#and afterwards it took them a very long time to let go of Finn like one of them was always clutching onto him

[nympippi]

Necromancer Finney AU: Before they grew into their personalities, would the recently revived Ghost Boys be in any forms of comatose? Like, would they just sit there quietly staring at nothing with a blank expression on their faces, not reacting to anything due to being revived from the dead

Mmm not necessarily, when the boys were first revived they were very freaked out and lashed out a lot, and cried too. Griffin was sobbing and clutching onto whoever or whatever he could get his hands on, Vance was yelling, and screaming at everyone thinking that this was some kind of trick, PB was confused and refused to let anyone touch him, Robin was also a little disoriented and refused to let anyone touch him and also thought it was a trick, and lastly Bruce was the only one silent, he thought he was still dead and was so confused by all the noise but tried to not acknowledge it.

All of them thought it was a cruel trick and when they saw Finn in their basement beside his own grave they burst out crying because they really thought he was killed and they refused to believe they were alive and had been brought back.

But they do stare at walls kinda spacing out and just get stuck in their own heads, reliving what happened to them in the basement.

[kooassado]

Okay! Time for Omega Rhea brain rot cuz I'm an insomniac and I'm bored soooo yeah. Also, this is a bit of a rambling mess I'm sorry, i have not enough braincells rn lol.

So for this one I want to give more of an insight of my omega headcanons in general. You guys know how in teen wolf they usually have those fun different eye colors when they show their wolf or supernatural side? In my au, instead of blue eyes, omegas usually purple eyes when showing off their werewolf side.

Rhea would look so good with purple eyes ughhh! So there's that.

So in this omegaverse au, tjd live in a pack house together, Rhea is the only omega in their pack, with Damian and Dom being alphas and Finn being a delta ( deltas are a combination of alphas and betas together, usually the second in command after a pack leader.) Judgment Day doesn't really have an official pack leader, but it's usually Damian and Rhea handling business things.

Omega Rhea like I said in previous brainrots, didn't like her omega side in the beginning. She always used scent blockers too. So for this, once she slowly went off the blockers, I imagine it was a bit of a chaos in a while on the pack house, cuz it's a new scent and they aren't really used to. Dominik was the first to scent her and get used to it of course, he's her alpha! afterwards it was Damian and Finn was was last one. (Mainly because he's a bit sensitive to scents and he isn't used to smelling anything different in their pack.)

Rhea took a while to make her first nest. It happened during her first heat with the pack and it was...a mess. She started getting off her suppressants after Dom joined, it is a long process after years of constantly using it. She has a hard time but the boys help her through.

So, her first heat with them happened unexpectedly. Just for funsies imma say right after her match with Charlotte at wrestlemania. The boys wanted to celebrate her win, but she just felt way tired than usual, she just wanted a shower and go to sleep.

It was a bit late at night when the boys started smelling her scent, sweeter than normal too. (Dominik the first to notice ofc.) Imagine then walking in the pack room, seeing a large nest on their bed full of their belongings, shirts,and etc along with two glowing purple eyes under the blanket.

Rhea was scared, it had been so long since she had a heat. She was overwhelmed, extremely hot and in pain too- she even growled at Damian and Finn at one point. It took a while of Dominik trying to gently calm her down for her to settle.

Needless to say that once she was conscious enough, her and Dominik fucked like no tomorrow. Finn and Damian might have joined on the fun later 😏

Now, angst time...

The thing is, people don't know Rhea is an omega. They always assume she's either a delta or an alpha. The only ones that know are the judgment day, her family, very close friends and...Raquel. Not even liv knew.

Imagine when it suddenly gets out that she's an omega. And who's fault was it? Raquel. They were having an argument over something, probably the time where Rhea injured Raquel's knee in that one wwe short. And Raquel was pissed.

So she accidentally let out, "You're acting all tough, but you're just a omega in hiding" or something. In this au wwe isn't common to have omegas in wrestling. When Raquel said that, everyone went silent. Rhea was probably frozen in shock at that moment, then she felt betrayal and anger. She's just so upset- that even if people can't smell her sour scent, she growls.

Rhea's eyes turned purple and Raquel knew she fucked up. It was something Rhea trusted her in, and she broke that promise. Like all the others she made. Things turn into a huge mess and poor Liv is extremely conflicted. (Probably gamma Liv and Alpha Raquel. Gammas are like deltas except a mix between omegas and betas, they're right below omegas in rank.) TJD had to step up to break things off before Rhea breaks more than Raquel's knee.

Maybe she has a panick attack backstage and it turns into a pack cuddle session later...

Okay that's all I can think for now lol.

[pigeonp0st]

Hi!! Can you possibly write a head cannon where y/n is kurts twin and is dating Quinn? Sorry if this isn’t specific any storyline is ok.

Quinn Fabray x Reader #3

Words: 2,024

Warnings: Mention of Car Crash, Hospital

Notes:

I was reading a story that involved a car crash and just...sort of took inspiration from that for more direction. I hope this is what you were looking for, thank you for requesting (and sorry for spelling mistakes)

———

You got into a car crash.

It wasn’t really your fault, it’s not as if you could have known that some dude driving a truck wanted to push you off a cliff…well, you’re sure he didn’t exactly want to; but that’s not the point, you think.

The point is that you got into a car crash. A car crash (or truck crashing, really) that you should have died from, but you didn’t. A car crash that should have presented lifetime injuries, but it didn’t.

And you’re lucky. That’s the magic word that keeps going around. You’re lucky.

Yeah, fuck that.

You don’t feel very lucky, laying down in your hospital bed and feeling so much pain everywhere, laying down in your hospital bed and not even being able to go to the bathroom by yourself... this doesn’t feel lucky. This feels miserable and shitty and—

Quinn. Quinn is here.

Quinn is sitting in the corner of the hospital room, reading a book with red rimmed eyes and shaky hands.

Quinn she— she wasn’t here yesterday. You wonder for a moment how she could have found out, and then you realize…

Kurt.

Kurt went to school today. You figure he must have relayed the news to the Glee club. If you had been awake yesterday, or even the day before—the night you got into the crash—you would have told him not to tell her.

Quinn doesn’t deserve to find out about this the way she probably found out about this. Quinn doesn’t deserve the worry she’s probably feeling...you know it would have been better for you to text her yourself so she knew immediately that you were fine. So you would be able to downplay the injuries.

Kurt likes being dramatic, and Quinn likes to panic.

“Quinn, you can’t be here,” you rasp out, your throat dry from lack of use. Her green eyes immediately snap up towards you.

“Y/N,” Quinn breathes out, voice full of relief as she sets her book down and moves towards the side of your bed to cup your cheek. “They said you woke up earlier but I had to see it to believe it.”

You give her a weak smile, not able to resist nuzzling your face into her hands. Her eyes watering with more tears almost makes you regret it. “Baby,” you whisper, “Kurt...my dad...what if they see? Where are they?”

Quinn’s face morphs into something guilty and apprehensive. “They both... sort of know about our relationship now…” she rushes to continue when she sees your wide eyes, “they were shocked, but they seem to be doing fine with the news.”

You blink at her, once, twice, and then drop your eyes closed with a wince. “Kurt’s gonna bother me so much about this,” you mumble. “How did they find out?”

You feel Quinn tense before you manage to open your eyes to see it.

“Me yelling at the nice lady up front to let me see my girlfriend probably told them as much,” Quinn says slowly, as if she expects an angry reaction. You don’t feel much anger. You haven’t really cared about them knowing for a while now…

In the beginning it just made sense to keep it a secret from them. Now, not so much.

Plus, nearly dying put some things into perspective for you.

“Does Finn know?”

Now it’s Quinn’s turn to wince. “I’m not sure,” she admits quietly, then adds, “i’m sorry if i’ve made things awkward for you.”

You can’t help but laugh at that, a laugh that turns into a coughing fit, and then turns into a whole bunch of growling while you grit your teeth in pain. “Fuck, fuck, that really hurt.”

Quinn’s hand is trembling again. “Do you want me to get the doctors?” She asks, with no small amount of panic. She’s terrified, and has been terrified since the moment Kurt told her you were in an accident.

“No, no, it’s fine,” you assure her, ignoring the pull of stitches that feel like they’re everywhere, and the hurt in your ribs. “I’m sure Finn will get over it eventually, when he finds out.”

“It’s not as if you two were siblings when I dated him,” Quinn jokes, though her eyebrows are furrowed with her worry.

You give her a smile that you hope is reassuring and try to relax into the hospital bed. Your eyes are heavy with tiredness, and you feel extremely drugged (yet at the same time not drugged enough), but you want to stay awake for Quinn.

Quinn has other plans.

She kisses your forehead, then promises against the skin there, “i’ll be here when you wake up.”

And right before you drift off into the dream world, you hear her say; “please don’t do this to me again,” in a voice that’s so weak and scared that you want to open your eyes again and reassure her.

You fall asleep instead.

——-

Quinn is there when you wake up again, but so is Kurt.

They’re talking. About you, you realize bitterly. About the crash, and the physical therapy you’re going to need to go through for your shoulder.

They’re talking quietly, as if to not disturb you, and it’s weird hearing the two most important people in your life talk. Especially since you know that just a day ago Kurt was terrified of Quinn.

Maybe not terrified...he was intimidated. Everyone is of Quinn.

(Quinn admitted to you once that sometimes she thrives in their fear, and other times she just feels alone. She told you that she doesn’t want to hurt people anymore just because she’s hurting, and that she’s trying to make people comfortable around her again.

The intimidation used to be from fear, now it’s from awe, so you suppose her plan hasn’t really worked. People worship the ground she walks on.

You worship the ground she walks on.)

Quinn is more deep than you expected though, and more deep than you’re sure everyone else expects. She’s more funny, more smart, more self-deprecating, more hurt, more nerdy, more goofy—than you ever realized.

She’s just a person full of surprises.

“Y/N?”

You jump in the hospital bed in alarm, your side and shoulder aching in protest. Yep. Quinn is full of surprises.

“Are you okay?” Quinn asks, giving you a sad smile. “Sorry for shocking you.”

Kurt pokes his head over her shoulder (it’s weird seeing them so close), “you don’t look so good,” he points out, as if you hadn’t already figured that out. The glare you send him has him shrugging.

“I’m fine, babe.” You ignore Kurt’s smirk at the nickname. “Could one of you just ask the doctors for about twenty pills for the pain?”

“And a hairbrush,” Kurt jokes, though his eyes are lined with the worry he thinks he’s hiding well, “got it.”

“You try getting pushed off a small cliff by a truck, see how you look afterwards!” You yell at Kurt’s retreating back.

There’s a tense silence the second Kurt is out of the room. Quinn’s eyes are focused on a spot on the hospital sheets, and she doesn’t look at you, even as she tries to make a joke for some levity;

“Twenty pills is a definite overdose. I hope Kurt isn’t actually asking for that amount.”

You snort, shaking your head. “They wouldn’t give it to him even if he asked.” Then, quietly, you ask; “Quinn, are you alright?”

She shakes her head. “You almost died,” Quinn mumbles, and she says it like an explanation, you suppose it is one.

It was terrifying, those moments when the truck hit, and those long moments after when you were still conscious.

“I keep thinking about what would have happened if you weren’t even a bit as lucky as you were,” she admits, closing her eyes. “You almost died. The only reason you're here now is because you were lucky.”

“Quinn—”

“You can’t die,” Quinn says, her eyes desperate when they snap open to look into yours. “You don’t get to leave me. That can’t be an option.”

But it is, because nothing is really guaranteed in life. Quinn knows this, has known this since a very young age, you imagine.

“I’m sorry,” is the only thing you can manage to say in the face of Quinn’s sadness.

Quinn seems to get a hold of herself after your apology. She just shakes her head and runs a hand through her hair and she’s Quinn again. “It’s not your fault. Just work hard at getting better soon so you can help me get through the school days.”

You nod, then hesitate. “Will you love me if I never drive again?” It’s meant to be a joke but it comes out more seriously than you intend. Quinn’s eyes immediately go soft and loving.

“Yes. I’d love you even if you didn’t even want to sit in a car again,” she says, and you believe her. You believe her.

“Then you’d have to walk everywhere with me,” you laugh, even as tears fall down your cheek. Quinn immediately bends down to kiss them away.

“The more calories burned, the more junk food I can have,” Quinn reassures, and you love her.

You love her so damn much.

——

Kurt is eyeing you and Quinn with something like wonderments in his eyes later that day.

Quinn can’t bring herself to care much though. What he thinks about her relationship with you in the least of her concerns right now. The only thing she really cares about right now is you.

She cares about you looking at her the way you’re looking at her right now, with a dopey drug induced smile. She cares about the fact that you’re looking at her at all. You’re looking at her right now because you’re alive.

You’re alive, Quinn reminds herself. The what if’s don’t matter.

“Quinn, will you marry me?” You ask, words slurred together. It brings Quinn straight out of her thoughts and into the real world.

She blinks at you for a couple of seconds and then nods uncertainty. You won’t remember this anyways, Quinn assures herself, but as she looks over her shoulder at Kurt’s wide eyes she realizes that he will.

Welp.

“One day,” Quinn continues, for appearance sake. Kurt snorts behind her.

She can’t be whipped enough for her girlfriend that she accepts a proposal this young. (She is though. She hates to admit that she’s incapable of saying no to a question like that from you, but it’s the truth.)

“I wanna get married now,” You protest, and Quinn doesn’t really know what to say to that.

“Y/N you can’t force the girl to marry you. Have some respect,” Kurt says, laughter in his voice. Quinn’s thankful for his intervention, though she won’t show it.

You pout at Kurt, and then at Quinn, “Fine. Just tell me when you’re ready, okay?” You ask, and Quinn loves desperately. She loves.

“Yeah. Okay.”

Not even Kurt’s rambling about ‘the disgustingness of love’ keeps her from the lightness in her chest at seeing you smile at her the way you are now.

You’re going to be okay.

The both of you will be, Quinn realizes, when Kurt cuts off his complaints to start planning for your wedding.

“We won’t be getting married for a while,” Quinn reminds the both of them. She gets blissfully ignored after a side glance from Kurt and another pout from you.

She’ll be okay, and even—Quinn realizes—Kurt will be. She wasn’t paying attention to how devastated he seemed earlier today, but in the face of his relief and happiness the differences between his behavior now seem obvious now.

He was devastated, but he’s okay now, because you’re awake. Quinn’s okay now because you're awake.

“Quinn, will you wear a suit for the wedding?” You ask, bringing Quinn out of her thoughts for probably the fifth time today.

Kurt snickers at Quinn’s resounding grimace, and his amusement only raises when Quinn mumbles, hesitantly, “we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.”

“That sounds like a no, dear sister.”

[awanderingdeal]

Hi! I hope you're doing well. I would love to read a fluffy sort of companion piece to the unfair race, where perhaps Finn feels the itch to keep running and working out endlessly after practice but then stops himself and does something healthier instead with his boys, and they're proud of him. If you want to, of course

Hi Anon! Thanks for the request. I'm not 100% happy with this one, but here goes!

You can read 'An Unfair Race' here and it's other companion piece 'Endless Nights' here

Rating: T

CW: insinuations of poor mental health, an implied sexual joke and food.

Let me know if you feel I need to change the rating or missed any content warnings!

All credit for these characters and the sweater weather universe goes to @lumosinlove

Finn tugged his sneakers on, pulling the laces a little too tight at first, then flexing his foot to let the material push out to something more comfortable. Even as he shrugged on his windbreaker, a bright shiny thing he thought made him look like he belonged in a cutlery draw, Finn knew he was too wired for this run.

He'd never really settled down from his session with Heather this afternoon, a fate partially of his own doing. Finn knew better than the schedule social events straight afterwards, needing time to process the half explored ideas which would fester into angry beasts if he tried to ignore them. Still, he was human; what he knew was good for him, and what he actually did, were not always one and the same. An afternoon with Olli had been too appealing: shopping, cocktails, darts, and conversation dripping in sarcasm. Now, standing here at 10.30pm with his head full of too many thoughts, Finn was resentful of his earlier self.

Leaning over the bed to grab his phone, he caught his reflection in the mirror. The jacket was not something he ever would have brought himself, a present from his mom during his first year of Harvard. 'So I know you're safe in the dark' the note that came with the parcel had read. It was old and tattered, but Finn couldn't bring himself to part ways with it. The small declaration of love never failed to make him smile.

He'd reached for the phone to set an alarm, the tinny sound his reminder to return home before he pushed too far. He paused, looking at his background, a pilfered Snapchat of Leo and Logan with their arms slung around one another's shoulders. Leo's head was tipped back in a hearty laugh whilst Logan's smirked. His boys. His boys who were right there in this apartment.

Finn gave a long breath, stripped the phone pouch from his arm and changed into a warmer pair of pants than his running leggings. The windbreaker stayed. He found Leo first, sat on the couch with his legs crossed beneath him. He was yelling into his headset, accent dripping heavily through his words as he jabbed repeatedly at the controller. Finn faltered in the doorway, not wanting to disturb Leo's fun with his cousins

Leo turned anyway, setting a bright smile on Finn. "Hey fishcake, heading out?" He looked at Finn properly then, his smile mellowing into something more concerned. Lifting a hand to mute his microphone, he titled his head slightly. "What's the matter?"

"I was just going to see if you wanted to come for a walk with me," Finn said, hoping the reply didn't sound as desperate to Leo's ears as it had his own. "Don't worry though, you're busy. I'll check in with Lo."

"He's decorating cakes for Katie. We can ask if he wants to come with us though, it's nothing that can't wait. Give me one second." Before Finn could protest, Leo had switched his microphone back on and informed his cousins he needed to leave - just like that - which even Finn knew was not the done thing.

"Logan's baking?"

"I baked," Leo laughed lightly, hopping over the back of the couch. "Logan's decorating. I tried to offer help, but he insisted on doing them himself."

The cupcakes themselves were not bad at all. The kitchen, however, was a disaster. Logan stood amongst a chaos of icing, dyes and cake toppers, his forehead scrunched adorably into a frown as his fingers worked with a surprising gentle dexterity.

"I'm taking Finn for a walk," Leo proclaimed, dodging the soft punch Finn attempted to land on his shoulder. "Do you want to come, Lolo?"

"Ouais, but..." Logan spread his hands, gesturing to the counter in front of him.

"You can put the buttercream in the fridge, the rest'll wait until we're back."

Logan looked down at the cakes, then back up at his Finn. "If you're sure," he hummed, already twisting a closure around the bag of buttercream.

"They'll be fine, I promise," Leo reassured, offering and hand for Logan to take and tangling their fingers together. "They'll be perfect for her."

"You have something..." Finn chuckled, dragging a finger through a patch of pink buttercream on Logan's cheek and popped his finger into his mouth. "...everywhere." Finn tugged at the grey t-shirt speckled in edible glitter. "Go and wash up, we'll wait."

Logan fixed his eyes on Finn, a tension held between them, before he turned to head down the hallway. Leo propped his chin on Finn's head, the two of them swaying slightly to their own private rhythm.

"I-" Finn startled slightly. He hadn't heard Logan's approach. He lifted his head from Leo's chest, waiting patiently for Logan to finish his sentence. "- feel like I'm missing something."

"You're not missing anything, Lo. Running just didn't feel like it'd be fun today."

Logan pursed his lips, eyes inspecting Finn again. "Okay," he finally conceded, stepping into place beside Finn.

***

"Oh!" Logan pointed enthusiastically at the building they had just past. It had been empty for a long time, but recently the 'For Sale' sign had been taken down and the three of them had taken to a new game of guessing what the new business would be.

"A shoe shop, but you don't get to pick. The owner decides what the perfect pair of shoes for you is," Finn mused.

"The dream," Leo laughed. "Do you know how much of a struggle it is to get shoes for these feet."

"I'm a big fan of those feet," Finn waggled his eyebrows.

"Wh-"

"I actually know what it is, " Logan interrupted. "The lady was coming out of there when I was getting coffee yesterday, so I asked."

"That's cheating, Logan," Finn deadpanned, keeping his tone as serious as he could manage.

"Fine, I won't tell you then."

Finn lasted approximately three seconds before he groaned. "Tell me! Tell me!"

"I'm not sure, it was cheating, non?"

"It's a fabric and crafts store," Leo said casually, although he increased his pace to put a few steps between himself and Logan.

Logan halted, his face contorting comically into a bemused expression. "Leo!"

"Quoi?" Leo teased. "You two were having fun, I didn't want to ruin it. I bumped into them unloading a delivery a few weeks back."

"Excuse me, was nobody going to tell me?"

"I was just about to," Logan pointed out.

"Perhaps you should finish your 10,000 other projects first before you buy more yarn?" Leo raised an eyebrow. "I'm still waiting on my sweater."

"I'm feeling very judged right now, and besides I finished Lo's," Finn defended. "Yours is too big."

"Hey!" The protest came at him from both directions and Finn laughed.

***

"Thank you for coming with me." Finn pressed a kiss first to Leo's lips and then Logan's. "I know you were both busy."

Leo tugged him back, knocking their foreheads together lightly. "Thank you for asking us."

"Ouias," Logan breathed, joining their hug. "I know it's not always easy."

"You two make it easier," Finn smiled softly. "Alright, alright, I'm going to get a shower before I start crying.

Almost two hours later, Finn flopped onto the couch, his wrist throbbing slightly from the long entry he'd poured into his journal. Still, he felt lighter now and his normal wind-down routine had left him relaxed. Logan joined him, folding himself into Finn's lap, all remnants of his decorating having been scrubbed away in his own shower.

"Where's Knutty?" Finn hummed.

"He was doing a zoom yoga session with Natalie," Logan answered, tapping at his phone. "I think they're just gossiping now though, so I guess he won't be long?"

"Can we watch Lady and the Tramp tonight?"

Logan gave a long suffering sigh. "Okay."

"Le! We're watching Lady and the Tramp!" Finn yelled, snuggling Logan against him as he pulled up the movie onto the TV screen and paused it to wait for Leo. "Show me your cakes then, I know you took 10,000 photos," he nudged Logan lightly.

[lovemeleo]

hii! could you write some o'knutzy fluff?

hey anon, hope you’re doing well and hope you enjoy this little bit of o’knutzy fluff! o’knutzy of course belongs to @lumosinlove.

***

Moving to a completely new part of the country is extremely difficult. Not only are you miles and miles from where you called home for so long, but you’re away from your friends and family too. That was so difficult for Leo. Being in a different climate was extremely hard as well. Gryffindor was extremely different from New Orleans, where the lowest they got during winter was the 40s.

One of the biggest struggles Leo had was the lack of plants. This probably sounded weird, coming from a hockey player but ever since he was little, Leo loved growing things. He loved getting to put a little seed in the ground, watch it grow, and take care of it. It was even better when he got to use what he grew afterward. Leo loved growing different types of peppers, tomatoes, but he loved just growing regular plants as well. Whenever he wasn’t working, in school, or practicing, he could be found in the garden, fingers deep in the fresh dirt.

Sadly when he moved to Gryffindor and in with Finn, he had to give up his garden. They didn’t have a yard, and even if they did, it would be hard to have anything outside with the rapidly changing weather. His mom had been taking care of his garden back home, sending pictures but it wasn’t the same.

After showing his boys his garden when they visited his home, the two began formulating a secret plan. It was obvious their boyfriend missed his garden, missed the plants. It started with lots of research and planning. Finn and Logan spent so much time on gardening websites, asking experts questions, months of looking through plants that would be able to live in their area.

“We need to make sure they’re the plants that can live within Gryffindor,” Finn murmured, biting at his thumbnail as they scrolled through a local greenery’s website. 

Logan’s hand came up, pulling the older boy’s hand from his mouth as he looked over the plants, “Stop biting, you’re gonna bleed. And we can do some pepper plants. Tomatoes. Maybe some garlic, that’d be cool.”

Nodding, Finn added the plants to their cart, “The planter we bought has two levels. So we could do one level with like food plants and one with just regular plants? We’ve got that Fiddle Leaf Fig or whatever, and a couple of others. I think that’ll be good.”

“With the food ones, I think we should just buy the seeds and leave spots open. Leo might want to plant them himself.” Logan said, adding some seed packets to their cart before they paid. 

Leo had left to go home that morning for his mom’s birthday, planning to be back Sunday morning. It was now Friday afternoon and the two boys planned to have Leo’s garden ready when he got home. 

Their order wasn’t ready until Saturday, so as soon as the greenery opened the next day, the boys went and picked it all up. After getting all the plants as well as the needed supplies to their apartment, Logan and Finn got to work. They had purchased an indoor garden that stacked with two shelves that were spread enough to let the bottom shelf still grow tall. 

It took them almost all day to get it all set up. For the food shelf, they filled it with dirt but left the seed packets to the side. The other shelf was filled with different plants that had purified the air as well as some that just looked nice. The boys set up next to their balcony window so it could get sunlight.

Finn let out a sigh of relief as they looked over their finished product, “Well, fuck that was a lot. Don’t know how Leo used to do that every day, especially in the heat. Probably all tan… and sweaty.” His face took on a bit of a dreamy look before Logan swatted at him.

“Now is not the time for that, Harz. We still gotta clean up before gets home tomorrow.” 

A whine was Finn’s only reply as they started to clean, getting the extra dirt off the floor and putting away the additional supplies in their storage closet. 

After a quick shower, both boys stumbled to their bedroom, crawling into bed.

“It’s weird sleeping in here when one of us is missing,” Logan mumbled, his face already pressed into Leo’s pillow. Finn nodded into his back, his head resting against the soft skin of Logan’s shoulder as he closed his eyes.

“He’ll be back tomorrow. Then we can show him the surprise,” Finn said softly, pressing a kiss to his neck as he pulled Logan closer. “Sleep now.”

The boys were up early the next morning, getting the house was ready. They had to be at the airport to pick Leo up at 10 am and wanted to make sure everything was in order when he got home.

“I’m gonna throw the laundry in the dryer and then we can head to the airport,” Logan yelled to Finn who was picking up the kitchen. And by picking up, he was mostly tossing out empty to-go containers. Not much cooking got done when Leo was gone.

As soon as the last container was tossed, Finn was pulling on his jacket, “Alright, let’s go. Don’t want our sunshine out in the cold for too long.” Logan was following not long after, grabbing his keys and wallet before they were out the door. 

Luckily for them, traffic wasn’t bad and they made it just in time; Leo walked out the airport doors as they pulled up.

“It’s unfair how fucking tan he is.” Finn huffed, a pout on his face but anyone could tell he loved how tan Leo got, especially when he went home.

A grin lit up Leo’s face as soon as he saw them, quickly walking to the car and climbing in the backseat, “Hello, mes amours. Missed you.” He said, quickly leaning forward to press a kiss to each of their cheeks as Logan headed home.

“We missed you more, mon soleil. How was your mom’s birthday?” Logan asked, unable to stop himself from glancing back at their boyfriend through the rearview mirror. Fuck, he really did look good.

Leo smiled, resting his head back on the headrest, “Good, very good. She sends her love to the both of you.” 

“But more to me, right? I’m her favorite, non?” Logan said with a grin, glancing at the redhead next to him.

Finn shoved him, almost causing Logan to swerve, “That was before she met you. Now she knows what a shit you are.”

The car was filled with the sounds of their scuffle as Logan tried to fight Finn back while also keeping their car on the road. Leo couldn’t help the fond smile that spread on his face as he watched the two of them. Yeah, he had missed this.

When they got home, Logan and Finn turned to look at him as they got to their front door. Leo raised an eyebrow as he looked between the two of them, “What are y’all looking at it? Sorta creepy just staring at me like that…”

“We have a surprise for you,” Finn said, unable to stop the happy bounce as Logan opened the door. And there it was. His new little garden right in front of their big balcony window.

“W-what?” Leo said, eyes wide as he took in the new addition to their apartment.

Logan bit his lip nervously, “So we saw how much you loved your garden in New Orleans, and we wanted you to have one here…”

“So we decided to make your own little garden. The ones that are already planted are just like regular plants? Some of them purify the air, but others we just got cause we thought they looked pretty.” Finn continued, his anxious excitement causing him to ramble a bit. “We left the other shelf empty because we figured you might want to plant the food ones yourself, but we got a bunch of seeds!”

Leo walked forward, his fingers running gently over the edge of the garden shelves, “I can’t believe you guys did this for me...” He felt his vision blur a bit as he looked up at his boys, wiping at the tears that were forming as his face split into a massive grin. “You guys are too good to me.”

Quickly pulling the other two for a group hug, Finn held the two of them close, “Well, Nutter Butter, you deserve all of the good things.”

All of the planning, research, and digging in the dirt was all so worth it to see that blinding smile on Leo’s face. They’d do it million times, again and again, to keep it there. 

[msawesomehalffinishedfics]

Would you stop bleeding on my couch? Sean Wallace imagine

A/N: I’m sorry, this took me forever to get to writing, mostly because I haven’t gotten around to watching Gangs of London to the end, and I just had exams and have been overwhelmed by life. But I am actually proud of this very finished imagine (Which is ironic for a blog called half-finished-fics, but what can I say? ALSO I kinda played fast and loose with the timeline/storyline. Please request different characters if you'd like, and thank you to @screechingdreamercollectorsblog​ for requesting, and to the anon who was pushing me to write it. I’m slow okay? But worth it? Hopefully? I hope you enjoy, do tell me if you do, or don’t. :) - Em

Sean woke up uncomfortable feeling first the burning pain on his shoulder. Everything came back to him, the ambush, him getting dragged off to a random car. He remembered fading in and out of consciousness, drinking some whiskey to dull the pain. Getting sown together in a dingy bathroom. He opened his eyes and looked around, not remembering where he was, and how long he had been there. He knew his family was probably freaking out. He was a little freaked as well. He looked around the small apartment and did not recognise any of it which made him nervous. He made an attempt to sit up, but groaned in pain as he did so. He heard something from the other room and tried to fumble around for his gun but found nothing. He raised his fists as best he could as the other person walked to the living room. He furrowed his eyebrows when he found a woman standing there, she looked vaguely familiar but not really. She looked at him annoyed which made him keep his guard up.

“Would you relax, so you can stop bleeding on my couch. Which you are replacing by the way.” She said annoyed crossing her arms, he looked at her even more confused feeling weird about being scolded by this woman he did not know. She had saved his life but he knew that was not a guarantee that she was on his side. He was not sure anyone was anymore. 

“Who, the fuck are you?” He spat in his normal demanding voice, if she was going to be rude he could be too, and he needed to know who she was, and where she had put his phone so he could at least tell his family that he was okay. She rolled her eyes at him but walked closer to him, clearly inspecting his wounds while doing so.

“Relax. I worked for your dad, and you. Not usually a nurse, but strange times.” She said sarcastically, he was still unsure about her, but saw no reason for her to lie right away, at least if he could get home to his family soon, he would be sure to pay her off and that would be the end of it. As long as she did not torture him and he did not tell her too much he should be good. Well, more so when he found the motherfucker who had shot him. 

“You ripped your stitches, dickhead.” She said annoyed lifting up his bandage and he hissed a little in pain but looked at her annoyed.

“Well, sorry for sitting up and being defensive, seeing as I woke up somewhere I don’t know without my phone, with a stranger.” He said sarcastically and she scoffed at him which he took a little offence too, no one dared to speak and behave like this around him, yet if she worked for them, she must know who he was and what he was. Meaning she was either bold or just daft, he was betting the ladder. She sighed and got up, reaching her hand out to him.

“Come on. Let’s get you stitched up before you bleed out on my couch.” She said and he looked at her and before she nodded and got down so he could put his arm around her, and she help carry him to the bathroom. She stitched him up in silence after cleaning the wound once again. He recognised the bathroom from the haze and was fed some more whiskey. She started talking again when she was putting the wrapping on it.

“Your phone’s in the kitchen. Took us a little time to crack the code, but I got your mums number and called her, she knows you’re here and alive, for now, told your brother too.” She said calmly now, and he looked at her as she was gently putting the bandage on his wound, if it did not hurt so much he would have thought it would be nice to be treated like this.

“Come on, back on couch, and if you bleed on it one more time. I’m ripping your stitches. K?” She said annoyed he chuckled a little at how she was treating him. He was used to getting respect so it was almost amusing seeing her like that. He laid back down on the couch and groaned a little in pain but did quickly get comfortable. She went to the kitchen for a bit and brought them both back a sandwich which he gladly ate. 

“So, you’ve been out for two days. And yeah, your mother and brother knows you’re here. We’ll move you as soon as they know it’s safe and you can move without ripping up your shoulder.” She said and he nodded taking in the information.

“And then, you’re paying for my new couch.” She said with a confident smirk and he chuckled a little amused at her. She raised her eyebrows and looked him her judgingly.

“I’m sorry, am I amusing you. You’re paying for that couch. I liked that couch.” She said sarcastically maybe even defensively he still could not wipe the smirk off his face, it had been years since someone dared talk to him like that. 

“You are amusing. Because either you don’t know who I am and who you’re insulting. Or you do know, and you’re just daft.” He said and she huffed out a breath annoyed and crossed her arms.

“Oh, I know fully well who you are. Sean Wallace, son of Finn Wallace, ceo of the Wallace coperation, and the London underworld.” She said ending in a sarcastic smile. He raised an eyebrow interested in her response.

“Then you know the last person who disrespected me got beat into a pulp before getting a bullet in his brain.” He said ending with a smirk, she leaned closer to him from her seat across from him, like she was gonna tell him a secret, then she smirked.

“I know. But seeing as you ripped your stitches from sitting up a moment ago, I would love to see you try. Besides, it’s clearly been too long since someone verbally wooped your ass.” She said ending with a sarcastic smirk which was getting on his nerves already. He could not wait till he was well enough to get away from this annoying woman.

“Can you at least tell me who you are?” He asked it being clear now that she did know who he was she just did not care, which was not a good sign. If his own employees were disrespecting him like this, he imagined the other gang leaders were following suit. He wanted so badly to not screw up his fathers legacy, and he already felt like a screw up and then all of this added pressure, he did not need this girl he did not know being annoying with him right now. She just scoffed at him and leaned back.

“Yeah, right. So you can know my name and address? No thanks. You’re probably gonna get me murdered or something.” She said crossing her arms defensively saying it in a matter of factly tone. Sean sighed and decided to be a little open with her.

“Look, unless you try and torture me and infiltrate my life to get information, I can’t really justify using the kind of money it would cost to have someone kill you and clean up afterwards. Okay, luv?” He said earnestly, she looked like she was considering it, but she was still clearly on the defence. But she sighed and uncrossed her arms.

“Promise not to murder me?” She said a little defeated Sean almost chuckled a little at that. Contrary to popular belief and his recent interrogations about his fathers killer, he did not just go around killing people left and right.

“Don’t torture me or sell information about me to the police, and then I promise.” He said calmly and she chuckled a little at how absurd she realised this kind of conversation was. 

“Fine. My names Y/N.” She said sounding a little defeated in giving up this information. Sean smiled a little feeling like he had at least won a little bit of their conversation.

“Well, Y/N, could you get me my phone? I need to get some business in order.” He said and she sighed and nodded before getting up. She walked to the kitchen and back about to hand him the phone before she stopped and he looked at her annoyed both of them knowing fully well he could not just reach for it in his current position.

“For the record, I’m not your servant. So, it’s please, and thank you, got it?” She said annoyed and Sean chuckled a little, he kind of like her. She was definitely bold, and she did not give a shit about how she talked to him. She had spunk. It had been a while since he had met someone who had spunk like that. At least in front of him. He nodded and she gave in and handed him the phone.

“Thank you.” He said a little mockingly as she walked away she flipped him off before entering the kitchen not even turning around. He called his mother to asses the situation. Sadly he was told it would probably be a while since he could be moved to the safehouse and even then it would be risky to move him. No one knew about Y/N, she was after all just a nobody who worked for him who had been at the wrong place at the wrong time. She was pretty safe for the time being. Not that he minded having to spend more time with the woman, she was definitely interesting, in a disrespectful kind of way.

_______________________________________________________________________

“Would you quit your whining?” She said annoyed after Sean groaned for the tenth time that day from shifting from his lying position. She was sat at her desk clearly doing something else, but he could not help that he was in pain and her stupid couch was uncomfortable. So he found himself annoyed and glaring at her. 

“I’m sorry, is my pain from my bullet wound annoying you?” He hissed annoyed at her nagging. He sometimes found her sarcasm a little intriguing, but after three days cooped up in her tiny apartment, they were both getting on each other nerves. She smiled at him a little kindly and he sighed a little relieved hoping to finally get an ounce of sympathy from the woman. 

“Thank you, it is rather annoying.” She said sarcastically and he groaned in annoyance once again, she glared at him annoyed now. 

“You could be a bit more considerate since it was less than a week ago I had a bullet in my shoulder!” He said annoyed and she just sighed and looked at him annoyed.

“Well, you snore, a lot. So I guess we’re both making sacrifices here.” She said and he groaned once again in annoyance at her. There was no winning with her. He had been there for a few days and they had done nothing but bicker. It was seriously frustrating.

“Could you stop being a bitch for two seconds! I’m sorry I groan every now and then, but I have been on this couch for a few days and I am uncomfortable. It might have something to do, with the fact that I have home made stitches in my shoulder!” He yelled at her his anger reaching its peak. He knew it was wrong after he said it call her a bitch, but it was all too much right now.

“Fuck off. I’m doing you a massive favour hiding you here. If you could stop being a prick for two seconds and actually be a little grateful towards the woman who saved bloody life, and is currently regretting that decision!” She said back through her teeth clearly annoyed as well. He huffed in anger and tired to turn away from her she just groaned in anger and left the apartment to get some fresh air. 

_______________________________________________________________________

Billy came by the apartment and smiled at Sean, bringing some clothes for him. He smiled at his brother and chatted with him for a bit. A little annoyed that he was risking his life to get him a clean pair on knickers. But glad to see him, really glad.

“By the way, Y/N, the girl you’re staying with love her. I was by one of the days you were out. She is the best.” He said and Sean looked at his brother confused, what woman had he met? And had she switched places with the one he was cooped up with.

“Who are you talking about? That girl, hates my guts, and does nothing but bitch about me existing in her space. She is getting on my nerves.” He said honestly and Billy just chuckled a little.

“You’ve just forgotten how real people behave around each other when they’re not scared of disrespecting each other and their territory.” He said and Sean rolled his eyes at him, but still smiled a little.

“You’ll get along. You’re probably gonna have to stay here for a good while anyway.” Billy said and Sean looked at him surprised. 

“What? Why?” He said a little worried and Billy was clearly a little taken back by this.

“Relax. I thought mum told you. She is just worried so says it’ll be a few weeks at least before she’s even thinking about moving you to our safehouse. Guess you’re gonna have to get used to Y/N.” He said with a small smile, and Sean sighed at him a little annoyed at this news. He barely wanted to spend another minute let alone weeks with this girl.

_______________________________________________________________________

He got better within the week, and started getting up and walking around a little. He tried to be nicer to the girl since he was stuck with him for a while. He walked into the kitchen when she was cooking one day and smiled a little leaning against the counter.

“It’s good that you’re up and about.” She said casually, but clearly in a natural, which he found a bit frustrating.

“Look, I am trying to be nice here. I know this situation is not ideal, but could we please just try to get the best out of it?” He pleaded a little, he was at the end of his line with being nice and being met with sarcasm. She sighed still having her back turned away from him, but she took a moment before turning to look at him.

“Yeah. Sorry. I really don’t like people in my space, especially bleeding on my couch and bathroom. And even less in longer periods of time. I have lived alone for a long time, I like my space just so, and you’re kinda, disrupting that.” She said honestly not looking him in the eye. He smiled a little, that was perfectly reasonable. Maybe a little too reasonable, but she had so far given him no reason not to trust her. He even saw her get ready for work in the morning and saw the employee badge. It all seemed real. 

“That’s alright. I know I have a bit of a short fuse too, but you are stuck with me. So just tell me what to do. And maybe disrupting your rutine a bit won’t be too bad.” He said smirking a little and she rolled her eyes at him.

“Too far.” She said and he chuckled a little glad he could still push her buttons. She turned back to cooking their dinner.

“By the way, on top of the couch you are also either giving me a raise, or helping pay for food, you eat so much. And stop touching my maltesers!” She said with a small smirk but clearly meaning the last part. He chuckled a little amused and put up his good hand trying to convey innocence.

“Okay, a raise or reimbursement, got it. But I’m not the one who ate your maltesers.” He said trying to convince her. It was him, but he would not admit that. For some reason he found it a bit emasculating that he liked sweets. He was a big strong, badass, gangster and leader of the London underworld. Sweets did not exactly fit his image. He saw that he had clearly failed to convince her, when she snorted.

“Sure. I mean it’s not like there is only two people in this apartment! How are you a mafia boss? You’re a terrible liar.” She said looking at him almost a little baffled at the end. He looked at her a little amused but did take offence to her last comment.

“Shut up. I’m an excellent liar.” He said daring her to tell him otherwise. He knew fully well he could lie like it was nothing. She scoffed again and crossed her arms at him walking a bit closer.

“Riiiight. And what was I exactly supposed to believe right there? We are the only people in this apartment. I know I didn’t take them. Which leaves one other person. What was I supposed to think, that the tooth fairy took them?” She said sarcastically and he chuckled a little and shrugged.

“Well, maybe it’s because it isn’t about something important.” He said and she raised an eyebrow at him clearly getting an idea.

“Okay, try me then? Lie to me.” She said challenging him, he found it a bit intriguing and amusing but took the challenge and stepped a little closer to her.

“It gotta be a little personal, the best lies are. So for example. I would do this.” He said with a smirk, before using his good hand to trace down from her shoulder to her hand before gently grabbing it and lifting it just a bit. He then looked into her eyes at she looked at him a bit shocked but he just smirked, she had asked him to lie to her.

“I think you’re the most beautiful girl I have ever seen. And I really wanna kiss you.” He said slowly and not too high of a volume, but still above a whisper. She looked at him a little stunned but then he pulled back and smirked, a little too proud of himself.

“See? I’m an excellent liar.” He said and she just rolled her eyes at him finally being pulled from her little daze. It was a little intriguing to him that he could make her behave that way.

“Whatever. I could totally tell you were lying.” She said clearly just trying to cover up how weird that had made her feel, he chuckled a little.

“Right.” He said dragging the word out laughing a little at her as looked at him annoyed.

______________________________________________________________________

They did start getting along a lot more. He helped out around the house as best as he could with his shoulder. They seemed to naturally develop their own little rutine around each other. She was still sarcastic and annoying and not taking any of his shit. But it was growing on him a little. He found himself liking that he could annoy her so easily, and she could annoy him so easily. It was like she had direct access to his brains annoyance center. But he liked pushing her buttons, and it was becoming more and more in a joking manner. He was not exactly the type to have friends, but after a week and a half with her, he would not mind calling her that. She was funny and threw popcorn in his face if he disagreed with her or talked during a movie. They had also taken to pushing each other lightly when other was being annoying, of course both being conscious of his still healing shoulder. As time passed and they found themselves more and more at ease in each others company. He almost felt a little awkward having to sit shirtless in front her as she rinsed his wound and put a new bandage on it. It felt almost intimate, which they had not been anywhere near since he had lied to her. It was a lie, or at least back then it was. She was funny, annoying but still, and sweet, and playfull almost. He clearly liked her company, and he liked that she was not afraid of him at all. She was pretty too. He found himself more and more admiring her eyes and smile and the way her hair flowed and especially started noticing when she would walk around the apartment in those tight yogapants on the weekends. He tried to shake all of those thoughts from his head. She tried to stop herself from looking at his shirtless body, it was not like she did not notice, she had needs and she was not blind. But he was also annoying as hell, and a rich prick. But he was also annoyingly sweet sometimes, and funny and he was annoying but there was something weirdly and much to her dismay endearing about how he liked pushing her buttons. As they had spent a lot more time together and learned each others rutines and stuff it was obvious whenever he was annoying now that it was on purpose. And there was something a little thrilling about him, she did not know if it was just her old and she hoped dormant attraction to a little bad boys, or if there was just something about how easily it was for her to get under his skin. It was almost in a sadistic way fun for them to get under each others skin just a little. Besides he was great looking which was hard to avoid with a guy you lived with. His stubbles, his clear blue eyes, his dimples, she had seen him at the office and while there was something about seeing him in his tailored suits his much more casual clothes along with his gold watch was still something she found annoyingly attractive. But she tried to push that thought to the back of her head.

After a month living in her apartment, they were sitting on the couch watch telly when the door opened revealing Sean’s mother, she smiled at Y/N and then Sean. Y/N looked to Sean confused, but he just shrugged signally that he did not know his mother was coming by.

“We found out who tried to shoot you. They’re tied up right now. We can go home love.” Marian said relieved and glad to see her other son unharmed and safe. Sean nodded with a smile, a little excited to go home and sleep in his own bed. 

“That’s good mom. I’ll pack and we can go.” He said and she smiled as he got up to pack she turned towards Y/N who stood up feeling a little out of place now, but Marian just smiled at her kindly.

“I cannot thank you enough for keeping Sean safe. I hope he was not too much trouble. I don’t know how we can ever repay you. But know that you are always welcome in our home if you need anything.” She said taking her hands in hers and looking Y/N in the eyes clearly meaning every word. Marian would do anything to keep her sons safe, and this woman had helped with that. Y/N just smiled and nodded.

“Thank you. No worries. He was a little annoying in the beginning but he has grown on me. Besides, he knows what he owes me.” She said a little amused and the last part a little louder making sure Sean heard it. Sean chuckled as he shook his head at her. She had kept reminding him. He packed the last things before meeting his mother and Y/N in the hall.

“Yeah yeah, couch and a raise, I know.” He said feigning annoyance but smiled fondly at her, she just chuckled and Marian looked between then a little confused but said nothing. 

“Because I don’t want to forget it.” She said a little sarcastically, and he chuckled a little once again.

“Oh, I am not gonna miss that.” He said and she rolled her eyes a little but kept her smile on her face. He smiled at her earnestly now and looked her in the eyes.

“But seriously, thank you, for everything. However reluctantly you did safe my life. So thank you.” He said earnestly, she blushed a little not knowing how to handle him serious all of a sudden, she stood there for a moment clearly happy about how grateful they were not used to being thanked like this. She ended up shoving him lightly out of instinct and just not know how to handle this serious side of him.

“You’re welcome. At least now I can have my maltesers in peace.” She said trying to deflect how weird and awkward and like a school girl with a crush he had just made her feel. He chuckled a little and shook his head, before leaving with his mother.

_______________________________________________________________________

They both got back to their normal lives. He started noticing her now that he could go back to the office and they would smile at each other if they did see each other but never talk. It was like an unspoken agreement, that he had his life and she had hers, even if they had both put it on pause for a little month. He somehow missed her couch a little, when he got back to his own bed, it was somehow too soft and he tossed and turned trying to get comfortable in it again. She in turn found herself thinking something sarcastic and turned to say it to him, but stopped herself when she realised it had been a reflex and he was not there anymore. She texted him a picture of her new couch which he had transferred money for. He sent her a smiley back, but they never took it further. He was back in his life. Trying to run a business and a gang while trying to figure out who killed his father. He had too much on his plate, and he definitely did not need anyone knowing there was any more people he cared the slightest about. She hated to admit it, but she was missing him, her small apartment somehow feeling empty without him there. So when she found his shirt with her laundry she first tossed it to a chair nearby thinking she could return it whenever. But that night when she could not fall asleep, missing even his stupid snores, she grabbed the shirt and found herself calmed a little by the familiar scent. He found a black t-shirt that was too small for him, so he figured it was hers he must have grabbed in his haste to pack. He first thought nothing of it but when he could not sleep at night, he found himself reaching for it, it was so familiar now, and somehow calming. He did miss her, and he knew it was stupid and irrational, but he found himself not being able to concentrate and one night he simply had enough. He did not care that it was the middle of the night he got in his car and drove to her apartment, knocking on her door. She opened it and looked at him confused.

“Sean?” She asked and he smiled a little.

“What are you doing here? It’s one in the morning. I have work tomorrow. For your company.” She said sarcastically and he could not help but smile a little more that. He had missed her voice, and her stupid sarcasm. 

“Honestly? I fucking missed you. I just, I have so much to do, between work for the company and the other side of it, on top of trying to find out who killed my dad. And yet, I missed you. So much.” He said earnestly but honestly just a little frustrated with himself. She smiled a little and leaned against her doorframe.

“And who says I missed your ass?” She said challenging him and he smirked a little at her for doing that right now. But he looked her over and grinned a little.

“Well for one, that looks like one of my shirts.” He said and she looked down having not realised that was the t-shirt she had grabbed to sleep in. She looked back at him embarrassed but he was looking at her so annoyingly proud. He did like that she had clearly missed him too, why else would she wear his shirt to bed. He liked it on her. 

“That proves nothing.” She said crossing her arms in protest refusing like always to let him just win. He stepped forward a little confident, so they stood pretty closely. 

“Right. Remember when you told me to lie to you?” He asked and she looked him in the eyes a little shocked. She had tried not to think about that day. She did, but she tried not to. 

“What about it?” She asked clearly some cracks in her sarcastic demeanour which he was proud of that he could do still.

“It’s not a lie anymore.” He said looking at her earnestly. He meant it and he wanted to see if she felt the slightest same way. Her eyes widened a little she was surprised by this but tried to gather herself again.

“So what are you gonna do about it?” She asked not really knowing how to respond and just said the first thing that came to mind. He smirked and got closer to her.

“Well, if you’ll let me. This.” He said before gently putting his hand on her cheek. They looked into each other eyes trying to read the other. Before he finally saw no objection and leaned down letting his lips meet hers. It was gentle at first but soon they both started pulling each other closer wanting more. She walked backwards slowly and he slammed the door behind her, not pulling away from her. He might have been disoriented when he first woke up on her couch, but that was nothing to how she was currently clouding all of his thoughts, but this time, he was not complaining. 

[tommyspeakycap]

Uncle Charlie and the Shelby sis?

omg i love this idea !!!!

I actually think that little Shelby would be quite close to Charlie so here’s a sweet blurb! (set in 1920 - so moving towards end of season 1. i also made up charlie’s war history as we don’t know much about it)

“Fucking, shitty, stupid bastard-”

“Oi!”

When you hear the sound of the voice cutting in likely to chastise you for your use of explicit choice language while you were practically beating the shit of the hay you were shovelling for the horses, you turn around to face him. He see’s that you look rather flustered, face a bit red as you blow a sigh past your lips and shove your hair back out of your face. “Sorry, uncle Charlie.”

“Mhm,” he nods his head, “And what’ve your brothers done this time eh?” You sigh again with some sort of disgruntled huff afterwards to display your clear irritation with the behaviour of who Charlie assumed would most likely be Tommy, Arthur at a push but very unlikely to be John. John annoyed you a lot, he knew, but never tended to make you genuinely angry. At least, never angry enough to switch off the sunshine and rainbows girl who sang and hummed while shovelling hay and horse shit.

“Tommy’s being a fucking idiot. Again.” You bite harshly.

“Oi!”

“Sorry, Charlie.”

He shakes his head at you with the very slightest of smiles. “And how’s that? What’s he done?” Your uncle grabs the spair shovel from where it was leaning against the barn door so as to join you in your cleaning of the stables. Charlie can sense the anger that had built in you from Tommy’s seemingly incessant enforcement of all sorts of new and more restrictive rules for the members of the family - especially you and slightly Ada - since he had started to try expand the business into the race tracks. He doubts this time will be any different from the last three times you’ve complained about him in the last week.

“Finn’s 11 and he gets to go with them to the races sometimes, but i’m nearly 17 and i can’t even step out the house without an escort when the boys aren’t in Small Heath. It’s so unfair!” You rant almost desperately. The frustration is clearly heard in your words, and Charlie was no fool to picking up on your feelings by the way you spoke and acted. Charlie very, very much understands your brothers desires to keep you safe; you’re his favourite if he’s totally honest. So he’s incredibly protective himself, he felt quite a sense of fatherly responsibility for you.

Charlie had gone to fight in France for around a year and a half. That definitely did a number on him, but he was transferred home after being shot. It was then that he was appointed a post on the home front as a farmer and some kind of war horse breeder and trainer because he was so good with animals. As a result, it had become his job to look after you during the years of the war that your brothers were away. Polly did your breakfasts and dinner and would make sure you were well looked after, but Charlie took you out to the farm during the day where he would make packed lunches. You would get to pick vegetables, train the sheep dogs, collect wool and the likes of that sort of work. He knew that since you were 12, had you stayed hanging around the factories in Small Heath, you might’ve ended up having to work in one, so brought you to work with him instead. It had brought you extremely close to your uncle.

It’s why now, it was his scrap yard you went to when Tommy and the rest of the family were getting to you. He would often find you there, felt like a sixth sense of some sort that he would just get a feeling you were there - if he hadn’t heard you shouting or singing. Most commonly your troubles were caused by or at least had some distant correlation to Tommy and something he had done. The head of the family does of course think through his decisions and what they’re impact will be, but the one mistake Thomas tends to make when he thinks abouts these impacts is what appears to always affect you.

And that is, that he looks for direct danger. He overthinks and spends nights riddled with fear that his plan will bring harm to those he loves. He fears Billy Kimber will come to try and take from Tommy what he holds most dear in retaliation if he doesn’t act exactly the right way. He fails to look at less direct impacts. He sees your protection escorts as keeping you from being harmed and sees keeping you in the house constantly as ensuring he knows that you’re safe, always. He doesn’t see you missing out on your youth or missing your friends or feeling threatening and anxious at the fact you’re always either in house arrest or practically with a fucking protection detail. He never thinks like that and Charlie knows that is what gets to you so much, because you just see that as he being malicious and not thinking about what’s best for you at all.

“Sometimes i just wish we were normal y’know?” The change in tone of your voice from red hot anger to a timid quite mumble tells Charlie that you’re hurting more than you may ever let on in words. “Just miss my life.” You lament lowly, dropping the shovel and instead opting to drop yourself down on a nearby haybale.

Charlie signs not in annoyance or anger, but in a kind of sympathetic way as he leans himself on his shovel and turns to face your direction. “I know you do, love. Think we all do these days. Missing your brother eh?” Charlie tries to ask you as softly as he can despite having a generally grumpy, grumbling voice. The question marks another change in your demeanour as he immediately notes that your shoulders slump and you begin clenching your jaw to try not to get all upset.

You just nod in response.

“Mhm,” Charlie hums, moving to sit on the hay bale next to you, “Though so.” He pulls you into his side and feels you shaking a little with a few small sniffles to tell him your were crying. It breaks his heart and he know it would shatter Tommy’s if he knew. He had known for weeks that part of your rage and irritation was a smoke screen for the painful fact that you just missed your brother. You missed being little and holding his hand, having him play games with you and look after you, spend time with you and have genuine, actual conversations that weren’t two minutes long, arguments or about business and rules. You were still young and the four years you’d spent without them, plus the trauma you’d gone through in your life, meant that you missed and relied upon them a lot more than most would. Your hurting heart just longed for your big brother to make all things right again, just like he used to.

Things were so much more complicated now than they were before, you knew that. But it didn’t stop the hurt, it only just made it more painful.

“Listen, hey, listen,” Charlie comforts, “It’s alright. I’ll have words with that brother of your eh?” He feels you nod your head. “Yes please.” You whisper, sniffling again.

A silence falls between you as it often does, a bubble created where you could feels your feelings and your uncle would do all that he could in his limited power to move whatever kind of mountains you needed moving so you could feel better again. It was damn near his very top priority that you were provided with a better childhood and better young adult-hood than what he was able to give the Tommy, Arthur and John.

But it just so happened that Charlie Strong made a promise to the woman he loved - your mother. The woman you were so very like. He felt it his duty to protect you like a daughter because that is what your mother would have wanted. He promised to look after you and in doing so he recognised what your brothers often didn’t. Your physical well-being wasn’t everything. Of the same importance he wanted, just as the rest of the family did, for you to be safe, happy and loved in an emotional sense. They did love you, all of them. So much it was painful and so much that it was enough to do you a lifetime; they just had such a bad way of showing it.

Charlie decided it was time now to give your older brothers a wake up call. It was time they learned how to love you in a way you understood. Killing for you and keeping you bubble wrap didn’t tell you they loved you, they had to show you in a true way. They had to tell you and hold you just like he had learned to do to show his care and love for you. He had to change to accommodate how you experienced love, so he did just that; he changed.

Charlie was determined and he held a level of authority with the boys he practically raised. So starting with Tommy, he was going to enforce that same change in order to make sure you knew just how fucking loved you were in that family.

And for Charlie Strong, all of the fighting, the pushing and the moving of seemingly unmovable mountains was worth in to no end when you mumbled, “I love you, uncle Charlie.” Against his shoulder while he hugged you tight.

“Yeah yeah, Shelby,” he sniggers, pressing a kiss on top of your head, “I love you too.”

[imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl]

Love On-Set (Pt. 05 of 10)

Pairing: Dacre Montgomery X Reader

Word count: 2.9K

Summary: You knew acting on Stranger Things season 3 would be a challenge, and you also knew, from the start, you'd have to work closely with Dacre Montgomery. But is wasn't a big deal for you, since this is your job and you're determined to act professionally. You had it all figured out, or so you thought, until the moment you were out face to face with Dacre. Then, this job became a lot harder than it was supposed to be, since you can't seem to focus whenever you're around Dacre. And you'll have to be around him a lot until the end of production.

<- Previous part (04)

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{Dacre Montgomery Masterlist}

{Stranger Things Masterlist}

×

All The Right Signs

“Gaten, get it together! It's fake raining!” Finn yells as Gaten messes up the scene for the fourth time. Everyone just laughs as you brace yourself.

“Five minutes everyone!” James shouts and you follow the kids as they run out of the rain as the water is turned off.

Today, you're glad the scene is outside, with all the main actors. It's always fun, and you need to keep your mind away from what will happen tomorrow. You thought the kissing scene was too far away, but now it's just around the corner. And you didn't do as James said. Every time Dacre showed up to work on that, you'd just sit, watch something and talk. And you always have fun together. The director never asked about the video though, so you just decided to let it go.

But now, it's tomorrow. And you're trying hard not to think about it until it's inevitable.

“Are you cold?” Dacre comes to stand before you, messing up your train of thought.

“A little, yeah.” You answer, removing some hair from your face.

“Well...” He steps closer, his hands rubbing your arms. You immediately feel warmer, but you don't think it's because of the gesture. “If Gaten manages to say his line without bursting into laughter we'll get out of the cold very soon.”

You can't help but blush, staring into his blue eyes. “He is–”

A camera flashing gets your attention, and both you and Dacre look at the source. Millie tries to hide her phone as if the bright light didn't startle you.

“I can't wait for tomorrow.” Natalia comments.

Unfortunately, they will have to be here, because the kissing scene isn't the only one scheduled. You still don't know if it's good or bad. Probably bad.

“Alright, let's get it done.” As James speaks, the water is turned back on and it starts raining again.

“Let's go.” You say in a low voice, accompanying Dacre back to your positions.

It takes another four attempts for Gaten to finally say his line without messing up, and the rest of you are free to finish the take. Afterward, before you can run to your dressing room to shower and change out of the soaking clothes, the guys decide to make some silly pictures with everyone soaking wet. In the middle of the commotion to strike a pose, Dacre finds he's way to stand next to you, an arm either on your shoulders or around your waist. You try not to give it much thought, hoping Millie's phone camera won't get your blushing cheeks.

When it's all done, you take a warm shower before heading to the van and an hour later you're at your hotel room. But the day isn't over yet. The guys are coming here to finally start working on the Battle of Starcourt scenes. But you still have some time before they show up, so you make yourself comfortable on the couch, a blanket around your shoulders as you watch Jaws since you're in the mood for a classic movie.

A knock on the door startles you a little, and you notice you were too immersed in the movie. Dragging the blanket with you, you walk over there after checking your phone. There's still an hour until they come and you didn't order anything. But you unlock it and swing it open, biting your lip when you see Dacre. “Hey.”

“Hi.” He furrows his eyebrows when he looks down at you. “I absolutely love your dress.”

“Really? It's the last fashion in my living room fashion week.” Giggling, you step aside, closing the door shut when Dacre comes in. “You're early. Nobody got here yet.“

“Yeah, I know.”

Raising an eyebrow, you shrug your shoulders. It's not like you would send him away. “I'm watching Jaws. So we can either watch it or put on something else.” Making your way back to the couch, you watch as he does the same, settling down beside you. “You want the blanket?” You decide to ask, just to be polite.

“Sure.”

That you weren't expecting. It's not cold. Well, not that cold. You just took the blanket to feel more comfortable since you're wearing shorts and a light blouse. “Ok.“ You mumble as you take the blanket from around your shoulders, fixing it on both you and Dacre.

Then you focus on the movie. Or you try to focus the best you can. Why is Dacre here? Millie's voice comes back to your head, her lastest advise making you bounce your leg nervously. She told you Dacre is giving all the signs he's into you. And you should do the same, or else he'll get the idea you're not interested and step back. Natalia assured it'll happen because Dacre is a gentleman, always have been, and he won't keep pushing you into something you don't want.

Taking a deep breath, you think about your options. You feel how Dacre's arm is touching yours, and you have an idea. Feeling the butterflies in your stomach going insane, you lean closer to Dacre. “Can I?” You ask, laying your head on his shoulder.

“Sure.” He answers, and after a few seconds of the most uncomfortable silence you've even been through, Dacre moves, putting his arm around your shoulders, what makes you snuggle closer to him, your head resting partly on his chest and neck. Your whole body is frozen for a moment, wondering what this is. Then he moves again, his arm sliding down to embrace your waist, and you decide to just end the small distance that was between your bodies, completely leaning on him. “Is this ok?”

“Yeah.” You nod, eyes tightly shut as your cheeks start burning. “The shark is attacking.” Trying to ease the tension, you gesture at the TV.

“It is,” Dacre mumbles, and you feel his chest vibrating as he speaks.

As the minutes pass by, you feel more comfortable. And it feels good to finally allow yourself to do this. It's something so simple, so silly, but still, it feels right. You've been dying to do this and you didn't even know.

Unfortunately, the hour passes by, the knocks and the chattering announcing that your time alone with Dacre is over. Sighing, you leave the blanket behind and go open the door, hoping nobody will notice that Dacre was here already.

•

“Ok, ok. Positions...” Joe says after the coffee table and couch were pushed aside, leaving a free space in the middle of the room. You stand beside Millie, script in hand as you wait to find out what scene they'll start with. “You there. You can be... There.”

“Why do I have the feeling we interrupted something,” Natalia whispers as she walks by, tilting her head at Dacre, who's discussing something in the script with Sadie.

“Dacre just came to...” To do what? Did he even come to do something specifically? “He came a little earlier.”

“I didn't know you could get this red,” Millie exclaims, staring at you. “Oh, my God, I'm so happy I'll get to see the kissing scene.”

The kissing scene. Nobody in the freaking universe will let you forget it. As if you needed them to remind you that Dacre's lips will be on yours by tomorrow night. “I want to get it done on one take, so don't screw it.”

“You should ask us to ruin it as much as we can so you'll get to kiss him more times.” Natalia sing songs and you Millie laughs, nodding.

“It won't be Dacre and I. It'll be Billy and Amy. It's a scene, it's our job.” You don't know what gets to you, the words just roll out. And they're all true. It won't be a real kiss. It's not like you don't want to do it. You want to kiss Dacre, and this is making you nervous, but it just won't be real. “Let's just focus here, ok?”

The next hours are tiring. They were right to do this because the Battle of Starcourt will be chaos, and it'll be a lot better if you kinda know the dynamics before having to actually shoot it. But you're distracted, forgetting your lines so many times you have to just keep the scrip in hand and read it. You're thankful for the kids being so crazy because they make you laugh and forget your anxiety for a while.

It's past midnight then they leave, and as you're saying your goodbyes at the door, you notice Dacre falling behind. When he's by the door, the others are already disappearing down the hall.

“Guess I'll see you tomorrow.” You mutter, looking down at your feet. If it wasn't for a meeting James called with the whole cast in the morning, you'd have the whole day to deal with before going to the set. It's better this way though, you think.

“Yeah. I'd be down for another gym date but I have this job that won't let me.”

Giggling, you bite your lip. “You think it'll be about changes in the script?”

“I'm sure it will,” Dacre mumbles, giving a look at the hall. When you follow his gaze, you see three blurs in the shape of heads, vanishing into the corner. “We're being watched.” He lowers his voice as if you were in great danger.

“Hope it's not the Demogorgon. I'd hate to save your ass. Again.” When you look back at him, you find his blue eyes already set on you. It makes you sigh, wondering why your legs won't work, and make you step back, returning to the normal distance you should put between you and someone else. “I'll get some sleep... Rough day tomorrow.”

“I agree.” Another glance at the hall, but you don't have time to check if anyone's there this time. Dacre leans closer and places a kiss on your cheek, as he usually does. Only this time is different. It lingers, for far too long, and at the same time, it ends too soon. And you're sure you felt the corner of his lips on yours. “Good night, (Y/N).”

“Good night.” Whispering, you stand by the door as he makes his way to the elevators, giving one last look back before disappearing in the corner.

• • •

Your hands are shaking a little, and you blame it on the cold wind. But the wind isn't that cold. Is it?

You're already in your position, at Hawkins Community Pool's parking lot, next to this random car and your stylist is finishing with your hair and giving the final touches on your make-up. No lipstick. You can't imagine why.

On your left, you see many pairs of eyes set on you. After this scene, James wants to shot the sequence, when the kids find a Demodog in the pool, so everyone is here. But you can't think about that now, you have to focus. Amy needs to come to life today, and you need to act like a professional. You knew acting in Stranger Things would be huge, and difficult, but you'd never guess it would be this hard.

You take the deepest breath you can when you see Dacre coming your way. Mullets were an atrocity to humankind, you think, but damn, he did make it look good. How is it even possible? He shouldn't be allowed to do that.

“Hey. You–”

“Everyone ready?” James' thunder voice cuts him off, and you have no idea if that's good or bad. No time to figure out. “Clean the set, let's do this. Dacre, (Y/N), are you ready?”

Nodding, you force your mind to remember the lines. You're Amy now... Which sucks because by now, Amy is already in love with Billy. Nothing will help you, you just need to get it done, give the audience the show they want.

“Great. Alright then... Ready and... Action!”

You're not ready for that, but you move anyways.

“I can't believe you took almost an hour to get here, Hargrove!” Amy yells, walking fast to end the small distance between her and Billy. “There's a freaking Demodog in the pool!”

“It's dead. So why the hurry?” Dacre keeps the smug smirk, the one that makes you want to slap Billy. Just a little bit. “Chill.”

“Don't tell me to chill. Can't you miss one single date? Not even when there's an interdimensional monster involved?” You punch Dacre hard on the chest, well not so hard, but he does give a tiny step back. This is Amy's jealously attack, and you make sure to make her look frustrated because despite the emotions overflowing, she knows she shouldn't be doing this.

“Why the hell you always think I'm with some girl?”

“Because that's where you always are.” Jumping to conclusions. That's the way Amy found to keep her heart away from Billy. Didn't work though. “You know what, it doesn't matter. We have a bigger fish to fry.”

When you turn around to leave, Dacre gets his cue, grabbing your arm and forcing you to stop and stumble back. “The damn thing is dead, it can wait.”

“Let go.” Amy pleads, stepping backwards as Billy comes closer. That's the moment where she gives up trying. This thing with Billy has been going on for a while now, and, as in real life, there's just this point where you stop fighting it. “Seriously, I'm tired of this shit so let's just–”

“I know you're jealous.” He mutters, just when your back hits the car. James loves to have you trapped like that. “Just need to figure out why.”

“I've said it once, and I'll say it again.” It's hard to follow the script, it's hard to keep breathing normally. It's so damn hard to keep eye contact with Dacre right now. “I won't be one of your flings so back the hell down.”

It comes out too low, and you wait for James to stop the scene. And you want him too. You can't do this. You can't stop looking at Dacre's lips, you can't control the butterflies in your stomach. This is just a goddman scene, why can't you get it together?

“Who said I want you to be a fling?”

That's it. It's happening. Dacre leans closer, so close that you have no choice but to close your eyes. He's saying something else, but you don't hear it. Your hands find their way to his chest, grabbing his jacket as if to steady yourself, to get a grip of reality. When his lips brush on yours, Amy is gone and you break character, taking a deep breath before pulling him closer, eager to end the small distance and finally–.

A loud noise, an explosion, makes both of you jump. One of the cameras near you come crashing down and if it wasn't for Dacre pulling you away, it would hit you. The whole thing moves like a domino effect, knocking a few more cameras with it. You barely hear James's voice, stepping further back, making sure you're far enough. The rest of the cast abruptly stand up from their chairs, worried.

“Everyone back off!” James shouts.

“Are you ok?” Dacre asks and you simply nod, a hand on your heart.

James dismisses everyone while he and his assistants check what happened. You silently walk beside Dacre until you reach the rest of the crew, looking down and trying not to think about the kiss. Or the almost kiss.

“What the hell happened?” Joe asks, and everyone starts talking at the same time.

There isn't much to talk about. Four of the five cameras are wrecked, and the director is pissed. But still, you're too far away, your mind stuck in the phantom of the kiss you craved for so desperately. Dacre stands by your side, but you can't look at him right now. So you engage in the conversation, ignoring Millie's and Natalia's stares, hoping nobody will notice your blushing cheeks.

An hour later, the big news arrive. Well, they're big news fort he cast, not for James. After analyzing the damage, James will have to suspend the shooting for five days. Which means you'll have five days off. Everyone starts making plans, and the ride back to the hotel is filled with happy chattering about who will go where. But you already know what you'll do. You'll fly home and use these days to rest. And think.

“Hey.” Dacre gets your attention, following out of the van when you reach the hotel. “What are your plans?”

“Uhm... I'm flying home.” Shrugging your shoulders, you keep his pace through the main hall.

“Oh, you live in LA, right?” Giving him a quick glance, you nod. “I'm living there too, I don't know if I told you.”

This lights up a spark in your heart, and suddenly, you're not so excited to stay away anymore. “No, you haven't.”

“We can book our flights together... If that's ok.”

His hesitation gets you by surprise, but then you notice how distant you've been acting since the kiss. Damn, he might be thinking you didn't like it or something. That he made you uncomfortable. That's exactly what you don't want him to think. “It is. When do you wanna leave?”

“Tomorrow morning?”

“That's fine by me.” You finally decide to look at him, and you immediately regret avoiding his eyes. Being nervous is... Normal. Maybe. But his eyes give you the reassurance you need. “I'll stop by your room in an hour so we can buy the tickets.”

“I'll be waiting.” His lips break into a smile, and you can't help but bite your lip and smile too.

“I'll be there.” You say as the doors open on his floor. Dacre mutters a goodbye, and right before the door closes again, you see when he winks at you.

×

@baker151910 @shinydixon @dreamin-of-dacre @hanoi15 @lickmymelanin @foccus @multific @uncookspaget @kellysimagines @peakascum

[spookypotato]

Belated Valentine’s

I didn’t have time before, so I just wrote it now.

Characters by @lumosinlove

cw: there’s a spicy reference at the end

"Lo?", Finn more or less shouted in the general direction of their bedroom.

The brunette slid on the floor trying to come to a stop in the doorway and nearly fell over. It might have helped his balance if he hadnt put on his sweater while jogging down the hall, but they were in a hurry after all.

"Yeah, yep, I'm here. I'm ready.", Logan got everyhing out in one breath grabbing his coat in the process and coming to an abrupt stop in front of Finn, smiling brightly.

Finn ruffled through his brown curls, "You're hair's a mess, baby. It's cute though so you can leave it." He started smiling as he opened the door for Logan gesturing dramatically for him to go first.

"Too kind.", Logan said mockingly, but tucked himself into Finn's side.

The walk to the flower shop took longer than expected, because Finn saw something in the displays they were walking past and left his boyfriend with only a "Wait here." as Logan watched him rush into the store.

A few minutes later he came back out with a larger bag than Logan had expected. "What did you buy?", Logan asked with enough fake annoyance to cover up his excitement.

Finn reached into the bag and pulled out a pair of gloves, practically beaming at the other.

"Gloves.", Logan stated.

Finn seemed offended by the lack of enthusiasm his boyfriend was showing. „No Logan. They‘re not just gloves. They‘re couples gloves. He handed them over for him to look at as they continued walking.

„See.“, he gestured at the inside of the gloves, which had a second pair sewn into them,“ You can hold hands and be warm. That‘s incredible, right? I‘ve never seen them before but I feel like, since Nutty‘s hands are always cold, I thought you two might like them. More walks through the snow for you.“ Finn smiled, visibly smug about his purchase.

At that, Logan couldn‘t help the smile that crept on his face. He loved walks through the snow and Finn knew that. They didn‘t really happen often though, as Leo was still not used to the cold and didn‘t really want to spend more time in the freezing weather than he had to. But now, walks might happen a bit more frequently, they had to try out the gift after all, and if that would mean seeing Leos cheeks and nose pink from the cold afterwards, he definetley wouldn‘t mind.

Finally they stood in front of their destination. They saw beautiful bouquets of flowers through the glass and a few left over roses from Valentines two days ago. Big signs on the window were announcing a sale for all left over roses.

A lovely older man greeted them, once they went inside to get their order. „Good morning. What can I do for you?“

„We ordered a bouquet on O‘Hara a few days ago for today.“

„Yes. It was made today and should be done. I‘ll quickly check, just a second.“, he smiled and then headed to the back room.

Finn walked over to where Logan was standing and placed his head on the others shoulder. Logan could practically hear him thinking.

„What‘s wrong, love?“, he asked.

„What if this isn‘t what he wants? What if he just wants to relax and go to bed? He did have a pretty  packed schedules in NOLA, what if he hates it?“

„Baby“, Logan turned around wrapping his arms around the red head‘s waist. „If he doesn‘t want to do anything, we won‘t do anything. I trust him, that he‘d tell us if he doesn‘t like something. We can still give him the gifts and cuddle. Now don‘t tell me that, that wouldn‘t be a great day?“

Finn shifted, looking into his boyfriends eyes now. „ Yeah, you‘re right. Anything‘s a great day as long as I get to spend it with you two.“ With that he leaned down and kissed Logan‘s nose.

The brunet just rolled his eyes, „Safe it for later Harzy, otherwise you‘ll be all out of cheese.“

„Baby, I dont have a cheese limit.“, Finn‘s eyes started sparkling, a hint of mischief in them.

„Believe me, I know. Fucking sap.“

„Gentlemen.“, the man from before announced himself, walking into the room with their bouquet. It was beautiful, exactly like they had imagined it.

It was a fairly big bouquet with 4 bright yellow sun flowers all around. In between were a few diffrent white flowers of varying sizes and it was all held together by an asortment of leaves that made the yellow really stand out. The man handed it to Finn.

He looked at it before beaming at Logan, recieving and equally bright smile in return.

„It‘s perfect. Really, it‘s beautiful.“, Logan told him. He could probably see in their eyes how happy they were, so he seemed content about his work. They payed and then walked back to their flat. They would have picked up a coffee, but not only were they already late, but their hands were occupied with flowers, a bag and the burden of holding hands the whole way home, just because they were able to now.

It was kind of a miracle the flowers were still in tact once they arrived back in their flat, although Finn did notice how carful Logan had been handling them.

„Shit.“, he heard Logan as soon as they entered, while Finn shrugged off his coat.

„What? What Logan? What happend?!“, panic crept into Finn‘s voice.

„Do we even have a vase?“

„Logan Tremblay. How dare you shock me like that. I thought something went wrong! Of course we do.“, Finn‘s face started to relax as the too the flowers from Logan walking towards the kitchen.

„Since when?“, he heard from Logan as socked feet moved across the floor in his direction.

„Bought it once Leo had left. It‘s in the bottom right cabinet, can you get it?“

Finn carefully removed the wrapping to reveal the bouquet. It looked even better in their home. Finn was probably just imagining that though.

Then they heard a knock.

Finn had very nearly dropped the vase out of shock. When he had collected himself a second later he rushed over to their coffee table and placed them in the middle.

Logan was standing about 6 feet away from the door, not moving.

Leo must have forgotten that he had a key as they heard a muffled voice right before the lock klicked. Leo opened the door and called out almost before he stepped inside, „Sweethearts, I‘m home.“

„Yeah, you are our home.“, he heard from Finn right before two grown hockey players were on him.

He should have really expected what was coming. Logan had actually jumped up and pulled them closer together, both with his legs and arms. Leo‘s hands held him there securely. Finn was pressed to his side, face pressing into the taller boys neck.

„That was so cheesy, but it‘s fine for today.“

There was a short snicker from his shoulder, where Logan had put his head, „Unlike you. You are fine everyday.“

Leo groaned. „I‘m just going to let you fall down.“

„Oh baby, I always fall for you- Ouch“

Logan was sitting flat on the floor. „Peanut, how could you?!“

„Looks like you hit rock bottom, huh?“

Both of his boyfriends looked at him dumbstruck. Logan‘s expression changed into a betrayed after the inital shock.

„Don‘t waste it on me, Fish.“

„Baby, I‘ll always be trash for you.“, Finn contered, winking to Logan.

Logan broke down, rolling on the floor gasping for air. Finn looked over at his younger boyfriend, who was just staring at him, his cheeks flushing.

“Did- did you just fucking wink?! I think I‘m glad you didn‘t go all out with flirting when you met me. There‘s a chance we wouldn‘t be together, if you would have done that.“

„Hey!“, Finn shoved him, „You would have loved me.“

„Yeah I would.“, he kissed his nose.“Happy belated Valentine‘s. Logan, come here.“, Leo had a pout on his face, making grabby hands at his missing boyfriend.

He got to his feet and crushed into his boyfriends, after a week of being seperated hugging them as tightly as he could.

„Love you too, Peanut. Happy belated Valentine‘s day.“

„Wait.“, Finn froze, „We have gifts!“, Finn was trying to get out of Leo‘s and Logan‘s hug, but got pulled back into their embrace.

„You‘re all the gifts I need.“, he heard Finn grumble and added,“We can do those later, sweetheart.“ He hesitated a second then added,“or you could do me later.“

[murderousginger]

Pretty but Naive

Part 2 of Cops and Robbers

Warnings: Fluff. Angst. Some steamy kisses. They're criminals guys, they do bad things.

Word count: 5.4k

Note: This took quite a turn from it's original idea. I hurt my own feelings writing a part, just know that. Take a deep breath and enjoy the ride, darlings!

Tagging: @imagine-that-100 @blinder-secrets​ @rae-you-gotta-be-kidding-me​

Working at The Garrison was so much easier than Sabini's club. After the night that John drove you home to Birmingham, you had started work the next afternoon and quickly picked up the routine. 

No more skimpy or overly shiny dresses. A plain cotton one did the trick and breathed better as you ran around to tables and across the bar to refill drinks. You were back home, so almost everyone knew who you were and why you were there so there were almost no issues with wandering hands or vile words. An occasional drunkard misstepped, but it was nowhere near as bad as London. You were generally happier and making the same amount of money as before.

Harry was a good boss and not long after you were taken on, Arthur bought The Garrison. The boys did their business there anyway so it was only smart they own it. Nothing much changed afterwards. Harry still ran things and you were a hard worker as well as a friend of the Shelby's so you were well cared for.

Except for once. 

On a very busy night, you went to pass around a round of beers to a group of younger Peaky Blinders boys; Finn and Isaiah leading the group.

"Oy, Finn, be a sweetheart and pass this to Isaiah," you said as you handed two beers to the youngest Shelby. He and Isaiah had chosen the seats with their backs to the wall, their friends surrounding them in the other chairs. 

"Yes'm," Finn said as he passed the second beer to Isaiah. "Any way I could get a nip of whiskey?"

Finn eyed you curiously as you stopped handing out beers on the tray and stood up, wiping your hands on the apron around your dress.

"How old are you now, Finny?" You said. "Fourteen, fifteen?"

"There's abouts," he replied, puffing out his chest. "I run things around for Tommy and even play lookout sometimes. I'm grown."

"Hmm," you considered. "I think Tommy'd still prefers you off the heavy until you're at least 17-18 like 'saiah over here, eh?" 

You started leaning back over and passing out the drinks as the group started to laugh and Finn turned red around the ears. He sipped his beer in defeat. You were almost finished passing out drinks when you felt a teenage hand slap your ass and squeeze.

"What is she, Finn, to be calling you Finny and denying you whiskey?" The boy asked. "Is she your old wet nurse?"

The other Blinders teens laughed along with him except for Finn and Isaiah. Both had wide eyes as you slowly stood up to look down upon the teen with a scowl and a cocked eyebrow.

"I did nanny Finny while he was younger," you said evenly. "I've also run more errands for Pol and the boys than you could imagine while you were still playing in the dirt."

You eyed the boy sternly as you felt the heat rise in your gut and your anger increase.

"If I asked, you'd be dead by morning," you said, teeth bared. "But I won't ask, I'll just cut you m'self. So kindly put your hands on your beer and off my arse."

The teen's eyes were wide as his hand dropped from you and went to his drink. His eyes cast down as he let out the smallest "yes ma'am" you had ever heard. 

You nodded, looking up at the rest of the table. 

"Now," you said, expelling your breath and putting a real smile back on, "can I get you boys anything else?" 

A quiet round of "No ma'am" and "No (Y/N)" echoed around the table. 

"Good boys," you said as you picked up your tray and walked away.

The table erupted with laughter behind you as you left. You heard Isaiah and Finn immediately begin to tease the boy and you smiled your way back to behind the bar.

"Always had a way with the boys, didn't you, (Y/N)?" Tommy teased as he slipped out of the private room and sat at the bar. 

"Never had a problem with the ones that weren't easily afraid," you retorted with a wink. "Who wants to keep the yellow ones around, anyhow?"

Tommy chuckled.

----

On slow days, you had time to sit in the private room with the boys and shoot the breeze. On a particularly slow day, Tommy had the others running errands for him and he had decided to sit at the empty bar and talk to you.

"(Y/N)," Tommy asked as he eyed you before taking a drink of his whiskey. "Why aren't you married by now? Surely you've been courted by someone."

You leaned on the counter, leaning in as if to tell a secret. 

"Once," you replied. "Remember Timmy McKee?"

"The git we beat for pushing you down when we was kids?" He asked incredulously. "He had the balls to try to marry you?"

You nodded solemnly. 

"Tried," you whispered. "He was talking to Da about it and started coming around after you lot were shipped out."

He leaned in, curiosity written all over his face.

"I told him if he valued any appendages he'd walk out and not look back," you said solemnly. "Mum turned blue from anger. Dad was stone faced. McKee all but ran out of the house. Ended up marrying Sue. Sweet girl. Pretty sure he beats her."

You shrugged and stood up, going to clean a few of the dirty glasses pilling up by the sink. 

Tommy chuckled, leaning back in his seat and spread his hands across the bar in front of him. 

"What did your dad do after McKee ran?" Tommy asked.

"He started laughing," you said with a grin. "Mum sent us both to bed without dinner."

----

Time sort of blended together after working at The Garrison for a while. It was all pretty much the same. Some nights were slow. Some were packed with people. Sometimes the Shelby's had you working the private room while they conducted business. 

On days off you were closer to your Mum and would visit. She was angry you worked for the Shelby's but seemed happier you were closer to home. When she drove you too crazy you ran off to visit Polly or Ada.

The days bled together, but you didn't care because you felt a part of the Shelby's again. They were family and you felt loved. 

Your favorite part was being able to goof off with your boys, but you had never forgotten the night that John had driven you home. 

On yet another night of working at The Garrison, you were walking back to the bar after dispensing more drinks when warm hands grabbed your middle and spun you into a chest. 

"Did I ever tell you how nice you look in that color?" John said as he deflected your tray from hitting him and took it out of your hands and placed it onto the bar counter. 

His cheeky grin was contagious when he bit down on the pick in his mouth.

"Only every time I wear it, John boy," you said, relaxing into his arms and patting his chest. "What do I owe this honor?"

"Well," he said, faking seriousness, "I've noticed our young Finn has gone from clutching your skirts to wanting in them -- and as one of his big brothers -- I'm here to tease him by teasing you."

"Oh now," you said, your pat turning into a smack, "he's just a babe. The wind blows wrong and he's as stiff as a flagpole. You should know, you've never grown out of it." 

"Maybe," he murmured, ignoring the jab, "but maybe I just like a chance at holding you close, (Y/N)."

Your eyes jerked up to meet his before you giggled nervously.

"Be careful where you aim that charm, John," you warned before you hesitantly stepped out of his arms to return to behind the bar. 

"Right," John said before sitting in an empty seat at the bar. "How about two whiskeys then."

"I can take them to you in the private room if you like?" You asked before turning your back on him to reach the whiskey on the top shelf he liked best.

"That may be a problem, unless Harry plans on covering for you, (Y/N)," John said playfully before raising his voice. "Harry, can I nip (Y/N) off your hands for a bit?"

"Aye," Harry said, not looking up from cleaning off a table. "But have 'er come back out during the rush in a few hours." 

"I can do that, Harry. I'm still right here," you said loudly as you sat back on your heels with the whiskey in your hand. When you turned, you saw John staring at you with a smirk. He rolled the pick across his lips with his tongue as he made eye contact with you. Your breath caught for a moment.

"Well you didn't bloody well ask me, now did you?" Harry chirped back. "You had John do it. So he got your answer."

Harry's retort snapped you out of it and you rolled your eyes at the cranky old man. You picked up two glasses with the hand that wasn't holding whiskey and followed John into the private room the Shelby's used for business.

"Slide in," John said as he went to sit with his back to the wall. 

"A lady doesn't slide," you said, placing the whiskey and glasses on the table and moving them toward the back where John sit 

"Good thing you aren't a lady then, huh (Y/N)," John teased, taking the pick out of his mouth and setting it on the table. 

You huffed a little as you sat down and moved to sit next to John. He was already filling the glasses with a double neat. 

"To bringin' old friends back into the fold," he said as he raised his glass and motioned you to take yours. 

"I've been here a while now," you said, clinking his glass before you both shoot back the drink. 

As you open your eyes and look back at John you catch him staring again. 

"Yeah well," he said, clearing his throat, "might've missed you more than I realized. You're a sight for sore eyes, you are."

"Aww," you cooed teasingly. "Is my John boy getting soft?"

You bumped his shoulder playfully before filling the glasses again. 

"To friends that feel like family," you said, raising your glass.

John hummed noncommittally. 

"Never much thought of kissing my sister," John said with a wink as he clinked your glass. You both quickly finished that round, too. You both put your glasses on the table with a thud.

"Never had the guts to kiss me anyway," you said offhandedly. "You chose not to, remember?"

John grabbed your chin so fast your head spun. His thumb and index finger dug into your skin as he pulled your face closer to his. When your lips were barely grazing his, his fingers dropped from your chin and his hand firmly rested upon your throat. He didn't choke you, but firmly held you in place. Your heart thudded against your rib cage. 

"I could choose to," he said gruffly. 

His blue eyes met yours before looking down at your lips. His tongue wetted his lips and ghosted over your own. You couldn't breathe.

"You could," you finally squeaked out. 

"Do you want me to?" John asked. 

"Yes," you whispered. 

You had expected John's lips to collide with yours, but instead he pulled you closer by your throat and ever-so-softly kissed you. He left you hungry. 

When he let go of your neck and pulled away, you pushed against him in the booth, needing the space to not exist between you. You pressed your lips back on his and could feel his smile as you slid your hands under his coat. 

He licked your bottom lip and you opened your mouth to his silent request, deepening the kiss. His hands pressed into your sides and set your skin on fire. 

As you both continued kissing, one of your hands found his face again and his hands started to wander to your skirts. John softly kissed your jawline and down your neck as he pulled you under him in the booth. His hand found warm skin near your knee and he groaned into your neck as his rough fingers pressed upwards into your soft thigh. 

"John," you half moaned, half said apprehensively. 

You pushed his face up to yours as his hands froze in place and his face pressed against your hand to kiss you again before meeting your gaze. 

"(Y/N)," John murmured back, his pupils blown out and a lazy smile appearing on his lips.

"Slow down," you said quietly. 

Recognition lifted the haze in his eyes and he gave your thigh one last squeeze before he slowly moved his hand down and out of your skirts and used his hand around your waist to upright you beside him. 

He looked at you like you were a spooked mare. He set a soft kiss on your forehead before releasing you from his grip. He cleared his throat, scratching his head as his ears turned pink. 

"Right so," he said. "Another drink?"

You did have another. And another. And when you finished your shift, John was waiting for you with a bottle in hand for many more. You walked through town in the dead of night, drinking and talking -- and occasionally kissing.

You stumbled into your flat at dawn the next morning, knowing full well you were going to nurse a hangover and be miserable before work. But you were absolutely elated.

And when you finished your shift the next night, John was there. 

And the night after. 

And after that. 

John didn't push during kissing after the first night. He waited for you to lead. He started learning your tells as the nights went on and would kiss you or touch you so softly that it would drive you to kiss him harder. You would push against him more until you could feel that cocky grin of his against your lips. And you both would laugh and go back to what you were doing. 

Some nights you wandered town. Others you dipped in the pond. You would sit on the steps of your flat and talk. Most nights were filled with conversations. You talked about each other's days, of business, of family, of dreams or ideas or anything that came to mind.

You were exhausted at work but in such a happy mood that no one commented on the bags under your eyes.

After too many nights out with John to count, there was a slow night at The Garrison that had you itching to be home.

Harry and you both started doing inventory on the liquors to order, as there were not but a handful of patrons in the place. None of the Shelby's had been in most of the day. Business, you were sure. Bloody business. 

Tommy walked in close to midnight, looking stiff. He waved you to him and nodded toward the private room. You nodded and grabbed his favorite whiskey and a glass.

"Long day, Tommy?" You said happily. "Not long till close."

"Very long," he replied shortly, reaching into his breast pocket for a cigarette and lighting it. 

He eyed you for a moment before patting the bench beside him. You sat down and put the whiskey and glass on the table in front of you.

"You've been staying out late every night with John," Tommy said, taking a long pull from his cigarette. 

"I have," you said smiling as you poured him a glass.

"(Y/N), you know he has children," Tommy said kindly. 

"Yuh," you said. "Three, from Martha, his late wife. John's told me."

"Four," Tommy said. "He has four children. A newborn. With his wife."

"Wife?" You said, frozen to the spot. 

"Esme," Tommy said, lightly resting his hand on your shoulder. "A Lee girl. He went to marry Lizzie a year or more back, said he needed a wife. It was my doing. We needed a truce. He needed a wife. He fought me at first, but he seems to like her."

"I see," you said softly, holding your breath. 

"John boy didn't mention that part, did he?" Tommy replied just as soft. 

"No," you flinched at his name. You could feel your lungs lose all their air as your world crumpled around the edges. 

Tommy nodded, more to himself than you, and his eyes were far away. He set his jaw.

"She's missing him, in the nights," Tommy grinded out, rubbing your back softly. "Starting to get worried. Upset. Gypsy women are hard enough to keep in one place. Home with a newborn and three kids. Best to keep her happy. For the truce."

"For the truce," you recited, voice cracking. "Nothing comes in the way of money or family."

Tommy touched your shoulder, and when you didn't turn he grabbed your chin and pushed your head up to look at him.

"Unless it is money or family," he said softly. 

"Hey," he said in a low voice as your eyes locked with his. "Look at me. You're all right, love. You didn't know. You didn't know."

You crashed into his arms, burying your head into his shoulder before your tears could fall. Your breath hitched and Tommy wrapped his arms around you, forgetting about his cigarette dropped into his drink. He petted your hair, soothing you with soft sounds like he did the horses. It only made you hold on tighter.

"Take a couple days off," Tommy said finally, putting your face into his hands. "Go see Polly. Drink some tea. Get your head straight, yeah?"

"Yes, Tommy," you sniffled, nodding into his hands like a child. Tears streaked your face. He wiped one away with his thumb. His eyes softened.

"Atta girl," Tommy said quietly, kissing the top of your head as he pulled you back to his chest. "Stay outta sight for a few nights until you get your head straight. Then come back."

"Tommy," you said, voice so small.

"Yes (Y/N)," Tommy said.

"It was silly of me to ever think I'd really be a Shelby girl, wasn't it?"

Tommy sighed and lightly squeezed you closer to his chest. 

"No, sweetheart," he whispered into your hair as you started sobbing again. "You've always been a Blinders girl. You just can't be his Shelby girl."

When you walked home that night, it was alone. Your chest was tight with anticipation. You only relaxed once you closed your door and locked it behind you. You slid down the door in a puddle and cried again, arms wrapped around your knees.

---- 

Tea with Polly was pretty much what you expected it to be. You waited until the house was empty from the boys running work or errands and then slipped in the back door. 

Your face was still red and puffy from crying, and you froze as you ran into Finn in the doorway. Finn jolted to catch his biscuit before looking up at you and immediately changing his scowl into concern.

"(Y/N), what --" he started.

"Not now, Finny," you said softly. 

"But what --" he tried again. 

"Leave the girl alone and run your errands, Finn," Polly's harsh voice echoed across the kitchen. "Go on."

Polly leaned in the doorway of the kitchen opposite of the two she was cooly eyeing. You shrunk under her critical gaze as if you were already being scolded. Finn huffed and slipped past you to go outside. 

"Not now, Finn," he mocked, stomping away. "Go on, Finn. Bloody adults."

"Water's on the stove," Polly said. "Grab two teas and bring them in to sit."

"Yes ma'am," you said quietly as you set out to do what she tasked you with. In a few moments you had two hot teas placed on the table and sat opposite the chair Polly sat in watching you.

"So," she trailed. "What's wrong with my (Y/N)? Did the boys leave you out again?"

You flinched at the tease. Polly sighed. 

"What'd they do?" She asked in a more gentle tone.

You told her about John and the conversation you had with Tommy. Her face grew more and more grim as the story went on.

"So you were the tarte keeping John from coming home," Polly said, leaving back in her chair. She saw your face fall and she waved you off. "Oh, you aren't a tarte but you were the tarte, girl. All those conversations that were whispered while we couldn't find out what he was up to. Where he was sneaking about."

"I think I love him, Pol," you whispered as you ran your hands through your hair. "Nothing else could hurt this much, could it? He lied to me."

"Don't think with your heart when a man is thinking with his dick," she scowled, taking a long drag from her cigarette and pointed at you. "Even if it's one of my nephews -- especially if it's one of my nephews."

"How was I supposed to know he was thinking with his dick?" You asked crossly, putting your head in your hands. Polly laughed.

"All men think with their dick," she said. "And Shelby's are especially known to ruin many a good thing because of it."

"I won't be his tarte, Pol," you said. 

"I never expected you to be," Polly said, taking a sip of her tea. "I expected you to be smarter. Go be about your business and make him realize his mistakes."

----

You didn't visit your mum, knowing full well that she would only chide you for the indiscretion. You weren't strong enough to pretend, so instead you went shopping. You got your usual groceries, and when you noticed a pretty blue cotton dress in a window, you bought it. You had to. It was Shelby's eye blue.

You stayed home the next day and just read. You soaked in the tub until the water was frigid. You started to fidget when the time came that you usually left for work, but you stayed in. One more night. Two nights at home, and you'll be strong enough to go back into work. You had to be strong.

The next day you woke up and lounged. You took your time primping yourself, putting your makeup on slowly, teasing your hair up into something more intricate than a ponytail, fitting into your new blue dress. With each layer you put more mental walls up, preparing for your night at work. You even wore a pair of higher heels than you usually did. 

When the time came you clacked down the cobblestone to The Garrison, not entirely sure of what your night would end up like but entirely ready for anything. 

You reached the steps of The Garrison and took one last big breath and exhaled before you walked in. 

"Harry, I'm back," you called, walking toward the bar and grabbing your apron to put on. 

"Thank fuck for that, little bird, because we're busy tonight," he called as he emptied his tray with a round of beers to a table. "Grab a tray and I'll see to behind the bar."

"Aye," you called back, already filling a few drinks at the bar and taking their money before doing as he asked. 

The night was definitely fast. You spun yourself around the bar, filling drinks and laughing with a few of the regulars along the way. 

Arthur popped in around eleven and waved you over, smile on his face. 

"Well would you look at (Y/N)," he offered as you walked toward him with a smile. "Don't you look pretty tonight. I'm sure you're getting all the tips." 

You laughed as he took your hand and spun you once, looking from your dress to your heels. 

"Good night on your end, Arthur?" You asked. 

"Good night indeed," he answered, whiskey already on his breath. "Business was good and now that I've seen you, the night is even better."

"Oh, now," you joked. "Don't be too sweet on me. I might melt." 

Arthur spun you into a hug and you laughed as Tommy and John came in behind him. Tommy nodded his head to you before slipping into the private room and John watched you closely before doing the same. 

"Let me go, Arthur, and I'll get you boys your drinks," you said as you went to turn around. 

"Don't be long, love," Arthur said with a wink. "It's going to be a rowdy night."

"The rowdier, the better," you called over your shoulder, already slipping past Harry behind the bar to grab the glasses and the bottle. 

"Get them their drinks and come back out," Harry chided as he worked at cleaning glasses. "Now's not the night for you to run off." 

"Yessir," you said sweetly as you kissed his cheek quickly and slipped past him again. 

"Don't tease an old man and do as yer told," Harry yelled, but he had a smile on his face as he watched you run off. 

You open the door and moved into the private area, the Shelby's already in their spots smoking cigars. Arthur nearest the door on the left, Tommy in the corner facing the door, and John on the right. You stood between John and Arthur, facing Tommy.

"Cigars tonight?" You lilted. "Business really must have been good." 

"We're expanding, (Y/N)," Tommy said. "Bigger and better business." 

You poured their drinks, handing them to each brother, a wide smile on your face. 

"Congratulations, boys," you said. 

"How about a congratulations kiss," Arthur said, taking his cap off and placing it on the table. He raised his cheek to you and pointed at it. "For good luck."

"Now," you said, faking exasperation with your hands on your hips. "Harry just told me not to tease an old man. I thought you said when you hired me to listen to him."

All the boys chuckled good naturedly and you bent down to give him a kiss on the cheek. 

"Anything else before I get out of here?" You said with a laugh. "Harry will have my head if you keep me too long."

"Not right now," Tommy said. "But do check in."

You raised your eyebrow before dipping into an exaggerated curtsy. 

"Whatever you say, King Tommy," you drawled before spinning on your heels and returning to the rest of the bar. 

You left the bottle with them, knowing they'd easily finish it. 

You went through the motions of the night, checking in periodically with the Shelby men to see if they finished the bottle or needed ice, or sometimes just to give one a jab. They all seemed in high spirits over whatever had happened and it lifted your own attitude to see them acting like kids again.  

However, John hadn't said more than a word or two all night and it was driving you mad. He was joking with Arthur and Tommy plenty, but as soon as you would enter the room it was almost like he grew quiet. He watched your jabs and taunts to the other two but never joined himself. 

After the bar had quieted and patrons left for the night, John came out of the room and stood between the door and the bar, watching you clean. Harry had disappeared into the back to take stock and pick up the alcohol to replace the night's used bottles.

"You've been tiptoeing around me all night, John boy," you said, finally breaking the silence. "I'm guessing you know I know and cat's got your tongue."

John stuttered a step but walked up and sat at a chair at the bar.

"I know," he said, tracing the wooden grooves on the bar top. 

"That's all you got for me?" You said, tired but incredulous. "You lied to me and all you can say is you know?"

John gulped, but looked up and kept eye contact. 

"I didn't lie," he said. "I just didn't tell you. There is a difference. Home is home. Business is business. They don't mix. They don't meet. That's why I don't invite her here."

"And I'm neither," you said, washing glasses a little more vigorously than before. 

"You're home, too," he said quietly, resuming his focus on tracing lines on the bar top. "But more like the first home. The one you grew up in as a child. The one your parents read to you and tucked you in, like."

You released a breath that you didn't know you were holding and lifted a soapy hand to your forehead. You dropped your shoulders. 

"Gotta grow up sometime, John," you said before you resumed scrubbing.

"I wasn't trying to hurt you, (Y/N)" he said. 

You slammed your glasses into the sink, hearing at least one break. You paused to take a heavy breath before you grabbed a towel to dry your hands.

"You once told me you're only as much trouble as I'm willin'," you started in a whisper that steadily grew louder. 

"(Y/N)," John pleaded.

"I'm not willin' no more, John boy," you said in a stronger voice than you thought capable. 

It almost sounded like your heart wasn't shattering. You finally found the courage to look him in the eye. His face was sheer regret. You stepped out of your heels and walked the paces to stand in front of him. You rested your elbows on the counter as you held John's jaw in both hands, squeezing tenderly.

"Do me a favor," you said with tears threatening to fall. "Give me a goodbye kiss, then go home to your family."

He looked you in the eye before looking down to your lips and squeezing his eyes shut. 

"It's alright, John," you soothed. "We're alright. I just need a goodbye."

He took a deep breath and placed a hand over your own and squeezed. 

"Goodnight, (Y/N)" he said hoarsely, before kissing you softly. 

You held the kiss for a moment before letting go of his face and leaning back slowly until you were standing upright again. Your eyes were still closed. That was it. It was done.

"Goodnight, John," you said, slowly opening your eyes. 

He was already slipping out of the door.

Tommy leaned in the private room's doorway watching you when you finally pulled yourself together. You decided to grab a rag and clean tables to get away from his prying eyes. 

"Tommy," you stuttered. "I thought you had already left." 

He hummed, kicked off the door frame, and walked your way. 

"Wanted to make sure that went smoothly," he said. "Looked like you parted just fine."

"You should know me well enough to know I'm not that girl," you glared at him before you wiped a table down and moved to another one. "I'm not anyone's tarte."

"Wasn't you I worried about," he said. "John's not always one to hear no."

You moved tables again and wiped it down. 

"What do you want, Tommy?" You asked, watching him follow you around the bar from the corner of your eye. "What are you scheming?"

"I just wanted to see if you're alright," he said before stepping closer. "That dress looks good on you, (Y/N)."

You threw the rag down on the table and stood up straight to look him in the eye.

"I'm fine," you said. 

"You shouldn't lie," Tommy retorted. "You're bad at it. But you did fine." 

You grunted noncommittally as Tommy stood toe to toe with you. You looked up at him and he touched your face, hesitating before he cupped your cheek. 

"(Y/N)," he said quietly as his warm breath teased your lips. 

"Tommy," you interjected, grabbing his hand that cupped your cheek. "You wouldn't lie to me, would you? You wouldn't … not tell me?"

"I wouldn't lie to you unless you wanted me to, (Y/N)," he said.

Your hand dropped from his and the creases that had appeared on his forehead smoothed. You were enamored with how blue his eyes were at the moment. At how they sparkled.

"Now, (Y/N)," he murmured as he leaned closer, "you absolved my brother of his sin with a kiss. Suffer me with a sin from the same indiscretion."

[fangirlings-things]

Being the best friend of the Peaky Blinders headcanons

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Tommy would probably be a difficult best friend to keep in touch with

He is always deep in business so if you were not a part of the Peaky Blinders yourself, it would take long periods of time for you to see each other

When you finally managed to get together for a drink or two though, it would be as if you had never been apart at all

You would both drink and laugh, talk deep and talk light, about everyone and everything. You would want to know how were things going with his family, how were everyone and he would probably be very curious about your life also

He always has a lot on his mind, but he would not find it hard to speak to you and open up even that only for a bit, because he knew you could give him comfort even without knowing the truth behind his plans and living

He loves you with all his heart and want you to stay as far as you can from his way of life and his way of doing business. If he could, he would actually want you to stay away from him, because it would be safer. But he knows you're not letting that happen. You're too stubborn for that

One of the best memories you have together are the ones from his wedding day with Grace

It was an important day to him and you were there, getting to see the passion he had for that woman in his eyes

Later in the party at Tommy's house you drank with John, talked politics with Ada and even shared a dance with Arthur. You liked your best friend's family very much and they were quite fond of you also

As well as Arthur, Tommy asked you to make a speech and Grace was more than happy with it, she was a nice woman

You gave everything you had in those five minute speaking

Arthur is someone you would love to have around from the moment you two met

He is rough and quite stubborn, but he also has a sweetness that gets to you and makes you warm up to him quite fastly

You became best friend shortly afterwards

From there, you spend all the bloody time together

Some nights you would make bets at who can drink the most in The Garrison, which would always be an enigma to whom would be the winner

In others, you two would meet maybe at your house or his just to talk, really. Just pure, random conversation that always makes you both feel better to get through the week

Patching him up after fights would be quite common

Whenever he is overwhelmed by memories of the war and find himself in a terrible state, his brothers would go to you. They knew you were the one whom Arthur really listened to, even though they were family

In those situations you took care of him, made him talk to get it out of his chest. Hugged him tight like he needed and comforted him with gentle, affectionate words

You defend him when John laughs at his expense, even though it's all a joke

He loves you for that

You and John are a duo so powerful and bonded that you could often be seen around the betting house

You both joke at everything, really

He is a funny guy and you have a sense of humour quite easy to please, so it would be a instant match

You can often be found drunk together at The Garrison, singing and well, joking around with other people

You resemble each other in quite some aspects so it would be easy for you two to fight now and then

This fights would be hard to watch. Hard stuff would probably be said

But it wouldn't take long for one of you to apologize and you going back to normal

He invites you for all the Blinders's events, because he thinks you make everything funnier and less boring

Your favorite thing to do together is just to find a quiet place somewhere and share a smoke, in silence and peace you both rarely get to have on your rushed days

Polly doesn't trust people easily

So it would be a long while before she even considered calling you a friend

But with baby steps, good decisions and quite some patience, you manage to make her see that you can be someone that she can rely on

And she does, actually being happy for having found someone loyal and that can really be trusted without having any interests behind the simple reality said

He invites you to her house a lot

Whenever she has a fight with Michael or the boys have done something that got to her nerves or upset her, you're there to listen

She asks your opinon on a lot of things. Even things related to business, things she would not ask anyone else. You love that she trusts you completely

Your friendship is so strong that the Shelby brothers are to say at least, surprised about it

Since they were little they didn't remember Polly having such a close friendship with someone so it was quite strange to them

But you're around so much that in no time they are already greeting you and inviting you to The Garrison later in the evening

When Polly finally got Michael back after all those years, the happiness in her had made you also incredibly happy because you knew how much she missed her children

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→ requested by anon

A/N: hope you like these guys! I'm also thinking about doing a second part, that would include Ada, Michael, Isaiah and Finn. Let me know if you would like to read it xx

tag list: @sophieshelby ; @charmingvalkyrie

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[bimswritings]

Games and Prizes

Warning:none

Ships: Reylo/Finnpoe

A server event that I recently took part in, with the prompt I received being carnival for @perry-the-rebelpus! I've never written for in show ships but I loved doing this. It leans more towards fairs since that's what I have more experience with, but never the less, I hope you enjoy! I also took a more modern AU approach as I felt it was the best way to tackle this!-Bim

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“Really Rey, we don’t have to do this.” Kylo tried to convince her for what felt like the thousandth time, and most likely was. Ever since she had discovered he had never been to a fair, she insisted on going, even calling and finding someone to cover her shift at the mechanics. The stubborn girl wouldn't have it though, ignoring his protest as she hopped off the motorcycle, grabbing the helmet from his hands and tossing it along with her own under the seat.

“Nonsense. Carnivals are an important part of growing up.” Her hand interlocked with his own, guiding him in the same direction as the crowd that was steadily streaming in. Ranging from families with excited and energetic children, to young couples such as themselves. “There was one that came through town every year when I was a kid. My parents always took me for a special treat at the end of the harvest.”

Rey’s eyes took on a softer, more distant look. One that Kylo knew all too well. It was the same one he got when talking about his own family, feelings of both sorrow and yearning for better times. Times that, despite how much they both may want to, they can’t go back to.

He lifted their intertwined hand, bringing Rey’s attention back to the present as he placed a light kiss to her knuckles. A small smile curved her lips, and they continued on to the increasingly bright lights of the carnival, the setting sun only highlighting their peaks further.

Once inside, they were quick to buy their wristbands for the rides, Rey practically bouncing with excitement the entire time in line. As soon as the offending neon green bands were in place she was pulling him towards the rides, her eyes bouncing between each one.

“Oh, let’s go on that one!” She pointed towards what could only be described as a giant wheel. It was as if a ferris wheel had been taken and laid down on its side, with the seats all inverted and its spinning capabilities dialed up a thousand.

“I’m not sure. Those seat belts don’t look like they would do a very good job of keeping me from flying off.” He eyed the offending items warily, to which Rey simply rolled her eyes as she pulled him into line.

“Children go on it and live. I think you’ll be fine Mr. ‘Tall and Brooding’.”

It didn’t take long for their turn to arrive, and it seemed like only in the blink of an eye were they strapping into the seats, the ride operator barely giving the belts a tug before moving to his operating booth in the center. With the press of a button the ride was whirring to life, slowly picking up speed until they were all but plastered to the side of the ride. The seats they were strapped to began moving up slightly, and it was only now that he noticed they were on rails that allowed them to move up and down with the increased G-force.

The pressure pushed his face back, though nothing he wasn’t used to. It was hard to focus on the ride with Rey beside him however. Her laughter spilled above the loud whirring of the ride and excited and terrified yells of the other riders. It was something he would never get used to, with how carefree and joyful it always sounded. Something he would always strive to hear as often as he could. Nothing could compare to the gut churning reaction he had when he heard it, though the sight of her stumbling, off balance and clearly still slightly disoriented, as they got off the ride came in a close second. It did nothing to deter her, still smiling as she pulled him to the next ride.

On and on they went, ride after ride all evening. It was only after she had proceeded to destroy him in bumper cars time after time that he suggested they go and get food.

“We can ride a bit longer!” Rey had tried to protest, not content to take a break until they had ridden all the rides at least twice. It was the first time she had been able to go to such an event ever since her parents had passed, and she was determined to make the most of it, even if she went a little hungry. Her stomach seemed to have other plans however, cutting her off in the middle of her protest with a loud growl of its own. Her cheeks flushed as Kylo chuckled, wrapping an arm around her shoulder and steering her towards the vendors. All night the smell of the overpriced and greasy food had been tempting him, though he dared not to eat any of the potential nauseating treats while Rey was still determined to ride so many things that spun.

After paying for a slice of pizza each, as well as an almost comically large elephant ear to split afterwards, they settled down on one of the far tables away from all the action.

“Thank you.” Rey spoke, finally breaking the comfortable silence that had developed as they watched others pass by. He cocked his head slightly to the side, confused and prompting her to clarify further.

“For agreeing to come, I mean. I know places like this aren’t really your style.” She grew suddenly shy, finding her fingers more interesting than anything else at the moment. Her nails nervously picked at one another, though there was nothing much to pick at. Years of working at the mechanics had left them short and cracked in places, much tougher than you would think for the rest of her looking so soft. Yet her hands were one of his favorite things. Hands that held his own softly, as if they weren’t the hands of a man who had killed dozens; that would softly card through his locks while absentmindedly laying on the couch. Hands that would hold his face close, brushing over each scar tenderly as she whispered soothing words for minutes, hours. As long as it took.

He thought her hands were the most beautiful things in the world, both then and now, as he took them in his own.

“For you, I would go anywhere.” He leaned in closer, locking games as he lightly pressed his forehead to hers. She was warm, her skin almost burning in contrast to the cool night air. Though it was anybody's guess how much it was due to her body temperature, and how much was caused by the quickly rising blush that consumed her face. “Especially if I could see you as happy as I have today.”

“You two really need to get a room.”

The third voice took them both by surprise, so wrapped up with one another that they hadn’t even noticed their audience, and in his surprise Kylo jolted forward, bashing his skull against Rey’s before falling backwards off the bench and landing painfully on his tailbone.

“Finn!” He heard her joyous shout. Propping himself up on his elbows, he spotted the named man, who was currently receiving a hug from his girlfriend, as well as Finn’s own boyfriend.

“Dameron.” He nodded, climbing to his feet as the man returned the gesture silently.

It wasn’t that they didn’t like one another, quite the opposite actually. They held nothing but respect for each other, both having spent time in the air force. The only rift came from the fact that Kylo had run more covert missions, often flying solo or with just a single partner, while Poe was in charge of and flew an entire squadron. He thought of him as more of a mercenary, while Kylo would consider his potential wasted on such general missions. Still, the greatest offense in his eyes was still the fact that he had chosen to date someone from the marines. The marines. Of all the branches, he had to choose someone from the one known for shooting first and asking questions never. The two might have never seen each other after serving, yet fate had other plans; of which being in the form of their respective partners having been best friends through high school and college. They had only met again by chance after moving to the same small town in hopes of living a quiet, simple life.

“I should have known you guys would be here. You’re never one to miss a fair.” Rey continued, moving back around the table to sit next to Kylo once again, who was still rubbing at the sore spot on his head, briefly wondering what her bones could possibly be made of to have not even flinched at such a hit.

“Maybe if we told you, we wouldn’t have to be subjugated to your nauseating sweetness.” Poe teased, leaning across the table while Finn rolled his eyes. “I have to say, I’m disappointed in you Ren. There’s children around here you know.’’

Kylo said nothing, only gathering their trash and standing, the rest following in suit as he spoke.

“Well, it was nice seeing you again, but we were about to continue our date night and-”

“You guys should join us!” Rey cut in, taking him by surprise. Even if it was her best friend, she was never really one for group outings, preferring just one or two other people.

“It would be just like old times!” Finn agreed.

Kylo was about to protest, and from the way Poe had opened his mouth he was too, but before either male could get a word out the two had already linked arms and were strolling away, deeping in conversation and leaving their dates forgotten. So, begrudgingly, the two men followed.

By this point night had fully set in and the activities of the fair were in full swing. Brightly colored tents lined the venue, creating makeshift paths that helped to funnel the large number of people into a form of organization. It seemed that Rey had had her fill of rides, as she and Finn continued on deeper into the games and shows section that ran along the outside. Here, vendors yelled and mocked, teased and prodded; anything they could do to get the attention of the passersby. Games of skill, strength, and pure luck, though anyone with half a brain knew that the majority were all rigid. Above and lining all the booths were more stuffed animals than Kylo had ever seen in his life, and though some of them he found creepy and downright ugly, he could see the appeal of some.

“Hey Rey! Look!” Finn pointed to one of the stalls, highlighting a create he had never seen before. It looked like a penguin, except the eyes were far too large, and it lacked a beak as well as the stark black and white of the animal in favor of more neutral tones.

The two were at the booth in a flash, the vendor already talking to them as Kylo and Poe caught up. Just from the looks of the man, Kylo immediately didn’t like him. He had spent enough time around others to be able to get an accurate read on them, and this guy had the same shifty, fox eyed look to him that all new recruits who were too big for their breeches had.

“Well hello there.” He leaned in, far too close for Kylo’s liking, and he felt himself tense, his pace quickening to reach them as the man continued his speel.

“Feel like testing your luck against the mysterious and dangerous kraken to free one of its victims.” He gestured to the creatures above.

Rey was immediately digging in her bag, looking for her wallet with Finn doing the same beside her. Before she could get too far however, he was there. Stepping between her and the booth, he pulled his wallet and slapped the five dollars on the counter. Poe did the same next to him.

The vendor collected the money with one fell swoop, tossing two balls onto the counter for them to load at the suction cup guns laying there. He did so with ease, the object feeling almost childishly small and fragile in his hands as he raised it to the target; a kraken shaped cutout a number of feet away. A spiralled target rests dead center in the middle of its forehead.

He fell into proper shooting position naturally, bringing the poor excuse of a sight to eye level as his arms locked.

‘Pop’ ‘Pop’

A jolt traveled through his body. Not because the dinky little object had any form of recoil, but because of how far he had missed the mark. The ball had barely even glanced the side of the creature, and from the look Poe had he had missed just as badly.

He shook it off, ignoring the amusement he felt coming from the two beside him and blaming it on the simple differences of the object from what he was used to. Of course it wouldn’t fire like a normal gun. Expecting the accuracy to be anything more than lacking would be stupid of him. Now that he knew just how off it was, he could adjust accordingly. Both paying for another round, the shooters were loaded and aimed in seconds. Going of where it hit last time, he raised the end a bit and brought it slightly to the right.

‘Pop’ ‘Pop’

They fired again, and again they missed.

“Oh, too bad my friends. I guess you’re not as skilled as your little dates thought you were.” The vendor taunted, sending a wink Rey’s way.

Feeling anger quickly starting to rise within him, there was no way Kylo was about to give up now. He paid another five, giving him another ball.

Then another.

And another.

And another.

Several minutes and thirty dollars later he was nowhere closer to winning, his shots, instead of coming closer, were going more and more astray from the target. With each miss his anger rose, and Poe was doing no better beside him.

“For the love of-”

“Ah ah~ Watch your language.” The vendor smirked, only making his temper worse. “There’s children around here after all. What example would you be giving them if you showed how much of a sore loser you were.”

Kylo genuinely thought he was going to hop over the booth and wipe the smug smirk from his face. A gentle hand brought his attention as Rey gently pried the shooter from his grip, a concerned smile on her face.

“Hey, let me have a shot at it.” He hesitated, not wanting her to feel the same discouragement and embarrassment he currently was. The look in her eye stopped him short. It was the same look she had whenever she was working at the shop or on his car at home. A look of utter confidence in what she was doing.

The three men stared at the two friends in astonishment as they high five, already moving on to picking out which of the stuffed creatures they wanted.ly the same position he had been in early, evidently having taken Poe’s place as well. The vendor leaned in closer, Rey clearly doing her best to ignore him as she focused on the target.

“Now sweetheart, what you’re going to want to do is-”

The familiar simultaneous pop of the ball leaving the suctioned end sounded, just as it had with his previously. Unlike their attempts however, instead of silence the pops were answered with the sound of a loud buzzer and the muted cry of the kraken as its eyes lit up red.

The three men stared at the two friends in astonishment as they high fived, already moving on to picking out which of the stuffed creatures they wanted.

“The one in the very back! He looks the softest!” Rey exclaimed, pointing. There was nothing left for the vendor to do but grumble as he grabbed the creature, along with Finn’s choice. All but tossing the animals he was quick to shoo them away, his persona turning from sour to cheerful on a dime as he lured the next group in to the nearly impossible game.

“I just don’t understand.” Poe shook his head in disbelief. Finn gave him a comforting squeeze.

“Rey and I grew up with these games every year. We’re practically professionals.”

“Yeah.” She nodded from under Kylo’s arm, which was thrown around her shoulder. “The vendors hated us. We nearly got banned the one year when we were going around seeing how many we could win before they closed.” They both laughed at the memory, leaving their boyfriends to simply shake their heads.

By now it had grown late, the group foregoing to visit any of the barns due to Poe’s hay allergy. They could always come back tomorrow. After walking the other couple to their car, they made their way back to their Rey’s ride. After pulling the helmets from under the seat, Kylo was surprised when Rey tossed the stuffed animal to him.

“Here.”

His brows furrowed questioningly as he glanced back between her and the creature.

“Are you...are you giving this to me?”

She nodded, slipping on her jacket to protect her from the wind.

“But you were so excited for it.”

“You said that you’ve never been to a fair before, so I assume that you’ve never gotten one of the ridiculously large stuffed animals from one.” She spoke, turning to him. “It’ll be a nice way to mark the occasion. Besides,” she smirked, moving to pull her helmet on. “,it's not like we don’t share a bed anyways. He’ll be there no matter what.”

With that she pulled on her helmet, tilting her head cheekily before tossing her leg over the bike. He climbed on after, his chest feeling lighter than it had all week as he wrapped his arms around her waist. The stuffed animal was sandwiched safely in between them, ready for the journey home.

There was no one more perfect for him, and he reminisced on the fact as the bike roared to life underneath him. He could already picture the stuffed animal and how ridiculous it would look in their otherwise modern styled and well kept room. Normally all the small trinkets and knick knacks Rey would bring home were restricted to her hobby room, him not being able to handle the clutter they created. This however? This would fit perfectly in their room.

She still had to be the one to name it though.

[awanderingdeal]

Chapter One of a 'Three of a Kind'. Rating: E

This fic will explore Naleyx's and O'Knutzy's relationships. There will be lots of sweet, fluffy moments and even more smut. Enjoy!

This was definitely improved in the editing process, so a massive thank you to all of my betas for your help. Of course, I did add a few tidbits afterwards because I can never resist.

These characters all belong to @lumosinlove and I am unbelievable grateful that they exist.

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Chapter One - Homecoming

Alex let himself into the apartment, groaning as he dropped his holdall on the floor and flopped onto the empty sofa. “I’m so fucking tired,” he announced to the room. 

"Hello to you too,” Natalie quipped. She finished putting her filming equipment away before joining Alex, lifting his upper body with ease and letting his head flop into her lap when she was settled. 

“Mmm, sorry, babe. Tough practice today and the drive was so tedious,” Alex apologised, looking up at his girlfriend. They’d made it official a couple of weeks ago, but the word still felt weird to him. Natalie Darcy and Kasey Winter were his partners. The idea still sent little shivers down his spine. His thoughts were interrupted by Kasey’s weight dropping onto his feet. “Dude!” he whined, trying to kick his feet up. “You are mad heavy.” 

  Kasey laughed, lifting himself up to let Alex scramble his feet out and place them in his lap. He handed Natalie the beer that he’d gone into the kitchen to collect. 

“Thanks, Sugar.” she drawled, rolling her eyes at the boys’ antics. 

“Where were you anyway?” Kasey queried, levering the cap of a second bottle and handing it to Alex. “You weren’t on planet Earth, I called you twice.” 

Alex wriggled himself into a more upright position so that he could take a gulp of his drink without choking. “I was just thinking about us,” Alex answered, “Like, it’s kind of insane that I get to call you my boyfriend now.”

Natalie shoved him gently in the shoulder, “What about me?” 

“You too,” Alex confirmed, “My girlfriend. It’s crazy. I’m so lucky.” 

Natalie hummed softly, taking Kasey’s hand in hers absentmindedly as she spoke, “We feel the same way too, sweet cheeks. We love having you around. How long have we got you for this time? ” 

Alex sighed. He loved his team, but he really would like to be closer to Kasey and Natalie. He couldn’t wait until the off-season, when hopefully they would be able to spend most of their time together. “I have to be back for training on Monday, so four days.” He smirked at Kasey’s small fist pump at the longer than usual amount. “Finn and I were making plans for one of the days? Maybe dinner?” 

Nat nodded, tapping her phone a few times, “Yeah, Leo messaged me. He was thinking about tomorrow evening for dinner? That sound good?” she asked, her eyes flicking between the two boys. 

“Yes, that’s good,” Kasey agreed, putting his bottle onto the coffee table. “Now that the pleasantries are out of the way, can I kiss one of you?” he said, already manoeuvring himself into Alex’s lap. 

“I think Alex is too tired for any of that,” Natalie sing-songed, her smile devious. 

“Oh?” Kasey cocked his head to the side, thoughtfully. “That’s a shame. Guess I’ll just have to kiss you instead.” he continued, twisting so that his face was inches away from Natalie’s. The movement brushed Alex’s cock; it immediately took an interest. 

“And what if I say no?” Natalie raised an eyebrow teasingly, her fingers tapping against the fabric of the sofa. 

“You would never,” Kasey gasped.

“I might.” Natalie’s expression was unwavering. Just enough to make Kasey doubt himself. 

“Well...then I’d respect that, obviously.” he relented, starting to move away. 

“I might. But I’m not.” Natalie reached out, tangling her fingers in Kasey’s hair and leading him towards her, pressing their lips firmly together. She took advantage of his small gasp to slip her tongue into his mouth. He hummed contentedly into the kiss, letting her lead without a fight for once. 

“Hello, I am still here,” Alex whined, his arousal rocketing at the sight of his partners working their lips against one another. “And I am very much, no longer tired.” 

Natalie pulled away from Kasey with a laugh. “Hmm, I thought that might happen,” she joked, brushing her fingers against Alex’s lips. Alex flicked his tongue out to meet them. She turned her head back to Kasey, “Go ahead, you wanted to kiss him.” 

Kasey didn’t hesitate to fulfil the demand, leaning down to close the gap between the two men. Their kiss was greedier than the one between Kasey and Natalie had been, lips moving against one another quickly. Alex tucked his hand behind Kasey’s head, pulling them ever closer together. Their breath came rapidly, taking desperate gasps of air between exploring each other’s mouths. 

Natalie curled a hand between them, undoing the zip on Kasey’s jeans. He pulled away from Alex, earning himself a swat on his ass. “Keep going. I was enjoying that,” Natalie reprimanded as she undid Alex’s zip too. She waited until they were distracted by each other’s tongues again to wrap a hand around both of them. 

“Fuckkk,” Alex whined, but he knew better than to pull back from the kiss if he wanted the pleasure to continue. “Nat, please,” he begged, as she moved up and down his length, thumb flicking over the head with each stroke. She was teasing them. Each time Alex felt the heat rising in his groin and his heart rate increasing, Natalie slowed her pace, fingers dancing along the thick vein of his cock. Kasey was panting into the kiss now, Alex taking his lip between teeth and nipping softly - the slight pain pulling a whine from the goalie. The crescendo was just climbing again when Natalie stopped. 

"Nat!" Kasey gasped, moving to finish himself off. His cock was dark and angry, desperate for release. He hesitated when he saw Natalie's raised eyebrow, but smiled cheekily continuing to take himself in hand. 

Alex's eyes darted between the two of them, his own pleasure momentarily forgotten. He loved watching this little dance. Kasey and Natalie's eyes locked together. Kasey pretending that Natalie wasn't entirely in charge here. Natalie asserting her dominance.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Natalie said calmly. She let the words settle into the silence before continuing. "Of course, you could. But if you come now, then I'm going to tie you to bed and make you watch me fuck Alex." She glanced away as the aforementioned man made a small sound. "I'll let him play with you. Maybe even let him take you in his mouth - you know he likes that." A smirk spread across her lips and her eyes moved back to Kasey. "But you don't get to come again."

Kasey froze. Alex could see the cogs in his brain turning. Slowly, he pulled his hand away, hissing when he accidentally brushed the head. 

"Good choice," Natalie hummed, tracing Kasey's jawline and kissing the tip of nose. "Let's take this to the bedroom, boys."

Kasey leaned his head against Alex's, taking deep breaths in an attempt to calm himself down. "She drives you crazy too, right?" he mumbled, making Alex laugh.

"Yeah, but I love it." 

" God, me too." 

" Well, lovely as this is gentlemen, I was quite enjoying myself, so let's scoot," Natalie interrupted.

Once Kasey was out of his lap, Alex stood and followed him to the bedroom, pausing to grab his beer bottle. Natalie snorted when she saw him. "I don't think you'll be needing that " 

Alex threw a look over his shoulder, slowing down so that they were in step.  “Never waste alcohol, Nat. And I don’t plan on getting back out of this bed once I’m in it.” 

“You sure you're not too tired for this? We’ve got all weekend,” Natalie questioned, her eyes softening. As much as she wanted Alex squirming underneath her she was also quite happy to cuddle up next to him whilst they watched a show or something.

“Oh my God, Nat. I’m so fucking horny I can’t explain.  Do you know what it does to me thinking about you two here, together? When you send those photos?” Alex replied. 

Natalie drew a breath to respond when Kasey shouted, “Can you hurry up please? I’m dying in here.” 

Alex choked around his laughter, a few droplets of beer going down the wrong pipe. “Besides, you have Kase all worked up now.” 

By the time they had pushed through the bedroom door, Kasey was lying on the bed, his clothes shed and piled on the floor.

“Somebody is eager,” Natalie teased, climbing onto the bed and straddling Kasey’s hips. She reached out a hand, her fingers playing with the outline of his nipples. “You were a very good boy out there. I suppose you deserve a reward for that. Don’t you agree, Alex?”

“Oh, definitely,” Alex agreed, placing the beer bottle on the bedside table and pulling his t-shirt over his head before joining them on the bed, kneeling between Kasey’s spread legs. He swept Natalie’s hair off her shoulder, pressing kisses across the exposed skin. “I’ve been thinking about having him in my mouth all day. Can I?” he asked, his fingers lifting the hem of Natalie’s shirt, but his eyes transfixed on Kasey. 

“I don’t think that will be a problem. Hmm, sugar? Would you like that?” Natalie lifted her arms to aid Alex in the removal of her shirt, her bra quickly following.

Kasey nodded rapidly, his eyes dragging over Natalie.  “Please,” he whined, his eyes crinkling at the edges in a way that drove Alex crazy as he reached out to pull Natalie to him. “I want to touch,” he whispered almost reverently, momentarily glancing down at the other man expectantly.

“Alright, alright,” Alex placated, turning onto his stomach and hooking his hands under his boyfriend’s hips. He pressed his tongue against the thin skin just behind his balls, enjoying the soft whine it elicited. “Soon Kase,” he murmured, his mouth moving to worship his inner thighs. Those thighs. His own were thick but my God, Kasey’s were unreal. He nipped the soft skin gently.

“Hey baby,” he heard Natalie coo. She was lying on her side now in a position that made it easy for her to see what Alex was doing but also for her to take Kasey’s mouth against her own, swallowing the groan that Alex coaxed out of him when he finally enveloped his cock. They kissed long and slow, Kasey's hands journeying over her bare skin - somehow both eager and gentle. She heard the hitch in his breath as Alex wrapped a hand around the stretch of dick that he couldn’t fit in his mouth.

“Alex,” Kasey panted. Alex reveled at the way his name sounded on Kasey’s lips, all throaty and breathless. He caught Natalie’s eye, making a show of hollowing his cheeks and swallowing the cock down further. 

Natalie slipped her hand past the waistband of her leggings, pressing her fingers against the throbbing pulse between her legs. She kissed Kasey again, this time hot and passionate, their tongues working against one another’s until Kasey pulled away. “Let me,” he pleaded, his hand wrapping around her wrist. 

“Jesus, I want your mouth,” Natalie whined, rolling onto her back, pushing her pants and underwear off her hips and down her legs. She pushed onto her knees, straddling Kasey’s head. “Hey, Alex, sweetie. Look at me,” she urged, waiting until he stilled his mouth and his honey brown eyes met hers. “I’m gonna ride Kase until he makes me come and then I’ll take care of you, alright?” 

“Yes, yes, that’s good,” Alex murmured, the vibration of the sound causing Kasey to thrust his hips. Alex smacked his hip gently. “So impatient,” he scolded playfully. 

“Fuck, I swear to God...” Kasey started, but his words turned into a strangled moan; Alex wrapping his lips around the head of his cock, swirling his tongue around it a few times. Then he grinned and took the length further into his mouth.

“Prêt?” Natalie asked, waiting for Kasey’s nod of affirmation before lowering herself to meet his mouth. He licked a long stripe between her folds, sucking gently when he met her clit. Natalie rocked into the sensation, moaning softly as she let her head fall backwards. He knew her well, working his tongue in the way he knew she loved; flicking and curling it into the tight heat, lapping at the wetness. Kasey’s own moans sent vibrations through her, drawing a shiver. She arched into his mouth, grinding against it, chasing the pleasure that was tingling at her extremities. 

Alex let Kasey fall from his mouth, getting to his knees. He bundled the waterfall of Natalie’s blonde hair into his hands, pulling her face close to his. He felt the breathy pants and whines coming quickly from Natalie’s mouth against his skin, cupping her jaw. “You’re beautiful like this, you know?” he said softly, watching as he let the hair drop from his fingers.

“Thanks, sweetheart,” she gasped out, Kasey’s tongue getting her attention. “I can’t wait to get inside you. I missed you.” 

Alex kissed her throat, careful not to mark it. She didn’t like the bruises the next day, the way Kasey did. He worked his way down, littering kisses here and there. He cupped her breasts in his hands, Natalie’s breath catching in her throat as he rubbed circles around her nipples. He leaned forward, darting his tongue out to tease the dark skin. 

Natalie cried out; her hips were moving quickly now as she felt a warmth spreading through her limbs, riding Kasey’s face, but he seemed unfazed - his tongue pushing deep into her before dragging back toward her clit. He latched onto it, sucking feverishly as he helped her through the orgasm. 

She climbed off of Kasey, and flopped down by his side, pulling Alex with her. Her breathing was rapid still and her hair stuck to her slightly sweaty back. “I think you get better at that every time.”

Kasey let out a small laugh. “I try.”

Natalie tangled her fingers into Alex’s where they were draped across her torso. “Right, you. Get Kase prepped and I'll grab my dick,” she told him, smirking at the yelp of happiness from Kasey. She turned to kiss him. “You’ve been very patient. I’m sure Alex will make it worth it,” she praised, hearing the bedside drawer open and shut.

Alex rolled over Natalie, causing her to grunt until he was on top of Kasey.  “ Oh, you bet.” Out of his periphery, he saw Natalie slide off the bed and head over to their trunk of toys, but he concentrated on the man in front of him. He massaged a finger over Kasey’s twitching hole, gently pressing into it as he relaxed.

“Fucking finally,” Kasey groaned.

Alex chuckled, quickly adding a second. There was a slight resistance at first, but Kasey’s ass soon accepted it.

“Gimme the third,” Kasey whined, pressing into the gentle thrusts Alex was making. 

He added the finger, but kept a frustratingly slow pace, stretching and preparing the hole to take him.

Kasey clenched his muscles around the fingers. “Fuck, ‘Lex. Please. I’m ready. I want you,” he begged. 

“Just relax,” Alex spoke softly, the fingers of his free hand sweeping across Kasey’s hipbone, but the ring of muscle remained tight around him. “Kase, baby, relax,” he repeated, tone a little firmer this time. He heard Kasey let out a breath, and the pressure lessened allowing him to crook the fingers searchingly, Kasey’s whine letting him know when he had found the bundle of nerves that he was searching for. 

“See what happens when you listen,” Alex teased.

He felt Natalie’s hands wrap around his waist, settling on the button of his jeans, the bulge now strapped to her waist hard against him. “Why are these still on?” she hummed, fingers working nimbly to undo them.

“Hey, sugar, how are you doing?” She asked, her eyes peered over Alex’s shoulder, enjoying the sight of Kasey spread on the bed, his ass stuffed with Alex’s fingers. 

“Good. I’m very good,” Kasey sighed, his back arching when Alex brushed over his prostate again. “Shit. I’m going to come like this if you don’t hurry up.”

Natalie helped the jeans down his legs, palming Alex through the thin underwear. “Go on, I think he wants this, baby.”

Alex didn’t need any further encouragement. Kasey hissed at his fingers pulling out so that he could shed his underwear. “Hands and knees.” He smacked the ass in front of him with a smirk.

Kasey gave a little yelp followed by a glare and mumbled,  “Asshole,”  but scrambled into the position. 

“You weren’t complaining when you were bent over Nat’s lap last week,” Alex jibed. He kissed the small mark his hand had left behind, pink against his pale skin. 

“Oh my God, just fuck me.”

At that, Alex slipped inside Kasey, wrapping his arm around the other man’s waist and pulling him against him. “I’ve missed this,” he groaned, settling into the warm heat. He set a steady rhythm, dragging his cock in and out of Kasey slowly. He stilled when Natalie pushed two fingers, and then three fingers into him; he always opened up easily. His eyes glazed over, the dual sensations of the pulsing hole hot around him and the cold lube coating him driving him crazy. 

Kasey fucked himself back onto him, his breathing fast and heavy. Words spilled from his lips, a mixture of French and English. 

“Look at him, he’s so gone for you,” Natalie cooed into Alex’s ear, the dildo teasing at his ass. She held onto his hips, pushing into him. It was Alex’s favourite - thick and ribbed. “That’s it sweetheart, you take my dick so good.”

“Fuck fuck fuck fuck,” Kasey rambled, his hand reaching to stroke himself. 

Alex thrust faster, hitting Kasey’s sweet spot repeatedly, leaning back into Natalie’s chest as she fucked into him. Somehow it was both too much and not enough. He never wanted it to end. The pleasure came from everywhere: his ass stretching around the length inside of him; the constant stimulation of his prostate; Kasey tight around him. 

Kasey came with a cry, rutting into his hand, milking every drop from himself. Alex fucked him through the orgasm, his hips moving erratically. “Yes, yes, yes.” He didn’t need long until he was spilling into Kasey, Natalie rocking against him until he whimpered, “Too much.” 

He slumped forward, chuckling softly at the small protest Kasey gave when he shifted out of him and draped his weight across his back. “Mmm, you’re so strong.” His cock stirred at the fact that his boyfriend could hold his weight even now, as relaxed and strung out as he was. 

“Get comfortable. I’ll be right back.” Natalie kissed Alex and then Kasey. 

Alex heard the sound of water running in the en-suite as he dragged Kasey up the bed to the mountain of pillows and curling around him.

“You’re all sticky,” Kasey grumbled, but tangled their ankles together and took Alex’s hand in his. 

Alex laughed loudly, burying his face into blond locks. “Hypocrite. You are literally leaking everywhere.” His hand snaked down, dragging a finger through the mess coating Kasey’s torso and bringing it to his lips.

“Okay, you need to stop that unless you want to go for round two.” Natalie was back, washcloths in hand, an eyebrow raised. 

“Hey! You’re back,” Kasey beamed, reaching out a hand for her to take. 

Alex took the offered cloth so that Natalie could be pulled in by Kasey. “You alright? Did you need something else?” he asked. Despite the nub at the top of the dildo she had used, it usually wasn’t enough for her to get off. Alex, always attentive, made sure to double check. 

Natalie twisted, propping herself onto her side so that she could see both of her boys. “I’m good, babe.” She brushed a stray strand of hair back off Kasey's face. “Somebody did a fantastic job.” 

Kasey hummed happily as Alex used the damp, warm cloth to clean them both up. 

Alex raised an eyebrow when Natalie reached for the beer bottle on the bedside table, taking a sip. "I don't think you'll be needing that, " he quipped, imitating her earlier words.

" You have good ideas every now and then," Natalie shrugged, tilting the drink at Alex's lips. His own hands were still occupied. 

“ Wanna hit the court tomorrow morning? I’ve been working on my jump shot.” Alex liked this bit nearly as much as the mind-blowing orgasms that his partners gave him. Taking care of them. The vulnerability. The quiet conversations with Natalie over soft snores when Kasey inevitably fell asleep. 

“I’ll still beat the both of you,” Natalie chuckled, her competitiveness showing even in during this tender moment. 

She was probably right. He didn’t care. He just wanted to spend all the time in the world with them. Bruised ego and all. 

[catracorner962]

Beautiful Children Ch. 6

Now back from hiatus!

Adora and Catra have a good time, Adora suffers a dinner party and a betrayal.

Like what I do? Consider buying me a Ko-fi! <3

*Warning for mentions of child abuse and trauma*

“Yes, of course! We can set course for Rarion in,” Adora glanced at Glimmer from her gilded chair in the throne room; the Queen of Brightmoon eyed her from her own throne, mouthing an unmistakable,

In six turns, through her lips.

“In six turns!” Adora repeated aloud. The Rarion delegation exchanged a confused glance between themselves, muttering in a language Adora could not discern.

“Pffftl!”

“Shhh!” Catra hissed at Finn, holding them out as far away from her as possible while still keeping them on her lap. Adora gripped the bar of her chair tightly.

No, shhh, please Finn, quiet! I promised Glimmer you’d be good.

The tallest Rarion, the leader of their group, glared at her wife and their-not-yet-but-hopefully-soon-with-some-convincing-permenantly-adopted-child.

Even as Shera, the Rarion ambassador sneered,

“My people have waited eons for the magic of Rario to be awoken! If Queen Glimmer and her champion would rather babysit kittens then do their duty, perhaps Etheria is not deserving of their own magic.”

“Pffftling! Ahhh! Hehehe! Ghaaa!” Finn reached for the rattle Catra held in her hand, trying to grab at it and stuff it into their mouth. Adora focused on the sight of it, trying to dampen her rage. Still, the familiar shine of magic flashed behind her eyes, nearly summoning her sword.

This is not what I meant when I wanted to continue working as Shera!

“Ambassador,” Glimmer stood from her throne with a reglaness that still surprised Adora, “Shera and I look forward to bringing the rightful magic of  Rario back to your people. But we still have many duties here on Etheria still,” Adora could feel Glimmer’s eyes on her back,

“we will go to Rario in six turns. No sooner, no later. That is my offer. Do you accept?”

“Plllfffinging! Goooogaa!” Finn shrieked, their blue eyes widening as they tried to leap forward at the toy. Catra cursed not so subtly, trying to hush them once more. Her heterochromatic eyes burned with suppressed anger, towards the ambassador or Finn, Adora didn’t know. The uncertainty sent a chill through her spine.

Your Shera, get it together! You said you wanted to do more work around the palace and help Glimmer...even with Finn, this is what that looks like! And you already embarrassed the entire court with your uncontrollable child! The ambassador insulted Glimmer and it is all your fault!

“Eeee!” Finn exploded in giggles, catching the toy at last and biting into it with furious gluttony. It had been five months since they were initially brought back from Brightmoon and they were finally starting to make louder, more frequent sounds...and show an interest in stalking and hunting their toys. Adora flinched at the otherwise tense silence, the Rarion delegation turned once more to scrutinize the baby, and Catra with judgemental disapproval.

She watched her wife rise, with Finn, and held her breath.

Catra...please...don’t…

“Apologies,” she muttered through clenched teeth, “I will excuse myself until the kit has settled. Queen Glimmer: permission to leave?” Adora watched the once former Horde Force Captain adjust Finn to her hip.

“Granted,” Glimmer quipped. Catra bowed to her, then turned to the delegation:

“Your….excellencies,” she tried. “Rest assured I will deliberate with the Queen on our mission to Rario and send you reports in due time. Six turns and your planet will be as magical as Etheria.” Adora’s chest swelled with pride, trying poorly to conceal her beaming face at Catra’s decorum. She bowed again one last time to the ambassador and carried Finn from the room, still squealing and gurgling with their rattle.

“I expect reports from you and your adviser in one turn,” the ambassador snipped. He bowed stiffly towards Adora, then to Glimmer before motioning his delegation from the throne room. The doors shut with a clang and Adora let out the breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding.

“I’m sorry,” she managed, wiping her forehead with the back of her hand as sparks dissolved, now back to her usual size. Glimmer sighed, descending from her throne.

“It’s fine Adora, apparently my mom said Rarion has always been a difficult planet. They’re the ones who’ve been leading the: Etheria-was-better-off-in-Despondos movement.”

“I know Finn was a distraction, I’ll figure something out...I know it’s been turns but...I just...we don’t have a nursemaid, I can’t ask the princesses and the last guard  we left them with got clawed.”

Bow’s warm hand landed on her shoulder, soothing as ever.

“Hey, it’s okay. Glimmer and I said we’d help you. It’s fine that Finn is in meetings,”

There’s a but, there’s always a but...he’s trying to find a way to put it nicely.

“ Maybe just bring a bottle or something with you next time for them to feed on while the adults are chatting?”

“Good idea,” Glimmer piped up, her icy demeanor from earlier evaporating.

“I didn’t realize what I was signing up for when I said I wanted more Shera duties,” Adora managed a nervous laugh.

“I told you we didn’t have as much need for her!” Glimmer laughed as though it were a good thing. “You don’t have to come to these meetings! I’ve told you, as long as Catra can be here for part of it, it’s fine and even then I can always debrief you both afterwards if needed.”

Glimmer was trying to be reassuring, and helpful of course but Adora couldn’t quell the sourness in her stomach,

No matter how nice Bow and Glimmer are about it, I know it’s not ideal. Why is raising a baby so lonely even with good friends helping?

“Thanks guys,” Adora smiled, genuine, thanking Mara for friends like these even when it was so isolating. “I better go check on Catra.”

Bow and Glimmer nodded, opening the large throne room door for her.

“Oh! Don’t forget Lonnie, Kyle and Rogelio arrive tonight!”

“That’s tonight?” This time Adora could not suppress the groan in her voice.

“Yes, we talked about it in the meeting this morning,” Glimmer reminded her gently.

“I wasn’t at the meeting,” Adora replied, guilt eating at her again. “You said I didn’t have to go because I was up all night with Finn?”

“And I was right!” Glimmer smiled, “Adora it’s okay. I’m just telling you since you weren’t there.  They are visiting for the next few days.”

“I’ll be there for the next meeting, I promise!”  Adora vowed cheerfully.

Even if Finn has another bad night. I can do it. I don’t need as much rest as Shera, I could just transform into her all day tomorrow if I need. I did it last week for three days. It’s worse afterward but...I can be Shera and Finn’s mom. I got this.

“Okay, well, we’ll see you tonight in the banquet hall, and have Catra come to my study sometime this afternoon okay?”

“You got it!”

“Thanks!”

Glimmer grabbed Bow’s hand, teleporting them away in a plume of pink glittery magic.

Adora let out a long breath, shoulder’s sagging. She rubbed her heavy eyes and stretched her back,

“Mmmmmgh! You got this Adora,” she repeated to herself walking back to her and Catra’s quarters, “you’ll go back, congratulate Catra on her wonderful show of diplomacy, kiss her,” a silly little grin came to her lips at the thought,

  Hug Catra and then play with Finn, make sure they eat before the dinner, get ready, get Catra to Glimmer’s study...well I should do that first before getting ready for dinner...oh and have to make sure Finn takes a nap,

her never ending list of to-do’s scrolled through her mind as she climbed the stairs. She was almost thankful for the long walk back. Walking to and from different priorities for the day had become her only alone time.

Not long enough, as Catra burst through the door to their room as soon as Adora turned down the long corridor.

Must have heard me coming.

“There you are!”

“Sorry, I…”

“It’s fine,” Catra grumbled, her hair falling from it’s ponytail all over the place, her ears pinned to the back of her head.

“Is Finn…?”

“Finn’s fine, Adora, just fine. Now that they ruined a meeting and made us look like complete idiots with a planet we’re trying to forge an alliance with. They won’t stop chewing their rattle and then getting angry when they can’t bite through it.”

“Who knew magikits get their teeth so much sooner than other species,” Adora wondered aloud, shutting the door behind her as to keep the rest of the palace from Finn’s hysterical hisses and screeches.

Catra scoffed, walking briskly from their sitting room to the bedroom.

“We looked like total fools!” She shouted.

Finn, adjusted their newest toy, a stuffed scorpion in their mouth and tugged at it, drool dripping onto their fattened little fists.

“Finny, you’re going to ruin the toy Aunt Scorpia gave you!” Adora’s mood instantly improved, beholding Finn, enamored with their toy.

“What did they do when you were teething?” Adora tugged at the toy playfully.

“They beat me with whatever I was chewing on.”

The light died in her chest instantly.

I shouldn’t have asked. Oh stars of course they did, how could I be so stupid?

“Catra,” Adora stood, turning from Finn to walk towards their bedroom.

“Sometimes it was a sock or a mat. Other times a stun baton. Usually a stun button,” Catra tugged the elastic out of her hair and shook out her brown locks.

“I didn’t know Catra, I’m so sorry.”

“Yeah well, you’ve never been very observant.”

Her words hit like a punch in the gut, Adora bit her tongue, standing awkwardly.  From the mirror on her bureau Catra paused, dropping her arms from her hair and coming to sit beside Adora.

“No, that was mean of me. I know growing up there wasn’t easy for you either.”

Adora managed a painful smile, nodding.

“It wasn’t.”

Catra took her hands, squeezing them and lifted a finger to kiss her knuckles.

“I shouldn’t have insulted you. You were doing what you had to do to survive.”

“We both survived,” Adora returned kisse to Catra’s own fingers.

“That’s right. We did,” her wife affirmed.

“Eaaaahhh!” Finn dissolved into tears. Catra moaned, rolling her eyes, the hair on her tail puffing and pupils dilating.

“I’ll get them,” Adora gave one last kiss to Catra’s cheek.

“No,” Catra stood, “you’ve been running around all day, sit.”

Adora watched her saunter from their room, tail swishing idley behind her in tune with her hips.

“Hey you little shit,” Adora could hear her wife murmur from the other room, whether it was affectionate, genuinely annoyed or both she couldn’t quite tell. To her credit, as far as Adora had observed, Catra had somewhat calmed her initial refusal at Finn’s presence in their lives. She was no longer outwardly hostile to them and on occasion, like today, even took initiative to look after them. Still, Adora forced herself to quell any rising hopes that Catra would embrace any semblance of motherhood with open arms. It wasn’t as though she was doing perfectly with it either.

Just yesterday I got Finn’s tail caught in the door, and then scared them during peek-a-boo. Who knew transforming into Shera and surprising them would freak them out so much!

Catra had adjusted insofar as she would assure Finn was content and more or less safe. Not loved, not happy...but cared for adequately.

Am I pushing her too hard? Bow said maybe we could just foster Finn until we found someone else to raise them. She agreed to that. Is it too much to ask for more? Am I demanding too much? After everything? She’s accepted Shera...accepted my duty...fought with us against the Brotherhood of Prime, married me. If I am asking her to be a mother too...Is that too much?

“Adora, Etheria to Adora!”

She blinked out of her contemplation to see Catra in the doorway. Hip cocked and tail flicking. Her gold and blue eyes gleaming in the mid-afternoon sun.

“H...hey Catra,” she whispered through an embarrassed giggle.

“I got them down for now, who knows how long it will last.”

“Thank you,” Adora’s chest swelled with appreciation, for all her resignations, Catra was trying.

“We should make the most of it, don’t you think?” Her wife’s tone instantly changed, one hand coming up and touching Adora’s face, fingertips trailing her jaw. Adora shivered pleasantly allowing that warm touch to dissipate any fear or doubt.

“Glimmer wanted you to meet her in her office,” Adora sucked in a breath at Catra’s lips now kissing her neck, nibbling at the tight skin there.

“Sparkles can wait,” Catra continued kissing, pressing her weight down on Adora and lowering her down into the bed.

“Mmmm but we have that dinner tonight,” Adora’s mind ping-ponged, from Catra’s fingers minstrating against her sides and her kisses to the ever ongoing monologue of worry.

“That’s hours away,” Catra kissed her lips before Adora could protest, allowing her wife to take the air from her words. “We hardly ever get time for this,” she continued running her fingers up Adora’s sides, retracted claws barely grazing against her flesh up and down. She shuddered happily.

She has a point, between Finn’s recent teething fusses waking them every two hours and the combined exhaustion of the two of them, they usually ended up just going to sleep they crawled into bed together.

She’s right. More time taking care of Finn means less time for things like this.

Adora reached up, tangling her fingers through Catra’s brown curls, eliciting a small groan from the woman. Catra rolled her hips, bracketing Adora’s on either side.

You can want this Adora, it’s okay to want. To desire. What are you doing? Don’t just lay there! She’s kissing you, her hands are on your….oh, now on your breasts, she’s straddling you! Do something!

Hoping it wasn’t loud enough to wake Finn, Adora allowed herself to transform fully into Shera, the magic of desire and need and love, oh such devotional untold amounts of love, poured from her as she grew.  Transformation complete, she wasted no time, taking Catra��s slim waist in her hands and rolling the woman over onto the bed, pinning her with her knee between her legs.

“Ah!” Catra all but squeaked out, face flushed. Adora, now Shera loomed over her, taking in every inch of that beautiful, flustered lithe body.  She bent down, kissing her lovingly, unabashed, wet and full and panting. Adora slid her hands upward, across the plane of Catra’s torso to her breasts, taking one fully in her palm and cupping it just tight enough to make her wife squirm with need. More confident as Shera, Adora pressed her knee just slightly against Catra’s pelvis, leaning into the pressure. Catra’s lips parted mid-kiss, with a breathy gasp. She rolled herself against the pressure there, undulating gracefully and rhythmic. Adora kissed her lips, each of her six freckles, each other eyes, against the soft sensitive lobe of her inner ear. Catra gasped, her claws partially released on instinct, gripping Shera’s muscular back. The sudden sensation only sent another fervor of lust through her mind. She yanked Catra’s shirt off altogether with ease, nearly shredding it.

“Sorr…”

“S’fine!”

Catra assured her with more kisses, more greedy rolls of her hips. Her own claws undid Shera’s white and gold attire frantically.

“I love you,” Adora whispered through her kisses against her wife’s collar. In answer Catra kissed her back, fingers pulling on her blonde hair.

“Love you,” she gasped as Shera rocked against her once more.

“Mmmmg...fff...waa..” something far away sounded in Adora’s periphery. But Catra’s hands, so warm and smooth against her, every part of her….her head fogged over in pleasure, in Catra, Catra, Catra. Her tongue, her breath, her sweet smell, her bony hips.

“W...w...wahhhh!”

Finn?

A growl sounded from somewhere, deep in Catra’s throat. Adora could feel the thrum of her chest, the vibration of her lungs. Through their kisses, Adora took in her wife’s own air, the sound of her growl and kissed her deeper. Her hands, slid lower, down the contours of Catra to her hips, to the V of her…

“Waaahhh!!”

Finn!

“Argh,” warmth was lost from Adora as Catra squirmed out from under her, reaching for her clothes.

“Maybe they’ll go back to sleep?” Adora tried, missing the echo of Catra’s warmth against her.

“No, they won’t. We know they won’t. I’ll get them just...stay there.”  Adora frowned, sitting up on the bed, twiddling her hands, deflated.

Though her hearing was nowhere near as precise, she could hear Catra grumbling, picking up Finn and trying to shush them soothingly.

It’s fine. It’ll be fine. Catra will put Finn back to bed and come back here and we’ll pick up right where we left off. It’s still daylight, she noted watching the golden slants of sunlight glow through the curtains. It’ll be okay. You’re Shera. You’re Shera! Maybe I should go check on them? What if this throws off Catra’s whole mood? It’s happened before. Plenty of times.

Many, many times. Raising Finn came with more than just parenting difficulties.

Adora waited, listening to Finn’s fussing rise from mewls to full on screaming sobbing, back down to meek whimpers and then again to screaming.

“Finn, Finny, you have to calm down,” she could hear Catra soothe from the other room. “You already messed this day up enough just please nap for a little while before this dinner.”

“Whh...w...waaahh!”

Adora fiddled with her own clothing, nervously ringing the fabric in her fingers. I really should go check on them...no...no Catra can handle this. It’s fine. She can do this.

“Waaahhh!!!”

“Finn! Come on now, I’m not kidding!” A pause, probably her patting them on the back or something. “I mean it! Go to sleep or I swear I will….”

“I swear I will make sure you never see outside this chamber again!”

Adora’s mind flashed to that fateful night.

Shadow Weaver caught us outside the barracks, trying to get to the kitchens. She took us both to the Black Garnet Chamber.  Even as Shera, she shuddered with nausea at the memory of that night. She tortured Catra, restrained her, and worked some spell to make it so that Catra felt stuffed to her stomach, bursting, gagging. I held her hair back for her later when she vomited in the latrine….

Adora stopped. It was easier to pause the spiral of her anxieties as Shera. A balm against her greatest fears.

Catra...and Finn, they’ve stopped talking, stopped crying.

“Shhh….shhh...that’s it...nice and easy now.”

Whatever threat Catra had meant to say, she had stopped herself. Replacing the ominous words with gentle whispers.

Shera’s own thoughts of Catra...of Catra’s hands and her warmth and her noises, her lips...danced back and forth through Adora’s mind. Distractingly so.

“Catra, everything okay in there?”

“Fine!” She whisper yelled, a very specific tone  all too familiar with them now. Adora nodded, waiting. The heat below her belly button had not ceased throbbing. She waited for Catra to get back, determined not to interrupt.

She can do this, no need for Shera to jump in. Just relax. It’ll be okay, it’ll...

Catra walked back into their room unceremoniously, blinking slowly, rubbing her eyes in exhaustion.

Oh no, this is happening, Adora stood, crossing the room in one easy step. With Shera’s bravado and renewed passion. She looped an arm around Catra’s middle, shoving her against the wall.

“Catra,” Adora breathed, her lips grazing her wife’s as she tilted her head downward. The height difference now exaggerated. She braced Catra’s shoulders with her own toned arms. Catra’s breath came heavy, her shoulder’s rising and falling, the hollow of her neck prone.

Adora relished in watching her whole body shudder, bracing against the wall.

“A...Adora,” Catra whispered, voice breaking, looking up at Adora through heavy lidded eyes.

Fire and ice, Adora swept her up, hands going around her wife’s legs, pressing her up and against the wall kissing her ruthlessly. Catra groaned, arching backward, into Adora’s touch. She threaded her fingers through the waistband of Catra’s pants, reaching every downward.

“A...Adora,” she panted against ear desperately, “p….please.”

Catra, my Catra. Mine, Shera’s propensity for domination, from the battlefield to the bedroom, could hold back no more.

Not with Catra quivering against her, kissing her, grinding against her. Adora thrust forward, careful of the extra power she now held, and slid her hand further until her fingers brushed their mark. Catra buckled,

“I got you,” Adora assured her, holding her firm against the wall, Shera’s long golden hair falling between them as she worked her fingers delicately but persistent. Catra threw her head back and Adora reached up, cupping the back of her head, fisting her hair with one hand, the other still occupied. Luckily Shera’s sheer brute strength kept Catra where she was. Small bites from her fangs dotted against Adora’s neck, her skin, her chest, slick with sweat.

“Adora,” Catra repeated her name as a mantra. Husky and low, wanting, almost pitiful. But humbling, Adora thought; to have Catra, so battle hardened and tense like this before her. Open and needing, unafraid and unabashed. To be soft, to be vulnerable, begging, and the trust that lay therein. It drove Adora forward, rolling her hips with each thrust of her fingers.

“Yes, Adora, baby...almost there, come on…”  Adora almost laughed in sheer joy, Catra wanting her, Catra needing her. Her body beseeching with each twitch of muscle and stroke of fingers. Her own hands clutched around Shera’s broad shoulders, pulling at the skin there, taut across her back.

So...good, stars I love her, love everything about her. I want to take every part of me and put it inside every part of you.

Is that sexy or creepy or weird?

I want all of her. I want to give all of me to all of her. Catra...

“You feel so good,” Adora moaned still pushing deeper. Catra’s form tensed, holding her in a death grip. Beyond the point of speech, Catra made a low lusty sound, then stopped, holding her breath, her body tight, so tight. Adora panted, holding her there at the edge. Catra’s legs gripped tight against Shera’s hips, trembling.

Yes, oh yes, Catra...Catra we can still love like this. Every night, every day, every moment we aren’t with Finn we can. I love you, I love you so much. All I want is you, is this.

With Shera’s strength and form, Adora cupped her fingers upward and inward right to that secret, tender, deep spot within. Catra’s body convulsed, claws digging painfully good into Adora’s back.

“A….d...Ad...Adora...a..a!”

Adora’s heart soared.

Even as Shera, she wants me. Adora. As I am.

She pressed harder, drawing it out,

“I...l...love...y..you,” Catra spoke through  clenched teeth, holding Adora impossibly tighter.

“Catra! Adoraa--aaaaaa!”

Pink shimmering sparks filled Adora’s vision. Startled, she scrambled backward, wincing at a loud “OOF!” of Catra, no longer pinned against the wall, now crumpling to the ground.

“SPARKELSS!” The magicat seethed.

Shera dissolved as quickly as she’d appeared. Adora, very naked and very much still enamoured with Catra’s breath against her skin just moments before, crossed her arms to cover herself.

“SORRY! GLIMMER SO SORRY!”

“WHAT ARE YOU TWO DOING?!”

“Having sex Sarkles!” Catra seethed, picking herself up off the ground and gathering her clothes. “With my wife! In our room! That is private! That has a door, for knocking!”

“Sorry Glimmer!”

Adora’s face flooded with heat, trying to search for her garments. Catra handed her Shera’s cape.

“Sorry! But I tried knocking and there was no answer!”  Glimmer put her hands to her hips, glaring at them both.

“Hmmm no answer? I wonder why that could be?” Catra yanked on her shirt, tail bristling at the sound of Finn’s wake-up wail.

“I’ll get them!” Adora bolted from the room, grateful to save herself from further humiliation.

Though that’s like the tenth time this has happened. Maybe we should talk  put  protective wards around the room for anti-teleportation.

“Sorry Finny,” Adora scooped up the crying kit, who only screamed louder at the shouting from Catra and Glimmer.

“We have dinner tonight! With dignitaries from the former Fright Zone in twenty minutes! They’re already here!”

“Psh! They’re not dignitaries Sparkles, it’s Kyle Lonnie and Rogelio. They are like the least dignified people I’ve ever met.”

Finn kneaded at Adora’s chest, adding additional red marks to her skin though she minded neither.  Kissing the top of their blonde curls she smiled, breathing in the calming scent of their fur, walking them slowly back to her wife and Glimmer.

“Maybe we’ll send you an invitation next time Sparkles!” Catra sneered, pulling on her pants, “really put Arrow Boy’s...arrow to the test!”

“Can we not do this in front of the baby?” Adora covered one of their little velvet ears protectively. Finn only sniffled, grabbing their tail in their and tugging it forward, attempting to stuff it into their mouth.

“Your disgusting Horde Scum! Shut up and get dressed for dinner. Banquet Hall in twenty! And put Finn in that nice outfit I got them! They’ve never worn it.”

“Yeah, because it’s ugly!”

“It is not!”

“Catra, Glimmer! Can we talk about this later? We have to...Finn that’s not going to work sweety,” Adora gingerly put her hand between their puckering mouth and their tail.

“Use the door next time Sparkles! Like Everyone else!”

Glimmer huffed, rolling her eyes.

“See you in twenty minutes! Bye Finny!” Glimmer waved towards the magikit and stuck her tongue out a Catra before teleporting away.

“Waaahhh!” Finn threw their head back in rage against Adora’s chest as they tried to fight her hand.

“I’m sorry Finn, you can’t eat your own tail!” Adora jostled the enraged magikit.

“Don’t apologize to them!” Catra snapped, turning on them both. “They can’t eat their tail. That’s that. You don’t need to say sorry. It’s not your fault.”

That’s...that’s not what I meant...Finn please just...calm down. Please for my sake?

“I know it’s not my fault,” her voice hardened. “I meant sorry for making them cry.”

Catra’s ears pricked back, hands folding across her chest.

“You didn’t make them cry,” she explained as though it were obvious. “You did the right thing. If they cry that’s their problem. If they’re going to try and eat their tail, we’ll bind it back.”

What? No! We can’t do that….Catra, you out of everyone should know what feels like! Shadow Weaver would bind your tail when we were kids. You always told me how much it hurt.

Adora stole a breath for herself, walking towards Finn’s room to change them despite their fit. She could recall it clearly, herself no more than five, and Catra only three. The binds Shadow Weaver would constrict to keep her tail up, out of the way. One of the many abuses directly aimed at suppressing or destroying Catra’s more….feline features. Adora herself could undo the bandages right now if she imagined it hard enough. Each finger twerking and jerking to pry loose the binds, her own hands bore blisters.

Catra’s wounds were more important. More severe.

“Finn! Hold still!” Adora wrestled with their flailing arms and kicking legs, the swiping tail in question, bat against her forearm. She tried to stuff them into the outfit Glimmer had bought them, pastel purple with so many frills it was hard to tell which hole was for the head, which for the legs, which for the arms.

Catra’s right, this is kinda ugly.

But she didn’t have the energy to argue.

“Please can we just get through this dinner with no upsets? From you or Catra?”  Finn wailed louder, little claws scraping against her skin.

It’s okay, I’m used to it.

---

Bright smile, friendly voice, open arms. You can do this.

“Lonnie! Kyle! Rogelio!”

“Good to see you Adora,” Lonnie stood from her seat always with balanced dignity and put an arm around Adora’s shoulder.

Didn’t realize how much I missed her!  Adora’s forced smile now changed to genuine.

“Catra,” Lonnie acknowledged, cool but cordial.  Adora gave her wife a slight nudge to the arm that was looped around her.

“Lonnie,” Catra returned with the same ambivalence.

“Sorry we’re late! We had to get this one dressed,” she giggled Finn on her hip who was at last content with a stuffed arrow Bow had made for them. They beat it against Adora’s arm in glee.

“And who’s this one?” Kyle asked, bending down to Finn’s level and wiggling his finger in the baby’s face.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you,” Catra advised. Finn tried to shoot forward at the hand, their pointy teeth snapping.

“Ahh!” Kyle scrambled back toward Rogelio’s side.

“They bite,” Catra finished. Adora laughed, scooping down to get the dropped toy and edged herself closer to their seats.

“Is that your baby?” Lonnie asked, going to take her spot between Rogelio and Kyle.

Yes! Wait...no? Yes? I...they’re my baby, but I don’t know if they’re Catra’s? Say something Adora! Think!

“Uhhh, it’s…”

“Time to eat!” Glimmer teleported into the room as the double doors opened once more, chef’s from the kitchen streaming in with platters of food.

“Just in time,” Adora laughed, getting Finn settled into the little chair Glimmer had set up beside her. The queen only nodded, understanding.

“Welcome to Brightmoon!” She announced, turning once more to her queenly duties. Adora sat down, allowing herself a brief breath of relief.

“He says we’ve been here before,” Lonnie translated for Rogelio. Glimmer nodded, awkwardly. “We were at Catra and Adora’s wedding.”

“Well, we’re glad to have you back!” Glimmer quipped, clapping her hands, signaling for everyone to eat.

Adora reached forward, staking her plate with as much food as she could. Eager to avoid any additional awkward conversation.

“You want to try some Finny?” She scooped up some soft ikchi and felt her anxiety dissipate, Finn launching themselves face first toward the spoonful.  

“Well? Is that your baby?” Lonnie pressed again, while cutting her chevlin meat. Adora wiped Finn’s face, helping them with another spoonful.

“We found them on a mission,” Catra answered shortly. Lonnie exchanged a look with Kyle and Rogelio. The lizard man growled something Adora could not discern, even after all these years.

“Mamamamaggg,” Finn kicked at the table trying to get more. Catra wordlessly took the spoon and offered them another portion. Adora watched her face remain neutral even as Finn laughed adorably, orange goo all over their face.

“You found them on a mission?” Kyle asked between bites of food, “like me! That’s where the Horde found me anyways, after...a...a battle in Plumeria.”

“Makes sense,” Adora pondered aloud, pushing food around on her plate, appetite suddenly gone. “We were all orphaned one way or another before the Horde kidnapped us.”

Rogelio growled, shaking his head fervently. He put down the utensils he’d been struggling to hold, in favor of trying to gesture with his large claws. Adora watched him carefully, but cocked her head, unable to read.

“What’s he saying now?” Glimmer looked to Lonnie.

“He says speak for yourselves, both his parents met in the Horde and became Force Captains. He grew up with them, remember?”

Not really, Adora thought absently, I was too busy trying not to get punished to notice Rogelio’s family life. Or anyone else's upbringing...apart from Catra’s.  

“Then Prime came and well, we weren’t the only ones who left after,” Adora watched her former squadmate glare at Catra before quickly continuing, “...after Hordak disappeared.”

“Well, I’m glad you found them Rogelio!” Glimmer answered for all of them. Rogelio only nodded, picking up his fork and poking at the steaming baked tyrin fish.

“I knew my parents too,” Lonnie kept her eyes trained evenly at Adora. “I was one of eight sisters!”

“Me too!” Bow waved from the other head of the table opposite Glimmer.

“Well, I was one of seven brothers!”

Lonnie nodded, a smile coming to her lips. She let out a terse laugh, as close to being friendly towards former rebels as she got.

“So you know how it is!  My family’s been sending one child from their family to serve the Horde for generations ever since the Horde got here. I was happy to come…” she faltered momentarily. “We’ll I thought I’d be happy.”

Adora nodded, ignoring Finn’s grabby hands trying to reach for the plate before them.

“If anyone should’ve been promoted to Force Captain, it was you,” she looked at her once squadmate in earnest. Lonnie’s bright hazel eyes widened for a moment. “I mean it,” Adora continued,

“You were just as good as I was at fighting and on missions. You were always the most competent….I know now that all Shadow Weaver or Hordak ever saw in me as far as potential was...my connection to magic and Shera but,” Catra’s light hand on her knee under the table squeezed gently, grounding her. She swallowed, trying to calm her breathing;  

“You’re a true born leader Lonnie.You should’ve been made Force Captain.”

Adora stopped herself before she could continue the word vomit, but it was true. Between all of them, even herself, Lonnie always worked hard, managed to balance commitment to training with empathy, at least towards Adora, Kyle and Rogelio. Her and Catra’s relationship was...we.., rocky to say the least as far as Adora could guess. The two were always at each other’s throats...almost too similar in their protective and stubbornness. But it was more complicated than that, Adora recalled Catra confiding in her that while she’d been in her own hellish spiral...Lonnie had taken on the mantle of managing most field operations and looking after the soldiers well-being. Not for nothing. Catra would never say it to her face, but Adora was certain there was respect there for their squadmate, maybe even a modicum of like minded agreeableness. Deep under everything else.

“Thanks Adora, and...who cares about Hordak and that old witch? If you hadn’t left, you’d be a great force captain too.”  Her squadmate smiled sheepishly. Sentiment was never one of her strong suits, another commonality with Catra.

“So...that means just Adora Catra and I are orphans?”

“Kyle!” Lonnie and Catra reprimanded in unison.

“I was an only child,” Glimmer offered, cutting into her orvo steak. “I thought my dad died when I was a baby but,” she laughed,

“We all know how that turned out.” she joked.

“My mom was so afraid something would happen to me so she tried to keep me safe.” Adora felt her gut twinge with another pang of guilt. But Glimmer only took a deep breath, wistful,

“But safe also meant boring! Luckily things got a whole lot more interesting when Adora turned up!”

Kyle, Lonnie, Rogelio nodded, smiling in agreement. Beside her, even Catra chuckled.

“Mamamamamammmm!” Finn yanked at the delicate tablecloth, taking advantage of the momentary distraction, dishes jerking where they stood.

“Finn, come on don’t do that!” Adora lifted them from their seat, sitting them in her lap.

“They’re really cute though!” Kyle commented happily. Pride made Adora’s chest inflate.

“They are, aren’t they?”

“Looks like someone got food all over their face!” Adora stood up from the table with Finn, wriggling as ever in her hold.

“Let me clean them up, I’ll be back!”

“Let us know if you need help!” Bow called.

---

“Finny, really with the food?”

“Maaaaag!”

Adora chuckled, wiping their face with a damp towel, glad to have some reprieve.

“Teething or not little buddy, you’re going to get a good night's sleep tonight...let’s hope.”

I could use a good night’s sleep.

Sleep and...other things, Catra’s hot breath against her lips echoed in her memory. The slick wetness of her. Her stomach flipped, a pang going through her.

Towels drifted to the floor, Finn having swiped at them playfully. Adora, now shaken from daydreaming, sighed, bending to pick them up while still holding the baby.

She tidied Finn as quickly as possible, made somewhat more difficult by their constant kicking and grabbing for things to chew.  Finally, she eased them up, caring them back to the banquet hall.

Not too much longer, you can do..

“Why would I take your kid Catra? You don’t think Kyle and Rogelio and I have other things to deal with?”

Lonnie stretched forward almost across the table, holding her fork in fist. Catra crouched in her seat, tail lashing.

“They’re not my kid! And you raised that creepy imp didn’t you?”

“Catra?” Glimmer’s concern carried over the table, mirrored by Kyle’s helpless wide-eyed expression, he placed a hand on Lonnie’s arm to no avail.

“Yeah, we did! But we’re not running an orphanage!”

Adora held Finn tighter on instinct, wandering back to her seat beside Catra with care.

What is she playing at?

“I know that,” Catra growled, slamming her fist down on the table. “That’s not what I’m asking! I want to know if you want this magkitten! Just one! You and Kyle and Rogelio can raise it together, it’ll be like a bonding thing.”

Rogelio growled something, though by the shake of his head Adora imagined it was a no. Kyle only looked between them, terrified as ever.

“Maybe we should talk about this calmly,” Bow interjected, leaning forward.

“I’m not cleaning up another one of your messes Catra. You’re not Force Captain anymore.” Lonnie all but snarled, that old vitriol rising.

Catra’s...trying to... the realization came slowly as Adora sat down beside her wife, holding Finn to her no matter how they wiggled. Magic flared through her eyes at the thought of it, ...giving Finn up? No, Catra wouldn’t do that, we’re becoming a family! We’ve been over this!

“I think this meal is over,” Glimmer pronounced, getting up from her seat with a flourish. Magic sparking in her hands.

“Fine by me,” Lonnie scoffed, shoving the table in front of her and standing. Kyle and Rogelio followed suit, though Kyle pushed his chair in awkwardly, placing his napkin back onto the plate.

“What do you want, Lonnie?” Catra demanded, “you want my old Force Captain badge?”

“I don’t want shit from you,” Lonnie leapt across the table in one move, jabbing a finger at Catra. “You’ve done enough. Not my fault you got stuck with some kid you can’t handle. That’s you and Adora’s problem, add it to the list.”

She couldn’t take it anymore. Adora stood, rounding on Catra.

“Lonnie enough, Finn isn’t going anywhere.” Both Lonnie and Catra stared at her. Finn reached out, trying to go to Catra but Adora held them firm.

“Glimmer thank you for dinner, sorry for the mess. Kyle, Rogelio, Lonnie, it was nice to see you but I think you should go now.”

Kyle nodded, sheepish, taking Rogelio and Lonnie’s hands, trying to pull them from the hall. Lonnie only glared, allowing herself to be led, but muttered something under her breath Adora could’t hear. Whatever it was, made Catra’s tail stiff with rage. Before she could leap forward, Adora grabbed at her wife’s arm.

“How could you?” She forced Catra to face her.

“Guys,” Bow inched forward, as the cooks hesitantly moved around them trying to clear the table.

“How could you?” Adora repeated, trying to articulate the thousand and one emotions surging through her.

Hurt, betrayal, anger, sadness.

“You said we were only going to look after them until we found someone more permanent!” Catra’s claws dug into the edge of the table in anger, “it’s been five months!”

I...I did say that didn’t I? Adora realized, regretting it instantly. I thought she’d forget about it….I should’ve known.

“You need to make your choice!” She continued, despite Glimmer opening her mouth to try and speak, “do you want this family or not?”

Catra’s eyes burned, her ears flat. Adora watched her look at Finn, who tried to lunge towards her.

“I want them to be safe!” Catra tried, “I want them to have real parents who can look after them! And I want you!”

“You want me to yourself,” Adora countered, the magic within her now making her eyes shine icey blue. Even Finn’s warm little body could’t calm her.

“Magdaaaaa daa faaah,” Finn babbled trying again to leap forward. This time, they were quick, Adora let out a startled yelp, Glimmer instantly teleported forward to try and catch them as they arched through the air, tail up, claws forward.

Adora watched Catra instantly reach her arms out, grabbing them before they hit the ground. Finn only smiled, ears pricked forward, their tail switched playfully proud of themselves.

“Catra, you got them?”

Bow asked as Glimmer materialized. Catra nodded, mute.

Adora took a deep breath,

Calm down, they’re safe. You're mad, yes. Think about why, articulate Remember what Perfuma said.

“You went behind my back,” she started over, hopefully more calm. “You waited until I left the room before asking Lonnie, Kyle and Rogelio of all people if they wanted Finn. You wanted to sell them like a skiff!”

Catra looked at the magikit in her arms, even as they tried to crawl up over her shoulder. Her expression filled with some semblance of remorse and confusion.

“Adora, maybe Bow and I can watch Finn while you two…”

“No,” Adora interrupted, insessed. “You can’t go behind my back. We talked about this, we said we’d make it work.”

“Yeah,” Catra’s cockiness caught up with her, “and how’s that working out for us Adora?”

So far not that great, she admitted to herself the thing she’d refused all this time. Try and she might, Catra had not taken to motherhood, not well. Not willingly. Thing’s between them had tensed, their patience towards each other stretched.

Maybe she was right, maybe can’t do this.

Adora stared at Finn, who’d wound themselves around Catra’s shoulders and was now trying to nibble at her ears. Adorable under any other circumstance.

I can’t choose, please don't make me choose, her heart wrenched.

“It hasn’t been going well,” she forced herself to speak the truth. No more covering things up, no more stewing in unspoken emotion. Her wife nodded in agreement. “I don’t know if it’s you, or me, or what was done to us as kids but...you clearly don’t want this and I do...I want you both...but..I don’t know if I can.”

Catra opened her mouth to speak, eyes somewhat softer now,

“I think,”

“M...aa..ma...mama!”

Adora stopped, Catra’s ear twitched, Glimmer let out a little gaspt, instantly covering her mouth, Bow quelled an “awwwe,” behind his hands.

“Mama!” Finn chirped.

“Are they talking about Adora or Catra?” Bow whispered, Glimmer shrugged.

Adora looked to her wife, then back at the magkit. Catra lifted her arms up, taking Finn gently in them and holding them out to her at arm's length.

“That’s it, go to mama Finn.” Heterochromatic eyes looked everywhere but at Adora, who accepted the magikit into her hold once more, though no more comforted.

Like what I do? Consider buying me a Ko-fi! <3

[pennylanefics]

Soft Alphabet - Michael Gray

a/n: this may not be true to canon, but oh well :/

•••

A - Affection (how do they show affection)

michael shows affection through actions. whether it’s small things like caressing your cheek or resting his hand on your back while walking or laying down together, to bigger things like kissing you deeply or fucking you slowly and lovingly. he always makes sure you know that he cares for you to some extent and if he can’t show it with his actions, he either writes you a letter, or says it in words; though he doesn’t really have a way with them, so it’s a bit confusing at times.

B - Balance (how do they balance you, work/school/life?)

it’s not a good balance with him, really. he tends to focus on his work and family a lot more than you, so much so that you only really see him at nights, either before or after dinner, depending on if he already ate, and on some weekends. it’s definitely caused problems in your relationship, leading to michael taking a much needed vacation, thanks to tommy.

C - Cuddles (do they enjoy cuddling? what positions?)

he enjoys a good cuddle at night. after a long day, he looks forward to pulling you into his arms and pressing kisses to your forehead, playing with the ends of your hair. if he’s not cuddling with you, and he falls asleep on his side, you love cuddling up behind him, against his back, being the big spoon for once. but that soon ends when he changes positions, making you the little spoon.

D - Date (what was your first date?)

your first date is to see a movie. you were telling michael about this new film that came out and you saw posters of it on the street, and you wanted nothing more than to go and see it. so, he took you to the nearest theatre and paid for a nice seating area, since he was super rich and could afford the nice seats. you have a great time and michael treats you to a dinner afterwards. all in all, it’s a really nice night and he is such a gentleman.

E - Excited (how excited do they get when they see you/are with you?)

if it’s at home, he has a small smile on his face when he sees you. it’s the only time he seems excited and happy to see you. if you’re around others, he doesn’t like showing that you affect him so much in a way that changes his entire mood. he saves that kind of behavior for when he steps into your home after a long day of work and sees you resting on the couch.

F - Fighting (what happens when you fight)

fights are...explosive. he’s always stressed and on edge, so if you happen to yell at him for something he did or didn’t do around the house, he bites back. you both can yell for hours and not get tired. but when michael gets super defensive, he can get aggressive. not to you, but in general. he’ll throw glasses at the wall, picture frames, vases, anything breakable he can get his hands on. and it scares you. so when you cower away at the noise, his anger fades so quickly and he pulls you into his arms, apologizing quietly and stroking your hair.

G - Gorgeous (pet names. what do they like to call you? what do they like to be called?)

no pet names. at least for him. he’s all business, so pet names are a huge no for him. farther into your relationship, though, he starts using sweet names like darling, honey, and love. they’re sparse, but when he does use them, your heart flutters every single time. and when he uses them during sex? it makes you come within seconds.

H - Hi (first time meeting)

you first meet at the garrison. you were relaxing there after a stressful day of work, when the peaky blinders walk in. michael is the last to walk through the door, and he soon lays his eyes on you. he thinks you’re a whore, relaxing for a moment before heading upstairs with your next client. but you’re not. he comes over and begins harassing you, calling you all sorts of names, and you fight back, not wanting to deal with anyone. he of course uses the line “well, i’m in the peaky blinders” on you, but you don’t care. eventually, he backs off, but when they get ready to leave, he comes over and apologizes for his behavior once he sees that you’re not what he accused you of.

I - Intimacy (how romantic they are)

it differs, really. on one hand, he likes showing you a nice time to dinners and movies and stuff like that, but he also wants to keep up the hard exterior. so most times, if you two are away, in a different city outside of birmingham, that’s when he’s super romantic. he’s always kissing you, holding you close to him, taking you out to really fancy restaurants and getting you bouquets of flowers. the only time he’s this romantic is at home, in the comfort of your own home.

J - Jealousy (do they get jealous? how do they react to you being jealous)

he definitely gets jealous. if he as much sees you with another man, he’s blowing steam out of his ears and dragging you away from whoever it is. it always ends in jealous sex, too. he can’t help it, he hates seeing you be happy and laughing with someone else. you’re his and he wants to make that clear to that guy.

K - Kisses (where do they like to kiss you/how often?)

michael isn’t a fan of a lot of pda, so kisses are kept to your home and the bedroom. you sometimes kiss his cheek while you’re out, just because you feel like it, but he won’t do the same as you. as toxic as it sounds, he doesn’t want to appear soft and ‘whipped’ for a girl, even if you’re his wife. he has a reputation to uphold and he won’t let tommy, arthur, john, or finn make fun of him for it. holding your hand is enough.

L - Love (when was the first time they said i love you or realized it?)

he never really says it directly, but it is implied. michael’s not one for affections, so the idea of telling you that he loves you is not something he is up for. but through your relationship, you can tell. he’s very caring and sweet to you, that it’s very much implied through his actions. especially sex. in the beginning, it was just plain fucking. but as time went on, he was much more careful and sweet and always made sure you were okay afterwards.

M - Moving in (when do you decide to move in together)

even though polly wants you two to wait until you’re married to move in, you two aren’t up for that. within months of dating, you are living with him, leaving your parents to be with him. they aren’t too happy either, but you don’t care. you two were so in love and you couldn’t wait any longer. but, michael is definitely hard to live with, so part of you wishes that you would have waited until you were married.

N - Newborn (their reaction to starting a family)

he’s surprised. so much that he leaves town for a few days to come to terms with it. you are pissed at him for doing so, but when he returns, explaining that he went to see polly, who was staying a few hours away, and gives you baby clothes that polly made upon hearing the news he brought her, your anger is gone. he tells you that he’s so happy to be starting a family and that he is prepared to be there for you whenever you need him.

O - Open (how open you are with one another)

michael is not open with you. he didn’t want you to get involved with his family and get an idea of what they do, so he keeps you out of it. he only tells you that he’s an accountant with his family’s business, doesn’t say much else. when you ask him about his work day, he doesn’t tell you much. but as soon as you get married, he reveals everything. and you’re happy that he finally trusts you enough to share all of this new information with you.

P - Photos (what kind of photos you take of them/they take of you)

the only photos you two take together are professional, for obvious reasons. michael has no reason to own a camera, so the only photos you really have are your wedding photo and any photos that were taken for the peaky blinders.

Q - Quirks (what random habits do you have that they love or hate/vice versa)

his smoking. it’s not really a quirk, but it is a habit of his. he never smoked before joining the peaky blinders, but once he hung around john, tommy, and arthur, he was chain-smoking like crazy. at first, you thought he was doing it to fit in, but you found out that he likes it. then when he got onto the harder drugs, that was it for you. you could deal with smoking, but cocaine was too far. you made him quit cold turkey, which wasn’t the best, but he needed it. you threatened to leave him if he didn’t stop, and that was enough for him.

R - Recovery (how you help them after an injury/vice versa)

he refuses your help. like...you’re not even allowed to see him. he doesn’t want you seeing him beat up and bloodied, knowing that it would upset you deeply. he knows you hate when he gets violent, so he tries to stay away from you until he can get cleaned up. even then, he hates the look in your eyes when you see the bruises and cuts on his face and body. he does allow you to kiss them when the bruises are healing and when the cuts turn into scars.

S - Solution (how they resolve fights)

fights can go on for a while. both of you are stubborn and refuse to accept who is wrong and who is right. if he turns violent, though, as mentioned before, there is no solution; the fight is forgotten and put behind you. your safety and wellness is more important to him than some fight that doesn’t matter. he also likes to think about things in the long run. is the fight going to matter in five years? if not, it’s not worth fighting over.

T- Touch (when they need/want your touch, what will they do? how often?)

michael doesn’t like to say that he needs your touch, but when he’s stressed out with work, you’re the only thing that can calm him down. he’ll come find you wherever you are in the house, and fall into your arms. he doesn’t explicitly say that he needs your touch, but it is heavily implied that that’s what he wants. so you’ll lay down with him on the couch or in bed and just play with his hair, rubbing his back with your other hand. he’s calm and relaxed within minutes.

U - Up ( waking up with them)

he is gone most mornings, off to work early, before you’re even up. so mornings for you are lonely. but he always gives you a kiss on the forehead before he leaves, even though he knows you don’t register it. on his off days though, he enjoys sleeping in, with you in his arms. even so, he is up before you, out of habit. so he takes this time to admire your disheveled state, brushing the hair from your face. he sometimes wakes you up just because he misses being with you.

V - Vacation (where they travel with you)

when he has the time, he is always whisking you away to the countryside. it’s a nice break from the dirty city and grimy men, and it eventually becomes a little tradition for you two. when michael is really stressed out with work, he shuts it out and tells you you’re going away for a few days. you always have the best time together and he sometimes goes back to the way he was before he found out he was related to the shelby’s, back to when he was henry.

W - Wedding (how they propose/where you get married/honeymoon)

he proposes while you two are at home, cuddled up after a night of love making. he smokes a cigarette while you read a book, the only light coming from a few candles on his bedside table. he pops the question out of nowhere, really. he never brought up the idea before, so you’re a bit shocked that he actually wants to marry you. after shaking that off, you of course say yes and celebrate with more sex. since he is in the peaky blinders, the wedding is huge and eventful. it’s overwhelming for you, but michael’s used to it, since most of the blinders are already married.

X - X-factor (what about you captivated them?)

your stubbornness. you don’t take anyone’s shit, not even michael’s. any time he tries to put you down or tell you to do something, before you started dating, you were quick to bite back with the same amount of bitterness and rudeness. after a while, he just stops trying, realizing that you won’t ever give in to him. and he loves that. he doesn’t like a yes girl, someone who does anything they’re told to no matter what. he likes someone that will stand up for what they want to and refuse to do things they don’t want to.

Y - Yawning (how they act when they’re tired)

most of the time, he’s awful when he’s tired. he gets so damn crabby and in the worst mood, and it’s usually because of work. so with all of the work he has left to do, it frustrates him to no avail. you try to get him to relax when he works during the night, but he snaps at you so much, you gave up at some point because he just wasn’t listening to you. soon, he realizes that he was being horrible to you and one night, when he’s basically falling asleep at his desk, he trudges to your side and curls up next to you, apologizing for his behavior and asking you to come to bed with him.

Z - Zzzz (how you fall asleep together)

michael likes his space, so he usually falls asleep on his side, facing away from you. you don’t really like when he does this because you enjoy cuddles, so you face him and oftentimes try to curl up into his back. he always chuckles when he feels your face rubbing against his skin, and he almost always turns around and pulls you into his arms.