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libraryofloveletters · 3 years

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and the memories of you never wash away

Eddie x Buck, Eddie x Shannon (co-parents/platonic)

wc: 1.9k

[AO3 Link]

----

“Eddie! Have you seen the sunscreen?” Shannon's voice carried through the hallway before she found him.

“Did you check the bathroom ?” he glances over his shoulder as he digs through a bin in the closet looking for Christopher's beach ball.

“I found it!” Buck shouts, coming down the hallway.

The 3 of them had decided to take Chris to the beach to start off the summer break. Eddie was still bent over looking for the beach ball when Buck arrived where the two were, his eyes instantly found their way to Eddie’s ass which just happened to look amazing -per usual as Buck happened to think.

Shannon has noticed Buck’s gaze and where it was directed. She nudged him, making a smacking motion with her hand and nodded towards Eddie.

Buck had a mischievous look on his face, taking a step towards Eddie before his hand came down and hit Eddie's ass.

Eddie stood up so fast that Buck didn’t even have time to move from behind him.

“Seriously ?” Eddie’s arms folded, giving his boyfriend an unamused look.

Buck smiling innocently with hands raised, “wasn’t me.”

Eddie shook his head at the blonde before pulling him towards him and pressing a kiss to his lips.

“Okay, can you two stop being in love for a moment so we can get going ?” Shannon calls, bringing the two men back to reality.

Just as she did, the sound of Christopher coming down the hall caught their attention. There were 3 adults in the house and they had all disappeared on him.

“Can we go ?” the boy peered at them from around the corner. “Yeah, come on,” Shannon made her way over to him, leaving the two men in the hallway.

---

The smile on his face was nothing compared to the warmth of the sun. The pure happiness on Christopher’s face was enough to make all 3 of them happy.

Buck and Shannon sat on the blanket, the sun beating down on them- surely enough, they’d both have crazy tan lines by the time they left because of course, no one listens when Eddie says to put on sunscreen.

Eddie, on the other hand, had lathered Chris in sunscreen and managed to rub some on himself before Buck and Shannon had run off with Christopher.

The Diaz boys were now standing in front of the water, Eddie’s arms looped under Christopher’s. The two of them laughed as the water hit their feet. Eddie picked up Chris, swinging him around for a second before putting him back down right as the water rushed up to his feet.

Shannon’s head rested on Buck’s shoulder, smiling at the boys by the water. Buck glances over at her before turning his attention back to the boys, he too had a smile on his face.

“Thank you”

The words came out barely above a whisper, truthfully he had said it internally but somehow it sort of slipped out.

Shannon looks at him, a smile on her face but brows furrowed. “For what ?”

“For being okay with us,” he glances at Eddie.

“Buck, you don’t need to thank me. You make Eddie happy, Christopher too and that’s all I could never hope for.”

Shannon reaches for his hands, smiling at him. “I should be thanking you” the two of them laugh.

Buck gets up, pulling Shannon up with him and the two of them head down to the water where Eddie and Chris are.

“Why are you two all giggly ?” Eddie turns to them, they just smile and shake their heads.

“Nothing babe, just having fun that’s all.”

The sun was starting to set, Christopher was getting tired. His eyes drooping, his head on his mother’s lap. Her fingers combed through his brown curls, smiling as he eyes shut.

“Hey,” she whispers, nudging Eddie who was talking to Buck. Both men turned to see the boy asleep. Buck gets up first, taking the keys from Eddie and then leaning down to pick up Chris before making his way to the car.

Both Shannon and Eddie follow him, the blanket in hand. Eddie’s arm is over her shoulder and Shannon’s arm snakes around his waist, the two of them had always been comfortable with one another despite the divorce.

Christopher had woken up when Buck picked him up, he’s now laughing at something Buck said to him.

“I swear, that kid was born happy”

“I have no idea where he gets it from.”

Eddie turns, slightly offended with his brows furrowed. “From me,” his finger gestured towards himself.

“Oh ? From you ? Mr. Broody ?” she jokes, a loud laugh erupting from her.

Eddie pouts, rolling his eyes playfully. “Yeah well hopefully he gets your brains, he can’t get by on my good looks alone” Eddie smiles proudly.

Shannon snorts, she can’t help the laughter. “Good looks my ass, who’s been lying to you, Diaz ?”

“Oh yeah ?” Eddie’s brows raised, a look of amusement on his face.

“Yeah”

“Isn’t that what attracted you to me?” he asks her, picking her up and tossing her over his shoulder. Her hand smacked his back, “put me down!”

“Answer the question” he keeps walking.

Shannon’s hand reaches down, grabbing his ass and squeezing it. “Nah, it was this ass in those jeans” she laughs once more and Eddie puts her down in front of the car.

“Squeeze my ass again and I’ll fight you.” his finger in her face and Shannon rolls her eyes, sticking her tongue out at him.

Next thing he knew, there was another hand on his ass. Eddie turned so fast, he probably gave himself whiplash. Buck was sitting in the car, the door opened and a smile on his face- proud of the fact that he just grabbed his boyfriend’s ass.

“Again ? Seriously ?”

“Couldn’t help myself. She’s right, your ass does look good in those jeans.”

Eddie shook his head, he could not believe that these were the two he had to deal with on a daily basis but despite all the shit they pulled and the constant bickering, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

When the 4 of them were together, it felt like home. The laughter, the random trips to get ice cream, the 4 of them attempting to all fit into one tent in the backyard- it was moments like that they would treasure forever.

----

He barely heard Buck step into the room, his eyes focused on something in front of him. The footsteps became louder with each step, Buck’s hand on his shoulder.

“Eds?” He glances over his boyfriend's shoulder, the red picture frame from the dresser in his hand.

They had stopped at the gift shop right by the beach during their last trip to the beach. Christopher had picked up the frame and said they should get it, so they did. Eddie and Buck had one in their room, Christopher had one in his and Shannon had the other. It was all the same red frame with seashells and starfish.

They all had the same picture of the 4 of them in it.

Eddie’s arms were over Christopher’s shoulders while he leant back against his father, Shannon and Buck to either side of him, their arms around him. They were all laughing because a huge wave had come up and hit them right before the photo was taken, resulting in the 4 of them dreached in seawater while smiling for the camera.

It also happened to be the last photo the 4 of them had together before she passed.

Today was the first trip back to the beach since then.

Buck steps from behind Eddie to beside him, it didn’t take long for him to notice the tears welling up in his eyes. He didn’t wait for Eddie to say anything and pulled him into a hug.

“We don’t have to go-” “No, Chris wants too, I'm fine.”

The drive to the beach was quiet. It was already midafternoon, it wasn’t overly warm but it was still kind of sunny out. It was more of a spur of the moment trip rather than a planned one. Christopher was rambling away in the back seat, telling Buck about his plans to build a huge spaceship out of sand and Eddie drove in silence, the occasional smile when Chris was talking but that was about it.

Once they arrive, Eddie follows behind the two boys. They had gotten out first, Chris practically dragged Buck with him to look for a spot to build his spaceship, he shouts for his dad to hurry up who jogs over to them.

Christopher finds a spot a few feet from the water, Buck beside him and Eddie to the other side. Christopher had tasked Buck with digging a hole for the ship to rest in while he started to shovel some into a bucket.

Eddie shifted on the sand, something in his pocket was causing him to sit to one side. Reaching back, he pulls his wallet from his pocket and it somehow opens from the way he pulls it out of his pocket. The two pictures he kept in his wallet were sticking out, before tucking it back in, he decided to pull them out.

The first one was of Christopher, Buck and him from before they started dating. It was the day he officially became part of the 118 - Eddie is standing behind the chair Buck was sitting on and Christopher is standing beside Eddie, the 3 of them laughing at something Chimney was saying when Maddie took the picture.

The second one, he had forgotten he had because that’s how long it had been in there. A picture from Christopher’s first Christmas - one of those wallet sized ones from the Santa’s workshops they had during the holidays. Chris was wrapped up in a little white blanket with blue snowflakes on it, Shannon was holding him and was sitting beside the guy who was supposedly Santa for the day. Eddie stood beside her, his arm over her shoulder.

His finger rubs across the picture, a smile on his face.

“Dad!” Chris’s voice broke his thoughts, “what are you doing ?” the boy asks his father.

Eddie hands the photo over to Chris, moving a little closer towards him. Chris smiles and looks over at his dad, “is that me?” pointing towards the baby wrapped up in a blanket.

“Yeah, you were so little. Mom insisted on taking you to see Santa.”

Christopher leans over to show Buck, Eddie glances over at his boyfriend who's smiling at his son.

Buck had never been upset about the relationship Shannon and Eddie had. In the past, girlfriends from previous relationships didn’t quite understand her random pop up visits or the fact that she was practically living there at times but it was never like that, Buck and Shannon had become friends and he loved her just as the two boys loved her.

Buck looks up from Chris who was still looking at the picture, he smiles at Eddie.

Buck knew Eddie like the back of his hand and Eddie knew that. Eddie had this idea in his head that he needed to hold himself together and not show any emotions because that’s what dads do, he had to hold himself together for Chris.

So when he saw Eddie on the verge of tears, he didn’t question him, he just comforted him the best way he knew. Eddie would talk when he was ready.

“Dad?”

“Yeah ?”

“Do you miss her ?” the boy set the picture back on his father’s hand. Eddie looked down at the picture once more, he hummed.

“Everyday.”

#eddie diaz #evan buckley #christopher diaz #shannon diaz #eddie x buck #911 #911 fic #911 fanfic #9-1-1 #9-1-1 fic #9-1-1 fanfic #9-1-1 fanfiction #buddie #eddie x shannon

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alj4890 · 3 years

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And Then I Left You

(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a “what if” version to the RCD/TRR fan fic And Then I Met You Series

A/N Sorry for the delay. Life has just been off these last few weeks. This chapter is loooonnnggg, LOL. It was actually going to be longer, but I knew I couldn’t do that to everyone. Anyway, lets allow these two some time alone.

@krsnlove @my-heart-beats-for-ya @aworldoffandoms @flyawayboo @trappedinfanfiction @everythingmarvelsherlockspn @sophxwithers @kate-mckenzie @twinkleallnight

Masterlist

Chapter 8 Alone At Last

After all the uncertainty followed by being unable to find consistent moments alone, Amanda and Thomas were at last set free of worry.

Well, mostly.

They had to behave as friends when out amongst the small towns they stopped along their way to different historical sights. Though those moments forced them to keep their distance, neither tempered their soft spoken words.

Thomas had worried that first day how they would handle the hotel situations he believed they were bound to encounter. He had gotten used to Olivia's secret passageways allowing him to see Amanda whenever he wanted.

He should have known that the intelligent lady he adored had already solved that problem.

Pulling onto a gravel road, she drove him toward a cottage that sat alone in a rolling meadow dotted here and there with trees. The two-story, thatched roof building sat amidst large Cordonian oak trees. Roses twined around a drain pipe while wisteria grew in wild abandon adding even more beauty to the rough stone walls.

"I know we could stay somewhere different with each place we visit," Amanda explained. "But then I thought we could stay our entire time somewhere in the middle of it all. It will mean more driving each day, but we will have nothing but privacy here."

Thomas stepped out and followed her inside. The cottage was just as charming on the inside as it was on the outside. Much of the furniture was designed strictly for comfort and a few for whimsy. The wooden floors creaked with each step as he explored the different rooms.

Upstairs, there were two bedrooms directly across from one another with a bathroom dividing them.

His lips curved at knowing he wouldn't have to find a way to sneak around and see her whenever they weren't out in public.

"What do you think?" She asked, a bit nervous from his silence.

"It's charming." He set his arms around her waist. "And perfect for our needs."

She relaxed and wound her arms around his neck. "I hoped you would like it. We will stay here for most of the week before going to St Orella. Then we'll have a few days to ourselves there before I have to travel to Applewood."

"Before we travel to Applewood." He pressed a kiss to her lips. "I've decided to postpone filming until after Liam's Coronation."

"You have?" Her eyes widened. "Why?"

"By the time everyone gets here and settled, it will be just a couple of weeks before the end of the social season." Thomas explained. "I went ahead and told Holly to tell the others. Chris has already expressed his thanks since he and Sharon are still getting used to taking care of an infant. Ryan is still completing the last leg of his publicity tour of his last film and is grateful for not being rushed from one side of the world to another. Everyone else had nothing they needed to do that would rush the production."

"Oh." She smiled softly. "Just how long are you intending on being in Cordonia, Mr. Hunt?"

"As long as I can." He murmured, kissing her again. "If that meets with your approval."

"It does." She smiled against his lips before pulling away. "We should go get our things and unpack."

Thomas followed her downstairs as she told him that she had called ahead and had groceries delivered. She had thought of everything to make their time free of anything tedious they didn't want to have to worry about.

That evening, she pulled a map out during dinner and spread it between them.

"Over here is where the old abbey is that Arthur and Reginald had their duel. Then to the south, is..."

Thomas relaxed back in his chair as she continued to point out the places of interest to him. His attention remained on her face animated in excitement to show him these different pieces of her family history. His mind though focused on things other than the film.

Knowing this time alone would be his only chance at truly romancing her without the need of her pretending to want Liam, he wanted to make every moment memorable for her. Something was needed that would remain on her mind during the tedious dinners, balls, and teas she would have to take part in.

He also hoped this time together settled some personal decisions of his own concerning her.

"Am I boring you?"

"No. Not at all." He took her hand in his. "Forgive me, I was lost in thought."

She squeezed his hand then folded the map up. "Tomorrow we can drive to the Abbey and have a picnic. The weather should be pleasant and--"

A startled laugh escaped her lips when he yanked her into his lap. One hand slipped around her waist while the other tangled in her hair, urging her into a heated kiss.

Their eyes met when they slowly pulled apart.

"Why don't we take this-"

His phone began to ring.

Amanda eased out of his lap. "While you see who that is, I'll clear the table."

Groaning in resignation, he left to find his phone and see who would call him at such a moment.

"Hey!" Addison's cheery voice made him cringe. "I was wondering if it's okay that I come in a couple of weeks to compare my sketches and finished costumes to those paintings in Amanda's gallery."

"It's fine." He grumbled. "Now good--"

"How is everything going?" Holly spoke up before he could end the cal.

His eyes narrowed at being on speakerphone. "Is anyone else there?"

"Just me." Shannon said in a please don't be irritated tone. "I brought the baby by for a visit."

"I see." He bit out. "Everything is fine."

"Is it?" Addison persisted. "You haven't told us how things are going with Amanda."

"Did she ever speak to you again?" Shannon sheepishly asked.

"I can't tell if he's angry for us calling or angry because things aren't going like he wants." Holly complained to them.

"The former." He bit out.

Addison squealed softly. "So you and Amanda are together?"

"In a way." He glanced down the hall where he could hear water running and dishes clattering. "Her being a suitor has forced us to keep our relationship a secret."

"Oh thank goodness!" He could hear Addison dramatically dropping on a sofa. "After seeing all the pictures with her and Liam, I was afraid she had refused to even speak to you."

He hesitated and decided not to explain how difficult that truly had been. "If that is all, I will hang up now."

"Why?" Holly asked. "Are you on a date?"

"As a matter of fact, I am and will be this week as well. With Liam's help we were able to escape the court for some location scouting." He cleared his throat when he heard the water shut off. "Goodbye ladies."

"Wait!” Addison yelled out. “We need details!”

“How much longer until you guys can be out in the open?” Shannon added.

“Are you--”

Thomas jerked the phone away from his ear when Shannon’s infant let out an irritated cry. While the three were distracted with trying to calm the tiny girl, he ended the call.

He set his phone on silent. He didn't trust Addison or Holly and now he found that Shannon belonged in that same group. He had no doubt their curiosity would get the best of them or they would feel the need to offer unwanted advice and call within the next hour. He was determined that these few days he had with Amanda be focused solely on romance.

He knew she had it in her head that they needed to tour every single place. He had not had the heart to tell her that just by looking at her photos that he knew he would have an easy time filming at each location. He merely used seeing them in person as an excuse to spend time with her away from court.

He thought it was endearingly her that she was so ready to help him.

Thomas looked up when he heard her footsteps.

Amanda smiled at him as she set a tray down on a small table. "I thought you might like a cup of coffee."

His eyebrow raised when he saw the bottle of whiskey.

"Just in case you would like a cup of Irish coffee." She explained while preparing her teacup.

Her smile grew when he ignored the coffee pot and instead wrapped his arms around her. His lips skated down her neck causing her to have to fight back a shiver.

"Would you like me to fix you a cup?" She asked, biting down on her lip when he kissed up to her ear.

"Yes, please." He stepped back. "Just black coffee."

Amanda glanced back at him. "Are you planning on staying up late?"

His eyes drifted down her body before lifting once more to hers. "Yes, I am."

The heat rising up her neck and cheeks brought a smile to his face.

She cleared her throat and handed him his cup. Her own smile was warm when he motioned for her to sit next to him.

Thomas lifted his arm so she could settle closer. With little encouragement, she turned somewhat away from him so that she could rest her head back against him while curling her legs under her. The two relaxed and enjoyed the peaceful solitude similar to the ones they used to enjoy in California.

Thomas let his arm drape down to settle across her waist while pressing a kiss to the top of her head. He couldn't help but think that this was one of the things that he himself had been guilty daydreaming about. There were so many nights when he and Amanda would watch a movie or simply relax with a drink of some sort, yet had kept their distance from one another.

He had feared losing her if he stepped beyond the friendship line. To now know that she had felt the same made him wonder what would have happened if he had pulled her close one of those nights.

Their peace was interrupted by a sound of rolling thunder followed by the skies opening up.

Amanda eased out of his arms and peeked out from behind one of the curtains.

"There goes our picnic plans for the abbey." She mumbled. Turning back to Thomas, she grimaced. "I'm sorry. Many of the roads that lead there sometimes flood. We--"

"Then we'll go another day." He reassured her with a slight shrug. "I'm in no hurry as I explained earlier."

"About that," Amanda returned back to her spot beside him. "What made you decide to postpone? I know we've had to wait on Ryan, but you could have shot some scenes that he isn't in. Was it your idea or did the others talk you into it?"

Thomas took a sip of his coffee. "It was my idea."

Amanda propped her elbow on the back of the sofa and set her chin on her fist while studying him. "Yes, but what made you think of it?"

His expression was one of humored exasperation as he met her eyes. "Why do you think?"

She lowered her lashes. "Surely you didn't because of me."

"I did." He corrected.

Her brow furrowed as she looked up once more. "Thomas, you didn't have to change your plans simply because I would have to leave and travel with the court." She set her teacup down and reached for his hand. "I can always do a rewrite wherever I am if you need it and find a way to get it to you."

"You think I postponed the film for rewrites?" He couldn't believe this was her first thought. He clearly had more work to do than he originally thought to alter her view of how he viewed her.

"Didn't you?" Her brow furrowed when she noticed his brief flash of irritation. "I know it isn't because you're afraid that I'll end up falling for Liam or anything like that."

"No. I do not fear you will fall for a handsome, truly kind prince who could give you everything." He grumbled.

Her eyes widened at his tone. "Thomas?"

He turned toward her, mimicking her posture by resting his head against his hand. His dark eyes settled on meeting her slightly narrowed in concern stare with one of his own.

"I know if you felt anything for Liam," he began, "that you wouldn't have made any attempt to have a relationship with me."

He glanced down when she laced her fingers with his, giving a gentle squeeze of encouragement.

His lips curved slightly as spoke. "I want to be with you."

She smiled at him. "I want to be with you too."

He lifted their clasped hands to brush a kiss to her knuckles. "You don't understand. I don't want to be apart from you anymore than I have to."

She stilled. "What are you saying?"

He scooted a bit closer. His free hand lifted to her cheek. His thumb brushed the corner of her mouth

"What I'm trying to say is that I will wait however long for whatever amount of time you can give me each day." He explained.

Amanda merely stared at him as the full meaning struck her.

He loves me that much to ignore his passion for filmmaking in the hopes of having a few minutes here and there in secret with me while I am forced to pursue another man.

Of all the gestures or words he could have spoken, this particular one took her breath away. She had lived with him, seen his ever growing excitement, witnessed his work ethic, and had listened to more stories of his life as a director to realize that this was not only a huge sacrifice on his part, but also one that he had made without hesitation.

She had thought she didn't have anymore of her heart left to lose, yet he had found a way to steal it all completely once again.

"You don't mind that I wish to attend the rest of the court events and coronation, do you?"

Amanda could detect the worry in what was usually his confident tone.

Unable to find the appropriate words, she shook her head while leaning forward to kiss him.

His hands cupped her face, holding her steady as he returned her passionate response with his own.

She broke away. Her breathing a touch accelerated from the rush of feelings his touch caused.

He lifted his eyes to hers. "I love you, Amanda." He gently pulled her over to straddle his lap when she said she loved him too. "I don't want to say goodnight to you tonight."

She could feel her heart thudding in her ears. Swallowing, she briefly lowered her eyes. "I...neither do I."

Biting her bottom lip, she forced herself to see how he took her confession.

The look in his eyes caused her heart to triple in beat.

A surprised laugh burst from her lips as he quickly ushered her upstairs. The two stumbled into one of the bedrooms, shutting the door behind them. Thomas had left a small lamp on earlier, casting the room in a warm glow.

A soft smile graced his face when he tugged her back in his arms.

"What are you thinking about?" She asked when he simply held her.

"How happy I am whenever I'm with you." Thomas admitted. "Even before we crossed over into romantic territory, just being near you was enough to improve my mood."

"I've felt the same way for a long time." She cupped his cheek, feeling the sparks down to her toes when he placed a lingering kiss to her palm.

Each kiss and caress that followed grew more passionate as they tumbled to the bed. Thomas gazed down at her at one point. The intensity of the emotions he felt with being with her in a way he had only dreamed of had taken him by surprise.

Noticing his movements had stilled, Amanda breathlessly asked him what was wrong.

"Nothing at all." He simply knew in that moment that she was all he wanted, all he would ever want. "I--" he closed his eyes briefly when she instinctively shifted against him.

Her fingers trailed up and down his back while she waited, trying to be patient with this unexpected break.

His mouth claimed hers when he noticed she seemed to be ready to question him once more. He wasn't able to think how to adequately tell her all the feelings she caused. He hoped he could simply show her what his heart was trying to say.

"Thomas?" She bit her lip when he removed her shirt. "There's something I should tell you."

He trailed kisses down her neck. "Hmm?"

"I've never, that is to say..." Amanda stared up at the ceiling. "I mean, why would I? Ladies of the court are expected to behave a certain way and my family has a tradition of love matches and..." She knew she was making a complete mess out of her explanation. "I never..."

Thomas lifted his head. "Never what?"

Her eyes met his heated gaze. She gestured weakly between them. "Done this before."

There was no possible way he could have concealed his shock. "You haven't?" He didn't know how it was possible.

"Well, like I said..." She sighed as she felt the blush rise up her neck and cheeks. "I was taught that my reputation should be maintained and I knew that only love could tempt me into this."

Thomas propped himself up on his side while listening to her.

His undivided attention was making this seem so much more awkward.

Amanda swallowed and felt pressed to explain. "I had crushes, dates, and all. And there were a couple of times I thought it might be love...but not enough to make me engage in...sex."

"We don't have to do anything you aren't comfortable with." Thomas managed to say. He reached for the shirt he had just removed. "I don't want you to feel any pressure to--"

She slid her body on top of his, causing his breath to catch at the feeling of her skin against him.

"I'm in love with you." She muttered against his lips. "Knowing you feel the same way makes me want to get as close to you as I can."

He could see the vulnerability in her eyes.

"The only reason I thought I should tell you was in case I'm not," she averted her gaze, "in case I'm not very good at it."

"You will be perfect." He wrapped his arms around her. "You don't have to worry about any of that."

He rolled them over and captured her lips in another heated kiss. Within moments they lost once more in the other. Every touch, every sensation seemed so much more perfect since they knew they had the other's heart for their own. There was no shyness, no hesitation, as they held tight to one another with every wave of pleasure that washed over them.

*****************

Thomas couldn't turn his mind off that night. He held Amanda close as she slept, allowing his hand to drift up and down her bare back in lazy caresses.

Something had happened when they made love.

His original plans for when she was done with this suitor mess had become obsolete.

And all because of his heart.

He hadn't expected to lose it completely. He had known his feelings for her were more intense than they had been over anyone else, but this...this was new. So different. So absolutely certain.

He didn't merely want a relationship with her anymore. He wanted her for the rest of his life. He needed her and her love to be his. There was only one situation where that could happen given their lifestyles and location of their residences.

I am going to have to marry her.

*****************

The next few days were spent with the two taking long drives to some of the smaller towns of Cordonia. Thomas listened to the stories she sprinkled in involving herself and either her family or friends. He found himself enjoying seeing this new side to her.

Gone was the stiff and proper duchess that had been present during every court event. She had been relaxed to a certain extent in California, so seeing her in Cordonia as a noble had been a bit of a shock for Thomas. Now that they had a chance to be a real couple, she seemed even more content and at ease around him when they were alone. Her laid back demeanor and humor that continuously brought a smile or chuckle from him had enchanted him.

There were even more surprises in store for the two. Amanda had let all her barriers down. Thomas realized during that he had done the same thing. It hadn't been a conscious decision. Something about her continued to drive him to being whatever was needed to win her over.

The sites they visited were deemed perfect for their film, yet if asked what he would remember most from their travels he would have to say that it was his time alone with her either in the car or in their cottage. They were able to talk about anything or simply sit in silence while reading or watching a movie. The rest of their time was enjoying the closeness that continued to evolve between them. It was something neither ever wanted to lose.

*****************

A few days later...

"Pick up." Olivia muttered when she heard the third ring go unanswered.

"Hello?" Amanda's sleepy voice croaked.

"Turn on your television." Olivia ordered.

"What?" Amanda sat up and blinked. "Why?"

"Do it." Olivia muttered as she hung up.

"What's wrong?" Thomas muttered into his pillow.

"I'm not sure." Amanda reached over him for the remote control.

She turned it on one of Cordonia's news station.

"...for those just tuning in, King Constantine has announced that he will be stepping down at the end of next month." A reporter said while rushing over to where Liam stood.

"Your highness?" He yelled out, "How does it feel knowing that at the end of your social season, you will be crowned king?"

"Which of the ladies do you think is most prepared to be queen?" Another yelled out.

Liam held his hands up to quiet all the questions being thrown at him. Riley stood beside him, blinking at the flashes of lights from photographers.

"Oh no." Amanda mumbled. "Poor Liam."

"What does this mean?" Thomas asked.

"It means that Liam has more stress than before." Amanda explained. "He has barely had a moment to come to terms to being our next king. Now he's pressured to choose a wife who will have to immediately step into the role of queen."

She slumped back against her pillows. "This announcement might make him hesitate in picking Riley."

"Why do you think that?" Thomas pulled her into his embrace.

"Leo's abdication has made the royal family appear weak, at least in some people's opinion. Liam has never had to be tested before since he was only the spare to the heir." She explained. "Now he isn't able to show what he is capable of, leadership wise, before taking the crown since he has to participate in this ridiculous queen choosing tradition." She huffed in irritation. "Now he'll stress over choosing a woman who can easily slip into the role of queen without a chance to learn what all that entails."

Thomas frowned somewhat. "And you don't think Riley can do that?"

"She probably could. With Regina there to help train her, I don't see why she wouldn't be a good queen." Amanda's brow furrowed. "The question is this: is Liam willing to put her through that." She snuggled closer into his embrace as she tried to think what Liam would do. "If they had more time alone together, then he would be able to discuss this with Riley and see how she feels about that aspect of marrying him."

Thomas pressed a kiss to the top of her head. After coming to his own decision about marriage, he too hoped that Liam wouldn't base his choice on anything other than his heart.

"Is there anything we can do?"

Amanda looked up at him, a teasing smile on her lips. "Why Mr. Hunt, are you planning on playing matchmaker?"

"No." He pressed a kiss to her lips. "But given everything Liam has done for us, I would like to find a way to repay him."

***********************

Back at the marina...

"Come with me." Olivia whispered.

Drake barely had a chance to catch his balance as she dragged him toward the docks.

"What are we doing?" He asked once they were out of earshot of the crowd.

"We are going to make certain that Riley impresses Constantine." She stopped him between her catamaran and the Beaumont's monohulled craft.

"We?" He folded his arms. "How are we to do this?"

"By Riley winning the race." She mimicked his stance with a slight irritated tilt to her lips. "You know how impressed the king is with anyone that can sail a boat."

"Yeah, but how are we doing that?" He repeated.

"Bertrand somehow lost his crew." Olivia checked over her shoulder to make certain no one was coming their way. "You will help Maxwell, Riley, and I assume Nadia can at least remain upright long enough to not be in the way, to win this race."

"You expect me and Maxwell to beat out not only your crew but everyone else with a full staff?" His eyes widened. "Liv, your vessel defeats everyone it has gone up against."

"I know." Her smug smirk briefly flashed. "That's why I too will be short a few crew members to help even the odds somewhat." Her eyes narrowed in thought. "We have to make it look like I'm winning until the last second."

She refocused on Drake. "After Constantine's announcement, he will be critically studying all the ladies he doesn't know well."

Drake's stance eased. "Brooks needs every chance to impress him before the Coronation."

"Exactly." Olivia gestured toward the schooner named, Squidsters' Paradise. "Quickly, get on board and be waiting on them."

Drake grinned at her. "I can't believe you're willing to throw the race for Riley."

She rolled her eyes. "I'm not doing it for her, I'm doing it for Liam." She huffed while boarding her own, Knife's Edge. "She's what he wants."

"I still think you are developing a soft spot for her." Drake called out.

"Whatever." She grumbled.

He chuckled at the insults she would occasionally say loud enough for him to hear while checking the rigging.

********************

Back at the cottage...

"The American won! A thrilled Lady Riley Brooks proved once again why she is a favorite among Prince Liam's suitors. She with only the assistance of Sir Drake Walker and Lord and Lady Beaumont, surprised everyone when she passed Duchess Olivia's boat. Prince Liam was witnessed beaming as he and King Constantine hurried over to congratulate her. After the break, we will hear from our panel about the number of Regatta winners who have then gone on to be the chosen spouse by the crown's heir."

Amanda looked up from packing to catch a few shots of Liam and Riley.

Thomas paused in his when he noticed her still. He then saw what she did.

Liam couldn't hide at all how much he adored Riley.

"At least when the court comes to St Orella, I can put them in rooms close to each other's." Amanda said. "If they are placed in my family wing then they won't have to worry about any other suitors interrupting them."

"How many rooms are in this family wing of yours?" Thomas asked.

"There's my chambers," she counted on her fingers. "Then the gray room, which is held for the king and queen. The blue room. That is usually Liam's." Her brow furrowed. "Maxwell and Nadia will need the green one I think for more space. Olivia usually takes the cream and gold one for the views from the balcony. Drake claimed the teal one years ago." She glanced up at Thomas. "I had planned on placing you in the burgundy room next to mine, if you would like."

"I would."

"Good." Her smile was warm. "I'll put Riley in between Maxwell and Drake's rooms." Her brow furrowed again. "I hope she doesn't mind the color lavender. That was my mother's favorite and reason she decorated the room that way."

"How long will it take to drive to St Orella from here?"

"About six and a half hours."

********************

St Orella...

After a lengthy tour of the massive estate, Thomas knew that there was no other place he needed to see to film. Part of the castle was used as a museum of sorts with many rooms remaining as they were centuries ago. The ballroom held him spellbound as he took in the beauty of the honey colored floors, gleaming in the light from the crystal chandeliers.

While he took in the gilded aesthetics, Amanda finalized decisions with her butler and housekeeper for when the court would arrive.

"We will be at Applewood for about eleven days." She explained. "I'll return as early as I can to help finish up preparations." She handed over her lists for menus for each day along with room assignments and seating charts. "If there is anything either of you notice that needs to be done, please don't hesitate to remedy it or to call me." A bright smile graced her lips. "I trust both of you to handle whatever happens."

Thomas watched the two servants puff up with pride as they reassured their mistress that all would be made perfect for her.

Once they were alone, Amanda turned toward him and held her hand out.

"Where are we going?" He asked as he allowed her to pull him along.

"To one of my favorite rooms." She winked at him. "I think you'll approve."

He chuckled at her trying to be cryptic. "I've seen your library." He lowered his voice as they passed by where some servants were working. "And your bedroom."

Amanda couldn't suppress her laughter. "This is something else entirely."

She led him back into one of the drawing rooms filled with antiques and priceless works of art. Her fingers felt along the engravings of flowers and leaves along the fireplace mantle then pressed on a nearby wall.

A doorway was created.

Thomas quirked an eyebrow in silent question.

Taking his hand again, Amanda led him into a dark hidden room. With a flip of a switch, he saw that it was a large theater room decorated in the style of the early 1930's.

"I read that one of my ancestors fell in love with a producer from Hollywood. They used to hold private screenings and wild parties during the beginning of talking pictures."

Thomas took in the large screen, blood red curtains, and decorations that seemed to have been left over from that bygone era.

Amanda wound her arms wound his neck while a smile played about her lips. "Would you like to have a movie date in here, Mr. Hunt?" Her fingers slipped into his hair when he kissed her. "I know it isn't quite like a movie theater, but we--"

"It's better than one." He interrupted. "Because here I can have you all to myself."

"Does this mean you will go out with me?" She teased.

"Yes." He managed to say before they heard a throat clear.

Her butler kept his eyes averted. "Dinner is ready, your grace."

"Thank you, Hudson." Amanda eased out of Thomas's arms. "Shall we, Mr. Hunt?"

He offered his arm as the two walked towards her dining room.

*********************

The next morning, Thomas left Amanda sleeping and headed into the small nearby town.

He walked past numerous charming shops and eateries that had yet to open until he came to the one that Hudson promised would both meet his needs and be discreet. Knocking on the door with the sign still saying that they were closed, he tried to be patient as he waited on the proprietor he had spoken with earlier.

"Mr. Hunt?" A middle aged woman greeted him. "Welcome. Please do come in."

"Thank you." He looked about at the many glass cases showcasing various pieces of jewelry.

It wasn't quite the quality of selection he was hoping to find.

"If you'll just come this way," the woman gestured toward a back door. "I think you'll find this to be more what you described.

Another room of similar size was hidden with displays of larger, more glittering gemstones. A standing safe sat against one wall, which was soon opened by the woman's balding husband.

Necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings sat upon velvet padded trays.

Thomas nodded in approval as he searched for just the right engagement ring.

Each one was carefully studied while the couple explained the carat and type.

And then Thomas found it. He knew as soon as he saw it that it was the one meant for his duchess. The six carat cushion diamond ring was perfect. The gold band had an old fashioned sense to it and had diamonds all along it.

The irony of the princess cut diamond was not lost on him and knew it would make her laugh.

After all, she was willing to give up a chance with a prince for him.

He returned to St Orella before Amanda had awakened. With a plan forming, Thomas decided to leave the ring hidden in his guest room. With Hudson's assistance, he hid it in a small dresser drawer that could be locked. Though he wanted to ask her right away, he thought he should at least discuss it with Liam and see how they should go about this.

Thomas then decided he would ask Amanda to marry him the night of her ball.

********************

Applewood...

"I'll see you at dinner." Amanda mumbled as she was separated from Thomas at the top of the stairs.

He nodded with a slight frown forming as he was led in the opposite direction from her. He knew once they were back with the court that they would have to revert to their friendship status. He hadn't expected it to affect him so severely. He knew these next few weeks would be difficult to endure.

It seemed that either the king or queen had decided to assign rooms according to rank.

Amanda's brow furrowed when she was taken down a vaguely familiar hallway, one she hadn't been placed in since she was a young teenager. Often when she would visit Liam here, he allowed her to pick the room she wanted. She usually chose one that lay to the north and had views of the apple orchards that dotted Applewood's rolling hills.

This time she was placed in one on the far side of the estate with a view of the hedge maze. Her luggage was brought in while a maid gave her an update on the evening's dinner plans.

Amanda left her door open once she dismissed the maid in the hopes of seeing just who her neighbors would be.

Her eyes widened somewhat when the king paused in her doorway on the way to his own chambers which were a few doors down from hers.

"Ah, your grace." He smiled at her. "You were greatly missed these last few weeks."

She curtsied. "You are too kind, your majesty." Her answering smile couldn't hide her excitement. "But the absence was well worth it. Mr. Hunt is convinced he can successfully film everything here."

"Good." He beamed at her. "I look forward to hearing his ideas." He left her doorway and knocked on the one next to hers.

"I have a surprise for you." She could hear him say.

The next moment she saw a slightly bemused Liam peek inside her room.

Instead of their normal way of greeting one another, they both fell back to their formal manners as Constantine observed them.

"Welcome back, my lady." Liam flashed a brief grin at her. "I hope your trip around Cordonia was successful."

"It was, thank you."

Constantine chuckled. "I'll leave you two alone to talk."

Once they heard his door close, the two relaxed.

Liam came inside and shut her door. "Now, how did it really go?"

"Perfect." Amanda sighed. "I loved every moment we had alone together."

He hugged her. "That was what I hoped for the two of you."

"What about you and a certain American?" She teased. "Any special time alone?"

"A few." He admitted before grimacing. "I assume you heard the news." He slumped back onto a small sofa. "What a mess this has turned into."

"I saw it on the news." She sat down next to him. "Don't let your father's decision affect your choice."

"Amanda, you and I both know that it will affect it whether I wish it to or not." He rubbed his hands over his face. "Father has spent more time than usual in pointing out which ladies should be on my final list."

"Oh." A slight frown firmed on her lips. "Is Riley on the list?"

"Yes, but only because I pointed out to him how much the people adore her like they did my mother." He turned toward her. "What am I to do? She has never experienced any of the pressures of ruling, but I..."

"You...?" She prompted after a few beats of silence.

"I believe she would be an amazing queen." He said softly. "Her compassion and loyalty would be what the people of Cordonia could always depend on."

"Not to mention keeping their king happy." Amanda pointed out.

Liam snorted in his laughter. "Yes, they would definitely have a more pleasant ruler if I was free to choose her."

"As I recall, you are the one who will be given ultimate power here." She reminded him. "I think that goes along with choosing the lady you care for the most."

"It's more than caring." Heat slowly went up the back of his neck and ears. "I think I'm in love with Riley."

"Then your choice is made." Amanda relaxed back against the cushions and nudged him with her elbow. "I know you have to wait until the end of this social season to tell the world, but I don't see any harm in you enjoying the fact that you have found your queen."

"I wish I had more opportunities to speak with her alone and make certain this is a life she can live happily." His eyes narrowed as he stared off in the distance. "I don't want her to feel pressured into accepting my proposal."

"No chance of finding time here?" She asked.

"Not with Father and Regina inviting senior members of the court to speak to me about their views and such."

Amanda looked about her room. "Where is Riley's room?"

"On the far side, where Drake's room is." He grimaced. "I overheard Father say to Regina that I needed to be reminded of the other suitors vying for my hand."

"Oh." A thought occurred to Amanda. She got up and walked over to a bookcase. She felt around along the top of the third shelf.

"What are you doing?" Liam asked.

"Seeing if I remember this room correctly. If I'm not mistaken, we used to--" she heard a click. "Aha!"

Stepping back, she swung the bookcase toward her room, revealing another door.

"Remember how Drake never could figure out how you and I always managed to win hide and seek together when stuck indoors?" She asked.

Liam's dawning smile was her answer.

"Wait here." He ordered on his way out of the room.

The second door opened, revealing his chambers.

"This is perfect." Amanda whispered, motioning him back into her room. "I'll simply switch rooms with Riley each night once everyone's asleep. Then, we can switch again before everyone wakes up that way your father won't be insulted that we rearranged our rooms."

Liam's eyes widened. "You would give up sleep?"

She laughed with a nod. "I would for you." She took his hand. "You were the one to not only convince Thomas to come here for me, but in finding us ways to be alone." She squeezed his hand. "The least I can do is give you and Riley a chance to be alone in here so that you can decide on your future together."

Liam hugged her tight. "Thank you." He shook his head. "I don't have the words of how much this means to me."

"You don't need them." She patted his back. "Now then. I'm going to go find her and share our plan." She opened up her door and peeped out. "We'll keep this a secret from everyone."

Once she saw that the hallways were busy with members of the court being placed in their rooms, she managed to disappear in the mad shuffle on her way to fix this situation.

#and then I left you #thomas hunt x amanda #Thomas Hunt #and then I met you #thomas hunt x oc #liam x riley #olivia x drake #olivia nevrakis #maxwell x nadia #choices RCD #choices red carpet diaries #choices the royal romance #choices crossover fanfic #perfect match nadia #pm nadia park

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tabloidtoc · 4 years

Text

Us, January 11

You can buy a copy of this issue for your very own at my eBay store: https://www.ebay.com/str/bradentonbooks

Cover: Diets That Work -- Julianne Hough

Page 2: Red Carpet -- Stars flex their right to bare leg in high-slit dresses -- Dua Lipa, Cynthia Erivo, Kristin Cavallari, Bebe Rexha, Sydney Sweeney

Page 3: Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez, Ariel Winter, Hailey Bieber, Shay Mitchell

Page 4: Who Wore It Best? Olivia Wilde vs. Natalie Portman, Ashley Greene vs. Rachel Zoe

Page 6: Loose Talk -- Barack Obama joking about quarantining with his daughter Malia’s boyfriend, Pink revealing she broke her ankle and had a staph infection in addition to testing positive for coronavirus, Amal Clooney joking to husband George Clooney about the time and effort she put into her new 1000-page legal book, Miley Cyrus on feeling like she really made it after Cher slammed her 2013 VMAs performance, Anderson Cooper on being a dad to 8-month-old Wyatt

Page 8: Contents

Page 10: Hot Pics -- Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani stopped at the music studio together in Pasadena

Page 11: Tiger Woods and son Charlie teamed up for the PNC Championship in Orlando, Vivica A. Fox during a tropical getaway in Tulum in Mexico, Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner took a stroll around the village and did some shopping in Mammoth Lakes, California

Page 12: Paris Hilton and Carter Reum in Sherman Oaks, Niecy Nash showed support for Regina King at a drive-in event for her film One Night in Miami in Malibu, Candice Swanepoel in a white bathing suit in Miami

Page 13: Duchess Camilla held a virtual royal engagement in London, Dancing With the Stars couple Sasha Farber and Emma Slater were in a great mood while out and about just days after becoming American citizens in L.A.

Page 14: Stars They’re Just Like Us -- Matt James hit the golf course in Jupiter in Florida, Renee Zellweger with an armload of packages in L.A., pregnant Emily Ratajkowski sipped on a beverage during a beach day in L.A.

Page 15: Molly Shannon hopped on her bike after withdrawing cash from the ATM in L.A., Sandra Lee taking out the trash at her new place just days after moving out of the N.Y. home she shared with her ex Gov. Andrew Cuomo in Malibu

Page 16: Seeing Double -- mom match with their mini-me’s -- Serena Williams and daughter Alexis Olympia Jr., Sutton Foster and daughter Emily, Gabrielle Union and daughter Kaavia, Kylie Jenner and daughter Stormi, Cardi B and daughter Kulture

Page 17: Kourtney Kardashian and daughter Penelope, Tamera Mowry-Housley and daughter Ariah, Eva Longoria and son Santiago, pregnant Kelly Rowland and son Titan

Page 18: Lady Gaga’s hair looks great in all hues

Page 20: Love Lives -- Lauren Burnham and Arie Luyendyk Jr. welcoming twins

Page 21: Kevin Jonas commemorated his 11th wedding anniversary with wife Danielle by sharing a photo of the two posing at the very spot they met, Chrishell Stause is defending her new romance with Keo Motsepe against all of the conspiracy theories, Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest’s love was built to last

Page 22: Just days after Shia LaBeouf was sued by his ex FKA Twigs for sexual battery and assault and emotional distress Shia was spotted making out with Margaret Qualley at LAX airport -- they’re very much in the honeymoon phase and Margaret’s totally smitten and she trusts he’s not the bad guy people say he is but Margaret’s loved ones are concerned about her new beau especially her mother Andie MacDowell who’s keeping an extremely close watch on the situation and if Shia so much puts a foot out of line she’ll come down on him like a ton of bricks -- Shia insists he’s a changed man and that he’ll never go back to those dark days ever again

Page 23: Life behind bars hasn’t been easy for Mossimo Giannulli and he’s having a rough time -- he’s in Covid-19-related protective custody and spending almost all of his time in his cell has been very mentally taxing but he’s doing his best to stay positive by reading, writing letters to his family and planning future business ventures and turning to prayer when he feels weak

* After relapsing in December John Mulaney is hoping to make 2021 a better year and he’s committed to a total change of lifestyle -- John who has been vocal about his decades-long substance abuse struggles and he had been on a really long run of bad habits that had turned his life upside down but his family and friends are standing by his side and they’re proud that he’s finally getting the help he so desperately needed for quite some time

* Keeping Up With Us -- Maren Morris has officially cancelled her upcoming tour due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and is in the midst of working on her third album, Rachel Zoe was scarred for life after her 9-year-old son Skyler fell 40 feet from a ski lift, TikTok star Charli D’Amerlio and her family are getting their own reality series, Wilmer Valderrama and his fiancee Amanda Pacheco are expecting their first child, six months after The Weeknd put his Hidden Hills mansion on the market for $25 million his asking price has been slashed to just under under $22 million

Page 24: A Day in Our Life -- Sistine and Sophia Stallone

Page 25: Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez are engaged -- she’s beyond excited and they are so in love and committed to spend the rest of their lives together and her loved ones approve of the real estate agent

Page 26: What Leah Remini Knows -- actress and Scientology critic Leah is calling out Tom Cruise for his on-set freak-out

Page 28: Reality Bites -- these stars got their first moments in the spotlight appearing on unscripted TV shows -- Lady Gaga, Cardi B, Laverne Cox, Kesha

Page 29: Aaron Paul, Josh Henderson, Emma Stone, Jamie Chung

Page 31: Cover Story -- Survival of the Fittest -- how the hottest stars get and stay in shape -- Halle Berry

Page 32: Julianne Hough, Jessica Simpson, Carrie Underwood

Page 33: Weight Loss Winners -- Rebel Wilson, Tiffany Haddish, Adele

Page 34: Jennifer Aniston, Gal Gadot

Page 36: Kaley Cuoco, Jennifer Lopez

Page 37: Power Couples -- Thom Evans and Nicole Scherzinger, Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade, Mark Consuelos and Kelly Ripa, Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes

Page 38: My Healthy Routine -- Kristin Cavallari, Miranda Kerr

Page 39: Reese Witherspoon, Vanessa Hudgens

Page 40: Style -- shades of glory -- Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2021 is actually two defining hues -- wear Illuminating Yellow and Ultimate Gray in myriad ways

Page 42: Entertainment -- Gina Torres on her role on 9-1-1: Lone Star

Page 43: 2021 movie preview

Page 46: Fashion Police -- Gwen Stefani, Ashley Roberts, Lily Collins

Page 47: Saweetie, Gavin Rossdale, Bella Thorne

Page 48: 25 Things You Don’t Know About Me -- Brian Austin Green

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renohasbigtits · 4 years

Note

Omg your Iggy mpreg headcanon is so gooooddd! Will you consider to do another Iggy mpreg headcanon which takes place in the true ending?

Mpreg Ignis (Final Fantasy 15: True Ending Version)

AHAAHAHAHAH! I can’t believe that people really like the Mpreg Ignis Headcanon! Thank you so much!

Something you guys have probably noticed by now is that I’m not a huge fan of the true ending.

Not saying it’s bad, I just don’t like how:

•Noct dies

•Iggy is blind

•Ravus dies

I also don’t agree with the assumption that the alternative ending is a “happier ending” because Luna is still dead.

But I digress, I don’t think the ending is bad. it’s just not my favorite ending.

But I will do it. I will give the people what they want!

To make this one different than the Alternative ending this one will have;

•Ignis is Blind :(

•Noctis is dead (also Ravus)

•Ignis has his own restaurant because of course he should!!!

I guess this takes place two years after The light is restored. Idk you change that if ya want to.

Apologies if it’s similar to the Alternative version, I did try my best to make this one different!

Yes it’ll albaby’s are default Female but you can change it if you want to!

Alright alright, less talking, Let’s go!

(this does contain Mpreg =Male Pregnancy. Don’t like? Don’t read!)

•Look

•this man is a lot of things (hotter than satan is one of em.)

•but happy isn’t really one of them rn.

•Just broken up with his long time partner.

•things aren’t going well for him...

•than suddenly he’s getting sick!

• certain smells bother him, he’s throwing up every morning.

•it’s gotten to the point where he can’t really cook anymore at his restaurant. And he now has to supervise.

•not that it’s a huge issue since there are other amazing cooks there to help but Ignis does not like sitting on the sidelines.

•than a female co-worker, Shannon, asks Iggy what’s wrong, he tells her that he has a “strange illness”

•she asks what the symptoms are

•tiredness

•morning sickness

•Smell sensitivity

•Mood swings

•than she starts giggling.

•”Ignis, I’m a chef but I’m also a Mother of 3 kids.”

• “What are you imply, Pray tell?”

•”I think your Pregnant. You have the classic symptoms.”

•Ignis was dumbfounded. 𝘞𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘵?

•He made a Doctors appointment.

•After what feels like 𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴, The Doctor comes back with the results.

•”Mr Scientia, The results are in. You are Pregnant! Congratulations!”

•Ignis was not one to be speechless but this...

•he wasn’t sure what to do!!

•he wasn’t sure if he was ready for Parenthood.

•He was Blind and he couldn’t never see what his child would look like.

•or, if it was the right time....

•so he turned to his friends, Prompto and Gladiolus, for help.

•Prompto had to ask if Iggy’s joking

•he wasn’t obviously

•Gladio asks if Ignis has tried to get the other parent involved.

•Ignis did tried to do that.

•it didn’t go well...

•the other parent outwardly admitted that they did not want to be in the baby’s life.

•Well Fuck

•Poor Ignis (someone hug him 🥺)

•Prompto and Gladiolus, being the best friends they are decided then and there, that there gonna help Ignis, no matter what decision he makes.

•Shannon, the coworker in question, steps up and offers Ignis tips on pregnancy, since she knows it can be stressful, especially with your first one.

•Ignis really appreciates it.

•she’s also leads when Ignis has a doctors appointment or is too sick to be there.

•8 Weeks: Ignis + Pregnant = Moody Ignis

•Little things bother him more than usual.

•Ignis almost Lashed out Prompto because he did something that annoyed him.

•Shannon assured Prompto that this is just a mood swing and that he didn’t mean it.

•at this point, Ignis and Shannon have started become close due to the fact that she’s basically has become his right hand man (or woman)

•Her helping more also has taken any stress Iggy has had about it off his chest.

•Ignis couldn’t be more greatful.

•12 weeks: a small bump has started to show. So adorable!

•And of course, ya know Prompto is gonna take SO.MANY.PICS of Ignis’s bump growing.

•he’s gonna scrapbook it (rip his sd card tho)

•lris already has started making baby clothes. Girl clothes.

•15 weeks: You thought he was a mom before? Oh you ain’t seen nothing yet!

•he acts real fatherly (or motherly) to the youngest employee at the restaurant.

•good thing to because the poor guy is always a nervous reck.

•he has talent but very little confidence. So Ignis assuring him, helps a lot.

•Shannon is now basically his iggy’s real hand man (or woman)

•she helps, even when Ignis’s there.

•not just in work, but in his pregnancy too (I swear. I did not mean to create a character)

•giving him tips, things to help him, with baby supplies to buy. She’s the real mvp.

•(let’s skip a little)

•20 Weeks: Ignis has already started to feel her move. It 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 his heart. (I’ll see myself out 🚪)

•All joking aside, he was genuinely touched (that wasn’t a pun. I swear!) by feeling her kick.

•At this point, Ignis had already found out it’s a girl. (Again, you can change it if ya want to.)

•much to lris’s delight.

• THATS IT! HE’S MAKING A BUN IN THE OVEN! (>:)

•lord take the wheel....

• he tries to control himself, when it comes to his strange cravings (like pickles with peanut butter?? Wtf???)

•but he gives in when no one’s looking.

•𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘯 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰

•”I Noticed Ignis.”

•”I don’t know why you are referring to.”

•25-28 weeks: he’s already getting bigger (don’t say that to his face tho.)

•if you think his work is being put on hold while being very pregnant, you clearly have never met Ignis.

•of course, he is being a little more easy on himself. Not walking around as much and Shannon makes a lot more decisions (with iggy’s trust)

•but he is a workaholic, so he’s working til he takes maternity leave.

•(I’m really trying to add Gladio to the story but lol)

•Prompto is already getting a new sd card cause he’s taking SO.MANY.PREGNANCY. PICS.

• “Prompto, if you don’t take any unnecessary pictures, you wouldn’t have to buy another sd car-

•”I AM NOT DELETING ANY OF THIS PICS MR MOM!”

•32 Weeks (I’m trying not to make this boring lol): He’s still working!!

•Ain't nothin' gonna break-a my stride, Nobody gonna slow me down!

•Shannon starts to get a bit worried.

•”Sir. I believe that you should take a break. Please”

•Ignis looked at his right hand and smile. “I should. Thank you Shannon.”

•36 weeks: He feels 𝘵 𝘪 𝘳 𝘦 𝘥

•his poor swollen feet :(

•thankfully, lris is secretly planning a baby shower.

•Everyone is coming.

•Shannon distracting him until she’s called to bring him over.

•when Ignis sees this, he’s tears up.

•"𝘪𝘧 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘕𝘰𝘤𝘵 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦."

• he gets so many adorable gifts.

•Prompto gets him a Chocobo Plush (classic)

•Gladio gets him a toy dagger. This son of a Bit-

•”Hey, you are never too early to start training!”

•Shannon got him a baby mobile.

•lris gotten him more baby clothes. Yay....(Am I the only one who can’t stand getting clothes as a gift?)

• lris had made an adorable cake. In his mind, Iggy admitted that she was as good as he was.

•this mf still working around the restaurant from his office.

•”Igg-Sir. Can we talk?”

•”Yes Shannon. And you can call me Ignis, were mutuals.”

•”Ignis. Promise me that when you enter in the third trimester, that you’ll take maternity leave. You’ll need to prepare for your baby.”

•Ignis was taken a back a bit. Yes, her concerns were valid but he didn’t wanna put everything on Shannon.

•”Ignis, I know that you don’t wanna put everything on me but...but you need to Focus on your daughter. You need to prepare.”

•”I-“

•”I’ll handle it. I know what I’m doing.” She smiled.

•Ignis chuckled back. “Really?” Getting up from his chair.

•”Well.” She left while looking back. “I have learned from the best.”

•Ignis laughed. He did taught her well. “Alright. I will. Thank you Shannon.”

•”don’t thank me si- Ignis. I’m just doing my job.”

•honestly Shannon has been a great support system for Ignis. Not just because she knows a thing or two or three about pregnancy, but she really has stepped up.

•Ignis considers her a great friend.

37 weeks: 9 months. He now has to get ready.

•it’s his last day at the restaurant. For awhile anyways.

•it’s actually really emotional. The employees are sad that they won’t see him for awhile but are happy that he’s taking time to be ready on fatherhood (**cough cough Motherhood cough cough**)

•To Ignis, There like a family, a family he gained when he lost so much.

•his eyesight

• and Noct

•After they’ve closed, they celebrate.

•Ignis and Shannon smiling at everyone.

•”I’m proud of you Sir.”

•Ignis smiled back. “Really?”

•”Yeah. Your the bravest person I’ve met.”

•”How, Pray tell?”

•”You may be blind but you certainly don’t act like it. You 𝗡𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 let it stop you. I’m- I’m really proud of you.” She choked up.

•Ignis looked at her with his Emerald eyes and she looked back.

•”And I’m proud of you to, Shannon.”

•(let’s cut to the chase. Oooo. Foreshadowing.)•

•38 weeks: Ignis wonders how much his blindness will affect his daughter.

•he wasn’t lying when he said that his senses have grown. He basically doesn’t need any help.

•not that he wouldn’t have either way, but he doesn’t wanna be a burden on anyone. Including his daughter.

•Sometime during the day, Iggy starts feeling pain down his back.

•it wasn’t too bad, so he went on with his day.

•but the pain got worse.

•so bad that he started doing his deep breath’s.

•(y’all what it is!!)

•(weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee woooooooooooooooo 🚑)

•(that will never get old xD)

•The midwife tells him to get to the hospital, NOW!

•This is it.

•he has to be cut open....

• She was here.

•Ignis holding his daughter for the first time. Well, he broke down.

•he couldn’t see her but he was there to her hold her. He is there for her.

•”Hi Darling. I’m your Father.”

•she suddenly stopped crying and stared at his bad eye.

•After a week, hes able to take her home.

•And oh, If you thought Prompto took too many photos of Ignis’s pregnancy belly....oh boy.

•he immediately starts taking many, MANY MANY, Photos of her.

•she actually looked confused.

• Gladio joking said “so, when are we going to train her?”

•Ignis later made his food cold, on purpose later that night.

•Shannon got to hold her and fell in love with her immediately.

•”feels like holding my son for the first, all over again.” She said teared up.

•Over the years, She has grown to being a shy and a adorable little girl.

•She’s so helpful during work and is popular with the staff. They treat her like they’re siblings.

•She always tries to help Ignis’s blindness. Guiding him around.

•”Watch where your going Daddy.”

•Even tho, he can get around just fine. It warms his heart that she tries to help him.

•Of course, Ignis wishes that Noct could have Met her. Even once.

•but somehow, he believes that Noct is watching her in heaven.

•Noctis is so proud of his friend.

Wow! So long! Well I hoped ya like it. I hope the true ending version is just as good as the alternative version.

I thought it would be cute that he would have a restaurant. ^~^ Gladio got the right idea 💡

Also I did not mean to create a new character, Shannon, but eh why not? I grew attached to her over the story (she sounds like a like Karen but she’s a good Karen. I promise.) and who knows? She might show up in other Headcanons 😉

Also whether you ship her with Ignis, is up to you. Hehehe. I don’t blame you tho.

Anyways, I hoped who requested this, liked it 💙💜

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bigmafluff · 3 years

Text

Unreal Love Story “Henry Cavill” chapters 1-3

Sequel To My Story “Tom Hiddleston”

Summery

“ Tom Dear ! She is gone!” His mother says when her son barges thru her front door. Diana Hands a sobbing Charlie to His Stunned father Leading them into the house to a computer sitting @ her kitchen table with a flash drive in it. Just as Tom is about to say something . His Mom hush's them both and starts the video. I start with calming Charlie through the computer. “ Hello Little one . I'm am sorry I have to leave you so. But You are a strong young man . Sometimes even stronger than your father at times. Just know that I love you dear one and will always be your special friend . Now dry those tears and Go see Nanna . So Your dad and I can talk.” I said to Charlie thru the computer. Tom Knew after that our relationship was over maybe had been over for a while.

Chapter 1

Numbness,& NASCAR

I couldn't Stay in London. It hurt too much all I saw was pain. I couldn't go home yet still felt like I failed myself some how so home wouldn't work. So I numbed myself out in Cali. I did what I swore I wouldn't. I went full Party Girl. Between the parties ,clubs, Bars I was wasted most of the time. But I knew that being In Love Like this before then Losing love has it's down side . Tom and I had been it for 3 years. But towards the end I was more His son's nanny than his girlfriend . Most of his friends warned me this was one sided . He never got over Sophia Di Marino ,Charlie's Mom. The split was Mutual. I'm Not mad to be truthful. Annoyed really that I let it go on this long ..

So California I went , to numb the hurt. I don't give a rat's ass what they say about better to have Loved crap ! It still hurt's dammit! So Party Shannon I became. I still wrote my stories without impairment. By day I was the mildly hungover writer coffee in hand . Luca was still Daydreaming so I was still writing. But @ night Let's just say in the great words of Bill & Ted .” Party on Dudes” So I did. Shaking my ass Beer in hand in a club in south beach ! Rockin' out to Pink. I am vaguely aware I am Jamming with a rather large Englishmen Go Figure ! He has a familiar tone I can't place ,frankly all I see is curls ,beard & muscle , Cause I'm too drunk and don't care but he was hot and can grind Like no other. But even though I was no lady ,he was a gentleman And at the end of the night I was in my Hotel room clothes and dignity intact.

Woke the next morning with another hangover that I never use to get when I was younger. They still Suck! UGH! I'm about to start typing when I get a feed from TMZ. “TWH PROPOSES TO SDM!” I switch on my TV and sure enough The rock on her finger is massive and Charlie Looks so Happy . The numbness lifts along with the pain . I can see the sun again so I finally pack my stuff .

But not for England . I head home. I decide I need time with my son . So Arkansas, Hot Springs that is. Although when I get there I find out my son is in Florida . In Daytona Beach. At the Racetrack! My nephew Christian and his wife Kiki took Lucas to a NASCAR race and Somehow Lucas Landed a job as head mechanic for Carlos Contreras's race team. Shocked as I was, I get on a flight to Florida it is a good shocked but WOW. I got a Hotel room and then went to the track . Took me a little convincing to get in . Security walked me to the Pit where I found my baby boy covered in grease. Under a car . When Lucas jumped up and hugged me they left us alone . test moment's in a parent's life is seeing your child seceded at something he loves. This was Lucas's dream !Like writing is for me. It was his turn. Lucas Introduced me to Carlos with sparkles in his eyes . Carlos seemed to Like what My Son does. Even tells me that Because of my Boy, Carlos has won 8 races. How more proud can I get I am in tears. While I was here I went to a few races and Lucas and I raided the theme parks. Then one night Lucas had a grown up moment and told me I had to go back to the U.K.. He said I write my best stuff there and I need to make peace with Myself. How did my Autistic Son get so smart. Then he tells me. He is a big Guy now and He didn't need his Mom to hover.

Chapter 2

Something New

So once I'm back in London. I dust off My flat that Luke made sure I got despite me moving in with Tom. Besides writing, a few friend's gave me the intro to the London night life and I found a outlet to unwind . But I didn't drown myself like in Cali. But I still maintained my Party Mama status. Also I am exercising regularly, to compensate for the Night life . But I found that I have way's now that I am Back to make exercising fun. I do the Gym of course. But I also like rollerskating in Hyde or St. James park, when it's sunny. I found a Ice Skating rink that is 7 day's a week. And there is a indoor pool at the Gym I go to. .

But I realized some things while I was home in the states. I can't ever forget where I came from . So I pay it forward to 4 special organizations for charity and I never write them off my taxes . I went back to church I actually found a Nazarene church in the U.K. Honestly Church is what keeps me semi sober in the clubs on Friday and Saturday. No hangovers in Gods house .So I have been busy. By maintaining the order of my life like I did way before when My soul purpose was being a MOM. God, Family Friends career is a new addition but not that high on the list.

I found a way to keep myself going .My heart has even healed to a point and I am actually making good friends with “ The Hiddleston “ I can't even comprehend The fact that Sophia took Tom's name . I didn't think her agent's would let her do that. Any how I Am officially Aunty Shannon to Charlie and he even still talks to Lucas and they talk cars regularly according to Tom. As for right now though I'm actually doing more than writing I am at The Harold Pinter theater in London as a Producer and assistant to Kenneth Branaugh the director of a play Based on one of my fan fiction stories . It's a Vampire Love story with a family twist. No Not Twilight no blood sucking fairies here. But what has me excited is the cast . Tom is in it along a whole bunch of my fave idol's Including Henry Cavill as the male lead. . OK! I fibbed Kenny doesn't need me the whole time so I am writing when I am not teaching Charlie Who is acting for the first time. Tom is One Proud Papa! I will tell you what. And Charlie Looks like he is having a wonderful time despite playing a Girl demon!

also I do have a little Mystery of my own I am trying to solve. Every morning when I get to work. Yes I'm getting paid for this production. I go to my seat and drink my coffee but I find a different colored long stem lily in the seat . I asked Tom. If Charlie was doing it and I even ask Ken. None said It was them. Both even offered to investigate with me . Saying they have a little experience because they played P.I.'s

I was actually flattered I had an admirer. I just hope I won't regret taking the Lily more seriously. Anyway The play is gearing up for opening night I called Lucas's aide Reed to Se if He will be able to be in London for my Play . Which If it does well it will head to the States and go on Broadway. Now tell me if that ain't totally awesome. I.K.R. We as far as my Book's are concerned Luca start's Middle School. So Social interaction and puberty mixes in with his amazing world which should make for a wild ride for our readers. My honorary nephew is even reading them which make's my heart sing Oh! So I don't leave it out my lily was Aquamarine and silk today not real but it had a pink bow and it sparkled . He-he! Who ever this is knows I like things that sparkle. It makes me giddy.

Opening Night!!!!

My Lucas is here . Looking Just Like he did Prom Night When he took my god daughter to the prom. My boy is So handsome. Lucas has been working out so My lucas is Tall and Jacked thanks to His Buddy Phillip Hull. We get to ride in a Limo It will be Lucas's first time in one. Me! I'm In all Red Long red hair with a touch of gray at the temple and proud of it. A Long Jessica rabbit dress that sparkles in the light. Red flat's I ain't that crazy . It's gonna be a long night and I am in my 50's Heels are not in the program. I had red cloves and a red silk Shaw. I felt amazing and all my boy could say is Wow mama Look Pretty! LOL! I am also excited not only for the play but according to the Little note I got with My Red Rose that was sitting in my seat on the last day of practice. I get to meet my admirer tonight too

So Lucas and I are off Lucas is Like a school boy Looking around and he is also a little nervous. I can tell he Keeps Playing with his collar and tie. I made sure Luke had a pair of ear buds and his fave music in a MP3. And sunglasses to help with Lucas's experience. Plus so he doesn't have to deal with the red carpet stuff Reed is here so Lucas will be with me only for a few pictures then Reed will take him inside while I deal with the popularity this sold out play has caused . New York here we come!!!!!!

Lucas went inside as planned. And Luke is by my side in his place as my escort. Luke felt I shouldn't be alone. Because of the split and Tom's marriage. Even though Tom and I are cool talking about and he is even here with Taylor so I'm cool. I was having lot's of fun taking little interview's and pictures and such. Luke always said I was surprisingly easy going in the lime light and it shows tonight. `Sophia , Ken and I had some fun with the photo people and Kissed Each side of Tom's cheeks while he was trying to pic up Kenneth, then we Bent down to Kiss Ken's cheeks when Tom dropped him on his butt ,our booties where purposely in the air. Let's Just say we made Kenny's night! I was all in good fun Tom told me that Charlie was inside with new Hot wheels car's to show Lucas cause they are NASCAR ones.

Finishing up the pictures and fixing to go inside I was about to give up hope on there being an admirer. When I went to take one last. Picture, Henry Cavill came to Join me in the picture and whispered in my ear to Look down, as he grabbed my waist for the picture . I did. And their was a pink Lily and a white rose in his hand tied in a pink bow. Let's Just say that pic had my mouth hanging open and Henry laughing as we went in to the theater. Let the new dance begin.

Lois Lane never Got Superman this way Ha!

Chapter 3

Don't jump! One moment @ a Time.

As far as the play went it was as major success. I couldn't pay attention at all . I was staring at Henry the whole time In awe of all of this.As far as I was concerned it was like I had never tasted this before . I won't lie, it scares the shit out of me . I was a ball of nerves the whole play . It was Thomas all over again. @ least that was what I thought. Until Henry asked if I would sign a book for is Nephews Daughter who has Down syndrome. I was politely surprised . He then introduced himself to my Son. Which Lucas can recognize any actor who has ever played a Superhero or villain . Henry was one of our faves. He asked if we wanted to grab a bite to eat . Lucas always could eat. Even in his 30's endless Belly! Can you see 3 adult's in fancy dress in Mc. Donald's. I Loved it Because Henry took the liberty to date Lucas first. To me that Mc. Donald's was 5 stars. The Limo dropped 2 very full and sleepy men at My son's Hotel. I was sparkling in happiness. We pulled up in front of my flat but Henry wouldn't let me out yet. I think he wants to talk . So naturally I listened.

fore I could even say anything He Quieted me and held my hand . Baby Blues connected. Then he spoke. “ Shannon I know what you went through with Hiddleston. I grilled him after meeting you . Actually I'm kinda surprised he didn't rat me out. Story for another time. Now that you understand my intent. I want time. Time to know you. Also before you get nervous, will it help If I got permission from Lucas to date you and Charlie Hiddleston second's the permission. I'm normally a prideful Man But Shannon something inside Tell's me I am supposed to started something new with You. I want get to know you Date you proper. If anything let's see where it goes. Even if we don't connect more personally . We can at least catch a grind to a tune and groove like buddies”.

My breath hitch because I just realize that dude I was grinding with in California at that club. The English Dude. That was Henry!!!!! He notices my blush and Shakes his head showing me the bracelet. I smack his shoulder Laughing my Blush off. Then I told him I am willing to try and if all else fails Partying in New York won't get boring . Then he kissed my Palm and let me out . I gave him my # and told him to give me a call when he was ready to try. The Limo waited till I was Inside. But instead of Leaving The door opened and Henry came running up to me . Grabbed my waist, pulled me close and Kissed me. We exploded!!!!

Hand in Hand at JFK airport Henry and I go straight to the Hotel . No Not for that . We came early so Henry could as he says Court me proper. LOL! There is nothing I'd rather do the then run all over NYC for the first time with Henry. I have jumped in fully no comparing to any other love . This is true Eros and I'm going with the flow. That was our agreement for each other the next morning after the Play. To Just Love & enjoy till the fluffy lady quits singing.

I exploded because of SuperMan!

{None of this story is real the pic are from Googles images !!!!!!!!!!!!}

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talltalesandbedtimestories · 4 years

Text

House Edge

Title: House Edge (COMPLETE)

Characters/Pairing: Dean Winchester x Reader, Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester

Summary: You're on a Girls Trip to Vegas and meet a certain hunter at the buffet.

Word Count: 9,100

Warnings: fluff, flirting, gambling, strip club, private dance, mild language

A/N: My first reader insert try. I'm thinking this is sometime around Season 7. Maybe the annual pilgrimage to Vegas when Becky whammies Sam. The majority of events that unfold will probably be right before Dean gets the text from Sam to meet up with him. Thunder From Down Under probably wasn't at Vegas yet - who knows - artistic license and all that. Also, I don't have an extensive knowledge of gambling, so most of what you'll read is from what I've Googled. If something is terribly wrong, feel free to let me know. But, I tried to stay in the vague zone.

Your head pounded and sloshed from the one too many Malibu Bay Breezes you’d ingested during the “Thunder From Down Under” show that ended minutes ago. Three of the nine others in your group were still hooting and hollering at the oil slicked row of hyper muscled, surreal Australian blokes on stage. In addition to the baby oil, the men were bathing in the estrogen overload and accolades washing over them. Wads of cash, stuffed into the glittery floss substituting as underwear, stuck to aforementioned oil slicked skin.

It had been fun, there was no doubt. But the lights and the music and the rabid female reactions were hitting you all at once. Kasey pulled you by the elbow and screamed in your ear. “Wanna get a photo with Faux Fabio?” She pointed to the long-haired blond Adonis with a shoulder span the width of a football field.

You frowned. “How much is that going to run me?”

“Shannon!” Kasey called across the table, still too close to your delicate ear drums. “How much to rub up to one of ‘em?” You were glad you weren’t sharing a room with Kasey. She’d be hurling in the toilet for most of the night after the number of Tequila shots she’d downed. So far. And the night was relatively early. Especially for Vegas.

“Thirty bucks, I think.” Shannon shrugged, paying more attention to her phone.

You shook your head. Your single status and mid-level office job already had you on a strict budget for this girls’ getaway weekend. “I’m good. Besides, the more up close I get, the more disappointed I think I’ll be.” Shannon nodded with a smirk in agreement, still staring at her screen.

Kasey huffed. “Well, Linda, Stacey and Mira are already in line. I’m going to see if I can cut!” She dashed off without another word.

Women skirted and pushed past your standing frame. You tried to become one with the table in front of you. Anything to avoid being pulled into the stampede or thrown to the ground, and mercilessly stomped on by stilettos and sneakers.

Even Shannon looked a bit miffed at the onslaught as you stared at her in a half-cry for help. “My God.” She rolled her eyes.

“Where did Cathy and that bunch disappear to?” You yelled over.

“Who knows?”

You sighed. “What was next on the itinerary?”

“I think any plans are out the window. Every woman for herself.” Shannon tapped on her phone. “My little one’s running a fever. I’m going to get back to the hotel room so I can check in at home.”

You nodded. The only thing waiting for you at home was your tabby, Tyrion. Your Grandma-type neighbor down the hall, Gladys, had offered to cat sit. So there was no one, human or feline, actually waiting for you back in your one-bedroom apartment in Albuquerque.

Holding your breath, you pushed yourself into the crowd, moving against the current towards the exit instead of the line for photos. The quadruple threat of your old college pals was screaming in line about which stripper had the tightest ass.

It wasn’t that you didn’t want to have a good time or ogle good looking men. Far from it. But gambling was more your scene anyway. You had a pretty good teacher with your last boyfriend when it came to Blackjack. You breathed a sigh of relief when you shimmied out of the entertainment venue and stepped foot onto the busy carpet of the Excaliber’s casino floor. Your phone read 9:10 pm. There was still plenty of time to lose your shirt.

You’d popped a few aspirin and downed a whole bottle of water in the sitting area of the women’s bathroom, hoping to fend off a killer hangover in the morning. A quick reapplication of lipstick and you were ready to scope out a good table.

After about an hour, you’d split, hit, and stood with the best of them at one table. There’d been one experienced player, Ron, that looked like he’d planted roots in the seat next to you. He got to talking, as the old timers usually did, and you’d learned he was born and raised in Reno. You had a nice little chat with Ron and Stevie, the female dealer, and fended off a few men who sat on the other side and hit on you more than the cards they were dealt.

“That is not a bad takeaway, there.” Ron nodded when you decided to cash out.

“Thanks. Pleasure, Ron. You take care.”

“You too, pretty lady. Remember what I said about Roulette. You should try it once.”

The betting chips clinked in your plastic souvenir cup. “I might.”

He tipped you a two-finger salute. You wandered, your stomach empty. The buffet to end all buffets calling your name.

“Fuck it.” After turning most of your chips into cash at the counter, leaving one $50 chip in your jean pocket, you headed for the International food amalgamation that guaranteed intense heartburn and bloating in the morning.

Fluorescent lights and sneeze shields presented you with choices beyond comprehension. You grabbed a large plate and planned your method of attack. One of your pink manicured nails tapped on the bottom of the china. “Ease into it.” You decided to go with the Mediterranean spread first. Before you knew it, there were helpings of General Tso’s chicken, pizza, potstickers, mashed potatoes and French fries, along with some bratwurst and sauerkraut. The grumbling from your tummy may have been a warning when you sat down at the table for two, alone, on the cafeteria style floor. The waitress gave you a tired smile when she dropped off your iced tea.

You shoveled some sauce drenched chicken into your mouth and took in the scene. People floating around, getting up for seconds or thirds, talking about how much money they lost or won, what shows they should try to see while they were in Vegas. You chewed and stared at the formidable back of a man at the table directly ahead of you. He’d give Faux Fabio a run for his money. He had fluffy, long brown hair. His animated storytelling hands got your attention. You heard a deep chuckle and slurp from his table sharer, out of your view because of the mountain man. “Alright,” the man stated, “Going to give the Poker Room another go. Coming?”

“Nah.” The very deep voice replied. “I’ve still gotta hit the dessert line.”

You watched the man rise from his seat, floored by how tall he was. And, when he turned, you saw how very cute he was. You’d have paid thirty bucks to snap a picture with this man. He gave you a sweet little smile when he walked past. You couldn’t help but look over your shoulder and take in the rest of him as he left. Smacking your lips and shaking your head, you turned back to your plate to resume the dent made in the food. Your eyes darted up to look at the man left alone at the table. You were pretty sure your mouth gaped open at the sight of him, staring at you. He wiped at his face with a napkin.

Oh my. If the man that left appeared sweet and cute with just a smile, this one was a boatload of sexy and trouble with that smirk. You could tell by the way he took his time inventorying you with care, chewing slow the whole time. One side of his lip curled up in another grin variation. He nodded at you in greeting from across both tables. You smiled back and then pretended to stare at your food. He tossed the napkin on his plate and stood up. You peeked up and noted he was layered in a couple shirts and broken in jeans, like his partner. Not quite as tall; but, still very tall in your estimation. You wondered what he’d look like in a g-string and bathed in baby oil.

And, oh boy. He was walking straight over to your table. Yep, he was very tall, by the way you had to tilt your head backwards when he strolled up. He smacked his lips, disrupting the beaming smile before he spoke. “That was my little brother you were checking out. Want me to give you his number?”

You had to lean back in your seat a bit more. “Um. No, that’s okay.” Geez, he was pretty. Holy Facial Symmetry Batman!

He nodded, then smiled again. “Want to give me your number?”

You had to chuckle at the bravado. “Does that work for you a lot?”

He shrugged. “Works enough.”

“I don’t doubt it.” You decided to play along. “How long are you in Vegas?”

His brows rose up. “Just tonight.”

You tisked. “Not enough of a time commitment for what I’d want to do.”

He chuckled this time. “Is that so?”

You nodded.

He pointed to your plate. “Can I get you anything? I’m heading back up.”

“I think this should tide me over for a while. But, thanks.”

His jaw clenched. “Can I join you when I get back?”

What the hell. “Sure.” You smiled.

“Man, you almost kept up with me.” Dean sighed and rubbed his tummy after his third dessert plate.

“Hardly.” You were only working on your second serving of what might be considered actual food. A half hour had passed, you sitting with this veritable stranger. Talking about nothing of much importance, but having a grand time flirting, enjoying his rough and rugged demeanor and the boyish charm. One of your palms hit the tabletop. “I’m tapping out.”

“Not much for sweets?” He leaned in and studied you. Stunning green eyes twinkled with mischief. He batted the kind of lashes you could only get with a thick coating of mascara. “Or are you already sweet enough?”

“Is this like an Ocean’s Eleven thing?”

His smile dropped, waiting for you to elaborate. “Come again?”

“Am I like some unwitting part of a huge con job going down in the money room right now?”

He chuckled. “I’m not following, sweetheart.”

“Why are you sitting here with me?”

“Are you kidding?” He leaned way back in his chair, teetering on the back two legs. An arm swept out from his side in your direction. “Have you seen yourself?”

You pursed your lips. “Please.”

He raised a hand. “I’m not going to try and convince you. But I may take advantage. Commandeer more of your time, since you think you don’t deserve mine.”

“So you are a con man.”

He shook his head. That smile could only belong to the most skilled grifter. “If I was a good con man, I’d have more than a hundred dollars to my name after half a day in this ‘It’s a Small World’ casino.”

“It is a bit Disneyfied, isn’t it?”

A shrug. “Well, it’s cleaner than the ones near the motel Sam and I are staying at, so that’s a plus.”

The plate of food in front of you looked less and less appetizing as the seconds passed. Pushing it away, you really wanted to dig into the dessert that was Dean. But you’d only had two one-night stands in your life. Neither one was spectacular and left you full of regret that you’d had them to begin with. But this man. Oh, you had a feeling this man would love you and leave you with a million other regrets and create an addiction you’d never be able to fulfill again. What was that saying? Better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all. This man was surging all kinds of wants in your head. If you got a taste, you knew you were done for.

His voice rumbled like a storm cloud and pulled you out of your thoughts. “What’s up for the rest of your night?”

You grinned, wanting to tease out this time with him for as long as possible. Skirt on the edge of a pond of possibilities and drown in those sometimes sea green colored eyes. “I told you there’s not enough time if you’re leaving tonight.”

“Pretty good at completing a task quickly and efficiently.” He licked his lips. “I mean, taking my time, yeah, that’s always ideal. But, if we’re pressed for time, sweetheart, I won’t disappoint.” His brow twitched up.

You sighed, sounding a little too loud and desperate for your liking. “Does a guarantee come with that claim?”

“How much of a gambler are you?” He deflected the question with another.

“I enjoy it.”

“I might be worth taking a chance on, then.”

“Hm. I met a nice old man while playing black jack tonight. He talked about odds and luck and the house edge and why he loves cards, black jack especially. It works his brain and he can play for hours and not lose his shirt.”

Dean smiled. “So, what kind of hand am I? Soft or hard?”

You grinned at the innuendo, trying to keep your train of thought on its track. You leaned across the table. He mirrored your action, meeting you halfway. His hands clasped together on the surface, forearms firm and locked. The closest stare you’d shared.

Both thumbs lifted up in his grip and he nodded a fraction with his chin. “Well, what’s the verdict?” You could smell apples, cinnamon, and vanilla on his breath; courtesy of his indulgence in pie ala mode and his slightly parted mouth. He came into full focus now. Freckles dotting the tops of his cheeks and sprinkled across his nose. Lips that were perfect, puffy and pronounced. Sharp edges and soft curves. He watched you inventory him as he did the same, eyes scanning, crinkles emerging around them when he smiled and you thought he found something he especially liked about your visage. The gamblers and diners dropped away from your periphery. The piped in music and frantic sounds locked away in a vacuum, muffled and mumbling like the adults in those Peanuts cartoons you loved to watch when you were little.

“Neither. You are in no way a safe bet. You’ve got a major house edge.” Your answer came out lower than intended. The slight mix of surprise and disappointment on his face at the answer made you clear your throat. You continued. “So, why gamble in the first place? Cause there’s always the slightest chance you’ll get lucky and hit it big. Flip a coin and see where it’ll land.”

The smile returned and he shot stick-straight in his seat. “I’ve got plenty of coins.” He began to rifle through a jacket pocket. “Two out of three?” You held back a giggle at his eagerness.

“I’ve got one right here.” You dug the chip out of your jean pocket. The plastic disc twirled between your fingers. “Wanna see where it lands?”

His eyes widened. “Big spender. What’re we betting?”

It was your turn to lean back. “Depends. How lucky do you feel?”

He chuckled. “Stakes? And, then I’ll let you know.”

You swallowed. “Well, Ron, the old man, was explaining that Roulette has the best House Edge for the casino. Over five percent in their favor that a player loses. Think you can be my lucky charm and push those odds in my favor?”

He nodded. “What we talkin’? Street or split bet?”

The man knew his games. You smiled. “Straight up.”

His head tilted back. “Whoa. That’s a helluva lot of luck.” A finger pointed back and forth between the both of you. “I help you hit the jackpot and…”

You grinned. “You hit the jackpot. Call the shots for the rest of the night. We go wherever. Do whatever.”

His lips curled into an “O” as he tried to hold back his own grin. He nodded in thought. “If you lose?”

You shrugged. “Buy me a drink at the nearest bar, share some more stories, then we shake hands and say it was nice meeting the other.”

He raised his hands. “Well, I will take those odds. Let’s go find us a wheel.” His tall frame bolted out of his seat, beaming a smile at you.

Your heart sped up. There was no way he was winning this bet. But he seemed up for spending a little more time with you regardless. And that said something. You reached into your purse to drop a tip on the table but he’d already beat you to it.

“Lead the way, sweetheart.”

You nodded and wandered from the restaurant to the massive casino floor. He towered next to your side, the elbow of his jacket brushing against the sheer material covering your biceps. He smelled amazing. When you stopped in the middle of the floor to get your bearings and looked up to ask what direction you both should head, you found him gazing at your cleavage in the strappy surplice top. The look on his face shot straight to your core.

His eyebrows shot up at the realization he’d been caught ogling. “What’s wrong?”

A flush of warmth flooded your face. “We’re using your luck here. You pick the table.”

“Lot of pressure.” He mumbled.

“Lot at stake.” You countered.

“Alright.” He nodded to the right. You followed him, weaving through the crowd, now having the chance to notice his bowlegs and how very wide his shoulder span was. He was wearing entirely too many layers to your liking. But, you got to bathe in the wake of his scent and imagine how very pert that ass was under that denim. He halted without warning and you put the brakes on your stride, inches before careening into his back. His fingers pointed three tables over. “That one.” He looked over his right shoulder and grinned, finding your body and face quite close. “Step right up.”

You took the lead again and inhaled and exhaled deep, taking the one empty seat at the Roulette table. The wheel was currently in motion, the ball spinning, holding the breath of every gambler with a stake on the result. You heard the clicking of the ball along the slots as the rotation slowed, deciding on its destination.

Dean slid his standing frame along your right. He was warm, solid. He tipped down to whisper in your ear. “Sure you wanna go for a straight bet? Making me think you don’t even want a little fun time with me. We could lower the stakes. I’d be more than happy to let you call the shots for the rest of the night.” The offer dripped out of his voice with a deep intensity, low and tempting.

You would not meet his eyes again, already picturing the sexy smirk on his face. He would distract you, make you cave. “Nope.” You responded. “All in. Go big or go home.” You pulled out the chip from your pocket as the winning number was called. A mixture of whoops and grumbles emerged from the dealer’s announcement. Chips were swept over and around the table.

He sighed and rose up, waiting for the table to be cleared and for the dealer to tell everyone to place their bets. “Okay. What number?”

Your mind reeled with the possibilities. “When’s your birthday?” You asked.

“Seriously?” He chuckled.

“Yep.” Your eyes wandered over the red and black numbers on the green felt board. The all clear was called and chips scattered in place with both hurried and tentative fingers of various betters.

“January 24th.”

“So, we could go with 1 or 24. Red or black?”

Your body startled with the pressure of his hand at the small of your back. “Black.”

“24 it is then.” You gulped and placed the chip with care over the number. It rested there alone, a single play amid a multitude of others.

His fingers tapped against your skin in anticipation. “Well, it was fun while it lasted.” He joked. “Maybe as a parting gift you’ll give me your number.”

You smiled, focusing on the slight swirl of his fingers now, imagining what they could do to other parts of your body.

“No more bets.” The dealer called and waved a hand over the table. The wheel spun in one direction. The ball clicked and whirled in its lane in the other.

You thought about what Blackjack Ron had said earlier. Roulette, straight bet odds were 35 to 1. You could view that bet as a drowning man’s last ditch effort to keep their head above the water’s surface. Hold out for that raft to save them, give them a second chance to get things right. Or, you could view it as something as simple as hope. Hope that great things sometimes happen when you take a risk. You should try it once. That’s what Ron had said.

You closed your eyes as the wheel slowed and the ball eased in its race for the finish line. You replayed that little mantra, the pep talk you’d give yourself every once in a while in your bathroom mirror. Failure is always a possibility when you try. But so is success.

The dealer announced the winning number.

Dean’s fingers froze. “Holy fucking shit!” He bellowed.

Your eyes jolted open. The dealer placed a tiny marker on “24 Black.” Your mouth dropped open and watched the chips stack up in front of you.

“Holy fucking shit!” Dean repeated. “How much is that?”

You blinked, then repeated the calculation out loud you had figured out when you threw out the dare. “One thousand, seven hundred, and fifty dollars.”

“Wow!” You looked up and assessed his face. He was floored and amazed, like a kid that was just told he had free reign in a toy store. “That’s… that’s some luck.”

“All you.” You grinned.

The compliment took him aback. There was the slightest hint of blush on those cheeks.

You motioned to the winnings. “Okay, grab some and let’s cash out. Half of this is yours.”

Even more amazement. “That wasn’t part of the deal.”

“I’m feeling generous.” You packed the chips into your purse. He stuffed some into his pockets. When you rose up, a jolt of adrenaline pushed you into a new territory of action. One filled with courage. You took your time and slithered close to his standing frame. Let parts of your body sweep along his. His brows rose higher than you’d seen so far that night. “Looks like you’re calling the shots now, Dean. We go wherever. Do whatever.”

A delicious lick of his lips followed your statement. His eyes dazzled with thoughts. “Let’s get out of here.”

You’d walked with him along the strip for what felt like forever. He’d gotten you a cup of frozen yogurt for part of the adventure. The warm air and pulse of Vegas fed your lingering alcohol buzz. Dean was just as intoxicating. He talked in cryptic paragraphs about him and his brother’s nomadic lifestyle. You laughed at his dirty jokes, both basking in the artificial glow surrounding you and the high of winning. But you, most importantly, let go of the decision making.

A turn off the busy, fluorescent lit thoroughfare landed you in a much more adult amusement area of the city. And, you had an inkling, heading in the direction of Dean’s motel. You’d finished the last bit of your treat and tossed the empty cup and spoon into a nearby trash can when he stopped to read the flashing sign of a venue.

His rapt stare forced you to look up and see what he was focusing on. The amber neon depicted the figure of a voluptuous female with flowing hair, one leg wrapped around a bright white pole. You read the name of the establishment out loud. “Sapphire Gentlemen’s Club?”

He turned to you and grinned. “Been in one of these before?”

You felt your brow scrunch together. “Well, no.”

He walked over to the glass door covered in dark film. “Well, let’s go, then.”

“Really? This is what you want to do?”

“At this moment? Yes.” He opened the door and ushered you in. “My lady.”

You chuckled and shook your head. “Are you trying to test my comfort level or something?” The question breezed by his frame as you passed.

“Something like that.” He smiled.

You really didn’t know what to expect when you walked in. A bouncer looking dude waved you in after a quick survey. Dean’s hand was on your back again, as it had been off and on throughout the evening, leading you towards the dim section of tables and booths. It was packed with, from what you could see, a majority of male patrons with the occasional token female. The tables wrapped around a few circular stages with catwalks emerging from blue velvet curtains. A dozen or so topless females danced for the pleasure of their audiences. The bass of the music rumbled through your skin.

“Here.” Dean leaned in, pushing you to a free high top right by one of the stages. Enough light spilled onto the area that you spotted the kid in a toy store look on his face again when he took his seat.

You sat across, tearing your gaze from him to the ladies wrapped around poles, bronzed and oiled similar to the male counterparts you’d been hooting at earlier that evening.

“Thought you could see how the other half lives, after that Australian review.” Dean brought up the exact same thought, only he shivered in distaste. A wave of his hand requested the attention of one of the waitresses who thankfully, for you, wore a bit more than the dancers.

“Hello, lovelies. I’m Cherie. What can I get you?” She purred over to Dean and gave you a sweet smile, dropping napkins in front of your spots. Her bare glittery shoulders and cocoa skin made you crave chocolate for a second.

Dean’s lips quirked up in a smile. You realized he’d been giving your reaction more attention than the female with big onyx eyes and raven, wavy hair. “I’ll have a bourbon. Top Shelf. Neat. What are you having, sweetheart?”

You shrugged, continuing the little game you’d started since he won the bet.

He nodded. “Same for this pretty little lady.” The waitress nodded, about to walk off, when Dean asked, “Oh, what’s it cost for a private show in the back?”

The waitress raised a pencil lined eyebrow. “Depends on who you want the show with.”

“Are you available?” Dean grinned.

She giggled. “I might be.”

“Well, if you are, let me know what it’d be for the both of us?”

“Will do, sweetie.” Cherie bounced off with a pronounced sway of her ample hips.

Your mouth popped open. “What?”

“Whatever I want.” He reminded you with a lick of his lips. He leaned his forearms on the table. “You ever, ah…”

An awkward giggle erupted from your throat. “No.”

He shrugged and smiled. “Thought about it?”

“Maybe.”

That made Dean’s grin grow wider. “Well, it’s only a dance. You technically aren’t supposed to touch the ladies. Sometimes, though, you get lucky. And, the way my luck is going tonight… got to give it a shot.” His fingers brushed over the top of your hand. “Get something etched in my memory for repeat viewings later.”

The touch of his fingers, light and gentle, ticklish and thrilling, hit an itch you couldn’t quite scratch. You emitted something between a laugh and a sigh. “You’re going to blow all your winnings tonight on booze and boobs.”

“Worth it. I’m getting to spend it with a beautiful partner in crime.”

You sat with him and watched the show. A country tune blasted through the sound system. The ladies all sashayed back to the curtains, flinging them back with a dramatic flair. They disappeared only to be replaced by cowboy hat and boot wearing dancers. Daisy dukes rode so high up that half of their ass cheeks bulged out. Holsters, hung loose from their waists, held fake pistols that, when pulled out for use, were done so with the most phallic inducing reminders. And all had the perkiest, perfect breasts you’d ever seen.

His fingers tangled into yours about midway through the performance. “Thank God I’m a country boy.” He tipped his head about to the twang. “So, Albuquerque, huh?”

You attempted to track the conversation and not the feel of his warm skin tingling yours. The pads of his fingers were rough and worn, gritty but not harsh. You imagined what kind of work he did to get them that way. “Yeah. Moved there after college. Got a job at a big research company. Glorified office assistant, so just the mundane business stuff that helps keep everyone employed on the books, bills paid.”

“Research?” His smile softened, listening to you.

“Sustainable energy, nuclear weapons.”

His bottom lip jutted out as he nodded. “Like it?”

“More days than not.” Your eyes widened as one of the dancers provocatively licked the barrel of her toy gun. You couldn’t help but laugh in embarrassment. “Geez, I’ve never done that with a firearm.”

Dean chuckled. “What have you done with a firearm?”

“I’ve got a license to carry. My dad taught me how to shoot when I was around thirteen. He was a big time game hunter. Back in Colorado.” You didn’t bother to go into what happened to your parents. You wanted to keep the tone of the night light and fun.

“What do you carry?” Genuine interest spread over his face now.

“Walther PPQ. But I left it back home.” You smiled, realizing he was not put off and probably carried as well. “Are you packing?”

“Oh, I’m packing,” He grinned, “but my gun’s back at the motel. Not a good idea to mix Vegas nightlife and bullets, I’ve learned.” That sounded like a perfect lead-in for a story. But he only added. “M1911.”

You nodded then asked, “Country boy, huh?”

“Yep, Kansas.”

“We could have hit Stoney’s then.”

“You would have tried to get me to dance.” He nodded to the stage. “More fun to watch.”

Cherie returned, interrupting the flow of conversation with two tumblers of bourbon. After placing the glasses on the table and eyeing the way Dean gripped your hand, she leaned in close to his ear and whispered. You struggled to make it out, giving up when it proved pointless. His lids lifted a fraction. “Well, that sounds positively delightful, Cherie.” He added with a sexy swagger. “Think you can get yourself one of those cowgirl outfits?”

She nodded. “See what I can do. Jimmy’ll come by for you two in about a half hour then.” Another nearby table called her away.

Dean grabbed his glass and raised it for a toast. “To Vegas.”

You shook your head and clinked your glass with his, mumbling. “To Vegas.”

The sparkling beaded fringe curtaining the doorway was a nice touch. You pushed through the strands and took in where you’d be with Dean for the next twenty minutes, along with Cherie, who was on her way. It was enough privacy for an intimate dance. Safe enough, you imagined, that if one of the women had to call for an assist from a handsy client, someone could be there in a flash without impediment. Burly Jimmy, about a foot taller than Dean, seemed to be the bouncer/bodyguard for the ladies and waited outside in the hallway.

“Really playing up the Sapphire theme, huh?” You asked Dean for his thoughts on the decor. There were two blue velvet, plush armchairs in opposite corners of the tiny eight by eight space. Two of the walls were floor to ceiling glass and a tinted overhead light washed everything in shades of midnight blue.

“Fancy.” He teased. “One of the deluxe rooms.”

The two bourbons you had milked at the table for the last half hour had sizzled your senses with a warm euphoria. Almost like you were watching yourself in some sort of out of body experience. Had it really only been a few hours since you’d seen your girlfriends? You glanced at your watch and confirmed in the spin of your head it was a little after midnight. Your brain and body were wired and alert due to the proximity of this man pushing all your buttons tonight. It was raw, racy, a revelation in facets of sexiness you’d never had the honor of being in the presence of. Until tonight.

He’d teased with playful touches; flirted with that outlaw mouth; melted you with heated stares; worn you down with roguish charm; and hinted at some heavy shit that made you wonder how broken he might be under all that attractive armor. The alcohol had let his guard down a few times.

“Hey.” Dean snapped his fingers and brought you back. “You still with me, beautiful? I think we need to cut you off.”

You clicked your tongue and shot him with your finger gun. “Might be right, partner.”

He chuckled. “Yeah. Think so.” He rubbed his hands together and spotted a touchscreen in the wall. “Huh, even get to pick the music. Real fancy.” He pointed to one of the chairs. “Get comfy.” He tapped some buttons. You slid into the cushion, trying not to imagine the amount of bodily fluids embedded in the fabric. It did smell nice and clean, almost antiseptic, so that settled one of your racing thoughts. Your stare lingered over at Dean, a pensive look on his face as he decided on the tracks. It had to be illegal for someone to be that handsome without even trying. “Damn, it’s hot in here.” He pulled off his jacket and one layer of flannel, draping them over the back of the empty chair. His simple black t-shirt strained over his shoulders, biceps, chest. The alcohol had to be part of the reason he looked so perfect. No way, you kept thinking, no one’s that perfect.

The beads parted and Cherie strolled into the room. She had certainly done what she could to honor Dean’s request. She wore the same white vinyl hot pants and matching color stripper pumps that comprised her waitress attire. But she’d gone full on country bumpkin with a plaid flannel tied in a knot under her push up bra, and a cowboy hat.

“Did you pick your tunes, Cowboy?” She flirted at Dean.

“Yep.” The wide, cheesy grin spread over his face.

“Have a seat, time’s a wastin’.” She was working the southern accent, too. Dean hopped onto the other seat cushion and wiggled his ass into position. He also wiggled his eyebrows like a cartoon villain at you. You giggled.

Cherie tapped the screen. You were unsurprised by the country music that filled the room at a respectable volume. “Jimmy explain all the rules?” She asked and began to gyrate her hips to the song.

You nodded and replied, your eyes bouncing from Cherie to Dean, “You get to touch us, we don’t touch you. Stay in our seats. If we aren’t sure if we can, ask first.”

Cherie twirled and stopped to smile down at you. “I bet you were top of your class, hun.”

Your cheeks heated up at the flirting. This woman was obviously younger than you by at least a decade and was calling you hun. Dean’s jaw clenched at your reaction.

“So, what brings the two of you to Vegas?” Cherie turned around, giving you a full face of her curvy hips and tiny waist. The white pants almost glowed in the light and you could hear the slight squeak of material. Her moves were smooth, fluid, second nature.

Dean was getting a full face of the cleavage peeking out of her shirt as she bent down to give him a nice view. “Romantic getaway for my girl, here.” His eyes drifted over to you, past Cherie’s elbow, with a smirk.

Oh, this is how we’re playing it now, you thought. You had to admit the idea of you being his girl was absolute heaven.

“Aw, how sweet. How long you two been together?” She rose up, her hands gripping the back of her neck, elbows jutting out like wings. She twirled to look at you. She backed into Dean’s lap and began to circle and skirt her ass along his thighs. Cherie blocked his beautiful face with pink flannel. The only Dean reaction visible were his fingers latching onto the armrests like a vice.

You stifled a giggle. “Five years.” You threw out the first number you could think of.

“A lot of man to be working with for five years.” She smiled.

You couldn’t argue with that.

“Alright if I put my hands on him, darlin’?”

You heard Dean moan. How could you deny him? And, how fun that she was asking you for permission and not bothering with his approval. “Of course.” You swallowed at the intimate turn things were taking.

She lifted up, turned again. Her hands landed on Dean’s knees. “Let’s let your pretty lady see how much you’re enjoying this.” She cooed and spun him in the - surprise - rotating chair. You got an eyeful at this angle of that chiseled face and the wide eyes from his own surprise at the movement. He glanced over at you, turning serious in a second. It was like someone had turned the temperature on to sauna level in the room.

Cherie’s actions focused Dean’s attention back to her. Her fingers and long nails drifted and scraped along the surface of his hands, forearms, biceps. Her palms came to rest on his shoulders. She climbed on top with grace, wedging her knees into the cushion by his hips, clamping his bowlegs shut with the force of her muscular calves. Her heels poked out from the chair like weapons. That ass settled on his knees. Her cleavage inched closer to his face as he settled and reclined into the headrest.

“How does he feel?” You realized you had asked the question out loud.

Dean turned to you, languid and lush, blissed out and smiling in a lustful stupor.

“Warm. Strong. All sorts of good.” She smiled at you. “Lucky lady.”

If only, you thought.

Dean licked his lips at you, delved his gaze into Cherie’s cleavage, then met the dancer’s stare. “If you think I feel good, you should give my girl a test drive.” He unclenched his grip on the armrest for a few seconds, maybe trying to get some circulation back in his fingers. “In fact, I’d love it if you’d tell me how good my baby feels.”

Holy shit. Your panties dampened at his confession.

Cherie grinned. “Well, that’s up to your baby. Woman always gets the final say.”

“Ain’t that the truth.” Dean chuckled. “I’ve gotta run everything by her, or else I’d get spanked. Can I tell you a secret, Cherie?” Dean husked out the question. Cherie nodded in interest, grinding on him now. Dean cocked a brow at the action. “Sometimes I get in trouble on purpose, just so she can spank me.”

You couldn’t help but giggle at that; the thrill and imagery of Dean naked, leaned over your lap with a bright red ass after some serious punishment from your hand.

“Sounds like you’re a handful.” Cherie snuggled down deeper, and dry humped him. “Feel like a nice handful, too.” She was humming along to the country tune. Just another day at the office for Cherie.

It felt all sorts of wrong and right at the same time, watching this lap dance. This teasing, edging. Who the hell has the House Edge in this scenario?

Dean’s hands clenched tighter around the velvet. “Don’t wanna come in my pants, Sweet Cherie. Isn’t that one of the rules?” He panted.

She laughed. “Oh, I’d break a couple for you two.” She slowed the torture and peeled off him with a groan that almost matched Dean’s. “We going for that test drive, baby?” Her hungry eyes scanned your seated frame.

“Um…” You began. Dean’s breathing regulated and he circled the seat back to face you. He grinned at you, peeking over the curve of Cherie’s hips, ready for the show.

“It’s okay. Anyplace you don’t want me touching, just streetlight. Only if you want to indulge your man.” She raised a brow. “But you might like it, too.”

“Oh, God, I hope so.” Dean mumbled.

Cherie did the same with your chair as she had with Dean’s. You tilted, looking at yourself beyond Dean in the mirror. How very deer in the headlights you appeared. Cherie was a veritable tigress, running the entire show.

She leaned down, inches from your face. Her fingers wiggled and she cupped your jaw. “I won’t bite.” Her sweet breath laced with peppermint washed over you. “So warm. Don’t be nervous.” Her soft voice lulled you into a safe space. “Your big strong man over there wouldn’t let anything happen to you. Would you, Cowboy?”

“Absolutely, fucking not.” Dean’s voice shot straight to your core again. You caught him licking his lips. He nodded, entranced at the vision of Cherie guiding her hand down the slope of your neck, then cupping the curve of one breast. Your breath hitched as she squeezed and her long nails dipped into the cleavage. “How’s she feel?” Another lick.

“Hm, so soft.” An eyebrow arched when she skirted over your covered nipple. “And excited. Still green, sweetie?” You nodded. Cherie tipped off the cowboy hat, sliding it over the crown of your head.

Dean rumbled out a low moan. You thought you heard him curse under his breath and whisper something close to “Ride ‘em, cowgirl.”

The arousal created by this beautiful woman was dizzying and the heat from Dean’s stare was making it hard to breathe. Sweat broke out on your forehead. Your stomach churned. “Oh.” Something else was threatening to escape as a sour bile hit the base of your throat. “Oh, no.” You mumbled. “Red, red. I need to get to a bathroom.”

Cherie hopped off and grabbed you by the wrist. “Jimmy! Need a trash can, stat.”

Dean jumped up from his seat. You spotted alarm on his face and got a quick glimpse of a decent bulge in his jeans before you groaned again at the somersaults your insides were doing. A hand clamped over your mouth as you forced down the gag and swallowed. It wasn’t going to be long before the entire floor would be covered with a Vegas buffet.

The saving grace that was Jimmy parted the curtains and slid a small desk trash can over in your general direction. Dean fell to his knees and held it in front of you. Cherie tossed off the cowboy hat you were wearing and held your hair back.

A deep inhale of the artificial lemon smell covering the trash can liner was what finally had you retching.

You emerged from the women’s bathroom fifteen minutes later after the whole fiasco had commenced. Cherie had been nice enough to bring you a disposable toothbrush and some toothpaste from backstage. You’d cleaned yourself up as best you could. But you were exhausted, humiliated, and planned to call yourself a cab. You were certain Dean had called it a night, leaving your sorry ass to figure things out.

How surprised, then, your face must have looked to see him leaning against the wall, Cherie’s cowboy hat twirling in his hands. He was back in his flannel and jacket, staring out onto the stage. The hint of movement by your slow trudges catching his attention, he turned and gave you a soft smile. “Hey there. How’re you doing?”

You shrugged. “I’m so sorry.” Your scratchy voice skipped over the apology.

He walked over to you. “I pushed my luck… and yours… a bit too far. I’m sorry.” He grinned and placed the hat on your head. “Cherie said you could have it. A parting gift for the both of us.”

A smile broke out on your face.

“You look really cute, Cowgirl.”

“You stayed?” You questioned.

Dean’s face contorted in confusion. “Not like I was going to just skip out on you over some upchuck. Trust me, beautiful, I’ve seen way worse.” He flicked the hat so it rose up an inch higher on your head. “So, calling us a cab or walking you back to your hotel so you can sleep this off? You are going to have one hell of a hangover in the morning.”

You tummy seesawed at the thought of a lot of walking right then. “Cab.”

He nodded and headed for the exit. “Let’s go flag one down.”

“But…”

Dean stopped, wavering in his stride and waited.

“I don’t want to say goodnight yet.”

He smiled, then sighed. “Well, I got a text about an hour ago that little brother is going off on a granola munching hike in the desert by himself.” He scratched the back of his head. “So, if you want to hang out in my seedy motel room for a couple hours, it’s free.”

You grinned, queasy but happy.

He’d found a country station on the motel’s radio alarm clock when you’d arrived earlier and forced you to down a bottle of water and pop a couple aspirin. The both of you were now on your third round of War. The conversation had gotten deeper as the battle continued. But there were still the light, fun and flirty moments that made spending this time with him feel even more special.

You sat cross legged on the blanket Dean had pulled out of his duffel to spare your ass from sitting on the dingy motel room carpet. He sat across from you, back against the foot of his bed, leaning an elbow on one propped up knee, the other leg splayed out on the blanket. You didn’t think his bowlegs could manage a cross legged position and grinned to yourself at the thought.

It was 2:00 am. He showed no signs of fading, but you were struggling. Dean kept glancing at his phone but never faltered to toss down his cards in time with yours.

“Hopefully he’s okay.” You offered. The tinge of pain crept in. You knew you had to say goodbye and call it a night. It was obvious he was worried. His brother had not returned his texts and was still roaming around, somewhere. “I should go. It’s getting really late and you look ready to form a search party.” You tossed your hand of playing cards onto the blanket and attempted a slow rise to your feet. You placed a hand on the cowboy hat to keep it from falling off your head. At least, for now, your stomach had settled. The pounding in your head had lessened.

“I’m surprised your gal pals haven’t been ringing you non-stop.” Dean’s head tilted up and stared.

“I’m the last thing they’re thinking of tonight.” You hadn’t given them much thought either since the first time you’d looked at Dean hours ago. God, it felt like a lifetime ago at this point.

“You should stay a little longer and at least see who wins. We’re all tied up.”

“We’ll just have to call it a draw.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” He hopped up much quicker than you.

“Where’d I put my bag?” Your eyes found it on the little table by the kitchenette as soon as you’d asked the question. You hobbled over, letting the blood flow into your legs proper again.

As you rummaged through the contents, you heard the volume of the radio go up.

You turned and saw Dean sitting on the edge of the bed, tapping his thighs.

You giggled. “You like this song?”

“Ah, it’s pop-country. But ladies like it, right?”

You shrugged and dropped into the chair beside the table. “Where I’m from, ladies get weak in the knees for Luke.”

Dean grinned that grin you’d seen countless times that night and wished you could see for every night after. He stood up and swaggered over with purpose, in only that black t-shirt, jeans and sock clad feet. He mouthed the words to the song on his approach. Your eyes were locked on those luscious lips and how well he knew the lyrics.

Gonna stomp my boots in the Georgia mud ***

Gonna watch you make me fall in love

Dean pulled the hat off your head and slid it in the perfect sweet spot on his head. The slight tilt was sexy as hell.

Shake it for the birds, shake it for the bees

Shake it for the catfish swimmin' down deep in the creek

For the crickets and the critters and the squirrels

Shake it to the moon, shake it for me girl

Aw, country girl, shake it for me

He teased and smiled, sticking his fingers into the belt loops of his jeans and swirling his hips. You giggled at his awkward and heartfelt attempt at this show and the blush creeping over the apples of his cheeks.

You rose up and joined him, wanting to relieve him from the embarrassment. And, hell, you finally wanted to dance with him. You sidled up into his space, slotted one leg between his bow legs and circled your hips in time to his. That rhythm being something he easily adjusted to and was happy to continue. You looked up into those green eyes, wrapped your hands around his neck and felt his warm, safe hands glide up and down your back. The lyrics came to you easily and you lip synced along with him. It was corny, cheesy, unexpected, and sexy as hell.

Pony-tail and a pretty smile

Rope me in from a country mile

So come on over here and get in my arms

Spin me around this big ole barn

Tangle me up like grandma's yarn

Yeah, yeah, yeah

The brim of his cowboy hat bopped your nose during a particularly forceful pretend belting of words by Dean. “Sorry.” He spoke aloud and chuckled.

“It’s okay.” You whispered, out of breath from everything he was doing to you. “I’m so glad I took a chance on you, Dean.”

That one statement pulled you both out of the playful and flirty exploration of each other and the boundaries you’d tested. His focus on your face turned serious. And, even though the uptempo song stomped on in the background, his motions halted. His eyes drank you in, every inch of your face. His fingers danced along your jaw, curled around your neck, angling you up to him. To finally kiss you through the rest of Luke Bryan’s crooning.

Now dance, like a dandelion

In the wind on the hill underneath the pines

Yeah, move like the river flows

Feel the kick drum down deep in your toes

All I wanna do is get to holdin' you

And get to knowin' you

And get to showin' you

And get to lovin' you

'Fore the night is through

Baby, you know what to do

You’d died and gone to heaven; were positive of that fact. No man had ever had lips so soft, a mouth so determined, and knew exactly what to do with the precise amount of pressure and tongue.

As Bryan faded out, you heard the chirping of a phone. Dean broke the kiss and leaned his forehead into yours. You felt the brim of his hat on the top of your head. “Sweetheart…” The moan was a mixture of want and something else.

You sighed and knew. “Your brother.” You motioned over to the bed where his phone was. “You should go.”

He leaned down and kissed you again, placed the cowboy hat back on your head and sprinted to the phone. You did the same, found the contact of a Vegas cab company you’d put in at the start of your trip and dialed. You spoke to the weary dispatcher and repeated the name of the motel, watching Dean reply back to the text as he sat on the bed and slipped into his shoes.

“Not too far. Should only be about five minutes.” You nodded. “You can go. I’ll wait outside.”

He rubbed his thighs. “No way. You’ll wait in here with me.”

“Dean, I…”

He cut you off. “You surprised the hell out of me tonight, beautiful. You were up for everything I threw at ya.” He smiled. A genuine, heart tugging smile.

“The night could have taken a much different turn if I could have held my liquor better.”

He shrugged. “But it was still one helluva night. And, I’m glad you took the chance on me, too.” He offered his phone. “Put your number in.” You smiled and did as asked, then handed it back. He shot you a text. “There. Now, you have mine.” He pulled a business card out of his wallet. “And, here. Don’t ask questions, but if for some reason that phone stops working... call this number and say you need to get in touch with Dean Winchester.”

You read the card. “FBI Director, Mike Kayser?”

Dean raised both eyebrows.

“Okay.” You slipped the card and phone in your purse. Headlights flooded through the motel curtains. “Well, that’s my ride, I think.”

Dean stood up and opened the door, walking out into the early morning with you. The yellow cab idled in the parking lot. He waved at the driver, then turned you in his arms and stared at you hard. “You send me a text when you get into your room.”

You chuckled. “You’ll be roaming the desert like Jim Morrison by then.”

“Please.” That soft smile again.

“Okay.”

He grabbed your face with two warm palms, angled you in just the right way so he could dip down and kiss you under your cowboy hat, soft and slow. He whispered in your ear. “I wish I could be your safe bet.”

You gave him one more peck, then walked to the cab. When you opened the back door, you turned and called out. “What would be the fun in that? Flip a coin and see where it lands every once in a while, right?”

He gave you a two finger salute and smiled that Dean Winchester grin. As the driver nodded at your destination and turned out of the lot, you watched him, standing, waiting for you to disappear from view. You held onto that grin. Closed your eyes. Committed it to memory. And hoped you’d see it again.

THE END

***Luke Bryan - Country Girl (Shake It For Me)

MASTERLIST

#dean winchester x reader #dean winchester fan fiction #dean winchester fluff #spnfanficpond #dean x reader

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sardonicnihilism · 3 years

Text

A Biography of the Woman Who Never Was

Part 5 The Older Woman

Chapter 5

The rest of 2018 and 2019 passed in fairly unremarkable fashion. The kids kept seeing the counselor, Jerry's behavior and grades improved until he was one of his grades top students. Tabatha, likewise, did extremely well academically. Jerry joined the school soccer team and took up violin, and Tabatha took up piano, guitar, and drums. While life continued with its normal ups and downs, it really did seem like the worst was behind them.

Even when 2020 hit like a meteor, it still didn't affect Shannon and her family that much. Both Sam and Shannon were deemed essential workers, and therefore kept their jobs. The schools shut down, but Shannon did home lessons over the summer and the kids did remote learning in the fall. Jerry struggled, having a hard time staying focused, but Tabatha did exceptionally well.

It was November when things started to go to Hell for them personally. Shannon started noticing a pain in her right chest and shoulder. It would constantly ache, and if she moved too fast, bolts of sharp, white hot pain would shoot through her body. At first she thought it was just muscle strain from lifting too much (she had gotten back into weight training to lose weight), but when she had taken a week off and there was no improvement, she knew she had to see a doctor.

Here appointment was in December, the week after Christmas. The doctor checked her out and then chewed her out. She was 47 years old and had never had a mammogram. Shannon reluctantly agreed to have one and her doctor made the appointment.

Shannon got her mammogram the second week of January at 8:50 AM. By 3:30 PM, she had three messages saying she should contact them immediately. Shannon had breast cancer. More than that, it had already spread to other parts of her body. After a consultation with the entire family, they decided on an aggressive treatment plan. Unfortunately, it was too late.

Shannon's health declined rapidly. Most of her hair fell out and she shrank from 252 pounds to 110. She was week and tired all the time. She mostly laid in bed, only getting up to use the bathroom; usually to vomit. It was decided that she would enter the hospital for her final days.

Sam would visit everyday. At first he brought the kids with him every time, then every other day, and then they would only come once a week on Sundays. By the end of April, it was clear it was only a matter of days.

Sam's last visit was on a Sunday. It was a perfect spring day. It was so warm and sunny that it made Sam angry. It seemed like a cosmic insult to everything he and Shannon were going through. However, he had managed to purge himself of his bitterness by the time he had gotten to Shannon's room.

She was staring out the window, a contemplative smile gracing her gaunt face. Her hands were folded in her lap and she looked almost transcendent.

"How's the most beautiful woman in the world doing today?" he asked with forced happiness as he entered her room.

Shannon turned to him and smiled as happy a smile as she could. "I don't know. I haven't seen her today," she joked back in her weak, hoarse voice.

Sam grabbed a chair and sat beside her. "How're you sweetie?" he asked with a hushed sadness.

"I'm ok. Best as possible I suppose. I was just thinking I beat mom by a month. She passed in April, I made it all the way to May. Of course she beats me on years though." Shannon's sense of gallows humor was not only still there, but had become stronger than ever.

"I tried to get the kids to come out, but they just couldn't," Sam said apologetically.

Shannon just waved her hand. "It's ok, my family never did do death well."

She turned back to the window and started talking as much to herself as to Sam. "I was going to ask you to make a recording of me saying my farewells to the kids, but then I thought if I really wanted this to be the last and forever image of me; a sad, shriveled up husk of a human being - an image of sadness and loss? That just seems too cruel. I'd rather be forgotten if that is the case."

"You'll never be forgotten," Sam tried to reassure her.

She turned back to him, smiling even more. "We're all forgotten eventually darling." She then reached out and took his hand. "It's been a life, hasn't it?"

"It sure has," he said, trying to smile, but tears were already starting to run down his cheek. "And I thank you for being the love of mine."

"As you are with mine," she said in a peaceful voice.

"No, you don't have to say that. You don't have to pretend." He shook his head as he spoke. He didn't want their potentially last moments to be filled with lies.

"Who's pretending?" Shannon said, sounding almost happy, like he had just told her a joke. "What? You think because I'm not romantically or sexualy attracted to you, that means you're not the love of my life? People put so much emphasis on romantic love. Darling, you were far more than a lover. Being a lover is easy. You were a friend." She then brought his hand to her mouth and kissed it.

Sam was now weeping heavily. "The first time I met you in the library, I knew I loved you," he choked out.

"When I was a little girl, I asked my grandfather why he kept the dogs outside. He said because animals don't belong in the house. That night, my biological mother, left me in her car while she went into the bar. I was alone, freezing. I wondered if maybe I was an animal and that's why I was being left alone.

"My entire life I felt alone, unloved, unlovable. I was angry and bitter and I hurt anyone or thing I could so they would feel what I felt. I caused so much pain.

"Then I met Jen and I thought I found love. I loved her and I thought she loved me, but she only loved what she thought I was. When I turned out not to be that, she turned her back on me and I went off the deep end.

"And then there was you. You made me laugh. I could talk to you about anything. I felt safe around you; not physically, but emotionally. I became a better person because of you.

"Even when I came out to you, you didn't turn me away, throw me out, which I would have understood if you did. You never stopped being my rock, my shoulder to cry on, the clown to make me laugh when I was crying. You never stopped being my friend."

"And I never will," Sam barely choked out.

"And that is why you're the love of my life."

Sam got up and they embraced. He gave her a kiss on the forehead and she gave him one the cheek. They spent the next five hours just reminiscening and joking.

"I better get going, I suppose," Sam said reluctantly. "I can't leave the kids alone all day, but I don't want to leave you alone either. Not to die at least."

"We all die alone honey, even if we're surrounded by people," she said with a smile. "Go. You're a father and your kids need you. I'm already dead. The only thing the dead need is rest. Just, just tell the kids I love them."

"Always," he said tearfully.

A couple hours after he left, she began to feel really tired, her fingers and toes started going numb. She knew the time had come.

She started thinking about tombstones. A name, a dash, and another date. Everything she was, everything she had been, reduced to a small line, carved in a stone that would survive long after she had been forgotten. It seemed unfair, cruel even.

She then thought about something else, something she had learned back in college. She thought about quantum entanglement, how two atoms can become entangled, linked forever across time and space, eternal mirrors to each other.

Her mind then darted to the concept of the multiverse. How there might be infinite universes out, each with their own version of her. What if two versions could be linked somehow? Entangled? What if her mirror was out there? Could she reach her? Could her mind link across dimensions to one of her other selves to share her story?

*Please, please, if can hear me, please tell my story. Please don't let me be forgotten!*, she thought over and over to herself, trying to reach out to anyone who might hear until her brain ceased to function and she passed away.

**************************************

Shannon Brown was born on November 22, 1975 to a single, alcoholic mother. He was taken in by his grandparents and his aunt Mary who raised him as her own. It is Mary who he considers to be his real mother. His biological mother, Kathy, would have two other children, a girl named Tracy (1977) and Paul Jr. (1979).

By about 4 or 5, Shannon knew that he wasn't a he, but a she, but having no language to express this, she kept this to herself. Shannon grew up alone, morbidly obese for most of her life, she never really had any friends and was constantly bullied and picked on. This made her angry and she would often act out in horrible and usually, self destructive ways.

She did manage to lose weight and was thin from 19 to 24. It was at this time she met her future wife, Samantha Hopwood online. Samantha, an Australian citizen, eventually moved to the United States and they got married in 2001. In 2009, their first child, Joshua was born.

It was after that, Shannon came out to Samantha as transgender. It caused a lot of pain and anger in their marriage, but they were able to work through some of it so that they had their second child, Tara, in 2011. In 2020, after years of being partially closeted, Shannon came out to everyone on Facebook (much to the horror of her wife).

It was about this time that Shannon discovered an app called FaceApp. It could change your photo to look like a child, old person, even the opposite physical gender. Shannon took a picture of herself, femininized it, and then took that new picture and reaged it from a little girl to an old woman. As Shannon stared at the pictures, she couldn't help but marvel over how real they looked! These looked like real pictures of an actual person.

"Who are you?" she said to herself. "Who are you, what is your story?" The more she stared at the pictures, the more she could almost hear this stranger call out, "Please, please, tell my story." It was then Shannon knew what she had to do. She opened her Tumblr app, hit the write symbol, and began-

A Biography of the Woman Who Never Was

Part 1: The Girl

Chapter 1

*This story is dedicated to the memory of H.P. Lovecraft; a horrible man, but great world builder. This wouldn't exist without him.*

#fiction #dark #drama #queer stories #slice of life #sad #fantasy #lovecraft

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faraway-wanderer · 4 years

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QUEER YA READS happy pride month here’s a list of lots of queer YA books!!

- The Henna Wars- Abida Jaigirdar When Nishat comes out to her parents, they say she can be anyone she wants—as long as she isn’t herself. Because Muslim girls aren’t lesbians. Nishat doesn’t want to hide who she is, but she also doesn’t want to lose her relationship with her family. And her life only gets harder once a childhood friend walks back into her life. Flávia is beautiful and charismatic and Nishat falls for her instantly. Amidst sabotage and school stress, their lives get more tangled—but Nishat can’t quite get rid of her crush on Flávia, and realizes there might be more to her than she realized

- Red, White and Royal Blue- Casey Mcquinston First Son Alex Claremont-Diaz is the closest thing to a prince this side of the Atlantic. With his intrepid sister and the Veep’s genius granddaughter, they’re the White House Trio, a beautiful millennial marketing strategy for his mother, President Ellen Claremont. International socialite duties do have downsides—namely, when photos of a confrontation with his longtime nemesis Prince Henry at a royal wedding leak to the tabloids and threaten American/British relations.

- You should see me in a crown- Leah Johnson Liz Lighty has always believed she's too black, too poor, too awkward to shine in her small, rich, prom-obsessed midwestern town. But it's okay -- Liz has a plan that will get her out of Campbell, Indiana, forever: attend the uber-elite Pennington College, play in their world-famous orchestra, and become a doctor.But when the financial aid she was counting on unexpectedly falls through, Liz's plans come crashing down . . . until she's reminded of her school's scholarship for prom king and queen

- Tell me How you Really Feel- Aminah Mae Safi Sana Khan is a cheerleader and a straight A student. She's the classic (somewhat obnoxious) overachiever determined to win.Rachel Recht is a wannabe director who's obsesssed with movies and ready to make her own masterpiece. As she's casting her senior film project, she knows she's found the perfect lead - Sana.There's only one problem. Rachel hates Sana. Rachel was the first girl Sana ever asked out, but Rachel thought it was a cruel prank and has detested Sana ever since.

- Like a love story- Abdi Nazemian It's 1989 in New York City, and for three teens, the world is changing.

- I Wish You All the Best- Mason Deaver At turns heartbreaking and joyous, I Wish You All the Best is both a celebration of life, friendship, and love, and a shining example of hope in the face of adversity.

- The Falling in Love Montage- Ciara Smyth Saoirse doesn’t believe in love at first sight or happy endings. If they were real, her mother would still be able to remember her name and not in a care home with early onset dementia. A condition that Saoirse may one day turn out to have inherited. So she’s not looking for a relationship. She doesn’t see the point in igniting any romantic sparks if she’s bound to burn out. But after a chance encounter at an end-of-term house party, Saoirse is about to break her own rules. For a girl with one blue freckle, an irresistible sense of mischief, and a passion for rom-coms.

- The Fascinators- Andrew Eliopulos Living in a small town where magic is frowned upon, Sam needs his friends James and Delia—and their time together in their school's magic club—to see him through to graduation.But as soon as senior year starts, little cracks in their group begin to show. Sam may or may not be in love with James. Delia is growing more frustrated with their amateur magic club. And James reveals that he got mixed up with some sketchy magickers over the summer, putting a target on all their backs.

- The Dark Tide- Alicia Jaskina The Wicked Deep meets A Curse So Dark and Lonely in this gripping, dark fairy-tale fantasy about two girls who must choose between saving themselves, each other, or their sinking island city

- Summer of Salt – Katrina Leno Georgina Fernweh waits with growing impatience for the tingle of magic in her fingers—magic that has been passed down through every woman in her family. Her twin sister, Mary, already shows an ability to defy gravity. But with their eighteenth birthday looming at the end of this summer, Georgina fears her gift will never come.

- Sawkill Girls- Claire Legrand Marion: the new girl. Awkward and plain, steady and dependable. Weighed down by tragedy and hungry for love she’s sure she’ll never find. Zoey: the pariah. Luckless and lonely, hurting but hiding it. Aching with grief and dreaming of vanished girls. Maybe she’s broken—or maybe everyone else is. Val: the queen bee. Gorgeous and privileged, ruthless and regal. Words like silk and eyes like knives, a heart made of secrets and a mouth full of lies.

- The Priory of the Orange Tree- Samantha Shannon A world divided. A queendom without an heir. An ancient enemy awakens. The House of Berethnet has ruled Inys for a thousand years. Still unwed, Queen Sabran the Ninth must conceive a daughter to protect her realm from destruction – but assassins are getting closer to her door. Ead Duryan is an outsider at court. Though she has risen to the position of lady-in-waiting, she is loyal to a hidden society of mages. Ead keeps a watchful eye on Sabran, secretly protecting her with forbidden magic. Across the dark sea, Tané has trained to be a dragonrider since she was a child, but is forced to make a choice that could see her life unravel.

- I was Born for this- Alice Oseman For Angel Rahimi, life is only about one thing: The Ark – a pop-rock trio of teenage boys who are currently taking the world by storm. Being part of The Ark’s fandom has given her everything – her friendships, her dreams, her place in the world. Jimmy Kaga-Ricci owes everything to The Ark too. He’s their frontman – and playing in a band is all he’s ever dreamed of doing. It’s just a shame that recently everything in his life seems to have turned into a bit of a nightmare.

- Summer Bird Blue Akemi Dawn Bowman- Bowman’s sophomore novel follows Rumi, a young musician plagued with grief and survivor’s guilt after her younger sister is killed in a car crash. Her mother sends her to liver with her aunt in Hawaii, and is also now mourning the loss of the music she would create with her sister and is unable to recapture her passion. As she navigates her loss, and feelings of abandonment from her mother, Rumi is also starting new relationships with neighbors, one a cute, easygoing surfer boy, and the other a irascible 80-year-old crankypants, while also becoming comfortable with her aromantic and asexual feelings.An immersive aromantic, asexual journey through grief and understanding.

- Felix Ever after- Kacen Callender a novel about a transgender teen grappling with identity and self-discovery while falling in love for the first time.

- The Stars and The Blackness Between Them - Junauda Petrus Audre and Mabel, Black girls who find romance just in time for everything to fall even further apart.

- By any means necessary- Candice Montgomery By Any Means Neccesary dives into the intersection of race and sexuality through the lens of its main character, Torrey, a gay Black college student.

- Her Royal Highness -Rachel Hawkins- When Millie Quint discovers her best friend-turned-girlfriend has been kissing someone else, she decides to get as far away from her as possible – by going to boarding school on the opposite side of the globe. The only issue? Millie’s new roomate is the actual princess of Scotland.

- Tash Hearts Tolstoy - Kathryn Omsbee, Natasha Zelenka (Tash), is a serious fangirl of Leo Tolstoy and a rising YouTube star with her webseries Unhappy Families, a modern-day adaptation of Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina, and Vlog, Tea with Tash. When a famous vlogger gives a shout out to the series, it goes viral. Now she, along with the cast and crew, are finding what it means to be a hit sensation and are managing the adoration, and the trolls, coming their way. Tash, a romantic asexual, has had a long time crush on the hit vlogger star Thom, who, as her online popular grows, so does Thom’s attention. Amidst the fame and romance, Tash is also dealing with her older sister creating distance, her parents announcing a new sibling on the way, college applications, the impending end of the series, and the big “What’s next.”An asexual romantic comedy coming of age.

- Full Disclosure- Camryn Garratt Camryn Garrett’s debut novel follows a Black, HIV-positive teen as she explores her first romantic relationship. There are few books that discuss what it’s like to live with HIV, especially those that are light, relatable, and told through the lens of a young Black girl.

- The Black Flamingo- Dean Atta Atta pens a coming-of-age story about a boy accepting his identity as a mixed-race gay teen, but then finds a place where he belongs as a drag artist named The Black Flamingo.

- Juniper Leaves- Jaz Joyner Kinky-haired Juniper Bray used to believe in magic, until she lost her best friend: her grandmother. Now this 15-year-old shy girl is headed to her father's research trip on a farm hundreds of miles away, with a family she barely knows and the opposite of a best friend, her new arch nemesis, Bree Mckinney. As if she wasn't miserable enough. Little does she know the next few months Juniper will discover magical powers she never knew she had, get a crush on a girl she never knew she'd like and well, quite frankly, save the world.

- Crier’s War - Nina Varela ‘In a world where humans are dominated by superior Automae, one human girl called Ayla takes the role of handmaiden to the Automae Lady Crier in order to help the human rebellion. But to Ayla’s horror, she finds herself falling for Crier.’

- Queen of Coin and Whispers Helen Corcoran -When a teenage queen inherits her uncle’s bankrupt kingdom, she brings with her a new spymaster – a girl who only accepted the role to avenge her murdered father. But faced with enemies at every turn, the two learn to rely on no one but each other . . . though it may bring their downfall.

- Huntress- Malinda Lo – Ill fortune has befallen the land, and two girls have been tasked with the mission of setting things right. As Kaede and Taisin journey to the city of the Fairy Queen, adventure and romance awaits.

- This Song Is (Not) for You - Laura Nowlin- This is not your usual love triangle. Ramona has been in love with her best friend and bandmate Sam for a long time, Sam has also been in love Ramona. When Tom joins the band, he completes them. Now Ramona is starting to have feelings for Tom, and those feelings are reciprocated. Tom is a romantic asexual, whose asexuality is fully explored

- Seven Tears at High Tide- C.B. Lee – After Kevin Luong drops, yup, seven tears into the sea, he ends up rescuing a boy from the waters. It’s love at first sight for Morgan who, unknown to Kevin, is a Selkie.

- Loveless -Alice Oseman- (out on the 9th July!!) Georgia has never been in love, never kissed anyone, never even had a crush – but as a fanfic-obsessed romantic she’s sure she’ll find her person one day.As she starts university with her best friends, Pip and Jason, in a whole new town far from home, Georgia’s ready to find romance, and with her outgoing roommate on her side and a place in the Shakespeare Society, her ‘teenage dream’ is in sight. But when her romance plan wreaks havoc amongst her friends, Georgia ends up in her own comedy of errors, and she starts to question why love seems so easy for other people but not for her. With new terms thrown at her – asexual, aromantic – Georgia is more uncertain about her feelings than ever.

- The Last Beginning- Lauren James- (you probably need to read the next together first which I HIGHLY recommend) Sixteen years ago, after a scandal that rocked the world, teenagers Katherine and Matthew vanished without a trace. Now Clove Sutcliffe is determined to find her long lost relatives.But where do you start looking for a couple who seem to have been reincarnated at every key moment in history? Who were Kate and Matt? Why were they born again and again? And who is the mysterious Ella, who keeps appearing at every turn in Clove's investigation? For Clove, there is a mystery to solve in the past and a love to find in the future, and failure could cost the world everything.

#i think i did a good job at finding alot of diverse ones and with different sexualites etc represented #i haven't read all of these but i've read some!#queer ya masterlist #book blogging #pride reads #queer books #lgbtq boo #lgbtq reads #ya books

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ayoda · 4 years

Text

Ten years later

I don’t remember exactly what I was doing, but I received an alert on my desktop that a major earthquake had hit Japan. I immediately logged into the website of NHK (the CNN / PBS of Japan). I watched a live feed from a helicopter just as the tsunami had crashed onshore.

(This is a picture of the wall that was supposed to protect the village below. I took this pic as well as the others posted in this entry.)

It was unreal to see a massive wave destroy everything in its path. The wave kept traveling further and further inland. The reporter remained professional but his shock was obvious.

I’ve told some of this story before, please forgive me for being redundant.

We started hearing numbers. 12,000 dead (later revised to 17,000+). 2,500 missing. 6,000+ injured. 150,000+ residents displaced. Tommy Dyo, then director of Cru’s Epic Movement ministry, asked me to help train student teams being sent to Japan. Glad to be of service.

Then in April, Tommy was heading to Japan for a first-hand look. He said “dude, you’re coming with me.” Say what? How? “Send out a support letter.” Could I raise the support in a month? I received over $4,000 more than I needed (applied to future visits). Then my wife ruptures her Achilles (this time, the other leg). I thought that ended my plans. But she said “I’m not going to deprive you of this opportunity.”

I admittedly went to Japan skeptical as to what I’d see and questioning God as to why this had happened. I wasn’t prepared for what was ahead. The photo above is Rikuzentakata. A complete neighborhood, gone. When I shared later about my visit, I was asked if there were any photos I couldn’t take. There was one in particular, some kids’ toys that had been scattered. Even now, it’s admittedly difficult to think what may have happened to those children.

Some cleanup had already taken place, though there was still a lot to do. There were lots full of recovered vehicles lined up so survivors could either see if they could salvage something from the vehicle, or to identify victims who were swept up in the wave.

The government primarily provided cleanup for the damaged buildings (mostly condemned), we helped clean out houses and churches while also packaging meals and goods for those in evacuation centers.

While in Kamaishii, we saw buildings where an “X” was spray painted. An “X” indicated bodies had been found, an “X” with a circle meant the bodies had been recovered.

Most people have heard of the Fukushima nuclear reactor that’s still not shut down. We went to the Palette Center, a convention center where 10,000 people were housed, evacuated from neighborhoods surrounding the reactor. Most of the evacuees lived on different level of the arena, primarily within cardboard partitions.

This ship washed ashore at least 2 km inland. After debating whether or not to preserve the ship as a memorial, the decision was made to remove the ship to help rebuild the city. It had to be taken apart piece-by-piece, there was no crane or anything else that could move the ship. That provides some perspective on the power of the tsunami.

Worth noting: The shaking was incredibly severe, but Japan is very conscious about structural integrity in earthquakes. But there’s really no defense to a tsunami that reached as high as 40 meters (about 133 feet). That was the source of the major destruction and loss.

I’d already mentioned I was trying to understand the age-old philosophical question as to why would God allow this kind of suffering. I was blessed to have many help me find answers.

A group shot of the 2011 team, outside of the CRASH Japan (Christian Relief, Assistance, Support and Hope) headquarters:

Tommy, who I’ve already credited / blamed for getting me involved.

Shannon, a wonderfully talented friend who I’ll see on TV in the future (Tommy and I serve as her Stateside Uncles).

Pastor Jonathan, then President of CRASH Japan, our relief agency, now heading OpSAFE Int’l helping kids after disasters and trauma. I still work with him and his organization.

Urs, the son of missionaries, now happily married and living in Germany (?).

Some guy who once had more hair and darker hair.

Dr. Gary, formerly a Southern Baptist missionary based in Tokyo and our guide through the disaster areas, we damaged his van driving through areas where the roads were heavily damaged. Now back home in Chicago.

Pastor Levi and Diane Velasco, head of GLINTS (Global Intercultural Services), with whom we now serve as volunteers. They also head CRASH Midwest. They’ll be back in Japan sooner than later.

This photo features Jill, a nurse who joined us for much of our journey through the Sendai area, along with Tommy and Gary.

Ten years later, I’m still a small part of the volunteer effort. We’ve expanded to serving also in Kumamoto, which was hit with a major quake in 2016. I continue to work with OpSAFE Int’l and Pastor Jonathan, GLINTS with the Velascos, CRASH Japan under the direction of Nagai-Sensei, and we’ve been able to be part of the Kyushu Christ Disaster Relief Center based in Kumamoto. We try to go every summer, unfortunately the pandemic has interrupted our visits for the time being. I hope to post some more memories soon.

And what did I learn? Disasters don’t discriminate. We have to plan ahead. Maybe I can be helpful, even in a small way.

As for the “big question.” I still don’t have an answer for the question as to why this happened. Perhaps I was asking the wrong question. God will answer the question “why” in his time, but when asked He will answer “what’s next>”

I worked with so many incredible people over the past decade, from all over the world, all ages, all denominations, as well as all faith backgrounds. Their work taught me the importance of how to respond to the question “what’s next.” I’m hoping I’m doing my best to answer that question.

We found this mural (that’s my boys and super volunteer Emily) outside of a building in Kobuchihama. Translated: “Volunteers, thank you! Look at how strong Kobuchihama has become.”

どいたしまして。You’re welcome.

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thorne93 · 4 years

Text

Unforeseen Chasm (Part 45)

Prompt: Two sisters fall for men that are absolute enemies. The love they have could tear all of them apart, or it could bring them together.

Word Count:4866

Warnings: fluff its a happy day for the reader’s bff! loki gets thrown lol song for this part: Note: This is by far the longest thing I’ve ever written (including my novels). It’s a collaboration with the amazing @mrs-dragneel-stark-solo. It started as a funny “What if…?” and it evolved and got huge. This took two years to write. We are both proud and happy and we hope you enjoy it. It follows from Thor 1 to Endgame in the MCU. Some of the timelines may be off in order to fit certain people, and some characters may show up earlier or in different ways than they have in the movie. But for the most part, it follows the MCU. It also has a bit of crossover with some other Marvel characters throughout the story.

Masterlist for Unforeseen Chasm

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As you and Loki made breakfast, you mused, “So I was thinking, before I leave for Nebraska, maybe I should meet your boss.”

“Oh? And why is that?” Loki asked as he bobbed a tea bag in a cup.

“I just feel like I should know who you’re going to be spending so much time with while I’m away. I need to know they can help you if I can’t.”

“Darling, I am perfectly capable of--”

Quickly, your eyes met his, a serious look in them. “I know you can, I’m not talking about physically. Can I just meet them?”

He looked at you for a moment before his face softened. “Yes, of course. We can go today before you head in for work if you’d like.”

“Sounds good to me. It’s my last day with Bruce so…”

“I’m going to miss you dearly,” he suddenly said, a bit of weight to his voice.

You turned back around from the counter, placing your hand on his cheek. “I know. I’ll miss you too.”

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

As you headed out the door, you texted Shannon, telling her you were meeting Loki’s boss. She asked if she could come too. You said you’d be delighted to have her there, and before you knew it, you were all outside of Loki’s work.

“Hey! You made it in record time,” you greeted happily, hugging her.

“Yeah, it’s these new shoes Tony made for me,” she responded, showing you her shoe. “Nifty in a jam. Hey, Loki,” she greeted casually.

“Hello,” he said politely back before entering the sanctum.

Just as Loki started to go down one hallway, with you two in tow, a voice sounded from behind you.

“Loki? Shannon?” a deep voice greeted all of you.

All of you spun to face the noise. When your eyes landed on him, you were taken aback. “Stephen?” you gasped, rushing forward to greet him. “Oh my god, it’s been so long.”

“Y/N? I thought that was you,” he commented with a side smile. “What are you doing here?” he asked, his face lighting up.

“I came to see who Loki was working with,” you explained, gesturing back to him. “Get this,” you offered, turning back to Shannon and Loki, standing next to Stephen, “we used to go to college together.”

“I didn’t know you two knew each other,” Shannon commented with a grin.

“Oh yeah, we had physics together,” you informed with a smile up at Stephen.

“Is that so?” Loki mused.

“Oh absolutely,” Stephen said with a huge smile. He threw his arm around your shoulder and said, “In fact, you know, I was gonna ask her out in college. She was everything I dreamed of, back then.”

“Really?” Loki asked, a gleam in his eye.

You laughed, a bit nervous, blushing. “I never knew that,” you said, turning to Strange.

“Yeah, so why didn’t you?” Loki asked with a bit of an edge in his laugh.

“I guess it was just never the right time. You know how it is in college--Well, you don’t, you didn’t go, you know, to college. But it’s just hard to find the time when you’re serious like Y/N and I were.”

“I see,” Loki noted and Shannon picked up on his energy way before you did.

“Well we just wanted to pop in,” Shannon quickly interjected, stepping forward to hook her arm through yours. “So good to see you again, Stephen.” She began to whisk you out of the sanctum.

“Likewise. Feel free to stop by for coffee any time, Y/N, I’d love to catch up,” Stephen called after you. You barely had time to yell a confirmation back before Shannon had fully hauled you outside and out onto the street.

“Jesus, where’s the fire, Shan?” you asked, fixing yourself.

“It’s about to be between you and Loki if you hadn’t noticed,” she quipped, pointing back towards the doors.

“What? What are you talking about?”

“Quite the show with Stephen in there. Were you trying to make him jealous or did that just happen?” she asked, beginning to walk.

“Jealous? Loki? That’s kind of impossible,” you muttered. “He’s a magical god with the best cheekbones on the planet.”

“Not to him,” she reminded, almost under her breath. “All I’m saying is… Loki is pretty fragile. He’s insecure. You know this, I know this. He acts like he isn’t, but it’s obvious he is.”

“Right,” you agreed, urging her to continue.

“Which means looking thrilled to see Strange and parading your friendship around in front of Loki before you go off to the middle of nowhere. He’s going to miss you. So any super friendliness you show to another guy, can...you know, send the wrong message,” she noted.

You bobbed your head. “You’re right,” you agreed. “I shouldn’t have done that. I was just so excited to see him. You don’t really think he took it the wrong way, do you?”

She rolled her eyes and began sarcastically, “Noo, not Loki. Take something wrong? Never.” She glanced to you and giggled.

You nudged her playfully as the two of you walked to Stark Tower to begin your day.

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

As the days went by so did the countdown to the most talked about wedding. The happy couple was constantly getting bombarded about details for the wedding. At some point Shannon and Tony had publicly given a statement letting people know that it would be a private event for the reception so there would be no access to photos and filming during that time. They did say they’d allow photos after the ceremony as they leave the church so that there would be something to show of the happy couple.

For Shannon the hardest part of this whole thing about planning a wedding was knowing who to make the maid of honor. She’d only ever been close with two women besides her sister and mother, but things had happened and yes she wanted you to be there for her but she also felt that Nat should too.

It was easier for Tony to figure that out for his best man. He and Rhodey went back years, and even though he and Steve got along, Shannon knew he’d pick Rhodey. Of course Tony didn’t want to leave Steve out so he asked him to be a groomsman.

There were only a few weeks left before the big day and Shannon had yet to tell either woman who will be the Maid of Honor, officially. Hopefully neither felt like they were being left hanging. Maybe there would be a chance that both would be the Maid of Honor like Tony had done with the guys she figured that she could do the same now all she had to do was figure out how to let them know.

Shannon called, “JARVIS...”

“Yes, Miss Shannon?”

“What do you think I could do to tell both Natasha and Y/N that I want them to be my Maids of Honor?”

“I would suggest a girl’s day out, and I can have a few of their favorite foods ordered for the evening of relaxation that way you can all enjoy yourselves”

“Sounds like a plan, although if you could have the food sent to my floor that way the boys dont get any ideas about taking the food. Knowing Clint’s sweet tooth, he’ll be trying to grab the desserts.”

“I’ll make sure that Mr. Barton is unaware of the deliveries being made. Have you decided on the dress or shall they choose their own dresses?”

“I believe that they should have a say in what they want to wear to the wedding.”

———————

Girl’s day as JARVIS had suggested was a success. They all went to get pampered and did some shopping. The day was coming to an end and Shannon was feeling pretty confident that she could ask them both to be Maids of Honor.

“Alright you both know how much I love you right?”

“Well yeah Shannon I know that,” Nat responded.

“Why wouldn’t we know that? You always show us,” you said, a bit confused by her statement.

“Now that we’re all together again and you two are getting to know each other which makes me so happy, here comes the big question.”

There was a bit of a pause, as Shannon flashed her gaze between you and Natasha.

“Come on, spit it out already!” Nat was getting a little flustered not knowing.

“Will you both be my Maids of Honor?” Shannon looked at you and then at Natasha. Both of you were quiet for a moment.

“Are you sure you want me to be a Maid of honor?” Nat looked a little surprised that Shannon had asked both of them. “I figured you’d want Y/N be it. I already gave the spot and title to her a long time ago. Seriously, I’m happy to be just a bridesmaid."

"I do want to be Maid of Honor. But if you’re up for it, and it makes Shan happy…" You shrugged, hugging yourself.

“Well I didn’t think it would be fair picking one person or the other. You guys mean the world to me and I want y'all by my side on that day.”

Shannon stared at you and Nat, wanting an official answer.

“I’m happy to be your Maid of Honor, Shan, you know that, of course. As long as Y/N doesn’t feel like I’m stepping on her toes…” Nat replied.

“Not at all,” you assured. “I’m happy to share this with you, if it makes Shannon happy.”

“You realize we’re going to have to plan a bachelorette party, right?” Nat smirked at the idea. She figured she could involve the guys somehow. Turning to you, she asked, “You thinking what I'm thinking?"

"Strippers?" you teased.

“That and more along those lines, but I think we can plan when Shannon is not around.” Natasha figured this could be a good way to get to know each other.

“Please, for the love Stark, nothing crazy, unless it’s a week or two before the wedding!”

“We’ll try but no promises,” you both agreed.

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

Two weeks before the wedding and Shannon was still waiting for the girl’s surprise party. She was a little unsure as to what would happen and hoped that none of it was as crazy as she’s thinking it would be. Turns out she was somewhat wrong, not only did they take her out to eat and pick their dresses but after getting home they took her to the training room where it was set up differently than usual. Nat had somehow suckered Steve, Thor, Clint and a few stripper men to give Shannon an exotic show as a way to partially end the night.

Granted, Shannon had never thought Steve of all people would actually do such a thing but it seemed as if he had no other choice in the matter. Thinking that this would stay as a ‘you never speak of this’ type of thing, you had asked JARVIS that he record the night so that years from now they could all look back and laugh. After that little show, Thor had given the ladies some of his Asgardian mead for them to toast and left. The following morning none of the three women were found in their usual rooms. WhenTony asked Al where they could find the three, he showed them all piled up on one of the training mats left in the corner of the training room.

“Hey, Steve, call Bruce to give me a hand, would you? Looks like they’re hungover and I can't carry all three down to Shannon’s floor,” Tony mused to his friend, amused a their behavior.

“Sure thing. I saw him in the kitchen.” Steve left and came back with Banner.

“So what are we doing?” Bruce asked.

“Well after last night's event, Thor gave the girls some of his strong alcohol and they are all piled up in the training room as we speak. I’d like to get them down to Shannon’s floor to rest,” Tony informed the two.

The three men all ended up with someone in their arms to carry down to Shannon’s old floor. They left them all resting in the giant bed and left water and aspirin for when they would wake up.

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

Wedding day there had been so many last minute details to cover. In the end, the ceremony had been beautiful and Shannon had looked stunning and as promised the happy couple gave the reporters their chance to take pictures of them as they left the church. The two made a quick stop at a fast food joint because Tony had gotten a craving for cheeseburgers. People were excited when they saw him enter and exit the restaurant with a bag full of food and figured that Shannon would be nearby because everyone knew today was their wedding.

On the ride to the hall Tony and Shannon talked about where they’d want to go on a honeymoon.

“Honestly, Tony I dont mind where we’re going as long as it's just the two of us together.”

“I know but I was hoping to take you somewhere you’d always wanted to visit.”

“Well, we could always go to Bora Bora?”

“Then that's where we’ll go then, Mrs. Stark.” He kissed her hand, full of love knowing he was married to the woman he loved. “Looks like we’re here. Let’s go have some fun.”

“Let’s go then.” The door opened for Shannon and it was Steve who was holding his hand out to help her get out of the car.

He walked her to Tony’s side and then went to open the door for them. As the happy couple entered the hall, many of the guests had already arrived wanting to chit chat with all the other guests. Shannon’s parents had been seated to her right, while the team was on Tony’s left. Everyone in between was seated in seats nearby.

Everyone started to cheer as the music began to play and the Best men and Maids of Honor entered followed by the bride and groom.

“Thank you all for being here to celebrate this wonderful day with us, it means the world that we get to start the next chapter of our lives with you at our side.” Shannon thanked everyone who was there and held her glass of champagne in the air.

“To the happy couple!” Thor cheered loudly and everyone yelled the same.

People began to drop off presents at the table and joining in line to get a chance to hug the happy couple. There was music playing and there was so much laughter and joy with everything that goes on in their lives, this is by far the most relaxed anyone had ever been in a long time.

There was a moment where they had started playing games like removing the garter from the bride and giving it to someone else. The winner ended up being Bruce in that game. They had played who knows who better using the bride and grooms shoes that ended in a tie between Shannon and Tony. There had been dancing and drinking and people were enjoying themselves. People were constantly asking for pictures and asking where the honeymoon would be. Once things were getting mellow, the two figured it would be a good time as ever to cut the cake. They asked one of the waiters to bring the two cakes out so that they could get a bit of energy to continue on partying.

“Alright everyone, we’re about to have the cakes brought out so we can enjoy some sweet treats. Everyone is welcome to the open sweets bar that is being brought out too!” Shannon announced.

“Barton, that means you need to control yourself on the sugar high.” Tony smirked seeing a full grown man pout. “Aww, don’t be sad, Shannon might have a secret stash for you later on.”

Shannon laughed at that. “You know I’m always going to have a little something for you.” Then she pointed to look behind him for his surprise.

Seeing him turn back around and come running was the funniest thing in the world, hopefully someone recorded that.

As you stood nearby to cheer on Shannon and Tony, you suddenly overheard Thor and Loki. Thor was clearly drunk. He’d brought some mead, not to mention it was an open bar that he’d been accessing all night.

“Oh, come on, Loki, you know I’ve always been able to hold more liquor than you. It’s just a fact,” he boasted. He was somewhat quiet, for being drunk, but you could see Loki’s face was already distorted into frustration, so you kept your ears and eyes on them.

“Perhaps, but that was a long time ago. Besides, I graduated school with top marks, can you say the same?”

“I can say that I won every battle I ever went into, including saving your ass.”

Loki’s jaw clenched and you naturally turned more towards their conversation. “I, at least, can say I’ve never been banished from our home,” he responded quietly, his teeth clenched.

“No, just imprisoned for years on Earth.”

“Well, we both know who lost in keeping mother alive, hmm?” he snapped, his face tight with a smile full of rage.

Before you could react or blink, Thor slammed his closed fist into Loki’s jaw, sending him soaring back into the table with the cakes on it, covering both bride and groom in cake, and Loki on top of a broken table. He was clearly embarrassed and you ran over to crouch beside him.

“Are you alright?” you asked, your eyes full of worry.

He looked at you before jumping to his feet, wiping off the cake, apologizing to Tony and Shannon, and began walking off.

“I knew we shouldn’t have invited him,” Tony muttered to Shannon. You turned to them, a look of hopelessness on your face before you followed Loki. He walked out of the main hall where the event was being held, turned down a corridor, and ended up in a rather empty hall, leaning on the wall.

You came up behind him, twiddling your fingers. “Do you want to talk about it?”

“No,” he said firmly.

“Loki,” you tried as you walked up and put your hand on his shoulder. He didn’t react, and finally, you sighed. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have brought you here. We don’t belong here. Not anymore. I was foolish to think we did. I just thought that since we can’t go back to Asgard...Maybe this could be our home, like it once was for me. But…” You let out a big breath again. “It never will be. That ship has long sailed. We’ll forever be enemies to everyone here.”

He turned to peer at you, anguish in his eyes. “It wouldn’t be, if you weren’t with me. You know I’m the problem, darling, why do you stay?” He brought his hands up to the sides of your face.

“Because I love you,” you said, your face leaning into his hand.

“Maybe that isn’t good enough anymore. You deserve a better life than being treated like this.”

“I deserve a life with you, happy with you, and that’s what I am.”

“Even with your family and friends hating you, hating me?”

“They don’t hate us,” you assured, reaching up to him. “They’re afraid of us.”

“That isn’t much better,” he muttered.

Just then, you heard someone approaching.

“Is everything alright? I just saw you guys come out here I figured something was up after Thor threw you into the cake” Shannon asked looking between the two of them. “Here, Loki I thought you could use a cloth to get the icing off your face.”

He took the cloth gently, wiping himself. “Why are you so kind to us? Clearly everyone else at this event would rather we leave.”

You turned to Shannon. “Yeah, Shan. I know it’s your big day, but maybe Loki and I should go?” you suggested. You didn’t want to leave, not just yet. You wanted to stay, to see your best friend off, but maybe it would be better if you just disappeared.

”Why am I kind to you two? Well Y/N is my best friend all my life, and you Loki, I’d like to think that we have gotten to a mutual understanding.” She looked between the two of them, she could tell that they didn't want to be there any longer than they had to. “But if you two truly feel uncomfortable then you are more than welcome to leave. As much as I’d like you two to stay, I won’t force you. Enjoy the rest of your night guys.” She gave them a warm smile showing them sincerity and started turning back to head inside.

A smile barely twitched at his lips, his eyes going to the floor. Loki looked at you, a look of encouragement in his eyes.

“Shan,” you called. “Wait up. I’d be happy to stay. We just,” you stopped, glancing up to your love, “we just don’t want to ruin your day, that’s all. We don’t want our presence here to sour the atmosphere. You know?” you asked. “I’d love to stay. I’d like nothing more. But… if me leaving means you get the day you deserve, then we can do that.” You gave her a soft, quick smile, the smile not quite meeting your eyes.

Shannon turned around to look at both of you. Her smile faltered a bit but fixed her composure.

“You two could never ruin my day and it’s not even just mine, it’s our day, Y/N/N. We’re celebrating something big. This is a new chapter in all our lives. I'd like for both of you to be a part of it.” She walked over to you putting her arm around your shoulders. “You two leaving tonight wouldn’t give me the day I deserve. It would mean there’s something missing.” Turning to look at Loki and waving him over. “No matter what anyone says, you two will always be welcome and I mean that with all of my heart. Still, it’s up to you both if you want to stay or not. If you do decide to leave I can have a car ready to pick you up and take you home.” She hugged you and pulled back to let you talk to Loki.

You looked to Loki, taking his hand and smiling. The two of you spoke with your eyes quickly before turning back to Shannon and nodding.

“So, now that we’ve ruined one cake, what’s next on the list of events tonight?” you asked with a laugh. “I believe you still need to toss your bouquet,” you reminded, linking your arm through hers as you led her back to the hall, Loki just behind you.

“You just reminded me right now of that! I had completely forgotten.” She laughed walking back into the hall. “I still need to slow dance with Tony. Might be a good time for you two to have a bit of a romantic moment, don't you think?” She bumped her hip with yours.

“That’s not a bad idea,” you mused, thinking of getting to dance with your beloved.

Walking back in you could see people were still having fun, the second cake was still intact so that could get cut and passed around. Looked like Clint might have passed out from too many sweets. Shannon pulled you to the main table to grab the bouquet and grabbed Natasha while they were at it to announce that she would be throwing it in a moment.

“Alright, all my single ladies to the dance floor! Let’s see who's gonna be the next one to get hitched.” Shannon giggled as she walked to the dancefloor. “No cheating ladies, Tony’s got his eye on all of you.” She turned around and everyone began chanting a countdown.

The flowers went up in the air pretty high and Shannon turned around quickly to see who would be the lucky gal. She hoped any of her close friends who were in a relationship would catch it. They were all pushing and moving to try and get to where it would land, little would anyone know that the person to catch it would be you, surprising everyone. You weren’t clamoring to get to it like the other girls were.

“Uh, wow,” you breathed, a feeling that you weren’t sure how to pin down rushed over you.

“Is that good?” Loki asked as he walked up to you, all of the other women leaving the dancefloor with long faces.

Shannon cheered when she saw it land and saw the look of confusion appear in Loki’s face. When it did, it looked like someone’s going to have to catch him up on human culture. “Congrats, Y/N! Looks like someone better get started on planning a proposal,” she joked, looking over at a flustered Loki when he heard that.

“Pro--Proposal?” he stammered.

“It’s… Whoever catches the bride's bouquet is the next person to get married,” you explained. “It’s a silly superstition,” you tried, attempting to brush off the feelings of awkwardness and the small bout of disappointment in your stomach. You didn’t think Loki would ever feel that way for you. If he did, he certainly hadn’t made it known. You didn’t want him to feel pressured to do it. But you also didn’t know if he’d ever consider you wife material. Sure he loved you, but was that enough? A blush rose to your cheeks. “Shan, what about that slow dance now?” you urged, trying to change the topic of conversation.

Noticing the bit of tension, she agreed and went to go let the Dj know it was time for the dance. When they planned the wedding, she didn’t think there would be a dance routine so she and the girls didn’t pick one.

“Alright, it's time for the newlyweds to join the dance floor for their first song of the night. Later they will have a surprise by the groom and the men,” the Dj announced.

“May I have this dance, Mrs. Stark?” Tony bowed.

“Why of course Mr. Stark, shall we?” She giggled taking his hand.

He led her onto the dance floor and everyone watched in awe as they began moving around to the song breathe by Faith Hill. little by little couples began to join them as well taking the moment to whisper sweet nothings to their partners. Shannon saw Loki grab your hand and lead her to the dance floor. She knew they were made for each other and hoped they ended up together like she did with Tony.

“Sorry for earlier. I know it’s probably way too soon, or too heavy, to be talking marriage,” you noted with a slight laugh.

He gazed down at you with a smile. “I rather liked entertaining the idea,” he informed. “We have lived together out of wedlock for three years now? It might be time,” he joked.

“I’ll leave that decision up to you,” you quietly said before resting your head on his shoulder. “I’ve missed this. Remember when we danced for the first time?”

“You mean when my mother forced me to show you how to do the traditional Asgardian dance?” he asked, and you could hear his eyes roll.

“As I recall, it was beautiful. It was very much worth it to get you to talk to me. You weren’t exactly welcoming back then,” you reminded.

“I only wanted to protect you,” he breathed before lifting your chin. “As I always do.”

You smiled and gave him a long, firm kiss.

Meanwhile on the other side of the dancefloor.

“What’s this about you and the guys doing a surprise?” Shannon asked when she leaned closer into his arms. “You up to something devious like always?”

“Guess you’ll just have to wait and see now won’t you? Don’t want you ruining all the practice we’ve done,” he replied, holding her tight and kissing her temple. “I’m so lucky to have found you and to be able to call you my wife.”

“Someone had to make sure you didn’t do anything reckless,” she laughed hearing him attempt to sound offended.

The rest of the night continued in a pleasant, sweet way. By the end of it, Shannon and Tony were sent off glamorously in a sleek black new sports car. They headed towards their private hangar, and they were off on their honeymoon.

Meanwhile, all the Avengers went back to the tower. Most of them were drunk, and passed out nearly as soon as they got there. Except for Steve and Bruce. You joined them all and had a quiet evening with them, chatting for a small bit of time before you and Loki excused yourselves back to your apartment. Steve bid you a goodnight and said you two looked nice this evening. You repaid the compliment. Bruce gave a soft wave and nod before he himself went to his floor to rest offf the festivities.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Loki: @lostinspace33 @ultrarebelheart @lenawiinchester @esoltis280 @tngrayson @wangdeasang @harrymewmew @jayfantasyatyourservice

UC: @lokis-high-priestess

#unforeseen chasm #loki x reader #loki fic #Loki Laufeyson #tony stark #tony stark fic #tony stark x ofc #bruce banner #steve rogers #thor #clint barton #natasha romanoff

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mrs-dragneel-stark-solo · 5 years

Text

Unforseen Chasm (part 13)

Part 13 of Unforseen Chasm

Prompt: Two sisters fall for men that are absolute enemies. The love they have could tear all of them apart, or it could bring them together. Word Count: 2436 Note: This is by far the longest thing I’ve ever written (including my other fic series). first major Collab with my best friend @thorne93 what was first a simple “what if” moment turned into a two year writing session and I’ve never been more prouder of myself than when i started my first series. goes through most of the MCU plots there are some changes to accommodate for what we wanted and there is a bit of a crossover between the MCU and other characters. I hope you guys enjoy reading this just as much as I enjoyed writing it.

A piercing scream echoed in the bedroom, making Tony jolt awake. He saw Shannon, in tears, writhing next to him.

“Shan? Shannon? Baby,” he coaxed, shaking her, trying to get her to wake. Finally, she stirred, slapping Tony’s hands away before she was fully conscious.

Her eyes were wild, her breathing frantic. She finally realized where she was as Tony continued to try and hold her.

“Tony?” she said, almost as if she were confused.

“I’m here, I’m here. It’s alright… Another nightmare?” he asked as he pulled her close to him, soothing her.

She nodded. “Mhm. I saw her die, Tony…”

“We don’t know she’s dead,” he retorted.

“It’s been six months, Tony. She hasn’t written back since my last letter. What else could it be?” she argued through the tears.

“I don’t know,” he honestly said, still consoling her.

Only a few hours later, she and Tony started their day. Shannon worked in the lab, as she always did, but the dark circles under her eyes were becoming a permanent fixture on her face. She tried to concentrate but how could she do that when you were out there somewhere? Had you died? If so, why didn’t Thor send word? If you were alive, why were you ignoring her?

Perhaps you really had chosen Asgard over her and Earth. In your last letter to her, you said you would have to make a decision. Perhaps you did and decided to cut all ties with your past.

But she couldn’t bring herself to believe that or accept it. You wouldn’t just abandon her. Even if you decide to make Asgard your home, you would tell her.

She needed to find out what happened to you, but she had no idea where to begin and it was killing her. Tony could see the weight it put on her, Bruce could see it. Even JARVIS noticed it, as he tried to play upbeat songs or help her with her work. She waited and waited on a letter that would never come. She watched every day for a black raven. Every bird that flew by the tower made her head snap up in attention, only for her heart to fall in disappointment as it soared by.

“Is there anything I can do?” Tony asked point blank that night over dinner.

“Got any way to reach an Asgardian god?” she mused, playing with her food, but not eating.

Tony sighed slightly. “No, babe, I don’t… I’m so sorry. I’m sure we’ll hear something from her.”

“Yeah… maybe,” she said, but she was rapidly giving up hope. She cleared her plate and trudged to bed, praying no more nightmares came from you, and that in the morning, there would be some news of you.

Gasping, you woke up in the dark, dismal room that was your hut on this shit planet. It was dark inside, but the doorway was entirely open, no door, and the outside was dim. Your breath became ragged as you hugged yourself. The reality of where you were hit you like a ton of bricks and you began sobbing.

Another day of torture awaited Loki, just as it had yesterday. Thanos made you listen to his screams, watch his anguish, a reminder that if you defied them or failed them this would be the price you would pay. Loki tried to be strong, he tried to be quiet in his pain, but they were too extreme. They used some sort of stone to twist his mind, to inflict pain. They beat him daily with their weapons, all while you sat by and watched.

You were a prisoner in a foreign land, doomed to watch the love of your life suffer, while you were fed lies at the hand of man you could not fight.

“My love?” Loki asked, sitting up with a sleepy voice. Sleep was the only thing that kept him sane… well, other than you, vowing your love to him every night. You swore you would make them pay for what they had done to him, to both of you. Each night you caressed him, held him close, and pledged your undying love to him. Mainly so he wouldn’t think you were trying to betray him, because thanks to Thanos, everyone looked like an enemy to Loki.

He heard your sobs and instantly sat up to pull you close to him.

“I want to go home,” you said in the most desperate tone you’d ever used, sobbing strangling your voice. “I miss my family. I miss Shannon. I miss Lucky.”

“I know, darling,” he said quietly before kissing your hair. “I know…” It killed Loki to see you in this much torment, because if it weren’t for him, you wouldn’t be here. If he’d just stayed on Asgard he wouldn’t watch you suffer, and he wouldn’t be in tremendous pain every day.

But he couldn’t change the past.

You clutched him as if your life depended it on it. If it weren’t for Loki, you would’ve just killed yourself a long time ago. It would be better than living in this Hell. He held you back, equally as tight, hoping that he could make this better some way. Nothing came to mind. He had no way to get you to Earth. He did not know this realm well at all and was not allowed to wander.

You cried the rest of the night until the Chitauri guards literally ripped you from your bed and threw you at Thanos feet. He would use the magic stone to pull your insecurities out, twist them, bloat them, then put them back in your head. Meanwhile, Loki was brainwashed only ten feet from you, and brutally beaten down, so that he would not have the strength to fight them off.

This…

This was your life for the last six months, and it would be still for the foreseeable future, and you weren’t sure how much more you could take.

A knock came at Shannon’s apartment. Well, technically your apartment. But you hadn’t seen this place in over a year. Somewhere, deep within you, you knew you should be nervous about this encounter, but you couldn’t find it in you. Hopefully she opened up soon, though, because right now in your all black ensemble (including combat boots, leather pants, a hooded robe, and black corset), you stuck out like a sore thumb.

Finally, she opened the door, taking you in.

“Y/N?” Shannon breathed, her eyes raking over you.

“It’s me,” you said, grinning softly.

In an instant, she wrapped you in a tight embrace. So tight, you thought maybe she would cut off your oxygen, but as a goddess that was impossible for her. At least using her physical strength.

“Y/N, where the hell have you been? Did you get my letter asking you to come back? Why haven’t you written back to me?” She railed you with questions.

You laughed and said, “If you let me inside, I’ll explain everything.”

“Right, yeah of course this is your home too.” She moved to the side to let you in.

You gave an awkward laugh, not sure how to respond to that. She was right but this didn’t feel like a home.

“Is Tony here?” you asked, peering around.

“No he’s back at the tower, he’s been working on some updates for one of his suits,” she said as she walked to the living room. “To be honest I haven’t seen him in a few days. I get updates from JARVIS if he’s slept.”

You nodded slightly. “Oh that’s good.” You stopped for a second and corrected yourself. “I mean, it’s good that he’s working. He’s always inventing something, working, that’s good. Not so much about the fucked up sleep. How are you two doing, anyway? Still… dating?”

“Well we haven’t really gone out too much since the last time. We’ve both been busy on our ends. I’m working with Jane recently on creating some new tech for her research.” She played with her fingers. “We eat dinner together when we can,” she sighed like it was a weight on her.

You frowned sorrowfully. “I’m… sorry to hear that. And I’m sorry I haven’t gotten back to you. I never got another letter. I told you about my parents and…Well… I got busy.”

“Forget about me, tell me all about Asgard! All the picture you sent were stunning! Do you plan on publishing any of your notes of your studies there?” she asked eagerly wanting to catch up on lost time. “I mean it’s been a whole year you must have tons of new discoveries made.”

“Oh, yeah, I discovered all kinds of things while I was away. Things you wouldn’t believe. Asgard truly is stunning. It has a lot of…shocking details about it. I will make sure the world knows all about Asgard,” you promised with a double-edged grin.

“Tell me more, Y/N. There’s got to be so many things you wanna tell me! I mean, that’s if you wanna tell me,” she said, feeling like she was being to pushy. “Maybe later we can go to the tower and see what tricks Queen Frigga and Loki taught you?”

“Absolutely! Could you make some tea first though? I’m a little parched,” you requested. “I would love to go to the tower. I can’t wait to see Tony. I’m sure he’ll be surprised to see me. Has he asked about me?”

“Anything for you, Y/N! Yeah he was missing being able to bother you sometimes. He would ask if I’d heard from you,” she said while going to start the water for the tea. “I bet it will be a surprise for him but it’ll be a good way to get him out of the lab. It might even make Lucky happy. He’s been pretty sad lately with your absence. It’s like he remembers you sometimes and gets sad,” she said looking over at the picture of the three of you at the park.

A twinge of pain twisted inside your heart at her words. You never intended to hurt Lucky. Your eyes followed her gaze to a photo on the wall. You remembered that day, barely. You were a different person then – human, physicist, powerless….

“That’s sad to hear. I hope to see him when we see Tony. And Bruce? How is Dr. Banner doing? Still getting angry and turning into the Pissed off Green Giant?” you asked with a perch of your eyebrow.

“He hasn’t hulked out as much as he used to. I’ve been helping him find ways to keep the big guy calm.” She looked over to you to see a change in your mood you seemed a bit down. “But I have heard him argue with the big guy a few times”

Your eyes lit up. “So, he still struggles with the Hulk, hmm? Hasn’t quite caged the beast?” you asked, a sparkle in your eyes.

She didn’t notice the change in your voice. “It’s a bit hard for him with how Shield has been keeping him in their radar lately. Hulk wants to go somewhere away from them and Bruce won’t allow it with the new advancements he’s made with reversing his mutation.” She walked back to the couch with some tea on the tray with some goodies.

“Oh, so you know where he is?” you asked while taking a cup of tea. “Would you be able to get him to the Tower? I’d love to see him.”

“Last I heard from him was a few weeks ago. Something about flying somewhere to find some sort of botanical garden that could help him.” She shrugged her shoulders. “I could always ask JARVIS to locate him. That is assuming he still has the tracker on him.”

“A tracker? How… handy,” you mused. “Yes, I would very much like to know where Banner is at.”

“We can do that when we head to the tower. I haven’t had a chance to install the Al system into the apartment so I can get my documents sent from the lab here.” She pointed to the direction of the tower. “Did you ever get to defeat Sif or Thor from your training?”

A fond smile fell on your face for a moment. “As a matter of fact, I did. I beat every opponent I came against. I was able to trick Thor, mainly. The rest are just reliant on strength and speed.” You scoffed. “It takes so much more than that to win a war…”

She looked over and was unable to read your emotions. “What…what do you mean, Y/N? You didn’t go off to fight a war, did you?!” She became worried instantly.

You shook your head slightly at first. “No, well… not at first. No. Not intentionally. Don’t worry. I’m fine.” You flashed a smile at her but she wasn’t sold. Of course she wasn’t. She knew you too well and you hadn’t mastered the art of trickery – no, that was Loki’s forte.

“Is everything alright, Y/N/N? You seem a bit off, is there anything I could do? If you need to rest let me know. I’ll see if I can get the training room set for just us two and hopefully Stevie isn’t training in there.” She put her hand on your knee to comfort you.

Her touch made you recoil violently. You couldn’t help it. The only person who could touch you without harming you was Loki.

“I’m sorry about that,” you said, trying to smooth your outfit and hair out. “What were you saying? Ah, yes. Rest. Shannon, I don’t think it’s me who needs the rest. Aren’t you a little tired?” You snapped your fingers once in front of her, hoping that would do the trick you needed.

Shannon saw the way you moved away from her touch and wanted to address it, but she yawned in an instant.

“Now that you say it, I am a bit tired, I haven’t slept well since you’ve been gone. I missed us having those late night chats.” She stretched. “I might go take a small nap before we leave, just a short nap I promise.” She smiled sweetly at you.

You nodded at her. “You do that, darling. I’ll be right here when you wake up,” you promised.

With that, Shannon stood up and walked back to her bedroom. When her door closed, you pulled out your phone and made a quick phone call, staring down the hall. “Yeah, I’ve got her. We’re halfway there.”

Unforseen Chasm Tag list- @reigningqueenofwords @oldfreakything

Tag list- @cas-you-assbutt-dean-needs-you @winchester-writes @winchesterenthusiast @georgialouisea @deansdirtylittlesecretsblog @sammysbuttcheek @bran2015 @misz-adrii @sandlee44 @womanxofletters @natsuccs @childishhoebinoo @depressed-moose-78 @expecteddifferent @girl-next-door-writes @fanaticfanfiction @dakotapaigelove @sassy-spn-knight-of-hell @weclassygirl @adefectivedetective

#loki x reader #loki #loki fic #tony stark fic #bruce banner #unforseen chasm #tony stark x ofc

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morbid-n-macabre · 5 years

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Have you watched the documentary "Goodnight Sugar Babe"? I apologise for the length of this post, but there's nothing I can cut out. I will link the documentary below.

Findlay, Ohio

March 26th of 2011-

24 year old Vera Jo Reigle was mentally slow, they say she had the mentality of an 8-12 year old child. She'd had a very troubled childhood, had been repeatedly abused, sexually, by both her biological father and mom's boyfriend. Of course this caused issues between she and her mother; when a 19 year old Vera met a boy, 13 year old Zachary Brooks, Vera was thrilled that his family took her into their fold. When Zachary's mother, Cheri Lynne Brooks, offered for Vera to move in, she jumped at the opportunity. Vera just couldn't see that these were terrible, evil people; they had been kind to her in the beginning, but they had ulterior motives.

So, first things first, let's get this out of the way. Cheri is the mother of 9; she lost her first 5 kids, one at a time, for blatant sexual abuse. Scottie (who is the product of consensual incest with Cheri's first cousin; he is mentally disabled), Michael, Maria, Joshua, and little Cheri were all taken away, one at a time, while they were young. Maria was only removed from the home after she was raped, she was one year old at the time; Little Cheri was thankfully spared her abuse as she was taken at birth. A few of the children who were taken did make their way back to Cheri when they were a bit older. For some reason, even though the first 5 were taken, the next 4 children were left in their mother's custody: Kevin AKA "Punky", Zachary, Garth, and Chuckie. Kevin Brooks Sr. is Cheri's husband and the father of most of Cheri's offspring.

The Brooks family is a well known crime family, their leader being mama Cheri, AKA Sugar Babe- a woman often rightfully compared to Charles Manson. Though Cheri looks harmless, she is disabled and in a wheelchair, do not allow that to fool you! This woman is a baby rapist, a sadist, a criminal, a sociopath, and a master manipulator who has proved again and again that she can convince people to do her dirty work at will. Cheri was sexually abused by her father, big Chuck, beginning when she was merely a toddler. Eventually she was taken away, and placed in the system, but she continued this sexual relationship with her father even after she married Kevin Brooks. When she began having children of her own, the abused became the abuser- the cycle continued, Cheri sexually abused them. Family and neighbors witnessed this, and DCF was called multiple times; it's difficult to understand why all of this deviant's children were not taken from her at once, authorities only took one baby at a time. The others were left in Cheri's custody until there was another complaint, and another, and so on. Since her own children were constantly being taken, Cheri began finding other women to give birth to babies for her; when her children were a little older, Cheri accomplished this by talking her teenaged son's various young girlfriends into getting pregnant. Cheri always hoped for little girls, though it's well known that she had no problem sexually abusing little boys.

It shouldn't be a surprise that the children raised by this pervert grew to become criminals and gang members; they all claim to be members of the Crips, there are even photos of the wheelchair bound older woman throwing up gang signs. Her son, Punky, was known to have been the town's leader of the Crips. Punky was very much feared in this town, until August 5th of 2010 when the 19 year old lost his life in a tragic accident. He and his girlfriend, Heather, had been walking down the road, on their way to score some heroin, when a vehicle slammed into Punky. Investigators determined that this was an accidental death; Cheri never could accept this, she needed vengeance. She told everyone that Punky's girlfriend, Heather, had been responsible for his murder; according to Cheri, Punky had been pushed in front of that vehicle by his girlfriend. This was a lie, of course, but Cheri made sure that the girlfriend paid the price; she asked one of Punky's friends to "beat the hell" out of Heather; Cheri sat and watched the fight. After Punky's death, Zachary took his brother's place as the town gang's new leader of the Crips.

With Vera living at the Brooks house, her disability check was cashed by Cheri each month. Most of the people living at the Brooks home were on disability, it's how the family supported itself; welfare, disability checks, and criminal activity such as the selling of drugs. Soon Cheri began telling Vera her that she expected a baby from her. Vera wanted to make people happy, she obliged; this is when everything began to go down hill. Vera was no longer a girlfriend or a daughter in law; instead she was treated as the family slave, the walking uterus which housed the baby girl which Cheri so desperately wanted. Cheri claimed the infant as her own before it was even born, she even controlled the baby's date of birth! She was adamant that baby Willadean would be born on her own birthday, and Vera was forced to drink multiple bottles of castor oil to bring about early labor- 3 full bottles! Willadean was born on the day after Cheri's birthday, November 4th, more than a month early. Due to her early forced delivery, Baby Willadeen was not well enough to come home at birth, she had heart issues. The baby spent her first weeks of life hooked up to machines in NICU.

Vera dearly loved her daughter and there's little doubt that she'd have been the best mama possible had she been given the opportunity. Baby Willadean was taken from Vera by Cheri; very rarely was Vera even allowed to touch her daughter. If she did touch Willadeen, Zachary or Cheri would savagely beat her. Instead of tending to her motherly duties, Vera's days were spent cleaning the house, or on her knees while rubbing Cheri's feet; this was said to be her "job". She was secluded from anyone outside the family, not even allowed to speak to her own beloved sister. Vera attempted more than once to take her baby and leave, but Cheri wouldn't allow it. Someone was always watching, the baby slept in Cheri's room, and Cheri promised that if Vera ever did leave she'd murder baby Willadean, slash her throat. Vera had no reason to believe this an empty threat, so she stayed and endured the abuse. The more time went by, the worse she was treated. Vera was now the family's whipping girl; Cheri told people that she thought that Vera looked cute with her black eyes, like a little squirrel or a raccoon. Vera was forced to sleep in a closet with a pig; witnesses recount that she was even forced to eat the pig's feces as punishment! On another occasion Vera was beaten because she ate a KitKat bar which belonged to the deceased Punky; by eating the chocolate Vera had intentionally disrespected the dead man. Then there was the mace incident: someone set off a canister of pepper spray in an upstairs bedroom; Vera took the blame for this as well.

The mace story is particularly important because, at the time, Cheri had been trying to talk her son Michael's girlfriend, Shannon, into getting pregnant. There's proof that Shannon was telling people she was pregnant, though she now denies it, there are screen shots proving this. Since Shannon was lying about the pregnancy, she claimed that the fumes from the pepper spray brought on a miscarriage; Vera had caused the death of Shannon's imaginary baby, and Shannon told multiple people she wanted Vera dead for this. Everything and anything which ever went wrong with this family, it was all blamed on Vera.

Police and family services were called on Vera's behalf many, many times; these agencies knew exactly what was going on, they'd been inside this house of horrors! They were fully aware of the conditions in which baby Willadean had been living in, they knew exactly how filthy the home was. They were aware that Cheri didn't even bother using a toilet, she simply urinated in a bucket kept in reach of the toddler! They knew there were actual pigs living inside the home going to the bathroom all over the place! They knew that multiple children had been taken from the home due to Cheri's compulsive sexual abuse, and that baby Willadean shared a bedroom with Cheri! They were aware that Vera was catching beatings on the regular; when police or dcf came to question Vera on the way she was being treated, she was always questioned right there in front of Cheri! Vera was afraid to tell the truth; she was instructed to say that she had fallen down the stairs, or to give some other lame excuse which anyone with an ounce of sense could've seen straight through! During one of Vera's frequent hospital visits, this particular time for a broken nose given to her by Zachary, Vera was forced to say that a "black boyfriend" from the next town over was to blame. But anyone remotely familiar with the situation knew that there had been no other boyfriend, Vera was never permitted to have contact with anyone outside the home!

Now that the baby was born, Vera was a burden. Zachary didn't love her, he probably never did and he wanted to date other girls now. But there was a problem: if Vera were to leave the home, they knew that the young mother could easily gain custody of Willadean and that just couldn't happen. So, Cheri and her extended family began to openly plan Vera's demise. The family debated different scenarios such as overdosing Vera on drugs then leaving her on the railroad tracks for the train to hit her. Cheri had seen a corpse which had been hit by a train before, and she said that the victim's face resembled "hamburger meat". She said that was what needed to be done with Vera.

Daniel Bixler was a cousin who had only been out of prison for 3 weeks at this time, he'd just finished serving a 3 year prison sentence. Cheri was pretty close to Danny, considering his father was the first cousin with whom she'd had that incestuous relationship with; technically Danny and Cheri's son Scottie are half brothers, and their father is in prison for attempting to murder Danny's mom. So, Danny was already a self professed killer, he even had a teardrop tattoo on his face. He and his new girlfriend, 17 year old Nicole Peters, had been staying at the Brooks home in recent weeks. Nicole was curious about what it would feel like to kill someone, and she wanted a teardrop tattoo to match her boyfriend's. Cheri had struck gold, these two were perfect for solving her Vera problem. She told them that it hadn't been Punky's girlfriend who had been walking with the gang leader on the night of his unfortunate death; it had been Vera! Vera was the one who had pushed Punky! Then Vera disrespected her victim by eating his candy bar, and she'd sprayed mace which forced Shannon to miscarry, and Vera abused baby Willadean when no one was looking! Vera needed to die for all that she'd done! Danny and Nicole readily agreed to do Cheri's dirty work.

4 days before Vera was murdered, the worst of the torture began; she was beaten intermittently throughout those days. One of Cheri's sons, Chuckie, tied a padlock to the end a of belt and the family took turns just beating the hell out of poor Vera with this homemade weapon; a paddle was also used, and Vera's head was stomped. Witnesses, including Cheri, have stated that this sort of thing turned Nicole on, sexually. She and her boyfriend would take breaks from the beatings, go lock themselves in a bedroom for a while, then they would come back out and beat on Vera some more. The beatings occurred in Cheri's bedroom, and she was egging Nicole and Danny on the whole time: "Hit her again Nicole! Vera is a whore, Nicole, she wants to sleep with Danny! Hit her again". Considering baby Willadean slept in Cheri's room at night, you know that poor baby was present throughout it all; you gotta wonder how much of her mother's torture 18 month old Willadeen witnessed.

After nightfall on March 26th of 2011, Zachary, Danny, and Nicole demanded that Vera put her shoes on, they were going for a walk. Witnesses who were present that night say that they believe Vera knew she was going to be murdered, she didn't want to go but eventually she did as she was told. They walked to the railroad tracks near the family home, and when they arrived at the predetermined spot, they began to stab Vera with a kitchen knife. The weapon was so dull that it would barely even penetrate Vera's skin, so they forced this poor woman to strip naked- you know, so they didn't have to work so hard at killing her. Vera was stabbed repeatedly and when they thought she was close enough to death, they laid her sideways on the tracks, and left her alone in frigid temperatures to die. After leaving the scene of the crime they threw their murder weapon into a local body of water. The killers knew that a train would be coming around 2 am; they assumed that if Vera was hit by the train, she'd look like "hamburger meat". This would render Vera unidentifiable and they believed that much of the evidence would be lost. Poor Vera, after she was left alone that night she used the very last bit of strength she had to remove herself from the rails; she curled up in a fetal position in the middle of the tracks and died.

When the 2 am train came through, it did pass over Vera's deceased body. The train conductor spotted the body immediately, and he called the police. Amazingly the train did not hit her; Vera's body stood exactly 12 inches off the ground- the train's clearance was 13 inches! The victim was not turned into hamburger meat, as intended; she was identifiable, and the evidence had not been destroyed. Matter of fact, a person who had recently dealt with Vera after a beating yet had done nothing to help just weeks before was the one who identified her corpse.

Autopsy proved that Vera had been stabbed 21 times, her throat had been slashed from ear to ear, and that nearly every bone in this poor woman's face had been broken from that beating she'd received just before her death. She'd been tortured.

Police went to the Brooks home to question the family; again, while the police removed everyone from the home so they could interview the family members one by one, Cheri was allowed to be present throughout it all. It's evident that everyone, literally everyone is terrified of this woman to this very day. Cheri originally tried to blame the murder on someone outside the family, said that Vera's boyfriend must've killed her, but Vera's only boyfriend was Zachary! Police found evidence inside the home such as Nicole's bloody sweatshirt, the paddle, and the belt and lock Vera had been beaten with. Police arrested Danny and Nicole, who confessed; they stated that they'd been given drugs by Cheri, and talked into killing Vera. Cheri even told them how to do it!

Both Danny and Nicole took plea deals; Danny was sentenced to 40 years to life for Vera's death, and Nicole received 23 years for a conspiracy charge. Not murder, but conspiracy; somehow Nicole was the only one who received that charge! How does that happen? Did she conspire with herself? The father of Vera's baby, Zachary, was sentenced to 4 years in prison for obstruction of justice. It doesn't matter that there's security footage, actual video proof that Zachary walked with Danny, Nicole, and Vera to the train tracks that night, it doesn't matter that he was present and likely actively helped stab Vera to death, he was merely prosecuted for obstruction. Cheri's husband, Kevin Brooks Sr. and another of her sons were charged with selling prescription drugs. In 2014 Cheri spent 10 days in jail for inappropriate contract with an unrelated minor, just ten days. As far as Vera's murder, Cheri the ringleader was only charged with obstruction and drug trafficking; in 2015 she was sentenced to 40 months. Cheri was freed earlier this year, and if what I'm hearing has any truth to it, another of her son's baby daughters is currently living with her!

This is the justice Vera Jo Reigle received for her torturous murder. The only good thing about any of this is that baby Willadean was taken away from the Brooks family and adopted out. Cheri threw a huge fit over that; she claimed she had custody of the child.

Vera has been laid to rest in Knollcrest Cemetery; she's recently received a beautiful new headstone which reads "Vera Jo Messersmith". This is a big deal as Vera always hated the last name of Reigle, since her father had sexually abused her.

*This is the most confusing case EVER. I tried my very best to keep names and details straight, and it's taken me more than a week to write this. If I got a name or some other detail wrong, forgive me. Personally I'm just glad to be done with it, I've cried, like ugly cried multiple times over this case. Vera's abusers, her killers are mostly still at large. The woman who planned her murder, a known pedophile, is still out there! Look her up on Facebook, Cheri Lynne Brooks! She even frequents fb pages where Vera is honored! Those interviewed in the documentary admit that they are afraid of this woman, and they all admit that this murder was openly planned. I can't understand why she's not been charged with conspiracy at the very least, or why she's still permitted to have contact with children! And why have the other players not been charged? It seems a dozen different people participated in the abuse, knew of the plan to murder this young mother yet nothing was done! Are the police, the DA, all of those organizations, are they afraid of Cheri too?

* If you haven't seen the doc "GOODNIGHT SUGAR BABE" it is available on Amazon Prime or, here's a link. Tell me what you think.

Goodnight Sugar Babe:

https://youtu.be/eJEAJAE1kZ0

#murder #true crime #true crime blog #crime scene #Injustice #torture

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ohnonono18 · 5 years

Text

Surprise!

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“So what’s the plan?” Sam asked. “Is there even a plan?”

“Surprise party.” Sungjae answered. “At Andrew’s house.”

Sam nodded.

“Why does it have to be Andrew’s house?” She asked.

“Because. . .” Sungjae trailed off but realized he doesn’t have an answer. “I honestly have no idea.”

Sam giggled and Sungjae turned to Hyunsik for an answer.

“Why did we choose Andrew’s house again?” He asked.

“Because he volunteered.” Hyunsik shrugged as they ate lunch in Nicky’s dining room.

“Do you even have gifts?” Eunkwang asked.

“I. . . don’t.” Sam trailed off. “That’s for sure. I kinda don’t have one. Yet.”

“I was thinking of buying [Y/N] a phone case.” Changsub said with a mischievous smirk and everyone stared at him for a moment in silence when it finally dawned on them.

“Yah! That’s mean!” Ann laughed and playfully hit him as everyone laughed along.

“Man, he almost got away with that.” Hyunsik laughed.

Everyone knew that [Y/N] kinda broke her phone that means she doesn’t have a phone at the moment.

“Although, I am honest. I’m going to buy her a phone first though.” Changsub said.

“The perks of being rich.” Sungjae smirked.

“You’re rich too, you know.” Minhyuk rolled his eyes playfully. “I mean, all of us are.”

“Not all.” Nicky pointed out.

“I quite agree.” Sam said as she went to wash the dishes they used.

“Where’s [Y/N] by the way?” Peniel asked.

“She’s with Shannon.” Minhyuk said. “Though some of us are going to join her and help distract [Y/N] so that she doesn’t get the hint of the surprise.”

“Also, there will be people that will decorate for the party at my house.” Andrew said. “Who’s the group so that we can get started?”

“I’m going to cook some food so I’m going to have to go to the grocery store first.” Nicky said.

“I’m going to help with cooking so I guess I’ll be coming along.” Hyunsik decided.

“I’m in charge of the banner.” Ann said. “I’m going to take Sam with me.”

Sam was surprised as she just came back in the room after washing the dishes.

“Don’t you want Iris to be with you?” Sam suggested.

“You don’t want to?” Ann asked, looking a bit worried.

“No, it’s not like that.” Sam defended herself. “It’s just that I’m not good at stuff like that.”

“I’m in the distraction team.” Iris said. “So either way, you’re gonna end up going with her.”

“Okay, okay. I’m game!” Sam smiled.

“I’m gonna facilitate my house.” Andrew said and with a smirk he added, “So you all should behave yourselves!”

They all laughed along.

“The main point here is that Sungjae isn’t supposed to be here.” Nicky said. “You’re the surprise.”

“Yeah, cause she thinks I’m innnn USA.” Sungjae smiled.

“With Peniel.” Ilhoon reminded.

“That’s why the two of you shouldn’t be seen.” Eunkwang said.

“Better keep up the act until the big surprise.” Sam said.

“So,” Ilhoon started. “Who’s in charge of the cake?”

“Eve and Eunkwang.” Ann said. “You’re gonna be in charge of that.”

“Okay, okay. Yes, Madame.” Eve giggled.

“So, Iris and Minhyuk are going to help with distracting her.” Hyunsik said. “So we’ll text you to tell you that everything is ready?”

“Yep!” Iris smiled.

“So that leaves me and Ilhoon for the decorations.” Changsub said. “Any specific requests?”

“Roses?” Sam suggested.

“Balloons!” Eve laughed.

“Streamers!” Andrew smiled.

“What?” Nicky had a confused expression. “What did you say? Strippers?”

Ilhoon faced palmed and laughed with the others.

“Streamers, Nicky.” Iris repeated a little loudly and a little slowly. “Streamers. Why are you even talking about strippers? We’re not opening a club.”

Everyone laughed and Nicky apologized but she was also laughing at her mistake.

“Okay, okay!” Ilhoon gathered everyone’s attention. “Let’s do this!”

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“Okay,” Sungjae started and stared at the green lawn of Andrew’s house. “If me and Peniel aren’t supposed to be seen, where can we go that we can help?”

“Kitchen?” Andrew suggested.

“Yeah, we could use some help here.” Nicky said. “Come on, it’ll be fun!”

“Ok, ok!” Sungjae smiled and went over to Nicky and helped her carry some grocery bags while Peniel help gather up the kitchen utensils that was needed in the process of making the dishes they were going to make.

“So, we’re going to decorate this garden.” Ilhoon said as he looked around.

“We could put fairy lights.” Changsub suggested.

“Yeah,” Ilhoon agreed. “And we could put the banner over there.”

He pointed over at a black wall.

“The hardest part in this is if the girls will come and see our work and they wouldn’t like it.” Changsub laughed.

“Nah, I’m sure they’ll love it.” Ilhoon smiled as they both got to work.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“How about this picture?” Sam pointed to a picture of [Y/N] in the gallery filled with her various photos.

“Yeah, that can work.” Ann said. “And we can put it in this background.”

She showed a cool ombre style background.

“Yeah! That’s awesome!” Sam exclaimed.

“And maybe this font?” Ann selected a font style to use for the birthday greeting.

“Woah, looks great!” Sam smiled.

“Let’s send it to the others.” Ann smiled as she captured a photo of it and sent it to the others.

“Hey, what if we print out a picture of Sungjae too?” Sam suggested. “Then we’ll make him sign it.”

“Yeah, we could do that.” Ann was excited as they got to work again and browsed pictures of Yook Sungjae.

When the finished, they gave each other a high five and told the others about it too.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“Hey, [Y/N].” Shannon said. “We have to go to the studio. Your manager says that he has something to tell you.”

“What?” [Y/N] was surprised. “Please don’t let it be work. I’m so tired. I’ve been working for days. I’ve been working on choreographies for days. Come on, let me rest.”

“Come on, it won’t be so bad.” Iris said reassuringly, and she also knew what their manager had in mind but acted like she doesn’t know anything. “Come on, let’s go see him.”

They went over to the studio with Minhyuk driving them and when they opened the door of the building, [Y/N] was met with bits of colorful papers falling from the ceiling as a chorus of “Happy Birthday!” greeted her.

[Y/N] smiled brightly as everyone came to give her their best wishes and some gifts.

“Happy birthday to my favorite dancer!” Her manager, Sir Hodgson, said as he gave her a small present.

“Oh! Wow!” [Y/N] laughed. “Wow, you even bothered to give me a present!”

“Yeah, but, you know.” He leaned in closer to her ear. “Next time, when your you get paid with your salary, at least treat me a little mango shake, huh?”

“Sir!” [Y/N] playfully pushed him away and they both laughed.

“You know, you should be treating me with a mango shake because you get a higher salary than me, hm?” She said and they laughed more.

“Anyway, happy birthday! Keep up the good work!” Sir Hodgson said with a smile before everyone decided to get on with their lives.

“And give me a mango shake!” He said before he went inside his office.

“So? What’s up?” Minhyuk asked Iris.

“They’re ready!” Iris said in a hushed whisper before they took [Y/N] to the surprise they prepared.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“Okay, wow.” Sam said in awe as she looked at the garden. There were fairy lights hanging around and under them were round tables and chairs, each with a little lantern in the middle to give off more light.

“They outdid themselves, right?” Eve said as she approached Sam and stood beside her for a while.

“Yeah, they did.” Sam said. “It’s so beautiful.”

Eve nodded.

“Now, excuse me.” She said and Sam turned to look at her in curiosity. “I should go and give my boyfriend a kiss for making such a beautiful thing.”

Sam laughed as Eve walked away to find Ilhoon.

Sam took one last look at the garden arrangement before she set off to find Sungjae and have that photo of him that she and Ann printed out be signed by him.

“Hey, Sungjae!” She said as she went in the kitchen to see Nicky and the others busily working.

“What?” Sungjae looked up and wiped his forehead.

“I need you to sign something.” Sam said and they both went to find a flat surface for him to properly write on.

“Hey, have you seen Ilhoon?” Andrew went in the kitchen and asked everyone.

“I haven’t seen him.” Eunkwang said as he carefully moved the cake into a porcelain plate.

“Have you seen Ilhoon?” Ann went in.

“No, we haven’t.” Hyunsik said as he sliced some cheese.

“Where would he be?” Eunkwang asked as he placed the cake in the fridge. “Have you asked Sam? I saw them talking a while ago.”

“Where’s Sam?” Andrew asked.

“She and Sungjae went out to find a table and a marker.” Hyunsik said.

“Thanks, I’ll go check.” Andrew said.

“And I’ll go find Changsub.” Ann said and they both went separate ways.

“Sam,” Andrew said when he found her at the dining room with Sungjae signing a photo.

“Yes?” Sam asked.

“Have you seen Ilhoon?” Andrew asked.

“Oh, yeah.” Sam said. “I think. Eve said something about kissing him.”

Andrew gave off an annoyed expression.

“Try the closet.” Sam suggested jokingly but he did just that and sure enough, they were there.

“Guys, come on! Not in my house!” Andrew whined as Eve and Ilhoon went out of the closet, giggling.

“Geez, they’re not even drunk yet.” Andrew rolled his eyes and told Ilhoon to go to Ann and Andrew followed him while he told Eve to go and check the karaoke machine.

Ilhoon and Changsub hung up the banner with Ann’s directions. In the corner, Sam and Eunkwang were cutting the thorns out of the roses. And one by one, the others helped in putting out silverware and plates before they displayed the food.

For a few minutes, they rested and freshened up before the celebrant arrives.

They were lounging around the living room, talking lightly when they heard a car stop in their block.

Ilhoon looked out the window to check and saw that it was Minhyuk’s car.

“Guys! They’re here!” He informed everyone.

“Quick! Hide!” Hyunsik told Sungjae and Peniel and the two went to find hiding places.

Everyone else scrambled into a formation that made no sense before the door opened.

“Sam, pass the streamers!” Ilhoon whispered and she tossed him a tube before she shoved one to Hyunsik who was right beside her.

When the door opened, there came a huge bang! and then streamers fell down slowly from above as they greeted [Y/N].

“Happy birthday!” They all chorused around her and they proceeded to go and give her a hug.

“Happy birthday, my twin!” Eve said to her in a joking way because they were often told that they looked alike.

“Happy birthday!” Sam went on and hugged her. “I love you.”

“Happy birthday!” Hyunsik smiled at her.

“Awww!” [Y/N] gushed. “Thank you guys!”

“Oh, by the way.” Andrew gave her a photograph of Sungjae with his signature on it.

[Y/N] took it from him and she was ecstatic to see the picture.

“You guys just didn’t.” She peered at everyone. “Did you really go all the trouble?” To USA? Just to let him sign this?”

“Eh, worth it.” Hyunsik shrugged.

“Also, here.” Changsub gave [Y/N] a small box.

“What is it?” She asked.

“Open it.” He smiled and she did.

Waiting inside the box was a brand new phone.

“You didn’t!” [Y/N] exclaimed in shock.

“I did!” Changsub said, spreading out his arms for a hug. “Happy birthday!”

“Thank you!” [Y/N] hugged him and some of them cooed.

Ring! Ring!

“Oh, look!” Hyunsik spoke up. “Someone’s calling you.”

[Y/N] and Changsub broke the hug and she looked at the caller ID, it was an unknown number.

“Hello?” She asked.

“Hey, jagi.” Came Sungjae’s voice.

“Jagi!” [Y/N] said excitedly. “How are you?”

“We’re good.” Sungjae said. “Here, Peniel has something to say.”

“Hey, [Y/N]!” Peniel said happily. “Happy birthday!”

“Thanks, Peniel.” [Y/N] smiled.

“Don’t be sad on your birthday, okay?” He said. “Then again, we’re not as far as you think you are.”

“Yeah,” [Y/N] agreed. “Cause you’re always in my heart.”

“That’s right, jagi.” Sungjae said because Peniel passed back the phone to him.

“When are you coming back?” [Y/N] asked.

“Soon.” Sungjae smiled and Peniel snuck up behind her. “You won’t even notice that I’m already by your side.”

Peniel placed his hands on [Y/N]’s eyes, engulfing her sight in darkness.

“Who is this?” She asked after a little squeak of surprise.

“Guess whoo?” Peniel whispered in her ear with a big smile.

“Sungjae?” [Y/N] guessed.

“Nope.”

“Nicky?” She asked.

“Wow, I grew tall.” Nicky mused and they all laughed.

“Okay, this is your last try.” Peniel said.

“What?!” [Y/N] exclaimed. “I didn’t know there were only three tries!”

“Well, you do now!” He laughed.

“Ummm. Eunkwang?” She asked.

“Sorry, I’m right beside my own girl.” Eunkwang said as he held Sam’s hand.

Peniel took away his hands from [Y/N]’s eyes and he spread his arms.

“Surprise! Happy birthday!” He said happily.

[Y/N] was surprised and she laughed.

“What are you doing here? I thought you’re in USA with Sungjae!” She said. “Did you leave him there with foreigners?”

“Yeah, I’m that evil.” Peniel said with a mischievous smirk before he acted out an evil laugh.

Everyone laughed along.

Then suddenly, someone hugged [Y/N] from behind and lifted her before she was swung around.

She screamed for a while, demanding that she was to be set down while the others laughed.

When she felt that she was back on the ground, she turned behind her to yell at whoever did that to her and she was face to face with no other than Sungjae.

Her eyes held surprise but she wasn’t fazed by him.

“Why’d you do that?” She playfully hit him and laughed.

“Surprise!” Sungjae stooped down and smiled at her. “Happy birthday, jagi.”

“So the whole USA thing was a lie?” [Y/N] asked.

“Uh, yeah. Sorry about that.” Sungjae rubbed the back of his neck.

“Next time you travel, you better bring me along.” She playfully suggested.

Sungjae smiled.

“No problem, jagi.”

And with that, the celebration started. There were a lot of food to eat, a lot of stories to tell and a lot of songs to sing.

All of these people gathering around for the sake of one person: [Y/N].

Happy birthday, [Y/N]!

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

The End

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