#and babysitting next thursday and friday

[lovesodeepandwideandwell]

If I tell you guys I am keeping Monday and Wednesday next week free of leaving-the-house commitments do you think I'll stick to it

[kentobb]

⊹₊⟡⋆ The Bet ⊹₊⟡⋆

Ryomen Sukuna x Female Reader x Gojo Satoru

⊹₊⟡⋆Masterlist ⊹₊⟡⋆

Warnings: Suggestive content. +18

Chapter 04

Yuuji stood outside the library, squinting at the glowing neon sign above the entrance. The clock on his phone read 6:58 PM. He groaned, glancing around the nearly deserted campus. “Why am I even here?” he muttered. Most students were either partying or relaxing—not trudging into a library on a Friday night. He shoved his hands into his hoodie pocket and pushed open the heavy glass door.

Inside, the library was quiet, almost hauntingly so. The rows of shelves stretched into the dim corners, and only a few desk lamps glowed faintly. He wandered deeper in, looking for anyone who might resemble a tutor.

“Is this Sukuna’s idea of a joke?” Yuuji muttered under his breath.

But then he saw you.

You were tucked away in the farthest corner, sitting at a table near the shelves. Glasses perched on your nose, a sweater too big for your frame draped over your shoulders, and baggy jeans swallowed your legs. Your hair was tied into a messy bun, and you were scribbling into a notebook with a focus that suggested you’d rather be anywhere but here.

Yuuji hesitated.

She looks serious…this is definitely not a prank.

He approached cautiously, the sound of his sneakers on the polished floor breaking the silence.

You glanced up as his shadow fell over your table. And for a split second, your stomach sank. His pink hair, sharp jawline, and even his stance—everything about him screamed Sukuna. The resemblance was uncanny, except for one thing: his expression. Where Sukuna’s was always distant, cold, or annoyed, this boy looked… approachable. Warm. Even friendly.

“Uh, are you my tutor?” he asked, tilting his head.

You stood, offering your hand. “That depends. Are you Yuuji Itadori?”

He grinned, shaking your hand. “That’s me! You can just call me Yuuji, though. Thanks for helping me out.”

As he settled into the chair across from you, you adjusted your glasses and opened your notebook. “Alright, let’s get started. You’re here for Principles of Financial Management, right?”

Yuuji nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah, I really need help. Like…badly.”

You chuckled softly, and his grin widened.

For the next two hours, the library filled with the sound of flipping pages, pens scratching on paper, and your patient explanations.

“Okay,” you began, pointing to a chart in the textbook. “This is the cash flow statement. It’s basically a summary of how cash moves in and out of a company over a period of time.”

Yuuji squinted at the page. “So…it’s like tracking how much money I spend on snacks versus how much I make babysitting?”

You raised an eyebrow. “Sure, if you’re running a business of snack consumption and babysitting profits. But yes, conceptually, that’s correct.”

He grinned. “See? I’m already learning!”

“Don’t get too confident yet,” you teased. “What’s the formula for free cash flow?”

Yuuji frowned, tapping his chin. “Uh…Revenue minus…expenses?”

“Close. Revenue minus operating expenses and capital expenditures. Write that down.”

He scribbled furiously in his notebook. “Got it. You’re really good at this, you know.”

You blinked, caught off guard. “At what?”

“Explaining stuff. Making it…not boring.”

You smiled, brushing off the compliment. “Thanks, Yuuji. Now, let’s move on to break-even analysis.”

By the time you glanced at the clock, it was past 9 PM. You closed the textbook with a soft thud and stretched your arms. “Alright, I think that’s enough for today.”

Yuuji leaned back in his chair, letting out a dramatic sigh. “You just saved my life. Seriously. I actually understand this stuff now!”

You smiled. “That’s the point of tutoring.”

He paused, then asked, “Do you have space for another session this week?”

You pulled out your agenda. “Let’s see…yes, I can fit you in on Thursday at the same time.”

“Perfect!” he said, watching as you wrote his name neatly in your planner.

As you packed up, Yuuji hesitated before speaking again. “Hey, are you going to Hakari’s party tonight?”

You shook your head. “No, that’s not really my thing.”

“Aw, come on,” he said, leaning forward. “It’s a Friday night! You should enjoy college a little.”

You laughed softly. “I enjoy it just fine without parties, thanks.”

“Think of it as a thank-you for helping me out,” he insisted, pulling out his phone. Before you could protest, he sent you the address.

“You really don’t have to do that,” you said, slightly flustered.

“Just think about it, okay?” he said with a grin as he stood. “Even if you just stop by for a little while, it’d be fun to see you there.”

You watched him walk away, his energy and cheerfulness lingering like a faint echo in the quiet library. Alone again, you sat back down, staring at your phone with the address he’d sent.

Should you go?

You sighed, placing your chin in your hands. For someone as outgoing as Yuuji, this party was probably the highlight of his week. For you, though? It was a step outside of your comfort zone.

When you enter your dorm, the space feels unusually quiet. Shoko isn’t there, her usual music or chatter missing, which only adds to the unease bubbling in your chest. You drop your bag on the bed and walk toward your desk, where a small mirror leans against the wall.

You sit down and open your modest makeup bag, staring at the contents for a moment. It’s been a while since you’ve done anything other than a little mascara, but tonight, curiosity wins. You pick out a soft lipstick, something subtle but noticeable, and carefully apply it.

Leaning back, you undo your messy bun, letting your hair tumble down in waves around your shoulders. For a moment, you study your reflection, unsure.

“Do I look okay for a party?” you whisper to yourself, smoothing down a stray strand of hair.

Then your eyes drop to your clothes: the oversized sweatshirt that swallows your frame and the baggy jeans that are more comfort than style. A familiar wave of self-consciousness hits.

You sigh, standing. This is ridiculous. You’re not a party person. What are you even thinking?

Just as you’re about to give up and call it a night, the door swings open. Shoko strides in, the click of her heels echoing on the floor. Her outfit is as bold as ever—short, sleek, and paired with smoky eye makeup that makes her look effortlessly cool.

“I forgot my purse and my cigarettes,” she says, scanning the room. She freezes when her eyes land on you, her lips curling into a knowing smirk. “Wait a minute… Lipstick? What’s going on here?”

You feel your face flush. “Nothing. I was just…thinking about going to the party.”

Shoko arches a brow, tossing her purse onto her bed. “Thinking? Girl, you’re either in or out. And judging by that sweatshirt, I’m guessing you’re about to chicken out.”

You fidget, glancing at your reflection again. “I don’t know, Shoko. I feel like I’ll be so out of place. I don’t even know what to wear to something like this.”

She crosses the room in two strides, studying you with a critical eye. Then she shakes her head dramatically. “Honey, this isn’t grandma’s tea party. That outfit? No.”

Before you can protest, Shoko dives into her closet with purpose. Hangers rattle and clothes fly until she emerges, triumphant, holding a tight, short black dress. She thrusts it toward you like a sacred artifact.

You blink at it, wide-eyed. “Shoko…that’s way too short.”

She laughs, a deep, throaty sound that fills the room. “That’s the point. Trust me. Just try it on. You’ve been hiding under all that fabric for too long.”

When you hesitate, she grabs a pair of sleek black heels from her closet and sets them beside the dress. “These too. Go on, the bathroom’s right there. I want a fashion show.”

Reluctantly, you take the dress and heels, muttering something about peer pressure as you shut the bathroom door.

When you finally step out, your heart pounds. The dress hugs your curves in all the right places, and the heels add just enough height to make you feel confident—but also a little exposed.

Shoko’s jaw actually drops. She blinks a few times, then grins like the Cheshire Cat. “Holy… Where have you been hiding that body? Damn, Y/N, if I looked like you, I’d be breaking hearts left and right.”

You tug at the hem of the dress nervously. “I feel…exposed.”

Shoko waves you off, pulling a lightweight cardigan from her closet and tossing it at you. “Here, for when you get cold. But don’t even think about putting it on until the party is over.”

You smile softly, holding the cardigan to your chest. “Thanks, Shoko.”

She smirks, grabbing her purse. “What are roommates for? Now come on, you’re sticking with me tonight. I’ll make sure you survive.”

You laugh, feeling a little of the tension ease. Maybe tonight won’t be so bad after all.

Hakari’s parents’ house was a sprawling suburban mansion, the kind of place that screamed “old money” and had probably never seen this much chaos before. Tonight, it was packed to the brim with college students. The bass from the sound system reverberated through the walls, and every room was teeming with people. The living room had been converted into a makeshift dance floor, where bodies swayed and moved under the glow of string lights and a rotating disco ball that Hakari had apparently borrowed from somewhere.

The kitchen was a disaster zone—red solo cups piled high, bottles of vodka, tequila, and mixers scattered across the counters. Someone was attempting to make cocktails but clearly had no idea what they were doing, judging by the grimaces from those brave enough to drink them. The backyard was just as packed, with clusters of people gathered around the pool, some dipping their feet in, others reclining on lawn chairs with drinks in hand.

Hakari had bragged all week about how his parents were conveniently “away on business,” leaving him the house. Of course, they thought he was hosting a small study group. Judging by the dozens of cars parked haphazardly down the street, they were in for a rude awakening if a single neighbor decided to call the cops.

Sukuna stood near the wall in the living room, nursing his drink and watching the chaos with mild amusement. He wasn’t a big fan of these kinds of parties anymore—too predictable, too loud—but Hakari had insisted, and Sukuna figured there were worse ways to spend a Friday night. He leaned against the wall, one hand in his pocket, his sharp gaze scanning the room with the cool indifference of someone who always looked like he was above the noise.

Then he spotted Yuuji weaving through the crowd, his bright pink hair making him impossible to miss. Trailing behind him were his ever-present sidekicks, Nobara and Megumi. Yuuji’s usual energy was dialed up even higher tonight, his grin so wide it practically lit up the dimly lit room.

“Hey, Sukuna!” Yuuji called out, raising a hand in greeting as he finally reached his older brother.

Sukuna barely shifted, taking another sip from his red cup. “What?” he asked, his tone as sharp as ever.

Yuuji wasn’t deterred in the slightest. “Just wanted to say thanks for hooking me up with that tutor. She’s great—really knows her stuff.”

“Good,” Sukuna said flatly. “You actually learning something, or are you just wasting her time?”

Yuuji groaned, rolling his eyes. “I’m learning, alright? Jeez. Why are you always so dramatic?”

Before Sukuna could fire back, Yuuji added casually, “Oh, by the way, I invited her to the party.”

Sukuna froze mid-sip, his eyes narrowing as he slowly lowered his cup. “You did what?”

“I invited her,” Yuuji repeated, grinning. “Thought it’d be a nice way to thank her, you know? Plus, she works too hard. She deserves to have some fun.”

Sukuna barked out a laugh, the sound sharp and humorless. “She’s not coming.”

Yuuji frowned. “How do you know?”

“Because she’s a nerd who lives in the library,” Sukuna said, his tone dripping with condescension. “This isn’t her scene. Trust me.”

Yuuji was about to argue when a new voice cut in.

“Yo, Sukuna!”

Gojo appeared out of nowhere, grinning ear to ear, holding a drink that looked suspiciously like it had more ice than actual liquid. He clapped Sukuna on the back with enough force to make him scowl.

“What do you want, Gojo?” Sukuna asked, clearly annoyed.

“Have you seen Geto?” Gojo asked, ignoring Sukuna’s tone entirely.

“No,” Sukuna replied, rolling his eyes. “And even if I did, I wouldn’t tell you.”

Gojo pouted dramatically. “You’ve really got to let this grudge go. It’s bad for your health, you know?”

Sukuna didn’t bother answering, taking another drink instead.

Meanwhile, Yuuji watched the exchange, grinning as he turned to Nobara and Megumi. “And you guys thought I had drama.”

The door opened wide, and Geto strolled in with his signature calm confidence, flanked by Shoko—whose outfit and energy screamed trouble—and…you.

Gojo, mid-laugh in a weak attempt to distract himself from his brewing nerves, froze. His grin slipped off his face like a melting snowman as his gaze landed on you. His heart skipped, then raced, and he quickly looked away, trying to play it cool. What were you doing here?

He had never seen you at a party before. Ever. This wasn’t your kind of scene—or so he thought. His mind raced. Were you dragged here by Shoko? Were you here because of someone? Was it him?

Gojo’s internal panic went unnoticed as he tried to inject himself into the conversation Yuuji was having with Sukuna, Nobara, and Megumi. His mouth moved, but his words were robotic, completely disconnected from his usual charm.

Meanwhile, Yuuji caught sight of you from across the room. His eyes widened in delight, and he immediately nudged Sukuna in the arm. “Told you she’d come! Man, I should’ve bet on it!”

Sukuna, who had been nursing his drink and half-listening to Yuuji, turned lazily in the direction his brother was pointing. And then he froze.

For a second, Sukuna genuinely thought his beer had been spiked. Was that…you?

It wasn’t like you looked unrecognizable. It was the same girl he’d seen in baggy jeans and oversized sweatshirts, usually with glasses sliding down your nose and a pen tucked behind your ear. But tonight? You were…different. The tight black dress hugged your body in ways Sukuna didn’t expect, and your legs seemed to go on forever under the dim, flashing lights.

The room felt like it shifted, the music blurring into static as Sukuna stood there, completely entranced. His usual sharp, cocky demeanor? Out the window. He didn’t even realize he was staring.

And he wasn’t the only one.

Gojo’s resolve to stay cool crumbled almost immediately. His eyes kept darting toward you despite his best efforts to focus elsewhere. Every time he caught sight of your dress, your hair, the way you looked slightly shy yet undeniably stunning, his face burned.

Across the room, Shoko—true to her energy—was having the time of her life, arm slung over your shoulder as she leaned in and whispered loudly enough for half the room to hear, “Everyone is staring at you!”

You winced, cheeks warming, and muttered back, “You don’t have to tell me. I can feel it.”

Shoko grinned devilishly, her confidence radiating. “That’s because you’re a total smoke show tonight, babe. Honestly, who knew all that was under those grandma sweaters?”

“Shoko!” you hissed, smacking her arm lightly.

She cackled, clearly enjoying your embarrassment, and leaned back to grab another drink from a passing tray. She started swaying to the music, trying to drag you into her rhythm. “Come on, let’s have fun!”

Meanwhile, Sukuna was still frozen. His eyes were glued to the way your dress hugged your curves, the way the lights hit your skin, the subtle confidence in your walk. He was so lost in thought that he didn’t even notice Gojo beside him, sneaking glances at you with the same dumbstruck expression.

Gojo wandered through the chaotic maze of Hakari’s house, dodging bodies dancing to the thumping bass and narrowly avoiding a girl who nearly spilled her drink on him. His sharp eyes scanned every corner until he spotted Geto leaning casually against a wall in the living room, his arm resting above a girl’s shoulder, his tone smooth as silk.

“Of course he’s flirting,” Gojo muttered to himself, sighing. Still, he made a beeline for him, determination fueling his long strides.

Geto glanced up mid-flirt, spotting Gojo’s disheveled and slightly panicked face approaching. He smirked, clearly amused. “Ah, Satoru. See what I brought you?”

Gojo ignored the girl completely, leaning in to whisper-yell, “Why didn’t you tell me you were bringing her?”

Geto raised a brow, his smirk widening. “What?” he chuckled. “I did stupid.”

Gojo rolled his eyes. “No, you did not.”

“First of all,” Geto said, holding up a finger, “I didn’t know she was Shoko’s roommate until I went to pick her up. Second—” He raised another finger, his smirk growing smug. “I texted you. Millions of times.”

“Bullshit,” Gojo snapped, immediately pulling out his phone. His thumb scrolled furiously through his notifications, his face dropping when he saw an embarrassing number of unread messages from Geto. He groaned, cursing under his breath. “Damn it.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought,” Geto teased, taking a sip from his drink. “You really need to stop putting the none disturb mode.”

Gojo shot him a glare but quickly pivoted back to the issue at hand. “Okay, fine, you texted. But you could’ve called. You know how important this is!”

“Call you while she was in the car?” Geto raised an amused brow. “Let her know that you have liked her since middle school too?”

“Shut up,” Gojo snapped, feeling the tips of his ears heat up.

The girl Geto had been flirting with cleared her throat, clearly annoyed at being ignored. Geto glanced at her apologetically. “Sorry, babe. Give me a sec.”

She rolled her eyes and walked off, muttering something under her breath.

Geto turned back to Gojo, entirely unfazed. “She’s probably still somewhere around the party, you know. Why don’t you, oh, I don’t know…go talk to her?”

Gojo groaned, running a hand through his white hair. “It’s not that easy. I can’t just—”

“Oh, please,” Geto interrupted, grinning mischievously. “You’re Satoru Gojo, the guy who can charm anyone with just a wink. Don’t tell me you’re scared?”

“I’m not scared,” Gojo hissed, though his shifting gaze said otherwise.

“Right. Sure.” Geto leaned in, his grin turning devilish. “You’re terrified. Look at you. Your hands are probably sweating.”

“They’re not!” Gojo exclaimed, holding his hands out defensively.

“Then why are you so anxious?” Geto countered, tilting his head. “Oh wait—don’t tell me…you’re scared she might actually like you back.”

Gojo groaned again, dragging a hand down his face. “You’re insufferable.”

“And yet, I’m right,” Geto replied smugly. “Listen, she’s here. She looks great. And if you don’t at least try to talk to her tonight, other than asking her for a book…you’re gonna regret it for the rest of your life. Or at least until your next existential crisis.”

Gojo opened his mouth to retort but closed it again when he realized he had no comeback. He exhaled sharply, shoving his phone back into his pocket.

“Fine,” he muttered.

“Atta boy.” Geto clapped him on the shoulder, his grin widening. “Now go sweep her off her feet, Romeo.”

Gojo rolled his eyes, but as he turned to walk away, Geto’s voice called after him, laced with teasing.

“And if you crash and burn, I’ll be right here to say ‘I told you so!’”

“Shut up, Suguru!” Gojo yelled over his shoulder, though the small smirk tugging at his lips betrayed his nerves.

The garden feels like a sanctuary compared to the chaos inside Hakari’s house. The muffled bass of the music and sporadic laughter barely touch this corner of the property. You sit stiffly on the stone bench, arms hugging your cardigan tight, watching the small lake ripple in the moonlight. The chill in the air bites, and you shift uncomfortably, wondering again why you came here.

From your spot, you can see Shoko by the patio, taking shot after shot, her cigarette glowing faintly in the dark as she laughs with a group of strangers. She’s magnetic, fearless, the complete opposite of how you feel in this moment.

The sound of gravel crunching underfoot pulls your attention, and you glance over your shoulder. Sukuna stands there, his tall figure silhouetted against the soft glow of the garden lights. He’s holding a red cup in his hand, his expression unreadable but calm.

Your breath catches, and you immediately look away, your cheeks burning as you focus intently on the lake.

“Didn’t think I’d see you here,” he says, his deep voice breaking the quiet. There’s no teasing edge, just a quiet observation.

You sneak another glance at him as he approaches and sits down on the bench, not too close, but close enough for you to feel the weight of his presence. He leans back casually, his arm draped along the back of the bench, his red cup hanging loosely from his fingers.

“Yuuji told me he invited you,” he continues, a faint smirk tugging at his lips, “but I told him there was no way. Guess I was wrong.”

You give a nervous chuckle, still looking anywhere but at him. “I just… wanted to try something different, I guess.”

“And now you regret it,” he says, more a statement than a question.

You nod, your fingers gripping the edge of your cardigan. “This isn’t really my thing.”

He chuckles, a low, rich sound that feels surprisingly warm. “Already figured that much.”

You glance at him, surprised by the lack of mockery in his tone. He’s just watching you, his sharp eyes softened slightly, as though he’s trying to understand you.

“Parties aren’t for everyone,” he adds after a moment, swirling the drink in his cup absentmindedly.

“Do you like them?” you ask, the question slipping out before you can stop yourself.

His brow lifts slightly, as though he didn’t expect you to ask. He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees, staring out at the lake. “I used to,” he admits, his voice quieter now.

You tilt your head, studying his profile. There’s a hint of something deeper beneath his words, and it makes you ask, “And now?”

He turns his head, meeting your gaze, and for a moment, you feel like you’re under a microscope. His eyes are intense, searching, and it’s like he’s deciding whether to let you in. Finally, he exhales softly.

“Now, they’re just noise,” he says simply. “The same faces, the same meaningless conversations. I used to think they were fun. Freedom, I guess. But…” He trails off, shaking his head slightly.

You nod, your voice soft. “I guess it’s hard to enjoy something when it doesn’t mean the same thing anymore.”

He looks at you again, and this time, his gaze lingers. There’s something almost… gentle about it, like he’s surprised that you understand. “Yeah,” he murmurs.

The air between you feels heavy but not uncomfortable. It’s as if both of you are letting the conversation settle, the quiet of the garden wrapping around you.

“Have you had anything to drink?” he asks suddenly, breaking the silence.

You shake your head quickly. “No. I’ve never tried…alcohol before.”

His brow arches in genuine surprise. “Never?”

You shake your head again, your cheeks heating under his curious gaze. “Never…”

A small smirk tugs at his lips as he holds out his red cup. “Alright. Try this.”

You hesitate, staring at the cup as though it’s a loaded weapon. “What is it?”

“Vodka cranberry,” he says. “Not too strong. Sweet enough for a beginner.”

You hesitate, eyeing the drink with suspicion. “I don’t know…”

He chuckles, the sound soft but somehow coaxing. “Come on. One sip. It’s not gonna kill you.”

Reluctantly, you take the cup, bringing it to your lips. The liquid burns immediately, the sharpness overpowering whatever sweetness it’s supposed to have. You cough, your face contorting in disgust as you shove the cup back into his hand.

“That’s terrible,” you gasp, wiping your mouth.

Sukuna throws his head back with a laugh, the sound deep and genuine. It’s the first time you’ve heard him laugh like that, and despite yourself, you feel your lips twitch into a small smile.

“I should’ve warned you about the burn,” he says, still chuckling.

“You think?” you retort, your tone half-playful, half-annoyed.

He leans back again, his smirk lingering as he watches you recover. “Guess alcohol’s not for you.”

“Maybe not,” you mumble, still grimacing at the lingering taste.

The silence returns, but it’s softer now, more comfortable. You glance at him, catching him watching you, his expression unreadable but… softer than you expected.

In the distance, Mei Mei stands on the balcony, her sharp eyes locked on the two of you. Her fingers tap against the railing as jealousy flickers across her face.

Hakari’s arm slides around her waist, his fingers tracing lazy circles on her thigh. “What are you staring at?” he murmurs.

“Nothing,” she replies, though her gaze doesn’t waver.

Hakari leans in, brushing a kiss against her neck. “Come back inside. The party’s better when you’re in it.”

With one last glance at you and Sukuna, Mei Mei allows herself to be guided away, though her thoughts remain on the garden scene.

The moment feels strange as Sukuna, still leaning against the bench and lost in thought, suddenly notices Mahito and Jogo waving at him from across the garden. Their loud, obnoxious voices cut through the tranquility like nails on a chalkboard. Sukuna’s jaw tightens as he sighs, pulling himself up.

“I’ll be back,” he says, his voice low, as he glances at you.

You nod, your fingers tightening on your cardigan as you murmur, “Okay.”

Sukuna turns and heads toward his so-called friends, his expression immediately hardening. His patience is already thin, and the sight of Mahito’s wide, smug grin isn’t helping.

“Yo, Sukuna!” Mahito calls, throwing an arm around Sukuna’s shoulder like they’re old pals. “Who’s the hottie you’re sitting with?”

Sukuna stiffens, his brow furrowing. “Are you blind?” he snaps, shoving Mahito’s arm off him. “That’s Y/N.”

Mahito squints dramatically in your direction, then gasps, his expression exaggerated as always. “What?! That’s Y/N? The Y/N? The library nerd?”

Sukuna’s glare sharpens. “Yeah, and?”

Mahito whistles, nudging Jogo, who chuckles beside him. “Damn, she cleans up nice,” Mahito says, his tone turning sleazy. “She’s hot. Like, really hot. Who knew she had all that going on under those oversized sweaters?”

Jogo chimes in with a low laugh, adding, “Didn’t think she had it in her to show up here. Guess nerds can surprise you.”

“Shut up,” Sukuna growls, his voice low and dangerous. His fists clench, his irritation bubbling over in a way he doesn’t fully understand. “You two idiots have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Mahito smirks, leaning in closer to Sukuna like he’s sharing a secret. “Relax, man. If you’re not interested, I might just take a shot myself. Hell, I’d even do the bet—”

“Say one more thing,” Sukuna interrupts, his voice ice-cold as he steps closer to Mahito, towering over him. His crimson eyes burn with an intensity that makes even Mahito falter. “And I’ll shut you up permanently. Got it?”

Mahito raises his hands in mock surrender, though the smirk on his face remains. “Alright, alright, chill. No need to get all worked up.”

Sukuna’s glare shifts to Jogo, who’s still chuckling quietly. “And you—if you don’t want me to finish what I started earlier today, you’ll keep your mouth shut too.”

Jogo’s laughter dies instantly, and he looks away, muttering something under his breath.

Without another word, Sukuna turns and walks toward the drinks table, his jaw clenched and his mind racing. He grabs a bottle of something fruity he thinks you might like, pouring it into a fresh cup.

As he turns back toward the garden, his gaze catches someone moving through the crowd. It’s Gojo, his silver hair catching the dim party lights. Sukuna raises a hand, about to call out, but stops when he notices where Gojo is looking.

Gojo’s bright blue eyes are locked on you. His normally confident stride slows as he takes you in, and then, to Sukuna’s irritation, he starts walking toward you.

Sukuna’s grip on the cup tightens, his annoyance flaring into something more complicated. Was it irritation? Jealousy? Whatever it was, it was enough to make his blood boil.

He stays rooted for a moment, watching as Gojo closes the distance between himself and you. Sukuna’s lips curl into a scowl as he mutters under his breath, “What the hell is he doing?”

Gojo’s steps are slow as he maneuvers through the chaos of Hakari’s party. The pounding bass of the music, the loud laughter, and the constant chatter fade into the background as his sharp blue eyes focus on you sitting quietly on a bench near the lake.

He stops for a moment, watching you. The way the dim garden lights cast a soft glow on your face, how your cardigan is wrapped snugly around you, and the way you stare out at the water like the party doesn’t exist at all.

Gojo lets out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. He knew you wouldn’t blend into the noise of a place like this. It wasn’t your scene. And yet, here you were, sitting alone, so out of place but somehow fitting perfectly into this serene corner of the night.

As his nerves start to creep in, he runs a hand through his hair and takes a step forward. Okay, Satoru, he thinks to himself. Just be cool. Be yourself—okay, maybe not entirely yourself.

He finally reaches you, standing a few feet away before clearing his throat. “Hey,” he says, his voice softer than usual, almost hesitant.

You look up at him, your expression briefly surprised, but then you give him a soft smile. “Hi,” you reply, your voice gentle.

Gojo shifts awkwardly, his usual confidence faltering. There’s a quiet moment as he debates whether to sit down or not. After a beat, he lowers himself onto the bench beside you, leaving just enough space to not make it awkward but close enough to feel the tension of his presence.

The silence between you stretches, but it’s not uncomfortable. He glances at you from the corner of his eye, watching how your gaze remains fixed on the lake.

Finally, you break the stillness. “Did the book help?” you ask softly, turning to look at him. “For class, I mean.”

Gojo blinks, caught off guard for a moment, then smiles. “Oh, yeah,” he says, leaning back against the bench. “It helped a lot. No wonder it’s so hard to find—it’s a rare gem.”

Your lips curve into a small smile, and Gojo feels his chest tighten at the sight.

The conversation slows again, but this time, he feels the weight of the opportunity pressing on him. His palms are sweating, and for the first time in forever, he feels… nervous? Come on, Satoru, this is your shot.

“You know,” he starts, his voice uncharacteristically soft, “you look really pretty tonight.”

You blink, your cheeks instantly warming as you murmur, “Thank you.”

But Gojo doesn’t stop there. “Actually,” he continues, his tone playful yet sincere, “you’re even prettier when you’ve got that messy bun going. You know, the one you do with the pencil stuck in it.”

Your eyes widen slightly, and you let out a soft giggle. “How did you notice that?”

Gojo shrugs, flashing you a grin, though his gaze remains gentle. “How could I not? It’s kind of your signature look. Makes you… you.”

Your cheeks flush deeper as you glance away, trying to hide your smile. His words feel so genuine, so unlike the usual cocky, over-the-top persona he carries.

For a moment, neither of you speaks, but the atmosphere feels different now—warmer, softer. Gojo watches you, his heart pounding in a way he can’t explain.

“Thanks,” you finally say, your voice almost a whisper. “That’s… sweet of you.”

And for the first time that night, Gojo feels like he’s exactly where he’s supposed to be.

Sukuna leans against the wall, his red cup tilted idly in his hand, his sharp eyes focused on the bench where you and Gojo sit. His face is unreadable, but the way his jaw clenches and his fingers tighten around the cup is enough to reveal his mood.

Beside him, Mahito and Jogo are huddled together, whispering like schoolchildren. Mahito nudges Jogo with his elbow, his lips curling into a sly grin. “Look at that, Sukuna,” Mahito teases, his tone sing-song. “Gojo’s making his move. Looks like your little librarian has a new admirer.”

Sukuna doesn’t even glance at Mahito, his gaze fixed on you and Gojo. Mahito, emboldened by Sukuna’s silence, continues, “You know, maybe you should just let it go. Call it quits, hand me the $100, and admit you’re not getting anywhere with her.”

Jogo immediately stiffens and shakes his head at Mahito, trying to signal him to stop. “Mahito,” he mutters under his breath, “you’re going to get yourself killed.”

Mahito waves him off. “Come on, Jogo, we’re all friends here,” he says mockingly. “Sukuna can handle a little truth.”

Sukuna’s eyes finally tear away from you and Gojo, and he glares at Mahito with such intensity that Mahito’s grin falters slightly. His voice drops into a low, dangerous growl. “Mahito, if you don’t shut up right now, I’ll make sure you leave this party with more than just a bruised ego.”

Jogo quickly steps in, grabbing Mahito’s arm. “Alright, Mahito, that’s enough,” he says nervously.

But Mahito, never one to know when to quit, opens his mouth to push further—only to be interrupted.

“Yo, Sukuna!” Hakari’s loud, cheerful voice cuts through the tension as he saunters over, a drink in one hand and Mei Mei trailing behind him.

Hakari grins broadly as he approaches. “How’s the party? Everyone having fun?”

Mahito, eager to change the subject, raises his cup. “It’s great! Perfect chaos, as always,” he replies, though his grin is still a bit uneasy.

Mei Mei steps closer, her sharp eyes briefly flicking toward Sukuna. Her movements are smooth, calculated, almost predatory, as though she’s trying to draw his attention. But Sukuna doesn’t even spare her a glance, his focus now on Hakari.

She tilts her head, her smirk faltering slightly. It’s clear she’s used to commanding attention, and Sukuna’s indifference irks her.

Hakari, oblivious to the tension or perhaps just unfazed, laughs loudly. “That’s what I like to hear!”

Suddenly there’s a loud crash, as if a vase had broken.

“Something just broke. I’m betting it was one of the glasses my mom keeps in the display cabinet.” Hakari explained unbothered.

Mahito snickers. “You’re not worried?”

Hakari waves dismissively. “Nah, I’ll just tell my parents a bird crashed into it or something. They’ll believe anything.”

Sukuna rolls his eyes, the annoyance in his expression growing. As Hakari rambles on about the potential excuses he could come up with, Sukuna’s gaze instinctively drifts back to the bench where you’re still sitting.

Gojo leans in slightly, his body language casual but attentive, his focus completely on you. Sukuna’s grip on his drink tightens again, and for a brief moment, he wonders why it’s bothering him so much.

Mahito notices Sukuna’s wandering attention and leans closer, whispering with a smirk, “Still thinking about that $100 bet?”

This time, Sukuna doesn’t answer. Instead, his lips curl into a faint smirk, one that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Shut up, Mahito,” he mutters, before downing the rest of his drink in one go.

[callsign-dexter]

A Dog Situation

Request: Hi I love your work and was wondering if you could do a Tim Bradford x daughter!reader where maybe Nolan is watching her while Tim is at work because it’s a weekend, and they decide to go out to lunch and on the way back they pass by a box that says ‘free puppies’ a reader grabs one and Nolan knows he shouldn’t agree but he’s a big softie and then Tim comes homes and is just so confused.

No pressure to write this have a good day/night🫶🏻

Pairings: Tim Bradford x Daughter!Reader

Warnings: fluff

Baby Bradford: A Little Fighter

Masterlist

A/N: thank you to @callsigns-haze for making this very adorable banner!

It was rare for Tim to be working on a weekend but Sergeant Grey needed all the help he could get out on the streets. Tim loved his job but he loved spending time with you more. Of course, you understood that his job could be demanding and took him away from you on the weekends, you couldn't be mad about that after all he is the one paying the bills.

Usually, you would have a babysitter on hand or when the others weren't working that got put on babysitting duty, giving your normal babysitter a break. Normally Talia and Nolan would be going in as well but weren't called in for whatever reason. You had known that he was getting called into work the weekend on Thursday and it wasn't a big surprise. Instead of your dad coming home Friday night he would be working until Saturday night which meant that Nolan would be picking you up and spending the night at your house in the guest room.

You love your ‘Uncle’ Nolan. He gave you all the sweets you wanted and let you do things your dad wouldn't let you do, though he respected your dad's rules. He also understood you and knew how to react in certain situations because he also had a kid, a son. If it wasn't for him, you probably would be much harder on your dad, of course you were hard on him but it could be worse.

It had been decided that Tim would be dropping you off at school Friday morning and then Nolan would be picking you up. You had already known Angela and Talia very well and Tim trusted them with you. It took a while but eventually Tim was ok with leaving you with the rookies, you made fast friends with everyone. He was more than ok leaving you with Nolan because he too was a dad and knew how children could be, he knew how to handle situations.

Tim's 6:30 AM alarm had just gotten off and jerked him out of his sleep. He was quick to turn it off before it could wake you up. He laid there for a second but then was rolling out of bed and started to get ready for a full day of work and then overnight work. He quickly took a shower and brushed his teeth and then dressed, after he was done, he walked out and went to your room and checked in on you. He smiled seeing that you were still asleep. He closed the door and went to the kitchen, starting a pot of coffee for him and started to get breakfast ready for him and you. When he heard your door open and the pitter patter of feet coming into the kitchen he smiled, right on time. “Hey, Sweetheart.” He said when you came and stood next to him, he slung an arm around your shoulders and you melted into his touch.

“Hi, Daddy.” You said not truly awake yet. He turned and kissed your head and then turning back towards the food,

“Remember Nolan is going to be picking you up today and staying with you until I get off work tomorrow afternoon.” He said and you nodded.

“I remember.” You said and he smiled and then you were moving away from him and grabbing a glass so you could get something to drink. Just about that time he had turned off the stove and you watched him stack the pancakes on the plates, then heading over to you sitting one plate in front of you and then the other where he would be sitting.

Both of you ate in a relatively comfortable silence, every now and then talk would happen but other than that nothing much was said. When you both finished your breakfast, he looked at you “Go ahead and get ready for school.” He said and watched you get up and put your plate in the sink and then scamper off heading to get ready for school, he smiled watching you. He asked himself how he got so lucky to have you as a kid. He hated what your mother did to you but that just meant that you had a stronger bond with him. Not long, you were coming out dressed and ready to go. He smiled at you as you grabbed your bag and he grabbed his and the both of you were out the door and to his truck.

After a short trip to your school, he was pulling up to the front of the school and turning to you. “Be good and don't smart off. Also remember to be good for Nolan when he comes and picks you up and stays with you.” He said, giving you a pointed look and you smiled up at him.

“I’m always good, Dad.” You said and he smiled and kissed your forehead.

“Don’t put him in a situation where he can't say no to either.” He said as you were getting out and you turned and smirked at him.

“I would never do that.” You said with a playfully hurt expression but he quickly turned into a smile and then you were shutting the door and giving him a wave and then you were off going into the school meeting up with some of your friends.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Tim arrived at the precinct and had just parked beside Lucy’s car. He got out and started into the precinct. He said hi to people and the front desk person. He walked into the locker room and started getting dressed when Nolan walked up to him. “Hey.” He said and Tim looked at him and smiled.

“Hey, Y/N is excited to be able to hang out with you tonight and tomorrow.” He said and Nolan smiled.

“I’m excited too. I love that kid.” Nolan said and that made Tim smile.

“She loves you too. Oh, don’t let her get you in a situation that you can’t say no to. She is good about doing that. Also don’t fall for the puppy dog eyes.” Tim said and Nolan chuckled.

“Nobody can resist those eyes.” He said and Tim smiled and agreed. They walked out in the briefing room and got ready to start the day.

The rest of the day went by smoothly, calls were answered and arrests were made. Before anyone knew it, it was the end of the day. Nolan walked in and got changed and as he was walking out Tim caught him. “Hey, have a good night tonight and day tomorrow. If you need me, call me and I’ll answer and if I’m needed, I’ll be there. Kitchen is fair game and so is the coffee, other drinks, there is food in the pantry, freezer, and fridge. Take out is also an option, Y/N/N knows where the money is and she has my credit card plugged into her phone and most take out options.” Tim said and Nolan nodded and smiled.

“Don’t worry, we’ll have fun and if we need you, you will be notified. Also, I can pay for the food.” Nolan said and Tim nodded.

“You don’t have to do that.” Tim said and Nolan shook his head.

“I want to.” He replied and Tim nodded in defeat. He knew that his little girl is in good hands but he’s a dad, it’s his job to worry. “Now go continue your shift. I’m gonna go and pick up your little girl and we’re going to have a blast. We’ll send pictures.” Nolan said and that made Tim smile. Tim walked off when Seargent Grey called out to him and Nolan was off to get you. Nolan walked to his truck and got in after throwing his bag into the back and then he got into the driver’s side and started his truck up and headed to your school, which wasn’t that far. Nolan got in the line with the other cars and waited for them to move. When he was finally up in the front, he saw you waiting and then when you saw him you smiled and hurriedly walked to his truck and he got in. “Hello, Baby Braford.” He said and you rolled your eyes.

“Hello, Uncle Nolan.” You said and you gave him a hug and you both were headed to your house. “What’s the plan for tonight?” You asked and he smiled.

“Well, your dad said there was some food in the pantry, fridge, and freezer. So, we can cook something up or we can order out. I was also thinking about having a movie night.” He said and you turned to him and he made a quick glance at you and saw you smiling and smiled but then paid attention to the road.

“Ohhh!!! Chinese food and movie night!” You said and he chuckled.

“You got it.” He said “We’ll order it once we get home.” He added and you nodded excited. Before you knew it you were home and he was pulling into the driveway. He parked the truck and killed the engine and then you both were getting out. Nolan grabbed his second bag and you grabbed your backpack and you both headed into the house after you unlocked the door with your key. You set your bag on by the door and Nolan walked to the guest room and set his bag on the bed. He walked out of the room and into the kitchen where you were leaning against the counter scrolling on your phone answering texts from your friends and your dad. You looked up when you heard Nolan. “Alright, you wanna go ahead and order the food and get movie night started?” He asked and nodded excitedly. “Why don’t you go and get changed and I’ll order, my treat.” He said before you could argue and nodded and headed off. “Want your usual?” He asked and you turned to him.

“Of course.” You said with that Bradford smirk and watched you walk on. He pulled out his phone and opened the app and ordered his and your usual order. Now the wait starts.

It wasn’t long until you had come out in some sweats and your dad’s hoodie that you “borrowed” from him but he knew he had lost it when you got your hands on it. Nolan had gotten the TV said up when you had come out of your room and into the living room. “What do you want to watch?” He asked as you came and sat down on the couch.

“National Treasure?” You asked

“Oh, my favorite. Do you want to start with the first one and then watch the second one?” He asked and you nodded excitedly. This is why he was your favorite. 20 minutes into the movie and the doorbell rang meaning the food was here and he got up to answer it as you got up and grabbed drinks. He shut the door and you both walked into the living room. You both sorted out the food and then you started the movie back up and began to eat.

After National Treasure ended you started National Treasure: Book of Secrets up and you both laughed and commented throughout the movie. Food was eaten throughout both movies and you had a blanket thrown over you. It was getting pretty late by the time that one ended but you were nowhere near ready to go to bed. As the credits rolled you looked over at Nolan “What’s it’s gonna be now?” You asked and he thought about it.

“Top Gun?” He asked and he watched your face light up. Top Gun was one of your all-time favorites and it was your dad’s too.

“Yes!!!! I knew you were my favorite for a reason.” You said and he laughed.

“There are a lot of reasons why I’m your favorite.” He said and you nodded.

“You got that right.” You said and then you got up and switched out the movies and then rushed to the couch and threw the blanket back over you and snuggled into Nolan. When it got to Goose’s death you cried so hard, you always did and Nolan wasn’t going to lie he teared up too. Once it ended, which you were sad about, you turned to him “Did you hear that they are coming out with a second one?” You asked and he turned to you.

“Oh really? When is it coming out?” He asked

“They haven’t given a date yet.” You said and he nodded and then you decided on a few more movies, Rock of Ages, Battleship, and all of the Mission Impossibles, and before you knew it, it was 12 AM. Throughout the night pictures of you and Nolan’s selfies of you and him eating and making funny pictures were sent to Tim.

“Alright, kiddo. Time for bed.” He said and you looked at him.

“I’m not even tired.” You said just as soon as a yawn escaped you and he chuckled.

“Nope. Bed time.” He said and you pouted but got up and trudged off into your room and got into bed and fell asleep quickly.

Nolan started to clean up and turn the TV off and made sure the movie was in the movie case, and threw away the trash. He turned off the lights and headed to the guest room. He stopped at your door and opened it and checked in on you and smiled when he saw that you were sound asleep. He shut the door and walked into the bedroom and got ready for bed. Once he was ready, he laid down and was quick to fall asleep.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

The next morning, Saturday, you woke up the smell of bacon and pancakes. Your stomach growled and it had you getting up and walking out of your room and into the kitchen to see Nolan already dressed and at the stove. When he heard you, he turned and he smiled “Hey.” He said and you smiled “I figured we have breakfast and then get out of the house and do some shopping and hanging out.” He said and you smiled.

“That sounds great.” You said and he smiled and turned off the stove and then handed you a plate and you both got what you wanted and then sat down at the table. You saw that your drink and his coffee were already on the table. Breakfast was eaten and small talk was made. He asked you about school and you asked him about work. It was fun and it was like when you were talking with your dad.

After breakfast you were getting up and putting your dish in the sink, something your dad taught you from an early age “Hey, once you get dressed and teeth brushed. We’ll get going.” Nolan said and you nodded. You were quick to get ready into some jeans and a ‘Talk to me, Goose’ shirt and then you threw on your dad’s hoodie again. You brushed your teeth and put your hair up in a ponytail. You grabbed your phone and headed into the kitchen. Nolan had just finished wiping down the table and counter when he turned when he heard you “Ready to go?” He asked and you nodded and he smiled. You both walked out and you locked the door behind you. You both got into the truck and headed off into the town.

When he got to where he had planned, he parked and killed the engine and then you both were getting out and walked into the shop. You both had a blast and bought some things. Everything was close enough so you didn’t have to keep getting back into the truck and leaving. After spending the morning shopping, you decided to have lunch at a cute little bakery. You both talked about anything and everything. As you finished lunch and were heading back to the truck because your dad was due home in 3 hours, you heard what sounded like puppy whimpering and you being an animal lover had to go and investigate. Meaning you veered off from Nolan and he was quick to take notice of this “Y/N.” He said and started off after you but you ignored him “Y/N Bradford, you cannot just walk off.” He said in a tone a parent would use when scolding a child, which he technically was.

“But Uncle Nolan! I heard puppies! I just couldn’t walk away.” You all but pouted.

“Never do it again.” He said and you nodded. You then turned and looked at the box that said ‘Free Puppies’. You peered down at them and there were only 2 left. They were Golden Retriever puppies, standard golden color. They both came straight to you when you bent down to see them and you picked them up, both were male. Nolan could see the wheels turning “Y/N.” He said in a warning tone.

“Uncle Nolan.” You whined “Please. Look at them.” You said and put the puppy in front of his face and licked him and then he looked at you and you had brought on your puppy dog eyes. This would be the situation that Tim said not to let you get him into. Nolan had an internal battle with himself but his heart won.

“Ok, fine.” He said “They're kind of cute.” He said and you squealed

“We need to take the other one, Uncle Nolan. We can't split them up.” You said and Nolan looked apprehensive.

“Y/N.” He said trying so hard not to give in but he was losing.

“Please, with a cherry on top.” You pleaded with puppy dog eyes.

“Fine. I remember passing a pet store while walking around. We can stop in and grab some stuff. Your dad is going to kill me.” He said but you weren’t listening to him because you were interested in the puppies. As you arrived at the pet store you walked in and Nolan got a shopping cart and first went to the collars, leashes, and harness. You got collars, harnesses, and leashes in blue and red. Then you went to get bowls for water and food. After doing that you got some KONG toys and 4 beds. Then two crates that would be switched to bigger ones when they got older. As you got to the food you were a little lost until a worker came over and helped you and got you treats. Then you went to the dog tags. “What are you gonna name them?” Nolan asked and you thought long and hard about it.

“Maverick and Goose.” You said beaming up at him, he smiled and shook his head. That is a perfect name. He typed it in for you, putting Maverick on the front and then your name and phone number and then Tim’s name and number on the back it printed out on a blue dog bone shaped tag with black writing. He did the same for Goose but on a red tag. Maverick and Goose had fallen asleep in your arms. Once it was done you headed over to check out and you paid for everything with your money and then you both were heading out and to his truck. He loaded everything and then helped you get in.

When you arrived back home you got out when the truck was parked and the engine was killed. You got out and put Maverick and Goose down on the ground to let him use the bathroom which he immediately did and then you headed inside. You played with Maverick and Goose while he brought everything in. When he did so he set everything up and got some water in a bowl and some food in the bowl. “Your dad is going to kill me.” He said again.

“No, he isn’t.” You said not taking your attention away from your new dogs. Not even 30 minutes later you heard your dad’s truck. Nolan and you looked up as he walked in and he froze when the puppies ran to him.

“Y/N.” He said when you came running to him.

“Dad.” You said in the same tone.

“What is this?” He asked

“This is Maverick and Goose. Our new dog!” You said excitedly and then he looked over at Nolan who had appeared.

“What happened?” Tim asked

“I was put in a position that I couldn’t say no.” Nolan said and Tim gave him a look “I couldn’t say no. She used the puppy dog eyes on me.” He said and then Tim turned to you.

“I told you not to put him in a situation where he couldn’t say no.” He said and you picked up the puppy and held it in front of Tim.

“But Daaaddd-” You said “look at them. How can you just pass this face up?” You added and Maverick, who you had picked up, licked him in the face and his face melted and he smiled and you knew you had won.

“Fine. We can keep him. But they are your responsibility. You take them out every time they wake up no matter what time and 30 minutes after they eat. You take them on walks. I’ll step in when needed but they are your responsibility. Understand?” He asked and you nodded.

“Yes, sir.” You said “We put your name and number on their tags as well as mine.” You added and he nodded.

“Good.” He nodded and then you scampered off to play with Maverick and Goose. Both men watched you being happy.

“I couldn’t say no, honestly.” Nolan said

“It’s ok. I probably wouldn’t have said no either. She can be very convincing.” Tim said chuckling and so did Nolan “You are welcome to leave or you can stay. It’s up to you.” He said and Nolan nodded.

“I’ll stay if that is ok with you. I love puppies and being able to hang out with Y/N/N. After all, I'm her favorite uncle.” Nolan said and Tim laughed.

“That is true. Shall we go and get acquainted with the new family member?” Tim asked, looking at Nolan and he looked at him.

“I think we shall.” Nolan said. Both of them walked into the living room and sat down on the floor Maverick and Goose and you were quick to notice. Everyone laughed and was having a good time. Tim looked over at you.

“Are you happy, Baby Girl?” He asked and you looked at him and smiled.

“I am, Dad. Really happy.” You said and he could see that.

“As long as you're happy. I’m happy.” He said and pulled you into a hug which you snuggled into.

You’ve always wanted a male Golden Retriever and now you have two named Maverick or Goose. You were happy and loved him. Your dad had to admit that he loved him too, he has always wanted a dog in the house but always had been too busy but now that you had one in the house everything just seemed perfect and whole. Maverick and Goose had completed your family and you and your dad couldn’t be happier.

Tag list:

@kmc1989

@els-marvelvsp

@atarmychick007

@nyx2021

@grandstrangerphantom

@angenu01-blog

@talesofreading

[asmutwriter]

Pumpkins (Eddie x f!reader)

DESCRIPTION: Your neighbours give you and your boyfriend Eddie a gift to help celebrate the Halloween season.

A/N: I know I normally post on Fridays but due to the event of Halloween happening on a Thursday and I wanted to get this part out I felt it was only logical to bring it a day forward in posting! Happy Halloween everyone!

WORD COUNT: 1095

One Shots / 'Welcome to the Freak Show'

WARNINGS: fluff, smoking, knives (in a completely non threatening sense)

DISCLAIMERS

This is fiction. Please always talk to your partner before doing anything and make sure they are ok with what you are doing beforehand

This story is based after the events of my series 'Welcome to the Freak Show' (a Stranger Things fan fiction) which I'd recommend reading before or after reading this

You nestle closer into the man next to you. His torso being a good source of heat during the cold month of October. His arm wrapped securely around you. Holding you close to him. The both of you knew that each other was awake. But if you acknowledged that then you’d have to get out of bed. And the van was cold. Your breath turning to fog with every exhale. So you stayed wrapped into the warmth of your blanket and each other. Knowing it was late in the day but not overly caring due to it being the weekend.

You feel his hand travel from your back. Going past the flesh off your ass and to your thigh. Gently squeezing the flesh. Kissing the top of your head as he starts to move from under you. You shake your head. Hands gripping his shirt as you murmur a small 'no' into his chest. A rumble of quiet laughter echoes through him and into you before he speaks.

"I'm sorry my queen. Nicotine is calling me" his hand from your thigh travels over your side and up to your chin. Gently tilting it upwards. A soft kiss is pressed to your forehead. "I'll be back". You mumble as you turn off of him. Letting him out from the warm covers. You wrap them back around yourself securely. Opening your eyes as you see him pick a hoodie up from the floor. Placing it over his torso. Not overly caring if its yours or his - so long as it fits and shields him from the brisk morning air. Picking up the packet of cigarettes from the side and a lighter. Taking one out and placing it between his lips.

He opens the front door. Shutting your eyes. You bring the covers up and over your mouth and nose. Hoping this will keep you warmer as the October air fills your small home. A few moments pass. Confusion hits you when you don't hear the familiar noise of the lighter clicking. Or get the familiar smell off smoke. The blanket was thick but you normally get a waft of the scent. You squint one of your eyes open. Peering at your boyfriend. His brow knitted with confusion as he looks downwards. Standing in the doorway. Unlit cigarette still sitting perfectly between his lips.

"Eddie?" you mumble his name. Drawing your face out from the warmth of the bedding. He shoves the lighter in hand into his hoodie pocket. Taking a step outside. Now its your time to be confused. Sitting up slightly. Watching as he re-enters the van. Small note held delicately between his thumb and finger.

"Mr and Miss Munson" he speaks "Thank you for babysitting us whilst our mum has been at work. To show our thanks we thought you might like these gifts. Love Matthew and Joshua". He flicks his eyes up to you.

"Those are the two young lads a couple of vans down right?" You give a small nod. Wrapping the covers around yourself as you sit up. Walking the short distance over to him. Your body brushing his arm as you look over his shoulder. He turns the note towards you. Reaching a hand out you take it from him. Watching as he bounces down the couple of steps. Looking back up to him as he stands up tall. Turning to face you. A small pumpkin under each arm.

"Oh my god" you smile as you look at the squashes. Bringing a hand up to cover your mouth. Eyes going up to look at Eddie. "That's so sweet of them!" you exclaim. You turn around. Grabbing your boyfriends leather jacket from the side. Placing it over your Metallica band shirt and pastel plaid pyjama bottoms. Dumping the blanket back onto the bed as you go to the drawers in the small kitchenette you have. Opening it and taking out two sharp knives and a couple of spoons. Turning back around as you smile at him. He gives a small laugh. Coming up into your home.

You grab out some old newspaper and magazines from the pile in your home. Sitting down cross legged. He looks at you. Still holding the pumpkins in his hands as you look up at him expectantly. "If we do it out here then I can smoke at the same time" he mentions. You blink at him. Eyes going to behind him before going back to his dark eyes.

"Its cold out there though. Its slightly less cold in here". He gives a small yet dramatic sigh. Placing the two pumpkins onto the floor in the van. Leaning against the outside of the doorway as he reaches into his pocket. Taking out the lighter and lighting up his smoke. Pushing it back into his pocket as he draws a drag. Removing it from his lips as he watches your gleeful face. Taking a knife and starting to cut out an opening hole in the top.

He draws another smoke. You carve out the top of your pumpkin. Smiling happily to yourself. He watches your glee filled face as you kneel up. Getting better leverage as you remove the top. Taking the knife and cutting off the guts from the top. Grabbing a spoon you start delving it into the squash. His brow furrows slightly. "Must you do that in my jacket?" You look up at him. Orange entrails over your palms and lightly touching the sleeves of his beloved leather. You smile at him and nod. He shakes his head. Snubbing out his cigarette.

"Its too cold to not be wearing another layer" he comes and sits next to you. Watching you as you continue mutilating your pumpkin. "Plus someone stole my hoodie" your eyes look at him. Glancing down to the clothing on his torso. He glances down briefly before giving a small nod. Taking his pumpkin and a knife.

"I cant argue with that logic". You nod. Going back to your creation as you finish removing the innards. Starting to carve out some eyes. You go for a more traditional look. Triangle eyes and jagged teeth. Eddie goes for a more theatrical aesthetic. Squinted eyes and wide mouth. Using the entrails as make shift 'vomit'.

Once you are done with them you take them both outside your home. Placing them either side of the doorway. You admire your creations. Smiling as he wraps an arm around your waist. Your hands go around his middle. Holding him close. Feeling him kiss the top of your head.

"We should probably go and shower". You tilt your head up to look at him. A light confusion in your eyes at his sudden revelation. He smiles. Looking down at you with those brown doe eyes. "I get the feeling that we both smell heavily of pumpkin". You give a soft laugh. Nodding. Leaning up onto your tiptoes as you plant a quick kiss to his lips before heading to your shower.

TAGS

@karma2223 @fknemily @sammararaven​​ @munson-fixation

[lucy-frostblade]

femslash feb day 26- kids

Janice and Kat were on the same page about kids. They didn’t want them. They were content with their lives, with their corn snake named Tabitha. 

That didn’t mean they didn’t like kids. One of Katrina’s favorite ren faire stories is a seven year old coming up and asking about her sword, and Kat shows her, before giving her a small crystal unicorn. The kid had lit up, running off to show their parents and Katrina had a soft smile on her face the rest of the day. 

Janice never wanted her own kids, she was gone too much and she didn’t want to put Kat in the position of being the only parent during that time. However, she was built for being the cool aunt. She babysat for Cherise’s kid whenever she could. 

When she introduced Kat to her sister, it also meant introducing Kat to Vanessa, and in turn meant that she could drag Kat with her to babysit together. Janice loved her niece, but she was just turning five now, there wasn’t much she could do with her until now. 

Cherise had texted her on Thursday that she and her husband (who Janice still wasn’t sold on) were going out for the weekend and they needed someone to watch Vanessa. Janice agreed easily, texting Kat first to make sure it was okay. 

Vanessa was dropped off at Janice and Kat’s apartment at noon on Friday.

Janice opens the door, grinning as Vanessa barrels into her legs, wrapping her arms around in a makeshift hug. 

“Hey, Nessie!” Janice crouches down to Vanessa’s eye level, greeting Cherise while keeping her attention on her niece. “Are you excited to spend the weekend with Kat and I?” 

Vanessa nods vigorously, pigtails bouncing up and down.

“Hey, Cherise.” Janice hears Katrina enter and lean against their entryway doorway. “Do you and John have fun plans this weekend?” Janice grins up at Kat as Cherise goes off, rambling about the hotel and the spa and the complimentary breakfast. 

Vanessa sticks out her tongue and Janice grins. “Don’t be rude to your mom, Nessie.” Janice teases, no heat behind her words. Vanessa giggles, the sound causing Cherise to realize the time. 

“Oh god, I have to go.” Cherise kneels down, pulling Vanessa into a hug. “Be good for Auntie Janice and Katrina, okay?” Vanessa nods solemnly. Cherise stands back up, pulling Janice and Katrina into a quick hug. “I’ll text when we’re driving back. Love you!” 

“Love you too!” Janice calls, shutting and locking the door behind her. She turns around to where Kat is holding out a small carved amethyst that Janice doesn’t recognize. 

“Here, I got you something.” Katrina murmurs. “Because purple is your favorite.” 

Vanessa jumps up and down before wrapping her arms around Katrina’s neck. 

“Thank you thank you thank you!” 

“Of course. Now, Janice and I have some fun things planned. First things first, pancakes.” 

Vanessa gasps, eyes wide and sparkling. “Can we put chocolate chips in it?” 

Katrina scoffs. “Can we put chocolate chips in it?” Kat reaches down and picks up Vanessa. “Why would we make it any other way?” Vanessa giggles, wrapping her arms securely around Katrina’s neck. 

Janice feels her chest warm as she follows Kat into the kitchen. Katrina sets Vanessa on the counter and hands her a bowl of chocolate chips. Vanessa giggles and kicks her legs against the cabinets as Katrina moves around their kitchen, grabbing flour and sugar and a bowl and setting them on the counter next to Vanessa. 

Janice grabs a stool and sits across from the two of them, watching Kat and Vanessa with a soft small on her face. 

Soon the apartment is filled with the scent of pancakes and laughter as Katrina attempts to make heart shaped pancakes, the afternoon sun spilling through the window and casting a golden glow over the three of them. 

Janice might not want kids, but she wouldn’t trade her family for anything.

ao3

taglist: @whoopswopswiddlywops @starstruckodysseys @blueskiesandstarrynights @capvers-my-love @automaticsoulharmony @offbookkeeping @doorbellvibes @shrimptacodaniels

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for getting upset because my friends said they couldn’t hang out with me?

TW: small mention of SA

Context: I(16m) am in a friend group with around 7 other people, including my bf (16m). Who I am currently living with because of issues at home. And because of things going on, like work, getting drivers licenses, and the school musical (which is, imo, the worst thing we have at this school bc of the toxic environment, toxic director, and child predators that were in there touching girls.) we haven’t been hanging out much. The last time we all hung out was for my birthday at the end of February, which I had to fight with some people to even go.

So, this starts with me making plans. ALWAYS. I’ve made the plans for this friend group every time without fail for the last year and a half. And I noticed we haven’t been hanging out as much and my boyfriend agrees, so I text everyone around 2 weeks ago and asked if they wanted to do anything. My one friend, we will call L, suggested that we go to a museum in the city. I asked her if Saturday at Noon would work that week and she and everyone else agreed. So, that Thursday, I made sure everyone was good with that, and I found out that she and my other friend, who we will call O, had to go in for a 7 hour rehearsal on Saturday. No big deal, I get it. So I rescheduled for the following Saturday.

The next Friday rolls around and me, my bf, and L are doing volunteer hours at our elementary school. I, again, check in to see if she’s going. She says that because she is so exhausted from the musical, she can’t go. I understand again, but here’s the thing. L thinks she HAS to do our schools play and musical, and got upset with me when I didn’t wanna go because I had been assaulted physically and verbally by other cast members and the director. L actively overbooks herself and then complains that she’s upset or tired or acts like she has to do these things. Her parents aren’t forcing her or pressuring her btw. But, I do understand needing some time, and I agree that I’ll reschedule again, because i want all of us to be there. And also, O texted me (after he expressed his desire to go really badly) that he couldn’t go because there was a parade that weekend. So I changed it to that Sunday. Me and my bf thought it would fix all the problems.

It didn’t. Both L and O came up with bullshit excuses not to go after it was THEIR idea to hang out! L said she had to “babysit” her 14 year old brother who is perfectly healthy and capable. Not because her parents asked her to, but because she said he will “burn the house down” and O said that his mom had to work and he didn’t wanna ask his dad (btw both of his parents are the nicest people I’ve ever met). So, I got very upset with them and I actually cried to my boyfriend about it. I feel like my friends don’t wanna hang out with me or see me. Especially bc O had got a new bf, who is cis (O is a trans boy) and his new bf has publicly been known as the “tboy/femboy chaser” and fetishizes trans people. When I expressed this to O, he said that I was making it up. They also are extremely inappropriate, and actively make out when we’re all trying to hang out or talk to them. One time, we were having a New Year’s party, and they took up the only couch, making out for 5 hours. O and L also like to point out that me and my bf never are apart, and that’s when I remind them that we not only live together, but he is in the main friend group. I’m tired of these guys making up excuses to not see me. So, AITA?? :(

What are these acronyms?

[merrybloomwrites]

You Can Start a Family (Chapter 6)

Summary:

The trio spends a weekend together before parting ways when tour picks back up.

Mitch and Sarah have a special surprise for Y/N.

Previous Chapters: One ; Two ; Three ; Four ; Five

TW for this chapter: More smut!

The group takes a trip away and this is the cottage I based their Aribnb on.

Hope you enjoy!

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

For the rest of the week, you only work mornings. Ryan’s mom is still off from work for spring break, and she uses the mornings to catch up on things around the house and other tasks before sending you home around lunchtime so she can have more one-on-one time with her son. You definitely don’t mind. As much as you love the little boy, you’re ecstatic to spend as much time with Mitch and Sarah as possible.

They’re back to spending almost all of their time in the studio. Mitch had written more than you realized, and he got a recording band together to create an album. You stop by each afternoon for a little while to watch, but don’t want to distract or get in the way. You’re so excited for him, knowing how big a deal it is to create a solo record. Any time he starts to second guess himself, you remind him how many people will support him and love his music.

You have dinner at the Rowland’s Thursday night, and the three of you have to constantly remind yourselves that you cannot be obvious about your relationship. You know keeping it a secret is the best option for now. Maybe someday you could let their families in, but it’s way too soon to even consider that.

You try not to feel a twinge of sadness when Mitch and Sarah hold hands or share a small kiss. You won’t lie to yourself; you always looked forward to being in a relationship where you could do that too. You’re grateful to be with them but you realize this is one of those difficulties you guys had mentioned the other night.

After awhile you notice that it’s getting pretty late, so you get up to head home. You had been hoping to maybe get a good night kiss, but the whole family walks you to the door and you settle for a quick hug from everyone. Sarah does sneak in a quick peck to the side of your head during her hug, and that alone raises your mood.

That weekend you don’t get to see Mitch and Sarah, as you had previously agreed to babysit for another family in your building while the parents were away at a wedding.

The next two weeks, everyone is in full swing with their jobs. You’re back to full time nannying, and Mitch’s album is coming together nicely thanks to the long hours at the studio. You still make time for each other, spending one dinner a week at Mitch’s house, and one dinner a week at your apartment.

You all block off the last weekend in April to spend together. It works out wonderfully for everyone, as you only need to work a half day that Friday, and Mitch’s album is already fully recorded and only needs some final touches before it’s totally done.

Earlier that week, Mitch and Sarah surprised you by letting you know they’d rented a small cottage in a quaint town about an hour away. The second you’re done working on Friday you run home to grab your bag and check on the cats, setting out plenty of food and water for the weekend.

You drive back to pick up Mitch and Sarah and they walk out to your car right as you pull up. Mitch walks to the driver’s side and you roll down your window, curious why they didn’t just get in.

“I’m driving, kid,” Mitch says to you.

“What, don’t trust my skills?”

“I just want you to enjoy the scenery on the way.” You can’t help but smile at how thoughtful that is and relinquish all driving responsibility to him. You decide to give Sarah shotgun and hop into the back seat.

You do enjoy the scenery, but more so, you enjoy not having to drive for once. You’ve had to completely rely on yourself for everything for so long that you forgot what it was like to have someone else take over. You make sure to uphold road trip tradition and point out every cow and horse you see during the journey.

After an hour Mitch pulls off the main road onto a long gravel driveway lined by trees. It takes a minute before the cottage comes into view, and you’re immediately in love with how adorable it is.

Mitch opens your door and gives you a hand out of the car like a true gentleman as Sarah unlocks the cottage. You grab your bag and the cooler and head inside. It’s adorably small. There’s one main space that has the living room, kitchen, and a small dining area. There are two doors off the living room, one that leads to the bedroom and the other to the bathroom. In the bedroom is a ladder that goes up to a cozy loft, full of soft cushions, pillows, and blankets. Off of the kitchen is a door that leads out back, and you’re excited when you peek outside and see a hot tub.

Mitch and Sarah watch as you run around exploring, practically bouncing off the walls.

You run up to the two of them and wrap them in a group hug saying, “Thank you so much for planning this!”

“Of course, love,” Sarah replies. “Figured we could all use a weekend away.”

She starts unpacking all the food and you go to help but Mitch grabs you from behind, wrapping his arms around your middle and pulling you close to him. “Nuh-uh, no work for you. Just let us handle it all.” Your smile grows even wider at this.

A few minutes later everything is where it should be, and they lead you outside.

“So, there is another surprise for you,” Sarah says. Your eyes light up as you follow her down another path on the property. The walk takes a couple of minutes, but you soon see what the surprise is, and it takes everything in you not to run ahead immediately.

At the end of the path, you see a fenced in area that contains sheep, goats, and chickens. As a huge animal lover, this is truly a dream come true.

“Can we pet them?” You ask.

“Absolutely. We can even go in with them, and there’s some food over in the barn we can give them,” Sarah answers. You can’t contain your joy anymore and lean to press a kiss to her lips before running to the fence to pet the animals. They join you and you spend the afternoon playing with the animals and exploring the trails in the nearby woods.

Only when you all start to feel hungry do you head back to the cottage. In the kitchen Sarah starts making dinner and you go to assist her when Mitch once again holds you back. He lifts you and sets you on the counter and hands you a glass of wine before he starts to chop vegetables.

You watch and are purely content in that moment. You sit there, taking it all in. You watch the couple who continually take care of you in so many different ways, who know exactly how to make you happy, and for the first time in years, you feel like you can take a deep breath and shut your brain off and simply enjoy life.

That all changes with one phone call.

The music you’re listening to gets cut off when Mitch’s phone begins to ring. He looks at the screen before answering with a “Hey man, what’s up?”

He listens for a second before saying, “Yea, gimme a second and I’ll check.” He pulls the phone away from his ear so he can open another app.

“Who is it?” Sarah asks.

“Harry, he’s checking if we got the final email about tour. Oh, here it is.” He pauses to read the email before putting the phone back to his ear and saying, “Yea we have it. Our flight leaves next Saturday afternoon, so we’ll get in early Sunday.” He pauses again before answering, “Yes we have the hotel info and rehearsal schedule too.”

Your mood immediately drops when you realize they’ll be leaving in a week. Leaving for nearly 3 full months. You knew they were going back on tour, knew it was coming up, but somehow hadn’t realized it would be so soon. You hadn’t let yourself think about the fact that you would have to go so long without seeing them.

You quickly push down your emotions, trying to make sure that neither of them notice your change in mood. It works for a while.

It isn’t until partway through dinner that they realize you’re much quieter than usual. They don’t question you right away but share worried and confused looks with each other.

After everyone is done eating Sarah turns to you and says, “Why don’t you change into a bathing suit and get the hot tub going while we finish in here?” You feel slightly paranoid, like she’s trying to get rid of you, but figure you’re probably just being oversensitive because you’re upset. While you’re doing what she suggests, Mitch and Sarah have a hushed conversation as they clean up dinner.

“Does Y/N seem off to you?” Mitch asks.

“Yea, she was strangely quiet during dinner. I’m a bit worried that something’s wrong.”

“Do we ask her or wait until she brings it up?”

“I guess we can give her some more time and see if she says something. Maybe remind her she can tell us anything, that we’re here for her.”

You walk back into the kitchen, now dressed in your bathing suit and cover up, carrying a stack of towels. Mitch and Sarah both turn to you with soft smiles, and you stop to kiss each of them.

While changing you had decided that you’d make the most of the time you have with them instead of dwelling on how soon they’d be leaving. You were still in a bit of a sad mood but don’t want to ruin the weekend.

You head out the back door and go over to the hot tub, looking at the dials to figure out how to get the bubbles going. Once you turn it on you take off your cover up and slide in the water.  

A few minutes later they join you, just in time to enjoy the beautiful sunset. They sit on either side of you, and you rest your head on Sarah’s shoulder and reach out to hold Mitch’s hand. For awhile it’s quiet, just the sounds of the bubbling water and the birds chirping as they settle in a nearby tree for the night.

“What’s wrong, love?” Sarah questions after a long period of silence. You thought you had been hiding your feelings well, but it seems she knows you better than you thought.

“Nothing’s wrong,” You reply, still trying to keep your sadness a secret.

“Y/N, you can tell us what it is,” Mitch continues.

You pause, taking a deep breath before answering. “I guess I just didn’t realize that you were going to be leaving next week. It kinda caught me off guard. I’m just gonna miss you guys.” You finish speaking and tuck your face more into Sarah’s neck.

Her hand comes up to the side of your head and you immediately feel comforted by her touch. Mitch turns towards you, wrapping his arm around your waist. He looks at Sarah over your head and sees her eyes swimming with tears.

“I’m gonna miss you too, babe. So, so much.” You hear the emotion in Sarah’s voice and lift your head to look at her. When you too notice her tears you pull her to straddle your lap, needing to have her as close as possible. Your arms wrap tightly around her waist as hers wrap around your neck.

It’s her turn to tuck her face in your shoulder, and you feel more than hear when she lets out a sob. One of your hands travels to her head, holding her close. You hadn’t realized that the upcoming separation might be affecting them as much as it was affecting you. For years it had just been the two of them, and you figured they would be okay together. The fact that leaving you behind was hurting them as much as it was you made you realize how important you are to them. It also made you realize you aren’t the only one struggling.

Mitch keeps one hand on your side and moves his other to Sarah’s back, rubbing comforting circles. He places a kiss to your head saying, “I’m really going to miss you too.”

“I’ve gotten so used to being alone, good at it actually. I forgot what it’s like to have people around that I care about. I hate good-byes, even if they are temporary.”

Sarah murmurs into your neck. “What was that?” you ask her.

She lifts her head to look in your eyes and says, “I won’t say goodbye. Because it won’t be goodbye. We’ll never say goodbye to you, only see you soon. Okay?” You blink the tears out of your eyes and whisper okay in response.

She surges forward connecting her lips to yours. This isn’t a kiss that will lead to more, but rather one that is full of emotion. Your lips are crushed together, and you can feel the unspoken words that no one knows how to say.

After a few minutes you break apart and lock eyes for a moment. You turn your head and Mitch leans in, kissing you gently before he does the same to Sarah. The three of you get lost in one another, exchanging kisses, hands roaming over bare skin. The water is the perfect temperature, and the clear sky is filled with more stars than you’ve ever seen before.

You let out a deep breath and a smile spreads on your face. Mitch and Sarah notice and pick up on your change in mood, enjoying this peaceful moment together. It isn’t until a little later when Sarah starts to nod off on your shoulder that you all decide to head inside to go to sleep.

The first to change and fall into bed is Sarah, who is immediately knocked out directly in the middle. You and Mitch share a fond look when you notice and then slide in on either side of her. She shifts to lay her head on your chest and Mitch spoons her from behind, his hand reaching to hold on to yours. He falls asleep quickly, and you stay up for a bit thinking about all the time you’ve spent with the pair over the past months.

You can’t deny how happy they make you, and you definitely can’t deny the feelings you’ve developed. What started as minor crushes has become so much more. You’ve never been in love before, but you imagine this must be what it feels like. You watch them sleep, relishing the moments where Sarah snuggles in closer, or when Mitch unconsciously tightens his grip on your hand.

The next thing you know it’s morning, and you’re waking up to a murmured conversation beside you. You shift until you’ve placed yourself in between the other two, demanding cuddles. It’s a slow start to the day, lazing in bed for a while before Sarah informs you that she made reservations at a nearby spa for you all.

Everyone eats a quick breakfast and gets ready for the day. The spa is absolutely wonderful. It’s been forever since you’ve gotten a massage and it feels heavenly. Next you go to an art studio to do a Paint and Sip, following the instructor to each create a summer beach scene. Everyone tries to sneak peaks of each other’s work but you all keep it a secret until the end.

Painting has never really been your thing, always preferring performing arts over visual arts. At the end of the session, you’re happy to see that is something the three of you share. You all keep your commentary to yourselves, thanking the instructor for a lovely afternoon. Once in the car though, none of you can hold back your laughter at how truly awful all your paintings turned out.

You’re all in a silly mood that continues for the rest of the day. Back at the cottage, bottles of wine are opened and shared while you teach them an absurd card game you and your cousin made up when you were children.

Thirty minutes in Mitch finally gives up, shouting, “I just don’t understand how the 4 and the 3 add up to 11!” You crack up at his outburst, laughing so hard that tears are streaming down your face.

He pouts playfully before walking in the kitchen claiming it’s time to make dinner. The three of you dance around the kitchen while putting toppings on your individual pizza crusts. While they’re baking you treat Mitch and Sarah to a one-woman Broadway review, belting your favorite songs and putting on a full performance. Sarah does join you for ‘Take Me or Leave Me’ from Rent, as Mitch sneakily records the duet.

The timer beeps alerting you that the pizzas are done, and you suddenly ask, “Can we eat in the loft?”

“There’s no furniture in the loft,” Mitch replies very matter-of-factly.

“There’s cushions on the floor.”

“You want to eat on the floor?”

“The floor is superior to furniture.”

There’s a moment of amused silence before Mitch answers, “Sure, kid, whatever you want.”

It’s not exactly easy to get all the food and drinks up to the loft, seeing as it’s a ladder instead of stairs, but you manage. A few minutes in, you move to sit in Mitch’s lap, making yourself very comfortable. “Oh, so you just wanted me to be your furniture?”

“You’re very comfy,” you say before twisting to peck his lips. He wraps one arm around you, and you all continue eating dinner. Once everyone is done eating you pop up to take the plates to the kitchen, happy that it’s an incredibly easy clean up. You open a second bottle of white wine and bring it back to the loft to refill your and Sarah’s glasses, noting that Mitch is still working on his bottle of red.

You plop yourself back in Mitch’s lap, settling in deeper than before, and smirk when you hear him let out a quiet groan in your ear. You look back so he sees your teasing look and he wraps his arms around you. He quickly picks up on your game and decides to play along. He starts by running his fingers up and down your inner thighs, slowly inching higher under your loose shorts. You grind back onto him, and think you’ve gained the upper hand when you feel him lean down to bite at your shoulder in order to hold back another groan.

Sarah slides closer. Your eyes meet hers and you notice the mischievous glint. She slides Mitch’s hair out of the way and begins to kiss and bite at his neck. You think she’s on your side, helping you rile him up, until she quickly moves her hand to slide inside your shorts and rub against your clit. You gasp at the sudden onslaught of pleasure and realize she’s not on anyone’s side. It’s every man for themselves, and she’s just defeated both of you.

She continues to rub circles on your sensitive nub and says, “I want both of you downstairs, on the bed, clothes off.” You shiver at the sensual and commanding tone of her voice and try to do as she says, but both your brain and legs have turned to jelly. Noticing this, she helps you stand, and Mitch goes down the ladder first, keeping a hand on your waist to steady you as you climb down into the bedroom.

You watch for a moment as he takes off his clothes before doing the same. You glance up and see Sarah watching you both from the top of the ladder, and quickly move to sit in the bed as she had instructed. Mitch sits beside you, a grounding hand placed on your thigh, and Sarah comes down into the room. She slowly removes her clothing, and you watch intently, simply amazed by the gorgeous woman in front of you.

Since you and Mitch are seated against the headboard with your legs stretched out, Sarah is able to straddle one leg over each of you. She leans in to kiss Mitch first, and you watch as their tongues move together. It’s an erotic sight, and you go to clench your legs together to relieve some of the tension in your core, but Sarah’s leg in between yours blocks you from doing so.

She notices what you’re trying to do, and switches to start kissing you. Your eyes roll back at the first swipe of her tongue against yours, and she swallows the whines that escape your lips. Your hands immediately find her, one resting on her hip and the other reaching to grab at her breast.

You get lost in the pure bliss of making out with her, and whimper when she pulls away. You try to chase her mouth with yours, but she places her finger on your lips to stop you. In an almost unconscious gesture, you open your mouth to suck on her finger. She and Mitch groan in unison, not expecting that move from you, and you feel Sarah rub against your thigh.

She regains her composure and says, “Y/N, I want you to sit on Mitch’s face while I ride him. Does that sound good to everyone?”

You immediately nod your head yes. You’re no longer nervous about trying something new, purely excited at the thought of all three of you feeling pleasure at the same time. You do need some help maneuvering into position, but soon you’re hovering over Mitch’s mouth facing Sarah. You feel his hands on your thighs, encouraging you to sit down on his face, but you hold back until you see Sarah sink down on his cock.

You watch as they come together and then you lean in to kiss the milky skin of Sarah’s throat. Mitch groans beneath you and pulls harder, so you go where he leads you. At the first swipe of his tongue on your center you cry out and your hands go to Sarah’s legs to steady yourself.

She pulls your face up and you make eye contact before you’re too overwhelmed to even keep your eyes open. You feel her pull you in for a sloppy kiss and let her tongue take control of your mouth. You follow her as she moves up and down over Mitch, and his mouth quickly brings you to immense pleasure as your orgasm crashes over you. You pant into Sarah’s mouth and both of their hands roam your body as you ride the waves of your high.

You move off to the side, oversensitive and needing a moment to collect yourself. You take a few deep breaths before swiping your thumb through the wetness left on Mitch’s face and using that finger to circle Sarah’s clit. After another minute you get to once again watch her fall apart so beautifully, her sounds of pleasure music to your years.

She pulls off of Mitch and lays on your other side. You run your hands along her torso, easing her down from her high. After a minute, Mitch moves to pull you on top of him. You’re straddling his still hard cock, and you understand what he’s asking. A new wave of arousal rushes through your body at the thought and you move to line yourself up over him before Sarah pushes you back.

You look at her, confused and nervous that maybe you overstepped somehow, but Mitch seems to understand why she made you pause. He leans over the side of the bed, and you’re almost thrown off him with how quickly he moves. You watch as he grabs something from his bag on the floor and immediately understand what the delay is about.

Once the condom is in place, Mitch is moving you back into position over him. You slowly sink down on his cock, feeling as he once again stretches you out. Maybe it’s due to the position, or the fact that you’re still so pliant from your first orgasm, but there’s no discomfort at all this time, only pure bliss.

Once you are flush to him, you lean forward to capture his mouth with yours and move your hips in a way that feels natural. It doesn’t take long for that familiar tingle to build in your stomach, and you know Mitch is already close. He grips your hips, taking over thrusting into you until you’re both cumming together.

You both breathe deeply as you recover from such intense satisfaction. You’ve never felt anything like the two back-to-back orgasms you just experienced, and you’re overwhelmed by the feeling. You lay with Mitch still inside you for a minute, enjoying the feeling of being full, and of being so close to him. You know it’s not just a physical moment of intimacy that you’re sharing, but an emotional one as well.

They seem to pick up on your desire in that moment, and both spend a few minutes running their hands soothingly on your back until you’re ready to pull off of him. Once you do, you immediately latch on to Sarah, who wraps her arms around you and continues to rub your back while quietly telling you how well you did, how proud they are of you.

This time you’re so out of it that don’t even notice Mitch leave, just that he’s back a minute later with a damp cloth to clean up both you and Sarah. You sigh at his gentle touch and sink further into Sarah’s embrace. He once again grabs some clothes and tosses them on the bed, but you ignore them, choosing instead to just climb under the covers. They follow your lead and do the same, cuddling you from either side. You fall asleep to the feeling of their caresses on your skin and the sound of their praises in your ears.

The next morning you wake up to the feeling of two naked bodies wrapped around yours, and it only takes seconds for your brain to conjure up memories of the night before. You feel content, happy, loved.

You relax into the feeling of Mitch and Sarah against you. It’s another slow morning, you all exchange lazy kisses and gentle caresses until you finally leave the bed.

After breakfast you go back to the field with the animals, spending time playing with them before you need to head back to pack up and check out.

You all clean up and load the car. Sarah announces she’ll be driving to the next location, and you’re excited to see what they have in store for the day. You start laughing when she pulls into the parking lot for minigolf, but it ends up being a fun outing. You feel nostalgic throughout, remembering the times you used to do this activity on vacations with your family.

The next stop is horseback riding, something you haven’t done in years. You connect with your horse, Stardust, and love the whole trail ride, especially when you’re all allowed to move at a trot and you can feel the rush of the wind in your hair.

You then stop at a market nearby for some snacks before making the drive back home. Mitch takes over driving again and you fall asleep shortly after beginning the journey, exhausted from the weekend. They drive to your apartment, Mitch once again carrying you inside while you remain sleeping.

He places you in your bed, and your cats immediately join, cuddling up beside you. Mitch and Sarah are both disappointed that their spots next to you have been taken but smile when you subconsciously reach out to rest your hands on your pets. They can hear the cats purring from across the room and it’s easy for them to see the deep connection you all have. It brings them peace to know that you'll have companions even when they're not there.

It doesn’t take long for you to wake up and you find Mitch and Sarah sitting on your couch. Obviously you immediately lay down across their laps and make yourself comfortable. For awhile you all just relax, absently watching the movie they put on.

Once it ends you sit up and ask if they need a ride home. You don’t want them to leave but know that it’s inevitable, and it is getting late in the day.

“My dad will come pick us up in a little while,” Mitch answers. You nod and hold on to each of their hands, enjoying the last few moments of uninterrupted quality time. Once Mitch’s receives a text that his dad is on the way you realize there’s only a few minutes left. You lean to Sarah to share a passionate kiss before turning to share the same with Mitch. You need that closeness before you can let them leave.

“We’ll plan another night together before we leave for tour, alright love?” Sarah says. You nod and pull them both into another hug. You let go when Mitch’s phone buzzes again. You know his dad is there and the weekend is about to end. You press one more firm kiss to each of their lips before they pick up their bags and head out the door.

For a moment you just stand there in your quiet apartment, at a loss now that you’re alone. It only takes a minute before your cats are demanding attention and you’re grateful for their distraction. You do your normal Sunday night routine, setting out anything you’d need for work that week and taking a shower before getting into bed.

*****

On Tuesday night you go to the Rowland’s house for dinner. It’s the last one you’ll all have together before tour starts and you’re determined to enjoy it. You leave Ryan’s house at 5:00 and immediately go across the street to spend as much time with the family as possible.

Dinner is a group effort, and you’re tasked with making the salad. Chopping the vegetables is calming to you and you get lost in the rhythm of it. Once dinner is ready you all sit around the dining room table. You can tell you’re not the only one sad that Mitch and Sarah will be leaving soon. Mitch’s parents are definitely clinging to him more than they have over the past weeks.

You stay later than you normally would on a weeknight, wanting to spend as much time with them as possible. Mark and Tammy head up to bed, but still you hang around. You’re on the couch with Mitch and Sarah when they pull out an envelope and hand it to you.

“What is this?” you ask, a confused expression on your face.

“It’s a surprise. Open it!” Sarah replies. You glance at both of them and see how excited they look.

You immediately open the envelope and read through the pages inside. There’s plane tickets, hotel and transportation details, passes to shows.

“What is this?” you ask again, unable to make sense of what you’re seeing.

“You’re going to be joining us for two weeks of Love on Tour,” Mitch answers.

“No way!”

“Yes way! Sarah beams.

“How is this possible? What about work?”

“We already talked to Ryan’s parents. His mom finishes her school year on June 9 and doesn’t start summer school for a couple weeks so she’s giving you some time off. Your flight leaves on the 9th so you’ll be able to come for Slane Castle and Wembly and the following week of shows.”

“This is unbelievable. I don’t know what to say. Thank you so much!” You turn and give each of them a quick kiss, unable to control the smile on your face.

“We couldn’t go 3 months without you,” Mitch says, “and we knew you’d enjoy coming to the shows, so it just made sense.”

“This is truly the best surprise ever! Oh my gosh I’m so excited! I’ll get to meet everyone! Harry and Elin and oh my goodness-” you cut yourself off, once again speechless at the opportunity you’ve been given.

Mitch and Sarah watch you like parents on Christmas morning, elated at the pure joy they’ve given you. They start to tell you all about their plans for your time together in Europe and you grow more and more excited.

After a while you decide it really is time to get home and reluctantly say goodnight. You’re able to share kisses with them at the door, and drive home with a new sense of joy knowing that you’ll only have to go a few weeks without seeing Mitch and Sarah as opposed to three months.

You see them every day that week, even if it’s just for a little while. They stay with you Friday night, the plan being that Mitch’s parents will pick them up to have lunch with them before taking them to the airport Saturday afternoon.

It’s a laid back night, the three of you just wanting to spend time together. You order food and play movies in the background while talking about anything and everything you can think of. You head to your bed and spend time exploring each other’s bodies, connecting repeatedly in such a physical and visceral way that leaves you feeling closer to them than ever.

You refuse to open your eyes Saturday morning, knowing that you’ll soon have to say good-bye to them. You try not to let your emotions get the best of you, but you know you’ve failed when you feel Sarah wipe away the tears that have escaped your eyes.

All too soon Mitch gets a text that his parents are on the way to pick them up. You don’t even try anymore, letting your tears fall freely as you clutch on to both of them as tightly as possible. They rub your back and place kisses on your head until you’ve calmed down enough to even out your breathing.

You hear Mitch’s phone buzz again and know that it’s time for them to leave. You choke back a sob and turn to kiss Mitch through your tears.

“We’ll see you in a couple of weeks, okay baby?” he says. “We’ll call, and Facetime as much as we possibly can.” He holds you tightly for another moment before allowing Sarah to pull you to her.

You’re both sniffling as you cling to one another. “We’ll see you soon love,” she whispers into your ear. All you can do is nod, too choked up to speak. You kiss her, then Mitch, hug each of them one more time, and then lock the door behind them as they leave.

You stand there for a moment, unsure of what to do next. You truly don’t know how long you remain immobile, only moving once your cat rubs against your legs. You sit on the floor petting him as tears stream down your face. Finally, you take a deep breath, get off the floor, and start your normal weekend routine.

It’s a rough few weeks without Mitch and Sarah, but you’ve spent plenty of time alone before and fall back into that mindset. You keep as busy as possible, and love sending them updates about your day or getting to Facetime with them. You watch as many livestreams of shows as you can, focusing on Mitch and Sarah whenever they’re on screen.

You also continue to visit Mark and Tammy, having dinner with them at least once a week. You realize they’ve kind of adopted you at that point and this thought brings you a sense of comfort. You also get to see old videos and pictures of Mitch and learn all about him as a little kid which brings you joy.

Sometimes you visit them with Ryan, knowing how much Tammy loves to be around the little one. What you don’t realize is that she takes videos of you two and sends them to Mitch and Sarah.

Before you know it, it’s Thursday, June 8. All you have is one day of work, a long flight and a couple hour drive, and you’ll be reunited with Mitch and Sarah. You cannot wait.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------A/N: Thank you so much for reading! If there's any specific scenarios you'd like to see with this dynamic, let me know! Next chapter will see Y/N reuniting with Mitch and Sarah at Love on Tour and finally meeting Harry!

Taglist: @akkatz @pandeebearstyles @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite @theekyliepage @numafarawayglxy @booberry019-blog @hillzrry @ssareidbby

Comment if you'd like to be added to the taglist!

[hellfirehottie]

California Dreamin' - Eddie Munson

Chapter Four - Fall for Me

Content warnings: dr*g use (w**d), smut (m!masturbation) lots of fluff, Eddie and Nina being smitten.

‘Won’t you fall for me, From reality?

To the rhythm of eternity, Won’t you fall for me?’ 

Fall for me - Sleep Token

Thursday / 2:30pm / Hawkins high school  

The screech of the wooden chairs on the linoleum floor brought Eddie back from daydreaming out the window.

Mrs O’Donnell: “Assignment on "literary techniques used to demonstrate unrequited love” due three weeks today, five thousand words. Use whatever text speaks to you." [Lips pursed, unamused] “That included you Mr. Munson, I expect it on my desk before lunch on Thursday. No exceptions.” 

Eddie: (sarcastically) “As if I’d ever let you down, Mrs O’Donnell.”

A few other students laughed at Eddie as the teacher rolled her eyes, used to Eddie’s dramatic nature.

Robin: [walking over to the desk next to Eddie’s, sitting on it] “You know, if you actually want to pass English this year, you can join our study group.”  Eddie: [taken aback] “Really? You’d do that?”  Robin: “Sure. Steve is babysitting the kids tomorrow night so we’re all going around to his house again, you’re welcome to come. Come over around 7?”  Eddie: [heart warmed, smiling] “Sure thing. Thanks Robin.” Robin: [picking her bag from the floor, getting ready to leave] “Oh, you’ll need to pick up a copy of “ The Great Gatsby” from the library.” Eddie: (confused) “We have a library here?”  Robin: [shaking her head, amused] “Jesus, no wonder you failed three times.” 

3:35pm / Hawkins High School library. 

As the final bell rang at the end of the school day Eddie finally found the library in Hawkins High School, hidden at the back of the building near the A.V room. 

The library itself was dark and smelled of dust and old books. The flickering fluorescent lights made the room look creepier than it should. No wonder he didn’t know this place existed, it was a shithole, he thinks.

Eddie: [searching the shelves, muttering to himself] “Gatsby, Gatsby, Gatsby.” 

He reached out to grab the last copy on the shelf, as another hand reached out for it too.

Nina: [grabbing the same book]“Oh, sorry, you take it.”  Eddie: (flustered) “No, you, please, you were here first.”  Nina: (smiling) “I insist.”  Eddie: (politely) “I insist harder.”

Nice one Eddie, he thought, really smooth. 

Nina: “We can share? You’re coming to Steve’s for study group tomorrow night, right?”  Eddie: (dumbfounded) “Yeah.” Nina: [handing Eddie the book] “Robin mentioned she’d invited you. Here.” [Their hands briefly touch] “I think I have a copy at home. See you Friday?”  Eddie: [nervous, muttering, stretching his fingers out, palms clammy.] “Sure thing.” 

Get a grip Eddie, she only touched your hand. 

Nina gives a little wave as she walks away, Eddie shamelessly inhaling her chocolate vanilla scent as she walks away. He looks at the book, then at Nina’s retreating body leaving the library, and smiles to himself. 

9:30pm / Eddie’s trailer. 18+ content

Eddie sat on the couch of his trailer, The Great Gatsby in one hand, blunt in the other. Sighing, he flicks to the first chapter.

Eddie: (bored, muttering to himself) “Guess I better read the damn thing, huh.” 

Eddie’s mind wanders to Nina, wondering if she’d read it before. He thought he should read it, so he could at least have a vague idea of what they were discussing in the study group tomorrow. He wondered, did Nina like smart guys? Well read guys? Guys who actually understood symbolism? He is not that guy, he thought bitterly. 

He takes a long final drag of his blunt, putting it out in the ashtray, leans back on the couch and begins reading.

Two hours later. 

Eddie: [throwing the book down on the sofa next to him, exasperated.] “Fucking Fitzgerald.” 

Regardless of whether he was stoned or not; he did not understand symbolism. 

Eddie rests his head on the back of the couch and closes his eyes, mind fuzzy in a weed induced daydream.

He thinks of Nina’s vanilla scent, how she wore that oversized leather jacket which swallows her whole, how she wore fuzzy wool socks over her tights under her docs, how the tights clinged to her thick thighs, how she constantly battled with the curls of her fringe, blowing them out of her face as she talked. 

Eddie touches his fingertips.

He thought how his fingers tingled after his and Nina’s hands touched over the copy of The Great Gatsby, how his palm tingles as she read it at Steve’s party, how his fingers tingle now, remembering how such a small touch made his stomach flip with excitement. 

Eddie wrestles with his thoughts, arousal searing in his stomach. 

Eddie contemplates for a moment

Eddie: "Fuck it."

He pulls his jeans down around his ankles, touching himself over his boxers, semi hard.

He imagines how Nina’s hand would feel wrapped around his cock, imagined how she’d look on her knees in front of him. 

Whether it was the weed or his lovestruck imagination, Eddie could vividly see Nina sat on the floor of his trailer, between his legs. 

He imagines her parting his thick thighs, making herself comfortable between them, dragging her manicured finger along the hem of his boxers, taunting him, teasing him. 

Eddie took his hard cock in his hand and slowly rubbed it up and down, lip between his teeth, eyes still closed, peaceful, imagining his hand was Nina’s.

He imagines her lying her sweet face on his thigh as she slowly stroked his length, eyes blinking slowly and sexily at him, the cool of her rings against the veins of his cock.

Eddie picks up speed, grunting softly to himself.

He imagines her cupping his balls, planting little kisses on his thighs as she worked him to a frenzy, as he writhed on the couch underneath her. 

He wonders how she’d taste, what pretty sounds she’d make as he kissed and sucked and touched her, he imagines her begging for him, moaning his name, coming undone straddling him on the very couch he’s sat on. 

Eddie orgasms in his own hand, his release soaking his fist and his t-shirt, with grunts and moans of Nina’s name, thighs twitching with the intensity of his high. He comes back to earth panting, blinking in shock at the strength of his orgasm.

Eddie: [voice wobbling, shivering, panting, basking in post orgasm afterglow] “Well, that was new.” 

He feels shameless as he sat on the couch, embarrassed by how quickly and hard he came. He’d had crushes before, got with girls before, but never had feelings like this. He craved Nina’s attention. 

He wonders about her story. What brought her to the quiet town of Hawkins? Why is she living with Robin and her Mum? Why start school half way through the school year? 

Eddie cleans himself off using his boxers, dumping them in the washing machine and wanders the trailer naked from the waist down. He picks up the Great Gatsby and slumps in his bed. He tries to finish off the book but his mind wanders to Nina, and the guilt he feels over orgasming over her. His mind still feels fuzzy from his high and his climax.

Eddie: [muttering to himself] “Jonathan is right about the weed, this shit is strong.” 

He read about the great mansion in East Egg where Daisy lived, the glowing green light from beyond the bay, how Gatsby’s hand reached out to the green light in longing. 

Eddie falls asleep halfway through the book.

 Friday / 6:55pm / Steve’s house. 

Eddie is standing outside Steve’s  house, surprisingly nervous. He fiddles with his hair in the reflection of the glass door.  Inside the house the gang are unsurprisingly loud, Eddie can hear them through the walls. 

Eddie knocks on the door, fidgeting with his shirt.

Steve: [from inside the house] “Somebody get the door!” 

Dustin opens the door.

Dustin: [excited, games controller in hand] “Hey Eddie! I just destroyed Lucas at Mario Bros! Look, see!” [Waves the controller in Eddie’s face] Eddie: “Atta boy, Dusty-bun.” 

Dustin: [shoving Eddie, hopped up on sugar] “Way to kill the mood, asshole. Only Suzie gets to call me that. They’re all in the kitchen.” [Dustin points in the direction of the door.] Eddie: “Cheers man.” 

Eddie kicks his shoes off at the front door before entering the kitchen. Robin and Nancy are sitting on two bar stools while Steve is grinding ice for cocktails.

Steve: “Hey man, grab yourself a beer from the fridge.”  Eddie: “Thanks, I forgot to say last week, nice house man, it’s huge.”  Steve: (smug) “Not the only thing that’s huge in the Harrington family.” 

Robin flips him off while Nancy throws ice at him. Eddie shakes his head smiling. 

Steve: [taking a sip of his drink, wincing at the strength, then carrying on conversation] “Did you get home okay on Friday?”  Eddie: (sheepishly) “I was hoping you could tell me?” Nancy: “Nina gave you and Robin a lift home.”  Eddie: (embarrassed) “Shit. I didn’t make too much of an asshole of myself, did I?” [Robin and Nancy shrug their shoulders] “Where are Jonathan and Nina, anyways?”  Nancy: “Jonathan’s working late tonight, can’t make it.” [She smiles sadly] Robin: (teasingly) “And don’t worry, your girlfriend will be down soon, she’s just on the phone.” [Eddie blushes]

They walk from the kitchen to the dining room, drinks in hand. Eddie has a beer while Steve, Nancy and Robin drink a fruity pink cocktail.

Max: (amused) “You’re seriously drinking while doing your English assignments?”  Steve: (shrugging) “My brain needs its creative juice.”  Nancy: (tipsy already) “Meh, it’s Friday, we’re allowed.”

Nina comes down the spiral staircase quietly, nobody takes notice except Eddie. They exchange a smile.

Steve: [hearing her enter the room] “Nina! I left you a Cosmo a la Steve on the side!”  Nina: [heading into the kitchen] “Thanks Stevie!”  Eddie: (joking) “And why wasn’t I offered a fruity pink cocktail?”  Nancy: (tipsy, giggling) “Trust me, you don’t want one, this shit is pure alcohol.” Steve: (mock offended) “Are you criticising my cocktail making skills, Wheeler?”  Nancy: (joking) “What cocktail making skills?” 

Nina makes her way into the dining room, a drink in hand, and sits between Robin and Eddie.

Nina: (stirring her drink) “So what makes this ‘a la Steve’ then?”  Steve: (nonchalantly) “I ran out of mixer so had to use fruity vodka. Bon Appetit!”  Nina: [sipping her drink, choking, eyes watering, sets the drink down again, lying] “It’s… delicious!” [Nancy and Robin giggle, Eddie smiles.] “Thank you for letting me use your phone Steve.”  Steve: [flicking his hand dismissively] “Anytime Nina.”  Robin: (quietly, to the side) “How did it go?”  Nina: (quieter still) “Same old, same old.”  Nancy: [changing the topic] “So, English!” 

Later that evening, 8:30pm.  Robin: (groaning) “I don’t get it!”  Steve: [watching Nina write furiously, impressed] “At least somebody here does.”  Nina: (embarrassed) “I like the classics.”  Eddie: [trying to make conversation with Nina, quiet] “You enjoy English?”  Robin: (interrupting) “Like English? You’re talking to the fourth Brontë sister here.”  Nina: (shy, to Eddie) “I do.”  Robin: (teasing Nina) “She even writes her own poetry.”  Nina: [embarrassed, shocked, throws a pencil at her] “Robin! Not cool man.” (To Eddie, quietly.) “Do you like English?”  Eddie: (muttering) “I like English but English doesn’t like me. I’ve failed twice.” (Frustrated) “I just can’t seem to write all my thoughts down, they get all jumbled and don’t make sense. And Fitzgerald isn’t really my sort of thing.”  Nina: [leaning closer to Eddie, reading his work, Eddie can smell her shampoo, it makes his stomach feel fuzzy. He remembers his dirty activities of the night before and heat crawls up his neck, he gulps.] “Hmm, you’ve got the right idea, but you’re just structuring it wrong. Can I?” [Nina looks at him questioningly, Eddie nods. Nina takes the paper and draws on it.] “You need to work out what you want to say before you say it. I can help you plan it out if you want?” 

Eddie: (distracted) “Sure- yeah- that would be great. Thanks.”  Nina helps Eddie with his notes, piecing together concisely in bullet points what he has rambled on about for three pages. Nina: “If you don’t like Fitzgerald how come you’re doing Gatsby?”  Eddie: [embarrassed] “Safety in numbers, I guess.”  Nina: (quietly) “Hmm.”  Eddie: (confused) “Hmm?” Nina: “Well - and feel free to shoot me down here if you’re not interested- there’s a lot of songs about unrequited love. You can do the assignment on any form of text, why don’t you do one for the assignment?”  Eddie: [head on the table, whining] “Isn’t that more effort?”  Nina: [rolling her eyes, tapping her pencil on the paper in front of Eddie to get his attention] “Yeah but if you want to pass English this year, better pass it on an assignment you’re actually passionate about, right?”  Eddie: “I’d never thought of that, to be honest. That’s not a bad idea.” [Eddie smiles] “Thanks!” 

Nina: “No problem.”  Eddie: (shy, quietly) “So you write poetry huh?”  Nina: [embarrassed, tucking her fringe behind her ear] “It’s lame, I know.”  Eddie: “It’s not lame! I think it’s really cool. I’d love to be able to do that.”  Nina: (blushing) “Thanks! But honestly, music is just poetry to a melody. You’re in a band right?”  Eddie: (shyly) “Yeah.”  Nina: (rushed, explaining herself) “It’s the same principle! Poetry to a melody. Same principle. Give yourself more credit.”  Eddie: (quiet, thoughtful) “Thanks.”  Nina: “What about a song on that album you recommended to me? Or another song?”  Eddie: [smiling at the memory] “I’ll have a think. You finally listened to it?”  Nina: “Sure, it’s good. "For Whom the Bell Tolls” was my favourite.” 

Eddie looks at her with heart eyes, smiling brightly.

Eddie: [shy, nodding his head, trying to be casual] “Good choice.” 

They all get back to work: Nina writes down ideas with Robin.Nancy and Steve are highlighting bits of text, Eddie is tapping his pencil on paper, trying to think of a song, before scribbling down a million ideas. Nina occasionally peers over at Eddie’s work, helping him pick out bits from lyrics and connect his ideas together. 

This is the first time I’ve actually enjoyed English, Eddie thinks, smiling proudly at his work.

Later that evening, 10:30pm. 

Eddie: [tired of writing] “Anyone mind if I go for a smoke?”  Nina: (curiously) “You smoke?”  Eddie: (ashamed) “Yeah, it’s a dirty habit I know.”  Nina: (defusing) “I do occasionally. Mind if I bum one?”  Eddie: (smiling) “Sure.” 

Eddie and Nina leave through the back patio door, sitting on Steve’s porch swing. Nancy, Robin and Steve smile as they leave together.

Dustin and the Sheep are not being subtle as they watch them from the window, pressing their faces to the glass, pulling funny faces against it.

Eddie flips them off, blushing. Eddie passes Nina a cig, which she puts between her lips. He lights her cigarette for her, before lighting his own.

Nina: (teasingly) “What a gentleman.” (Sincere) “Thank you.” [Eddie smiles in response.]

They sit quietly on the swing, rocking gently. The sound of cicadas and the occasional hooting of an owl fill the silence between the two.

Nina: (quiet, thoughtful) “It’s nice here, peaceful.”  Eddie: “It’s a quiet town, but it’s nice enough.”  Nina: “You’ve lived here all your life?”  Eddie: [picking at the loose thread of his shirt] “Yeah. I live in the trailer park in Forest Hills.”  Nina: (smiling) “I drove past it on the way here. It looks nice.”  Eddie: (timid) “It’s not much but it’s home. Nice community too, better than the suburbs of Hawkins anyway.”  Nina: “Is Hawkin’s a cliquey town then?”  Eddie: “It can be.” (Joking, making light) “I’ll have you know you’re talking to Eddie the long haired Freak, leader of the satanist cult of Hawkins.”  Nina: (shocked) “Wow, that’s rude. You don’t seem like a freak.” (Quietly) “I think your hair is cool.” (Rambling, joking) “As for the satanism, well… a guy’s gotta have a hobby.”  Eddie: [laughing and tugging at the ends of his hair, blushing, joking] “Eh, you don’t know me that well yet, give it time.” [Eddie pats her knee, Nina laughs] Nina: “I’m serious! You’re one of the nicest people I’ve met so far.” [Eddie blushes] “Small town mentality man, some people never leave high school.”  Eddie: (curiously) “You lived in the city?”  Nina: [taking a drag with a sad smile] “Yeah, California, loved it.”  Eddie: “What brought you to Hawkins, if you don’t mind me asking?”  Nina: [sighing, trying to maintain composure, faking nonchalance] “It’s a long story. Keep feeding me cigs and alcohol and maybe I’ll tell you one day.” [Nina has a sad smile on her face.] Eddie: (oblivious, laughing) “Sure.”

Another silence falls over. They sit peacefully for a few minutes.

Eddie: (sheepishly) “Thank you for driving me home last weekend, I didn’t mean to get that drunk, I hope I didn't make a total idiot of myself.” Nina: (giggling) “You called me a freak and a dork, gave me an excellent rendition of ‘You Shook Me All Night Long’, and went into extreme detail on the beauty of the pizza roll. It was amazing.”  Eddie: [red from embarrassment] “Oh god.” [palming his face] “I’m so sorry!” 

Nina tugs his hands away from his face, smiling. 

Nina: (reassuringly) “Nothing to apologise about, it was cute.” 

Eddie goes even redder. Cute, she thinks I was cute. 

Eddie: [rushed, appreciative, can’t look Nina in the face ] “Thank you for helping me with the assignment too. Nobody has ever explained it to me like that before, it’s the first time I’ve actually understood English.” (Suddenly shy) “So yeah… thanks.”  Nina: [smiling, facing Eddie.] “Anytime, glad I could help. If you want, I can help you with it after school sometime, if you’d like?”  Eddie: (blushing) “You’d really do that?”  Nina: “Sure! Gives Robin and her Mom some alone time, I worry I’ll get under their feet.”  Eddie: “I’m sure they don’t think that.”  Nina: (joking) “Eh, you don’t know me that well yet, I can be pretty annoying.” [pats his leg, like he did to her. Eddie smiles brightly] “Come on, they’ll be wondering where we are.” 

They put out their cig butts and enter the house again. 

Friday, 11:45pm, Steve’s dining room. 

Robin: [throwing down her pen, exasperated] “That’s it, I give up, I’m done for the night.” [She walks into the kitchen to make more drinks] Steve: [head on the table, gave up a long time ago] “Ditto.”  Nancy: [looking at the clock] “It’s late,” [yawning] “I better head off.”  Steve: “You can stay if you want Nance, You too Eddie. Nina and Robin are staying. Could invite Jonathan after he’s finished work as well. Make a night of it.”  Nancy and Eddie: “You sure?”  Steve: “Yeah man, more the merrier. I’m supposed to be looking after the kids anyways.”  Robin: (excitedly) “Wooo sleepover!” 

They pack their stuff away, walking to the kitchen for more drinks. They enter the living room: El and Max are asleep, top and tail on the couch. Mike and Will are watching ‘Creature from the Black Lagoon’ sat on the floor, while Dustin and Lucas battle it out on Mario Bros, still.

Steve: (accusingly) “And what are you kids still doing awake?”  Mike: [not moving from in front of the screen] “Chill dad, it’s not even 12.”  Robin: [throwing a pillow at Lucas and Dustin] “Off to bed with you, children!”  Lucas and Dustin: (offended) “Hey!”  Nancy: “I’ll tell Mom you were up late, Mike. We want the TV now.” [Mike scowls]   Steve: (to Dustin) “You’ve been on that game so long you’ll get square eyes.” Mike: (cheeky) “I suggest we broker a deal.”  Steve: [shaking his head] “Oh, here we go.” [Nina and Nancy giggle] 

Mike and the boys gather around in a circle, whispering, before nodding in agreement and facing the grown ups.

Mike: “Ahem!” [clearing his throat] “We will vacate the premises, and in return, we would like to try our first beer.” 

Nancy, Nina and Robin shake their heads, smiling.

Steve: (scoffing) “Fat chance, off to bed, the lot of you.” 

Dustin: (to Eddie) “Eddie, you’ll be cool, won’t you? Just a sip.” 

Eddie: [hands up defensively] “Nope, I’m not getting into trouble, off to bed little shrimp.” [he pats  Dustin on the head, Dustin rolls his eyes.]

Dustin, Mike, Will and Mike groan. They pick up their stuff and wake up the girls. They all slump out of the room and up to the various guest rooms for the night.

Steve: [jumping on the couch] “So, what do you wanna watch guys?”  Robin: (yawning) “I can’t keep my eyes open, I’m beat.” [Snuggling into a pillow, Nina pulls a blanket over Robin] “This pillow smells of teenage boy.”  Nancy: (laughing) “This whole room smells like teenage boy.”  Steve: [getting up to put a candle on, domesticated] “Smelly feet and puberty, wonderful. What do you wanna watch Nina?”  Nina: [snuggling into a pillow] “I’ll watch whatever everyone else wants to watch.”  Steve: (teasingly) “Such a people pleaser.” Nina: (nonchalant, smirking) “Eh, I’ll do anything for an easy life.” 

There is a knock at the door. Eddie, Nancy, Nina and Steve look at each other confused. Robin is fast asleep on the couch.

Steve: “Who the hell could that be?”  Hopper: [From the other side of the front door] “Harrington! Open up!” 

Steve’s eyes bulge as he scrambles to the front door. He opens it to reveal Hopper, in his uniform, arm resting on the door frame.

Steve: (lying) “El went to bed at 9:30, no sweets were consumed, sharing a bed with Max, not Mike, all good here Hopper.”  Hopper: (amused) “I should think so too Harrington. But it’s Nina I’m after, Mrs Buckley said she’d be here.” 

Nina looks around at Nancy, Steve and Eddie nervously. She looks at Hopper and raises her hand, introducing herself.

Hopper: (to Nina) “Can I have a word?” [looking at Nancy, Steve and Eddie, then back at Nina] “Privately?” 

Nina and Hopper walk into the kitchen, Hopper closing the door behind them. Eddie watches curiously.

Eddie: [can’t help himself] “What’s that all about? Is she in trouble? It won’t be over Jason, will it? ”  Nancy: “No idea.”  Steve: “Probably something at home. Robin said it’s a touchy subject.” 

Eddie sits, fiddling with his shirt, wondering. His eyes flick occasionally back to the door, waiting for Nina to come back in the room.

Nancy: “How come Nina moved here anyway? Robin didn’t really tell me much.”  Steve: “Me either, which isn’t like Robin, you know she loves to gossip.” [pulling the blanket closer over Robin’s shoulders as she murmurs in her sleep.] “She said Nina turned up at her house in the middle of the night last week, bags packed. Didn’t want to pry, it seemed personal.”  Nancy: (accusing, teasing) “You? Not pry? Surely not.”  Steve: “Shush, Nancypants.”  Eddie: (curious) “She turned up in the middle of the night? How did she get there?”  Steve: (thoughtful) “Drove, apparently. Took her about 3 days to drive from California. Slept in the back of her car too.”  Nancy: (saddened) “Wow, how sad.” [Eddie hums in response, concerned.] 

Jonathan enters through the front door, without knocking, interrupting their conversation.

Jonathan: “The party is here!” [holding a bag of weed, dumb smile on his face.] 

Hopper and Nina leave the kitchen. Jonathan’s eyes bulge, as he poorly attempts to hide the weed bag behind his back.

Hopper: (to Nina) “I’m here anytime you need Nina, you know where to find me.” [turns around to face the group, who are trying to suppress their giggles, Jonathan giving Hopper a sheepish guilty smile. Hopper looks confused, then unamused, then back to his usual unbothered self.] “I’ll pick El up at 12 tomorrow. Thanks again Steve.”

Hopper leaves, closing the door behind him. The group bursts into laughter.

Nina: (confused) “What did I just miss?” 

Eddie: (laughing) “Just this dumbass announcing the arrival of himself and a baggie in front of the town Sheriff!”  Nina: (amused) “No way!”  Jonathan: (flushed, embarrassed) “I think I just shit my pants.”  Nancy: (laughing) “You couldn’t do anything wrong in Hopper’s eyes, he’s gonna be your step-dad soon!” 

The group’s laughter fades as they settle back down on the couch. Nancy lays her head on Jonathan’s lap as he sits on the sofa, Steve is lying reclined on a couch next to Robin, Eddie sits splayed on another couch with Nina on the opposite end, knees tucked to her chest. Jonathan starts rolling everyone a joint, using Nancy’s head as a table, much to her disapproval. 

Steve: “And the important question remains: what do you guys want to watch?”  Nancy: [pointing at the TV guide, excited] “Ooh, Magnum PI!” 

Everyone looks at Nancy confused.

Nancy: (sheepish) “What? Tom Selleck is sexy.”  Nina: “Preach.”  The Boys: (incredulously) “What?!”  Eddie: “He’s old enough to be your dad!” Steve: (unamused, disgusted) “He has a moustache like Hopper.”  Nina: (amused) “Well, Hopper is sexy too.”  Nancy: “Preach!”  Jonathan: (to himself) “Maybe I should grow a moustache.” [Nancy nudges him, giggling.] Eddie: (amused, to Nina) “Do you actually think Hopper is sexy?”  Nina: [equally amused, chewing on some of Will’s leftover popcorn, smug] “Sure, I have a thing for burly men. Looks like he could rescue me from a burning building and have his way with me.”  [Nancy squeals with laughter, Eddie shakes his head, laughing.] Steve: (teasing Nina) “So that’s what Hopper and you got up to in the kitchen then!”  Nina: [throwing a cushion at Steve] “Shut up!” 

Later that night, 2;03 am.

Nancy and Jonathan are spooning on the couch, a blanket draped over them. Robin is asleep face down on the couch, arm falling off the couch onto the floor. Steve is snoring softly on the recliner, dad style. The room is lit up only by the glow of the TV.

Eddie and Nina reach for the spare blanket at the same time.

Nina: “Oh no, after you!”  Eddie: “Please, I insist.”  Nina: [teasing, using Eddie’s words from Thursday against him.] “I insist harder.”  Eddie: [blushing at Nina’s comment] “We could share?”  Nina: “Sure. I haven’t top and tailed since I was young.”  Eddie: “I never have before.”  Nina: [Getting comfy on the couch,  feet up next to Eddie’s chest, Eddie’s feet by her] “No way! No siblings?”  Eddie: [draping the blanket over them] “Nope, only child.”  Nina: “Yeah, me too.” [Reminiscing] “The last time I did, Robin came to visit me in California during summer break. I tickled her feet and she kicked me in the face.”  Eddie:  “Ouch. Please don’t do that to me, my face is too pretty to be messed up.” [Eddie tucks in Nina’s cold feet, Nina smiles fondly] Nina: (smiling) “I would never.” 

An awkward yet somewhat peaceful silence fills the room. Nina fiddles with the corner of the blanket, Eddie fidgets to get comfortable.

Nina: [trying to make conversation] “So, only-child club, huh?”  Eddie: “Yeah, I live with my Uncle. Moved in with him at 11, my Mom died and my Dad’s an asshole so we don’t really keep in touch.”  Nina: “I’m sorry, that must be rough.”  Eddie: [thoughtful, quiet.] “Just the way the cards have been dealt, I guess. What about you?”  Nina: “Yeah I’m an only child, though Robin is like my sister. I always wanted a sister. She and her mom used to come visit often. Not so much anymore.” 

Another silence falls over.

Eddie wants to ask more but senses he shouldn’t. Both of them fumble to find things to talk about, nervous but in a good way to be in each others company. 

Eddie: “Do you miss California?”  Nina: (immediately) “No. I mean- the place itself is lovely. I miss the beach. But no, I don’t miss home.”  Eddie: “You like the beach?”  Nina: “Yeah, me and a few friends used to go surfing every weekend.” Eddie: “I’ve never been surfing before either.”  Nina: [excited, more present in the conversation now, leaning closer to Eddie on the couch] “No way! I’ll have to teach you!”  Eddie: [smiling at Nina’s enthusiasm, glad the conversation is picking up] “Good luck with that, I’m all limbs, I’ll most likely drown.”  Nina: “Stop putting yourself down, you’d be fine.”  Eddie: (embarrassed) “I’m serious! I tripped over my own feet playing soccer once. I’m not meant for sports.”  Nina: “Wait till you see this.” [Nina pulls up her shorts to reveal a scar on her upper thigh, near the beginning of her underwear, Eddie’s breath hitches in his throat as her soft skin.] “I fell off my board and onto a rock, cut my leg open. The lifeguard had to come rescue me, I was so embarrassed.”  Eddie: [not fully paying attention, brain fuzzy] “Wow.”  Nina: “Yeah, I’m an idiot.”  Eddie: “You have a tattoo.”  Nina: “Oh, yeah, just two. Fortune teller on my thigh and a peace sign on the back of my neck. Hippy-ish, I know.”  Eddie: (distracted) “I think it’s cool, pretty.”  Nina: (blushing) “Thanks. Do you have any?”  Eddie: “Yeah, a few. Did a few myself too.”  Nina: “No way! Show me!” 

Eddie pulls at the sleeves and hem of his shirt, feeling too shy to take his shirt off, giving Nina a tour of his little tattoos, explaining their backstory in great detail. Nina sits and listens intently, asking questions occasionally, entranced by Eddie.

Nina: [tracing the bats on Eddie’s arm with her finger] “I like the bats.” Eddie: (shy) “Thanks. You not tired yet? It’s nearly 3AM.”  Nina: “Nah, I’ve got insomnia, takes me ages to fall asleep. You?”  Eddie: [stifling a yawn] “Nah, I’m good.” [Yawns]  Nina: “Don’t let me keep you up! Go to sleep if you want, I’ll just watch-” [looks over to the TV, which is awkwardly playing a sex scene, cringing] “-two people fucking apparently.” 

Eddie bursts into laughter and Nina follows. They shush each other, afraid of waking everyone up, still giggling quietly to themselves.

Eddie: (honest) “I’m okay, I promise, I’m enjoying your company.”  Nina: (quietly) “Yeah… me too.” 

Next chapter: Chapter Five - Every little thing she does is magic

[ms-m-astrologer]

The Week Ahead: January 8-14, 2024

Lunar Phases

Monday, January 8, 01:09 UT - Balsamic Moon, 2°13’ Sagittarius

The key phrases for the Balsamic lunar phase are “let go of the past” and “envision the future.” Might be difficult not to go barging into a new week, but this is a time of rest. Try not to let sadness over a temporary situation affect you.

Thursday, January 11, 11:57 UT - New Moon, 20°44’ Capricorn

The key phrase for the New lunar phase is “set a new intention for the month” - not necessarily a drastic overhaul, just some good habit we think we can establish successfully in a few weeks’ time. Wonderful for revolutionary practical solutions - what can you improve by simplifying?

Sunday, January 14, 18:13 UT - Crescent Moon, 9°03’ Pisces

The key phrase for the Crescent lunar phase is “gather and mobilize resources.” Intuition is important any time Pisces is involved, of course, and we can use it to find what we need.

Void of Course Moon

Tuesday, January 9, 18:24 UT (Sagittarius) - Wednesday, January 10, 01:33 UT (Capricorn)

Friday, January 12, 02:33 UT (Capricorn) - 03:01 UT (Aquarius)

Saturday, January 13, 09:59 UT (Aquarius) - Sunday, January 14, 03:29 UT (Pisces)

(About 17.5 hours long, so plan ahead!)

Retrograde/Direct/Etc.

Pre-retrograde shadow: Pallas Athene/Scorpio, Juno/Virgo (until Saturday the 13th)

Retrograde: Juno/Virgo (starting Saturday the 13th), Uranus/Taurus, Eris/Aries (until Thursday the 11th)

Post-retrograde shadow: Mercury/Sagittarius-Capricorn, Jupiter/Taurus, Saturn/Pisces

This week, transiting Mercury (1) exits its storm and (2) has its greatest western elongation. If we can recognize “an idea whose time has gone,” and then let it go, we’ll be in good shape.

Transiting Juno stations retrograde Saturday, January 13, 04:55 UT, at 21°52’ Virgo. We’re looking for healthier relationships and practical ways to help.

Transiting Eris stations direct on Thursday, January 11, 21:22 UT, at 24°09’ Aries. Watch what happens in the world - the January 6 thing happened on an Eris direct station.

Ingress

Sunday, January 14 - transiting Mercury re-enters Capricorn

Structured, disciplined, practical thinking is back on the agenda.

Et Cetera

There are no Opportunity Periods this week. (But we get two really nice ones next week!)

I’ve been on vacation (in a manner of speaking: I’m babysitting my son’s cats), and I really haven’t paid a lot of attention to anything except reading and staying hydrated. Looking forward to the Cap New Moon….

[mrs-johansson]

Chapter 5: Avengers: Age of Ultron - Two Ghosts

Part 1:

“When can I meet her?” Dad asked as he came down to have lunch in my lab. “Soon. I want her to settle in, and I want her to have the hearing aid.” “And how’s that going?” He stood up and walked up to the table. “I’m just gonna run some more tests and we’ll see, maybe next week you two could meet,” I looked up at him.

“How is it that your friends have seen Katarina sooner than I would?” Dad had been trying to meet Katarina for months, but with James at the house and the setting time, I thought she could have a little more time. “Because they are not her relatives biologically. Clint helps me with babysitting and Natasha is… Natasha. Believe me, she’s worth the wait. I swear she has your attitude sometimes even though you two haven’t even met yet.” The proud and surprised look on his face was funny but also such a great feeling to see. “Okay show me some pictures then.”

***

The last couple of months have been hectic. Hiding James has been really difficult, but mostly for him. He couldn’t really leave the house without assistance and he was bothered by that obviously. Even though he’s very introverted and a house buddy, he wanted to get out there and explore the world on his own, which was not possible at these times.

So he stayed at home most days, spending time with Katarina and learning from within the four walls. He watched the news every morning and evening, surfed the internet for information, and read about the time he had missed.

We once visited the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where he learned about himself and the war, but mostly about the Captain America we know now. James was so eager to know everything and be present that sometimes he got lost in what he actually wanted. He still didn't have a plan for what would come next. I tried everything to make him look further but he got stuck.

Meanwhile, Katarina was growing fast. She’s not even one and she has the abilities and looks of a 3 year old. She knows sign language to a full extent, which she learned in just a couple of weeks.

It is incredible to see how she’s developing day to day, but not gonna lie I miss the previous steps. I wanted to see her open her eyes for the first time, roll over for the first time and I’m not even gonna mention the first steps. I know I complain about great things but these are also great things to miss out on.

When I work, she’s in kindergarten from Monday to Thursday and on Fridays, she stays at Barton's. She already sees Clint and Laura as her uncle and aunt, and the kids as her cousins. They treat her like family, which I appreciate out of this world.

And Natasha, she’s here on most Saturdays, when Katarina is just full of joy. Nat is definitely her favorite, apart from me of course. They bonded on a deep level and it brings me happiness but also so much pain to know that we couldn’t work out.

Maybe if it wasn’t for the break-up, we would raise Katarina together. But it’s never perfect, is it?

On Fridays, which is today, I usually bring dinner to Clint’s house and we have dinner together.

Pulling up to the farm, I could see the kids and Clint playing outside, kicking a ball around. Katarina’s dark brown hair was gently braided into two little braids, and the pants she had on were basically dirty as the ground. She enjoys being outside since at home we only have a flat still.

The Bartons looked up to the sound of the car and Clint alerted Rina that I’d arrived, and she looked my way too. Her attention left the ball imminently and with those little feet, she started running towards me.

Seeing this was something that made me appreciate every little thing. She was getting older by the second and I wasn’t gonna miss one more minute with her.

I got out of the car and quickly rounded it before picking her up.

“Hi baby,” I gave a kiss to the side of her head, then put her back on the ground and kneeled in front of her. “Your hair is so pretty! Did Laura make it?” I asked. “No, Natasha.” Nat’s here? “Wow, she’s so cool, right?” She nodded. “How was today? Did you have fun?” “Yes, we painted. I made you something,” she took my hand and insisted on getting inside.

Getting the take-out dinner I picked up Katarina and made our way towards Clint and the kids. “Hey guys, I got us Chinese today,” I greeted the three of them. “Copper, why don’t you guys take the food inside? We’ll be there in a minute,” I gave him the bags of food and the three of them walked in, Katarina grabbing a hold of Lila’s hand.

“What is she doing here? She hasn't been returning my calls for over a week. And I know she wasn’t on a mission,” I turned to Clint. He looked inside then at me with a sigh. “I don’t know why she didn’t talk to you then, but now she’s here to talk. It seemed pretty serious,” he said. “Great, just perfect.”

Walking inside, the kids already settled around the table, Laura and Natasha unpacking the boxes. “Hi,” I said. Nat picked up her head and I couldn’t describe the look she gave me. “I was just saying the other to Clint, how much I craved Chinese but he didn’t get me any,” Laura’s voice made me look away. “Because it was in the middle of the night and we live on a farm,��� Clint stepped in. “I’m glad your craving will be fulfilled,” I said.

Grabbing the plates, I had to step next to Natasha. “Nat,” I nodded her way. “Y/n.” The urge to read her mind was so tempting but I promised everyone that I won’t use it on them. “You haven’t been returning my calls,” I said as I reached the shelf.

“It wasn’t a phone conversation that I wanted to talk about,” she said. Voice tense, body language just strict. “We can talk after I put Katarina to sleep.”

***

Katarina insisted that Natasha would be the one who stays with her until she falls asleep, so I did the dishes so that Laura could relax a little, but she kept my company throughout.

“Dinner was weird,” she said. “What do you mean?” “You and Nat. What’s going on?” I stared at the water as it flowed through the sink. “It’s been strange for a while. She’s dictating herself from me, from us really. She canceled last week’s Saturday and hasn't answered my calls since. Of course, Rina asked for her, because she’s obsessed with her. But nothing. And last week too, like she was distracted at all times. And if it was work she would definitely tell me.” “Maybe she’s seeing someone,” she casually threw it out there. “You think?” I stopped the tap and dried my hands. “What else could it be? It’s Natasha, you and work were the only option she could be occupied with, but there’s no you anymore, and if it’s not work… Maybe she found someone,” the sad smile on Laura’s face was something strange. I know she loved us together but I didn’t think she would actually prefer us over other relationships. But she also probably knew something.

“So, can we talk?” Natasha walked down the stairs, and both of us looked her way. “Yeah, let’s go outside. Good night, Laura,” I said to the woman. “You too guys.”

As we made our way outside I played all the scenarios in my mind about what could happen. Maybe she did find someone and wants to disappear from my life, or maybe it is a work thing.

We were a great distance from the house and we didn't talk a word on the walk. Then she stopped at almost the end of the lot. “I know about Barnes,” her voice was filled with anger. “And?” I shrugged it off, trying to act cool.

“Y/n, are you insane?” She stepped closer, veins popping out on her neck. “He is dangerous! And you let your daughter around him? There’s a chance that he’s gonna be that killing machine again, and what are you gonna do then, huh? Or what if HYDRA finds him? That’s why you won’t let anyone over to your place! And what about Steve? You’re just gonna let him suffer and look for him when you know damn well that he sleeps in your bed, eats your food, and plays with your daughter every day.” “You have no idea Natalia how fucking hard it is for me! If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have found Katarina. I wouldn’t be alive if it wasn’t for him!” By now we were yelling at each other and I was glad the house was far away.

“I’ve been trying to help him settle in, to come up with a plan. But nothing. He doesn’t even want a glance at the future. For the past several decades he wasn’t Barnes, he wasn’t the Bucky Steve knows… But he’s trying to be the old him. He wants to learn and be human,” I explained but as I spoke she only got angrier. “How are you falling so easily into this? Y/n how can you be so naive after everything that happened?” Her hands spread to her sides, confusion hitting her face. “Naive?” I scoffed. “Every single day when I go home, I think he’s not gonna be there anymore. That he left, that they took him. For months I’ve been living on the fucking edge, scared to leave my daughter alone with him, scared to fall asleep next to him. I’m not naive, I just don’t want to make him feel even worse,” I said and turned around to walk back.

“No.” She simply said and I looked back at her. “No, you are just scared to be alone. You can’t be alone and you just won’t admit that,” she caught up to me and stood right in front of me. “Don’t ever talk to me about hating to be alone. I became a mother overnight, and I wasn’t gonna do this alone.” “But you are not alone,” Natasha took hold of my hand. But I took it away and shook my head. “I am.” “Y/n don’t shut me out now,” the want in her eyes was something I missed every day but I couldn’t let this happen. “I’m not shutting you out, but we talked about this. I can’t do this, not now… James is there and Rina, I-“ I stumbled over my words, didn’t even know what I wanted to say. “James…” She said quietly like she knew immediately. With the look she gave me, she definitely knew.

“You guys are a thing, aren’t you?” Her shoulders dropped. “We’re not a thing,” I looked away, shaking my head. “Oh don’t fucking lie to me. I know you, Y/n. You two are fucking for sure,” she got mad again, but mostly she looked disappointed. “What if we do? You have absolutely no right to question who I sleep or don’t sleep with. We broke up, Natasha. We ended things because it didn’t work. I’m sorry that I’m trying to move on. It hurts me like shit, that he’s not you, that it’s not us! I wanted you, Nat!” I yelled at her. She has no right to speak to me like that. “I wanted all of you. We had each other and now we don’t. So you don’t get to decide what I do with my life.”

***

“Good morning everyone,” Steve walked into the meeting room with Maria following him. Files in her hands she handed one to everyone. The team gathered around the table, while Steve presented our next mission.

“As you all know, we found another HYDRA Research Base. It’s in Sokovia, Europe. It is the base where we tracked Loki’s scepter and the plan is to retrieve it. The files have everything you need to know before we take off. Tomorrow morning we leave at 5. Any questions?” He looked around and everyone was silent. “Alright, see you tomorrow.”

***

Taking Katarina out of her seat, we made our way upstairs right away. It’s how the days go, in the mornings I drop her off at kindergarten and after work I get her and we go home to James.

After the meeting, I went to Stark Industries and we worked on some new projects and I finally finished Rina's hearing aid so I’m very excited to try it with her.

Opening the front door, I noticed the flat was awfully quiet. James usually is always on the couch when we get home, watching the news but now he isn't. The tv was turned off, no sign of James in the living room.

I shut the door behind me and put Katarina down, who took off to her room immediately. “James?” I called out once. Maybe he’s sleeping. I checked the kitchen and the balcony, but nothing. Bathroom empty. Then I made my way to the bedroom to see it was also without him in it.

And then I noticed an envelope. Lying on his pillow. My heart dropped and I couldn’t think of anything else other than he had left.

With shaky hands, I took hold of the envelope and saw my name written on it. Opened it and saw the handwritten letter. I sat down on the edge of the bed and read it.

Hey Doll,

We both knew this was coming for a long time now, but I think neither of us thought that it woulduld actually happen. I had to leave. For your and Katarina’s safety. I am a liability and it wouldn’t be safe for you two if I had stayed. I also didn’t want Steve to find me, he had enough trouble with me the last time we saw each other.

I won’t contact you and I don’t want you to contact me. The only communication I want is Katarina. I’d like you to send pictures to the address at the bottom every month. Just one picture of Katarina.

I am truly sorry and I promised I won’t leave you again, I am sorry that I broke this. But please forgive me, Doll.

Your James.

[sweetgem97writes]

The Wish Chapter 1 Preview

Hey everyone, this post is a preview to my upcoming story titled The Wish. Kinda inspired by my own life, it's about a high schooler, stressed out with her family and school both, wishes that she never existed. Unfortuntately, the wish comes true and now, she must not only get her life back, but also learn to appreciate the small stuff.

Anyways, here's a preview for Chapter !~ Enjoy!

Chapter 1: Scheduling

Thursday, 7:00AM:

7:20AM-Have Breakfast with Family

7:30AM-Board School Bus

7:50AM-Chew Mint-Flavored Sugar Free Gum to Prevent Bad Breath

7:55AM-Get to First Period, Start School

8:00AM-2:50PM-Start School

3:00PM-Fencing Practice

4:00PM-Board Bus to Take Me Home

4:30-6:30PM-Study for AP Chemistry Test

6:35PM-Dinner at the Pretensions'

7:00PM-Get Wilbur to Bed

7:30PM-8:30PM-Finish Book Report on Fahrenheit 451

8:35PM-Get Ready for Bed

8:45PM-Watch Netflix until 9

9:00PM-Bed time!

Extra Notes:

*Pre-Calculus Test Tomorrow

*Spanish 3 Honors Project Due Next Friday

*History Oral Report on WWII Next Monday.

*Fencing Tournament Saturday at 1PM-4PM

"There, my schedule for tomorrow is complete." I said in relief as I sat in my desk in my room on  a Wednesday Night, waiting for the day to completely end, so I can finally start a new one. My school counselor suggested  to me that I should start scheduling my tasks, so I can balance both my school and home life since I tend to be really busy with classes, fencing, and babysitting. Basically, the typical responsibilities almost every seventeen-year-old would have when they're almost done with high school.The truth is, I didn't always like doing these tasks. In fact, I only do them so I can prove myself to them. Them as in my folks; also known as my parents.

You see, my parents are very busy when it comes to their jobs. My mother, Barbara works late as a nurse while my father, Jonathan is a graveyard worker at the hotel downtown. So my siblings and I don't tend to see them often; especially my younger ones: Harold, Bethany or "Betty" as she preferred, and Wilbur. Futhermore, my two older siblings, Wendy and Steven, who are college students, are usually the ones in charge; despite their busy hours of studying. I guess they got use to it so much that they even began to act like Mom and Dad themselves. My oldest sister, Wendy at twenty-three last week had me clean the kitchen from head to toe and whenever I missed a pot or did something wrong, she would snap at me and tell me to do it again. In fact, she would complain about how "that's not how Mom would want it done!" I can still hear her obnoxious shriek in my ears.

Just as I was about to shut off the light and hit the hay, a knock was heard. I groaned to myself and told them to come in.

"Hello baby sister," Wendy greeted me in the most fake loving tone ever.

"Even the deadliest of all killers could fake that." She ignored my sarcasm.

"I know you don't like being bothered, especially this late at night," she continuned.

"It's only two hours and fifty three minutes until midnight, but talk." Wendy rolled her eyes at my deadpan remark. "Anyways, there's been a state of emergency at the hospital tonight. Mom's gonna be busy for the next two nights, and Dad's most likely gonna sleep in. So be prepared, sis. You might have to set up to watch the little ones longer than expected."

"WHAT?!" I began to freak out and flip through my agenda. "But that totally messes up my schedule!" I tried to show her.

UPDATE: 1/11/24

Fixed and edited some mistakes that a friend from Discord helped me out with.

[deidarac]

euurgh spanish class rant cuzz lowkey im gonna fucking KILL MYSELF!!! ^^

birthday in 6 days, april is sa survivor month, andd in spanish class we're talking about our childhoods and stuff. oh it just never endsss..

my birthdays been making me feel kinda shitty? im trying to load the next week up with shit to do because if i sit there and think about it for too long, ill start remembering things. ("remember how you and [my sa'er #1] used to share bdays? remember your guys' minecraft cake? remember him asking you to go upstairs on his bday?") .. i usually don't think about it THIS much, but this year i am so.. yay!!?!

but that'll be fixed. today im going out w a friend, tomorrow im seeing my sister's play and babysitting, saturday i have a tea party for my aunt (idk why?), sunday i work.. then wednesdayz the big day, my family will come over probably (hopefully not him but yk what if he does there's nothing i can do about it), thursday im hanging out w the boyf, and friday im going to six flags. i should be ok. probably not, but ill be distracted most of the time at least that's good (OH and my friends jake and ash wanna hangout soon >.< that'll help BIG TIME.. jst getting high in general will help frfr)

then spanish class. we're talking about childhood and shit, and every single day is just triggering me atp. we even talked about playing house (oh the memories!!!) like thx maestra, now i gotta remember being made to play bf/gf and being told "this is normal, people do this!!!"

THEN IT'S FUCKING APRIL ON TOP OF THAT. SA MONTH!!!! YAY!!!! .. my entire fyp is sa atp. i feel like a bad person for saying this lowkey, but i dont want to hear about or see all these people's stories right now euurfchfhf

anyways i have to get ready for school BIG TIME so..bye.

[crimsonclad]

Eddie asked Buck to babysit on Wednesday, and Buck did and complained about it to Maddie at breakfast, seemingly the next day, but it had a weekend brunch vibe, but also their schedules are all insane, so it could be the next day? But the show also implies the brunch day is when Buck orders the basketball at work and on that day he asks Chimney “what are you doing on Thursday” except you wouldn’t say that if it WAS Thursday so maybe it is Friday, but then that means Buck stews over the circled calendar for literally a full week and a day, which of course he WOULD do, but it makes his use of PROMOTIONAL PLACEMENT instant basketball delivery even sillier (yes also in character but still).

anyway on 911 time is fake, is what I’m saying. They are all exactly as old or as young as they are needed to be for any given micro-plot.

i love seeing people try to figure out how old Tommy is supposed to be when we know full well that 911 does not give a singular fuck about timeline continuity. we don't even know what year it is, currently, on the show.

[valleygirlfag]

Idk how I'm going to survive the end of the semester but it's going to happen. I have to finish one presentation for Thursday and I'll write the paper after but im not super far into the presentation and I'm babysitting from 7am - 3pm again tomorrow and I'll definitely need to nap during her nap so I might end up with an all-nighter and/or finishing it immediately before class and then I have to study for the final in ancient civ and then I can finish the lab methods paper bc it's now not due until next Friday

[jeffchats]

Wait so is her extra week starting from Monday or this weekend? Because the finale was supposed to be today. So she was probably scheduled to leave Thursday or Friday. So does he have a few days left or an actual whole week still left with her? I bet he feels like he’s babysitting. Having to spend time with her probably everyday this week. I feel like he won’t like it.

I’m sure if she did stay it would be through most of next week. It’s babysitting because he’ll have to take her out and show her a good time even though he probably doesn’t want to. He probably wants to meet up with Tana and make some podcasts.

[dykeninthdoctor]

beep boop:)