#and she gave me a head bonk and kiss when i brought her back to her cage.

[dilfian]

i got emira to take a shower with me 😭

[night-chant]

Temporary Trouble, Permanent Promise (MLQC One-Shot)

Hello hello greetings it’s me :) Thank you @krishastumblernow​ for this request! I hope you like it!! It is really refreshing and fun talking about MLQC and Lucien with you :))) He is such an interesting love interest (To this day, I still have no idea what goes on in his mind lool)

Featuring: Lucien x afab reader

Word Count: 3103

Summary: Lucien observed that you were in deep thought again, lost in your own world. Fortunately, he had methods to bring you back into his arms and to ensure that nothing would steal you away from him again.

Warnings: 18+ (minors do not interact please! I beg)

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The late afternoon sky was clear and beautiful but why was your mind not feeling the same way?

Last week, Anna and Kiki were snooping into your love life for the umpteenth time ever since they had spotted your frequent visits to the university carrying pastries that they craved so badly. 

“I knew the gardenia bouquet was from Professor Lucien!” Kiki squealed at the occupied vase on your desk. 

You sighed. “Anna, please tell me you don’t take part in office gossip too.”

She managed a sheepish smile. “But how has he been treating you? You've been together for almost a year now. How many dates have you gone on?”

With your mysterious boyfriend, a coincidental encounter often ended up as one. It was kind of hard to link a number with that. Wait, why were you even entertaining Anna’s question?

“What is this, an interrogation?” you asked in a huff, hoping they did not catch the waver in your voice. “It doesn’t matter. We haven’t really gone on one for a while now.”

Anna contemplated that scrap of information. “That makes sense. It is students’ midterm season afterall and who knows what sort of complicated research he could be working on? It was so hard to even arrange a time for him to be our consultant for the next show.”

Kiki pinched your cheek as you wrung a magazine tightly. “Don’t worry! He made time to send flowers for you. I’m sure another date will be set or I’m gonna make sure of it! Maybe some sort of amusement park, the beach or maybe Netflix and chill---”

You bonked her head with the rolled-up magazine. “I thought I gave you enough proposals to draft up to keep you busy, Kiki!”

Anna hastily steered Kiki away before the list could become more inappropriate for a workplace environment. 

“Fine! Fine! Just make sure he is not dating his work instead!” Kiki called back, her last words echoing in your mind.

***

The click of silverware broke the trance and brought you back to the cafe where you sat across from your boyfriend in a secluded table at the corner away from the lively chatter.

“It seems like you have stirred your drink into a little caffeinated whirlpool,” Lucien said, amusement evident across his lips.

Instantly, you dropped the slim spoon, spilling droplets of lukewarm coffee over your fingers. “Ah! Sorry, I wasn’t paying attention.”

“First at my lecture and now here. What am I going to do with my silly girl?” Feigning a helpless sigh, Lucien gestured for your hand. His dark bangs hung low as he concentrated on patting a napkin across your skin. 

You scowled. “You mean your 8 o’clock lecture.”

“Hm, perhaps I need to resort to other methods that will keep your eyes on me.” He brought your hand to his lips and kissed it tenderly, silencing your grumbling. Lucien’s sensual purple eyes did not break contact with yours as his tongue swiped over the last drop of coffee on your skin.

You drew your hand away before anyone nearby would notice. “H-Hey!”

Lucien let out a chuckle with his smiling eyes. He would snatch every single opportunity he got just to see your face burn pink. It didn’t help how easy it was for him either. No matter how much you prepared for his sudden attacks, he would always manage to surprise you, whether it was when he prepared dinner with you or when he laid beside you in bed. 

Just like the sly fox he was. 

Lucien adjusted the sleeves of his dress shirt before leaning forward. “Well, now that I have your undivided attention, why don’t you tell me what is on your mind, Kris?”

Despite his ever-attentive nature, you weren’t afraid to try to escape, undiscovered. “Nothing worth noting,” you simply said, fidgeting with strands of your hair under his scrutiny. 

He raised an eyebrow. “Is that so? I would not consider it ‘nothing’ if it stole your attention from me --- not once but twice today.”

If he stared a moment longer, you might’ve caved in. His dark overcoat hung over his chair but it easily reminded you of his long white lab coat, of his status as a professor, neuroscientist---heck, even as a consultant. They all reminded you of his duties, responsibilities and surely as a result, the inevitable workload. 

Instead, you grabbed your cup and downed the last of your coffee as you hastily shrugged into your coat. “I-It really doesn’t matter. Let’s go home.” 

Studying your every move, Lucien let you put his coat over him and drag him out of the cafe in silence.

***

The bright red and orange leaves swirled through the cool breeze down the streets of Loveland City. The calling geese soared across the sunset toward the direction of the south. The scenery did its best to distract you but it was too late.

Suddenly, a warm hand held yours and you looked up at Lucien, whose eyes were unreadable. You two stopped walking in the middle of the vacant walkway by the river, barely able to hear the calls of the geese that were now so far away so quickly.

“Something is troubling your mind,” Lucien insisted, reaching for your other hand, shielding them both from the frigid air. “I can’t help but seek the answers to your worries.” He managed a tender smile. “Your scowl is endearing but I prefer your lovely smile the most.”

His quiet, pleading eyes were going to be the death of you. You couldn’t help but smile the smile he cherished above all. It encapsulated the innocence that he would do anything to preserve from the crooked world. He was patient, caring, and intelligent. Maybe, just maybe, it would be unreasonable to turn away from his offer of support.

“I’ve been just thinking . . .” you began but trailed off, fidgeting with his hands that were much larger than you own.

“An awful lot, unfortunately.” 

You held your gaze with his. “Y-You’re not dating your work, are you?”

For a long moment, Lucien did not speak. The breeze was tousling his stubbornly straight hair, rustling his long coat, and rippling the waves of the river. His eyes narrowed as he analyzed your expression as if it was a complex thesis.

Then he let out a soft laugh. 

“So you’ve been scowling all day and lost in your thoughts all because you convinced yourself that I am unfaithful to my dear girlfriend?”

Sheepishly, you rubbed your arm. “Now that you phrased it like that, it really does sound silly.” When he tried to suppress his chuckle, you pouted. “Okay, now you’re making fun of me.”

You were about to turn away, but he caught your wrist. 

“Now, now, there’s no need to turn from me. I still need you so.”

“No, you don’t. You need your work more,” you said but you couldn’t stop the small smile forming when he wrapped his arms around your waist from behind. 

He buried his face into the crook of your neck, nudging your scarf aside with his chin until his lips had access to your bare skin. You giggled against his insistent kisses, squirming from the cold.

“Although I admit I have been busier than usual,” he mused, “it was to ensure that my weekend is free. My weekends are always reserved for you. I will make time for you no matter what.” He turned you around, the last rays of sunlight gleaming against his deep purple gaze. “However, I can’t read your mind, so you will have to let me know what your heart desires from me.” He leaned close to your ear. “And I will provide whatever way I can.”

You blinked, your senses sharpened at his soothing voice and determined devotion. When you didn’t respond, Lucien caressed your hands again. “Ah, it seems like I have not convinced my silly girl.” Before you could protest, he pulled you along, resuming the interrupted stroll down the waterway. “What shall I ever do with you?”

***

There were wonderful perks of dating your next-door neighbour. It almost felt like you were living together, judging by how often you visited each other for simple domestic reasons. You would drop by to water Lucien’s plants, especially since he had convinced you that they grew vibrantly whenever you were around. He would invite you over for dinner after you two went grocery shopping the day before. Sometimes, you two would share coffee on separate balconies, both leaning on the railing, subconsciously, trying to be close even in the early morning.

Tonight, Lucien triumphed as he proposed to invite you over before you could offer the same yourself. I will beat him next time, you promised to yourself as he motioned you inside. You removed your thick coat, deeply sighing into the comforting warmth of Lucien’s apartment, the scent of cinnamon and lavender wafted to you. You started wandering down the hallway, failing to notice how he was locking the door and flipping the latch over the door frame with his eyes trained on your figure, as if the great big fox finally cornered the oblivious rabbit. 

“I left some lettuce in your fridge yesterday,” you mused as you stretched your arms over your head, realizing how stiff you had gotten because of the filming sessions lately. “Maybe we can start with that for dinner. Mm, what goes well with lettuce?” No answer. “Lucien?”

Unfortunately, your momentarily raised arms left you vulnerable as a strong pair of arms wrapped around your waist. Lucien pressed his nose along the side of your neck, inhaling your sweet scent. This did not seem to be the same Lucien as the one at the walkway. This time, a lingering presence of possession hovered in the air. 

“Wait, Lucien??” You tried to squirm out of his grasp, but it was futile against his strength. He always wore that flowing lab coat, making you forget how much muscle was hidden from plain sight. Although your heart was racing, his warmth was soothing as if determined to alleviate the initial panic. “W-What are you doing?”

You could feel Lucien hum against your exposed skin. His soft hair brushing your cheek as his hands began drifting upwards. “I have drawn my conclusions,” he murmured in your ear. “I know what I shall do with you.”

Lucien’s voice was too close to your sensitive ear. He tightened his embrace when you weakly struggled again. “Are you trying to run away from me? After your accusation of my unfaithfulness?” He sighed. “You are truly cruel.”

“I-Is that what this is all about? I wasn’t! That was not what I meant to do!” you protested as you looked over your shoulder, only to find his amused smile and darkening eyes.

You pouted, frustrated you still fell for it. “Hey, you’re just teasing me! Again!” You were about to call him some creative names but his lips met yours, silencing your train of thought in an instant. 

Little did you know that you had always managed to turn such a tranquil professor into a competitive madman with your unintentional provocations. You still thought he was just teasing you even when his hands were all over your body, from tracing your collarbone to squeezing your inner thighs? He’d make sure you retract your words. As every second passed, the gentleness of the kiss slowly but surely became more passionate and dominating, revealing his inner desire. 

You were beginning to feel light-headed and tugged at his sleeve, hoping to take a very much needed breath of air. However, Lucien was insistent that you learn your lesson for doubting the true extent of his love for you, as nothing was more of a priority than his own queen. He yearned for your lips more than he ever yearned for air. His greedy hands craved to feel you more intimately than your clothes were allowing him.

By the time you were able to successfully push his broad shoulders away to breathe, you realized your back was not pressed against his chest anymore, but on a soft comforter instead. Lucien had discarded his overcoat long ago and he was loosening his tie. The blue moonlight streaming through the translucent curtains emphasized his defined biceps and abdomen as he threw his dress shirt behind him.

Lucien was towering over you on his bed, his arms at both sides of your face and his knee between your thighs. Slowly, he stroked your silky hair from your face. His distinct scent surrounded you, overwhelming your senses as it engulfed your own.

Feeling self-conscious, you tried to turn your head to the side to break the intense stare but his slender index finger halted your meek attempt. 

“There’s no need to be shy anymore,” Lucien murmured. “It is just the two of us.” The lightning of frustration had long vanished from your veins. Your heartbeat echoed in your ears, praying to survive his abundant hunger for you. 

Yet your thighs pressed against his leg, your body was instinctively willing to appease his demands.

Lucien ran his lips across your neck, his soft breath fanning over your sensitive skin. “I love you so much, more than anything,” he whispered. “Why won’t you believe me? What must I do to convince such a stubborn heart?”

You made a feeble attempt to pull your sweater off but to no avail with the position you found yourself in, trapped in your boyfriend’s possessive grasp.

“I don’t hear an answer.” Delight creeped into his voice. “I can’t read minds, silly. Tell me what you desire.”

You couldn’t help but let out a whimper, not knowing you ignited a darker desire deep within Lucien. He was being so unfair. With your glossy eyes and small pout, you said, “Please, help me, Professor. It feels too warm.”

One second, your body felt stuffy in thick cotton. The next second, cool air rushed over your chest and stomach. You gasped, almost missing the sound of ripping from your sweater. Hasty fingers pulled your long skirt and tights off, leaving them to pool below your dangling feet. Lucien pressed his toned chest over yours, shielding you from the autumn chill before it could rob your body of warmth.

“Is that all?” he prompted as you squirmed for any sort of friction but he remained still, awaiting your words.

You whined as you clawed your straps off your shoulders. “It’s still too hot, please, take it all off.”

“As you wish.”

Lucien kissed your shoulder as he unclipped and slipped your bra off, caressing your chest, a bit rougher than expected. You whined again and he couldn’t help but chuckle at your impatience. Yanking your undergarment away, he was about to give you another hungry kiss, but you put your palm over his firm chest. His eyes darkened at your sudden refusal yet his smile indicated he was very much entertained by your trembling movements.

“And what else must I do to win your affections, my dear?” Lucien asked, his steady tone almost couldn’t hide his wild instincts to ravish you completely. Then, he felt your thighs shifting against his dress pants. He let out a chuckle. The ringing of his brass buckle and rustling as he removed the rest of his clothes felt much louder in his usually silent bedroom. 

As Lucien was slowly pushing himself in you, you hummed with pleasure. “Faster, Lucien,” you pleaded. Despite the contrasting size difference, you didn’t care. You wanted all of him now. Your welcoming arms felt so inviting as he was pulled right on top of you suddenly, eliciting a groan from him due to your tightness. You let out a moan as you felt the friction you craved from his steady thrusts.

As Lucien marked you with multiple lovebites over your throat and chest, your fingers ran through his hair, dishevelling it into something that was sin to professionalism. He was panting, his pale complexion becoming rosy as you kept moaning his name, desperate for his full attention.

Satisfied with the dozen marks, he gave you a passionate kiss, his lustful tongue meeting yours. As you sucked on his in such a shy yet nevertheless seductive way, his thrusts against you grew more erratic.

“Ah Lucien~” you mewled, clawing your dainty nails deep into his broad back while your limp legs jolted around with his every thrust. “P-Please more~”

Your constant pleads seemed to paint you into the insatiable one but his quickening, deep thrusts said otherwise. Lucien could not break the kiss and his unyielding embrace around you.

Suddenly, the inevitable tension within you grew impossibly tight until you reached your high, eyes slowly unfocusing. Your raw moans for Lucien were muffled by his deep, eager kisses as he continued thrusting in, extending the euphoric feeling. 

With your remaining strength, you wrapped your arms around his neck and your legs around his waist before you rocked yourself against him. A deep rumble arose from his chest. You broke the kiss (much to his dismay) before you pressed your lips against his ear: “I love you so very much, Lucien.”

The gentle sincerity and the purity of your sweet voice squeezed his pounding heart, driving him over the edge. He groaned against the crook of your neck as you felt the thick and warm sensation deep in your core. Slowly, it started to trickle down your thighs as well. 

Neither of you moved from your position as you both gathered your laboured breaths finally. You combed your fingers through Lucien’s hair and he nuzzled against your neck, scattering butterfly kisses across your marked skin. 

“I love you more than you will ever know,” your boyfriend murmured, more to himself. He never told you how deep he had fallen for you. He never registered emotions that were this strong in nature before he had met you again after so many years apart. It felt like he fell into an endless abyss, in the realm of the unknown yet there was a sense of comfort indescribable every time you smiled at him.

You pressed your lips onto his forehead to break his trance before craning over to check the clock. “Are you hungry yet? There is still some time to make a quick dinn---Ah, Lucien!”

Before you could get far, his hand pinned your wrists over your head on the mattress. “Yes,” he said, leering at your confused state. “As a matter of fact, I am still very hungry for someone.” Before you could retort against his unreasonableness, he nipped at your ear. “I have reserved my entire weekend to prove my devotion for you, remember? I don’t want to waste any of it until I have thoroughly convinced you with my evidence.”

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Please take my offer of the second smut I’ve written -- I hope you enjoyed it :))

Masterlist

[crack-fanfic-attempts]

Pair: Harper/Alex

Wizards of Waverly Place

Harper Finkle had been best friends with Alex Russo since kindergarten. She was already considered one of the family by the entire Russo clan. Still Harper had hopes of becoming more to the family. Most folks would assume she meant that as getting together with Justin. Maybe at one time that was true, but as Harper grew into an adult she had realized something.

Her crush on Justin was actually misplaced feelings for a different Russo. Justin was smart and nice which was exactly what one would look for in a perfect boyfriend as Harper had learned from the media. Only after being an ally to the LGBTQ community did Harper begin to realize that her feelings about Justin were actually about Alex. When Harper realized her feelings, she did what she normally did; run away until it was safe.

Harper had did some soul searching before going back to the Waverly Sub Station. The Russos gathered around asking about her wondering why she had ran out. She waved them off by saying she had a surprising thought that made her have a long think. When the Russos dispersed Harper pulled Justin into the sub car. Harper apologized for how she had treated Justin when she had her crush and for making him uncomfortable. She gave him a hug before he could squeak out anther strained, “What?!”.

Harper knew she couldn’t approach Alex with her feelings. Alex had just broke up with Mason again. As Harper consoled Alex on the balcony, Alex commented how she felt like the boys she liked only ever used her for gaining power or were hesitant to be public together. Harper told Alex those boys were fools and missing out. Harper began telling Alex how she may be a bit rough on the edges, but those sharp edges were important to the person Alex was and if those boys were unable to accept that it was their loss.

Harper gave Alex a hug and a kiss to the temple. Alex melted and tightened her hug back. The two decided that Harper would have a sleepover in Alex’s room for the night to cheer up. They watched old cheesy horror movies on a laptop cuddled up close on Alex’s bed. Alex kept pointing out all the magic inconsistencies and Harper pointed out the clothing ones. Harper bonked her head sideways into Alex’s. Before the movie ended Harper noticed the laptop was beginning to slip from Alex’s grasp.

Harper moved the electronic away and tucked Alex into her bed. “I love you Alex. More than I should as a friend” Harper said with a kiss to the forehead. Harper sighed as she turned to get off the bed. Alex grabbed her hand and pulled her back into the bed. Alex spooned Harper from behind. “Alex?”

“I love you too Harper.” A squeeze in her embrace. “If we were watching a show you’d be a few episodes ahead though. After this last break up with Mason I realized that you make me feel better than any boy out there,”

Harper laced a hand through Alex’s and brought it up for a kiss. Alex nosed into Harper’s neck at the kiss to her hand. In the morning when they would talk more, but for now this was enough to start.

[vibraniumwing]

soft.

a bucky barnes x fem!reader wherein the reader comes home to see the super soldier with a toddler tucked in his lap.

WARNING: none! (all mistakes within the story are mine)

A/N: soft and domestic (and clingy) bucky, anyone? i’ve written this with tfaws bucky in mind after episode five where he was on the couch and smiled after seeing sam’s nephews. so yes now i present to you bucky with a child bcs we need that content, ,, good bYe for i shall be drowning in my own feels.

---

“Do you really have to go, doll?” Bucky asked, watching you by the frame of your shared bedroom door with his hands crossed against his chest. A heavy sigh heaving from his lips as his eyes observed you pick out a shirt to wear, hands grasping on his black shirt and opted to wear that; a small smile formed on his lips as you slipped into the clothing piece, adoring how big it looks on you.

You turned to him with your hand on your waist, an eyebrow raised, “Unless you want to starve for a whole month then fine I won’t go to the grocery” you say teasingly, checking yourself out in the mirror before walking up to him, arms linking around his neck loosely; his hands circling around your waist in a protective manner as he pulls you into him. “I won’t be gone for the whole day, James.”

He groaned softly, wanting nothing more than to accompany you but seeing that you were going with your mother, he opted out. “You always say that then be gone for the whole afternoon.” he grumbles in between the kisses he gives you. “You and your mom take so much time at the grocery store.”

You threw your head back and laughed, finding his small whiny state adorable. You retract your arms from behind his neck and cupped the sides of his face, squishing his cheeks gently. “You sound like a child, Buck. I promise I won’t be long. Besides, you have Alpine to keep you company.” you motion your head to the sleeping cat on the bed.

“Now please let me go so I can leave now and be back sooner.” you tell him, pressing one final kiss to his lips before ducking out of his embrace, making your way to the front door and grabbing your car keys before turning back to see him standing behind you with a small pout on his lips (albeit he would never admit to doing such an act),

You grinned and walked up to him, reaching up to press a small kiss on his lips. “Sometimes it's hard to believe you’re this big scary dude that can take twenty men down in a course of ten minutes when all I see is this big baby.” you tease, a hand snaking up to the back of his head to play with the ends of his hair softly.

“Doll wait before you go” Bucky starts off, holding onto you, cheeks lightly flushed as he hesitated with his words, clearing his throat lightly before looking away, “Can you set up that damn Netflix thing on the TV before you leave?”

Your gaze on him softened even more and nodded, leading him to the living room and set the whole thing up for him, handing him the remote right after. “I’m guessing you can manage now?” he smiled shyly, the area around his eyes crinkling as he nodded. “Yeah, I will. Thanks, doll.”

“I’ll be back later, I love you, Buck!” You bid him a goodbye, looking back at him from the door and gave him a small wave, the male waving back before focusing on the TV, searching for that one movie you suggested he watch.

“What was that movie called again? RIght, The Breakfast Club”

---

Not even half-way through the movie, Bucky had somehow fallen asleep on the couch, not finding the first few minutes of the film entertaining. He somehow fell deep into slumber that he didn’t even notice the front door of the house opening until he felt something being placed on his stomach.

He stirred awake and the first thing his blurry vision could make out is the outline of a toddler sitting on him. “Hey James, I’m leaving Hugo with you and Y/N for the weekend. Our babysitter cancelled out last minute and I’ve been trying to call my sister but she hasn’t picked up any calls.” Damian, your younger brother said in a rush, putting down your nephew’s baby bag on the coffee table. “Thanks James, we owe you one.”

But before Bucky could get a say in any of this, Damian was already out the door and the sound of a car pulling away was followed. Barely half-awake, he stared at the tyke who was staring right back at him with his innocent E/C doe eyes. “What do I do with you?”

He takes Hugo in his arms as he sits up, placing him on his lap, his metal arm reaching over to pause television. “Y/N’s better at this than I am.” he mumbles, watching the child look around the room before he started to fidget on the larger male’s lap, wanting to roam around.

Bucky sighs, “Now why won’t Y/N answer her calls?” he asks the tiny human who was still staring up at him. He reaches over to grab his phone and dials your number, only to hear it ring from the other side of the house, inside your room. He dropped the call and placed his phone inside his pocket, now wondering what he could do to keep the small person alive.

“Usually Y/N deals with you.” He says, watching the small child struggle on his lap, clearly wanting to get down. Bucky finally gets what Hugo wanted to do and sets him down on the carpeted floor, watching the toddler (wobbly) walk around the space freely.

Seeing that the child was doing alright after finding a small fixation with Alpine who was now resting near the couch, he returned his attention back to the TV to resume watching the movie. His attention split in half as he continued to glance back at the kid who was now playing with the toys you had brought him and kept at in a basket in the corner of the living room where you deemed it “Hugo’s Area”

Bucky was finally getting into the film, entertainment written all over his face at the sight of the students dancing around the library until it morphed into one of concern when a small bonk followed by a loud cry resonated the room making him look over at Hugo who was already flushed from crying.

He paused the movie again and rushed over to Hugo’s side, taking the small boy in his arms, cradling him on his lap as he tried to calm him down. “Now kid, don’t cry on me. C’mon” he mumbled, raising him up lightly to look at his forehead as he searched for any wounds, relieved to find none.

“C’mon James, what would Y/N do…” He said to himself, standing up as he moved around and cradled the crying child, trying to remember what you would do whenever he has meltdowns like this.

“Oh god, right!” Bucky exclaimed as he remembered, quickly going to the couch and sat down, placing Hugo on his lap as he gently placed his vibranium hand on the back of his head and his flesh one cupping the smaller one’s cheek, wiping the tears that glistened on his smooth skin.

Seeing how the toddler was starting to calm down, he carefully spoke, “Now you gotta work with me, little one.” Bucky then proceeded to blow softly on his face, remembering how you would do that when Hugo was having a fit. “Now can you do that for me as well?” He asked, encouraging the child with a small smile.

Once he felt the kid do the same thing, he repeated the steps a few more times until he was completely calm, letting the child snuggle up against his chest, feeling how he would occasionally let out a small shuddering sob from time to time, making Bucky laugh at the adorable action. “Now what do you want to do?” he gently asked, the cold surface of his metal hand that caressed the child’s back making small bubbles of laughter elicit from the baby.

“Bucky wead [ read ] pwease?” was all that left the two-year old’s mouth, causing a small surprise from the older. Hugo then pushed himself off from Bucky’s chest and turned to his small corner of the room, raising his small arm and pointing his even smaller finger towards the bookshelf that was filled to the brim with story books.

A chuckle left the soldier’s lips, “Alright then, little dude. Go take your pick.” he then proceeded to let him down and watch as the toddler walked his way towards the array of books and picked out one, running back towards him with a big smile.

“Alright big guy, what do you have for me?” Bucky asked, taking the tyke in his arms once again, taking the book from Hugo’s hands. He let out a (very) fake gasp of excitement which made the toddler laugh out loud as his reaction, making small little wiggles of his own eagerness for the book.

Bucky shifted in his seat a little to be more comfortable, letting Hugo snuggle up to him as he opened the book and started to read, “Llama Llama, red pajama, reads a story with his mama.”

---

You were elated to finally come back home and fall into your lover’s arms from a long day of errands with your mom. After the Target trip with your mom, you had to drive her back home and help her with her own groceries and pack up everything with her over at your childhood home一 with an addition of having a few serious talks with her about your future.

“Seriously, Y/N. When are you going to give me a grandchild?” Your mother poked your sides as you helped her bring in the bags filled with her stuff. Ever since Damian introduced Hugo to the family, she’d been on your heels about when you and Bucky would bring one to them as well; admittedly you and him had been in a much longer relationship than Damian and his wife which surprises everyone even more.

You shrugged, rolling your eyes in a playful manner. “I don’t know, mom. I think I’m content being with Bucky for now.” you answered truthfully, setting the items on the kitchen island and turned to her, “Besides, we have Alpine! Our cat!”

This made your mother sigh, laughing softly at your antics. “I know my sweet girl, but I’m just so excited to see a little you or James run around with Hugo.” Her answer causes your heart to swell at the thought of starting a family with him some day; conversations like this with him are normal but are always caught in a fleeting moment so you were never certain about his opinions on the matter.

“Well you just have to wait and see, ma.”

Taking the bags in your hand, you walked over to the door and opened it with ease, expecting to see Bucky waiting for you on the other side only to be greeted by none. Your eyebrows were furrowed as you carefully stepped inside, assuming he had fallen asleep as he waited for you until you heard his quiet voice resonating through the living room. “Little llama, don’t you know? Mama llama loves you so”

You peeked at the source of the sound and what you saw made you just melt on the spot. Bucky had Hugo on his lap, your nephew playing with the thumb of his artificial arm as he listened to the story that he was barely paying attention to as he was already falling asleep.

Not wanting to interrupt the moment, you graced on over to the kitchen in silence and arranged everything as quiet as you can. The smile on your face growing bigger at the thought of how much of a good father Bucky could be; the sight of him with your nephew caused a thousand butterflies to dance around in your stomach freely.

“You’re back, doll?” Bucky’s quiet voice made you jump, head whipping to his direction where he stood with Hugo fast asleep in his arms.

You nod and walk towards him, offering to take him from his arms and Bucky disagreed, pulling away from your attempts. “Hugo’s with me, I’ll take him to bed and I’ll help you finish out here, alright?”

Chuckling softly, you agree and reach up to place a quick kiss on your nephew’s forehead, moving aside so Bucky can place him down inside your room.

You were folding up the plastic bags when you felt a pair of arms sneak up and circle your waist, capturing you in a back hug. Your back was flat against his chest, the warmth from his body making you relax in his arms. Turning around, you let your arms snake up around his neck, your hands playing with the ends of his hair, his physique visibly loosening up. “So your brother came here earlier and said you weren’t picking up your calls.”

“I forgot my phone, i know.” you told him, throwing your head back slightly to let out a soft groan of annoyance at yourself before looking back at him. You met his gaze and his eyes were filled with adoration and love with a spark of something you can’t seem to pinpoint. “What’s going through that head of yours, James?”

He hummed softly, pressing a quick kiss to your lips, “I was just thinking of how I want to have a family of my own with you.” he answered truthfully, not finding anything shameful in admitting his thoughts. “The afternoon I spent with Hugo made me realize I want that for us as well.” his words were soft and dripping with enthusiasm at the thought of being with you for the rest of your days.

This made your cheeks flush lightly, a happy smile resting on your lips as you were already in agreement of his words, “I’ve been thinking the exact same thing, Bucky. I can’t wait to have our own little minion running around the house.” you admitted, this time making Bucky smile even wider than yours, happy that you had the same thought.

“Also, not to brag but I think I’m his favourite now.” Bucky said out of nowhere, grabbing the small carton of chocolate milk from behind you and letting you go, opening the drink and chugging it down in one go.

You rolled your eyes at his words, playfully flipping him off as you sauntered into the pantry where you were arranging your stock of goods. “I highly doubt that, he loves me way more.”

“That’s what you think but Hugo made me read his favourite book to him so now I’m his favourite. He even said it himself.”

“Oh no he didn’t!”

---

TAGLIST: @lunalovecroft @anchoeritic @harrysweasleys @https-bvcky @luana @weasleytwins-41 @angelsgrxzer

for those whose usernames are in bold, it means i cannot tag you for some reason. join my taglist! it's linked in the masterlist <3

[oro-e-diamanti]

Quiet Music: Poco a poco forte

In collaboration with @bethanysnow (whose askbox is always open!)

Jealousy was never a good look with stardust in the other’s eyes. Boundaries are tested. Fantasies are made hot and heavy with some alcohol. Will they make it back to the hotel all in one piece?

Content | Fluff

Pairing | fem!Reader x Damiano

Word Count | 5845

Taglist | @damianodavide @lizstans @unitersmoonshine @its-afucking-mess @ethaneskin @dont-let-me-drown-in-you @vampirtet @lividisuigomiti @juststalking @tabi-toast @ethan-torchio-angelo @cheese-toastie-11 @thewitchinthemountain @ethanesimp @sofckinelectric @man3skin @daddydamiano @finelinejpm @superchrystaldrug @ginny-lily @nientedaridere @rainbowmarta @tiaamberxx @shaunthesheesh @enjcltaire @rocketqueen @aleksanderwh0r3 @damianodavidhands @megann-duff @teatrodellavita @coven-daddy @till-you-scream-and-cry @solasullabarca @fanfictionandfluff @makapaka11 @slave4yourlove @geklutst-ei  @marriedwithmarktuan @bookish0918 @mehrmonga @kanevill @butterfly-skinnylegend @lidiyabest @killerqueen1985 @ccweasley @bluscryn @deluxeplanteater @ohtorchio @messyhairday-me @bidet-and-legolas @maybanksslut​ @fuckim-so-gay @demoiselle-en-detresse00 @petit-poussin @fedorable-killjoys @luvbadass @buttercup-beeee @navs-bhat @etaerealboyv  @tryymebitch @mell-bell @fenhakwe @solacestyles @softforlukescurls @vicsangel @theimpossiblehologramtree​

***

Copenhagen was a whirlwind that barely left any time to breathe. Even the short break Y/n was granted in between was promptly used to make a dash for the nearest tourist shop. Adding a fridge magnet to her growing collection. No misses so far. She’d be lying if she wasn’t proud of it. Victoria gave a little tour through the city, giving ample opportunity to provide the fans with content via various social media platforms. A mad scramble back to the venue, soundcheck, dinner. A gig full of little mishaps, including Ethan losing a drumstick halfway through and Damiano almost tumbling off stage. At least the crew had gotten into a groove, ‘new tour’ jitters finally forgotten. That night, at the hotel, Y/n had found herself standing outside her door, empty ice bucket in hand. Somewhat wondering, hoping, someone would join her. Not just anyone. Him. But she wouldn’t knock on his door and he didn’t come to hers. It wasn’t to be. At least not that night. 

The morning had brought the band another wake-up call from Y/n. Everyone was starting to settle into their routine. Get ready, get on the bus, get handed coffee by Y/n. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t enjoying this little comfort of domestic bliss, taking care of the people she was starting to consider friends. It felt right.

***

Damiano’s morning wasn’t quite as peaceful. His thoughts were plagued by images of Y/n. His decision to ‘cool it’ and back off a little seemed to be biting him in the arse. When she had come around to wake him up, she had been in a partially sheer blouse, black jeans and boots and he thought she looked like the perfect little alternative housewife. Luring him out of bed with the promise of coffee and breakfast. Now he was sitting on the couch on the bus, watching Y/n fly around the little kitchenette and he couldn’t keep his eyes off her bum in those jeans.

Nope, he wasn’t going to do anything about it. Not now. The conversation with Victoria two nights ago was still ringing in his head. He had decided she was right - no use in pursuing anything unless he was certain what he was feeling and what he wanted out of it. He would still have enough time to make his move once he figured it out. Right? He didn’t know what Y/n was thinking. Or what she thought of him, so no use dwelling on it. Still the thought struck him, he barely knew anything about her. He should probably talk to her more. Infallible logic, he thought to himself. Backing off and talking to her at the same time. Great.

“Y/n… how do you usually take your coffee, by the way?”

“Lots of creamer, usually. Sometimes a bit of sugar, if I’m feeling fancy. Or if I’m feeling really fancy at a café, I might get a caramel macchiato.”

“Caramel is always nice.” Of course, she would like caramel, he thought to himself. “Do you normally drink coffee or are you more or stereotypical British tea drinker?”

“I enjoy a cuppa when I’m home, definitely. Italians aren’t exactly known for their tea now, are they?” A smirk appeared on her face, maybe a little baffled by the conversation, but happy to humour him. “Lady Gray is a particular favourite. Followed by breakfast tea with some sugar and milk. Before coffee. I can make you some tea sometime if you fancy?”

“That’d be great. You know, I just had an amazing idea actually,” Damiano grinned. “When we first went to Berlin, there was this amazing tea shop - would you want to go when we have the gig there?”

“That sounds lovely,” Y/n replied. “Of course.”

Another step closer to getting to know her.

***

“Right, we’ve all got an hour until soundcheck and some press things, I’m gonna go take Chili on her walk, you lot do whatever you want until then.”

Y/n had expected a few non-committal grunts, a wave, maybe a “see you later, I’ll go have a nap”, but instead, the whole band seemed to be on their highest energy levels. All of them immediately scrambled to their feet, looking for shoes and jackets, proclaiming they wanted to see the city, maybe take some pictures for Instagram along the way. Y/n wouldn’t dare complain about the company.

It didn’t take them long to reach the harbour, walking along the river as they enjoyed the bustle of town and the view. Y/n found herself pulling out her phone, telling everyone to gather around her.

“I’m no photographer, but I do need some memories of all of this. Thomas, stop pulling that face!” Thomas quickly dropped the grimace as she took the picture, the historic old town in the background. Chili was busy running around between the five of them, loving whoever gave her the attention the most. Y/n thought Victoria was reaching for the leash, already preparing to hand it over, but instead the bassist grabbed her hand. Obviously in a giddy mood, she began swinging their intertwined hands between them as they walked. Y/n couldn’t bite back a smile. She had missed having a close friend ever since she had moved to Italy leaving her best friend behind in the UK and she felt like this blossoming friendship with Victoria could truly begin to fill the void in her heart.

The blonde girl pulled her into a deep hug as Chili decided to go bother Ethan instead.

“I want a photo with just you,” Vic explained, pulling out her own phone for a snapshot. Y/n complied with a sigh but wrapped her arms around her, ready to take the picture. Right as the click went off, Victoria pressed a kiss to her cheek, taking her by surprise. Neither of them could hold back a giggle at her face in the photo.

“I’ve got a surprise for you, by the way,” Y/n spoke up as a little break in the conversation offered itself. If only to distract from the affection and it worked perfectly. All eyes and ears on her. “I’ve booked a little dinner for tonight. But not just any dinner. A burlesque one!”

The group let out various cheers. Thomas immediately ran ahead of the group, shamelessly faking a striptease as they kept walking. Damiano made sure to record the performance, already giggling to himself. Thomas was in the middle of shrugging off his jacket, walking backwards, when - ouch! - he bumped into a pole, heavily bonking his head. Everyone erupted into hysterical laughter, and after rubbing the back of his head with a pour for a moment, even the guitarist joined in.

“You alright?” Y/n asked breathlessly, trying to hide the giggles in her voice, genuinely concerned about him still.

“Besides the fact that I just got all of you to drop your panties for me? I’m great!” The blond grinned at his own joke, as everyone else rolled their eyes.

“Yes! Oh my god, take me Thomas!” Damiano gasped dramatically, pushing himself up against Thomas, who grabbed onto his leg to dip him.

“Wait! Hold on!” Y/n shouted, once again grabbing her phone as the captured the moment. “Now that’s one for the fridge.”

***

Backstage was business as usual. Y/n once again took the time to watch the band soundcheck, always feeling soft looking at the way they played without having to be ‘on’, without putting on a big performance. Yet, she was still in work mode, phone displaying the name of a reporter she was waiting on, along with the name of the magazine she was working for. It didn’t take long for her to appear.

The woman was undeniably beautiful. Thin figure, long, red hair, picture perfect makeup. Even her clothes were pressed, luxury brands decorating her, adding to the pristine image. A press pass hung around her neck, acrylic nails tapping something into her phone. Leaning back, Y/n noticed the particular red leather on the bottom of the woman’s heels.

It was only after putting her phone away that she acknowledged Y/n at all.

“Anywhere I can sit down with the band?” Her eyes barely even met Y/n’s.

“Uh, yeah, once they’re done with soundcheck, they will be in the greenroom,” Y/n said, mustering the woman. “You the reporter?”

“Sure, sure. Can I go there now, sit down, get ready?”

Y/n studied the press pass on the woman’s neck, making sure she was actually the person they were looking for and shrugged. “Alright, follow me.”

She led the reporter further backstage. The greenroom was fitted with a couch and a couple of chairs, a vanity in front of the mirror and makeup already carelessly thrown around. A costume rack in the back.

“Make yourself at home.”

“Thanks,” the woman muttered, looking around the room, obviously dissatisfied with it’s slightly chaotic state and - probably - lack of style. “That’s all I need you for, then.”

Y/n’s eye twitched, busying herself with the clothes, reorganising them to distract herself.

“Sorry to disappoint you, but rules are rules. Can’t be in a room alone, privacy reasons and all that. I’m sure you understand.” 

“Well then.” She carefully placed herself on one of the chairs, highly aware of her posture, her face, and the fact that she’d be right in view of everybody entering the room. “Maybe you can be a bit of help, then. You know, a little insider information between us girls… How into the whole, you know, rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle are they really? I’m talking, drugs, alcohol… groupies?”

It was no question as to what she was hinting at.

“Well, Damiano has a whole tattoo verifying that he hates parties. Plus, they’re not really known for that kind of stuff. And for the interview, I’d rather you stick to the approved questions that your magazine has discussed with our management. There’s no ‘insider information’ here -” Y/n was about to talk herself into a whole rant, when the door opened and the band moved into the room, joyous and hyped for the show that evening.

Victoria was the first to bounce over to Y/n, kissing her cheek, before collapsing on the couch next to her. Ethan, Thomas and Damiano followed suit. Chili had followed the band, now hopping onto the couch and making herself comfortable on Y/n’s lap. Ethan looked over at the reporter, brow raised. “You here to do the interview?”

“Oh you know it,” she winked. Y/n didn’t miss how her whole demeanour had changed and she couldn’t have been more annoyed. “Lovely to meet you all.”

She held out her hand to Ethan, the smirk never leaving her face, before greeting the others in a similar fashion. She held onto Damiano’s hand much longer than the others.

“Nice to meet you,” Damiano said, politely, sitting down as well.

“Oh, that’s no trouble at all,” she beamed at the singer. “Now, you’re here in Hamburg today, and in the part of town most notorious for having Europe’s largest red light district. Do you feel like that’s the perfect background for your gig tonight? You know, with the music you play and the way you dress - it’s not like you’ve been shy about sex in your career so far.” 

They all chuckled slightly.

“Well, sexuality isn’t something to be ashamed about, at least we don’t think so. It’s part of everyday life and part of our own experiences so we put that into music,” Victoria eloquently explained. “And what we’ve seen of the city so far has been very beautiful.”

“Well, maybe I should give you a little tour then, show you the naughty parts of town,” she laughed. “Back on topic though, I imagine touring can be hard, being away from everyone. Do you ever get lonely on tour? For friends or… something else?”

Damiano coughed. “Sure, we get lonely, like anyone else would. But we make a family out of the crew. Everyone on our team is very close to us.” Y/n could clearly see in his eyes that he knew full well what the woman was hinting at. “We love touring, so when you love something, it doesn’t feel like work.”

Ethan nodded in agreement. Y/n could see through all of them easily - none of them wanted to be there.

“Yes, of course, touring can be difficult, but we have fun, so not that bad,” Thomas added.

Y/n didn’t miss the way the reporter briefly looked over her shoulder to muster a reaction from her. “Well I’m sure you’re easily able to find some fun away from your… crew. Lots of parties on tour so far?”

At that point, Y/n was ready to rip the reporter to shreds. But she knew she had to stay professional, and the band was more than able to hold their own, so she stayed quiet. Ethan next to her sat up a little, obviously uncomfortable.

“No, we don’t party. No time.” His vision went dark as he looked at the woman in front of them. As kind and mindful as he usually was, he didn’t shy down when it came to showing his scarier side when he needed to.

“Yeah. We sometimes go to a bar on a day off, but that’s about it. Work is more important,” Victoria threw in as she put an arm around Ethan on the back of the couch.

Y/n felt a wave of pride at the way the band was holding up. It was absolutely no secret to her that they were desperately waiting for this interview to end, annoyed with the reporter and the lines she kept trying to cross, but they stayed polite and professional. She thought that this was what made them real rockstars in that moment.

“Okay, one more question, then. You entered this business really young, you still are, yet you write quite mature music, how do you manage that?”

“We write what we want to write. Perform how we want to perform. I don’t think that has an age limit,” Damiano spoke curtly. His eyes flickered over to their assistant. Y/n was sure he didn’t miss the way she was staring daggers into the back of the reporter’s skull. “And music has always been a passion of ours. We just got lucky really early in life, I guess.”

“Well thank you very much for your time,” the reporter said, standing up, and once again reaching out her hand to say her goodbyes. “Hope to see you around…” As she came to Damiano, Y/n didn’t miss how she stuffed a little note in his hand. “...hopefully.”

“Can I go kick her face now?” Y/n stood up, seething, as soon as the reporter had left the room. “Sorry, no, that’s actually rude. But I’m going to call management and report that woman.”

“Yeah, that… wasn’t cool,” Ethan contemplated. “How about you make that call and then we take your mind off it with the dinner show you booked for us, yeah?”

Y/n took a deep breath, looking at Ethan, whose eyes had turned back to show nothing but kindness. She couldn’t wait to forget about this disaster for the rest of the evening and enjoy herself. With the band in tow, she was sure she would.

***

Damiano hadn’t been quite sure what to expect from dinner that evening - but it wasn’t a table smack in the middle of the first row right in front of the stage. He should have seen it coming, really. When Y/n planned and schemed, she always made sure to get them the best of the best. Determined to make sure everyone was having fun. She truly took care of them like no other.

A waiter was at their table in no time, taking orders for drinks and food, and the openers started before Damiano even had a chance to take a sip of his wine. As soon as it became obvious that the first act of the evening would be pole dancing. The rest of the band started snickering, nudging Damiano’s side. Still, they all watched in amazement as the dancer started their performance, music filling the room.

“You know, I could do that,” Damiano whispered in Y/n’s ear as he leaned in close. She looked over at him - at the performer - back to him.

“Sure you can,” she giggled.

“Oh I can,” Damiano insisted, leaning in closer than necessary now. “And in heels.”

Y/n couldn’t stop herself from coughing, choking ever so slightly on her drink, as her eyes widened and a slight shade of pink appeared on her face.

Damiano simply couldn’t help himself. He knew he had meant to back off, give her a little space, give himself some time to think, but the words simply slipped out. “I can always offer you a private show, you know?”

This time, she only paused for a moment before whispering back, “You teach me pole dancing, I’ll teach you rumba, yeah?”

Fuck, he hadn’t expected her to get the upper hand so quickly. Still, he never once lost his smirk, murmuring a “sure” back at her. She had gotten back her cool, focusing back on her meal now, only looking up to watch the performance every now and then in between bites. She was making it way too hard for him to back off. He wondered if she knew what she was doing to him.

Leaning back into his chair, Damiano watched the performer on stage. They were beautiful, no question about that. Amazing at what they did. It was impossible to keep your eyes off them, even Y/n kept getting distracted. He wondered if she’d look at him the same way if it was him up there. Or if he did a little show himself that night, on stage at their own gig. Catching her attention like the dancer was doing now. Maybe making her lose her mind a little bit. It was worth a try…

The performance was over much too quickly for his liking and only shortly after, the main dancer of the evening was announced to go on stage soon. It didn’t take long for the lights dimming, before fading to black completely. A hush falling over the crowd. A spotlight found a petite, blonde bombshell in the middle of the stage. Perfectly sculpted hair, blue boa feather skirt, a glitter corset that dripped with silver and gold accents. She seemed to be glistening under the stage light, body glitter accenting all the right curves and features. Then she turned around.

Damiano’s jaw dropped - along with just about everyone else’s. She was così bella, un angelo. She walked to the front of the stage as the crowd cheered and whistled. Damiano was enraptured by her. She was mystifyingly beautiful. Each move was carefully planned out, knowing exactly what she was doing and how to do it. She was feeding off the crowd, spurred on by the shouts and comments, as she moved across the stage.

Damiano’s eyes followed her closely. He felt hypnotised by her performance. He had never given burlesque much thought, but this show was changing his mind rapidly. The only thing to pull him out of his was a sigh - a disgruntled noise maybe - coming from his left. It was hard to make out Y/n’s face in the dark, he realised as he turned towards her. But if he’d learned anything about her body language in the past days, he was certain that she wasn’t happy. Her arms were crossed in front of her and she was leaned back in her chair in a way that tried to suggest she wasn’t bothered. But she was. He just couldn’t figure out why.

He was distracted when the dancer was back in front of their table, looking down at them from the stage. She sent all of them a wink, before pulling the elbow-length gloves off one by one and throwing them to the side with a smile. She mesmerised him, even as she moved away from them to give another table some attention. Yet, Y/n was playing at the back of his mind.

Why did she seem so mad? She was the one who had booked this dinner, why wasn’t she having fun? Was she still preoccupied with the reporter from before? Sure, that one had definitely stepped over lines, but he thought they’d all gotten out of there pretty unscathed. And the reporter's number had wandered into the bin immediately. He considered the matter closed.

The woman on stage slowly lowered herself into a split, causing pretty much the whole audience to lose their minds. This was too good. More cheers and applause from everywhere. Damiano heard Vic shouting vague words of encouragement as the woman lost her bra, only pasties covering her nipples now. Y/n let out a little groan and from the corner of his eye, he could see her rolling hers. This time, Damiano wasn’t the only one who noticed. He watched as Victoria and Ethan exchanged looks, then nods, and finally shrugs.

Finally the performance ended, the dancer leaving the stage with another wink and kiss blown towards them. Damiano wished it could’ve gone on for longer. These people knew how to turn sex into art, and he’d by lying if he said it didn’t inspire him.

“Okay, gather up, no time to waste,” Y/n order, getting up from her seat the second the lights were turned back on. “You have a show to play and I don’t want you to be late.”

Damiano threw another look around. Even Thomas, who had been too preoccupied drooling over the dancer to notice anything else, was now staring at Y/n questioningly.

“What’s going on with her?” The guitarist asked as they all gathered their stuff and followed their assistant outside.

“Fuck if I know,” Damiano mumbled. “But I wanna find out, sooner or later.”

***

It wasn’t like her to be jealous. She didn’t care much about what other people found enthralling. But Damiano had looked at the dancer as if she was god’s gift to humanity. Yes, she was pretty, yes, she knew how to shake her arse. Was it all that special? The dancer was petite, a perfect fit for Damiano’s arms. A perfect figure to match his. Y/n was confident, she knew she was beautiful, but unfortunately the rest of the world didn’t always think the same. Unlike the dancer on stage. That woman was more than beautiful… She was palatable, sexy, perfect in all the ways a woman should be. Qualities that Y/n was currently convinced she didn’t possess any of.

Okay, maybe she was jealous. But she didn’t have any right to be. The dancer was simply doing her job. And so what, if Damiano had fancied her? It wasn’t like they were together. She worked for him, that was all. She didn’t have any right to want anything from him beyond that.

The fresh air hit her face as she left the venue, forcing some clarity onto her. She’d have to get a grip and get back to focusing on her job. It’s what she was there for, after all.

***

Victoria bounced over the Y/n as she left the venue, full of adrenaline and happiness from the show she had just watched.

“That was amazing, Y/n! Where did you get the idea for this being today’s dinner?” She asked, hooking onto the assistant’s arm.

“Looked up places we could go online, found this one in a travel blog. Said it had amazing wine so I thought we could check it out,” she explained without looking up from her hands, which were toying with the receipt.

“Well, you sure do have impeccable taste,” Victoria grinned and kissed her cheek. It seemed to pull Y/n out of her head enough to look up at the bassist. But Vic’s smile vanished quickly when she saw the look in her eyes. It was cloudy, gloomy, enough to make Victoria freeze up. Thomas was excitedly chattering about the show in the performance in the background, how hot he thought the performers were, especially the last dancer. Damiano eagerly agreed. Y/n’s seemed to have a flash of venom on her face, and suddenly it clicked in Vic’s mind. Oh, she knew that look well, had carried it herself a couple of times in her life.. She was jealous. Y/n was jealous of the way they all - or maybe, someone in particular - had reacted to the woman on stage. And she was doing a bad job hiding it.

As soon as the car pulled up, everyone scrambled to get it. Y/n immediately started bouncing her leg, still a stormy look in her eyes. If it didn’t seem so serious, Victoria would be amused at the state their assistant was in. Yet, with the expression on her face right then and there, the bassist didn’t dare make a joke.

Damiano was sitting next to Y/n, and Victoria desperately tried to catch his eye. It took a slight kick against his shin to get him to look at her. She flickered eyes back and forth between Damiano and Y/n, motioning him towards the woman. Hoping he would understand. Luckily, they’d long gotten used to reading the other’s face, no need for a verbal conversation. Damiano looked down at Y/n’s hands, still picking at the receipt, and he quickly grabbed one of them. Interlacing their fingers and offering her a smile when she looked up. Her leg stopped bouncing immediately.

“You alright?” He whispered.

“Yeah. Am now.”

Victoria couldn’t bite back the smile on her face, quickly turning towards her phone to be less oblivious. Those two would do just fine, sooner or later, she was sure of it.

***

The concert venue was smaller than some of the others they’d been playing on this tour, but if anything, it had caused the crowd to be even more rowdy. Y/n once again sat to the side of the stage, engrossed in her phone. Damiano snuck a peek through the curtain, before retreating and watching Y/n instead. She didn’t seem half as gloomy as she did at the dinner show. But a certain forlorn quality was still obvious. She had never been this type of obviously sad or upset before. At least not to his attention. Well, he was determined to get her to laugh tonight. Whatever had ruined her mood, he was going to fix it.

The band was getting hyped up, gathering around, some last minute fixes to their instruments among excited chatter. Yet, apparently, it hadn’t been only him who noticed Y/n’s mood. Once again sharing a look with Ethan, Victoria motioned her head over to their assistant. He nodded, before walking over to Y/n, taking her by the hand to get her to stand up, and pressing a kiss to her cheek. Victoria quickly followed suit, then Thomas, who had caught on. Damiano quickly gave a wink before kissing her forehead instead.

“For luck!” He shouted, as he ran on stage, welcoming the crowd. A quick look back confirmed a bashful smile on her face.

Everyone was on fire that night, even Y/n seemed to let go of her bad mood more and more. Damiano didn’t miss the way she sang along to their cover of ‘Take Me Out’, obviously getting into the show more than previous nights. Knowing all the lyrics, dancing ever so slightly… Damiano realised he really had it bad for her.

He decided to go for it during “For your love”. With a pointed look towards her, he slowly started rolling off one arm of his jacket. Then the other. A little mock burlesque show of his own, dramatically shimmying his shoulders as he got rid of the jacket completely. The crowd more than appreciated his little performance, judging by their screams. The rest of the band was eating his energy up, playing harder, going crazier. As Damiano jogged over to grab some water, he didn’t miss the opportunity to turn his back towards Y/n, shaking his arse in a bad attempt at twerking. Turning back, he could see that she was desperately trying to bite back a smile. But he wasn’t done yet.

Making sure she was still looking at him, he began playing with his microphone. Giving it a teasing lick and sending her a wink at the same time. Watching her as he let his hand rest on his chest, slowly wandering lower with a teasing touch, until it rested in his lap. He only managed to keep it up for a second, before he couldn’t hold back the laugh at her expression anymore and turned back towards the audience.

But apparently, Y/n had some trick of her own. Well, it seemed like she wasn’t even aware of them, but they worked on Damiano all the same. She was taking her hair out of the pony tail for the night and he thought the way it cascaded around her face was beautiful. He felt like a movie cliche, watching as the main character let her hair down and everything suddenly happened in slow motion. Yet, here she was, trying to shove a bobby pin back into place, and he was losing his shit. He thought it was ridiculous though. The crazier her hair went, the crazier he went about her. She swayed to the music and for a second Damiano could swear time stood still. 

I wonder if she likes her hair pulled… The thought distracted him to the point that he forgot what he was singing, quickly covering it up by animating the audience to sing it instead. He was glad to be nearing the end of the set. He’d never wish to go off stage, per se, but Y/n was once again occupying his thoughts and the way she was moving to the music now didn’t help.

Another song, another bow towards the audience, another well-practised “Danke!”, and they were off stage. Damiano briefly considered going over to Y/n, only to see Thomas basically chasing her away, threatening her with a sweaty hug. Her slightly panicked squeals proved she wasn’t a fan of the idea. He didn’t mind. He’d make sure there’d be more time to catch up with her later.

Briefly dropping into the dressing room, Damiano grabbed his cigarettes and a hoodie, before heading outside for a smoke. The backstage door led to a quieter alley than the famously busy Reeperbahn on the other end. But there were still more than a handful of people walking past, singing, dancing, shouting into the night, beer bottles in hand. It didn’t take long for everyone else to join him. Ethan headed outside first, bumming a cigarette off the singer, before Thomas and Victoria followed. They were once again involved in some sort of mock argument. Y/n stepped outside a minute later, phone in her hand, already back to work-mode and probably checking the plan for the next few days. Everyone was still on a high from the gig, chatting and giggling, but Damiano felt himself taking a step back. He loved watching his friends, loved what they did, loved that he got to do it with them. And now Y/n too, in a way. Not even a full week in and he knew that this tour wouldn’t have been the same without her. 

He was rapidly pulled out of his thoughts as a group of men came towards them, obviously way past drunk. Yelling and hollering for no reason but to be annoying and get everyone’s attention. Damiano hated those kinds of drunks. In his experience they were nothing but trouble. He had half a mind to retreat back inside before they reached the group, but even in their inebriated stupor; they were quicker than expected. 

“Now, who are these beautiful girls?” One of them slurred, stepping forward.

“Yeah! Bet you give a man a good time,” another one laughed loudly. “And a cheap one too.”

One of them was moving closer now, almost touching Victoria - but without even a moment to process what was happening, Y/n acted. Damiano watched, fascinated, as she grabbed the man’s extended hand, twisting it around his back and shoulder checking him into the brick wall of the alley. No second thought, no hesitation. Shouldn’t the men have been the one to react and take care of their girls? Well, it didn’t seem like Y/n was one to wait to be saved.

In a tone that he had never heard before - and neither had the rest of the band judging by their reactions - Y/n spoke, “You couldn’t afford me, mate. Or my friends. So I’d take your piss drunk self elsewhere, m’kay?”

The men were gone faster than lightning, stumbling to find their footing as they ran, only starting to comment on how she was a “fat fucking bitch” and how they “wouldn’t have wanted her anyway” when they were far enough away. Y/n wordlessly rejoined the group.

Damiano found himself releasing a breath. The whole scene had been over so quickly, he barely registered it. He wasn’t the only one either, he realised. As the other three kept staring at her, amazed and maybe slightly intimidated, while Y/n didn’t even react.

However, Damiano wasn’t just mesmerised by her behaviour. He was thrilled by her - in more ways than one. The way she had handled herself was downright hot. She was fierce, self-confident, and strong. He couldn’t keep himself from contemplating whether this was a side she would let out in the bedroom as well. Was she the type to take control? Order him around? Push him to a wall like she’d done that guy, only with very different intentions? He would be 100% okay with taking orders from her, he decided.

Y/n finally looked up from her phone, apparently feeling everyone’s stares on her.

“...What. I told you I worked security before.” She looked at Victoria, quietly asking her if she was alright. She simply nodded. Damiano still couldn’t keep his eyes off of their assistant. Damn, that woman had more to herself than she let on.

***

Damiano was still thinking about it an hour later. After everyone had gathered their stuff and gotten back to the hotel and split up into their rooms. After he’d gotten in the shower. His mind was still running wild. He quickly turned the water to cold, letting out a hiss at the change in temperature, but he knew he didn’t have the time or the privacy to do anything about his thoughts. Neither would he be knocking on Y/n’s door, desperate for some kind of attention.

Not tonight.

[waitineedaname]

8- gordon at Benry

“I can’t believe you told them you were my fiancé.”

“Huh? You didn’t say no, though.”

The moms of Joshua’s soccer team were an impenetrable clique. Gordon had no idea why, but for whatever fucking reason, they’d decided they hated him. Maybe he had brought the wrong snacks to practice, maybe they didn’t appreciate Joshua teaching all their sons swear words, maybe he cheered a little too loud at games. Whatever, he could deal with a little pettiness and false politeness from a bunch of housewives. He’d dealt with worse.

It was one of the first games of the season, and it was Gordon’s turn to bring drinks for the team. He was almost at the soccer field, hoping his pack of mini Gatorades would appease Joshua’s teammates, when he realized he was bringing an additional unknown variable: Benrey. The former security guard tagging along to all his outings had become such an expected occurrence at this point that he’d completely forgotten that Benrey had never gone to one of Joshua’s games before. He grimaced to himself as he pulled into the parking lot. Benrey had gotten a lot better about not doing blatant alien shit in public over time, but he was still a rogue element. Gordon could only hope he was in a chill enough mood to not make a scene on the soccer field.

Joshua had taken off running in the direction of his friends the moment the car parked, and Gordon and Benrey followed a distance behind, Gatorade packs in hand.

“Gordon, you made it!” One of the soccer moms waved at them as they walked over. “We were worried you might be late again.”

Gordon tried to turn gritted teeth into a smile. “Just because I was late one time, Katie, doesn’t mean I’m always going to be late.”

Katie gave him an equally fake smile and turned her gaze on Benrey, who was setting his pack of Gatorades down next to the cooler. “And who’s this? I don’t think we’ve met!”

“Hm?” Benrey glanced up at her, then reached out for a handshake, his hand still damp with condensation. “Yo. Benrey.”

“Katie,” She said, shaking his hand for as short a time as possible. She glanced between him and Gordon, trying to make some kind of connection between them. “Are you Joshua’s… uncle?”

“What?” Benrey squinted at her from under the rim of his baseball cap. “Nah, I’m Gordon’s fiancé.”

Gordon promptly choked on air.

Katie’s eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. “Oh!” She exclaimed. “I didn’t know Gordon was engaged!”

“Aw bro, you didn’t tell them?” Benrey turned his version of puppy dog eyes on Gordon, which was really just an intense stare since he’d never quite figured out how puppy eyes worked. Gordon thought he could see mischief behind the stare.

“Man, can you blame me? It happened pretty recently.” Gordon tried to convey ‘what the fuck are you doing?!’ without giving them away to Katie. Benrey just grinned and grabbed Gordon’s hand, doubling down.

“Well! I’m glad Joshua’s new stepdad could make it to one of his games!” Katie said, clasping her hands together.

“Yeah, I’m excited. Joshie’s gonna kick your kid’s ass, gonna make all the touchdowns.”

“Um.” Katie faltered, and it took all of Gordon’s strength not to snort. Never had he been so pleased by Benrey’s ability to throw anybody off their rhythm. “Well, our boys are on the same team, and it’s soccer, not f-”

“Huh? What? Sucker? What’re you calling me?”

“Okay! Well! We better go get our chairs set up!” Gordon yelled, dragging Benrey away before he could make it worse. Which led them to where they were now, sitting in lawn chairs on the side of the field, Gordon struggling not to completely break down into laughter. Benrey looked impossibly smug, slouched beside him.

“What was I supposed to say, man?” Gordon continued to protest. “I panicked! God, I’m so fucked. How am I supposed to explain that we aren’t engaged without sounding like a lunatic?”

“Just don’t? Easy.” Benrey shrugged.

“No, you don’t get it. She’s gonna be watching us like a hawk to see if we actually act like a couple.”

“Okay. Guess we gotta act like a couple now.” Benrey raised an eyebrow at him. “Unless you’re chicken? Baby chickenshit? Too afraid to act like he wants to smooch his best friend Benrey?”

“I’m not afraid, asshole.”

“Yeah? Prove it.”

Oh, a challenge, huh? Well, when he put it like that, there was no way Gordon could back down. Gordon leaned over and put his hand on Benrey’s shoulder. “You’re on,” He said, rubbing his thumb affectionately on the side of Benrey’s neck for good measure.

Pretending to flirt was way more fun than it should’ve been. It felt like second nature to lean in a little closer to talk than they would normally or to throw around obnoxious pet names to make each other laugh or to initiate extra physical affection. It felt so natural, in fact, that Gordon almost forgot why he was doing it as he got more distracted by Joshua’s game. Joshua’s team only needed one more point to win, and Joshua had control of the ball, and Benrey and Gordon were absolutely riveted. They were holding hands, but both of them weren’t even paying attention to that, far more concerned with being the loudest people cheering from the sidelines for Joshua’s success. When Joshua kicked as hard as he could and the soccer ball shot to the back of the goal, Gordon shouted “yes!” at the top of his lungs. Giddy with excitement, he turned, grabbed Benrey’s face, and planted a kiss directly on his mouth.

He hadn’t even realized what he’d done until he was already on the field, hugging and congratulating his son. Mortification shot through him like a spike. Oh shit. It was only a dumb competition, he definitely took it way too far, Benrey was never going to let him live this down-

Benrey’s head bonked heavily against his shoulder, an established form of affection Gordon had gotten used to over the past several months. Gordon leaned away from Joshua to give Benrey room to ruffle the kid’s hair and give him congrats of his own. If he hadn’t been so focused on the two of them, Gordon might have missed the sidelong look Benrey sent him and the slight smile that accompanied it.

Joshua was momentarily distracted by one of his friends running over and talking about something a mile a minute, which gave Benrey the chance to nudge Gordon in the side. “Hey,” He said. Gordon looked over at him just in time to receive a kiss on the cheek. Benrey grinned at Gordon’s dumbstruck expression, then scooped Joshua up onto his shoulders like nothing had happened. “Yo, Joshua! Your dad is gonna buy us ice cream!”

“Wh- I never said that!” Gordon protested, following them as Benrey and Joshua chanted ‘ice cream!’ over and over the whole way to the car. He laughed and shook his head. Well, at least he wouldn’t have to deal with the soccer mom clique on his own anymore.

[worminstuff]

missing the homie

i really didnt know what to title this imsorry an i definatly forgot about this blurb for the longest time but here it is!! i made it extra longer than i wanted cause ifeltbadlol but heres some sumer cheesy tbott time

sleepy bois x reader au

warnings: none, just prepare for cringey cheese

word count: 1k

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Techno was quiet as he unlocked the front door to y/ns house, he tried to avoid the creaky floorboards he was familiar with too.

Bonk was quick to be weaving through his steps as he made his way to her room. He would have tripped if he wasn't so used to Bonk.

When he opened her door he only stared for a moment. The window next to y/n's bed was open, the early morning light pouring through to cascade over her mounds of blankets and pillows. He set the food down on the table in the middle of her room and sat on the edge of her bed.

He had a quick debate with himself before he chose to lay down beside her.

His arm above her head, the other draping over her blanket covered stomach. Sleepily, she accommodated the new body pillow beside her and rolled to face him, her head going to his chest.

“Morning.” he drawled. He only received a hum in response.

He waited, running a hand through her hair for a bit, gently detangling the tangles that snagged his fingers.

“I brought you breakfast.” he said, watching bonk as he made his way to curl up on top of the pair.

y/n leaned her head away from his chest to look up at him, “you did? Did Phil make it?” he silently awed as she attempted to rub the sleep from her eyes.

He hummed a no, “I did.”

y/n pinched her brows. Techno cooked? For her?

“Really?”

“Mhm.” he lifted his hand to point behind them.

y/n lifted her head, propping herself up on her elbow to look. There indeed was a plate with pancakes and strawberries with Nutella on a plate for her.

She sat up excitedly, dramatically grabbing him by the face to give him a rather aggressive kiss.

He chuckled as she threw the blankets off her and climbed around him to get to the coffee table, bonk following suit.

Techno stayed and sat on the edge of her bed as she munched on the food, dumping praises on techno like a proud mother.

They were having a very calm and peaceful time until the house began to rattle. Both techno and y/n looked at each other and groaned.

Before they could even say anything, Tommy with clementine on his back and Tubbo not far behind, were right in the doorway of her room.

“y/n! Phil said- ooh strawberries!” Tommy lost his train of thought and leaned over stealing a strawberry off y/ns plate. y/n frowned and techno glared.

“What he was saying is that Phil said he had to go see Mr. Sam so he would be back later and we had to come here.” Clementine said from tommy's back, both boys nodded.

“What about Wilbur? And Bo wasn't he staying at the house last night anyways?” y/n asked, standing up and brushing her hands on her pj pants (they were techno's pants).

She walked over to give Tubbo a hug, as he had reached his arms out for her when she stood up.

“What's up, kiddo?” y/n asked him, patting his head.

“We miss you.” Tubbo mumbled. Tommy let clementine down and both joined into the hug, all four of them hugging now.

Techno's heart ached.

y/n had been dealing with some stuff and she'd been extremely busy with work and dealing with her parents in general. It was taking a large toll on her.

She wasn't avoiding the sleepy house at all, she just never had time, and when she did have time she was unbelievably exhausted. She missed them a lot too.

y/n pressed her cheek into tommy's hair.

“I'm sorry.” she mumbled.

“Hey! It's okay, we get you're old now and whatever,” y/n scoffed “and I know those ones a handful. He's my brother after all,” techno crossed his arms with a huff “we miss you, but we understand. If there's anything we can do or help with please tell us.'' Tommy leaned into her a bit more, squeezing a little tighter.

Tears threatened their way into y/n's eyes but she held them at bay.

She hadn't realized how much these kids were really growing up. They Are maturing so fast and y/n just wanted them to stay small forever.

“Hey, don't cry! It's okay.” Tubbo gave a toothy grin in hopes of getting one in return.

y/n laughed softly and rubbed her eye a bit.

“Gosh i missed you rugrats. How about you go play with bonk while i change and we can all go out somewhere? Maybe Walmart? You guys go crazy for Walmart.” y/n asked as she leaned away from the kids.

They all cheered and ran from the room, but Tubbo quickly ran back to grab bonk before running back out again.

y/n softly shut the door behind them and huffed another small laugh.

y/n shuffled her way over in front of techno, standing in between his legs as he sat on the edge of her bed still.

Techno placed his hands on her hips, rubbing small circles with his thumbs. He stared up at her with such a puppy loving gaze, she laughed at him.

“What?” he laughed with her, “why are you laughing at me?”

She shook her head, “you're just cute.” she shrugged for emphasis.

Techno wrapped his arms around her middle fully and pulled her down, twisting to the side so they landed on her bed, “gross. You are so cheesy and gross.” he talked into her collar holding back his own laughs.

y/n wiggled and squirmed attempting to free herself from techno's arms, he eventually allowed her to escape.

y/n got dressed and techno helped her clean up her breakfast and all. Domestic smiles and kisses shared in between of course.

“Can we go yet can we go?” Tommy was practically vibrating with excitement.

y/n grammatically sighed, yet still smiled, “fine.”

She pushed the gremlins towards the door, they all giggled as they were shoved around.

Everyone just needed some quality y/n time, that's all.

[jusvibbbin]

One Locker Down

Kenickie Murdoch x Reader

//Grease popped up in my playlist yesterday and my childhood crush reignited itself

Senior year was going okay. Your grades were stellar, your standing in debate club was unchallenged and your personal best was improving every time you swam. But you were missing one pivotal thing to be considered the ‘complete senior.’ A relationship. You became embarrassed simply at the thought. You were cute and nice, just a bit awkward. Your social skills couldn’t hold a candle to those of Patty Simcox or the Pink Ladies. You usually preferred to keep to yourself but as senior year drew closer, you longed for more than what you had. On the first day of school you considered your options as you walked.

Are there even any options? Can you think of one person outside of your activities that even knows your name?

You were a bit discouraged walking into school as you found your way towards your locker. With your mind lost in thought, you had no time to react before bumping into none other than Kenickie Murdoch. He turned towards you directly, mouth open to begin sending a barrage of insults your way before he saw you. His mouth hung open a moment and then shut quickly. You stood there like a deer in the headlights, still waiting for the attack that was never to come. Kenickie bent down and picked up your books as you brought yourself out of your state of shock.

“I am so sorry!” You said bending down to help him, only to bonk heads with him instead. Kenickie rubbed his head and pulled off his sunglasses.

“Jesus, babe! Are you trying to send me to the hospital?”

You felt yourself blushing at what he called you and you quickly shook your head ‘no.’ Kenickie handed you your books and you went around to the locker right next to his. 

“What’s your name?” Kenickie asked suddenly. 

You stuttered out your name and he grinned at you.

“I like it,” he said smoothly. He looked like he had more to say until someone down the hall shouted for him. He gave you a wink and strolled down the hallway. You felt your heart beat wildly in your chest until you realized what had happened.

Ohhhh no. Not him. Not Kenickie. He’s a playboy, a greaser, not to mention he’s trouble incarnate. 

But it was too late. You had it bad.

--

You didn’t see Kenickie until a week later. You were at your locker packing up for the day and when you closed the door, he was leaning against his locker. You stifled a scream and put a hand to your chest. Kenickie smirked at you.

“What’s the matter? Did I scare you?” he asked, pushing himself off the wall to face you.

“Just surprised me is all,” you tried to answer confidently, but it came out very unsure. Kenickie backed you into your locker and put his left hand next to your head, blocking you in on one side. You bit your bottom lip and stared up at him.

“How is it that I never noticed you before?” Kenickie eyed you up and down. “You’re hot stuff.” You thought you might die right then and there.

Kenickie thinks I’m hot? Is he feeling alright?

“Thank you,” you said shyly, keenly aware of how close he was to you and only wanting him to get closer. 

Suddenly Kenickie moved away from the lockers and started walking away, calling back to you, “See you around gorgeous!”

You resisted the urge to dance your soul right out of your body and you headed the opposite way.

--

Kenickie’s POV:

“Kenickie who is that?” Sonny gestured to (Y/N) standing at their locker.

“Yeah, we’ve seen you talkin’ to em a whole bunch lately,” Putzie added.

Kenickie rolled his eyes and looked at the other T-Birds. 

“What are you knuckleheads doing spying on me, huh?” He started to comb his hair, slick with grease, back.

“We just wanted to know what the plan was, boss,” Doody piped up. Kenickie looked at him confused.

“Plan?”

“With the nerd! We were thinking you could leave em a note inviting them on a date, tell em to wear something real flashy, and then they show up and you ain’t there!” Doody exclaimed. At this, the T-Birds erupted into laughter, hooting and howling like animals. Kenickie shut them up with a quick smack to the back of their heads.

“Enough clownin’,” he said, putting an unlit cigarette in his mouth.

“Come on Nickie, it’ll be funny!” Sonny begged.

Kenickie thought about it for a moment or two before saying, “Gimme some paper.”

--

Your POV:

You stood at your locker, feeling flustered. You had found a note from Kenickie. You read it over again just to be sure. It said:

“Dollface, you’re lookin’ extra good today. I was thinking maybe you and me could meet up tonight. Wear something to show off your assets. See you at Frosty Palace, seven o’clock. -KM”

You didn’t know what to think. Sure Kenickie had been nice to you lately, but the T-Birds were known for pulling stunts to hurt people’s feelings. You thought about what you wanted to do the rest of the school day, through swim practice and on your walk home from school. 

Kenickie is probably just doing it to be mean. But he did say all those nice things to me… Then again it might’ve been a trick to ensure I’d come. But why go through all the effort just to stand me up? To make me look silly? 

You walked into your house, waving to your mother as you went upstairs. You laid on your bed and yelled frustrated, into your pillow. You stayed there for a few moments before you heard your door creak open. You sat up as you mother walked in and sat on your bed.

“What’s going on?” Your mother asked, running her hand through your hair.

“I like this boy, and he asked me out tonight but I don’t know if he’s just going to ditch me,” you sighed. Your mother looked thoughtfully for a moment as you waited patiently for her sage wisdom.

“I think you should go. What does it matter if he stands you up? Go because you want to. If he’s there, great and if not, you can find someone else to spend time with. You are a beautiful, smart and kind person. You can get anyone you want so show that boy that you don’t need him, but you’re willing to give him a chance.” 

You smiled and nodded at your mother and she helped you pick out a cute, but fairly modest, outfit for tonight. Then she helped you do your hair and by the time you were done, you looked great.

Kenickie, I hope you’re gonna be there. Cause I am gonna knock your socks off.

--

At six fifty your mother dropped you off just down the street from the Frosty Palace. You thanked her for everything and started walking. You hoped against hope that this wasn’t a trick. Your mother’s words had touched you, but you knew what you wanted, and you wanted him.

As you approached Frosty’s you scanned the parking lot, but saw no sign of him and your heart dropped into your stomach. You crossed the street and looked inside, but you still didn’t see him. You rounded the corner, intent on sitting on the bench so no one could see your tears, and there he was. Kenickie freaking Murdoch. He was leaning against the building, smoking a cigarette and as you walked up, he looked over at you.

“Whoa, look at you,” Kenickie smiled at you. “You look… amazing.”

You grinned at him and grabbed his hand, pulling him inside before he could even finish his cigarette. After a night of drinking milkshakes, eating burgers and playing songs on the jukebox, Kenickie drove you home. Once you got to your house, Kenickie parked and turned off the car.

“I had a lot of fun Nickie,” you said sweetly.

“Yeah, me too,” he said scooting closer towards you.

You leaned up and kissed his cheek. As you started to lean away, Kenickie caught your chin with his hand and kissed you hard on the lips. You kissed him back with intensity and wrapped your arms around his neck. His hands grabbed your waist, sliding them under your shirt and rubbing small circles into your skin. You squeaked in surprise and Kenickie took the opportunity to slip his tongue into your mouth. You were enjoying the moment so much you could barely tear yourself away from him when he tried to lay you down.

“Kenickie,” you mumbled as he kissed your neck.

“Mhm?”

“I don’t think I’m ready for that yet,” you said gently as you pushed yourself back a bit. Kenickie begrudgingly pulled away, giving you one last kiss.

“Whenever you’re ready babe, I’ll be here,” he said, winking at you. You giggled and hugged him. He held you close, his hand running through a section of your hair. 

“See you next Friday?” You asked.

“You know it,” Kenickie smirked as you got out of the car. You waved goodbye to him and watched him speed down the road.

Oh yeah. I got it bad.

Part Two

[writing-in-april]

I Know.

Poe Dameron x Gender Neutral Reader

Summary: Poe has a confession to make to Reader during the heat of the battle on Exegol.

A/N: This is my fic for day one of Oscar Isaac week 🥰 I honestly had a hard time choosing a favorite character cause I love so many of them (namely Poe, Llewyn, Santiago and Nathan) but I decided to go with the character that I’ve written the most for 🥰 I love my hot headed pilot- Poe 😊 Thanks for reading and Requests are open.

Warnings: Canon typical violence & Threat of character death

Main Masterlist Word Count: 1.4K

Exegol was a mystery I didn’t care to unfold, I just knew I had to defeat it and then escape it. The battle was the most brutal one I had ever been in. The first order showed no mercy against its foe’s in battle, but the final order was here to decimate everything in its path.

I was deep in the heart of the battle with my squadron, when I heard a distinct voice call out for me over the comms. It belonged to my best friend of many years, Poe. We had been through thick and thin, I had known him since both of our days serving in the New Republic Navy, we had even defected over to the resistance together.

We had already done a sort of goodbye when we were just about to take off towards Exegol in preparation for one of us possibly not coming back. I still felt like there were many things left unsaid between the two of us and I wished my past self would have told Poe how I really felt. It seems as though Poe had words left unsaid to me as well.

“I love you!” I heard through the intercom of my ship, I almost missed it because of the constant bombardment of bolts coming towards my x-wing. My heart was soaring with adrenaline and it further leaped high in my chest in response to the words that were shouted out from Poe’s mouth. Even though the battle that was raging around us was more important he spoke again, this time with less desperation in his voice and with a more resigned tone, “I need you to know that I love you, I should have said it long ago.”

His resigned tone had a meaning I was unable to decipher in the heat of the moment, unable to discern whether or not it was because he thought he would die or if he thought I would not reciprocate. He was an idiot if he thought I didn’t feel the same, in fact the only reason I had never plucked up the courage to say something to the man that I often jokingly called a ‘nerfherder’ was because we were in the middle of the war. Maybe I was the idiot for never saying something, I realized I’d rather have a short time with him then no time at all.

I found myself wishing that we were exchanging the words face to face and not seemingly miles apart as I gulped down a breath to find my bearings so I could say the words back to him. I wished he had told me sooner, truthfully though I was not surprised at all, he always had terrible timing. Hopefully I’d get a chance to kiss him once our ships had landed and not be cursed to hear his confession without knowing what his lips felt on mine. “I know, Poe. I know you love me and I love you too.”

All I was able to hear in response to my words was a sigh of relief before all the comms cut out and we were free falling through the atmosphere of Exegol. All I could do was scream for Poe as I fell to what I assumed was my death.

——

The jungle moon of Ajan Kloss where the resistance had its base was much hotter than the harsh cold of space. Normally, I would’ve found the heat to be suffocating to me, but I found it a welcome reminder of the fact that I had actually made it out of the battle alive when I started to climb out of my x-wing.

When my feet hit the soft ground my legs couldn’t hold me upright and I fell down to my knees out of exhaustion and relief. The damp jungle dirt was surely staining my flight suit, hopefully I wouldn’t need to go up into space for a while. I loved flying, but feeling the ground underneath me was more valuable to me at this time.

All around me people were celebrating, most were still in deep embraces with their loved ones though I had noticed some had already broken out the stash of mainly Corellian whiskey that the pilots hid on base. It was normally used for when we were all in a somber mood, in a need to escape the horrors of the war. It was nice to see it used for its intended purpose, celebration.

Everyone was all off in their own little worlds celebrating with the people they cared about most and were reunited with. Unfortunately also not everyone had someone to celebrate with in the distance I noticed Karé standing by her x-wing looking more lost than I had ever seen her before. I knew that she had heard and had probably seen her husband, Snap, perish in the battle as had many other important people.

I got up off the damp ground not bothering to dust off my knees before making my way over to my crying friend. As I made my way over to her as quickly as I could with my wobbly knees I thought about my person that I could’ve lost in the battle. Once we had regained contact with everyone I was glad to hear Poe’s voice over the comms again, but I still hadn’t seen him since I landed. A pang of fear shot up through me that I had to push down, I could find Poe later right now I needed to comfort my friend.

I engulfed her in a deep hug as soon as I was close enough to reach out to her. We stood there for a while as her tears dampened the right shoulder of my flight suit.

“There’s someone who needs you more than I do.” She said, with a watery smile after we let go of our embrace. I assumed that the rest of the pilots must have also heard the confession between Poe and I. Of course he hadn’t opened a private channel on comms for his confession, he was always the dramatic one.

As I was about to make a remark back to Karé I heard my name being called throughout the celebrating crowd. I looked around to find the source of the voice that I knew was definitely Poe. When I saw a man with a flight suit that matched mine with a head of messy dark curls I gave Karé a soft smile before bounding over to him, not caring about my still wobbly knees. The way we charged at each other and met with a crushing hug was sickeningly cliche, but I didn’t care all that much since I was in the arms of Poe.

“You have horrible timing.” Were the first words I could find myself to say once I had finally reached him. The sweat dripping off of the both of us doing nothing to hinder how deeply we pulled each other close.

The heat of the crushing hug was even more comforting than the heat of Ajan Kloss. It mattered more to me to be alive in the presence of Poe than to be alive and alone on this desert moon.

“I know.” His cheeky smile was evident to me even though I couldn’t see his face as it was tucked into my neck. Moving my hand away from the back of his neck I ran it through his curls before bonking him on the head lightly in jest. Giggling a little he let his grip on me loosen a little to pull his head out of the crook of my neck and look at me.

The smile on his face dropped a little as he stared at my face for a few moments as if he was inspecting me to make sure I was real. After I had seemingly passed his inspection he brought his hands up from my torso to caress my cheeks, then bringing me forward into a sweet yet also desperate kiss. I sighed deeply into the kiss in relief, I could confirm that he was just as real too and I finally knew what his lips felt like on mine. The kiss only further confirmed what I had said to him, I know that I love him.

—-

Tag list (message me if you want to be added):

All works:

@shotarosleftpinky @oreogutz @90spumkin @kyra-morningstar

Poe Dameron/SW (new tag list):

[coldflame96]

Lunch Break

Summary: Tohru skips lunch to avoid being an inconvenience. Thankfully, she has a loving huband to set her straight. 

Rating: G

Also found on AO3 and FF.net

Inspired by a RL situation with a friend of mine. 

The store was busy today. She hadn’t eaten since breakfast and she was starting to get hungry. They had just finished with the last customer in line. 

“Hey, Tohru-kun,” Her supervisor got her attention, “I know it’s kinda late, but did you wanna take your lunch break?”

“Yes,” she sighed in relief. “Thank you, Kaori-san.”

She opened the mini fridge and felt her heart skip a beat. It was empty...She thought back to when she had left this morning and rested her head on the counter, groaning. She must’ve forgotten it in the fridge this morning.

“What’s wrong?” Kaori-san asked. 

“I was in such a rush this morning I forgot my lunch,” she admitted shamefully. 

“Oh, well that’s no big deal! Just go to the cafe around the corner. Kenji-kun is working and he likes me so just tell him I sent you and he’ll make whatever you want for free.”

“I can’t do that!” 

“Eh? Why? Will your husband get jealous? He doesn’t have to know.”

She shook her head. “Kenji-kun is always working so hard I can’t trouble him like that!”

“Trouble him?” Kaori-san laughed. “Man, you’re really funny sometimes, Tohru-kun.” She frowned. She was sure Kaori-san didn’t mean anything by it, but sometimes it felt like she was a small child being dismissed even though they were close to the same age. She didn’t really like it...

“Oh! Good afternoon!” Kaori-san greeted as the bell rung. 

Well...her shift was over soon anyway. Might as well just hold out until she got home. She would be fine.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She wasn’t fine. It had been a rough day. She ended up having to stay three hours later than initially planned due to a coworker calling off sick. She clenched her stomach. She was so hungry! 

On shaky legs, she managed to let herself into their apartment. Thankfully, her and Kyo-kun had gone grocery shopping yesterday so there was enough there to make something easy. 

Just the thought of eating made her stomach yowl in protest. 

She set up two boiling pots of water, one for rice, the other for the potatoes. 

She mustered up whatever energy she could to start peeling the potatoes, arms heavy with fatigue. She was really tired. Hopefully Kyo-kun wouldn’t be too disappointed if she tucked in early after dinner. 

She heard the creak of the door. “Tohru?” Oh, so he was home already. 

“Kyo-kun!” she jumped up from the table, apparently too fast as it made her woozy, and tried to run to greet her husband but ended up tripping on the way, strong arms keeping her afloat from under her shoulders. 

“Whoa! Clumsier than usual, huh?”

This would normally be the time when she would defend herself, but her tongue was...stuck. 

Kyo-kun, always so perceptive, cocked his head in concern. “Tohru, are you okay?” he stroked her cheek. “You look pale.”

Say something. “I-I’m fine, Kyo-kun.”

He wasn’t convinced. “You don’t really look fine.” He put a warm hand on her forehead, brow furrowed. “You don’t have a fever..”

She pulled away, careful not to be too abrupt. “I’m fine, really! I just feel a bit faint. Once I get something to eat, I’m sure I’ll be right as rain!”

“What, did you take your lunch break really early today or something?”

She giggled nervously. “Yeah, something like that.”

“What time did you eat?”

She froze, blanching. She was never a very good liar, and with the way he was staring at her now, she knew she wasn’t getting anything past him. 

“Before I left,” she mumbled.

“Huh?”

She cleared her throat. “Last time I ate was...before I left.”

Kyo-kun gave her a steady look. “That was over 11 hours ago.”

She averted her eyes shamefully. His fingers crooked her chin up so they were facing each other. “Tohru, why would you not eat?”

“I-um-” she floundered, “I was in a rush this morning and I completely forgot to pack my lunch and I didn’t realize it until I was already there.”

“There’s a cafe down the street from you. Why didn’t you just order from them?”

“W-well, I-I thought about it but I didn’t really have time to go pick anything up.”

“So have someone else do it. You could’ve called me and I would’ve brought you something.”

She waved her hands. “Well, everyone was really busy and I didn’t wanna bother them and have them make food for me. It’s my own fault I forgot my lunch, not theirs and-”

He groaned, “Tohru, you’re not bothering anyone, that’s literally their job. They get paid to make food for people. Including you.”

She knew that. Of course she knew that. She’d been kicking herself for it all day. “By the time I had time for a break, I was already almost off anyway, so I figured I would just wait til I got home.”

He cupped her cheeks. “You should’ve eaten something sooner, a pack of crackers, anything. You look like you’re about to pass out.”

She jerked away. “I’m fine, really!” And then she swayed and soon enough she was in the air, tossed over her husband's shoulder like a sack. 

“Wh-what are you doing?”

“What does it look like?” he asked nonchalantly, not even grunting with the effort of carrying her at all, which she vowed to file away for future use. “I’m taking my wife to bed.” Almost married for a year now and she still felt a tingle in her chest when he called her that.

“What?! But- but dinner!-”

“I’ll finish it.” And then he gently tossed her on their bed. “Last thing we need is for you to pass out while cooking.”

She wanted to argue, to protest, but the longer she sat, the more the energy left her. And all that was left...was shame. Shame at herself for not eating over something so silly, shame that Kyo-kun had to come home from a long day just to worry about her...Her throat got choked up and she felt her eyes go misty.

“Tohru?” He asked softly. He was always so kind, so much kinder than she ever deserved. Long fingers fanned her cheeks, wiping away the tears at the corner of her eyes and he was kneeling in front of her now at eye level. “Why are you crying?”

“I’m sorry,” she whispered. “I’m always being stupid and making you worry about me.”

“You’re not stupid and if I don’t worry about you, then who will?” She didn’t have much of an answer to that. “I’m not mad at you,” he sighed out, “And I don’t mind taking care of you. If you don’t want me to worry, then you should be better at taking care of yourself once in a while.”

She sniffed, nodding. “Right. I’m sorry.”

“Stop apologizing.” He grabbed something out of his pocket. “Here.” 

She scrunched her eyebrow at the wrapped snack. “A granola bar?”

“You need something in your system before dinner. It’s not much, but it’s better than nothing.”

He was always so rational. She smiled softly. “Thank you.”

He hummed in response, pushing her hair back to kiss her forehead. “I’ll come get you when dinner’s ready. Just sit here and relax for a bit.”

And then he was gone. 

She obediently opened her granola bar, chewing in slow, careful bites. She really would have to be more careful, wouldn’t she? It wasn’t like Kyo-kun could trail her around to make sure she wasn’t hurting. She smiled at that visual image. Cute. 

She wasn’t sure how long she sat there, sinking into the mattress, slowly getting through her granola. 

“Oi,” she got a light bonk on the head and she jolted. 

“Oh, Kyo-kun! You’re back already?”

He raised an eyebrow and then burst into chuckles. 

“What?”

“I’ve never seen someone space out while eating a granola bar.” he stroked her hair. “You’re really adorable sometimes.”

She blushed and he just laughed some more and she felt her breath leave her a bit. He really was beautiful, wasn’t he?

“C’mon, come eat with me. I’ve missed you.” She knew he meant it. Kyo-kun didn’t just say things to butter her up. Before she could respond though, she was being hoisted from under her knees into the air. 

She squeaked in surprise and wrapped her arms instinctively around his neck. “Kyo-kun, I can walk on my own,” she protested weakly. 

He shrugged, smirking. “It’s more fun this way.”

He started walking out, effortlessly. Did she weigh anything to him at all?

“Nah, you’re pretty light.” he responded, and she stiffened as she realized she said that out loud. 

“Am I?” She’d always thought she was pretty average sized. 

“I’ve held kittens heavier than you,” he drawled. 

She pouted, huffing, “Now you’re just bullying me.”

He snorted. “You love it though, don’t you?”

Well, two could play at that game. “Of course!” she chirped innocently, “I love everything about you.” And then she kissed his jawline sweetly and watched with delight as his cheeks turned pink and his grip slackened enough that she could slide down to the floor gently. 

She saw the spread on the table and clapped her hands together. “Wow, Kyo-kun! It looks so good!” Then she grinned at him. “You’re so amazing!” 

His face almost matched his hair now. “It’s not a big deal,” he mumbled, “It’s just dinner.”

They’ve known each other for almost half a decade now and he still got so bashful over the smallest things. 

She threaded her fingers through his. “Thank you.”

The shy smile he gave her made it all worth it. 

“Hey, Tohru?” he asked as she sat down to eat. She looked up at him curiously. “Please don’t do this to yourself again. Just call next time. You’re never a bother. Not to me.”

Of course she knew that. It had been clear to her for a long time, but it didn't stop her eyes from getting watery. Her traitorous brain still sometimes told her she wasn't worth it, and here he was to tell her otherwise. She wondered if she'd ever get used to it. 

"Oi, don't get all weepy on me now," he scolded gently. "You need to eat." 

She rubbed her eyes. "Right." 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It’d been over two weeks since that incident and she’d been extra diligent to make sure she brought her lunch with her every day.

Kyo-kun had said she could call him if she needed to, but she still wanted to avoid doing that if she could. 

She felt the rumble of her stomach. She had finished with wiping the counters, cleaning the windows, and organizing the snack areas. She should ask Kaori-san for a break soon…

"Hey, Tohru-kun," oh! And there she was! "There's a super hot guy over there checking you out! I know you're married so you want me to send him away?" 

She scrunched her brow. Super hot…? She looked where Kaori-san was pointing and her eyes widened at the familiar copper hair. 

"Kyo-kun!" She gasped. 

"Wait, you know him?" But she was already running from behind the counter, only vaguely registering Kaori-san calling her. 

She only had eyes for the man in front of her, still in his gi and looking so effortlessly handsome. 

"Kyo-kun!" She grabbed his sleeve.

He smiled at her. "Oh, hey. That was quick." 

"Wh-what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at the dojo?" 

"I'm on lunch. I wanted to see you. Have you taken your break yet?" 

"Uhh, no, I was just about to…"

"Take it now." He nodded towards the counter where Kaori-san was watching them with rapt attention. "That's your supervisor?" 

"Yes."

"Want me to tell her?" The woman in question narrowed her eyes. 

"No, that's okay!" She waved her hands. "I've gotten a lot done already so I'm sure she won't mind! I can..ask her." 

"Alright, I'll wait here then." 

His eyes lingered on her as she carefully made her way behind the counter to grab her lunch. 

"Sorry for the short notice, Kaori-san, but I wanted to take my break now if you don't mind." 

"Just a minute, Tohru-kun," Kaori-san stopped her in her tracks. And then she lowered her voice. "Who is that guy?" 

"Eh? He's my husband!" 

"Him?" Then she put her chin in her hands. "Wow, no wonder you're always talking about him. You hit the jackpot, didn’t you?" 

Tohru felt something warm in her chest and she whispered fondly, "Yeah, I did." 

"Does he have a twin by any chance? Brother, sister, it doesn't matter to me." 

"Sorry, Kaori-san," she said sheepishly, "he's one of a kind." And he’s mine, a tiny, possessive part of her brain whispered. "I'm going on break now so I'll see you later." 

And she left before Kaori-san could give a proper response. In the past, she would be worried about coming off rude and she would probably apologize later, but she had a wonderful husband waiting for her and he was first priority. 

And as they walked out hand in hand, she was reminded not for the first time and certainly not the last, how blessed she was to have him.

[the-melting-world]

Louder Than a Lion

~ In which a secretive barhand asks a raven-haired magician an important question...

Music: “Louder Than a Lion” by Eisley

For @arcanecadenza​

Follow up to this ficlet: 50 Kiss Prompts

~ 730 words

***

Khleo sat apart from her coworkers at the far end of the bar, waiting for Cadenza to arrive. Hefe was there, her enormous paw resting on Khleo’s thigh. Despite its weight and warmth, Khleo’s skin still prickled with goosebumps.

< You can do this, cub. >

Khleo bowed her shoulders and swung her ankles back and forth.

~ But Hefe, what if I lose my voice? ~

The lioness retracted her paw and gave Khleo’s elbow an encouraging nudge.

< Just take your time. You’ll find it again. You always do. >

Khleo could feel her coworkers watching her. They were doing a lousy job pretending to work. The three of them, Gabe, Basil and Samira were clustered too close together to be doing anything except gossiping. Their whispers spiked in energy when Cadenza entered the mostly empty tavern hall.

It wasn’t long after the raven-haired magician had taken her seat beside Khleo when the barhand pulled something small and round out of the pocket of her shorts. She called Cadenza’s attention to it. As soon as the magician’s gold-flecked eyes locked onto the small object between Khleo’s fingers, they tore their gaze away so they could concentrate on what they needed to say.

“This is for you.” 

They held up a ring. Wooden and carved in a simple, uninterrupted braid. 

“When I made you the ladder, there was a lot of wood left over and I got to thinking, what if I…” Khleo lost their train of thought as they reached for Cadenza’s left hand and smoothed the ring onto her second to last finger. 

Whatever reactions Cadenza was having in the moment went unnoticed by the barhand. She was too mesmerized by how perfectly the ring fit. How it hugged the magician’s long, graceful fingers. Khleo threaded her own through Cadenza’s, lingering on all the comfort and pleasure those fingers had brought her in the time that they had gotten to know each other. 

“Denz?” Khleo cleared her throat and blinked a few times before continuing. “Do you think you could hold onto this until I can save up for something… better? It might take me a while, but–”

The sudden sound of the stool grating against the floor overwhelmed Khleo’s senses. Before she knew it, Cadenza was on her feet, drawing herself between Khleo’s legs and gathering up her curly head between those graceful hands. Tears threatened to spill from Khleo’s eyes at the smoothness of the ring pressing into her cheek as her partner kissed her with everything she had.

After a long while, Cadenza whispered, “Yes, yes. Absolutely. Oh… Oh, Khleo.” Her freckled cheeks were shiny and wet. 

“Did you mean it, Denz?” Khleo didn’t know where she found the voice to ask more questions. “When you said you loved me that night?”

Cadenza drew back a little, the brown in her eyes magnified by all the water. She nodded with enough emphasis to make her wild midnight curls catch onto her slick cheeks.

“Yes. Of course I meant it. I meant it then and I mean it now. I love you, Khleo.” 

Relief flooded Khleo’s dark brown eyes. “I was... just making sure.” Her own constellation of freckles darkened into a red clay as she placed her hand over Cadenza’s and brought it to her lips. Kissing the braided ring, she whispered, “I love you too. And it’s my hope that one of these days... you’ll say yes to me again.”

***

Later, after Cadenza had left the bar and Khleo was back to petting Hefe, Basil came over to refill her beer. 

“So, where did the nickname ‘Denz’ come from?”

Khleo smiled mostly to herself as she continued to drag her thumb in circles at the top of Hefe’s creamy crown.

“I was making a delivery to the Palace one day when I saw her playing her violin in one of the empty rooms. I opened my mouth to speak and… Denz was the only thing that would come out.”

Basil fixed Khleo with an expectant look. “Well? Is that it?” He gently bonked the base of the pitcher against the side of their head. “That’s all that was going through your thick skull in the moment?”

Khleo finally looked up at him. 

Hefe purred against her leg.

“No, Baz.” She sighed. 

She lowered her gaze to the beer in her glass. The barhand studied and counted the little bubbles as they rose and evaporated at the surface. 

“That’s not all that was going through my mind.”

[kodzuken-pie]

hii can i req a terushima x reader where she’s their manager and they both like each other but he acts cold/rudely to her bc he doesn’t realize she likes him and then one day she ends up crying bc of him and the team tells him and then he finally realizes he shouldn’t have acted like that and confesses w/a fluffy ending? thank you! -🥡

[ A/N : A TERUSHIMA request yes!! I love you 🥡 anon. I really hope I don’t disappoint. Sorry it took so long! ]

Pairing : Terushima x reader

Warnings : None

Word count : 1784

——————————————————————————

Cold shoulder ❄️

——————————————————————————

“Yuuji!” You exclaimed to get his attention but he didn’t look. “TERUSHIMA YUUJI!” You yelled.

He quickly turned his head and had a scared look on his face. His expression was priceless and you were living for it. As much as you wanted to laugh, you had to act like you were angry.

“W-what did I do?” Terushima shrieked and he looked like he was ready to run.

You narrowed your eyes at him for a few seconds with your hands on your hips. He looked everywhere else except at you. You stomped your way towards him and he flinched at your unexpected touch. He was shaking now, still couldn’t figure out if he had done something wrong or not. That was when you broke character and laughed until your stomach hurt.

“Wait what?” He was confused.

“I’m not mad at you silly! Just wanted to get your attention!” You said in between breaths as you laughed.

His mouth was stuck open as he looked at you in disbelief. You were laughing too hard to notice the slight blush on his face. He just stood there waiting for you to stop laughing and thought of something.

“Psh, whatever.” He said with a cold tone and walked away.

The tone he gave was enough to stop you from laughing and you immediately looked up. Seeing his figure quickly fade away from your sight made you feel sad. In normal cases you would chase after him but you felt like you had been chasing him ever since you met. The more you chased after him the more he ignored you and gave you the cold shoulder.

He left you there not looking back because he believed that you would be right behind him. He turned to check if you were following but you weren’t. This surprised him a lot. He expected you to be there, to be calling out his name like it was a saving grace. He looked around to see if you were hiding somewhere, fully expecting you to pop out of nowhere and give him a hug. Disappointment in himself sat in his stomach as he continued on his tracks towards the club locker room.

“Terushima! Have you told y/n yet?” Misaki asked as she greeted him when he walked in the gym.

“Yeah! You should just tell y/n already!” Futamata teased.

He scoffs and doesn’t give them an answer, instead he just turned to practice. The two looked at each other and shrugged. Misaki then asked Runa to look for you. Runa nodded and casually walked out of the gym.

You usually had a music club after classes and would have the music room to yourself when you didn’t. Today it was just you, violin in hand, you were playing a melancholy tune. Runa opened the door quietly and watched you play, only stepping in when you finished. She stopped when she sniffled you sniffle.

“Y/n-senpai?” she whispered.

You wiped your tears away before turning to look at her. You give her a small reassuring smile.

“Hey Runa!! What’s up?” You say a little too cheerfully.

“Oh uhm well Misaki senpai wanted me to check on you for a bit.” She said shyly.

“You can let her know that I’m ok and thank you for checking on me.” This time you flashed her a bittersweet smile.

You thought she didn’t notice cause she gave you a sweet smile before she left. The door shut behind her and you knees gave in, you clutched your violin and let your knees hit the floor. Tears steadily fell down your face as you thought about Yuuji.Time seemed to pass by slowly but you didn’t even realize how late it was.

“Hey the lights in the music room is still on.” Bobata said, curiously looking towards the light on the third floor of the building. “Terushima, we should go check it out! y/n might still be here.” He added but it fell on deaf ears.

Terushima looked at him with a blank look on his face and turned and walked away. Bobata called him out but he didn’t respond, so he glared at the back of Terushimas head before going back into the locker room.

“We should go check on y/n.” He suggested as everyone walked out of the locker room.

“Yeah, I kind of have a bad feeling.” Futamata added.

Everyone nodded in agreement and headed toward the building. The closer they got to the music room, the louder the sobs were. They hurried at the sound and when they got to the room they saw you laying on the floor, violin in your arms and tears flowing continuously.

“Y/n? Hey y/n are you ok?” Bobata was next to you, rubbing circles on your back.

Everyone was helping you get up, saying words of encouragement along the way. They let you calm down before asking you questions but it turns out, they didn’t have to ask. You look at Futamata sitting in front of you and you couldn’t help but let out another sob.

“H-he…” It was all you could muster to say before you broke down in tears again.

“Hey hey, it’s ok. Just try to relax for now yeah?” Bobata was still rubbing circles on your back hoping that it did make you feel better. He shot a look at Numajiri who was already on his phone texting Misaki.

*Hey, y/n is still here and she’s crying nonstop.* He texted.

*Oh I know, I had Runa check on her earlier. I’m looking for HIM right now.* She replied, the emphasis on him sent a shiver down his spine.

*He couldn’t have gone far. We all basically finished changing at the same time.” He said.

“I found him. Be right there in a bit.* Her reply seemed calm but he knew otherwise.

Numajiri looked at Bobata and gave him a thumbs up. Bobata nodded in response and let out a sigh.

“Why is he being cold to me? Did I do something wrong?” You said in between hiccups.

“What?” Futamata asked in confusion.

“Y-yuuji. He’s been ignoring me a lot lately. I usually go after him but I just feel like I’m being a nuisance.” You said softly, holding back more tears.

“He’s been what?” Numajiri chimed in, irritated.

“He even said I was being annoying the other day.” You were looking at your hands, playing with them.

The boys looked at each other in confusion. They all had the same question in their minds.

*Why would Terushima act like this towards y/n? He likes y/n so why?* It was all written on their faces. As if on cue they all let out a sigh. Just then they could hear something from the hallway. That was when Misaki burst through the door, dragging Terushima.

“WHERE ARE YOU TAKING ME SENPAI!” He yelped.

“You fix this!” She yells at him as she turns him to look at you still on the floor, cheeks still wet.

His heart almost jumped out of his chest at the sight. You put a hand over your mouth to restrain a sob and you wanted to cry once again. He stood there not knowing what to do but was fully aware that it was his fault and this broke his heart. He would never want to see you cry like this. He never meant to hurt you, he just didn’t know that you felt the same way he did.

“Y/n? Y/N I’m so sorry, I’m so so sorry.” He said rushing next to you, wrapping you in his arms. “Please stop crying, I’m here now. I’m here.” The sound of your whimpering tugged at his heart.

“Y-yuuji…” You cried, face burying into his shoulder.

“I like you y/n! So please, it breaks my heart seeing you like this. I know it’s my fault. I’m sorry. Tell what to do to make it all better?” He said, holding you tighter hoping that this would make you stop crying.

His words echoed through your mind and you held onto him. The feeling of coldness and emptiness was now replaced with warmth and happiness. You were still unable to speak as you were trying to steady your breathing while also calming your tears.

“What am I saying? I don’t like you. I love you with every fiber of my being.” He said, pulling you away from him so he can look you in the eyes.

The playful and wild Terushima that you knew was serious now. The fire in his eyes was lit with his emotions. He put his hands on your cheeks and pulled you in for a fervent kiss. It was hot and sweet and you loved it. You were both stuck in the moment, time slowing down as you shared an intimate kiss, forgetting about the other people in the room.

“Ahem.” Bobata faked a cough after you two pulled away from each other.

You two got startled, lips went thin and eyes wide. You looked around and the life drained from your face, while he looked proud. He laughed at your expression and this brought you back. You smacked him in the arm and this just made him laugh harder.

“Stupid Yuuji.” You said looking away with a pout.

The mood in the room immediately shifted after that. Everyone started laughing and there was warmth in your heart. If it weren’t for these people, Yuuji would have probably still ignored you and this made you smile.

“Thank you everyone.” You said sweetly, Yuuji visibly turned into a tomato.

“Hey! What about me? I just confessed to you!” He was pouting.

“I like you too Yuuji.” You say as you turn to look at him. “Oh wait I meant, I love you too.” You added in a teasing tone.

“Does that mean you’ll finally go on a date with me?” He smirks.

“You idiot! Of course!” You bonked him in the head lightly.

“WAHOOOOO!” He screamed cheerfully.

“OI GO HOME!” Coach Anabara was at the doorway.

You all turned to look at his direction and swiftly got up and gathered your belongings. The coach let out as sigh as all of you walked out of the room and left the school grounds.

Everyone went their separate ways except for you and Yuuji. When everyone was out of sight, he pulled you in and gave you a soft hug.

“I meant it when I said I love you.” He whispered in your ear.

“I know and I meant it when I said I love you too.” You answer, hugging him back for what felt like an eternity.

——————————————————————————

Taglist : @lydzisanerd @hatsukei @arixsp4g @yagirlmandaa @izzyphantomgamer @tokyoghoose @gulfwanq @dear-green-tea @baby-boy-taichi @vventure @blobbyx2blobfish

[shakespeareanwannabe]

Best Laid Plans

Santiago ‘Pope’ Garcia x F!OC

Summary: A sequel to ‘Protective Instincts’. The last 7 and a half months have been a whirlwind, and part of Pope still can’t fathom the idea of being a father. But now that his kid is here? All bets are off. *Still based off of the wonderful headcanons by @darksideofclarke*

Warnings: Pregnancy fic (so, again, if you aren’t vibing with it, don’t read it), swearing, references to birth (it’s nothing graphic, just mentions of water breaking, contractions, and epidurals), references to breastfeeding

A/N: Hi everyone! I was blown away by the response to ‘Protective Instincts’, so I wrote a sequel that’s based off of part of one of clarke’s headcanons. This was so fun to write, and I’m really wanting to write more about Bex and Pope, and Pope and Frankie, and the baby, so I’m hoping you all enjoy this as much as you enjoyed the first one! If you want to be added to the tags, please let me know. I just used the tags list from ‘Protective Instincts’ for this one.

                                                    **********

Pope was a planner. Not as good as Tom, mind you, but he could plan an operation with the best of them. That was, after all, how he had convinced his closest friends to help him take down one of Colombia’s biggest and most dangerous narcos.

“Just look at my work on it.”

That was the phrase he used on all of them, but he had been banking on their loyalties as well. He had known going in that Benny would only need him. He had figured that a tiny twist of Catfish’s arm and Pope’s record of getting into deep shit when Frankie wasn’t around to stop him would be enough to encourage Catfish to join them. Will had needed Tom, Tom had needed Pope’s workup of the mission. Planning. Having a rough idea in your head of how people will react was a big part of planning an op and putting together a team.

Bex’s birth plan was viewed in the exact same light. He hadn’t been lying to her when he told her that whatever she wanted to do, they were going to do. If she had demanded that she give birth while standing on her head, Pope would have found a way to make that happen, doctors be damned. So, Pope made sure that her birth plan was as detailed as any highly classified military operation.

That document became like a Bible to Pope. He sat with Bex as she painstakingly went through every single option, checking off certain boxes and rolling her eyes at others.

“I swear to God, babe. If they try to show me the birth through a mirror, I might kick a nurse in the face,” she had laughed. Pope had laughed as well, knowing his sweet tempered girl would never do such a thing but also knowing that, when the time came, if someone tried to bring a mirror into the room when his girl hadn’t requested it, he would be raising hell on her behalf.

Of course, he knew that things never ran as smoothly as you planned. Colombia had been proof enough of that, but he held tight to the birth plan, taking comfort in the knowledge that, by knowing what it was Bex wanted, he would be able to do some small part in assisting her through her labor and delivery. Of course, he would stay in the room with her (just him and the medical staff, no friends or family would even know about the labor until at least 4 hours after the kid arrived) and let her squeeze his hand and yell at him if she needed to, but Pope was a man of action. He faced situations head on, guns blazing. This...this was one situation where he would be almost helpless, watching as his girl fought to bring their kid into the world.

The birth plan was his tether. Bex had outlined every single thing she wanted to happen before, during, and after the birth.

“Of course, if things go south, you tell them to fuck the plan and do whatever they need to do,” she had reiterated several times over the course of building and rebuilding their plan. And when Bex’s water broke at 1 p.m. that cold November afternoon, Pope knew within the span of her first contraction that he would indeed tell the medical staff to fuck the plan if there was even the slightest notion of something being wrong. He was not losing his girl or their baby due to his stubbornness in sticking to a plan.

Luckily, it went as smooth as it possibly could have gone. Nobody brought any mirrors into the room. She had been able to walk laps up and down the hallway to help herself along. Bex had caved around midnight and begged for an epidural, which Pope had been quick to sooth her about.

“Baby, you’ve been at this for almost 12 hours,” he had whispered into her sweaty hair, wiping a cool rag over her forehead as she squeezed his hand and tearfully whispered that she wanted the injection. “You’ve done everything you can naturally. The laps and the breathing and the exercises…Baby, I know Marines who would have given up and asked for pain meds hours ago,” he had laughed. “You’re fucking Wonder Woman, baby. I’m so proud of you.” He smiled and kissed her forehead as she gifted him with a tired but grateful smile. “Our kiddo is just being a little stubborn right now, okay?”

“T…takes after their daddy,” she chuckled breathily.

“God help us,” he laughed, pressing another kiss to her forehead as she winced, another contraction overtaking her body. Pope hit the Help button by her bed and waited for the nurse to come so they could inform her of the change in their plan.

Finally, at three o’clock in the morning, Liliana Esperanza Garcia was placed onto her mother’s chest with an angry cry. Pope stayed right by Rebecca’s side the entire time, having no interest in cutting the umbilical cord and the idea of catching his daughter as she was born was more than a little terrifying to the seasoned veteran, so he remained at his post at Bex’s bedside and cried alongside his two girls.

                                                      **********

Watching the sunrise through their hospital room window, Pope sat with his little girl pressed against his bare chest and thanked god that they had decided on a hospital that allowed fathers to do skin to skin contact with their kids while still at the hospital. He reveled in the feel of her tiny cheek pressed against his chest, right over his heart. The feel of her heartbeat hammering against his skin was addicting and soothing at the same time. He had never known peace like this.

Frankie had been right. Of course he had been, he nearly always was. Holding Lily in his arms somehow made up for Afghanistan, Iraq, Colombia, and every other fuck up in his life. This little thing in his arms that couldn’t function on her own, that wouldn’t be able to for a long time, had already done so much good. It would be months before she could even hold her own head up, but, somehow, she had managed to erase all the red in his ledger, simply by breathing.

Of course, her mother helped. Pope looked over at Bex, asleep in the hospital bed beside him. His warrior queen. She had given him this gift, put her body through unimaginable change and pain for their little family, and she had done it with a smile on her face (most of the time). He would never deserve her, but he was so damn glad that she somehow saw the best in him, that she chose him on a daily basis.

“Remember when I said we have to be good to Mamá?” he whispered, brushing his lips gently over Lily’s dark downy baby hair. “She worked so hard to bring you here. We’re always gonna owe her, mija.”

“Knock, knock,” a soft voice called from the sliding glass door of their private room. Pope looked up and smiled, laughing softly at the sight in front of him.

Benny was weighed down by what looked like seven or eight large stuffed animals, an “It’s a Girl” balloon flying over his head. Will stood next to him, a look of fond exasperation on his face as the balloon gently bonked him on the head, and a bouquet of white lilies in his hand. Frankie, the one who had knocked, was slightly in front of them both, a kind smile pulling at his lips as he took in the small family in front of him.

“Hey fellas,” he whispered, carefully pulling himself to his feet with one hand and nodding to them to come in, eyes never leaving his daughter. “This is Lily.”

“She’s beautiful, man,” Benny whispered, his eyes growing shiny.

“Congratulations, Pope,” Will echoed, gently clasping Pope’s shoulder.

“How’s Momma doing?” Frankie whispered, maneuvering himself to stand just over Pope’s right shoulder so he would have a good view of the sleeping baby girl.

“She’s a warrior, man,” Pope peered over his shoulder at his sleeping girlfriend, and every single one of the hardened soldiers could see the love and awe in their Lieutenant’s eyes. “Fuck, I don’t know how she did it.”

Frankie choked back a laugh. “You’re gonna want to watch that language now, Papá. Little ears and all that.”

“The swear jar will end up paying for her college tuition,” Benny jabbed, jostling with his armload when Will gave him a smack.

“Benny, you can put those on the table over there, man,” Pope told him. “Just be careful not to wake Bex.”

“Too late…” a soft warm voice announced, making Pope’s heart flutter.

“Hey baby,” he sighed happily, turning back and slowly walking over to sit on the edge of her bed. “How’d you sleep?”

“Not long enough,” she laughed as she held her arms out. Pope gently deposited their daughter in her mother’s safe embrace before shaking out his hands. He’d carried loads ten times her size, but something about the position made his wrists ache. “Hey princess,” she cooed, running a soft finger over their daughter’s chubby cheek. “How long was I out?”

“Just over an hour,” he smiled as he leaned down to press a kiss to her forehead before moving to the recliner to put his shirt back on. “Look who’s here.”

“Hey guys,” she smiled tiredly at them. “Forgive me for not getting up to hug you but…” she shrugged as she nodded down at the baby in her arms.

“Congratulations, Momma,” Frankie smiled as he swooped in to give her a kiss on the cheek. “Charlie figured you wouldn’t want to eat a crappy hospital breakfast, so…” he held up the cooler in his hands. “We made a little feast for you, if you’re up for it.”

Rebecca groaned. “Oh my god, tell me your waffles are in there.” At Frankie’s nod, she groaned again. “Ugh, I am so up for it, Frankie. Thank you! Just, uh…” she trailed off as she looked down at her hospital gown clad body. “I think I want to take a shower first if that’s okay?”

Pope swooped in to relieve her of Lily and Frankie helped her stand up.

“You need me? Or do you want me to call a nurse?” Pope asked.

“You stay here with Lily and the guys,” she decided. “I think I can handle it on my own but keep an ear out?” Pope nodded and she smiled as she kissed him on the cheek. “Will, could you pass me my—” Will already had her bag extended to her. She laughed. “Thanks.”

“Milady,” Benny extended an elbow to her and helped her shuffle across the floor to the ensuite bathroom.

She winked as she began to pull the door closed. “See you guys in an hour,” she joked.

“Take your time, baby,” Pope called, quickly adjusting to softly shush Lily as she whimpered.

“Can’t believe you’re a dad now, man,” Benny laughed as he took a seat on the edge of the bed. “Out of all of us, I never would’ve had you down as a family man. I mean, c’mon. The guy who slept with every informant he had now has a daughter? Karma’s gonna bite you on the ass, dude.”

Inwardly, Pope rolled his eyes. Sometimes it was easy to forget how much younger Benny was compared to the rest of them. He hadn’t been anxious to settle down when he was Ben’s age either, but now? He couldn’t imagine what his life would be like without waking up every morning next to Rebecca’s smiling face. And Lily? She was less than six hours hold, and she already had Santiago wrapped around her little finger.

“Things change, Benny,” Will calmly informed his little brother. “Now, what do you say we go get some drinks for everyone? See if we can scrounge up some actual coffee in this place?” Ben shrugged but nodded as Will approached the bathroom door and lightly tapped on it. “Hey Becca? We’re going to get something to drink. Do you want anything?”

“An orange juice would be great, thanks Will!” she called back before the sound of the shower turning on pervaded the room.

As Will guided Benny out of the room, he turned back and shot a wink at Pope, causing him to laugh. They all knew that Ben was a lot to handle, and Will had gotten good over the years at judging when one of his friends were about to pop his little brother one. For all the MMA training and fighting Benny did, he was kind of clueless when it came to the tempers of his friends.

Pope settled down on the edge of the mattress, unable to look away from Lily, even as Frankie sat down next to him.

“I just can’t stop looking at her, man,” he admitted softly.

“Take it all in, hermano,” Frankie grinned. “You’re gonna blink and she’s gonna be off to kindergarten.”

“Malo,” Pope muttered to him under his breath and Frankie laughed. He dragged his eyes away from his sleeping daughter to smile back at his best friend. “You want to hold her?”

Frankie blinked and raised a hand to scratch at the hair under his cap. “You sure?” he double-checked hesitantly.

Pope slowly and carefully placed the sleeping baby in Frankie’s arms. She snuffled for a brief moment before falling back asleep.

“Hola, corazon,” Frankie whispered, stroking a finger over her dark hair. Frankie looked up to meet Pope’s eyes, tears glimmering in both their eyes. “Shit Santi…” he breathed.

“I know…” The two men sat for a long moment in silence, Lily’s quiet breaths and the sound of the shower in the background washing over them. “I…I’m sorry I wasn’t here for you, Frankie,” Pope started quietly.

“Huh?” Frankie didn’t take his eyes off the baby.

“When Mateo was born…I shoulda been here,” Pope scratched at the back of his neck.

Frankie shook his head at Pope. “Bro, stop. You were in Colombia doing what you had to do. And you’re here now.”

Pope sighed. “I don’t think I coulda done this without you, Frankie,” he whispered. “Shit, I might’ve just kept driving that night. I coulda missed all of this. I could’ve missed her.” Pope reached out a finger and slowly stroked Lily’s fist until she opened her hand and weakly grasped his finger.

“You would’ve come back, man. Don’t kid yourself. You don’t leave jobs unfinished,” Frankie said simply because, to him, it was simple. You didn’t follow a man into war zone after war zone without getting to know every facet of their personality. Santiago Garcia never left a man behind, and never left a job undone. It’s why he was Frankie’s best friend. There was so much loyalty, so much trust, between the two of them.

Pope laughed. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. I’ve got the kid, now I’ve just gotta get the girl.”

Frankie watched as Pope dug into his jacket pocket, draped over the side of the recliner, and pulled out a navy-blue plush box. Cracking it open, Pope tilted the box towards Frankie so he could see the square amethyst jewel sitting in a simple gold band.

Gently, Frankie unfolded one arm from underneath Lily and gave Pope a shove before quickly resuming his position.

“When?”

Pope shrugged. “I’ve had this stupid thing for months, man. But I didn’t want to give it to her then because I didn’t want her thinking it was just because she was pregnant. Part of me wants to give it to her now, but I don’t want her thinking it’s just because she just had my kid, you know?”

Frankie nodded sagely. “I get it.”

“Maybe in a couple of months?” Pope asked, looking between the engagement ring and his best friend.

“First date out without the kid could work,” Frankie agreed.

“Maybe Lily could spend some time with her godfather while her Mom and Dad go for dinner or something?” Frankie kept nodding. “Would you like that, Lily?” Pope murmured, leaning over his friend’s shoulder to speak to his little girl. “You want to spend some time with Tío Frankie?”

Frankie’s head shot up. “You mean…?” Pope chuckled, a smile pulling at his lips. “Dude, I was kidding about calling…You don’t have to…”

“Frankie…” Pope clasped his best friend’s shoulder. “There’s no one we trust more than you. Will you be Lily’s godfather?”

Pope watched as Frankie swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he stared down at the little girl in his arms as she began to fuss.

“Shh, corazon…” Frankie soothed, rocking her back and forth as he stood up to pace the room. “Tío Frankie has you.”

Santiago couldn’t help but smile. If someone had told him even five years ago that he would be at a hospital, just a few hours after his daughter was born, planning to propose to the mother of his child with the help of his best friend, retired Second Lieutenant Francisco ‘Catfish’ Morales, who was now a married man with a son and another kid on the way, he would have asked what kind of crack they were snorting and to point him in the direction of their drug dealer.

Guys like them didn’t get the happy endings. They got the beginnings of the fairy tale, the girl and the glory of returning home after war, but after the ‘Happily Ever After’, they got the nightmares and the divorces and the dual mortgages and the child support. They ended up like Tom, so deep in the trenches that they cave in and bury you.

At least, that’s what Pope thought when he signed on for private sector work in Colombia. He wasn’t ready to give up the thrill of the chase, the ‘good work’ he was doing, to face the shitshow that would inevitably be waiting for him at home. When Colombia had ended up being the shitshow, and Yovanna had seen right through him and sent him packing, he thought that was it. The end of his rope, the end of the line.

Moving closer to Frankie had been a godsend. Pope would always credit him with having literally saved his life. Getting to watch how Frankie handled it all, seeing him interact with Charlie and Mateo, standing next to him at the simple courthouse wedding. Frankie was living proof that life went on even when he didn’t have the flag on his shoulder anymore. Proof that ‘Happily Ever After’ didn’t have to fall flat. And, if Pope hadn’t moved close to Frankie, Charlie never would have gotten him the physiotherapy consult at her clinic, and he never would have met Bex. He never would have learned that guys like them could have happy endings, so long as they fought for them with as much vim and vigor that they fought every other battle of their lives with.

“Hey Papá,” Frankie called with a laugh, pulling Pope from his thoughts. He turned to see Frankie holding Lily out to him carefully as she started to cry.

He hurried to cradle his daughter against his chest, quietly humming to her in a feeble attempt to get her to settle. “Shh, baby girl. You’re okay. Papá’s here.”

Bex appeared in the bathroom doorway, her skin dewy from the shower and her hair thrown up out of her face. “I think she might be hungry, babe,” she called over their daughter’s cries. She walked over to get herself settled on the bed, wincing every few steps until she could lie back on the thin mattress, adjusting it so she could sit up.

“I’ll give you three some privacy,” Frankie muttered, clasping Pope’s shoulder in one hand and running his finger over Lily’s clenched fist with the other. “I’ll go see what the Millers found to drink. We’ll be back in a few.”

Pope nodded distractedly as his friend smiled warmly at Bex and left the room, closing the door with a soft click. He gently transferred Lily into her mother’s arms before perching on the edge of the mattress by Bex’s hip. “You want me to call the nurse?”

Bex nodded as she watched Lily nuzzle at her chest. “Yeah, they said they would bring the specialist in the first couple of times to make sure I’m doing this right.”

Pope kissed her temple as she pulled down the side of her baggy T-shirt in preparation of feeding their daughter. “You’re gonna do great, baby,” he whispered into her hair. “Wonder Woman, remember?”

She smiled softly at him as he pressed the Help button. “I love you,” she murmured.

“I love you more,” he replied with a soft look on his face as the nurse entered. It was a playful argument they had on a nearly weekly basis, but this time, Pope knew he had won. Pope knew he would always win at loving her more because, without her, he wouldn’t have any of this. And that filled his heart to bursting.

                                                     **********

“She’s so beautiful, Santi…” Bex whispered as she lovingly stroked her finger up and down their sleeping daughter’s arm.

All the tests had been run. Pope was over the moon to receive the news that both mother and child were healthy and strong. The small group of warriors had gorged themselves on the Morales’ world class waffles, bacon, and fruit salad before Frankie, Benny and Will had dismissed themselves from the hospital, all three promising to come and visit the following week once the new family was more settled. A nurse had come by every few hours to help teach Bex how to breastfeed, and teach Santi how to change a diaper, and teach them both how to swaddle. All things they had practiced in their parenting classes, but Pope appreciated the reminders. Especially since, the second he laid eyes on his baby girl, all the lessons flew out of his brain. Finally, a doctor paid them a visit and told them they would be free to go at the start of visiting hours the next day.

That had been twelve hours ago. Presently, the small family was bathed in the glow of the setting sun that was filtering in from the master bedroom window. Lily was asleep on the bed in between her parents, who were lying on their sides while holding hands above her head.

“She takes after her mother,” he smiled at her, glad to see he could still make her blush just over a year into their relationship.

“I hope she gets your hair,” she whispered back as she released his hand and reached out to card a hand through his short, thick curls. “I love your hair,” she sighed as she clasped his hand again.

“You want her going grey before she’s 40?” he teased. Bex shot him a playful glare. “I hope she gets your eyes.���

“…I hope she’s happy,” Bex breathed, tears pooling in her eyes.

Pope reached out and cradled her cheek in his hand, softly swiping at the falling tears with his thumb. “She will be, baby. Love her hard, show up, give a shit, and let her find her own path, right?” Bex nodded at him but the tears kept streaming. “Hey…” He stood and picked Lily up, carefully transferring her into the bassinet they had put in their room, before sliding back into bed and pulling his teary girlfriend into his arms. She quietly cried into his shoulder as he ran a soothing hand up and down her back. “You okay?” he asked gently as she finally pulled away, the grey cotton of his shirt stained black.

“Sorry,” she murmured contritely as she wiped at her cheeks. “Stupid hormones.”

“You didn’t answer my question, querido,” he observed.

Rebecca tilted her head back on his shoulder to look in his eyes. She gently ran her thumb over the laugh lines that crinkled in the corners of his eyes and sighed softly. “I feel okay, honestly Santi. My hormones are kind of all over the place, and my body feels like I was hit by a truck, but it’s not as bad as I thought it would be.”

Santiago shifted them so he was lying with his head on his pillow and she had her head on his chest. “As someone who has seen a guy after he got hit by a truck, I’d say that sounds pretty bad.”

She shrugged gently. “I mean, I won’t be doing it again for at least a couple of years, and I know I got lucky because some of the stories I read…” she shuddered lightly before meeting his eyes again. “But I feel better than I thought I would. Does that make sense?”

He nodded as she yawned. “Makes perfect sense, baby. Why don’t you try to get some sleep while Lily is down? We need to be up in about two hours to feed her.”

Rebecca smiled at him as she slid onto her own pillow, still facing him. “You really want to get up and watch me feed our daughter?”

“Mi alma,” he sighed, pulling her in to plant a tender, loving kiss on her lips before pulling back, pressing his forehead against hers. “I’ll get up for as many feedings, changes, crying fits that I can. I don’t want to miss a second of this.”

A bright smile pulled at her lips as tears pooled in her eyes again. “Damnit, Santi…” she laughed as she wiped her face with the hem of her shirt.

He pulled as close as he could and tangled their legs together. “I won’t apologize,” he declared, a soft smile on his face. “I love you so damn much, Rebecca. Te amo…te adoro…te quiero…te necesito…” Pope brushed a kiss against her temple, her forehead, her nose, and finally her lips in between each phrase.

Her eyes started to droop as a content grin graced her features. “I love you too, Santiago. More than any word in any language could ever express.”

He watched and listened as her breathing evened out and she drifted off. He couldn’t shake the pride from flowing through his veins as he listened to his two girls breathe in the fading light. He was never supposed to have this, but he would fight tooth and nail for anyone who tried to take it away.

                                                        **********

Tags list: @darksideofclarke, @writefightandflightclub, @eternallyvenus, @rae-rae-patcha

[deeahzee]

Together

Pairing: Clementine and Louis

Summary: Unable to sleep during a thunderstorm, a mute Louis turns to his girlfriend for comfort.

A/N: this is one of the bday gifts i gave out to the dear @bluebutterfly1 :3 happy happy bday!

Read on AO3

or read here on Tumblr!

Thunderstorms were always a horrifying thing to Louis. They always freaked him out ever since he was a little boy. Though he could never put his finger on whether it was the obnoxiously loud booming sounds of thunder, or the electrifying crashes of lightning that scattered across the sky that kept him awake late at night. No matter what he did, or where he was, storms were always prepared to wake him up. He was used to it though; he knew what to do whenever this stuff happened. This time, however, he was struggling.

The lack of a tongue slowly tore Louis apart. He wasn’t himself; it felt like something that made Louis, well, Louis, was missing. He couldn’t sing, he couldn’t laugh, he couldn’t tell his own girlfriend how much he loved her. Clementine, his Clementine. The one who came back for him when he was taken, the one who hugged him back when they got locked up in a cell together. The one who truly cared for him, the one he’d do anything for. God, he’d do anything to tell her how much he loved her.

The night was rough. Rougher than the boy expected. All the methods Louis used to help him battle through the thunderstorms before were useless now. He remained stuck in bed, wide awake while droplets of rain sprinkled onto the window and echoed through the dorm. He stayed in his sitting position on the bunk as he stared at his hands, which were resting in his lap. Beside him laid Clementine, heavily snoozing as the storm outside continued on outside. How could she be asleep through all of this?

Louis’ fingers shook violently as another crack of thunder bursted through the atmosphere. It startled him so much he nearly bonks his head against the top of the bunk. He let out a shaky breath, pulling his knees closer to himself. The storm only seemed to get worse as time flew by, Louis figured that out because of the sounds of water beating against the window harder and harder. Why couldn’t it all just go away? He didn’t want to deal with this, not right now. Hell, he didn’t want to deal with this ever again.

Louis must’ve been breathing so heavily it had woken Clementine up, the boy feeling the brunette roll over and flutter her eyes open right as tears began swarming through his lids and blurring his vision. He panicked, glancing away from her as he did his best to hide his broken state. He couldn’t let his own girlfriend see him in such a frightened mood, he didn’t want her worried. He failed, obviously, since Clementine noticed almost immediately.

“Louis?” Clementine asked in a hushed voice, sitting up onto her elbows and glancing at her boyfriend. Exhaustion tickled at the tip of her tongue, and could easily be pointed out when she spoke. The soft shift of her prosthetic rubbing against the blanket under them played out when she moved. “Lou, are you okay? What’s wrong?”

The lack of response from Louis made Clementine frown, setting a hand on his shoulder and turned him around so he was facing her. Her heart broke upon seeing his face, obvious tears slipping down his freckled cheeks. Her honey coated eyes met his chocolate like ones, and Clementine could tell just by seeing them glossed in tears that Louis was hurting.

“Oh Lou…” Clementine reached her other hand up to cup his cheek, using her thumb to wipe away the tears that slid down his face. “I’m so sorry… I know you’re still suffering. Can you not sleep?”

He gave her a brief nod, but he knew she could never truly understand how he was feeling. He felt so… incomplete. He knew very well he wasn’t Louis anymore; he wasn’t himself. The ability to talk, to sing, to laugh… that’s what completed the puzzle. But now? It was like the puzzle was unfinished. It was like the one piece left went missing, and could never be found, leaving the puzzle to collect dust in a dark, cold corner.

“Is there anything I can do?” Clementine’s voice brought Louis back to reality, his eyes meeting her concerned ones. He took her hands into his own, pulling them close to him as he laid delicate kisses on her palms. Clementine’s lips curved into a sad smile, hoisting onto Louis’ arms and tugging him closer to her into a hug.

The two sat in silence as Louis’ head rested on the girl’s chest, hearing his girlfriend’s heartbeat. It was like a set of drums, only softer and more attractive to the ear. He felt himself calming down almost instantly among hearing it, though it wasn’t enough to heal his crumbling self.

One of Clementine’s hands found itself getting tangled in Louis’ dreads, and her other hand delicately rested on his back, her knuckles sending reassuring rubs onto his coat. She could still hear the freckled boy let out a quiet sob now and then. Her heart ached every time she heard it.

They stayed in the same position for a while longer before Louis pulled away. Tears no longer slid down his freckled cheeks as he forced himself to give the girl a smile. She returned the smile, leaning on her knees and giving him a peck on the cheek. Louis’ smile widened, grabbing the back of Clementine’s head right as she was pulling away and crashed his lips onto hers. A surprised yelp clogged at the bottom of the brunette’s throat, a grin forming on her lips as she slid a hand behind his neck to return the kiss.

They stayed in that position for a while. They didn’t want to pull away. Just being in his girlfriend’s presence instantly made Louis feel better. He wanted to stay close to her forever. He wanted her to always be there for him. To help him. To guide him.

Eventually the couple tugged their lips away, soft smiles resting on their faces. Louis leaned forward suddenly and pressed a kiss onto the girl’s cheek. The touch made Clementine giggle to herself. “You’re so cute.” The compliment made Louis release a cheeky grin.

The grin didn’t last long, however. A frown soon replaced the grin. The sight made the brunette frown too. “Louis?” He didn’t respond at first, instead turning his head to the side. “Louis, what’s wrong?”

The boy abruptly stood, moving towards the center of the room. Standing in the faint beam of light that shed into the dorm, Louis turned to the girl who remained on the bunk, a hand outstretched in her direction. Clementine rose a brow at his sudden action. What was he trying to do? Louis kept his hand stuck out though, as if he wanted Clementine to grab it. Is that what he wanted to do? Did he just want to hold her hand?

“You want me to hold your hand?”

Louis shook his head. Okay, that wasn’t it.

“Um… you want me to- to join you?”

The boy nods. Oh, alright. Okay. She was getting somewhere.

Scrunching up her nose, Clementine stood. She only wobbled slightly when her prosthetic came in contact with the floor. Walking forward, she slipped her hand into Louis’ and intertwined their fingers. She was still confused as to what he wanted. “Is this what you want?”

Louis nods slowly, slipping his arm around her figure and tugging her close. He just wanted to be close to her, that’s all he wanted. He would always feel himself begin to shake and power down into a state he couldn’t control. When Clementine was close though? He felt fine. She was what kept him going. She was the reason he’s here.

A frown forming on her face, Clementine hugged the boy back, feeling his hand finding her back and clutching her denim jacket anxiously. As if she were to suddenly disappear on him. Suddenly bail because of his state. It made her heart ache how much he cared about her. How much he relied on her. She first felt it with AJ, he always looked up to her, but it was different with Louis. It felt more natural.

“I’m never letting you go Louis,” Clementine whispered softly, cutting through the bearing silence that swarmed around them. “I’m never leaving your side. Okay?”

She could feel Louis nod. She sighs, keeping her grip on her boyfriend. She knew it would be okay. Everything wouldn't go back to normal, she knew that. But she knew they’d get through it. They’d battle through whatever challenges came their way. They’d slay every dragon that tried to disturb their peace. They’d get through it all. Together.

[thefightingbull]

Bonking Heads

Mick gets a call about his pup that sends him racing to the hospital.  No triggers

"He was unconscious when I found him"

Mick usually ignored phone calls at the shop. They distracted him from his work and distracted welders were dangerous. He had too much to live for to allow the flames to take any more lives. He wanted to be there for Leonard and Lisa, but the truth was, there were times when they weren’t always enough to keep those urges at bay.

Jason, his pup, had become the strongest reason he’d ever known for trying to be better. Mick’s little boy inspired him to tame the flames, to keep them at bay so that Jason would never know the painful intimacy of a yellow and orange flare’s kiss.

“Boss!” Mardon shouted. “It’s for you!”

“Tell ‘em to fuck off,” Mick growled.

“It’s your pup’s guidance counselor!” Mardon said after a minute.

Mick’s heart stopped as he carefully turned off the welder and got to his feet. Mardon was beside him in an instant. Mick took the phone.

“What is it? What happened to my pup?”

“There’s been an accident. Jason ...”

Mick’s hearing seemed to fade out, but then it sharpened and he listened carefully before saying, “You tell him I’m on my way, got it? You make sure he knows his Pop will be there soon.”

He had to keep his cool. He had to. Jason needed him to be in control of himself, and there was no way Mick was failing his pup.

“Of course, Mr. Rory.”

He hung up and handed the phone back to Mardon. “Call Len and tell him our son is in the hospital.”

Mick ran to the locker rooms and changed out of his coveralls and PPE. He was grabbing his keys and wallet when Mardon came rushing in. “Leonard just got the call, too. Lisa said she’s giving him a ride to the hospital now. You need me to drive you, Boss?”

“No!” Mick barked as he headed out.

When Mick finally reached the hospital, he saw Len and Lisa parking. He wasn’t going to wait. He didn’t want Leonard to be the first to hear if doctors only had bad news for them. He moved with a powerful fury building in his chest. If someone had hurt their pup they were going to be ripped to shreds. 

“Mr. Rory!” A small omega man approached him hurriedly. “I’m Mr. Roberts, Jason’s guidance counselor.” 

Mick stopped, looking the small man over. Mr. Roberts was only a couple inches over five feet with short, dark red hair and dark brown eyes. There was a quiet confidence to Mr. Roberts that hinted he was well taken care of and indulged by his alpha. 

“Where’s my pup, what happened to him?” Mick demanded. 

“They took him for a CT scan but he should be back momentarily, Mr. Rory.” 

“So what happened?” 

The guidance counselor cleared his throat and then began, “We aren’t certain what the boys were doing, but a few students said something about racing and a few others said it was a fight. They apparently fell from the jungle gym and collided on the way down. One of the recess attendants said they didn’t see the fall, but when she got to the boys they were both ‘waking up’. Knowing that, she had us call for an ambulance.” 

Mick felt his fists tighten as he gritted his teeth to keep his calm. “So they were unconscious?”

“Yes, which is when we called both you and your omega,” Mr. Roberts said with a nervous look in his eyes. “We never take chances with head injuries. The principal and vice principal were taking statements from the children involved in the race to find out exactly what happened, but based on what we’ve heard so far, it does sound like it was an accident.” 

Mick snorted. It sounded angry, but all he could feel was relief. “So you’re saying no one did this to my pup.” 

“That’s correct, Sir,” Mr. Roberts answered. 

“You make sure you lead with that when you talk to my mate and sister, understand? Lead with that and be very clear or Len’s going to want blood,” Mick warned before he dismissed the omega by turning to speak with a beta nurse who’d just approached him. 

“You’re Jason Rory’s father?” she asked. 

“Yes, his father and aunt are coming up the parking lot now, but we don’t have to wait,” Mick said, hoping she’d get moving before Lenny came in. He needed to know how to protect his mate and if he was seeing and hearing everything at the same time, he couldn’t support his omega properly. 

“Right this way, Sir,” she nodded and brought him through a pair of doors and back to a small room that should hold two beds.  

In the only present bed was a blond little boy. Beside him stood a man and woman staring down at their own son with worry. Anger was visible in the man, but like Mick, he appeared just as lost on what to do with it. He must have heard the same “it was all just an accident” story and was left with excess emotion. 

Not good for alphas. 

“They’re bringing your son back from CT and should be here in a few minutes,” the nurse promised. 

“I better go make sure my mate doesn’t kill anyone,” Mick decided since his boy wasn’t in the room yet. 

>

>

Jason huffed irritably in his bed as he was brought back to his and Gordan’s triage room. He listened to the guidance counselor talk to Gordie Lambert’s mom and dad. He couldn’t believe all the fuss being made over them bonking heads and falling down the jungle gym. Jason had only blacked out for a few seconds; he heard the doctors say so!

“Oh, Gordie!” A tall brunette with pretty brown eyes cried as she hugged Gordie tightly. Obviously that was Gordie’s mom. “I was so worried about you!”

Jason couldn’t help but snicker at Gordie trying to get away from his mom. The little boy with blond hair and dark brown freckles was squirming and struggling to push his mother off him. When Gordie heard him laughing, he sent a scowl Jason’s way.

“Dear, you’re embarrassing him,” Gordie’s dad, a blond-haired, blue-eyed man, insisted. “He’s fine, aren’t you, champ?”

Gordie nodded. “I wasn’t asleep. Mr. Roberts doesn’t know what he’s talking about.”

Mr Roberst rolled his eyes. “We had several witnesses, Gordie, you and Jason were both unconscious,” the guidance counselor insisted. “Anyhow, now that your parents have arrived, we wish you a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing you both in school when you’re cleared to return. Mr and Mrs. Lambert,” he moved to shake hands with the omega woman, but only nodded at her alpha.

Oh man, Jason almost felt bad for Gordie as he watched him get smothered and scented by his mother. He couldn’t quite make out the woman’s scent, but if the husband’s face was anything to go by, it must have been strong. Mr. Lambert kept trying to console his wife, but she wouldn’t let go of Gordie.

Jason stuck his tongue out at Gordie the instant their eyes met. They weren’t enemies, but they were rivals and they’d been trying to race and defeat each other when they got hurt.

They started with the race out on the black top by the four square lines. From there, they had to make it across the tops of the uneven bars, over the monkey bars, a big jump to the metal jungle gym’s top, and then they had to make their way down the fastest. All while trying to knock each other off balance or slow each other down.

Though they had both slipped and nearly knocked each other down on a few of the obstacles, it wasn’t until they made it inside the long cylindrical jungle gym that things got intense. After Jason tried to loosen Gordie’s grip, he accidently caught hold of Jason’s wrist instead of one of the bars. They both tumbled to the bottom, hitting their heads together on the way down.

“Those damned jungle gyms are dangerous, Howard!” Mrs. Lambert cried, squeezing her son.

“Jason? Jason!”

All the joy he’d felt at the sight of Gordie’s humiliation came crashing to an end as his dads both came running into the room. He felt strong, wiry arms take hold of him gently and yet impatiently. Jason immediately struggled, drawing Gordie’s laughter.

“Dad! Stop it,” Jason growled trying to keep his dad from clinging to and embarrassing him in front of Gordie and the Lamberts. “I’m fine, really!”

“What happened, Jason?” Mick all but shouted.

He flinched at his alpha’s question and, in doing so, gave Leonard all the chance he needed to get a good hold on Jason. Without even looking, Jason knew his Pop had intimidated the whole damned room. Gordie’s mom and dad were alpha and omega, but Mr. Lambert seemed a bit soft for most alphas. Either that or Jason’s alpha was just plain scary no matter who the other alphas were in the room. Leonard was ignoring Jason’s protesting wiggles entirely, holding him close and scenting him.

“Our sons were playing with one another,” Mr. Lambert explained. “From what Mr. Roberts told us, they fell down a jungle gym and knocked themselves unconscious.”

“How long?” Leonard demanded, his icy blue eyes boring straight into Jason’s soul.

“Like one second, Dad, I swear!” Jason did his best to ignore Gordie’s snort.

“I want to hear what the results of the CT were, I’m getting a doctor,” Mick announced and before Jason could call him back, the big alpha had disappeared.

“Damn it, Dad, please, this is embarrassing,” he begged through gritted teeth.

Finally, Leonard decided to take pity on him and let him go. “What were you two doing?”

“We were just racing, honest!” Jason insisted and immediately regretted his choice of words.

Aunt Lisa had warned him weeks ago that adding ‘honest’ to his assertions was his tell and that both Daddy and Pops were more than aware of it.

“Jason Leonard Rory, you better rethink that answer if you don’t want to be grounded for lying,” his dad said sternly.

He blushed under the scrutiny of his father’s gaze, but also because Gordie was now sticking his own tongue out at Jason.

“We were racing,” Jason began. “But we may also have been trying to knock each other down from the obstacles.”

“You what!” Mrs. Lambert gasped behind them as she glared at her own son.

“Wait.”  Leonard closed his eyes and shook his head. “Let me get this straight. You two were racing atop the monkey bars and jungle gym while trying to knock each other off the equipment?”

With a big swallow, Jason nodded. “Yes.”

“Jason, do you know how incredibly stupid and dangerous that is?” Leonard demanded.

Raising a brow at his dad, Jason pointedly looked around him and nodded. “Well, now, yeah.”

“Watch the lip with your father, Pup,” Mick snarled as he and the doctor walked in. “Babe, the doctor has Jason’s results.”

The doctor was a woman with long black hair wrapped in braids with skin almost as dark as chocolate. She offered a pretty smile to Jason’s dads and pulled out two small packets. One she handed to Dad and the other she reached out to hand to Mrs. Lambert.

She must have been Alpha since she knew which parents were the omegas. Jason looked up at parents, trying to gauge whether or not he was in trouble and if so, how much? Was he grounded? It was just a game. And now they knew how dangerous it was, Jason wasn’t as likely to do it again.

Probably.

“Both of your boys will be fine. They each suffered a grade three concussion since they did technically lose consciousness. Because of this we did a CT scan on them both and found nothing alarming. In those packets are instructions for taking care of them and, of course, anything you need to look out for. The most concerning will be vomiting, dizziness, difficulty focusing, or slurred speech; please bring them to the ER immediately if they experience those symptoms.”

“Can we leave yet?” Gordie asked.

The doctor laughed softly and nodded. “I think the administrators will be back with some paperwork, but after that, yes. You are all free to leave.”

“Thanks, Doc,” Mick said with genuine relief.

Jason was glad when the whole group got to leave, though he wasn’t thrilled that Gordie and his parents were parked in the same parking lot. He made faces at his classmate while Gordie merely rolled his eyes and then hissed in pain. Jason giggled until he felt Mick pinch his shoulder.

“Knock it off, Pup,” his alpha warned irritably.

Before Jason could even pout, a flash of red and yellow scooped him up. “I just heard, are you alright?” The Flash asked.

“Whoa!” Gordie cried out as the Lamberts all stopped and stared.

“Is he alright?” Flash asked, stepping them both closer to Leonard and Mick.

“Yeah, Scarlet,” Dad said. “He suffered a grade three concussion, though, so there are things we need to look out for.”

“Not to mention restrictions for the next few days just to be safe,” Mick added.  

Jason had noticed that his parents had taken a strong liking to the Flash recently, which really, was kind of cool. How many kids got to say that their dads were dating a real-life superhero? Then again, how many kids’ parents were also in a group that fought against that same superhero?

He doubted there were many.

“I’m okay, Flash. Me and Gordie just bonked our heads,” Jason assured him since his dads were far too focused on him having a concussion.

“And fell down a jungle gym,” Mrs. Lambert supplied.

Jason and Gordie both exchanged looks of exasperation. Their omega parents seemed dead set on ruining their reputations with their alphas and the Flash.

“Both of you? I hope you guys weren’t fighting?” Flash frowned.

“Not to the death or anything,” Gordie insisted. “But we’re rivals. We were trying to defeat each other.”

“Yeah!” Jason exclaimed. “Just like you and my dads!”

“Jason!”

Flash’s face turned red as Mick and Leonard both snapped off Jason’s name. He ducked his head. Sometimes he forgot that was all supposed to be a secret.

“Well, uh, Gordie, it was nice to meet you. Stay safe during recess, okay?” Flash called over to Gordie. 

The Lamberts waved and headed to their vehicle; Jason could see Gordie soaking in the sight. That’s right! Jason was being held and cuddled by Central City’s own Flash. Really, this had to mean Jason won. At least for today.

“Wanna go to the lab and see Cisco and Caitlyn?” Flash asked, but really Jason knew he wasn’t asking him. 

“I don’t know,” Leonard said with a frown. “Should he be zooming around at those speeds after suffering a concussion? This paperwork says he needs to be resting. No TV, no running around.”

“Aww, come on, Dad! I feel perfectly fine!” Jason scowled at Leonard, but quickly “dropped the attitude” when Mick issued a warning growl. “Please?”

“Pretty sure the speed-force thing protects whoever the Kid’s running with,” Mick said softly. “Scarlet won’t let anything happen to our pup. Besides, you know he wants Dr. Snow to get another look. Just in case.”

Jason’s eyes widened. “Hey, whoa! I already had to hold still in a giant donut! I don’t need another brain picture!”

He hated holding still! It was torture! He tried to get out of Flash’s grip, but his Dad must have said something he missed because Flash responded with, “We’ll see you guys soon!”

And then they were off in a flash.

[ask-them-bois]

Ancient Sounds 1/5

(Startin’ off nice and slow, folks, here we go.)

“Happy wriggling day, Mushy!” Drayco crowed, flinging their arms around Musrio’s neck.

Musrio tipped and turned his head to look at his matesprit without hitting them with his horns. The rustblood was sat at the dinner table, having what he’d thought was a quiet evening coffee in his favorite sweater, until his flushmate snuck up on him. He looked at them, amused, his lips unwittingly tugged into a tired smile.

“Thxnk you, Dee.” He murmured, releasing his mug with one hand to gently scratch his claws through his lover’s hair. Drayco tipped their head back, into his hand, a gurgling purr in their throat.

“Yoou wanna doo anything special foor toonight?” They asked, opening their eyes to look at Musrio.

“Not rexlly. I don’t xge, I see no rexson to celebrxte my hxtchdxy. Ribbit.” Musrio shrugged. Drayco clearly didn’t like that answer. They released Musrio from their embrace and stood up.

“Coome oon, noothing at all?” They frowned, pulling out a chair and taking a seat.

“Well… depends. Did you hxve something in mind?” Musrio asked, taking a sip of coffee.

“Uh, noo, noot really, but I’m doown foor anything. Coome oon, yoou name it. Anything yoou wanna doo today. Besides woork.” They added quickly as Musrio opened his mouth. The rust shut his jaws again and snorted. He took another drink and sighed, staring into his mug as he thought.

Drayco watched him for a moment, before they sat up. “Wait. Befoore yoou pick anything, can I give yoou yoour gift?” They asked, getting to their feet. Musrio looked up, surprised.

“You got me x gift?” He repeated as Drayco walked past, towards the back of the hive where their room was.

“OOf coourse I did!” They called over their shoulder, disappearing down the hall. Musrio turned back to his mug, taking a deep drink. His free hand reached up and wrapped around his amulet, his thumb brushing the scar on his throat. He tried to swallow the funny feeling in his chest, but it didn’t leave, crowding his bloodpumper like the thoughts that filled his thinkpan.

He was thankfully distracted when Drayco returned, a box in their hands. It was wrapped in black wrapping paper, with a red bow taped on top. It was surprisingly big, Musrio realized as Drayco sat it in front of him.

“OOkay, here. It’s… it’s noot much, but I coouldn’t decide what too get yoou.” Drayco explained awkwardly, rubbing the back of their neck. They sat down, slinging their air tank’s bag off their shoulder and sitting it at their feet.

Musrio set his mug to the side, Drayco watching his every move as he tore the paper off. Under the paper was a cardboard box, the top already slit open for him. Pulling back the flaps, Musrio found a large, black, wicker basket, stuffed full of various items. He pulled the basket from the box and set it on the table in front of himself before he began going through the items.

The first thing laid on top was a pencil case. When he pulled the zipper down and looked inside, he found it stuffed with many, rather expensive eyeliners, all in one color: Black.

He pursed his lips, trying and failing to stop a smile as Drayco giggled.

“How mxny of these did you get?” He asked, trying not to laugh.

“Uh… soomewhere between twenty and foorty, I think. I loost coount.” Drayco admitted, grinning, “But at least yoou woon’t run oout foor a few sweeps.” They added.

Musrio zipped the case back up and set it aside with a chuckle, pulling out the next thing; a set of six, red and black candles. He raised them to his nose and sniffed; frosted raspberry, one of his favorite scents.

“I saw the candles in yoour lab were getting loow, I figured yoou were needing replacements.” Drayco explained.

“I wxs. Thxnks, Dee.” Musrio purred, setting the candles aside and reaching for the next items.

A bottle of raspberry body lotion, a jar of bath salts, a face mask, and black nail polish.

A box of expensive coffees from East Alternia.

Several pairs of thick, fuzzy socks, all of them patterned with skulls, ghosts, jack-o-lanterns, and other silly All Hallows Eve symbols.

A coffee mug decorated with pictures of poisonous dart frogs.

And finally, at the bottom, a new sweater, with the four quadrantal signs on the chest.

He held it aloft, staring at the symbols as his throat attempted to close on him. He swallowed thickly, overcome with a nearly painful amount of feelings; the most prevalent of which was the warm, red flush of affection for his matesprit.

Drayco watched him, concerned. “Mush? Yoou okay?” They asked. Musrio nodded, pressing the sweater to his face; it had been hidden in Drayco’s room so long, it smelled like them, he realized, taking a deep, slow breath.

“Y- yexh. Thxnk you, Deedee. I love it.” He mumbled into the wool, raising his head after a moment to smile at the bronzeblood.

Drayco chirred. “Yoou’re welcoome.”

Musrio rose to his feet, so Drayco did to, only for Musrio toss the sweater into his seat and embrace the bronze. Drayco froze, startled, before they laughed and hugged him back.

Musrio finally pulled back, before bonking his forehead to Drayco’s and kissing their mask. “Flushed for you, Deedee.” He mumbled, embarrassed. Drayco, for their part, was grinning like an idiot.

“Flushed foor yoou, toooo, Mushy.” They whispered, kissing Musrio’s nose, right on his scar. “Soo, you really doon’t wanna doo anything tooday?”

“Cxn we just get txkeout xnd wxtch movies? Thxt’s… rexlly xll I wxnt. Ribbit.” Musrio confessed. Drayco gave their mate another squeeze.

“Hell yeah we can. I’ll goo get blankets and stuff, yoou pick oout moovies.” Drayco ordered, pulling away. They scooped up their bag and hurried towards their respiteblock. Musrio rolled his eyes and packed his gifts back into the box so they wouldn’t get lost, before he headed to the sitting room to do as he was told.

He picked out several films, a mix of both his and Drayco’s favorites, and stacked them on the coffee table. Drayco returned, their arms loaded with pillows, blankets, and one ferret slung around their shoulders.

“Is it cooool if Luci jooins us?” The bronze asked, dumping their armload on the couch.

“Of course it is.” Musrio hummed as he turned on the TV and set up the first movie, while Drayco got the pillows and blankets organized. Musrio picked up the remote, before he paused as a thought struck him. “Lucy.” He repeated.

Drayco, who’d turned towards the mealblock to get drinks, paused. “What aboout him?”

“No, not… not your ferret. Lucinx. Ruthless’ wife.”

“What aboout her?” Drayco corrected themself. Musrio shook his head.

“She’s the one xncestor I cxn’t seem to bring bxck. I cxn’t rexch her. I don’t… know why, though. Ribbit.”

Drayco frowned, adjusting their mask. “Didn’t Forsaken say she was looooking foor Ruthless?”

“Yes, but- she’s still dexd. Xll records of her sxy she’s dexd. The spirits tell me she’s dexd. Ribbit.” Musrio explained, before he sighed. “Thxt mexns I should be xble to rexch her, but I cxn’t. There’s nothing in the veil for me to pull bxck to the world of the living. Ruthless even gxve me their wedding rings xs x conduit, and nothing hxppened. Ribbit.”

Drayco hummed in thought as they wandered into the mealblock. When they came back with a soda for themself and a refilled coffee for Musrio, the rustblood had taken a seat on the couch and wrapped himself in a blanket. Drayco moved to join him, sitting their bag on the floor by the couch and getting cozy in their own blanket.

“Maybe she dooesn’t want too coome back.” They said at last, shuffling to pull their legs onto the couch and lay their head on Musrio’s shoulder. They slung their ferret off from around their neck and placed him on their lap. Lucifer chirped, curling into a donut and nibbling on his own paws.

“Thxt doesn’t mxtter. None of the xncestors wxnted to come bxck. I brought them bxck by force, becxuse… becxuse Neviserrxth wxnted me to. Ribbit.”

“And we still have noo idea why it wants that?”

“None.”

Drayco fell silent, their right shoulder suddenly uncomfortably warm as Musrio pressed play on the movie.

It was a few hours later, when the movie was wrapping up and they were waiting on the takeout delivery, that Drayco finally voiced what they were thinking.

“Doo you think… OOliver might have soomething too doo with it?” They asked, touching their shoulder; a thin layer of fabric separated their palm from the black, skeletal hand tattoo.

“No. Oliver doesn’t cxre xbout Ruthless. He only cxres xbout us, xnd seeing us dexd xgxin. Ribbit.” Musrio said, reaching up to rub his amulet.

“Dooes he? I mean, we doon’t even knoow what her next moove is. We haven’t seen her since-”

“I know. But I don’t think it’s smxrt for us to go hunting him down. We hxve to wxit for them to mxke the first move. Ribbit.”