#Time And Attendance Terminal System

[decidentia]

Just a note to say thanks for bearing with me. ♡

[kaijuposting]

The Pacific Rim novelization, generally cursed though it may be, does contain a bit of interesting lore. Presented as part of a magazine article, a strange phenomenon known as drift hangover is described:

…Interviews with former Rangers suggest that their cognitive systems are permanently altered by the experience known as the Drift. They report persistent perceptions that another consciousness is operating in tandem with their own, as well as feelings that each action they take is recreated on a larger scale somewhere else. Some Rangers call this "Drift hangover," but unlike hangovers, it does not appear to diminish over time.

The number of surviving ex-Rangers is very small, necessitating a degree of skepticism when assessing these findings. The Pan-Pacific Defense Corps does not permit external physicians or clinical staff to examine active Rangers, further limiting the available data. Nevertheless, it appears highly probable that the neural handshake causes persistent and perhaps permanent changes to the perceptual systems of the participants.

Also perhaps worthy of further investigation, though likely beyond the purview of this journal, are the claims of certain Rangers that they remained connected to their Jaegers even after the neural handshake and the Drift were terminated. Numerous anecdotal reports of exist of Jaegers shifting with no Ranger in control of them, with attendant claims that these motions replicated the sleeping motions of the Rangers assigned to that particular Jaeger.

If substantiated, these claims would characterize the nature of the neural handshake in a profoundly different light. They would also raise the specter of a sort of imprinted simulacrum of consciousness in the Jaegers themselves…

[jbaileyfansite]

Interview with NBC News (2024)

Jonathan Bailey admits he’s still grieving the loss of Tim Laughlin, the wide-eyed congressional staffer turned fervent gay rights activist he played in Showtime’s groundbreaking limited series “Fellow Travelers.”

“Playing a character who is always searching for truth and has something to fight for that is meaningful and important made me really think, ‘How do you want to leave the world behind?’” Bailey told NBC News. “It’s a tiring thing for everyone to be like, ‘I want to make the world a better place.’ But Tim is an example of someone who’s a normal guy. He didn’t come from wealth, and he lived life to its fullest, including loving in a way that was just spellbinding.”

That love is the animating force of “Fellow Travelers,” which chronicles the decades-spanning romance between Bailey’s Tim and Matt Bomer’s Hawkins “Hawk” Fuller against the backdrop of key moments in queer history. After falling in love at the height of the Lavender Scare in 1950s Washington, D.C., Hawk and Tim weave in and out of each other’s lives for years at a time, unable to sever their bond. But after learning of Tim’s terminal AIDS diagnosis in the ’80s, Hawk drops everything to take care of Tim in San Francisco, where the former lovers are forced to address the true nature of their volatile relationship.

“Fellow Travelers” was nominated for three Emmys in limited series categories last month: Bailey (who also won a Critics Choice Award) for supporting actor, Bomer for lead actor and creator Ron Nyswaner for writing.

Following the success of Netflix’s romantic drama “Bridgerton,” in which he played a rakish viscount looking for his viscountess, Bailey expressed a desire to tell a sweeping gay love story. He booked the coveted role in “Fellow Travelers” six weeks before the start of filming in Toronto, following an electric Zoom chemistry read with Bomer — one of the most prominent openly gay actors working today — that even brought one of the executives to tears.

While he said he inherited the “inherent shame” of the AIDS crisis as a gay man who came of age in the early aughts, Bailey, who is English, knew very little about the Lavender Scare. He credited the writing of Nyswaner for helping him capture the spirit of Tim, a devout Catholic struggling to reconcile his faith with his growing infatuation with the emotionally unavailable Hawk, who is adept at playing the system to avoid getting outed.

“There’s something so childlike and full of wonder and unadulterated kindness about Tim that never leaves him,” Bailey noted. “When you see the huge effects of the societal pressure and control on gay people and how it affects Tim, I thought, ‘How do you tell a story of someone who’s bruised, battered and frayed by relentless, unforgiving control?’ I think the older he gets, the more painful it is for him.”

Bailey, like many queer people, has had a complicated relationship with religion. He attended a Church of England school and, at 11, was a scholarship student at his local Catholic school, where he “was completely aware of the lack of education around sexuality and gender identity.” Like Tim, he began to question his own “inherited beliefs” in his 20s, when he came to terms with his own identity.

While Tim’s religion makes him believe that something is innately wrong with him, it also gives him the capacity to believe in a love that he has felt but cannot always see with Hawk, who complements him in a way that is both “beautiful” and “painful,” Bailey said. “I think to say that they broke up a few times somehow assimilates it to a heteronormative relationship — they were completely not afforded that.”

“What Tim realizes is that the act of loving is the thing that you want to survive with and live alongside and to die with, and to be the more loving one is sometimes easier,” added Bailey, who thinks “there was no other” man whom Tim loved as deeply as Hawk. “I think the power of their dynamic — the brilliance — is that they met at that time, and it’s just a genius way of discovering and exploring how political and social attitudes really can’t kill love.”

Bailey and Bomer, who have both acknowledged that a show like this might not have even been made a few years ago, see “Fellow Travelers” as a kind of love letter to the queer actors who came before them.

“The way we look at each other is also about the opportunity that we’ve got that wasn’t there before,” Bailey said of his and Bomer’s palpable on-screen connection, which has evolved into a close off-screen friendship. “There’s a weight that comes to telling your own story or other people’s story that are similar or shares elements of your identity.”

On the day of the Emmy nominations, Bailey was in Malta — where he has been shooting the new “Jurassic World” film — with one of his best friends. They had already planned to find somewhere to grab a celebratory drink together in the late afternoon. But by the time they had settled in and tuned in to the livestream announcing the nominees, Bailey’s phone began to ring off the hook.

“The thing that was special, if a little ridiculous, is that we took a little selfie, and I realized there was just a pride flag that was in the distance,” Bailey recalled. “Having now spent a lot of time in Malta, you realize there’s only a few.”

Now on the precipice of superstardom with his roles in “Wicked” and “Jurassic World,” Bailey is redefining what is possible for an out gay actor in Hollywood, becoming a heartthrob to male and female audiences alike — even if he doesn’t often think about that label. “I’m excited to play more roles the older I get, and we will see what the heartthrob status is when I’m in my 50s,” he said cheekily.

As his profile has risen, Bailey has wrestled with which parts of himself he is willing to share publicly. His Olivier Award-winning turn in a gender-swapped West End revival of “Company” gave him an opportunity to speak openly about his sexuality — something he didn’t feel the need to reveal unless it was tied to his work. Now, he feels much more confident in interviews to volunteer certain stories about himself, including a harrowing experience in which a Pennsylvania man called him an anti-gay slur and threatened his life in a Washington, D.C., coffee shop.

For Bailey, who is still adjusting to the privilege of being able to choose his next projects, the company he keeps going forward is just as important as the material he is given to work with. He will return to the stage next year in Nicholas Hytner’s London production of “Richard II” and will reprise his role as eldest sibling Anthony in the next season of “Bridgerton.” He will next be seen as Jack Maddox, a charming academic and celebrity crush of protagonist Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), in the sixth episode of the third season of “Heartstopper,” which premieres in October.

“I recognized in the show something that I obviously didn’t have growing up, which is aspirational, generous storytelling about queer identity and gender identity that wasn’t necessarily a gay [show],” Bailey said of his initial reaction to watching “Heartstopper,” which, like many older queer viewers, made him feel slightly melancholic. “There’s so many people of that generation who just love it, because it’s brilliant and so well-performed by such an incredibly talented young cast.”

But truth be told, Bailey doesn’t think he will ever be able to let go of Tim Laughlin, who he likes to believe had “a very happy end of his life” fighting for AIDS awareness with the ACT UP movement without Hawk by his side. After having spent a year unpacking the life-changing experience of playing the character in post-screening Q&As and media interviews, Bailey has grown to feel the power of his work “more than [he’d] ever known.”

When playing a character who is confronting his own mortality, “you just think about how life is futile and quick,” Bailey said, “and if I can live a life as front-footed and as curious as Tim, then I’ll be a lucky man.”

Source

[sinful-mind-joyful-thoughts]

𝕿𝖜𝖎𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖉 𝕿𝖊𝖒𝖕𝖙𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘 | 4

read chapter 1 - here [MASTERLIST]

screencaps and gifs: Pinterest

Pairing: dark!Joel Miller x Fem!reader

Warnings/tags: MDNI 18+, DEAD DOVE DO NOT EAT, Auctioning people, Dom and Sub dynamics, Drinking, food, kissing, making out, possessiveness, cat calling, physical violence ( a single punch ), flirting, langire, bikinis, insucurity, praise, LOSS OF VIRGINITY, Oral F and M, Orgasums, Orgasum Denial, Pull out method, UNprotected sex wrap it before you tap it kids, THIS IS A WORK OF FICTION, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT YOU CONSUME

Summary: Joel takes you on a birthday trip to say sorry for missing your birthday and it was oh so worth it in many different ways

WC: 5.0K

A/n: EnJOY

For notifications follow - @sinful-mind-joyful-fics

The airport buzzed with the typical hum of travelers, announcements echoing over the intercom. You clutched your boarding pass, trying to steady your nerves. The past few days had been a whirlwind, with Joel's sudden proposition to whisk you away to Miami as an apology for missing your birthday. It felt surreal, and a part of you was still grappling with the mixed emotions from your heated argument.

Joel walked beside you, his hand resting lightly on your lower back, guiding you through the terminal. His demeanor was calm and composed, a stark contrast to your swirling thoughts. He had been unusually attentive since that night, a stark contrast to the distant, busy man you had come to know. It was almost as if he was trying to make up for lost time.

As you approached the first-class lounge, you glanced at Joel. “First class, huh?” you remarked, trying to keep your tone light. “I didn’t know you were such a high roller.”

Joel smirked, handing the attendant your boarding passes. “Only the best for my girl,” he replied, his voice smooth and confident. “Consider it part of my apology.”

You felt a flutter in your stomach at his words but quickly pushed it down. There were still too many unresolved questions between you. As you settled into the plush seats of the first-class cabin, you couldn't help but marvel at the luxury. The seats were wide and comfortable, with ample legroom and a personal entertainment system. A flight attendant promptly offered you a glass of champagne, which you accepted gratefully.

Joel leaned in, his lips brushing your ear as he whispered, “I thought you could use a bit of pampering.”

You turned to look at him, studying his face. “Joel, this is amazing, but...”

He held up a hand, cutting you off gently. “No buts. Let’s just enjoy this trip, okay? We can talk about everything else later.”

You nodded, though a part of you still felt uneasy. “Okay. For now, let’s just enjoy it.”

As the plane took off, you glanced out the window, watching the world shrink below you. The view was breathtaking, and for a moment, you allowed yourself to get lost in the beauty of it all. Joel reached over, taking your hand in his, his thumb brushing over your knuckles. The gesture was comforting, and you found yourself relaxing into your seat.

Joel continued to hold your hand as the plane soared higher, the world below becoming a patchwork of greens and blues. His touch was steady, reassuring, but you couldn’t shake the questions swirling in your mind. After a while, Joel leaned closer, his voice low and soothing.

“We’re staying at a hotel right on the water,” he said, a hint of excitement in his tone. “You’ll love it. The view is incredible, and the beach is just a few steps away.”

You smiled, trying to match his enthusiasm. “That sounds amazing. I can’t wait to see it.”

Joel’s eyes sparkled as he continued, “And once we land, I want to take you shopping. Get you a proper birthday present.”

You hesitated, feeling a mix of gratitude and discomfort. “Joel, you don’t have to do that. This trip is already more than enough.”

He squeezed your hand gently, his expression serious. “I want to, though. I missed your birthday, and I want to make it up to you. Just let me do this.”

You sighed, the last remnants of your resistance melting away under his earnest gaze. “Alright, if you insist.”

Joel’s smile broadened, and he kissed your hand. “Good. You deserve to be spoiled.”

The rest of the flight passed in a comfortable silence, with both of you occasionally exchanging smiles and light touches. The tension from earlier seemed to have eased, replaced by a shared anticipation for the days ahead.

When the plane finally touched down in Miami, the warm, tropical air greeted you as you stepped off. Joel guided you through the airport with practiced ease, his hand never leaving the small of your back. A sleek black car awaited you outside, and soon you were on your way to the hotel.

As you settled into the backseat, Joel turned to you, his eyes filled with excitement. “So, any thoughts on what you’d like for your birthday present?”

You laughed softly, shaking your head. “I haven’t really thought about it. This trip is already such a gift.”

Joel smiled, his hand finding yours again. “Well, let’s see what catches your eye. I want to make sure you have something special to remember this birthday by.”

The drive to the hotel was scenic, the cityscape giving way to pristine beaches and shimmering water. When you arrived, you were awestruck by the elegance of the hotel. The building stood majestically against the backdrop of the ocean, its sleek lines and modern design a testament to luxury.

Joel checked you in, his demeanor confident and charming. Soon, you were riding the elevator to your suite, the anticipation building with each passing floor. When you finally stepped inside, the view took your breath away. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered an unobstructed panorama of the ocean, the waves crashing rhythmically against the shore.

“This is incredible,” you whispered, turning to Joel with wide eyes.

He grinned, clearly pleased with your reaction. “I’m glad you like it. Now, let’s get settled and then we can hit the shops.”

You spent a few moments exploring the suite, the plush furnishings and elegant decor making you feel like you had stepped into a dream. After freshening up, you rejoined Joel in the living area.

“Ready to go?” he asked, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

You nodded, a smile playing on your lips. “Ready.”

The shopping district was bustling with activity, the streets lined with high-end boutiques and charming cafes. Joel led you from store to store, his enthusiasm infectious. You found yourself relaxing, enjoying the experience more than you had anticipated.

After browsing through several shops, Joel finally stopped outside a jewelry store. “How about we take a look in here?” he suggested, his hand gently guiding you inside.

The store was filled with sparkling displays, each piece more beautiful than the last. Joel watched as you admired the jewelry, his expression thoughtful. After a while, he pointed to a delicate necklace adorned with a small, shimmering pendant.

“How about this one?” he asked, his voice soft.

You stared at the necklace, the elegant design catching the light in the most captivating way. “It’s beautiful,” you murmured, feeling a swell of emotion.

Joel smiled, signaling to the salesperson. “We’ll take it.”

As the necklace was carefully packaged, you turned to Joel, your eyes shining with gratitude. “Thank you, Joel. This means so much to me.”

He leaned in, his lips brushing against your cheek. “You’re welcome. And remember, this is just the beginning. I want to make sure every moment we spend together is special.”

As you both stepped out of the jewelry store, the delicate weight of the new necklace around your neck felt like a promise. Joel, ever the charmer, glanced down at you with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“You know,” he began, his tone playful, “now that you’ve got such a beautiful necklace, I think you need a bikini to match. After all, we’re right by the beach.”

You felt a flush creep up your cheeks. “A bikini?” you echoed, a hint of uncertainty in your voice.

Joel stopped and turned to face you, his expression sincere. “Absolutely. You’ll look amazing. Besides, I want to see you having fun in the sun, looking as stunning as you are.”

You bit your lip, feeling a mixture of shyness and excitement. “I don’t know, Joel. I’m not sure if I’m... you know, ready for that.”

He stepped closer, his hands resting gently on your hips. “Hey, listen to me. You’re beautiful, and you’re perfect just the way you are. Trust me on this. Let’s go find something that makes you feel as amazing as you look.”

His words melted away your insecurities, leaving a growing confidence in their place. “Alright,” you agreed, a smile tugging at your lips. “Let’s do it.”

Joel’s eyes lit up with delight as he guided you to a nearby boutique that specialized in swimwear. The store was a vibrant oasis of colors and styles, each bikini more alluring than the last. The racks were lined with shimmering fabrics and intricate patterns, and you couldn’t help but feel a little thrill of anticipation as you browsed.

Joel stayed close, his hand occasionally brushing against yours. He offered suggestions with a playful smirk, holding up bikinis that ranged from flirty to downright daring. His presence was a steady reassurance, his confidence in your beauty making you feel bold.

“What about this one?” he asked, holding up a red bikini with a cheeky grin.

You laughed, shaking your head. “Maybe something a little less... fiery.”

After selecting a few bikinis to try on, you made your way to the fitting rooms. Joel waited outside, his playful demeanor turning more serious as he saw you hesitate.

“Go on,” he urged gently, his eyes locking with yours. “I can’t wait to see how stunning you look.”

You took a deep breath and stepped into the fitting room. The first bikini you tried on was a bright, tropical pattern that made you feel both bold and self-conscious. Gathering your courage, you stepped out to show Joel.

His eyes widened in appreciation, a slow smile spreading across his face. “Wow,” he said softly, his gaze lingering. “You look incredible.”

Your heart swelled at his reaction, and the insecurities you had been feeling seemed to vanish. With each new bikini you tried on, Joel’s supportive comments boosted your confidence. He flirted shamelessly, making you laugh and blush with every compliment.

“Turn around,” he requested with a wink as you modeled a floral bikini. “I need the full view.”

You playfully spun, feeling more confident with every step. Eventually, you settled on a sleek, navy blue two-piece that made you feel both elegant and sexy.

“This one,” you decided, turning to Joel with a newfound assurance.

He nodded, his smile warm and approving. “Perfect choice. You look absolutely stunning.”

Joel wrapped his arm around your shoulders before making his way to the cashier to pay “I can’t wait to see you in that at the beach,” he murmured, his voice filled with genuine anticipation. “You’ll be the most beautiful woman there.”

You felt a surge of confidence and happiness, Joel’s words making you feel cherished. “Only if you promise to wear those swim trunks I picked out,” you teased back.

He laughed, a deep, infectious sound. “Deal. Anything for you.”

As you browsed through the store waiting for joel to finish paying, still feeling the warmth of Joel’s compliments, a guy around your age approached. He had an arrogant smirk and a cocky swagger.

"Hey there," he drawled, his eyes shamelessly raking over your body. "I saw you trying on those bikinis earlier. You looked incredible."

You forced a polite smile, hoping he would take the hint and leave. "Thanks."

But he didn’t. Instead, he leaned in closer, his breath smelling faintly of alcohol. "Your boyfriend took his sweet time picking those out, huh? You should ditch the old man and find someone who knows how to appreciate you properly."

You took a step back, feeling a shiver of discomfort. "Joel appreciates me just fine, thanks."

The guy chuckled, shaking his head with a condescending grin. "Come on, how old is he? Like, twice your age? You deserve better. Someone who won’t leave you hanging while they shop for you. I mean, come on, you can do so much better."

His eyes lingered on your body, and you felt your skin crawl under his gaze. "Seriously, you need someone who knows how to have fun. Not some grandpa who's gonna put you to sleep by nine."

Your patience snapped, and you opened your mouth to retort, but at that moment, Joel returned. His eyes immediately took in the situation, narrowing as he saw the guy standing too close to you.

"Is everything alright here?" Joel asked, his voice steady but with a dangerous edge.

The guy straightened up, smirking as he looked Joel up and down. "Just complimenting your girl. She's quite the catch."

Joel's jaw tightened, and the tension in the air thickened. "Thanks for the compliment. But she's with me, and I'm more than capable of appreciating her."

The guy shrugged, clearly not intimidated. "Alright, man. Whatever you say." With one last leer in your direction, he sauntered off.

But Joel wasn’t done. His jealousy and protective instincts flared. "Hey!" Joel called out, his voice a low growl.

The guy turned back, an eyebrow raised. "What now, old man?"

Without warning, Joel’s fist connected with the guy’s jaw in a swift, powerful punch. The guy staggered back, clutching his face in shock and pain.

"You stay the hell away from her," Joel snarled, his eyes blazing with anger.

People around the store stared some gasping in surprise. The guy scrambled to his feet, muttering curses, and quickly retreated, clearly not wanting to escalate the situation further.

Joel turned back to you, his breathing heavy. "You okay?" he asked, his voice softer now, but his eyes still dark with lingering fury.

You nodded, a bit shaken but relieved. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thank you."

Joel wrapped an arm around your shoulders, pulling you close. "Let’s get out of here."

You were in shock as you watched Joel punch the guy. A flurry of emotions swirled inside you—relief, gratitude, but also anger. As Joel guided you out of the store and into a waiting taxi, you couldn't hold back any longer.

"Joel, what the hell was that?" you demanded, sliding into the back seat and looking at him with wide eyes.

Joel shut the door behind him, his jaw still tense. "He was being a creep, talking to you like that. What was I supposed to do? Let him disrespect you?"

"You didn't have to punch him," you snapped, your voice shaking slightly. "Violence isn't the answer to everything."

Joel leaned in closer, his eyes dark and intense. "Sometimes, it is. When it comes to you, I'll do whatever it takes to protect you."

The taxi driver glanced back nervously, clearly uncomfortable with the tension in the car. Joel noticed and lowered his voice, though the intensity didn't fade. "You need to understand something. You're mine. And no one gets to talk to you or look at you like that. No one."

You felt a shiver run down your spine at his possessive tone. "Joel, that's not—"

"No," he cut you off, his eyes boring into yours. "You need to hear this. I won’t let anyone come between us. I’ve been patient, trying to respect your space and your pace, but that doesn’t mean I’ll stand by while some punk thinks he can make a move on you."

You looked away, trying to process his words. Part of you was scared, but another part was drawn to the fierce protectiveness in his voice.

Joel reached out, gripping your chin and turning your face back to him. "Look at me," he commanded softly. "You're with me now. And that means you're mine. Understand?"

You nodded slowly, the intensity of his gaze making it hard to think straight. "I understand."

He leaned back, seemingly satisfied, but his grip on your hand remained firm. "Good. Now let's go enjoy our weekend. I want you to remember how much I care about you. And if that means being a little possessive, so be it."

The rest of the taxi ride was tense and silent, Joel's words echoing in your mind. As you pulled up to the hotel, Joel paid the driver and helped you out of the car, his hand never leaving yours. The grand entrance of the hotel loomed before you, a stark contrast to the turmoil inside you.

Inside the hotel lobby, Joel’s demeanor shifted slightly, his possessiveness morphing into a more subtle, but still palpable, protectiveness. He led you to the elevator, his hand firmly on your lower back.

As the elevator doors closed, he looked down at you, his expression softening just a bit. "We’re going to have a great weekend," he murmured. "I want to make up for missing your birthday. Trust me, okay?"

You nodded, feeling a mixture of apprehension and curiosity about what the weekend would bring. "Okay, Joel."

The elevator dinged, and the doors slid open, revealing the luxurious hallway leading to your room. Joel guided you down the corridor, his hand still a constant presence on your back. As you entered the room

Joel unlocked the door to your room, ushering you inside with a small smile. The suite was luxurious, with a stunning view of the ocean and a king-sized bed dominating the space. The tension from earlier seemed to dissipate slightly as you took in your surroundings.

“This place is incredible,” you said, trying to focus on the positive.

Joel nodded, setting your bags down gently. “Only the best for you.”

You walked over to the large window, gazing out at the turquoise water stretching out to the horizon. The view was breathtaking, and for a moment, you allowed yourself to relax. Joel came up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist and resting his chin on your shoulder.

“I want you to feel special this weekend,” he murmured. “I’m sorry about earlier. I just... can’t stand the thought of anyone else trying to take you away from me.”

You turned in his arms, looking up at him. “I understand. Let’s just enjoy our time here, okay?”

He nodded, brushing a kiss against your forehead. “Deal. Let’s unpack and get settled in.”

You moved to your suitcase, unzipping it and flipping it open. As you began to pull out clothes, you noticed something odd. The outfits were all skimpy, revealing, and definitely not what you had packed. Your cheeks flushed as you pulled out a barely-there bikini, realizing that Faith had repacked your entire suitcase. A note fell out of one of the dresses, and you quickly picked it up.

"Thought you’d need these more than your usual stuff. Have fun, birthday girl! – Faith"

You sighed, shaking your head with a small smile. “Of course, Faith.”

Joel raised an eyebrow as he looked over your shoulder. “What’s up?”

“Faith repacked my suitcase,” you explained, holding up the note. “Looks like she had different plans for my wardrobe.”

Joel chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement as he took in the array of outfits. “Well, she certainly knows how to pick them. I think you’ll look amazing in every single one.”

You rolled your eyes playfully, but his words boosted your confidence. “I’m sure you do.”

Joel leaned in, his voice dropping to a low, seductive murmur. “Why don’t you try one on for me now?”

You felt a shiver of excitement mixed with nervousness. “Alright, but no peeking until I’m done.”

He grinned, holding up his hands in mock surrender. “I’ll be good, I promise.”

You gathered a few pieces and headed into the bathroom to change. As you slipped into a delicate lace lingerie set, you couldn’t help but feel a rush of anticipation. You took a deep breath, smoothing your hair before stepping back into the room.

Joel’s eyes darkened with desire as he looked you up and down. “You look stunning,” he said, his voice husky.

You blushed, feeling both empowered and slightly shy under his intense gaze. “Thank you.”

He crossed the room in a few quick strides, pulling you into his arms. “You have no idea what you do to me,” he whispered, his lips brushing against your ear.

The air between you crackled with tension as Joel’s hands roamed your back, tracing the delicate lines of the lingerie. Just as you were about to lean in for a deeper kiss, you felt his grip tighten.

You could feel the intensity of his desire as his hands roamed your back, tracing the delicate lines of the lingerie. His touch was electric, sparking a fire inside you. Your heart raced, a mix of excitement and nervousness coursing through your veins.

Joel’s lips found yours, the kiss deep and passionate, filled with an urgency that took your breath away. He guided you backward, each step bringing you closer to the bed. The world outside seemed to disappear, leaving just the two of you in this moment.

You felt the edge of the bed hit the back of your legs, and Joel gently lowered you onto the soft mattress. He hovered over you, his eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that made your pulse quicken. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, his voice a low, seductive growl.

His hands moved to your shoulders, slowly sliding the straps of the lingerie down your arms. His touch was gentle yet possessive, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. You arched your back slightly, pressing yourself against him, craving more of his touch.

Joel’s lips followed the path of his hands, kissing the newly exposed skin. He took his time, savoring each moment, each taste. You could feel the heat of his desire building, matching your own. The room was filled with the sound of your mingled breaths, the tension between you almost palpable.

His hands continued their exploration, moving lower, caressing the curves of your body. You let out a soft moan as he found sensitive spots, his touch sending waves of pleasure through you. “Joel,” you whispered, your voice breathless with need.

He looked up at you, his eyes dark with passion. “I want you,” he said, his voice husky and full of promise. “All of you.”

You nodded, unable to find the words, your body responding to his every touch. Joel leaned in, capturing your lips in another searing kiss. His hands roamed freely now, exploring every inch of you, his touch both demanding and tender.

As the intensity between you grew, you felt a sudden rush of emotions. Desire, anticipation, and a hint of fear all mingled together. Joel seemed to sense your hesitation, his movements slowing. He pulled back slightly, his eyes searching yours. “Are you okay?” he asked, his voice softening with concern.

You took a deep breath, your heart pounding in your chest. His concern was palpable, and you appreciated his sensitivity to your emotions. Meeting his gaze, you nodded slowly, your voice barely above a whisper. “Yes, I’m fine… Don’t stop.”

Joel’s eyes darkened with desire as he registered your words. Without a word, he closed the distance between you, capturing your lips in a hungry kiss. His touch reignited the fire between you, sending sparks of electricity through your body. His hands resumed their exploration, his touch both gentle and commanding.

You moaned softly against his lips, the sound mingling with his own low growl of pleasure. The room seemed to fade away as you lost yourself in the sensation of Joel’s lips on yours, his hands tracing the curves of your body with a familiarity that sent shivers down your spine.

Joel moved his hands to caress your breasts under your barely-there lace bra, both of you grinding into each other. His bulge pressed perfectly against where you needed him most, pulling a whimper from the back of your throat. Joel smirked at you, "Let's get these clothes off."

He leaned back, standing on his knees over you as you propped yourself up on your elbows to watch him. He peeled off his shirt, revealing his chest, the small hairs lining his torso and leading down towards his pants. His stomach curved slightly, and all you wanted to do was reach out and touch him, but something in you said to wait. You unclasped your bra, revealing your upper body to him. You didn't feel anxious or unsure; you were ready. Joel grabbed your hands, holding them above your head.

Joel’s kisses trailed down your neck, leaving a trail of fire in their wake. Your fingers tangled in his hair, urging him closer to your breasts without having to say a word. Joel began to suck on your breast, the warmth of his mouth overtaking you as you arched into him. He pinched your hard nipples before pulling away to take off his pants. You moved to do the same, but he stopped you.

"I’ll do that," he said, making you blush as he finished taking off his pants and boxers, revealing his dick, the tip already dripping with pre-cum. He was well-trimmed, and his dick was so thick that your mind wandered, blushing at the thought of him inside you. He climbed back onto the bed and went straight to kissing your stomach, moving your body with his rough, calloused hands in every way he pleased to make sure every kiss was felt deep inside you.

He kissed your lower stomach and moved to spread your legs over his shoulders before lowering you back onto the bed. After he pulled off your panties with such skill, you barely felt them come off. He placed a kiss on your clit, making you grab the sheets below you. He wrapped his hands around your thighs, pushing his face deeper into your pussy as he ate you like a starved man. You moaned over and over, your eyes rolling back as he dropped one of your legs, never moving his head from your clit as he inserted one of his large fingers into your pussy. You gasped at the feeling as he worked his finger, adding another and starting to scissor you open. You grabbed at his head and started to grind into him, your moans growing louder as he began to finger you faster until you convulsed, your legs shaking as you came on his face.

You began to catch your breath and pulled Joel up from between your legs, pulling him into a feverish kiss. You could taste yourself on his tongue as you kissed. He pulled back to breathe, finally looking into your eyes with a hungry lust. You gave him a reassuring nod as he got ready to insert himself.

He rubbed the tip of his dick up and down your clit, gathering some wetness. He spit into his hand to add lubricant as well, then guided his dick into you. The stretch burned at first, making you hiss and bite your lip, but as he continued, his dick felt like magic. He used his thumb to rub small circles on your clit. "It's okay, just get used to the feeling."

After a few moments, Joel started to move his dick in slow, deliberate movements. You gasped and moaned with every thrust. With his pace quickening, your moans became more common. "Shit..." he muttered under his breath as he held your legs up. You let out a sharp moan as he hit a spot that made you see stars. He deepened his strokes, hitting that sweet spot with every movement. You started to cry a little at the pleasure, tapping his hand that was holding your leg.

"More..." you gasped. "I'm gonna cum."

Joel quickened his strokes. "Say you’ll move in with me," Joel's question caught you off guard.

"Wh—" you tried to sit up, but he folded you in half, slowing his strokes. He pulled his dick almost completely out of you. "Say you’ll move in with me, and I’ll let you cum." His words sounded so imposing as he used his forearms to hold your legs flesh to your chest. "Say it and you can cum." He started to rub your clit with his thumb in slow, teasing circles. Your mouth opened in the shape of an O. You wanted—no, needed more.

"Say it," Joel almost removed his dick, but you stopped him, grabbing whatever skin you could.

"Yes, yes!" you sounded desperate, and Joel let out a deep chuckle at your words as he began to pound into you deeper than you’d ever felt. It didn’t take long for that welcomed feeling to wash over you. You clutched down on his dick and groaned as you came. Joel didn’t stop his movements; he slowed them and helped you ride down your orgasm as he started his. He pulled out and grabbed your hand after spreading open your legs. He used your juices remaining on his dick as lube, cupping your hand in his to rub him off until he came all over your stomach.

Joel leaned in, kissing you softly, his lips gentle and tender against yours. The intensity from moments before had given way to a softer intimacy, and you felt your heart race for an entirely different reason. "Go use the bathroom," he whispered, brushing a strand of hair away from your face. "I'll be right here."

You nodded, slipping out of bed and making your way to the bathroom. As you closed the door behind you, the reality of what had just happened began to sink in. Leaning against the sink, you stared at your reflection in the mirror. The flush on your cheeks, the wildness in your eyes, it all told the story of the night’s passion. You splashed some cool water on your face, trying to clear your head.

As you washed up, you couldn't help but replay the events in your mind. The thrill, the unexpected intensity, the way Joel had taken control and yet had been so attentive to your needs. It was overwhelming, exhilarating, and a little terrifying. This was a new chapter, one you hadn't seen coming.

After a few moments, you wrapped yourself in a robe and stepped out of the bathroom. Joel was sitting on the bed, the TV now on, casting a soft glow around the room. He looked up as you entered, his eyes warm and inviting.

"Feel better?" he asked, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

"Yeah," you replied, sitting down beside him. The comfort of the robe and his presence was grounding.

"Good," he said, leaning back against the headboard. "Do you want to order room service? We could use some food after all that."

You chuckled softly, the normalcy of his question a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions you had just experienced. "Yeah, that sounds nice."

[coochiequeens]

'There are wonderful surrogates but the system is also allowing ­others to take advantage.' Says a woman who exploited another woman

Twins? No, but this couple's baby boys were born just five months apart after a terrifying tale that raises grave questions about modern-day surrogacy

Cáhan and Cómhan Kilgannon look to the outside world like they are twins

But pair from County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland were born five  months apart 

Parents Kiara and Stevie conceived naturally just after using a surrogate mother 

By JENNY JOHNSTON FOR THE MAIL ON SUNDAY

PUBLISHED: 17:16 EST, 18 February 2023 | UPDATED: 17:16 EST, 18 February 2023 

Snug in their double buggy, peeking out with matching, adorable blue eyes, Cáhan and Cómhan Kilgannon look for all the world like twins as they enjoy a stroll with parents ­Stevie and Kiara.

'When we are out in shops, people assume they are twins,' says dad Stevie. 'When they were younger and the size difference between them more noticeable, we'd explain that there was actually five months between them.

'But you could see people doing the maths and getting confused.'

Cáhan (it means 'little battler' in Irish) is 15 months old, while his brother Cómhan (meaning 'twin') is ten months. 

And there is a fascinating and heartwarming reason for the age discrepancy. 

Biologically, Cáhan is Kiara's and Stevie's child, conceived through IVF using her egg and his sperm, and born via surrogacy after Kiara had been told she would never carry her own child.

The couple opted for an increasingly common surrogacy route – delighted to find a stranger who effectively offered them her womb. 

Stevie says: 'We explained it to family and friends as 'our bun, her oven'.'

Yet five months into the surrogate's pregnancy, the 'impossible' happened – Kiara became pregnant herself. Entirely naturally. 

'The doctors – we'd been to them all, even an expert in the US – said it simply wasn't possible for me to carry a child,' she explains. 

'When it happened, we couldn't believe our double miracle. The boys will be in the same class at school, so we have years ahead of having to explain why they appear to be twins, but aren't.'

At their home in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, this couple's joy is palpable

So too, though, are more com­plicated feelings. It turns out their 'surrogacy journey' was anything but joyful. 

Indeed, they're speaking out today because they want to warn other couples – 'who may be as desperate as we were' – that the whole experience can push you to the edge.

The reality of their situation is that the relationship with their surrogate broke down during her pregnancy. 

They even feared she would abort their child. 

'It was a real worry – later confirmed when she posted on social media that she'd con­sidered a termination,' says Kiara. '

At another stage she threatened to keep our baby if a whole list of requests that had never been mentioned before were not met.'

It sounds as if everything that could go wrong with the surrogacy agreement – 'a piece of paper that is legal but not legally binding', says Stevie – did.

Petty disagreements, mostly about money, escalated to the point where they were consulting lawyers and trying to get mediation.

'In the process, she cut us off, blocked us from messaging her, refused to allow us to go to scans, which she'd previously said we could attend. 

'She told midwives and hospital staff – who deal with surrogacy arrangements all the time, and had been wonderful about making us feel part of it – not to include us.

'In the weeks coming up to the birth, we had moved over to England, where she lives, to be in place for the birth. Yet for that full four weeks we had no contact with her.

'We had no idea if she would even hand him over when he was born. We discovered – the hard way – that biological parents have no rights,' Stevie recalls.'

Kiara – pregnant during the latter stages of this delicate process – was distraught. 

'My pregnancy was deemed high-risk and the ­doctors said I must I avoid stress.

'But I could not have been more stressed. I thought I was going to lose both babies.'

It is very rare for a couple to be in this situation – and also uncommon for a couple who have had a 'successful' surrogacy journey to talk about the pitfalls. 

They can share their story now because, in December, a court granted them a Parental Order, giving them full legal res­ponsibility for Cáhan.

In any surrogacy situation, there is a period of some months when the intended parents are in a legal limbo. 

Although Stevie was even­tually named on Cáhan's initial birth certificate – they had no birth certificate at all for him for several months – Kiara was not, as the surrogate is always the mother, by law, until a Parental Order is granted.

Issues such as who is authorised to make medical decisions can be contentious – but in amicable surrogacy arrangements, these things can be agreed and made workable. 

The frustrations were made all the more difficult with two babies in the mix.

Kiara says: 'It meant we were in this ridiculous situation where I could get treatment for Cómhan, but with Cáhan, Stevie had to do everything.'

It has long been accepted that the law surrounding surrogacy in the UK, which has not been changed in 40 years, needs to be updated, but a much awaited review by the Law Commission has been delayed. 

Meanwhile, the number of couples using surrogates has quadrupled over the past ten years.

Commercial surrogacy is banned in the UK, but surrogates can be paid reasonable expenses, which Stevie and Kiara believe has 'led to commercial surrogacy under the table'. 

Stevie, who works in the justice system, says: 'It would be more transparent to allow commercial surrogacy because, as it stands, there are no rules about what constitutes reasonable expense. We came to feel we were cash cows.

'Our surrogate alerted us to a chipped windscreen on her car, and we paid for a replacement tyre. 

'She charged us £1 for an envelope to send a scan picture and refused to post it until the money was in her account. 

'It all got incredibly petty, but when we asked for documentation for expenses over the agreed figure, she cut contact.

'We discovered surrogates advise each other about how to push their expenses up. 

'One couple even paid for a gardener to mow their sur­rogate's lawn – then learned she had no grass. 

'Surrogates even discuss charging for slimming club memberships, spa treatments, even car valeting after vomiting in the car because of morning sickness.

'This is not about money – we paid our surrogate expenses of about £15,000 but we'd have paid much more from the off if the pro­cess had been fair. 

'Our point is that we felt held to ransom.

'There are wonderful surrogates but the system is also allowing ­others to take advantage.'

See rest of article

[gatheringbones]

[“For some of us, taking a deep breath and a moment to reframe or refocus our thoughts after an upsetting event will be enough to halt our physiological stress response. However, members of populations subject to weathering are rarely—if ever—responding to a single acute stressor. Their bodies are in constant biopsychosocial motion fulfilling their many and compelling responsibilities, which also steals their chances of having “me time.”

A 2004 ethnography of low-income mothers in Chicago (Black, white, and Latina) described the complex puzzle that many face to meet the basic daily necessities for their families. Mothers commuted up to five hours a day (and rarely less than two hours), facing severe weather conditions and patching together the meandering routes of their underfunded public transportation systems. Long wait times and limited hours of availability at public-aid offices meant missing meals in order to navigate their schedules successfully. Not only was their discretionary time scarce compared to their more affluent counterparts, but the consequences of missed obligations were dire. The investigators wrote, “Mothers who received TANF benefits [Temporary Assistance to Needy Families],” for example, “faced work requirements that often did not take into account changing circumstances. If they showed up late for work because of sudden illnesses or emergencies, they often were docked prime hours or even fired. Changing family circumstances had continuing repercussions because public benefits could be cut or terminated when employment was lost.”

All in all, these strangling time constraints meant drastically reduced sleep, less family time, and less time to unwind from the day—the cruel irony being that more-structured stress meant less time to decompress. Two-thirds of the study sample led such “highly challenging” lives. One participant averred she “could never get a break.” Another observed, “With working, the kids, and cleaning, […] you just ‘do’ until you can just sit in a chair and nod off.”

Another study of low-income mothers (Black, white, and Latina), using data from the same ambitious three-cities ethnography, exemplifies the kind of extraordinary stresses and choices faced in the communities most subjected to weathering. Francine, a thirty-year-old mother of three, had no time to attend to her own stomach cancer diagnosis because she had to attend to her asthmatic son, as well as her mother who recently suffered a stroke and heart attack at the age of fifty. Lourdes, a thirty-four-year-old mother with diabetes and glaucoma, was expected to comply with welfare work requirements because her doctor insisted she could still work despite partial paralysis and blindness. As noted, 80 percent of mothers studied suffered from chronic conditions (83 percent of whom were thirty-nine or younger) yet could not afford regular doctor’s visits, owing to either lack of income or “more immediate concerns,” such as the need to attend to their child’s health problems or their need to hold on to jobs that did not give them personal time off. It is hard to imagine a “more immediate concern” than an early-onset cancer diagnosis. That addressing it might not be an immediate priority reflects the constant juggling required in high-effort coping.”]

arline t. geronimus, from weathering: the extraordinary stress of ordinary life in an unjust society, 2023

[missacidburn928s-heathenhideaway]

You'll Find Me Resting Among The Restless... (Sinners Prayer)

Mafia!Stucky x POC Escort!Reader “Sin”

Wordcount: 5325

Summary:

Not all girls are made of sugar spice and everything nice. Some girls are made of art, lust and misplaced trust. The most loving thing you can do for a man, is to teach him to swallow his own poison.

Warnings:

Angst with a Happy Ending, Angst and Feels, Angst and Fluff and Smut, Betrayal, Infidelity, Past Sharon Carter/Steve Rogers, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Alternate universe - Mafia, Texting, Punishment, Angst and Hurt/Comfort, Comfort Sex, Tease, Protective Tony Stark, Tony Stark Has A Heart, Bucky Barnes's Metal Arm, Bisexual Bucky Barnes, Bisexual Steve Rogers, Female Character of Color

Notes:

This story just attacked me and would not let up until I got it out of my system. It's angsty but with a happy/hopeful ending because I'm a sucker for a resolution. Italics are thoughts Photos used do not represent any particular reader features, they are used for reference only. Happy Reading!

Banner by @cafekitsune Divider by @firefly-graphics

They messed up badly this time. Not only had they fallen for you. They didn't realize it until you were gone. Throwing every “gift” back in their faces and moving out of the penthouse they liked to keep you in. You also went back to some of your old clients. One of which was a particular couple that they were very close to, in business and personally. 

All because Steve let his bitch of an ex Sharon get under his skin and in a lapse of judgement and a whole lot of whiskey he not only fucked her but let you find them together on the couch naked and passed out the morning after. He had the nerve to get pissy with you for just showing up at their place. When he was the one that set up the breakfast date the week prior. 

Asshole.

Poor Bucky, he didn't even do anything and yet because he and his boyfriend are a package deal he got left as well. 

You told him you’d never get between them. That you wouldn't hurt either of them by picking one over the other. If things came to that, you’d just leave them both. They weren’t the only ones who went and fell in love. With tears filling your eyes, begging to be set free, you turned towards the Steel Gray eyes full anguish beside you. 

“I can handle a broken heart Buck. It’s not the first time someone thought that because of my profession and being non monogamous that you can't ACTUALLY cheat on me. I’m going to miss you something fierce though.” You step closer for just a moment and caress his cheek. 

“I wish it wasn't this way, but it is what it is. I can forgive a lot of things. Even this if done properly, but for now I just need to not be here anymore. Please know that I don't blame you for any of this. You're just as much a victim of his choices as I am.” You kiss his cheek. 

“I love you. Please don't hurt him too much and take care of yourself okay. If you need me you know where I’ll be.” You pivot on your heels and head out the door, gently closing it behind you. You make it all the way to the penthouse they provided you before you break down in tears as you pack up all of your belongings. You’ve just gotta get out here.

That’s how you ended up here, attending a party hosted by Pepper and Tony Stark, as their plus one. In all honesty you knew Tony only threw this event because he wanted to cheer you up and this is the only way he knew how outside of the bedroom. That was his first approach, which was shutdown quickly by Pepper the moment she saw you on their doorstep, clearly heartbroken.

You weren't here only in a work capacity, although they were paying for your time, they just wanted to protect you and let you heal without the added pressure to ‘perform’. So once again, on paper and according to your bank account at least, you were their Sugar Baby. 

You did terminate the contract with Steve and Bucky the same day the incident occurred, so it was good to know you wouldn't have to dip into your savings just yet. Thank goodness Pepper still kept your old apartment in Stark Tower ready for you just in case. 

The relationship you shared with them was not at all conventional, with or without a contract. Frankly they were the only people you knew who you could always count on and that meant the world to you. You truly did love the Starks. Before Steve and Bucky came along they were your favorite clients. They were the ones to introduce you to the powerful couple, at a party just like this one actually. So technically they were to blame for your current heartbreak.

I wonder if they’ll both show their faces here and if Sharon will be on Steve’s arm? I wonder how Bucky is holding up, if the nightmares have come back? Fuck. I told myself I wasn't going to think about them tonight and here I am almost in tears at the thought of Bucky in pain. I need a drink or five.

It isn’t until you're nursing your third cocktail at the bar, catching up with Wanda that you spot them, the usual entourage of Nat and Sam at their sides, Clint taking up the rear. Ever the intimidating image as always. Other than Tony, who runs Manhattan, they’re the biggest bosses in the room, controlling Brooklyn. Thankfully they brokered a truce years ago and everyone works together peacefully. 

Before you have a chance to escape to a far corner where you can hide away, you make the mistake of glancing over your shoulder and catch the intense blues of Bucky staring straight into your soul. Even tired he looks like a damn Greek god. Tragedy included. 

He breaks the stare off, leaning over to Nat and whispering something in her ear. You watch as she skillfully distracts Steve and moves him towards the center or the party where the Starks are currently holding court. Lost in watching Nat do what she does best, you don't realize Bucky has made his way over to you until it’s too late and you feel the ghost of fingertips trace down your exposed spine in your backless black dress. 

He leans over your shoulder. That sweet baritone you love whispering into your ear. “You look magnificent tonight, Doll. Would you grant a poor mortal the chance to remain in your presence with a dance?”

You lift your glass to your lips, keeping your eyes straight ahead, finishing the remnants of alcohol while you ponder your response. With a steadying breath you respond. “One dance couldn't hurt. But it can't be here, among such prying eyes. I’d rather remain in the shadows tonight.” 

“As you wish.” He proceeds to rest his hand on the small of your back and guide you toward a darkened sitting room off the main hall. You could faintly hear the music over the murmur of voices wafting into the space. 

He pulls you close, wrapping his large arms around your waist as you rest yours around his thick neck. Being in his arms again, after weeks of loneliness, feels like coming home. You place your forehead against the space between his collarbone when he begins to sway to the dull beat. 

“How have you been, Doll? Truthfully. Don’t try to sugarcoat it for my feelings.”

Keeping your face right where it is, to shield you from those steel grays you love so much, you give him your truth. “Surviving. That’s the best way I can describe it. I’ve been licking my wounds and trying to mend this hole I feel in my heart. I keep thinking, I just have to get to tomorrow and the pain will lessen even more. And one day it won’t hurt anymore when I think of them.”

You lift your head to run your eyes over his handsome face. “How about you? How have the Kings of Brooklyn been holding up in their Ivory Tower?”

Looking off into the darkened space, his eyes latching on to a sliver of moonlight coming in through a crack in the curtains. You feel his chest vibrate as he scoffs. “We’re not even sleeping in the same bed right now. I was so upset with him that day that I couldn’t even be bothered to  help him with his hangover. Funny enough, Sharon was kicked out immediately by Steve as soon as you left. Like legit woke her up, threw her clothes at her and screamed at her to get the fuck out. She didn’t leave without spewing a few truths first.”

He just shakes his head, rambling out his thoughts as they come into his mind. “Apparently it was her plan all along to get him drunk and earn her spot back by his side. She’d been talking shit about the both of us and just wanted Steve to herself. She knew just how to get into Steve’s head due to his loyalty to her family. Thought that you’d just latch on to me and I would let him go to keep you. She had no idea that you would drop us both because you couldn't handle breaking us apart.”

You stare at him slack jawed, as he turns to look down at your moonlit face.

“Not gonna lie. I’m drowning without you, Doll. I can’t even look at him after what he did. It was reckless, regardless of his inebriated state. He knows how I feel about her and the things she’s done to him and me in the past.” He shakes his head in disbelief.

“The fucking Golden idiot, due to his loyalty to her Aunt and Uncle, and what he feels he owes them, just keeps letting her back in. I’m done with it. What about the respect I deserve as his partner in business and life? Fuck that, what about the respect and loyalty YOU deserve.” He’s staring straight into your soul again. 

“Your loyalty. Your love. It saved me babygirl. Your light always cuts through the darkness for me. You were the piece we were fucking missing and I cant believe he would even risk that. I’ve tried to let you go. I understand your reasons for leaving us. But I just can't do it. Even seeing the pain he’s trying to hide away, the tough front he’s putting on, isn’t enough to keep me around right now. I miss you baby. I’d give it all up to have you back in my arms for good. All this lavish bullshit isn't worth anything to me without you by my side. I hate that I’m being punished for his fuck up. Again I'm not blaming you for your decision baby. It just hurts and I miss you so fucking much. I can't even sleep at night anymore.”

You can’t resist running your fingers through the hairs on the nape of his neck. “Bucky. I miss you too. So much. I wish it wasn't like this. I never wanted to leave you. You’re right. You never did do anything wrong. You were more than loyal to me. I hate thinking I’m causing you pain because of a stupid decision he made.” Tears begin to well in your eyes. 

He gives your waist a squeeze. “Don’t cry baby. We can figure this out. Where are you staying? I know Tony and Pep took over your contract.”

You sniffle a bit. “They did. But it’s not what you think. Sex is not on the table. Though Tony fought me and Pep on that. He thinks a good dicking is all I need. They just want me to heal in peace. I’m staying here at the Tower in my old apartment.”

He nods his head. “Good. Makes me feel better knowing you're safe.” He grabs your cheeks tenderly. “I wish I could kiss you right now. It’s all I’ve wanted to do these last couple weeks. Just having you in my arms again isn’t enough.”

“Please.” You whisper out.

“Do you mean it, Doll? You're not just telling me what you think I want because you feel guilty for your decision to leave?” He implores.

“I don't regret my decision to leave, Bucky. But I do hate that I had to leave you behind. Like I said that morning. I could forgive almost anything. There’s just not anything you need to apologize for. So why did I let my emotions drag you in with my need for him to be punished? It was stupid of me. If you can forgive me for how I left, I would like to keep you in my life. In whatever way you see fit for that.” You confess.

“Really?” He furrows his brows. Not wanting to get his hopes up.

“Yes. I’ve been miserable without you too.” You smile up at him. 

“You good to get out here or do the Starks still need you tonight? Cus there is nothing I want more than to get you out of this dress and underneath me so I can show just how much I truly missed you.” That devilish smile of his, that means nothing but the good kind of trouble adorns his face as he awaits your answer. 

“I’m not needed here. This whole party was just to get me out of my apartment anyway and for Tony to be Tony and throw his money around. Plus seeing him walk in like nothing happened, act or not, yeah that shit hit deep.” You shrug your shoulders.

“Then let’s head up to your place and make the most of the rest of our night. I’ve got some time to make up for, and I’m all of a sudden ravenous.” The feral look in his eyes has you clenching your thighs together.

Not to be intimidated, you run a hand down his neck until it rests along the waistband of his dress slacks. “Yes, Sir.” 

He lets out a deep growl, pulls you close by the back of your neck and lays the most devastating, soul consuming kiss on your lips. Pouring every emotion into. Conveying without words just how much you mean to him. 

How could I have ever left this man behind?

You’ve barely made it through your apartment door before Bucky has you pinned against it. 

“I don’t know wether to rip this dress off you and fuck you right here against this door or take my time sweet time and worship every inch of your skin like you deserve.”

“Who says you have to only pick one option? We have the whole night ahead of us, don't we Sir?”

“Fucking minx.” He steals another heated kiss and pulls away from your chasing lips, panting. “Where’s your room babygirl. I’ve decided taking you apart piece by piece on your bed is the best place to start.”

You close your eyes for a moment and suppress a moan. “Promises. Promises. Sir.” 

Throwing him a wink, you lick your lips before turning and heading off down the hall. Sashaying your hips and divesting yourself of your dress right outside your bedroom door. 

Now completely nude, you climb onto your bed. Just as you lie back, resting on your elbows with your knees bent and legs spread wide, drooling pussy on full display, Bucky’s large figure graces your doorway. Shirtless, he stalks over to the bed, unbuckling his pants and losing them along with his boxer briefs along the way.  

He reaches the end of your bed. Eyes zeroed in on your glistening little slit. A feral grin slowly spreads across his face and he pounces. Before you know it your back hits the mattress of your king sized bed and Bucky is pushing your legs apart, resting your knees on his broad shoulders and laying kisses on your thighs. 

“This is the only place I wanted to be for weeks. Couldn't stop thinking about all the little noises you make for me when I feast upon this sweet cunt. How you squirm when I hit the right spot with my tongue. Fuck . Just look at you babygirl, so wet for me you're dripping onto the sheets already.” He swipes his tongue up along your folds from entrance to clit, eliciting a moan from you. You’ve always been sensitive but you haven't even touched yourself in the weeks since you left. Too overcome in your grief. So just that little movement is almost too much already. 

Clearly a man on a mission, he begins to devour you, wasting no time thrusting his tongue inside as deep as he can. The thick muscle massaging your silken walls, giving them something to clamp on to. “ Fuck, Bucky. That feels so good.” 

Your hands are anchored in his hair, pulling on his silken strands, just enjoying the ride on his tongue he is giving you. When he swirls his tongue, pulls it out and then moves it to lightly draw infinity symbols on your clit you lose it. 

A kaleidoscope of stars detonates behind your eyes as the orgasm slams into you. Gripping onto his locks tighter as you writhe beneath him, back arching off the mattress before you go boneless.

Coming back to your senses, you blink open your eyes and peer down at Bucky. His chin is glistening wet. A proud smile gracing his handsome face. Adoration shining in his icy blues. “There she is.” He laughs. “Had me worried for a minute there babygirl. Thought I might have made ya pass out. Looks like it was just one hell of an orgasm.” 

A sweet smile adorns your blissed out face as you caress his damp cheeks. “One hell of an orgasm indeed.” 

He begins to crawl up the bed towards you, leaving a path of kisses in his wake. His massive thighs push your legs further apart as he gives his turgid length a couple of slow strokes. He teases the thick head of his member along your folds, coating himself in your essence. 

You lock eyes with him as you whimper. “Please.”

He leans forward, interlocking his hands in yours, placing a toe curling kiss to your lips as he enters the warmth of your cunt. Splitting you open on his generous girth. Pulling his hips back and leaving you no time to adjust as he begins to grind his hips down on yours with every thrust. 

Foreheads pressed together, completely lost in this carnal dance of love and devotion. The room fills with the sounds of your passion. A symphony of moans and groans, accompanied with the sound of slick flesh meeting slick flesh. 

“Nothing has ever felt as good as your pussy squeezing me so tightly when you lose yourself to your pleasure. I need you to come for me baby. Come around my cock. I’m not going to last much longer and I need to feel you let go for me.” He groans out between brutal thrusts. 

It’s like his words have a direct link to your clit and with another well placed swivel of his hips you feel yourself lose control as your orgasm takes over. A rainbow of colors flash behind your eyes and the world sounds as if you're underwater. 

Everything comes back into focus just as Bucky is reaching his own climax. Burying himself deep inside you as he bites down on your shoulder and paints your womb white with rope after rope of his seed. Panting, he leaves a gentle kiss on the mark his teeth left behind. You run your fingers through his dark tresses and kiss his nose.

“Fuck I missed that.” He blurts out as he comes down from his own high.

“Agreed. Although, I must admit. It’s never felt quite as intense before. Feral yes. But that was something else altogether. I want more.” The confession slips from your lips.

“I’d give you the world babygirl. All you have to do is ask.” He places a soft kiss on your lips. “Let’s make some good use of that large walk in shower I can see from here and get dirty while we get clean. A round two is much needed. I haven't had my fill of you yet tonight.”

You giggle as he rolls over, slides off the bed and proceeds to scoop you up in his arms and into the ensuite. “You weren’t kidding about making up for lost time.”

“Darlin’, I’ll never get enough of you.”

You awaken slowly, sunlight slipping in through the blinds and a sweet soreness throughout your body. You open your eyes to the beautiful sight of a sleeping Adonis laid beside you, as peaceful as you’ve ever seen him. You take a moment to just watch his chest rise and fall with each breath until a vibration against the nightstand to his right catches your attention.

You reach across Bucky’s prone frame to grab his phone. It seems that Steve has been sending texts and leaving messages for Bucky throughout the night. Having felt you move, he rouses from his slumber and nuzzles into your neck. “Not that I’m complaining about having you draped over me like a blanket, but what has you moving around so much already? I thought I wore you out last night.” 

Turning the device in your hand towards his slowly waking eyes you respond. “Your phone. Apparently Steve needs your attention.” 

He takes his phone from your hand and goes through all the texts and two voicemails left for him. He responds with a picture of the two of you together in bed.

I'm right where I'm supposed to be Pal. Don’t know when or if I’ll be home though. 

This is how you spend the next week. Lazy days full of fucking, comfort food, dancing, smoking and watching movies. Just enjoying your time together in a little bubble. Bucky taunting Steve with pictures and videos of how you're spending days together. At one point even you get in on the torment, texting him back pics of Bucky cooking shirtless, in the shower, having a smoke or cuddled up on your lap. 

Looks like breakfast is served.

Cleanse the skin of its many sins.

He just can’t seem to quit

He won’t let me move

Bucky is much more of an ass about it though. Sending provocative pics of you and rubbing in how badly he fucked up.

I’ll never get enough of kissing the breath out of her

Best morning view

Gonna have to thank Tony for this secret little room in her apartment. 

Having enough of his moping and random fits of anger targeted at whoever was closest, Natasha decides it’s time to take things into her own hands. With some help from her friends of course. Wanting to help move things along, the Starks call a meeting with Steve to be held at the tower in their personal conference room located in their penthouse. They need to figure out if it's even worth letting you back into his life. 

Surprisingly Tony is more than okay with Bucky cohabitating in sin with you here in the tower. The smile is back on your face and your laughter is filling the halls once more. But Steve has a bigger battle to fight, having betrayed your trust and he wants to make sure that he understands that.

The man of the hour walks in with a calm step and an air of malice in his cerulean eyes. The bags beneath them tell the story of a man suffering for his choices. Tony has been there before. That time when Pepper came to her senses and left him high and dry when he refused to commit to her, unwilling to give up his playboy ways. That’s when he first used your services. He needed someone on his arm for events and he just couldn’t handle bringing a new person each time. It would only aid in making what Pepper said about him true.

It was you who listened to him make drunken confessions of his true feelings for his former lover. That he did want to commit but he was afraid that he wasn't cut out for monogamy. That’s when you told him all about your non monogamous status. “Monogamy is great for those who chose to live that way. But for me, I’m just not content with only one lover in my life. I am polyamorous as well though. But don’t be confused. Not every non-mono person is that way. Some only want to play with others and keep emotions out of it and that’s ok. I for one am happy with multiple play partners as well as multiple full fledged relationships. To each their own ya know.” You gave a little shrug. 

“It seems to me that the only amorous relationship you want is with her. You just want the option to play when an opportunity presents itself. And I’m willing to bet that you want her included in those sessions as well.” You can’t help wiggling your brows. 

“That’s the dream isn’t it. Ya know, I think you two would like each other. Too bad I chased her away. The trouble we could all get in together. Mmmm.” He bites his lip and continues drinking his whiskey. 

“Who says you can't win her back? Give me your phone.” He hands it over, unaware that you were going to change his life for the better. 

Snapping out of his memories and giving attention back to the room full of his friends and fellow gangsters, he locks eyes with Steve. “Hello Steven.” He smirks. “You’re looking well.”

“Cut the crap Tony. What did you drag me here for?” He bites out.

“Whoa. Whoa. Whoa Cap. I brought you here for the benefit of your relationships but now I’m thinking I should have left it alone.” He runs his fingers over his goatee. 

“What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about that icy little boyfriend of yours and everyone's favorite escort. I’m sure you're more than aware of the love den they have been spending their time in. Licking their wounds and mending their heartbreak together.” 

He quirks a brow. “Tony I don't have time for your bullshit. If you didn't bring me here for business then I’m gonna head out that door. I have better things that I could be doing with my time.”

“Like what? Taking out your anger at your colossal fuck up on your subordinates? Spending some more time between that Carter’s legs?” He declares with disdain.

With the quickness of a man half his size, Steve’s hand is wrapped around Tony’s throat. “You need to learn not to speak of things that don’t concern you.”

Pepper and Natasha rush forward. One afraid for her husband's safety, the other worried about the truce being broken due to her boss's emotional outburst. Men. 

“Alright boys. Enough is enough. Steven, please let go of my husband. We really did bring you here to help you out. He’s just a little overprotective of her. We all are.” Pepper implores in her softest tone.

With Natasha’s help and a nudge from Sam he finally gives in and lets Tony’s neck go. “Thank you.” 

He slumps back in his chair and pinches the bridge of his nose. “I know I fucked up. I let my allegiance to the Carter family blind me and allow my toxic ass ex to manipulate her way back into my life. In the process, regardless of my overly intoxicated state, I betrayed the love of my life, my best friend. As well as the only women who has ever truly understood our dynamic and accepted and loved us unconditionally. And I'm the idiot you didn't realize how madly in love with her I was until I watched her leave us that morning. Us. Not me, who deserved her wrath, but us. She couldn't bring herself to choose between us, even in her pain. I don’t fault Buck for leaving me to my misery to go after her.” 

He scoffs. “They’ve been torturing me daily with pictures of their time spent together. I want that. I want back in their good graces but I have no idea how to fix what I broke or even if I can.”

Pepper places her hand on his shoulder. “Of course you can. I can’t speak for James, but I’ve never known her to not at least have an honest conversation. Start there, she’ll appreciate your honesty. Don’t complicate things. Lay all your cards on the table and let them lay down theirs. It’s that simple.”

“I’m willing to go that route. If I even knew where they were.” He sighs.

“Well, lucky for you Cap that Pep here never got rid of the little vixens apartment. And I have it on good authority that they ordered take out that will need to go through security before making it’s way up to them.” Rubbing his neck Tony says with a smirk.

“I’m gonna need you to intercept that order for me.”

You're cuddled up all cozy in Bucky’s lap, watching Bride Of Chucky, when the doorbell goes off. 

“Must be the food. I’ll grab it, no need to pause. You know I have this memorized.” You lay a quick kiss on his cheek and make your way to the door. 

Grabbing your wallet from the hall table you open the door and let out a gasp. Standing there with your take out in his hand and puppy dog eyes is none other than Steven Grant Rogers.

You have no idea how long you stand there, just staring at him.

“Hey babe, what’s taking so long? Can’t find your wallet again?” Bucky comes up behind and stops in his tracks when his eyes land on Steve. “What the fuck are you doing here?”

“Bucky.” You admonish.

“No, no, it’s okay. I get it.” He lets out a deep sigh. “I just wanted to talk to both of you. Tony and Pep helped me get up here. Please. I just want to talk. If you don't like what I have to say you can kick me out and I’ll never bother you again. That goes for you too Buck.”

You and Bucky share a look, before you open the door further and step aside. “Come on in, Steve.”

You head back to the living room, and have Steve place the food on the coffee table as you pause the movie and take a seat on the sofa next to Bucky.

Instead of sitting on the loveseat to the left of you, Steve lowers himself to his knees before you. “First and foremost, I’m sorry. I’m not even going to try and make excuses for it. Drunk or not, it shouldn't have happened. And I definitely shouldn’t have yelled at you when I was only angry at myself.”

He reaches for your hands, which you let him take. “You had every right to leave me. I’m an idiot. I love you and I let you slip away.” He turns to Bucky. “I’m sorry I even entertained her baby. I know how she makes you feel. Again, I’m an idiot.” 

“Not gonna argue with you on that one.” Bucky says as he leans back against the couch.

“I can’t promise that I won’t fuck up again in some way. I am stubborn after all. But what I can promise is that I’ll try. I’ll give you both my all and do what is necessary to win your trust back. Just give me a chance. That’s all I’m asking.”

You look at Bucky. “Do you believe him? Do you believe he’s remorseful and truly ready to make amends?”

“Seeing as how I’ve only ever seen him on his knees when he’s servicing me and I placed him there. I’m gonna have to go with yes I think he means it. The decision is up to you though, Doll. From here on out. I go where you go.” He places a kiss on your cheek.

“Thank you for laying this all on my shoulders Buck.” You turn back to Steve and place a hand upon his face. He nuzzles into it. “I’m willing to give you a chance. But just the one. You’re going to have to really work to earn our trust back and we won't take it easy on you. You’re going to need to woo us all over again.” 

“Challenge accepted.” He quickly agrees.

“How about a kiss to seal the deal?” You suggest.

He leans in. “With pleasure, Doll.” He wraps his hand in your hair and proceeds to get you drunk off his love.

[sussysatann]

WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT NIGHTBRINGER SO FAR

3D game - possible free roam?

We now have a map of the House of Lamentation!! Hopefully we'll have maps for the other main locations too!!

New rhythm game (all songs are sung by the demons)

'Online meetings' with the characters - choices have a DIRECT impact on story

Talk to the characters and give presents - possibly fully voiced?

"New and improved D.D.D"

Takes place BEFORE RAD and AFTER THE CELESTIAL WAR

We still play as MC but have to "masquerade as a demon and act as a brand new attendant to the brothers in order to reform the lost bonds" with them - Solomon takes us back in time?

Release date for 1ST SEPTEMBER 2023

EDIT: NEW RELEASE DATE FOR 13 APRIL 2023

SYSTEM & DEVICE REQUIREMENTS:

-Android 6.0 or later -OpenGL 3.0 or later -iOS 12 or later

~ IOS requires 2GB or more of RAM ~ Android requires 3GB or more of RAM / device with 625 or more of CPU Snapdragon

Nightbringer's full description via Google Play and App Store;

"Return to life in the Devildom with seven unique demon brothers.

Are you ready for more trips to Hell's Kitchen and Devil's Coast?! Introducing the LATEST otome game from Obey Me!, the global sensation with over eight million downloads where you make ikemen demons do your bidding! Enjoy an iseikai with a huge, enthralling world where you hang out with seven quirky ikemen brothers and a rich variety of hunky side characters. And we've blurred the line between fiction and reality even further this time with even MORE features that are so real you will feel like you are really interacting with the characters!

When your smartphone turns into a D.D.D. terminal, you'll find yourself staring into a portal to another world! With the introduction of ikemen demons into your life, things just got a whole lot more dramatic and interesting!

Have meaningful interactions with these seven handsome, but dangerous brothers and live life on the wild side in this exciting and mysterious world!

◆◇ What is Obey Me! Nightbringer? ◇◆

▷Your choices have a DIRECT impact on how the story plays out! In addition to chatting and making phone calls, enjoy participating in online meetings this time! That's not all though, students! Cheer on your favorite characters' videos and strengthen their cards for battle! Your decisions in the Devildom matter, so pick wisely!

▷Peek into the daily lives of the demons!

Take a look into the daily lives of your favorite demons with a BRAND NEW feature! By talking to them and giving them presents, you might even see a whole new side to them! Try new things to learn all about your favorite demon!

▷Comment on your favorite videos!

Go even further and post comments on your favorite videos of the ikemen demons! Share your love via a comment or add an effect to cheer them on! Spice the videos up with your own personal touch!

▷Introducing brand new quests in the form of a rhythm game!

As you make your way through the episodic stories in the Devildom, you will encounter rhythm game quests! Polish your skills and use items and cards found in the Devildom to master the rhythm game! And what's more, all the songs your hear in the rhythm game are sung by the demons

◆◇ Story ◇◆

You wake up to find a world you once knew...a bit different. The brothers are cold and aloof, and RAD does not exist yet. You find yourself in the Devildom right after the Great Celestial War! Thanks to Solomon, you find yourself masquerading as a demon and as the brand new attendant to the demon brothers. Can you reform your lost bonds with the brothers and return to the world you once knew?!

Enjoy life in the Devildom with your new-and-improved D.D.D.! Though, don't let your guard down, as what awaits you are seven quirky brothers

with a load of problems! Yet there is only one rule you need to follow: One master to rule them all! Introducing Obey Me! Nightbringer! A game for the ages!"

[sebstanaddict]

A Winter Miracle Part 1 : Flight of Frenzy

Sebastian Stan x Reader One Shot

Summary :

When Sebastian Stan finally finished shooting Thunderbolts in Atlanta, all he wanted was to go back to New York to his home and family where his daughter and pregnant wife was waiting. But one event led to another and he found himself being in a flight of frenzy. Will he successfully get home?

A/N : This story is a little continuation of my Sebastian Stan story titled Love Song. It can be read on its own but if you want to understand more about Sebastian and reader's relationship, you can read their story first starting with the one titled Always You and then continue with Love Song.

Hope you enjoy this and please vote and comment. I will really appreciate it. Thank you!

Warning : references and mentions of death, plane accidents, plane emergencies, some violence and injury descriptions

Word count : 11.2k

Additional notes:

- The events in this story are based on true stories, believe it or not. Can you guess which one(s) are true? 🤭

- I have never been to Atlanta so apologies if the depiction of the airport is not accurate.

---

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Atlanta, USA - Friday, Jan 19th 2024 - 5.30 am

---

The sound of tires screeching to a halt broke through the quiet morning at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. A taxi pulled up at the curb right in front of the Departure Terminal. Sounds of a car door opening and closing could be heard and a pair of feet wearing white sneakers took off towards the Terminal's entrance.

Late! Sebastian couldn't believe that he was late! His flight was leaving in an hour and he was supposed to have already checked in at least half an hour ago. He was never late for a flight ever in his life. But yesterday's shoot was so grueling that once he got into his rented apartment at 1 am last night he immediately fell asleep. He woke up at 4 in the morning and tried his best to be like The Flash as he packed his suitcase, took a quick shower and immediately went straight to the airport.

Yesterday was the last day of his shoot for Thunderbolts. It wasn't supposed to be. Today was supposed to be the last day. But he had bargained with Jake Schreier, the director, to make yesterday as the last day because he needed to come to his best friend's wedding this weekend. Which was why the shoot ended up taking so long.

Chad Crawley, one of his best friends since he was in college, was finally getting married. He was getting married to, surprisingly, his wedding planner, Madeline Rowles. Apparently they hit it off during Sebastian's wedding and after only six months of dating, Chad popped the question. Their wedding was going to be held the next day, on Saturday, January 20th, at a mountain resort in The Catskills, about three hours away from New York City. The wedding festivities were going to start that Friday afternoon, and being one of Chad's best men, Sebastian was of course supposed to attend it from the beginning. Which was why he needed to get back to New York City as soon as possible.

He had booked the earliest flight out of Atlanta to New York in the hopes that he still had time to pick up his family from his Soho apartment and then go with them to Chad's wedding. If everything went smoothly, by 10 am that morning he would have arrived at his apartment, and they could go to Plattekill Wedding Venue in the Catskills Mountain and make it in time to attend Chad's welcome party and rehearsal dinner that night.

He quickly went into the Departure area and stopped in front of one of the self check-in kiosks. He entered his booking number into the screen and waited as the system checked him in. He was expecting the kiosk to print out his boarding pass but instead the screen showed words he did not expect.

"We are sorry but you have been denied boarding. Please contact our staff at the check-in counter for further information."

"What the h**l?!" He cursed as he digested the text on the screen.

Great! Just as he was in a hurry, the last thing he expected to happen, happened. He was bumped from his flight!

It was common practice for airlines to overbook or oversell seats on a flight because up to 15% of seats could end up empty due to passengers not showing up. So to maximize profit, they sell more seats on a flight than they have. More often than not, all passengers who have bought tickets showed up, which meant there were more passengers than seats available. To overcome this situation, airlines usually ask passengers to volunteer to give up their seat in exchange for compensation whether it be in the form of cash, travel vouchers, etc. And the airline will also book another flight for the passenger to take, whether from the same airline or not, to make sure the passenger still gets to their destination. If no one volunteers, the airline will usually force someone to give up their seat. And that was exactly what happened to him that morning.

He left the self check-in kiosk and immediately went to the nearest available check-in counter. 

"Good morning, how can I help you, sir?" The male airline staff greeted him from behind the counter.

"Yeah, I tried to check-in for my flight but I was denied boarding." He explained.

"Oh, I apologize for that, sir. May I see your ticket or your booking number, please?" He asked.

Sebastian showed his booking number and the staff entered it into the system. After several moments he looked up from the screen and gave him an apologetic smile.

"I'm really sorry, sir, it seems that you have been denied boarding because we have overbooked our flight. We can book you on the next available flight." 

"Oh great. Can't you bump someone else? I really need to get to New York as soon as possible. My best friend is getting married. And I can't be late for that." He pleaded.

"Oh I'm sorry, sir. When is your best friend's wedding going to be held? If you don't mind me asking?" The staff asked.

"Well.. the wedding will be held tomorrow. But the rehearsal dinner is tonight and it takes place three hours out of NYC, by car. So I need time to get there." He explained.

"Well, let me see what I can do. Please hold on for a moment." The staff said and Sebastian nodded as the staff left him to talk to another, older staff, several feet away.

He sighed as he glanced at his watch. His plane leaves in less than an hour! He needed to do something. 

He pulled out his cellphone as an idea suddenly struck him. He put his cellphone on his ear and pretended to be on a phone call.

"Honey? What?! You're having contractions?!" He said out loud, causing some people to glance his way, including, as he had hoped, the staff that was talking to him.

"Please hold on, honey. I'm trying my best to get on the plane but they wouldn't let me! I got bumped!" He deliberately yelled out loud.

The staff along with the other staff he was talking to stopped talking and walked towards him.

"I know honey, I know it hurts, I'm sorry I can't be there yet. I'm trying my best, okay? Hang in there, sweetheart." He continued his charade as the two airline staff stopped in front of him.

"Excuse me, sir." The other staff said and he put his hand up to make him wait.

"I have to go, honey. Why don't you call Edward. He can take you to the hospital. I'll be there as soon as I can. Okay? I love you." He said and he pretended to hang up.

"Is there something wrong, sir?" The staff asked, concern clearly shown on his face.

"Yeah.. my.. my wife. She's in labor! I mean.. the baby isn't due until a couple of weeks from now but she said she's having contractions already! I really need to be there!" He pleaded, panic in his voice.

"I'm really sorry, sir. But since you were the last one to check-in, we had to give your seat to someone else. But, don't worry, we can book the next flight to New York for you. Free of charge." The older staff said.

He sighed. He thought his little act would work. He wasn't as good an actor as he thought, apparently. 

"Well, when will the next available flight leave?" He asked.

"Let me see." The older staff said as he turned to look at the computer screen and started typing into the system.

"There's usually one flight to New York every two hours but unfortunately today half of the fleet serving Atlanta to New York are all under maintenance so there are only three flights today. The next one will leave at 2.30 pm." The staff said, shooting him an apologetic look.

"Oh that's way too late! Isn't there anything earlier than that?" He asked as he felt his heart sink into his stomach.

If he took the 2.30 pm flight, he would arrive in NYC at around 5 pm and the fastest he could leave to The Catskills would be 6 pm. He would be late for the rehearsal dinner. He couldn't take that flight.

"Please hold on, sir and let me check other airlines." The staff said.

"Okay." He nodded as hope started to appear in his heart.

"There's a 10 am flight with Southwest and 12 pm flight with Jet Blue." The staff finally said after a while.

"Nothing earlier than that?" He asked.

"Unfortunately, the 10 am flight with Southwest is the earliest available flight, sir. All the others are fully booked." The staff responded.

He sighed as he made some mental calculations. If he left at 10 am, he would arrive in NYC at around 1 pm and he could leave for The Catskills as early as 2 pm. He would be at the wedding venue around 5 in the afternoon. The welcome party starts at 5 then followed with the rehearsal dinner. He would make it on time but he just wouldn't have time to rest after arriving at his apartment. He felt exhausted and was wishing he could rest a little before driving to The Catskills. He needed to get on his original flight.

"My wife is in labor. I need to be on this flight! What if I miss the birth of my baby because I took a later flight. Please, let me get on this flight. I'm sure you can find another volunteer to give up their seat." He begged and lied again.

"Well.." the older staff hesitated.

"Please.. I'll even pitch in for compensation. How much were you going to give me? I mean. We are entitled for compensation if we're bumped. Right?" He asked.

"Well. You don't need to do that, sir. It's our responsibility to give compensation. Especially monetary compensation." The older staff said.

"Well I can give non monetary compensation. I mean. You do know who I am? Right?" He asked, winking at the staff who just stared at him in confusion. 

He usually didn't like to play the celebrity card, but at times it could be useful. And he really hoped it would be useful too at this time.

The younger staff whispered something in the older staff's ear and he nodded.

"Ah, of course. We know who you are, Mr.Stan. What exactly do you have in mind as non monetary compensation?" The staff asked curiously.

"Well, I can give an autograph and a selfie, I'll also add in a ticket to Thunderbolts premiere. I'm sure someone would want that." He said, winking again.

The staff looked at each other then the older staff nodded.

"Very well, sir. We'll contact the staff at the gate and let them know. Hopefully someone would want to give up their seat. Please wait." The older staff said and he nodded.

The older staff went away from him and started talking to his communicator. He glanced at his watch and it was already 5.45 am! The plane would start boarding soon and he really needed to get to the gate if he wanted to be on the flight. He tapped his foot impatiently and glanced at his watch every so often. 

Finally, after about five minutes, the older man walked back towards him and smiled.

"We have good news and bad news, sir. One of the passengers is willing to give up his seat to you." The older staff said.

"Oh! That's great! And what is the bad news?" He asked.

"Unfortunately, because of bad weather, your flight will be delayed for about two hours. So it will leave at 8.30 am." The staff continued.

He sighed. Well, he could still make it on time to Chad's wedding if he left Atlanta at 8.30 even if the rest time he would get would be shorter.

"Okay, that's fine. So, what next?" He asked.

"We'll check you in and you can make your way to the gate. The passenger that has given his seat up to you will meet you there and you can give him your autograph and take a selfie with him there. About the tickets to the premiere, I believe you can arrange it with him directly." The staff said and he nodded.

"Alright, let me check you in, sir. Do you have checked baggage?" The staff asked.

"No, just a backpack and a small suitcase that I'll take to the cabin." He said, pointing to the small suitcase near his foot.

"Alright, sir. Please kindly wait while I check you in." The staff said.

"Okay." He nodded then pulled out his cellphone again and started to text his wife, Y/n. He really wasn't lying about Y/n being pregnant. She was pregnant with their second child and her pregnancy was at 36 weeks. The baby wasn't due for another four weeks but there were possibilities that it could arrive earlier than that. So he really wasn't lying about that. However, he wouldn't want her to start going into labor while he was still away either. He hoped his little act earlier didn't come true.

"Hi sweetheart, I'm sorry. I'm at the airport and I got bumped from the flight because I was the last to check-in. I negotiated with them and managed to get on the flight but it got delayed for two hours because of bad weather. So I'll be arriving late. I'm sorry."

He texted his wife.

He didn't expect a reply so soon but his wife replied moments later.

"Hi Iubirea mea. Oh, okay. That's fine. We can still make it to Chad's rehearsal dinner. Maybe we can hire a car and a chauffeur instead of you driving? Because you wouldn't have time to rest before we go."

"It's okay honey, I can rest on the plane and I have a couple of hours to kill here at the airport. I'll drive us there. Don't worry. By the way, how are you, Starlene and little bean?"

"Okay. If you're certain about it. Make sure you really get some rest. I'm sure you're still exhausted after last night.

Anyway, we're all fine. We miss you."

"Thanks honey. I am exhausted, but it's gonna be fine. And I miss all of you too!

By the way, have you felt any Braxton-hicks contractions so far?"

"No, not a single contraction. Little bean is still very comfortable in my tummy 😆"

"Okay, that's good. Well, give Starlene and little bean my love and kisses. I'll be there soon. Love you, sweetheart."

"Okay. We love you too, Iubirea mea. Let me know once you're about to board the plane."

"Okay. Will do. Bye sweetheart."

"Bye, Iubirea mea."

He switched his phone screen off and put it back in his pants' pocket. He looked up just as the older staff had finished printing his boarding pass.

"Alright, sir. We have checked you in. Here is your boarding pass. Boarding will be at gate A10. You can take the Plane Train to get there right after the security checkpoint. Please make sure you go straight to the gate after this because the person that gave his seat up for you is waiting." The staff explained.

"Alright. Got it. Thank you so much." He said as he extended his hand and shook the staff's hand.

"You're welcome, sir. Have a safe and enjoyable flight. And we hope you can still make it to your baby's birth." The staff said, smiling at him.

"Thank you." He smiled back and turned around.

Well, what an interesting way to start the day. He thought as he made quick strides towards the security checkpoint. He wondered who was the person that was willing to give up his seat for him. His fan or more of a Marvel fan. In any case he hoped the rest of his journey back to New York would go smoothly. He was tired and he just wanted to get home and meet his family. 

However, luck was not on his side that day. He made it through the security checkpoint with no problem. But when he arrived underground and wanted to board the Plane Train, he found out the Plane Train was not working. There were supposed to be eleven trains working everyday connecting all of the Terminals and Concourses at the airport, but all of them were not working for whatever reason. 

He looked up at the digital signage showing flight statuses and saw multiple flights were being delayed right before his eyes. 

"Tell me you have some good news about the system malfunction. We can't possibly delay every flight today because the Plane Train isn't working!" A man wearing Atlanta Airport vest who was talking to his communicator walked past him.

Well, well, well.. his flight wasn't the only one being delayed. What were the odds of that happening the same day he got bumped from his flight and the same day his flight got delayed because of bad weather? He pondered internally. He hoped those were the only bad luck he had to endure that day. He remembered his honeymoon and all the crazy stuff that happened during the time and wishing hard something like that wouldn't happen to him again. Even though he had started to feel a strange feeling about it.

He sighed as he started to trudge towards the gate through the pedestrian walkway which was running right alongside the Plane Train track.

It took him fifteen minutes to reach his gate whereas with the Plane Train it could've taken him only two minutes. Oh well. Consider it a morning walk. He shrugged as he walked towards the counter near the gate.

The female airline staff who was standing behind the counter immediately recognized him and blushed upon seeing him. 

"Good morning Mr.Stan." the female staff said and smiled shyly at him.

"Good morning. I'm here to meet the person who was willing to give up his seat for me." He said and smiled back at the staff, making the staff blushed even harder.

"Oh yes. Please wait a moment." The staff said and he nodded.

"Mr.Winklevoss, Mr.Winklevoss, passenger of Delta 228 to New York, please report to the counter near gate A10. Thank you." The staff announced through the speaker.

Moments later a big man with grey hair and beard approached him, looking like he could murder him with just a look. He definitely wasn't the type of fans he usually met.

"Hello there." Sebastian smiled and extended his hand to Mr.Winklevoss.

"Hi there." Mr.Winklevoss shook his hand firmly and gave him a small smile.

"Thank you for giving up your seat for me. I really appreciate it." He said.

"Oh it's no problem. The money they offered was quite a lot. I couldn't say no." He shrugged.

It wasn't exactly the answer Sebastian expected.

"Oh.. yeah. I'm sure they offered you a lot of money. Did they also tell you about my offer?" He asked as he started to feel rather suspicious that the man wasn't a fan of his.

"Yeah they did. No offense, I had no idea who you were at first until this lady here told me." He said, beckoning towards the female airline staff who was staring at him with love in her eyes. She blushed as Sebastian glanced at her and immediately looked down, pretending to type something into the computer in front of her.

"But the ticket to Thunderbolts premiere sounded like something I could sell. And of course, your autograph too." Mr.Winklevoss said and he felt rather disappointed at that. He wasn't as famous as he thought he was. 

"Oh, right. Well, what would you like me to sign?" He asked with a heavy heart. He really would rather give his autograph to his real fans but he owed this man, he needed to keep his word.

"Umm.. well.. I don't have any memorabilia or anything. So, maybe my boarding pass would do. My old boarding pass I mean." Mr.Winklevoss said.

"Okay, sure." Sebastian nodded.

Mr.Winklevoss handed him his boarding pass.

"Umm.. do you have a pen?" Sebastian turned to the airline staff again and she nodded while still blushing hard, making him smile. She seemed like a fan. Maybe he could also give her something to make her happy, he thought.

"There you go Mr.Stan." the staff said and gave him a pen.

"Thanks." He winked at her and the staff looked like she was about to faint. 

He laughed internally as he signed the man's boarding pass.

"There you go." He said, giving the boarding pass back to the man.

"Thanks." The man said brightly.

"Okay. So. Do you still want to take a selfie, or..?" He hesitated as he gave the pen back to the staff.

"Yeah, sure! It will be proof that I actually met you." Mr.Winklevoss said as he put his boarding pass into his bag and pulled out his cellphone.

"Okay." He nodded.

"I can help you take the picture if you want." The airline staff, who, thankfully, did not really faint, said.

"Oh yeah.. that's a great idea!" Mr.Winklevoss said in delight. He handed his cellphone to the staff and stepped back then stood close to him.

"Ready? One.. two.. three.." the staff said.

He smiled as the staff took several pictures of them.

"Do you want a picture too?" Sebastian offered to the staff after they were done and she returned Mr.Winklevoss' cellphone. The staff's eyes widened and she blushed yet again.

"I.. umm.. if you don't mind." She stammered.

"Of course I don't mind." He winked again at the staff and her face got even redder.

"Here, let me take the picture for you." Mr.Winklevoss offered after putting his cellphone back in his pocket.

The staff gave her cellphone to Mr.Winklevoss with trembling hands that he started to feel sorry for her.

"Hey, don't be nervous. It's just me." He smiled at the staff and the staff smiled shyly back at him.

"Come, get out of the counter and stand next to me." Sebastian said, extending his hand to her.

He guided her to get out of the counter and she stood next to him. He placed his hand on her shoulder as Mr.Winklevoss took several pictures of them.

"Thank you so much." She gushed after they were finished.

"No problem." He smiled at her and she looked like she was about to faint again as she walked back behind the counter.

"So, about the premiere tickets?" Mr.Winklevoss asked.

"Oh yeah. Could I have your phone number? Someone will be in touch with you for that. And considering the movie hasn't even finished filming yet, I'm sorry to say that it will be a while before you hear anything from us." He explained.

"Yeah sure. That's not a problem." Mr.Winklevoss responded then gave him his phone number.

"Thank you again for willing to give up your seat for me Mr.Winklevoss." He said after saving Mr.Winklevoss' number in his cellphone.

"Oh, no problem! Thank you for the autograph, picture and premiere ticket." Mr.Winklevoss replied.

"You're welcome Mr.Winklevoss." He smiled and Mr.Winklevoss finally left, leaving him with the staff that was a fan of his.

"So, my colleague said your wife is in labor?" The staff asked.

"Oh.. well, she's pregnant but she's not in labor yet although she's at 36 weeks and the baby really could come at.. any.. time.." He said slowly as he realized what he just said. He completely forgot about his lie! 

The staff's eyes widened as she listened to him and he realized he was in trouble. 

"So, your wife is not in labor?" The staff asked, her eyebrows raised.

"Oh shoot.. I forgot about that." He said sheepishly.

He leaned over to her and whispered "Please keep this as a secret. But.. no, my wife is not in labor. I had to lie about it because I really need to get on this flight." 

"Oh.. yeah, of course. I won't tell a soul." The staff said as she made some movement in front of her mouth, gesturing as if she zipped her mouth close.

"Thank you. I knew you'd understand.. Daisy." He leaned back and glanced at the name tag on her chest then reached out and patted her hand, making her blush yet again.

"Anyway, as a thank you for keeping my secret, I could give you my autograph if you want. And umm.. tickets to Thunderbolts premiere too. What do you think?" He asked, smiling at her again.

"Are you serious?" She asked, her eyes widened.

"Yeah, of course!" He smiled. He realized that he had to give up two Thunderbolts premiere tickets that were allotted to him, which meant he had to make the decision to not invite two of his family members or friends to the premiere. But maybe he could persuade Marvel to give him more tickets. Surely he could negotiate with them. He tried to convince himself.

"That would be fantastic! Thank you so much, Mr.Stan!" The staff said enthusiastically.

"No problem. And please.. just call me Sebastian. So.. where would you like me to sign?" He asked.

"Okay! Umm.. do you mind signing my.. umm.. the back of my neck?" She asked, her face flustered yet again.

"Oh! That's an unusual place for a signature. Are you sure you want it there?" He asked, dumbfounded.

"Y..yeah.. I'm going to have it tattooed. Kind of like the fake tattoo you have for Monday. Do you remember?" She explained.

"Oh yeah.. of course I remember. Well then, I better make it small but artistic." He said, remembering the fake tattoo that said '(Re)Made in Greece' that he had for the movie Monday.

"You can make it big or small, it's up to you." She smiled.

"Okay. Once again, are you sure about this?" He asked.

"Yes!" She said with no hesitation.

"Alright. It's a rather hard place for me to sign though without causing some raised eyebrows. Maybe we should go somewhere more private." He suggested.

"Yeah, you're right.. but there really is nowhere private around here." She said as she looked around.

He looked around as well and noticed no one was looking at them. Most people were either looking at their cellphones or sleeping. 

"Maybe we can just duck under the counter quickly. No one is really looking." He suggested.

"That's a good idea." She said.

So he quickly went behind the counter and once they were both sure no one was looking at them, they both ducked and squatted in front of each other.

"This is kind of weird." He laughed and she laughed too.

"So, do you have a pen?" He asked and she gave one to him.

"Okay. Let's do this." He said and she laughed as she turned around and exposed her neck to him. 

Thankfully her hair was already styled up into a bun so he didn't have any trouble accessing the back of her neck.

He slowly signed her neck with a small version of his signature and paused, his hand hovered above her neck.

"Do you want me to add like.. more designs on it or something? Or would my signature be enough?" He asked.

"It's up to you Sebastian." She responded.

"Okay, I'll just add my name in small letters. You can add additional designs later on if you want." He said.

"Sure." She replied.

"Alright, that should do it." He said moments later after he finished writing his name on the staff's neck.

"Thank you so much Sebastian." She said as she started to stand up and he followed suit.

"Jesus! You scared me!" A startled male voice was suddenly heard. His heart seemed to jump out of his chest when he finally stood up. A man in Delta uniform stood in front of them, his mouth agape.

"Mr.Michaels! We're.. we're really sorry. We.. we didn't mean to scare you." Daisy said, her face turned into the reddest shade so far.

"Daisy.. what were you doing?!" Mr.Michaels asked, his eyebrows raised as he looked at them both with a judging stare.

"I.. we.. we were.. " Daisy stammered.

"I'm sorry, I was helping to check out an error on the computer. The keyboard wasn't working. She asked me to help her check it out." Sebastian quickly improvised.

Mr.Michaels didn't say anything but his eyes slowly showed recognition.

"Have I seen you somewhere before?" He asked.

"Well.. maybe.. if you've seen a Marvel movie, you might have seen me." Sebastian chuckled.

"Oh! Wait! You're that guy! The brainwashed assassin guy. Right? The one who killed Tony Starks' parents!" Mr.Michaels said enthusiastically.

"Yeah." Sebastian nodded but his face fell. The third Captain America movie was not his last Marvel movie and yet this man only knew him from that movie as Tony Starks' parents' killer. He didn't know if he should laugh or cry about it.

"Awesome! Do you mind if we take a picture?" Mr.Michaels asked.

"Oh no, of course not." He smiled and he ended up taking pictures and chatting with Mr.Michaels and two other Delta airline staff. 

After half an hour he was finally left alone but not after he got Daisy's number so he could contact her regarding the Thunderbolts premiere ticket. Additionally it was through them that he knew the flight wasn't delayed because of bad weather but because there was some problem with the plane's engine. But they didn't want to alarm the passengers so they told everyone the delay was because of bad weather. He had voiced his concern about it to them but they reassured him that the problem was minor and would not cause anything dangerous to happen. He really hoped that was the case. He couldn't imagine if he ended up dying in an airplane crash. What would happen to Y/n and his kids? He wouldn't want to miss seeing his kids grow up. 

After he finished chatting with the Delta staff, he looked around to find somewhere to sit. It was 7 am and he still had about an hour to kill before he could board the plane, and that's if the engine problem was already resolved. Otherwise his flight might get delayed again. 

All the seats near the gate were occupied so he ended up finding an empty seat further away from the gate but near the restroom. He found an empty seat next to a little girl of about 9 years old who sat next to a man. The girl had long brunette hair pulled up into a ponytail and the man was bald and had a mustache. They both looked up at him as he approached. 

"Hi. Sorry, is this seat taken?" He asked, smiling at them.

"No, go ahead." The man said.

"Thank you." He sat down, turned to them and smiled again. The little girl smiled shyly back at him while the man just gave him a small smile.

"So, where are you guys going? If you don't mind me asking?" He asked.

"New York." The man answered.

"Oh, same here." He smiled.

"Oh, good." The man responded and nodded.

For a moment they didn't say anything as an uncomfortable silence hung between them.

"So, this morning has been crazy hasn't it?" He said, breaking the silence.

"Umm.. What do you mean?" The man asked.

"I mean.. our flight got delayed and then minutes later the Plane Train didn't work causing more delays." He explained.

"Oh.. yeah.. we were lucky. We managed to still take the Plane Train." The man said and Sebastian nodded.

"Lucky you. I had to walk here." He chuckled. "Not that I'm complaining. I'm used to walking a lot. But, I'm just exhausted this morning." He said, unsure why he had become talkative all of a sudden.

"I see." The man said as he started to get up. "I'm going to go and find something to eat. Do you want something?" The man looked at the little girl and the girl just nodded.

"Okay, come." The man said and pulled the girl's arm up, forcing her to stand up.

"See you guys later, nice talking to you." Sebastian said as the man started to walk away while dragging the girl with him.

"Yeah. You too." The man said and nodded at him then turned his back to him.

He sighed as he watched the pair of them walk away from him. He had a weird feeling as he stared at them. The way the man held the girl's arm was weird. And, strangely enough, they didn't have bags with them at all. As if they weren't traveling far. He decided to shrug it off as they went into a cafe not far from there and disappeared from his sight. 

Moments later his stomach rumbled and he realized he hadn't had breakfast yet. He stood up and decided to follow them to the cafe. Maybe he could have some coffee and pastry.

When he entered the cafe he found them standing in front of the counter. The man was looking down at the girl in anger while the girl looked up at him in fear.

"I don't understand. What are you saying?!" The man asked, his voice rather high.

The girl made some movements with her hands and Sebastian realized she was doing sign language. He approached them and watched the girl closely. He knew sign language as he learned it back when he was in middle school so he could talk to his best friend who had trouble hearing.

"She said she is allergic to nuts." Sebastian said and the man jumped in surprise.

"Oh.. right. Yeah.. I.. I knew that." The man stammered and the girl rolled her eyes at the man.

"So, you can't talk?" Sebastian asked the girl while making sign language. The girl shook her head.

"But you can hear?" He asked again and the girl nodded.

"And you don't know sign language?" Sebastian turned to the man.

"No.. I.. I'm her uncle. I rarely talk to her. Her mom lives in New York while her dad lives in Atlanta. They asked me to accompany her to go back to her mom's." The man explained quickly, his eyes darted around and he shifted his feet from side to side. Clearly the man was nervous and he wondered why that was.

"Okay. Well, what do you guys want? My treat." He smiled at them while also making sign language to the girl. The girl's eyes widened and she smiled. She then made signs with her hands again.

"Okay, hot chocolate and rainbow sprinkle donuts for you, my lady." He said while again making sign language and the girl laughed and blushed.

"And for you?" He turned to the man.

"Uh…I'll just have black coffee thanks." The man replied.

"Alright. Save me a seat. I'll be right with you guys." He said and they left him in front of the counter alone.

Minutes later he got all of their orders. He ordered a cappuccino for himself and a spinach quiche. He looked around and found them sitting near the exit of the cafe. He found their sight kind of strange. He realized that they were the only ones in the cafe not having their faces in front of a cell phone screen while everyone at the cafe did. He shook his head at the realization. The world had become rather strange indeed when sitting without a cellphone in hand could be perceived as not normal.

He was usually one of those people busy with his cellphone. Well today maybe he could change that and actually socialize with strangers like people of old used to do.

"Here you go. One hot chocolate and rainbow sprinkled donut for the beautiful lady." He said as he placed the cup of chocolate and plate of donut in front of the girl. The girl blushed and smiled at that.

"And black coffee for you." He said as he put the cup of coffee in front of the man.

"Thank you." The man said, giving him a small smile.

"No problem." He smiled as he arranged his own orders on the table.

"I'm Sebastian by the way." He said as he started to put some sugar into his cappuccino.

"Oh, and I'm Mike and this is Adriana." The man said.

"Nice meeting you both, Mike and Adriana." He smiled and Adriana smiled back at him.

For several minutes they stayed quiet as they enjoyed their drinks and food. 

"So, where does your mom live, Adriana?" Sebastian asked, breaking the silence. The girl froze and glanced at Mike.

"Brooklyn." Mike answered.

"Ah, okay. I have an apartment in Brooklyn. Well.. actually.. My wife used to live there. She had moved in with me ever since my daughter was born but the place holds so much memory for us that we decided to keep renting it." He said.

"Oh. Must be nice to have the money to do that while other people struggle just to rent one apartment." Mike said cynically.

He felt like his heart had been stabbed as he heard what Mike had to say. He kicked himself internally and realized he should be more considerate and not tell stories like that. He didn't mean to brag, but other people could perceive it otherwise.

"Uh.. yeah.. sorry. I didn't mean to brag or anything. Just.. just making small talk." He said nervously.

"Yeah.. Sorry.. I didn't mean to insult you." Mike said as he seemed to realize what he just said.

"It's okay." Sebastian said and turned to Adriana. "What grade are you?" 

Adriana showed three fingers and Sebastian nodded. "Third grade, huh?"

Adriana nodded and continued to eat her donut.

Eventually they were able to have a better conversation. He found out that Adriana loved Barbie, like his niece Sofia, and also Taylor Swift. He also found out Mike lived in Atlanta and was Adriana's father's brother. He worked at an insurance company and decided to take some days off to visit New York while accompanying Adriana.

Time seemed to fly and before they knew it, it was time to board their flight. He was relieved that their flight was on time. The engine problem must have been fixed. He thought as they walked together towards the gate.

It turned out that his seat was next to Adriana and Mike.

"It's nice to sit next to familiar faces isn't it?" He said to Adriana who was sitting on his right. His seat was by the window while Mike's was by the aisle and Adriana sat between them.

Adriana nodded and smiled wide at him while Mike looked at him in dislike. He wondered if Mike still thought bad of him for bragging earlier as he pulled out his cellphone from his pocket and texted his wife, letting her know that he had just boarded the plane.

He made a mental note to be more careful in what he said next time as he turned on the airplane mode on his cellphone and put it back in his pocket. He fastened his seat belt and leaned back on his seat. He felt exhaustion again so he closed his eyes, hoping to be able to get some sleep and rest.

When he opened his eyes again he felt strange. He fully expected to look out the window and find the view of the white fluffy clouds, instead he found the view of the airport terminal. Apparently they hadn’t moved at all. He glanced at his watch and raised his eyebrows as he realized that it had been an hour since they boarded the plane and they hadn’t moved yet.

“Is something going on? Why are we still here?” He turned to Adriana and Mike. 

“I don’t know. They haven’t said anything.” Mike replied. 

He looked at Mike and realized he had pulled the hood of his jacket up and put on sunglasses. Adriana had also put the hood of her jacket up and looked down. He noticed Mike’s leg was moving slightly up and down, it seemed he was nervous about something.

“Hey man, you okay?” He asked.

“Y.. yeah.. it’s just, I’m always nervous on planes. You know.” Mike replied and understanding dawned in him and he nodded.

“Yeah, I know what you mean. I still feel nervous too sometimes.” He said as his mind went back to the fact there was a problem with the plane’s engine previously. He wondered if there was a problem with it again. He decided to ask the stewardess so he pressed the call button next to his seat to call a stewardess.

"Hello sir, how can I help you?" A beautiful stewardess came and greeted him.

"Uh.. yeah.. why aren't we moving? Is there something wrong?" He asked.

"Oh no, sir. Nothing is wrong. After the delays earlier impacting several flights due to the Plane Train not working the Air Traffic Controller needs some time to adjust things. We're just waiting for our turn." The stewardess smiled at him and glanced at Mike and Adriana.

"Oh okay. Well, I hope we'll get our turn soon. I really need to get to New York as soon as possible." He said.

"Yes, sir. I hope so too. I'm sure you can't wait to be by your wife's side. Right? I mean.. we heard she's in labor." She said with a knowing smile.

"Oh yeah.. she is." He said, kicking himself internally for forgetting about that lie again.

"Well, I'm sure we'll get our turn soon. In the meantime, please sit back and relax. There's nothing to worry about." She smiled.

"Yeah, thanks." He nodded.

"Is there anything else I can help you with, sir?" She asked.

"No, thanks. That would be all." He replied.

"Very well, sir. If you'll excuse me." She said and he nodded.

Once the stewardess left he pulled out his cellphone and turned off airplane mode. He needed to tell his wife that he was going to arrive even later than scheduled.

When he opened his messages, there was a message from his wife and a video from her.

"Hi Iubirea mea, I know you won't get this until you arrive in New York but I just have to show you this."

He opened the video and laughed out loud. There on the screen he could see the living room in his apartment looking in such a mess with rolls and rolls of toilet paper covering the sofa, carpet and coffee table. Their dog, Lucky was sitting on the carpet biting toilet paper while their daughter Starlene was sitting on the sofa and was continuously pulling toilet paper from its roll.

"Oh my God." He closed his mouth with his hand to stifle some more laughter and continued to watch the video from his wife.

"I just left them for a second. I swear. But when I came back, this is what happened!" The screen turned and showed his wife looking annoyed as h**l. 

"I can't imagine what kind of mess we'll be in once this little bean arrives." She said, patting her stomach.

"Anyway, we love you, we miss you. And I hope you have a safe and pleasant flight. Let me know once you've landed. Love you, Iubirea mea." She smiled and he couldn't help but smile back and whispered I love you as well.

She then put her hand on the camera, signifying a hug and he sighed as the video ended. There was nowhere else he wished to be but by his family's side at that moment. But alas, fate willed it a different way. He just had to be more patient.

He immediately called his wife but she didn't answer, so he decided to send a message. 

"Honey, I'm really sorry but the plane got stuck at the terminal. We're still waiting for the plane to get permission from the ATC to leave. And I'm really sorry to see what happened to our living room. Just leave it and I'll help clean up when I get there. I'm sure you're tired. I love you and please send my love and also angry stares to Lucky and Starlene. Love you so much, sweetheart."

He waited and waited but Y/n didn't reply. He tried calling her again but she didn't answer.

"Excuse me, sir. I'm sorry, could you please turn your cellphone off. We're leaving soon." Another stewardess came and scolded him.

"But.. My wife is in labor. I need to know her condition." He said, remembering the lie again.

"We know, sir. But we're really sorry. Rules are rules. And we're leaving soon. You will see her soon." The stewardess replied and he sighed.

"Fine. Let me just send a last message." He said.

"Thank you, sir." The stewardess smiled and left.

"Rules are rules." He muttered under his breath while he typed a message for his wife again, his face full of dislike, making Adriana beside him laugh.

"Why are they sometimes so rigid? We're not even moving." He complained again and Adriana made a sign that said she knew.

"Don't worry. Everything is going to be alright." Adriana signed again and he smiled.

"Thank you, Adriana." He smiled and she smiled back.

He returned his attention back to his cellphone and sent the message. He then turned the airplane mode on his cellphone on and put it back into his pocket.

He sighed and looked out the window. He furrowed his eyebrows as he looked out and saw some uniformed men inside the terminal wearing vests with FBI written on the back, walking swiftly along the side of the terminal. He leaned closer towards the window curiously, wondering why the FBI was there.

"Hey, the FBI is here. I wonder what's going on." He said.

"What?!" Mike exclaimed out loud.

"Yeah.. look.." he pointed towards the uniformed men and Mike leaned over Adriana to take a closer look at the window. He leaned back to allow him a better view.

Just then the plane started moving away from the terminal and Mike leaned back on his seat. He looked at Mike and felt like Mike had just let go of a breath he was holding.

"Finally, we're moving." Mike chuckled nervously.

"Yeah. Finally." He said as he felt Mike was being strange about the whole situation but he shrugged it off. 

He glanced at his watch and sighed as he saw that it was almost 10 am already. So much for getting some rest before he drove to Chad's wedding. He complained internally.

The plane finally took off several minutes later, much to his relief. However, when they took off they experienced a somewhat hard turbulence which made him really nervous. He kept remembering that there was some problem with the plane's engine earlier. What if the problem came back and caused the plane to fall down from the sky? He couldn't help but think of all the negative and horrifying possibilities that could happen to the plane. Thankfully the turbulence didn't last long and eventually the plane stabilized and flew smoothly.

Several minutes later however the plane started to descend quite quickly, startling everyone.

The lights inside the cabin were all turned on and a blaring sound came out from the speakers as oxygen masks dropped down from the ceiling.

"This is an emergency. Please put on your masks. This is an emergency. Please put on your masks." The warning sound was repeated through the speakers.

His heart dropped to his stomach and his heart pounded hard as he pulled down the oxygen mask in front of him and put it over his mouth and nose. He looked to the right and saw both Adriana and Mike had already worn them as well.

Stewardesses were walking around the cabin checking that everyone had worn their masks. For a few minutes the situation was quiet but intense as the plane continued to descend but at a slower pace.

He couldn't help but think of Y/n, Starlene and his unborn child. He wasn't ready to die yet. He just got his happiness with them and with Y/n after twenty something years being in love with her. No, he couldn't and wouldn't accept to die that day. He closed his eyes and kept praying to God in his heart to save the plane and everyone on the flight. 

Suddenly the pilot's voice could be heard on the speakers.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. We apologize for the situation. That was a false emergency. We were descending down 7.000 feet from 34.000 feet to 27.000 feet to avoid turbulence and somehow the system automatically turned on the signal to drop the oxygen masks. The pressure in the cabin is at a normal level so there is no need to wear oxygen masks. You can take off the oxygen masks and our crew will help put them back in place manually. We are really sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you."

He felt immense relief as he took off his oxygen mask and he felt the atmosphere in the plane immediately changed as a collective breath of relief was exhaled.

"That was so scary." He commented and turned to Adriana and Mike.

"Yeah. I know. I never experienced anything like it." Mike responded.

"I was ready to die." Adriana signed to him and he raised his eyebrows.

"We're all going to die anyway." She signed again.

"Well.. you're right. You're so wise for a girl your age." He chuckled but deep down he wondered how a girl her age could have thoughts like that. He himself wasn't ready to die even though he was 41 already. He felt like he probably would never be ready for it.

He leaned back and sighed. Trying to relax after the tense situation. He also wanted to go back to sleep but found it hard to do so. Somehow the one hour sleep he got when the plane was still parked by the terminal was enough to recharge and refresh him. Well, the false emergency also contributed as well. He couldn't relax yet after that. So he ended up chatting with Adriana again. Mike closed his eyes and seemed to be sleeping so he didn't want to bother him.

Several times when they were chatting Adriana glanced at Mike, as if expecting him to do something. He asked her if there was anything wrong but she shook her head, making him curious about it. 

About half an hour into the flight, breakfast was served and Mike woke up. There was something strange that he noticed with the stewardess serving them though. Every time she served Mike, she took her time to really look at him as well as Adriana. At one point after pouring a glass of apple juice for Adriana and water for Mike, the stewardess left, leaving him hanging. He was just about to request orange juice but the stewardess already left.

Being quite tall he was able to see where the stewardess had gone. Apparently she went to the front of the business class area and was not back for a while. When she was finally back she brought milk and pineapple juice in her hands, making him think she was probably just grabbing the milk and juice.

"I'm so sorry to have kept you waiting, Mr.Stan. We ran out of milk and pineapple juice so I had to go and get it." The stewardess smiled at him.

"Oh, that's okay." He responded.

"What would you like to drink?" She asked.

"Orange juice, please. Thank you." He said.

"Certainly, sir." She said. Her hands trembled as she poured the orange juice, making him feel strange yet again. 

"Here you go, sir." She gave the orange juice to him and he accepted.

"Thank you." He nodded and the stewardess smiled and continued to serve the other passengers.

He was about to finish his breakfast which consisted of egg frittata and mushroom as well as croissant with butter when Adriana knocked her glass of apple juice and spilled it onto Mike's lap.

"I'm sorry." She signed to Mike.

"It's.. it's okay." Mike said and he sighed.

"Let me just go and clean this up." Mike said as he picked up his tray of food, closed the table in front of him and stood up. He got out of his seat and put his tray of food onto his seat then he went to the restroom located in front of the plane. As soon as Mike left Adriana immediately signed to him.

"Please help. I'm being kidnapped. Mike kidnapped me." She signed frantically. His heart seemed to stop as he registered what Adriana just conveyed to him.

Of all the things that had happened to him throughout his life, this was by far the weirdest and most unexpected thing that ever happened to him. He stared at Adriana with his jaw dropped as his mind tried to grapple with the situation.

"He kidnapped me from my school as I was walking home from school. He said he's going to sell me overseas. He knows where my parents live and threatened me that he will get someone to kill them if I try to get away. I've been playing along but when I saw the FBI, I knew they were looking for me. Please help me." She signed, her eyes full of hope and fear.

He looked towards the restroom and saw that Mike was still in there. He knew in order to help Adriana they needed to go back to Atlanta, but he also didn't want to miss Chad's rehearsal dinner and honestly he missed his family so much that he just wanted to go back to them as soon as possible. Torn between wanting to help Adriana and go to New York as soon as possible he finally decided. He knew he wouldn't be able to live with himself if he didn't help Adriana. And he knew Y/n and Chad would understand why he needed to do this. So he made the decision.

"Okay. Come. We need to get you away from him. Let's go to the plane crew and tell them about this. Maybe we can have the plane turn around and bring you back to Atlanta." He said and she nodded.

They quickly left their seats and went towards the back of the plane, away from Mike. While walking he continued to check his back to make sure Mike was not out of the restroom yet. He guided Adriana towards the back of the plane where a stewardess was busy tidying up the food carts. He pushed Adriana gently into the aisle between the rows of food carts, making sure they were both unseen from the front of the plane.

“Oh! Is there anything I can help you with, sir?” The stewardess who previously served them was startled.

“Uh.. yeah. This girl here, her name is Adriana, she told me she’s kidnapped by that man who sat beside her.” Sebastian explained.

The stewardess' eyes widened but then she quickly nodded.

“I know.. we.. I mean, the pilot and the crew know, sir. The FBI back in Atlanta Airport were looking for them.” The stewardess replied.

“Well then why didn’t you guys do anything when we were still in Atlanta?” He asked, dumbfounded.

“I’m sorry, sir. We were given photos of them when we were still on the ground but we didn’t recognize them. It wasn’t until less than an hour ago I noticed who they were. I already informed the pilot and in several minutes, after all passengers have finished eating, we’re planning on turning the plane around back to Atlanta.” She explained.

“Well okay, good.” He nodded.

“In the meantime, I think it’s best that you return to your seats so as not to make the man suspicious. We were told to make sure he doesn’t know about this. We don’t want to alarm him and make him do dangerous things.” The stewardess said.

“That makes..” Sebastian was about to answer when he found himself suddenly choking.

“Something dangerous like this?” Mike asked as he tightened one of his arms around Sebastian’s neck, while the other held his head, choking him.

The stewardess screamed in surprise and immediately pulled Adriana closer to her and shielded her behind her back.

“Sir, please! Don’t do anything stupid!” The stewardess reminded him, her voice shook as she saw Sebastian continued to choke and tried to get free from Mike’s hold. But Mike was stronger than he seemed. 

He held both his hands on Mike’s arms, trying to loosen it. His neck hurt, his head hurt as his hands continued to pull Mike's arm away from his neck.

“I won’t kill him if you return my niece back to me.” Mike warned.

“We know she’s not your niece, sir. Surrender now because you have nowhere else to go.” The stewardess bravely said.

“Wrong answer.” Mike said as he strengthened his hold even more on Sebastian’s neck but Sebastian suddenly got an idea.

He released his hands on Mike's arm and elbowed Mike hard on his stomach, making Mike lose his hold on his neck a little. Then he did a backward kick and successfully kicked Mike away from him, making Mike lose his hold completely on him and fell on the ground.

He staggered forward as Mike released him and croaked. “Go.. Get her to safety.”

The stewardess nodded and quickly dragged Adriana towards the front of the plane through the other aisle. 

Sebastian rubbed his aching neck and tried to catch his breath. Then he slowly turned around, ready to fight Mike again but he was gone!

He quickly walked out of the aisle and saw Mike running parallel to the stewardess and Adriana, chasing them into the front of the plane. He tried to catch up with them but Mike crossed to the other aisle through another aisle filled with food carts and his heart dropped to his stomach.

“Sir.. please.. let her go! You don’t want to do this!” He heard the panicked voice of the stewardess as he came closer to them. By then some people had stood up from their seats and started asking him questions, but he just put his index finger on his lips, asking them to stay quiet as he tiptoed to where Mike, Adriana and the stewardess were.

When he reached them he saw that Mike’s back was to him. He was holding Adriana’s body against his chest, a fork in his hand pointed onto Adriana’s neck. Several stewardesses had come to them and they stood in front of Mike and Adriana, their faces full of shock and fear. Adriana struggled to get free but couldn’t. 

“Tell your pilot to keep directing this plane to New York. Otherwise I won’t hesitate to stab her.” He threatened. 

“Y.. yes sir. Just please don’t hurt her!” The stewardess pleaded.

He looked around trying to see if he could find something to wound Mike when someone suddenly offered him a fork.

He turned around and saw an old lady handing him a fork.

“Thank you.” he mouthed. The old lady just nodded and smiled. She then walked back to her seat and he turned back around.

The stewardesses were still trying to persuade Mike to let go of Adriana when he stabbed Mike on the side of his neck.

Mike screamed in pain and let Adriana go. She immediately ran towards the stewardesses and they immediately took her and shielded her behind their backs.

Mike turned around and pulled out the fork from his neck. Blood seeped through it as he continued to make wild screams and started to attack Sebastian. He raised his hand, which was still holding a fork, intending to stab Sebastian with it. But Sebastian kicked his hand and the fork fell down to the ground in a clatter.

They ended up fighting with bare hands. He threw some punches and kicks onto Mike’s face and body. Mike grunted as he got the hits but then he kicked his chest hard, sending him towards the emergency door of the plane.

He grunted as his back hit the door and he fell down onto the ground. He tried to get up and one of the passengers sitting next to the emergency door extended their hand and helped him get up. 

He winced as he walked slowly back towards Mike who was still standing, holding the wound on his neck.

“Give up now, Mike. You have nowhere to go.” He said.

“Never!” Mike yelled as he charged towards him and they continued to fight.

He didn’t know where he got the strength. It seemed his training for Bucky had made him stronger. But he continued to throw punches and kicks to Mike while also receiving some of Mike’s blows on his face. The other passengers watched them with bated breath.

He glanced towards one of the food carts and quickly picked up a stainless steel pot. He raised it and hit Mike’s head with it, making him fall down to the ground.

He waited to see if Mike would get up again but he stayed down. His eyes were closed. He was unconscious.

The passengers and stewardesses who were watching them erupted in cheers and he felt someone hugged him tight. It was Adriana.

“Thank you.” She mouthed and he just nodded while panting as he tried to catch his breath.

Mike was immediately apprehended by the plane crew and tied to one of the seats at the front of the plane. Sebastian went back to his seat with Adriana after one of the stewardesses tended to his wounds. Thankfully his wounds were nothing major, just a cut on his lip and eyebrows as well as some bruises. Nothing he had never dealt with before.

The pilot eventually turned the plane back to Atlanta after explaining to all the passengers what just happened. He even mentioned Sebastian by name, thanking him for his heroic act in fighting Mike. 

He wished the pilot didn’t mention him by name because he got interrupted constantly by passengers who wanted to talk with him and take pictures with him. Adriana seemed to understand because she told him to pretend to sleep so people wouldn’t bother him, and it thankfully worked. People finally left him in peace.

However, even though he wasn’t bothered anymore, he couldn’t really sleep. The journey back towards Atlanta felt so long in his mind even though it took only an hour. His mind constantly replayed what happened and he couldn't wait to tell Y/n about it.

He opened his eyes when the pilot announced that they were about to land soon. He glanced at his watch and sighed as he saw that it was already 12.30 pm. He assumed that the fastest they could head back to New York would be at 1.30 pm. Which meant he would arrive in New York at around 4 pm. 

It was clear he would be late to arrive at Chad’s welcome party and rehearsal dinner. He regretted not taking the 10 am flight with Southwest. But then again if he had taken that one, who knew what would have happened to Adriana. Despite everything, he was glad he could help her.

After they finally landed in Atlanta, two FBI agents entered the plane and took Mike with them. Then another agent came into the plane to take Adriana to her parents. He offered to walk Adriana to the gate. Apparently her parents were there. He wanted to make sure she was reunited with them again. He walked following the agent with Adriana walking between them.

When they got off the plane he was welcomed with flashes of lights from cameras and cheers from people around them. It seemed he had made the news. 

He walked alongside Adriana when a woman and a man ran towards them. 

“Adriana! Oh my baby! I’m so glad you’re okay.” The woman who apparently was Adriana’s mom said.

He couldn’t help but teared up as he watched Adriana being hugged by both her parents. He couldn’t imagine the anguish they must have felt when Adriana was gone from them.

“Thank you for saving her.” Adriana’s dad said.

“Oh, you’re welcome, sir. Your daughter was very brave. You should be proud of her.” He smiled.

Adriana’s parents nodded. 

“We are. We’re really proud of her. And we’re so happy she’s back. We thought we had lost her for good.” Adriana’s mom said.

“Well she’s a strong and smart girl.” He smiled as he patted Adriana’s shoulder gently and the family looked back at him beaming wide with happiness.

“Well, I have to go. I’ll see you around again someday. Take care of yourself.” He said as he hugged Adriana tight.

“Thank you so much, Sebastian.” Adriana signed after he let her go.

“You’re welcome.” He signed and she smiled.

“Sebastian! Sebastian! Could you tell us what happened? Did you really fight the kidnapper?!" A reporter suddenly shouted at him.

“No comment. Sorry. I have to go. My wife is in labor. I have to go.” He said, raising his hands up.

“Just a short answer would do, Sebastian. Please!" The reporter called out but he walked back towards the plane while someone from airport security held back the reporter and prevented the reporter from following him.

When he got back into the plane all the passengers stood up, clapped and cheered for him. His face reddened as he continued to walk to his seat and they continued to chant his name.

“Thank you.. thank you. You guys are too nice.” He said as he raised his hand up and nodded, his face as red as a tomato.

The passengers finally stopped cheering when he took his seat. He leaned back on his seat and pulled out his cellphone as his mind still tried to process all the events that just happened. 

He turned off the airplane mode on his cellphone, wanting to send a message to his wife when messages from her came through.

—

“Iubirea mea, it sucks to hear you're still stuck at the airport. But I hope your plane will soon get its turn to move. I've given your love and angry stares to Lucky and Starlene and they just stared back at me 😆

Anyway, I already cleaned up all the toilet paper. No need to worry about that. I'm rather tired but it's okay. 

Love you and I hope to see you soon. Keep me posted.”

—

“Iubirea mea.. where are you? I hope you’re near New York already.” 

—

“Iubirea mea.. I'm having contractions..” 

—

His heart seemed to stop as he read the last message.

The story continues on Part 2

A Winter's Miracle : Snowbound Delivery

Get ready for another crazy adventure with Sebastian and Reader 😁

[crypt1d-z]

SCP-6448 [NOT DEER]

CONTAINMENT CLASS: KETER DISRUPTION CLASS: KENEQ RISK CLASS: WARNING

SPECIAL CONTAINMENT PROCEDURES

Containment of SCP-6448 should be focused on investigation of deer exhibiting anomalous traits within and around the Appalachian area.¹ All civilian sightings of SCP-6448 should be attended to by Mobile Task Force Gamma-4 (“Green Stags”). Possible deaths resulting from SCP-6448 should be attributed to hiking accidents, and sightings are to be blamed upon Chronic Wasting Disease.²

The Site-44 Cryptozoology Division is tasked with ongoing research into the ‘not deer’ phenomenon. Should an SCP-6448 instance be captured, it is to be brought immediately to Site-44 for containment and study.³

DESCRIPTION

SCP-6448 is an anomalous branch of the Cervidae family.⁴ All members of this group display heightened intelligence and are presumed to be sapient. Many specimens exhibit some form of physical malformation, causing them to stand out from non-anomalous deer. While the exact details of physical abnormalities differ between instances, repeat commonalities are as follows:

Legs bent backwards

Barrel chested/bloated abdomen

Emaciation

Eyes belonging to unrelated animals

Forward-facing eyes

Jerky movements

Loss of fear towards humans

Tendency to walk on two hind legs

General bodily disfigurement

Aside from physical disfigurement, instances show severe divergence from the behaviour of other cervids. Namely, SCP-6448 are known to watch, observe and stalk humans, often for hours or days. This includes following humans to and from their homes, wherein they will proceed to steal belongings, weapons and food. Very rarely will SCP-6448 attack victims while they are indoors.

SCP-6448 are most commonly encountered in deep woodland, particularly at night or dusk, when a person is alone. Any form of direct acknowledgment of SCP-6448’s anomalous traits in these situations will always result in the victim’s termination.⁵ In such situations, personnel are to observe the extract of Cervus Protocol attached below immediately.

CERVUS PROTOCOL

Presently, SCP-6448 are known to inhabit only the Appalachian region of North America.⁶

HISTORY

SCP-6448 was officially assigned anomalous classification in 1980, though they have been recognised by local people since 1947. SCP-6448 is a firmly cemented figure in Appalachian folklore, known colloquially as the "Not Deer" due to their striking similarity to the species they imitate. Many locals claim to have encountered instances of SCP-6448, or possess knowledge of an individual who has. A majority of local communities living in rural areas of high activity are aware of the precautions required to avoid hostile encounters, primarily due to urban legends and stories involving the entities.

SCP-6448 were previously researched at Site-41, located in ████, North Carolina. On 11/01/1994, a group of 3 SCP-6448 instances broke into the Site utilising a tunnel system carved over an extended period of time. This triggered containment breach alarm systems and the Site entered lockdown protocol. The single instance kept in containment, being prepared for dissection, was lost in the breach and not recovered. Over the following decade, a further 5 SCP-6448 instances would be captured and contained, all of which would escape the Site through tunnels carved by other SCP-6448 entities. The decision was made to transfer all instances to Site-44, overseas, to prevent further breaches. Since this decision, no capture attempts have been successful.

ADDENDUM 6448.1: Recently Recorded Civilian Encounters

The first reports of SCP-6448 surfaced around the week of 07/07/1947. In the time since the genus’ discovery, many members of the public have encountered the entities, though most accidentally stumbling upon them do not alert local authorities. This is typically due to the SCP-6448 instance either merely watching the subject or becoming hostile. The following is a log of all recorded 911 calls related to SCP-6448 phenomena since the year 2000.

02/01/2000

Victim (aged 41, female) dialed emergency services after hearing their name being called from the woods near their home. The victim recounts the vocalisation being likened to a scream in a voice that they do not recognise and requested assistance in locating the source. Emergency personnel requested the subject place their phone on the floor outside the home to listen for the alleged sounds. After 2 minutes, a vocalisation was heard that was calling to the subject by name, emanating from the nearby forest.

The subject was instructed to investigate the disturbance themselves and keep services updated on the situation. The victim then begins to walk into the woodland, getting about 50 metres into the underbrush before inexplicably stopping. They claim there to be a noticeably large deer standing in the way of the path. She begins to walk closer, though states it does not move. Subject diverts from the path and begins walking in a different direction. After 30 minutes, no source of the voice is determined. The caller returns to their residence.

13/06/2002

Victim (aged 28, male) calls 911 regarding a home break-in. The caller notes numerous items to be missing from their residence and requests an investigation. Operators dispatch two investigators to visit the home and discern a potential perpetrator. The pair note that, based on earlier CCTV images, all cutlery, sharp objects, firearms, lightbulbs and a single copy of the novel ‘The Day After Roswell’ are missing. Also noted is that there is a complete lack of any fingerprints at the scene, with no doors or windows having been broken into. Analysis of the home’s CCTV footage revealed there to be a two hour period of missing film, with the exception of a single frame containing a Cervus nippon⁷ on its hind legs, reaching towards the camera. Its frontal hooves have been warped to resemble fingers. No footage of the entity exiting the home was discovered.

19/11/2005

A cattle farmer (aged 54, male) reported to local authorities the sudden disappearance of over 30% of his largest herd. Response teams searched the nearby area for 4 hours though found no trace of the cattle. The victim was recommended to set up trail cameras and note any unusual activity overnight. At 01:11 AM, two SCP-6448 are seen walking through the field before fleeing. One places an object into the ground, later discovered to be a single fork. A week after this discovery, 200 discarded bovine hooves appear at the location.

04/03/2009

Victim (age unknown, gender unknown) dials 911 to request assistance from animal services. The victim is stood within a forest in front of a Cervus elaphus⁸ which is violently contorting. The animal is repeatedly ramming itself into a tree, covered in blood and viscera. The victim begins to state "You'd better get a vet or something, I don't think it's well" before a piercing screech is heard and the line falls silent. Recovered footage depicts the aforementioned animal squirming, seemingly in pain. A viscous churning is audible as a black mass erupts out of the instance and the video turns to static.

11/10/2012

Victim (aged 23, male) is a junior wildlife officer at Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee. They radio their supervisor in early evening regarding a herd of Odocoileus virginianus⁹ within the reserve. Supposedly, there is a single animal that upon first glance appears average, though possesses divergent attributes including backwards joints, an enlarged abdomen and forward-facing eyes. Upon stating this, a distant whistle is audible and the victim stumbles slightly. They begin to say “What the he- did it just whistle at me?” before the sound of hooves rapidly getting closer is heard. Notably, the hoof steps did not sound to be in the traditional gallop of a cervid.

12/10/2012

The aforementioned victim’s supervisor calls authorities following the victim’s absence from the reserve night shift. Following this, their radio begins to crackle. The victim’s voice can be heard on the other end and he requests the supervisor’s attention.

He calls regarding a herd of Odocoileus virginianus within the reserve. They claim there is a single animal that upon first glance appears average, though possesses divergent attributes including backwards joints, an enlarged abdomen and forward-facing eyes. Suspecting the creature to be a rare genetic malformation, the victim requests their supervisor to come to the location. The supervisor questions the victim about what happened the night previous. There is no reply. Upon the supervisor’s and law enforcement’s arrival at the site, a herd of approximately 80 Odocoileus virginianus was present. A single entity is in the field’s centre and appeares to be standing separately from the rest of the group. It flees the scene upon realising the law enforcement’s presence. Where it formerly stood layed a park ranger's standard two-way radio.

08/04/2016

Victim (aged 35, female) dials 911 using a satellite phone, distressed. They state that they are in ████ County Woods and are being followed. She claims that, despite seeing no one for the duration of her hike, she “feels as if she’s being watched” and has heard someone walking behind her at various points in the trip. The victim is unable to give an adequate description of her location, but knows the route to return to her residence. Operators request the victim to return to a point wherein she can provide a sufficient geographic description of her position.

The victim remains on the line for the duration of the hike back to a readily used portion of the wilderness trail. Along the journey, various unnatural sounds can be heard. These include footsteps, rockslides, coughing, whispering and whistling. Nearing the main trail, all woodland noises such as birds and wind cease suddenly, and the victim states she can see a malformed deer carcass coated in a thick layer of a black slime-like substance. At this time, human screams can be heard in the distance. Operators request the victim continue and ignore other stimuli. Agents embedded in local law enforcement, suspecting SCP-6448 involvement, notify Gamma-4 to the situation. 20 minutes later, the victim returns to the main trail. Gamma-4, now operating the 911 call, inform the victim to not respond to any further unusual activity and briefly outline Cervus Protocol. For the duration of the victim’s journey to her home, two sets of breathing are audible.

The victim successfully returns to her residence and shuts the door behind her. Now out of sight from SCP-6448, agents inquire upon the victim’s address and the victim promptly complies. Operatives instruct the victim to have possession of all firearms and weapons on the premises and to barricade herself inside a safe space with one exfil point. The victim swiftly begins grabbing all available weapons and throwing them inside a wardrobe. It is at this time that there is a knock on the front door. The victim does not respond and continues to hoard sharp objects from kitchen drawers. The knocking becomes more violent as the handle is being jostled and shaken incessantly. A voice on the other side repeats the phrase “Hello, it is me. Hello, let me in.” in a calm manner as the door begins to shake. The victim retreats to her wardrobe, armed with a small firearm. Upon sealing herself in the space, the knocking ceases and footsteps can be heard, decreasing in volume. The sound of galloping is audible as the front door caves in. Hoof steps can now be heard inside the home.

The entity continues to repeat “Hello, it is me. Hello, let me in.” as it searches the small building. A bright light flashes overhead, seemingly circling the house. Eventually the entity enters the victim’s bedroom. Through a small slit in the wardrobe door, the victim can see a Cervus canadensis¹⁰ standing on its hind legs and surveying the room. Its movements are crooked and stiff, seeming to struggle to stand in a bipedal fashion. It slouches down to a quadrupedal crouch, similar to the stance of an arachnid. It inhales heavily, and its head locks on the view of the wardrobe. It is noted as possessing human eyes. It scampers towards the subject and opens the door. A single gunshot is heard. Responders found no trace of either SCP-6448 or the victim.

It should be noted that this represents a small fraction of human to SCP-6448 encounters, as the majority of occasions go unnoticed and undocumented. On each of these occasions, all associated video, photographs and objects were confiscated by MTF Gamma-4, whom also called off public investigation. Cover stories 356α “Home Break-In” and 898Γ “Missing 411” were successfully implemented.

ADDENDUM 6448.2: INCIDENT 6448-ALPHA

On 29/11/2019, MTF Gamma-4 (“Green Stags”) successfully detained and captured an instance of SCP-6448, with the assistance of MTF Nu-7 (“Hammer Down”)’s heavy vehicles division and highly experimental shock rifles. The resulting skirmish left a single instance unconscious, which was swiftly placed aboard an armoured CH-47 Chinook helicopter en route to Site-44 in England to prevent outside assistance. Upon reaching the Site, the sedated entity was transferred to a containment cell without incident. The following is a log of events thereafter.

DATE: 30/11/2019. LOCATION: Site-44, Foulness Island, England

[BEGIN LOG]

SCP-6448 instance is contained within a large reinforced steel containment cell, having just awoken from heavy sedation. Cryptozoology Specialist F. Ozz stands in front of a large one-way glass window that encompasses the room’s South side.

Researcher Ozz: Greetings, SCP-6448.

The instance suddenly bolts upright and stares at the intercom.

Researcher Ozz: Can you understand me? We’ve seen your genus speak English just fine in the past.

The instance does not respond. It begins licking its arm.

Researcher Ozz: Please, we know your secret.

The instance pauses.

Researcher Ozz: Admittedly it wasn’t exactly well kept. If you’d just look at yourself for more than a few seconds, it is very clear that you’re not… normal.

The instance is stood facing away from the window. Its neck swivels 180°, visibly breaking multiple vertebrae as there is an audible crack. It does not blink.

Researcher Ozz: (To containment staff) I thought you said this was one-way? (Staff mumbling) It is?

The instance’s gaze remains locked on Researcher Ozz.

Researcher Ozz: Are you something imitating deer? It is clear that, if so, you possess basic anatomical knowledge on them, though details are faulty. In fact, a better question would be… how? Assuming you are not what you pretend to be.

The instance opens its mouth, which contains abnormally sharp teeth. Its jaw moves in a manner that seems to imitate speech. No intelligible dialect is heard, rather, a sound similar to gagging or choking is audible.

Researcher Ozz: Shall we move on? What I’m more concerned with here is why you take our people. Is it to settle a vendetta? For food? Spite?

The instance blinks for the first time in the interview. The movement is noticeably forced.

Researcher Ozz: Responding is mandatory.

The instance shows no reaction.

Researcher Ozz: (Sternly) If you will not comply, maybe you’d like to see your brand new containment cel-

SCP-6448: R-

Researcher Ozz: (Pauses)

SCP-6448: R- Rasaerch. Research. (The instance speaks in a distorted version of Ozz’s own voice)

Researcher Ozz: Research? What kind of-

SCP-6448: July 7, 1947.

The instance suddenly rams the 20 inch thick one-way glass, cracking it slightly.

Researcher Ozz: (Stumbles backwards)

The instance begins to collapse. It contorts violently and begins screaming. Its abdomen bulges and writhes.

Researcher Ozz: Get the Stags in here now!

A black, viscous, tendrily mass erupts out of the instance's side. It leaps and squirms around the cell before shattering the viewing window. The remaining carcass is entirely hollow.

Site-44 Breach System: Containment breach detected. All personnel report to the nearest safe room. Containment Sector 4 blast doors will seal in 10 seconds.

The tendrilous mass swiftly manoeuvres outside of Sector 4 in seconds, clearing the lockdown area. It travels in the direction of the main exit.

Site-44 Breach System: Full Site lockdown initiated. Locking main exit in 5 seconds.

The mass clears the main desk. It shatters the glass on the front exit and disappears into the outside shrubbery.

[END LOG]

A two month long search proved inefficient in locating the escaped anomaly. Additionally, since this incident, there has been an unprecedented increase of CWD afflicted deer and UFO reports in the area surrounding Site-44. Further research is ongoing.

FOOTNOTES

Appalachia is a mountainous region in the Eastern United States that is known for its dense woodland.

CWD, sometimes called zombie deer disease, is a prion-based illness affecting members of the Cervidae family. It causes extreme loss of motor function control, may affect decision making and is always 100% fatal. While CWD is a legitimate disease, the majority of cervids in Appalachia exhibiting traits are known instances of SCP-6448.

Site-44 is located in Essex, England. See History for details.

More commonly known as deer. This includes true deer, muntjac, reindeer, elk and moose.

Though treating SCP-6448 instances as normal cervids triggers no reaction.

[UNDER REVIEW FOLLOWING INCIDENT 6448-ALPHA]

Sika Deer

Red Deer

White-Tailed Deer

Elk

[queenshelby]

Yes! Mr Murphy (Rewritten)

PART 51: Mother

Pairing: Cillian Murphy x Reader

Warning: Lots of Angst, Age Gap, Miscarriage

PLEASE COMMENT AND ENGAGE!

A week had passed and, just as you slowly recovered from your miscarriage, your excitement grew to see your mother again for the first time in over 15 years. 

Although you struggled with mixed feelings—anger, resentment, and fear—the overwhelming desire to reconcile with her prevailed.

After all, she was your biological mother, the person who bore you in her womb and gave you life. The knowledge was impossible to ignore, and as Cillian held you close, you couldn't help but fantasize about finally having a mother figure back in your life.

By this point, you had already spoken on the phone and you learned that the authorities in the US had separated you from her during the immigration process. Neither of you had a visa at the time and while she was being deported, you were placed into the Forster care system where you struggled to cope.

Over the years, she searched tirelessly for you, desperately trying to track you down and bring you back into her life. 

For years, she lived in hope that fate would reunite you but she never found out where you were until she saw a photograph of you in one a magazine, attending an event with Cillian. 

The article claimed that you were lovers and this revelation shocked her. Shocked because it meant that you were alive and, most importantly, safe. Overwrought with grief, she reached out to Cillian's agent who ignored her emails, thinking that this was a hoax and then she spent all of her savings to fly to New York and attend his premiere, hoping that you would accompany him. 

Unfortunately for her, however, you didn't. You had to remain in Ireland as your spousal visa was being assessed, leaving her to approach Cillian instead.

Cillian was also the one who was picking her up from the airport a week later now seeing that you were still dealing with the aftermath of your miscarriage and weren't allowed to drive. 

He drove you to the airport early morning to pick her up, and you were struck by how much your nerves resembled a tight knot in your stomach.

The memory of your last encounter with her—a tearful goodbye inside the US Detention Centre where you were left behind—haunted you, and you grappled with conflicting emotions. Anger, sadness, longing, and fear wrestled within you.

"Hey, breathe," Cillian whispered soothingly, sensing your anxiety. "Remember, she loves you just as much as you love her," he reminded you, placing a comforting hand on your knee. "She didn't abandon you and you will be able to reconnect now," he assured you, the warmth of his touch radiating through your jeans.

"I know, I know," you stammered before taking a deep breath and focusing on the task ahead.

"Good," Cillian nodded, his expression filled with support and understanding. He knew better than to push you any further, allowing you to gather your strength for the encounter.

As the car approached the terminal, your palms began to sweat, and your heart raced with trepidation. A feeling of unease washed over you, and your stomach churned with anticipation.

You gripped the armrests of the passenger seat, clenching your fists tighter and tighter as you stared out the window at the bustling crowd rushing past.

"Okay, I'm going to park the car in the long-term parking lot," Cillian announced, breaking the silence as he maneuvered the vehicle into a vacant spot. "We can wait for her at arrivals," he added, turning off the engine.

"Sounds good," you mumbled, reluctantly unbuckling your seatbelt, your legs stiff and heavy.

You knew full well that no amount of preparation could prepare you for this moment. Nevertheless, you had to face it. 

Stepping out of the car, you felt the crisp autumn air hit your face.

The weather was cold, but it did not dampen the intensity of the situation, only adding to the mounting anticipation.

"Let's go," said Cillian, reaching for your hand.

His grasp was firm and reassuring, his knuckles tensing beneath your touch.

You laced your fingers firmly with his, allowing the connection to strengthen your resolve.

The walk seemed endless as you followed Cillian towards the arrival hall.

The sound of people chattering surrounded you, and their faces blurred into indistinguishable masses.

You focused on the ticking clock above the information board, watching the minute hand move in slow motion. Each second dragged on, stretching the seconds into eternity. Your heart echoed loudly in your ears, pounding relentlessly against your ribcage.

"Don't worry, she'll be here soon, and you will get to know each other again. It will be fine," Cillian murmured in your ear, pressing a kiss against your temple. His lips were warm and comforting, providing solace amid the chaos surrounding you.

You nodded, your throat constricting, making it difficult to speak. You scanned the crowded airport lounge, searching for a glimpse of your mother.

Your pulse quickened every time someone caught your eye, mistaking them for her. But each time, your heart sank a bit lower.

Cillian squeezed your hand, offering a comforting squeeze. "She's going to be here, Y/N," he whispered, his tone filled with confidence. "Just give it some more time," he urged, urging you to stay patient.

The tension within you mounted as you waited, and your impatience grew stronger with each passing second. Finally, you spotted a familiar face in the crowd. Your heartbeat accelerated, and you instinctively clutched Cillian's hand tighter. "There she is I think," you whispered, pointing at her.

Cillian turned around, and his gaze followed your finger. "Yes, that's defiantly her," he confirmed. 

Your heart skipped a beat, and you could feel the lump forming in your throat. Your palms began to sweat, and the butterflies in your stomach intensified. The realization that this was truly happening consumed you, threatening to break down the barriers you had erected all these years.

"It's going to be grand," Cillian whispered, his grip tightening around your hand. "Just relax," he murmured, his voice barely audible above the din of the crowd as you watched your mother walking toward you, dressed in a simple, elegant outfit, carrying a single suitcase.

She looked different from the woman in the photo, but the resemblance was unmistakable. The same bright eyes, the delicate nose, and full lips. Time had taken its toll, but the essence of the loving mother you remembered remained.

The distance between you narrowed, the gap closing faster with each step she took. You watched as her eyes flicked nervously between you and Cillian, her gaze darting to your hand intertwined with his.

"Hi," you called out tentatively, waving a shaky hand. The mere utterance of the word "hi" unleashed a torrent of raw emotions coursing through you. Your breath faltered, and your voice cracked under the weight of suppressed feelings.

Your mother stopped mid stride, her eyes widening in recognition before tearing up completely. 

"Y/N!" she cried out, her voice shaking with emotion. "My baby girl," she sobbed in Spanish, hastening towards you, her suitcase forgotten by her side.

Cillian released your hand, stepping aside to allow space for the reunion. He watched with a swelling heart as you stepped forward, meeting your mother halfway.

Her face contorted with grief, tears streaming down her cheeks, and she threw herself into your arms. "I got you back," she wailed, hugging you tightly.

You closed your eyes, letting the scent of her perfume fill your senses. It was a mixture of lavender and vanilla, a scent that instantly brought a sense of nostalgia and comfort. You breathed deeply, taking in the moment, savoring the warmth of her embrace.

"Mum," you managed to utter, your voice hoarse and weak. "I...," you whispered, unable to form a sentence, holding her even tighter. She reciprocated the gesture, her tears soaking your shoulder.

"It's okay sweetie. I never forgot about you," she confessed, her voice quivering. "I dreamed that one day I would hold you in my arms again," she continued, clutching you tightly. "I never gave up," she added, squeezing you tightly.

"I know," you cried, releasing her but holding her hands in yours.

"Oh, my darling," she murmured, her eyes brimming with tears.

"I missed you so much," she whispered, wrapping her arms around you tightly.

"Look at you," she marveled, gazing at you admiringly. "You're so beautiful," she praised, her voice quivering with emotion. "I cannot believe how grown up you are. A beautiful young woman," she added, her voice wavering.

"Thanks, Mum," you responded shyly, looking down at your feet. "And you haven't changed at all," you smiled, noticing her radiant smile. "Save for a few wrinkles here and there," you teased, pointing at her forehead.

"Of course, I have aged, mi hija," she chuckled, patting you affectionately on the back before turning towards Cillian and giving him a quick hug also. 

"Thank you, Cillian," she said, her voice cracking slightly. "For bringing me to my daughter, "she added, her eyes welling up with gratitude.

"You're welcome," Cillian replied confidently, his posture erect and proud. "I would do anything for Y/N," he added, flashing a grin at you.

"That's true actually. He so would," you chuckled, smiling at Cillian.

"So, shall we head home?" Cillian asked, breaking the spellbinding silence between you and your mom as he noticed how some people were taking photographs of him, which was always something that was bothersome for you both. 

"Yes," your mother agreed, nodding eagerly. "I would love to see where my daughter lives these days," she said to you, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she tried hard to communicate in English.

"I've been dreaming of this moment for so long," she added, her voice quivering with emotion as Cillian reached for her suitcase and led the way towards the parking lot.

***

Half an hour later, you arrived at your new home by the coast, a spacious house with a nice garden near the beach. 

Cillian parked the car in the driveway before helping your mother with her luggage.

"We only just moved in together, so I hope you like it," you told her shyly before walking her inside, which is when, immediately, her jaw dropped. 

"Wow, it's absolutely gorgeous," your mother exclaimed, her eyes scanning the entire length of the house, awestruck.

"Isn't it?" you chimed in, leading her inside. "This is the living room and there is another one upstairs, like an entertaining area or something," you pointed, gesturing towards the cozy seating area with plush couches, bookshelves and large windows overlooking the ocean.

"And when I'm done decorating, I promise it'll be even better," you giggled, seeing that the house still contained some rather dated features. 

"It's a big house for just the two of you though, isn't it?" she commented, her eyes wandering around the spacious rooms. "I mean, there would be plenty of room for some children, don't you think?" she suggested playfully, her eyes twinkling with delight, causing your heart to drop. 

You had not told your mother that you had not one, but two unplanned pregnancies, both of which ended in miscarriage. 

The thought of bringing such pain and loss into her life seemed cruel, especially considering the circumstances of your reunion. Besides, you had yet to fully come to terms with what happened yourself.

"Can I make you a cup of tea?" you thus offered, ignoring her question while Cillian stood there, not knowing what was being said between you in Spanish. 

"That would be lovely," your mother said, not pressing you on the matter. "I will put my stuff away first though," she noted, indicating the hallway where her suitcase lay.

Cillian raised her suitcase, holding it aloft with ease and walked it to her bedroom on the ground floor.

Your mother trailed behind him, peering curiously at the interior design while you busied yourself in the kitchen preparing tea.

"Thank you for taking care of my little angel," she murmured appreciatively, setting her belongings down gently. "She seems very happy here, with you," she observed, looking at Cillian intently. 

"It's my pleasure," Cillian replied earnestly, his gaze locked onto your mother. "She is everything to me," he confided, his voice softening. "And I love her a lot," he insisted, his eyes glistening with sincerity.

"I am glad to hear that," your mother commented, studying Cillian closely.

"I can tell you're a good man," she added, observing your bond. "She's lucky to have you," she concluded, smiling broadly.

"Thank you," Cillian replied humbly, his eyes lingering on you. "She makes me feel incredibly happy," he admitted quietly, glancing briefly at your mother before looking away, seemingly embarrassed.

"You're welcome, my dear," your mother cooed softly, reaching out to caress Cillian's cheek before he disappeared to give her some privacy. 

To be continued...

Tags:

@sunbeamseas @saint-ackerman @oatmealisweird @naxxsstuff @amanda08319 @r-m-cidnah @elysiannook @cillshot @infireddabdab @tastycakee @harrysbestiee @lilybabe22 @adalynlowell @henrywintersdearestgirl @ietss @thatgirlthatreadswattpad @ryiamarie @axionn

@heidimoreton @nela-cutie @futurecorps3 @delishen @nosebleeds-247 @thirteenis-myluckynumber @gills-lounge @hjmalmed @lost-fantasy @tiredkitten @sidechrisporn @smallsoulunknown @charqing-qing @hopefulinlove @aporiasposts @shycrybaby @me-and-your-husband @hjmalmed @lacontroller1991 @galxydefender @aporiasposts

@galxydefender @hunnibearrr @saint-ackerman @lunyyx @gentlemonsterjennie1 @ihavealotoffandomssorry @nadloves @lost-fantasy @nolucesn@mcavoy-girl @hjmalmed @bloodybagels @obeyme4life @richiesgroupie @blushykiss @tatumrileyslover @teawithsatanx @orijanko @rhaenyra4ever @xcinnamonmalfoyx @budugu @nadloves @kmc1989 @bloodybagels @obeyme4life @richiesgroupie @forgottenpeakywriter @smailaway @sophiaaguirred

[girlfriendsofthegalaxy]

it's the Fallout: New Vegas/The Prisoner (1967) crossover I've been threatening for day 3 of @yeehawgust : break away from the herd!

“My congratulations on your access to the same file every other jailor has had. Who are you?” He knew who this Number Two was pretending to be, although it never hurt to test the fence a little. The still image ratcheted his left eyebrow one notch higher. “Surely you know that I am Robert Edwin House, President, CEO, and sole proprietor of the New Vegas Strip. Don't let the video screens and computer terminals fool you. I'm flesh and blood, not silicon. We might have attended the same embassy balls in Washington, during the war. We are both…somewhat lost in time.” A laugh got stuck in Prisoner Six’s ruined throat. “Any sufficiently educated idiot can throw a photograph to a screen. What sort of Number Two are you?” “I haven’t been second to anything since kindergarten. You did go to kindergarten, didn’t you?”

[tydhl]

Th’ell ya’ doing here, lady? (Monty x reader)

Teaser:

Filled with both curiosity but mostly the nagging of his security module, he sauntered over to the recharge station. He didn’t take the time to check through the small window, he’s a busy gator. Ripping the door open he stared blankly at the inside of the cell for a moment before slowly lowering his gaze.

As soon as his optics scanned the person as an intruder, he felt his security protocols kick in on full gear. He clenched the handle of the small compartment, leaning in with narrowed eyes. Tipping his snout down to make eye-contact with the shorter animatronic, the gator let out a low growl.

“It’s past closing hours, lady, what th’ell ‘ya doing here?”

Chapter 1. New Meetings

Summary

Welcome to Fazbear Entertainment

You’re online!

Awesome!

Time to meet your new co-worker, the Daycare Attendant!

Spoiler: you meet more than just the DCA.

Warnings: None

Headcanons used:

• Sun & Moon were originally acrobats at the theater.

• They had to learn how to manage the daycare because his programming wasn't updated when they changed his position.

• Monty is glad to be a rockstar but is jealous of Freddy being fan favorite.

#include <cstdlib>

int system(const char DCAH1005_bootup);

□□□□□□□□□□ 0%

■□□□□□□□□□ 10%

■■■□□□□□□□ 30%

■■■■□□□□□□ 40 %

>‘System error : s̸̯͆ö̵̬u̵̓ͅn̸͕͠d̸͎͠ ̶̗̓ṃ̵͑o̶͕͘d̶̫́u̷̪̔l̸̗͘é̵͎ ̷͔̔ not defined.’

system(run diagnostic);

s��̯͆ö̵̬u̵̓ͅn̸͕͠d̸͎͠ ̶̗̓ṃ̵͑o̶͕͘d̶̫́u̷̪̔l̸̗͘é̵͎ ̷͔̔ command corrupted.

>‘process terminated.’

input(str(“Resume boot up?”  yes/no))

if yes: 

    resume int system(const char DCAH1005_bootup);

elif no:

    terminate (const char DCAH1005_boot-up );

>yes

>’resuming system bootup’

■■■■■□□□□□ 50%

■■■■■■■□□□ 70%

■■■■■■■■□□ 80 %

■■■■■■■■■■ 100%

——————

You opened your optics before quickly shutting them. Bright, it was too bright. After a moment of collecting yourself while your CPU hummed, activating your motor functions, you opened your optics again, visual feed obstructed by a message.

‘Welcome DCAH1005 !!’

You discarded the message before looking up at the source of light, a big lamp shining down on you. Suddenly aware of another presence due to quiet voices in the room, you turned your head to look at the source.

“Looks like the booting up process was successful.” Said a man, turning his head to look at a taller woman.

“Indeed it was, take it to the Daycare.” She replied evenly.

The man sputtered, “B-But, this is it’s first time online! We need to monitor it first!” 

“Is it operational?” The woman asked in a clipped tone, clearly displeased at his lack of compliance.

“Well, yes, but—“

“Then have it sent to the Daycare.” She cut him off, turning on her heel and walking out the P&S door.

The man deflated before glancing at you. Sighing, he addressed you. “Follow me.”

You opened your mouth to reply.

…

You closed it, brining a servo to your chestplate, running a system diagnostic.

>Voicebox: command input error.

Looks like your voicebox is in need of a repair, too bad this man doesn’t seem interested in helping you at all.

“I said follow me!” The man repeated in an impatient bark.

You quickly scrambled off the metal table and rushed out of the cylinder. It’s your first day on the job, you can’t be late.

——————————

Arriving at the Daycare after a brisk walk, you stared at the double doors with wide optics, intimidated by their size. The man pushed past the doors, glancing at you over his shoulder with a tired expression. You followed suit. 

Your optics were immediately assaulted by an array of vibrant colors. Eyes closing shut, you stumbled back a bit in surprise. It looked like a unicorn exploded inside a box of crayons.

“This is where you’ll be working from now on, get yourself acquainted with the Daycare Attendant.” The man said as he checked his fazwatch.

“Well, it’s time for me to clock out, your shift begins in two hours.” He then turned on his heel and marched out the door, letting the wooden portal slam close behind him.

You stood there for a moment, blinking as you tried to adjust your visual feed to be less saturated.

“Hello! You must be our new helper! Oh, how exciting! I can’t wait to show you around, you’ll love it here!” Said a high pitched voice, a jingle accompanying their ever syllable.

A sudden pressure was felt on your shoulder and you tensed, optics opening fully in surprise. You were met with the sight of another animatronic, faceplate way to close to yours as it towered over you. You felt yourself shrink under it’s attentive gaze and perma-grin.

“Come on newbie! We only have two hours and I have to give you a tour of the best area in the entire Pizza-Plex!” It said, voice layered with unbridled excitement.

Before you could make any semblance of a reply, the lanky animatronic wrapped its hand around your own and practically dragged you off towards one of the play structures. You stumbled for a moment before matching its quick pace. This was all happening a bit too fast for you, you had just gone online less than thirty minutes ago!

The sun-themed animatronic stopped at one of the slides, turning its faceplate to look down at you. “This is one of the play structures! They’re very fun to use for hide and seek, but the kids aren’t allowed to climb up its walls. No, no! Accidents can happen, friend!” The daycare attendant said in a matter-of-fact tone.

You blinked at it before glancing at the large structure, scanning it with your optics before looking back at the animatronic. Why was he telling you this exactly? This was already built into your programming. Perhaps this was a nicety by its part, a way to make things feel less rushed.

You nodded.

The sun-themed bot deflated a bit at your lack of verbal reply. “Are you alright, friend? You haven’t said a word since you got here?” It asked, hunching over more to be closer to your eye level, worry lacing it’s tone.

Right, you are supposed to have a functioning voice box. You thought for a moment before bringing your hands up in front of you, pulling out of the animatronics grasp and signing.

‘I’m sorry, my voice box doesn’t seem to be working properly.’

The daycare attendant gasped dramatically, bringing its hands to its smile. “Oh, friend! I’m so sorry to hear that, and it’s your first day too, how terrible!” It wailed, more disturbed about your condition than yourself.

This was going to be a long day.

After you reassured the attendant that you were okay, it continued to show you around the daycare, still recounting the rules, which you found unnecessary but otherwise didn’t comment.

It was ten minute before the Pizza-Plex opened  when it finished showing you around.

“And now we wait for the kids to be dropped off, there’s usually very few today, but we can never be sure.” It said, hands on its hips as he beamed at you. Suddenly, it jerked forwards, brining its hands to either side of its faceplate.

“Oh, dear me! Where are my manners! I forgot to introduce myself!” It gasped dramatically before raising its hands in the air.

“I’m Sun! But you can call me Sunny, Mr. Sun, friend, or anything you like!” He said with flourish, bending down to give a bow.

He asked, straightening himself up as it looked down at you expectantly.

You gave him your name, not with nearly as much of a performance as it gave you though. Before the excitable animating could reply, the sound of plastic balls being moved around inside the ball-pit alerte style both of you.

The animatronic snapped his head towards the sound before turning back to you, static grin seemingly brighter. “Looks like we’ve got our first one!”

——————

Annoying. That’s the perfect word to describe the Daycare theme, annoying. It was cheery and loud, bouncing off the walls in a never ending loop that anyone would tune out after hearing it for more than 10 minutes. It was too upbeat and repetitive, annoying.

A quiet jingling could be heard inside the large room, two animatronics hard at work. It has been a week since you were brought online, a week silence you’ve stared working at the Daycare alongside Sun and Moon without any previous testing. You didn’t really need any training, being that you were programmed with the knowledge of how to complete your tasks as the Daycare Attendant’s Helper, unlike the previous acrobatic bots. You placed the last pillow up in the stack of neatly organized cushions, stepping back and giving the small tower a satisfied smile. Looking around for any other mess that needed to be cleaned up, you couldn’t spot anything out of place.

Huh, you finished quicker than usual.

Slowly, your eyes wandered to the glass windows that separated the Daycare from the rest of the Pizza-Plex. Perhaps you could explore the grounds, you’ve never left before, it would be an adventure of sorts. You checked your internal clock: 12:30 AM. Moon was already out on patrol by this time.

A little roaming surely wouldn't hurt right..? I mean, you do work here. We’re you just restricted to this the daycare like Sun? Guess it’s time to find out.

With a newfound determination, you marched up to the big double doors. Pushing open the heavy wooden portal, you stood there for a moment. This was it, the moment of truth. Kicking your foot out, you shut your eyes and took a step forward. Freezing up for a moment, you opened your optics slowly and peered around. 

Huh, guess you have higher clearance than Sun. You flapped your hands with excitement, excitedly making your way down the hall as you took in your surroundings.

You somehow wound up outside the Glamrocks’s rooms when you realized… you were lost. The place was larger then you could’ve ever thought, and you haven’t even roamed the whole Plex yet!

——————

Montgomery Gator wasn’t the nicest animatronic around. It’s not an opinion, it’s an objective fact. He’s prone to outbursts, never in front of the children though, he wouldn’t endanger them like that. No, he only lets his anger and envy rear its ugly head when he’s alone, destroying everything around him in a blind range that seems to linger in the scrambled depths of his processor. Being overshadowed by Freddy didn’t help the temperamental animatronic’s already tainted reputation, if anything, it only made it worse. 

“Freddy is such a nice guy!”

“He’s so friendly, the kids love him!”

“Yeah! He’s fan favorite for sure!”

People stopped caring about what they said around him a long time ago…

“But I didn’t want Monty at my party, I wanted Freddy!”

“The gator’s dangerous.”

“I heard he hurt someone—”

The animatronic suddenly became aware of gentle pressure on his shoulder.

“Monty, are you alright?”

The gator snapped his head towards the bear, clenching his jaw tightly before giving a curt nod, shrugging his paw off. Today wasn’t a good day.

“‘M fine.” He replied, stalking off to his room, leaving behind a concerned band mate that he couldn’t even bring himself to be mad at. He was Freddy after all, just so gosh darn nice.

A notification pinged his processor, popping up in his optical feed. It’s 12:00 AM. The gator sighed and dropped his shoulders, hearing the pistons in his joints let out a soft hiss at the release of pressure. Turning on his heel, he marched down to the end of the hallway that connected the band’s rooms together, rounding the corner.

——————

You continued to be captivated by your colorful surroundings as you walked down towards the main entrance area. Scanning the area, something caught your eye. A charming station, how peculiar. You and the Daycare Attendant weren’t given the lavish gift of a recharge station, instead just having a cable that could be connected to both of your charging ports. 

Letting your curiosity get the best of you, you saunter your way over to the large metal device. Peeking in while standing in your tippy toes, you peered down at the circular hoop that rested on the floor of the station. It must be a magnetic charger.

You were suddenly alerted by the sounds of footsteps being registered in your audials. You were suddenly seized with panic, every wire in your frame telling you to hide. Why? You had no idea, perhaps you weren’t meant to leave the Daycare after all.

——————

Montgomery felt his security mode boot up in his system, making him take a jerkish step forwards before resuming his regular gait. His optics began to shine a darker red, similar to Moon’s in order to both scare off intruders and not immediately alert them of his presence. Though, the thought of him, an 8 foot tall animatronic that could bench press a car, going unnoticed is a ridiculous idea in itself.

The gator grumbled as he continued his way to the main entrance area. Pausing, he did a quick scan with his optics, surveying the area from where he stood to see if he needed to ping any of the S.T.A.F.F. bots for a lost item. 

His eyes landed on the charging station. To anyone else, it would seem normal as can be, unnoticeable to the untrained eye. However, the gator knows darn well that a charging station is never left partially closed. It’s common courtesy amongst the animatronics in the building to have some manners after all. You either leave it open for the next bot, or close it while in use.

Filled with both curiosity but mostly the nagging of his security module, he sauntered over to the recharge station. He didn’t take the time to check through the small window, he’s a busy gator. Ripping the door open he stared blankly at the inside of the cell for a moment before slowly lowering his gaze. 

As soon as his optics scanned the person as an intruder, he felt his security protocols kick in on full gear. He clenched the handle of the small compartment, leaning in with narrowed eyes. Tipping his snout down to make eye-contact with the shorter animatronic, the gator let out a low growl.

“It’s past closing hours, what th’ell ‘ya doing here, lady?” 

——————

I hope I characterized both characters correctly!

——————

2nd Chapter

[heavenboy09]

20 Years Ago On September 3rd, 2003

FROM ANTEFILMS PRODUCTION & MOONSCOOP GROUP, FRANCE 🇫🇷 3 & CANAL J PRESENTS

THE BEST FRENCH ANIMATION CARTOON EVER MADE

Jeremy Belpois, an 8th grade prodigy attending boarding school at Kadic Academy, discovers a quantum supercomputer in an abandoned factory near his school. Upon activating it, he discovers a virtual world called Lyoko with an artificially intelligent girl named Aelita trapped inside it. Jeremy learns of XANA, a fully autonomous, malevolent, and highly intelligent multi-agent system, that also dwells within the Supercomputer.

Using Lyoko's powers, XANA can possess electronics and objects in the real world like a virus to wreak havoc. XANA's primary objective is to eliminate anyone aware of the Supercomputer's existence so that it will be free to conquer the real world and destroy all humanity.

Jeremy works tirelessly to materialize Aelita into the real world and stop attacks caused by XANA. Jeremy is aided by his three friends Odd Della Robbia, Ulrich Stern, and Yumi Ishiyama, who are virtualized into Lyoko to save both worlds from the sinister virtual entity. They achieve this by escorting Aelita to various Towers on Lyoko, which serve as interface terminals between Lyoko and Earth. Once the Tower is deactivated, Jeremy can launch a "Return to the Past" program, which sends the world back in time to undo any damage caused by XANA, while anyone scanned into the Supercomputer retains their memory of the events. In "Code: Earth," Aelita is finally materialized, but the group discovers that XANA had planted a virus inside of her that will kill her if the Supercomputer is turned off. They realize that they cannot destroy XANA, or Aelita will be destroyed along with it.

ITS UP TO OUR LYOKO WARRIORS TO SAVE THE WORLD 🌎 AS WE KNOW IT AND MAKE THE EVIL SUPERVIRUS KNOWN AS XANA. GO AWAY

HAPPY BELATED 20TH ANNIVERSARY TO ANTEFILMS PRODUCTION & MOONSCOOP GROUP, FRANCE 🇫🇷 3 & CANAL J

CODE LYOKO 💻 #CodeLyoko

[indigosunsetao3]

A Reason To Try

Chapter 1 - Onset

Masterlist of Chapters

Warnings: 18+ - No minors Please read the tags on AO3 for any of your triggers

Alex Keller X Original FMC 8.7k words - AO3 Link

With a huff, Madeline leaned back in her office chair and stared at her computer screen. She was waiting for the latest batch of files to finish dropping so she could start working down her current client’s bills. The system she was using was old and this many documents could take a few minutes before they were ready. But there was no walking away from the computer, her supervisor was a hard-ass that spent his days watching all his employees’ statuses to make sure they didn’t go idle. He also enjoyed randomly calling with mundane questions just to be sure people weren’t rigging the system to show they were there when they weren’t. If the job market hadn’t been so bleak, especially with her lack of experience, Madeline would have left it by now. The gig was just a temporary contract job, an attempt to start saving up some cash on the side so she could spend money without feeling guilty for it.

Boston was where Madeline found herself calling home these days. She had grown up in the Northeast but the minute she had turned eighteen she fled the house determined to make her own way. She traveled all around the United States for much of her young adult life. Worked odd jobs, couch surfing, and at one point had even lived in a commune for a bit when her money ran out. It exasperated her parents who implored her to be more like her older sister, Josephine.

Josephine, Madeline’s older sister by twelve years, was the golden child. She had been the one that stayed close to home, attended college at an elite school, and graduated with honors. She quickly dominated her field after her residency and married a respectable man. Within a year of marriage, she had become pregnant and had a son, Everett. Somehow, Josephine managed to do all this while maintaining a career and helping her parents navigate through their golden years while dealing with terminal illnesses.

Then there was Madeline, the accidental but no less wanted, rebellious child. She had been born when her mother was in her early forties and her father almost fifty. They were a bit too old to be raising a rambunctious toddler and headstrong teenager, but they did their best. While Madeline was not horrible in school, it wasn’t her favorite thing and she was often in trouble for goofing off or skipping it all together. Marriage was something that terrified her, a lifelong commitment in her early twenties like her parents tried to push on her made her run even further away. And children? She could barely keep herself functioning, there was no way she could be a mother. Not yet.

Josephine had stepped in often to keep Madeline in line and help pick her back up when she fell flat on her face. Despite the age and personality differences, the sisters were close. They stayed in constant contact through Madeline’s journey around the country, each keeping one another up to date on current things happening in their lives. When both of their parents passed a few years apart from one another they leaned heavily on each other to get through it. The loss had been a hard hit, less than two years between each passing, and Madeline debated on moving closer to Josephine realizing that she wanted to be around her sister and her nephew more. She didn’t really care for her brother-in-law much. He was a bit too opinionated and she had no problem calling him out on his bullshit when she thought he was being too full of himself. But if putting up with him to be with the rest of what was left of her family she would do it.

So, when Madeline got the call that Josephine’s marriage fell apart, her husband having multiple mistresses, Madeline decided that was the universe’s sign it was time. Josephine had been the one who cared for their parents before they both passed and always helped Madeline. This time she needed someone to look out for her. Without second thought Madeline packed up her meager belongings and flew in from California almost nine months ago and had set up residency in the guest bedroom of Josephine’s rather spacious fifteenth floor apartment. Josephine didn’t ask much of her younger sister, just for her companionship and to help with her son instead of having to hire babysitters.

“This is hot chocolate weather,” Madeline muttered to herself as she peered out the window and saw the beginning of a few fat snowflakes falling. The news had called for another snowstorm that day, nothing like the nor’easter they had over the weekend, but it could be a few inches. She glanced down at her computer screen to see that the files were only thirty percent of the way loaded before clicking to see her supervisor’s status. He was on lunch. Pushing out of the chair she wandered to the kitchen and set about making herself said cup of hot chocolate.

Just as she was about to make her way back to her bedroom to take a seat her cell phone buzzed in her pocket. Digging it out of the fuzzy pants she was wearing, the perks of working from home, she spotted it was Josephine calling. Her sister was out of town, out of the country actually, on assignment with EIS. Her sister was an Epidemic Intelligence Service officer, she was the one they sent out when outbreaks happened to see the cause of a sickness and how to contain it. During the West Nile outbreak, SARs in Asia, and Ebola scare in Africa her sister had been on the ground figuring out the spread. This time she was in the jungles of South America following the outbreak of some new disease.

“If you’re calling to complain about how hot it is I’m going to hang up,” Madeline said into the phone as she took a hard seat back in her chair and checked the files. “We’re getting even more snow today, wind is rattling the windows like crazy,” she sighed and shook her mouse to get the screensaver to turn off. And of course, there was a message from her supervisor asking where she was.

“I need you to go get Everett,” Josephine said, completely ignoring everything Madeline had just said to her. She sounded a bit agitated and perhaps urgent.

“What? Is he sick? The school didn’t call me,” Madeline answered, pulling her phone away from her ear to make sure she hadn’t missed the call. Or text. Or Email. Schools were so different now than when she had been in them. They had twenty different ways to get ahold of you, including an app and Madeline wouldn’t be surprised if there were live camera feeds soon so parents could stare at their children all day. She never would survive school these days, she skipped way too often as a teen.

“No, they didn’t call, I just,” Josephine sighed and Madeline heard people talking to her in the background. “I can’t tell you much alright. Just, please go get Everett. Give them an excuse about a family emergency if they ask. Stop at the store and get some food to last a few days. Don’t interrupt,” she said as she heard Madeline open her mouth to argue. “It’s hopefully nothing, me just being paranoid but I don’t want to risk it.”

“Josie,” Madeline said, ignoring the call coming over the computer from her boss. “You’re scaring me. What is going on?”

“This is just, it’s out of hand down here,” Josephine answered. “And I don’t think their government is being truthful about the spread,” she continued. “I think it’s already much further along than what we’ve been told is all. It’s highly contagious and we all remember how SARs was,” she stated with a sarcastic laugh.

“SARs? Please tell me it’s not something like that again,” Madeline said instantly feeling her heartrate skyrocket. SARs had been a horrendous time for the whole family, Josephine had been gone for months on end and had been her shitty husband's excuse for finding the company of other women. “Should I assume you will not be coming home this Thursday?” Madeline asked as her supervisor called her yet again on the computer and she declined it.

“No, not SARs,” Josephine said, though it seemed a bit cryptic, maybe even ominous. “And safe assumption,” Josephine answered before someone yelled for her. “Pick up some shitty junk food and tell Everett it’s from me,” she laughed, “and get yourself some wine. You’re going to need it locked up in the house with him for a few days.”

“I’ll need a case,” Madeline joked, though the unease in her stomach as her sister hung up made it feel flat.

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

“Goddamn it, Keller,” one of the men said as he threw down his cards on the table in defeat. They had been playing poker outside in the setting sun. The desert heat was oppressive but being in the tents with no circulating air was ten times worse so they had set up the table in the shadow of one of the trucks.

“I warned you not to play with him,” came Farah’s voice and Alex turned around and grinned at her as she peered over the table. The spoils of the game were a mix of some coins, cigarettes, and a pack of gum. “He reads people too well,” she patted Alex’s shoulder as he scooped his winnings toward him before tossing a cigarette to the guy next to him.

“My poker face helps as well,” Alex answered as he flipped open the pack of gum and popped a piece into his mouth. He had been dominating the game with shit hands for the most part, but when it mattered for the biggest pot, he had actually made sure he had the winning one. “You need to just get better about your tells,” he mused as one of the guys rolled his eyes, shuffling the cards up.

“I see right through that poker face,” Farah answered she nudged his shoulder with her hip as she snatched up a smoke as well.

“That’s why I don’t play with you, you’d fleece me for everything I’ve got,” Alex responded before shaking his head at the offer to play another round. “I know when to walk away,” he taunted as he flipped a coin with his thumb before pocketing it. “Need to give you boys a chance anyway,” he glanced up at Farah who merely nodded her head back to indicate she wanted him to walk with her.

Pushing up from his seat Alex followed along behind Farah, always keeping himself a half-step behind and to the side when they were around others. She was the commander of the ULF, and he was her second, so Alex made sure to display that respect.

“You got a message from Laswell asking you to call her,” Farah explained as she led the way into a small canvas building, holding the flap up for Alex to grab before disappearing inside. When she saw the face Alex pulled, she smiled a bit, “a phone call won’t hurt.”

“I just don’t know what she could possibly want from me,” Alex said as he reached for the satellite phone that was resting on the table. The number was already programmed in the phone and he hit the button to dial, watching Farah.

“We need you back here Alex,” was Laswell’s form of hello, “shit is about to happen and we’re going to need all hands on deck back here.”

“What?” Alex asked, instantly curious despite the fact he had told himself he wouldn’t feed into whatever she wanted from him. “I can’t come home, you made sure of that,” he added with a hint of agitation as Farah raised her eyebrows.

“That’s done with,” Laswell said dismissively, “I cleared that shit up weeks ago once I was done holding my grudge.”

“Weeks? Shit, Laswell, you could have fucking said something sooner,” Alex snapped as he grabbed the back of the chair he was standing next to.

“You wouldn’t have come home anyway. Farah seems to be your home now,” she tacked on with a small sigh. “I’m not going to argue about it right now. We’re all about to be in some deep shit, Farah included, and I’ve got a mission for all of you. I’ve already called Price.”

“Price,” Alex asked aloud, flicking his eyes to Farah so she knew what they were discussing. John and Farah had been close for years and he knew if Price was in on it, she would follow suit. “Fine, let’s hear it,” he tacked on before taking the phone from his ear and sliding it onto the table hitting the speaker button.

“There’s a sickness spreading,” Laswell said, her voice tinny through the phone. “Started in South America, not sure the origin. The Venezuelan government covered it up as long as possible and by the time we were able to get our people down there, it spread.”

Farah pulled out a seat across from Alex and grabbed a notebook, while he continued to stand, leaning over the back of the chair listening.

“Spread where?” Alex inquired as Farah jotted down a few notes.

“Reports of it in Colombia and Panama already,” Laswell answered. “And found on shipping vessels docked in Cuba and Nigeria.”

“But what does this have to do with us? Hardly sounds like a military operation,” Alex said, drumming his fingers.

“The illness isn’t the flu,” Laswell replied. “It’s making people violent,” she stated and they heard her flipping through papers. “Infected people are attacking others, biting, ripping them apart,” she continued. “It seems to spread through bites. It’s in the blood, saliva. Killing them is next to impossible without a headshot, bullets don’t slow them down otherwise.”

“What, like a zombie?” Alex asked with a small laugh but when Laswell didn’t respond with a laugh, an ominous feeling settled over him. “You’re joking,” he added.

“Not joking Keller,” Laswell replied. “This is deadly and fast spreading. We need you to extract the scientists working on it down in Venezuela. They’re our best shot at a cure, they think they found patient zero,” she explained. “The 141 has already signed on and I want you with them. The research team we need extracted is being led by an American woman. It’s a joint effort with British and Canadian scientists. We need to get to them before the Konni do.”

“The Konni? What do they have to do with this?” Farah piped up, instantly narrowing her eyes.

“They’re also aware of the situation and they want the chance at a cure first. Whoever has the cure has the power in this situation and no matter what we do, it’s going to get out of control. Fast.” Laswell answered.

Alex glanced at Farah, a silent question and also requesting permission. She stared back at him for a second, her eyes darting between his before giving a curt nod.

“When?” He asked finally.

“I can have transport to you tomorrow morning at o-five hundred,” Laswell replied. “You’ll rendezvous with the 141 in England then you’re meeting up with Shadow company back here,” she continued. “All of you need to put your shit aside,” she tacked on knowing there was bad blood between all of them and Graves. “We don’t have time to fight amongst ourselves. This illness was first reported to us three days ago and it’s already in five countries that we are aware of…and I’m afraid there’s a lot more we aren’t aware of.”

“What do you want from me?” Farah asked.

“Keep your people safe,” Laswell answered. “And be prepared. If we can’t keep this contained it won’t be long before it’s over there.”

Farah couldn’t be part of the unit; Laswell may have been able to smooth things over with Alex but it was a bit harder for her to clear a non-American citizen for defying orders. The American government still classified ULF as a ‘terrorist force’, though they didn’t do anything to them, just refused to work with or aid them.

“We’ll get it done,” Alex answered after a second as he looked at Farah. He wasn’t leaving her behind forever but he wasn’t going to let this spread either. If he could help reign it in before it got to Urzikstan she wouldn’t have to deal with it at all.

“I’ll have more information on your mission when you get back on American soil,” Laswell said before hanging up.

Alex stared at the phone for a second, processing what Laswell had just told him before glancing at Farah across the way from him. She was staring at him, the pen in her hand tapping idly on the notes she had scribbled; it wasn’t much information.

“I don’t like leaving you like this,” Alex said after a second as he looked around the empty canvas room.

The tent they were in was Farah’s, the command center and living room rolled into one, her bedroom behind another flap in the far corner. They had set this small area up as a base about two weeks ago, they needed one out on the east side to keep a better eye on a few Russian sympathizer neighbors. It had been a nice break from the hustle of the city. They had only brought a small group of soldiers with them and the silence was peaceful, as well as the semblance of a bit of privacy.

It was known that Alex was Farah’s right hand and had been since her brother betrayed her. It was also whispered that he was more to her than that, though Alex truly wasn’t sure. Truth be told there wasn’t a title for what they were to one another, it was never actually discussed between them. They both had jobs to do, Farah’s country and duty came first. She had made that very clear and Alex understood implicitly. If he came in the way of that or clouded her judgment, she would end whatever it was between them. So, Alex was careful with the extent of his affections even if it burned him from the inside sometimes.

“I’ll be fine Alex,” Farah answered as she pushed up from her chair and shut the notebook. “I can survive without you for a few days,” she tacked on with a small smile, knowing this was going to be more than a few days, more likely weeks.

“I know you can,” Alex said as he walked around the table and stood in front of her, arms crossed over his chest as he looked down at her. He itched to grab her and pull her to him but he didn’t. “Doesn’t mean I want you to,” he replied, conceding to reaching out and brushing a stray strand of hair off the side of her face. “If this is spreading like Laswell said it is,” he paused, “we may be too late already. I’d be better served here, with you. Keep you and the others safe.”

“You need to go help them find those scientists and that potential cure,” Farah replied. “Laswell didn’t ask for your help without reason. She must need something from you that only you can provide.”

Alex took a deep breath through his nose, adjusting his stance a bit as Farah seemingly stared down at him despite him having multiple inches on her. Her gaze was hard and he knew a command was coming from her so closed his eyes in defeat and nodded. He knew Laswell had asked because of his background; CIA. He could move through different countries easily. He also had contacts all over the place and could provide intelligence from other agencies he had worked with in the past. Laswell may know powerful people but Alex knew the seedy underbelly ones that she couldn’t be associated with; the ones that actually ran things. And if they were going to the America’s he had more pull than John Price did there.

“One more night of peace here,” Farah said as she tilted her head and reached out to rub his upper arm with her hand, the only soft gesture she ever gave him freely. “Don’t brood,” she teased, “make it worthwhile.” She stepped around him to head back outside where someone had started up a fire. She didn’t glance back and he heard her call out to a friend and start commenting about what they were making for dinner.

Alex watched her go, watched her disappear out of the tent and he sighed a bit at the disappointment after getting his hopes at her last comment.  He knew his mind and emotions wanted more from her, ached for something else besides scant touches and sidelong glances. But Farah wouldn’t let that happen.

Farah had only let her guard down and dragged Alex to her bed a handful of times and after each time she fled from him and avoided him for days, weeks. Alex would pretend nothing had happened, let her get comfortable again, and they’d go back to this slightly awkward dance until she sought him out again. He’d always willingly given himself over to her, hoping this time it would be different but it never was. He had to deal with the painful aftermath, pack away his feelings, and tell himself not to let it happen again. He failed at that resolve every time.

Alex busied himself in his own tent for a bit, despite the sweltering heat. It was right next to Farah’s private quarters, close enough that if a threat happened upon them, he could get to her in seconds. He packed up all his things, tossing the meager items he had brought with him on this trip before someone popped their head in to ask if he was coming to eat. He joined them with a smile, careful to sit across the fire from Farah as they all ate and talked. He caught Farah looking at him, the calculated gaze he knew too well, but Alex adverted his eyes. He had already let his hopes get too high today; he wasn’t going to do it again. Maybe this time away would help him clear his head a bit, her too.

As the group started to disperse Alex helped with the clean up before heading to his own tent. He kept his gaze fixed purposely forward to avoid Farah whose eyes he could feel burning into his back. The tent was still warm despite the cool air that had settled over the desert but it didn’t deter him; he was used to the heat by now. Alex’s rest was fitful, most of it spent staring at the dying glow of the fire through the dark brown tent canvas. He gave up trying to sleep at four and disassembled his tent quietly, folding everything up and tucking it to the side so the group didn’t need to bother with it when they left.

Farah met him where he had sat next to the dead firepit fifteen minutes before his transport was due to be there. He had been flipping through his pack to make sure he had all his documentation before glancing up as she handed him a coffee. He smiled and thanked her before they sat in silence, shoulders pressed against one another. It wasn't long before the whir of a helicopter could be heard approaching.

“I guess that’s me,” Alex stated with a small grin as the helicopter landed fifty yards away, kicking the sand up into a giant dust cloud. He set his cup down on the log next to him before saying, “I’ll be back soon. Stay safe.” Farah reached up a hand to squeeze his upper arm, a forced smile gracing her features.

“I’ll see you in a few days,” she agreed with a small nod before dropping her hand and tilting her head toward the helicopter indicating he needed to go. She opened her mouth as if to say something else but didn’t, and Alex didn’t try to get it out of her. Some space was definitely warranted between them.

Pulling up his shemagh, Alex gave Farah one last look before jogging toward the waiting helicopter. By the time he was situated inside and they lifted off again she was already gone. Back inside the tent to get back to work.

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

“Just because you get to stay home does not mean you get to miss out on doing work,” Madeline said to Everett as he flopped over dramatically on the couch. She had picked him up early from school two days ago and he had been trying to get out of the homework packet his teacher had sent home with him since. Madeline had laid down a false lie about a family emergency and that he would be out the rest of the week. She would wait to hear back from her sister before she kept him out any longer, hoping that Josephine was just being extra cautious and would give the all clear in her next phone call.

“But it’s a snow day!” Everett argued as he pointed outside at the fresh layer of snow that hadn’t all been cleared away yet. “I want to go sledding,” he whined as he pressed his nose to the glass to watch other kids outside in the park across the way throwing snowballs and sliding down the very small hill.

“Do your work and we can talk about going out to play,” Madeline bargained. She knew Josephine would have her head if she let Everett outside after explicitly pulling him from school. But it was cruel to make a six-year-old stay inside all day when there was perfectly good snow to play in. “Ah ah, I said talk,” she reiterated as Everett’s eyes lit up and he dove for the file of papers to get started.

Madeline had kept a close eye on the news about this sickness her sister had mentioned. Josephine hadn’t given her much details so any mention of illness caught her ears and she watched the news carefully. Nothing truly stuck out as devastating or worrisome, just typical flu, so the fear that had been gnawing at her abated as each hour passed. No news was good news after all.

Madeline sat in the living room with Everett as he worked, mostly jiggling her mouse so her status didn’t go idle. She had finished her actual work hours before Everett even woke up, knowing she would have her hands full with a kid to actually get work done. Her boss didn’t need to know that though. After three hours of watching Everett, or E as she liked to call him because his full name was too stuffy for a child, Madeline was over it. The snow was still lightly falling and even from this high up she and Everett could hear the children outside laughing and carrying about.

“Promise to not tell mom?” Madeline asked as she fought with the zipper of Everett’s puffed-up jacket. He was bouncing on his feet with excitement, glancing toward the front door where his sled rested.

“I won’t Aunt Mads,” Everete said exasperated as Madeline had already told him twice not to mention anything to Josephine. His mom had pulled him from school because she didn’t want him around anyone, and taking him to the park was a direct violation of that action. “It’s going to get dark soon,” he whined as Madeline tugged on her own hat.

“You’ll be a frozen popsicle and asking to come inside long before it gets dark,” Madeline answered with a laugh before yanking the door open and following Everett out the door as he bolted for the elevator. She had tucked a few face masks in her pocket, and effort to show some semblance of caution. If they were around too many people she’d just slip one on each of them under their scarves. “Hold on,” she called as Everett waved her forward having left her to lug the sled.

The park was mostly empty, the kids that had been out all day finally calling it quits either because they were soaked to the skin or their parents came to get them. Madeline cleared off a bench and perched on the edge to watch Everett as he trucked up and down the small hill laughing the whole way. He asked her to ride down with him a few times which she refused, but willingly watched him every time he shrieked for her to watch this slightly different sitting position as he went down the hill. She had pulled out her phone and was scrolling through her news feed again, carefully looking for anything new when she noticed Everett had fallen a bit quiet.

Snapping her eyes up she saw him talking to a little girl, maybe a year or two younger, and they were moving to ride down the hill together on Everett’s sled as her father looked on. The man looked over at Madeline and gave her a small smile, which she returned feeling slightly guilty at betraying Josephine’s trust. Everett at least had his scarf around his mouth and the little girl was bundled up as well. One ride wouldn’t hurt.

Pocketing the phone, she watched them go down the hill before noticing someone down at the bottom that hadn’t been there before. It was an older man, he was walking a bit awkwardly, coughing and he stumbled falling down to one knee as the sled came to a stop. Everett, ever the one to be helpful, hopped up and went to offer to help when Madeline shrieked for him.

“E! We have to get going,” she called quickly and she saw the confused look her nephew gave her as he glanced between her and the man. The guy was coughing still and his body seemed to be almost twitching as he didn’t even attempt to stand up. Madeline felt a chill that had nothing to do with the cold running down her spine. The little girl’s father had also picked up on the oddity and called his daughter over to him as well. Madeline and the father exchanged glances, and a small nod before he turned tailed to leave the park.

“What if he needed help?” Everett asked as he dragged his sled over to Madeline, glancing over his shoulder at the man who hadn’t gotten up yet. “We shouldn’t leave him,” he said apprehensively as Madeline took the sled from his hands.

“I’ll call someone to come help him,” Madeline offered as she stared concerned at the man over Everett’s head. He had fallen back on his butt and he was visibly choking as he coughed, and there was bright red blood on the snow around him. Not wanting Everett to see she quickly placed a hand on the back of his head to steer him out of the park with a forced smile.

“How about spaghetti for dinner?” She asked knowing it was his favorite. She glanced over her shoulder again as she moved to get her phone out of her jacket. She wasn’t heartless, she had planned on calling someone but it seemed another good samaritan had seen and walked over to help the guy. Good. If she didn’t have Everett with her she would have gone over herself, even if she had no idea how she could help.

As they crossed the street to the apartment building her phone buzzed in her pocket. Digging out her phone she saw it was Josephine and she cursed under her breath. Everett looked at her with a mix of scandalization and amusement, knowing his aunt now owed him another dollar for the swear jar his mom and she contributed to. Hustling into the building Madeline put a finger to her lips with a grin as she answered the call, pausing at the mailboxes to grab the mail from the past few days.

“Madeline,” Josephine said as soon as the call connected. She sounded concerned, her voice an octave higher than normal. The background noise was loud and chaotic and Madeline had to put a finger in her other ear to hear better.

“What’s up, Josie?” Madeline asked as she dug out junk mailers from the small box and handed them to Everett who was flipping through it. She really needed to check the mail more often. She dug out more items that were stuck and stuffed them into Everett’s hands.

“Where are you?” Josephine asked.

“The mailroom,” Madeline answered truthfully as she shut the small mail door and locked it up.

“Go back to the apartment,” Josephine answered tersely. “And pack.”

“What?” Madeline asked, her hand pausing on the mailroom door as she shifted the sled under her arm more. “What are you talking about?”

“You need to get out of the city,” Josephine answered. “I’m trying to see if I can get you to the CDC,” she paused before something smashed in the background. “Or fuck, out of the country. Somewhere, just not in the city.”

Everett had heard the cuss through the phone as they stood at the mailroom door and grinned holding up two fingers.

“Josie,” Madeline said quietly as she pushed open the mailroom door as someone walked over to get in. She instantly stepped away from them and crowded Everett behind her out of caution, subtly pulling her scarf back up over her own mouth. “You’re freaking me out a bit. Can you give me a little more details?”

“It’s spreading Mads,” Josephine said. “I haven’t gotten all the details yet, things are so murky, but the sickness is already out of hand.”

“Okay, so we just stay in the apartment, right? Avoid people, wait it out,” Madeline said as she called the elevator. Her sister had shared protocols and standard procedures with the family years ago. After all the things she had seen, she wanted to make sure the family was prepared. She had always lived by the motto when, not if when it came to sicknesses spreading. “Take our vitamins, sleep all day, and eat soup,” she joked a bit looking at Everett who pulled a face at vitamins.

“There’s no waiting this out,” Josephine answered. “It’s making people,” her voice cut out as the elevator rose up between floors. A few more jumbled words came through but it was static.

“Hang on Josie, we’re on the elevator,” Madeline said as she held her phone away from her face to see if the call dropped. Tapping her foot impatiently she waited for the elevator to reach their floor before darting out and putting the phone back to her ear.

“-blood and salvia.” Josephine finished, not realizing the call had dropped for a bit.

“Wait, explain again, we were on the elevator,” Madeline said as she fished out the apartment keys. She bit off her glove as she fumbled one handed with the key before getting the door unlocked and ushered Everett in.

“I don’t have time,” Josephine said a bit hurriedly. “Just pack up go bags and be ready. Have both of your passports just in case I can’t get arrangements for you to meet me at the CDC. Maybe I can get you down here.”

“Josephine,” Madeline said a bit sterner than she was feeling. “Are you fucking with me?” She looked at Everett who was peeling off his snow clothes in the laundry room, he hadn’t heard her. “Like is this a joke?”

“I’m not joking Madeline,” Josephine answered seriously, using her full name like Madeline had just done to her. “Your passport is with Everett’s in the lockbox in my closet I put it there when you moved in.” She knew her sister well enough that Madeline would lose it if someone didn’t keep track of it for her. “With some cash. I have a to go bag filled with essentials in there too. Tucked behind Garett’s old shit he never picked up.”

“Cash? This is...Josie please how bad can this really be?” She watched as Everett started poking in the pantry, using Madeline’s temporary distraction to sneak a snack before dinner. Traveling with a six-year-old was going to be hellacious. Everett was a good kid but children were not easy, especially when they were in new high stress situations. Madeline barely managed to figure out traveling herself, then she’d have to potentially go international. “What about Garett? Does he need to know?”

“Who cares about him? He left a year ago and hasn’t even called his son,” Josephine said agitated. “Look I have to go. Go pack. Now. Don’t wait. Once I get arrangements, I’ll call you and things are going to move quick…don’t roll your eyes.” She finished knowing Madeline had been in mid-roll. “And stay in the damn apartment. No midnight runs to the corner shop for ice cream, or to flirt with the neighbor down the hall.”

“You’re the worst,” Madeline answered before hanging up and looking at Everett who had quickly stuffed three cookies in his mouth so Madeline couldn’t tell him to put them back.

“When is mom coming home?” Everett asked as he glanced at the phone. He knew his mother worked odd hours, sometimes not calling for days but he had obviously clocked she hadn’t asked to speak to him. “Is she okay?”

“She’s alright bud, just busy. You know how she gets when she’s working,” Madeline said quietly, silently cursing herself for not calling him over to at least say hello. “Go take a shower,” Madeline said as she ruffled his hair which was damp with sweat and melted snow. He was shivering slightly and she knew a shower would warm him. Plus, if they were traveling, he needed to get cleaned up. She couldn’t remember the last time he showered and to be honest she could use one as well. “We’ll eat afterward,” she reasoned as he huffed and rubbed his stomach. “Those cookies you snuck should hold you off.”

When he was safely in the shower Madeline went into his room and grabbed a few clothes, staring at the potential items. What was she supposed to pack? The CDC was in Atlanta so that was warmer, but it was still winter. But if they were going to South America it would be way too hot for winter clothes. She sighed and tucked a few things under her arm before going to her room and pulling random things out of her dresser and closet. Yanking a duffle bag out, one of her exes that she had taken when she left him in the middle of the night over a year ago, she stuffed all their things inside of it. Then ventured into Josephine’s room, pausing to make sure Everett was still distracted. He was still singing in the shower and she smirked before delving into Josephine's closet.

The lockbox combo was Everett’s birthday and when Madeline opened it her eyes widened. There was a stack of cash, passports, divorce papers, and other random paperwork mingled inside, including her parent's wills. Fishing around all that Madeline took the cash and passports and jammed them into her duffle before pulling Josephine’s bag out from behind a box labeled ‘asshole’s shit’.

It was a professional looking backpack that had a handle and wheels, the perfect opposite of Madeline’s beaten and frayed bag. She unzipped one of the pockets to take a look at what her sister qualified as 'essentials' but heard Everett calling out to her from the kitchen. He was already in the cabinets and the rattling of pots because he was impatient. She left the bag half unzipped before standing up, she’d check it later.

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

“We have limited time,” Price said as he stared at Graves across the table from them. He had taken up the mantel of talking, Soap’s face had been murderous as he stared at the commander the moment he walked in the room. “Alejandro and Rudy checked in; it’s moving fast. Mexico is already starting to get overrun,” he tossed a file on the table. “This is intelligence from an hour ago, but based off Laswell’s call this is probably all outdated already.”

“What the fuck is it?” Gaz asked the question they had all been wanting to ask.

“Not sure boys,” Graves said as he pushed up from his chair. “The scientists have akin it to something like rabies, but it’s not killing the hosts and it's rapid onset. Some people get sick within minutes, others an hour or so. Just makes them crazed, they attack others unprovoked. Only way to put them down is,” he pointed between his eyes. “Body shots just piss them off more.”

“Even filling them with bullets?” Ghost asked and Graves nodded. “How?”

“It’s like they are running on pure muscle memory and electricity. Blood loss is nothing to them. You have to kill the brain to get them to stop,” Alex said as he gestured to the pile of paper in the center of the table. He hadn’t been able to sleep since they landed and spent the past few hours going through all the papers.

“Could always blow them up,” Soap stated, “doesn’t always fucking work though,” he added cutting a glare to Graves who merely gave him a sarcastic smirk in response. Soap adjusted in his chair like he would get up but Ghost quickly put a hand on his chest and pushed him back into the seat.

“If they aren’t really dead, or alive for that matter, once they get infected,” Gaz asked looking around, “what’s a cure going to do?”

“That’s above my pay grade,” Graves answered. “We don’t even know if they have a cure yet, or vaccine, but we need the information they’ve gathered.”

“So, what’s the plan? If it’s moving this fast we can’t just sit here,” Alex said, his thoughts instantly going to Farah. He had tried to call her when he touched down in Boston and settled in the nondescript building they were using as headquarters, but she didn’t answer. Not unusual but it made him uneasy.

“Their head scientist has a request,” Price said. “She wants us to get her family,” he looked at Graves who scoffed. “Her son is six,” he tacked on with a bit of an edge to his voice. “I told her if someone can get them here, we would take them. But they needed to be here before we left, we aren’t waiting.”

“Why is her son special?” Ghost asked, never one to worry about tact or being blunt. “There are plenty of children that are at risk.”

“Nothing,” Price answered curtly. “She asked and I said I’d see what I could do but I wasn’t going out of my way. She understood. She has four hours to get him and her sister here.”

“What are we going to do with a child and civilian in the jungles of Venezuela? It’s going to be bad enough keeping the scientists alive,” Gaz stated sitting back in his seat with a skeptical look. “They’d be safer here at home I’d think, or going out into the countryside a bit.”

“We’re not all going to Venezuela,” Graves answered. “Some of us are headed right to the CDC to prepare for their arrival. Russia is racing us to the finish line, if they think we’re going to win they’ll sabotage anyway they can.”

“And they know the CDC is where we will go,” Alex answered. “We’re taking the family to the CDC with us instead.”

“Exactly,” Price answered.

“Who got the short stick?” Soap asked, not really saying which he considered a short stick but everyone knew it meant being with Graves.

“Alex, Gaz, Graves, and I are headed to South America,” Price said and he saw Soap open his mouth to fight. “You, Ghost, and a chunk of Shadow company are headed to the CDC.”

“We’re on babysitting duty,” Ghost stated, his voice highly unimpressed.

“You’re transporting a kid and his aunt to the custody of the staff there, yes,” Price replied evenly. “If they get here. You just have to deal with them on the flight.”

“If all goes to plan, we’ll be back in a few days with the joint research team and they get to do the rest of the work. Our job is to keep them alive.” Graves filled in before someone busted into the room. All of them jumped and Ghost's hand itched instinctively to a throwing knife on his vest.

“Timeline is moved up,” a man said as Graves snatched a paper from him. “A flight that landed at Logan airport was quarantined on the tarmac for hours. Man flew in from Mexico after spending time in Venezuela. Fell ill halfway here and they suspected he had the sickness. When the local security finally breached the plane, everyone was too far gone and they couldn’t keep them contained. They didn’t wait for military,” he was panicking, the sweat on his brow and upper lip pronounced. “Boston is going to be overrun by daybreak. There are more reports of it all over the country as we speak.”

“Fuck,” Graves said as he threw the paper on the table. “We move now. We can’t get caught here,” he stated as he marched toward the door to start rallying his team together. “If it’s already that widespread here who knows how bad it is down in Venezuela.”

Alex grabbed a laptop and started to scroll through the news feeds. All the media had been quiet about the sickness mere hours ago and now it was cropping up in bits and pieces. He felt a cold sweat break down his back at what he was finding with each click. A sickness that hadn’t existed a week ago was showing its face all over the place at a rapid pace.

Social media was starting to flood with it and he froze as he saw a shaky video of someone filming a man brutally tackling a woman to the ground with a snarl and literally rip her apart. Her screams were shrill and everyone in the room turned to look at Alex who quickly lowered the volume, not realizing it was as high as it had been.

“How long until we’re wheels up?” Gaz asked as he moved around to look at the laptop with Alex who had moved on from that video. He was looking for anything in the Middle East, for Urzikstan. The sickness was already in Nigeria when he had left, which meant it had crossed the Atlantic which was much bigger than the distance between then Nigeria to Farah.

“Hour and a half,” Graves said as he stormed back in, “we leave here for the airfield in forty-five minutes.”

“That’s not going to be enough time for the boy and his aunt to get here,” Alex said as he glanced at his watch.

“Then they’re on their own,” Price answered simply.

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

Madeline had passed out on the couch and didn’t hear her phone vibrating on the coffee table for a bit, the wine pulling her into a deep stupor. She was already a hard sleeper but when wine was factored in it was a miracle her phone alarm could wake her in the morning. But by the tenth call in a row, the constant rattling had worked her phone to the edge of the coffee table and it crashed to the floor startling Madeline awake. She groaned and groped for it, then wincing when she saw all the missed calls. As she was about to call Josephine back her sister called again.

“Where have you been!” Josephine all but screamed in relief and anger. “Get up. You have to leave. Now. Get Everett up,” she ordered as Madeline barely sat up on the couch.

“What?” Madeline said groggily as she rubbed at her face. “Josephine, it's two in the morning,” she bemoaned as she tried to blink her tired eyes awake more.

“I’m well aware of the time,” Josephine stated. “I have a way for you to get to the CDC but you have to leave. Right now.”

“Can we not just fly out in the morn-” Madeline started.

“No! Madeline! It’s too late for all that.” Josephine barked. “Get your ass out of bed, get my son, and get in the fucking car. Now!” Her voice had an air of terror and that was enough to wake Madeline up a bit more.

“Alright, alright,” Madeline answered as she walked to the living room light switch and flipped it on, flinching at the brightness. “Why does it have to be now? What’s changed?” She asked as she stretched and headed toward Everett’s room. She had put him to bed around nine, later than normal, and she knew he was going to be a nightmare to try and get up. He was like her with his need to sleep, she had literally dragged him out of the bed before.

“It’s already everywhere Mads. We’re,” she paused, “we’re locked up inside of an old school building. Our camp was overrun,” she stopped again. “We lost half the team. I don’t…please just get a pen and write down this address.”

“Half your team? What the hell is this? You seemed fine just a few hours ago...” Madeline stated as she paused her trek to Everett’s room and went to her own to get a post-it off her desk to write down the address Josephine gave her.

“It’s not like anything I’ve ever seen,” Josephine answered before she babbled off the address. It was a place across town, a twenty-minute drive when there was no traffic on a good day. “Stay away from people if you can. Don’t talk to anyone, don’t stop,” she sighed. “Just get to that building and ask for a man named Price, John Price. Tell them who you and Everett are, explain that you are my sister. They know to be on the lookout for you.”

Madeline wrote the information down before her phone buzzed with a message, then another, then it started to vibrate with a warning like an Amber alert. She hesitated and pulled the phone away from her ear to look at it. It was an emergency broadcast to remain indoors due to an undisclosed threat, more information would follow.

“Josie,” Madeline breathed, feeling her chest tighten. This whole time she had been thinking, hoping, her sister may have been just a touch extra paranoid, but a citywide alert going out made this real. She was getting messages from news outlets now sharing news about the alert. “They just sent a city alert to stay indoors.” Her phone buzzed with the same alert again and she saw the Alexa in the kitchen flash with the warning as well.

“Shit. It’s already out of control there. I knew they were slow to alert us down here,” Josephine snapped before taking a steadying breath. Her voice changed instantly to a calming tone, like a mother talking to their scared child.  “Go now. Get the stuff you packed earlier…you did pack, right?” She tacked on and when Madeline whispered yes, she continued. “Get to John Price and you’ll be fine. Get Everett up, get in the car, and on the road. My phone is about to die, I’ve been on it all day and power is spotty here. But you call me when you get to John.”

“Josie, how bad is this?” Madeline breathed feeling the panic welling up inside her as her phone continued to go berserk with news.

“I’ve never lied to you, have I?” Josephine asked calmly and when Madeline didn’t answer she continued, “this is as bad as it gets, Mads. You need to get out of Boston.”

[master-john-uk]

UK citizens will soon have to provide biometric evidence of their identity before they can travel to the EU.

I had the technical side of the new system explained to me in boringly explicit detail today. But it should be quick and simple (in theory).

When the system is introduced (no date confirmed yet... but probably November 2024). Prior to departure, UK nationals will have to have their fingerprints recorded and a digital photograph taken. Border Force officials state that the process should only take about 5 minutes per person, so delays will be minimal. And numerous booths for carrying out this procedure are being installed at ferry, Eurostar and Euro-Tunnel terminals.

My thoughts. Will we be able to provide the fingerprint/photographic evidence in advance, rather than on the day of travel? How much chaos is this going to cause the next time our cross-Channel ports are busy, with numerous coachloads of passengers having to be processed? [The "officials" attending today's meeting were unable to answer my questions!]