#beautiful i wish i had a friendship like theirs

[bbbuckaroo]

you are rights bobs are getting louder because they can feel the interest in their ship dwindling. But you know what?? They brought this on themselves.

I loved buddie and when Tommy came along I was one of the people who thought “yeah he’s cute. I do hope they date for a while” but I held onto the buddie endgame. But I try to “curate my space” like they always say whenever someone complains about how toxic the fandom has become and curating for me means try to avoid negativity. And I used to follow only buddie shippers but I told myself “I’m only gonna unfollow the one who badmouths bucktommy because I don’t wanna see that kind of energy”. And I ended up unfollowing 90% of them. So the reason I became uninterested in buddie is because I don’t see many posts about them and the reason I don’t see many posts about them is because most buddie shippers can’t love their ship without hating on bucktommy or Tommy or even Lou (fucking psychos). Sorry for the rant. I can’t believe how much those people behavior made me fall out of love with a couple i’ve been cheering on for 6 years.

sincerely, a former buddie shipper

Welcome to BuckTommy Nation, we’re all quite lovely and happy to have new residents! We spend our days basking in the sunshine these two boys bring ☀️ And I promise, we’re not anti-Buddie, we’re anti-bullshit. First of all I want to sincerely apologize that you weren’t able to enjoy your ship. In no finer terms, that sucks. Everyone should be able to ship any couple they’d like and enjoy doing it.

I honestly started with 9-1-1 LS, fell in love with Tarlos and heard there was another non-canon couple on 9-1-1 who could develop into that. Within the first few episodes of S2 I loved Buck and Eddie but not for the reasons many did or I expected. I loved how positive and healthy their friendship was as two “manly” men. There was no silly caveman antics or refusal to share feelings. From the beginning they could be two male friends without toxic masculinity and that was (and is) so needed.

I too scrolled through the Buddie posts that showed up on my dash following Buck (I’m a Buck baby) and thought hey, let the shippers have their fun. I’m not going to rag on them and that was back when it was just that, FUN! And as time went on it has become necessary to block all Buddie content because it’s so hard to weed out the positive posts, they’re drowned out by the radicalism and that is so sad. It should have never become that way.

Lou was a total surprise for me and regardless of if he and Buck stayed together, as a character with such growth and stability I adored him and then promptly fell in love with Lou. So the fact that both he and his character were literally attacked from that first kiss was appalling. You’re right, it injected so much negativity into the entire show by one small group and here we are trying to fix it. It’s practically years worth of nastiness. And the part that just blows my mind is that EDDIE was the driving factor in Buck and Tommy getting together and he and Buck’s conversation about coming out was beautiful. Absolutely beautiful and so many people could relate and felt so much hope seeing both someone come out at an “older” age and have his best friend wholeheartedly support him. I legit cried during that scene.

So even as a non-Buddie shipper who never had any issue with the ship EVER, I can understand and see how unfair it is for you and honestly, I am sorry. I wish there were some way for Buddie shippers to enjoy their ship or even be separated from the pack. Because Buddie has become a nasty word with such a negative connotation and you don’t/didn’t deserve that.

I hope y’all know that BuckTommy Nation IS a safe space for Buddie shippers who respect our ship as much as we do theirs because I believe we all want Buck, Eddie, and now Tommy happy and in healthy relationships, whomever they may be with. So please don’t feel like you can’t celebrate both and I promise that myself and other members will try our hardest to not immediately associate Buddie with the BoB’s.

Please feel free to rant as much as you need to, you have a reason too! And clearly I’m a huge advocate for positivity and ignoring the BoB’s so when they are talked about or responded to I immediately shut it down and block. Your rant isn’t negative towards Buck or Tommy or any of them and in no way is giving the BoB’s the attention they’re preying off of. Instead you’re giving an honest and raw testimony of one of the worst things that’s happened because of this insanity. And that’s fans being unable to enjoy themselves and do so with like-minded people. These shows are made to be enjoyed and now people feel like they can’t and you know who that hurts? The people who make and star in the show would we wouldn’t have any of this without!

So thank you so much for sharing your experience and giving us insight into how true Buddie fans are feeling. We need to hear that so we can continue to spread positivity regardless of which characters/actors it is. Because if nasty people are going to make their own fellow-shippers feel like they can’t, we can at least make it a positive place again for everyone. Buck and Tommy have brought so much of that to the show and shown people what a healthy relationship looks like when after years of failed and toxic relationships. Many people desperately need to see that who are in those, regardless of who makes up the couple.

Thank you for sharing all of this and sorry my response turned into a book! We’re so happy you’re here enjoying the ship and the positivity it brings, that’s all we want ❤️

[allpromarlo]

i'm so glad marlo & kyle are friends bc imagine having two favorite players on a team and they never talk to each other

[things-that-make-sa-happy]

I've been wanting to go in the ocean ALL DAY, but I've been waiting for you to get here.

[mclqren]

ME AND MY BROKEN HEART ★ CL16 ( & MV33 )

PAIRING ✦ charles leclerc x fem!ex girlfriend!reader ; max verstappen x fem!reader

SUMMARY ✦ when charles leaves you heartbroken, you end up letting a certain red bull driver help mend your broken heart [ SMAU ]

WARNINGS ✦ cursing

REQUESTED ✦ here!

NOTES ✦ reader is a model for dior. for the timeline of this, reader & charles broke up in august 2023 and he got with another woman (choosing to leave her unnamed because there will be NO alex slander) in september 2023. as per request, the fc i've used is hannah harrell, but feel free to picture whoever you want! my requests are closed at the moment.

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liked by yourbsf, anyataylorjoy, and 691,221 others

yourusername had to learn that the hard way 👎

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user1 THE LAST SLIDE WHAT.

user2 NO WAY ARE HER AND CHARLES BROKEN UP NOOO

user3 MY FAV COUPLE 💔

user4 the way im so upset rn is not healthy.

user5 real like THEY WERE PARENTS

user6 okay but y/n is still glowing??

user7 righttt!! enough about the guy who drives in circles all day, lets talk about HER 😍

user8 he fumbled.

user9 realll!

yourbsf making that cake was wayyy too much fun 😋

yourusername breaking it apart was even better 😉

anyataylorjoy 😍😍

yourusername who needs a man when i have you 🩷

liked by yourbsf, maxverstappen1, and 651,212 others

tagged yourbsf

yourusername greek air to cure the breakup blues 🇬🇷💙

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user14 OKAYYY MISS Y/N YOU ARE SERVING AS PER!!

user15 she's living her best life and im HERE FOR IT

user16 her and her bsf are actually everything to me

user17 so trueee i need a friendship like theirs!!

user18 NOO I WAS JUST IN GREECE I CANT BELIEVE I MISSED YOU

user19 NO I WAS AS WELL I WAS SO UPSET WHEN I SAW THIS

user20 bet charles is missing you rn!!

user21 who cares abt charles? she's literally getting over him rn, he's so yesterday's news 😴

user22 what part did you go to?? im planning on going over the holidays in october, and i desperately need some recs!! 🫶

yourusername crete!! it was so so beautiful, can confirm 🩷

user23 one driver out of her likes, another (max verstappen) in her likes

user24 okay but they'd be such a good couple??

yourbsf GIRLS TRIP WAS THE BESTTT

yourusername NEXT ONE PENDING FOR SUREEE

mariloublg_ absolutely gorgeous gorgeous girlies 😍😍

yourusername MARILOU MY ANGEL 🩷

user25 i came here from the instagram gossip website and can i just say in that interview you SERVED

user26 REALLL

user27 wait what are you guys on about?? im so lost HELP

user26 go on @/f1wagnews and you'll see!

liked by user28, user29, and 871,291 others

f1wagnews NEW: Y/N L/N breaks her silence on the circulating paparazzi pictures of Charles Leclerc & his apparent new girlfriend. When asked by the media what she thought, she said: "Charles being in a new relationship not even a month later is naturally a shock, seeing as I assumed he would treat me and the times we shared over the past three years with the same dignity and respect that I am treating him. I don't know, I guess these sort of memories aren't as priceless to him as they are to me. Still, I hope he's happy in his new relationship."

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user28 OKAYY MISS Y/N IS BACKK!!

user29 THIS is what i was waiting for.

user30 she is actually handling this really maturely to be fair to her!!

user31 realll!! i wish i would've been like this with my ex

user32 okay so a lot of the comments are saying she handled this w grace or whatever but is it just me who disagrees? like she's literally being rude to him and his new girlfriend, and you're all hyping her up?? like huh??

user33 honestly this comment makes no sense to me; she didn't say anything rude about charles in this, she simply said that she was shocked to see him in a relationship when they were together for three years, and honestly she's valid for that! i don't think many girls would enjoy seeing their ex boyfriend and his new girlfriend all over the media, and so y/n is honestly handling this so well.

yourusername

( caption one: crazy huh 😉 | caption two: compensation acquired ✅ + tags )

liked by mariloublg_, maxverstappen1, and 667,891 others

tagged mariloublg_

yourusername america with my girl 🩷 (& her boyfriend...)

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user37 THE CAPTION LMAOO

user38 Y/N REMAINS HILARIOUS

user39 ASTON MARTIN SWITCH UP HELLOOO??

user40 I KNOWW marilou and her are so cute though i loveee

user41 it's so weird to see her in green after having seen her in red for the past three years

user42 i knowww but she looks like she's happy now and that's all that matters tbh!!

lance_stroll thanks so much for the shoutout y/n, appreciate you too i guess

yourusername listen stroll if you hurt her i'll be at ur doorstep.

lance_stroll im actually sort of scared of you at times y/n.

yourusername good! 😊😊

maxverstappen1 so you liked seeing me win then?

yourusername you've been winning since like the prehistoric ages mate i think ive gotten used to it by now 🙄 (yes)

user43 so like is it just me or is this flirty...

mariloublg_ MY GIRL FOREVERRR 🫶

yourusername 🩷🩷

liked by yourbsf, maxverstappen1, and 702,192 others

tagged maxverstappen

yourusername second slide is me when i finally manage to get my shit together

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user44 OKAY BUT ARE MAX AND Y/N DATING ORRR

user45 MAYBEEE!! honestly they'd be so cute i just KNOW he'd treat her right

user46 y/n you are my everything.

user47 the flowersss?? did miss y/n get herself another man?

user48 has to be max.

maxverstappen1 the second slide was uncalled for. ☹️

yourusername I COULDNT STOP LAUGHING IM SO SORRY IT WAS HILARIOUS 😭

maxverstappen1 the flowers 👀👀

yourusername yeah!! wonder who got me those 😍

anyataylorjoy you have a man now? ☹️

yourusername nooo ur the only one i need baby i swear 🩷

liked by mariloublg_, user49, and 921,933 others

f1wagnews NEW: Y/N L/N is a WAG again...but for a different driver on the grid! In a recent interview during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Max Verstappen confirmed to the press that he and Y/N had entered a relationship a couple of weeks prior, after pictures circulated of the two in his car in Monaco: "Well obviously she came to the COTA grand prix and I had already known her before and we were good friends, so we fell right back where we left off, and here we are now! [...] Yeah things are going great, she's truly one of the best people I've ever met."

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user49 Y/NSTAPPEN LETS GOOOO

user50 MY GIRL IS A WAG AGAINNN I LOVE

user51 is it just me who misses charles and y/n ☹️

user52 yeah. 😊

mariloublg_ ❤️❤️

user53 MARILOUUUU?? WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!!

user54 ONE OF Y/N'S BEST FRIENDS AND FELLOW WAG COMMENTING OH ITS SERIOUS.

user55 they are seriously adorableee 🫶🫶

yourusername

( caption one: third time's the charm? 😬 | caption two: wtf is this man thinking about now. )

liked by charles_leclerc, maxverstappen1, and 934,219 others

tagged maxverstappen1

yourusername MR WORLD CHAMPPP!! so so proud of you maxie, my winner always 🩷

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user59 Y/N AWWWW

user60 i have a feeling this one's working out idk

user61 oh absolutely

user62 so happy to see you happy again y/n!! 🫶🫶

user63 lost some race driver and came back with a world champion 🏆🏆

user64 ADORABLEEE

mariloublg_ MY CUTIES

yourusername OUR BIGGEST FAN

mariloublg_ well as your fairy godmother it IS an obligation to be ur biggest fan ever 🧚‍♀️🧚‍♀️

maxverstappen1 love you ❤️

yourusername my champ 🏆

charles_leclerc so happy for both of you ❤️

yourusername thank you so much charles, hope ur doing well w ur gf 🩷

user65 charles and y/n are talking again, i can officially sleep in peace.

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[helloalycia]

𝐈 𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐄𝐑 [𝐎𝐍𝐄] // 𝐋𝐔𝐂𝐘 𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐘 𝐁𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐃

summary: Lucy Gray has always been there for you, the only person you care for as much as you do. So much, in fact, that when you discover Mayfair's plan to have her reaped in the Hunger Games, you know you have to stop it. Even if it means giving up your own life.

warning/s: the usual warnings that come with the Hunger Games.

author's note: okay so someone requested another lucy gray imagine where reader volunteers for her, so that���s what i did but kinda did it a little bit different as the usual volunteering storyline feels very been there done that lol. Hope you all like it anyway! there’s a second part too :)

two / masterlist / wattpad

It had been a long a day, my feet hurting from being stood up for so long and my exhaustion from working a long shift worsening by the second. But as soon as the clock hit 5pm, all my energy returned and I was quick to leave my apron behind as I left. Working at a crockery stall in the markets wasn't a terrible job, and it paid decently, but some days dragged longer than others and I only wished for it to end.

Thankfully, tonight was also a night that the Covey performed at the Hob, so I made my way over there, specifically behind it where the musical group got ready before performances in an abandoned garage they claimed as theirs. I always met before their shows, wanting to wish them luck and also because Lucy Gray, my best friend, would never let me hear the end of it if I didn't stop by beforehand.

"There you are!" Maude Ivory, the youngest of the group, called me over once I stepped in the open door. "You took forever!"

"I'm like two minutes late, Maude Ivory," I defended myself, and a smile fell on my lips when I saw her pouting. "Sorry."

"Can you braid my hair like last time?" she asked politely, already turning around and readying herself for me.

"I sure can," I agreed, smiling at the others as they got ready before moving to braid Maude Ivory's hair.

It didn't take long, just a simple braid around the crown of her head, complementing the rest of her hair that was left out in a way that made her look like a princess. Adorable.

"Oh, I love it!" she gushed, immediately looking in the mirror to appreciate it, and I watched her with a smile. "Thank you, Y/N!"

"No problem," I said dismissively.

"Wow, you look beautiful, Maude Ivory," Lucy Gray appeared beside me, smiling down at the younger girl, and then she gave me a playful look. "Favouritism much?"

I couldn't help but laugh. "All you had to do was ask."

She immediately took a seat on the chair Maude Ivory was moments ago. When I didn't move, she glanced over her shoulder at me with a knowing nod. "Well, go on then."

I rolled my eyes lightheartedly before moving to braid her hair next, squeezing her shoulder slightly in retaliation, and I knew she was smiling all the same. As I'd done many times before, I combed out Lucy Gray's curly hair with my fingers, unknotting it the best I could, before separating it into two parts and giving her two over-the-shoulder braids.

"You done?" she asked impatiently, definitely trying to annoy me.

I finished tying off the second braid before rounding the chair to take a look. Her brown eyes looked up at me adorably, and even though she did nothing special, my heart fluttered in my chest at the attention.

Okay, so maybe I liked her a little more than friends, but I couldn't help it. She was the only person I had in my life that meant something to me, the only one who truly cared. After becoming friends many years ago because we happened to play in the park together as kids, she was stuck with me, and I suppose my gratitude for having her in my life turned into adoration somewhere along the way.

The only real family I had was my father, but he had been bitter towards me since my mum died only a few years after I was born. He hated me without saying it, and I sought love in friendship with Lucy Gray. Though, it was so much more than that on my end. But she could never know, for I'd rather have her in my life like this than not at all. And I would never risk jeopardising that, ever.

"Don't move," I warned her, before leaving the garage for a moment to pick a flower I'd seen just outside.

When I returned, I was surprised to see her sat how I'd left her, though pouting. I carefully slid the flower at the top of her braid, near her ear, and stepped back to admire my work.

"You're done, Little Miss Impatient," I finally said with a stifled smile.

She gave me a disapproving look before moving to the mirror to check it out. Her facade faltered as a warm smile tugged at her lips and she admired the view.

"Okay, I'll let you off since this is pretty nice," she said jokingly.

"Wow, only nice? I thought it was much more than that," I played along.

Her smile widened as she approached me, before kissing me on the cheek and hugging me briefly. I was expecting neither, my brain short circuiting as quickly as she pulled away.

"It's beautiful, Y/N, thank you," she said truthfully, losing her humour. When I didn't know what to say, too busy trying not to think about her lips against my cheek, she said, "You're stayin', right?"

I blinked, dazed. "Huh?"

She began to chuckle, and then her question truly sank in and I cleared my throat, nodding.

"I– yes, I am," I said, giving her a small smile. "Where else would I be?"

She rolled her eyes playfully before turning to the others. "Right, guys, are we ready to blow everyone's socks off?!"

As always, I enjoyed my evening at the Hob, cheering the Covey on and staying for all their performances as promised. It was always so lovely in there, except for the occasional fight that would break out between the miners and Peacekeepers, but none of that happened tonight. I was tired by the end of it all, as were the others, but as we all walked out together, Lucy Gray tugged my hand back.

"Hm?" I said, yawning as I looked to her.

"Are you in a rush to get home?" she asked, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"No, why?" I asked curiously.

Excited, she said, "Come to the lake with me."

I quirked a brow. "Now?"

Expression softening, she nodded. "Yeah, it'll be nice. It's a clear night too."

Another yawn escaped my lips and I covered my mouth before shaking my head. "I dunno, I'm a little tired and it's getting late."

"C'mon," she insisted, before grabbing my hand and forcing me to follow her, but not before looking to the others and adding, "I'll see you guys later!"

"Don't make too much noise when you're back!" Barb Azure, the eldest of their group, warned her.

"I won't," Lucy Gray mumbled, and then we were off and I just about managed to wish everyone a goodnight behind me before we were too far from them.

"How aren't you tired?" I asked as I fell into step with her, accepting my defeat and knowing I couldn't really decline her offer anyway. "You've been onstage all night."

She shrugged. "I'm a little tired, but I wanted to spend more time with you. You've been workin' loads lately."

I sighed, feeling a little bad. "Sorry, it's the house. Payments are falling behind and my dad is getting on my back and–"

"Hey, I'm not complainin'," she stopped me. "I just miss you."

A small smile crept on my lips at her unwavering honesty – that was one thing I'd always envied about her. She could say how she was feeling without overthinking how it could be perceived, whereas I was the complete opposite.

"I'm right here," I assured her, and then she glanced at me with a smile that warmed my heart.

"How is he?" she asked. "He still standoffish with you?"

"Isn't he always?" I said, a little bitterly, before shaking my head. "Never mind him anyway. Doesn't matter."

Probably sensing my mood, she said, "You're right, it doesn't. You have me."

I was glad it was dark out, otherwise she would've seen the pink dusting my cheeks.

We continued our walk to the lake, talking and trying to stay awake long enough to make it there. It was a long walk on a regular day, but tonight it felt even longer because of the constant stepping around and trying to find our way in the dim light of the moon peeking through the trees. Still, it was comforting to be around Lucy Gray instead of back home where my dad would no doubt be on my case, so I savoured the time together.

By the time we reached the lake – in particular, a spot where a cabin sat, with a dock and boat beside it – Lucy Gray and I were wide awake, any hint of exhaustion for the evening dispersing with our trek. We both took a seat at the edge of the dock, feet dangling over the side, and she nudged my arm gently.

"Look how pretty the water looks," she said with amazement, and I hummed in agreement.

It was beautiful out tonight, the lull of the water lapping over itself and shimmering in the moonlight providing the perfect view for a perfect evening. Being out here always put me at ease, but being out here with Lucy Gray was indescribable.

After a moment of quiet, she nudged me again and I took the hint, following her lead as we both lay on our backs to look up at the night sky. If the view before was great, then this was amazing. Stars filled the sky, dazzling and bright and filling me with a sense of awe. It was different than seeing the stars from my house – this was all open, isolated, peaceful. I loved it.

"How many have times have you been here at night?" I asked Lucy Gray curiously.

"Not a lot," she assured, "but enough to know that it'a perfect for stargazin', and you love that, so I wanted to show you."

I chuckled a little. "I do. Thanks."

Another quiet enveloped us, only the sound of the water, the trees rustling gently and some birds in the distance to be heard. I could have stayed like this forever. It certainly would have been an upgrade from my usual life.

"Did you see Billy Taupe earlier?" Lucy Gray asked suddenly.

Billy Taupe was her ex-boyfriend and an ex-member of the Covey, but we'd all be ignoring him for a few weeks now after we'd discovered he'd cheated on Lucy Gray with the mayor's daughter. As a result, him and said daughter, Mayfair Lipp, weren't fond of us, especially Mayfair, who seemed to hold a personal vendetta against Lucy Gray.

I nodded, glancing at her, but she was still looking at the sky. "Yeah. I avoided him, but him and Mayfair were glaring at me for sure."

She exhaled quietly, troubled.

"Did he say something?" I asked, attention fully on her now.

"He confronted me between one of my performances," she admitted, piquing both my interest and concern. "Started talkin' about how I needed to stop badmouthin' him to the rest of the Covey."

I furrowed my brows. "You haven't though. If anything, you barely mention him."

"Well, he doesn't seem to think that," she said with an eye roll.

I frowned, hating to see her upset at the likes of him yet again. "If he keeps bothering you, tell me. I'll have a word with him."

As if I'd said something hilarious, she began to smile and then laughter spilled from her lips. "You're cute, and I appreciate it, but you shouldn't get involved. Him and Mayfair are capable of a lot."

"Lucy Gray–" I started, ready to retort, but she cut me off with a serious stare, her smile fading.

"Promise me, Y/N," she said sternly, dark eyes boring into mine.

I gave in instantly, embarrassingly enough. "I promise."

Visibly relieved, she relaxed and nodded slightly before sitting up and stretching her arms. I watched for a moment, though thoughts of Billy Taupe and his foulness stuck in my mind. Why couldn't he just leave her alone? Same with Mayfair? Didn't they have anything better to do?

"Say, you ever been for an evenin' swim under the stars?"

I blinked, barely paying attention. "What?"

She glanced down at me with a smirk, before standing up and beginning to step out of her dress. Realising what she was doing, I sat up and started to protest.

"Lucy Gray, it's gonna be cold and dark and–"

But she beat me to it, her dress pooling by my feet as she dove in from the edge of the dock. I wiped my face with mild annoyance as she splashed me, watching as she resurfaced with a laugh.

"C'mon, you gon' leave me hangin'?!" she exclaimed.

I narrowed my eyes at her with distaste, but as always, I couldn't say no to her. So, grumbling to myself petulantly, I stepped out of my own clothes and dove right into the water next to her. It was cold, as suspected, but as I resurfaced, my body was already getting used to the temperature. It was still the middle of summer, so it was actually quite refreshing in the evening heat, though my complaints of it being dark were still valid.

"Not bad, right?" Lucy Gray asked me with a grin.

I pushed my hair from my eyes and gave her a reluctant glance. "I suppose not."

Her grin only widened, and then she looked up, eyes reflecting the moonlight and shimmering like the water. "Look."

I looked up too, amazed by the sight of the sky yet again, but before I could say anything, Lucy Gray splashed my face with water, making me shriek with surprise.

"Lucy Gray!" I scolded, wiping my eyes as she laughed. "You did that on purpose!"

Her laughter only increased, and then I was attempting to splash her back, but she was swimming backwards and then I was swimming after her, her laughter filling the silence of the woods and brightening up the place more than the moon ever could. I eventually grabbed her and splashed her face enough for her to spit it out and cease her laughter.

"Okay, okay, you win!" she gave in, wiping her eyes before playfully glaring at me.

It was my turn to laugh and she rolled her eyes lightheartedly before swimming around me yet again.

We stayed there for a little longer, splashing about and talking about everything and nothing. It was easy to forget everything waiting for me back home, or my job that I didn't want to go to, or the reality of our lives. No, all I had to focus on right now was Lucy Gray's voice, her company, her.

But it was seriously getting late, no doubt past midnight now, and all good things couldn't last forever. We were floating on our backs, staring at the sky in a comfortable silence, and I hated that I had to interrupt it.

"We should go back," I said reluctantly, stopping floating. "If my dad realises–"

"Right, yeah," she agreed apologetically. "Come on."

We both climbed out the lake in a peaceful silence, tugging on our clothes and shoes and squeezing the water from our hair the best we could. As I was doing just that, I felt her eyes on me and looked up with a confused smile.

"What?" I asked, feeling the last of the water drip down my wrists as I let go of my hair.

She began to smile unabashedly. "I'm glad I have you. Thanks for coming tonight. For being here."

My face was heating up, but I played it off with a playful eye roll. "Weirdo."

She chuckled quietly, shaking her head, before leading the way back to the Seam.

It had been a long day at work and the last thing I wanted was to come home to my father being grumpy, and yet that was what I'd gotten a few days later.

As soon as I walked in, I saw him home too, looking around the kitchen with a clenched jaw. He must have just got back from the mines, judging from the coal dust covering his clothes and skin.

"Hey, dad," I greeted politely, though already feeling tense because he didn't seem to be in a good mood.

"The hell is all this?" he asked me, ignoring my greeting and instead motioning to the dishes on the table.

"What do you mean?" I asked with confusion, leaving my bag by the door.

"It's a mess in here," he said with irritation. "Did you not clean up?"

"Dad, I've been at work all day," I reminded him, sensing he'd had a bad day at work, because he wasn't usually this hostile. "When would I have cleaned up?"

He raised his eyebrows, as if I'd said something absurd. "Excuse me?"

I swallowed hard, not liking the way he sneered at me. "I–," I started, but stopped because I didn't know what to say. Technically, they were his dishes. His mess.

"Y'know, I work really hard to keep us alive," he said with a glare. "And the least you could do is keep the place tidy. You do fuck all anyway!"

I clenched my jaw, frowning and trying my best to contain my annoyance. "I know you do. But these were your dishes. From breakfast. I didn't even eat, I just left."

"Oh, so it's my fault?! That what you're saying?!"

"You're not listening!" I couldn't help but shout, getting sick and tired of his behaviour. "Look, you might have had a bad day at work, but you can't just take it out on me!"

"You don't know what I get up to at work!" he shouted right back. "It's not like yours, standing there, looking pretty! It's hard labour! Something you could never understand!" Then he motioned around and added, "Clearly! This place is a tip!"

I clenched my fists behind my back, but my anger was building up. "It's a tip because of you, dad! You leave it a mess! Then you come back and you blame it on me!"

"Don't you dare raise your voice at me!" he yelled. "Have some respect!"

"Then actually try and listen to what I'm–!"

I couldn't even finish because he suddenly slapped me across the face, a sharp, blinding slap that knocked me off my feet for a second, leaving me stumbling into the kitchen table. I blinked, tears pooling in my eyes.

"Clean this place up," he snapped, before turning around to go to his room, slamming the door behind him.

I breathed out slowly, eyes burning now, and tried to ignore the pins and needles on my cheek. It wasn't the first time he'd hit me, and I should have been used to it, but it still took me by surprise sometimes. I hated it. I hated him. I would have done anything to leave, but I had nowhere to go.

Needing to get out of there as I calmed down, I left through the front door, waiting by the side of the house. I took in some fresh air and wiped furiously at my tears. He was the worst father a child could ask for, but he was the only one I had.

My face was hot and I was glad I couldn't see my reflection, knowing it would just be red on one side. As I finished wiping the last of my tears, I heard footsteps from behind me and sucked up a breath before turning around, worried it might be my father, back for round two. Thankfully it wasn't, but it was Lucy Gray.

She was smiling at first, then her eyes took in my expression and it faded instantly.

"What happened?" she asked straight away, stopping before me.

"Nothing," I assured her, though my cheek was still flaming, and she wasn't stupid.

She looked back at my house, and then back to me with a frown. "He was upset again, wasn't he?"

I looked to my shoes shamefully, not needing to answer. She knew what he was like, but it was something I hated to put on her. Nonetheless, she understood, and she touched my cheek gently, making me wince.

"You should stay with us," she muttered, trying to find my eyes, but I wouldn't look up. "We'll always have room for you, Y/N."

"I can't," I said with embarrassment. "And he's not always like this. It's– I'm handling it."

"No, you're not," she said, letting go of my cheek.

I didn't want to argue, nor did I want her pity, so I cleared my throat and looked up with the intention to change the subject. "What did you come here for anyway?"

She wasn't happy as she gave me a worried look. "Y/N–"

"Lucy Gray," I pleaded, before she could say anything more.

Giving in, she exhaled quietly. "I wanted to see if you wanted to go on a picnic with us tomorrow. You're not workin', right?"

At the sound of something much nicer, I relaxed and nodded. "I'd like that."

She seemed to relax too. "Good." Then she glanced over her shoulder at the house again, before adding, "You're stayin' with us tonight."

"I'm not–"

"You are," she insisted stubbornly. "You still have a few things left from last time."

I sighed tiredly. "I have to clean up. He's gonna be mad."

"We'll clean up together, then you're comin'," she reasoned.

"I'll do it myself," I told her, shaking my head. "You know he doesn't like me hanging around with you."

She looked ready to protest, but I shot her a pleading look. The last thing I wanted was to set him off again, especially in front of Lucy Gray. Thankfully, she seemed to get this and nodded reluctantly.

"Fine, but hurry up," she gave in, taking my hand and squeezing it reassuringly. "I don't like you in there alone."

"I'll be quick," I promised, before leaving her to clean up.

My dad was still sulking in his room, so I was able to clean up quickly and let him know where I was going. He didn't answer, nor did he stop me, so I left and met Lucy Gray back outside. She took my hand without question, not letting go until we reached her place. I was glad not to be alone tonight.

A week later, it was another fun evening at the Hob where I watched my best friend perform and I didn't have to worry about work or my dad or anything. It was just like any other evening there, nothing out of the ordinary, or so I thought.

During one of Maude Ivory's talented solos, I got up to the go to the toilet, making it a quick one so I wouldn't miss a thing. But as I left the women's toilets, I caught sight of Billy Taupe and Mayfair chatting around the corner in hushed voices. I didn't care at first, trying to ignore they existed for Lucy Gray's sake, but then they mentioned the singer herself and I couldn't help but eavesdrop a little.

"...doesn't know when to keep her trap shut and herself to herself," Mayfair was saying bitterly.

"She's a singer," Billy Taupe reminded her. "That's what she does. Just ignore it."

Mayfair scoffed. "She thinks she has everyone in this town wrapped around her finger because, what, she can sing? And put on a little show? Well, you know what, we'll see how she sings her way out of the reaping!"

I froze from behind the wall, wondering what she meant by that.

"What?" Billy Taupe asked, just as confused but suspicious as I.

"She may have the looks, honey, but I have the connections," Mayfair continued, her hushed voice growing increasingly more annoyed as she spoke. "You just wait until reaping day. Lucy Gray won't be bothering anyone for much longer."

My eyes widened at her threat. What the hell was she talking about?

"What are you–" Billy Taupe started, but the sound of the floorboards creaking beneath my weight made him stop, and I cursed inwardly.

Before they could even consider investigating, I slipped away between the doors unnoticed, back into the main room where everybody was distracted by the singing, dancing and drinking. My head was reeling though, trying to piece together what I'd just heard.

There was no way Mayfair would do what she was implying, right? She wouldn't just sabotage the reaping because of a feud, surely? Would she? If she did, then that would mean Lucy Gray would be chosen as tribute and–

Oh, God. If she was chosen, she'd be shipped off to partake in the Hunger Games and that was it. She wasn't a fighter, she was a performer. And the Games was no place for someone like her. I'd never see her again. And her family– oh, no. No, this couldn't happen!

What could I do to stop this? Mayfair would never listen to reason, especially not from me. It wasn't fair, any of it.

Suddenly, I felt nauseous at the thought of everything playing out just as Mayfair wanted. Needing some fresh air, feeling overly stuffy in the Hob, I pushed past everyone and stepped outside, ignoring those who were enjoying a cigarette or drink and trying not to throw up.

I couldn't lose Lucy Gray like this, not because of some stupid feud. How badly could Mayfair hate her to do this? The Covey would be broken without her. She was too valuable to everyone. And she was all I had.

"Y/N?"

I turned around, seeing Lucy Gray approaching me with a concerned smile on her lips.

"What happened?" she asked, stopping before me.

I blinked, my thoughts still racing around. "What?"

"You left lookin' upset," she said worriedly. "What happened?"

I swallowed the lump in my throat, shaking my head. "Nothing. I just feel sick. Might've eaten something funny."

Her smile faded, replaced by a concerned frown. "Oh, gosh, do you wanna go home? Go to ours? I can walk you back. The others won't mind if I leave a little early."

She was watching me carefully, patiently, dark eyes flittering around my face as if she'd find the problem just like that. She was too kind for her own good and I couldn't help but think about how unfair this all was. She wasn't a bad person at all. How could Mayfair do this? Why couldn't I do anything about it? There had to be something!

"Y/N?" Lucy Gray said, before pressing the back of her hand to my forehead with concentration. "Hmm, you do feel a little warm."

It wasn't fair.

Without thinking, I hugged her tightly, promising myself there and then that I would fix this. She wasn't going to be subjected to Mayfair's wrath, not if I could help it.

"Woah, what's gotten into you?" she said with surprise, but returned the hug.

"Sorry," I mumbled, before pulling back and clearing my throat. "I just need some water. I'll be fine."

She quirked a brow. "You're sure?"

I nodded, trying my hardest not to worry her anymore.

"Okay... good," she said with relief, before a smile curled on her lips. "I've got a new song I want you to hear."

I returned her smile, letting her tug my hand and lead me back inside, but the truth of what I knew was already starting to suffocate me.

For days I mulled it over, trying to convince myself that maybe I misheard or misinterpreted Mayfair's words. Or that, maybe, Mayfair didn't have as much power as she was letting on.

But deep down, I knew it was true, and she was just petty enough to send Lucy Gray to her death. Which then brought me to my next problem: what could I do to stop it?

Mayfair was the mayor's daughter and the mayor was the one who chose the names for the reaping. It was pretty solid, with no interference from me able to stop it. But what was I to do? Do I tell Lucy Gray? Her family? At least, if I did, it would give them time to prepare. But how exactly? Would it not be easier to just let it play out as to not ruin their last moments together?

I didn't know, and it was so much information to carry, eating away at me little by little. What I did know was that I couldn't lose Lucy Gray. What would my life even look like if she was gone? What would the Covey do without her?

Lucy Gray was loved, needed, wanted. She couldn't die, not when she'd be so dearly missed and had so much left to give. If only I could take her place... I knew I would if I could. Nobody needed me or cared for me, nobody but her. But she'd get over my death. And my dad couldn't care less. If it meant saving Lucy Gray, I would do it. After all, I loved her.

But I couldn't, because it was her name to be picked, not mine. And with her name, she'd walk onstage and I'd never see her again. How could I change that?

[hamiltonaf]

bestfriends to lovers lewis?🥹

Wingman | Lewis Hamilton

Pairing: Lewis Hamilton x BF ! Female Reader

Word Count: 2.6K

Warnings: Slow burn

A/N: Hello loves ! Sorry for the delay, I believe I re-wrote this like 5 times because I had so many different scenarios in mind. I was so overwhelmed and finally settled on this. Nonetheless, I hope you babes enjoy. Requests are still open .xx

(Y/N/N) - Your Nickname

Nothing is harder than trying to hide your true feelings from your best friend. Well, theirs nothing to really hide considering how our relationship is, definitely not the same as my other guy friends. I’m fully convinced that everyone cracked that I have feelings for Lewis, except Lewis himself. Whoever said that guys and girls can be friends…they LIED.

Our friendship started about 2 years ago when Miles had introduced Lewis and I at Coachella. Miles and I go back a long way through our parents, we’ve been close ever since but just friends, nothing more. Miles knew about my love for F1 from early days and especially being a big fan of Lewis, he made sure that we’d meet some day since that’s his best friend after all.

I distinctly remember what felt like yesterday, we had the best weekend at Coachella and I was quite surprised how quickly Lewis and I grew on each other. Unfortunately, I rarely saw him since I had studying and work to do at the time, however that didn’t stop us from texting and video calling almost every day. That all changed earlier this year when I was done studying and I had a remote job so I had a lot more free time on my hands. I actually shared the news with Lewis first when I got my new job, he was so thrilled that he insisted that I now have no excuse not to attend more races.

What started off as friendly banter turned into flirting and teasing from time to time, if a total stranger saw us together they’d assume we’re a couple. Lol I wish. I have no clue what I’m doing wrong for him not to take a hint, unless he’s not interested in being in a relationship or worse case scenario… he has his eyes on someone else, but surely he’d tell me right ? I mean we’re best friends… or are we ?

That brings us to the present moment. It’s the Monaco GP weekend and you can imagine that almost every A list celebrity is here. Besides my love for F1, I’m a football fan as well - you can only imagine what would happen to my heart if I spot footballers in the paddock. Friday and Saturday are always quiet of course until Sunday strikes and the paddock is packed.

I was staying over at Lewis’ place for the weekend - no joke when I say we had a full on argument about me staying at a hotel when I can literally walk to the paddock since Monaco is so small. Of course he won the argument. Get my point when I say that people would think we’re a couple ?

It’s race morning, Lewis and I were getting ready not knowing what was going to occur the minute we’re about to leave. “(Y/N/N) are you ready ?” He called from the lounge. “Yep ! Just give me a sec” I yelled as I grabbed my phone and bag. I stopped in my track the second I saw that we were both wearing purple. “Are you kidding me ?” I said to myself. “You stole my look” he accused. “Excuse me ? I literally didn’t see what you’re wearing until now” I said defensively. “I’m just playing. You look beautiful and it’s cute that we besties are matching” he smiled. “Aww thanks Lew, but I have to change because everyone is going to think that we planned this” I said as I rushed back into the room to search for something else.

“Just forget about it, I’m changing as soon as I get to the garage in my team shirt and besides that we’re running late” he said as he grabbed me by my hand and pulled me along with him out the door to the elevator. “But Lew” I whined. He cupped my cheeks as he said, “Stop worrying about other people, focus on the positive..you got me and I’ll always have your back no matter what.” He gave me a quick wink and dropped his hands when we reached the ground floor. Not gonna lie that I had literal butterflies for those few seconds.

We drove to the paddock which didn’t take that long. I don’t know why I suddenly felt nervous, my hands started to feel clammy and I could already feel my body temperature rise. “Soo..you go ahead, I’ll meet you at the garage as per usual” I said as i stepped out of the car. “I was thinking we just go together” he smiled as he held his hand out for assistance out of the car. “Uhm are you sure ? People can be quick to assume things and start rumours..” Why can’t I shut up ?

“So what ? I don’t care, as long as you’re by my side” he shrugged. Aww. “Someone is being particularly nice today” I raised a brow at him as we walked towards the paddock entrance. “Pft..I’m always nice” he laughed. “On a normal day you test my patience to the limit with your banter, looks like someone is in a good mood. Don’t worry I won’t spoil it, I’ll make the most out of it” I smirked. As soon as we entered the paddock, we’re flocked by photographers and some fans taking pictures. In the moment I was so overwhelmed, luckily I had my sunglasses on the entire time so I actually ended up walking ahead of Lewis just to get to the garage faster.

I greeted a few mechanics, as well as Bono and Toto. We were lost in conversation that I actually forgot about Lewis coming back. Our conversation came to an end when all of our heads turned to Lewis greeting Neymar and Kylian. Oh my god. I was fangirling internally.

“No frikken way” I lowly said to myself. I started day dreaming and didn’t even realise that Lewis was next to me until he shut my mouth closed. “You’ll catch fly’s love” he half laughed. “Oh my god I can’t believe Neymar and Kylian are here !” I squealed. “You’re into football ?” He furrowed his brows. “Don’t pretend like you didn’t know - you weren’t the only athlete I kept tabs on” I lightly hit his chest. “That hurt my heart” he pouted. “Mine too considering you didn’t introduce me” I scoffed.

“No biggie, we’re meeting them later tonight” he said casually. “Say what now ? You’re lying” I rolled my eyes. Ain’t no way. “I swear” he said in all seriousness as he held out his pinky. “I’ll take your word for it” I linked my pinky with his. “In that case, do you think you could be my wingman ? I wanna know what the hype is about being a football wag” I teasingly suggested. “Uhhh..no” he straightforwardly said. “And why not ?” I crossed my arms over my chest. “Because then I’ll have no best friend” he lied as he walked ahead. “Don’t worry, if you be my wingman then I’ll be your wingwoman. I’ll find you a new best friend or better yet, a girlfriend !” I enthusiastically suggested.

“I don’t trust your taste” he said as he entered his drivers room. “Okay then let’s forget about me being your wingwoman. Put in a good word for me” I winked as I took a seat on the couch. “Yeah sure” he sarcastically said as he shook his head.

The day went by so quickly after that, before we knew it the anthem was over and Lewis was already heading out to line up on the grid. Just before he could leave he was talking to Toto for a while, then finally turned to me. “As per usual, I hope you have a safe race. Best of luck bestie” I said first. “And as always..thank you for your support. I really appreciate you coming to races (Y/N/N)” he smiled before pulling me in for a hug. “You could thank me by being my wingman” I played along. “Not this again” he said annoyed as he broke away from our hug. “Don’t let it distract you from racing” I joked. He rolled his eyes at me with a serious look before breaking into a smile, “Bye (Y/N/N) !” He trailed.

The race went by so quickly, pun intended. Lewis finished at P4, we’ll take it as a win considering the performance of the car this year.

Didn’t see much of Lewis after the race since he had media duties. Once he was done, we spoke about the race in general on our way back to his place. “Soo what are our plans for the evening ?” I asked as I laid on the couch. “Are you forgetting the part when I told you earlier that we’re meeting Kylian and Neymar ?” He raised a brow. Realisation hit me in the face. “Oh my god I need to find something good to wear” I squealed as I rushed over to my bag.

“It’s in a nightclub, they’re not going to see you” he laughed. “They will when you play wingman and I’m leaving with one of them. Mainly Kylian, Neymar is off limits because he has a girlfriend” I said as I continued searching through my bag. “How are you so sure about leaving with Kylian” he laughed. “Well obviously that will happen after you put in a good word for me about my love for football” I said in an obvious tone. “Hmm okay” he said with a smirk.

As Lewis got ready, I decided to do the same, I had a shower and sat in my robe as I did my makeup, and hair. Once I was done, I slipped into my dress and heels. “(Y/N/N) you ready ?” He called for me. “I’m just putting on my heels” I said whilst holding onto the bathroom counter top for support. “Wow” I heard him say from behind me. “You look- wow.. gorgeous” he said softly. “Aww really ? Thank you Lew” I pouted as I looked at him through the mirror. “Your rizz is literally showing through your outfit” I said as I turned around to face him. “I guess I should take that as a compliment ?” He asked with furrowed brows. “Of course it’s a compliment, I basically said you look so fine that you could pull anyone you wanted tonight” I admitted. I mentally slapped myself for telling him he looked fine out loud.

“If I heard correctly, almost sounded like you were hitting on me ?” He raised a brow. “In your dreams babe, let’s go” I said as I tapped his chest and walked past him.

When we arrived at the club, Lewis handed the keys over to the valet, that’s when we spotted Daniel or otherwise known as Spinz. We greeted each other as we all walked over to the doors of the club. “I won’t remind you again what the plans are for tonight” I mentioned to Lewis. “Don’t worry, I didn’t forget” he said with a grin. He’s acting sus.

As soon as we entered the club, we were escorted to the VIP area and that’s when I spotted Neymar, and Kylian. Oh my word.. unreal. Both of them spotted Lewis and walked over to us to greet him. I stood behind Lewis with Daniel, eagerly waiting to hear what Lewis has to say.

Lewis shook their hands and made some small talk before moving aside to pull me forward by my waist. It’s hard to hear over the loud music, but i oddly enough heard clearly every word Lewis said. “Boys, this is (Y/N), my girlfriend” he smiled. Sir, I beg your pardon. Girlfriend ? I knew he was acting sus. “Hey ! So nice to meet you both, I’m a big fan” I yelled over the music as I hugged them both.

“Great to meet you too. Lewis is a lucky guy” Kylian smiled. “Aha well, I’m a lucky girl” I joked. All of the build up to annoy him just died down. I really pictured having a full on conversation with both Kylian and Neymar but that also went out the window when I started to get frustrated yelling over the music.. I was actually starting to lose my voice. Besides that, I was itching to leave this place so I can have a talk with Lewis. Quite a relief that Daniel was with us so i had someone else to talk to in the mean time.

After about a whole hour, I started to get a headache and just felt the need to leave. I was seated in the VIP area with Daniel whilst Lewis was catching up with Kylian and Neymar not so far away. I walked over to him and tapped his shoulder, “I wanna leave” I yelled. “What ?” He asked as he leaned in closer. “Can we please go ?” I yelled once again. He nodded his head in reply. He briefly greeted them goodbye as I I did the same.

We walked in silence to the car until the car doors slammed. “Uhm care to enlighten me on what happened back there, boyfriend ?” I emphasised his new title as he then sped off. He stifled a laugh, “Well I got a bit- cough”. “What was that ?” I asked as I crossed my arms over my chest. “Can we just talk about this when we get back home ?” He asked as he looked over to me for a second. I didn’t answer back, just looked out the window. When we got back to his place, I jumped out the car and walked ahead of him to the elevator. “Can you stop giving me the silent treatment ?” He said as he stood across me.

I remained silent until we were in his apartment. I sat on the couch and crossed my legs over, “Was that really necessary ?” I narrowed my eyes at him. “Well I thought it would be funny” he smiled. I took a deep breath, “I- do you want me to be single and lonely for the rest of my life ?” I faked a smile. “Oh my days (Y/N)…can you not take a hint ?” He said annoyed. I stood up from where I was seated, “I assumed you were just trying to annoy me like you always do and tonight you did exactly that, but worse.” I walked past him as he then caught a hold of my wrist. He pulled me back and twirled me to face him.

“(Y/N), if it isn’t obvious enough..I love you.” I was left speechless. “I’ve fallen for you since we first met at Coachella. You caught my eye and I knew then that I always wanted you by my side. You made my day when you shared the news with me that you were finally able to come to more races, I thought it’s now or never. I thought I was pretty obvious about how I felt about you, even Miles knows this” he softly smiled. “That idiot knew all this time and didn’t tell me even after I told him how I felt about you. Anyway, never mind him. Why didn’t you say anything earlier after I told you to be my wingman for tonight ?” I furrowed my brows.

“Because I wanted to wipe that smirk off your face” he said as he wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me closer against his chest. “To me it just sounds like you were jealous” I pursed my lips as I wrapped my arms around his neck. “I wasn’t jealous” he scoffed. “So then why did you call me your girlfriend ?” I raised a brow. “Okay fine, you win that, but… will you be mine ?” He asked nervously. “I thought you’d never ask” I said as I closed the gap between us, placing my lips on his.

[blueraineshadows]

Dark Betrayals Part Eight

Sebastian 🔺️F!MC 🔺️Ominis

While Sebastian and Ominis have a moment alone, MC wakes up and begins her recovery.

Chapter 8 - Wounds That Cut Deep

The mood was tense as Sebastian led Ominis into an office. The air down here underground was stale and Ominis felt the oppression. He could smell the tang of blood coming from Sebastian's clothing. MC's blood.

His wand had revealed the awful lacerations on her body, long slices across her arms and stomach, the wounds sealed but likely still raw. He ached at the marring of that beautiful skin. Flesh he had touched with adoration, worshipped with his mouth. Skin healed by the man who wanted to steal her from him.

Sebastian pressed a flask into his hand, his touch firm but gentle as he nudged Ominis to one side. "There you go, it's Firewhiskey," he said. "Take a seat, there's a chair just to your left."

Ominis could only hope that the chair was clean as he lowered himself in to it. He sighed and clutched the flask in his hand but didn't open it. His chest was tight, his mind still back in that awful room where MC was laying. It was a measure of his distracted thoughts that he had allowed a little whore to shove him out of there. He turned his head, wondering if he should just return there and argue his way back in. He should be there when MC wakes. She would need reassurance, comfort. He wanted to be the one who gave it to her.

And, what of the man who was currently with him? Ominis flexed his hand, remembering the feel of Sebastian's skin against his fingers, MC's hand encased tightly in his grip. He had placed his own hand over theirs. Sebastian's warmth and MC's cold, still hand.

What a strange feeling. To love her, to feel a sudden pang of grief and loss of Sebastian's friendship, and yet utter loathing at the thought of them both touching.

He had always been jealous of their bond. Firstly, because MC had taken Sebastian's attention away from him in 5th year. And then, gradually, Ominis had come to crave her attention more than Sebastian's.

How easy it was for Sebastian to capture her attention, to draw her in. Did he realise how lucky he was? Ominis felt the slither of his envy coiling thickly in his stomach.

"Do you love her at all, Sebastian?" Ominis asked. "Or do you merely wish to punish me? I know you are trying to lure her away."

"What if it was both? Would it make a difference?"

Such arrogance and assurance. It niggled at Ominis, made him shift in the chair.

"This is not a game, Sebastian. I didn't start out with the intention of stealing her, if it makes a difference," Ominis frowned. "I was just trying to protect her. After everything she had been through, what with Ranrok and her ancient magic on top of everything that happened with you and Anne, I was worried about her. And you just wouldn't quit with your dangerous explorations."

"I've said this before, Ominis. MC can make her own choices," Sebastian said.

Ominis grit his teeth. "And yet you lure her in, persuade her to take part in foolhardy escapades that end up with her hurt, or embroiled in murder cover ups!"

"I didn't lure her in. She offered to help me back then. She was the only one who did. Everyone else tried to stop me, told me to move on, and accept what was happening to my sister. MC didn't give up on me, unlike you. She believed in me. Why is that such a problem for you?"

"Because it was dangerous," Ominis insisted. "There are too many risks meddling in stuff you shouldn't. It was a dark path and she deserved better."

"And you're going to make that decision for her, are you?" Sebastian stood, and Ominis could hear him pacing the floor. "You can't cage her up like a little bird, Ominis. She walks the dark path if she chooses, not because I force it on her. Instead of blaming me, you need to look a little closer to home for your problems."

Ominis flinched as though he had been slapped. The comment was a little to close to the mark, for there were problems between him and MC, a void between them that he was desperately hoping to close.

"You didn't really answer my question," Ominis said. "Do you love her?"

Sebastian's footsteps stilled. Ominis shifted his wand, aiming it across the room, and Sebastian's familiar shadowy outline appeared before him. "Yes. I do love her," Sebastian said. "Nobody else will ever come close to how I feel about MC. The bond we have, it's like nothing else. I won't give up on her Ominis, never. But it will always be her choice."

Ominis swallowed, the movement almost painful as his throat constricted. What would it take to make him disappear? Guilt, shame, and disgust at himself slithered alongside his bitter jealously.

The deepest, darkest corner of his mind fantasised about uttering the words, aiming his wand at his once best friend and inflicting agony upon him. His fingers twitched around the delicate wood of his wand, his Gaunt blood whispering through his veins.

No Sebastian, no problem. MC was his.

He heard Sebastian sigh, and move to open a cupboard. There was rustling as Sebastian changed his shirt. Ominis kept his wand pointed towards him, the shadowy outline of him a tempting target.

She would never forgive you.

He blinked at the sting of tears. It was true. MC would never forgive him. Would he ever forgive himself?

Sebastian moved across the room, a delicate waft of citrus and cinnamon swirled under Ominis' nose from the clean shirt he had put on.

Ominis closed his eyes, remembering the night MC had come home at dawn with that scent all over her.

Ominis gripped his wand so hard his knuckles ached. He stood, stepped towards that scent, there was the scrape of boots on the floor as Sebastian turned.

"Ominis?" Sebastian asked.

Hand trembling, Ominis thrust the whiskey flask forward, pressing it against Sebastian's chest. "I'm not thirsty," he said.

Warm fingers brushed his as Sebastian slowly took the flask from his grip. Ominis shivered and snatched his hand back.

"I know you have touched her," he said. His voice was so low it was almost a whisper. "She came home with your scent on her skin."

A silence that stretched so taut that Ominis hesitated to draw a breath filled the room.

"I didn't ask her. I didn't want to hear her lie," he continued.

"Im sure if you were to go in that room now and smell her skin you would smell me again," Sebastian said. "We duel, we practise. Sometimes we get close. It doesn't mean anything. She even borrowed my robe once when it was raining. You shouldn't jump to conclusions."

"Liar!" Ominis hissed the word. His fingers hooked into the front of Sebastian's shirt like a claw. "Do you take me for a fool?"

He felt Sebastian tense, warmth radiating off the solid muscle beneath his shirt. Ominis knew Sebastian could fight, but he figured he could take him on if he had to.

"You're a fool if you think you can take me on and win," Sebastian warned. "Back off, Ominis. I won't tell you again."

The air pressed down on Ominis, his anger and his jealousy clashing into a solid ball that sat heavy and thick inside him. He shook with it.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" Marvolo chuckled. His footsteps sounded as he entered the room. "Are you going to kill him little brother? Wound him a little?"

Ominis released Sebastian and stepped back. He made an effort to quell his emotions, forcing a blank look onto his face. Marvolo was a reminder of what acting on your base emotions could lead to. Ominis loathed his brother almost as much as he feared him. The fact that a sliver of that cruelty resided him filled him with shame.

"What do you want, Marvolo?" Ominis asked.

"I came to check on my little hero," he said. "She is awake."

....*....

The first thing MC was aware of when her eyes blinked open was the dull ache that throbbed through her body. She winced and felt hands grab one of hers. Her gaze swung towards whomever it was, eyes dry and itchy as she focused on Daisy. Her face was reddened from crying.

"You're awake!" She gasped. She glanced towards someone at the foot of the bed. "She woke up!"

MC swallowed through her dry throat and then choked in shock as Garreth Weasley appeared beside Daisy. "Garreth?" She croaked.

He smiled, warm and kind as he leaned over her. "How are you feeling, MC?" He asked.

"Like I've been hit with a Diffindo," she said. She winced and tried to sit up, but Garreth gently held her still. Her eyes scanned the room behind him. "Where's Sebastian?"

"Easy, MC," Garreth said. "You've been out cold a while, and you're still healing. It's alright. Sebastian is nearby with Ominis."

Her stomach lurched, and she gaped at him. "He's what?" She rasped. She tried to sit up again, gritting her teeth against the tug under her wounds. Garreth let her go as she stubbornly struggled into a sitting postion. But then the room tilted violently, dizziness took over, and she swooned. Garreth caught her immediately and lay her back down.

"Will you listen to me now?" He asked, wryly.

"It's alright, MC," Daisy soothed. "Do you want me to fetch them back?"

MC eyed Daisy. The thought of Sebastian and Ominis alone together made her stomach tilt and spin. Would Sebastian tell him what they had done? Gods, this could be bad.

She eyed Garreth awkwardly, not really wanting to say too much in front of him. "Erm, were they fighting?"

"A bit," Daisy said. "Over you."

MC groaned and lifted a hand to her face, her arm protesting tightly under her wounds. She looked at the twisted scar that was there and grimaced.

"Oh, Gods, my arm!" She lifted the other to see similar marks there. "Bloody hell!"

"From what I can gather, Sebastian had to heal them before you bled out," Garreth said. His eyes dropped to her torso and he blushed a little. She felt with her hands, the slices through her clothing exposing more twisted scars across her ribs and stomach. She gulped, a shudder running through her as the memory of the spell hitting her flashed through her thoughts.

"I killed her," she whispered. She looked at Daisy. "Agatha, I killed her, didn't I?"

Daisy nodded. "Yeah, she's dead alright."

"You're lucky the wounds didn't go any deeper," Garreth said. "You ought to be dead, MC. You're lucky."

The door swung open and Marvolo strolled in, his cold face lighting up when he saw MC. "Ah, so she lives!" He said. "Sallow didn't let me down after all."

Daisy shrunk back a bit, holding MC's hand tightly, her eyes anxious. Garreth's eyes widened and he stared at MC, confusion and disbelief all over his face. MC felt a twinge of regret that Garreth had been dragged into this mess.

Marvolo winked at Daisy and gave Garreth a curious look. "And who is this?"

"I...I brought potions for MC," Garreth said.

Marvolo raised his eyebrows, the wheels in his mind turning over. His eyes slid towards MC and he surveyed the damage. "That was a close one," he said. "You're not going to be fit to duel tomorrow I'm guessing."

"A few days at least," Garreth said.

Marvolo gave him a look through narrowed eyes and Garreth shifted awkwardly. Marvolo turned hard eyes back to MC. "You can have three days," he said. "Sallow can fight in your place until you return."

Ice slid over MC and she shook her head as she tried to sit up again. "No, no," she rasped.

Marvolo leaned over her and she halted in her efforts to sit up, leaning on one elbow, sweat beading on her brow with the effort.

"No?" He drawled. "What's the matter? Are you scared he will lose?"

MC stared into those cold dark eyes. Yes. She was terrified that Sebastian would lose. He never backed down from a fight. Win or die. She swallowed. Marvolo smiled, crooked and unfeeling.

"He saved your life, little hero," he said. He tilted his head, his eyes wandering over her face. "Screamed and cried like a grieving widow as you bled all over him. You know, I think he might have a soft spot for you. Judging by the look in your eyes, I would say you feel the same."

"He is an old friend," she croaked.

Marvolo's grin was sly. "Indeed."

He straightened, staring down at her, his hair and robes immaculate. If he had been warmer, and more sane, he might have been handsome, but he was nowhere near as beautiful as Ominis.

"Three days," Marvolo stated. "I will be checking on your progress."

He turned to Daisy. "Where is my brother? I'm surprised he let you out of his sight. You two were looking rather cosy earlier."

MC looked at Daisy in surprise, especially when a blush stained her friend's cheeks. "I think they went to the office," she said. She looked down, not meeting anyone's gaze.

Marvolo chuckled. "Don't look so surprised little hero. Did you think you were the only one to get their jollies elsewhere?"

MC tried to picture Ominis touching Daisy, and it was surprisingly easy to do so. It made her shift uncomfortably.

Daisy looked up, quickly, her blush deepening. MC was gazing at her curiously. Daisy wasn't one for blushing a lot. Did she like Ominis? "He never touched me," she insisted. "He was the perfect gentleman."

Marvolo tilted his head back and laughed, coldly. "That does sound like Ominis," he said. "Well, let's go and tell him the good news. His little plaything lives another day."

Marvolo turned and left the room. Garreth shivered as he disappeared and he rubbed a hand on the back of his neck. "Bloody hell, he is horrid," he muttered.

MC gave Garreth a grim look. "You have no idea."

....*....

Feeling out of sorts after Ominis had grabbed him, a cold, almost murderous look on his face, Sebastian let his old friend walk ahead down the tunnel towards the Healer's room.

Sebastian knew he could take him down in a fight, easily, and that was the problem. Despite everything that had happened between them, Sebastian realised that when it came down to it, he didn't want to fight him. He didn't want to take Ominis down.

Ominis strode on ahead, his wand blinking as it led him to MC. Relief washed through Sebastian at the news that she had awoken, but he knew that it would be Ominis who would hold her. It left a sour taste in his mouth.

MC was sitting up, looking pale and drained as she gripped the edge of the cot, her legs dangling over the edge. Her eyes brightened as he and Ominis walked through the door.

"MC..." Ominis breathed. He hurried forward and drew her into an embrace. "Thank Merlin!"

Sebastian swallowed and turned his gaze away, noticing that Garreth was packing up his bag, ready to leave. Daisy was watching MC, her face flushed and awkward.

His eyes were drawn back to MC, and he found her staring at him over Ominis' shoulder. Their eyes met and a thousand unspoken words passed between them. Her gaze softened and she held out her hand towards him. He moved a little closer, his own hand reaching out, desperate for the contact. She clasped his fingers in hers, a soft smile lifting her lips as she was held by Ominis, but reached for him.

She mouthed the words 'Thank you', without making a sound, and he nodded, he squeezed her hand. All the emotion threatening to burst out of his chest burning in his eyes.

Ominis shifted, moving back from MC and she let her hand slip free from Sebastian's before he could detect it.

"Let's go home," Ominis said. He turned stiffly towards Sebastian. "Thank you for your efforts tonight. But, I will take it from here."

Sebastian nodded, and with one last look at MC he turned to leave. But MC called his name. He turned back and she slid awkwardly from the cot, stubbornly pushing Ominis' hand away as she wobbled and he tried to hold her again.

"Wait," she said. Her voice was raspy and dry. She held out her hand again and he took it. She squeezed it, hard. "Marvolo said you are to duel in my place."

He nodded. "It's alright," he assured her. He even managed a smirk. "Nothing I can't handle."

She shook her head, her eyes full of things that she wanted to say. Her eyes flicked towards Ominis and her mouth clamped tightly shut as tears welled in her eyes. She looked down, steadying herself, before meeting his eyes again. "Don't you dare fucking die while I'm gone, Sallow," she said. "I will never forgive you if you do."

He reached out to brush his thumb against her cheek. "It will take more than a duel to bring me down, MC," he said. "Besides, you owe me one. I just saved your life. I expect to claim on my debt when you get back."

She smiled weakly and nodded. "I will see you in three days."

Ominis' face was dark and pained as he took her arm again.

....*....

The ache in her body was fading with the help of Garreth's Potions that he had pressed into her hands before he had left her. He had refused any coin for them, but she was determined to pay him back for his kindness. Rest was also helping after spending the first day of her three in bed reading.

Ominis was fussing around her, seeing to her every need, and while she appreciated the care, she felt like she just needed some peace and quiet. As she stared out of the bedroom window at another smog day in London, she craved fresh air.

"Ominis, I think I would like to visit my shop tomorrow," she said. She was laying propped up against the pillows, Ominis sitting beside her on the edge of the bed holding her hand. He stroked her knuckles with his thumb, his face brightening at the thought of the trip.

"Are you sure you are up to travelling?" He asked.

She gave his hand a little squeeze. "Takes more than a little duel to stop me, Ominis," she said. "I need to keep going, keep busy. Lazing about won't get me fit for returning to the pit."

Ominis frowned. "I wish you didn't have to return at all."

"You know I have to," she sighed. She gently pulled her hand from his and adjusted the bed sheets.

"We could take Daisy with us on the trip," he said, tentatively. "Maybe we don't come back at all."

MC gaped at him. "What are you saying?"

"That we run, MC," he whispered. "Leave here, and don't come back."

The enormity of what he was suggesting washed over and her blood ran cold. He would leave his work, his family, everything, to run with her? Her heart pounded.

"Ominis, that's crazy," she gasped. "Marvolo would come after us, your family would..."

"I don't care about that," he interrupted. "I care about you. I hate the thought of you going back into that pit to fight. You almost died, MC! Do you not understand how terrifying that is!"

Her thoughts turned to what would be happening at the pit today, Sebastian stepping in to her slot to fight, and her stomach clenched in fear. She understood. She also understood that if she ran, if they ran, Sebastian was a dead man.

"I can't think about that right now, there would be so many repercussions if we were to just run. Let's just go to Hogsmeade tomorrow and take a break," she said. "The fresh air will do us both good. I just want at least one day without any darkness. Would that be alright?"

He thought a moment and then nodded. His hand sought out hers again and he held it. "Of course, whatever you need, my love."

That night, as MC changed into a fresh nightdress and brushed her hair, she heard the front door and the murmur of low voices. Her stomach clenched. She was on edge, her nerves stretched taut knowing Sebastian would be duelling tonight.

She pulled on a dressing robe and made her way downstairs to see Marvolo standing in their kitchen looking as cold and immaculate as ever. His smile glittered as she appeared.

"Good evening, my little hero," he said. His gaze travelled over her, assessing. "You are looking much better already I am pleased to see."

Ominis was glowering beside him, and at the risk of upsetting him further, she just had to know. She stepped towards Marvolo, eyes on his.

"The duels tonight, did they go well?" She asked.

Marvolo's smirk was knowing. "Sallow lives," he said. "Worry not."

Relief washed over her, her hand pressed to her chest as she nodded.

"You might also be pleased to see this," Marvolo said. He pulled a cloth bag from his robe and dropped it onto the kitchen table with a clinking thud. MC eyed the bag in surprise. "Your cut of the gold, MC. As promised. You are quite the little earner I must say. The sooner you are back in that pit the better."

That was a lot of gold. Blood money. But she had earned it, with blood and tears. She picked up the bag, testing its weight, and lifted her shocked eyes to Marvolo. He chuckled.

"Pay Sebastian as well," she said. "He helped me."

"Already done so, little hero," he said. He turned to Ominis. "You could be a kept man soon little brother, the way she is going."

"This isn't forever," Ominis said, coldly. "Clearly, earning so much gold will soon pay off this so called debt you hold over her."

Marvolo's grin was sly. "Maybe I will keep her fighting until she has a little Gaunt growing in her belly. Then she would definitely need to stop with such precious cargo on board."

MC gasped, her eyes flying towards Ominis who was flushed and furious. "Get out," Ominis spat. "You overstep yourself in my house. You have done what you came for, MC is fine and healing. Now, leave us."

Ominis was shaking and MC moved towards him, her hand taking his. She knew how he felt about children, and she glared at Marvolo as he laughed. Marvolo grazed a finger under her chin and she fought the cringe that wanted to play across her face.

"Two days and counting, little hero," he said. "Sleep tight."

He laughed again before he Disapparated with a crack.

Ominis let out a shuddering breath and MC held him, stroking his back. "Don't let him get to you, Ominis," she soothed. "He is deliberately trying to cause trouble. Just ignore him."

His arms came around her, his face burying into her unbound hair. "The worrying part is he probably wasn't joking. He knows how I refuse to bow to our parent's demands. What better way to manipulate the situation than to use this as leverage?"

She tensed against him. "You mean force me to duel until..."

He nodded against her neck, his arms tightened around her and she felt her breath quicken. Her heart clenched. "I'm sorry," she whispered.

She honestly didn't know what else to say. He didn't want children, and there was no way that she would have one just to please his awful relatives, or to get out of Marvolo's grip. Again, the thought of bringing Marvolo down danced around the edge of her thoughts.

He lifted his head, his eyes looking down at her, roving over her face. A longing to meet those eyes pierced her and she moved to cup his jaw. He stilled, and she looked into the empty swirls of blue.

"Running doesn't sound so bad now, does it?" He said with a grim smile.

"Marvolo doesn't get to win, Omi," she said. "He doesn't get to win. Remember that."

....*....

Weak sunlight warmed his face as they walked through the main street of Hogsmeade. Ominis tilted his head appreciating the clear air and sunlight as MC held his arm. For a moment, he felt a little peace.

"How are you feeling?" He asked. He dipped his head, turning slightly towards MC. She had struggled after travelling by Floo from London, but time was short and they needed to travel fast.

"I'm feeling better already," she said. She leant against him, her softness welcome. "Do you fancy a visit to Honeydukes?"

He could hear the smile in her voice. "Do you really have to ask?"

Spending the day with her, hearing her laugh, it was almost easy to forget about the dark clouds that hung over them. But they were still there, throwing their shadows over the day in quiet moments.

The shadows were there when she would slip her hand out of his, in the way she tensed if his hand wandered too much over her waist, if the conversation moved too close towards London, the pit, and Marvolo's taunt about children.

Of course, the shadow of Sebastian loomed over them. He knew she was worried about him, her first question to Marvolo the night before had been about the duels, and even Marvolo had known it was Sebastian she was most concerned about.

His jealousy lay thick and heavy over him, he couldn't help it. Sebastian had revealed his feelings for MC, and had made it clear he would not give up. Sebastian's lies about how his scent had been on MC only added fuel to the sick envy in his guts.

Being here, away from it all, made him wish that she had considered his suggestion to make a run for it more seriously.

Pleased with how her shop was doing, they had eaten dinner in the Three Broomsticks before retiring to their rented room upstairs. They would be returning to London in the morning.

MC was quiet, withdrawn, as she brushed out her hair at the dressing table. He moved towards her, his hands seeking out her shoulders, the softness of her hair sliding across the backs of his hands. He could feel the tension in the way she held herself.

"What is it?" He asked. His thumbs moved in circles against the tight muscles. "Talk to me."

He felt her small sigh. "It's been a good day, Ominis, and I'm tired. Let's not spoil it by speaking of things that will only upset us."

His grip on her tightened, and he pressed harder with his thumbs. "Maybe it would make you feel better if you spoke about it. You are very tense."

She put something down on the dressing table top and took a deep breath. "Fine," she said. "If you really must know, I am concerned. As we speak, Sebastian is duelling in the pit on my behalf. Who knows what could happen? He...he could die. I should be there."

Irritation swept over him and he heard her sharp intake of breath as he dug his fingers into her shoulders. He didn't loosen his grip. He was growing very tired of hearing that name from her mouth. "Sebastian is more than capable of taking care of himself, its his damn speciality. You waste your time worrying over him. Worry about yourself," he said.

She stood, shrugging out of his grip. "You asked, and now look," she muttered. She moved across the room. "You're annoyed. Don't make me feel bad for worrying. He wouldn't even be fighting if it wasn't for me."

"How can you blame yourself? Sebastian was deep in that world before you arrived there. He thrives on this stuff," Ominis said. "Don't you see? This is why we need to get you out of there. I want you out of there."

"It's not that simple, Ominis!" She cried. "Your job, our home, Daisy, and even Sebastian. I will not selfishly run away and leave them to clear up this mess!"

"We can take Daisy with us," he said. He stepped towards her. "I have already asked her, and she is open to the idea."

"You did?" MC gasped. "Well, Marvolo was right. You two have been rather cosy, haven't you!"

He tilted his head. "You're not jealous, are you? That would be rather hypocritical of you if you were."

"You have never been interested in Daisy before, why now?"

"Because she is important to you, because she is the leverage that needs to be solved to get you out of that pit and back at home with me."

"So we can be bullied into putting a child inside me instead?" She taunted. "Will you solve that leverage too?"

"We can solve both by leaving," he said. "Then you don't need to walk a dark path and put yourself at risk anymore."

"And what if I like the risk? What if doing something like that is exciting? What then?" She asked. "I don't want to sit in an office, or scrub washing for the rest of my life. I crave more than that, and London is slowly suffocating me to the point that I can't breathe anymore!"

"All the more reason to leave!" He insisted.

She made a sound of frustration and he heard the rustle of clothing, the catch on her suitcase as she pulled items out onto the floor.

"Are you pushing to leave because of the duelling, or because of Sebastian? Do you not even care a little about what happens to him? He was your closest friend!" Her voice was rising, filled with frustration. "Marvolo will destroy him if we leave. Is that what you want?"

Ominis went quiet. Leaving would certainly get her away from Sebastian, and yes, he wanted that desperately. But he knew that if Sebastian was hurt because of his actions, MC would never forgive him, and he would lose her anyway. There had to be a way out of this.

"Your silence speaks volumes, Ominis," she said coldly.

He heard the sound of her putting her boots on. His heart clenched. "What are you doing?" He asked.

"I need some air," she bit out.

"But, we were out all day!" He pointed out.

"Yes, well, suddenly its a little stifling in here," she said. She moved towards the door. "Don't wait up on my account."

"MC..."

The door opened and then closed. She was gone. The sound of her footsteps fading down the hall.

....*....

She walked blindly, swiping tears of frustration from her cheeks. They were leaking from her eyes despite her best efforts to hold them back.

All day she had tried to find that close connection she had shared with Ominis back when they had been school leavers. Walking the streets of Hogsmeade, and seeing the beauty of the Highlands had swamped her with memories. Yes, Ominis had been in them, but so had Sebastian. Always, her thoughts would wind back around to him.

MC smoothed her hands over her stomach, the ridges of her scars easily felt through the fabric of her blouse. Scars that Sebastian had healed. They were less red now, fading to silvery white, but she was sure they would never fade completely.

She had almost died, and Sebastian had pulled her back. The thought of him dying on the floor of the pit, alone, in pain, it filled her with icy fear. It was taking everything inside of her to not run to the nearest Floo and go straight back to London.

She needed to know he was alive. She would not sleep until she did.

She found herself outside the owl office, walking in to see the night clerk and asking for parchment and ink. Her hand shook as she wrote her message to Sebastian. She folded it neatly and placed it in the addressed envelope before handing it to the clerk.

"Please, send this with your fastest owl," she said. "I'm happy to pay extra."

Leaving the owl office, she had nothing to do but wait. She didn't want to return to Ominis. Just looking at him filled her with guilt, sadness, and reminded her of her own cowardice.

Facing down enemies was nothing compared to facing your own demons, your own emotions.

Her feet took her towards the graveyard, she crossed the river and entered through the gates, heading towards the graves of Eleazar and Miriam Fig.

She stood, staring at the names engraved in the stone and she stopped trying to fight back the tears. She sank to her knees, letting the dull ache of grief widen and spread. Losing her teacher in the way that she did had ripped a hole in her chest that had never fully healed.

She had never known her parents, never had anyone to guide her, and she stumbled through life as best as she could. She made mistakes despite trying her best, and sometimes she was selfish because looking out for herself was something she had to learn very young.

Fig had been the first person to truly believe in her, and encourage her to reach out and own who she was. His kindness and generosity had opened her up to the beautiful world of magic, and while there had been much darkness, she would be forever grateful for that first chance at a new life.

Ominis was pushing for a new life. He wanted to slip away in the night, run away from the dark clutches of his family, and start anew.

She could see the appeal, but it wasn't that simple. It was dangerous, there was risk, it would mean people potentially getting hurt.

She had admitted that she felt smothered, trapped, but the reason she had given to Ominis had been London. She wasn’t so sure that was entirely true. She wasn't happy, she hadn't been for some time, and while the horrors of the pit were real, there was an excitement about dabbling in something risky and challenging. It had woken up that desire for more, for adventure, the love for living the life she had discovered through Hogwarts. Somehow, she had lost her grip on that, let that passion slip through her fingers, settling for a domestic life that didn't fit quite right.

She cared deeply for Ominis, but it wasn't enough. She suspected she did not love him as much as he loved her, and admitting that was painful. She could not let him rip up the roots of his life for someone who wouldn't do the same for him.

She leaned forward to brush her finger tips over her old professor's name on the stone. Fig had always encouraged her to follow her heart, to make good choices. Maybe Ominis had a point about her putting everyone else's safety first and ignoring herself.

She thought about the bag of gold Marvolo had given her. It was a lot. She could haul in a lot more if she focused, upped her game, and fought harder. If she played Marvolo's game and saved up the gold, she could set Daisy up somewhere new, away from London.

And what about herself? What was she going to do? If she was going to follow her heart, then she had a decision to make. Deep down, she thought maybe she had already made it but was too scared to admit it. A near death experience had forced her to look more closely at it.

There would be enough gold for her to leave too. It was going to shatter her to do it, but she was going to have to break Ominis' heart. It wasn't the leaving that she was resisting, it was the leaving with him that she didn't want.

MC would leave, but she would do it alone.

To be continued... Part 9

[olivyh]

Test Flight

A/N: Idk why I've been on a Mammon kick lately?? I feel bad bc my go-to is normally Beel but I struggle to write him ;;;;;;;

Tw: Talks of death, slight gore from the fall and transformation

It started out with a simple comment.

One offhanded mumble under their breath, followed by a dreamy sigh as they rested their cheek further into their palm, elbow propped up on the arm of the couch. With the noise of his brothers and the movie that was blaring on the speakers of his large, rather expensive television- a human movie- one would think he couldn't hear anything. One the human told him they grew up watching, about a boy and a dragon and how the two would soon change their small world forever with one small friendship.

Mammon had turned it down with a scoff, claiming that he had much cooler movies to watch than that weird human kid's movie (the truth is, he would watch anything they told him to, the heartstruck fool he was). He was actually enjoying it, the soundtrack was something he made a mental note to add to his playlist, and the small scenes were heartwarming.

To make it even better, he had stolen the seat right next to his human with very little fighting involved. Maybe it was pure luck, or his brothers finally understanding what was his (they, in fact, did not understand what was his still). But, he considered it fate that he could sit next to them and hear that small sigh, the way their eyes drifted into that dreamy haze of theirs.

"I wish I could fly," Barely a whisper, a soft breath against the cushion of the couch.

Mammon never thought too much about his abilities, aside from the fact that he was one of the lucky few of his brothers to keep the gift of flight after their fall. Sure, it was an easy way to get around and his wings did prove useful when it came to scoring more modeling gigs (though, he really hated when they draped all those fabrics over them. He swore they itched for days afterward and didn't sit right for at least a week).

To be human, to never know the freedom of the clouds, the frozen sting of the wind against your face? He couldn't imagine it.

He could barely sit still the rest of the movie, their comment playing on repeat in his mind as it spun and wove until, before he knew it, the credits were rolling and Lucifer was ushering everyone else to their rooms. He could try to convince the human to stay, however... he had other things to do. Sudden plans he told them (surely they'd assume he was going for a late-night run at the casino and would be none the wiser).

Mammon wanted to wait, he swore that he would find the right time, but he couldn't help himself. He blames his sin, berating it in his mind as he finds himself at their door late into the night. The wood groans as he shuffles his feet, the door in front of him much more imposing in the darkness of the candle-lit hallway than it seemed hours ago when he appeared to drag them to his room for the movie. He can't seem to stifle the way his shoulders jump as the door creaks open.

"Mmn... why are you here so late?" The human, his human, in their pajamas rubbing their eye with the back of their knuckle. He resisted the urge to fix their loose collar, but...

"Get dressed!" He hears them groan and can't bite back the grin that stretches across his face. "'less you wanna go outside lookin' like that," he can't help but wince internally at the sound of his own voice, at the tone of which that phrase was spat out harsher than he meant.

You're beautiful, he wanted to say, to suddenly correct himself, no matter what you're wearing.

"Why are we going outside?"

"Enough questions! C'mon!" he shoves them gently back inside their room, waiting outside and trying to ignore his heart hammering inside his chest. A part of him was anxious about the whole event- what if they hated it? Or if they thought he was creepy for taking that comment so seriously? They weren't... scared of heights, were they?

Shit, he should have waited. It's only been two hours since the movie ended- he could have planned this so much better. He taps his foot nervously, worrying his lip with his golden tooth as he fiddles with one of the rings on his hand, feeling the soothing curve of the metal against his heated skin.

"Mams?"

"Yep!" He tries to hide the way his voice came out as a high shriek, quickly casting a glance around the hallway to make sure Lucifer wasn't on one of his patrols. "I-I mean yeah, yep, let's go-" he places his hands on their shoulders, turning them to the stairs and pushing them forward, constantly moving his head to ensure that nobody was awake to see their escape. "C'mon! Hurry!"

"I'm going!" They whisper back, a quiet shout that makes him sigh as they jump down the stairs. Once on the landing, Mammon feels as though he can finally catch his breath. The air isn't too cold, which is a good thing, considering how cold it gets in the air. He shrugs off his leather jacket, handing it to them.

"Wear this-" He gulps as he watches them shrug it on, his stomach doing flips as he takes a breath and stretches, ridding himself of the magical veil that allows them to look human (or human enough, the demonic glint in their eye or the pointed ears never quite go away. They were lucky enough that humans started dying their hair and wearing colorful contacts in recent years, as most of them were unable to walk around inconspicuously. It was mainly Levi who fell victim to this, drawing attention whenever he made his way to the human world what with his bright purple hair).

The discomfort of the transformation was one that took him some time to get used to, so often that he felt uncomfortable shifting back into a demon (that, and the grim reminder of why the limbs on his back were an inky black rather than the pristine white he was so used to seeing). His skin shifted to make room for the extremities. The tugging at his skull as his horns curled and twisted out of the skin never failed to make him sigh as the pressure built within his head seemed to lessen completely. The wings broke free from his back with a flap of leather, the skin healing over as quickly as it tore as his normal clothes were replaced with the heavy leather he was a little too used to, the pressure from the belts on his chest a welcomed tension- a way to ground himself.

The only thing he couldn't get used to was the burning of the scars on his torso and arms- now a blinding white against his dark skin- as they crept to the surface and made themselves known.

The pressure that hold all his demonic features back lessened as he let out a short sigh, turning to the human.

"You said you wanted to fly, right?" He mumbles as heat creeps up his neck. "C'mon."

"...Seriously?" Mammon gulps, regretting the choices he'd made up to this point as he turns his sapphire gaze to the ground, shoving his hands in his pockets and huffing.

"Listen, it's not every day that you'll get a free ride outta me, got it?"

"Free ride?" Mammon feels his heart sink as his breath catches in his throat, leaving him a blushing, stuttering mess. Shit.

"Not like that! Ya damn pervert! Spendin' too much time with Asmo- I fuckin' swear he's influencing ya-" Their amused chuckle breaks him free of the thought (though, the sound never fails to send butterflies to the pit of his stomach, making him squirm in place).

"I meant like, are you serious? As in... that's a really kind thing for you to do, Mammoney," Oh heavens above, they were going to be the death of him. Biting his lip and swallowing back a giddy chuckle, he straightens his shoulders.

"W-well yeah! Duh," Mammon's voice dips low as he shuffles his feet, listening to the soft scraping of his boots against the stone. "So you uh, wanna go?"

"Of course! How..." They approach him, tilting their head. "Are we going to do this? I can't climb on your back, can I?"

"Nope!" The demon grins, scooping them up in his arms and chuckling at their surprised yelp. They smack his chest with their palms. "Oh, c'mon, that was funny."

"Warn me next time!"

"Next time I'm chargin' ya!" He does a few test flaps (more for show than anything, he could wake up from a sleep as deep as Belphie's and the next second be at Diavolo's castle). They grip a leather strap and pull it, making him freeze for a moment. "Is everythin' alright?"

"...Can you support both our weight?"

"...Are you kidding?" He scoffs. "I can carry Beel like this!" He supports their weight with one arm, dramatically throwing the other onto his forehead and tossing his head back. "You wound me!"

"Dork!" They laugh. "...Have you really carried Beel?"

"'Course," Mammon scoffs. "Ya think he can't get wasted like the rest of us? Just 'cause he's so massive doesn't mean a little demonus can knock him out." Out of the corner of his eye he can see the corners of their lips perk up.

"Ready?" He asks, grabbing them more firmly against his torso and hoping that they couldn't hear the thumping of his heart against his ribcage. They nod and he ducks down a bit, spreading his wings as wide as they could go and sending the two off with a quick start.

He thought maybe he had gotten ahead of himself, that the whipping of the wind as it bit at their faces and tore at their clothing wouldn't be something the human in his arms was used to, that they would need a slower start. He could hear their frightened yelp as their arms jump around his neck, holding themselves as close to him as possible. He quickly tightens his grip on them, rubbing his thumb into their hip until they're both at a height where he could safely soar. "You okay?"

The shaking of their shoulders and quick puffs of breath against the nape of his neck makes his heart jump to his throat as a pit opens in his stomach, making his grip on them even firmer as he ducks his head down to theirs. "We can always go back down, got it?"

Mammon feels the way they relax for a moment, finally tearing their face away from his neck to look around. Their shaking shoulders still as they adjust from the height. He could see the glittering of their eyes, the reflections from both the stars and the lights of the city below trapped within their wide, blown-out pupils.

"Wow..." They mutter breathlessly, relaxing their grip as they gaze below. "This is..."

"Yeah," He murmurs, looking out in the same direction they were. The view of the Devildom held so many memories for him- good and bad. From the moment they fell, the agonizing feeling of his feathers burning to a crisp and falling off in chunks, the holy golden jewelry that he'd always donned scalding his skin as he plummeted to the ground, grappling for whichever brother he could get a hold of (it was Levi, he remembered, how could he forget the man's blood-curdling screams as his wings were torn from his back?). From that moment, for thousands of years, he'd seen this same view. The city below, the glimmer of the stars reflecting off the lakes and rivers, the deep darkness of the forest, the imposing view of the castle standing proudly amogst the buildings scattered.

However, this time, he felt as though he was seeing it for the first time, though their eyes. The wind against his skin was a chill that cooled his heated face, the lights brighter than he remembered them being. Mammon was filled with a deep awe, a childlike innocence he wasn't sure he'd ever felt, even as an angel.

"Amzaing, huh?" He can't help the chuckle that bubbles within his chest, breathless as he stares down at them, face breaking out in a wide grin. "Wanna see something cool?"

"Please don't do anything stupid," He laughs at that, adjusting his grip to be tighter on his partner's waist.

Pouting, he looks down at them. "It's like ya don't even know me!" Taking a deep breath, he shoots up above the clouds, sending the chrystalline droplets scattering as they leave a trail behind them. Once he reaches a high point, he pauses, laughing.

"Mammoney!" The human gasps, shaking the droplets off their face. "Seriously?"

"Oh come on!" He beams. "We didn't even get to the fun part yet!" The man barely catches their surprised gasp as he suddenly stops the movement of his wings, opening them as wide as possible and sending them soaring, weaving in between the clouds and streaking through the night sky.

"Hold your arm out!" He shouts over the rushing of the wind around them.

"Hell no!"

"Just do it! Trust me!"

"I do trust you!" They screech back.

"Then let go! I'll hold onto ya! Promise!" He dips below the clouds, wincing as the ice and water lands on his face. He keeps a wide eye out, searching for an opening in the trees. Once he finally spotted it, a slim pathway guarded by trees arranged in a delicate arch, he held the human close, diving down and following the path for a few seconds until they reached the lake.

"Now!" He shouts, watching as they extend their arm and graze their fingertips along the surface of the water, warping the stars above in delicate ripples. He lands them both atop the gazebo, perching on the roof and giving them a moment to catch their breath between airy giggles.

"That was so much fun!" They cheer, gasping and laughing, moving to sit beside him. Mammon's heart races in his chest, a warm feeling bubbling within him followed by the same strange sense of peace he got whenever he was with them. It was as though they calmed every nerve within him, all the parts of his brain that were normally firing full-corce suddenly silenced. He wouldn't- no, he couldn't- think of anything other than them.

They shift their hand to sit atop his own, their warmth seeping into the back of his palm (his hands were normally cold, something they always teased him about). He can feel their fingertips toying with his rings, grazing over every bump and ridge until theylanded on the ones that sat on his thumb before repeating the process (again, something they did often when the two were alone together).

"Thank you for this," They murmur, leaning their head against his shoulder. He gulps, nervously running his pierced tongue against the back of his teeth.

"Y-yep, yeah, totally," The demon takes a deep breath, careful not to disturb them too much. "I mean-ya mentioned wantin' to fly, and I couldn't help myself." He can feel their cheeks warm through the leather of his jacket (could he even call it that?), their fingers coming to a stop on his hand.

"You listened," They say, hushed.

"Why wouldn't I?" The human stays silent for a second, unresponsive.

"It was fun," Giggling, they turn to him. "So, so much fun. I can'tbelieve you can do that whenever you want."

"'Never thought about it that way," He hums. "Y'know, livin' up in the Celestial Realm where everyone has wings, it ain't really that special. It's like walkin' and talkin' for angels."

"Demons too?"

"Some of us, yeah," He rests his head atop theirs. "But it was a little tricky transitioning from that feathery shit to these bad boys-" He throws a thumb over his shoulder, wrapping his wing around their shoulder and earning an amused chuckle. "Ya shoulda seen Asmo, he couldn't figure out how to use four to save his life-"

"Really?"

"Yep-" He makes sure to make the 'p' pop, sighing. "Man, he was covered in scrapes from the number of times he fell."

"He must've been heartbroken," Mammon laughs.

"Nah, heartbroken doesn't begin to describe it. Devastated, more like."

"...I wanna be able to fly like you some day," Mammon's breath catches in his throat and he could swear his heart stopped beating for a moment as the thought hung i the air, carried by the thrumming of the wind and the chirping of insects around them, a cacophony of sounds that should've lessened the blow and served as a distraction.

"When you...?"

"I mean, yeah."

"Ya ain't gonna be a demon," He grunts. "I won't let that happen to ya."

"But if I become an angel I can't stay here with you and your brothers," They sigh. "I can't live like that."

"You're too good to be a demon," Mammon grins. " If ya did come back as a demon-" I'd be the happiest man alive, he wanted to say, the words stuck in the back of his throat. "I'd force ya to go up there myself. 'Sides, wouldn't you rather eat Luke's pastries every day?"

"Not if it means I can't do this."

"Listen," He reaches his hand to their own, intertwining their fingers and rubbing his thumb over their knuckles. "Even if you're an angel after you... go... I'll find ya, yeah? Just wait at those gates for me, and I'll hop 'em, and all those holy bastards can kiss my ass if they think I won't come get ya!"

They laugh, burying their face in the crook of his neck. "Can you say that about angels?"

"Listen, I know it's true. I wasn't there that long ago!"

"...Simeon and Luke are excluded from that, right?"

"Yeah, they'll be helping me plan your escape," He grins. The thought of them leaving him broke his heart more than anyone could ever imagine, but speaking with them about it, joking with them, picturing their eventual immortal life where he wouldn't have to live in fear of something trivial ending their already short life...

"You're thinking too much about it, Mammoney."

"Ya make me worry too much, Dummy."

They sit in silence, isolated from the world with only the bright stars above as company. Below, the water ripples as small insects bounce on the surface, their iridescent wings reflecting off the moonlight above as they danced and spun. Somewhere on the edge of the pond a frog croaked out a broken song, a broken record deep in the forest joined by the rustling of the trees.

"I love you, Mammon, really," They whisper against his neck, sending a chill down his spine. The man takes a breath, forcing his lungs to push air up and out his open mouth. He turns quickly, pressing his lips to their own warm ones, pressing his hand to the back of their neck to pull them closer.

"Say it again," He gasps, finally parting from their warmth. "All of it."

"I love you, Mammon," The demon grins, pulling them back in for another kiss, a gentle one, barely a brush of their lips before pulling away, taking their quick breaths with him (a small price to pay, he thinks, when he'd give them much more than the breath from his lungs).

"I love ya too."

[tornrose24]

Thinking about how there’s a version of Sleeping Beauty where the prince has an ogre mom. I would love to see that version where the prince actually looks half-human and half-ogre. I would love to combine that with some versions of Sleeping Beauty where the prince actually meets the princess in dreams before he wakes her up.

Imagine being a prince born from a loveless union. Your mother is a nasty piece of work, and your father was taken advantage of. You aren’t expected to be a Prince Charming because of your looks that were partly inherited from your mother, especially as you grow older. Your father was the only one who truly loved you for as long as you knew, and though you wish you could be a better ruler then your mother ever was, you aren’t sure if you can overthrow her or be seen as anything more than her son.

One of your only friends is a literal dream girl, whose friendship you take comfort in, even if you can only see her in dreams. You are the only person she can interact with. You never tell anyone about her for fear of what could happen. She is one of the few people you trust and can confide in, and in time you learn to open your heart to others and appreciate the world around you because of her. You learn in time that she is the fabled Sleeping Beauty.

She doesn’t judge you because of the circumstances of your birth, your looks, or your lineage. She knows all too well about certain expectations that were placed upon her. In her case her parents were over-protective because of her curse and she was sheltered for much of her life-ironically her curse was her freedom. You are possibly one of the truest friends she ever had, especially because you don’t try to treat her like glass as so many others had when she was awake.

You realize that you could be able to break the curse and free her when you are older, which will coincide when the time period is up. She is concerned for your safety, even if she appreciates your determination.

As time passes your feelings of friendship toward the princess grow into something much more. You aren’t sure if she would ever love you back, but even if she didn’t, you still care about her. You want to free her and show her the world and how it has changed.

No one would expect you to be the one to make it through the thorns but you do. Your ogre heritage gives you an advantage and a resistance against the thrones for one thing.

You find the princess deep asleep. She is covered in a veil of spiderwebs and she looks as if she came from a time period of the past. She might not be the fairest girl in the land but in your eyes she is beautiful. You aren’t sure how to wake her up. You don’t know if she will ever return the feelings you feel towards her. All you know is that you promised to show her the world and you promised yourself that you will never force her into a loveless union that your mother had to your father. If she only wants to be friends, then that is fine, so long as she is free and safe.

So you kiss her.

And she awakens.

As the fairies had hoped, the kiss wasn’t from a complete stranger. They ensured that she would be awaken by a person she would love, and who loved her equally. Someone who would treat her as an actual person instead of a goal or prize. They ensured that the spell would choose the right person to connect her dreams to theirs.

As for your mother… well, that was another story.

[jadeylovesmarvelxo]

Falling for you

Hey! Could you maybe write a Steve x reader to where readers the girl robin used to like (bathroom scene from season 3) but Steve didn’t know her, never paid attention to her in high school? But he ends up falling for her not knowing it’s robin's ex-crush! Ending up to you! (Robin moved on plz!)

Request by anon ❤

Steve Harrington x Reader

Warnings; Angst to fluff

Changed this a tiny bit so Steve does know that y/n is Robin's crush and his struggle to be loyal to his friendship with Robin and fight his feelings for the reader.

"Y/n Y/l/n," Robin says softly. "I wanted her to look at me. But she couldn’t pull her eyes away from you and your stupid hair. And I didn’t understand because you would get bagel crumbs all over the floor. And you asked dumb questions. And you were a douchebag. And you didn’t even like her and I would go home and just scream into my pillow."

"But y/n's a girl?". Steve asks confused and Robin stares at him and murmurs softly.

"Steve". Then it clicks what she means. " Oh".

❤

He didn't know who y/n was, never noticed in high school. So when Robin told him about her crush he was puzzled at who she was talking about.

Then a few months later y/n walked into Family video though he didn't realise it at that point.

''Hi, I'm looking for Halloween. Can you help?". He looks up and gapes slightly but quickly hides it and tries to be cool but it's hard because the woman is freaking gorgeous.

"Of course, I'm Steve. What's your name?".

"Y/n, she then tells him her last name and he looks up so fast recognising it immediately. She's the girl from Mrs Clicks class that Robin liked.

He could see why Robin was so smitten with her, the minute he saw her he thought she was the most beautiful woman he had ever met.

"I know who you are. King Steve, she murmurs shyly. Everyone knew you in high school Steve".

I wish I knew you he thinks softly and curses himself that he didn't pay enough attention in high school, so much time was taken up by Nancy, then grieving the loss of Nancy to Jonathan.

He offers her help and heads over to where she is searching, directing her to the horror movie shelf and finds the video tape.

Time and time again he is captivated by her pretty smile, her beautiful eyes.

He's smitten but he can't do anything because Robin is his best friend and he would never hurt her by dating her crush, Robin could very well still have those feelings, deep feelings.

His friendship was more important to him than anything so he helped her find the movie and watched her go.

❤

That wasn't the end of it though, y/n came in a lot of the time. He couldn't help it but he began to get to know her and he began to fall for her even more, he couldn't though he knew he couldn't.

So when y/n came in looking very shy and with a sparkle in her eyes as she looked at him, he knew that he would have to break her heart.

He knew what she was going to ask and he couldn't hurt Robin like that.

"Hey, Steve. There's a showing of Romancing the Stone would you like to come and see it with me?". He swallows and god he wants to say yes but he can't.

Her smile fades as he doesn't answer and she bites her lip.

"I mean only if you want to". She murmurs sounding more unsure now and his chest tightens.

"I can't... You're great sweetheart but I don't feel that way about you". He lies through his teeth. He watches as her heart breaks and he feels sick.

"Oh, right. Guess it was a long shot. Should have learned from high school really". She jokes but theirs pain in her tone and she hides her tears.

"I should go, I'm sorry for asking". She rushes out, right past Robin who gapss at her then him and when the door slams shut she turns to him confused.

"What the hell is going on?".

❤

Robin listens as Steve explains to her about meeting y/n, how he fell for her immediately but buried the feelings because of her.

He assumed she still had feelings for y/n and even if she didn't it was still a crush she had and he would never betray her by going after a past crush.

Robin was touched, she really was. Steve had been amazing since she came out to him and his dedication to their friendship was something truly wonderful.

"Steve, I wish you had just asked, I've been over y/n for a long time and I like Vickie, you know who's in band with me, you met her last week?".

His eyes widen and he swears.

"Shit". Robin takes his hand.

"Steve, I'm over y/n. Don't hold back for me, go and get your girl".

He doesn't need to be twice and vaults over the counter rushing after y/n.

❤

She feels so stupid for thinking Steve liked her, didn't she learn anything from high school. He never noticed her then. Why would he now?

As she is walking down the street she hears her name being called and turns around to find Steve rushing up to her.

"Steve?". He catches his breath and runs his hand through his hair.

"I lied, I lied. You're beautiful and I can't stop thinking about you but things were complicated so I lied about having no feelings for you. I'm a dingus, as Robin would say".

She giggles and he takes her hand and kisses it.

"I'd love to go out with you sweetheart. I really would and I hope I haven't fucked up and you still want to be with me".

She softens.

"Robin's right you are a dingis, of course, I want to be with you, Steve". He relaxes and kisses her.

It was going to be the start of something wonderful, she could feel it.

[romanceforransom]

“I think I’ll come back to loving myself more than I love you.”

It was one of the hardest things that Nick had ever have to do, breaking off a relationship with the first guy he had ever truly loved. He owned his entire heart and had, perhaps unknowingly, branded it as his own for months on end, ruining Nick for absolutely anyone else. Even himself.

Breaking up was something that became necessary. He had lost his identity and sense of self beyond being the person that loved Boston. Nick had felt himself becoming a shell of a person, bouncing between the feeling of euphoria, and hurt when he saw Boston straying from the newly built foundations of their relationship. And while he knew that had been a possibility before they decided to start dating, he hadn’t quite thought through how painful it would be to give his whole heart to someone and only have a fraction of theirs in return.

So, calling it quits was the right thing for him. Nick knew he had to grow and discover who he was independently before he let himself get all consumed with another person. Especially when that other person was at a stage in their life when caring for others romantically was a pipe dream instead of something that could realistically be achieved.

And Nick couldn’t even find it in himself to be angry because he was fully aware that’s just who Boston was. That was the person he had fallen for. The non-committal, flaky, manipulative boy was the person he had knowingly handed his heart to, so there was no point in throwing all of those traits back in his face. He couldn’t help being that way, just as much as Nick couldn’t help how hard he had fallen. It was just a culmination of bad timing and perhaps just the wrong people, as much as he hated to admit it, because he truly wished they had been the right ones for each other.

He looked at Sand and Ray, the love that they held in their eyes, and wondered how it could work out so well for them. How they could find their soulmate and just be done with the rest. Nick had wished with all his soul that Boston would have matched his. Alas, the real world was a cruel place that didn’t often grant such small favours.

The two of them would just have to part ways and better themselves, instead of shackling down in the hopes of becoming happy in the future. Because right then and there, how they were, neither of them would have been happy in the long run. They both would have grown full of resentfulness and callous emotions, which would be all the more heartbreaking. Their relationship would be lost, but also their friendship.

So, he stared deep into Boston’s eyes, which were blown wide and filled with apologies that needn't be expressed. Truly, if he had kept talking, Nick’s already precarious resolve would have snapped like a thread and he would give in to the touch that Boston had been trying to give their whole conversation.

He wanted to run his hands through his hair, smoothing out the frizz, and cup his face with his hands, lightly stroking away all the sadness. He wanted to kiss him, to hold him, to love him… But he had to go.

“Happy new year,” Nick smiled. “I’m happy to have known you this year.”

Every word was completely sincere. Although a lot of the time he had been teary and fearful of the end and untrusting of Boston’s feelings, he was so glad he had the chance to get to know him and to allow himself to fall in love because it was a beautiful emotion. If he never got to feel it again, if he never ended up finding his soulmate, he would always remember how it felt to love another person with all his heart and be forever grateful that they let him do so.

He wished Boston good luck on his new life and promptly stood up, knowing he had to get going before he could no longer tear himself away. A part of him hoped that Boston would call him back, maybe run after him and beg him not to go. Or even say that he wasn’t going to New York, that he would stay there with Nick, and they could work on things together. They both knew separation was for the best, but Nick wondered, had Boston asked him to go with him, would he?

The answer was most likely yes. Even though he was aware of all the problems that would follow, despite all the things he had just said, he would have dropped everything in a heartbeat if Boston had asked. The heart couldn’t switch off love so simply.

Nick didn’t turn back. He didn’t think he’d be able to bear the image of Boston sitting there alone on the side of the road, clutching the picture Nick had returned, almost holding their whole relationship in his hands. It would have been all too much to bear.

Instead, he wanted to remember his bright smile. His cheesy grin and scrunched up eyes. The sound of his laugh. The feeling of his hands lightly resting on his skin. The way it felt to love him.

[mommypieck]

Hello! I've been here for a while and seeing how much you've been through so far makes me sad that you've experienced so much sad shit. I recently came back to your blog since I wasn't on Tumblr for a while(I've been following you for sometime now) and decided to snoop around for a bit to see what I missed, congratulations on 10k followers btw🥺. Also I'm sorry in advance this will probably be long knowing how I can go on for a while.

Some things you've been through I can relate to, my family isn't a step family but it's definitely incredibly dysfunctional and can be shitty. It's almost 4am here so excuse any mistakes I make in writing this, I literally told myself if I didn't send this to you now I'm not gonna be able to later so I'm fighting sleep. Also your friendships I'm sorry you're stuck with people who don't deserve you in just about every aspect ☹️.

You seem like such a genuine sweetheart. I had an experience with a friendship I wanted to end before and I remember being the same as you were, wanting to stay in that friendship but couldn't leave because I was so attached to that person. I thought the end of the world was gonna happen when I left because I was so codependent on them. But I realized that the feelings I had when it came to them shouldn't be taken lightly, the bad feelings, every single one should never be taken lightly. I'm not gonna sit here and make any promises towards you that certain things are gonna be perfect but I can at least say that it's gonna be okay. Not just when but comes to friendships but living apart from your family. I know you've probably heard this shit a million times but you're not gonna be stuck in the same situation forever. If you have decided to leave that friendship I hope you felt the relief I did when I left mine, if you haven't decided to yet, you most likely will feel relieved even if there's always gonna be a longing for the good moments you might have had before, don't let the good distract you from all the bad.

When we all are teenagers or were teenagers, we are constantly told how grown up we have to act that we forget how young we really are. You are 19, you are so incredibly young and you have so much time to become whoever or whatever you want to become. I remember Jane Fonda saying that if you can't do something in your 20s,30s,40s or even 50s, you can still do it in your 60s. I DON'T mean that you won't accomplish all you desire now, because I'm sure you'll definitely get there, but you have a lot of time to get there, to think, to breathe, to exist, to have fun, to have new experiences.

Please remember that you haven't even met all the people who are gonna love you yet. You have so many people who will enter your life later on, as long as you allow them to enter and stay, that can and will love you so much.

If your family is shitty or weird, then you can have your own family, family is not defined to me by blood but by love. So I'm not telling you become pregnant or anything, but your friends can be your family, people you meet along the way can always become family, maybe even family members you'll eventually meet again will rekindle your family relationship.

I'm a bit forgetful (ADHD and trauma not a good combo)so I'm trying to remember what else I was gonna add omg.

You're a sweet girl, you're incredibly talented, if your desire is to become a writer then you're perfect for it already. Honestly I live by, "if Colleen Hoover and Anna Todd can write and publish those damn books, you damn well can too." And I know your books won't suck like theirs do. Full offense to Colleen Hoover fans btw🙃 I expect if you're reading stuff by mommypieck then your taste isn't bad.

Anyway this has been so long and I don't want to overwhelm you, so I'll end it for now, stay safe, and I hope you have a beautiful forever because just wishing you one day isn't enough💖🥺💖.

i am at loss of words.i seriously don't know what to say. thanku so much for this message. it means a world to me really. i am so happy that i have people here who stick with me and actually care what i have to say.i kinda feel bad that you spend so much time, typing all of this. but you seriously gave me hope for better life. thanku so so so so so much. i love u and i appreciate you. thank you again.

[shoyoackerman]

Can I ask your top 10 fav fics ever (from any fandom, if you don't mind)?

Also, just curious, is there a story behind your name "shoyoackerman "?

Damnnn thats a good question, theirs so many I love!! But lemme list em and link them for everyone if you wanna check them out <3

1. Haikyuu — A Sage of Love and Legend; Loved this series so much!! The fact it has some of my favourite tropes plus fantasy au!? Sign me the fck up. I loved it so much, i like read it all within a couple days 😭. It also 100% inspired me to write my own haikyuu fic which is just sitting in my drafts since like 2020 💀 but definitely favourite story

2. Haikyuu — but for me, there is a storm; god such a beautiful fic. I love haikyuu and i love pacific rim. Together? BEAUTIFUL SHIT. Loved it so much, can only wish there was more.

3. My Hero Academia — A Study In Deceit; I love literally everything by mentallypapaya, my favourite mha fic on ao3. Their shit is the funniest ever and this is one of their amazing aizng works. Especially since it’s like a sort of au of Sherlock. Definitely one of my favs and i love every update it gets!!

4. My Hero Academia — blackugou widow; PEOPLE NEED TO DO MORE REINCARNATION FICS FOR ME. I adore this concept, the writing and everything about this! Espeically since it’s my favorite characters bakugou and natasha <3

5. The Witcher (all media types) — Rue and daisies, hand in hand; im such a sucker for jaskier angst. This is one of the many that i have saved in my bookmarks 🫶🏽

6. Kuroko’s Basketball — Kiseki no Sedai of Mahoutokoro; KNB AND HARRY POTTER? I love it, i love it. Can’t get enough.

7. Kuroko’s Basketball — Of Unlikely Friendships, Sneaky Bets, Shogi and Sake; I NEED MORE HANAMIYA AND KUROKO. They are my favourite duo. I want more of them together please

8. Kuroko’s Basketball — When Opposites Attract; Hanamiya and Kuroko. Need i say more? Plus the gom and kuroko angst? Even better.

9. SK8 the Infinity — Sanctuary Series; a sucker for found family and sk8 infinity fills that hole inside of me. This gives me exactly what i need

10. My Hero Academia — Ignite; i love this series, because i love bakugou, miruko and hawks interacting. My favorite trio, its always written so chaotic and I love it. Please i need more to saite me.

My top tens! Love these all so, so much. I love going back and re-reading them or waiting for the next updates. Honestly theirs a lot more, but these are close to my heart 🩵 i hope you check em out!

As for my username, i made it around the end of 2019? I was really, REALLY, into Haikyuu and Attack on Titan at the time. So i had my two favourite characters name together, Shoyo and Levi. Which is how i had the name, it’s stuck for the last few years. I did think of changing it but i love it lots.

[skzhera]

A little inside scope of her life :)

INSIDE

(Preview about their friendship: A casual laid back, fun loving, out going, care-free trio. Any third person would get confused as to their relationship.) Growing up, Changbin, Lee know and Hera were brought up on the basic learning of an American household, only in their case, with Indian as well as Korean values. Both families, the Seos and the Lees made sure Hera would never feel disassociated from her culture. They taught her everything they knew and what they had leant or picked up on while growing up with her parents. They taught her the littlest things, even down to the languages they knew about her home town.

Compared to the Korean standards, their American values a bit too forward for the K-pop community. Their humour was strange for them, their friendship, huddles, touches were something they wished would only fade away. But they weren’t to budge.

To be completely frank, to a normal foreigner, their friendship was nothing but pure and a relation that purely looked like it dated time. Most of the foreign idols loved that the trio and the rest of the band was normalizing it, whereas for the companies and media, they were a pure nightmare.

They would never completely deny the fact that they never had feelings for each other either. Growing up, Changbin and Lee know realised they had turned this girl into everything they ever wished for in their significant other. Occasionally at parties and games, or whenever they would drink, Changbin would let it slip out, Lee know on the other hand was a constant flirt to a point that even Hera began questioning herself. With her, she thought of both of them as amazing friends and more that family and did not cancel out the thought of not dating either of them.

During high school, they even had a discussion about this and came to an agreement that, it will happen whenever it’s supposed to happen. Neither of them would force it, nor would they hold any grudges about it. People would often think a relationship like theirs would spark some arguments between the boys, but it was never the case. They had always been a platonic trio. Either of them were happy as long as Hera was happy. As cheesy as that sounded, it was true.

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

(I wanted to add some context as to what kind of a household Changbin, Hera, Lee know , Seungmin, Bang Chan and Felix grew up in, since I've mentioned them growing up on the same block.)

The Seo's house.

This was the house Changbin and Hera grew up in. Growing up at the Seo's meant living rich. They were quite well of as both his parents were working in the cooperate world. The house had a warm, modern, warm brick vibe to it with numerous luxurious chandeliers all across. Filthy luxurious, dusky wood paneling's with a beautiful Zen garden in the backyard, beside the pool.

The Lee's Home.

Lee Know's family had a gray, industrial yet luxurious family décor to their house. They were both intellectually inclined with careers in Law and Teaching. A beautiful peaceful library with innumerable plants to keep it fresh.

The Bahng House

Chan's home gave off a Malibu beach house vibe with crisp white décor. A luxurious patio area for the parties and cozy furniture to keep it all homey. Chan's house had swings in almost every corner and they kids would have a blast till Mrs. Bahng would physically push them off.

Bokkie mansion.

Felix's house was a similar crisp white décor with warm accents just like his personality. With warmth radiating off the furniture and modernity and luxury cascading off the roofs and chandeliers.

The Kims.

Seungmin's mansion had a similar vibe to that of Chan's. That being a luxurious beach house, but a bit more homey. His house was extremely tidy with crisp clothed care takers around constantly. His grandfather came from of family of builders and his house was something right off a magazine.

[creepysora]

Memories of the Upper Cathedral Ward would populate his nightmares, up until the day they followed him into one.

Looking back, he wished he had found nothing but death. He could still feel the damp cold of those stone floors creep all the way up to his spine. He could still smell the ever-present odor of brackish water, salt and rot mixed with formaldehyde and disinfectant. He still remembered how the hazy sweetness of Lumenflowers thickened the closer he moved towards faint whispers not quite muffled by strong walls and stronger doors.

He should have packed sedatives.

It's finally here! Cold enough to Crystallize, my story for @vermilionzines' For Whom the Bell Chimes - Bloodborne NPC zine!

This story is about Simon the Harrowed, and what turned a hunter of the Healing Church against said Church. I think it's because he found the same terrible things we did, and wanted to write about that.

Much thanks to the brilliant @rococospade-main for the invaluable help with this story, and even more for the friendship that came with it!

The first seeds of doubt, it seemed in retrospect, were sown by those who try to eradicate every last sprouting bud. The wild frenzy of conviction allows room only for the hardiest vines to grow, scarce and worn and tiny, but impossible to tear out once the first shadows take root within a foundation of cracked faith. 

For Simon, it was hard to pinpoint when the cracks appeared in his belief in the Healing Church. Growing doubt ate away at the solid foundations of long-assumed truths, snaking through the mortar of reasonings he had repeated time and time again. By the time he conceded his heretical musings to himself, the roots of a million misgivings had already eroded the faith he had clung to beyond repair.  

The Church — an older hunter, a clergyman, someone — had sent some of the Harrowed to the outskirts of the city, somewhere south of Hemwick, but still shadowed by the beautiful grand spires of Yharnam’s ecclesial weald. They were to spot and snuff out the first signs of the beastly plague that had taken too soon and too often, even among the ranks of the Church, turning into martyrs hunters and blood saints alike. While he often spent days in squalor posing as a beggar, Simon didn’t mind his duty. It bound him twofold to Yharnam and the Church: discovering early what threatened the lives of the city he treaded through like a ghost.

Except he did not find any signs of the scourge there. 

He had returned to report as much, to the highest possible entity. The Vicar had been gentle. Understanding. Rueful, and pitying, and they might just as well have held a blade to Simon’s throat. 

“Simon,” the Vicar had said, the glow of a hundred candles dancing on their face, “I take it you understand how valuable your work is to the Healing Church. To Yharnam.” 

Simon could see fine silver-woven thread coming undone at the hem of their heavy clerical robes. The effigy of the First Vicar lay hidden in the darkness, as did the portraits of previous Church leaders, their long-dead eyes still piercing him like arrows.

“The city relies on us. And we rely on you. We cannot allow for… mistakes.” The Vicar had stepped very close now. 

As they took Simon’s hand in theirs, he could feel how soft they were, the gentle touch of warmth sudden on his skin. Even without the light tricking his eyes, Simon recognized several blood gems on the rings adorning their hands that many hunters would — and had — died for. The Vicar’s eyes were clear as he met them, pupils crisp and dark and devoid of any sympathy. His throat went dry, as if the iron bite of hallowed blood mixed with the heavy scent of incense was getting to him. 

“The last thing the Church — the last thing this city — needs is a repeat of the tragedy of Old Yharnam,” they said, tightening their grip on Simon’s hands. “Or an infection within our own ranks. Do you understand, Simon?” 

Simon understood. 

In his mind, festering doubt finally made itself known, breaking through his eroding mental walls like mold: Why would the Church harm their own?

Full story on AO3!

[positivelybeastly]

🖤!

attractiveness:

repulsive / hideous / ugly / not attractive / unappealing / not unattractive / meh / no preference / ok / mildly attractive / nice looking / cute / adorable / attractive / pleasant on the eyes / good looking / hot / sexy / beautiful / gorgeous / hot damn / would tap that / perfect / godlike / holy fuck there are no words.

Now, there is definitely a degree to which this varies - not just based on whether Bruce is in one of his 'you're lucky I'm wearing purple underoos' stages, or if he's wearing proper clothes, though Hank is absolutely of the opinion that Bruce cleans up nicely. No, it varies because Hank has legitimately looked at Hulk for a moment, several moments in fact, and gone '... hm.' On a more realistic note, however, he does find Bruce quite attractive, even if he wants to give him a razor and a fresh set of clothes most times he sees him.

personality:

grating / irritating / frustrating / boring / confusing at best / awkward / unreasonable / psychotic / disturbing / interesting / engaging / affectionate / aggressive / ambitious / anxious / artistic / bad tempered / bossy / charismatic / appealing / unappealing / creative / courageous / dependable / unreliable / unpredictable / predictable / devious / dim / extroverted / introverted / egotistical / gregarious / fabulous / impulsive / intelligent / sympathetic / talkative / up beat / peaceful / calming / badass / flexible.

This is an interesting one because Hank is definitely of the opinion that Bruce has quite the ego on him - and it's not undeserved, nor is it showcased as hard or as often as, say, the esteemed Tony Stark's, but it is there, and Hank finds that as compelling as he finds it frustrating at times. That being said, I think he finds a greater kinship and has a greater potential for true friendship - and more - with fellow geniuses like Bruce and Hank Pym than he does with, say, Tony or Reed, because he feels they understand his personal struggle better, and he theirs.

how likely they would have sex with them:

not if they were the last person on earth and the world was ending / fuck no! / never / no way / not likely / not sure / indifferent / I’m asexual / maybe / probably / it depends / fairly likely / likely / yeah sure / yes / would tap that / hell yes / fuck yes! / wishing that could happen right now / as many times as possible / we are already having sex.

Hasn't happened yet, but provided the appropriate precautions are taken and, you know, expectations managed (Hank is curious about certain green things that may or may not kill him), there's no reason why not! Hank's a free loving, open minded kind of guy, and he's seen Bruce naked more than a few times. He certainly didn't hate what he got to see.

level of friendship:

never in a million years / worst of enemies / enemies / rivals / indifferent / neutral / acquaintance / friendly toward each other / casual friends / friends / good friends / best friends / fuck buddies / bosom buddies / practically the same person / would die for them / true friends / my only friend.

I definitely think they haven't had the requisite time to become true best of friends, but their New Avengers conversation was so damn compelling that I could go in for so much more. They have just such a casually understanding dynamic between them, they just. Get each other, in such an interesting and foundational way.

first impression of them:

i hate them so much / i don’t like them / i don’t trust them / they annoy me / they’re weird / I’m indifferent / meh / they seem alright / they’re growing on me / truce / I think I like them / I like them / I’m not sure if I trust them / I trust them / they’re cool / they’re genuine / I think we’re going to get along / I really like them / I think I’m in love / oh fuck they’re hot / I love them.

Their first meeting was when the X-Men were out on army loan, searching for the Hulk, and it turns out that while they didn't exactly trust the Hulk, Hank certainly trusted - and admired! - Bruce Banner! Once he realised who ol' Jade Jaws was, there was definitely a degree of fanboy-ing going on.

current impression of them:

i hate them so much / i don’t like them / i don’t trust them / they annoy me / they’re weird / I’m indifferent / meh / they seem alright / they’re growing on me / truce / I think I like them / I like them / I’m not sure if I trust them / I trust them / they’re cool / they’re genuine / I think we’re going to get along / I really like them / I think I’m in love / oh fuck they’re hot / I love them.

Your mileage is inevitably going to vary because these two are always in such a constant state of flux and change and they're never quite the same person from one day to the next, but at their core, I think they understand each other on an intrinsic level. That goes a hell of a long way.