

I entered my home, took a shower, put on my pyjamas and laid down.

I texted him

you: Thank you I had a great time with you today!

Puntastic: heh, me too! but please try to worry so much! it will be okay!

you: I'll try! Thank you again! Goodnight! Sleep well!

Puntastic: you too!

I put the phone down. I laid down and closed my eyes with a smile all over my face.

I'll try whatever happens... Happens.

It will be okay, I'll be okay!

.

.

The end 😘

Thank you for reading! 💙

[the-fiction-witch]

Slow and Steady

Media Death of A Superhero

Character Donald

Couple Donald X Reader

Rating Smut

Concept Heart Monitor

Smut / Nudity / semi nudity / BJ/ HJ / risk of discovery / slow sex / full sex/ raw sex/ sexy linquire/ cum inside

I found my way to his room rubbing the sanitizer into my hands as IO headed in shutting the door behind me 

"Hi Ducky" I gleamed

"Hi hun" He smiled from his bed in his usual shorts and loose comic shirt he had been watching tv but pushed it away as I came in I dumped my bag and gave his lips a little kiss "It's nice to see you"

"I'd come more often if I didn't have so much work on" I said sitting on the little chair

"I know, I just have to savour when I see you" he smiled taking my hand and giving it kisses 

"At least you have your own room now"

"That's true" 

"So? how you feeling?"

He glared "How do I always feel when I'm stuck in here?"

"I only asked grumpy" I laughed pinching his cheek "My poor little duck stuck up in here again"

"yeah yeah poor me, at least I get to see you" He smiled 

"awww very affectionate today" I smiled giving him a kiss

"I've missed you" he pouts

"I know I've missed you too, you're just not normally this affectionate"

"Well... I've been in here ages now, I've missed three date nights since I've been in here." He complained "I can't even use your lovely messages or the bloody machine calls the nurse in"

"What?" I giggled 

"Anytime I... get a bit excited and my heart rate goes up the bloody alarm on the machine goes off and the nurses start barging in"

"Ohh no you poor thing, So what have you been doing with my messages?"

"Just looking at them, doing my best to enjoy them without... actually enjoying myself"

"Aww, guess I won't send anymore then"

"No no, please! Please don't stop sending them honey! I haven't been able to see your pretty body in four weeks now! trust me your little pictures are all that's keeping me sane in here"

"Awww alright Donald I'll keep sending them" I smiled giving him a kiss but he was clearly eager for more as he barely let me pull away "So how long has it been?"

"Four and a half weeks"

"Ohh you poor little duck" I cooed "You must be ready to pop"

"Very nearly" he sighed 

"Aww guess my shopping didn't help?"

"No it didn't." he snapped "I swear you only went to tease me"

"I had to get a new bra"

"Yes A new bra, that didn't mean you had to go on a two-hour shopping spree in bloody Victoria's Secret sending me pictures the whole time! you basically vlogged everything you looked at and everything you tried on"

"But you have the best opinions of what I look good in" 

"Did you get that blue set in the end?"

"Maybe, you'll have to wait and see when you're home"

"Fine, meanie" He pouts "Owww." he complained

"what is it?"

"This conversation isn't helping"

"Ohh dear, did you want me to go?"

"No no I want you here honey, just you know maybe don't bring up you in Victoria's secret while I'm locked up in the hospital attached to a heart rate monitor and haven't jerked off in four and half weeks" 

"Why don't you try slow and steady?"

"Don't you think I tried that?"

"Maybe you just need a ladies' touch" I smiled leaning on his bed a little and slipping my hand under his shorts and stroking his very eager, very stiff erection "Ohhh hello ducky" 

"Ughhh fuck I've missed you" He groans leaning against his pillow 

"Whoa whoa... calm," I told him as his monitor nearly went off from just my mild touching 

"Sorry" 

"slow and steady" I smiled gently stroking his shaft he bit his lip hard and I did my best to be slow keeping an eye on the monitor to keep it under the threshold for the alarm at this point his hips were bucking towards my hand, precum flooding down his shaft, his hands gripping the sheets in desperation 

"Ughhh y/n please" he gasps trying to keep quiet "I need more honey, Please!" 

"slow and steady or you'll set the alarm off" I remind him 

"Ughhh, please! fuck it feels like you're edging me again" 

"Awww alright" I smiled taking my hand away and waiting a little for his heart rate to slow a little more as he calmed down before I pulled my hair into a ponytail which was enough to see a visible jump on the monitor line "Really?"

"I know what you putting your hair up means." He smirked tugging his shorts down for me and gently stroking himself "I can't help getting excited" 

I gave his lips a little kiss before I moved and took him into my mouth sucking gently and moving my head slow and steady, he moaned but quickly put a hand over his mouth so as to not be too loud rolling his head against his pillow in ecstasy his hand settled on my ponytail to help guide my head and I made sure to keep an eye on the monitor even if that often meant having to slow down or stop all together where he was getting too wound up 

"Y/n... y/n... ughhh y/n!" He groans rubbing his neck a little "Please honey please, I'm-"

I noticed how close he was to setting the alarm off so I quickly pulled back 

"Ughhhhhh nooooo! y/n!" He whines in frustration 

"Slow and steady" I remind him 

"Please y/n, I don't care if I set it off... please, Just make me cum honey" 

"Awww my little ducky that desperate?"

"You know I am, Please I need you, honey" 

"Well alright" I smiled getting up from my seat but that seemed to frustrate him more

"Nooo honey! where are you going?!"

I stood at the foot of his little hospital bed I smiled and undid my jeans tugging them down and letting them sit at my ankles grabbing my shirt and tugging it up under my chin to expose my new little set of Victoria's secret purple lace panties and bra they left very little to the imagination as the lace was very much sheer 

"Ohh holy shit-" He groans grabbing his shaft and jerking himself off fast and hard 

"You like it?" I giggled stepping out of my jeans and throwing my shirt with my bag doing a little twirl for him 

"Very much!" He nods excitedly 

"Now remember, slow and steady" I remind him as I climb onto his lap and as I do I notice the monitor has an off switch so I quickly flick it without him noticing sitting up over his crotch on my knees 

"I will I promise!" He says wasting no time to hook his finger into my panties and moving them to the side in order to slip himself inside, his eyes rolled back his mouth hung open silently moaning as I moved down to his hilt "Uhh...ughhh... ughhhhh! y/n!" 

"Slow and steady" I smirked resting my hands on his stomach and making sure to be slow with my movements agonizingly slow for him he laid back enjoying himself holding my hips trying desperately to get me to go faster but I kept at my pace which only made him twitch and buck towards me in his utter desperation making sure I moved with each thrust from hilt to tip which only drove him more insane "Aww my poor poorly ducky having to be locked up in here all alone, without our cuddles, and kisses, and unable to see the cute little outfits he picks out for me, and unable to touch himself for me" I cooed kissing his neck 

"Uhh yeah.... yeah poor me... Uhhhh poor, poor me, at least my little ladies making me feel better"

"Maybe I should visit every day"

"Uhhhhhh maybe you should, Come on honey please I need you!" 

"Well alright" I smirked letting him move my hips as fast as he wanted which very quickly brought him the orgasm he so craved filling me up and almost completely collapsing against the bed and gasping 

"I needed that"

"I can tell" I giggled as I climbed off him and half of it fell out of me all over his bed I cleaned up as he was basically comatose  and I grabbed my jeans slipping them on 

"Y/n?"

"Yes, Donald?" I asked turning back to him he smiled widely but pouted pulling a sad face and holding his hands out like a begging baby "What?" I giggled 

"Please" he whines making a squeezing action with his hands 

I rolled my eyes a little before I went over to the edge of the bed and he grabbed my breasts through my bra squeezing and fondling them excitedly moaning as he did 

"You look amazing in this," He smiled

"Thank you, I thought you'd like it" I smiled 

"Ohh I definitely like it, you'd look even better without it though" he smirked 

"maybe next time I come visit if you're feeling a bit better" I cooed pushing his hands away and getting my shirt back on

"I do feel much better now honey" he smiled tugging his shorts back up atlast "Ummm you treat me so good"

"I have to, my poor sick little duck"

"I'm surprised I didn't set it off actually"

"I made sure" I smirked and then he noticed

"There was an off button this whole time!" He complained 

"Love you" I smiled giving his cheek a kiss

"Love you too honey," he smiled 

"Now, you get cosy I'l go grab you some snacks from the vending machine"

[your-divine-ribs]

The Devil Next Door Part 4

Words: 2.9k

Introducing a new character, Tom… Van has serious competition ❤️‍🔥

Devil Next Door Masterlist Main Masterlist

"Earth to Y/N... are you receiving me?"

The male voice sounding right next to your ear startles you and you jump, letting out a small yelp as you whirl around to find your colleague and fellow nurse, Tom, standing there.

"God, you about gave me a heart attack sneaking up on me like that!" You exclaim, pressing a hand to your chest, feeling your cheeks instantly warm as Tom's lips pull up into a grin.

"Well... I guess you're in the right place for it!" He quips, his whole face lighting up as he nudges you gently with an elbow. Then he adds with a chuckle "Please don't drop dead on me though... at least not until the end of the shift. I couldn't cope without ya!"

Tom's not been working at the hospital for long but in that short space of time he's made quite an impression on most of the staff. He's friendly, hard-working and is always cheerful, a literal ray of sunshine. Even at the end of a nightmare shift when everyone else is practically on their knees he'll appear with that beaming smile on his face, providing some much needed assistance or some light relief. You can't help but warm to him. There's nothing not to like.

A passing doctor calls Tom's name and you take the chance to steal a good look at him whilst his attention's diverted. As he chats with your colleague he absentmindedly raises his arms over his head to stretch out his weary limbs, the hem of his hospital scrubs raising up an inch, showing a glimpse of his tanned, toned abdomen. You suck in a quiet breath.

That's another thing about Tom. He's very easy on the eye.

What is it with you these days? It used to be rare that a good-looking male in the vicinity would elicit more than a raised eyebrow from you. Now you're practically salivating over the sight of an inch of bare skin at your workplace and constantly fantasising about getting mercilessly railed by your next-door neighbour.

Tom turns around and you quickly avert your eyes back to the menu of the hot drink vending machine that you were originally perusing.

"It feels like the never-ending day today," you complain, raising a hand to stifle a yawn. "I swear time's going backwards. I'm so tired. I wish I could just kick one of the patients out of the beds and take a nap myself!"

"Better make that a double espresso then." He nods towards the machine as you slot a pound coin in. "You... errr had a late night then? Been out partying or something exciting?"

"No... nothing like that," you sigh. "It was still a late night though. It's my bloody neighbours' fault, the ones I was telling you about. It was band practice again." You roll your eyes. "It was bad enough when it was just Van and Bondy but now their mates have come to stay. Now there's drums and bass too... the whole lot."

Tom winces sympathetically. "Sounds noisy. Don't tell me you've got death metal blaring through the walls at 2am!"

You giggle at the comical image your mind conjures up of Van and Bondy head-banging furiously. "No, thank god... I hate to say it as Van absolutely does my head in, but the music's actually pretty good. Well... at least it would be if it wasn't keeping me awake after a shift."

A thought occurs to you and you dig in your pocket for the flier Van had pressed into your hand this morning as you'd scowled at him on your driveway. You weren't sure whether you were imagining it but the last few days he'd been going out of his way even more than usual to see you. Not satisfied with winding you up each day after a shift you also found him loitering outside every morning now too, usually under the pretence of putting the bin out or retrieving his post. He was always there, cocky smirk on his face as he greeted you with a hint of a smug kind of flirtatiousness which you tried hard to ignore. You were sure his cocky brand of charm worked on the poor unsuspecting girls that no doubt fawned over him on stage at his gigs, but there was no way that you were falling for it.

"What's this then?" Tom asks as he unfolds the flier, scanning it with a look of puzzlement.

"That's their band..."

Tom shakes his head, grinning. "Catfish and the Bottlemen? What kind of a name is that?"

"Sounds a bit shit really," you scoff, reliving the moment you'd told Van the exact same thing this morning and the satisfaction you'd felt at managing to provoke a reaction in him before he'd even sparked up his first cigarette of the day.

"I actually quite like it," Tom says. "It's different... original. It's the sort of name that gets you noticed."

"Like that prick Van needs any help there!" You reply, scorn clear in your voice. Tom looks a little taken aback and you wonder whether you should rein it in a little. The last thing you want is him thinking you're a complete bitch. You just can't help it with Van. No one else has ever got under your skin quite like him. Even when he's not around you're still thinking about him and it frustrates the hell out of you.

"This Van guy really winds you up doesn't he?"

"Ughh he's the worst!" You grumble. "He's loud, rude and he fancies himself something rotten. He's made my life a misery since he moved in. Honestly if you ever met him you'd know exactly what I meant."

Tom nods slowly, looking down at the flier again before he looks back up, warm brown eyes fixed on you with a hopeful glint.

"Maybe I should meet him," he says. "Maybe we could... errr... go to this gig. You know... me and you... together."

His eyes widen eagerly on the last word, his face scrunching a little with an endearing awkwardness.

Shit... is he asking you out... on a date?

"Errr... well I... errr..." you falter and Tom immediately steps back, shifting from foot to foot.

"You're probably already busy!" He blurts, obviously embarrassed which in turn makes your already pink cheeks glow even more. "I mean, it's Friday night isn't it? I'm sure you already have plans!"

"No!" You hurriedly say, reaching out an arm to rest on his forearm, snatching it back when you worry that you're being too familiar. "I don't have any plans. I'd love to go! I've not been to a gig for so long. I love live music."

Tom's positively beaming now and it makes you feel warm and fluttery inside. "Great... I'll pick you up. Shall we say 7 o'clock? We can get a drink in first then."

Then before you know what's happening you're exchanging numbers with the promise of sending Tom your address, a flurry of excitement in your gut at the prospect of spending some quality time with a warm-natured, handsome guy.

Perhaps this will cure you of this ridiculous obsession you seem to be developing with Van...

❤️‍🔥 Van's POV ❤️‍🔥

"So did she actually say she was coming then?"

This has got to be the third time I've asked Bondy whether Y/N's definitely coming to the gig. My first two attempts have been interrupted by Bob fussing about whether we're packing his drum kit into the back of the van safely and securely.

"For someone who's "definitely not interested in that mardy bitch from next-door" you're awfully keen to know about her plans for this evening!" Bondy smirks, raising both hands up to demonstrate in a quote gesture the exact words I'd spoken to him a few days previously.

Bob's mouth drops open in shock and displeasure. "That's a bit harsh!"

I huff at him before slinging my guitar case into the back of the van. "Yeah, well... you've not met her yet!"

"Don't listen to him Bob," Bondy chips in. "She's a perfectly nice girl. I'm not 100% sure whether she's coming tonight but you're around for a few days so you'll probably get to meet her."

"So what's your problem with her anyway Van?" Benji wants to know. "You just pissed off 'cause you fancy her and she's not interested, huh?"

"No, that's not it!" I say quickly and defensively, so much so that it elicits raised eyebrows and knowing looks from my band mates who know me all too well.

"Come off it mate, it's any excuse to catch sight of her." Bondy laughs at me and then turns to the others. "Caught him out there mowing the bloody lawn yesterday didn't I, just because Y/N was hanging her washing out!"

Benji's face says it all. I've known him practically my whole life and in all that time he's never known me to venture into the garden for anything else other than to have a smoke in my adult years. I relent then, not being able to control the smile that surfaces, laughing along good-naturedly as they tease me, phrases like "don't think you stand much chance there by the sound of things" and "reckon you've lost your touch" being bandied around.

Little do they know. They didn't hear Y/N moaning my name whilst she was getting herself off. They haven't seen the way her cheeks flush and her breath hitches a little when I brush past her just that little bit too close, that spark of heat in her eyes which she tries hard to hide as contempt. She wants me. I know she does. And one of these days I'm going to give her exactly what she wants.

The venue's heaving and I feel that familiar rush as my racing heart pumps the adrenaline directly into my veins. My dad always told me I was born to perform and I reckon he's right. I come alive on stage, it's my happy place. Seeing those elated faces all turned my way and hearing the very songs I wrote in my bedroom as an awkward teen sung back at me with so much passion blows my mind every single time.

You're simpatico, and of all the lifts home and all the mixed feelings

You're cuts above, and you don't own worries or a chest full of heartache

I stride down the stage, scanning the crowd as I go. We're on fire tonight. The lads are all keeping it tight and I'm belting out the lyrics like my life depends on it. The crowd are bouncing as one, a sea of raised arms and adoring faces. If only Y/N was here to see it...

Hold up... that's her… she’s at the back, trying to push her way through the throng but the crowd are that wild she's getting pushed around, they're practically swallowing her up. It's taking me all my restraint not to stop the gig and direct the crowd to part so she can take her rightful place at the barrier. I want her right where I can see her, in my line of sight so I can fix her with a smouldering gaze whilst I rock my hips against my guitar. I know it drives the girls crazy and it's time for me to turn things up a notch, leave her in no way uncertain of my intentions towards her.

I flick my sweat-soaked hair back off my face just as she looks up at the stage and our eyes lock. It's only for a moment but the rest of the room might as well melt away. Her jaw goes slack as the flashing stage lights illuminate her gorgeous face. She looks awe-struck and I'm soaking it up. Just as I expected... she fucking wants me. I can see the hunger in her eyes from all the way up here.

That's all the encouragement I need. I'm going to take my chance and make a move after the show. Drag her off to a quiet, dark corner of the venue and pin her up against the wall, drag my lips slowly over her neck whilst she's squirming against me. I want to hear those moans in my ear, feel her delicate fingers clutching at me whilst I make her feel good... better than any other guy's ever made her feel.

I wonder what she's like as a lover... with all that fire and passion inside of her I bet she's a little wildcat... in fact I bet she's absolute filth. We'd be a perfect match, I just know it.

Fuck... I need to control myself before I get carried away. The last few bars of the song play out and the room's plunged into darkness momentarily whilst we all catch our breath.

Y/N's turned up late to the gig and we've only got a few songs left, but that doesn't matter. It's Business next and that's perfect. I can look her right in the eye when I tell her I wanna make her my problem.

I wanna love you, but I've no time for your friends who can fucking do one...

WHAT THE HELL... WHO THE FUCK IS THAT?

Y/N's not looking at the stage now, she's looking behind her, leaning in close to a guy who's pressed right up against her, gazing at her adoringly like a little puppy dog.

I falter, carelessly forgetting the next line as I try to compute what I'm seeing below me. It's only for a second and the fans don't even notice they're so immersed in it. My eyes flick to Bondy who shoots me a look and that's enough to get me back on track.

Pull yourself together Van! Think about the music... that's what's important here!

I'm still giving it my all but my focus is gone. My mind's a jumbled mass of seething jealousy and shock. I try closing my eyes when I sing to clear away the image of Y/N and the mystery guy, but every time they flick open they're there right in front of me. Y/N's still ogling me for the most part but her attention keeps getting drawn away by HIM as he whispers in her ear or wraps a protective arm around her waist as the crowd surge forward. I suppose I should be thankful that she's got a friend down there to protect her from the chaos as he pulls her out of the way just in time as yet another frantic mosh-pit opens up but I'm not. The bitter taste of jealousy floods my mouth as I spit out my next line.

Cause all I wanna know is just how far you wanna go...

By the time the gig's drawing to a close and I'm picking out the opening melody to Tyrants my shock has faded but I'm still seeing red. I'm determined to play like I've never played before and show Y/N what I'm really made of. Show her that I'm not just some pub singer who caught a lucky break but I'm where I rightfully belong, up on the stage, bathed by the lights.

I twist and I writhe, throwing myself around the stage, contorting my body into ridiculous angles. I'm strumming with such vigour it's a wonder the guitar strings haven't snapped. My limbs are aching and I'm absolutely soaked with sweat, I'm having to blink it from my eyes and my hair's plastered to my face. The lyrics are ripping up my throat like razor blades as they spew forth. I'm putting on the performance of my life and it's not going unnoticed. The fans are going wild and Y/N looks euphoric. She's singing her heart out and dancing like nobody's watching, her eyes sparkling with so much life. Her companion's been pushed aside by the crowd and he's at least two rows back and she's not even noticed. She can't take her eyes off me. ME...

"Thank you very much for having us! We are Catfish and the Bottlemen!"

I shout my closing farewell into the mic, and then it's back to the climatic finish. The whole band let loose, Benji's rousing rhythm, Bob's pounding beats and Bondy's exhilarating riffs all blending together in a cacophony of the most perfect sounding chaos. I'm still going off on one, flailing about like I'm being electrocuted. I'm so caught up in the moment that I don't even realise that I've been strumming so hard that I've sustained a two inch long gash on my index finger that's now dripping with blood. My fingers have been working so hard that they're practically numb, the sensation only beginning to return when I notice the reason why I'm struggling so hard to hang my guitar off the mic stand.

If there's one thing that sends me squeamish it's the sight of blood. I curse under my breath at the sight of so much of it, a shock of nausea wracking me which I swallow down quickly as I steal a quick glance at Y/N before ducking off the stage. She's looking right back at me with awe in her eyes and my potential rival's satisfyingly nowhere to be seen. As stupid as it sounds I feel like I'm limping off the battlefield, wounded but victorious.

Bring it on...

[drpeppertummy]

another one from a prompt yipeeeee

[stuffing, tummyache, tummy rubs]

"Val, honey, are you alright?"

"Huh? Yeah, I'm alright. Why?"

"Well, you look like you're ready to go flying through the roof."

"I am not gonna go flying through the roof."

"Well, I'm glad to hear that. You do seem a little stressed out, though." Connie sat on the arm of the couch, watching Val pace around. "Are you that worried about the kids? I mean, they're your kids."

"It's been so long, Connie! Half of them haven't even met each other! And it's probably been about three hundred years since I last saw my oldest."

"Three hundred? How does that happen?"

"I don't know," Val groaned, holding his head in his hands. "I try to keep in touch. You know I try to keep in touch. Him and Elizabeth too, though, they never call, they never want to talk, they're always busy! Sometimes I think I must've done something to drive them away."

"Aw, come on, I doubt that," said Connie. She stood up and pulled Val into a hug.

"I don't know, Connie," he mumbled into her shoulder. He wrapped his arms around her, loosely gripping the back of her shirt. "I just don't know."

"Granted, I've only known you for a few years, but you seem like such a good father. If they agreed to come, they can't have that much of a grudge against you."

"I guess not," he sighed. "I just can't believe it's been so long since I've seen some of them."

"It'll be fine," Connie assured him, running her fingers through his hair.

"I hope so," said Val. He didn't sound convinced in the slightest.

In addition to his fretting about the family reunion, Val was beginning to face another problem: his stomach. Connie had been watching her fiancé grow increasingly stressed out over the past few days, a state she was not used to seeing him in, and she had made a few observations. The first, and possibly most important, was that he didn't take his nerves out on anybody else. That was a nice change from her last partner. The second was that Val had a way of pacing around almost nonstop like a trapped animal. It would have been comical if he weren't so troubled. The third, which was now beginning to present its own problem, was that Val seemed to be a stress eater. Each time Connie saw him, he was eating something different. Nibbling on something as he cleaned, snacking between chores, spending his breaks worrying with a bowl of leftover pasta. Without realizing it, he'd even finished off a few snack packages that he'd opened himself. Connie found this quirk particularly amusing; as much as Val liked cooking, he wasn't typically a big eater. In fact, apart from the occasional steak indulgence, Connie thought he ate like a bird. As amusing as his nervous appetite was, however, she worried that he was going to be spending this long-awaited reunion with a stomachache.

Connie wasn't the only one to whom this thought was occurring. Val, after a few days of trying to bury his anxieties with junk food, was beginning to feel the effects of failing to give his poor stomach a break. He felt bloated and queasy, and his nerves weren't helping. Still, he found himself unable to stop. When Connie found him again, he was standing against the kitchen counter with a bowl of cold tortellini. Their eyes met, and he looked at her like a deer in the headlights.

"Val?"

"Yeah?" He swallowed his mouthful.

"I think you must've finally given yourself a tapeworm, because that's the third time today I've seen you eating cold pasta out of the fridge." She gently took the bowl from his hands. "Take it easy with the snacking, alright? You're gonna make yourself sick."

"I'm trying," he said, looking ashamed of himself. "I just don't know what to do with myself! I feel like I'm losing my mind!"

"You definitely do seem restless," she agreed with a sympathetic smile. She set the bowl aside and placed her hands on his waist. His loose, layered shirts concealed the shape of his body, but the feeling of his swollen middle under her palms was unmistakable. Connie raised her eyebrows.

"Sheesh, Val," she said, bringing one hand from his side to the middle of his belly. His eyes fell sheepishly away from her. Up until then, even as he realized he was eating too much, he'd still been too distracted and full of nervous energy to really focus on it. Now, the full extent of it was beginning to hit him. The tortellini he'd topped off with sat like a heavy, congealed boulder in his already bloated stomach, and Connie's touch made him suddenly aware of just how much his belly was bulging out.

"Alright," said Connie, taking him by the hands. "I think this place is as clean as it's gonna get. So we're not gonna clean anymore, alright?"

"Okay."

"Now, you and I are going to go lay down, and you, sir, are going to take a nap," she said. "Alright?" Val nodded. The two of them made their way into the bedroom and changed into their pajamas. Connie caught a glimpse of Val's belly poking out absurdly from his slender frame as he changed his shirt. She laid down first, and when Val climbed into bed, she grabbed him and pulled him up beside her.

"Let's try and sleep some of this off," she said, patting his round tummy.

"I'll do my best." He snuggled up against her, pulling the blanket up to his chin. "I love you."

"I love you too," said Connie. She gave him a kiss on the nose and held her hand on his stomach, gently rubbing the taut skin. The comforting motion slowly melted Val's anxiety away, and before long he was fast asleep in her arms. Smiling sleepily, Connie held him close and drifted off with him.

[waltwhitmansbeard]

go on, claim my heart: chapter thirty-six

see my masterpost for what came before this.

When Percy returns to his chambers, he is unsurprised to find Vex there waiting for him. Perhaps he should be surprised; there are a great many things for the Captain of the Royal Guard to be attending to at this moment, from the upcoming mourning ceremonies to the following coronation of the new sovereign to a reorganization of the guard following a kidnapping of a member of the royal family. Yet he opens the door, and there she is, sitting on the end of the bed, feet on the footboard, elbows on her knees, exactly where he knew she'd be.

She watches him in silence as he slips out of his shoes, shrugs off his coat, hangs it carefully on the hook by the door. The weapon he keeps at his hip goes onto his desk, and then he sits beside her. Without a word, her arms come to circle his neck, and she pulls him back, so that their shoulders hit the mattress and she's holding him, keeping his face pressed into her chest as he weeps for the second father he's lost now.

They lay there for longer than they should—he also has so many things to attend to, so busy, this time meant for mourning—but Percy can't bring himself to move. At some point, Vex's fingers have drifted up to play with the fine hairs at the nape of his neck, and he rather feels like a cat being scratched just so, wondering vaguely if he might spontaneously start purring. The thought, sudden and unexpected in the stillness of the moment, is overwhelmingly comical, and a laugh bubbles up out of him.

Vex pulls her head back to quirk an eyebrow at him. "What's so funny?"

He shakes his head. "Nothing. I'm...being stupid."

"Yes, well, I'm used to that." She smiles softly at him. "Did you say goodbye?"

"I did. It was...hard." And he finds that he does not want to talk to her about this, not when he has been so blessed to have had two fathers, each kind and generous and imperfect and wonderful, when she was denied even one who was not craven and heartless.

So instead he tackles the other elephant in the room. "I heard you."

Her breath catches in her throat. He watches her eyes dance between both of his, sees in them the strategizing, questioning whether she can get away with pretending she doesn't know what he's talking about.

She knows she can't. "We don't have to talk about this now."

"Vex'ahlia..."

"We don't. Our sovereign is dead. Keyleth will be crowned soon, if she's even awake yet. Vilya was nearly sacrificed in an immortality ritual not twenty-four hours ago. Bigger things are happ—"

He kisses her, slow but insistent. He then rests their foreheads together. "There are no bigger things. Not to me." He presses a hand flat against her stomach. "I will not presume to tell you what you want. I know that you take great pride in your independence, and if it is important to you, it is important to me, too. But I will say..." Oh, he did not expect this, the closed-throat emotion of it, the hiccuping heart in his chest. "I have been, in my life, so very good at convincing myself that I do not want the things that I want. It is easier, I think, not to want, because if you do not want, you cannot be disappointed.

"But this? I want this. I want you. I want our family, messy and strange and so very, very perfect. Seeing my sister, dying, being lured back to life by the sound of your voice—all of it made me realize that I am a man who wants a great deal, and I will not deny myself that want any longer."

Tears slip quickly and silently along the curve of Vex's nose. "I've been so scared," she breathes, "so, so scared. I didn't know—what if you didn't—what if I didn't—"

He shushes her, pulling her in this time to cry into his shirt. "I'm sorry you've been holding this alone," he whispers into the crown of her head. "I'm scared, too. I think it's safe to say my own relationship to parenthood is...complicated. But Vex..." He gently pulls back to take her face in his hands. "I love you." Her face crumples. "I love you more than I think I know how to say. And loving you is one of the only things in this world that does not scare me."

She kisses him then, wet and hard, and whispers against his lips, "I love you, too."

He holds her close, this miracle woman carrying their miracle child, and focuses on not letting his heart burst right out through his chest. After a few minutes, a thought strikes him. "Wait, did you know about this before you left on the quest for Vilya?"

A prolonged pause. "Um. Yes?"

"The quest so dangerous it got me killed?"

"Mhm?"

"Oh, I am going to be so very, very angry with you later."

"Of course, darling."

.

Vax rests back against the headboard, Keyleth curled into a tight ball in his lap. He's tucked her head under his chin, and now that she's cried herself out, she breathes slowly, in and out, clearly still exhausted even though her eyes remain stubbornly open.

And he can imagine why; what nightmares must await her in her sleep, what horrors, what sorrow, what fear? To travel the continent in pursuit of their stolen child, only to come home, battered but triumphant, and be told that her father, now, is lost forever—what has Keyleth done to earn such acute agony as this?

(Because it is forever, this loss. Vax sank deep into the pool of blood, let it fill his lungs to bursting until he was in front of her, seething, seeing red, demanding the return of his wife's father. His relationship with the Raven Queen has always been tenuous, nebulous, unsure; he will serve her until his dying day, and likely long after, a fitting payment for the gift of his wife's life, but then, what is the point of being her so-called champion if he cannot do even this small thing, restoring a good man to world?)

Keyleth has one hand gripped tightly into the fabric of his tunic, as if she fears she will blow away in the wind if she lets go. He strokes her hair, tangled and soiled from all their time on the road, and presses soft kisses about her temple. From just beyond their bedroom wall, he hears the familiar babbling sounds that he once feared he would never hear again. He is so endlessly grateful for Nel, who has installed herself in this cottage as Keyleth begins the agonizing process of putting her pieces back together again.

Keyleth must hear Vilya's small coos as well, because she murmurs, "I need her."

Vax doesn't need to ask for clarification. He carefully shuffles Keyleth to the side and slips off of the bed, and for a brief moment, the hand twisted into his tunic tightens. Then she lets go, and he quickly leaves the room, where he finds Nel tidying up, the baby snuggled in a woven sling across her chest. Nel looks just as tired as Vax feels—she'd been summoned as soon as they'd arrived back through the cherry tree, and once she'd confirmed that Vilya would suffer no long-lasting effects of her kidnapping, she'd remained to watch her while Keyleth recovered and Vax stalked off to futilely feud with a goddess. As Vax relieves Nel of her burden, he conveys his thanks for her steadfast dedication to his family. She merely pats his cheek with a sad smile and tells him that she will return as soon as she can take a brief nap of her own.

Vax takes Vilya back into the bedroom, where she curls easily into her mother's arms. He sits beside them, an arm around Keyleth, and when he feels some of the tension in her shoulders ebb away, he says, "I hope you know that I begged. I promised her everything I could to get your father back. I'm sorry it wasn't enough."

Keyleth runs a fingertip along Vilya's nose, across her rounded cheek, up to the point of one ear. "It's not your fault."

He hears what goes unsaid in the monotone of her voice. "It isn't yours either, Keyleth. Tell me that you understand that." She doesn't answer, and Vax wants to take her by the face, force her to meet his eyes and believe it, truly believe that she is not responsible for her father's demise.

"What did she say?" she asks instead, still looking only at their daughter. "When you asked for him back?"

Vax runs a stressed hand through his hair. What did she say, indeed? "She said that this was part of her warning, though I cannot possibly figure out how. She claims that the threads of fate are still being pulled. Kiki, I don't know what it all means. I don't know how to make this better, I don't know how to fix what's been broken."

"I need to see him."

The words are so quiet Vax almost doesn't catch them. He reaches a hand up to curl over his little girl's soft, wispy hair. There is so much suffering in this world; how is a man meant to keep such pain from his daughter? It is like stemming the tides with his bare hands.

He kisses the shell of Keyleth's ear. "We will go together. As a family."

Keyleth nods, her head coming to rest on his shoulder once more. It scares him, her quiet, her stillness. She may have cried herself to exhaustion now, but he knows that the eye of the hurricane has not yet passed over this house, that winds of grief strong enough to pull the cottage apart stone by stone are still howling in the distance. And somewhere, in the midst of such a maelstrom, she is supposed to become a queen, to lead her people into the next chapter of their story. What terrible things we demand of each other, he thinks as he watches tiny eyelids grow heavier and heavier in Keyleth's arms. What terrible, terrible things.

[average-giant-kissing-enjoyer]

G/t July #15: Break

A sudden tug at my collar and I was being pulled into the air. Xander had a habit of doing that.

"Put me down," I demanded. "Unhand me! I'm in the middle of writing."

Xander dangled me in front of his face so I could see his smug grin. "No you're not," he said. "You're supposed to be taking a break."

"Since when do you care?" I shot back, very aware how foolish it was to argue with a one hundred foot tall guy. "Besides, I'm behind on G/t July. I've got a lot of ground to cover. It's the 21st and I'm only up to the 14th."

I didn't like that look he gave me next. He was up to something. With his free hand he pulled out his phone and started browsing. "So you're a g/t blog? Which one? Wait, wait, don't tell me. I think I know."

"No please don't," I begged, my face turning red.

"As if it's a secret," said Xander. "You love being owned by me. You're definitely into g/t, and maybe a little more, if you know what I mean. Come on, what is there to be embarrassed by?"

"It's just embarrassing. It's weird, dreaming all day about being friends with giants."

Xander feigned an insulted look, arching his heavy eyebrows dramatically. Even with a comical expression he was still beautiful. "You can't bear to be seen with me. Well, I'll just have to keep you somewhere that people won't know we're together."

Throughout all this he was still dangling me in front of his face and I hadn't resisted. But now I struggled against the grip of his fingers, each of which was as long as I was tall. "No don't put me in your pocket, I'm not finished writing! The little gay people in my phone need me!"

"Ah," Xander said disinterestedly, still scrolling through his phone. "Is this one you? Average Giant Kissing Enjoyer? Ooh, scandalous."

My whole body tingled. "N - no, that's someone else who likes giants."

He put away his phone. "You know, for someone who likes kissing giants, there's an awful lot of writing about it and a disappointing lack of kissing."

Next thing I knew I was dropped into his other hand, which was rising up dangerously close to his face. "Wait! I'm not ready!" I cried, but his lips were already on my face. His bushy mustache tickled the top of my head. Those lips were so soft and warm, and his breath smelled of peppermint. Though his touch was light it was persistent and I felt my face slipping in between those lips until I felt the wetness of the inside of his mouth.

Without realizing it I was smiling with my eyes closed. Xander pulled away. "You were saying?"

"I was saying - " And that was all I managed to say before he was on me again. He pressed me against his palm with kiss after kiss. This ravishment was not restricted to my face, either, as he brushed his lips all over the front of my body. When that was done he flipped me over and started working on the back.

"I love the way you lose it when I kiss you," said Xander, his eyes half-closed.

I wiped a thin layer of his saliva off my face. "To be fair, it is hard to talk when I'm inside you."

He chuckled. "Gay. Now, little giant kissing enjoyer, let's go do some enjoying. No more writing. You're on break."

"Oh come on," I protested. "It's not like that's the only thing I think about. I just needed a username that reflected my love of g/t content, and also tells people that while I prefer wholesome interactions I'm also casually horny (in an asexual way) and not afraid of exploring another person's body."

Xander unzipped his shirt pocket. "Well I don't know about that. But you've been very naughty, writing on the day off. You belong to me and you should be taking better care of yourself. Now you're going into time out."

"Wait!" I cried, but I was already being dropped into his pocket. It was dark in there, but warm. I could feel his heartbeat through his shirt. Above me I could hear and feel him zipping the pocket closed. Suddenly I was being gently compressed. Xander must have been using a finger to massage me from outside. I couldn't help myself, and I reached out my hands to grab at the fabric tightly wrapped around his chest, burying my face in his warmth and inhaling his scent.

"Now you're going to stay in there until you don’t think about writing anymore for the rest of the day," said Xander. "And if you're very good, then you'll get more kisses and maybe something else."

Maybe it was the darkness, maybe the warmth, maybe his finger gently stroking me, but I immediately fell asleep.

[team-mavericks]

Later...

Jet kicks open the front door of the Maverick base with a loud thud. He is holding an almost comically large bouquet of flowers with both hands. He yells as if making a war cry.

"MAKOTOOOO!!"

Makoto was still there in the main room, patiently waiting for the flowers she knew Jet was getting for her anxiously. Hearing him yell made her jump in fear, but is quickly able to dismiss it as Jet just being hyper like he usually is. She can't see his face right now behind the beautiful arrangement, but she wishes she could see his urgent face.

"Y-yes, Jet! I'm right here!" She's already blushing.

Jet follows the sound of her voice, awkwardly. He can almost see through the flowers, but he isn't confident in where he is stepping at all.

"We have known each other for a long time now." Jet starts as he waddles over. "It shouldn't be surprising that I wasn't paying a whole lot of attention to what day it is. We all know I'm stupid some of the... all the times. I wanted to give you flowers on Valentines Day... but I goofed. So I hope this is still an acceptable gift, despite being so late."

By the end of his sentence, he was already in front of her. Makoto gently reaches up and parts the flowers so they could see each other's face. She smiles shyly as she sees his look of embarrassment.

"I love them... but... Why flowers? You've never done something like this before." She's trying to get him to talk about why it was important to him that he gave her this. She wants to believe this is a sign, so very much.

"I..." Yeah, he is so embarrassed that he is blushing as well. He doesn't actually have a good answer lined up. He felt like it was something he wanted to do, but he wasn't sure why. So he wings it on his reason, but still speaks truth. "... You are just... very special to me. And I wanted you to feel special as well. I... I can't bring myself to think about what my life was like before you came along. You make me feel... whole, you know? Like we were meant to... find each other."

He would keep going if she let him, but she giggles as she can see him struggle. She speaks up so he can stop overloading his brain with things to say.

"I feel the same way, Jet..." She speaks softly. "Maybe... even more than that... But it's hard to get it out of my mouth in a way you'd understand... You've given me so much, more than you realize."

Jet hides behind the flowers a little more, starting to blush even more. "... I still wanted to do this. It felt like the right thing to do. You are one of the best aspects of my life, and I love you, Makoto."

They both felt something when Jet said that last part. Jet has said he loves her many times in the past, but to him, this time felt different. Makoto knows this wasn't a confession like she hoped, but she still felt so happy that she started to cry.

"I love you too..." Makoto sniffles. "I love you too, Jet. Thank you. For everything."

He feels a little bad seeing her cry, even if it's with happiness. He has so many thoughts bouncing around in his head, and most of them are screaming in confused panic.

"What do you say... We pretend like tomorrow is Valentines Day? Just you and me, out and about. To make up for me forgetting." He tries to shift the focus a little so she doesn't cry anymore.

Makoto nods softly and finally puts her hands slightly above his to grab the flowers from him.

"I'd really like that, Jet... It's a date."

"Y-yeah." And he's not sure why, but he's really happy she said yes. He might need to talk to someone about this. He lets go of the flowers and lets her take it. "I, um... I still gotta do some work, so... I'll let you figure out a good place for these."

Makoto can't see him anymore, but she makes a noise of approval. She listens as he walks away... she swears she can hear him stop to look back at her for just a moment. By the time she turns so she can look over, he turns back around and heads back to his room. She cant help but sigh happily, finally giving the flowers a nice and slow sniff.

Michael walks up to Makoto holding the large assortment of flowers and raises an eyebrow.

"Looks like things are getting pretty serious between you two. Congrats."

Makoto jumps, as if she forgot they all share a living space. She didn't even consider that they might have had an audience this whole time, considering the way Jet kicked open the door and shouted for her.

"W-whatever do you mean, Michael? That was just... how things are."

Michael shakes his head. "I'm talking about the flowers."

Michael then starts pointing to the different flowers in the bouquet.

"Amaryllis—Pride. Bittersweet—Truth. Primrose—I can’t live without you. Orchid—Love. Forget-me-not—True love. Dandelion—Faithfulness. Pink Carnation—I’ll never forget you. Seems like every flower in that bouquet points to an unbreakable bond of romance. This is the kind of arrangement most married women dream of receiving."

Makoto's face just gets redder and redder as Michael says the meaning behind some flowers. That's definitely not all of them, but they all say positive things.

"I-I-I'm sure he didn't plan it like this." Makoto knows better than to think Jet of all people would know that there were meanings behind flowers.

"Maybe not. But I wouldn't write it off as a coincidence." Michael shrugs before walking away as he finishes his thought. "Most flower places will make an arrangement based on the message you want to share. Whatever he told them... gave you a bouquet that screams I want to start a family."

And Makoto is going to die of a heart attack. She's just gonna... shuffle these into her room... Scream into her pillow... Maybe look up each flower online... She won't be getting much sleep with how loud she is internally screaming. Especially if Michael is right.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

Daily Planet Classifieds

Fandom: DC Comics, Superfam, Young Justice 98, Titans

Summary: Laney Hausler is currently attending classes at Metropolis University when he sees a boy with his face in the library. At first, he thinks he's seeing things. Later, he starts to realize something strange is going on.

Conner Kent lives off-campus with his friends, but he sees a boy who eerily resembles him, and he hires a private investigator to look into the life of his doppelganger.

Chapters: 6/?

Characters: Jonathan Lane Kent, Conner Kent, Eddie Bloomberg, Rose Wilson, Bart Allen, Cassie Sandsmark, Cissie King-Jones, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Meloni Thawne, Vic Sage, Slade Wilson

Relationships: Past KonBart, Clois

Additional Tags: Father-Son Relationship, Father-Daughter Relationship, No Powers AU, Found Family, Stalking, Family Secrets, No Powers AU, No Capes AU, Complicated Relationships, University AU, Roommates, Private Investigator, Twins, Multiple POV, First Person POV, Obsession, Psychological Drama, Complicated Relationships, Unrequited Love, Platonic Relationships

Chapter Six: The Hookup (Conner's POV)

I went to a party with Bart the following weekend to chill out. Bart smoked, but it wasn’t my thing. He sat with a few guys from our film class and a white-haired girl. I danced with some guy until we made out in the upstairs bedroom. We split a bottle of pricey Japanese whiskey and talked in between. “So, what’s your name?” I asked. He laughed and rested his forehead on my shoulder. We were a little messed up by then, but he seemed nice. 

“Reed,” he answered. 

“Cool… I’m Conner,” I replied as I chuckled, “Hey, you—. Don’t move. I’ll be right back.” I stepped out to find a bathroom. The one upstairs was occupied, so I went downstairs… And I swore I saw my twin. I pushed the crowd to get to him, but I couldn’t find him once I got to the corner of the room. 

“Hey… Hey, are you sick?” Bart asked. He touched my arm, and I ran a hand over my face. I panted as I scanned the room for him. “Conner, look at me. Are you—?”

I searched the downstairs bedrooms, ran upstairs, and started looking in all the rooms for him. “No… No, he was here—.” 

“Conner?” Reed questioned. I raked a hand through my hair. I locked myself in the room with Reed. I did it to take my mind off of my twin. I didn’t want to feel crazy, but there was no way my twin would turn up there after fourteen years. “You alright?” 

I nodded as I leaned in to kiss him. Reed had soft hands. I remember that. His fingertips gently grazed my neck and embedded themselves in my curls. I tossed my head back, he kissed my neck, and I craned into his touch. His hands distracted me. I found his lips and unbuttoned my shirt.  “Do you have something?” I asked. Reed nodded as he reached into his pocket. We touched foreheads, laughing at how weird that was. Reed was gentle but clumsy. I didn’t mind it, though. He stuck his fingers in my mouth, and I reached for his zipper. 

The sex was kind of crazy. I don’t know if it was because I was tipsy, but he was so… Good. Reed made me cum so hard that I let him spit in my mouth. I almost couldn’t remember why I was upset. Reed kissed my forehead and took a swig from the bottle. “You good?” Reed questioned. I stared at the ceiling and nodded. Reed gave me his number, let me keep the bottle, and called a friend to take him home. I went to the bathroom and hid from Bart upstairs until he called me. 

“Conner? Did you wanna go home?” Bart asked. By that time, I was so drunk I don’t remember what I said to him. “Yeah… Okay. Come on. Let’s get you some air.” I was surprised I made it home without throwing up. I spent half the night hunched over the toilet, crying while Bart sat with me, running me a bath. 

“I wish you’d tell me what’s wrong… I couldn’t find you for thirty minutes after you disappeared,” Bart replied. 

“You can go to bed… I’m fine,” I mumbled. 

“I don’t mind staying with you. Did—?” I dry heaved, and he waited until I was done to continue. “Did something happen at the party?” 

“I don’t know—.” 

“Conner, did somebody—?”

I looked up and made a soft noise. “No. No, that’s not—. I think I saw something that wasn’t there. Not something… Someone,” I replied. Bart nodded. I didn’t have to explain. He knew what I meant. 

One of the girls knocked on the door, and Bart let them in. “Hey… Here,” Cissie whispered as she gave me a bottle of something reddish pink. “You gotta stay hydrated.” I took a sip and waited before taking another. 

“I’ll get you another one tomorrow,” I replied. 

“Don’t worry. I’ve got six in my room… Are you alright?” Cissie asked. I nodded as I wiped my tears away and flushed the toilet. “Okay… Well, I’ll leave you to it.” 

Bart turned the water off, testing the bathwater to see if it was too hot, and shut the door after Cissie left. “Where’d you go?” Bart asked. 

“I hooked up with some guy upstairs… He was cute,” I replied. Bart smiled and shut his eyes. 

I thought he was asleep, but he asked, “Are you gonna see him again?” 

“Yeah, probably. Would it be dumb to text him tomorrow?” I asked. 

“Wait until after one to text him and invite him to the one restaurant with the hot pudding,” Bart replied. 

“Do you want me to get you some hot pudding tomorrow?” I asked. 

“Fuck yeah,” Bart mumbled. 

“Bart, I will take you for hot pudding anytime. I love you so much,” I replied. 

Bart laughed. “You’re so drunk,” Bart replied.

I chuckled and gagged. “Uggghhh, don’t make me laugh,” I replied, “Hey…” 

“What?” Bart asked.

“Why are your eyes closed? It isn’t like we haven’t—.”

“Yeah. Like three times…I couldn’t look at you straight for a month,” Bart replied. His cheeks went rosy as I got undressed and climbed in the tub. 

“Wait, do you remember when your mom came home early with dinner, and you panicked and told her everything,” I replied. 

“I’m pretty sure she thought we were smoking weed in my room,” Bart replied. “Yeah? Well, my dad made a slideshow… And then my mom was mad that I snuck across state lines when I was supposed to be at my grandparents’ house,” I replied, 

“You got a slideshow. My mom never gave me the talk… Max did. Jay did, too. I don’t know which was worse. Jay’s talk sounded more like a war story and then he forgot that you can’t get pregnant, so he gave me a whole different talk the next day. Max confused me more than anything. I’m glad we stopped doing that, though,” Bart replied. I got quiet. I knew my feelings for Bart were more intense than his feelings for me. We stopped sleeping together because he thought our friendship wouldn’t last long if we kept it up. He’s probably right, but thinking about it made me sad. I sank under the water for what felt like forever, and Bart pulled me up. “What is wrong with you tonight?” 

I choked and gasped for air, and he pulled the drain plug. Bart wrapped a towel around my waist as I stood up. I got dressed and waited for Bart to shower. I dozed off on the toilet while Bart got dressed. Then he carried me to bed. He turned to me and sighed. “You’re still thinking about it, aren’t you?” Bart whispered. 

“What if my brother—?” 

“You were drunk—.” I turned away from him. “Conner, I’ve always believed you and loved you… But, don’t—. Don’t do this.” Bart leaned over me and touched my hair. I didn’t move. “Don’t be mad… I know your heart is—.”

“Don’t finish that sentence. I saw what that did to your parents, and—."

"Bart, I saw him tonight—.”

“I’m tired… And my throat hurts,” I muttered. I knew what I saw, and I thought Bart would believe me. I was wrong… And it fucking sucked.