#at this moment too many years ago to mention i was grabbed feet first from my mother's womb

[klinejack]

Hey buddy, I’m not paying you to hear your thoughts on life. I’m paying you to sing!

[bones4thecats]

Can I request Nikola, Qin Shi Huang, Buddha and Leonidas with a s/o that's like Nyx?

How Past! Them Met Their Nyx! S/O

Type of Writing: Request Characters: Nikola Tesla, Qin Shi Huang, Buddha, and Leonidas Name: How Past! Them Met Their Nyx! S/O Requester: Anonymous

A/N: I only have four of Nyx’s kids mentioned (Aether, Hemera, Thanatos, and Hypnos), so just roll with it. By the way, the reader here is considered (in thought) to be a female, but it is left ambiguous so that you male and other readers feel accepted.

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I am downright in love with this man

🧪 When you first met Nikola Tesla, you were just relaxing at night, taking a stroll underneath your sky as your long dark cloak faded into stars at the ends flowed in the air

🧪 You had just spoke to your old friend Hades during a meeting in the Underworld about your second-youngest son’s, Thanatos’, efforts of bringing souls down to the Underworld for Hades to handle

🧪 At the moment, you just wanted some peace, and knowing that your two youngest were busy with work, one being on guard for dying souls and the other watching over many different people in order to help them sleep

🧪 Though, hearing the sound of soft feathered wings moving, you looked up and noticed a bright white pigeon flying around while carrying moonflowers, chrysanthemums, lotuses, and sunflowers in its beak. These all reminded you of the cute flower crowns that the youngest Valkyrie sister, Göll, would make you and your children

🧪 You smiled gently as the bird landed on your outstretched hand and dropped a moonflower into your palm before flying off

🧪 The bird began to fly farther from your gaze as you heard the patter of small feet coming from behind you, making you turn around expecting to see a young child, and a young child you saw

🧪 He looked no older than 4 years in humans, and you noticed that he nearly had fallen older, making you lean down and catch him so he wouldn't crash and hurt himself, it reminded you of helping Aether walk all those centuries ago

" I am so sorry, ma'am/sir! " " It's alright, young man. If I may ask, why are you in such a rush? " " Oh, my pigeon flew that direction carrying some flowers I grabbed for my mother. It's so hard to catch up to, troublesome bird. "

🧪 You chuckled at his expression, he really was quite the interesting mortal, now wasn't he? You could see great potential in his soul, making you look back to where you once stood where the dropped flower laid on the ground

🧪 Picking it up, you opened the boy's palm, dropping the flower once again, not onto the ground, but into the soft hand of the young boy

" I may not be able to retrieve the rest of your flowers, but, here is one that the creature left. I also have something that may help you out! "

🧪 Reaching into your pocket lacing your cape, you summoned some flowers from one vase in your home that you shared in Valhalla with your sibling, Gaia

" Here are some flowers freshly picked from my sister's garden, they, by what she tells me, symbolize things such as motherly love and whatnot. I hope your mother enjoys them. " " Thank you so much! What's your name, if I may ask? " " I am... (Y/N). What is your name, young man? " " Nikola Tesla! " " Well, it was a pleasure meeting you Nikola Tesla. " " Nikola! Where are you, lil' brother? "

🧪 Looking up in shock as the boy turned around, you stiffened, being discovered by a mortal child was nothing, but a possible adult was something truly bad. A child could pass it off like nothing, an adult could not

" I'm over here, Dane! " " Oh thank God. Who were you talking too? " " The lady/man- where did they go...? "

🧪 Nikola looked around for the sight of the person who gifted him the glorious flowers, only for his older brother to pick him up and begin bringing him home in a rush

🧪 As the elder boy ran home with his brother in arms, the younger's mind wandered, where did that nice woman/man go? And will he ever see them again?

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👑 Taking a nightly stroll was something the Emperor of China was familiar with, it was a time that he could have to himself, no guards right behind him and no duties clawing at his door for him to deal with

👑 Just himself and the night sky that he admired

👑 Meanwhile, a cloaked being was walking through the woods, passing through the trees with ease, as they had been on the same path multiple times throughout their limitless lifespan

👑 Due to being in an argument with the Head of the Gods, a headache was pounding through the head of the person as they rubbed their temples with their fingers

👑 As they traveled through the shady lands, they stumbled across a large temple, one they recognized as the very one the Emperor of China resided in

" What a sight, I never realized just how dazzling these building looked from such a high point. "

👑 The star-covered eyes of the mystery person burst with light as the sound of another's voice came from behind them, causing them to turn around, gripping a blade underneath their cloak

" Whoa there! There's no need for that. I apologize if I startled you, uhm, whoever you are. I just saw you walking alone and decided to go with you. " " It's- it's alright, I suppose. "

👑 A stern silence cracked between the two individuals, allowing the pitchy sound of a blade being laid back in a case to echo across their ear-shots

👑 Looking at the stars, Qin Shi Huang sighed deeply and back at the cloaked person who decided to stay alongside him, and he had to ask himself; did this person not know who he was? Could they be a traveler of some kind?

👑 A traveler of some kind you were...

👑 Qin looked down at your feet and noticed that your skin was dipping into a very pale looking shade as your cloak became very faded, as if it was turning into dust

" So... to make this far less awkward and save us a few moments of boring silence, may I ask what your name is, possible traveler? " " It is Y/N, and yours? " " Emperor Qin Shi Huang, but you may call me Qin Shi if you wish. " " Alright then, Qin Shi. "

👑 Qin Shi Huang sat down on the grassy plain, his masked face still looking up at the star-littered sky with such happiness obvious, despite his eyes being hidden

👑 You smiled gently and sat beside him, crossing your legs as you manipulated a star to sway across the sky in what humans seemingly began to call a 'shooting star'

" Ah, it seems that a shooting star has crossed the sky. What shall I wish for? I know! "

👑 Looking at the Emperor, you were shocked at how normal he seemed. Normally the high-ranking humans that you came across were tyrannical and fairly crude in their words and actions

" There! What did you wish for, Y/N-san? "

👑 When Qin looking back over at you, he was shocked to see that instead of you sitting there, a moonflower stood bravely, its petals pristine without any scuffs, as if it bloomed just second before

👑 Where in China had you gone?

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🍭 Ever since Buddha first became a God, many weren't fond of him, though most of the Deities littered across Valhalla have only heard about the God of Buddhism through word of mouth from the few Gods that had met him so far

🍭 You, the Deity of the Night in the Greek Pantheon, had only hear about the man through your children's words, mainly Aether and Hemera, who were by-far your most patient children

🍭 And even during present time, you loved to stare at the stars and remember the first time you met your soon-to-be husband

🍭 It was a lovely night in one of the many fields in Valhalla, and normally you would watch over your domain of the starry sky as Humanity was being dealt with by your youngest boys, Thanatos and Hypnos

🍭 You had dressed yourself in your long star-covered cloak, hiding yourself from any prying eyes, since many feared you just by hearing your name. Even the strongest of all Gods, Zeus, feared the mention of your name

🍭 Holding yourself high while hidden, you walked through the grassy plain, brushing past tree by tree as the wind pulled the cloth covering you back lightly

🍭 To describe it in a few words; you were in Paradise

🍭 As you walked carefully around many plant-life and sleeping creatures, Buddha was laying in his hammock, starring at the same sky you controlled, admiring the stars as they flickered delicately in the vast land known as space

🍭 Sucking on a lollipop from his stash hidden away, Buddha sighed and stretched his back, allowing it to pop as he caught onto the sound of grass being pushed down and let back up in the form of footsteps

🍭 Grabbing his Six Realms Staff, the God held it up for whoever was around to see as he let out an annoyed groan. After all, having your peaceful silence interrupted would be annoying

" Alright, whoever ya' are, come on out. I don't wanna waste anymore time than necessary. " " I apologize, Lord Buddha. I was just taking a walk around to admire the stars and must have awoken you. "

🍭 Cocking an eyebrow at the light-and-honey-coated voice, Buddha looked up and noticed your form walk up from behind the one tree holding up the front of his hammock and once he saw your face, his eyes widened

" Holy shit! You're Y/N, the Deity of the Night! I never thought I'd be seeing you walk around in Paradise so late at night. "

🍭 Chuckling lightly, you nodded as you pulled down your hood, allowing your hair that faded into the dust of space to run out freely, making Buddha laugh at your smile

" I knew you were powerful and all from the stories told, but they never said how dazzling you looked~ "

🍭 Rolling your eyes at his attempt of flustering you, you just looked up at the sky as Buddha stood up and planted himself right beside you to look at the stars and moon with you

🍭 It was nice sharing such a moment with a lovely person like you, maybe you guys could do it again some other time?

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🚬 As one of the classic Greek Gods, you were held at a fairly high standard once your myth became the talk of the land

🚬 But, ever since Zeus and the rest of the Olympians came along and destroyed your whole time with your siblings and rest of your allies, you became more of a side-god when it came to standards of worshiping

🚬 Leonidas wasn't fond of the Gods ever since his demise, blaming the demise of him and his 300 (though really 299) soldiers on the Greek God Apollo, whom your oldest children, Aether and Hemera, served alongside

🚬 You, on the other hand, had no-one to place a blame onto, though you weren't fond when someone were to try offending Apollo, as you had treated the male like a son since he was a young God making his way in the Pantheon

🚬 Holding his title far from the grasp of the Gods, Leonidas despised being told what to do, so, when your second youngest, Thanatos, began to hold himself to a standard against Leonidas, you were called in by Hypnos to help out

🚬 Watching as parts of the sky began to fall down and form a humanoid shape was something far new to Leonidas, and because of that he stepped back and readied his weapon to protect himself in case something happened

" There is no need for that King Leonidas I, I am merely here to retrieve my pain in the ass son. " " Pain in the ass? But Mom/Dad, he- " " Enough! I will listen to your side of the story when you take a break in the next few millennia, Thanatos. "

🚬 The King of Sparta watched as you grabbed Thanatos' ear and tugged on it like a parent would when scolding a child for doing something badly, like hitting a kid for example

🚬 Watching a Deity of your stature just treat your son like a human parent would made Leonidas' guard come down slightly, sensing you weren't going to attack him out of nowhere, you had a sense of understanding radiating off you

" Hypnos, please bring your brother back home and also let Aether and Hemera know that he is grounded for the next few months. No using his scythe during that time, only his old training stick. " " What?! "

🚬 Sighing as Hypnos dragged his brother through a portal he summoned, you turned to look back at the human and you smiled nervously, holding your hands out in defense

" I apologize for my son's actions, he sometimes gets in his own head and begins to believe himself to be more powerful than he really is. I think he's spending to much time with the Olympian Brothers... " " It's... alright, I suppose. "

🚬 Smiling gently, you held your hand out for the mortal to shake, making his raise his eyebrows slightly, he was surprised that a Deity of your ranking would actually try touching a human

🚬 Allowing his weapon to lean back up against the building's wall, Leonidas shook your hand, making you mentally sigh, thanking your creators for allowing him to forgive you and shake your hand as a sign of that forgiveness, since every other human just tried disrespecting you for your parenting skills

🚬 Letting go of his hand, you pulled your cloak's hood down and allowed your markings of stars and the moon to shimmer out against the sunlight, making Leonidas mentally swoon; you were quite the looker, how could Zeus fear you and not admire you?

" I hope I see you once again, King Leonidas I of Sparta. " " Just call me Leonidas. And I agree, I hope we meet once again. "

[c0la-queen]

All We Need (Is Each Other) | Eddsworld Roommates x Reader

Genre: Fluff, Comfort

Warnings: Minor violence, alcohol mentions, I know nothing about British life

Word Count: 1.3K

---

You sighed at the feeling of water soaking into the back of your collar. No matter how many times you towel dried your hair after a shower, it still got your shirts wet. The house was fairly quiet, being so empty. The hallway lights were off, and the living room was illuminated by only the TV. You passed through to the kitchen to grab a drink, but paused.

A figure sat on the end of the couch, curled up against the armrest. His hood was pulled over his head, the red material fighting the electronic blue light. His face was turned to the television, but one glance at the mindless infomercial could tell you that he wasn't paying attention. You walked over and leaned on the back of the couch. He didn't notice, which was very uncharacteristic.

"Tord?"

The mention on his name shot his focus to you. He looked startled.

"I didn't realize anyone else was home."

"Clearly. Are you okay?"

His lips pressed together into a flat line. The message was clear. He didn't want to talk about it. A moment of tense silence passed by. One minute, then two.

"Do you want to help me bake?"

"What?"

You pointed back at the bright lights of the kitchen.

"I've got some cupcake mix that I planned to use Sunday. But I think this is a better occasion."

Tord rolled his eyes, as if the mere idea of him baking was the most ridiculous thing ever. Still, he got to his feet and followed you.

---

Edd pinched the bridge of his nose, resisting the urge to slam his head into the steering wheel of his car. He had taken a short trip to the grocery store. Literally only twenty minutes to grab some drinks.

Somehow, in those twenty minutes, his friends had managed to start another argument. He watched his notifications exploded with the ring of Discord messages. Usually he was the first to mediate these fights, as was his responsibility as owner of the server. This time, he didn't even have the energy to see what it was about. Instead he sat in the near empty parking lot. He probably looked like a creep, staring at his phone with the car still off.

How were these the same people he met all those years ago? It seemed like the ones he had befriended at that convention were total strangers compared to the pixelated usernames flooding his screen. At the beginning, he loved having online friends. They were fresh faces, people he shared common interests with. That magic faded over time.

At the sight of a DM from one of the friends, he shut his phone off. He threw it in the passenger seat and fumbled for his keys. It was time for a break from them. He'd let them know when he got home.

---

The noise was getting to be too much. Tom gripped his glass tighter. Behind him, two girls that were his "friends" screamed at each other. Everyone else in their group gathered around, either trying to extinguish the flames or build them higher. He sat with a bored indifference. This exact argument had been played out countless times before. The same people, different people, more people, it all ended the same way; a fight, a night in jail, and an ended relationship.

Right on cue, the sound of a slap rang out. More shouting accompanied, more impacts after that. What was it this time? Oh yeah, Blonde Girl #1 slept with Brunette Girl #3's boyfriend. What they didn't know is that Brunette #2 slept with him, too.

He tipped back his glass, downing the rest of his drink. The clear liquid burned as it went down, similar to the string of the slap in the argument. Still silent, he handed his money to the bartender.

As he meandered to the door, he put his hands in his pants pockets. The bartender got involved now, his ringing voice muffled by the closing door. The chill of the night sobered up his senses. Despite the cold, he leaned against the car, awaiting Matt's arrival. After the second minor accident, he promised the others that he'd stop drinking and driving, no matter how little the amount.

He really needed to rethink who he went to the bar with.

---

Matt sighed woefully as he closed up the store. All the other clerks had went home, leaving him with the company of the display mannequins.

He had never felt so... unfulfilled before. It wasn't the job, he loved working the fashion scene. Even if it was in the mall, nothing made him happier than helping other people find their styles.

He traced his hands through the aisles. The fabric sliding through his fingers like water was home. He knew each material, every stitch and thread. What was wrong?

It hit him like a flash. It wasn't the work, it was the people. He loved his coworkers, sure. But they were so immaterial. There was no substance to their interactions. Only "he said, she said", "did you see that guy", and "I can't believe she'd wear that" made up their conversations. It was tiring. After so many years of those hollow friendships, when was too much? Not like he was going to say anything, though. No, he was too much of a people pleaser to do that.

Bag in hand, he waved goodbye to the odd person still closing up shop in the mall. Those interactions were fine. They were direct and simple. "I know you enough to recognize you so I'll give you a basic social courtesy, nothing more." Not small talk wearing a mask of intimacy.

It was fortunate that the bar Tom frequented was right next door to the mall. Carpooling was so much easier when one could just walk across the sidewalk that separated the two parking lots.

Tom eyed his ginger companion.

"You look like shit."

"'I could say the same to you."

Matt glanced over at the commotion by the door, watching two girls being dragged out by police. Tom tossed him they keys.

"You don't wanna know."

The two climbed into their seats and started the journey home. Matt smiled softly into the night.

"Looks like we both need new friends."

---

All three boys pulled into the driveway at the same time. Tom raised an eyebrow at Edd when they got out.

"Where were you?"

He held up the newly bought carton of milk as an answer.

Once inside, they were all hit with the sweet smell of fresh baking.

---

You turned to the kitchen doorway, laughing at the sight of Edd, Tom, and Matt crowded around. They must have smelled the cupcakes and come to investigate. Your assistant had his back turned, too busy applying frosting to see the new arrivals. Edd grinned while pulling out his phone.

"Tord, are you wearing an apron?"

He whipped around, but it was too late. The moment he faced the other three, Edd's camera flashed.

"Delete that right now."

"Not a chance!"

You knew Tord was about to charge, so you held up the pan in your hands. Pot holders served as a barrier between your skin and the metal.

"Hot pan here, please don't fight!"

With a grumble, Tord went back to his task. You could see the faint tint of red on his ears, but decidedly stayed silent.

Matt was practically starry eyed.

"What kind of cupcakes did you bake?"

"They're strawberry! I had a feeling today was a pastry day."

The chorus of nods confirmed the idea. Apparently, they had all had a rough day.

You dusted your hands off after setting the pan on the stove.

"Why don't you guys wash your hands and help Tord out?"

"Frosting these things is surprisingly calming."

[strawberrylabs]

Lyney with a shy readerrrr? 👀 Maybe friends to lovers scenario? 🥺

yessss my Lyney brainrot is growing.

I very much enjoyed writing this one!

WARNINGS: spoilers for the 4.0 archon quest and Lyney's story quest. Very discreetly alludes to SA/mistreatment

reader will be gn!

Lyney x Shy!reader- friends to lovers!

so I can see this going two ways: childhood friends to lovers or normal friends to lovers.

personally I'm obsessed with the idea of childhood friends to lovers, so I'll be going with that one.

You were one of the children kept by the horrible noble that had Lynette. Lyney saved you along with all the other kids

From then on, the three of you have worked together for "Father"

While Lyney and Lynette focused on their performances, you often worked in sneaking around behind the scenes while people were distracted.

You also helped promote Lyney and Lynette through the steambird

When Lyney and Lynette first met you, you were very quiet.

Whether it was just in your nature or as a response to what you may have gone through in the hands of the noble prior to your meeting

over the course of the years, you slowly opened up to the two-- Lyney more so out of the pair

You did technically owe him your life after all

Lynette picked up on Lyney's feelings early on. He was the first to fall

But he was conflicted.

He knew how dangerous working for the House of the Hearth could be. He was already paranoid about something happening to Lynette, he couldn't bare to think about someone using you against him

But then over time, you too fell for the magician

And of course Lynette noticed that too

Lynette tries as hard as she can to create situations where the two of you are alone together

"Alright! (Lee), Lynette! Today was a good show! What say we grab a bite to eat on the way back?"

"Actually, I'm going the the steambird. Charlotee wanted an interview."

"What? She didn't mention that earlier.."

"We arranged it just moment ago."

"Wait- Lynette-"

"I'll see you two at home."

"..Shall we go get lunch with just the two of us then?"

"..s-sure."

Thankfully, because Lyney is so talkative, one on one dates hangouts are never awkward

He always has something to say, and he always finds a way to include you

"So I was thinking about bringing you on stage in our next show! I wanted to show off some of my natural charm to the audience, but I can't very well use my twin sister for that can I? But I also don't feel like bringing a fangirl on stage, so I figure I should bring up someone I'm comfortable being flirtatious around!"

he was avoiding eye contact as he said this. If you looked hard enough, you could see his ears were pink too.

"A-And that someone is.. me..?"

"Why of course! You... You're special to me after all, (Lee)"

Lynette was cheering from the table a few feet away as she listened in

The relationship was great, you already knew everything about each other.

It was a bit slow moving when it came to affection though

And so, Lyney's new favorite hobby was formed: teasy you

You poor, poor soul.

The SECOND you blush about ANYTHING he does, he's teasing you.

Exhibit A:

Lyney was in the middle of a performance in the street for some kids and their parents,

"Ah! Look everyone, here comes my lovely partner now! (Lee) dear, come here a moment."

Next thing, he's pulling out some flowers from nowhere and turning them into a flower crown for you.

"There! Doesn't (Lee) look pretty? Aww it would seem my beloved is a little shy."

He definetly grabs your chin and looks into your eyes like a smug bastard we love him though

"There's no need to be shy. I'm not lying when I say you are stunning."

Charlotte has written soooo many articles about you two its not even funny

And Fontanians are living for it

Despite his antics, he never takes things too far.

Like he'd never do something to embaress you if he knew you'd be upset or uncomfortable

And if he ever makes you too upset he will always apologise

With flowers he pulls from his hat

But that rarely happens. He's known you for 10 years now. He knows your boundaries like the back of his hand

The first time you tell him you love him, it's after the trial with the traveler- specifically after they've walked away after confronting Lyney about lying to them

"Lyney.."

"..."

"I'm going to see Freminet. He's probably worried after not seeing us for so long."

"..Lyney. You know the traveler just needs some time to process. We didn't mean any harm by hiding it from them."

"I know! I know.. "

"... I'm proud of you. And... I love you"

You have never seen Lyney so genuinely surprised

As a magician and fatuu, he's seen it all. And above all he knows never to let his facial expressions give away what he's thinking

But he let himself slip this once.. He let his love and admiration for you show clearly on his face

"And I love you too, my dove. My darling (Lee)"

sobbing. I want a Lyney in my life.

-Strawberry

Masterlist

Rules

[bee6r]

For Ever and Ever (pt. 1)

Masterlist ~ Part 2

{JJ Maybank x Female reader}

Summery: After a relaxing day on the beach, you decide to hang out with Kiara at her parents’ restaurant. Soon, the two of you are joined by three of the Pouges, one of whom may just be your secret crush... 

Warnings: Mentions of underage drinking and smoking, unprotected sex, p in v sex, oral sex, making out. !Female reader x JJ Maybank! 

A/N: I just started watching the Outer Banks, so I apologize if the characterization for JJ is a bit off. (early season one ig).  

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Words: 1.6k

Wind rustled through your hair as you walked up the boardwalk, the color of the sun setting into your skin and hair, and the sand dunes slowly changing, as they always did. You smile backwards as the sun began its descent towards the water, pausing in the middle of the nearly deserted boardwalk for a moment to watch it. Finally turning back towards the parking lot, you realize how hungry you are, and the fact that you hadn’t eaten since noon. Pulling your (slightly) see-through sundress more securely over your bathing suit, you walk more hastily down the steps and across the gravel parking lot to your car.  

It’s an old thing, given to you by your father. “Take care of what's left of it,” he had said as he handed you the keys. You remember having complained about the dent in the back bumper, the chipping red paint on the sides where the door had been slammed, one too many times, and the rusting around the wheels, but it still was better than nothing. Now, at least, you could go places, have fun, and enjoy the freedom you had always begged your parents for.  

You get in and turn on the engine, having to try it a few times before it finally gives in. The truck starts loudly, but quiets after a moment, soon slowing to a purr to blend in with the quiet wind that is coming in through the open windows. Backing out of the parking lot and beginning to drive down a log stretch of road, bordered by palm trees on either side, you wonder whether your father will be in the mood to make you something. You had very little left in the pantry, and he barely had the energy to shop anymore; and you barely had the time.  

Today had, of course, been the exception, but you had realized years ago, that if you didn’t allow yourself to relax once in a while, the cup would spill over, like bubbles in a bottle of champagne. And so, once a month, you gave yourself a day. A day to do nothing, if that’s what you wanted; a day that wouldn’t count the next morning when you got out of bed. It would be as if it had never happened, and you could continue your work as usual.  

The first few times you had done this, you had found it hard to completely rid your mind of tasks and responsibilities, but as the years passed, and you had more of these days, it was easier to completely clear your mind of any and all thoughts. And so now, as you continue to drive down the long road towards home, you let yourself enjoy the last moments of the day.  

When you are about half-way home, you stop the car, pulling over onto the side of the road to think. At the moment, the last thing you wanted to do was cook, and you were almost positive that your father either wouldn’t be awake, or wouldn’t be sober, when you opened the door, so you slowly assessed your options. You could go home, and grab a granola bar out of the cabinet to hold you over until breakfast the next morning, you could see what stores were still open and spend the ten dollars you kept in the back of your phone case on a pre-made salad, or- 

You look up from the floor of your car, where you had been staring, blankly. Or, you could go see Kiara, and hope that she hadn’t thrown away the leftover food from that day yet. Turning back onto the road and making a three-point turn to head back a couple hundred feet to Kiara’s turn off, you can’t stop hoping that Kiara’s dad had turned on the frier that day.  

You arrive at The Wreck only five minutes later and are very happy to see that even though the closed sign is up on the door, that the lights are still on throughout the restaurant. Turning off the engine and hopping out of your truck, you walk to the door and knock quietly, hoping not to disturb anyone too much. Kiara’s dad opens it, smiling slightly. He and her mother had always been fond of you, and you of them, especially since you had known each other since you were toddling around the beach in diapers.  

“Good evening Mr. Carrera,” you greet him, smiling.  

“Evening Y/N,” he says, reciprocating your smile, “what can I do for you?” Your expression turns slightly shyer as you look up at him again.  

“Food?” You ask. He sighs, but the smile doesn’t leave his face.  

“You’re in luck today, we have lots of fries.” You mentally high-five yourself for turning around when you did, and follow him through the restaurant, around tables and to the back, where you see Kiara reorganizing something in the freezer.  

“Who was at the door dad?” She asks, not turning to look.  

“Your friend, who apparently is about to die from starvation.” She turns questioningly, but a smile appears on her face when she sees you.  

“You always seem to know when we have extras, don’t you?” she asks mockingly. “Seriously, it’s like a superpower or something.” Closing the freezer, she walks over to the fryers, and you follow her. Grabbing onto the handle and pulling a medium-sized bowl out from under the counter, she dumps the fries from both fryers into the bowl. “We’ve got plenty,” she says, then turning to her dad, she asks, “can I-” 

“Yeah, sure. I’m sure I can finish up around here.” She hugs him and grabs your arm, leading you out the front door, with the bowl of fries under one arm.  

She brings you out to the dock and the two of you sit down, swinging your legs over the side.  

“So-,” she starts, grabbing a couple fries from the bowl and leaning back on her hand, “anything else bring you here, besides fries of course,” she side-eyes you, a smirk on her face.  

“No?” you question, also taking some from the bowl, “what else would I be here for?”  

“Oh, you know. Maybe some handsome blonde, or...” she pauses, turning to you.  

“JJ?” 

“Yes JJ.” 

“Why would I be here for him?” you ask, but you can feel a soft blush creeping through your cheeks. The truth was, that even though you hadn’t specifically come here to see him, part of you always hopes that he will be here when you arrive. There had been times that this wish had even come true, but even when it had, you had rarely ever been brave enough to speak more than a couple sentences to him. You wouldn’t call yourself shy, necessarily, but around him, you were definitely more nervous than you normally were.  

Instead of continuing to question you about it, especially after the blush had given you away, Kiara changed the subject. The two of you talked about turtles, surfing, and anything else that came to mind for the next twenty minutes or so, until you could hear the faint sound of a speedboat making its way through the water. As it came nearer, a smile spread across both of your faces, and you waved it closer in unison.  

When the boat had parked, John B, Pope, and JJ, hoped off, John B and Pope each holding a bear, and JJ with his vape. Blowing out a puff of smoke, he looks down at you and Kiara, his eyes lingering on your face a few seconds longer. John B breaks the silence after a minute, glancing at you both.  

“We came for food.”  

“You and her both,” Kiara says, snickering, then, pushing the bowl backwards towards them, and turning around, her back to the water, she adds, “help yourself.” All three boys are sitting on the ground within a matter of seconds, and it doesn't take long for the large number of fries to be completely demolished. Licking his lips and fingers, Pope looks up at you.  

“So, how’s your day off treating you?” You look up at him.  

“Really nice so far,” you respond, smiling. You see JJ looking at you out of the corner of your eyes, but he looks away when he sees you notice him. “I’ve just been sitting on the beach all day.” 

“Ahh, that’s the life,” Pope says, smiling back.  

Conversation flows throughout the group for a while, before Kiara somehow manages to drag John B and Pope away to, as she had said, “look at something in the kitchen,” which leaves you and JJ alone by the water. Your legs are hanging off the edge, as they had been earlier, and you watch as the last slivers of the sun set below the horizon.  

“Nice night,” JJ remarks, his voice quiet over the steady flow of the wind.  

“Yeah,” you respond, not really knowing what else to say. It's quiet for another few minutes, before JJ gets up. You are about to ask him where he’s going when he holds out his hand for you to join him. You accept it, letting him pull you off the ground.  

“Wanna go on the water?” You turn to look at the boat. Stress begins to make its way through your body, as you haven’t been on a boat in some time, but you push it away, remembering that today is a day to let loose and have fun.  

“Sure,” you agree, and after he gracefully steps onto the boat, holds out his hand again to assist you on.  

[hangmanwh0re]

"Anh bỏ bùa gì mà lại làm em yêu vậy" What Spell Did You Cast to Make Me Fall In Love With You?

pairing – hangman x f!reader, jake seresin x f!reader, wife!reader, pilot!reader

summary – the marriage between the cocky blonde texan who thinks he's too good for everybody and the soft vietnamese girl

warnings – fluff, no smut, safe for minor readers, PG-13 language so be warned, like three mentions of alcohol, VERY slight angst, also no usage of y/n | 1.59k

word count – 1,587

notes – based on my desired reality (DR) vietnamese oc born in the united states, callsign is "dragon" and name is nicole. also, the title is a line in a vietnamese song called see tình by hoàng thùy linh, it's a good song! also, this is the first fic i've ever written in full so please enjoy!

ACT 1, SCENE 1 - THE HARD DECK

Nicole walks back to the pool table from the bar, drinks in hand. She hands a beer to Jake.

"Mrs. Seresin, what on earth are you drinking?" says Jake "Hangman" Seresin, reminding her of her soon-to-be married name. He gestures to her glass, a rosy-colored concoction of various fruit juices and seltzer.

"Have you got a single thought behind those green marble eyes of yours? Asian flush, genius!" she responds, the tone jokingly mocking.

Phoenix and Coyote almost choked on their drinks laughing at the exchange. Phoenix puts a hand on her chest and clears her throat.

"You know, when you guys told us about the engagement thing, I almost didn't believe you. Cowboy marrying a city girl. Now that's funny." said Phoenix.

Jake sashayed over to Nicole, wrapping his big arms around her. His way of showing her love was through physical touch. Hugging, kissing, holding hands.

"You know I'm only teasing you, baby." he said. Nicole giggled and wrapped her hands around his arms. Eye-rolling and further snickers ensue from Natasha and Javy.

Nicole understood this familiar plea for attention. They best enjoyed moments where it was just the two of them. No snickers, no glances, no doubts of their relationship. "Well, guess we better be on our way, it's.." Nicole glanced at her watch. "5:54!" she exclaimed, breaking out of Jake's grip.

Jake and Nicole set down their drinks down on a table. "Take care of our tab!" Jake said hurriedly, as he and Nicole frantically get ready to leave the Hard Deck. Nicole reached into her pocket and grabbed her keys, organized by size. "We'll see you guys at the ceremony," she said, grabbing Jake's hand and speed-walking with him out to the car.

Phoenix looked at Coyote in disbelief and scoffed, "Those two never pay their bill."

"Good thing I brought my credit card.." said Coyote.

ACT 1, SCENE 2 – THE CAR RIDE HOME

Nicole grasped the steering wheel as she breathed deeply. Music was softly playing through the speakers.

As "Glue Song" by beabeedoobee came on, Nicole glanced out of her window at the orange-red sunset, a common sight since moving to San Diego five years ago.

Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, which was 1,082 miles away, she enjoyed and preferred the sweltering heat of Southern California rather than Oregon's aqueous, blinding rains and windswept squalls.

She turned the music volume down using the button on the dashboard.

"Is something wrong?" Jake said, looking over at her. Placing his fingers in her hair, he started to run them through the ends of her slightly wavy, brown hair.

"Jake, you know my family."

"Well, of course I do, we've had dinner with them at your parents' restaurant so many times."

"That's sort of the problem." Nicole sighed, shifting a little bit in the leather driver's seat.

"What do you mean?" Jake said, returning his hand to his side.

"It's just that.. you know. I'm Asian and you're white. I'm really nervous on how our wedding is going to look."

"Oh, Nicky. You're worried about nothing. It can be disorganized as hell and I'd still be happy because I'm marrying you."

She felt more eased. Nicole loved it when he comforted her. The feeling was like an ocean wave had swept over her feet. Calming yet so comforting.

"Thanks babe." She said, turning her head to smile at him, replied to with a bright pearly white smile from her husband.

ACT 2, SCENE 1 – FLASHBACK, FIRST PERSON JOURNAL, NICOLE

I had just gotten to North Island yesterday afternoon. My god, the warm air and sun makes me feel like I'm on vacation or something.

"Looks like we have ourselves another lady pilot!"

I turned my head. There's a 6'1 man coming towards me. Who could this be? Is he talking to me? Surely, he is.

He extended his hand to me. Do I shake it? Reluctantly, I did.

"Nicole. Callsign's Dragon. And you?"

"The name's Hangman, but you can call me yours."

Oh my god. Did I just get hit on within my first HOUR of being here? Yes, I did. I just decided to forget about it.

Later that evening, my new friends Natasha and Callie took me to a bar. It was called The Hard Deck, I think? Really funny name. Fitting for a Navy bar, I guess.

But what do you know it, when I walk in, guess who I see? That blonde man from earlier.

For the first fifteen minutes, I tried my best to bury my head in conversation with Natasha and Callie. Their callsigns were Phoenix and Halo, which I thought was super cool. Dragon, Phoenix, Halo, the best female pilots in the nation, damn right.

I couldn't get him off of my mind though. So I told them what happened earlier, and they told me to go strike up a conversation with him. I don't regret it at all.

I walked up to the bar where he was sitting, pulled out the stool next to him, and sat down. He looked up.

"Well, who do we have here? You're that lady pilot from earlier today. Dragon, right?"

"How did you even remember all of that?"

"I'm magic, darling."

I couldn't help but blush. Darling? Please, this sounded like a cheesy romance novel that I would be forced to read for junior high English class.

"Whatever. But uh, yeah. I thought about what you said earlier. I respect you for having the guts to be that outgoing."

He chuckled. His teeth were perfect. I really can't lie, he's gorgeous.

"You, uh, never really told me your name either. You just told me your callsign. So.. yeah.."

"The name's Jake. Jake Seresin."

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Jake Seresin."

And that is the start of how I got a date for this Friday. For the second only time in my life, I'm dating somebody. Maybe someday, I'll marry somebody too.

Nicole, August 24, 2019

ACT 3, SCENE 1 – 3 DAYS LATER, WEDDING DAY

Nicole closed the journal and set it on the table of the vanity. She re-read the entry from her first day at Naval Air Station North Island, reminiscing on her first encounters with her soon-to-be husband.

"I can't believe the last line became reality. It's like it was just yesterday." she said to her sister, Josephine, who was curling her hair with a hot curling iron.

Nicole was wearing a white Áo dài with a white headpiece too, as per the Vietnamese tradition.

Josephine turned off the curling iron and helped Nicole get up from her chair.

"You're looking so beautiful, all dolled up like this, Nicky. You're a big, strong woman now." She said, giving her sister a bear hug.

"Thank you. Thank you so much, Joey. It's like yesterday we were just playing dollhouse in the basement, and now I'm getting married."

Both smiled at each other. "Go on out there girl. He's waiting."

Nicole walked out of the dressing room, and moved in between the arms of her parents, Uyen Kim and Han Hoang. They were so moved by the sight of their daughter marrying a man that makes her happy and content with life.

Nicole couldn't help but tear up when she looked out into the room and crowd. The wedding hall was clearly decorated with Vietnamese and western influence, paying homage to both families.

And there in the distance, she saw Jake waiting for her at the altar. Dressed in his Navy whites, he looked like the most handsome man in the world in Nicole's eyes.

When they reached the altar, her parents let go of her arms, and returned to their pew, as Nicole walked up to Jake, holding a bouquet of flowers. She saw the tears coming out of his eyes too.

In the congregation as Hangman's groomsmen were Rooster, Coyote, Payback, Fritz, Harvard, and Omaha. Nicole's bridespeople were Phoenix, Halo, and disregarding the traditional gender binaries, she also had Bob, Fanboy, and Yale. Also in the congregation was Penny and her daughter, Amelia.

"You look good, baby." said Jake, smiling at her and wiping her tears with his fingers.

"You look good too, baby." said Nicole.

When the time came to place rings on each other's fingers, Jake started to see all of their happiest memories together.

When he used his umbrella to cover her during a rainstorm, sacrificing his own uniform for her own comfort, and when he carried her back home on his back after an exhausting work day.

And as the minister had them recite their vows, Nicole started to see all of their memories flash before her eyes too.

The sunset drives where they sung along to Taylor Swift's "Our Song", the bar games where he always won, and the hugs that he would give her in front of their friends, not having a single worry in the world about embarrassing themselves.

"And now, you may kiss the bride." the minister said.

Jake leaned in to kiss her, finally landing a loving, gentle kiss on her lips. So moved, so loved, and so now married.

The congregation erupted in clapping and cheering.

"I can't believe they actually worked out." said Rooster, who was seconded by Phoenix and Coyote.

After a few full seconds, Nicole and Jake finally let go of each other's lips.

Looking each other in the eye, Nicole said,

"What spell did you cast on me to make me fall in love with you?" she said, smiling through tears and at this point, full sobbing.

"You know me. I'm magic, darling." he said, smiling back at her.

[whitewolf2759]

Leap Of Faith-Leah Clearwater

It had been 2 weeks since the accident and you and Leah had met a few times in the past weeks. You would most of the time go out, with Leah showing you the places you would most likely need to visit in your time living here.

You also visit her house a couple times, the first time you visited however was slightly awkward for you as both her parent’s had thanked you for what you did.

Leah’s parents were both good people and you liked talking to them when you came over however they had nothing on the ball of energy that was Leah’s little brother.

Seth when you first met him had fired off so many question you were afraid he would pass out, however you could tell he was happy his sister had a new friend and didn’t know what happened 2 weeks ago which wasn’t surprising as he was still young.

During the 2 weeks you and Leah had gotten closer and you had learned even more about each other such as Leah was considering a job related to law enforcement as she had talked a lot to the chief of police in forks, Charlie Swan, who was good friend with her dad.

The one problem you had however was that you would start school for your last year tomorrow. The reason this was a problem was it meant you wouldn’t spend as much time with Leah who your felling’s for romantically had increased as you spent more time together.

You had wanted to ask Leah out for a while now however you were insure if you should, you weren’t worried about her parent’s reaction as you were fairly sure the new of you fellings from seeing you spend tine with her at her house.

You were also sure her brother wouldn’t care, the problem you had was you were unsure of Leah’s reaction for 2 obvious reasons.

The first reason you were worried was you were unsure if Leah had fully gotten over her previous relationship with Sam, the details at which you had learned from her mother.

The second reason was you were unsure if she felt the same about you as you did her and she had never mentioned if she liked both sexes. Your worry about this was somewhat lower than the others as during the time spent together you had made each other blush on multiple occasions.

The most memorable being when you and Leah had a sleepover at hers and you wore a rather short pair of pj’s that showed off your long legs something that caused the blush on Leah’s cheeks to explode.

You thought about it some more and decided to take a leap of faith grabbing your keys you rush out the house and head to Leah’s.

///

You had just pulled in and had sent Leah a text to meet you outside, after waiting a few minutes you see the door open and Leah starts walking towards you.

“Hey everything okay why did you need me to come outside?” she asked with a hint of worry.

“I’m fine, a little nervous but I needed to talk to you” you said while shyly looking at her.

“Sure what do you need” she asks with concern.

“These past two weeks I have had the best time spending time with you and I couldn’t ask for a better friend but I don’t think it can go on like this” you said.

“What do you mean?” Leah said with her worry growing.

“I don’t think we can continue being friends” you said.

“Did I do something wrong?” Leah asked with sadness and worry as her eyes start to water.

“What, no I didn’t mean for it to sound like that” you said slightly blushing at the mistake you made.

“What are you trying to say” she asked her worry slightly lessening.

“What I mean to say is we cant be friends because I like you too much to be just that” you finally said you as you blush grows.

Leah stares at you dumfounded and it takes a few second for everything you said to sink in, once it does however Leah blushed and looks to her feet unable to look you in the eyes at the moment. After a minute of waiting that feels like eternity she finally looks up and into you eyes.

“Would you go on a date with me on Saturday?” She asked as she continue staring right at you.

“Yes, yes, yes I would love to” you say as you jump right at her and pull her into a tight hug.

After a minute or 2 you finally separate  and give each other shy smile, your bubble however is burst when her mother yells for Leah to go back inside for dinner.

You both give each other one last hug before she heads in and once she reaches the door she waves goodbye and heads inside.

[lostgirl677]

Revenge Part.4

Dean Winchester x Fem!Reader

Part.1

Part.2

Part.3

Masterlist

Summary: Y/N and the Winchester brothers are on the trail of a mysterious werewolf, but who knows where this may lead them? Another successfull hunt or a more serious mess?  

The night had already fallen when we arrived back in the motel room. Dean dropped us and he left for the restaurant Sam mentioned earlier to grab us dinner. Sam opened the door and the first thing I did once inside was crash on my bed. Sam chuckled a bit at my action. “Maybe you should get into more comfortable clothes first.” he suggested. I just grunted in a very unlady like way with my head buried in my pillow. I heard him laugh softly and the sound of the bathroom door closing. He was right though, those high heels were killing me as well as my button up shirt. By the time I mustered enough courage to get up, Sam was already out of the bathroom with casual clothes on. Once I was standing upright, I grabbed clothes from my duffle bag and headed to the bathroom. As the door closed behind me, I threw the casual clothes aside and I looked at myself in the mirror. All I could see was a tired girl who wasn’t strong enough to protect others, not brave enough to save people from harm’s way.The vision of Aiden’s body and Ethan’s both flashed in my memory and at some point blended to make just one disfigured and bloodied corpse.I gripped both sides of the sink, trying to ground myself in reality. I held it so tightly that my joints became white and a bit painful. I wanted to punch the mirror, to wreck everything around me. When I felt the tears that threatened to fall again stinging my eyes, I tightly closed my eyes and tried to breathe slowly. I kept replaying what Dean said to me earlier to help me keep my emotions in check. I slowly opened the faucet and splashed cold water on my face. I washed all my makeup away and tried to process everything that happened today while in the shower. I then dried myself, got dressed and went out of the bathroom.

While we waited for Dean, Sam probably noticed that I wasn’t up for talking, so he left me some space and decided to do some searches on his computer. I was on my bed trying to keep myself busy in order to distract myself from my thoughts by searching about Glen Kyle as well. About  30 minutes later, Dean finally came back. “Lady and gentle…Sasquatch, dinner is here !” He seemed pleased with his paper bags in hands, holding them as if it was a precious artifact. I guessed that he finally found a pie judging by his happy expression. Something suddenly felt different about him, but I couldn’t tell what. He placed the bags on a table and slouched himself on the nearest chair. Sam soon joined him and they began to eat. Dean was about to take another bite of his burger when he noticed that I was still on my bed. “Hey, Y/N. Come to eat, you didn’t have anything the whole day. If you want to stay sharp, you have to eat” While he talked, a little bit of sauce fell from his food and stained his Fed shirt. “Damn!” he said when he noticed. I didn’t feel like eating at all but he was right. So, I joined them and forced down a bit of food.

After dinner, Sam was pacing back and forth and talked about earlier while Dean was enjoying his pecan pie, his feet propped on the desk. Me, on the other hand, I was silent, wrapped in Dean’s old flannel he gave me last year. Then Sam spoke. “So, Joe lured us out to follow him to that barn, then to the convention and throw a fake werewolf at us in order to make a diversion. Then the performer is killed and has a paycheck signed by a werewolf we killed many years ago here. This is completely insane!” Dean sipped a bit of his beer and said “Maybe it’s a homonym?” Sam seemed to think. “It’s possible but don’t you think that coincidence is too easy? Are you sure you truly killed him, Dean?” “Of course I did! However, Madison was supposed to be cured at the moment Glen died and it didn’t happen. Maybe the legend about the ‘gank the werewolf’ cure is true but he was stronger than we thought? What if he is the one who pulls the strings in this?” Sam was perplexed. “So you think it is his revenge for the murder attempt ?” asked Sam  “Or even Madison’s death?” suggested Dean. “But why?” “Sam, are you kidding me? He was completely into her.” said Dean, deadpanned. Sam realized that Dean might be right and asked “ Okay, you might be right. But why, after all this time?” “I don’t know, Sammy. He’s the twisted one, not me!” said Dean with his mouth full of pie. I didn’t take part in the conversation because I didn’t know enough about it, but it could make sense, at least a bit. But something was off. So I chose this moment to speak. “Okay, but what about Joe, then?” They both looked at me. “Uh, maybe they know each other and he needed an unknown face to attract us without raising suspicions?” asked Dean. “It can make sense. It’s weird. But, as hunters, we evolve in a sea of weirdness everyday. We have to explore every possibility” replied Sam. 

I then took Sam’s computer and decided to intervene again by saying “I did some research on this Glen and apparently, he had no family. I also found a picture of him in the obituary section. He wore a t- shirt from a church. Should we check there?” I showed them the screen. The brothers looked at each other and seemed to have their “telepathic” conversation. Then Sam cleared his throat and said “I remember him wearing this t-shirt the first time we met him.” “Yeah, but we don’t even know which church he went to. How are we supposed to find the right one?” I just showed him the article about Glen Kyle. “It is written under his name. Apparently, he went to Hope Evangelical Free Church. We could check there, maybe ask people. The only problem is that the pastor who knew him died last month. Hopefully, some church goers knew him. ” Sam seemed to think for a second, then looked at Dean and at me and nodded his head. “Okay. We’ll check the church, it could be useful.”

After this sentence, the conversation turned to another subject. I was still upset about the day so I put my headphones on and let my mind wander. I didn’t know how much time had passed when I felt the mattress sinking under someone else’s weight. When I turned my head I saw Sam next to me. Not that I was upset that it wasn’t Dean, but I must admit that deep down I was a bit disappointed. I took my headphones off. “Hey. You haven't said a word in a while. I know what you are thinking about. It’s tough but there’s nothing you could have done to save him.” said Sam, his eyes full of compassion and understanding. I could feel Dean’s eyes on me, he really seemed different since he came back with our food order. I couldn’t pinpoint it, but something had changed. “Sammy’s right, Y/N. Don’t torture yourself over this. Plus, if you had followed him, you probably wouldn’t be here at the moment. Don’t worry, we’ll catch him and make him pay. ” He said while stuffing another piece of pie in his mouth, the pie I didn’t eat. He then threw me a little smile with his cheeks full like an actual squirrel. It was definitely a Dean move, maybe I was just tired and my imagination was playing tricks on me. After patting my shoulder a bit, Sam got up and it was time to go to bed.

A weird noise woke me up. Dazed and still sleepy, I tried to remember where I was and grabbed my gun just in case. It took me a few seconds to remember. It was still dark outside. With my eyes half closed, I checked the clock on the nightstand. 3 AM. I turned my head to check on Dean to make sure I didn’t wake him up. But he wasn’t there. I jolted, fully awake and my gun in hands. I carefully made my way to the door when I stopped dead in my tracks. By the window, I could see Dean. He was under a street lamp and he seemed to be talking on the phone with someone. Probably one of the girls who gave him her number back at the convention. Sure, it stung a bit but we weren’t a couple and it was none of my business. I didn’t have any right to be jealous. I just sighed and got back to bed.

In the morning, I woke up feeling chilly. I slowly turned my head. Dean wasn’t there, once again. There was just a note on his pillow. “Hey, sweetheart! I got up earlier to grab breakfast. Dean”. I checked the clock again. 7 AM. Since when Dean Winchester gets up this early? I didn’t have time to think too much when a noise made my heart jump.The bathroom door opened suddenly, revealing a damp haired Sam. “Morning Y/N.” “Morning Sam” He was about to say something and then noticed my expression. “Are you okay?” I tried to organize my thoughts before replying “ Did you notice anything weird about Dean?” This question seemed to take him off guard. He raised his eyebrows before saying “Uh, where do I begin? I mean, I’m used to his antics and barely notice them by now but…” “I mean since yesterday when he came back with food. Didn’t you notice that something was off?” I took the note and gave it to him. “You know your brother. Since when does he get up this early?” He seemed to think for a moment. “Hm, he was still next to you when I went for my jog. I saw the note when I came back. I’m sure he just wanted to grab pie for breakfast. Don’t worry, he has his moments but everything will be back to normal soon.” How come I was the only one who felt something weird?! “Sam, I’m telling you that something is not right about Dean.” He chuckled. “ You finally realized! About time!” I was exasperated by now. “Sam! I’m serious.” His smile slowly vanished when he took notice of my expression. He closed his eyes, sighed and threw a hand in his hair before saying “Okay. I must admit that something seems a bit off. But, Dean is really secretive when it comes to his feelings so maybe it is his way to cope with the stress of our case. But I promise you that I will keep my eyes open and” He was interrupted by the door bursting open. Just like yesterday, Dean made his entrance with food in hands. “Good morning everyone!” He said in a cheery tone. Sam and I exchanged a look.

The first stop of the day was then the Hope Evangelical Free Church. As we entered, I couldn’t help but be surprised by the calm that reigned in there. It was right after the worship service. But, except for the few people near the altar or on the benches, it was almost empty. Most people here looked very young, maybe too young to have known Glen. But we couldn’t surrender that easily. There was probably at least one person who knew him. As we gazed at everyone in hope of finding someone old enough, I began to think about the kind of lie we could tell to gain information. Maybe distant relatives? Reporters? Priests and nun? I glanced at Dean and Sam. They seemed very concentrated, their eyes scanning the whole room. I was sure that they would come with a good lie, as always. Dean suddenly tapped on my shoulder to catch my attention. When I turned my head to look at him, he said while pointing a finger toward an old woman “I think that this little old lady in the back looks pretty gossipy. I’m sure she knows Glen.” He then got closer to my ear and whispered “And maybe even Jesus himself, given her age.” It caught me off guard. I struggled to muffle my laugh. Even though Dean kept joking with me, it felt different. As if a certain distance grew between us, like two boats slowly drifting apart from each other. Sam elbowed him in the ribcage and threw him a warning look. 

When we approached her, Dean prepared his charming smile but apparently, all her attention seemed to be on Sam. Indeed, she threw him a seductive glance more than once from afar. “Good morning, kids. What can I do for you?” She was mainly looking at Sam, making Dean and I laugh a little. “ Good morning, miss. Do you remember a certain Glen Kyle? He was our cousin and he used to come here when he was alive.” said Dean. She seemed to think a little, then said “ I think I remember him. A very nice young man but not very talkative. He never took part in any of the church’s activities but he was here every Sunday. He was friends with Zeke, another charming young man.” We all exchanged a look. “Do you know where we can find that Zeke?” I asked. She sighed and said “Since Glen’s death, he practically disappeared. He was so sad, it broke my heart. Nobody heard of him since then.” She glanced at something behind us and said “I’m sorry to go like that but my friends are waiting for me. It’s crochet afternoon today. I’m sorry to not be able to help more. I hope you’ll find the information you need.” Before she walked away, she smacked Sam’s ass and said “I hope to see you next Sunday, handsome.” and she waddled toward her friends. Sam’s face was completely red. Dean and I couldn’t help but truly laugh this time, earning disapproving looks around us.

When we were finally outside, I asked the question that burned my lips.”You guys heard of that Zeke when you went here for Glen the last time?” Dean and Sam looked at each other, probably asking each other telepathically as always. They then both shook their heads. “So we need to look for him. He must know something if they were friends.” I said, hopeful. “But we don’t even know if it is relevant. She said it herself, he disappeared after his death.“said Sam. “Even if he never came back to the church, it doesn’t mean he’s not around anymore.” argued Dean. Sam seemed exasperated “Fine! And while we chase a ghost, Joe has all the time in the world to commit more crimes.” He was almost angry. “Sam, I know it’s frustrating. But you said it yourself, last night. We have to explore every possibility.” I said, trying to appease him a bit. He threw me a glance and breathed through his nose.”Y/N’s right, Sammy. He may have important information. I guess we have another person to look for. ” said Dean.  

Part.5

@hobby27 @deans-spinster-witch @pleasantducktimetravel @muhahaha303

[flamingfuzzydice]

‼️NSFW‼️

CAN I GET AWN MY LUKE SKYWALKER HIGH HORSE FOR A MIN

☆NSFW/ 18+, defending luke skywalker being bby grl but not a baby AND a dom w my life☆

some of us, at least what i have seen on tiktok, has gotten into the habit of infantilizing luke. not to say one can’t have their indulgent baby gyal luke hc’s and preferences, but i feel like we’ve almost come to this luke=baby conclusion. this man, admittedly with his soft baby blue eyes, has come a long way from being a whiny farm boy from the first movie. he’s been through the death of his aunt and uncle, the death of uncle ben, and then the death of his father after suffering in his war—where many of his peers DIED— and yet luke was able to guide anakin back to the light anyway. not to mention yoda and how hard he worked to become a jedi !! and not to say you can’t have all this and be a mess in the sheets IM !!JUST SAYIN the fit he absolutely kills in return of the jedi shows a confident, controlled, collected jedi. he’s rather removed from who he was several years ago just joining the resistance and calling ✨the millennium falcon✨ a piece of junk. he’s not that same luke, i even think the de babyfication began when he saw his dead fam just smokin outside their house.

FURTHER MORE it is my fervent belief that while luke is very respectful and polite because he wants to be, i also believe he knows what he wants and he is very good at jedi mind tricks(i wonder why he learned those 🫣🤭🐱🫦). and luke doesn’t need anyone to protect him for sure not physically but emotionally too. he stands up to han all the time and even the emperor of the galaxy !! this mf in his all black ensemble and knee high boots is gonna sweep me awf my feet FR !! he is so assured in himself and i’m swooned

i would also like to state if anyone’s their daddy’s child it’s luke. anakin also very powerful but possessive, over protective, and willing to do literally anything for those he loved(and whiny). they are literally so much alike, luke is like padme’s grace and etiquette with anakin’s need to protect and control(“if it works” head ahh). (i also see this is leia as well but this post is abt luke) but i feel like luke is much more emotionally regulated than anakin, so

also i dabble in the occasional din x luke which is a popular ship and if ANYONE is baby girl even slightly in that relationship it’s din. i swear yall gotta SEE in that show! you gotta focus or you’ll miss it, you gotta see the way those beautiful brown eyes be beggin for someone to grab his waist i can feel it through the mask too i would not lie to y’all TRUST !! ME !!

also this is mainly just purely indulgent preference pls understand but i just can’t buy the totally submissive luke. like y’all do me a favor imagine, theatre of the mind if you will, that kind, controlled jedi but you just make him lose his mind and he has to fight not to go feral around you and just take you for him self like just LISTEN TO ME !! like imagine that gorgeous smile dropping a moment and he just glares at you and a gloved finger motions for you to come where he is, like just a hand gesture with the GLOVE!! y’all gotta think 4th dimensionally with me PLS😭😭

this is all its midnight thirty i gotta go to be but pls understand dom luke is something near and dear to my heart FR !!! also if we could not infantilize him pls (,:

[theforgottenmcrmy]

Birds of a Feather (Chapter 2/?) ||| Bradley Bradshaw

Pairing: Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw x Sam “Merlin” Wells’ Daughter OC

Warnings: Explicit Language, Mentions of Death of Parent(s), young adults fumbling over trying to process their feelings

Summary: Whatever the feelings were that were rising up within him, he had to bury them. For many, many reasons. ... But sometimes, in moments like the one he had found himself caught up in, when it was just the two of them, with no cares in the world besides each other and the problems of Marty McFly, he dared to wonder what could have happened if he would have allowed himself embrace the feelings instead.

Word Count: 7200 ish.

DISCLAIMER: Spoilers for Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick ahead. 

Masterlist /// Chapter 1 /// Chapter 2 /// Chapter 3

A/N: Y’all, thank you so much for the support and kind words on Part 1! It really means a lot to me. I hope you all continue to enjoy this as much as I do writing it. If you are so inclined, please feel free to let me know what you think! I enjoy hearing from you. I hope you guys have a great rest of the day and weekend.😊💙  now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go try my best not to worry about the fate of my boy, Eddie Munson😅🥲😭 

Chapter 2: This is Your Density

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

7.5 years ago

…

It was nearly an idyllic scene. The warm colors of the sky blended into the horizon, the waves of the ocean crashed further and further up the shoreline with each passing minute, emitting a soothing lull into the air. It was serene; it could have even been described as picturesque.

If only it weren’t for a group of rowdy mutual friends roughhousing in the water over a game of football.

They could hardly have been blamed. It was spring break, and with graduation, along with heavy responsibilities and assignments waiting just beyond that, the week off of classes and PT was more than welcomed by all.

There was also the fact that the results of their service selection had been dispersed just the past week, and most of them had even more cause to celebrate.

Including Clara Wells.

The phone call she had had the other day with her father still echoed in her mind.

“Are you sitting down, Dad?”

“Why? What is it?”

“I’ve got big news.”

“... Oh my god, are you pregnant?”

“What? Dad, no!”

“Sorry, sorry!”

“It’s about service selection. I got my results.”

“... And?”

Naval aviation.

Four years of hard work and an insane amount of luck had given her the chance to make her dreams a reality. God, her father had sounded so proud when she told him the good news. “Time to show them what you're made of, kid.”

His opinion of her choice of career from when she had first left for college until then was night and day. If she had ever had any doubts about her chosen career path, the support she received from her father that day would have been more than enough to quash them.

The sudden blockage of the setting sun caused Clara to frown. She opened her eyes, and immediately saw a grinning figure looming overhead, his own eyes blocked from view from the aviator sunglasses he wore. He must’ve decided to take a breather from the rowdy game of football that continued on without him just a few yards away. 

Bradley Bradshaw had also great cause to celebrate. He made a point of doing just that, too- the past few days, he’d been just about the happiest she’d ever seen him. And the phenomenon was contagious.

He shook out his damp hair overtop of her, the water droplets falling upon her in cool pricks.

“You ass,” Clara muttered under her breath, though she smiled as she attempted to lean away from the falling drops.

Bradley chuckled as he plopped down into the beach chair next to her that one of their friends had abandoned about an hour or so back in lieu of getting some dinner. He sighed contentedly, and made a show of settling into the seat, head propped up against the back of it, his heels digging into the sand. He relaxed for all of ten seconds before shooting up to his feet. “Welp, I’m starving. Wanna go grab a bite?”

Clara rolled her eyes at him and laughed shortly. “In a little bit. I just want to enjoy the sun a bit more.”

“Come on,” he practically begged. “We’ll have plenty of time for sunshine in Florida.”

Just the thought of that made her smile. They were actually going to Pensacola. Together. It felt like a dream. Luck was on their side- for them to not only each get their own preferred service selection, but to also get to stick together for a little bit longer? .. Clara couldn’t help but wonder if she ought to have bought a lottery ticket while her luck was looking like it was on the up.

Still, she didn’t want to encourage Bradley too much. “Ah, yes. I’m sure I’ll have plenty of time to relax on the beach between the classes and hours of studying and the drills and simulations and-”

Bradley comically plopped back down into the chair beside her. “-And you’ll find a way to get through, like you always do,” he interjected, rolling his head over his shoulders to give her a lazy smile. After a moment, he added thoughtfully, “I will, too.”

Clara didn’t doubt that at all. He’d let her in on his ASTB scores after they’d taken it the previous year, and they’d been so high she couldn’t help but feel nervous about her own performance on the test and the chances she actually stood of getting the service selection she wanted. Thankfully, it all worked out in the end. But Clara had a good feeling that if Bradley kept up the work he had put in so far, he’d be very likely to lead his future classes, and then maybe even more likely get whatever preference of aircraft he put in for. And if Clara had a say in it, and with some more luck, she’d hopefully be right up there along with him. One of the many benefits of a friendship with Bradley Bradshaw was his willingness to make almost anything a good old-fashioned friendly competition.

As much as the two supported the other with school and their blossoming naval careers, it was also refreshing to have someone to challenge and call the other out on their crap every now and then. And challenge her, Bradley Bradshaw did.

“You still gonna let me mooch off of you for a few months?” he asked conversationally.

Bradley’s time in Florida would be short. No matter what he would be assigned to fly, since he was going to be an aviator, only the beginning of his training would be based in Pensacola, unlike Clara and the training program for NFOs. But as much as Clara knew she would savor every last moment she had with him, it wasn’t something she’d willingly admit to out loud.

“First of all, you’re not going to mooch off of me. You’re just as capable of contributing to rent as I am while you’re in Florida.”

Bradley tilted his head. “Hm… Would you be willing to consider contributions of other kinds besides financial?”

Clara smirked. “Oh yeah? What kind of contributions did you have in mind?”

“A dazzling smile, good sense of humor, and just general entertainment?”

Clara looked at him through hooded eyes, trying her darndest not to encourage him further by smiling at his hopeful tone. Over the past three- going-on four- years that she’d known him, Bradley had come a long way from the closed off eighteen year old she once knew. He’d become quite the charmer, actually. Girls tended to flock to him because of it. And why wouldn’t they? Even Clara had to admit he was quite the catch. Future naval aviator? With his looks? ... It was almost astounding that had hadn’t been locked down by some girl yet.

But when Bradley actually threw some of the charm over in her direction? … Well, it didn’t matter how that made her feel. They were friends, that was it. She was just thankful he’d wanted to maintain their friendship over the past few years. There was no telling what would happen when they went off in separate ways during their upcoming training. Even if they eventually grew apart, she’d at least have the memories of what they’d once been to think about on any particularly rainy days.

“Oh!” Bradley added enthusiastically then, “I could also play some piano for you. Give you some tunes to fill in the monotonous day to day, if you will.”

“You’re offering to follow me around and play music, like some sort of soundtrack?” she questioned playfully.

He shrugged. “If it would make you smile like you are right now, I sure would.”

Clara bit her tongue and turned away from him as casually as possible to hide warmness rising to her cheeks. “Well, we’ll see how long I’m smiling as soon as we start actually getting into the air.”

Bradley laughed. “Are you still nervous about that? Come on, it’s nothing you haven’t dealt with before, right?”

Clara fell silent.

“... Right?”

Clara turned to him slowly, and offered up a sheepish smile.

Bradley looked at her blankly for a moment, before realization struck him and he shook his head vigorously. “No!”

“Don’t judge me!”

“I’m not judging you,” Bradley clarified, holding up a hand in his defense. “But you’re trying to tell me that you are going into naval aviation, but you haven’t actually flown before?!”

“... Do commercial flights count?”

“You’re killing me here, Red Cross,” Bradley groaned jokingly.

Clara ignored the use of the nickname he’d picked up for her over the past few years. Though she had once resented it when it came from the mouths of old peers, when Bradley was the one saying it, she found herself a lot less opposed to it. “When would I have had the chance? It’s not like my dad owns a plane. You’ve seen our house- there’s no money tree in the backyard, Bradshaw.”

“Fair enough,” Bradley acknowledged. “But flying- as a passenger- in a 737 is way different than what they’re going to have us fly in training… Damn, in four years, how have we never had this conversation?”

Clara shrugged, willing to let the subject lay where it was. She worked hard over four years, and she’d been deemed capable of having the chance to prove herself in the naval aviation field. Pulling herself up by the bootstraps and seeing the years very rigorous training through was something she had been mentally preparing for for quite some time. It would probably just require a little adjustment on her part upfront, was all.

But Bradley, on the other hand, was apparently more than willing to take matters into his own hands and ensure that she had plenty of time to prepare even more so for said adjustment.

“I’ve got an idea.”

More than one slightly chaotic memory came to Clara’s mind which had started with Bradley saying that exact same phrase. But this time, she decided to humor him anyway. It was spring break. “Yeah?”

“On Friday, I’m going home for a couple of days,” he reminded her. “You should come with me.”

Clara did a double take. “What?”

“Come with me,” Bradley repeated patiently, smiling. “I’ve got something to show you that will help you get a little more exposure.”

Part of her didn’t care for how vague he was being, but the other part of her was intrigued by the proposition anyways. “What will the others think?” Clara asked, glancing at their nearby group of friends who were still highly involved in their game of football.

“Please,” Bradley dismissed as he rose from his chair once again. “They’ll be plastered for a good part of the rest of the week. I doubt they’ll even notice that we’re both gone until it’s time to head back on Sunday. At least Saturday, for sure.”

Clara looked up at him for a moment, debating for only a few more seconds before giving him a nod of agreement. Hell, what is there to lose?

“Great!” he said enthusiastically, clapping once. “Now that that’s settled… I’m actually starving. Can we please get a bite to eat now? It’s on me.”

It was hard to argue with that.

Bradley held out a hand to help her off her own chair, and Clara took it readily.

Asheville, North Carolina

...

“This is what you wanted to show me?”

Bradley held his arms open wide with a proud smile as he stood in front of his surprise. “Ta da!”

Clara looked at the Cessna 172 behind him with fearful eyes.

That morning, he’d shown her around the immediate vicinity of the neighborhood. While Bradley had only lived there personally for a few years, he mentioned his father and mother had actually grown up in the area. It was nice to hear him reminiscence as he pointed out a few spots around town of various degrees of significance to his family history. Though he had once been so closed off about anything pertaining to the subject of his parents, he had opened up to her greatly over the course of their friendship. It warmed Clara’s heart when she thought about the trust Bradley had placed in her. “There’s my mom and dad’s highschool… I went there too though, for a year… And that’s actually the church where they got married…”

Then, he’d taken her to his grandmother’s house, where she met the infamous woman herself. Admittingly, Clara was a bit fearful. Though Bradley had nothing but kind things to say about the woman when he did speak of her, she had not been brought up in too many conversations over the years, and Clara had little idea of what to expect. Thankfully, she was relieved when the sweet elderly woman was nothing but perfectly polite and pleasant to her. Upon their arrival at the house, she was already outside, swinging back and forth in the rocking chair as she waited for their imminent arrival. As Bradley offered to carry their bags inside, Clara sat talking with Gloria Bradshaw outside. Though they left shortly after, Clara was looking forward to getting to know his grandmother better in the following few days.

So, long story short, it had already been a heck of a day. But now this?

“When you said you had something that would give me a little bit of exposure, I didn’t think you meant something like this!” Clara yelped, gesturing to the plane behind Bradley with extra emphasis.

“What did you think I meant?”

“... A video?”

“You thought I’d drive you five hours across the state just to show you a video?”

“... Maybe?”

Bradley rolled his eyes playfully. “Come on, future Naval Flight Officer Wells. Get your ass over here. Unless you’re too chicken?”

Clara narrowed her eyes and pointed a warning finger at him as she forced herself to take a few steps closer. “You’re going to jinx me saying shit like that. And I am not a chicken.”

“Fine, you’re not.”

“So, you’re actually allowed to fly this?”

“I’ve already told you about how I've had my private pilot’s license for a few years now.”

“Right… But whose plane is this, anyway?”

“A family friend’s.”

“Hmmm, that’s a pretty cryptic answer.”

“I know, I know,” Bradley acknowledged. “But you’ve just gotta trust me on this one.” He paused briefly, looking at her thoughtfully, before adding quietly, “You trust me, right?”

“Of course, I do,” Clara answered without skipping a beat.

Bradley couldn’t help but smile. “Good. Now, come with me- we’re just gonna check on a couple of things, and then we’ll be up in the air in no time.”

…

“Seatbelt?”

“Check.”

“Headset?”

“Check.”

“Sunglasses?”

“... Sunglasses are required?”

“Well, they do help with the sun,” Bradley reasoned plainly. He pushed the bridge of his aviator’s to rest further up on the bridge of his nose. “Plus, they sure do look cool as hell.”

Clara smirked and shook her head fondly.

Bradley was fairly certain she had spaced out a bit when he started communicating with the tower. Even as he began taxing to the designated runway, Clara remained silent. Hell, she barely even looked at him. Though he started to worry, he pressed on.

Clara remained tight-lipped as the plane came to a stop at the beginning of the runway. As she gripped onto the seat beneath her, doing her damndest to not give him any teasing ammunition for later, she felt his eyes on her. When she worked up the nerve to look at him, she was surprised to see a somewhat concerned look on his face.

“You alright?”

She forced herself to nod as convincingly as possible.

Apparently, the reaffirming gesture was all Bradley needed, and following the all-clear from the tower just a few seconds later, they were off.

…

Both of them were quiet for quite some time.

Bradley was focusing on flying the plane- naturally- but as for Clara, he wasn’t too sure. Once they had reached an acceptable altitude, he glanced over at her once again, noting that she was still gripping the seat. This time, she did not meet his eyes, choosing to focus straight ahead instead.

He internally cursed, wondering if it had possibly been too much for her. While he was licensed, and it was a relatively tame model of plane comparatively, it wasn’t as though they were likely to be thrown into one their very first day in Pensacola. Suddenly, he feared his “genius” plan may not have been so brilliant after all.

Bradley gave her a few more minutes before calling her name. When she didn’t respond, he lightly nudged her with his arm.

Clara finally looked over at him with a strangely blank look on her face. For a moment, Bradley wasn’t sure what to make of that, and in all honesty, Clara wasn’t sure how she was feeling, either.

But then, she said, “.... This is fucking insane.”

The slowly-cracking smile on her face indicated that her words held no negative sway.

Neither was quite sure who began laughing first, but a second later, they found themselves in a laughing fit. Their reaction to the other only fueled their giddiness.

…

After they had calmed down some time later, Clara took another look at Bradley, who was still very much preoccupied with the task of flying the plane. She’d known him for years, but never before had she seen him in such a serious, focused state. He was in his element, and it was endearing. Enticing, even.

Hell, it was downright attractive.

… But that couldn’t have been right. Friends didn’t think about each other that way. She was probably just coming down from the natural high of the experience. Once they landed, her head would clear and she’d be able to make sense of it all. She had to.

“This is fucking bonkers,” she said off handedly as she looked away from him. Even though they were her own words, she wasn’t certain what she was referring to.

Upon hearing her remark, Bradley stole a glance at her. The sight he was met with made him smile again. He knew his cheeks were likely to hurt by the end of the day, but he didn’t mind. Despite having known the girl beside him for years, he had never seen her in such a state. Her pure joy was contagious, and it was adorable. Charming even.

Damn, it was downright attractive.

… But that had to be wrong. Friend’s didn’t think about each other that way. He was probably just recalling his own fond memories of flying for the first time and sharing in her happiness. Once they got back down on the ground, he’d be able to think straight and wrap his head around what was happening. He had to.

…

They had dated others throughout college. None of them had ever really been serious- not with their schedules and unwavering commitment to their desired careers. Regardless, nothing had ever ever changed what they had with each other. At the end of the day, it was still the other they found themselves spending the most time with. Having the most fun with. Allowing their guards down and being able to be their true selves with.

And after that day, they were both just beginning to realize why that was.

Pensacola, FL

7 years ago

…

From the Commissioning Ceremony, to graduation, to relocating life to Pensacola, to IFS, and to API, it had been a hell of a whirlwind of a few months. All of the significant events did wonders to serve as a distraction from any internal dilemma that may have existed.

The past few months had felt like years. And yet somehow, it didn’t feel like nearly enough time at all.

Though Bradley had continued to joke that he was “mooching” off of her, he still paid Clara his fair share of rent for her apartment close to base. He’d been living out of the spare bedroom in the apartment for just over three months, and Clara knew the moment that he left, the small apartment would somehow feel much too big for just one person. She had made several SNFO friends who were in the same boat- they too would be about to lose their SNA roommates in just a few days as training progressed at other bases across the country- and it was likely that some of them would consolidate into other apartments within the coming few months. But that wasn’t exactly the problem.

There was no other way to put it- she was going to miss Bradley Bradshaw.

Clara hadn’t exactly anticipated him leaving to go to primary training in Texas to affect her as much as it did. The thought of it had always lingered in the back of their mind ever since the results of service selection had been made known a few months prior.

Training for naval aviators and flight officers was different- she knew that. Recently, when Bradley had been fortunate enough to be chosen to go into the strike pipeline for aviators, she realized that his departure to Texas or Mississpi was inevitable. Just like while she had been fortunate enough to get into the same pipeline, but for NFOs, it meant she would be tied to Pensacola for a while longer. It was all set, and their were paths laid out before them. He had his career, and she had hers.

Still, Clara allowed herself some emotional leeway. This was a guy she’d been close with for almost four years. In reality, Bradley was her best friend. But lately, and as much as the thought filled her with dread, she couldn’t help but wonder if she had begun to harbor feelings of another nature for him as well.

Damn Bradley and that Cessna.

“I’m going to go run some errands, I’ll be back in a few hours,” Bradley announced as he entered the living room.

From her place on the couch, Clara looked over and gave him a nod.

He sported some jeans and- as she had briefly guessed before confirming visually- another Hawaiian shirt. Though the bulk of his stuff had been taken by movers down to Texas a few days before, and he was living bare-bones for the final few days of his stay in Pensacola, it seemed, if by some miracle, that his supply of Hawaiian shirts was still plentiful.

“You look festive today,” Clara commented with a small smile.

Bradley shrugged. “Gotta get one last wear in while I can before Texas.”

“You know, I think they’re gonna ask you to trade some of those in for a cowboy hat.”

“Ha ha.”

When he first started wearing the printed shirts shortly after the move to Pensacola, Clara had made a comment about it, thinking it was touristy-thing that Bradley just needed to get out of his system. But then he’d mentioned that a large portion of the ones in his possession had actually once belonged to his father, and she shut her mouth promptly.

Besides, she quickly realized how well they actually suited him.

“We still on for tonight?” he asked her as he grabbed his car keys.

“We are if you promise to wear that shirt.”

“You drive a hard bargain, Darling,” he replied with a chuckle.

Clara absolutely refused to acknowledge the involuntary butterflies in her stomach at his teasing use of the pet name.

“But I was thinking,” Bradley said then, “How about we stay in tonight instead?”

Stay in? They’d planned to go to one of their usual haunts that evening, as they frequently did on the weekend. Hell, Bradley had gotten quite the reputation for closing the place down with his impromptu musical performances on the bar’s piano. Clara had even joked more than once that he ought to have a tip jar to fund his Hawaiian shirt budget.

Though that particular weekend was a little different than others, it was still unlike Bradley to not feel up to going out, and it made Clara a little worried. “You don’t want to go out anymore?”

Bradley shrugged, unbothered. “I mean, I’m game if you are. But I was just thinking- I’ve got some beer here I should finish off, and I have to get up early in the morning to get going. Plus, it’ll probably be more fun if it’s just the two of us, anyway. We could watch a few movies, and just drink here… What do you say?”

Clara still wasn’t sure what to make of his out-of-character suggestion, but she was at a loss for a compelling argument against it. Plus, it wasn’t even like his suggestion sounded like that bad of a time.

“I think I like that idea more, actually,” she confessed.

“Great! I’ll see you later, then,” Bradley bid, giving her one last warm smile before leaving.

The front door clicked shut, and Clara took the opportunity that the following silence provided to mull over her thoughts.

Come the following morning, Bradley Bradshaw would be gone.

Bradley was going to primary training, come hell or high water. That was indisputable, and Clara certainly didn’t want to put a damper on the experience for him by bringing him down with her feelings that she didn’t even have a good grasp on herself.

Besides, it’s not like they wouldn’t talk anymore… they just wouldn’t see each other in person for the foreseeable future, was all.

Maybe the distance would do her some good. Perhaps it would give her the time she needed to realize that she most definitely was not falling for him.

Now, if only she could get through the rest of the evening with him without doing anything she’d want to kick herself for later.

“Wait a minute- don’t I know you from somewhere?”

“Yes, yes! I’m George- George McFly. I’m your density! …. I mean-”

Bradley and Clara, who were both several drinks into their miniature movie marathon, threw their heads back against the back of the couch and let out a few hearty laughs.

“I swear, that line will never get old,” Clara vowed, wiping away a fake tear.

Bradley took another swig of beer; no protest to her statement would be heard from him.

“Do you remember the first time we watched this movie?”

There was no telling exactly how many times they’d watched Back to the Future. It was just one of those movies in which the light heartedness made it worth rewatching, and it was just funny enough that the jokes never seemed to get old… Even if they had been repeated many, many times.

But there was no way Bradley could have forgotten the night Clara was referencing. It was the same night he finally came clean about his father. He had told her all about how he’d actually flown in the same squadron for a time as her own father. He even told her the bare-bones details of his passing, which wasn’t what he had originally set out to do, but once he had begun talking, the words just came out, and he couldn’t help himself.

Fortunately, he was not left feeling vulnerable from what he thought was over-sharing for too long. It had been quite the opposite; Clara had been very understanding. She had listened in silence, and when he had finished, she thanked him for telling her, insisting that it was a difficult topic to bring up at all, especially under the circumstances. She made no further comment about him having omitted the knowledge from her. That’s when he knew that she could be trusted, and when he finally started to realize the extent of her commitment she’d made to being his friend.

“You mean the summer after freshman year?” he answered, smiling fondly at the memory. “If I recall, it ended with us passing out on the couch in your living room.”

Mr. Wells had been a saint for letting the happening go by. Bradley had already been nervous enough meeting him that day, and a lecture from him the following morning about them not sleeping in the appropriate pre-designated bedrooms would have probably made his nerves shot altogether.

“That’s right,” Clara remembered with a light laugh. She briefly looked down at the couch beneath them purposefully, and then met his eyes once again. “Do you think history repeats itself?”

Bradley looked down at her, his smile widening ever so slightly as the thought ran through his head.

With the assistance of the several drinks they had each had, they were easily halfway there already. He could feel his eyes getting a little bit heavier with each blink. Clara was seated right beside him, and both of their legs were extended out and resting on the coffee table in front of them. His arm was thrown across the back of the back of the rather comfortable couch. Hell, a good part of him was tempted to lean his head back and snore away right then and there.

But something was stopping him. Though his body was ready to call it quits for an evening, his mind wasn’t going to give up that easily. Trying to remember to grab the very last of his things he still had strewn about the apartment, thoughts about the long drive the following morning, and his curiosity and excitement about the continuing training the following week bounced around his head, fighting for dominance in the already limited space. But there was also something else that was lingering in the forefront of his mind, and it involved the very girl sitting beside him.

There was no other way to put it- he was going to miss Clara Wells.

She’d been a constant in his life for over four years. And now, he could say with relative ease Clara Wells was his best friend. Part of him had always known there would be a moment where they would eventually have to go their separate ways.  He had every intention of staying in touch with her, especially since the next time they’d actually see one another was unknown. She had her career, and he had his. It was a fact that he had been more than willing to accept.

But Bradley’s perspective on the subject had changed over the course of recent months, and suddenly, it had become more of a pillow to swallow than he ever would have thought. Though relocating to Pensacola and living together certainly didn’t help, the root of it all could all be traced back to spring break and his brilliant plan. Taking Clara for a spin in the Cessna had been everything he’d hoped it to be, and yet, he found himself wanting more.

On one hand, Bradley didn’t regret a thing. It’d certainly been an eye opening experience. Afterwards, Clara confided that he soothed her nerves about flying in smaller planes. Knowing that he helped her out made him feel good, and it made him feel of use to his friend who had been there for him in more ways than she probably realized. Plus, seeing the pure joy on her face throughout the flight would’ve been worth it in and of itself.

On the other hand, Bradley wanted to kick himself. Realizing that he had feelings for a friend of several years that weren’t exactly “friendly” was knowledge he was confident that he could have lived without.

… Even if just being in her presence did wonders to calm him and soothe the lingering anger that had been pent up inside him for years. Even if she was exactly the type of person he’d always guessed he’d fall for. Trustworthy. Loyal. Determined. Funny. Intelligent. Brave. Witty-

“Brad?”

Not many people called him that anymore. Bradshaw had been more than sufficient as of late, be it by friends, peers, instructors. Sometimes there’d be a Bradley thrown in here and there, but rarely Brad. But he was always painfully aware of whenever Clara called him by the name. “Yeah?”

“You alright?” she asked quietly, the worry plain as day in her tone and on her face. Back to the Future temporarily forgotten, Clara leaned away from him, trying to get a better look at his face. “You look like your head’s somewhere else.”

“I’m fine,” he mumbled. “Just thinking.”

“Whatcha thinking about?”

“Thinking about getting another beer,” he lied easily, rising from the couch with ease. “Want me to grab you something?”

If Clara didn’t believe him, she didn’t say anything about or show it. Instead, she nodded and allowed him to meander to the kitchen. When he returned with a drink for each of them, she thanked him and he resumed his place on the couch, arm thrown across the back of it once again. His arm wasn’t technically around her shoulders… but in their close proximity, it definitely felt like it.

In fact, Bradley couldn’t help but realize just how close Clara was to him. Hell, if she just leaned a fraction of an inch over towards him, their sides would be touching.

But Clara didn’t move, though. And it only clouded Bradley’s thoughts more.

For all the progress he’d made deciphering his own feelings about her- which, admittingly, weren’t that great, but he had at least made some progress- he’d been left relatively in the dark about whether there was any chance Clara was questioning the nature of their relationship as well.

Even if Bradley had been in a position to entertain the idea of admitting his developing feelings, having to do so without having a clue as to how Clara felt about him would have convinced him to keep his mouth shut anyway. It was better to not know and preserve the friendship than to take the risk and ruin it all.

… Right?

“You’re zoning again.”

Clara’s astute observation snapped Bradley out of his thoughts. When he came to, he realized she was looking at him strangely.

“You have another beer now,” she noted pointedly, vaguely gesturing to the beverage in his hand. “So you couldn’t have been thinking about that this time. Come on, Brad. Tell me what’s wrong.”

“Why does something have to be wrong?” he asked, making the attempt to play it off.

“Because you haven’t been this quiet since I first met you.”

Well… she had him there. Shit. “Fine. I’ve got something on my mind.”

“What is it?”

Bradley knew he couldn’t just outright say it… But if Clara wasn’t really onto what was on his mind, maybe he still had a chance to get out of admitting it. He gave her a small mischievous smile. “Why don’t you take a guess?”

Clara rolled her eyes and set her drink down on the coffee table. She withdrew her legs from the table, sat up and folded them underneath her. When she turned to look at him with a playful look of her own, and Bradley knew right away Clara was down to go along with his antics and humor him.

“You’re going to miss me terribly,” Clara announced theatrically. “And now you’re wondering if this will be the end of our friendship.”

It was only a joke, but it was a joke that hit a little too close to home at that moment.

Bradley must’ve made some face, because Clara sobered up immediately, her eyes wide with concern. “Wait, Brad… You know this isn’t the end of our friendship... right?”

In theory, yes. In practicality… let’s just say it was a pretty significant fear of his. But for how much he had opened up to Clara over the years, Bradley wasn’t quite ready to admit that to her either. “No, I know. Of course it isn’t.”

“Good… good.” Clara sounded as though she was almost reassuring herself more than anything. But then her head snapped back towards him with a sudden sense of purpose. It wasn't a fierce look, but the way her eyes locked with his made Bradley wary to even think about looking away. “Because if I thought for just a second that you were going to leave tomorrow morning and never talk to me again, Bradley Bradshaw, I wouldn’t even let you walk out that door.”

Despite the growing seriousness of their conversation, the mental image of Clara trying to block him from leaving through the front door made Bradley involuntarily crack a small smile. “Oh, you wouldn’t let me leave?”

Clara shook her head stiffly. “And I wouldn’t have to physically stop you, either.”

“And why’s that?”

“I’d convince you to stay.”

“And how exactly would you convince me?”

“Hm… I’d do something crazy. Something unexpected. Something that would leave you so shocked that you’d be left sitting right here on this couch trying to make sense of it. Meanwhile, you’d be forgetting about the fact that you were supposed to be leaving at all.”

“That’s… a lot, actually. What the hell would you even do, some kind of magic trick?”

Bradley hadn’t even realized that their playful banter resulted in them both gradually leaning closer to one another. Before he knew it, they were face to face. Their eyes flickered back and forth between the other’s and elsewhere in the room, the intensity of the moment left them both feeling a little flustered.

As he looked at her, something unknown dangerously tempted Bradley to brush some of the hair dangling in Clara’s face out of the way. He managed to fight the urge to do so, though not without just about everything in him.

Whatever the feelings were that were rising up within him, he had to bury them. For many, many reasons.

... But sometimes, in moments like the one he had found himself caught up in, when it was just the two of them, with no cares in the world besides each other and the problems of Marty McFly, he dared to wonder what could have happened if he would have allowed himself embrace the feelings instead.

Maybe it was the alcohol. Maybe he was really just too far deep in his own head. But maybe he wasn’t imagining the way her eyes suddenly shifted downwards towards his lips.

“I can’t tell you what I’d do,” Clara admitted, uncharacteristically meek, apprehension causing her voice to waiver slightly. “... But I could show you… if that’s okay?”

“Please do,” Bradley implored, not missing a beat.

At first, she did nothing. Just as he was going to settle himself, lean back, and crack a joke about the whole thing to ease some of the tension, Clara surprised him by closing the distance between them and pressing her lips to his. She pulled back a moment later, nervousness with perhaps slight embarrassment extremely evident on her face.

Bradley was left stunned. But he was stunned in a very, very good way. Although he knew it would probably be wiser to call it a night then and there in a half-assed attempt to ignore her action all together, he didn’t want to pretend it hadn’t happened.

Despite the warning from the voice in the back of his head, he gave into the self-indulgent feelings of the moment and kissed her right back. His hands went to the sides of her face gently, while her own reached up to hold the unbutton sides of his shirt.

...

It was probably wrong. But at that moment, it sure as hell felt right.

Clara woke up in her own bed the following morning.

Sunlight streamed in from a crack in the closed curtains, and the chirping of birds could be heard outside due to the quietness of the room. It was very peaceful.

What wasn’t very peaceful was the pounding in her skull that reminded her that she’d pushed her limits of alcohol tolerance the previous evening. But, in all fairness, Bradley had too.

… Bradley!

Throwing the comforter aside, she immediately hopped out of bed and exited her bedroom. Her quickened pace decreased to a few slow footsteps as she was met with the sight of an empty room, and the realization dawned upon her with a slight chill.

Bradley Bradshaw was gone. And he had left without saying goodbye.

What the hell happened last night?

Did something bad happen to him? Surely, if something serious had happened, Bradley would’ve woken her up to let her know. Or, at the very least, he would’ve left a note for her to find. But what if, for some reason, he hadn’t been able to do so? …

Just as Clara was about to fall within the clutches of panic, she spotted something draped along the back of the couch.

It was Bradley’s Hawaiian print shirt. In fact, it was the same one he had been wearing the previous day- and night.

Nothing, short of an emergency, would have made Bradley Bradshaw likely to forget a piece of his arguably most-prized collection.

In light of the discovery, Clara decided to focus on it instead, rather than focus on the looming, encroaching hurt that she felt at the thought of her friend leaving the apartment that morning without so much as a word.

She picked up the fabric in one hand gingerly as she began to rapidly fire off a text in the other.

After sending the text, she plopped down on the couch unceremoniously, glancing at her phone every few seconds and eagerly waiting on his response. Hopefully he’s alright…

As Clara fiddled with some loose threads on the shirt absentmindedly as she waited, a memory from the previous evening came back to her in a rush. Her fingers, grabbing at the collar of this very shirt…

Oh.

… Oh no.

She had kissed him.

She had kissed Bradley Bradshaw.

She had freaking kissed Bradley Bradshaw! The thought of her crossing the line with him made her feel mortified.

But wait… hadn’t he kissed her back? She was certain he had. She hadn't been that intoxicated. The feeling of his lips on hers had been all the clarity she needed, and it was something she knew wouldn’t be able to escape her mind for quite a while. And yet, even though Bradley had kissed her back, he still left that morning without saying goodbye… why?

On top of everything, all Clara could say to Bradley afterwards, in a freaking text, of all things, was “you left your shirt here”?!?!

She buried her face in her hands dejectedly.

Just as Clara was mentally bracing herself to enter the first stage of grief for their four year friendship, her phone buzzed. She flinched, and nearly dropped the damn device in her scramble to grab the phone and open the text.

Clara frowned, unsure of what to make of Bradley’s response.

Bradley’s next response was quick.

Bradley’s words did wonders to alleviate the fear and nerves Clara had begun to feel herself gradually drowning in. So, he planned to see her again. That was good. The elephant in the room was still unacknowledged, but that would be easy enough to live with until they had a better chance to talk about it.

As the metaphorical clouds above her head began to dissipate, she contemplated her next response. But Bradley beat her to it.

…

Though Clara had been hoping some time away from Bradley would give her the answers she was looking for in regards to the state of her feelings about him, she was suddenly left with more questions than anything else. However, there was one thing that she did know for sure.

She couldn’t wait to see him again.

Chapter 3

Masterlist

A/N: Any and all feedback is welcomed and appreciated. Thank you for reading!😊💙 Please feel free to let me know if you’d like to be added to the taglist for future parts.

Taglist: @gretagerwigsmuse​ @unluckymonaghan​

[magistralucis]

Moonquake [Snippet]

(Been scribbling this again while reviving my mojo for other projects. I’m at a stage where I can write down events and dialogue, but the distinctive voice for each is taking its time to return. Moonquake is just weird enough, narratively, to be free of these nuances.

Not related to earlier snippet (x). Still Tillchard, still Tarkovskian.)

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

All books lose a stray leaf at some point or another. This is one of them. Richard wakes in the lakeside cabin. This moment may have happened, or may never happen, or perhaps happen so far in the future it is hardly worth thinking about: he certainly doesn't, even as rain pours from the roof and the burning sun sings to him outside. The pillow is dry, but a sheen of water tickles his feet when he sits up to get his bearings. Ripples part from him, cascade outwards, and are vanished in the storm.

He barely needs to look around to know he is dreaming. For one, those curtains are his (as in, left behind in New York) not Till's - not to mention he is old, so very old, swanning from the roots of his hair. Everything’s a dream when one has lived for as long as he has. He gets up and makes his way downstairs, wading through the flooded hallway, grabbing a jacket on his way out the back door. The grass has grown up to his thighs. Richard unlatches the gate and shuts it behind him, quietly, then begins to walk the familiar path towards the lake.

Only at the end of it does he realize he is barefoot. It doesn't bother him. The rain hasn't followed him out here anyway.

If he wanted it to, though, it would.

For now he files the thought away and enters the expanse. His silver hair sways in the breeze. Soon the path has fallen away under his feet, stone becoming dirt, then fading into loamy soil. The grass follows after, swiftly rising waist-high along the shore, and he weaves his fingers through them as he passes. Like his fellow guitarists he fidgets often, and would twist and spin and tear to quell all manner of feelings; age is no barrier to dream-he in this endeavour, and by the time he finds Till at last, his fingers (clever/dextrous/non-arthritic) must have braided their way through half the lake. Soft reeds slip through Richard's fingers as he leans down to look.

Till's upper body is bare, pale. He's half swallowed by water, half slumped facedown on the grass. From here it almost looks like he was trying to leave, but gave up, and settled for a nap instead.

"Hello." Richard says. He understands that feeling well.

At the sound of his friend's voice Till lifts his head. Water drips from his hair, as silvery white as Richard's. "Hello."

Richard smiles ardently. This too is familiar, the rasp of Till's stubble against his palm. "And where have you left your swan-skin, fair one?"

"It is where you first gave it to me, many years ago. It's back in Paris. It might be in Chicago, who knows." Till doesn't usually talk like this. He may be morbid but he is grounded, and when asked about concrete events he can generally offer a structure, if rarely to the exact date and time. "Sometimes it takes a different shade and gets left on a tour bus, or you are wearing it, or I am when you are not looking. It could even be onscreen. Presently, though, I have no idea - and I was hoping you could enlighten me, since I'd rather have it than not."

Dreams don't have structures. Just scattered images and stray leaves. No meaning other than what one wants to see in it.

"I get so lonely without it, you know."

Richard knows what he'd like to see. "Let's look for it together, then. I'm coming in with you."

[nsloanefms]

self para: i’m here now

mentions: marissa harrison ( @themarissaharrison ), delilah daniels, vivian hayes ( @vivihayes ) and harlow sotheby trigger warnings: fire, death mention

engine 4, ladder 1, please respond to fire alarm at 387 stoughton estates…

nicola had been all over the station all morning, doing whatever she could at the station and counting down the hours left of her shift, falling into this blanket of safety that it was one of those days where they didn’t have any calls at all, at least not a thing that would be so alarming. she and the guys were on to doing different things, whilst she was in the kitchen preparing their meals, the others were doing drills, maintaining the engines, sorting out hoses, and some on desk duty. they’ve been up on their feet for the past week or so, ever since the deaths of vivian and harlow, with her taking up her idea of taking her self-defense sessions to the station with their captain which an idea they’ve considered and decided to bring up with battalion chief, it was a conversation that’s ended on a good note, given with how things are around nightrest as of late and they wanted to help as much as they could.

she immediately stops on her tracks the second she heard about the location of the fire, and she could feel her ears ringing, marissa. in a snap, nicola was on autopilot, gear on and hopping into the fire engine. she was nothing but tense, only responding to the guys’ questions with a hum, whenever they try to check up on her.  she couldn’t find it in herself to tell them that it was marissa’s place. the two has just planned for the bar owner to move in her place about a week ago, given that they’ve always just stayed at hers. and now her place was being set to flames, along with things that are important beyond words, ones…that bore memories—delilah. everything that is of hers lives in that place.

the moment they’ve arrived, she had to hold herself back from jumping off the truck and instead focused on their captain voicing off their commands, her glance switching between them and the fire behind, how by a second that’s wasted, the fire was just getting worse and worse, and the chance of losing pieces of delilah was getting higher. and before nicola knew it, she was walking away and into her burning mansion, turning off her radio and heading straight to marissa’s room, grabbing anything that is of delilah, remnants of her existence on this earth as…she too, was taken as lauren was, regardless of how different the ways are. she knew how it feels like to lose not just the person you love, but what was also left of them. she didn’t want marissa to go through the things she’s went through.

nicola starts searching for a couple of things and before she knew it, she blacks out, with her eyes only staying on the photo of marissa with delilah on the bedside table, first thing she would see during mornings whenever they’ve decided to spend the night at marissa’s, now on the verge of being erased from its existed, she immediately grabs it and puts it close to her chest whilst she starts making her way out of the place, only to find out the path she’s taken to be now engulfed by the flames, and that her adrenaline was wearing off, as a series of coughs have started. at the same time, she was still determined to find a way out.

nicola cannot break her promise this time.

“i’m not going anywhere, my love…”

“at the end of the day, i will always come home to you.”

another coughing fit occurs this time, smoke now has filled nicola’s lungs and she couldn’t focus on anything else, slowly sending her now to he knees, whilst she clutched on the photo close to her chest. she blinks a couple of times, head turning to the direction to a voice calling out for her name, a voice so awfully familiar, one she hasn’t heard in many years.

“i’m here now, nicky.”

[doomedhowell]

won’t you help me sober up

Summary: Dan finds himself at a party that he most definitely shouldn't be at, but he also finds himself being reuniting with an old friend.

Genre: AU, Light Angst, Fluff

Word Count: 1,018

Triggers/Warnings: swearing, past alcohol abuse/alcoholism

[READ ON AO3]

Hello, hello. I'm not where I'm supposed to be.

Dan honestly doesn’t know why he’s at this party. He knows it’s only going to end horribly for him, because there’s alcohol everywhere that he can’t avoid, and all the big kids are drinking.

Sure, a drink or two wouldn’t hurt, but he’s terrified of being sucked into that dark hole again.

“Dan, mate! Buddy, good to see you!” Chris shouts drunkenly as he throws his arms around Dan, sloppily kissing him on the cheek. “Haven’t seen you in ages, mate.”

Dan chuckles. “Chris, you just saw me two days ago. We went to see that stupid movie, remember?”

“I’m drunk. I can’t remember if I ate breakfast this morning,” Chris says. “You wanna drink?”

Dan sighs as he stares at Chris. “You know, maybe one drink wouldn’t hurt.”

“Exactly. One drink won’t hurt. Have some fun!” Chris exclaims, spinning around, and Dan bursts into laughter when he nearly trips over on his own feet, but catches himself.

“Alright, you’re out of control. I’m going to go get myself a drink” Dan says, shaking his head. He turns on his heels, and he finally makes his way towards the kitchen. He glances around. There aren’t many people in the kitchen at the moment. Mostly everybody is outside in the pool.

Dan walks over to the fridge and pulls a beer out of the fridge. He walks over to the counter and grabs a red solo cup, pouring the beer into the cup. One drink won’t hurt.

“Is that a good idea?”

Dan startles at the sudden voice. He looks over and frowns when he sees a dark-haired boy standing there, someone who looks familiar but he can’t quite remember their name. “Uhm-?”

“Chris is an idiot. You shouldn’t listen to him, especially when he’s drunk,” the man says.

“I’m sorry. Do I know you?” Dan asks, blinking a few times.

He chuckles. “Come on, Dan. I know it’s been a couple of years, but it couldn’t have been that long…”

Dan blinks as he tries to remember, and then his eyes widen as soon as he realizes.

Hello, hello. Last time that I saw your face. Was recess in second grade.

“Phil!”

Phil laughs, seeming relieved. “There we go!” He walks over to Dan, pulling him in for a hug. “God, it’s good to see you again, Dan. I wasn’t sure if I was ever going to see you again. It’s been… how long?”

“Second grade,” Dan replies instantly. He looks up at Phil. “Recess, to be exact.”

“Wow,” Phil says. “How can you remember something like that? It was so long ago?”

“I guess you must have made a really good impression on me,” Dan mumbles, shrugging his shoulders. “Sorry I didn’t keep in touch like we said we would. I… uhm, I’ve been dealing with some things.”

Phil shakes his head. “I’m friends with PJ. He told me a few things here and there,” he says.

Dan frowns. “What exactly has he told you about me?”

“Nothing really, so don’t get upset with him for saying anything. He just mentioned that you were struggling with some stuff a few years ago. He mentioned your name once so I asked about you. I didn’t want to bother you when you were going through all that,” Phil tells him.

Dan sighs as he stares at Phil. “Well, I appreciate it, but I could have used a friend back then too.”

“What about now?” Phil asks. “I know it’s been a long time, but I promise I haven’t changed much.”

Dan chuckles. “Yeah, I could always use a friend, Phil.”

“I know. Which is exactly why I came over here to stop you from doing something stupid like drinking this,” Phil says, reaching over and gently tapping on Dan’s cup. “You’re sober, yes? You should keep it that way.”

“I honestly don’t even know why I came to this stupid party in the first place,” Dan admits.

“So, why don’t we get out of here then?” Phil suggests. “We can go back to my place for a bit.”

Dan raises his eyebrows as he looks up at Phil again. “Is this you subtly trying to get me into your bed? Because I’m honestly really not feeling up to it.”

“No!” Phil’s eyes widen, and he shakes his head. “No, God Dan. I just meant we can hang out. Jesus.”

“Oh,” Dan breathes, before slowly nodding. “Yeah. That’d be nice. Can we leave now?”

“Absolutely,” Phil says, and grabs Dan’s hand, leading the way out of the kitchen without another word.

It doesn’t take very long to get to Phil’s place, luckily. It’s a small apartment, but cozy. Dan feels safe, and he feels safe with Phil, even though it’s been years since they’ve been together.

“What were you doing at that party?” Dan asks when they’re in Phil’s kitchen, Phil making them tea.

Phil chuckles. “To be honest, I don’t really know. PJ told me about it, and I thought I’d go,” he explains. “And, I’m glad I did. As soon as I saw you, I knew I had to say something.”

“I’m glad you did,” Dan says, biting his lip as he stares at Phil.

Phil looks over at Dan, smiling shyly. “Yeah?”

“Yeah,” Dan nods, and he steps closer to Phil. “I know I said early that I wasn’t in the mood for sex, but… fuck, can I kiss you? I just want to kiss you.”

“Yes,” Phil replies instantly, and gasps when Dan’s lips are on his a second later. Phil melts into the kiss, and grabs a hold of Dan, pulling him closer, deepening the kiss.

Dan moans, before pulling away from the kiss, his eyes wide. “Wow. I-”

Phil can’t help but laugh, and pecks Dan once more. “Yeah, wow. That’s one way to put it.”

“You know, now I’m kind of glad I went to that party,” Dan says, his cheeks turning a light pink.

Phil grins. “Yeah?” He asks, and smiles when Dan shyly nods his head yes. “I’m glad we both went.”

[fireinmoonshot]

CONTAINS SPOILER FOR ETERNALS.

PART ONE | PART TWO | PART THREE | PART FOUR Summary: In 1521, the Eternals disbanded and Druig left you despite the lengthy past you'd both shared. Now, you're forced back together by the Emergence, but after 500 years apart, neither of you are quite the same as you were. But a love like the one you shared hundreds of years ago never quite goes away. Pairing: Druig x Fem! Reader (slight enemies to lovers) Fandom: Marvel's Eternals Warnings: ETERNALS SPOILERS, mentions of injuries, mentions of death. Word Count: 9651 A/N: This is... very lengthy. I hadn't intended for it to be so long but I got carried away and I wanted to try and flesh it out as much as it needed, and I didn't feel like I needed to split it so... maybe get a glass of water or a drink to accompany while you read this nearly 10,000 word chapter. This is the longest chapter I've written by far for any of my multi chapter fics. Thank you for the kind response on the first part! I'm really loving writing this – hence the fact that I wrote so much for this. It's the first time in a while I've actually felt really in love with something I'm writing so I hope you all like it, too! Please let me know what you think! <3

ATHENS, 422 AD

Druig appears beside you with a smirk on his lips and a plan in his mind.

It’s late at night – much later than you’d intended on staying out – and you’re stood by the door of the bustling bar, a drink in your hand and a smile on your face as you watch Sersi dragging Ikaris into the middle of the dance despite his many protests. You wonder what it feels like to have someone to dance with like that.

“Jealous, are you?” Druig leans to mutter in your ear. His voice surprises you, making you jump, and he laughs softly to himself.

You turn to look at him with a glare. “I don’t know, are you? I could always make you dance, drag you in there without your permission. I’m sure the others would love to see that, no? Hiding any dancing skills up those leather sleeves of yours?”

Druig raises his eyebrows. “I’d like to see you try.”

He underestimates you too often.

You put your drink down on the windowsill and grab his hand before he can so much as utter another word, tugging him towards the group of people dancing. Panic flares in his system and he plants his feet firmly on the floor, skidding a bit to stop himself, before you can drag him too far away from the safety of the exit.

“What? You scared, Druig? You said you’d like to see me try,” you fix him with a smile.

Druig regains his composure. “I saw you try, you would have succeeded if I hadn’t stopped you, so I’ve stopped you since I don’t want you to succeed.” He clears his throat, eyes, falling to your hands which are still in each others grasp. He shakes off your hand after a moment of looking at it and shoves his in his pocket.

“You’re cute,” you shake your head at him. “I’ll get you to dance one day.”

Then you leave, going into the middle of the dance yourself and leaving Druig alone. He huffs out a laugh and walks back over to where you’d been standing before to pick up your drink.

“Irresponsible,” he mutters under his breath, “leaving your drink unattended.”

~~~

RAVENNA, 509 AD

Druig finds the way you interact with the humans interesting. He's watching you again and he doesn't particularly care that he is. But you're crouched down speaking to a human child and he can't look away.

"What's her power?" The child asks, pointing at Sersi.

"She can make things into things they aren't. She could turn a tree into water, or a rock into a piece of wood, or even make my bracelet a flower. It's a very useful power," you smile up at her.

You've been explaining the powers of the other Eternals to her for several minutes now, the child pointing them out as she sees them. Her next target, though, has Druig wishing he'd not stopped to watch and listen.

"What about him?" She points directly at Druig.

You turn to see who she's looking at, your lips quirking up upon seeing Druig, no longer looking at you but, instead, toeing the dirt with his feet, staring at the way the dust rises from it as he kicks at it.

"Oh, him?" You look back at the girl, knowing now that Druig is listening. "His powers are so cool. He can control minds." You reach up and tap the girls forehead. "If someone does something bad, he can make it so they don't do anything bad again. He can also read peoples minds sometimes."

The girl gasps. "Can he read your mind?"

You shake your head. "No, I don't let him read mine. But he could read yours."

"Really?" The girl looks surprised.

Smiling, you turn around to look at Druig again. "Druig! Can you come here and stop pretending like you're not eavesdropping?" You hear the girl giggle from behind you.

He looks up, feeling his cheeks flush a little, before he regains his composure and wanders over to the two of you. He crouches down beside you so that he's at eye level with the child.

“We’ve been talking about what powers we have and I think she wants to see you use yours. What's she thinking right now?" You ask, looking between him and the child, smiling a little. "Show her that you can read her mind since you can’t read mine. Be nice.”

"Oh, really?" Druig smiles a little. "Okay, well..." He pauses to listen in, using his power to see into the child's mind. Her thoughts surprise him, though, and he wishes more than ever that he'd walked away from the start now that he’s heard what she’s thinking. "She's thinking…” he looks over at you, “that you are very pretty."

You raise your eyebrows. Hearing those words from Druig, even if they aren't his own, send a flutter through your stomach. "Is that true?" You ask to the young girl.

She opens her mouth in a gasp. "You can read minds!" She looks at Druig in awe and then looks back at you, rather excitedly. "What can you do, then? If his power is the coolest, what's yours?"

You open your mouth to reply and tell her but Druig beats you to it, taking you by surprise.

"Actually," he starts, "I think her power is the coolest. She's one of the most useful Eternals because her power helps us all so much." He briefly glances at you to see you already looking at him. It makes him feel a bit funny. "Her power is that she can sense those beasts, the Deviants, coming. She can tell us seconds before they arrive. But only seconds, which is a little bit difficult sometimes since we still have little time to prepare.”

The girl looks at you, mouth still open wide. "That is cool!"

"That's not all," Druig continues. "She has this extra cool power where she can sense all of us other Eternals and see how we're feeling. If one of us is hurt in battle, or feeling happy, she can feel that so she knows how we are if we're ever apart."

"So... if you can't read her mind, can she still sense how you're feeling?" She asks curiously.

You nod. "I can. But only if I try to, and I can't do it for too long or I'll get really, really tired. I did it a lot during the fight today, so I can't do it now or I might hurt myself."

The girl pouts. "Oh, I wanted to see you do it."

The sadness on the girls face makes you feel bad. Surely using it now for just a few seconds to see how Druig was feeling wouldn't be too hard? You sigh and clench your fists, starting to summon your power, but before you can even really begin, Druig places his hands over your fist and begin to unclench it, breaking your concentration.

"Don't," he says, voice soft. "You'll hurt yourself."

You shake your head. "I'll be fine. It's just a couple of seconds, Druig."

"No." His voice is more forceful now. He turns back to the girl. "She'll show you another time, okay? She might get hurt if she shows you now, and we have to go back to our ship now."

He only gives you a few seconds to say goodbye to the girl before he takes your hand in his and pulls you away from her. You frown up at him.

"That was rude, you know?"

"And what you were about to do was dangerous, and you're well aware of the consequences of it."

You narrow your eyes at him. "Is this your way of berating me for my risk taking today? Dragging me away from a sweet child who just had questions about us? Because that's mean."

Druig stops abruptly. "Will you just stop?" He sighs. "This is not about you being irresponsible. This is about you nearly hurting yourself just to show a child your powers. The others would be disappointed in you, too."

He tries to walk off again, but you're still holding his hand so you pull him back towards you before he can even get two steps away from you.

"Are you worried about me, Druig?"

He turns to look back to you, taking the few steps it takes to get back to you. He's close, his face not far away from yours, and his eyes are dark in a way you haven't ever seen them before. His eyes flicker briefly between your eyes and your lips.

"I'm only worried that you'll die and leave the rest of us to fend for ourselves without your power for sensing Deviants," he says, voice bitter. Then, he pulls his hand out of your grip and stalks away without another word.

You smile to yourself. "Oh, he was so worried."

~~~

AUSTRALIA, PRESENT DAY

There’s relief on Thena’s face when she sees you. She is the only one of the Eternals to pull you into a hug upon first meeting you again. With all the meetings over the last five hundred years, you’d never been able to schedule one with her, Gilgamesh not wanting to risk her Mahd Wy’ry setting in again, which you’d understood even if it hurt.

She’s always been like your closest sister. Where Ajak was all your mother, Thena was your big sister. The one who kept you sane during all the years Druig was tormenting you, the first one to figure out that the two of you were more than just enemies.

So, seeing her again – seeing her okay again – after so long feels like home again.

You’re relieved to see that even though she’s been dealing with something so serious as Mahd Wy’ry, that Gilgamesh has stood by her all these years. It shows in the way she looks at him with such love, the way he looks at her the same.

At least one of the Eternal couples had ended up happy.

Their home in Australia is comfortable enough. It’s the complete opposite of your own home in Tokyo, and the heat takes some getting used to, but it’s nice. It surprisingly fits the pair of them very well.

It’s the first time you feel like you’re really back with family since they found you again.

Especially when Sprite, with a wave of her hand, has Gilgamesh wearing a giant baby outfit, complete with the bonnet and all, the bib reading ‘Gilga-mess’. The smile on Thena’s face – on everyone’s face – almost makes the whole reason you’re together again normal.

“So, now that Captain America and Iron Man are both gone, who do you think is gonna lead the Avengers?” Sprite starts, after hearing Kingo talking about Thor. It’s the question the world is asking, but the one question you’ve never let yourself think about.

“I could lead them. I figure I’d be good at that,” Ikaris replies.

Kingo is firmly on his side. “Yeah, you would.”

“Ajak didn’t even choose you to lead us,” Gilgamesh adds teasingly.

The whole table erupts into muffled laughter and gasps of surprise. You nearly spit out the potato that you’d been half way through eating, catching Thena’s eye, who is smiling so large that it makes you feel even happier. This is home. This is the home that you’d been missing so dearly for the last few hundred years. But it’s just not quite right because not everyone is here.

Ikaris looks up at Gilgamesh. “Ouch,” he says, his voice both amused and offended. “I’m gonna let that one slide because, you know, you’ve always been bitter that I can fly and you can’t.”

Gilgamesh rolls his eyes. “Oh, so what you can fly. I’m better looking, everybody knows that.”

The moment is slightly broken as Sersi stands up and leaves the table, heading outside and excusing herself to get some air. The table falls into silence briefly and you can see the worry on Ikaris’ face about her having left so abruptly. You wonder if Druig will still look at you that way, since Ikaris can still look at Sersi even after centuries apart.

It’s a strangely uncomfortable thought. You want Druig to still look at you like that, but you know he won’t. Why would the man who refused to let you accompany him when he left ever look at you with love in his eyes again?

Thena taps your hand gently with hers on the table, forcing you to look up at her.

“Thoughts too loud?” She asks quietly.

You nod, knowing she understands even without you having to say anything. You notice Gilgamesh, stood beside her, looking at you, too. He gives you a tight lipped smile and walks around the table to put a hand on your shoulder and give it a reassuring squeeze before following Sersi outside.

Despite the fact that you’re beyond terrified about seeing Druig again, there’s a little less fear in your mind knowing that the others will be with you. That you’ll have Thena and Gilgamesh, and Ikaris, Sersi, Sprite and Kingo, too. That even though you’re all still a family, that even though you all need Druig… that your family has your back, too.

~~~

The atmosphere once night falls, however, is drastically different.

You all sit around the table lit by candlelight, feeling like the world is swimming around you and you’re struggling to get to the surface. Sersi’s words don’t felt real. The life you’d been living all this time has been a lie…

“I thought we were heroes,” Gilgamesh says, “turns out we’re the bad guys.”

Kingo shakes his head. “We’re not the bad guys, okay? We’ve helped the Celestials expand life across the universe. That’s not what bad guys do, that’s what good guys do.”

Sersi has a different opinion, and as she voices it you can see why Ajak chose her. You can tell you’re immediately on her side no matter what. “Every time innocent lives have been sacrificed for the greater good it turns out to be a mistake. We have to stop the Emergence.”

“Sersi,” Kingo interjects, “We have no right to stop the birth of a Celestial.”

“There has to be a way Tiamut can emerge without destroying the Earth,” her voice is strong. She’s not backing down and you admire her for it. “We just have to delay it until we figure out how.”

Your eyes dart around the table, stopping on Gilgamesh. He’s thinking deeply, you can feel it, see it in his eyes. His words surprise you, though. “Could Druig control its mind? Maybe put it to sleep?���

“Put it to sleep? Are you serious?” Sprite says in disbelief.

“Gilgamesh asked Druig to put me to sleep once,” Thena adds.

With a small smile, Gilgamesh explains. “So I could take a vacation to Fiji, you know.”

You sit up a little straighter. “Wait, you’ve seen Druig?” You momentarily forget that the other Eternals have met up one on one and together over the last five hundred years. That it wasn’t just you that was selective about who you met.

Gilgamesh nods. “Here and there.”

Kingo is already bothered by your diversion from the main topic. He holds up a hand, his voice loud and irritated as he ignores your conversation and continues on with the main one. “We’re talking about a Celestial, okay?”

“We have to try,” Sersi pleads. “We’re not gonna let everyone on Earth die, right?”

“Right!” Karun says. Everyone turns to look at him. “I’m human. I’m a little biased.”

This seems to catch Kingo’s attention, though. He attempts to tell Karun to stay, to go home and stay somewhere safer, away from the other Eternals, but Karun disagrees. His words hit a chord with all of you and it’s clear that none of you have a choice. The people of Earth are relying on you without any of them really even knowing it. You nearly all know humans that you care for, and the idea of any of them dying – the idea of anyone dying when you could stop it – doesn’t sit right.

“We need to go,” Ikaris interrupts Kingo, speaking to Gilgamesh. “Now. Find the others. Once we’re all together, we’ll decide what to do about the Emergence.” He nods at Sersi and you watch as she nods back.

You can only hope that you and Druig might be able to be as civil.

~~~

ENGLAND, 598 AD

Druig has had to watch his fair share of humans flirting with you at various gatherings over the years, but the one thing he’s never seen before is the sight of another Eternal flirting – much less a married Eternal.

He’s watching you again from a spot across the garden. There are torches lighting up the area, flowers around your feet, small tables holding various types of food for all of the attendees. It’s beautiful, but Druig hasn’t looked at much else except you the whole night.

There’s music being played by someone who really shouldn’t be playing music judging by their lack of musical talent and all the Eternals are milling around, socialising among themselves and the humans.

You’re standing by the other side of the garden, a drink in your hand and a smile on your face. Ikaris is standing in front of you and the look on his face makes Druig’s blood boil for a reason he’s not quite sure about.

It ought to do with the fact that he’s married, he assumes.

He balls his hands into fists at his side and sighs. You’re smart enough to know not to engage in something like that, especially considering how close you are to Sersi. Ikaris is clearly the one that deserves all of the punishment and Druig is ready to give it.

It doesn’t take him long to get the courage to make his way across the garden to the pair of you, weaving throughout the humans and the Eternals, his sights set on one thing and one thing alone. You’re in the middle of a laugh when he gets close enough to butt into your conversation without hesitation.

“Ikaris,” his voice is pure poison. “Don’t you think you should be with your wife?”

Ikaris looks at him, a little confused. “Sersi asked me to socialise, Druig. That’s what I’m doing. Last I checked, I wasn’t forbidden from talking to her.” He nods his head at you.

You look between the two of them. There’s tension there, tension that hadn’t been there between them before, though they did tend to butt heads every now and then. But now, out of the blue? Druig is so strange.

“Hey,” you nudge Druig in the side. “He’s fine, don’t worry about him. We’re fine.”

Druig narrows his eyes as he looks at you. He’s trying to read you just by looking in your eyes, something he’s quite good at given his powers. He can’t control your mind, but he can see into it sometimes, when you let him. You don’t let him this time.

“It didn’t look that way from across the room,” he tears his eyes away from yours when the sight of you looking back into his becomes too much. “You should be careful, Ikaris.”

Ikaris scoffs and downs the rest of his drink. “Right, well… we’ll continue this later, okay?” He looks at you. “I think he’s probably not going to leave us alone any time soon judging by what he thinks he saw.” He shakes his head and then bids goodbye to you, going to find someone else to socialise that Druig isn’t strangely protective over.

You look up at Druig as soon as Ikaris leaves. “What was that about?”

“You know very well what it was about.”

“Do I?” You question. “What, do you have a crush on me or something? Is that what it was? You getting jealous?”

Druig finds himself lost for words. He opens his mouth and closes it again twice before scoffing and taking a step away from you. “You’re going insane,” he shakes his head. “You sure your powers aren’t malfunctioning? I thought you were good at sensing things?”

“Oh, my powers are just fine, Druig.”

He stares at you for another moment and you stare back at him, saying absolutely nothing. It’s the longest the two of you have looked at each other without needing to say anything sarcastic to break the moment. Like a staring contest, but with more tension.

Like before, nearly a hundred years ago and several times since, Druig’s eyes flicker between your eyes and your lips. He can’t seem to stop doing that, even though he keeps telling himself that he has to.

It’s the reason why he breaks away from the staring first, when your stare becomes unnerving like you’re looking into his soul and seeing things he didn’t even know were there. When he starts to think that if he looks at your lips once more, he’ll do something incredibly stupid.

He walks away from you without saying anything, running a hand through his hair to mess it up, and laughs to himself. Him, having a crush on you? Him jealous? In your dreams.

~~~

AMAZON, PRESENT DAY

In the five hundred years since you’ve seen him, Druig has managed to build an entire thriving community in the middle of the Amazon, but you can tell that something is off from the second you step foot in it.

It’s not only the fact that you’re so nervous that your palms are sweaty and your breath feels short that makes it feel strange here. It’s the fact that you can look into the eyes of any of the people and tell that they are not truly themselves. It’s Druig, controlling them like he’d done when he’d left in 1521, initiating the end of your relationship.

You can say one thing about it, though, and that is that it’s the most calming place you’ve been in possibly your whole life. It’s certainly giving rainy Tokyo when you were comfortable in your apartment a run for its money.

He’s achieved what he’d set out to do and you haven’t even seen him yet.

As you walk through everyone in the community, you stay towards the back with Thena and Gilgamesh. They’d always been protective of you before, if Druig had been a little too harsh on you, so you relied on that protective nature today to keep you sane.

Sprite talks to one of the villagers and they lead the group of you over to a small building. It unnerves you when all of the other villagers crowd around you as you all stop in front of the building. You’re being watched by too many eyes, even though you know that there’s really only one person looking through them.

The one person you’re still not sure if you’re ready to see.

You have no choice, though. You’re here now and there’s no going back.

The doors open and your breath catches in your throat at the sight of him. Druig. He looks the same as he did when you last saw him in Tenochtitlan. He still holds himself with the confidence he always had. He still looks exactly like the man you’d stupidly fallen in love with.

You stand behind Gilgamesh, right at the back of the group, as he wanders towards you. Your eyes are firmly focused on the leaves at your feet, studying the way they’ve crumpled on the ground, the lines and the dirt on them. Anything to not look at him.

“I missed all of you,” he greets. “Please, make yourselves at home.”

Even from his few words it’s clear that it isn’t going to be easy to get him to come along with you all. It was easy for Gilgamesh and Thena to join you when they knew what was at stake, and truly you never had a choice either… but Druig has his mind elsewhere.

The villagers leave you all alone as you file into the building and sit down on the many pews lining the room. He sits at the front, watching all of you – his eyes lingering especially on you – as you all try and get as comfortable as possible to tell him the bad news.

You take a seat on the pew furthest away from him, by Ikaris and nowhere in the line of Karun’s camera, not wanting your reunion with Druig to be filmed in any way, shape or form.

Sersi begins to explain everything to Druig when everyone has settled a bit. You stare at your hands, spinning the rings you have on your fingers around and trying to distract yourself from doing the one thing you want to do, which is look at Druig.

You can feel his eyes on you, though. Despite your attempts to ignore him completely while Sersi talks him through the reason why you’re all there, he looks at you a few times and you can sense that he’s willing you to look back at him, which is why you refuse.

“You’ve given me a lot of bad news in one go, m’lady,” he says a few moments after Sersi finishes speaking. He doesn’t seem as shaken up by the truth as you’d thought he would be. But then again, when you’d seen him last he was different. Time has changed you all.

“Will you help us?” Her voice is hopeful.

“I am glad–”

He’s cut off by Sersi’s phone ringing, which brings a small smile to your lips. Phones hadn’t existed when you’d all been in the same room together last time. The idea of Druig, someone who cares deeply about listening and connection, being cut off by a ringtone, is one that amuses you greatly.

Druig notices the smile on your lips as Sersi pulls the phone out of her pocket, declines the call and turns her phone on silent. He’s missed seeing your smile.

He stands up and wanders across the room towards Gilgamesh and Thena. “You all remember this forest? Beautiful. It’s the last place we all lived together,” he starts. “I’ve protected these people for twenty generations now, from the outside world and from themselves.” He reaches Karun and Kingo and turns to look at Karun specifically. “Your kind, my friend, you will be responsible for your own extinction one day. Don’t you think?”

You can hear the smile he’s got on his face just from the tone of his voice, the amusement he’s feeling. But there’s something buried deep within – something you’d spoken about with him long before on a rainy night in his bed, about how he wished he could just use his power to make everyone good. There has always been an eternal goodness to him, buried deep down, that not everyone could see. He never let anyone see it except you.

“I think we must learn from our mistakes and do better, sir,” Karun replies. He seems confident for a human in a room full of people with powers. “You must not give up hope.”

The atmosphere in the room changes instantly when Druig uses those very powers and controls Karun into throwing the camera he’d been holding against the wall closest to him. You flinch at the sound of the impact and knot your hands together, staring down at the floor again to try and calm yourself down as Kingo stands up, irritated.

You’ve forgotten how easy it could be for him to control peoples minds. It unnerves you.

You miss the way Druig briefly glances back at you, having seen you flinch out of the corner of his eye after he’d made the valet throw the camera. His heart aches a little at the sight, but he has no time to dwell on it. Kingo is hovering over him.

“Okay, new rule – no more possessing people’s valets,” Kingo says.

“Where is your sense of humour, Kingo?” Druig replies, smirking.

Karun, shaken, apologises. Kingo dismisses him.

“You are not a God. You know that, right?” Kingo turns back to Druig.

There’s tension in the room now that wasn’t there before, and you can’t blame Kingo for being annoyed with Druig, especially considering the fact that the camera was probably expensive and Karun was just a human. But there’s still a part of you that wants to get up and stand in-between them, stopping their argument before it really begins. You can’t bring yourself to do it.

Druig, though, continues to dig his hole.

“How ironic. Kingo, the movie star,” he says.

“I’ve directed some things, too.”

“Oh, yeah. Like what?”

“Some internet content.”

“How many views?”

“I don’t do it for the views.”

You’re thankful when Ikaris, standing just in front of you, pushes himself off of the wall where he’d been leaning and starts to walk towards them. You expect him to break up the brewing argument, but instead he says a quick “Let’s go, we’re wasting our time.” You’re quick to rise to your feet after him, ready to leave.

Druig has other ideas, though, stepping away from Kingo and blocking Ikaris’ path. But now that you’ve stood up, assuming the others would have stood up with you, you’re on Druig’s radar, too. You can’t sit down now without him saying something and you know it, especially when he briefly glances at you with a smirk.

Internally, you berate yourself for wanting to make such a quick exit.

“Ikaris, I missed you. Are you gonna charm me, or threaten me?”

“There’s a third option if you’d prefer that,” Ikaris sounds ready for a fight.

“Must be heartbreaking, finding out that you’re not mothers favourite…”

“I’m sure she’d be real proud of you.”

Sersi stands up, sick of the bickering between the men. “Druig, this is serious.” She meets your eyes, briefly, and says the words you need to hear in just one look. It’s okay. She’ll get Druig on board. Things will work out.

Druig isn’t having any of it, though. He steps away from Ikaris, walking towards Sersi but then stopping as soon as he reaches the pew where you’re still standing. His head turns slowly to look at you, his eyes meeting yours, and you feel like you’re about to combust on the spot until he looks away and goes back to talking to Sersi.

“I’ll tell you what’s serious. I’ve just been told I’ve been sent on a suicide mission for the past 7000 years and that my entire existence is a lie,” his voice is louder, harsher than it has been during the conversation. “So excuse me for not giving a shit about your plan right now.”

With that, he turns and leaves the room, closing the door behind himself and letting you properly breathe for the first time since you’d set eyes on him twenty minutes ago. You slump back down onto the pew, your head falling into your hands.

“Druig sucks,” Kingo mutters. Karun agrees with him.

You give it a few minutes before you stand up, announcing that you need some air, and leave the room. You don’t know where you’re going – you don’t even know your way around this place – but you need to get out of the confines of those four walls and the memories that had emerged inside of them.

~~~

THE DOMO, 624 AD

“I’m going to need you to sit down and stop being a pain in my ass, Druig,” you mutter, grabbing his shoulders forcefully and pushing him down onto the desk behind him. “You could have gotten yourself killed today. I thought I was supposed to be the irresponsible one? You trying to steal my brand now?”

Druig looks back at you, blank faced, as you grab the cloth and start to dab at the cut on his forehead. It wasn’t a serious one but it was bleeding quite a bit. He’d gotten it during the fight with the Deviants today after making a risky move, trying to slash at it with his knife. Ajak is still out talking to the people, unable to heal the injury until she gets back, so you’ve taken on the job of cleaning it up until she does.

You don’t have healing powers, but you do know how to treat a cut.

“Me, irresponsible?” He scoffs. “You’ve gotten us mixed up, I’m afraid.”

He knows he was a little irresponsible today, but he’s not the type to admit it. He is a little embarrassed about the fact that you’d had to be the one to step in and stop him from getting hurt, taking a risk yourself in the process, but he’s never planning on letting you know about that, either. You can live in wonder for as long as he cares.

Your left hand cups his cheek gently, the right hand dabbing the cloth onto the wound to try and clean up the blood that’s still on his forehead. You ignore his words, knowing he’s just trying to get a rise out of you. Druig, however, feels his irritation towards you start to slowly disappear as he tries not to focus on the feeling of your skin on his and the fact that your face is so close to his. That if he tilts his head up just a little, he could brush his lips against yours… he shakes his head, wondering where on earth that thought came from, and then winces at the way the cloth rubs against the cut.

“What are you doing?” You roll your eyes, your spare hand going down to take his chin in yours, forcing him to look at you and stay still. “Are you trying to make the cut worse?”

“It’s fine,” he mutters under his breath. He just wants you to go now, to leave him alone and give him the distance he clearly needs to get his mind back in order after the strange thought about kissing you. He’s had several thoughts like that over the past hundred years and if he’s been able to stop himself from acting on it until now, he feels confident he can continue to do so – if you keep your distance. “Ajak will heal it later.”

You narrow your eyes at him. “I don’t care about later, I care about now.”

Internally, he knows he should say something to get you to go, but nothing comes to mind. Nothing he can say that won’t hurt you, anyway. You’re clearly not leaving until the cut is dealt with. He huffs, knowing he has no choice but to deal with the fact that your face is so close to him until you’re done.

You continue gently dabbing the cut, then you remove the cloth from the wound and lean in a little closer to get a better look at it. Druig can feel your breath on his skin, you’re that close. Your hand is still on his chin, holding his face in place, and his skin is tingling.

“I think it’s stopped bleeding,” you mutter, twisting his head from side to side in order to get a better look at it in the light. “Just don’t do anything to make it bleed again, will you?”

You’re about to let go of his chin and step back, to stop helping him with the cut, when Druig’s hand moves to enclose around your wrist, keeping your hand firmly in place. You look down at him, confused, to see he’s already looking at you.

He doesn’t say a word as he tugs you down a little so you’re level with his face. Nor does he say anything or give any warning when he lets go of your hand to take your face in his them and press his lips to yours, giving up on his attempts to stop himself. The kiss takes you off guard – you hadn’t expected to be kissed by anyone, let alone Druig, but he’s… not a bad kisser.

You have little choice in choosing to kiss him back because it seems your body already knows what you want before your mind does, since your lips start to move against his only moments after he first kisses you. It’s a little awkward considering he’s sat down and you’re standing, leaning over him, your legs a little uncomfortably stood in-between his, but the fact doesn’t seem to bother either of you as he kisses you senseless.

For a first kiss, it’s quite honestly mind-blowing.

When he pulls away, he rests his forehead against yours, hands moving to your waist to keep you in place, as he catches his breath. You will your empty mind to form a sentence.

“Um… what was that?” You manage.

Druig laughs attractively and you feel all the irritation you had towards him before, after having to save him, disappear in the blink of an eye. If he wanted to risk his life again just to make you save him again, you would.

“I don’t know,” he mumbles. “I just looked at you… and I wanted to kiss you, so I did.”

“You are aware that the two of us are supposed to hate each other, right? You don’t kiss people that you hate. That’s kind of a rule.”

He smirks. “I am aware of that, yes. But I think we might have to put that on pause because that was a very good kiss, and I’d very much like to repeat the experience in future.”

“Oh, hang on,” your eyes widen, realising something, and you pull back from him a little to look at his face better. “You were jealous back then in England when I was talking to Ikaris! I said you had a crush on me and you said you didn’t, but clearly you did because–”

Druig cuts you off by pressing another kiss to your lips.

~~~

AMAZON, PRESENT DAY

It’s uncomfortably humid outside, very different to the chilly air you’d been feeling in Tokyo for the last few weeks and more uncomfortable than the heat in Australia. You already miss your jackets and scarves and beanies, but one good thing about the humidity is that it allows you to remember that this is real.

But coming outside for some fresh air is also an oversight on your part. It would have been better had you stayed with the others and not sought out your own company, for it’s not long after you wander away from the camp and sit down on a log in the silence that Druig takes a seat beside you.

You don’t have to look at him to know who he is.

“I should’ve guessed you’d avoid me,” are Druig’s first words to you.

With a sigh, you stare down at your hands and begin to fiddle with your rings again. His first words to you after 500 years and those are the words he chooses? You should have expected less from the man who’d broken your heart.

“I’m not avoiding you,” you force yourself to reply. “I just have nothing to say to you.”

Druig looks at you, watches as you fiddle with the rings on your fingers, and reaches a hand over to stop you. But the second his hand touches yours, you flinch away like you’ve been burnt by fire. It makes Druig feel terrible.

He clears his throat and folds his hands in his lap. “If I say I wanted to apologise to you, you wouldn’t accept my apology, would you? I think I know you well enough to know that.”

You scoff. “You don’t know anything about me anymore, Druig.”

“I do, actually,” he says. “I know that you live in Tokyo and you teach languages, that you work at a school and also privately tutor students. I know that you’ve lived in various areas of Japan for the last fifty years. I’ve been keeping an eye out.”

“Oh, so you’ve been stalking me with one of your mind controlled humans? Do I know them?” You know your words are a little too harsh, but they’re out of your mouth before you can have the chance to second guess them.

He nearly winces at that. “No, but I have been checking in with the others and I asked.”

You finally bring yourself to look up at him. He’s sat closer to you than you’d realised and it takes you off guard a little. Seeing him up close like this for the first time in so long, seeing his face so close to yours, the lips you used to kiss, the cheeks you used to hold. The face that you used to look at in the early morning hours when you woke up beside him. It makes it feel like nothing has changed between you. He’s still the same Druig that he was back then… the same Druig that abandoned you for this life.

“I don’t care why you left, Druig, not anymore.” Your words are truthful, even though it hurts to say them. “I stopped wondering about that a long time ago because of what it was doing to me. I had to start living for me and not wondering about the past. So, even if you were to truly, sincerely apologise to me, it wouldn’t mean anything. We are not the same people we were when we loved each other five hundred years ago, Druig.”

You push yourself up from the log and dust off the back of your jeans, getting rid of the bark you’d been sat on. You don’t have time for this. You’d come outside to get some fresh air and clear your mind and instead you’ve filled it up with pain again.

Druig stays firmly sat on the log, not wanting to move and crowd you. He can see how unnerved you are by just looking at you. Even though neither of you are the same as you were back then, he thinks that there are still things you learnt about each other hundreds and thousands of years ago that will stick with you forever. This is one of them. He can read you like a book – a little less easily than before, sure, but still.

You start to walk away from him, but you only make it two steps before you stop, your feet stumbling over thin air as your powers kick into action. It’s been so long since you’ve had to use them like this that part of you didn’t think they still worked but…

Druig’s hand goes out to steady you, grabbing a hold of your wrist gently as you stare into the forest, looking at seemingly nothing to Druig’s eyes. The first sign that something is really wrong is when you don’t shake his hand off immediately.

“Deviants,” is all you say. “There are Deviants here.”

You pull your hand out of Druig’s grasp and take off at a run back to the village, your feet slipping and sliding on moss and leaves every now and then. Druig is hot on your tail, hurrying after you. He’s seen you use your powers before, but it’s been a long while. You wouldn’t lie though. He can tell just by the way your voice had changed that you were telling the truth.

You make it to the edge of the forest just in time to see a Deviant appearing through the trees and going after the villagers. Sersi is right in its path, yelling to clear the camp. Kingo isn’t far behind her, using his powers to try and subdue the Deviant as it runs towards them.

Druig stands beside you, watching in shock as the Deviant begins to destroy the village, all of his years of hard work turning to dust because of one pesky beast. He places a hand on your shoulder. “You stay here,” he says, and then he starts running.

“Like hell,” you mutter in reply, following him.

No matter what trauma you two share in your past, you know that the Deviants are things that can only be killed when all of you band together – not including the one that Gilgamesh had single-handedly killed in Australia, since he’s the exception. There’s no way you’re staying behind, not when you’d done that before and hated every minute of it.

He catches sight of you running behind him just before he reaches his home to grab his gun. “Still irresponsible!” He calls out to you. “So, that’s one thing that hasn’t changed!”

“Shut up!” You yell in response.

Druig turns to say something to you again but you’re already gone, having spotted Kingo fighting one of them alone. There’s no hesitation in your decision to run and help him even though it’s been so long since you last saw a Deviant. You’re on the Deviants back in seconds, your previous fighting experience coming back to you like it’d never left, as you start to help Kingo take the beast down.

Druig can’t help but watch you with a small, proud smile on his face.

~~~

Even though 500 years have passed, you can still confidently admit that Druig is the most attractive person you’ve ever met – especially when you catch him vaulting himself over the Deviant that Sersi was dealing with, gun in hand, helping to take it down. He’s controlling all of the villagers to also fire their guns at it, though, and that fact alone leaves a bitter taste in your mouth. All of the humans you know… that could happen to them, too.

You can’t stay and watch, though. There’s only a moment or two for you to look around and gage the situation with the others before you have to get back to helping Kingo.

He yells at you, asking for you to hurry, and you quickly decide to use your powers again to sense if the others are all okay as you jump back into the fight. It’s been so long since you used that aspect of your powers. For the first few hundred years after you’d all split up, you’d used it nearly every day on everyone, including Druig, wanting to know if everyone was safe. But after a while, the exhaustion had become too much.

It has one downside, though – a lack of focus on yourself, explaining the reason behind you being slammed in the side by the tail of the Deviant and sent flying into the wall of the nearest building, the building crumbling underneath you as you land.

You let out a groan, hand going to the back of your head which had made contact with the wall first. It’s been a while since you’ve felt this kind of pain and it’s not one you’ve missed. That, and you can sense all of the other Eternals feelings as they’re fighting. It’s been years since you felt so much all at once, years since you’d learnt how to properly control your powers so it didn’t overwhelm you and exhaust you.

Thankfully, you don’t need to get up and keep fighting as you see Kingo use his powers to explode the head of the Deviant in the corner of your vision. You allow yourself to stay on the ground, even though the wood you’re laying on is very uncomfortable, and catch your breath, unsure if you can even stand at the moment anyway, while you try to control your powers and focus in on certain feelings so that the senses don’t take over.

Black starts to creep into the edges of your vision, though, and then the darkness takes you before you can even try to stop it.

~~~

You’re awoken by the feeling of someone dying.

It’s an uncomfortable feeling paired with the pain in your body from being thrown into the building, but you pull yourself to sit up anyway, hand moving to grasp your head. It feels like it’s being ripped open, but you know it’s not your own head causing that feeling. You rifle through the list of Eternals in your head, trying to figure out who it is.

Gilgamesh.

Your powers supply you with the name and you feel a part of you break.

No.

You push yourself to your feet, ignoring the pain, and start to run in the direction that your powers take you in. The village is in ruins around you but you don’t have the time to care about any of that, to care about any of the other Eternals except the one you can feel dying inside your mind.

It’s not like there’s anything you can do about it, but you force yourself to run as fast as you can, jumping over the vines and rocks on the ground, stumbling and sliding over the wet leaves. It’s not enough, though, for you skid to a stop in front of Thena just as Gilgamesh dies in her arms.

Thena begins to cry and you involuntarily fall to your knees.

There’s a part of your mind that feels numb. Like you’ve lost something important, but you can’t reach in there to grab it out. It’s just… gone. Tears gather in your eyes but none fall as you look at Gilgamesh and Thena in front of you.

The empty feeling overwhelms you and you wish you’d never used your power again at all.

~~~

CRETE, 709 AD

Druig has a thing about holding your hand, you’ve noticed.

The pair of you have just come out on a walk, taking advantage of the abnormal rainy weather on the island while the other Eternals stay in the Domo, to try and get some time to yourselves. It’s surely only a matter of time before the others figure out something is going on between the two of you.

You’ve done a good job at keeping it to yourselves so far, however.

It takes him about three minutes to reach down and take your hand in his. You’re not even that far away from the Domo, though you know that the rain is keeping everyone else inside so you don’t shake his hand away from yours.

Instead, you smile up at him. “I’ve been thinking,” you start.

“Uh oh,” Druig smirks at you in reply.

You squeeze his hand gently. “When all the Deviants are killed, when all that’s left is us waiting to see when we’ll be allowed to go home… what will we do? I don’t mean all of us, I just mean… us.”

Druig thinks over your words for a few moments, pondering them to himself.

He’s never much thought that far ahead into the future. He’s always been someone who prefers to think in the moment, think about what he can do at the current time to make change in the future, but not about his future. But your question makes him realise one thing: he wants to see you in his.

“Well,” he starts, a little hesitantly. “I think we should leave the others and get a little place for ourselves, if we’re staying here on Earth for a little while. I love them, I do,” he glances back towards the Domo, “but I would like to spend some time with you alone, without having to worry about someone interrupting.”

His words give you an immeasurable amount of happiness. You smile to yourself, staring down at your feet to mask the joy on your face, as you walk along. It doesn’t even matter that it’s raining now.

Druig nudges you with his shoulder. “Got an opinion on that, my love?”

You force yourself to look at him straight-faced and try to be nonchalant. “Yeah, that sounds like a nice time.”

He can see right through you – he’d always thought he’d been able to, but after he really saw you after he first kissed you, something there had changed and he’d suddenly been able to really see into your soul. He knows you better than he thinks he knows himself.

“You’re a terrible liar,” he leans down to say the words teasingly to you.

You can’t hide your smile anymore. “Fine, fine. I think it’s a really good idea,” you look up at him, happy to see the cheeky smile on his own face. “A house in the mountains, maybe. So we can hear the rain and watch it coming over the hills. Close enough to civilisation but far enough away so it really feels like it’s just the two of us.”

Druig feels a thrill of joy at the thought. “I knew I liked you for a reason.”

“Hm, I think you more than like me.”

“Only on the weekends,” he teases.

~~~

THE DOMO, 943 AD

Phastos wonders when, exactly, you started to actually tolerate Druig. For the longest time, he remembers that you were on his side, irritated by his sarcasm and sick of his pestering when it came to the way you fought the Deviants. Then a couple hundred years passed and suddenly you’re not as bothered by him anymore.

He misses the times when you’d come and sit beside him, both of you rolling your eyes as Druig spoke about something totally meaningless. Now, you’ll laugh a little at his words, or attempt to hide a smile (you’re not good at being subtle even though you think you are).

Every other Eternal notices something, too. The way the tension between you and Druig is gone and replaced with something else that none of them can quite put their finger on. He still tells you off when you’re reckless during a fight, but there’s something hidden under his anger. There’s not as much sarcastic bickering as usual, though it still happens a surprising amount.

It’s strange. Somehow, it’s worse than the thousands of years of tension.

Phastos watches with intrigued eyes as you enter the Domo and walk straight over to Druig, sitting on the chair by the desk, his legs kicked up on the table very comfortably. You place a hand on the back of the chair and lean over him, looking at what he’s doing on the tablet in his hands. Druig doesn’t move away at how close you are like he usually would.

He looks between the two of you. Something is going on.

Thena enters the room not long after you do and Phastos holds out a hand to stop her. She looks up at him, eyebrows raised, asking silently why he had the audacity to stop her when she was on her way somewhere else.

“Those two–” He points towards you and Druig. “What’s going on?”

She follows Phastos’ finger and looks at the two of you. The way Druig is smiling slightly at something you’ve just said, the way you’re leaning over him and he hasn’t moved an inch. The way the two of you look so comfortable around one another.

What’s going on becomes clear to her immediately. She’s seen it before. Ikaris and Sersi had been that way in their early days, when Ikaris was pining over Sersi. She even recalls catching Gilgamesh looking at her with admiration a few times, though they’d never really clarified their relationship and didn’t ever have to.

“You don’t see it?” Thena looks over at Phastos.

He frowns. “See what?”

Thena smiles to herself and walks away from Phastos, ignoring his confused look as she walks towards you and Druig. She gently taps you on the shoulder and you flinch. She notices the way that Druig tenses up a little at your sudden movement and her suspicions are confirmed. The poor boy is head over heels.

“Can I ask you something? Privately,” Thena asks.

With a nod, you leave Druig and follow her back outside the room, into the hallway of the Domo. She leads you a surprisingly long distance until she’s sure that the two of you are definitely alone where no one will overhear you before she stops and looks at you.

“You and Druig,” is all she says.

You stare at her. Internally, you’re panicking. You’d been subtle, both of you. For years now. Years. There was no way that Thena could have suddenly caught on. “What about us?” You clear your throat.

Thena gives you a look. “Are you and him…? Don’t make me say it.”

“I–what? No!” Your words are frantic and it’s clear that you’re lying. If you were Thena, you’d know right away that your words were a lie. And you can tell just by looking at Thena that she sees right through you.

“How long?” Thena sighs.

You can’t hold onto the charade any longer. “Three hundred years.”

Thena’s eyes widen. “What?”

“We’re good at hiding things, what can I say?” You shrug. “You can’t tell anyone. Not until I talk to Druig about it. We wanted to keep it between us, we never intended on hiding it for this long but none of you caught on so we just never said anything. Don’t say anything. Please.”

You know that you have trust in Thena. You always have, and you always will. So, when Thena nods and tells you that she’ll keep your secret, you believe her.

Walking back into the room you’d left Druig in, however, is more awkward than you anticipated. He looks up as soon as you enter the room, his eyes brightening upon seeing you again, and you walk back over to him, standing where you’d stood before.

“What was that about?” He asks softly.

“I’ll tell you later, when we’re alone,” you reply in a whisper.

Phastos is still across the room, looking at the two of you curiously. It isn’t long till he’ll be able to put two and two together, you think. He’s one of the smartest out of you all.

You squeeze Druig’s shoulder and then lean down to look at his tablet again.

“Now, what were you showing me before I left?”

~~~

Tag List: @dontstopxx @tompetersebbuckyhazleo @freyagallileaevans (If you'd like to be added, please reply to this post or message me!)

[cjsinkythoughts]

The Shield

Paring: Bucky Barnes x Avenger!Reader

Word Count: 5595

Warnings: !FATWS SPOILERS!, Cursing, John Walker, Emotions, Character Death, Mentions of Blood, I know people had a hard time with that last scene so please take caution because it is in this part! GIF at end is the ending scene, so be careful when you get towards the bottom! I feel like I’m forgetting some, so just know this one’s a bit more than the others.

A/N: Here it is, folks! The Part we’ve all been waiting for! It’s the longest one I’ve written so far but so much happened and I couldn’t find a better spot to end it than where the episode ended. Thank you all for being patient with me today. I know I didn’t get this out as quickly as I would’ve the past few weeks, but you guys are so awesome! Seriously! I love that you understand I do have a life and work comes first! Thank you, thank you!

This Part is a doozy, guys, and…I’m sorry? But not really. I’m SUPER excited to see where this is gonna go, especially considering Episode 5 is supposed to be the real tear jerker. I can’t believe there’s only two more episodes! I’ve grown so attached to these characters just in the past month! I’m so glad I’m able to share some of my thoughts and feelings with you guys, too! You’re honestly the best!

I’ll be doing more One Shots this week, so look for those on the Masterlist. I’m still taking requests for them, so if there’s anything you want explored about the reader and her relationships that you don’t think will be explored in this Series, just ask and I’ll try to add it to the One Shot list.

As always, this isn’t beta’d so please excuse any mistakes! Thank you for reading, be kind to yourself and others, enjoy this part and stay tuned!

FATWS Masterlist

cjsinkythoughts Masterlist

(I couldn’t decide on which GIF to use because there are so many good ones! Thank you Tumblr Creators!)

!SPOILERS UNDER CUT!

“Doll…hey. Doll. C’mon, sweetheart. We gotta get moving.”

You cracked your eyes open begrudgingly, squinting up to see Bucky’s amused grin, head tilted and eyes soft. “Huh?”

He chuckled as you rubbed your eyes, confusion lifting an eyebrow. “The funeral. Zemo said we’ve gotta go if we’re gonna make it in time.”

“Wait, but…huh?”

Sniggering again at your reaction, he held up your phone. “You passed out in the middle of a chapter, sleepyhead.” He teased lightly, grabbing your hand and gently pulling you to sit upright. “It’s almost been an hour.”

You huffed tiredly, stretching and placing your feet on the floor, taking back the phone he held out to you. “Why didn’t you wake me up?”

“You haven’t been sleeping well.” He stated, like it should’ve been obvious. “How’s your arm feeling?”

“Better than earlier. It’s just sore. That’s all.”

He studied your features for any hint of a lie. Not finding one, he nodded, holding out his hand. “Okay. But tell me if it starts bothering you.”

You placed your hand in his, marveling for a split second at how big his hands were compared to yours - something you noticed every time but still it never ceased to astound you. He tugged you up, and you looked up to meet his worried eyes, remembering his question.

“I will, Buck. Promise.”

He nodded, tilting his head towards the door. “C’mon, cuddle bug. We don’t wanna miss this.”

A groan passed your lips, but you nodded and followed Bucky out into the main room, where Sam chuckled at you from his spot at the table. “Sleeping beauty has finally awoken.”

You flipped Sam off groggily. “Are we going or not?”

“Do you wanna wake up s’more first?”

“No.” You answered the one armed brunette. “I’ll just splash some water on my face or something. I’ll be fine by the time we get there. Where’s-”

“Looking for me?”

Zemo strolled out, now dressed in that coat of his, that smug smirk on his lips. You scowled. “I wish I wasn’t.”

Sam stood up, standing subconsciously between you and Zemo. “Let’s head out.”

You nodded in agreement, shooting the Baron one more glare, before following him out the door and into the city, Bucky right besides you, shoulders brushing as if you weren’t ignoring him just hours prior.

The walk was mostly silent, a few jests between Bucky and Sam plus a couple comments from Zemo here and there. You talked about strategy, with Sam bringing up the fact that he wanted to try convincing Karli to step down. Zemo didn’t look pleased with the arrangement, but both you and Bucky relented, agreeing to let Sam at least try.

It wasn’t until you were close to your destination according to Zemo that anything exciting happened.

“Karli Morgenthau is too dangerous for you guys to be pulling this shit!”

Hell. No. 

The moment the voice registered in your brain, your jaw tightened, your teeth starting to grind together as you held back the very not nice things you wanted to say. 

“Ah! How’d you find us now?” Bucky called out, tucking you into his side protectively, and a little possessively you noted, as Walker and Hoskins came down the steps, the two groups nearing each other.

You were relieved when the subject of Zemo escaping jail went by relatively quickly, Walker latching onto the fact that you were going to talk to Karli instead of focusing on the escaped fugitive in front of him.

You very nearly punched him when he ran in front of you after Sam told him the plan, making the four of you stop in your tracks, but Bucky’s arm tightened around your shoulders, holding you in place next to him.

“You’re gonna let him do this?” Walker questioned Bucky in disbelief, self righteous judgement practically dripping from your tone. “You’re gonna let your partner walk into a room with a super soldier alone?”

Bucky’s jaw ticked. “He’s dealt with worse. And he’s not my partner.”

“And you?” Walker narrowed his eyes towards you. “I expected more from you; the last original Avenger.”

You snorted, shaking your head. He obviously didn’t know how chaotic the Avengers were. What Sam was proposing? You’d seen it a million times with Steve alone. Not considering Nat, Clint, Thor, even Bruce and Tony. All of them willing to try to negotiate before running in, bullets raining and hell rising. “First, I’m not the last original. I’m technically not even an original. Second, I trust Sam with my life and I’m standing by his decision. He’s my brother. As a soldier, I would’ve thought you understood that.”

Before he could respond, Sam stepped around Bucky. You saw the reluctance in Walker’s eyes as he admitted a temporary defeat once Hoskins agreed with Sam. The fact that he was so unwilling to try to save more lives - including Karli’s - made the truth that he wasn’t, and would never, be your Captain harden deeper into your heart.

Ignoring Walker’s confusion as you followed the little girl Zemo befriended - which was weird, you’d admit, but it was getting you closer to Karli - Bucky’s arm slipped from your shoulders, hand sliding across your back and skimming down your arm to grip your hand. Even through your jacket, you felt goosebumps erupt along his fingers’ trail.

You finally came to your destination and you let out a small breath. If everything went smoothly, this mission could finally be over and you could go home and take a bath, get take out, get out a bottle of wine, watch TV, and just relax.

What a dream.

“Hey.” You stopped Sam before he could go through the entrance of where the girl said Karli was, holding his forearm. “You want me to come with you?”

He shook his head. “I think it’ll be better if I go alone.”

You nodded, letting go without any hesitance. “Okay. Be careful.”

“Always.” And despite all you’ve been through, no matter how many times he’s followed Steve’s lead in doing something stupid, you knew he meant it. You nodded again, before he disappeared around the corner.

You leaned back against the wall, Bucky once again wrapping an arm around your shoulder now that you weren’t walking - he liked having mobility on the move, hence the reason he held your hand instead - leaning besides you and pulling you against his chest.

Ten minutes. You tried looking at Bucky’s watch, which was on the wrist of the arm around you. He noticed and turned his wrist slightly, bending his elbow more, which brought you even closer to him, showing you the time.

Giving a small sigh, you nodded slightly and dropped your head back against his bicep, your hands shoving in your pockets, one of your feet coming up to rest against the wall. Bucky shifted to your other side so he could stand in front of the doors to where Karli and Sam were, pulling you against his back, arms wrapping around your shoulders tightly.

It was a long ten minutes. You kept eyeing Walker, and you couldn’t help the anger burning through you as he held the shield in his hands. That damn shield. It wasn’t his. It would never be his. And he would never understand it. The fact that the shield didn’t make Captain America. The shield isn’t what made Steve a good man. Not even the Serum did. He already was one. Steve made the shield what it was, not the other way around.

But then you remembered a conversation you had, years ago, and your eyes flitted up to Bucky’s hardened face, the brunette staring intensely at the ground.

~

You didn’t get it. You were confused. You knew how important Barnes - Bucky - was to Steve. But apparently you didn’t understand it quite yet.

You watched from the entrance of the hallway, leaning against the wall, as Bucky went under once more.

Steve stood there for a moment longer, before turning and walking towards you. “Why’d you do it?”

He raised an eyebrow at you while you turned to walk with him down the hall. “Do what?”

“Give up the shield. And don’t say it doesn’t belong to you. It does. Howard gave it to you. You’re the reason it’s…a symbol.”

He hummed. “And what exactly is it a symbol for, honey?”

You scoffed. “Uh, freedom? Justice? Resilience? The defense of the whole life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness thing?”

He stopped, facing you with a strange expression on his face, thoughtful. “I dropped it because I can’t be that anymore. Not right now. People don’t have the same beliefs they used to have. How can I stand up for freedom and let the Sokovia Accords track every person they deem a threat, just like HYDRA tried doing? How can I be a symbol for justice and let Bucky take the fall for something that he wasn’t in control of? I can’t. And until the world is ready to change…I can’t be Captain America.”

~

And suddenly, it seemed to click. Steve gave up the shield for Bucky because the world wasn’t ready to admit it was wrong. Just like Sam gave up the shield for himself and his family because the world wasn’t ready for the truth that would come with him becoming Captain America.

God…when did a metal circle become so complicated?

“What’s goin’ on in that pretty lil’ head’a yours?” His whisper in your ear startled you out of your thoughts, his nose brushing against your temple tenderly as he placed a chaste kiss on your cheek.

You looked up at him and shook your head. Of all the things Steve gave up, he never gave up Bucky. And it used to confuse you, but you understood then. His blue eyes sparkling with curiosity and slight concern, his fingers tracing patterns along your collarbone with a barely-there touch that was so light it didn’t seem to exist. You finally understood. Not just Steve’s decision, but Sam’s too. And maybe you didn’t understand it fully, and that was okay, because you weren’t them, so you never would, but you understood a little bit.

“Nothing.” You shook your head, keeping your voice down so the others couldn’t hear, the conversation being a private one, “I’m just waiting for this to be over.”

He hummed, nodding in agreement, setting his chin on your head. “Me too.”

Walker started pacing the room about half way through, getting too antsy for your liking. “Shhh.” Bucky mumbled under his breath, feeling you tense as Walker started talking. “It hasn’t been ten minutes, John. Just sit tight.”

“Don’t do that. Don’t patronize me.”

“He knows what he’s doing.” Bucky stated confidently, straightening slightly from his leaning position, arms falling from your form. The two of you exchanged glances as Walker checked the clock over on the far wall, blocked from your view.

“I’m going in.” Walker strode across the room, heading for the entrance, no doubt willing to steam roll anything - anyone - in his way.

Bucky stopped him with a hand on his chest. You glanced back and forth between the two as Walker spoke, arms crossed tightly over your chest. “Buck…we promised him ten minutes.” You reminded him, seeing his resolve crumble a bit. You could guess he was thinking of the nightmares. The people he couldn’t save. The blood he already considered on his hands.

Walker used his moment of hesitation, shoving past him roughly. “I’m not waiting.”

“John!”

“Walker!”

You followed after him, you and Bucky arguing with him and Hoskins about giving Sam more time, but it was too late.

“Karli Morgenthau! You’re under arrest!”

“Fuck.” You hissed out when you saw Sam’s panicked expression, looking at you confused. Walker was flown across the room when Karli punched him, Bucky shoving Hoskins out of the way to run after her.

“Y/N-”

You threw your hands up. “I tried, Sam! C’mon!”

You and Sam ran over to some stairs, turning corners and trying to remember what the building looked like from outside to cut her off, but you only ran into Bucky again. 

“I wish we had the layout or something.” You grumbled. “We were that close-”

“We’re not done yet, doll.” Nodding, you followed the boys out, Bucky pausing every so often to try to hear anything. “I’ve got gunshots.” At that, the three of you took off towards the sound, Bucky leading the way.

Just around the corner from where Bucky heard the gunshots, you thought you saw a couple people slip around another bend. Noticing you had stopped, Bucky backtracked. “You okay?’

“Yeah.” Deciding it wasn’t worth the pursuit, you turned to him and nodded towards the doorway Sam already went through. He gave you a look, but nodded and the two of you jogged into the room.

You sighed heavily, seeing Zemo knocked out on the floor, Walker standing over him and broken vials that were previously full of, what you assumed was, the Serum. Hoskins ran in right after you, meaning no one but Walker and Zemo knew what happened. Meaning you would probably never get the full, true story.

What fun it is to work with manipulators and liars.

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

“I don’t like him.” Bucky grumbled, the two of you walking up to the place you were staying in, Bucky holding the door open for you.

“I know you don’t, Buck. I don’t either.” You had asked Bucky to go with you to get some fresh air once you got back, Zemo having woken up a few minutes after and Walker and Hoskins had to make a call or something official like the good soldiers they were. “He’s hiding something.”

“You think?” Bucky scoffed, giving you a look.

You rolled your eyes. “I mean…I don’t know. When we found him and Zemo…my gut twisted.”

He nodded in understanding, his face twisting into a scowl. “Yeah. Mine did too.”

You stopped him before you could walk through the door to the main room. “Do me a favor?” He nodded again with a little hum. Catching his chin between your fingers, your free hand moved to smooth out the creases between his brow. “Stop brooding so much. It makes me worried.”

His tongue darted out to wet his lips, features softening slightly. “Are you really gonna leave in the morning? I know you’ve had a lot of people telling you to take a break, and it’s selfish for me to ask you to stay, but…I dunno if I can finish this without you.”

“I-” You sighed, ducking your head as you thought of a response, before looking up in his wide eyes, begging for you to stick around longer. “Let’s just finish the day and see what happens next. Okay?”

He bit his lip, nodding slightly. You gave him a smile, before tugging on his hand. “I need a drink.”

He chuckled at that. “That I can fix, doll.” He, again, opened the door for you, and the two of you walked in.

“What a gentleman. Straight outta the 40’s.” You joked, making him roll his eyes.

He took off his jacket, heading to the kitchen, while you sat on the opposite side of the island. “Somethin’s not right about Walker.”

Sam gave you two an amused look. “You don’t say.”

“Well, I know a crazy when I see one.” He opened the lid of the bottle he grabbed, starting to pour two glasses of whiskey for the both of you. “Because I am crazy.”

You rolled your eyes as Sam responded, “can’t argue with that.”

“You shouldn’t have given him the shield.”

Giving Bucky a disapproving look over the rim of your glass, you sipped your drink, narrowing your eyes when he ignored you. “I didn’t give him the shield.”

“Well Steve definitely didn’t.”

Your glass slammed down on the counter. Why did he have to bring this up right now? Seriously? You were just having a nice conversation about places you wanted to visit while taking a walk outside. Why was he suddenly snapping?

Before you could scold him, the doors burst open, making your head whip over as Walker stormed in, “ordering” you to hand over Zemo.

You stayed sitting, leaning on the counter and facing the opposite wall as Sam told him off, giving an amused snicker as you sipped your drink. Bucky sat besides you, facing Walker, and you recognized from the angle he was positioning himself that he was blocking you from Walker’s view, whether intentional or not.

You raised an eyebrow, turning in interest when Walker put down the shield, knowing Sam wasn’t about to fight the man. What an ego the blonde had.

Before anything could happen, however, a spear pierced through the air, lodging in the pillar next to Walker’s head.

Your frustration with Bucky’s comment flew out of your head as Ayo and a few other Dora Milaje walked in. Bucky sat up straighter and you stood up, leaning ever so slightly against his arm.

You nearly facepalmed, a sound of complete disbelief leaving you as Walker introduced himself. Sam looked over at you two, an entertained, slightly incredulous smile on his face.

Sam tried warning him. He really did. But Walker, you’ve come to find, was an arrogant, egotistical narcissist who only wanted to win and would do whatever it takes to do so. Even when there wasn’t really a winner. At least, not in that situation. It seemed that Walker liked ignoring the gray area in the world, which wasn’t good. Not in the least.

Which is why you couldn’t really feel sorry for the man. You saw it coming as soon as he told them they didn’t have jurisdiction. And the moment he touched Ayo?

You put your chin on Bucky’s shoulder - who had stood up from his spot - watching the Dora Milaje kick Walker’s ass, wincing and cringing mockingly at the right moments, making Bucky smirk at you.

“We should do something.” Sam said, although he didn’t look thrilled about the prospect.

Bucky crossed his arms. “Looking strong, John!”

You gave a slight snort, not wanting to encourage anything, but unable to hold in your amusement. Bucky winked at you, clinking his cup of whiskey with your own, before taking a gulp.

“Bucky.” 

You huffed and stepped back at Sam’s tone. “C’mon, Buck.”

“Fine.” Bucky grunted. “But ‘M not happy about it.”

Soon, the three of you, plus Walker and Hoskins, were all occupied with a member of the Dora Milaje. You knew you couldn’t take them; they were on a higher level that Natasha, and you could barely beat her. But you weren’t necessarily trying to win.

It was a strange fight, knowing that no one - except Walker, probably - actually wanted to hurt anyone. Of course, that didn’t stop one of them from exploiting your injured shoulder that she spotted rather quickly. The hits were quick and precise, the tip of her spear cutting along the graze, hitting the spot just perfect enough to reopen it. The stitches that had been placed only a couple days ago ripped, making you wince and clutch your now bleeding shoulder.

“Oh fuck.” You groaned. “You were always good with those things.”

She gave you an almost apologetic look, before she looked over to Ayo, who stepped through the room towards the bathroom where Zemo had locked himself in during the chaos.

When you caught sight of the shoulder thing she did to Bucky, his metallic arm now laying on the floor, his eyes wide and his stance stunned, your jaw nearly dropped. You guessed it made sense that they had a way to do that, but, still. None of you were expecting it.

“Did you know they could do that?” Sam asked once they started leaving, Bucky picking up his arm and connecting it to his shoulder.

“No.” The arm whirred as he swung it, getting it back to normal.

You couldn’t help the little giggle that left you, making Bucky raise an eyebrow at you. You tried holding in more laughs, but they just kept coming. “She-she...she disarmed you!”

Bucky rolled his eyes as you chortled, holding your stomach and bending over. “Ha ha. Very funny.”

“Oh come on!” You straightened and wiped your eyes. “That was good! Wasn’t it, Sammy?”

Sammy chuckled and nodded. “I’ll admit, it was pretty good. This, however, is not.”

Your laughter died as Sam made his way over to the bathroom, the light air that came with your cackles dissipating as quickly as it came.

“I can’t believe he pulled an El Chapo.”

You stared at the drain that was uncovered - large enough for Zemo to slip inside and escape. He did it. The son of a bitch finally did it. It took him long enough. You would’ve betted against him days ago.

“I can.” Bucky turned and grabbed your hand. “Come on. Let’s get you cleaned up.”

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

“I thought you told them.”

Bucky looked up from wrapping your shoulder, an eyebrow raised. “What?”

“I thought you told them. The Dora Milaje. Wakanda. T’Challa. I thought you told them about Zemo.”

He leaned back with a sigh. “It was kinda a last minute decision. You know that. You were there.”

You nodded. “I do. But I also know what they’ve done for you. Shuri and Ayo. I was there for that, too. And you know what he did to them. To their country. Their king.”

“I know, I know. I almost died several times because of it.”

Your eyebrows pinched in confusion. “So why-”

“I thought it’d be quick. I thought, maybe, I could do it without them finding out and then we could get to Karli and they wouldn’t be disappointed. Win win.”

Your cheek caught between your teeth as you thought. “You could’ve just asked-”

He shook his head. “They would’ve said no. You know that.”

“Okay. Fine. Yes. I know that. But…but giving them a warning would’ve been better than this.” He hung his head, closing his eyes. “Bucky. Hey,” hooking a finger under his chin, you tilted his head back up to look at you. “I know it’s been hard for you. Everything has. And I’m sorry I dragged you into this. I shouldn’t have let you come along. You should be healing, and it’s my fault you’re not.” He opened his mouth, face scrunching up in disagreement, but you shook your head. “It’s true. I just…I didn’t know it would come this far.” You gnawed on your bottom lip studying those captivating eyes, before sighing. “Which is why I’m not leaving.”

He perked up, those pretty eyes going wide, jaw slackening. “You-you’re not?!”

You shook your head. As much as you wanted to run away, you couldn’t. It wouldn’t be right. “It wouldn’t be fair to you or Sam. I promised to help, and I brought you into it. So I’m gonna stay.

“Are you, uh…are you sure? You don’t hafta if you don’t wanna, doll. I know I kinda pushed you earlier, but-”

“I’m sure Buck.” You nodded firmly. “Just…do something for me?”

“I dunno if I can promise not brooding, sweetheart.”

You giggled at his words. “Not that. Just…stop giving Sam a hard time. About the shield. Please.”

His soft features hardened and he scowled. “If he didn’t give it up-”

“He thought it was going to the museum. I told you about that, remember? I told you we’d go when I got back.”

Giving a slight nod, he sighed. “We never did.”

“We will. But, I’m serious, Buck. Please. It’s not his fault. He did exactly what Steve did.” At Bucky’s confused look, you pursed your lips, looking down at his hands, starting to play with his fingers. “Remember how I was thinking during those ten minutes we had?” He nodded. “I was thinking about how Steve gave the shield back to Tony. After saving you. In Siberia. You remember that?” Another nod was given, so you continued. “It was for you, James. Because you made him realize that he didn’t want to be the face of a country that preached one thing, but did another. And that’s what Sam did. He did it for his family. For himself. Because no one wants to fight for a country that goes against your personal beliefs, no matter what they say.”

“I-I don’t understand.” Bucky’s eyes squinted, his brow creasing as he tried processing what you were telling him.

“That’s okay. Not everyone will. Really only they can understand their own reasoning. But you have to try to understand that he did what he thought was best for himself. For Steve. For the shield. And I know - dammit do I know - that it’s the last thing left of him. But it is just metal. Isn’t it? Steve’s the reason it is what it is. No one else. And no one is going to change that.”

Bucky took a breath, glossy, worried eyes meeting yours. “Walker’s going to ruin it. I know he is. I can feel it. Everything Steve worked for. I don’t care about Captain America. I care about the kid from Brooklyn who wanted to make a difference, no matter how little he was. I trusted him. I followed him through bullets and blood, with only that shield between us and them. He was home on a battlefield in Italy across the ocean from New York. And that shield was the welcome mat. It doesn’t matter what it says, what it looks like…but it protected my home when I couldn’t. But now? I feel like it’s tearing my home down. Pulling out the bricks. And it hurts. It was never about the shield, Y/N. It was always about the man it protected when I couldn’t be there for him. And now?”

Gathering him in your arms as he trailed off, you gave a couple little sniffles, pressing your face in his hair, nails scratching the nape of his neck lightly. “I’ll be your welcome mat, Buckaroo.” You offered.

He shook his head, pulling away to hold your face between his hands. “No, sweetheart. You’re not the welcome mat. You’re the new bricks replacing the old. You’re…you’re my home, now, doll.”

You swallowed thickly, unable to handle the rush of emotions that just poured through you, the sudden change in topic making you feel more vulnerable than you’d like. You leaned forwards, placing a gentle kiss to the corner of his mouth, feeling him go lax in your arms. “And you’re mine.” You murmured softly, before getting up and heading out for the room, unable to stay any longer. You still had a mission to do. One that became even more desperate with Zemo loose, Walker unhinged, and Karli being so close.

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

There was a silent agreement to not bring up your conversation. Not yet, at least. Sam had eyed you both when you came out of the room, saying you were ready to get moving, but he didn’t say anything either.

None of you really knew where you were going, only what you had to do. Find Zemo and get to Karli before Walker could. Both of which were a lot easier said than done.

Until Sam got a call from Sarah, who told him Karli contacted her personally and threatened her and her sons. She left a contact number for Sam, evidently wanting to meet. His phone dinged not a minute after he texted the number.

“She said come alone.”

“Well that’s not happening.” You opposed, crossing your arms.

Bucky nodded with your sentence. “We’re coming with you.”

Sam didn’t say anything against it, the three of you exchanging glances, before heading out to the location, changing into your tactical suits along the way.

Karli didn’t seem to mind you and Bucky tagging along, and you understood why the moment she mentioned not killing Sam because he wasn’t hiding behind a shield. It was a distraction. They were going after Walker.

It was confirmed only moments later when Sharon contacted Sam. “Looks like he found them, or maybe they found him.”

As soon as Sam announced that it was Walker, you jumped into action, Sam disabling Karli for just the right amount of time for you to get a head start. “I’ll send you the location. Go.” He told Bucky, who nodded and took off in his super soldier sprint. “You hitching a ride?”

You rolled your eyes at his slight tease. “I hate this so much.” You grumbled, catching his hand as he took off in the air with his bird costume. He held onto you tightly, like the millions of times you’d done this before, although it didn’t make you any less dizzy, traveling that fast, that high, with only his hold keeping you from dropping. “You’re lucky I trust you so much!”

He gave a small chuckle at your shout over the wind. “We’re landing! Brace yourself!” You followed his order, just in time for him to break through the glass ceiling of the building Walker was in. The both of you landed on a platform on the staircase just as a Flag Smasher was thrown through double glass doors, down the stairs, and into a power box. Your eyes went wide as Walker strolled down the steps, oozing a confidence that made you nervous. The moment Walker stopped the Flag Smasher - the Super Soldier - from hitting him with the pipe, you knew even before he twisted it like a pretzel.

“Sam.” You breathed out. You couldn’t even do anything, only watching as the Flag Smasher got up from being thrown again, and running down a hall.

“What’d you do?”

“They got Lemar.” Was the only reply he gave, brushing past you and Sam. You gave Sam a look, but he just jerked his head down the hall, in the direction the Flag Smasher went and the way Walker started heading. You nodded, willing to drop it for now to save someone’s life, but you were so bringing it up once this was done.

Jogging into the room, you should’ve expected the ambush in the room, but, to be honest, they didn’t take as much advantage as they could’ve, so it wasn’t too difficult of a fight. You had trained with Steve millions of times before, so you knew how to go against a Super Soldier. Granted, your Cap wasn’t trying to kill you while training, but it was better than nothing.

You protected your shoulder, knowing that was your weak point, while trying to disguise it so whoever you were fighting wouldn’t realize your Achilles’ Heel. Something you often found while dealing with Steve, and even Bucky, was that Super Soldiers, as quick as they were, tended to favor the super strength side of their enhancements. This made it easier for you to dodge the attacks, knowing most of your blows wouldn’t do much.

Knowing you wouldn’t be able to stay on the defensive for long, you decided to try to get an advantage over them. Disarming them and taking their knife was easy enough. A small advantage, yeah, but now you had a weapon, and you could work with that.

You weren’t exactly sure when Bucky joined the fight, but he did, immediately coming over to you when you body kicked your opponent, helping you up. “That was a Steve move.” Your eyes caught sight of the Flag Smasher behind him and you shoved his shoulder down, throwing your knife, making it land solidly in the man’s shoulder. Bucky looked up at you from his crouch, impressed. “And that was a me move.”

You shrugged. “I’m a visual learner.”

You, Sam, and Bucky were about to go for another round with the guys when a sickening crack sounded behind you, and you whipped around. 

Hoskins was against a split pillar, a crimson streak running down his forehead, head lolling to the side, lips red and cracked. The fight stopped as Walker rushed over to his friend, but you knew there was no way he survived. A punch from a Super Soldier? That hard?

Eyeing the Flag Smashers, you turned to Sam and Bucky when they started dispersing, Karli running out as well. They nodded towards you and the three of you took off after her, not wanting to let her get away again and, for you, at least, wanting to give Walker some time.

You weren’t expecting his grief to turn into such raw hatred. 

Running up to the city square, you didn’t actually see it happen. Just the aftermath. Which was good, considering you nearly threw up just seeing that.

You heard the change in Bucky’s breathing, barely recognizing the way he stepped in front of you, only realizing you stepped closer when you felt his sleeve against your palms, fingers tightly wrapped around his forearm. A choked sound came from somewhere, but you didn’t know it was you, even as Bucky reached his arm around to hold your waist, keeping you behind his shoulder. 

Tears leaked down your face silently, eyes unable to look away as Walker straightened, sliding the shield on his arm, too nonchalantly for someone who just murdered another in front of a crowd full of people, cameras pointed towards him.

The shield. That piece of metal you had been wondering so deeply about the past couple of weeks. The link to the first person you’d ever loved. Ruined. Tarnished. Stained.

You could barely breathe, your throat clenching so tightly it was a wonder you were able to get anything out at all.

“James…”

[prettyboykatsuki]

»» — { ♡ } —— { ♡ } —— { ♡ } — ««

later | m. izuku 

➳ tags ;; fluff, confessions, deku is smooth, kissing, fluff, fem!reader implied i think 

➳ wc ;; 2.4k (wtf) 

➳ a/n ;; brainrot...... 

➳ plot ;; izuku midoriya listens to you when you tell him to confess to you again later. he’s waited his whole life for you but he doesn’t know how much longer he can

»» — { ♡ } —— { ♡ } —— { ♡ } — ««

He thinks to himself often that it has to be you he’s been chasing all this time. 

This isn’t so much a revelation to him. It’s nothing like eureka moment, an aha that he uncovers after years of reflection. After all, he’s not the type to know what he really wants. 

Which is funny for many reasons but mostly because he’s a hero. He did want that, still does - but it wasn’t really an active choice. It wasn’t the desire to become a hero in terms of glamour and fame but a deep-seated knowing about the fact he had to become one. That the desire to save people above all else was rooted and deeply ingrained in him that there would never be anything that would fulfill him quite the same way. 

He finds it more often than not he’s acting out of pure instinct. Something carnal and perhaps other-worldly that pins him to the world in an almost divine way. All or nothing, there’s one way to approach existence and it’s with this unwavering desire to be kind. 

He’s always been that kind of person.

But, if he sat down and thought about it, the desire to be with you is perhaps one of his own. It’s one of the only things he’d chase to the ends of the earth. 

Izuku Midoriya has loved you since he was 14

The first time he ever confessed to you was when he was 15, about half way into his first year at U.A. It was outside of your apartment - your childhood home. He’d walk you there after his classes, when he caught you returning from your own. It was an awkward and clumsy teenage confession even then but he can remember the details clearly. 

It comes to him a series of images. Orange-yellow light that fell over your face, hairs sticking a little your head, trembling hands, ricocheting heartbeats, the sound of cars passing. He wasn’t very confident then, it makes him laugh thinking back at. But he told you anyways, bursting at the seams with his feelings. 

“I like you!” 

Your first reaction was shock immediately followed with a somber smile. Though he told you he had liked you, it was in the brief moment afterwards that he though there was more to it than that. He wouldn’t call it a rejection, but a wake-up call. You leaned in to kiss his cheek before whispering something back. 

“If you mean it,” ― you whisper, hand on his shoulder and eyes heavy ― “Tell me again later,” 

With that, you turned on your heel and went home. He wasn’t sure how to feel for a while, because it’s not like you said no. And you kissed him so that had to mean something.

Rather predictably after that, he became so caught up in hero work, it was only natural that you two grew distant. Once frequent conversations became words in passing, spoken quietly to each other. He went off to become a great hero, and you went off to study what you love. 

It was a natural occurrence - he knows this now. He wonders what kind of thinking you had to have been doing to know that at 15. The older he got, the more he thought about what you said. How the once vague mention of “later” became a narrow time-frame. Not a moment too soon and not a second too later. 

Izuku Midoriya has loved you all of 8 years. For most of them, it’s been a passive yearning. The emptiness of his bedframe and his disinterest. 8 years and he’s tried and failed to love other people. Maybe he was testing if later would ever come. 

He’s 22 and he thinks to himself that he’s been chasing the feeling of loving you this whole time. That adrenaline from when you kissed his cheek all those years ago, he wonders to himself if it’s still there

He’ll have to go find out

_ 

After a night-out, you are unfortunately sober on the walk home. Work dinners should have a general policy for how much someone can drink, you think. Maybe then you wouldn’t have had to shovel your boss into a taxi and remain regrettably conscious through a series of uncomfortable or agitating questions. 

It wasn’t like he was invasive but he was.. annoying? And the fact you couldn’t sit through it by downing half a bottle of wine was a real shame . You’re so stone cold sober that your body shivers in the night air. Heels clacking against the pavement, eyes heavy and exhausted. You could endure it, you were finally going home after all. 

You’d take a warm bath and hit the hay. Your body yearned for your bed and you don’t blame it. You sigh to yourself, hands in coat pockets. 

“Just a little bit more,” ― you sigh, yawning and wiping your eyes ― “A little more and I’ll be...home?” 

You were home, the front door to your building. There was an ominous looking figure sitting on the front steps. Your first reaction was to reach into your pockets and grab your keys between your knuckles. Your heart stuttered as you broached slowly. It was too dark to see clearly but maybe he was nice. 

“Uhm.. excuse me, sir” 

When he turns his head - your first reaction is to flinch. You step back as he turns his head only to grow stiff. A pair of warm green eyes and head of forest green locks await seems to be staring back at you. He gives you a warm smile - standing on his feet. 

In a way, he’s unrecognizable to you. Though you see him all the time, Pro-Hero Deku making news, the image of him in your head is permanently small and frail. In front of you now, he’s grown up to be so big. A whole head taller than you and broad. He’s lean but clearly muscular. Intimidating in a sense. 

“Ah, you’re home,” ― he says, non-chalant. You’re trying to recall the last time you spoke to him, the last time you’d even seen him. Maybe a year ago now? ― “I wanted to talk to you,”

Your first though is to ask questions. You had so many of them though, you’re not sure where to start. You want to ask how he’s been, and how did he find you, and how’s work going. You want to ask why he’s here after all this time and if following his dreams has made him happy how he hoped. You want to ask if he remember what he said to you at 15 - wondering if he still gets caught up on it like you do. 

None of your words seem to string together right so you just shake your head a little, managing your disbelief. 

“About what?” you ask. He pauses for a second, rubbing his chin before smiling at you. 

“It’s later,”

Your eyes widen as he steps out of the way, using his hands to gesture towards your apartment. You blink at him but his smile is as cheeky as ever. Teasing and unusually handsome. You flush down to your neck before nodding. 

“Oh, uhm.. right. Okay,”―  you say, walking towards your complex doors ― “C-come on in,” 

_

“You can uh.. take your shoes off at the door,” ― you say, after taking your own heels off and rushing to the kitchen ― “The green slippers should fit you,” 

He nods as he watches you disappear to the kitchen. He takes in your apartment with a soft smile. Photos of you with your friends and family litter the entrance way. It’s filled with a soft yellow light, cozy like he’d expect. From below him, he hears a soft purr 

A beige cat walks around his legs, observing him quietly before nuzzling against his thigh. His smile grows wide as he squats down and holds his hand for the kitty, waiting for it to approve of him before reaching and petting him. The cat is quick to the jump into his forearms. 

“Who’s this?” 

He ducks as he enters into the main area of your apartment. Your eyes widen as your usually stand-offish cat nuzzles comfortably in your childhood friends chest. 

“His name is Creampuff,” ― you say, mildly stunned ― “He’s two,” 

“What a good boy,” 

Your heart races as you see him. After all this time, his presence still gives you those nervous butterflies. Maybe it’s because he’s become so attractive. Broader and taller but more rugged to look at.You feel like the floor might swallow you up. 

“I’ll.. put on some tea,” 

You take off your coat but you’re still in your work clothes. If you didn’t know any better, you’d say he’s staring at you. You’re too afraid to look behind you and see, confirm but his gaze is so heavy you’re almost certain. He traces the outline of your body and back with his eyes. 

He can’t help but think you’ve filled out some. Even from behind - you look awfully pretty. You look disheveled and sleepy like you did back in highschool, after cramming for exams. A little older now with that same cute expression on your face. It’s hard to hold back or tear himself from you - so he doesn’t try. He just watches as you pour the tea into mugs and let it steep. Minutes pass and it’s quiet but not as uncomfortable as you’d expect. 

You return to your kitchen table with two mugs, setting his down on a coaster. 

“Careful.. it’s hot,” 

He nods, taking the mug in his hands and blowing on it before taking a sip. He hums. 

“Ah.. it’s good. Thank you,” 

A silence settle between you briefly. Your heart is in your throat, hands trembling a little on the table. When he notices, he reaches for them. This is another of his habits, you think. Comforting people must be second nature to him, but it only makes you more nervous.

“So.. how’ve you been?” 

It’s the only thing you can think to ask. He studies your expression for a while. It used to the opposite of this. He used to be the nervous one, stuttery and unsure. You were always confident and steady - he’s sure you still are. This side of you is endearing though. He chuckles. 

“I’ve been good. Work is hectic but that’s always,” ― and you’re going to ask him another question. Dodge what he’s really here for, but he cuts you off ― “I’ve missed you though, so I came to visit,” 

You can feel it. This tension that presses against your back and makes you sit straight. He has that determined look in his eyes, easily recognizable when you watch him. In interviews and during fights and everything in between - like he knows what he’s going up against. To have it directed at you is so nerve-wracking, you find yourself doling under the pressure of his gaze. 

You fidget, voice shaking like a leaf in the wind. He was always too much for to you handle. 

“O-oh?,” 

He nods, taking your hand in his. He holds it to his lips, kisses your knuckles like it’s the easiest thing in the world. You wonder where he learned to act like this. He’s different but the same. It’s too much for you so you shut your eyes. 

He stands until he’s on your side of the table. Rests on the corners edge with his arms crossed over his chest. He looks at you with fondness, an unmistakable affection. After all these years, it’s only grown. Double and tripled in size. No matter how much he would try and punch it down, it never deflates. 

He thinks loving you is an act of heroism. The only way he could ever really save himself. 8 years and it feels like you’re old friends. Nothing unnatural or wholly uncomfortable. It’s strange. 

“I thought about what you said. About telling you later. This time though,” ― he drops to the floor, crouched between your legs so slightly. He does it to look straight at you ― “This time though, I have to tell you properly so you can’t make me wait again,” 

“I wasn’t making you wait,” you insist. He takes your hand in his and you unravel, body slumped. He kisses the palms of your hands, the inside of your wrist and it feels like gravity has no mercy on you. 

“It felt like hell,” ― he tells you ― “I can’t sit still anymore so I’m telling you now. Even if you want to run away, I can’t let you,” 

You frown, heart rapid. 

“That’s not very heroic,” 

He smiles. 

“Good. I don’t wanna be your hero. I just want to love you selfishly as Izuku and not Deku,” ― he says, rubbing his thumb over your knuckles ― “So tell me you love me back and grant my wish. I waited all this time,” 

You’re stunned into silence at his request. Eyes feeling especially water as he leans into you. It doesn’t make sense but it feels right. Your heart is beating - like you can feel all the blood pumping in you and your head feels light. 

“You say it so easily,” 

He laughs. It’s bright just like how you remember. 

“How could you know after all this time? How could you be sure?” 

He shrugs. You hit his shoulder at the nonchalance but he only chuckles. He  leans in closer to you, inches away from your face. 

“I waited for you all this time. Shouldn’t you give me a chance to show you?” 

You sniffle as his hands cup your cheeks. His smile is so inviting, how could you refuse him?

“I’d like to kiss you,”  ― he pauses, shaking his head  ― “I want to show you. Let me,” 

You nod as he leans into you. His lips are pillow and soft - touch addicting. You give into him so easily, tongue tied. He keeps you close, hand at the base of your neck. It feels so good, so perfect. You believe him when he kisses you like this With secrets under his tongue, between his teeth. 

“Tell me your answer,”  ― he demands, soft but stern  ― “You didn’t before. I need to hear it,” 

You give him an exasperated laugh. 

“I love you.. obviously” 

Right. Obviously indeed. 

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