#apologies if i missed anything crucial

[thethirdromana]

Some context for the 1890s

I thought it might be fun to look into the period when Dracula was written and set in a little more detail.

Key facts

In 1897, the population of the UK was just under 40m - so about 60% of what it is today. (By contrast the US population at the time was just 21% of what it is today). Only about 6m of them had the right to vote - about 40% of adult men.

With a population of 6m, London was the largest city in the world and would be for another 20 years.

Politics and imperialism

The British Empire wasn't yet at its peak, which would be at some point between 1913 and 1922 depending on whether you define it by land or population. This was the time of the Scramble for Africa - in the 1890s alone, Britain colonised the countries that are now Uganda, Zanzibar, Malawi, Botswana, Zimbabwe, parts of Sudan and parts of South Africa. (Ish - matching 1890s borders to modern ones is tricky).

All the same, the sense of effortless British dominance was fading, because countries like Germany, France and the USA were starting to catch up. In 1896, the book 'Made in Germany' by Ernest Edwin Williams was a bestseller, bemoaning that cheaper German goods were crowding out British ones in shops. (It's available for free online; just google it if you're interested.) Here's 1890s Berlin:

Britain was only just emerging from what the Victorians called "The Great Depression" from the 1870s to early 1890s. The wealthiest and most powerful country in the world didn't always feel that way to the people living in it.

Alongside anxieties about Britain's place in the world, the other major political topic which dominated the 1890s was the question of Irish Home Rule - essentially whether Ireland should be allowed its own parliament and responsibility for domestic affairs while still remaining part of the UK. The Second Home Rule Bill passed the Commons in 1893 but was defeated in the Lords. Here's 1890s Dublin:

Society

Less than a percentage of the British population would have been people of colour. The 1921 census showed just 75,000 people born in India - 1897 wouldn't have been much different. All the same, the University of Oxford - i.e. one of the most elite institutions in the country - had its first black student as long ago as 1873.

This was a period of growing rights and freedoms in the UK (starting from a very low base). In 1891, children under 11 were banned from working in factories; in 1893, education was made free and compulsory for children up to age 11; in 1882, the Married Women's Property Act allowed married women to own and control property in their own right. Many socialist and trade unionist organisations were founded at this time, including a precursor to the Labour Party.

A social concern at this time were the "surplus women" - there was perceived to be a relative excess of women compared with men, prompting fears they wouldn't be able to marry and would have to work. Women were about 40% of the labour force.

If a man and a woman got engaged but the man then broke it off, the woman could sue him for "breach of promise" as this was considered a binding legal contract. The woman could break the engagement with no legal penalty. (You might recognise this as the basis for several Jeeves and Wooster plotlines).

The fertility rate was falling fast - from an average of nearly 5 children per woman in 1880 to 4 in 1895 (this would fall to 2 by 1930). Around 1 in 5 children died before the age of 5, and around 1 in 200 births resulted in the death of the mother.

Daily life and prices

There were only a handful of cars on British roads - so when Mina says she and Lucy "drove up to the house", she means by horse, not by car. But there were ~25,000km of railways in the UK, compared with about 17,000km today.

The rise of the railways and people actually getting days off meant that this was the golden age of trips to the British seaside. Train fares were a penny per mile, meaning that London to Whitby cost about 20s or a week's labour for a solicitor's clerk, with the purchasing power of £64 today.

As a full-blown solicitor, my guess (though it's only a guess) is that Jonathan is earning about twice that. A female teacher's salary was around £75 a year or 28s a week. A housemaid would earn just £10 a year, though she would get bed and board as well.

The first edition of a novel cost about a shilling and reprints cost even less - as little as a penny or two for the cheapest books. Literacy was nearly universal in the UK.

Also available for a penny were magazines like the hugely popular Tit-Bits, which was the first periodical to sell over a million copies in the UK. It consisted of short, mostly human interest snippets of information, as well as short stories. Lucy and Mina probably wouldn't read Tit-Bits, but Mr Swales might.

References, youtube links and a couple of bonuses for fanfiction writers on my original post here.

[lolli-popples]

The Missing Link in Scott's Characterization

(Wrote this in a random document and I think it's good so I'm loosely transcribing it here)

These are some of my thoughts on a crucial facet of Scott's character in the Life Series that I think is overlooked by the fandom.

From my personal viewpoint, people put a lot of emphasis on Scott's caring about his allies over everything else. I think this is an important characteristic. However, I think this being shown as the most central trait is a detriment to how people read his involvement with the overarching narrative. It might be less of a problem if he wasn't directly involved with the final fight of nearly every Life Series.

Because of this combination of things, his main interaction with fans' reading of the final fight is being willing to do anything to make sure his friends win. It gives people the tendency to attribute some victories partially to him, which upsets people who want main read of the story to focus entirely on the winner. But this also has meant that one of Scott's main traits is overlooked.

Just as much, and often, more than Scott values his allies, he values fairness. To showcase this, let's look at Limited and Last Life, where he had the most control on how the final fight took place.

In Last Life, when it's down to the final four, Scott *could* have teamed up with Pearl, his ally all season, to kill Martyn and Ren. That aligns with wanting either your or your allies to win, no? But he doesn't. He suggests they split to the 4 corners of the map and have a fair fight on equal footing. Very fair.

With Limited Life it's even more apparent. Scott and Martyn have an impressive amount of time. They could both still die multiple times. Impulse is running out, and there's a numbers advantage. They could have killed Impulse and Scott could have let Martyn win, or Scott could have given Martyn his time to fight Impulse alone. But instead, he suggests they all go down to the same amount and have a fair fight.

In both situations, Scott puts fairness *over* an alliance victory. Even though Limited Life didn't end up ending fairly, that had nothing to do with Scott.

Double Life certainly has the strongest claim on Scott "letting someone win". That his death is an apology for abandoning Pearl.

But if you listen to what Scott says in the finale, he never apologizes. He says he didn't think they'd get this far, he says she deserves this more than him, and then he says the iconic "Tilly death do us part."

Scott didn't fight Pearl. But I don't think it came out of remorse. I think that too, came from a sense of fairness. Which is that Pearl, by all accounts, DOES deserve this win. If they fought it would basically be up to a draw. To chance. Scott has every chance of winning. But if you go over the events of Scott's final episode, he mostly runs. He survives. While Pearl 1v2'd two separate pairs and won! The only reason Pearl hasn't killed Scott already, who has been her enemy all season, is because they were randomly assigned to be soul-linked. A concept Scott has fought since the very beginning. He knows that while he never hurt their chances, Pearl is the reason they are here, and Pearl is the reason he is here. It wouldn't be fair for Pearl to lose to what is basically a coin flip. So, he doesn't leave it up to random chance.

So yes, Scott is loyal and does care about his allies, he proves that again and again. But the way he is involved in how the series end shows that his sense of order and fairness are equally important. Also, I think viewing his contributions from this angle help remedy some of the reasons people don't like his usual characterization because of how it effects the agency of other characters.

[moondrop-writes]

Hiiiii! I hope you’re doing well! If possible could I get an Apollo x wife!reader scenario where like he always promised he’d never cheat and stuff cause he only ever had eyes for her but then she finds out about Will and is really upset until she meets him and thinks he’s super cute (in like a motherly way off. Bonus points if she used to be with Ares before he started dating Aphrodite and so that’s why she was so upset cause she felt like it was Ares all over again even if they’re still good friends)

Sorry if this is too specific or confusing or something 😅

i love TOA Apollo, and while i've never been really sure how to write the POV of a god, i think this is pretty fair considering his in-universe persona written by Rick. thank you for the request and no worries about specifics! also, my apologies if this is super long lmao

You wiped your wet hands onto the rag by the kitchen sink as the dishes you had just washed dripped. Normally, you'd dry them as well, but you were running low on time, and you didn't want to miss a crucial part of the night in order to fix little details like that. Smiling to yourself, you folded the rag and hung it up by the sink again.

The oven timer beeped just in time for you to get your apron on, and you grabbed your mits in order to safely pull the tray out of the oven. You placed it on top of the stove, the scent of the warm turkey filling your nose. Usually, you'd preserve such a thing for a holiday, but today might as well be one.

Tonight, was the night Apollo visited you once more, after several months in his human form trailing after some young girl, he seemed to take a liking to. Now he was immortal again and could see you after all that time apart.

You'd seen him within the first month at some point. You couldn't do anything though, because that wasn't him. It could very well be, but it wasn't. Lester was average, but it wasn't Apollo. You didn't want to sound shallow thinking that, but there was nothing connecting the god of the Sun to some fake New York teen.

And it'd been too long since then. He said it was for your safety, but you knew it was just because he couldn't stand for you to see him like this. You could tell by the way he walked that he was just as uncomfortable with his new body as you were. He looked like a baby deer, stumbling on tiny legs as it struggled to learn how to walk.

That was not your Apollo, your Apollo was graceful with a flashing smile that sent gusts of warmth up your arms. But his looks weren't all that appealed to you so many years ago. He might've been vain, but he was lovely too. He cared for mortals as the great Titan Prometheus had, and everywhere he walked seemed to cheer someone up.

He was rather dependent on his looks, but around you all that seemed to shy away. It was just you, mortal flesh and human blood, and him, golden blonde hair and a blinding smile.

In your head, you tended to akin Apollo to a star. Despite being one of the oldest Olympians, he seemed so much younger. His sister, Artemis seemed so much more serious and mature, and Dionysus had also seemed to understand his duty more seriously. Being the god of the Sun was more habit than it was a job to Apollo.

While the gods floated and stayed still in their palaces, Apollo roamed around. Each day when he rose and ran the sun, he saw places he might've otherwise missed. Everything wondered him, whether it be a small cave in Taiwan or a forgotten shore in Australia.

Stars were small, surrounded by dozens of other stars and radiating their heat and charm. You thought that summarized Apollo pretty well.

The doorbell rang, interrupting your thoughts.

Startling, you jumped up, rushing to untie your apron and hang it up in the hallway. In nothing but a pair of over washed jeans and a loose beige t-shirt, you pulled the door open, and finally felt like you could breathe again for the first time in months.

There Apollo stood, bronze skin and gleaming hair, a suspiciously bright red Camaro sitting in your driveway.

"Y/N," he breathed, voice as soft as a deer's mewl.

"Apollo," you answered, and leaped forward. He caught you easily, as he had always done, and pulled you close. Your fingers clasped behind his neck, grasping onto blonde curls.

His own hands found your hips, fingers slipping into the belt loops of your jeans to tug you forward. His nose was buried in your hair, and he pressed repeated kisses to the crown of your head.

He was dressed in his godly attire, bands of gold, an airy white tunic, and gold sandals. He looked like a supermodel next to you, but he held you as if you were true treasure.

You pulled back for a moment, only to pull his head down so his lips could meet yours, pressed together in a locking kiss.

It could've gone on forever, but mortals needed air, and you pulled away to breathe. With your chest heaving, he smiled at you as if you'd hung the stars. One hand lifted to cup your cheek and cradled your face.

"I love you," he said, voice soft and almost weak sounding.

"I love you too," you said, pressing your cheek to his chest. You felt something break in you when you heard the slow beat of his immortal heart. It was like a dam that finally crashed.

Your eyes filled with months' worth of tears and you hiccupped wetly against his skin. "I-I missed you so-so much..." you sniffed, trying to calm down your rapid breathing, "don't ever do that again!"

He gave a small rueful laugh and wiped at your tears. "I'll try," he said, and that was enough.

The two of you went inside, and he familiarized himself with everything again. You ate dinner, with soft talk of what'd you'd been up to the past few months. He was unusually quiet and kept glancing out the window to the sky as if it were going to disappear.

He followed you back to your bedroom and changed into some clothes that had been sitting in your dresser for months, awaiting him. You were in the bathroom attached to your room, combing your hair as he sits on the bed watching you.

You placed down the comb with a small clattering sound and turned to him. Your palms were flat on the countertop.

"What's up with you? You're...quiet," you ask, biting your lip. He blinks and runs a hand through his hair before standing and striding over to you.

He wraps his arms around you and hides his face in your neck. "Sorry, I... I've got a lot on my mind..." It was weird seeing him like this, so unsure of himself. Even before, when he would melt in your hands like putty and show his true self as a soft sweet husband, he was never uncertain. Not around you, at least.

You take his hands in yours and press a kiss to the inside of his palm. "Then confide in me. I'm here, and I don't plan on leaving."

He looks away and you recognize the expression easily.

Shame.

"Apollo," you say, a bit uneasily.

"Yes?"

"Tell me," You urge. He hides his face in the flesh of your neck again and presses a kiss to your nape.

"I made a promise, a while ago, and I broke it," he admitted, and you scoured your mind for a time where he'd done such a thing.

You held his hand, the new ring gleaming on your finger. Under Apollo's sunlight, it shone like a star in the night sky, but not even it could compare to the light of his smile.

He kissed your forehead, and said, "No demigod kids, I promise. Not even yours."

You laughed and swatted at his arms. "Be serious," you huffed, "and thank you."

"Mhm," he hummed, smiling against your temple.

Instinctively, you pushed him back, second-guessing your strength and gasping when he banged into the doorframe. He winced and held a hand to his shoulder blade.

He opened his mouth to say something, but you shook your head. "How old? No--how many? How--how could I have been so stupid?"

"Y/N..." he tried, voice breaking halfway through your name. It didn't matter, you were louder.

"No, answer the question!"

He closed his eyes, face twisted with distain as he cowered. The god, Apollo, cowering to the wrath of mere mortal.

He breathed in to steady himself.

"Five."

Your face contorted into one of anguish, then horror, then anger.

You cared not for the pained expression on his face when you pulled off your wedding band and flung it at him. He caught it and held it to his chest. "For fifteen years I thought you were loyal! But no. Did those years mean nothing to you? Could you have not waited another century for me to pass? God!"

You ran a shaking hand through your hair, and felt disgust rise within you.

"Please," he begged, but you were having none of it.

"Out!" you shrieked, "get out!"

He obliged, leaving you to fall to the floor, sobs falling from your lips.

It went like that for a while. A few weeks, you think. He tried, multiple times, but you didn't want to listen. How could you have thought he loved you? All those years of lies.

You didn't want to think about him. So, you didn't. You blocked all thoughts of Apollo out. That was until you were sorting through your mail and found one from a sender you weren't familiar with.

From, Will Solace, sent by Hermes Shipping & CO. to Y/N L/N

Curiosity taking over, you opened the letter, and began to read.

Dear, Y/N!

Hello, I'm sure my father has given you quite the issue, and I must say your anger is justified. I have not come to defend Apollo's actions but assist yours. I'm Will Solace, a half-blood son of your husband, my dad. He's been whining a lot at camp, but It's easy to tell how much he misses you. The whole time he was mortal he wouldn't stop talking about you. He claims that he's tried to talk to you, but you keep shutting him out, so I decided to take things into my own hands. You have all the right to ignore this, but I have a feeling you won't. As you're well aware, my father has had multiple demigod children since his marriage with you, which is wrong no doubt, all of my siblings agree. But I don't think he's talked to my mother once since my birth, and Austin said he hadn't seen him before camp since he was four, so, I think it's safe to assume he hadn't cared much for our mothers. But he did care for you. I know my dad, and I know how he used to be all those years ago, which kind of concerns me for you, but I'll stay quiet about that. If he stayed with you this long, then he plans to stick it out. I truly believe he cares for you, and if so, I'd like to meet you. If possible, please come to XXX cafe at 1:30 next Friday.

With care, Will Solace.

You didn't realize you were crying till teardrops were dripping off your cheeks.

With a racing heart, you walked over to the calendar. The letter had been later than probably intended, which meant next Friday, was actually tomorrow.

So, it came to the question of whether or not you would go.

You missed Apollo so much. He was right there, and you could hold him and have him as much as you wanted, but you pushed him away. You let your anger blind you, however justified it may be, and ran from the man that loved you most.

Then it was decided. You'd go. You'd meet Will, and you'd force Apollo to apologize.

Now that you were there, waiting outside the cafe anxiously, the plan didn't seem so fool proof. You flattened down the fabric of your summer dress and ran your hands along the strap of your purse, eyes searching for anybody that may resemble Apollo.

Will isn't hard to find, and like his father, the world seems to center itself around him when he's near.

His hair is blonde and curly, just like Apollo's, and falls over his ears and hangs just above his eyes. Piercing blue find yours, and sun-kissed skin shifts to show a blinding smile. You'd expected them to look similar, but not near identical.

He runs over, wearing a pair of shorts and a nice t-shirt, hand raised in a wave. He stops a few feet from you and holds out a hand.

"Will Solace, it's so nice to meet you. Apollo talks a lot about you," he says, eyes bright and cheery. You were sure you would've thought he was annoying if he was anybody else but knowing that this was Apollo's kid (your stepson? No, that was a weird thought) made it sort of endearing.

You found yourself smiling back as you took his hand.

"You mentioned," you say, clasping hands, "I'm Y/N."

"Let's go inside, shall we?"

Turns out, Will is very likeable. Every word is filled with genuine joy, and he listens intently. You can see the resemblance in looks, but he must get this side of himself from his mother. His nose twitches when confused, and his ears go pink when he's embarrassed.

You think it's cute, the way he opens himself up so easily to you. He finds hidden motherly qualities in yourself, that you weren't even sure you had.

That's how you find yourself inviting him to your house, where you fixed him some lemonade and grabbed some cookies from the pantry for the two of you to snack on as you sat on the porch.

Will finished his previous sentence, placing down a half-empty glass of lemonade. His brows are furrowed, and his usual smile is set in a deep frown. You wanted to rid him of it, and ease away any worries, as a mother should.

"Y'know, growing up without Apollo was hard, but I managed. It was my mother that was difficult. She was distant, hardly there. To be fair, she's famous, but it was still hard. She never made cookies--or made me lemonade. I... you're everything I wished for her to be."

When you stayed quiet, staring down at your lap, he stuttered to correct himself. "I'm sorry if that's weird---I, well, --" you tugged him close, cautious of the food.

He was pressed up against your side, and as soon as his skin met yours he melted, and let you hug him close and warm.

"It's not weird."

"Are you sure?" he said, voice quiet, unsure. It was the same tone Apollo had used.

"Certain."

He pressed a bit closer. "I feel like a baby," he laughed, "fifteen-years-old and I'm being held like a toddler."

"It's always good to be held sometimes," you say, rubbing your hand up his arm. He sniffed, and you didn't have to look down to know that he was holding back tears. How had the tone shifted so quickly?

"I'm sorry," he says, voice thick with emotion. He moves to get up, ears tinged pink, "I shouldn't be doing this. You're not even my mother--"

"Stop it. Calm down and relax."

He does, only after you have to forcibly tug him back down. He settles down next to you, and takes deep breaths to push away the tears in his eyes.

You don't know how long the two of you sit there, but your legs are beginning to cramp from being in the same position and Will is letting out soft snores against your collarbone. The sun is sinking into the horizon, and you try not to jump when he speaks.

"You're good with him," Apollo says, hands stuffed into the pockets of his jeans.

You frown, "you say that like he's a dog."

He looks away and shrugs, "I'm not good with kids, you know that."

"Neither am I," you huff, and your arms tighten around Will.

"I think Will has a different opinion."

"We all do," you say, and look down as Apollo gets closer. He settles beside you and whispers his next words.

"I'm sorry. I don't know what I can do to please you anymore."

You close your eyes and sigh. "Just--stay, okay?"

He nods, "okay."

And he does. Apollo sits there until the sun is gone, his chin on your head, and arms holding both you and Will firmly. You're asleep before you know it, and he's hoisting you both up to bring you inside.

He places Will on the couch with a light blanket, before bringing you to your bedroom. He lays you down, and presses a feather-light kiss to your lips.

"I love you," he whispers, hand holding yours.

Unconsciously, your fingers tighten around his, and he beams.

[iveriee]

★;CATEGORY: A yandere x Reader

★;PAIRING: Yan!Tom Riddle x Gn!Reader.

★;SUMMARY: In which, he gets utterly envious of your s/o.

★;PS: This contains severe mentions of abusive and obsessive behaviours, Henceforth if you are uncomfortable with any of such topics, Please do not read this. I do not encourage toxic behaviour and this is only a work of fiction. I'm aware that I should be writing Part 3 of the Yule Ball fic, However, I've decided not to continue it. I deeply apologize, i just did not have any ideas on how to continue it. However, if you have any sort of suggestions, please let me know. I'll write anything as long as it's relevant and appropriate. I understand the anxiety of requesting a scenario at times, I quite literally am terrified of doing so myself.

★;EXTRA QUESTION: What's your favorite Taylor Swift song and why?

To say your life was mundane would be an understatement—Boredom filled your senses, even if it was Hogwarts you were attending. But perhaps, the truthful reason was that you did not share any classes with s/o/n. Your state was truly pitiable, Words engraved on pages were mere symbols to you—Questions, Paragraphs,Instructions, Incantations, etc all demolished right out of your mind like a prompt broom. The ending of classes were one of the only things that brought you joy. On a fretful Tuesday, you hurried out of the dungeon, sprinting profusely, eventually concluding by frisking right on s/o/n, legs enclosed on their waist.

"[Name]?" They questioned, astonished by your actions.

"I really missed you..." You murmured in response. "I wish we had classes together. I don't particularly enjoy studying anymore.."

Their expression configured into a frown. "[Name], you know you have to study. I don't want you to fail." Their hands found the route to your hair, fondling it dotingly(which, of course, made you grin) only to place you back on the ground.. "Please. I only want what's best for you." They added delicately.

However, you were not even aware of the most crucial thing. In the midst of your affections with s/o/n, You had been utterly and completely examined by none other than Tom Riddle. His envy and infatuation had been rooted extensively, like a coping plant—growing and growing until it surpasses the garden, destroying it in the process. He had harboured a bitter hatred towards s/o/n, so much so it turned into desires of murder. Why couldn't you comprehend how much he was better than them? He was the ideal student...with precisely placed dark curls, a charismatic (albeit untrue) smile, excellent grades, beloved by everyone..And so in many's eyes, even flawless...could it perhaps be that you were aware of his true nature? No. It simply was not decipherable. You could not have been aware. However, he should focus on you at this moment...he told himself..(or perhaps reassured?)... He could have perhaps done anything for you, anything to please you,whether it was unjust or not, yet this was what he received in turn? Perhaps he should have tortured you until you submitted. But then again, he could not watch you sobbing.

So, henceforth, it all led to you weeping nevertheless. The exception being that it was over s/o/n's corpse, not wounded, not varnished but frigid. Cold. Their eyes were vacant, no longer were they gazing at you gently. And they never would.Never again would you sprint to them after class and embrace them.... s/o/n was dead. And tears crowded your eyes, plummeting down your cheeks. How could somebody be so vicious? How could somebody use the killing curse on them without a second thought? Why was the world so brutal? Perhaps..you should have studied. After all, they did not wish for you to fail in your O.W.LS...

And so Riddle concealed his smirk and approached you, his ego calloused when you did not turn your gaze at him. His hand idled on your shoulders, in an almost comforting manner. "I sincerely apologise for your loss, [Last name]." He murmured, almost seductively if it weren't for your grief. Mine he wondered to himself. They are rightfully mine.

[the-cosmic-teapot]

Eternity and So Much More

Bokuto x reader

WC: 2392

TW: Self doubt, insecurity, marriage talk, long term commitment, reader needs a hug and kiss, bokuto is amazing and really affirming, I tried to keep this as gender neutral as possible (engagement ring description, but not story crucial-like a sentence max) , open ended

*proof read by my man in arts husband, its his fault for typos :)

Summary: Bokuto had a very important question to ask you, but you don't see yourself in the best light.

A/N: Hi pals, this is my first time publishing anything outside of a really cringy period on Wattpad when I was 13 (no longer available for my own sanity). I am not typically a writer, so I apologize in advance, but I love Bokuto so much yeah. I hope you like this! Feedback is always welcome!

~Cosmic

Being in a relationship with a pro athlete is difficult because more times than not, they prioritize their careers. It’s what they have been working towards for the longest time and they will do almost anything to stay on the court. This is especially true with one, Bokuto Koutaro. You could ask anyone about the large, owlish man and his devotion to volleyball; they would all say the same thing: he is meant to be on the court. Knowing this did not stop you from being in a relationship with him. If anything there was a sense of pride because of his passion for the sport. There were countless missed dinners and events because of extra practice, but this did little to dissuade you from falling for the outside hitter. With all of the missed dates there were  thoughtful gifts or a lavish trip with him for time together to make up his absences. 

You knew it was coming, Bokuto's proposal, because he is not the most subtle person and he is not great at hiding things. It had been about a week prior when you found the ring in his sock drawer when doing his laundry.  It was a beautiful, yet simple princess cut diamond ring with a few accent stones around it, and here you are, at dinner with Bokuto and some friends, both old and new. Most of the night was filled with laughter and smiles, as is most of the time with Bokuto, except this time there was a pit in your stomach you couldn’t explain. Was it something you ate? Maybe it was social anxiety from being around all of Bokuto's high school friends, who you’ve seen on a few occasions. You only really knew Akaashi because of how close he was with Bokuto. Yet, in spite of this feeling you pushed through dinner with a smile.

As the appetizers and entrees came and went Bokuto insisted on getting dessert for everyone. The pair of you settled on a chocolate cake with ice cream. While the desserts were being prepared Bokuto gathered the attention of everyone and began speaking of the love he has for you, and your beauty. As he continued his speech, the pit grew deeper and deeper. His little speech concluded in tandem with the arrival of dessert, where you saw the same ring that was hidden among his socks sitting on the top of the cake slice. Then you look at Bokuto already on one knee as he asks the question, “Will you marry me?”

At this moment you didn’t have any words. Why weren’t you saying anything? Could you say anything at all?

~~

The first day of your third year at university felt the same as the others. You noted that campus was a bit livelier than normal, but this would surely die down after a couple of weeks as people lost motivation to go to class. As you walked into your first lecture hall you chose your seat with care as you would be using it for the rest of the semester. After all, humans are creatures of habit. 

When you stepped outside of the lecture hall at the end of class, you could swear you felt like a mummy leaving its crypt and stepping into the sun for the first time. Apparently you stood in place a second too long because a large man was not paying attention at the stop in traffic and bumped into your back causing you to trip and fall. As you stood back up and turned to face the cause of your fall he immediately began apologizing and saying he will buy you coffee or a pastry as his way of apologizing. Initially stunned by the sudden change in your position to seeing a large man practically on his hands and knees begging for your forgiveness for a small nudge was, admittedly, quite a scene to behold. You insisted that you were okay and there were no bruises or scratches, but he looked like a kicked puppy saying something about how he has harmed you and his mother and sisters will certainly skin him alive for not making it up to you. So you agreed to his offer of coffee, seeing as you do not have class for another hour and a half. On the walk over to the cafe you learn his name, Bokuto, and he is a starter for the men's volleyball team. 

~~

Everyone was staring at you now, waiting for an answer. You see the glints of love and true passion in Bukotos eyes; the same look he has when he plays volleyball. Why couldn’t you say anything? What was wrong with you? Here there is a man who loves you, and all you can do is just stand there. Thoughts of inadequacy swarm your mind; you’ll never be pretty enough, you’ll never be charismatic enough, you’ll never be enough for him. 

~~

  After getting coffee with Bokuto, he seemed to be part of your life. Initially it was small things like him asking you to study with him because he “gets distracted, and it is nice to have someone to keep him on track”. This typically ended with getting nothing done because of how easy conversations flowed with him. Eventually this turned into movie nights with his friends. By the end of that semester the two of you were practically inseparable. 

Sometime during the break you realized how you had grown to care for this large puppy of a man. Your days away from campus, as well as Bokuto, seemed more dreary, like something was missing. The days away made you truly notice an absence you didn’t know you could miss. Despite this, you still managed to have a relaxing break.

Bokuto was also stuck with his thoughts of you and what you were doing. He misses your smile and laugh, he misses how you would roll your eyes at some dumb joke he had made, but most of all, he misses how you care about him. Through high school he was used to girls flocking to him because of his volleyball talent, but none of them seemed to care about who he was as a person. You care about him as Bokuto Kotaro, not Bokuto Kotaro the volleyball powerhouse. You care about the little things, ensuring he stayed hydrated and made sure he always had someone cheering him on. He loved those things about you.

By the time you got back to campus and got fully moved into your new dormroom, Bokuto called and asked to get lunch because he was, as always, starving. By the end of the lunch you were sure Bokuto enjoyed your presence because of how he mentioned it at least five times when walking you home. As you get to your complex's door you debate inviting Bokuto in to watch a movie or something, but a small voice crept in saying that he probably had other, better things to be doing. So you bid him a farewell and went up alone. 

~~

As Bokuto stares at you with anticipation and nothing but adoration in his eyes staring into your own, you are at war with your insecurities. How could he want you in that way? It wasn't because you were the prettiest or because you were the most popular. It definitely wasn’t because you were the best at anything; what was it? You know he loves you, but honestly you don’t fully understand why. 

After about a minute of staring at you Bokuto began to feel a pit form in his stomach, a rare feeling for him that he wasn’t too familiar with. The last time this happened was when he asked you to go on a date with him; an actual date too, not the platonic hangout sessions from when you were first getting to know each other. Was it taking you so long to answer because you thought he wouldn't be a good husband? Was it because he can be forgetful and so focused on volleyball? Those couldn't be it, you always said that it was something you loved about him, his dedication and drive. Why weren’t you saying anything? What was holding you back?

~~

It had been one year since you met Bokuto, the start of your last year of university. Thursdays became takeout and movie night with him, just him; no one else because “I want to spend time alone with my best friend”. You thought it was sweet that he wanted to take time with just you, but it hurt when you assumed he didn’t see you romantically. You’d be stupid not to have a crush on him, he is so charismatic and funny, not to mention he looks like he was shaped by the gods, in contrast to his puppy like demeanor that would make a statue smile.

On one such Thursday Bokuto was antsy, more than normal. About a third of the way into your movie pick, you had to pause the movie. His fidgeting was getting on your nerves and you could no longer bear to ignore it. In response to you pausing, Bokuto just stared dumbly at you instead of saying anything. This was odd, there was seldom a time Bokuto was without words. 

“What’s your problem tonight?’ you asked, a little agitated. “We can change the movie if you’re not into it.” 

“I just...” He paused for a bit and continued, “ I um, I think I’d like to take you out.” You stared back just as dumbly at him for a bit. “ I don’t mean, like, kill you. I mean like a date… If you want…” You sat on his couch in one of his hoodies with Thai take-out in your lap while he thought this is something he wouldn’t mind seeing all the time. He impatiently awaited your answer, fidgeting with his hands. 

After what felt like an eon (a few minutes in actuality) you responded, “Really? Me?” It was strange to be asked out by someone who was like Bokuto. You weren't the typical drop dead gorgeous type athletes like him usually went after, at least in your own eyes. 

“Well, yeah… that’s why I asked you.” He stated very matter-of-factly. “Why wouldn't I want to date you? You know me, and still want to be my friend after I embarrassed myself at that party. You also still want to study with me even when I don’t know what’s happening, and you dont mind helping me with my classwork even though you’re taking more classes than me.” 

He went on like this for 5 minutes before you finally snapped out of your haze to interrupt him and respond. “I didn’t know you cared that much about me...” You sat on your words before landing on “Okay”. 

You thought you had broken the owlish man when that four letter word left your mouth. He just sat and stared at you before breaking out into the biggest smile you’ve ever seen on him, this is including when he scored the winning point for nationals last spring. In an instant he was off of the couch, as were you, bouncing around the room shaking you along too. 

~~

Feeling the stares of your friends and his, you felt nauseous. You loved Bokuto, but could you accept this? What happens if it falls apart, could you live through that? What if a few years later he finds someone better than you, how could you live with that? You just stood there. Your legs felt as if they weighed a million pounds and your jaw a billion more.

Bokuto was freaking out because he was sure you’d say yes immediately. You’d talked about your futures after graduation and you said something along the lines of wanting him in your life forever. Did he misinterpret that? He got your dream ring from one of your friends who was kind enough to help him. What did he do to screw this up?

“I-I…” you took a breath, “I don’t know” you finished close to tears. After giving an answer you needed to get out, looking at Bokuto was painful because he was heartbroken and confused. You gathered your things and ran out of the restaurant.

Bokuto followed closely after you without grabbing anything. He ran a hand through his hair as he stepped out onto the sidewalk spotting you instantly.

He tentatively approached you as if you were a scared stray cat. “Hey… are you okay? What happened back there?” Bokuto was close to tears too, his usually bright eyes were so serious now. “Are you not ready for this? I thought that conversation after graduation meant you wanted this… I’m really sorry if I got that wrong.” He wouldn’t stop talking. You felt like actual garbage, here he was apologizing to you for what were your own inadequacies. 

“I’m not-” you take a breath, “I’m not good enough for this, or for you. You are a pro athlete, you’re way out of my league, and I’m just someone who fell in love with you. I am not special in any way, I’m not extraordinary, I’m just me.” You pause for a second before continuing, “You deserve so much better than me, you are amazing and deserve the universe, and I’m not that.”

“I don’t see it that way.” Bokuto said simply. “You’re amazing because you are you. I love the way you get focused and bite your lip when you do. I love the way you care for me and make sure I am taking care of myself. How you make the effort to know my friends and family.” He continued while holding your wrist as if to make sure you don’t vanish into nothing. “Most importantly, I love you because of how you love me.” He concluded with a huff, Bokuto was frustrated that he needed to tell you all of this, but if he had to repeat these affirmations to you over and over like a mantra he would without hesitation. 

“Are you sure?” You question, biting your lip and avoiding Bokuto's eyes that always seem to find yours. “Yes, of course, I wouldn’t say anything I didn’t mean” He answers immediately after. “I want you in my life for eternity and so much more.”

[wandixx]

Whats your danny wally chaos fic about?👀

There isn't much to this fic in terms of plot if I'm being honest. Just when I saw this post about Danny and Wally being besties in Young Justice and using mix of intangibility and speed force for pranks and shenanigans I thought it would be funny to write. So now I have 1000+ words without aforementioned mix but I'm getting there and when I do arrive, it'll go easier from there. I hope at the very least.

But, here is little snippet:

Wally was not late on mission briefing because he had been stealing cookies M’gann had baked. He wasn’t. He was perfectly on time, Batman hadn’t said anything crucial and Danny was even later. Mere seconds but that’s not important. After speedster yanked door of briefing room and stormed inside, half ghost phased through wall right behind Artemis, apologizing quietly. Girl spun around and punched him before boy eve blinked.

“Don’t you ever sneak up on me again.” Threat was clear in her voice but Danny had none of that.

“How was I supposed to know you were here?! I don’t have X-ray vision!”

“Use door like normal person!”

“Phasing is faster.” He said with suddenly much calmer shrug.

“You lazy–!”

“Like I said, your mission will be –“Batman continued as if nothing happened, successfully shaming bickering teenagers into shutting up. He explained how they had to check out some suspicious lab.

Wally wasn’t really focusing on that. It seemed that Danny’s mess covered his late arrival. He should save ne cookie as a thank you gift. Yeah, Phantom deserved that. Which cookie though? Best one? Now, it felt like too much but on the other hand…

Batman finished briefing and young speedster was glad that he really wasn’t expected to come up with plans since he kinda missed whole thing, debating over cookies and methods of putting one of them inside other boy’s pocket. Yeah, his brain sometimes did that. He still had no idea. Well, they had whole trip to think, so maybe he’ll manage to decide. They all stood up to leave when adult hero added:

“Kid Flash, Phantom, next time be on time.”

So he got caught too. Well, it means no cookie for Danny, which meant he didn’t have to decide which one he shouldn’t eat. But also, it meant 'disappear as fast as you can'.

Hope you enjoyed this and thank you so much for asking. You made my day

[down-in-the-rainbow-square]

Here's an idea, reader is able to go to and from the welcome home world at will. R (reader) does this daily around the same time each time or at least checks in if R is short on time, they are also sure to let the WH crew know if they'll be gone for a X amount of days.

Well a day goes by where R doesn't visit or check in, one day turns into a week before R returns with gifts for everyone. Turns out R got really sick and then bought/made apology gifts for everyone and even cleared their whole schedule so they could all hang out for a few days.

How would the crew react?

Welcome Home x Reader - Make-Up Presents

Hi! Thank you for the request. This is a really nice idea! I'd love to be able to travel freely between my favourite fictional worlds. That'd be so fun. I wonder how time differs between the world of Home and our world.

Words: 563

Type: Headcanons, platonic

Tw: None

Wally was more worried about you. He appreciates the gift, especially if it's something crafty or handmade, but in the end, he wants to make sure you're okay. He takes your hands in his (ignoring the possible germs) and looks into your eyes. Only this time it's not exuding a creepy aura - it's concern. You quell his worries, and he turns his attention back to thanking you for the gift.

Julie is also worried about you, though not as much as Wally. As in, she can still focus on the gift and thank you for it first. Once she gets reassurance that you're okay, she asks you lots of questions about the gift you brought her. If it's something unfamiliar, say an old smartphone, she asks you so, so many questions.

Sally assured herself that you're fine, so she doesn't really worry about that. She sort of just takes the gift, acknowledges it, and moves on. She appreciates it, of course! It's just that there's so much to do and so many rehearsals you've missed and you simply must catch up! It's crucial!

Frank needs to be sure you're not sick anymore. Not only is he concerned for you as a friend, but when it comes to situations like these he's pretty cautious about germs. Yes, he's not afraid to get a little dirt on him when looking for bugs, but sicknesses are not something he wants. Other than that, he's very thankful for the gift. He decides to study it, of course.

Eddie asks lots of 'are you okay?'s and 'are you sure?'s. He trusts your reassurance and gets over it quickly, though. Still follows you around to make sure you're okay, however. After that, he asks you to take him through a step-by-step process of how the gift was made (if it was hand-made). Otherwise, he's very thankful.

Howdy doesn't ask lots of questions about your health. Like Sally, he trusts you enough to know you wouldn't come in and get them sick. Still, he offers you a special recovery discount on things like hot water bottles and blankets. As for the gift, he's really taken aback. But he offers a charming smile and a promise to keep it in the front window. But it will never be for sale; it's too precious!

Barnaby asks if you're okay once, tells you that you are always welcome because "a dog can survive anything except chocolate", and then focuses on the gift. He knows once a gift is his he's free to do with it as he'd like, so the two of you decide to perhaps paint it or draw on it. Unless it's something really special like a card, then it stays as it is.

Note: cards count as something special that cannot be touched. The Mona Lisa does not.

Poppy instantly frets over your health. I mean, what did you expect, really? She takes your face between her soft feathers and looks you over for any signs of illness. One shade too off colour and she's getting the medicine! But once you present her with the gift, he worries are washed away. She takes it tenderly in her hands and looks it over, scared of breaking it (her wings are shaky, after all). Gives you a hug before worrying she's crushing you. Then hugs you again - softer, this time.

[ladyveravincent]

Oh, the Longing...

I found this scene that didn't make it into the final cut of the chapters, and thought... you know what. I like this!! Let's add this in. Will I ever be done editing this story? Probably not. Apologies, poor readers, I believe every time you read A Court of Bones in Bloom, it will be a different version. Anyway...

Excerpt from Chapter 7

“Elain?”

The music of laughter swelled then faded as the door to the River House was opened and then shut. 

Lost in thought, again. A state of being she seemed to find herself so often these days, either through restless dreams through the murky realm, or mindless days in the garden, or over lonely cups of tea. The twins were great company, and so were her sisters, but there was an incurable ache in her chest. 

“Nesta!” Elain blinked away the fog in her eyes before she turned to greet her sister. Early spring was a harsh time, but in Velaris, the stars still managed to twinkle despite the frost lingering at nighttime. 

“You’ll freeze in this weather, here take mine,” In a few short steps, Nesta’s shawl found its way around Elain’s shoulders, and her elder sister sat to join her on the stone steps of the veranda. 

“It seems that the edelweiss and bugloss will bloom in time for the ceremony.” A poor attempt to placate the silence. She had made a crucial mistake when Nesta and Cassian arrived at the family dinner. 

“Lainey!” Cassian chuckled as he glanced up from ravishing his mate. But those sharp gray eyes glanced at the disappointment on her sister’s face as she pushed past them out onto the lawn. Throughout dinner, Nesta’s gaze watched with utter scrutiny as Elain sat next to the empty table setting, and occasionally looked out the window, urgency in her brown eyes. 

“He’s not coming,” Nesta responded shortly as she helped her sister clear the dishes. When everyone went into the drawing room, Elain went to sit on the veranda to somehow try and hold frustration and longing lodged in her chest. 

“Is that why you’re out here? You’re worried the flowers won’t be ready for my ceremony?”

“I just needed some air,” she replied tightly. A few tense moments passed before Nesta cut through the poorly veiled truth. 

“I’d like to think our relationship finally has healed over these past months, but the truth is, that I was absent from your life for a year. I missed out on a lot. But I’m still your older sister, and I know you. I can guess, I can gather, but unless you tell me, I can’t help you.”

“It’s not up to me.” 

“Fine. Just tell me when you’re ready.” The shawl was placed back on Nesta’s shoulders as Elain dashed toward the door. 

“At first I resisted it because the idea was just so… Fae. And no matter how many years we spend here, we’ll always be different.” 

An owl hooted in the distance. 

“It feels like nothing else like there’s nothing or no one else you’d ever want or need. That someone sees exactly who you are, and to your shock, you see them- all of them, too. It’s a connection that I often wonder what I did right to deserve it.” 

“Well then, I must’ve done something wrong.” 

“I always held the belief you’ll marry for love. And nothing, not even a mating bond, has changed that. And you know me, I’d never let you accept anything less.” 

Her fingers ran over the metal latch’s coolness to quell the fire in her throat. Could she tell Nesta everything? How far she was lost to him, and only him? Or did she suspect?

“I’ll bring the arrangements and pastries tomorrow around noon. See you then.” 

~

Azriel felt little satisfaction when his knife landed perfectly in the center of the wooden target. Another sleepless night spent in the training ring, somehow more favorable to the alternative, which was listening to his brother and his soon-to-be mate through the walls. Her gift proved useful, and whether or not it had, he would’ve loved it all the same. 

“I hate to be the one to tell you this, but you can’t kill a wooden beam.” Nesta stood on the balcony, arms crossed and her cold face painted with a glimmer of amusement. 

He threw the knife again and hit the target with deadly precision.

“You never know,” he shrugged.

Nesta scoffed and descended the stairs to join her friend. Azriel had always liked Nesta. There was an innate understanding between the pair. The icy rage within him recognized the cold sharpness in her, and to watch her learn to trust others again was nothing short of healing. As she passed, she briefly placed a sympathetic hand on his tense shoulder.

“We missed you at dinner.” The thump of the knife in the wood signaled another perfect target. Nesta leaned against the railing of the training ring while her long hair swayed in the wind.

“Cas and I placed bets about whether or not you’ll be at the ceremony.” Az eyed Nesta, removing the knife from the block with little effort.

“I’ll be there.”

“Will you?”

“Of course, Nesta.” 

“Oh good! Well, I’m now ten coins richer,” she said brightly.

“I’m surprised Cas wagered ten coins against me," he chuckled. Thump. Perfect target.

“He didn’t, he wagered five.”

“But you said you’re ten coins richer.” 

“Oh I did, didn’t I? Oh, well. I guess that means Elain owes me five, too.” The knife clanged on the ground, a full foot from its missed target.

“Lucky me,” Nesta whispered in glee. She triumphantly pushed off the railing to leave but stopped to pick up the knife off the floor.

“When will you say something?” Her cold face mirrored his icy one, holding their emotions so tightly to their chests. He said nothing as he rubbed the back of his neck, earning a sigh from Nesta for his silence.

“You know me, there’s nothing I hate more than when our family plays busybody. But, it's getting harder to watch my sister set out an extra plate every family dinner.”

Azriel’s heart stopped.

“Good night, Az.”

~ A Court of Bones in Bloom A03

[randomfoggytiger]

Mulder Didn't Use Scully's Apartment Key Until He “Belonged”

We all know Scully had Mulder's apartment key, confirmed in S2's "Little Green Men" when she snooped around his living room for clues-- but Mulder having a key to Scully's place isn't confirmed so clearly; though, of course, it would make sense that he did. (Of course, canon did make a point to show he had a key to Diana's place-- but thankfully David Duchovny portrayed Mulder as cluelessly stumbling around her room, showing he'd never been there, post here for a "blink and you'll miss it" screenshot of Mulder taking a key from his key ring-- but that's neither here nor there and better left undwelt on for blood pressure reasons.)

Onto proof hunting!

Squeeze

The first time Mulder enters Scully's apartment is in Squeeze where he breaks down the door (something he will repeat a few times):

Nothing to be learned here.

Another door breakdown occurs in--

Small Potatoes

But what preceded that incident is crucial: when NotMulder drops in, Scully is shocked he showed up, afraid something bad had happened or she was needed for a work emergency.

Mulder, it seems, makes precious few visits in general; and that would explain her surprise that he was here at all, before Eddie even introduced the idea of a little taste-testing get-together.

Gethsemane

A notch in Mulder's favor; but can easily be explained away:

Scully enters her dark apartment, not noticing anything amiss with her lock. When she finds Mulder in her room, she doesn't argue how he got in, frustrated instead that he'd almost watched her undress.

We can glean two facts from this moment:

#1. Scully didn't know the lock was damaged because Mulder used a key; or Scully didn't notice a pick-pocketed lock because she was too exhausted anyway (which might work, because she didn't notice that Pfaster broke into her apartment in S7.)

#2. Regardless of the key business, Mulder is not a usual visitor at Scully's apartment period, since she reacts more with shock that he's here rather than annoyance that he'd dropped in again.

FTF

It appears Scully is more used to Mulder dropping in for work now; but she still seems on-edge and surprised that he is at the door.

SKIPPING AHEAD--

Orison

This episode provides no answer either way; but it includes another Mulder break-in, so it counts slightly.

Mulder would have had to kick the door down to open the door and break the chain lock before Pfaster could intercept him or set a trap; and we see the door bang open and Mulder's slightly hunched posture dodge in as he swivels his gun from his side to his front

As the door swings back into frame, his boot print is visible next to the lower doorknob:

Again, this incident is inconclusive.

En Ami

This episode is either the clincher against Mulder having a key to Scully's apartment or a fluke the writers accidentally wrote in.

Mulder famously recruits Scully's landlord to unlock her apartment

(before ditching that idea and running off to investigate other leads); and this is puzzling and raises some questions:

#1. Mulder doesn't have a key of his own-- recently, or at all. OR this is part of the distance game he plays: he won't allow himself to enter her apartment at all (that theory will be expounded on later.)

#2. CSM orchestrated for the locks to be changed after Scully left. ...Why? I'm sure for very nefarious and unexplained reasons; but all showing to his certainty that Scully wouldn't return from her trip (in all probability hoping he'd sweep her off her feet.)

Per Manum

This episode proves Mulder has a key-- at least during the IVF arc (which I place early s6 while others place sometime S7.)

The bolt is unlocked;

and Scully walks in, too worn (but trying to be strong) to be surprised that he has crashed on her couch.

Mulder apologizes for doing so,

demonstrating that, regardless if he owns a key or not, this is abnormal behavior for him. Which proves that, if anything, he and Scully socialized all those years at his apartment (confirmed in Milagro) rather than hers, an added bonus to her confusion when NotMulder dropped by in Small Potatoes and her consternation when he sneaked in later in Redux.

That means there is proof that Mulder stayed out of Scully's hair all those years-- perhaps not wanting to wear out his welcome-- and that his visits to her place were only under extreme circumstances (Elegy, Redux, FTF, En Ami, Per Manum, Existence, etc.) As much as my headcanon-loving heart would prefer it otherwise, Mulder seems to have one boundary he doesn't cross: willy-nilly, familiar apartment visiting. Is this because of Scully's need for distance? Or is this a Mulder thing (spoiler: it's a Mulder thing)?

What I don't like (or do?) is that Mulder was never confirmed to have had a key until the series had no choice but to admit he and Scully were together romantically (because of the pregnancy plotline.) I like it a little more or a little less depending on the day.

Essence/Existence

Mulder has already moved in by this point, so of course he has a key (there's a longer post but I couldn't find it-- thank you @baronessblixen for finding this one!)

Mulder is finally shown to unlock Scully's door and pocket the key-- a first in the entire series.

Conclusion

There seems to be a pattern that emerges:

Mulder, whether he had a key or not, was never at Scully's apartment for longer than a late night door-kicking sesh or a rare work emergency. He had the key all these years (confirmed in Per Manum); but he never felt like he truly belonged, waiting for Scully or her landlord to open the door hospitably for him.

Mulder is shown to open the door for the first time in Existence, having used it naturally only once during the IVF attempt and never presuming again after its failure. Now, he enters a bit hesitantly; but warms up as he meanders over to his family. He's home.

SO! Mulder had a key, like he had Scully by his side all those years; but, while she used his apartment key religiously, he never returned the favor until he felt that he could build a home with her. And that's very Mulder, in his own way.

[melaninmight]

hermosa

- miguel o'hara x reader | wc: 1.1k

– "all of this love is toxic."

₊˚ෆ ⋮ Miguel is on the hunt for Miles Morales. Not before paying a visit to the woman of his fan- dreams.

⪩⪨ ⋮ cw : dom! Miguel, switch! (sub leaning) reader, vaginal fingering, c00ch supper, pet names, oral, consensual sex

.ᐟ ⋮ disclaimer(s) : all characters are of age, and any sensual activity is consensual. the world of spider verse and characters are credit to respective creators. YN is visualized as a black woman; please be mindful if you're a non-black reader. Minors DNI !

ִ ࣪𖤐 ⋮ vibes : toxic – kehlani

Imagine being the lover of the intimidating, powerful, and ferocious Miguel O’Hara, the woman who garners sole access to a side of him that he wouldn’t dare showcase publicly to his colleagues nor residents of the Spider-Verse.

If there’s one thing you knew well about the man was his calculated efforts to suppress his true emotions since the loss of his daughter. Miguel’s drive to maintain the Spiderman legacy, followed by his distant demeanor, has left the both of you stagnant in the relationship. You were made aware of Miguel’s hunt for a certain boy, thanks to Peter keeping tabs with you about your man’s whereabouts. Of course, you didn’t blame Miles for his determination to change the narrative and to protect his father from upending death– if anything, you found his values admirable and crucial in ensuring change within the Spider Verse. Yet, much to dismay, this only led to arguments between you and Miguel, hence his distant disposition. 

Checking your phone, you scrolled through the previous messages sent the day before. 

Y: Worried about you.. Pete told me everything. Are you okay?

Sighing as he hadn’t responded, you turned your phone off and threw it across the bed. Your back pressed against the soft bedding, eyes fixated towards the ceiling as the fan blew cool air in the bedroom. Turning your body to Miguel’s side of the bed, the warm musk of his scent filled your nostrils; despite these tedious events, you missed him. You wanted– no, needed him. 

Just before you passed out, the sound of the front door unlocking pulled you out of bed, Miguel’s shirt flowing down your body like a dress once you entered the hallway, steering towards the door. 

Perfect timing.

Lo and behold, the righteous Miguel O’Hara entered the building. Closing the door behind, he whispered something in Spanish, back against the door as he glided a hand through his messy brown locks, his Adam’s apple throbbing from a dry mouth. Opening his crimson eyes, his gaze is fixated on the melanated beauty standing in the hallway, eyeing you up and down. 

Damn did you look sexy in his shirts…

“Took you long enough,” you teased as you stood in front of him, arms crossed.

He couldn’t help but chuckle. 

“I apologize, mi amor. Something came up.”

“Lemme guess, you're dealing with the kid?”

Miguel sighs. 

“He doesn’t understand the risk he’s imposing on the Spider-Verse. Stopping him is the only way to honor and secure the Spiderman lineage.”

You rolled your eyes, as you’ve heard the phrase more than once. Your hands rest on his chest, tracing the muscle behind it. 

“I don’t think Miles is to blame… his pretensions are risky, then again, perhaps change is what the Spider-Verse needs to break a generational curse. After all, that’s what you aspire to accomplish, right?”

A slight grin formed your lips as you heard Miguel’s ragged breaths upon your touch. 

Raising on your tippy toes, you blew into his ear, whispering.

“You’ve been stressed lately. Leaving me stranded in this condo by my lonesome. All those nights of yearning for those strong arms around me, your passionate kisses, and the sex.”

Hissing a breathy moan, you gazed up at him, hands caressing his sharp jawline, giggling from his awe-stricken visage, eyes glistening with longing lust. Your voice velvet as you spoke.

“Oh, how I missed the way you claim me, fucking me like your life depended on this pussy.~”

Immediately, Miguel shuts you up with a fervent kiss, arms gripping your waist. Breaths mingled, tongues clashing, he doesn’t hesitate to swoop you in his arms, your legs wrapped around his lower torso. Walking towards the bedroom and kicking the door shut, Miguel pins you down onto the bed without pulling away from the heated makeout. 

Oh how he has missed you, regretting the cold treatment towards you since the incident. His longing for you ate his spirit the longer he was away from you. Tonight, he ends that cycle. 

His lips parted ways with yours, a stretch of saliva breaking apart between wet lips, not before trailing love bites across your neck and chest. Biting your lip, you hummed from his latches on your breasts, releasing a gasp at the sensation of his tongue sucking, pulling, and twirling your sensitive nips. 

Miguel smirks, freeing your left breast with a pop! before proceeding to the right one, applying the same treatment.

“Aah~ fuck,” you whimper, head thrown back against the pillow. 

Growling, he releases your breast before aggressively stripping down your panties with no hesitation, face hovering your puffy pussy. Licking his lips, Miguel’s tongue got to work, lapping your pussy as though he were dehydrated. 

You couldn’t hold your moans any longer, hands tangled into his hair, toes curling amidst the warmth of his tongue the deeper he explored your wettened hole. The urge to release churned your stomach into a knot, your breaths and whimpers quavery. 

“P-Papi, I– close,” you whimpered once more, begging for release. 

Miguel chuckles, inserting two fingers inside you as his mouth pulled out, lips coated in your juices.

“Mi cariño, you’re so cute when you beg. Cum for me, baby.~”

Say less.. 

You gasped, your climax pooling down on his hand as your body shook from waves of pleasure. Miguel chuckled, raising his hand to swipe the juices, groaning as he savored your sweetness. 

“Heavenly,” he purred. 

Doe eyes watched him, cheeks flushed, your chest rising from the deep breaths after cooling down from your high. Using one foot, you subtly rubbed it against the hardened boner behind his pants, causing the man to release a shaky breath. 

“Impatient, are you? Relax, hermosa. Papi’s gonna take xtra great care of you.~”

Miguel rips off his suit, uncovering his toned chest, his cock hardened with pre-cum dripping from the tip. He was painfully hard and ready to smother your insides. He rubs his tip in between your puffy lips, moistening it with your juices before slowly pushing his way in. You shook underneath him, your hands slightly scratching his back, pushing your head forward to meet his lips for another frenzied kiss.

He growled against the kiss, his hips quickening pace the harder he thrusts inside you, pulling away to sink his fangs into your neck. Your nails dig deeper into his skin, the scratch marks scarcely bleeding, though he doesn’t budge. 

The harmonious sounds of moans and groans mixed with the beating of the headboard against the wall would cost an earful of your neighbor’s complaints. But, both of y’all didn’t care since Miguel had bought the entire unit.

Blissful, indeed.

— 🏷️ :: @tojibreedingme

𖦹 ⋮ requests: open

author's note: nothing. just miguel appreciation.

! do not copy/translate/post on other platforms. give credit where it’s due. !

𓂃 𝘱𝘴𝘴𝘴𝘵! you can also read this on my ao3 of the same name~ ;)

enjoy!

𝘹𝘰𝘹𝘰,

ℒ

☺︎ 2023 melaninmight.

[shihalyfie]

I apologize for the rambly question but something has always bugged me about the baddies in Adventure. Just how connected were they with each other and the Dark Masters, if at all?

Devimon didn't really get involved with the kids until episode 8 and I first assumed he wanted the kids dead because they kept freeing the Digimon affected by the dark gears. But then you have Etemon talking about how he calculated where the kids should be appearing and how he plans on killing them from the get go. And then there's Devimon's warning of even stronger and more evil Digimon than him beyond File Island.

That would imply that all the baddies, from Devimon to Vamdemon, were in on the Dark Masters' agenda. However MetalEtemon and Pinocchimon fight each other while seemingly meeting for the first time. So that implies that all the baddies were independent.

Am I missing or forgetting some crucial lore here? If they weren't all in on it, what was their motivation for going after the kids when they barely knew anything about the digital world?

There's nothing you're missing, and honestly it's a question that's been eluding us for a while. Like I said, I think the last Adventure novel is really all we've got at the moment.

Maybe @analyzingadventure could help here?

[icanseethefuture333]

How do we manifest improved social life, like being popular in your town or having large groups of friends

"16 missed calls, sorry I was busy but I missed ya 💕"

I know social media and a social life is not the same but I noticed over the past year as I worked on my shadow work and becoming more accepting of myself. People have started giving me more attention on this blog. So therefore, just being yourself really and knowing that you have traits that are lovable is what will make people attracted to you. You can still be a flawed person and be considered likeable.

Also you have to understand having friends and being popular are two different things. Popularity to me is mostly just about receiving attention and it's very superficial, so people would like you at a surface level, not on a deep level. So if that's what you wish then that's fine, but if you want to form connections with people that are healthy and substantial, then you need to think about what you want to get out of your platonic relationships.

"Tryna get with you and yo friends"

I always say birds of a feather flock together. I can be selective about what people I associate myself with because if their behavior is pretty nasty and negative, I don't particularly want to surround myself around that energy. So you need to think about qualities would you want your friends to have? What unhealthy patterns do you keep repeating in your past friendships? Why are you alone currently? Have you've been a good friend as well? What do you truly desire from your social life? Once you written these things down, you can start having a clear idea of how you can attract that desire into your life

Here are some some positive list of traits or things a friendships should have:

Good communication. Misunderstandings and differences in personality can happen, but it is important to be able to mend those differences. If for example, your friend says "hey you like to go out for drinks but I don't like alcohol, could we perhaps do something else?" You'd could do something that makes you both comfortable. Or if a friend were to hurt your feelings, you should be able to talk about that and they can apologize.

Your friend makes sure you're okay in a moment of crisis.

They respect your boundaries when you say "no", don't wish to go out, or want to leave.

You equally both can depend on each other when it's necessary.

"I got your back, you got mine". This is a crucial one and it could apply to anything. For example, it's "girl code" to go to the bathroom together. Most women go to the bathroom together because that is where most abductions and assaults happen. So in order to protect each other they go together. Or even to discuss planning on leaving if someone makes you both uncomfortable.

Some negative traits or things a friendship can have:

Your friend is a closet hater. I notice this is something that's subtle and not as obvious, you have to catch it on time. It's more so like passive aggression and you'd have to be able to get the fake expression and tone of sarcasm. "Oh my god yeah, you sure do love to eat 😃😊🙄" is one way someone could take jabs at you. Don't gaslight yourself when it happens. If you noticed there was a twinge of jealousy or pettiness in their comment. Address it when you feel calm and express how that wasn't okay. If they dismiss it and treat you like you're being dramatic, that person is not being a good friend.

You and your friend behave like "mean girls". Meaning this person just brings out the worse in you and doesn't elevate you as a person. You just act like bitter bitches together.

They steal, lie, cheat, commit crimes, etc. I don't even know how people are friends with people who have no sense of morals just because they did them a favor growing up. It's absurd. You owe nothing to that person and even if that person did something nice for you doesn't mean you have to stay friends.

They're a freeloader or stingy with their money. This is self explanatory. I don't like people who use their friends for money or gifts, its very tacky. Especially if they don't ever do it in return. Unless that person helps you in other ways such as helping you clean your house or helped you get a job. I don't think it's appropriate for them to constantly take money from you. It's just giving sugar daddy/mommy at that point.

Another tip is that if you are someone with a disability (autism for example) you can ask your friends to use tone indicators when texting or if you have trouble with understanding social cues, you can ask them politely what do they mean by that or have a signal you can both use when you are feeling a certain emotion (thumbs down = sad, thumbs up = happy, clenched fist = angry, etc). It will be easier to understand what they are trying to express.

Doing research on body language can also help understand a pattern in people's behavior and who has true intentions or not.

How to use self concept to your advantage.

Let's check your thoughts and see why it could be potentially blocking you from making friends. If you think things like "oh no one likes me", "I'm so weird", or "that person is so cool, they would never hang out with me". Stop it!!! Don't ever in your life put people on a pedestal! Don't even put yourself on the pedestal, that concept is so stupid to me, it just creates a big ego. See this person as your equal. You see qualities in them that you like because they are reflecting a part of your soul that is beautiful as well. You are drawn to one another for a reason. Have the mindset that you attract positive and uplifting friendships easily because you have the same energy as well.

Now if you're a shy person, I know it can be hard to approach people, or feeling comfortable in crowds. You can just always start small. If you have a class with someone that you like or have similar interests with. You can sit next to them and ask them about their day. Eventually things will feel naturally because you are creating a routine with this person and there is a flow going on. Just be patient and understand it takes a while for some people to come around. People can have trouble trusting and need to if you're being genuine with them. So try not to force it if they aren't as warm at first. They're still trying to get to know you and you should do that as well.

Let's use Hello Kitty for example. She is known for being friends with many and loved and adored by all! She is a friendly person and in most shows that she's in, her ability to connect with people is quite effortless. Hello Kitty just be's herself! That's what makes her so special along with her ability to show love through her actions, not just words.

Now think about the term "social life". It's a part of your life where you're socializing, meaning you're letting people take away some or your valuable time. What do you wish to do with your social life? Now there's nothing with partying and it can be fun but there's so much more than going to the club, getting drunk, etc. You can make a vision board of your dream life, the kind of people you wish to meet, and what activities you wish to do with them.

Here a list of hobbies you can do with friends that aren't just about partying or clubbing:

Go to an art museum

Visit a botanical garden

Play tennis together

Take a pilates class

Go to the gym

Have a sleepover

Take a trip to the beach

Start a book club

Go out on a picnic

I hoped this helped, anon. Now go out there and make some friends! 👭

[redwolfxx]

Just Missed

Jay x reader

A/N: i rewrote it and it's pretty edited, but if you catch anything i missed, please let me know!

Tags: fluff, mentions of kissing, interruptions and nuisances __________

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

You and Jay had gotten together the summer before your first year of high school. It was hard for the two of you to think about how long your relationship had lasted. You were both approaching the last semester before graduation.

Jay always treated you as well as he possibly could. He would buy you gifts out of nowhere in an attempt to show you what he couldn't vocalize. His love for you was endless, just like yours to him.

However, there was a slight issue. The two of you had never kissed, not that it was crucial to your relationship, or any for that matter. But it was hard to see him and not want to smother him with kisses.

Especially since his hair covered half of his face ninety percent of the time, how could you not stare at his lips constantly??

As for Jay, he would have kissed you the second he accepted your confession, but he was too shy. Always so nervous you'd be disgusted and break up with him on the spot.

Unbeknownst to one another, you both had made individual vows to kiss before graduation. It would be your first kiss as a couple, and your first kiss all together.

However, it would take more than the will of the two.

Here is a compilation of attempts and embarrassing moments:

-----------

Attempt 1:

You and Jay were at his house after school doing homework together. His sister was supposed to be out for the weekend with her friends. His father never came home anyway, and everything was perfectly set up for success.

Only one thing wasn't accounted for. His sister had a memory comparable to that of a goldfish at times.

As the two were watching a movie, they carefully glanced over at one another. The movie slowly drowned out as they looked at each other, slowly leaning in.

But, just as they were about to kiss, Joy burst in through the front door exclaiming that she had stupidly forgotten her duffle bag of clothes for her weekend out.

Flustered, you and Jay had quickly separated to opposite sides of the couch, awkwardly staying like that until the movie was over and you left to go home.

———-

Attempt 2:

This time, you were walking back to your house after cram school together. As it had been getting late, Jay had offered to walk you back.

Graciously accepting, you had both walked back. The only way people passing could tell the two of you even knew each other was the way your hands carefully held each other's.

When you had finally reached your door, you had thanked him. But before you turned to head inside your apartment building you carefully stepped towards him, and he reciprocated. Carefully leaning down to you, you both slowly leaned in.

That's when your brother ran outside yelling profanities and something about defiling you at Jay. Before dragging you inside.

Embarrassed, you sent Jay an apology when you had reached your room. However, not before fighting with your brother the entire way back to your apartment, threatening to blackmail each other of course.

-------

Attempt 3

You had about a month left until graduation and the two of you were growing desperate.

Attempt after attempt had been denied. From siblings to random strangers on the street, you were beginning to feel defeated.

You were determined though, today was the day.

It was the first break of the day, with everyone leaving to go to the snack stand in the courtyard, you had boldly walked over to Jay. Grabbing his face you began to lean in when Mira ran into the classroom claiming she had left her money in her desk.

Embarrassed, once she saw the two of you, she apologized and ran out of the room. Now, both flustered, you just sat there holding his head. Laughing he stood up and hugged you so you could hide your face.

With the break ending you returned to your desk, and you laid your head down on the table.

------

Attempt 4:

The two of you were on the rooftop after school had ended, talking about plans after high school. You were leaning against each other, watching the clouds pass.

The conversation (albeit one-sided) had slowed down to the silence of the wind and cicadas chirping. Looking up at him, and him down to you, you both began to lean in.

When the doors to the roof burst open with a panting Vasco. Spotting the two of you he ran over to ask if either of you had seen a flying penguin nearby. Before you could answer, Jace had caught up and breathlessly attempted to reel Vasco in.

Trying to explain to him that the guy had said pigeons are like flying penguins, and not that there were flying penguins on the roof.

Laughing at Vasco, you and Jay took that as your cue to head back to your respective homes.

------

Attempt ?????

With graduation around the corner, you were starting to think that you should just give up on the kiss.

The end of the day was approaching and you were just so tired. From college applications to school work to the kiss, it was a lot to handle. Exhausted, you rested your head on your hand and slowly fell asleep to the droning of the teacher's voice.

You woke to the gentle shaking of Jay. Glancing up, you slowly woke up as you sluggishly packed your bag.

Just as you were about to head out of the classroom, Jay held your arm to stop you. Looking back at him, you noticed the red tint to his ears, realizing what he was going for. You turned to fully face him.

Leaning in, you were about to kiss when a loud gasp startled the two of you. Jumping a part, you looked over to see Daniel in the doorway, face red and hands covering his eyes loudly apologizing and stating he was in charge of cleaning the classroom.

As they both walked out of the classroom, they both came to terms with their goal. Not that it wouldn't happen, just that the next person who interrupted them would be sorely mistaken.

——————————————————————-

A/N: Some say that they still haven't kissed to this day. 🤔

[lotusrue]

Muu & the Significance of Her Shoe

Okay hi, I’ve poked around the Milgram fandom on tumblr and I’ve finally decided to write out an analysis/theory on my own - I don’t think it’s super well known but I’m also not super present in Milgram tumblr, so if I’m beating a dead horse here ignore me, but I think a crucial part many people miss about Muu’s crime is the significance her shoe plays. It’s quite literally, in my opinion, the difference between forgiven and unforgiven in my eyes

(TW below for s/h, bullying, and murder (for my mutuals who don’t know what Milgram is))

Alright, so the deal with Muu’s shoe - the right one specifically - is how it’s been drawn off her foot. It’s not excessively common, but it made an appearance in her anniversary art-

-and it’s important to note this is not a metaphor for anything. In only a few frames of After Pain, it can be seen as Muu kills Rei, on the ground and clutching the knife that her right shoe is off her foot, sitting behind her.

If you didn’t already see where I was going with this, it points towards Muu tripping.

Muu was at her breaking point when the murder occurred. In the scene just before, she was on the bathroom floor, being looked down on, laughed at, and photographed by the girls she was previously in a sort of clique with. Eventually, they disperse, leaving only Rei who walks away saying nothing after a moment.

This is clearly shown to be the straw that breaks the camel’s back: Muu runs out of the building, floundering and blurry-eyed with tears. Rei stops and turns towards her as Muu reaches her and catches her breath, Muu tries to say something to her, Rei tries to turn away and..

The scene cuts to Muu stabbing Rei with a box knife, then shows Rei dead while Muu sits before her, staring down at the knife and heaving.

Everything in this scene, from Muu in the real world to the hourglass symbolism, depicts that this was a genuine shock for Muu. Muu looks purely terrified both as she’s stabbing Rei and after as she stares down at the knife realizing what she’s done. The hourglass doesn’t suffocate her as it would’ve, it shatters - this wasn’t meant to happen.

You’ll notice in the scene just before the murder, Muu is having water poured on her by the girls in the bathroom. She’s lying down in water, and to leave she would undoubtedly be getting her shoes wet. Combine wet shoes with blurry vision, stumbling, and desperately chasing after somebody, and it makes sense that Muu would fall.

Why she had the box knife on her in the first place is more tricky to explain. My personal theory is that it ties some way into self-harm. Box knives specifically are often used in depictions of self-harm (Menhera-chan is a good example), and knowing what we know about Muu’s mental state at the time, I don’t think it’s entirely out of the realm of possibility. Muu would likely have never dealt with anything of such magnitude, and egotistical as she may be, I don’t doubt she genuinely felt the whole world was against her at the moment. I think there’s many means by which she could’ve turned to self-harm, and because of the sheer variety of reasons different people have for it it’s difficult to speculate what her’s might have been, but I do know I’d understand if by some way she ended up there.

So, to summarize this theory with as little bias as possible:

Muu had taken to carrying the murder weapon around with her, as a result of a growing habit of self-harm. After school and a particularly bad encounter with the girls who’d turned on her, Muu’s left both physically and mentally unstable - she’s clutching her knife (having just self-harmed or initially about to) her vision blurs, her steps are shaky, she’s fumbling to catch Rei, etc. She finally catches up to Rei who turns to hear her, tries to apologize and put an end to it all.. but Rei only begins to turn away. Panicked and desperate, Muu reaches out to grab Rei once more, and her shoe slips off. She trips, knife in hand, and before she can do anything about it she’s stabbed and killed Rei.

She’d never meant for it to go so far. It’s important not to forget that Muu is in high school, and for the most part, she’s had a relatively normal life. Sure, she certainly wouldn’t like Rei or any of the girls who turned on her, but never had she intended to kill any of them.

The following part is more blatantly biased, it’s me advocating for forgiven Muu LOL - I think my phrasing in general has been generally biased towards her, but I do want to make it clear Muu is not a good person.

It’s Not My Fault makes it clear she has a faulty understanding of her role in the whole situation. If it weren’t for her initial behavior, this never would’ve happened in the first place. She’s insanely vain and controlling over who she calls her ‘friends’ and shows to mercy should they ever go against her or not even simply not attend to her every whim.

Muu expects utter obedience from everyone, and when she doesn’t get it, she ruins them. She’s not a good person.

But she’s not a murderer.

At least for the murder specifically, she’s a victim of circumstance - she couldn’t have predicted tripping, and I don’t think she ever intended to pull the box knife on Rei. You can see on her face just how horrified she is at herself when she sees what she’s done and while the hourglass shatters around her. She’s a high schooler in high school drama, and then all too suddenly it’s escalated way beyond comprehension, and more than ever she feels she needs to shift the blame to anything other than herself.

‘It was an accident’ doesn’t just cut it, as seen in the T2 voice drama where she openly says she had ‘no way out but to kill someone’ or that it was ‘revenge’. Honestly I think she’s lying here just based off the pure shock she had on her face and the fact that she probably thinks she was voted Forgiven without the knowledge that she tripped - if the Warden perceives ‘revenge’ as Forgiven, then of course it was for the sake of revenge. I think that’s also partially why she says “What was it called again… Revenge… Revenge? That means revenge can be [an acceptable motivator], right? And if you don’t forgive me this time, that’d mean that it’s not.” I interpreted this as sort of gauging why Es voted her Forgiven and hinting that she in a sense changed her mindset to almost convince herself it was a revenge-oriented murder, as that’s what Es has forgiven

This is a take on Muu I don’t see super often, probably because I’m a heavy Muu sympathizer. Obviously 💀 But I think it’d be fun just to put it out there even if it has quite a few holes

That’s about all from me, if anything’s off in my interpretations it’s because I’ve been stuck in Reverse 1999 hell and I’m steadily easing back into Milgram 😭😭 I’ve forgotten a bit of my previous analyses of Muu ngl

This is very far-fetched speculation please keep that in mind LOL

[bratshaws]

through the hourglass 284. brb x oc

a/n: APOLOGIES I DON'T KNOW STUFF (comments and reblogs are super welcome and encouraged!)

pairing: plus size!oc x rooster

warnings: none uwu

goodness gracious (pls read this one to know more what this fic is about!!)

chapter

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-

Rooster was deep in thought, surrounded by an array of deployment documents and logistical plans. The weight of his responsibilities as a higher-ranking officer had a tendency to pull him into his own world. The silence in the room was only broken by the occasional shuffling of papers or the soft hum of equipment in the background.

It took a few throat-clearing attempts before McAllister finally got Rooster's attention. Startled, Rooster looked up and met McAllister's gaze. 

"Sorry, sir," McAllister began, his voice trembling slightly. "I know you are busy, I just wanted to say everyone is settled – th-the new recruits, I mean." He offered a shy smile, attempting to ease the tension. "W-What are you doing, sir?"

Rooster appreciated McAllister's professionalism and dedication to his role as a senior officer. He closed the folder in front of him and leaned back in his chair, letting out a sigh. "Thank you, McAllister. I appreciate the update," he said with a nod. "I've been going through these deployment plans, making sure everything is in order. It's crucial that we have a well-organized operation."

McAllister nodded, craning his neck forward a bit to see more of the files. "I understand, sir. Is there anything I can assist you with, or do you need any specific information?"

Rooster considered McAllister's offer for a moment before responding, "Actually, yes, there is something you can help me with. I need the latest reports on our equipment maintenance, as well as a status update on our supplies."

McAllister immediately took note of Rooster's requests and said, "Of course, sir. I'll gather the reports and have them on your desk as soon as possible." he clears his throat, “Anything else?”

Rooster taps the papers, thinking about the next request carefully, then looking up to meet the younger pilot’s eyes, “Has officer Halton done…anything out of the ordinary?”

“Oh…um.” he scratches his cheek, thinking about it, “Nothing much sir, he just greeted us but…he hasn’t been weird.” McAllister says, “Not like…before, you know? Hah.”

Rooster nodded in response to McAllister's comments. "Good to hear," he said, relieved. "That’s all, dismissed."

As McAllister left the room to retrieve the requested reports, Rooster returned to his task at hand. The plans were complex and required his utmost attention. He knew that he needed to ensure that everything was in order to guarantee the success of their mission.

And he couldn’t lie, he missed Mav there.

Having his uncle close by was really comforting. Hell, he could ask him about stuff and not worry too much,but now he was by himself with the others and he couldn’t talk to Mav back home, at least not yet.

“...what would Mav do?” he asks himself as he looks down at the mission brief, “What would he do?”

The question hung in the air, reminding Rooster that, well, Mav could be a little nuts sometimes and he doesn’t think he should do that yet. This mission was very complicated, more than the last one, so he had to be careful.

He sighs, rubbing his eyes before pushing himself off the desk and marching to the door, opening and checking the outside, still getting used to this base.

Rooster stepped out of his office, the cool, sterile air of the military base greeting him. He just arrived at this new base so it still felt somewhat unfamiliar to him. It was unbelievably dark, way too much for his liking.

He clears his throat, all he could hear are the noises within the structure, hell he couldn’t even hear the other officers here, “Fuckin’ creepy, I tell you,” he looks up at a slightly flickering light and frowns, shaking his head, “I just gotta meet Payback and the others, talk to them about what we should do.”

Rooster made his way through the dimly lit corridors of the base, the overhead lights casting long shadows on the walls. The silence was punctuated only by the distant hum of machinery, a constant reminder that this place was somewhat alive.

The base was nestled along the rugged coastline. Its sprawling compound was a maze of concrete buildings, hangars, and runways. The salty sea breeze wafted through the area, carrying with it the briny scent of the ocean. It’d be lovely if the sight of the sea being just pitch black wasn’t a bit unnerving.

As Rooster walked along the main corridor, he passed by several closed doors, behind which he knew his fellow pilots were busy with their respective tasks. The familiar echo of footsteps resounded as crew members hurried about, ensuring that everything was in order ahead of him.

He couldn't help but feel a sense of isolation in this new environment. The proximity of the ocean added an element of unpredictability to their operations, and Rooster knew he needed to adapt.

He couldn’t lie but his fear of open waters was still very present, and it seemed to worsen in this place for some reason. He could hear the sounds of feet moving ahead and he sighed in relief, finally some people moving about, finally something else but machinery making noise.

Payback was waiting for him with his arms crossed, talking to Jake who was leaning against the wall, “Fucking creepy isn’t it?” the fellow mustached officer asks, pointing around them, “Me and Jake were talking about it.”

“It’s not Cinderella’s castle.”Rooster says, “I’ll tell you that much.”

“Feels a bit abandoned, doesn’t it?” Jake adds while looking around, “The whole atmosphere around it I mean.”

The base did indeed have an eerie aura, and its isolation along the desolate coastline only added to the feeling. He gazed around the corridor, taking in the architecture and atmosphere of the naval base.

The walls were constructed of solid, weathered concrete that had been battered by years of coastal storms. Paint peeled in places, revealing the gray, utilitarian material beneath. Flickering overhead lights created a dimly lit path down the corridor, casting long, shifting shadows on the walls. 

The floors were made of scuffed linoleum that squeaked underfoot, a sharp contrast to the worn, cold, and unforgiving ground. The base seemed to have seen better days, with signs of repair and maintenance long overdue. The salt-laden air from the nearby ocean seemed to seep into every corner, leaving a faint tang of the sea in the air.

As Rooster looked out of the windows that lined one side of the corridor, he could see the inky blackness of the ocean outside. The crashing waves were hidden in the darkness, but the occasional flash of a distant lighthouse provided some relief from the overwhelming obscurity.

Payback,clearly wanting to change the subject, spoke up. "I hear you've got the latest mission brief. What's the word from command?"

Rooster nodded and pulled the mission brief from his jacket, handing it to Payback. "It's a complex one, that's for sure," he replied. "Our orders are to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance off the coast, monitoring any unusual naval activity in the area. Intel suggests there might be some covert operations happening nearby."

“Again?”

“Again.”

Jake chimed in with a frown. "We've got some specialized equipment for this mission. High-resolution cameras, sonar, and even some classified gear for intercepting and decoding communications. The brass wants to keep a close eye on what's happening out there." he frowns more, “I mean…seems a lot of work considering we’ll only stay out here for three months.”

Payback studied the mission brief, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Three months out here in this eerie place, watching the sea for covert ops? That's a long time for surveillance duty, even for us."

Rooster nodded in agreement. "Agreed, but command seems to think there's something big brewing out there, something they're not telling us. We'll be running daily sorties with our aircraft, and they've even scheduled some night operations. It's going to be a demanding assignment."

Payback handed the mission brief to Jake, who skimmed through it. "This equipment," he said, pointing to a list of advanced surveillance gear, "it's like they're preparing us for something more than just reconnaissance."

Rooster raised an eyebrow. "You think there's more to this than meets the eye?"

Jake shrugged. "I wouldn't put it past command to keep certain details under wraps. They've got their reasons, I'm sure. Plus, you are the leader here, Rooster. Do…you think there’s something off?"

“Well I–” they pause for a brief second as the lights overhead flickered once more, casting eerie shadows on the concrete walls. The three men slowly looked at each other, before Rooster said, “I think we should go to a better illuminated place.”

With a nod from his team, Rooster led Payback, and Jake down the dim corridor, their footsteps echoing in the eerie silence. They made their way toward a more well-lit area of the naval base, passing by closed doors that bore faded labels hinting at the base's former functions. 

Rooster frowns, then looks around the area for a bit, “This place…has really seen better days, I’m sure there are better bases to be used.” he frowns even more, “I hate to think this is the brass cutting corners in some ways.”

Payback couldn't help but comment, "This area certainly looks better. It's as if they've chosen to revamp this part of the base while leaving the rest to its historical charm." the other two gave him a weird look, “What? It could be that.”

Rooster couldn't shake off the feeling of unease he had in the dilapidated corridor. Like a haunted house, yikes. "Let's just hope our surveillance equipment is top-notch, considering the secrecy surrounding this mission. We need the best tools available.”

He wonders what Bea would say about this once he tells her.

-

"I can't believe you." 

Beatrice looked up from her dusting, her green eyes meeting her friend's sparkling blue ones. "It's true," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of astonishment.

Shells folded her arms against the dresser, her blonde hair pulled back with bobby pins as she pointed at Beatrice. "I know it's true, but I still don't believe it," she said, shaking her head. "He's going to be in jail for that long? I mean, girl, we have to celebrate. Your messed-up ex is gone!"

Beatrice couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh. "I never thought this day would come," she admitted. "If ever. Money laundering too. His whole family is suffering because of it…which is kinda sad, they aren’t bad people."

Shells,however, does not care, “Pft, they allowed their son to get this far,I wouldn’t feel bad.” she smirks, then crossed the room and wrapped her friend in a tight hug. "We need to celebrate,babes.”

Beatrice raised an eyebrow. "Do I even want to know?"

Shells grinned mischievously. "We're going out tonight."

“What? No.”

“Why not?”

And Beatrice points towards Nikki, who is happily seated on the large chair inside the twins’ nursery, her little legs kicking as she watches the two women with a little smile, “Because I have someone else to worry about.” Bea smiles, “Besides…I mean,I’m already married to Rooster, so do I even need to celebrate Eric’s comeuppance when that is my main prize?”

“Gross.”

“I am very gross.” Bea grins, “Rooster is the best thing that’s ever happened to me, so, I think every day I celebrate it.”

Shells chuckled, shaking her head. "You two are disgustingly adorable, you know that?"

“Yep. We sure are.”

Shells grinned, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "That's true. But tonight, you're stepping out of your comfort zone, just for a little while. We'll have a girls' night, and we'll make sure Nikki is well taken care of."

Beatrice hesitated, her gaze shifting to Nikki. Her daughter was her world, and she didn't want to be away from her for too long. But she also knew that…she promised Bradley she wouldn’t stress too much and she could already feel the anxiety crawling up her spine.

"Okay," Beatrice finally relented, "but we'll need to find a babysitter or someone to watch over Nikki."

Shells clapped her hands in excitement. "Don't worry, I've got it all sorted out. Amelia can do it.”

“Amelia?” she blinks, “Your cousin? The one in college right now?” Shells nods happily, clearly proud of her suggestion, “...Shells I don’t want to make Amelia stop what she’s doing to take care of Nikki.”

“Babes, shhhh,’ Shells places her fingers against Bea’s mouth, smushing her lips, “Sssshhh,ssshhh, you think too much, Too much. it’s just a little outing, tomorrow we both have work at the bar,plus, when was the last time we did go out?”

Beatrice blinked, trying hard to remember when that was inded. "Well…alright," she said, giving in to her friend's persuasive…charms. "Let's do it, but just for a little while. And we'll make sure Amelia is okay with babysitting Nikki."

Shells grinned, "You won't regret this, Beatrice. It's time for some fun, and we deserve it." she grins wider, “It’ll be so fun!!

[lythea-creation]

Brighten My World - Tasneem x fem reader (Chapter 4)

Chapter 1

Previous Chapter

warnings: threatening, mentions of toxic parent

word count: 1.210

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“Hey, (f/n). Why have I never been over at your house?”, Tasneem wondered on our way to eat lunch.

She was feeling more confident with eating around me by now and I was always right there if her mind was trying to trick her.

“Um … I dunno. I guess it just never happened”, I supposed. “You didn't miss out on anything though.”

“I know you talked to my mom”, she confessed.

I stared at her with wide eyes, not daring to say anything as I was waiting for her to elaborate.

She pushed my shoulder playfully, making me stumble a step to the side. “Don't look at me like that! It's all good. She actually apologized to me. She told me that she noticed my improved mood since you're around and that she wants me to stay like that, even if it means that I won't keep up with all my commitments. It feels like she's finally beginning to see me.”

A bright smile captured my face. “I'm so happy to hear that, Tasneem”, I proposed.

“Thank you”, she shot back. “Seriously. For everything.”

Her smile was making my heart flutter. The urge to take her hand in mine was almost unbearable, but I knew we had to stay low in that aspect at school.

“So … back to the initial topic. I realized that my mom is completely used to you showing up whenever and I don't even know yours”, she pointed out.

“You don't need to know her”, I insisted.

“Why are you so against it?”, Tasneem inquired.

By now we were sitting outside to eat. The weather was great, which was nothing new.

“Are you afraid that she might embarrass you? Because I'd laugh about some silly childhood stories, but it would only make me adore you more”, she continued.

“Or is it because of our relationship?” She had lowered her voice for that question.

“She doesn't need to know if you don't want to.”

“No, it's not that. We just don't have the kind of relationship you and your mom have and I'm pretty sure you'll be disappointed. Or rather upset, maybe”, I claimed.

“What do you mean?”, she questioned, concern written over her face.

“It's just … I know she loves me, in some way at least. But most of the time we're living separate lives. When I was struggling with Layan's death, she told me to suck it up and stop grieving over what's gone because I won't get it back anyway. I know she meant to give me good advice. We just don't get along that well”, I explained.

Tasneem placed her hand on my forearm, a supportive gesture I appreciated a lot.

“She's pretty much a hypocrite. She wants me to tell her about my feelings and plays the concerned mom, but the next day it's like our conversation never really happened and she just wants me to go on as if everything was fine. That's why I couldn't even talk about Layan a few weeks ago. I hadn't been allowed to grieve”, I stated.

“I'm sorry, (f/n). That's awful”, she noted.

“You helped me through it”, I proposed. “I just don't want her to screw our relationship up. You know … make 'helpful' comments or trigger you in any way. I like our life the way it is right now.”

“Me too”, Tasneem agreed, smiling. “But whether you like it or not, your mom is still a crucial part of your life and I'd like to meet her someday.”

“Okay”, I gave in. “But we'll do it on a day my dad comes home early. He's amazing, just busy a lot of the time, thanks to his job. So I don't get to be with him much.”

“It's settled the...”, she decided.

“Hey, Tasneem!”, Hiba called out, approaching us.

A smug grin was adorning her face while she was scanning the way we were sitting, Tasneem's hand still on my forearm.

“What's up with you recently?”, Hiba questioned. “Why are you spending all your time with that loner? What's your plan?”

“Isn't it obvious? I'm spending time with her because I enjoy it and I'm not spending it with you because you're being a bitch about it”, Tasneem declared.

Hiba was having difficulties to control herself. At least I assumed that reading her body language before she stormed off without another word.

“I can't believe her”, Tasneem ranted.

“Maybe you should talk to her?”, I suggested. “The real kind, without just clawing at each others throats.”

“I don't think that'll do”, she presumed. “Hiba's kinda living in her own little world, thinking she's the boss and has to be in control all the time. I doubt resonating with her would work out.”

“I just don't like standing in between you”, I confessed.

“It's not you. We've been having issues for quite some time now”, she reassured me. “But that's enough with all the serious talk. Let's plan something to do on the weekend.”

Somehow changing topics was easy for once, relishing in the positive aspects of our lives. Laughing together with her just felt like every bad thing was gone. So from that point on the break ended quicker than I wished for.

At the end of the school day Tasneem and I were about to head out together like we always did. Even when I did not tag along, Tasneem insisted to walk me to the bus to cherish any moment together we could get.

But today she had forgotten one of her books in the classroom. So she had to head back while I was waiting in the corridor, close to the exit.

Everyone else had already left. At least that was what I had thought until Hiba pushed me into the bathroom that was right next to me.

“What the hell?”, I exclaimed, regaining my stance.

“What did you do?”, Hiba interrogated me.

“What do you mean?”, I inquired confused.

“What did you do to make Tasneem hang out with you? You're a loner. A nobody. Why would she want to keep you around?”, Hiba questioned, her voice dripping with disgust.

“This is between you and Tasneem. You should talk to her about it”, I suggested.

Hiba took a step toward me, getting dangerously close. Honestly it was intimidating, but I stood my ground anyway, not putting distance between us again.

“You should stay away from her”, she advised me.

“Won't happen”, I assured her.

“You'll regret that”, she warned me.

“I don't think so. But maybe you should question your behavior if you want Tasneem to be your friend because I'm pretty sure she wouldn't appreciate what you're doing right now”, I considered.

“I'm gonna make your life a living hell”, she threatened me.

“I don't think that will be possible. I've already been through hell and yet here I am. I don't go down that easily”, I promised, not suppressing the grin that was forming on my face.

“We'll see”, she alluded and left me behind.

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What do you guys think about the story so far? Just finished chapter 7 btw.

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